Popular Travel Destinations in the U.S.

Traveling has become a top priority for younger generations. Millennials and Gen-Z are traveling at higher rates than older generations, and they are contributing far more in tourism revenue. There are many variables for young travelers to consider, with vacationing being about more than just a leisurely visit. Young travelers are searching for new and authentic adventures to immerse themselves in and diversify their experiences. They hold a preference for regional cultures and cuisine, locally sourced products, ethical and sustainable practices, and of course, economically feasible options. 

This map was made to show some cost-effective places to stay in places that were predetermined by this group. We decided that some cheap places to visit within the United States with lots of things to do would be, in no particular order, Portland, the Grand Canyon, St Louis, Colorado Springs, Gatlinburg, and Finger Lakes.

Accommodations or lodging can be a vital part of making or breaking a good vacation. Accommodations can be more than just somewhere to lay your head at night, it is important that a person, or group of people, feel safe as well as comfortable (2013, September 26). For a lot of people, fancy hotels, with luxurious amenities are a part of the joys of a vacation. And for others, vacations are a necessary drain on their bank account.

According to Alina Health, there are a number of studies that show the health benefits of taking time away from jobs or other stressors, like school. People who often take vacations might have lower stress, less risk of heart disease, and overall, more motivation to reach goals you have set for yourself (2017, June 17). Stress negatively impacts a person both physically and mentally. Taking vacations has been shown to not only improve physical and mental health, but overall well-being on the Gallup-Heathway’s Well-Being Index, as well as increased mental power, improved relationships, decrease in burnout, and overall happiness. Research also shows that Americans work more than anyone in the modern world while taking fewer vacations, working longer days/hours, and retiring later (2017, June 17).

The younger generations may be turning these statistics around by putting more of an emphasis on travel, 40% even saying that they would happily spend a week without technology to travel and reconnect. The same study found that 39% of millennials and Gen-Z travelers are missing discovering new destinations and experiencing something for the first time (2021, February 4). Europe is the top of a lot of young people’s list of places to visit next, but with COVID protocols still very much intact, many understand that traveling internationally is not an option at the moment. This group decided that focusing on inexpensive vacations in the United States, many with outdoor attractions to ensure covid procedures could still be properly practiced. Inexpensive vacations start with the accommodations, while feelings of safety play a huge role. Based on a survey done on the opinion of safest travel type in North America, published on Statista on Mar. 16, 2021 people feel safest at campgrounds, large hotels, then motels. Based on this, and the target group of people in their 20s looking for budget-friendly options, the group kept the max price at around $100 per night These hotels were chosen through kayak.com, which made it very easy to compare many hotels within a specific city or area. Kayak also made it easy to see reviews about each place, because we know feeling comfortable is so important, this group also maintained at least a ‘good’ rating for each hotel offered.

This map was made to show some cost-effective places to stay in places that were predetermined by this group. We decided that some cheap places to visit within the United States with lots of things to do would be, in no particular order, Portland, the Grand Canyon, St Louis, Colorado Springs, Gatlinburg, and Finger Lakes.

Food and nutrition are essential variables to consider when travel planning. How and where to eat are questions we ask daily, but our decisions have different influences when traveling and experiencing new places. According to a World Food Travel Association (WFTA) survey, 80% of travelers research food and drink options when traveling to a new destination. In 2017, the most significant growth in traveler spending was in food experiences (61%), and overall, travelers spend 33% of their money on food. Traveler’s food choices can depend on various factors: economic, health-value, convenience, cultural, religious, socio-demographic, and of course one’s own food personality, and many more factors. 

Some travelers enjoy indulging or venturing to try new delicacies, while others may base their eating choices solely on cost and convenience. Food cost is often an essential factor when making food choices. Regardless of consumer concerns, many food destinations are considering food costs for not only themselves but for the consumer as well. Sourcing ingredients and products that are locally available allow restaurants to manage fair food costs while highlighting their local communities to new visitors. Another influencing factor growing in popularity among younger generations is an establishment’s level of social responsibility. It has become increasingly important that businesses across many industries operate ethically, sustainably, and resourcefully. According to the WFTA, 63% of millennials look for socially responsible restaurants when researching new places to visit. 

Health-value factors influencing food choices have become increasingly variable due to a growing rate of specialty diets such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Whether a traveler’s specialty diet is due to personal choice or for necessary health reasons, the accommodations from the food industry are quickly growing. Strictly vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free (along with other specialty diets) establishments are opening in high numbers across the United States. Many restaurants, bakeries, and other eateries that do not have strict specialty menus have still incorporated these dietary options within their menus. Food destinations are employing more options for wider variations of consumers.

In recent years, vacations and road trips planned around specific food locations are becoming increasingly popular, and various regions of the United States are known for being top “foodie” destinations. In 2018, the WFTA reported that the food tourism market was worth $82 billion, giving food establishments everywhere more incentive to cater to, and capitalize on, a vast array of food niches. 

The World Food Travel Association reported that 83% of people think that food helps shape their trip and leaves a lasting impression. For many travelers, food is about more than just sustenance. Travelers are searching for new culinary experiences, education on cultural or regional cuisines, businesses worth investing their time in that operate resourcefully, ethically, and sustainably. This map highlights various establishments across our top vacation destinations that offer these experiences to their guests.