For years, travel was about the “where.” We checked off landmarks, snapped the same photos as everyone else, and moved on. But in 2026, the American traveler is evolving. According to our latest Hidden Trends Report, we are no longer just sightseers; we are Skill Seekers, AM Enthusiasts, and Espresso-nists.
At GetYourGuide, we’ve spent the last 15 years connecting you to the world’s most unforgettable experiences. As we celebrate our first year as a Good Housekeeping 2026 Travel Award winner, we’re inviting you to stop witnessing the world and start experiencing it.
Here is what’s trending for US travelers in 2026.
1. America250: History Like You’ve Never Felt It
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, and Washington, D.C. is the epicenter of the celebration. But don’t just stand behind a velvet rope.
- The Experience: Join a “First-Entry” tour of the Smithsonian before the crowds arrive, or take a chef-led food tour through D.C.’s historic Navy Yard.
- The GetYourGuide Difference: Our “Originals” tours give you exclusive access to the stories behind the monuments, led by local historians who bring the last two-and-a-half centuries to life.
2. Skill Seekers: Bring Home a Talent, Not a Trinket
One of our biggest findings for 2026? 31% of Gen Z travelers would rather learn a new skill than buy a souvenir.
- The Trend: We are seeing a 59% surge in workshop bookings. Think bagel-baking in a Brooklyn loft, neon-sign making in Las Vegas, or traditional knife-forging workshops that connect you to centuries of craftsmanship.
- Why it matters: These aren’t just classes; they are “unlocked memories.” You aren’t just buying a knife; you’re learning the weight of the steel and the heat of the forge.
3. “Noctourism” and AM Enthusiasts
With a desire to avoid the peak-day heat and the mid-day lines, travelers are shifting their clocks.
- Early Birds: Our “AM Enthusiast” trend shows a 44% increase in sunrise tours. Whether it’s a dawn helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon or a “first-light” walk through Central Park, the world is different at 6:00 AM.
- Night Owls: From stargazing tours in Acadia National Park to “After-Dark” immersive art at Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart in Las Vegas, the night is the new playground.
4. The “Espresso-nist” Itinerary
For many US travelers in 2026, the quality of the coffee scene is more important than the nightlife.
- The Stat: 1 in 3 travelers now rank a destination’s coffee culture as a primary reason for visiting.
- The Tour: We’ve expanded our “Specialty Coffee” walks in cities like Seattle and San Francisco, where you don’t just drink the brew—you meet the roasters and learn the chemistry behind the perfect pour-over.
5. Trust Through Transparency
We know that in 2026, you have a lot of choices. That’s why we lead with Trust and Transparency.
- Verified Reviews: With over 200 million tickets sold, our platform is powered by the honest feedback of travelers just like you.
- Flexible Booking: Plans change. That’s why we offer easy cancellation and “Reserve Now, Pay Later” options on the majority of our 12,000+ city experiences.
Conclusion: Turn Your “Some Day” Into Today
Travel in 2026 is about the activities that challenge and change you. It’s about the “Hidden Trends” that make a trip uniquely yours. Whether you are celebrating America’s 250th birthday or learning to bake the perfect croissant, GetYourGuide is your co-pilot for the unforgettable.
What will you discover today? Explore our 2026 Top Picks and “Originals” at GetYourGuide.com.
