WalletHub study unveils best Summer travel destinations in the US for 2025

With nearly 82% of Americans planning summer trips in 2025, the personal-finance website WalletHub released its report on 2025’s Best Summer Travel Destinations, as well as expert commentary, to supplement its Best Travel Credit Cards and Currency Exchange studies.

To help travelers plan the perfect summer getaway, WalletHub compared 100 metro areas across 41 key indicators of budget- and fun-friendliness. The data set ranges from the cost of the cheapest flight to the number of attractions to the average price of a two-person meal.

Best vs. Worst

• The average flight to a popular summer destination costs $375, lasts 4 hours and 1 minute and has 0.4 connections.
• The Los Angeles metro area is the most attractive destination on the West Coast and the Washington, D.C. metro area is the most attractive destination on the East Coast.
• Florida and Texas are home to the most top summer destinations in the U.S., each with at least two metro areas in the top 15. Oppositely, California has among the largest numbers of the most unpopular summer destinations, with at least two metro areas.

Chip Lupo, WalletHub Analyst comments, “When picking a summer travel destination, it’s easy to focus just on the types of activities you want to do or certain cities you’ve always wanted to see. However, choosing a destination that’s not only entertaining but also affordable is important when travel, dining and activity costs have surged so much in recent years. It can also allow you to have a longer, more relaxing trip.”

“The Orlando metro area is the best summer travel destination, known for attractions like its huge theme parks. The shortest flights from major cities don’t require any connections and can cost as little as $322. The city ranks highly when it comes to the prevalence of affordable, high-quality restaurants, water parks, boat tours, shopping centers, ice cream shops, coffee shops and spas, providing venues to both get thrills and relax.”

Speaking about predictions for the 2025 summer travel season (percent of Americans traveling; most popular destinations; busiest travel times), George Hendry, Ed.D., C.C.E., C.E.C. – Director, McCutchen House/Marriott Lab; Senior Lecturer, University of South Carolina, says “I believe people will be traveling in great numbers this summer, based on the economy and what the future holds for the next few years. Overseas travel may be lessened due to safety concerns, but overall travel will be good. Destinations within the United States will be at resorts where wellness tourism can happen alone with days of visiting attractions nearby.”

“I am not too optimistic about this summer travel season for a few reasons. First, revenge travel is over. Then, the global political climate does not encourage people to take international trips, especially those coming to the U.S. Lastly, when the uncertain economic outlook lingers, people tend to be more careful of their spending. However, there is still one positive side for consumers. Because airlines and hotels have lowered their outlook expectations and prices, travelers may find a better deal this summer, which could motivate them to go on a trip… Usually, the peak travel season occurs around the July 4th weekend. We can expect a higher demand for travel starting in late June and ending in mid-July.” says Linchi Kwok, Ph.D., Professor, Cal Poly Pomona.

The costliest travel mistakes

“Arriving at the airport late and missing your flight. Most airlines state when boarding is closed, which is before the departure time. Arriving at the gate ten minutes before departure time could result in denied boarding with no compensation. Booking accommodation, airline seats, or rental cars at the last minute can increase costs. Not understanding baggage requirements on airlines, extra baggage fees can add up. For international flights, make sure your passport does not expire six months before you leave your destination, which is the requirement for most countries, and that you have any required visas. Using a cell phone and sending large amounts of data in another country without setting up an international plan.” says John Bowen, Professor Emeritus; Former Dean and Distinguished Chair, University of Houston.

“There are a few. For example, it could cost a lot more if we book a flight or hotel at the last minute. We should never expect to get any last-minute deals in peak seasons. Because most hotels have flexible cancellation policies except for those pre-paid rooms, we can book a hotel room as early as possible and change it when we find a better deal later. Meanwhile, most travel data show that booking a flight two to three months out will give us the best deal. Then, travelers may consider using the credit card perks. They could save money with free check bags, airport lounge access, and free hotel stays. Most travel websites also post no foreign transaction fees, which could be a big money saver for international trips.” reply Linchi Kwok.

Travel on a budget

Regarding to people looking to travel on a budget, John Bowen advises: “Make your reservations early. By bundling your airline and hotel you may be able to save money. If your travel time is flexible, check the costs of travel the week before and the week after you want to travel, as well as days before and after, to see if costs are lower. If you can travel at the last minute, tour companies and cruise lines sometimes have last-minute deals to fill unsold space. Choosing lodging that has a kitchen will allow you to prepare some meals and save money on restaurant expenditures.”

“For those looking to travel on a budget, the key is to plan ahead and stay flexible. Early booking, especially for hotel stays, is a smart move. Some airlines also allow changes without a fee. Then, keep an eye on prices with tracking tools and rebook it when the price drops. Traveling with flexible dates or to a less crowded destination can also help us save a lot of money. Lastly, don’t forget to take advantage of the perks and rewards offered by credit cards and airlines/hotels. Sometimes, using points/miles for redemptions is cheaper than paying for a hotel room or an airline seat with cash.” says Linchi Kwok.

The article WalletHub study unveils best Summer travel destinations in the US for 2025 first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.