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National Geographic have just revealed their favorite destinations around the world that they want to visit in 2025.
And to that I say: “It’s already 2025?!”.
At Nat Geo’s reveal party, there were no accidents with blue, pink, or other proud new parents making the rounds on TikTok, but what it did show were some hidden gems, emerging cities, and icons making a comeback.
Honestly, this is a summary of the three US destinations that Nat Geo considers absolute musts, with a mix of destinations to satisfy your wanderlust.
For the love of the South and West Coasts and one of America’s trendiest getaways, let’s take a look at which cities should highlight next year’s travel plans.
Florida’s last hidden gem? Discover the wonders of Ocala
Florida has a lot more to offer than overly happy rodents and the wrath of Mother Nature.
Now that hurricane season has calmed down, there’s no better time to make plans for the Sunshine State.
That said, many of the popular state’s hidden gems have already been discovered for that reason: it’s that popular!
Beyond the ‘happiest place on earth’ and its breathtaking coastline lies a majestic landscape of otherworldly blue waters, towering trees and an abundance of wildlife to enjoy about an hour’s drive from Orlando.
National Geographic particularly highlighted this Ocala National Forest (see entrance prices here) as the place to be in 2025. With its 600 lakes and almost 400,000 hectares, it’s time to show the wild side of Florida.
With new paths and additional piers, there is more opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
One of the most beautiful places in the region is Silver Springs State Park (note that swimming is not allowed).
Kayak yourself or book super cheaply glass bottom boat tour starting at just $15, or pay a little more for a longer tour with better chances of seeing manatees, which are very common here.
Return of an icon: Did Los Angeles ReinvImported yourself?
Oh boy, I hate to bring up the dreaded ‘C’ word, but Los Angeles really did a number during Covid.
It’s well documented at this point, but once the lockdown hit, this iconic city became its own worst enemy.
If there was ever a city with a 50-50 split of mixed reviews, it has to be LA. Some love it, some despise it, and some love to hate it and hate to love it.
Nat Geo points to a rise in the city’s cultural scene, but it has always been one of the most diverse cities in America.
By 2025, it could finally be ready to be an American treasure again, instead of the frequent reputation of zombie-like streets, rampant crime and dying staples that couldn’t quite get over the post-pandemic hump.
Now it appears there is a resurgence, with new museums, public art and trendy restaurants starting to take shape years after the infamous ‘California Exodus’.
Don’t miss the 2.1 km long route Crenshaw Boulevardembracing black culture through art and welcoming all to enjoy it.
This Spud Is No Dud: Boise may be the trendiest city in America
With its breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, impeccable food and surprisingly diverse community, Boise is hard not to fall in love with.
I’m definitely guilty of it after a visit a few years ago, and it’s only grown in popularity since then.
Undoubtedly the trendiest city in America, the capital of Idaho a pleasure to visit, especially as more events are added to the calendar and popular events return Jaialdiwhich showcases the region’s proud Basque heritage –the highest concentration in the US in fact.
With culture comes food, and Boise is a foodie destination through and through. How could it be otherwise when Idaho’s license plates straight up say “famous potatoes.”
We all know that potatoes are the world’s best vegetable producing salty snacks, buttery side dishes and of course vodka.
Better yet, to celebrate the almighty vegetable, there’s no better way to ring in 2025 than Boise’s unique Potato dropthe ultimate Times Square alternative for New Year’s Eve.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
