U.S. News Best Vacations: Travelers Seek Nature, Adventure in 2021-22

After a long year (or more) stuck at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, travelers are more eager than ever to get out and see the world. While 2020 was characterized by stay-at-home orders, stringent travel restrictions and a devastating pandemic, 2021 and 2022 are shaping up to be the years of travel and exploration.

Travelers continue to be drawn to the outdoors, with numerous national parks, beach destinations and scenic areas scoring highly with editors and readers across the Best Vacations rankings. To calculate the rankings, U.S. News analyzed more than 1,100 destinations using a methodology that combines travelers’ opinions, as provided by user votes, with expert and editor analysis. Each individual destination is scored across numerous categories, from sights and food to romance and value.

Take the top five destinations in the World’s Best Places to Visit list, for example. New Zealand’s South Island is home to diverse landscapes, stunning national parks, turquoise lakes and plenty of opportunities for sailing, kayaking, hiking, wine tasting and more. Paris woos visitors with its distinct culture, iconic landmarks, tree-lined boulevards, blooming gardens and delectable wine bars and cafes. Meanwhile, Bora Bora, Maui and Tahiti all beckon to beach and water lovers thanks to impressive snorkeling spots, water sports adventures, sandy shores and top-notch accommodations (including French Polynesia’s beautiful overwater bungalows).

The Best Places to Visit in the USA ranking is filled with small towns, sprawling cities, relaxing beaches and national park options, perfect for hiking, camping and outdoor fun like whitewater rafting, fishing and rock climbing. Meanwhile, the top destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico offer a smattering of scenic beaches ideal for soaking up some sun with a cocktail (or mocktail) in hand.

Whether you’re looking to continue exploring domestic destinations or you’re ready to start planning a fun international trip, consult the U.S. News Best Vacations rankings to find the best destination (or destinations) for you. Read more about the top places to visit below.

(Keep in mind, not all destinations may be open to Americans yet. The rankings aim to serve as a guide to help travelers plan their next getaway, whether that’s next month or next year. Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. State Department for details on travel before booking a trip. You can also check out the Where Can Americans Travel Right Now? article for additional information on testing, quarantine and vaccination requirements – if applicable – by country.)

1. Jasper National Park
2. Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador
3. Banff National Park, Alberta
4. Yoho National Park, British Columbia
5. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta