When you’re plotting your next domestic getaway or road trip in the U.S., kindness may count.
Booking.com recently announced the “most welcoming” U.S. cities in its 2025 Traveler Review Awards, which relied on 360 million verified customer reviews.
Ben Harrell, managing director of Booking.com, stated that over 70,000 partners have been recognized in the United States alone in this year’s global awards.
Florida, Arizona, and more have emerged as America’s ‘most welcoming’ destinations, shining a light on the spirit of hospitality found across the nation. Hawaii, Maine, Washington, D.C., Utah, and Idaho stand out not just for their picturesque landscapes but also for the warmth radiating from their communities.
“Notably, St. Augustine, Florida, is featured as one of the ‘Most Welcoming Cities’ globally,” adds Harrell.
Each destination invites visitors to not only experience their sights but also to embrace the kindness their locals extend. Read on for ideas on what to see and do in these heartwarming locales.
Quaint Charm at St. Augustine
As America’s oldest city, continuously inhabited since 1565, St. Augustine bends time in a tapestry of history and charm. Visitors might wander through the Historic District, marveling at architectural styles that blend Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean Revival, and Moorish influences, a visual feast that speaks to the city’s rich past.
In quiet reflection, a stroll to Castillo de San Marcos might feel like an invitation to the past. This massive coquina stone fort, built to guard against invaders, offers stunning views of the bay, reminding all who gaze upon it of the battles fought and the peace found.
Adventurers can venture to the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, while friendly local tour guides share stories that enliven the city’s history. As the day winds down, finding rest at St. George Inn or Marker 8 Hotel and Marina wraps up the day with the soft sounds of the sea.
Welcoming Embrace in Newport
In Newport, Rhode Island, each visit greets travelers like an old friend. Mend Yoga, owned by two sisters, not only offers serenity through practice but also serves delightful coffee at The Nitro Bar, located nearby.
For insight into why Newport is hailed as one of the “Sailing Capitals of the World,” a visit to The Sailing Museum is essential. The grandeur of the Gilded Age comes alive through the majestic mansions like The Breakers and Marble House. Each home tells tales of opulence and dreams, as visitors imagine life during a time of extravagant soirées.
A moment of introspection can be found at Touro Synagogue, a symbol of American religious freedom, visited by George Washington himself. Here, history intertwines with generosity as each tour guide shares personal narratives of the site’s significance.
Whimsical Strolls in Cape May
In Cape May, New Jersey, the warmth of the community is palpable. Travelers can find a haven at the Angel of the Sea Bed and Breakfast or the La Mer Beachfront Resort, both renowned for their welcoming service.
A visit to Cape May Beach allows for afternoon sun-soaked reflection, followed by a wander through Washington Street Mall. Here, historic Victorian architecture frames the boutiques and cozy dessert spots, creating an atmosphere where time seems to slow down.
For those aged 21 and older, Cape May Winery & Vineyard invites guests for wine tastings amid the beauty of sprawling vines. A sip of their local Chardonnay might evoke a sense of place, with every taste telling the story of the land.
A Desert Oasis in Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree, a blend of nature and community, is home to 6,700 residents whose warmth matches the sun-soaked landscape. The recently opened Reset Hotel, strategically located near the north entrance of Joshua Tree National Park, offers a unique stay with stunning desert vistas.
Among the numerous accommodations, The Bungalows by Homestead Modern and Desert Cove stand out, each embodying a sense of comfort and local artistry. Dining options like Pappy & Harriet’s present a lively atmosphere filled with melodies from live music amidst the smell of barbecue smoke. Alternatively, Kitchen in the Desert shines with its delightful mix of Caribbean and New American cuisine, inviting guests to savor every bite.
Spiritual Harmony in Sedona
Sedona wraps travelers in an embrace of serenity. Nestled amongst the striking sandstone formations in Red Rocks Country, the area offers trails perfect for hiking. Each footprint in the red earth connects visitors with the land, stirring reflection and peace.
At L’Auberge de Sedona, the experience extends beyond relaxation; the offer of Shamanic Breathwork or sound healing sessions might just stir the spirit. Guests can unwind at L’Apothecary Spa, indulging in treatments that merge relaxation with rejuvenation, providing a holistic touch to their visit.
These cities—from the ancient architecture of St. Augustine to the spiritual awakenings in Sedona—offer not just welcoming spirits, but also moments of introspection and connection. As travelers seek out kindness and warmth, these destinations open their arms, inviting the world to pause, reflect, and truly enjoy the journey.
