National Geographic Names Four Must-Visit U.S. Destinations for 2026

National Geographic recently unveiled its highly anticipated Best of the World travel list for 2026, showcasing exceptional destinations around the globe. This year, four unique locations in the United States made the cut, highlighting the diverse scenery and cultural richness found in North Dakota, Oklahoma, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania.

As travel enthusiasts look ahead, these states stand out as top recommendations for must-visit locales in the coming year.

Discover North Dakota’s Natural Wonders

Ranked among the top destinations, North Dakota’s Badlands offer a breathtaking landscape characterized by sweeping hills, expansive prairie grasses, and striking canyons and rock formations. This region also serves as a sanctuary for native wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Moreover, the area is home to the acclaimed Theodore Roosevelt National Park. In a nod to history, the park will soon welcome the Theodore Roosevelt National Library, set to open on July 4, 2026. According to National Geographic, Roosevelt found solace in the Badlands during his presidency and hunted bison here in 1883, experiences that profoundly shaped his conservationist philosophy.

The new library, with its expansive footprint of 93,000 square feet, will be situated on a butte in Medora and feature interactive exhibits focused on Roosevelt’s life and his travels. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a walkable roof covered in native plants, linking the library to a scenic 1.3-mile trail that leads to the national park.

Reviving the American Classic: Route 66

Another highlighted destination is Oklahoma, where the legendary Route 66 — known as the Mother Road — celebrates its centennial anniversary in 2026. Spanning from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this iconic highway has been experiencing a renaissance, particularly along its 400-mile stretch through Oklahoma.

In the past four years, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation has invested over $82 million to revitalize this stretch of road. The efforts include restoring vintage neon signs, modernizing motor courts, and enhancing roadside attractions that reflect the charm of Americana.

Travelers venturing through the Meadow Gold District along 11th Street will find an eclectic mix of indie retail shops, quirky statues, art galleries, and vintage boutiques that celebrate the area’s rich history.

The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, located in Clinton, Oklahoma, captures this nostalgic essence. Featuring a retro diner and significant historical exhibits, the museum immerses visitors in the glory days of America’s open roads.

Hawaii: An Island of Resilience

On the Pacific front, Hawaii remains a sought-after retreat known for its stunning beaches and azure waters. Although the tragic wildfires that swept across Maui in 2023 resulted in extensive damage and loss of life, the spirit of the island remains strong.

National Geographic encourages travelers to support Maui’s recovery by exploring the area, where many businesses have reopened and recovery efforts are in full swing. This situation offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience Hawaii’s natural beauty without the usual crowds.

New developments on the island include the Grand Wailea hotel, which recently debuted Hawaii’s largest spa. Additionally, the Wailea Beach Resort has enhanced its wellness offering by introducing an adults-only sanctuary with an infinity pool that overlooks the ocean.

For those interested in giving back, various