Tag: US Travel

The Southern State, South Carolina, Americans Are Moving to in Record Numbers

South Carolina emerged as the most sought-after state for relocation in the United States, according to recent migration, and the trend showed no signs of slowing. The analysis of nationwide relocation searches, which was conducted by MoveBuddha and curated in this article from Southern Living, revealed that, for the third consecutive year, more Americans looked to move to South Carolina than any other state. The numbers were striking: nearly 199 people moved into the state for every 100 who moved out. This steady influx reshaped not only population totals but also how travelers and future residents viewed the state’s appeal.

At the center of South Carolina’s migration momentum was Myrtle Beach, which recorded the highest in-to-out migration ratio in the country. With its expansive coastline, walkable boardwalk, and year-round mild temperatures, the city became a powerful draw for people seeking a slower pace without sacrificing access to entertainment and outdoor recreation. Myrtle Beach’s popularity helped reinforce South Carolina’s position as a national relocation leader while simultaneously boosting its reputation as a long-term lifestyle destination.

According to the MoveBuddha 2025–2026 Migration Report, South Carolina’s population growth did not come from natural increase or international immigration. In fact, the state experienced a negative birth rate and relatively limited appeal among international migrants. Instead, growth was driven almost entirely by domestic migration, withAmericans relocating from other states in search of affordability, climate, and quality of life. This trend highlighted a broader shift in how people chose where to live, prioritizing comfort and accessibility over traditional job-centered moves.

Retirees played a particularly influential role in South Carolina’s surge. The state’s combination of warm weather, scenic Atlantic beaches, and comparatively low cost of living made it an appealing option for those leaving colder or more expensive regions. Census data showed that residents aged 65 and older increased from 13.75 percent in 2010 to more than 19 percent in recent years. Coastal communities and mid-sized cities became hubs for this demographic shift, blending everyday convenience with leisure-oriented surroundings.

Population growth was not evenly distributed across the state. Reporting from The Post and Courier indicated that more than half of South Carolina’s population gains were concentrated in just four counties: Horry County, Greenville County, Spartanburg County, and Berkeley County. These areas combined economic opportunity with livability, offering access to healthcare, recreation, and growing downtown districts that supported both long-term residents and newcomers.

While South Carolina led the rankings, it was not alone in attracting movers. Idaho followed closely behind as the second most popular state to relocate to, while North Carolina claimed the third spot. Migration experts noted that interest in North Carolina was particularly strong among older Americans, though affordability, remote work flexibility, and economic growth also contributed to its appeal. Together, these states illustrated a national trend toward livable regions that balanced natural beauty with practical advantages.

For travelers considering a longer stay or scouting a future move, South Carolina offered plenty to explore beyond its migration statistics. Coastal towns, mountain foothills, and historic cities created a diverse landscape that supported both short-term visits and permanent relocation.

As migration trends continued reshaping where Americans chose to live, South Carolina’s rise reflected more than just numbers on a chart. The state combined livability, climate, and access to everyday amenities in a way that appealed to those seeking a practical yet rewarding lifestyle shift. Whether discovered through a seasonal visit or a longer exploratory stay, South Carolina increasingly positioned itself as a place where travel curiosity and long-term plans naturally intersected.

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National Parks to Visit in 2026: Epic Landscapes Without the Fee

Exploring the United States often meant choosing between breathtaking landscapes and budget limitations, yet 2026 has proven that iconic scenery does not always come with an entrance fee. With 63 official national parks and more than 400 additional sites managed by the National Park Service, travelers have found countless opportunities to experience mountains, coastlines, caves, and forests without paying a daily admission cost, as per this travel blog article from Travel + Leisure. While many parks typically charged between $20 and $35 per vehicle, a significant number remained free year‑round, making them ideal anchors for cost‑conscious itineraries across the country.

Beyond well‑known federal fee‑free days such as Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, and the Independence Day weekend, roughly one‑third of national parks required no entrance fee at all. These destinations spanned nearly every region of the country, allowing travelers to design routes around landscapes that ranged from subtropical shorelines to Arctic tundra. In the Southeast, Great Smoky Mountains National Park continued to draw millions of visitors each year for its mist‑covered ridges, preserved cabins, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Nearby, Congaree National Park offered a dramatically different experience, protecting towering bald cypress trees and peaceful boardwalks that wound through one of the largest intact floodplain forests in North America.

Along Florida’s coast, Biscayne National Park highlighted a side of the national park system that existed largely underwater. Coral reefs, mangrove shorelines, and clear bays shaped an experience centered on marine ecosystems rather than mountain views. Inland, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas blended natural thermal springs with historic bathhouses, creating a rare overlap of preserved architecture and geology. Further north, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky invited visitors underground, where the world’s longest known cave system revealed vast chambers, winding tunnels, and ancient formations shaped over millions of years.

The Midwest and Appalachian regions expanded the list of free‑entry parks with surprising variety. Cuyahoga Valley National Park preserved waterfalls, wooded trails, and remnants of the Ohio & Erie Canal between Cleveland and Akron, offering easy access to nature near urban centers. Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota centered on interconnected lakes and waterways, where water‑based exploration defined the landscape. In West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park showcased dramatic cliffs and one of the longest steel arch bridges in the Western Hemisphere, while Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota revealed intricate boxwork formations beneath rolling prairie terrain.

Alaska stood apart as the state with the highest concentration of free‑entry national parks. Glacier Bay National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park highlighted tidewater glaciers, fjords, and abundant marine wildlife, while Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve covered an area larger than several U.S. states combined. Even more remote destinations such as Gates of the Arctic National Park, Katmai National Park, Kobuk Valley National Park, and Lake Clark National Park emphasized vast wilderness, often accessible only by small aircraft and rewarding travelers with unmatched solitude and scale.

Although these parks did not require entrance fees, planning ahead remained essential. Some locations enforced parking charges, timed‑entry systems, or recreation‑specific permits for activities such as camping, fishing, or boating. For travelers planning to visit multiple parks that did charge admission, the America the Beautiful Pass offered a cost‑effective option for yearlong access to federally managed lands.

With thoughtful planning, 2026 demonstrated that unforgettable travel experiences did not depend on ticket prices. From Appalachian ridgelines and Midwestern rivers to Pacific forests and Arctic expanses, these free‑entry national parks showed that some of the country’s most iconic landscapes were open to everyone, every day.

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The Future of Southern Travel Starts in These Cities

Travel experts looking ahead to 2026 continued to point to the Southern United States as one of the country’s most dynamic regions for travel in this article from Southern Living. Southern Travel highlights milestone celebrations, major sporting events, cultural revivals, and thoughtful new development, several Southern cities were expected to stand out in the year ahead. From art-forward mountain towns to refined coastal communities, these destinations offered variety, accessibility, and a strong sense of place that rewarded intentional travel planning.

Bentonville, Arkansas

Bentonville has increasingly positioned itself as a cultural and creative destination, and 2026 was expected to accelerate that momentum thanks to America 250, the nationwide celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Rather than competing with heavy crowds in Washington, D.C., travelers were encouraged to explore this more approachable and affordable alternative. The city’s evolution has been driven in large part by the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which blends American history with contemporary expression across thoughtfully designed galleries set amid walking trails and reflective ponds. Nearby, The Momentary added a forward-looking layer to the city’s appeal, transforming a former industrial space into a hub for performances, exhibitions, film screenings, and hands-on workshops. Bentonville’s growing culinary scene and the December 2025 opening of The Compton Hotel near the downtown square further reinforced its status as a polished yet welcoming arts destination.

Palm Beach, Florida

Palm Beach remained a strong contender for travelers seeking a refined coastal experience in 2026. Known for its pristine beaches, iconic architecture, and carefully curated shopping districts, the town offered a quieter and more polished alternative to nearby Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Longstanding institutions like Green’s Pharmacy connected visitors to the town’s history, while newer waterfront dining destinations reflected Palm Beach’s continued evolution. With warm weather throughout the year and a compact, scenic layout, Palm Beach appealed to travelers drawn to an effortless escape rooted in elegance, tradition, and a distinctly coastal aesthetic.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville was expected to draw increased attention in 2026 with the debut of the Biltmore Championship, a new PGA Tour event scheduled for early fall. Timed perfectly with apple harvests and the first hints of autumn color in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the tournament added to Asheville’s already strong seasonal appeal. Lodging options at the historic Biltmore Estate and nearby mountain resorts placed visitors close to both the action and the region’s natural beauty. Beyond golf, Asheville continued to stand out for its revitalized neighborhoods, live music venues, expanding culinary scene, and access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta was poised to welcome a global audience in 2026 as one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup. Downtown accommodations within walking distance of the stadium made the city especially convenient for visitors attending matches, while luxury properties such as The St. Regis Atlanta offered a more tranquil retreat outside the city center. Travelers interested in balancing large-scale events with quieter experiences could venture north to Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, where restored cottages, outdoor recreation, and heritage-inspired design reflected one of the leading travel trends of the year.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston rounded out the list as a destination that continued to refine its balance of history, gastronomy, and coastal sophistication. In late 2025, the city’s restaurant scene earned its first Michelin stars, signaling growing national recognition for its culinary excellence. Looking ahead to 2026, travelers anticipated the opening of The Cooper hotel along the riverfront, the expansion of boutique properties such as The Pinch, and new art spaces emerging along King Street. Charleston’s ongoing investment in culture, design, and hospitality ensured its place as one of the South’s most compelling cities to visit in the coming year.

Together, these five destinations highlighted why the South remained an essential region for travelers seeking meaningful, memorable experiences in 2026—offering history, creativity, natural beauty, and thoughtful growth across a wide range of settings.

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Winter Warmth in the Heart of the Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains create an unforgettable backdrop for a winter escape, and the season becomes even more atmospheric at the Dollywood DreamMore Resort in Pigeon Forge, as per this travel blog article from Southern Living. With festive décor, seasonal activities, and seamless access to Dollywood, the resort embraces the spirit of the holidays while offering plenty of opportunities to unwind between adventures. Visitors find a warm, welcoming environment designed to highlight the best of the Smokies during the most magical time of year.

A stay at DreamMore provides effortless access to Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, one of the region’s most anticipated holiday events. The theme park glows with more than six million lights, turning every walkway and building into a brilliant display. Nighttime visits feel especially enchanting as colorful tunnels, illuminated trees, and synchronized light shows transform the entire park. With DreamMore’s complimentary trolley service, traveling back and forth is simple, allowing guests to experience Dollywood both during the day and again at night when the lights shine at their fullest.

Holiday crafts add even more opportunities to unwind. The resort offers festive DIY kits—everything from ornaments to decorative keepsakes—for an easy, hands-on evening activity. These project kits are ideal for travelers who want to take home something personal and reflective of their holiday stay.

Music also plays a central role in the DreamMore experience. Throughout the season, live performers fill the lobby with classic Christmas songs, creating a warm, old-fashioned atmosphere. The combination of soft lighting, decorated trees, and live music often encourages guests to linger long after they planned to move on, enjoying the resort’s inviting holiday rhythm.

Food enthusiasts will want to try the famous cinnamon bread from Dollywood’s Grist Mill. Conveniently, the same warm, buttery loaf is also available at Song & Hearth inside the DreamMore Resort. Rich, gooey, and generously spiced, the bread has become a beloved tradition for many visitors, especially during the holiday season.

Accommodations at the resort are modern, spacious, and designed to maximize comfort during a winter stay. Many rooms offer mountain views or glimpses of the illuminated grounds, adding to the seasonal atmosphere. December typically brings moderate to high nightly rates—around $300—with amenities such as an indoor pool, full-service spa, fire pits, a fitness center, and convenient transportation to Dollywood included.

Travel to the DreamMore is straightforward, with McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville located about an hour away. Renting a car is recommended, both for convenience and for the opportunity to explore nearby destinations, includingGatlinburg and the scenic roads leading into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a personal vehicle, visitors can easily pair holiday relaxation with outdoor exploration.

Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth seasonal visit. Early booking is essential since December fills quickly, especially on weekends. The resort’s perks—such as TimeSaver Line Access and a direct shuttle to Dollywood—offer significant benefits during the busy holiday period. Allowing time for rest is equally important; the resort’s serene indoor pool, cozy corners, and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to slow down and enjoy quiet moments between outings.

With festive decorations, warm traditions, and close proximity to one of the country’s most celebrated holiday theme park events, the DreamMore Resort offers a memorable seasonal retreat in the Smoky Mountains. The combination of thoughtful programming, scenic surroundings, and genuine hospitality creates a holiday experience that feels deeply connected to the spirit of the region.

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The Ultimate Weekend Through Pennsylvania’s Steel City, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh stands out for its blend of industrial heritage, creative energy, and rapidly evolving neighborhoods, offering visitors a dynamic mix of landmarks, outdoor recreation, and memorable cityscapes, as per this travel guide from Travel + Leisure. Approaching the city through the dramatic Fort Pitt Tunnel delivers a striking reveal of the skyline, framed by the meeting point of the Allegheny River, the Monongahela River, and the Ohio River. This dramatic entrance immediately sets the stage for a weekend filled with architecture, culture, and urban exploration.

Staying in East Liberty places travelers near some of Pittsburgh’s most vibrant corridors. Hotels such as The Maverick by Kasa and Hotel Indigo give convenient access to South Highland Avenue and the adjoining Shadyside district. Along these walkable streets, restaurants like Muddy Waters and Mola showcase the city’s expanding culinary identity. Those interested in Pittsburgh’s creative retail scene often head to Butler Street in Lawrenceville, where standout shops such as Wildcard, No. 14 Boutique, and Von Walter & Funk offer eclectic goods, locally inspired gifts, and distinctive home décor.

A short walk from this cluster of boutiques brings visitors to renowned dining spots like The Vandal and Morcilla. The former specializes in modern American plates, while the latter focuses on Spanish-style small dishes and charcuterie. Beginning the weekend with a strong culinary lineup creates an ideal foundation for the cultural experiences that follow.

Mornings often start at the iconic Pamela’s Diner in the Strip District, known for its crêpe-style hotcakes. After breakfast, travelers browse markets along Penn Avenue, where long-standing vendors stand alongside makers selling gourmet goods and Pittsburgh-themed merchandise. Bike rentals through POGOH make it easy to transition from browsing to exploring, with a scenic riverside trail leading directly to Point State Park. This route crosses several iconic bridges before ending at the park’s signature fountain marking the confluence of the city’s three rivers.

For those looking to extend their ride, the path to Washington’s Landing offers quiet river views and tree-lined stretches. A return downtown places visitors in Market Square, a central hub for dining and people-watching. Evening dining ranges from the vibrant atmosphere of Tako to the wood-fired Argentinian-style steaks at Gaucho Parilla Argentina, both of which provide satisfying options before nighttime exploring.

The nearby Cultural District presents theaters, galleries, and performance venues, making it an easy place to wander for art and entertainment. For panoramic views, travelers can ride the T light rail to Station Square and board the Monongahela Incline. The ascent leads to an overlook on Mount Washington, where the city’s skyline glows above the rivers and bridges at sunset.

The final day highlights Pittsburgh’s deep artistic roots. A visit to Kelly O’s Diner in the Hill District provides a classic local meal before venturing to the Mattress Factory, known for immersive and cutting-edge installation art. A short walk brings visitors to the Andy Warhol Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of work by Pittsburgh’s most recognizable pop-art icon. The nearby Mexican War Streets neighborhood invites exploration with its brick-lined sidewalks, historic row houses, and quiet residential atmosphere.

A Pittsburgh weekend also includes engagement with the city’s sports culture. Securing seats for a Pittsburgh Steelers game can be challenging, but Pittsburgh Pirates games at PNC Park offer accessible options along with some of the best ballpark views in the country. Many visitors cap off the experience with a signature sandwich from Primanti Brothers, known for layers of meat, coleslaw, and French fries stacked between thick slices of bread.

With its distinct neighborhoods, waterfront paths, iconic vistas, and thriving arts scene, Pittsburgh consistently stands out as a destination defined by reinvention and creativity. Each district contributes a different facet to the city’s character, creating a blend of culture, history, and modern energy. For those seeking a weekend full of exploration, architecture, natural scenery, and local flavor, the Steel City remains an exceptional place to discover.

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Beyond Glacier: A Journey into the Rugged Heart of Montana

Nestled in the heart of Montana, the Crazy Mountains rise dramatically from the plains, offering one of the state’s most striking and lesser-known landscapes, as per this travel blog article from Travel + Leisure. While popular destinations like Glacier National Park, Big Sky, and Whitefish often draw attention, the Crazies remain a quieter retreat for those seeking solitude and unspoiled beauty. Defined by jagged peaks and vast rangelands, this “island range” covers about 30 miles in length and 15 miles in width, with Crazy Peak standing tallest at over 11,200 feet. It’s a region that invites visitors to step off the beaten path and experience Montana in its purest form.

For generations, the Apsaalooké Nation, also known as the Crow people, have considered this land part of their traditional territory. Before European settlers arrived, members of the tribe visited these mountains to fast, pray, and seek visions. Today, the Crow Nation encourages visitors to explore with reverence. The landscape itself holds deep spiritual meaning, and travelers are asked to treat it as they would a sacred site—with respect, care, and humility. This approach aligns perfectly with the broader philosophy of Leave No Trace, which promotes responsible stewardship of wild spaces.

Adventurers come to the Crazy Mountains for their rugged, untamed terrain. With limited roads and few trailheads, the range offers a rare sense of isolation and discovery. The Halfmoon Campground is a popular jumping-off point, providing a dozen first-come, first-served sites for camping under the stars. From there, a number of public trails lead into the backcountry. The Twin Lakes Trail in Big Timber Canyon delivers a classic alpine lake experience, while nearby Blue Lake offers equally breathtaking scenery. Hikers can navigate using the Crazy Mountains Outdoor Recreation Map, available in print or digital formats.

For those who prefer exploration on horseback, the Sweet Grass Ranch in Sweet Grass Canyon provides a quintessential Western experience. Riders traverse rolling meadows, climb mountain passes, and pause at waterfalls hidden within the wilderness. The ranch, operating for over a century, captures the authentic spirit of Montana hospitality. Nearby outfitters such as Wide Sky Adventures and Greycliff Creek Ranch also offer guided horseback tours tailored to different experience levels.

Fishing enthusiasts will find exceptional opportunities in the region’s creeks, rivers, and alpine lakes. Companies like Sweetcast Angler in Big Timber and Yellowstone River Outfitters in Livingston guide visitors to some of the area’s best fly-fishing spots. For those seeking a refreshing swim, the icy waters of these high-elevation lakes promise an unforgettable plunge amid towering peaks and crisp mountain air.

After a day of adventure, visitors can unwind in the nearby towns that serve as gateways to the Crazies. Livingston and Big Timber both offer a mix of rustic charm and cultural vibrancy. Livingston, a historic railroad town, is home to the landmark Murray Hotel, built in 1904. The hotel features individually designed rooms, modern amenities, and proximity to attractions like Gil’s Goods and 2nd Street Bistro. Big Timber, meanwhile, exudes small-town Western character and serves as a launch point for the region’s many outdoor pursuits.

No trip to the Crazy Mountains is complete without sampling local cuisine. Gil’s Goods in Livingston offers wood-fired pizzas, hearty sandwiches, and regional favorites ideal for refueling after a hike. In Big Timber, the Big Timber Bakery is a must-visit for freshly baked pastries, cinnamon rolls, and scones—perfect trail snacks to tuck into a backpack.

Timing is key for the best experience. The Crazies are most accessible between mid-June and mid-September, when wildflowers bloom and the creeks run full. By late fall, snow begins to blanket the trails, and storms can roll in as early as September. While seasoned backcountry skiers may explore during the winter, most travelers prefer the warmer months for hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

Whether setting up camp beneath star-filled skies or tracing trails once walked by generations of the Crow Nation, the Crazy Mountains embody the wild essence of Montana. Their remoteness and natural grandeur offer a reminder of why travel through America’s untamed heartlands remains so rewarding—a journey not just across distance, but into the enduring beauty of the West.

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