The online travel giant has unveiled the winners of its 14th annual Traveller Review, and a clear trend is emerging across the United States, with a marked preference for small-town America. The largest destination on the list is home to just over 50,000 souls.
These rankings represent a specific subset of a vast global dataset. To determine the winners, Booking.com analysed over 370 million verified customer reviews worldwide, recognising partners who consistently provide exceptional hospitality.
While the global awards are a long-standing tradition, the specific list of the most welcoming US towns was first compiled in 2025. The methodology essentially boils down to “verified, unedited guest reviews,” with destinations being ranked by the proportion of award-winning accommodation they host. As the company explains, the awards “shine a well-deserved spotlight on our partners who help create lifelong memories for travellers.” It’s one of our ways of saying, “thank you.”
On the global stage, the United States features among the most welcoming regions, with Idaho ranking fourth worldwide. Meanwhile, Fredericksburg, Texas, is the fifth most welcoming city in the world, behind Montepulciano in Italy, Mahébourg in Mauritius, San Martín de los Andes in Argentina, and Harrogate in the United Kingdom, and ahead of destinations in Brazil, Namibia, Japan, Australia, and Lithuania.
Within the US ranking itself, Fredericksburg takes first place. Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the town has strong German heritage influences visible in its architecture, celebrated during its annual Oktoberfest. Visitors are drawn to its walkable historic centre, wineries, and art galleries.
Second place goes to Palm Desert, California. Located in the Coachella Valley near Joshua Tree National Park, it is the largest destination on the list. Renowned for its desert landscapes and laid-back vibe, Palm Desert boasts golf courses, spas, and a wide range of shopping options.
After holding the top spot for two consecutive years, Cape May, New Jersey, now ranks third. Located at the southern tip of the state, between the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, Cape May is considered America’s oldest seaside resort. It is famed for its colourful Victorian architecture and strong appeal to birdwatchers.
Broken Bow, Oklahoma, takes fourth place, marking its second appearance in the ranking. Home to around 4,200 people, it serves as a gateway to Beavers Bend State Park and is popular with cabin travellers and outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in fishing and hiking along its 30 km of trails.
Ranking fifth, Waikoloa, Hawaii, also appears for the second consecutive year. The name refers to both Waikoloa Village, which is inland, and the coastal Waikoloa Beach Resort area, which is known for its beachfront resorts, golf courses, and relaxed island atmosphere.
Bryson City, North Carolina, is a newcomer this year. Located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the town attracts visitors with activities ranging from hiking and rafting to scenic rail journeys, making it particularly popular with active travellers in spring.
Meanwhile, Snowmass, Colorado, near Aspen, thrives in winter thanks to its ski-in, ski-out infrastructure and extensive slopes, drawing families and skiers looking for a quieter alternative to neighbouring Aspen.
Rounding out the ranking is Oakhurst, California, which is appearing for the second time. Situated near the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park and bordering the Sierra National Forest, the town is an ideal base for year-round outdoor activities, from winter sports to spring waterfall hikes.
