From far flung places to urban spaces, our editors have narrowed down our list of the most intriguing places to take your next journey in 2016, places you should add to your “dream list.” The Top 28 Hot Destinations for 2016 offers visually pleasing sights and some very interesting things to do, whether you fantasize about discovering hidden treasures rarely seen by other travelers or want to re-explore some of your favorite haunts. Our criteria was without prejudice and covered a very diverse geographic wish list. Our selection plucked destinations on almost every continent and some places so remote that TravelSquire.com readers will be among the first to visit. There is so much to choose from and a bit of something for every travel style… from adventure to cultural.
With a drumroll we announce the 2016 Top 28 Hot Destinations
1. Lexington & Staunton, VA
These two charming towns are tucked into the picturesque mountains that border Virginia’s magnificent Shenandoah Valley. Both centers of education, Lexington hosts Washington & Lee University and Virginia Military Institute, while Mary Baldwin College and Bridgewater College call Staunton home. Stay in a historic hotel or a B & B like the Col Alto Hampton Inn, the Robert E. Lee, or The Georges in Lexington, or opt for the Stonewall Jackson Hotel in Staunton. The towns’ architecturally important districts are filled with shops, museums, markets, and good regionally inspired restaurants including The Red Hen, The Southern Inn, and The Bistro in Lexington, or Zynodoa and The Shack in Staunton. Enjoy a performance at the American Shakespeare Theatre in Staunton or visit some art galleries in Lexington where Cy Twombly spent his formative years. Or get out and explore the natural wonders of the valley.
- Nashville
Celebrated as the country-music capital of the world, and acknowledged as Music City, USA, Nashville merits a place on your travel bucket list. It offers attractions such as the Parthenon, a full scale replica of the Athens original which doubles as an art museum; the Ryman Auditorium; and RCA Studio B, the recording studio of music industry legends like Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Willy Nelson. It has plenty of sights for anyone visiting but to experience it to the fullest, one must take in a live performance. And, if you’re a shopaholic, head to downtown Nashville where you’ll find local favorites like Ceri Hoover, Nisolo, and more.
- New Orleans
A mixture of Creole culture, food and music, New Orleans is a fascinating melting pot like no other. If you’re lucky enough to visit in February, you’ll get to witness the amazing, world-renowned Mardi Gras celebration, when residents and visitors from all over the world dress up in exuberant outfits. Or go in April or May for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and hear the music that put the town on the map.
If you’re looking for an escape from urban life, don’t miss The Botanical Garden and history nuts can get their fill at either the Historic New Orleans Collection, a museum dedicated to the preservation of the French Quarter and New Orleans history or Louisiana’s famed Civil War Museum.
- Southern California
Welcome to Hollywood! Or Beverly Hills. Or Venice Beach. Or maybe even Disneyland. Southern California is what everyone thinks about when they imagine California – blue, sunny skies and warm, sandy beaches. If it’s beaches you’re looking for, drive to Hermosa Beach, rated the second best California beach. Or if you’re looking for a scene, head to the famous Venice beach boardwalk and take in the sights of street performers. Afterwards, you can drive up the coast to Malibu and enjoy a true Western sunset.
How about a day at Universal Studios, where you’ll be reminded about all the amazing movies and television shows you know and love? Or take the kids to Disneyland and experience the happiest place on Earth.
- Orlando
Orlando is a multigenerational family’s dream. Whether you’re 8 or 80, the exhausting fun and memorable experiences of Disneyworld are a must. If you want to be inspired see a performance of Disney’s Cirque du Soleil or be awed at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Jurassic Park Discovery center. And young adults will be blown away by Blue Man Group. If Universal’s not your cup of tea, you can always visit the Gator Farm.
Are you a Lego fan? LEGOLAND is just an hour outside Orlando. Further afield are Cape Canaveral and the Space Center. Or hop in a NASCAR racing car and take the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Wow!
On the cultural side, The Orlando Museum of Art has an outstanding collection and not far away in Winter Park the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art houses a significant number of Louis Comfort Tiffany pieces. Commune with nature at Bok Tower Gardens, a national historic landmark designed by Frederick Law Olmstead Jr. No matter what your interests, Orlando’s got your back.
- NY Finger Lakes
California isn’t the only state with beautiful wine country and excellent wineries. New York’s Finger Lakes region is home to over 120 world class wineries sprinkled around the shores of the four major glacier-made lakes. Arrange for a tasting tour then follow it up with a meal in one of the area’s excellent restaurants. Several of the wineries have their own restaurants with menus featuring local products. Micro-breweries and distilleries have also sprung up, complementing the wine offerings.
Beyond food and wine, explore the adventures of each of the lakes where festivals of all kinds abound all year long. For adventure Watkins Glen is home to NASCAR races; state parks offer hiking, kayaking, and gliding. Several museums explore various mediums from glass at the Corning Museum to Hudson Valley painting at the Arnot Art Museum.
- Montréal
Perhaps the most defining skyline of Canada, Montréal is the largest city in Québec. A perfect mix of 18th century tructures and 21st century skyscrapers, you’ll find yourself stunned by the architectural yin and yang. Never without its French influences, Montréal boasts an amazing food scene. Head over to Le-St Urbain, Impasto, or Damas, all amazing choices.
For sightseeing, check out the 26,000 species of flora in the Botanical Gardens including a tranquil display of bonsai trees in the Japanese Zen Gardens. And for a shot of museum culture, take in the works of greats such as Rembrandt, El Greco, Renoir, Cézanne and Picasso at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts.