From sprawling cities to beautiful beaches and some of the most epic countryside in the world, there’s so much to see and explore in the US, that you could spend all your vacation time discovering different states.
But, if you want to travel internationally and explore new cultures, where’s best to go? We analyzed Google search terms for flights to a range of countries, as well as states, to see where is the most popular amongst Americans.
So, if you’re considering booking flights and jetting off to a new destination, why not take a look at the most popular travel destinations amongst US citizens to get some inspiration.
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Most Popular US Destinations by Google Searches
So, which states are the most popular to visit? With two-thirds of US citizens not owning a valid passport, a lot of vacation time is spent domestically, exploring the natural beauty and big cities each state has to offer with amazing tourist attractions.
| Rank | Destination | Average Search Volume (p/m) | Peak Month(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New York | 201,000 | Nov, Dec |
| 2 | Hawaii | 165,000 | Mar |
| 3 | Florida | 74,000 | Jan, Mar |
| 4 | California | 40,500 | Jan, Mar |
| 5 | Colorado | 40,500 | Jan |
| 6 | Arizona | 33,100 | Jan |
| 7 | North Carolina | 27,100 | Mar |
| 8 | Texas | 27,100 | Jan, Mar |
| 9 | Alaska | 27,100 | Sep |
| 10 | Oregon | 18,100 | N/A |
Note: Search volume is a rough estimate based on clickstream data.
1. New York
There was no doubt New York was going to feature on this list, with New York City a major destination for fashion, food and nightlife; and 201,000 searches for flights each month. Whether you’re more Brooklyn or Manhattan, you could spend a whole week checking out key sights like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge, or you could spend your time discovering the hundreds of independent bars, coffee shops and restaurants that are just waiting to be tried.
But upstate New York has lots to offer too. Travel north and you can visit the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary, which is dedicated to rescuing farm animals; and even Niagara Falls, which, whilst not as big as the Canadian side, is still pretty impressive!
New York City’s Christmas scene makes it an unsurprising favorite for the winter months. In November or December, and the city takes on a whole new personality, and Christmas displays start to line Fifth Avenue. It’s busy, yes, but that’s all part of the charm.
2. Hawaii
Hawaii’s tropical appeal makes it a dream getaway, particularly in March when travelers seek sunshine and escape from colder climates. The islands are full of stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and Polynesian culture.
Situated in the center of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii is the furthest away from the mainland states you can get, whilst still being in the USA. If you choose to vacation here, you’ll get to enjoy island life to the max – wherever you decide to visit.
For hiking and watersports, you can’t beat Maui – whether you love snorkeling, or an adrenaline-filled afternoon of jet-skiing or kiteboarding, Maui’s guaranteed to have a beach for that. If you prefer to stay on land, head over to the volcanic Haleakalā National Park, where you can hike to the summit, or discover the bamboo forest.
Alternatively, Oʻahu may be the most-visited Hawaiian island, but there’s more to it than the overcrowded Honolulu. It boasts some of the best beaches, including the tranquil Lanikai Beach, with its crystal-clear calm waters and white-sand shores. It makes sense therefore, that across the US, there’s around 165,000 monthly searches for flights to Hawaii.
Travelers love surfing in Waikiki, exploring the rainforests and visiting luaus. The islands have a great variety of hiking trails between them, like the Diamond Head Summit and the Pipiwai Trail. Island hopping is very easy with the right planning. Short flights between the islands are frequent and supported by several carriers.
3. Florida
Known for warm weather and family-friendly attractions, the sunshine state remains a top choice year-round with an average of 74,000 monthly searches. These are highest in January and March, as families plan their vacations ahead of time.
From the theme parks of Orlando that are perfect for families and thrill-seekers, to the latin-esque nightlife of Miami that draws in partygoers and spring-breakers; and the pristine beaches of Key West, Florida is a great vacation destination spot year-round.
The state’s accessibility and variety are great for both short breaks and longer trips.
4. California
California’s landscapes and cities are both major draws to the state. It has beaches, deserts, mountains, and major cities. It’s very popular in early spring.
Visitors head to Los Angeles for entertainment, where San Francisco attracts people with its famous coast. The state is also home to Yosemite, the vast national park famous for its wildlife and waterfalls. The mix of culture and scenery makes it one of the most versatile destinations in the US.
5. Colorado
Colorado stands out for its mountain scenery and outdoor activities. It’s especially popular in January, when the ski season is at its peak. The Rocky Mountains are ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
Denver is a solid option for a city break too, with a lively arts and food scene. Outside of winter, the state is known for hiking, wildlife, and scenic drives. It has a strong appeal to nature lovers all year round.
6. Arizona
Arizona draws thousands of travelers with its desert landscapes and natural sights. The most interest comes in January, when cooler weather makes the travel simpler.
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Sedona is a great getaway for those on a budget, packed with hiking trails and desert views. It also has a growing name for luxury resorts and wellness retreats.
7. North Carolina
North Carolina is a goldmine for nature lovers. Mountains, forests, and coastline are all within easy reach. March is a popular time to book and visit as spring blooms appear, especially in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Renting a car is a good option here, as there are lots of scenic drives to be found inland and along the coast. Those seeking relaxation enjoy the Outer Banks for its quiet beaches and fishing.
8. Texas
Texas blends big-city energy with rich culture, with travel interest usually peaking in January and March. Cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas are known for their music, food, and arts scenes, while the rest of the state offers deserts, ranchlands, and historic sites. It has a strong identity and that classic Southern hospitality, making it an easy place to enjoy.
9. Alaska
Alaska stands out as a bucket-list destination for those seeking untouched wilderness and dramatic scenery. Interest peaks in September, when visitors hope to catch the Northern Lights and enjoy the tail end of the cruise season. From glaciers and fjords to wildlife like bears and whales, Alaska brings a sense of scale and remoteness unlike anywhere else in the US.
10. Oregon
Oregon appeals to travelers looking for a mix of rugged coastline, lush forests and creative city life. It doesn’t have a single peak travel month, instead drawing consistent interest through the year. Visitors can explore Portland’s quirky culture and food scene, hike through national parks, or drive along the Pacific Coast Highway. Portland is a popular choice for urban explorers, where Salem appeals to history fans.
You can take so much more of this beautiful country in by driving across America on one of the many scenic drives in the United States that we’ve listed for you.
Most Popular International Destinations for Americans (by Google Searches)
From Asia to Europe, Africa to Latin America, Australasia and beyond, there are so many continents and countries just waiting to be explored. But, there are 10 key countries that Americans can’t wait to jet off to.
| Rank | Destination | Average Search Volume (p/m) | Peak Month(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Japan | 135,000 | Jan, Dec |
| 2 | Costa Rica | 60,500 | Nov |
| 3 | Italy | 60,500 | Jul |
| 4 | Thailand | 49,500 | Mar |
| 5 | Mexico | 49,500 | Jan, Mar, Jul |
| 6 | Jamaica | 49,500 | Jan, Mar |
| 7 | Greece | 40,500 | N/A |
| 8 | Dominican Republic | 40,500 | Jan, Mar |
| 9 | South Korea | 33,100 | Jan |
| 10 | Spain | 27,100 | N/A |
Note: Search volume is a rough estimate based on clickstream data.
1. Japan
With a staggering 135,000 monthly searches across the US for flights, Japan has proudly come in joint first place, making it the number one international travel destination for American citizens. The peak months are around January and December.
Travelers are drawn to its modern cities and deep-rooted traditions. Visitors flock to the streets of Tokyo, the temples of Kyoto, and the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido. Japan has striking scenes in every region. Seasonal attractions like cherry blossoms in spring, and autumn landscapes make it a year-round favorite.
With so many things to see and do in Japan, it’s no wonder it’s come out on top, and any trip is incomplete without spending some time in its capital, Tokyo. Start by heading up to Shibuya Sky, where you can take a photo of the iconic Shibuya crossing, before splurging on a shopping spree in Harajuku, and dining on mountains of sushi.
Once you’ve gotten your fix of Tokyo, catch a bullet train to Kyoto where you can admire the many temples, take part in a tea ceremony, watch a sumo wrestling tournament, or hike up the imposing Mount Fuji.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a top pick for nature-focused travel. Most searches happen in November as visitors plan winter escapes. Known for its “pura vida” lifestyle, the country is rich in rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. If you like wildlife spotting or even zip-lining, Costa Rica is pretty hard to beat.
3. Italy
The first European country to feature on the list, with 60,500 flight searches a month, and ranked number one (from our previous study in 2023) in 18 states including Connecticut, Florida, and New York… it’s Italy!
Italy is still one of the busiest destinations globally, with most searches in July during the summer peak season. Visitors love Rome for its ancient history and iconic food scene. Fans of art and architecture head to Florence to see the Duomo and the Uffizi Galleries. Away from the big cities, people travel to the Amalfi Coast for beautiful ocean views and charming pastel villages.
From the glamorous shopping streets of Milan, to the romantic winding canals of Venice, and the many museums and historical attractions of Rome, Italy’s largest cities have so much to offer.
But, if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, Italy can offer you an abundance of options. From the picturesque Lake Como and Lake Garda with their chic waterfront hotels and restaurants, to the sophisticated Amalfi Coast that makes for the most perfect Instagram backdrops; and the tranquil islands of Sicily and Sardinia, that offer some of the best beaches in the country, it’s clear that Italy really does have it all.
4. Thailand
Thailand is famous for its street life, ornate temples and tropical islands. It’s one of the best destinations for those seeking warm weather and cultural experiences. It offers everything from bustling Bangkok to the beaches of Phuket and Krabi. Affordable travel, great cuisine and warm hospitality make it a favorite for travellers around the globe.
5. Mexico
Mexico remains one of the most searched destinations, with peak interest spread across January, March, and July. Its beach resorts, ancient ruins and bustling cities appeal to a range of travellers. And with it bordering four US states, it’s the perfect place to discover if you’re looking for beautiful beaches and cultural experiences, but don’t want to catch a long-haul flight.
Popular spots include Cancún, Mexico City, and Tulum. Cancún has a great reputation for resorts, scuba diving and sunbathing. Mexico City is known for lively markets, street food and boat rides. Tulum is the best place to go for Mayan ruins and also has plenty of white-sand beaches. Mexico is a versatile and accessible destination, perfect for all kinds of getaways.
Take your time discovering some of the many Mayan ruins, including the iconic Chichén Itzá, which is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, go trekking in the Sierra Norte Mountains, or, if you time it right and are in Mexico at the beginning of November, you can join in the festivities of the world-famous Day of the Dead.
However, if it’s just a week of rest and relaxation you’re after, then that’s fine too! Just head to the areas of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, which are known for having some of the most breath-taking beaches in the country.
6. Jamaica
Jamaica is most searched for in January and March. At this time, visitors look for warm Caribbean escapes and plan summer vacations ahead. The island is known for its laid-back rhythm, culture and music, along with its beautiful natural scenery.
There are stunning beaches in Montego Bay and Negril. Inland it’s just as beautiful, with plenty of waterfalls and mountains. Kingston is a lively city with lots of cultural highlights and museums. It also has a great food scene, and foodies will love sampling the Caribbean cuisine.
7. Greece
Greece remains a popular country with its iconic ancient history and island beauty. Searches are consistent all year, with no single peak month. However, it’s most popular in the warmer travel season. Visitors love Athens for its iconic ruins and museums. Those seeking relaxation head to islands like Santorini and Mykonos. People enjoy the charming villages, pristine sea views and sunsets over the Aegean Sea.
Greece and its surrounding islands offer the perfect mix of tradition, delicious food, and beautiful scenery, and it was ranked number one in our previous study in eight states, including Illinois, Mississippi, and North Dakota.
You could spend a whole summer island hopping, but if you’ve only got a week or two to spare, you’re probably wondering which islands are the best to visit, and it all depends on what you’re looking for.
For picture-perfect sunset views set against traditional blue and white-washed buildings, there’s no better place than Santorini; whereas for chic designer shopping and luxury bars, Mykonos is your best option.
Alternatively, whilst every island has an abundance of beautiful beaches, if you want as many options as possible, then head to Zakynthos. From Tsilivi to Alykes and Kalamaki, pretty much all resorts on this island offer a beautiful beach or three for you to relax on.
8. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is a common choice for winter and spring getaways, especially in January and March. Known for its all-inclusive resorts and scenic tropical coastline, it’s a go-to for beach holidays. Out of the resorts, travelers can explore colonial history in Santo Domingo or kick back in the coastal town of Punta Cana.
9. South Korea
South Korea draws strong interest in January, with travelers increasingly curious about its mix of cutting-edge culture and heritage. Seoul is a fast-paced urban experience with both modern and historical architecture. It’s also a great stop for shopping and K-pop culture. Historic sites like Gyeongju and palaces across the country provide a unique cultural contrast. Seasonal festivals and a strong food culture further add to its appeal.
10. Spain
Spain is a popular destination throughout the year. It continues to attract visitors with its city life and coastal settings. Barcelona stands out for its unique architecture, and Madrid for its shopping and museums. Fans of beach trips will enjoy the Costa del Sol. Andalusia is great for historical landmarks and active vacations. All of this creates a travel experience that feels both diverse and full of energy.
If you now want to book a vacation away somewhere after all that travel inspiration, then the only question left to ask is… where are you going to go? If you’ve got 5 minutes to spare and want to have some fun why not find your perfect vacation destination with our brilliant US Travel Calculator – a great way to discover vacation destinations that match your favourite things to do when on holiday.
Once you’ve booked your flights, don’t forget to pre-book your airport parking, so that you don’t need to rely on public transport, and if you’ve got an early or late night flight, why not think about booking an airport hotel so you don’t miss out on your beauty sleep?
Methodology
Data Source: seoClarity, search intelligence tool.
Search Terms: We pulled data for “[country] flights” in order to limit our information to commercial searches with clear intent to travel. We then compiled the top 10.
Main image: Morgan Lane – Unsplash
