The Best US Destinations to Explore in 2025
With its dynamic mix of historic milestones—including the country’s upcoming 250th birthday—cultural celebrations, and breathtaking landscapes, America is setting the stage for unforgettable travel adventures in 2025. Whether you’re captivated by its wildlife, music, gastronomy, or history, next year is packed with unique experiences.
Recently honoured with Bronze in the JRNY America Awards for best tour operator, Frontier America has the expertise to make your tailor-made journey as extraordinary as the destinations themselves. Always ready to inspire, our team has curated an exciting guide to the best US destinations to explore in 2025.
1. Kodiak Island, Alaska: A Wilderness Like No Other
Nature lovers seeking tranquillity and adventure will find their paradise on Kodiak Island, Alaska. Home to the largest brown bears in the world, the island offers rare opportunities for close, guided encounters with these majestic creatures through the Native-owned Kodiak Brown Bear Centre.
In summer 2025, the centre will unveil a new wellness retreat, complete with traditional Banya-style steam baths (known as ‘maqiwik’) and serene lake-view cabins. Visitors can also enjoy new six-day fly-fishing experiences along the pristine Karluk River. Beyond the bears, Kodiak Island’s rich Alutiiq heritage and verdant landscapes create a profound sense of connection to Alaska’s wilderness, offering an unparalleled escape into the natural world.
Journey to Kodiak’s protected inner island, past tidal pools and offshore kittiwake rookeries, amid sea lions, otters, puffins, bald eagles and oftentimes whales on our 9-night Grizzlies Kodiak to Katmai bear viewing holiday.
2. Following the Music: Nashville, Memphis, and Celebrations of Sound
For music aficionados, 2025 will be a banner year, with America’s musical heartlands celebrating exciting anniversaries and adding new attractions. Nashville, the “Capital of Country Music,” is set to mark the centenary of the Grand Ole Opry, the legendary concert hall defining the genre for 100 years. A year round celebration, “Opry 100,” will honour the milestone with special concerts and events, and visitors can explore the newly expanded Nashville Yards district, complete with a state-of-the-art music venue.
Memphis, another music mecca, will toast blues legend B.B. King’s 100th birthday. Meanwhile, fans of Elvis Presley should join the upcoming 90th birthday events at Graceland in January or Elvis Week in August.
Appreciate the musical greats of both Nashville and Memphis on our 13-night Follow the Music Trail fly-drive with the holiday ending in the jazz paradise of New Orleans.
3. Tucson, Arizona: A Culinary and Cultural Celebration
Tucson, Arizona is a city that embodies the spirit of the Southwest, and in 2025 it will shine brighter than ever as it celebrates its 250th anniversary. The festivities will highlight Tucson’s rich history, from the Indigenous O’odham and Yaqui peoples to Spanish settlers and beyond. The main event is scheduled to be held at the Presidio San Agustin del Tucson Museum on August 25, with mariachi bands, historical reenactments, and artisanal crafts on display.
A decade on, food lovers will also appreciate why Tucson earned the title of America’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Its vibrant downtown is packed with historic landmarks and incredible dining like Barrio Bread and El Charro Café. Discover the city’s unique 5,000-year-old culinary traditions on the self-guided Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food Trail.
Yet another festive date on the calendar, the Tucson Rodeo (known as La Fiesta de los Vaqueros) will celebrate its 100th anniversary this winter. Recognized as one of the top 25 rodeos in the United States and ranked number 9 out of the 10 best rodeos by USA Today, the event will be held from February 15th to the 23rd.
Known for its milder climes, indulge in Tucson’s delectable delights on our 17-night Winter in the Southwest fly-drive, the holiday beginning in glitzy Las Vegas and ending in San Diego, “America’s Finest City.”
4. Boise, Idaho: Celebrating Basque Heritage
Idaho’s capital city, Boise, is home to one of the largest Basque communities outside of Europe, and in 2025, the city will celebrate this rich cultural legacy with the return of Jaialdi, a festival held once every five years (Jul 29 – Aug 03). After a decade-long hiatus, the summer event promises a week of vibrant street parties, traditional dances, and unique sports like wood-chopping and wagon-lifting.
The city’s Basque Block—a lively hub of restaurants, shops, and cultural exhibits—is a colourful place to visit year-round. If your travel plans don’t coincide with Jaialdi, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the al fresco cooking of paella on Wednesdays or Fridays.
Our 19-night Historic American West fly-drive stops in Boise en route to Utah’s Salt Lake City. Layered with cultural insight and showcasing some of the USA’s most important monuments, the holiday will take you across the four mountain states of Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, and Idaho.
5. Why Yellowstone Should Be Your 2025 National Park Adventure
Stretching across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, we are earmarking Yellowstone as the American national park to visit in 2025, and for good reason. As the nation’s first national park and one of the most iconic in the world, Yellowstone’s 2.2 million-acres offers access to unparalleled geothermal marvels like Old Faithful and the dazzling Grand Prismatic Spring, alongside breathtaking landscapes such as the Yellowstone Grand Canyon.
Hosting over four million visitors annually, the park is already a favourite, but with America’s 250th birthday celebrations set for 2026, crowds are expected to soar. Visiting in 2025 allows you to experience its beauty and tranquillity before the predicted surge of travellers arrives.
From its abundant wildlife—bison, wolves, and grizzlies—to its rich history as the birthplace of the national park movement, Yellowstone is a must-see destination. New for 2025, go there on our family-friendly 7-night National Parks Journey: Yellowstone & Grand Teton escorted small group tour. Departing June 29 (7-years +). Contact us for more information.
6. The Iditarod Trail: Alaska’s Epic Centennial Adventure
In 2025, Alaska’s legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race takes on special significance as it marks the 100th anniversary of the historic Serum Run, the inspiration behind the iconic winter event. Scheduled to be held on March 01, the course spans 1,000 miles of snow-covered wilderness, with mushers and their dogs braving extreme conditions.
Perfectly positioned to allow visitors to watch the race’s ceremonial start, Anchorage’s new 252-room Wildbirch Hotel—the first JdV by Hyatt in the state—is set to open in early 2025, the property including an art collection curated by the Anchorage Museum.
Whether you’re a spectator or an adventurer, the Iditarod is a quintessential Alaskan experience that embodies the state’s indomitable spirit. Book our 14-night Alaska and Yukon Discovery fly-drive and combine the legendary landscapes of The Last Frontier with its Canadian neighbour, the Yukon.
7. Sonoma: California Wine at Its Best
Located in the northern reaches of California’s Sonoma County, is a more serene alternative to the world famous Napa. Expect a scaled down affair with family-run wineries, picturesque vineyards, and intimate tastings. Culinary experiences are also about to reach new heights in the region, with multi-Michelin-starred chef Charlie Palmer scheduled to open the “culinary-first” Appellation Healdsburg hotel in the summer of 2025.
Savour award-winning food and wine from across nine distinct regions in Northern California and Oregon, with our 17-night Pacific Northwest Wine Tour making stops in both Sonoma County and the Napa Valley.
8. America’s River Roots Festival 2025: A Celebration of Heritage, Music, and Riverboat Magic
Mark your calendars for October 09-12, 2025, as the America’s River Roots Festival is coming to Ohio and northern Kentucky, the event spanning Covington, and Newport. A spectacular tribute to the rich heritage of the Ohio River and America’s inland river culture, the four-day event will bring together 12 historic riverboats, including favourites like the Belle of Louisville and Steamboat Natchez, as part of the country’s early 250th celebrations.
Enjoy scenic cruises and vibrant performances of roots music curated by Grammy-winner Bryce Dessner, explore culinary delights crafted by top chefs, and discover the region’s brewing and distilling traditions. With live historical exhibitions and a marketplace on the iconic Purple People Bridge (connecting Kentucky to Ohio), this festival promises a dynamic mix of art, history, and entertainment along the riverfront.
Follow the great rivers of the South past the rolling bluegrass hills of Kentucky on our 14-night Kentucky Country Flow fly-drive. The holiday begins in Covington, the city a mere three miles from the neighbouring waterfront metropolis of Newport.
9. High-end Island Adventure: Maui’s Rebirth
The 2023 Maui fires, the deadliest natural disaster in Hawaii’s history, rank among the top 10 most lethal U.S. wildfires since 1871. Visiting Hawaii in 2025 is a chance to witness and support the Aloha state’s inspiring recovery story, the destination offering an irresistible blend of wild adventures and luxurious accommodations.
After its recent makeover, Maui’s Fairmont Kea Lani features freshly designed guest rooms, a cultural centre, and a new lobby, restaurant, and bar. Plant a tree and aid in the reforestation of Haleakala National Park as part of the hotel’s ‘Rooted in Aloha’ program, or for more adrenaline infused thrills, hike the moonscape of Mount Haleakalā—the world’s largest dormant volcano.
Starting in Maui and ending in Honolulu, book our 16-night Hawaiian Island Hopper the holiday allowing you to sample the state’s idyllic beaches, waterfalls, emerald rainforests, and vibrant culture.
10. Glacier Bay National Park: A Centennial of Natural Splendour
In 2025, Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park will be celebrating 100 years as a protected area. Explore towering glaciers, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife while learning about the Huna, a Tlingit tribe (pronounced Kling Kit).
While most of the community live near the indigenous owned Icy Strait port in the modern village of Hoonah, their ancestors occupied Glacier Bay. Visit Xunaa Shuká Hít—roughly translated as “Huna Ancestor’s House”—the first permanent clan house in Glacier Bay since the Tlingit villages were destroyed by an advancing glacier over 250 years ago. Where adventure abounds, Glacier Bay National Park also offers a range of thrilling activities, including scenic boat tours for wildlife and glacier viewing and kayaking among icebergs.
Cruise excursions and extended daylight during summer (from early June to mid-July, the sun rises as early as 4:00 AM and sets around 11:00 PM) provide ample opportunities to delight in Alaska’s majestic landscapes. Set sail on Celebrity Cruises’ Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise, where the journey is the destination in itself.
11. Martha’s Vineyard: Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Jaws
Film buffs and beach lovers alike will want to head to Martha’s Vineyard in 2025 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg’s iconic movie, Jaws. This quintessential New England destination served as the backdrop for Amity Island, and the festivities will include walking tours, screenings, and special events honouring the film’s legacy. Beyond its cinematic charm, Martha’s Vineyard has classic seaside appeal with its charming lighthouses, pristine beaches, and vibrant culinary scene.
A film that broke records at the box office and sparked a cultural phenomenon, the anniversary adds a nostalgic layer to an already idyllic coastal retreat.
Book our 9-night Boston and Cape Cod holiday and experience the exclusivity of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, where upscale adventures await.
12. A Sneak Peek: Coming in 2025, The Cooper Hotel, Charleston
In 2025, Charleston, South Carolina, will welcome its first waterfront five-star hotel. Part of the locally owned Beemok Hospitality Collection, The Cooper promises an array of unique amenities. Highlights include a private marina offering a fleet of luxury boats and a custom yacht for dinner cruises; a rooftop infinity pool with breathtaking harbour views; and a 7,000-square-foot wellness spa that provides nature-inspired treatments.
The hotel will also boast five distinctive dining venues, including a seafood-focused restaurant and a rooftop lounge celebrating Charleston’s culinary heritage.
In Charleston, visitors can wander through charming cobblestone streets, marvel at elegant antebellum architecture, and discover iconic landmarks like Rainbow Row and The Battery. Our 9-night Georgia & South Carolina includes two full days in Charleston at the tail end of the fly-drive. We recommend retaining your car upon arrival to explore the stunning plantation homes nestled along the river.
13. The Rocky Mountaineer: Utah’s Scenic Train Adventures
Train travel is set to make a comeback in 2025, and there’s no better way to experience the grandeur of the American landscape than aboard the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route—the latest adventure from the world-famous rail operator. Traversing the rugged terrain of Utah, this luxurious train journey offers spectacular views of deep canyons and towering mesas.
The gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Park, Moab is the final stop on the westbound itinerary. And, all the more reason to visit, Utah was honoured as Best Outdoor Region in the 2024 JRNY America Awards.
The Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks train journey operates from May through September. SilverLeaf Plus service gives you access to a spacious single-level dome car complete with panoramic windows and an outdoor viewing platform.
14. Ride the Trails and Relive History at Blackwater Creek Ranch
Wyoming’s Blackwater Creek is poised to become a standout destination in 2025 as it opens for its first full season (May 25-September 27), following a successful pop-up debut last year. Set amid the breathtaking Absaroka Mountains and Shoshone National Forest, the rides take you through diverse landscapes, from lush forests and mountain meadows to rugged canyon trails. Beginner or experienced equestrian, you can be assured of a fascinating journey, with knowledgeable guides sharing stories about the area’s history and wildlife along the way.
You also have the option to enjoy fly fishing in pristine waters, white-water rafting, archery, and immersive tours of nearby Yellowstone National Park. From hearty ranch-style meals to evenings spent under starry skies, expect every moment to capture the timeless allure of cowboy culture.
Explore Blackwater Creek’s unique blend of rustic charm and spectacular landscapes on a six night ranch holiday and hit the road on an extended tailor-made journey to see more of the Cowboy state.
15. Iowa: The Star of America’s 250th Anniversary Celebrations
In the lead-up to America’s semiquincentennial in 2026, Iowa will take centre stage with plans for the Great American State Fair, a year-long celebration of the nation’s culture and heritage.
Proposed for the Iowa State Fairgrounds, the event will feature pavilions showcasing the unique contributions of all 50 states, along with immersive exhibits, live performances, and culinary delights. Iowa’s deep historical roots—spanning Native American heritage, the pioneers of westward expansion, and its role in agriculture—make it a fitting host for the festivities.
Book a week-long fly-drive through Iowa, starting in Des Moines with a visit to the iconic Iowa State Fairgrounds and vibrant East Village district. Continue on, exploring charming small towns and scenic byways, and enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking in Maquoketa Caves State Park or cruising the Great River Road, before circling back to Des Moines. Contact our specialists for more details.
Frontier America: Your gateway to the USA
2025 promises to be an extraordinary year for exploring the United States, and this is just a glimpse of what’s ahead. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the more travel news and updates, and let Frontier America, the specialists in tailor-made holidays, help you uncover these incredible destinations at their best.
For more USA travel inspiration and to book, call 020 8776 8709 or email us at America@frontier-travel.co.uk. ATOL PROTECTED No. 5405 ABTA W3207.
