TripAdvisor released its Attractions Trend Index, highlighting U.S. destinations that saw the largest year-over-year increases in search traffic on the site. The report captures a mix of iconic landmarks, scenic viewpoints, lively neighborhoods and family-friendly destinations that have recently attracted growing interest from domestic travelers. According to Brooke Ferencsik, senior director of communications at TripAdvisor, “From historic city streets to amazing sights from great heights, the Attractions Trend Index has revealed a wide variety of places that have captured the interest of U.S. travelers. Travelers looking to take advantage of the remaining weeks of summer and shoulder season still have plenty of time to book a special trip and explore some of these American attractions growing in popularity.”
The list is led by One World Observatory in New York City, which recorded a remarkable 340% year-over-year increase in search traffic. Chicago’s Magnificent Mile follows in second place with a 118% increase. The remainder of the Top 25 shows strong gains as well, with many attractions experiencing roughly 100% growth in searches as travelers rediscover well-known spots and seek out fresh experiences across the country.
Here are the top U.S. attractions ranked by increased search interest on TripAdvisor:
- One World Observatory, New York City, N.Y.
- The Magnificent Mile, Chicago, Ill.
- Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, Gatlinburg, Tenn.
- The Pearl District, Portland, Ore.
- Mount Bonnell, Austin, Texas
- Newbury Street, Boston, Mass.
- Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
- The Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, Tenn.
- Watkins Glen State Park, Watkins Glen, N.Y.
- Jackson Square, New Orleans, La.
- La Jolla Shores, La Jolla, Calif.
- 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Chicago, Ill.
- Venice Canals Walkway, Los Angeles, Calif.
- Union Station, Denver, Colo.
- Pier 39, San Francisco, Calif.
- Disney Springs, Orlando, Fla.
- Broadway, New York City, N.Y.
- The Grotto, Portland, Ore.
- The Gondola at Heavenly, South Lake Tahoe, Calif.
- Central Park, New York City, N.Y.
- Washington Park, Portland, Ore.
- Statue of Liberty, New York City, N.Y.
- Fenway Park, Boston, Mass.
- Bryant Park, New York City, N.Y.
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Burbank, Calif.
These destinations reflect a variety of traveler interests: urban promenades and shopping corridors, outdoor vistas and parks, family attractions, and entertainment venues. Several cities, including New York, Portland and Chicago, appear multiple times on the list, underscoring concentrated interest in both well-known sites and neighborhood experiences. Parks and scenic overlooks also feature prominently, suggesting a continued appetite for outdoor activities and vantage points that offer unique city or natural views.
Whether planning a short city break, a coastal escape, or an outdoor adventure, travelers can use lists like this Attractions Trend Index to identify places gaining momentum and to discover destinations that match their interests. With many of these spots easily accessible and suited to a range of trip types—from quick day trips to weekend getaways—there are ample opportunities to explore rising attractions across the U.S.