The Best Places To Travel In The U.S. In 2023, According To The Experts

With borders closed around the world for the past three years, travel to the United States has provided Americans with much-needed comfort and empowerment during times of uncertainty and fear. We rediscovered national parks, explored the nation's hidden beaches, and discovered a new appreciation for American nature.

Although many international countries have reopened to travelers, domestic travel remains strong, according to the US Travel Association, suggesting there's plenty to explore close to home.

So what are the best travel destinations right now? Every year I collect the best places to visit in America. I once again turned to top travel experts and influencers to find their favorite US travel destinations in 2023. I also opened my little black book to reveal the destinations on my radar.

Our top picks for this year cover the country from coast to coast, from coastal getaways to mountain retreats to urban hotspots, with a few surprises along the way. Compare these picks to our list of America's best travel destinations for 2022, and it's clear that the United States is the travel gift that keeps on giving.

Where: Phoenix, Arizona

Picker : Lucee Santini is a travel writer and lifestyle blogger who contributes to the Huffington Post, SheBuysTravels and Newsbreak and is the editor-in-chief and writer at MomJunky.com. She shares her adventures and tips on Instagram @momjunky.com and @familytraveldestinations.

Why : Phoenix recently made headlines for hosting Taylor Swift's tour and hosting Superbowl LVII, where MLB spring training was held. But in 2023, one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, Greater Phoenix has so much to offer, not to mention the natural beauty that makes it a must-see. "Sun Valley is known for its year-round sunny weather, great hikes and beautiful views," says Lucee Santini, a big fan of places like the Desert Botanical Garden. Desert.

The city is in the midst of a $23 million redevelopment of South Mountain Park and Preserve, America's largest urban park, scheduled for completion by the park's 100th anniversary in 2024. "Living in WorldMark Phoenix - South Mountain Reserve," Santini said. "It's the perfect base to explore nearby walking trails and visit great shows or exhibitions."

Several major resorts will open in Phoenix over the next year, including Moxy Phoenix Downtown (located at 1920 Luhrs), The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie (Camelback Mountain), and the multi-billion dollar resort VAI. white sand beach, 52,000 square foot amusement island and Mattel Adventure Park).

Even some iconic items will be reworked. The Wigwam, a historic West Valley resort of luxury casitas and suites, is scheduled for a complete renovation in 2023. Look out for two large swimming pools, bowling and tennis courts and a modernized 54-hole championship golf club. Two by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Meanwhile, the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa recently underwent an $80 million renovation and will soon introduce a redesigned AquaRidge water park and a new Pan-Asian restaurant concept, Kembara.

Metro Phoenix's food and wine scene is also thriving, with exciting entries like Chic Chef 77 (Arizona's first black-owned wine bar by celebrity chef Nick Fields) and Chilte (Mexican street food at Egypt's new Motor Grand Avenue Arts District Hotel). . The drinking scene is also making global headlines, thanks to leading venues such as Platform 18 and UnderTow creating a new brand of cocktail theatre.

Where: Central Coast, California

Voter: Molly O'Brien is a freelance journalist.

Why: Stretching from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo, California's Central Coast is experiencing a renaissance with new and renovated hotels, wine offerings and a thriving culinary scene, not to mention its unique atmosphere. "Being on the Central Coast releases something special in you," says Molly O'Brien. “Maybe it's the warmth of the community that welcomes you, or the abundance of open spaces to explore, or the freshness of the ingredients used in the local restaurants and breweries. You can immediately relax and let your mind wander."

In Santa Barbara, known as America's Riviera, the new tech boutique hotel Drift Santa Barbara will officially open its doors in early 2023 in a restored 1920s building with hands-free access, third-wave coffee shops and restaurants (Dawn) and an artisan-inspired atmosphere of Mexican Heritage Cafe (Twilight). The Steward, a new Marriott hotel portfolio tribute, will debut in May. Set on nearly 5 acres of beautiful gardens, this all-suite boutique hotel has a strong commitment to sustainability, from eliminating single-use plastics to introducing workwear made from vegan materials.

The art and food scene in the area is also vibrant. The former Bellosguardo Winery will open to the public for the first time in 2023, while the Urban Wine Trail welcomes several new tasting rooms, including La Lieff Wines and Frequency Wine Co. Culinary newcomers in Santa Barbara include AMA Restaurant at Rosewood Miramar Beach (with service). authentic Japanese sushi in a beautiful setting) and Augie Tequila Bar and Restaurant (with the largest selection of tequila and mezcal on the west coast, including local agave brandies).

2023 brings more exciting news along the Central Coast, from the newest expanding American Vineyard to new restaurants like Italian-inspired Cielo (opening in Atascadero) and Antigua Brewing Company (opening in San Luis Obispo). The Paso Robles winery now boasts a new Michelin star for its Six Test Kitchen, and the town will soon be home to two Nomada Hotel Group properties: Farmhouse and River Lodge, offering easy access to the old town center. Old is new: in the once-forgotten border town of Pozo, Nomada Hotel Group has transformed the famous Pozo Saloon into a modern travel haven complete with airflow, glamping tents, Sprinter vans, outdoor bathrooms and a distillery.

Where: San Francisco, California

Chosen by: Emily Carmichael is the editor-in-chief of Fifty Grande Magazine.

Why: The Bay is buzzing this year with many new concepts in hospitality, gastronomy, technology, green spaces and sustainability. “With all the worries about Silicon Valley, people are probably tired of hearing about science fiction by now, but if there's one thing to pay attention to, it's the city's sustainability leadership. It's on our list of top sustainability goals for 2023,” said Emily Carmichael.

Notable new openings include the Hearst Hotel Auberge Resorts (transforming an iconic building into a grand space that combines tradition and innovation) and the LINE Hotel San Francisco (a modern interpretation of the area's historic architecture with a panoramic rooftop -solarium with panoramic views). the city). .

Additionally, the recently opened Presidio Tunnel Peak, designed by James Corner Field Operations (the company behind New York City's High Line), offers the city plenty of room to explore and relax amid a new 14-acre national park and panoramic views of the bay. .

The culinary scene is also hot. "It's not hard to find really good food that's sustainably or locally sourced, like Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese or Lolo," says Carmichael. "There are also picnics at the Japanese Tea Garden and Dolores Park. San Francisco is a great place to eat and be outside, smog be damned.

Then there are the effects of technology. Joining the growing NFT phenomenon is SHŌ, a two-story dining and nightlife venue slated to open in downtown San Francisco in fall 2023. The concept includes a rooftop restaurant and sky lounge as well as a private club. Acquisition of NFTs.

Where: Vail, Colorado

Featured: Laura Begley Bloom is a travel expert and the author of this column.

Why: Sixty years ago, a group of visionaries set out to open a ski resort on Vail Mountain that would eventually revolutionize the industry and help make this former mining town a must-visit destination, not just for jet builders , but also for ski enthusiasts. Nature to seek adventure all year round. Vail has a lot to celebrate in 2023 as the mountain celebrates its 60th anniversary.

Headlining is Camp Hale, President Biden's first national monument. A new Revolutionary Monument on the outskirts of town honors the Ute people, the region's indigenous people, as well as the Army's 10th Mountain Division, which trained and helped liberate Europe during World War II. There are also 53,804 acres to explore which you can explore with mountain biking, guided hikes, rock climbing, fishing and an overnight trip to the nearest ^10th Mountain Division lodge. (Delaware North recently announced that it is acquiring Nova Guides, a Camp Hale-based outdoor recreation and adventure travel company.)

Even better, Vail Resorts already uses 100 percent renewable electricity at every ski resort in North America, not just Vail itself. This is part of startup Zero Commitment 's efforts to achieve a net-zero footprint by 2030. Vail also built two new ski lifts in Wildwood and partnered with local 10th Mountain Whiskey Distillery to create some limited edition bourbons to commemorate the anniversary. the.

In a city where restaurants, lounges and hotels are constantly innovating, ordering hot food at Alpenrose is a private gondola experience, while Chasing Rabbits shakes things up with quirky entertainment options including a restaurant, art house and cocktail bar. and much more.

Located at the base of Mount Vail on the venerable fly fishing waters of Gore Creek, the Grand Hyatt Vail is also gearing up for its 40th anniversary. New chef Pascal Coudouy is reinventing the menu at gourmet restaurant Gessner's Alpine, while the hugely popular pop-up restaurant Yoshimi will soon be replaced by a new permanent sushi restaurant. And the hotel has hosted many memorable moments, from the first Moët Yurt ski to Colorado's first and only Moët & Chandon champagne vending machine. The dogs are also spoiled during the Summer Yappy Hour.

Where: Bailey, Colorado

Featured: Kathryn O'Shea-Evans is a travel and design writer and co-author of the new book Lodge: An Indoorsy Tour of America's National Parks (Gibbs Smith, April 2023), with a foreword by Ken Burns.

Why: "Colorados like me know the truth: sometimes you're stuck in Los Angeles for hours on 1-70 in decent traffic trying to get into the mountains for a day of skiing or mountaineering adventures," he says. Kathryn O'Shea Evans.

But O'Shea-Evans and her husband recently found a dreamy alternative away from the crowds: Bailey, Colorado. "The hour-long drive from downtown Denver on Highway 285 is easy and full of exciting mountains that will make you feel like you're in an undiscovered corner of Europe," says O'Shea-Evans.

For an immersion in nature, O'Shea-Evans recommends the Deer Creek Trail. "If you want to be immersed in a peaceful mountain forest and take a short walk along a flowing river, this is the place," he says. Another favorite: Lake Wellington. "It's open all year round and is the best place for anglers in the area, teeming with fish like rainbow trout and palominos twice a year," he says. For a glimpse of local history, McGraw Memorial Park is a must. "The 50-acre riverfront park is home to an 1870 historic park, the Keystone Railroad Bridge and the Shawnee School," says O'Shea-Evans.

Other popular vacation spots include Aspen Peak Cellars on the banks of the South Platte River ("don't miss the charcuterie, fresh-baked baguettes in Tuscan olive oil, and authentic Swiss cheese fondue") and the PCCP Resale Boutique ("currently a wardrobe". or toy staple)." lovely all-volunteer-run children's store with a treasure trove of second-hand goods at incredible prices

In fact, O'Shea-Evans loved Bailey so much that she and her husband bought a modern vacation home and turned it into a luxury short-term rental, the Skytop Chalet. “Bandit Peak and Rosalie Peak have great views,” he said. "When we vacation there with our son, we always, always see the wildlife, some of the cattle, and we never get stuck in traffic. This is how Colorado should be...just don't tell anyone."

Where: Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida

Featured: Kate Schweitzer is a freelance travel writer based in Chicago and a mother of two. Follow him on Instagram @kateschweitzer.

Why: Family-friendly Destin-Fort Walton Beach boasts near-perfect year-round weather, a thriving hotel scene, abundant ecotourism that must be carefully nurtured, as well as "a vibrant fishing community like the seaside town known as the happiest fisherman . "the world world," said Kate Schweitzer.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin offers tourists a variety of exciting and educational activities such as artificial coral reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving, educational shore walks to learn about sea turtles, and emerald green waters where dolphins roam free in their habitat. . . To protect and restore local marine life, intended purpose a new turtle awareness initiative, the first fisheries aggregation toolkit in the continental United States, and projects such as The Emerald Coast Open and the Lion Fish Cleanup and Awareness Day Festival to promote the effective eradication of invasive species from the Gulf.

"Visitors can also increase their love of marine life by visiting Destin's Gulfarium CARE Center, which promotes the rehabilitation and release of beach turtles," says Schweitzer. "My kids love the marine biologist guided tour as well as sailing the trimaran in search of dolphins."

Destin is also home to a vibrant bay-to-table seafood scene, including places like Lulu's (owned by Jimmy Buffett's younger sister Lucy), Rockin Tacos and Brotula's Seafood House. "Actually do the right thing and order the lionfish that's on the menu—an invasive species that feeds on the area's native fish populations," says Schweitzer. "Destin is truly Florida's hidden gem, and you'll be glad you found it."

Where: St. Peter, Florida

Featured: Terry Ward is a Florida-based travel writer whose work has appeared on CNN, National Geographic, Lonely Planet, and The Washington Post , among many other publications. Follow her journey on Twitter and Instagram at @TerryWardWriter.

Why: "St. Pete's offers one of Florida's best blends of a trendy, vibrant downtown with beautiful beaches nearby," says Terry Ward. "The city is world-renowned for its art scene, from murals to Salvador Dali and Renaissance masterpieces in museums , but remains informal and accessible at all levels."

With 35 miles of uninterrupted coastline, including some of Florida's most prized beaches, and a thriving arts and culture scene, St. It's no wonder Pete's is on travelers' radar. The Dali Museum continues to offer unique and innovative exhibits that explore immersive, multi-sensory experiences for all types of travelers and is a must-visit.

Just as cool: "It's LGBTQ+ heaven and hosts the biggest annual pride in the state," says Ward. And the new St. Pete's Pier has become a year-round gathering place, whether at the pop-up skating rink, among the pelicans and fishermen casting their lines at the end, or from the views of downtown and Tampa Bay from the top one Tiki bar,' a building washed by a salty wind.

The year saw major changes in the hospitality scene, including a major renovation at the popular Vinoy Resort & Golf Club and trendy new hotels popping up across the city. The EDGE district welcomes its first lifestyle hotel, the Moxy Hotel by Marriott, while the Mint House will open in June 2023 and offer apartment-style apartments in the district. Also the AC Hotel St. Petersburg by Marriott opened earlier this year.

Regarding the recording of the sun St. Pete for 361 years, it was not always on the beach. This year's 75-mile Fred Marquis Pinellas Line Loop was completed with an additional 6.7 miles. The multi-purpose trail runs from Tarpon Springs to St. It extends all the way to Pete's and connects with coastal communities along the way, making it a great way to explore the area.

Where to go: Savannah, Georgia

Featured: Melissa Klurman is a travel expert and the author of Reader's Digest , The Points Guy and Travel Awaits .

Why: Savannah's "City of Entrepreneurship" is an enchanting Southern retreat and a favorite spot of travel writer Melissa Clurman because of its rich history: the entire downtown is a National Historic Landmark; its 22 car parks, including the famous Forsyth's Garden at midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil ; and of course the many regional delicacies.

Despite its many appeals, Savannah's live music scene has remained somewhat under the radar, Clurman says. “Savannah has always been overshadowed by Nashville and Austin. But things will change," Klurman said.

This year, the city is giving its 9,500-seat arena a big name with a new venue, the Enmarket Arena. It follows the opening of the Plant Riverside District, an entertainment district that debuted during the pandemic.

Even more exciting is the vibrant Savannah Music Festival, a 17-day celebration of live jazz, blues, folk, global roots and classical music. It's an easy concert series to attend (and enjoy), says Clurman, with tickets starting at $31 at an affordable price. Clurman said. “This has been a local favorite for over 30 years, but with a renewed focus on Savannah as a truly great music destination, I'm confident that the Savannah Music Festival will be at the top of music lovers' lists for years to come. "

Where to go: Portland, Maine

Picker: Born and raised in Maine, Vanessa Santarelli is the founder of Your Maine Concierge (the state's first personal experience company) and host of the television show Maine Life .

Why: "You can visit Portland for a week and still explore all that Maine's largest city has to offer," says Vanessa Santarelli.

From fine dining to local seafood restaurants, Portland has more restaurants per capita than any other city in the country except San Francisco. Earlier this year, Per Se and Eleven Madison Park Twelve alumni opened up to show their sympathy. Some of its other notable locations include The Danforth (Death & Co team's restaurant and cocktail bar with stylish interiors), Tandem (a bakery and cafe in a former gas station), Crispy Gai ("a hotspot for people", bartender Arvid Brown) . . This twist on the classic Thai basil daiquiri is not to be missed,” says Santarelli. The Miyake also reopens after being closed for years due to Covid Santarelli.

Looking for a classic Maine experience? "Cross the South Portland Bridge for local oysters, ceviche, smoked trout and grilled salmon at SoPo Seafood Market and Raw Bar along with local beers like Patina from Austin Street Brewery on a leisurely drive, but not into the Lobster Shack ." Two lights – a delicious Maine lobster lunch with incredible views on a no-frills picnic table overlooking sailboats and fishing boats,” said Santarelli, the Portland Museum of Art's Scarborough waterfront studio that inspired his best-known works.”

This year will also bring some exciting hotel news: The Longfellow Hotel, designed by the same people who built Canandaiga's famous Lake House, is slated to open this summer in Portland's historic West End. The property will be the first independent full-service hotel to open in Portland in 20 years and is named after famed Portland poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Owned and operated by two lifelong Maine brothers, this hotel reimagines the wild and rugged beauty of Maine into an elegant and relaxed oasis in the heart of Portland.

Another new hotspot: the Washington Baths, an avant-garde Scandinavian public bath. This year also marks the 200th anniversary of the first Boston-to-Portland steamship, which started regular passenger service between the two cities and helped make Maine a "vacation land."

Traverse City, Michigan

Featured: Erica Zazo is a freelance travel and outdoors writer based in Chicago. He often writes about the lesser-known trails and outdoor adventures of the Midwest.

Why: To add an underrated destination to your 2023 bucket list, look no further than the beaches of Traverse City on Michigan's northwest side. The destination is the perfect blend of small-town charm combined with luxury offerings at cultural and culinary venues, such as Modern Bird (run by a Michelin-starred cooking couple) and Dennos Museum Center (which boasts the largest in the country). collection of Inuit art).

Erika Zazo says, “As a Michigan native, I can't say enough about my love for Traverse City. "I'm a big fan of the area's outdoor adventures, including kayaking and fishing on the Boardman River, biking downtown, hiking the Old Mission Peninsula, and boating on Grand Traverse Bay."

One of these popular destinations is the Cherry Blossom Capital: visitors can stroll among the cherry blossom trees in the spring and celebrate the region's favorite plant at the National Cherry Blossom Festival in July. Traverse City is also home to a hidden wine gem: the Traverse Wine Coast. Located at the 45th parallel, the region joins a number of Europe's most prestigious wine regions and features two unique regions that are climate-controlled by the expansive waters of Lake Michigan: Leelanau and the Old Mission Peninsula.

It's also beer country. “I'm a big fan of Michigan craft beer, and visiting the Farm Club just north of Traverse City is one of my favorite places to drink local beer,” Zazo says. "They have a fantastic menu, impressive beer and incredible views from a very nice dining room filled with a comfortable, modern cabin atmosphere." For a beer and bike adventure, Zazo recommends the Leelanau Trail, a 17-mile paved bike trail that passes through the Farm Club and extends into Suttons Bay.

Ultimately, Traverse City is an all-season destination, whether skiing and winter sports at Crystal Mountain Resort, hiking in the fall, or exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakes in the spring and summer. For a good stay The Alexandra Inn opens this summer on a private beach along East Grand Traverse Bay. Each of the 32 guest rooms has a bathtub and a glass-enclosed balcony with breathtaking views of the water.

Where: Mississippi

Featured: Laura Begley Bloom is a travel expert and the author of this column.

Why: The Magnolia State has everything a 2023 traveler could want, from a cutting-edge culinary scene to vibrant small towns and breathtaking scenery.

In Hattiesburg, view more than 50 works of art along the Public Art Trail, the Hattiesburg Pocket Alley Pocket Museum (a 48" x 36" display case full of collectibles that changes monthly), and save at Lucky Rabbit. There is also a glassblowing demonstration.

Other hidden towns include Waveland (the only Gulf Coast community to prohibit commercial construction on its waterfront), Bay St. Louis (with a cute downtown filled with art galleries and antique shops), and Diamondhead (known for its golf scene and more). the best greens on the beach.

Mississippi has also developed a distinct food culture, with fine dining from celebrity chefs, farm-to-table spots and no-frills eateries. In historic Ocean Springs, Vestige offers a modern American menu inspired by Japanese flavors and techniques, while at Elvie's in Jackson, chef Hunter Evans learned his love of food and New Orleans hospitality from his grandmother Elvieretta. . Delta is also known for its tamales, and the easiest way to sample this popular treat is to follow the Hot Tamale Trail.

As for the outdoors, the Quapaw Canoe Company organizes day and night special field expeditions along the Mississippi River across the backwaters, bays, oxbows and floodplains. Mississippi also offers great birding along its forests and sandy beaches, and the Mississippi Coastal Birding Trail helps visitors identify more than 40 birding spots identified by local birders.

Lodging in Mississippi ranges from forest retreats to historic inns and everything in between. The Roost in Ocean Springs is a restored boutique hotel within walking distance of the beach and eclectic downtown. The Monmouth Historic Inn in Natchez, located on 26 acres, was originally built in 1818 and is now a National Historic Landmark.

Where: Kansas City, Missouri

Featured: Anna Petrow is a Kansas City-based food, travel and lifestyle photographer and a regular contributor to The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and Fathom magazines.

Why: "Kansas City's culture includes a unique blend of creativity and cuisine," says Anna Petrow. "A city in the heart of the continent, our chefs and farmers are among those quietly leading the farm-to-table movement in this country."

Now Kansas City is having a moment, thanks in part to the people who really care about where their food comes from. "In everything from cocktails to KC's handmade chocolates, you see how healing is brought to life in creative ways," says Petrov. “Christopher Elbow Confectionery takes the national stage, J. Rieger & Co. and local liquor brands like Mean Mule have captured the hearts of Kansasians with innovation and respect for our city's heritage. Loudspeakers and a ban in favor of jazz earned him the nickname "Paris of the Straight".

Another characteristic of this city is that it is a place where community is more important than competition. Petrow Deyir: "Siz bunu hively Zaman Görürsünüz, yeni täbbüslärndardardardardardestästələy restaurant, icma t ingryp. Bu ruhu tăcăssüm bir person: Ceki Nguyen, Café Vietnam Cà Phê-nin sahibi. Petrow deyir: "Onun dukaşı şatlarların, organizatorçılın və hışoparastlarların evına tarışlib" .

Tutto ciò alimenta lo spirito generale di stestegno all arti, tra cui First Fridays in the Crossroads, Serate all'aperto, Festival di arte di strada che attractano grandi folle, gare di barbecue all'aperto in Estate e institutions come l'amato American Jazz Museum. "Ottimo cibo e bevande non sono mai lontani," said Petrov. relevant case? "Il birrificio più atteso di KC, Vine Street Brewing, fondato e di proprietà di Black, aprirà quest'anno vicino al museo", Affirms Petrow. "Quindi vai avanti e prenota un volo per il nostro nuovo aeroporto: le tue papille gustative ti ringrazieranno."

Dove and Are: Atlantic City, New Jersey

Scelto da: Andrea Doyle, Giornalista at Skift Meetings.

Perché: "Atlantic City will have uno striscione nel 2023 e io sarò un assiduo frequentatore", echoes Andrea Doyle. America's Playground (come viene chiamata questa città sulla spiaggia) has a significant new investment in last year's goals, many million hotels, huge restaurants and new attractions.

"Ci sono così tante nuove features in arrivo online che sono begeistert in provare", soft Andrea Doyle. "Non vedo l'ora di cenare al Nobu, che aprirà quest'anno, godermi uno spettacolo allo Spiegelworld e dare un'occhiata ad alcuni dei tanti concerti di alto livello presentati quest'estate".

Quando bei Caesars in Atlantic City angekommen mit einer neuen Produktion in „The Hook“ im Nachlass von 2023, Spiegelworld ist das Ziel, den Hauptdarsteller der subacqueo del pianeta zu verlassen. Portando anche nuova vita alla destinazione: Attesissimo rebranding da 55 millionen Dollari und die Ristrutturazione del Borgata's Water Club alla MGM Tower. In aggiunta all'eccitazione: Island Waterpark at Showboat Atlantic City, che sarà il più grande acquatico al coperto del paese e sarà caracterizzato da machines da surf avantgarde che creeranno onde a grandezza naturale e le più grandi form personalizzatiche del mondo.

And naturally, ci sono i preferiti collaudati che continuano a offerre. "Durante le fughe con le mie amiche e il mio club del libro, ci piace fare shopping, cenare in ristoranti prestigiosi, trattamamento termali in centri benessere come Exhale Spa + Bathhouse at Ocean e ballare tutta la notte al Boogie Nights al Tropicana", affirma Doyle.

Dove: Cascate del Niagara, New York

Scelto da: Michele Herrmann, freelance travel, kitchen and lifestyle writer and content creator

Perché: le cascate del Niagara sono una destination da non perdere per persone proveniente da tutto il mondo, grazie ad attractions iconiciche com Maid of the Mist e Cave of the Winds. Founded in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park has always been a point of interest for visitors to the falls, and now a new 46 million dollar reception center that will open in the spring will present sustainable elements, practical examples and indigenous history to enrich the experience

"The New York State side of the Niagara Falls has really seen a lot of growth and revitalization", says Michele Herrmann. "From establishments such as Wine on Third, to the new Visitor's Center, there's a lot going on. Other sites to visit include the Aquarium of Niagara and the Niagara Power Vista.”

Nature is the focal point of any visit to Niagara Falls USA, and the new Niagara Hiking Company offers guided day hikes into the Niagara Gorge, with scenic vantage points and narrated history of the area.

A short walk from Niagara Falls, visitors can stay at the Red Coach Inn, celebrating its ^100th anniversary in 2023. The historic hotel overlooks the spectacular Upper Rapids of the Niagara River. Also located within walking distance of Niagara Falls: the recently renovated voco The Cadence Hotel. Rooms have balconies where guests can kick up their feet and enjoy a glass of wine from one of the many local Niagara wineries.

Where to Go: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Chosen By: Kay Kingsman, travel writer and blogger at The Awkward Traveller.

Why: “Oklahoma City is not often at the top of dream destinations for travelers, but 2023 is the year that will change,” says Kay Kingsman. “Other cities around the country may get the colloquial title of 'weird' or 'quirky,' but Oklahoma City, also called OKC for short, flies under the radar for its unconventional attractions and locally curated art scene.”

The Bradford House boutique hotel in uptown is a new staple to OKC hospitality. “It offers guests unique guest rooms, delightful afternoon tea, jazz nights with regional musicians, and even weekly French classes,” says Kingsman. “It'll be hard to leave your cozy hotel room, but once you do, check out two of the most unique museums you'll ever come across: the American Banjo Museum and the American Pigeon Museum. While both are seemingly random, visitors will learn how both pigeons and banjos were integral to the foundation of modern American culture.”

Be sure to round out your cultural enrichment with a trip to the newly opened First Americans Museum. “It explains the decolonized history of the Americas through the lens of the continent's Indigenous peoples,” says Kingsman.

There are other amazing things to do in OKC beyond museums. “Have a psychedelic experience at Factory Obscura and dine at the award-winning Grey Sweater restaurant,” says Kingsman. “Oklahoma City is also a fantastic road trip stop, as it lies along Route 66, one of the strangest, but also most artistic, highways in the country.”

Whether you are just passing through or staying a while, be sure to also add on at least a day trip to the nearby city of Tulsa. “Tulsa is a destination all on its own, but if you only have time for one activity, be sure to join the eye-opening Greenwood Black Wall Street tour,” says Kingsman. “Visitors will learn the seedy reality of how government entities systemically destroy and displace Black neighborhoods, and also the steps on what they can do to take action.”

Where to Go: Portland, Oregon

Chosen By: Kay Kingsman, travel writer and blogger at The Awkward Traveller.

Why: “Like a phoenix from the ashes, Portland, Oregon is reemerging in 2023 with unprecedented growth in the food and beverage scene, both in quality and variety,” says Kay Kingsman.

Awarded “best foodie city of 2022” by WalletHub, Portland is leading the industry in innovative menus representing cuisines from every corner of the globe. “One especially exciting trait of Portland's new trajectory is how many of the new and rising businesses are owned and operated by BIPOC and LGBTQA+ trailblazers, reinforcing that a visit to Portland can suit every traveler,” says Kingsman.

With so many great food options, it might be a little overwhelming for first-time visitors. Kingsman's top recommendations: Matutitna or Masala Lab for breakfast, followed by Nong's Khao Man Gai or Heavy Plays for lunch. “End the night with a bang at República or Kann, both James Beard-nominated restaurants,” says Kingsman. Or grab a bite at the establishments that made Portland a household name in the culinary world: food carts. “There are literally hundreds of food carts, and for the most part you can't go wrong, but a few of my personal favorites are Balong, Erica's Soul Food, Kim Jong Grillin and Speed-o Cappuccino,” says Kingsman.

How to fill your time between meals? “Get active at a few of the new inclusive fitness studios like Flow in the City or join in for a community run hosted by Deadstock Coffee Roasters,” says Kingsman. “You can also go at your own pace with a stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden, which added a new tea cafe, or explore the city on an urban hike and pop into a few locally owned small businesses for a little souvenir shopping—sales tax free.”

Where to Go: Puerto Rico

Chosen By: Kay Kingsman, travel writer and blogger at The Awkward Traveller.

Why: Powerfully rebounding from Hurricane Irma and Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico is sprinting full speed ahead into 2023—and beyond—with new avenues to enjoy while remaining loyal to its Boricuan identity. “One of the first things visitors may notice is the variety of lodging options that directly benefit the community, like the Dreamers Welcome, a new LGBTQIA-owned hospitality group co-founded by Puerto Rican artist and designer Roy Delgado,” says Kay Kingsman.

From surfing, to hiking, to just suntanning near the lagoons, Puerto Rico is a destination of natural beauty, with miles of beautiful coastlines and the only rainforest National Park in America. “For the nautically inclined, there are also multiple islands off the coast with soft white sand and crystal clear waters for snorkeling,” says Kingsman. “Or grab a kayak and waft through one (or all!) of the three bioluminescent bays.”

Other nature highlights include the reopening of the renowned Camuy Caves, known for its extensive network of natural lime caves and underground waterways waiting to be explored. And then there's the state-of-the-art self-sustainable company Earthship PR, which offers educational tours and short-term rentals of its off-grid and sustainable homes built with recycled materials

Along with the island's natural beauty, Puerto Rico's cultural attractions are also a big draw. “Companies like Higuaca Adventours and Sojourn offer accessible Taino and Afro-Borinken heritage tours,” says Kingsman. Coupled with the worldwide explosion of Puerto Rican musicians such as Bad Bunny, Rauw Alejandro, and Villano Antillano, the island is experiencing incredible growth in the art scene as well. “Be sure to check out community art collectives such as El Local en Santurce to get the latest pulse on the creative events in Puerto Rico,” says Kingsman.

There are also a number of new restaurants blooming across the island. “A food tour with Flavors of San Juan Food or Spoon is a must-do to get a taste of some of the best flavors Puerto Rico has to offer,” says Kingsman. “If tours aren't your style, you can DIY your own culinary adventure by following recommendations by local Puerto Rican food influencer Come Con Juan.”

Where to Go: South County, Rhode Island

Chosen By: Nneya Richards is a speaker and travel blogger at 'NA Perfect World, a curated intersection of travel, food, fashion and geopolitics inspired by the global-citizen lifestyle of the millennial. Richards aims to empower young people, especially those of color, to travel, as she believes it is through exploring the world that we will bridge cultural gaps and misunderstandings.

Why: “It's just over three hours away from NYC on a fast, comfortable Amtrak ride. But shhh… don't tell the New Yorkers,” says Nneya Richards. “During the summer season, getting to South County, Rhode Island is easier than getting to the Hamptons. And you're going to want to head here all year round.”

South County, Rhode Island is on the list for 2023, thanks to all its secret diversions and some not-so secret celebrity fans. “You may know the town of Watch Hill from Taylor Swift's Last Great American Dynasty, ” says Richards. “Or maybe it's because Watch Hill is home to the oldest Flying Horse carousel in the country, dating back to 1754.”

Also going for South County: “There's something for everyone,” says Richards. “There are laidback surf town vibes in places like Narragansett, and you'll find the best seafood in the country at restaurants like Matunuck Oyster Bar, and cuisine that could easily be just at home in a hotspot in Mexico City at Dalia, a waterfront Mexican restaurant at Ocean House.”

There's plenty of hotel news in South County, including The Cottage Collection (new accommodations from the acclaimed by Ocean House), The General Stanton Inn (an historic property in Charlestown that's reopening in May) and Surf Shack Bed & Breakfast (a funky inn coming in late 2023 in Narragansett).

Other new exciting spots include Double Barrel Steak by David Burke, which recently debuted at The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences and Seaside Shadows ghost tours in Westerly (new since last fall). And coming in 2024: Charleston's Ninigret Park will be home to new Troll works by the famed Danish artist Thomas Dambo.

Best of all: “It's one of those pockets of peace that the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic can do so well,” says Richards. “And the sunrises and sunsets are just marvelous.”

Where to Go: South Dakota

Chosen By: Laura Begley Bloom is a travel expert and the author of this column.

Why: Besides its six national parks, 63 state parks and recreation areas, iconic monuments and scenic byways, South Dakota has plenty of new reasons to add the state to your travel bucket list in 2023.

In the legendary Badlands, the Oglala Lakota Living History Village is a new entry point to the beautiful landscape and the past and present culture of Lakota Country. Another new adventure in the heart of Lakota Country: a Buffalo Road Vacation at the legendary Farlee Ranch on the Cheyenne River Reservation, which provides visitors with an understanding of the life of Native Americans. This year also marks the 75 ^th year anniversary of the Crazy Horse monument—which is still being constructed and honors the Lakota leader who bravely defended the Lakota people's way of life.

In Custer State Park, the new Bison Center brings an all-bison experience to the park's scenic drive through the southern prairie, educating future generations on the importance of these majestic animals through dynamic interpretive displays. For a new way to see the Black Hills, the Custer-based Overland America specializes in off-road adventures in Jeep and Overland Trailer rentals.

Another South Dakota must-see for landscapes, tribal history and rich culture: the Native American Scenic Byway, which takes travelers through the lands of the Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Sioux Tribes.

South Dakota's culinary scene might also surprise you, especially in Sioux Falls, which is home to spots like The Treasury (an imaginative cocktail lounge located through the bank vault doors of the area's newest boutique hotel, Hotel on Phillips), Remedy Brewing Company (a newly opened family and dog-friendly brewery) and the trailblazing Sanaa's Gourmet Mediterranean (led by 2023 James Beard Award-nominated chef Sanaa Abourezk).

Where to Go: Woodstock, Vermont

Chosen By: Amanda Gabriele is a writer, editor, world traveler and martini enthusiast. She's currently a senior editor at InsideHook and her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Eater, Gear Patrol, Thrillist, Matador and more. She lives in Brooklyn, New York but is constantly looking for her next adventure, which you can follow on Instagram @amandameatballs.

Why: Woodstock, Vermont has been making headlines for reasons big and small. The town was recently named to American Express Travel's 2023 Trending Destinations list, based its popularity with cardholders. And the destination garnered attention when it reopened its iconic Suicide Six ski area—one of the oldest in the country— with a new name, Saskadena Six Ski Area, and new amenities. The change was recognized both for its long overdue nod to the Abenaki people's ancestral lands, as well as the importance of mental health awareness.

The town's simple appeals add to its allure. “I can't think of a more idyllic place than Woodstock, Vermont—it makes for a perfect getaway in any season,” says Amanda Gabriele. “It has all the outdoor activities (hiking, skiing, fishing) and a lovely main street with great shops (don't miss FH Gillingham and Sons, Woody's Mercantile and Yankee Bookshop).”

For such a small town, Woodstock also has a buzzing hospitality scene. “I'm always in search of the perfect cocktail bar, and I could live inside Au Comptoir with its cozy interior and delicious drinks,” says Gabriele. On the mountain, Perley's Pourhouse at Saskadena Six offers a selection of Vermont craft beer on tap, an outdoor wood-burning fireplace and fire pits.

The town is also home to the iconic Woodstock Inn & Resort. “It's dog-friendly, which is a huge plus,” says Gabriele. “and there are comfy sitting areas (and an awesome game room!) scattered around the property that are perfect for a nightcap and chatting up new friends. Its two restaurants—Red Rooster and Richardson's Tavern—are excellent and many of the dishes are made using fresh produce from the inn's own garden.”

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