Top 15 Tourist Places To Visit In The US - Secret Flight Club Data Report
18 February 2026
The United States delivers more variety per square mile than almost anywhere on earth. From historic coastal cities and tropical islands to cultural powerhouses, America offers something for every type of traveller.
But popularity alone doesn’t tell the full story. At Secret Flight Club, we analysed climate comfort, safety data, tourism demand and hotel affordability to identify the Top 15 Tourist Places To Visit in the US for 2026.
Whether you're chasing sunshine, skyline views, food scenes, festivals or family attractions, this guide gives you the data behind the destinations so you can book smarter.
How We Determined Our List
To build this ranking, we analysed a combination of tourism demand, affordability, climate consistency and safety indicators from nationally recognised datasets.
Data sources include:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – 10-year climate normals for annual average temperature
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Uniform Crime Reporting data (latest available violent crime rates per 100,000 residents)
- U.S. Travel Association – Visitor volume and tourism economic impact reporting
- STR Global hotel performance data and aggregated 2025–2026 average nightly hotel rates
- Official city tourism boards and destination marketing organisations
We prioritised destinations that consistently attract high visitor numbers, offer strong infrastructure for travellers, maintain competitive accommodation pricing relative to demand, and deliver favourable climate conditions during peak seasons.
All hotel costs reflect average nightly standard room rates. Crime rates are shown per 100,000 residents based on the most recent reporting cycle. Temperature figures reflect annual averages.
Key Findings
After analysing more than 50 major US destinations, several clear patterns emerged.
Florida remains dominant for warm-weather tourism, with both Miami and Orlando combining strong visitor numbers and favourable climate averages. New York continues to command the highest hotel prices nationally, yet demand remains unmatched. Honolulu delivers the most consistent year-round climate of any destination on our list.
Austin stands out for rapid tourism growth driven by live events, festivals and culinary tourism. Las Vegas remains one of the most competitively priced major tourism cities when hotel costs are measured against annual visitor volume.
Climate comfort and hotel affordability were the strongest differentiators between mid-ranking and top-tier destinations.
Top 15 Tourist Places To Visit In The US
1. New York
Average Temperature: 55°F
Average Hotel Cost: $284
Crime Rate: ~539 per 100,000
New York remains the most visited urban destination in the United States and one of the most recognisable skylines in the world. From Broadway theatres and Michelin-star dining to Central Park and world-class museums, the city delivers unmatched cultural density. Each borough offers a different experience, whether that’s luxury shopping in Manhattan or creative enclaves in Brooklyn.
Hotel costs are among the highest nationally, but demand remains consistently strong year-round. For travellers seeking energy, diversity and nonstop activity, NYC continues to set the benchmark.
2. Miami
Average Temperature: 76°F
Average Hotel Cost: $215
Crime Rate: ~615 per 100,000
Miami blends tropical climate, beach lifestyle and international culture unlike anywhere else in the continental US. South Beach remains a global icon, while neighbourhoods like Wynwood and Little Havana add depth through art and Latin heritage. The city attracts both luxury travellers and nightlife seekers, with a strong cruise tourism presence boosting visitor numbers.
Warm temperatures throughout most of the year support consistent tourism demand. For sun-focused travel with an energetic atmosphere, Miami remains a leading choice.
3. Orlando
Average Temperature: 72°F
Average Hotel Cost: $175
Crime Rate: ~524 per 100,000
Orlando is the undisputed theme park capital of the world and one of the highest-volume tourist cities in the country. Major attractions drive consistent family travel, supported by one of the largest hospitality infrastructures in the US. Hotel pricing remains relatively competitive given the scale of demand.
Beyond theme parks, golf resorts, shopping districts and expanding dining scenes add to its appeal. Orlando performs particularly well for affordability relative to annual visitor volume.
4. Las Vegas
Average Temperature: 69°F
Average Hotel Cost: $162
Crime Rate: ~589 per 100,000
Las Vegas remains one of the most unique tourism economies in America. The Strip delivers concentrated entertainment density, from global headliners to world-class dining and large scale resorts.
Despite its luxury image, average hotel costs are highly competitive compared to other major US cities. Year-round events, conventions and sporting fixtures drive consistent occupancy. For value-driven entertainment travel, Las Vegas continues to outperform expectations.
5. Los Angeles
Average Temperature: 64°F
Average Hotel Cost: $235
Crime Rate: ~747 per 100,000
Los Angeles offers a broad tourism portfolio, combining beaches, film history, theme parks and global cuisine. From Hollywood landmarks to the Malibu coastline, the city provides varied experiences within a single metro area.
Its mild Mediterranean climate supports year-round travel demand. Hotel pricing sits at the higher end but reflects its global appeal. LA remains one of America’s most internationally recognised destinations.
6. San Francisco
Average Temperature: 57°F
Average Hotel Cost: $231
Crime Rate: ~715 per 100,000
San Francisco continues to attract visitors through its distinctive skyline, waterfront setting and historic architecture. The Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island remain major global draws.
The city’s compact layout makes it accessible for short breaks and extended stays alike. Hotel costs remain elevated, reflecting limited supply and consistent demand. Its combination of scenery and culture maintains strong tourism positioning.
7. Washington, D.C.
Average Temperature: 58°F
Average Hotel Cost: $210
Crime Rate: ~812 per 100,000
Washington, D.C. stands apart for its concentration of free national museums and iconic landmarks. Tourism demand is supported by domestic travel, international visitors and political event cycles.
Cherry blossom season remains one of the country’s most photographed periods. Hotel rates fluctuate seasonally but remain mid-to-upper tier overall. As both a political capital and historical centre, DC maintains steady tourism performance.
8. Chicago
Average Temperature: 52°F
Average Hotel Cost: $198
Crime Rate: ~943 per 100,000
Chicago delivers one of the most impressive urban skylines in North America. Architecture tours, lakefront parks and a thriving culinary scene anchor its tourism appeal.
While winters are colder, summer festivals and sporting events drive strong seasonal visitation. Hotel rates remain competitive relative to city size. Chicago offers a balanced mix of culture, food and large scale city energy.
9. Honolulu
Average Temperature: 77°F
Average Hotel Cost: $295
Crime Rate: ~247 per 100,000
Honolulu offers the most stable year-round climate among destinations on this list. Waikiki Beach and volcanic landscapes draw both domestic and international travellers.
Tourism demand remains consistently high despite elevated hotel pricing. The island setting creates a resort-style experience within a capital city environment. For travellers prioritising climate consistency, Honolulu leads nationally.
10. Boston
Average Temperature: 50°F
Average Hotel Cost: $265
Crime Rate: ~460 per 100,000
Boston blends historic depth with modern urban energy. The Freedom Trail and waterfront districts attract visitors interested in American heritage.
Strong academic institutions and sporting culture add to year-round activity. Hotel costs reflect its compact size and high demand. Boston remains one of the most culturally dense cities in the Northeast.
11. New Orleans
Average Temperature: 70°F
Average Hotel Cost: $190
Crime Rate: ~1,121 per 100,000
New Orleans offers one of the most distinctive cultural identities in the United States. Music, cuisine and festivals drive consistent tourism momentum.
The French Quarter remains the city’s primary visitor hub. Hotel rates remain moderate compared to other major destinations. Its atmosphere and heritage create a travel experience that feels entirely unique.
12. Seattle
Average Temperature: 54°F
Average Hotel Cost: $220
Crime Rate: ~759 per 100,000
Seattle combines waterfront scenery with mountain backdrops, offering strong appeal for outdoor-oriented travellers. Pike Place Market and the Space Needle remain central attractions. Seattle also offers the Seattle Aquarium, Kerry Park viewpoints and vibrant neighborhoods such as Capitol Hill.
Tech-driven growth has expanded its dining and cultural footprint. Seattle balances urban sophistication with natural access.
13. Austin
Average Temperature: 70°F
Average Hotel Cost: $252
Crime Rate: ~517 per 100,000
Austin has emerged as one of the fastest growing tourism markets in the United States. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, it hosts major annual events that significantly increase visitor volume.
The city’s food culture, outdoor lakes and festival calendar create diversified travel appeal. Hotel prices have risen in line with demand growth. Austin represents one of the strongest upward tourism trajectories nationally.
14. Myrtle Beach
Average Temperature: 66°F
Average Hotel Cost: $168
Crime Rate: ~690 per 100,000
Myrtle Beach remains one of the most affordable coastal tourism destinations on the East Coast. Its long beachfront, golf resorts and family entertainment venues drive seasonal demand.
Hotel rates remain comparatively accessible relative to other beach cities. The destination performs strongly for domestic leisure travel. Value positioning remains its core advantage.
15. San Diego
Average Temperature: 65°F
Average Hotel Cost: $248
Crime Rate: ~369 per 100,000
San Diego consistently ranks among the most temperate cities in the United States. Its beaches, zoo attractions and relaxed coastal atmosphere appeal to a wide range of travellers.
Tourism demand remains steady across seasons due to its mild climate. Hotel pricing sits at the higher end but reflects premium coastal positioning. San Diego offers a perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches, lively neighborhoods and well-developed visitor amenities.
Data Findings Table
|
Rank |
City |
Average Temperature (°F) |
Average Hotel Cost (Per Night) |
Violent Crime Rate (Per 100k) |
|
1 |
New York |
55 |
$284 |
539 |
|
2 |
Miami |
76 |
$215 |
615 |
|
3 |
Orlando |
72 |
$175 |
524 |
|
4 |
Las Vegas |
69 |
$162 |
589 |
|
5 |
Los Angeles |
64 |
$235 |
747 |
|
6 |
San Francisco |
57 |
$231 |
715 |
|
7 |
Washington, D.C. |
58 |
$210 |
812 |
|
8 |
Chicago |
52 |
$198 |
943 |
|
9 |
Honolulu |
77 |
$295 |
247 |
|
10 |
Boston |
50 |
$265 |
460 |
|
11 |
New Orleans |
70 |
$190 |
1,121 |
|
12 |
Seattle |
54 |
$220 |
759 |
|
13 |
Austin |
70 |
$252 |
517 |
|
14 |
Myrtle Beach |
66 |
$168 |
690 |
|
15 |
San Diego |
65 |
$248 |
369 |
About the Award
The Secret Flight Club Top 15 Tourist Places To Visit in the US Award recognises destinations that demonstrate exceptional tourism appeal, infrastructure strength and visitor value based on independent data analysis. Rankings are determined using publicly available datasets including climate averages from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), safety statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), hotel rate benchmarks and national tourism performance data.
The overall winner designation is awarded to the destination that achieved the strongest combined performance across visitor demand, climate consistency, accommodation pricing and safety indicators. Finalists represent the remaining top-ranked destinations that demonstrated outstanding performance across multiple metrics.
