15 Most Popular Vacation Destinations in the United States

Americans are eager to embark on new adventures with the end of a long, two-year ordeal hopefully imminent. PreFlight has prepared a list of the 15 most popular vacation destinations in the United States to help with your planning and get you and your family to the right spot.

Eastern Vacation Destinations

New York City, New York

Whether you're going for the sights and sounds of Time Square or the majestic National September 11 Memorial Museum, New York City is home to some of the world's most spectacular landmarks. Enjoy the great outdoors in the middle of a massive city by visiting Central Park. Attend critically acclaimed Broadway shows. NYC is one of the top tourist attractions year in and year out.

Boston, Massachusetts

Nearby Boston presents an entirely different vibe than its NYC counterpart. A perfect place to take in a baseball game at the historic Fenway Park, Boston is steeped in tradition. Visit the site of the famous Boston Tea Party or brush up on US history at the vast collection of museums that exist within the city limits. Of course, if you'd prefer instead to take a sip on a cold beverage, Boston is also the birthplace of Samuel Adams.

Midwestern Vacation Destinations

Nashville, Tennessee

With a combination of terrific nightlife and several famous landmarks, it is no wonder Nashville is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States. The Grand Ole Opry is nearing 100 years of showcasing the full range of up-and-coming and legendary country music acts. Broadway street routinely packs as many musical acts as possible within its bars and venues, from honky-tonk to rock and roll. And don't forget about the food! Nashville is one of the best barbeque spots in the US.

Chicago, Illinois

More than just a spectacular skyline and its nickname as "The Second City," Chicago is home to world-class attractions. Navy Pier is a must-see location, with the pier extending into Lake Michigan. Millennium Park is one of the world's most visited rooftop gardens and has a live music venue. Of course, if you're not afraid of heights, you can also adventure to the John Hancock building and experience Tilt, a 360-degree view of the city, and tilt down to see the streets below.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Perhaps a surprise entry on the list, Milwaukee offers some strong appeal as a vacation destination. This quaint town is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of a big city while maintaining many of the same luxuries of a major metropolitan area. Its proximity to Chicago and other midwestern vacation destinations, like the Wisconsin Dells, is also a plus.

Southeastern Vacation Destinations

New Orleans, Louisiana

There's more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras celebrations and Saints games. The cultural history is deeply embedded throughout New Orleans, from the Big Easy's culinary staple, the beignet, to spicy southern gumbo. Of course, the most visited section of the city is the French Quarters. That's where you can find Bourbon Street, an endless stream of incredible restaurants, bars, and storefronts.

Charleston, South Carolina

A perfect waterfront location, Charleston brings old southern charm to any vacation. With several beautiful ocean beaches available, Charleston is a great spot to explore the coast and see marine wildlife in person. Many other outdoor activities include golfing at some stunning courses, biking through the downtown area, and ziplining.

Key West, Florida

The southernmost place within the United States, Key West is at the very tip of Florida and an absolute oasis. With perfect weather year-round, Key West boasts an impressive view of sunrises and sunsets every day. The downtown area is full of fun places to visit, including the first legal rum distillery in the state. To get to Key West, you'll need to pass through Miami and Everglades National Park, a perfect chance to experience some nightlife and wildlife.

Atlanta, Georgia

Flying into Atlanta is an experience in its own right, with Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) the busiest in the United States. Once you've arrived, check out the Centennial Olympic Park built for the 1996 Summer Games. Atlanta is a city with a wide array of museums and zoos, and the Atlanta Aquarium is a popular destination.

Southwestern Vacation Destinations

Houston, Texas

A treasure trove of museums and concert venues, Houston is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States and is quickly rising on the list. The Space Center has been a staple on the Houston scene since the US visited the moon. Enjoy the great outdoors by visiting the local zoo, or see wildlife out in the wild by frequenting Waugh Bat Bridge, where every day at dusk, millions of bats emerge for a nightly snacking of gnats.

Phoenix, Arizona

The Valley of the Sun is an appropriate moniker for Phoenix, enjoying warm temperatures and regular sunshine throughout the year. Like Las Vegas, Phoenix is one of the nearest metropolitan areas to the Grand Canyon and other surrounding National Parks. Additionally, the city hosts spring training baseball in February and March, making this the perfect getaway for baseball fanatics.

Western Vacation Destinations

Las Vegas, Nevada

There's more to Las Vegas than what the city is best known for. Live music, Michelin Star restaurants, and exciting shows are all staples of Sin City. Las Vegas is close to Death Valley National Park and is the nearest city to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. While Las Vegas isn't the first family vacation destination that comes to mind, it has evolved over the last decade.

Oahu, Hawaii

This gorgeous Hawaiian island features five state parks to visit and countless more flawless beaches. O'ahu also has a pristine replica of a Japanese Buddhist Temple called Byodo-In Temple. For history buffs, visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, which commemorates the events that began the US's involvement in World War II.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco has all the staples of a coastal town on the Pacific Ocean combined with a big city feel. Many national treasures exist within the city limits, including Alcatraz, the Full House street, and Fisherman's Wharf. Venture just north of San Francisco, and you'll find yourself amid massive trees in the Muir Woods National Park. Enjoy fresh seafood, a temperate climate, and a vibrant downtown area when not adventure-seeking.

Denver, Colorado

Denver is known as the mile-high city due to its elevation a mile above sea level, but it also describes the fun-meter. Denver is a top-rated skiing and snowboarding destination. Additionally, it is surrounded by state and national parks with endless trails and hiking opportunities.

Summary

No matter where you're headed for your next vacation, remember to book your airport parking in advance with PreFlight. We offer off-site parking and shuttle service to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), Houston Hobby (HOU), and Boston Logan (BOS).

For additional travel tips for airline travel, see our safety tips and tips on how to pack a carry-on bag for five days.