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North America is home to one of the vastest collections of cultural, historical, and geographical wonders you’ll ever come across, and even though international travel is having a moment right now, domestic hotspots continue to hold on to their unshakable allure.
In hopes of shedding some light on how U.S. travelers think and choose to explore the many wonders that lie right within our borders, Internova Travel Group, one of the industry’s largest companies, released the “2023 Internova Index: American Traveler Insights.”
While there were a number of interesting findings to come out of the study, one specific statistic about domestic destinations really caught readers’ eyes.
When ranking the top international hotspots, researchers found that the places booked through tours or package deals vastly differed from those booked independently through traditional flight and hotel reservations.
However, in the case of U.S. destinations, the same five states topped the ranking regardless of booking method.
Hawaii
The stunning volcanic archipelago nestled in the heart of the Pacific has long been Americans’ go-to destination when it comes to a beachy, tropical getaway.
The many islands of Hawaii, of which O'ahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island are the undeniable fan favorites, paint a breathtaking picture of lush rainforests, volcanic craters, pristine beaches, and cascading waterfalls.
Those going to Hawaii for the very first time won’t want to miss out on must-see attractions like the iconic Diamond Head, Haleakalā, or the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which, while a bit touristy, have become popular for a reason.
Florida
Having welcomed over 35 million visitors in the first nine months of 2023 alone, Florida is currently enjoying a newly set record for tourism, and considering the sunny climate, thrilling theme parks, and awe-inspiring nature that characterizes the state; the numbers are only going to keep growing.
In Florida, there’s truly something for every type of traveler.
Those looking to have some family-friendly fun can’t go wrong with Orlando, often dubbed “the theme park capital of the world.”
Home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Florida, and SeaWorld Orlando, the city provides the perfect exhilarating escape from the stresses of day-to-day life while also gifting little ones with the experience of their wildest dreams.
Beachgoers, on the other hand, can marvel at the pristine coastline that stretches along the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico.
Between the vibrant nightlife of Miami Beach and the serene beauty of the Florida Keys, you’re promised a sun-basked experience that’s perfectly tailored to your preferences.
Nevada
Dominated by the timeless allure of Las Vegas, Nevada stands as a symbol of entertainment, nightlife, and uninhibited fun.
Beyond its iconic Strip, the state boasts a stunning array of natural attractions that’s not to be missed.
Here, you can admire the iconic Red Rock Canyon, mysterious Area 51, and serene Lake Tahoe, all of which provide a stark contrast to the glitz and Glamour of Vegas.
California
If you’re intrigued by the idea of a mild-weathered getaway this winter, California should be at the very top of your travel bucket list.
From the glamour of Hollywood to the picturesque sights of Yosemite National Park, the Golden State is a fascinating destination that manages to perfectly capture the essence of the American Dream.
After all, California is home to some of the most iconic cities in the world, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, each of which radiates a unique type of charm.
LA, the entertainment capital of the world, offers the allure of Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the famous Getty Center; San Francisco enchants with its Golden Gate Bridge, historic cable cars, and vibrant arts scene; while San Diego is the ultimate beachy, family-friendly destination.
Alaska
Thanks to its vast, untamed wilderness, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife, Alaska is often referred to as “The Last Frontier,” and adventure seekers across the country can’t seem to get enough of it.
Those willing to venture beyond the beaten path will be rewarded with the views of a lifetime.
Denali National Park is famously home to North America's tallest peak, reachable only by climbers with intermediate technical snow and ice climbing experience.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.