2024’s Must-Visit Hotspots + Top Travel Destinations
Next year is going to be another big year for travel. According to CNBC, in 2024, Americans are more likely to choose hidden-gem destinations over tried-and-true tourist hotspots for their vacations. Travel + Leisure has unveiled a feature titled “Where to Go in 2024,” which deviates from the usual recommendations such as New York City or Disney World. Instead, they focused on highlighting lesser-known places.
The travel magazine enlisted its staff to curate a list of destinations travelers should consider exploring in the coming year. These picks span various categories, including big-city thrills, cultural immersion, culinary experiences, waterfront destinations, and more.
Big-city thrills and more.
Under the category of big-city thrills, international destinations such as Bangkok, Istanbul, Paris, and Montreal are featured. Meanwhile, within the U.S., cities like Louisville, Kentucky, Kansas City, Missouri, Fort Worth, Texas, and Cleveland, Ohio, make the list.
Louisville is highlighted for its upcoming 150th-anniversary celebration of the Kentucky Derby on May 4, along with its year-round rich history and cultural offerings. Kansas City earns its place on the list, not only for being a hub of the “Swelce” (Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce) dating phenomenon but also for becoming a destination for sports fans. This is especially true with the opening of the first-ever purpose-built stadium for women’s pro sports by the Kansas City Current in March.
Fort Worth has been recognized for providing “classic Western experiences” and contributing $3 billion to tourism last year. Meanwhile, Cleveland is highlighted for its “big city thrills,” starting with the NCAA Women’s Final Four at the state-of-the-art Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in April. This is followed by a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
The Pan-American Masters Games will add to Cleveland’s attractions from July 12-21. Then in November, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony will return. Cleveland is also undergoing significant changes, with the Cleveland Museum of Natural History nearing completion of its $150-million expansion, featuring updated exhibits and new public spaces in University Circle.
See more destinations spotlighted by Travel + Leisure here.
5 Passport-Free Getaways Where Travelers Can Explore
Puerto Rico
This Caribbean island is part of the U.S. Puerto Rico has sandy beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and even a tropical rainforest. If you’re a U.S. citizen traveling from anywhere within the U.S., you don’t need to hassle with a passport to visit this paradise. It’s worth mentioning that starting from May 2025, there’s this thing called the Real ID Act that kicks in. If your state isn’t compliant with this Act, you’ll need to bring your trusty passport to explore the wonders of Puerto Rico. So, make sure to check if your state is all set with the Real ID Act before planning your trip.
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St. Croix
If you’re craving island vibes, you might want to check out St. Croix. It is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you won’t need to worry about bringing your passport when traveling to and from this island.
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Northern Mariana Islands
The Northern Mariana Islands, a collection of 14 tropical wonders has sandy shores, azure waters, and an array of thrilling activities like windsurfing, cavern dives, and jungle treks. And yes, U.S. citizens can venture to these remote islands without the need for a passport. However, it’s important to remember that you’ll need to carry a government-issued proof of identification along with you during your visit.
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St. Thomas
St. Thomas, a Caribbean island known for its white sand beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and Danish colonial architecture. As a U.S. citizen, you won’t need a passport to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St. Thomas. However, it’s important to note that if you plan to explore the neighboring British Virgin Islands, a valid passport will be required. For your adventures on St. Thomas, it only requires a government-issued ID with your photo.
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St. John
St. John, the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This island is home to the Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, where you can embark on thrilling adventures like scuba diving, hiking, and even discover prehistoric archaeological sites. Since St. John is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you can leave your passport at home when traveling there.
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