Important Topics to Know:

• Shifting Travel Preferences: For Memorial Day 2025 and the upcoming summer, U.S. travelers are increasingly choosing new and experience-driven destinations over some traditional hotspots.
• Rising Star Destinations: San Diego, Boston, Panama City Beach, and Newport, RI, are seeing a significant surge in popularity and bookings, indicating a change in preferred getaways.
• Continued Popularity of Key Hubs: While new destinations are rising, established favorites like Las Vegas and Chicago continue to be top choices for Memorial Day travel.
• Evolving Traveler Priorities: Modern travelers are prioritizing unique experiences, cultural depth, walkability, sustainability, and a blend of value with amenities, influencing their destination choices.

U.S. travel patterns for Memorial Day 2025 and the upcoming summer are showing a significant shift, with several destinations “skyrocketing” in popularity. While traditional hotspots like Las Vegas and Chicago maintain their top positions according to HotelPlanner’s booking analysis, a new wave of cities is gaining remarkable traction. San Diego, Boston, Panama City Beach, and Newport, RI, are experiencing a surge in bookings, indicating evolving American travel preferences.

San Diego is a breakout star, attracting visitors with its blend of beach serenity, urban flair, family attractions, and new boutique hotels. Boston is climbing the ranks due to its historic charm, riverside beauty, seasonal events, and walkability, appealing to those seeking both relaxation and meaningful experiences. Panama City Beach, already a spring break favorite, is now a top Memorial Day choice for Southern and Midwest travelers, thanks to affordable beachfront options and lively scenes. Newport, RI, reflects a trend towards “charm over chaos,” drawing those seeking sophisticated, laid-back weekends with its historic estates and sailing culture.

This shift is fueled by travelers desiring more than just a typical break; they seek excitement, cultural depth, unique experiences, and sun-drenched escapes with soul and style. Emerging trends also include a preference for walkable destinations, mid-size cities with fewer crowds but strong attractions, and a growing interest in wellness, sustainability, and eco-conscious travel options. Destinations like Myrtle Beach and Destin continue to hold steady for family travel. These Memorial Day 2025 trends suggest a dynamic summer ahead, where experience-driven destinations are increasingly favored.