California Joins Florida, Texas, New York, Nevada, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Louisiana as U.S. Destinations Powering a Bold New Era of Group Travel Experiences in 2026

Published on December 21, 2025

As 2026 approaches, the United States is set to redefine the landscape of group travel, luxury hospitality, and cultural experiences. Across the country, states are unveiling an unprecedented array of attractions, hotels, and event spaces designed to captivate travelers, corporate groups, and international visitors alike. From California’s expansive entertainment districts and iconic convention spaces to New York’s globally celebrated events and Florida’s luxury hotel boom, each destination is reinventing what it means to gather, explore, and celebrate. Whether for incentive travel, corporate retreats, multi-generational vacations, or immersive cultural experiences, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for U.S. tourism, offering experiences that blend innovation, heritage, and world-class hospitality.

1. California — Reinventing Group Travel for 2026

California is once again leading the charge in redefining travel experiences for groups, conventions, and leisure visitors in 2026. The Golden State is unveiling an unprecedented wave of developments, including expansive event spaces, luxury hotels, immersive cultural attractions, and entertainment districts designed to appeal to both business travelers and vacationers. From Los Angeles to Napa Valley, California’s tourism ecosystem is evolving to offer unforgettable experiences that seamlessly blend work, culture, and leisure.

Los Angeles, in particular, is set to expand its convention infrastructure, providing nearly 190,000 square feet of additional flexible space and hundreds of thousands of square feet of contiguous halls. These developments position the city as a global leader in hosting large-scale conventions, exhibitions, and multi-track conferences. The enhancements will enable planners to execute events of any size, from corporate gatherings to international summits, with cutting-edge audiovisual technology, modern amenities, and unrivaled flexibility.

Southern California’s entertainment landscape is also transforming with the development of OCVIBE, a 100-acre master-planned district in Orange County. Scheduled to open in phases throughout 2026, OCVIBE integrates culinary markets featuring chef-driven concepts, live performance venues with thousands of seats, co-working spaces, bars, and urban parks. This innovative approach targets corporate retreats, incentive travel, and flexible event programming, offering experiences that extend beyond conventional conference rooms.

Another major attraction, West Harbor in the Port of Los Angeles, will provide 42 acres of waterfront experiences, including restaurants, retail spaces, recreational activities, and a 6,200-seat amphitheater. Its combination of leisure and corporate event capabilities makes it ideal for festivals, concerts, seaside banquets, and immersive cultural programming. California continues to leverage its natural beauty and urban sophistication to appeal to travelers seeking both memorable leisure experiences and functional event venues.

Luxury hospitality across the state is also booming. In Mammoth, the Limelight Hotel introduces mountain-view meeting spaces, while Santa Cruz welcomes La Bahia Hotel & Spa, its first luxury beachfront property with expansive event spaces and panoramic ocean views. Napa Valley, already a world-class destination for wine tourism, is adding boutique event-oriented resorts that cater to incentive trips, corporate retreats, and high-end gatherings. The state’s strategy is clear: combine world-class hospitality with culturally rich experiences and flexible event spaces to create a destination where groups can gather, celebrate, and explore simultaneously.

California’s focus on storytelling and immersive experiences sets it apart. From museums and art centers to musical performances and culinary events, the state is reinventing how group travelers experience leisure and business travel, ensuring that every event, convention, or getaway is both impactful and memorable.

2. Florida — Luxury Hotels and International Events

Florida’s tourism sector in 2026 is positioned to attract groups through a combination of luxury hotel openings, cultural events, and high-profile conventions. The state is experiencing a hotel boom, with properties like the Pendry Tampa opening downtown, offering over 11,000 square feet of private event space, signature restaurants, world-class spas, and rooftop amenities. This makes Tampa a prime location for corporate events, incentive travel, and social gatherings seeking both sophistication and convenience.

Beyond accommodations, Florida is hosting key international trade shows and conventions. The state’s cities, including Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, are major hubs for the U.S. Travel Association’s annual events, drawing international buyers and global media. These gatherings facilitate networking, business deals, and exposure to Florida’s attractions, which range from theme parks and beaches to historic districts and culinary experiences.

Cultural events also enrich Florida’s group travel offerings. Festivals, music cruises, and culinary showcases provide multi-day itineraries for multi-generational groups. For instance, music and food-focused events attract niche travel segments, enhancing group engagement and creating opportunities for immersive cultural experiences. Florida’s blend of luxury hospitality, convention-ready venues, and vibrant entertainment ensures it remains a top choice for group travel in 2026.

3. Texas — Theme Parks, Cultural Festivals, and Family Experiences

Texas continues to grow as a major destination for both leisure and business groups. The state’s investments in family-friendly theme parks, cultural celebrations, and entertainment districts make it particularly attractive to multi-generational travelers. In 2026, Texas will welcome the opening of Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, a 97-acre theme park designed for families. The integrated resort includes a hotel and immersive attractions, offering an all-in-one experience for family reunions, corporate retreats, and tourism packages tied to major international events like the FIFA World Cup.

Cultural milestones also define Texas’ travel landscape. Austin celebrates the 50th anniversary of Austin City Limits, one of the state’s most iconic music festivals. Special programming and concerts will attract music tourists, corporate groups, and incentive travelers eager to explore the city’s creative energy and live entertainment scene.

Additionally, emerging destinations like El Paso are drawing attention for their cultural heritage, frontier-style experiences, and affordability. These areas complement major urban centers, offering diverse itineraries for groups seeking a mix of urban sophistication, historical experiences, and natural exploration.

Texas’ combination of theme parks, music heritage, festivals, and urban culture ensures the state remains a versatile and appealing destination for group travel in 2026.

4. Pennsylvania — Celebrating America’s Heritage

Pennsylvania’s tourism focus in 2026 centers on celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence. Across the state, historical exhibitions, cultural programs, and commemorative events will attract educational tours, group travel packages, and international visitors. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh serve as key hubs for these celebrations, offering expanded event venues and interactive experiences.

In Pittsburgh, enhancements to the Heinz History Center and new event spaces create opportunities for conferences, corporate events, and cultural gatherings. Philadelphia, rich in historical significance, will host educational tours and interactive exhibitions, providing multi-generational travelers with engaging experiences that connect them to the nation’s past.

Pennsylvania’s blend of heritage tourism, modern hospitality, and expanded infrastructure for events ensures it remains a must-visit state for group travelers, combining history, culture, and contemporary amenities in a seamless experience.

5. Louisiana — Festivals and Cultural Immersion

Louisiana remains synonymous with vibrant festivals, music, and cultural tourism. In 2026, the state is introducing the reimagined Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu in Lake Charles. This year-round cultural hub will feature exhibit spaces and interactive programs celebrating Mardi Gras traditions, attracting groups interested in immersive cultural and culinary experiences.

New Orleans continues to cement its reputation as a global festival city. The 2026 Jazz & Heritage Festival will feature internationally renowned performers, drawing music lovers, group travel clubs, and international tourists. The festival’s multi-day programming allows for coordinated group itineraries, combining concerts, culinary offerings, and cultural tours.

Louisiana’s strategic focus on cultural immersion, heritage festivals, and interactive experiences ensures the state continues to attract visitors seeking authentic, memorable group travel experiences.

6. Tennessee — Music, Entertainment, and Boutique Hospitality

Tennessee’s tourism offerings in 2026 revolve around its rich music heritage, theme parks, and unique boutique accommodations. Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel & Museum will open, offering live music venues, immersive exhibits, and curated hospitality experiences that appeal to both leisure visitors and corporate groups. Its blend of entertainment, history, and hospitality creates a multi-faceted destination for group travel.

Dollywood, in Pigeon Forge, is unveiling NightFlight Expedition, a groundbreaking attraction combining roller coaster thrills with water rafting elements. This innovation enhances Tennessee’s family-focused tourism offerings, encouraging multi-day itineraries and incentive travel packages.

The state’s airports and transportation network are expanding, improving accessibility for domestic and international visitors. Tennessee’s combination of themed hotels, entertainment innovation, and cultural programming ensures it remains a vibrant destination for group tourism in 2026.

7. Nevada — Entertainment, Nature, and Cultural Grants

Nevada continues to be a global hub for entertainment tourism, particularly in Las Vegas, but its 2026 developments also extend to cultural and natural attractions. The state is participating in initiatives tied to America’s 250th anniversary, funding public art, heritage exhibits, and educational programs to attract cultural tourists and organized groups.

Las Vegas remains central to Nevada’s tourism strategy, with enhanced event venues, performance spaces, and immersive entertainment offerings. Beyond urban hubs, improvements to natural attractions such as Great Basin National Park’s Lehman Caves create opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure travel groups. These diverse offerings combine to make Nevada a versatile destination where entertainment, culture, and nature intersect.

8. New York — Iconic Events and Global Travel

New York State, especially New York City, is poised for a landmark year in 2026. The state will host Sail4th250, a six-day semiquincentennial celebration with massive tall-ship flotillas, aerial demonstrations, and historical exhibitions attracting millions of visitors. In addition, FIFA World Cup matches in New York venues will draw international sports fans and travel groups from around the world.

New York City continues to expand its luxury hospitality sector, with properties offering immersive event spaces, theaters, and curated cultural programming. These hotels cater to high-end corporate gatherings, incentive travel, and social events, making the city a hub for both business and leisure group travelers.

The combination of historic celebrations, global sporting events, and world-class hospitality ensures New York remains an unparalleled destination for group travel in 2026.

Conclusion

The year 2026 marks a transformative moment for U.S. travel, with states across the nation introducing bold, innovative, and immersive experiences for group travelers. California leads the charge with luxury hotels, sprawling event venues, and cultural districts, while Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Tennessee, Nevada, and New York each offer unique combinations of festivals, heritage celebrations, theme parks, and iconic attractions. Together, these destinations create a dynamic, multi-faceted landscape where business, leisure, and cultural exploration intersect. For group travelers and event planners, 2026 is a year to experience the very best of what the United States has to offer — from unforgettable cultural moments to state-of-the-art hospitality, immersive attractions, and once-in-a-lifetime events that promise memories to last a lifetime.