As America approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, the anticipation for celebrating the nation’s rich tapestry of history, innovation, and diverse cultures is palpable. This momentous occasion provides a unique opportunity to reflect on what truly makes this land extraordinary. It’s an invitation to explore the myriad facets of American ingenuity and charm, from bustling urban centers to serene natural landscapes, each offering a distinct narrative.
Indeed, the range of experiences across the country is truly astonishing, painting a vivid picture of continuous discovery and transformation. From the profound stories housed in Indigenous art galleries to the delicious innovations found in immigrant-owned barbecue joints, the American landscape is alive with vibrant culture. Revitalized rivers now perfect for whitewater rafting coexist with new expedition cruise routes, and Nordic-themed sauna road trips offer relaxation alongside retro beach hotels. These are not merely destinations; they are dynamic stories waiting to be discovered, moments waiting to be lived, and trends shaping the future of travel.
In a grand celebration of these evolving narratives, we embark on an adventure, bringing to light a selection of unique places and experiences that have us ready to book a flight and go explore. This first segment dives deep into the heart of the Midwest, a region often underestimated but brimming with vibrant culture, quirky attractions, and pioneering spirits. Prepare to be surprised and delighted by these foundational American gems, each offering a compelling reason to visit now.
1. Illinois: Meet Route 66’s New Resident Giants
The legendary Route 66, a quintessential symbol of American road-tripping and nostalgia, is getting a fresh dose of character in the heart of Illinois. In Atlanta, a town of just 1,669 residents, a unique attraction has emerged to capture the whimsical spirit of this historic highway. The American Giants Museum, which opened its doors in 2023, is drawing visitors with its extraordinary collection of colossal fiberglass sculptures. These figures are not just static displays; they are vibrant echoes of a bygone era, preserving a quirky piece of American roadside history.
Imagine the vibrant landscape of the 1960s and ’70s, when businesses dotting America’s highways sought imaginative ways to capture the attention of passing families. The International Fiberglass Company met this demand by crafting hundreds of giant advertising figures that became iconic landmarks. From Paul Bunyan to Yogi Bear, cowboys, giant chickens, and dinosaurs, these larger-than-life characters, reaching up to 24 feet tall, beckoned travelers with their distinctive presence.
The American Giants Museum has become a cherished second home for many of these iconic figures, affectionately known as “muffler men.” It serves as a fascinating repository, preserving a unique slice of American commercial art and road culture. Visitors can stroll among these monumental sculptures, each silently narrating a story of a different business or product, offering a whimsical journey back to a time when advertising was an art form on a grand, public scale.
With the highly anticipated Route 66 centennial approaching next year, the museum is actively expanding its collection, promising to further enrich the visitor experience. This ongoing addition of new giants underscores the enduring appeal of Route 66 and its unique contributions to American folklore. The American Giants Museum offers a delightful blend of history, kitsch, and nostalgic exploration for all ages, making it a must-visit along the historic route.
2. Indiana: Rev Up in Indianapolis
Indianapolis, a city inextricably linked with speed and automotive history, has just significantly revved up its cultural offerings. The iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum has undergone a dramatic and extensive transformation, reaffirming its place as a premier destination for motorsport enthusiasts. After a meticulous 17-month, $60.5 million renovation, the museum has reopened its doors, promising an unparalleled and immersive experience for all visitors.
The revitalized museum now boasts an impressive additional 40,000 square feet of gallery space, allowing for a deeper dive into the rich history of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the storied IndyCar series. The expansion’s focus is squarely on interactivity and immersion, moving far beyond static displays to truly engage the senses. This approach is designed to make visitors feel a visceral, personal connection to the thrill and legacy of the track, rather than simply observing it.
Former museum president Joe Hale perfectly articulated this transformative vision: “[When we] show guests what an IndyCar looks like up close, what tires feel like, and how fast pit stops are, they’re more likely to feel connected to the race and become a fan.” This philosophy is evident throughout the newly designed spaces, which aim to demystify the high-octane world of racing, making it both accessible and incredibly exciting for a broad audience.
Visitors can now truly step into the shoes of a racer with state-of-the-art high-tech driving simulators, offering a thrilling taste of the speed and precision required on the track. An immersive video experience further transports guests, showcasing the pageantry and intense anticipation leading up to the start of the big race. These dynamic elements combine to create a compelling and educational journey, solidifying the museum’s status as a must-visit destination for anyone eager to experience the enduring pulse of American motorsports.
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3. Iowa: Surf a River Wave in the Midwest
When one typically envisions surfing, images of sunny coastlines and powerful ocean waves invariably come to mind. Yet, in a remarkable feat of ingenuity and community vision, an unexpected surf scene has emerged in the heart of the Midwest, far from any ocean. Cedar Falls, Iowa, despite being approximately 950 miles from the Atlantic, has transformed itself into an unlikely, yet thriving, hub for aquatic adventurers, challenging conventional notions of where surfing can take place.
This spring marked the highly anticipated debut of the $6.5 million Gateway River Park, a testament to bold vision and environmental engineering. This ambitious project has meticulously reimagined a once-sleepy stretch of the Cedar River, breathing new life into its waters. It has now become a vibrant aquatic playground, purposefully designed to accommodate a diverse range of water sports, serving as a central point for active enjoyment and community gathering.
The river’s innovative transformation caters to enthusiasts of whitewater kayaking, fishing, tubing, and paddleboarding. Crucially, the park’s design has also engineered conditions for consistent, beginner-friendly surfing swells, making the dream of inland surfing a tangible reality. Engineers carefully manipulated the river’s flow to produce waves suitable for catching, demonstrating a pioneering example of how natural resources can be adapted and enhanced for entirely new recreational uses.
For those eager to experience the unique thrill of hanging ten in Iowa, getting started is remarkably straightforward. CrawDaddy Outdoors, a well-equipped outfitter located just 20 minutes away in Waverly, offers all the necessary gear. Visitors can conveniently buy or rent boards, life vests, and helmets, ensuring a safe and thoroughly enjoyable experience on the water. This accessibility makes Cedar Falls a prime destination for anyone looking to try a truly unique Midwestern adventure and experience the exhilarating rush of river surfing.
4. Kansas: Sip Clever Cocktails in the Kansas City Suburbs
Kansas City is widely renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, but just a short 15-minute drive from its bustling downtown, a suburban gem is actively redefining the art of mixology. Shawnee, Kansas, is now home to Wild Child, a bar quickly gaining national recognition for its imaginative and highly creative cocktails. This establishment challenges preconceived notions of suburban dining, offering a sophisticated and unique experience that effortlessly rivals any big-city hotspot.
Wild Child is far from simply serving drinks; it is meticulously crafting liquid art, where every concoction tells a story. The bar’s modernist cocktails incorporate an array of truly unconventional ingredients, pushing the boundaries of traditional flavor profiles. Diners can expect surprising infusions like hickory bark cordial, rich vermouth caramel, and even delicate tomato dust. These unique components are expertly blended to create flavor profiles that are both surprising and exquisitely balanced, showcasing a profound commitment to innovative mixology.
The presentation at Wild Child is as inventive and thoughtful as the recipes themselves, transforming each drink into a visual spectacle. Cocktails might whimsically arrive in charming glass ice cream cones or distinctive ceramic faces, adding a playful element to the experience. Some are even topped with an artistic swirl of edible ink, turning each beverage into a miniature masterpiece. The strawberry-flavored Flying Colors cocktail, with its signature edible ink topping, perfectly exemplifies this playful yet sophisticated approach to cocktail creation.
Beyond the impressive alcoholic offerings, owner Jay Sanders has curated an extensive and equally impressive menu of nonalcoholic concoctions. These include sophisticated twists on beloved classics like espresso martinis and Negronis, ensuring that all guests, regardless of preference, can enjoy a bespoke beverage experience. Sanders’ dedication extends to making his own N/A spirits in-house by redistilling the booze out of ingredients such as absinthe and gin. This scientific yet undeniably delicious process underscores Wild Child’s unwavering commitment to pushing creative boundaries and delivering truly unique sips.
5. Michigan: Worship at the Altar of Art in Detroit
Detroit, a city universally celebrated for its unwavering resilience and continuous reinvention, continues to astound with its dynamic cultural landscape. A recent and particularly compelling example of this transformative spirit can be found just 15 minutes east of downtown, where the new Little Village cultural corridor has emerged. This vibrant hub has revitalized a historic space, breathing new life into a magnificent architectural landmark and solidifying its place as a powerful testament to the city’s ongoing artistic renaissance.
At the very heart of this burgeoning corridor, wife-and-husband gallerists JJ and Anthony Curis have embarked on an extraordinary preservation and creative project. They meticulously converted a grand 1911 Romanesque Revival church into a multifaceted free arts space and performance venue. This stunning edifice now proudly houses a Black arts library in its transept, offering a rich and invaluable resource for scholarship and inspiration. The former rectory, a charming complement to the main structure, has even been transformed into a cozy B&B, inviting guests to immerse themselves fully in the artistic environment.
The expansive creativity extends beyond the hallowed walls of the church, beautifully spilling out onto the surrounding grounds. Visitors can discover a truly unique skate park, a remarkable collaboration that marries sport and art, designed by legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk and acclaimed artist McArthur Binion. This fusion creates a dynamic, interactive public space for both athletic expression and artistic appreciation, embodying the innovative spirit driving Detroit’s cultural resurgence and community engagement.
Further enriching the outdoor artistic experience is a thoughtfully curated sculpture garden, featuring monumental pieces by the revered artist Charles McGee. Additionally, two distinct “art altars” showcase rotating works, ensuring a constantly evolving display of contemporary talent and diverse perspectives. One such compelling installation, “The Mothership Connection,” a towering 26-foot-tall creation by British Trinidadian artist Zak Ové, exemplifies the ambitious and thought-provoking art currently on view. The Little Village cultural corridor is truly a destination where art is not just admired, but celebrated, fostering deep engagement and integration into the very fabric of the community.
6. Minnesota: Get Steamy on a Sauna-Themed Road Trip
Minnesota, affectionately dubbed the “North Star State,” boasts a profoundly rich Nordic heritage, a cultural influence that is strikingly evident in its cuisine, its distinct accent, and most notably, its deep-rooted love for saunas. This cherished tradition dates back over a century, with the state’s oldest continuously operating public sauna, the Ely Steam House, having first opened its doors in 1915. This pervasive cultural affinity makes Minnesota an unparalleled destination for a unique and profoundly relaxing road trip, meticulously crafted around this ancient practice of warmth, wellness, and community.
Beginning in Minneapolis, the state’s vibrant urban center, this rejuvenating journey commences with sophisticated and accessible options. Both the Hewing Hotel and the Four Seasons proudly offer luxurious rooftop saunas, providing a serene and elevated escape amidst the bustling city skyline. For those seeking a more communal and ritualistic experience, the Watershed bathhouse is renowned for its multi-part bathing traditions, fostering a sense of shared wellness. Come the depths of winter, the truly brave and invigorated flock to Sauna Camp in nearby Excelsior, where the exhilarating post-sauna plunge takes place in invigorating holes meticulously cut directly into the ice atop Lake Minnetonka, offering a bracing and memorable contrast to the intense heat.
Venturing approximately 100 miles north of the Twin Cities, the picturesque town of Finlayson offers a deeply meditative retreat at Silvae Spiritus. Here, visitors are invited to engage in guided forest bathing, experience authentic wood-fired sauna sessions that honor tradition, and partake in soul-soothing sound immersion therapy. For those wishing to extend their tranquility and deepen their connection to nature, the cozy guesthouse or a charming tiny house, discreetly hidden away in the Northwoods, provide perfect and private overnight accommodations, enhancing the immersive experience.
The captivating road trip continues an hour’s drive northeast to the burgeoning port city of Duluth, nestled on the shores of Lake Superior. Here, Cedar and Stone Nordic Sauna has pioneered an innovative concept: a floating bargelike sauna, prominently docked in the chilly yet majestic waters of Lake Superior. This unique and visually striking venue hosts a robust events calendar, featuring everything from ambient listening parties and invigorating community cold plunges to specialized marathon recovery sessions. It represents a modern and adaptive take on an ancient tradition, seamlessly blending wellness with dynamic social engagement and a breathtaking natural backdrop.
Finally, the journey culminates another 90 miles northeast, deep within the vast expanse of Superior National Forest, the largest east of the Mississippi. Here lies the community of Lutsen, home to the newly opened Ski Hill Cabins and Saunas. This rugged yet stylish retreat offers a perfect sanctuary to warm weary bones after an active day of winter hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Near the Canadian border, the artsy village of Grand Marais is home to Sisu + Löyly (Finnish for “stoic determination” and “steam”), which operates a stationary main sauna, America’s first floating public sauna (custom-built atop a tritoon boat), and a mobile sauna that sometimes graces an area winery, offering diverse ways to experience this profound Nordic tradition.” , “_words_section1”: “1945
Continuing our exploration of the American spirit and the multifaceted allure of the nation as it approaches its 250th birthday, this section delves into six more captivating destinations. Shifting our focus from the heartland, we now journey through the vibrant landscapes of the Northeast and the rich cultural tapestry of the South. These regions, each with its distinctive charm, offer a mosaic of artistic transformations, architectural marvels, literary wonders, and bustling cultural hotspots, all promising to inspire your next adventure and deepen your appreciation for America’s ongoing evolution.
From historic mansions reimagined as modern havens to burgeoning wine regions and culinary innovators, these destinations encapsulate the dynamic energy defining contemporary American travel. They highlight how tradition and innovation seamlessly blend, creating experiences that are both deeply rooted in history and boldly forward-looking. Prepare to discover hidden gems and celebrated institutions that continue to shape the narrative of American ingenuity and hospitality.
7. Connecticut: Check into a Historic Mansion
The forested hills of northwestern Connecticut provide the picturesque setting for Litchfield, a town that recently welcomed a captivating new hotel capturing its pastoral sophistication. Belden House & Mews, which opened this spring, is a remarkable integration of historical architecture: an 1888 Colonial Revival mansion, an 1891 firehouse, and a 1959 modernist building all merge to form a singular, elegant destination. This innovative approach to hospitality offers a unique blend of eras and styles, reflecting Litchfield’s timeless appeal.
The interiors, masterfully designed by Champalimaud Design, pay homage to the area’s rich craft traditions. Each of the 31 rooms allows guests to engage directly with local artistry, featuring items such as ceramic lamps, grass-cloth wall coverings, and bespoke four-poster beds, all meticulously created in studios mere minutes away. This dedication to local craftsmanship not only enhances the aesthetic but also tells a story of community and artistic heritage, grounding the luxurious experience in regional identity.
A particular highlight of the Belden House & Mews is its jewel box bar. Done up in a vibrant green that evokes the freshness of snap peas and the lushness of leafy trees on a summer morning, this intimate space provides a striking visual experience. It serves as a perfect spot for guests to unwind and immerse themselves in the hotel’s sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, reinforcing the blend of historical charm and contemporary design that defines the property.
8. Maine: Wander the Hippest (and Most Delicious) Little Street in New England
Portland, Maine, is widely recognized for its nautical charm and historic architecture, yet just beyond these familiar sights lies a remarkable transformation. On post-industrial Washington Avenue, visitors will discover a dynamic stretch that has evolved into perhaps the most densely packed restaurant street in New England. What was once dominated by a 1920s bakery factory is now a vibrant, mile-long strip housing dozens of establishments, making it a must-visit for foodies and explorers alike.
This constantly evolving thoroughfare offers an astonishing array of culinary and cultural experiences. From diverse breweries (featuring both beer and kombucha) to a gin distillery, and international restaurants serving East African and Salvadoran cuisine, Washington Avenue is a melting pot of flavors. Specialty spots dedicated to artisanal cheese, fresh Maine oysters, and indulgent duck-fat fries further cement its reputation as a premier gastronomic destination, reflecting Portland’s burgeoning culinary scene.
A day exploring Washington Avenue can be a journey in itself, starting with wellness and transitioning to delicious discoveries. The inclusive public sauna, Washington Baths, offers unique community nights, DJ sets, and film screenings. Onggi Market & Café, named for Korean earthenware, provides an array of fermented goods, while Moonday Coffee, operating from a shipping container, serves locally roasted beans. For unique goods, The Post Supply offers everything from gardening clogs to Amazonian baskets, all housed within beautiful wood-clad interiors.
The culinary adventure continues with Công Tu Bot, expanding views of Vietnamese cuisine through dishes like sticky rice cha lua and burnt pandan pound cake. Izakaya Minato offers family-style omakase and à la carte standouts such as the ‘uni spoon.’ Completing the experience is Lil Chippy, a new seafood spot specializing in exceptional fish and chips, alongside creative options like chili-crisp tuna crudo and butter-poached crab sandwiches, ensuring a comprehensive and unforgettable culinary tour.
9. New York: Sample the Fruits of a Burgeoning Wine Scene in the Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes wine region in New York is undergoing a significant transformation, shedding its long-held association with sweeter wines. A new generation of innovative winemakers is actively raising the bar, embracing unique grape varieties and championing low-intervention practices. This shift is creating a dynamic and exciting scene that is rapidly gaining national recognition, attracting both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers to explore its evolving palate.
Kelby James Russell, a locally born winemaker who launched Apollo’s Praise winery on Seneca Lake in 2023, observes, “Compared to what I grew up thinking of the Finger Lakes, in a lot of ways it’s unrecognizable.” He highlights a “flood of winemaking talent, 40 and under, that has filled the region.” Beyond the acclaimed rieslings, a signature wine of the area, Russell has boldly experimented with the lesser-known German grape scheurebe and is crafting a lambrusco-like sparkling wine, pushing the boundaries of what the region can produce.
Ben Riccardi, who founded Osmote on Seneca Lake after working at wineries worldwide, also contributes to this vibrant movement. His creations include a chardonnay and a pétillant naturel, and he is pioneering the growth of hybrid grapes such as aromella and marquette in his estate vineyard. Riccardi’s dedication extends to nurturing the next wave of winemakers; Julia and Alex Alvarez-Perez of Usonia, another celebrated Finger Lakes winery, utilized his facility before establishing their own on Cayuga Lake, demonstrating a collaborative spirit fueling the region’s growth.
This burgeoning excitement, coupled with land prices that are notably more accessible than those on the West Coast, is drawing new talent to the Finger Lakes. César Vega and Louisiane Remy, for instance, source Finger Lakes grapes for their Brooklyn-based natural winery, Barbichette. Similarly, Michael Penn and Ria D’Aversa relocated from California to launch Ria’s Wines, focusing on minimal-intervention production. D’Aversa aptly notes, “There’s so much opportunity here,” solidifying the Finger Lakes’ position as a compelling and innovative wine destination.
10. Alabama: Book a Trip to a Montgomery Hotel Built for Contemplation
In Montgomery, Alabama, the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), founded by civil rights lawyer Bryan Stevenson, has significantly expanded its impactful Legacy Sites. Building on the profound experiences offered by a museum about slavery and its ongoing impact and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice—a sobering tribute to the 4,400-plus victims of lynching—EJI is opening the new Elevation Convening Center & Hotel this fall. This addition creates an even more comprehensive and immersive environment for visitors to engage with critical American history.
The new center and hotel feature 99 rooms and a restaurant that will serve reimagined Black Southern cuisine, providing both comfort and a cultural experience. Crucially, the HKS architecture firm designed the property with an explicit focus on fostering reflection and learning. This is evident in the inclusion of peaceful gardens and a guests-only library, spaces meticulously crafted to allow visitors to delve deeper into the historical narratives that necessitated the creation of these monumental sites.
The Elevation Convening Center & Hotel is not merely an accommodation; it is an integral part of a larger mission to educate and inspire. The intentional design of spaces for contemplation underscores the EJI’s commitment to facilitating a deeper understanding of America’s complex past and its ongoing reverberations. By providing a sanctuary for learning and reflection, the hotel enhances the transformative journey offered by the Legacy Sites, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking historical insight and personal growth.
11. Florida: Choose from Three Hotels Inspired by Nostalgic Coastal Architecture
The Sunshine State is experiencing a vibrant resurgence of historic properties, with a trio of new and reimagined hotels perfectly showcasing notable moments in 20th-century American architecture. This trend of revitalizing existing landmarks not only preserves the aesthetic heritage of Florida’s iconic coastal design but also injects modern amenities and luxury into these celebrated structures. Guests can now immerse themselves in a blend of nostalgia and contemporary comfort, experiencing the evolution of Florida’s unique architectural identity.
The Shelborne By Proper in Miami Beach stands as a prime example of this revitalization. Proper Hospitality from California undertook a $100 million renovation of this 1940 landmark, which elegantly straddles the line between art deco and tropical modernism. While preserving original elements like the midcentury diving board, the 251-room hotel also introduced Pauline, a modern seafood-focused restaurant from Keys native and Eleven Madison Park alum Abram Bissell, seamlessly blending historical charm with a fresh culinary vision.
Further south, Palm Beach welcomes The Vineta Hotel, the Oetker Collection’s first U.S. property. This German-based collection transformed a 1926 Mediterranean revival property, beloved for its pale-pink facade and plant-filled courtyard. Parisian designer Tino Zervudachi led the overhaul, reducing the number of guest rooms from 57 to 41 to maximize space, ensuring a more luxurious and expansive experience when it opens later this year. This meticulous approach speaks to a commitment to refined elegance and bespoke hospitality.
Meanwhile, in Fort Lauderdale, Pier Sixty-Six, a pristine example of the futuristic postwar Googie style, reopened in January after a monumental $1 billion redevelopment. Debuting in 1965 on the site of a Phillips 66 Petroleum fuel dock, the hurricane-damaged marina-front hotel now features its iconic revolving rooftop lounge, elevated with a posh menu of champagne, caviar, and oysters. These three distinct properties collectively offer a captivating journey through Florida’s architectural past, present, and future, inviting guests to savor the state’s enduring allure.
12. Louisiana: Taste the Future of Gulf Coast Seafood at a New Orleans Fish Market
In Mid-City New Orleans, Porgy’s Seafood Market is actively redefining the perception and consumption of Gulf Coast seafood, spearheaded by fishmonger and co-owner Caitlin Carney. This petite market, adorned with vintage photos and racks of boil spice and fish jerky, thrives on deep relationships with its suppliers. Carney’s first-name basis familiarity with Gulf Coast fishermen underscores a core ethos: prioritizing sustainable practices and reducing waste by focusing on overlooked species.
A defining characteristic of Porgy’s is its mission to sell bycatch, which Carney describes as “a fish or crustacean that ends up in a net meant for something else.” Traditionally, these species were often discarded or used as bait. However, Carney, whose arms feature colorful fish tattoos, champions their delicious potential, stating, “We purchase them instead.” This innovative approach not only supports the fishing industry but also introduces diners to an exciting array of new flavors.
As a result, the display case at Porgy’s offers an ever-evolving roster of species rarely found on typical NOLA menus. Visitors can discover porgy, the market’s sweet, buttery namesake; colorful parrotfish; sheepshead, with their oddly human-like teeth; and even barracuda. Shoppers have the option to take home whole fish for cooking or enjoy them prepared in diverse dishes such as po’boys, crudos, sashimi, or a richly flavored smoked fish dip, showcasing the versatility of these unique catches.
Carney’s dedication to bycatch also fuels culinary creativity within the market. She recounts how the popular “crispy ‘cuda bites” came about on a whim: “We had trouble getting folks to try barracuda, so we made it into fresh fish nuggets, battered in our proprietary dredge and fried.” Served with herbs, chilies, and a Thai-style dipping sauce, these bites have become a “cult classic.” Porgy’s Seafood Market is truly a vanguard, inviting New Orleans to savor the delicious, sustainable future of its Gulf Coast bounty.
As we conclude our cross-country journey, from the revitalized industrial hubs of the Midwest to the sophisticated coastal retreats of the Northeast and the rich cultural tapestries of the South, it’s clear that America is more vibrant and dynamic than ever. These twelve destinations, each a testament to innovation, preservation, and community spirit, offer just a glimpse into the diverse wonders awaiting discovery. As the nation anticipates its 250th birthday, these places don’t just celebrate history; they are actively shaping the future of American travel, inviting us all to explore, engage, and connect with the extraordinary stories unfolding in every corner of this remarkable land.
