The 5 Best Places to Travel in 2025

The hottest vacation spots of the year

New year, new travel plans! With so many fun, exciting places in the U.S., it’s hard to pick just one. Which is why we’ve compiled this list—the best places to travel in 2025. Beach mood? We’ve got that. City sightseeing? Yes, we’ve got that covered, too.

So, where will you go in 2025? Check out these vacation spots for some fresh travel inspiration!

• Austin, TX

  Big-city fun meets small-town vibe!

  Austin’s natural beauty shines throughout the day. You can kayak, paddleboard, or canoe along Lady Bird Lake, a peaceful, river-like reservoir flowing through downtown Austin. If you’d rather take it easy on vacation, spend your day soaking up the sun along the riverbanks or exploring the scenic waterfront trails.

  Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin turns up the energy at night! Local bars and venues host everyone from indie bands to iconic international acts. The nightlife is just as diverse, from laid-back spots to buzzing dance floors.

  P.S.: If all that fun has you working up an appetite, you’re in luck. Austin’s food scene is brimming with mouthwatering Tex-Mex and barbecue specialties.

  Best 2025 destination for: blending urban excitement with outdoor fun

• Chicago, IL

  Don’t let its windy reputation steer you away; Chicago is one of the absolute best places to travel in 2025!

  If culture’s your goal, the Windy City surpasses expectations. The city is particularly known for its world-class architecture. Head to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for a breathtaking skyline view, which lets you see 4 states at once. Meanwhile, the Art Institute of Chicago features beautiful works by unparalleled artists such as Monet and Van Gogh.

  Chicago’s nightlife is as awesome as you’d expect. The city offers endless opportunities for after-hours fun! Laugh yourself hoarse at legendary comedy venue The Second City, catch a Broadway-caliber show, tap your toes to live music, or sip a drink or two at one of the city’s uber-popular rooftop bars.

  Best 2025 destination for: arts, culture, and after-hours fun

• Denver, CO

  Sunshine awaits in the Mile-High City! No, really—Denver averages a whopping 300 days a year of sunny skies.

  And that’s a good thing, because you’ll want to spend alllll your time outdoors! As the gateway to the Rockies, Denver offers stunning natural beauty year-round. Depending on when you visit, you can enjoy everything from skiing at a top-notch resort to paddleboarding on the South Platte River. And any time of year, outdoor enthusiasts can explore urban green spaces and hiking trails with amazing views.

  And foodies, get ready! You will love every bite, nibble, and sip you take in Denver! The thriving culinary culture features fresh farm-to-table dining and innovative food halls. Meanwhile, the city’s 150+ breweries are a dream come true for craft beer aficionados.

  Best 2025 destination for: outdoor adventures, washed down by a cold one

• Hilton Head, SC

  If you’re looking for relaxation in your 2025 travels, place Hilton Head at the top of your list.

  With over 12 miles of shoreline, this South Carolina gem offers a wonderful mix of serenity and coastal fun. The pristine beaches, surrounded by lush greenery, are the perfect place for recharging by the water. If you’re feeling active, take a kayak through the salt marshes; you’re sure to spot a dolphin or two!

  But it’s not just about the simple pleasures—Hilton Head is warmly referred to as “Golf Island.” And with over 23 championship courses featuring challenging layouts and stunning waterfront views, that nickname is well-earned. Whether you’re on your annual golf trip or just starting out, Hilton Head has a course for every golfer.

  Best 2025 destination for: enjoying the island life

• Sedona, AZ

  Is wellness one of your goals this year? Then Sedona—one of the best places to travel in 2025 for recharging, restoring, and renewing—belongs at the top of your must-visit list!

  The city’s reputation as a spiritual destination is highlighted by its most famous feature, its energy vortexes. Believed to be centers of mystical power, visitors come from all over for renewal, healing, and inspiration. Sedona’s focus on holistic well-being extends to its other wellness offerings, featuring crystal healing, sound baths, and yoga workshops.

  And to make sure your body feels as great as your mind, Sedona offers 200 hiking and biking trails. You’ll be surrounded by its iconic red rock landscapes and dramatic sandstone formations—get up early for the famous orange sunrise!

  Best 2025 destination for: rejuvenating your body and soul

What’s your travel style? From vibrant cities to outdoor retreats, the best places to travel in 2025 offer an exciting variety!

And to make sure you truly enjoy your travels this year, ship your bags to your final destination with LugLess. No stress, no hassles, and no baggage claim chaos. We’ll handle your vacation gear, so you can arrive relaxed and in vacation mode.