Top-Ranked Southern Cities for Summer Getaways
Heading out for a swell summer getaway? A whopping 118 million Americans are hopping on planes and in their cars for a summer trip this year, and if the recent Booking.com report is anything to go by, the South is where it's at!
The travel agency listed the top trending US destinations for 2025, and they're all located in Southern states. According to Booking.com's search data from June 1 to September 30, it appears that US travelers are keen on a staycation vibe, with these destinations seeing the highest year-over-year growth:
- Orlando, Florida: A staggering 35% hike in bookings.
- Panama City Beach, Florida: A 19% increase in booking demand.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: A 16% boost in bookings.
Throw another destination into the mix – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This southern hotspot has seen a 12% rise in booking growth year-over-year.
Interestingly, 21% of Americans plan to travel for an event in 2025, and more than half (56%) are all about spending quality time with family. The survey points to Panama City and Pigeon Forge as top destinations for families, offering a perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment.
Stuck on where to head this summer? Check out Southern Living's Best Places To Travel To Kick Off Summer 2025. Ready, set, travel!
[1] Based on Booking.com's search and booking growth data, the top Southern summer vacation destinations for 2025, favored for their blend of relaxation and entertainment, are:
- Orlando, Florida: Seeing a significant increase of 35% in booking growth year-over-year.
- Panama City Beach, Florida: Showing a 19% increase in bookings.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: With a 16% rise in bookings.
- Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Experiencing a 12% growth in booking demand. These destinations cater to families seeking a balance of relaxation and entertainment.
- Southern Living has highlighted the top places to travel for the start of summer 2025, with these Southern destinations being favored for their balance of relaxation and entertainment:
- Orlando, Florida is witnessing a significant increase in booking demand with a 35% hike in year-over-year booking growth.
- Similarly, Panama City Beach, Florida has shown a 19% increase in bookings, positioning it as another hot vacation spot.
- Meanwhile, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has experienced a 16% rise in bookings, making it another popular destination for the summer of 2025, and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, boasting a 12% growth in bookings year-over-year, rounds out this list of trending Southern hotspots.
