If you thought New York City, Orlando, and Miami topped the list of summer hotspots, it’s time to go back to the drawing board.
A new report from Allianz revealed some insightful nuggets over the next few months, and they’re not battered in fryer grease.
No, this batch of nugs has nothing to do with golden arches and everything to do with upcoming vacation plans.
Ranging from Pacific Northwest staples, an East Coast marvel, and even a global icon we thought was losing its luster by all accounts, these 4 cities being booked in droves surprised the Travel Off Path team most.
1) Seattle
Be sure to double-check Travel Alerts before your next trip.
Whether you’re into out-of-this-world high-rises, tossing fish like it’s a sport, still headbanging when Nirvana comes on, and so glued to Starbucks you have to try the O.G., there’s only one place for this combo:
Seattle.
We’re not saying we’re surprised Seattle is on the list; we’re just surprised it topped it.
It’s true, the “Emerald City” is sitting fat and happy at number one as the most booked U.S. city this summer.
So, what’s all the rage, like a rat in a cage?
Okay, enough grunge references…
Summer travel is up 10% from 2025. It has to thank its mix of urban delights, Puget Sound scenery, island-hopping excursions, and major buzz around FIFA World Cup matches coming to Seattle’s very own Lumen Field, where visitors can now be the “12th man” for soccer.
At least for now, the rainy-day punchlines dissipate as Seattle gets to show off what locals have known all along — summer here is tough to beat, even more with its game-changing new train to explore even more of Washington.
Here’s what travelers are saying about Seattle’s safety levels, currently scoring 81/100 on our Safety Index:
2) Las Vegas
You might be thinking to yourself, “Why is it surprising that people want to vacation in such a world-renowned city?”
Well, at least 2 things come to mind…
First, “Sin City” has been on a decline. With sky-high prices even the Stratosphere can’t touch, tourism has dwindled, according to numerous reports.
In fact, I just happened to read yesterday the famous Heart Attack Grill located downtown is shutting down after decades due to a lack of visitors to the area and rising costs.
Second, summer is arguably the worst time to visit Vegas due to the excessive heat alone, but it’s clearly not deterring everyone, and here’s why:
There are so many fun events indoors with A/C.
The Sphere may have mixed reviews, but it’s undoubtedly a big draw, with No Doubt currently holding court and Backstreet Boys proving Backstreet’s back — alright — later this summer.
Its entertainment is still top-notch. You just won’t want to stroll The Strip midday.
Here’s what travelers are saying about Las Vegas’s safety levels, currently scoring 76/100.
3) Boston
One of America’s most storied, European-esque cities still flies under the radar somehow.
We blame New York’s close proximity. That said, it seems travelers are getting it right this summer, not only flocking to NYC but giving the East Coast’s other metropolis a fair shake.
While a piping hot bowl of clam chowdah may not seem appealing come summer, there’s a lot going for this city.
Once the cold finally taps out, the city turns into one of America’s easiest warm-weather escapes, with scenic harbor cruises, tasty seafood shacks, buzzing rooftop bars, and of course, an all but obligatory Sox game at Fenway Pahk.
Don’t be fooled by its modern skyline either; Boston is teeming with treasured landmarks such as Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, and Beacon Hill that are absolute must-visits no matter the season.
Here’s what travelers are saying about Las Vegas’s safety levels, currently scoring 93/100.
4) Portland (Oregon)
It’s not exactly weird that people are visiting quite possibly America’s weirdest city; it’s just surprising more travelers haven’t realized summer is when Portland is at its best.
I had the pleasure of capping off winter visiting Portland for the first time — and let me tell you — every bit of its “weird” reputation holds true.
I say this as someone who used to live in Austin.
Portland is both a hipster’s dream and a foodie’s playground, and everything in between. I remember passing a mural stating “Portland is what you make it” — truer words have never been spoken.
With its notoriously moody skies opening up, this summer, more travelers seem to do just that.
Even with household recognition, the city is still wildly underrated, especially if you explore the outskirts, home to waterfalls, evergreen hikes, and beautiful wine country.
Here’s what travelers are saying about Portland’s safety levels, currently scoring 78/100.
Now take this quiz to find your perfect match!
Question 1 of 4
What’s your ideal summer activity?
Question 2 of 4
Pick a summer vibe:
Question 3 of 4
What’s your top sightseeing priority?
Final Question
How important is a high safety score?
Seattle, Washington
The Emerald City Escape
Pro Tip: Summer travel to Seattle is up 10%! Catch a game at Lumen Field, jump on the game-changing new train to explore Washington, and enjoy the unbeatable summer weather.
Las Vegas, Nevada
The Indoor Oasis
Pro Tip: Avoid strolling the Strip midday. Instead, book tickets to see a concert at the highly buzzed-about Sphere or enjoy the endless indoor resort amenities!
Boston, Massachusetts
The European-Esque Metropolis
Pro Tip: Boston flies under the radar compared to NYC, but it is one of America’s easiest warm-weather escapes. Grab some seafood and catch a Sox game at Fenway!
Portland, Oregon
The Weird & Wonderful Haven
Pro Tip: Summer is when Portland is at its absolute best as the moody skies clear up! Explore the city’s unique street art before heading to the outskirts to chase waterfalls.
Stacie Harris is a local resident and reporter of the Maple Grove area. Stacie reports on medicine and science for the Maple Grove Report.
