National Geographic has named five locations across the United States to its prestigious Best of the World travel list for 2027. The annual compilation highlights 25 destinations globally, with five American sites earning recognition for their unique offerings.
Madison, Wisconsin, is featured for its lakefront activities and culinary scene. Situated between Lakes Mendota and Monona, the capital city provides extensive trails and green spaces, complemented by the vibrant atmosphere of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. National Geographic describes Madison as a city compact enough for exploration on foot or by bike, boasting over 200 miles of trails and bikeways that connect neighborhoods, parks, and beaches. The city is noted for having one of the highest numbers of parks per capita among U.S. cities.
The Pacific Coast Highway in California also made the list, particularly highlighting areas accessible after the recent reopening of scenic sections in Big Sur. The region is recognized for its coastal views and nearby artistic communities. Laguna Beach, celebrating its centennial in 2027, offers beach access and a new pedestrian promenade with shops, galleries, and dining. Further north, the city of Lompoc is noted for its mural-adorned trail and burgeoning wine region. Small towns like Harmony, with a population of 18, and coastal areas like Mendocino County and Fort Bragg, known for their galleries, are also mentioned.
The Southern Ozarks, spanning Missouri and Arkansas, are celebrated for their dramatic bluffs, valleys, and ridgelines. This region is described as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby Bentonville, Arkansas, home to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and Bella Vista, known as the mountain biking capital of the world. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Missouri offers a vast landscape with cliffs, valleys, and opportunities to observe wildlife.
Baltimore, Maryland, is recognized for its historical significance, particularly as the birthplace of American railroads. The city will mark the 200th anniversary of its first commercial railroad charter in 1827, with the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation slated for a significant upgrade. The city's historic Lexington Market, established in 1782, and attractions in the Inner Harbor, such as the National Aquarium and the historic warship U.S.S. Constellation, are also highlighted. The Baltimore Blueway offers kayaking trails, and a visit to Fort McHenry, the inspiration for "The Star-Spangled Banner," is recommended.
Catalina Island, California, a destination accessible only by boat, is the fifth U.S. location featured. An hour's ferry ride from Long Beach brings visitors to the island's landscapes, including roaming bison and indigenous plant and animal species. The Trans-Catalina Trail and the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden, showcasing rare island flora, are noted points of interest.