According to Brand USA, three major milestones including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 250th anniversary of the United States, and the 100th anniversary of Route 66 are expected to create a strong boost for international tourism.
The 2026 World Cup will take place in 11 US cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Dallas, Seattle or San Francisco. In addition to matches, many music festivals, arts and community activities are also held throughout the summer.
Meanwhile, the America250 event series will take visitors to explore the typical cultural, historical and natural symbols of the United States. A notable highlight is Sail250 - an international sailing festival taking place in New Orleans, Baltimore, Boston and New York from May to July 2026.
The legendary Route 66 route also turns 100 with many commemorative activities stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. States such as California, New Mexico and Arizona will organize vintage car parades, street festivals and retro culture experiences along the famous "Mother's Road" of the United States.
Not only bustling by the event, the US tourism industry also witnessed a strong wave of investment in hotels, museums and new amusement parks.
In Nashville, Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel is expected to open in June 2026 with a private museum about the female artist's life. Las Vegas continues to attract guests with the Vanderpump Hotel and a new show series at Sphere.
In California, Universal Studios Hollywood launched the “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” roller coaster, introduced as the fastest ride in the Universal Destinations & Experiences system.
Los Angeles will also open the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in September 2026, next to the new exhibition space of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
In Chicago, the Obama Presidential Center is expected to open in the summer of 2026, becoming a notable cultural destination in the Midwest region.
Many famous natural destinations have also changed significantly. California Coastal Highway 1 has reopened completely after more than three years of interruption due to landslides. Some national parks such as Yosemite and Arches will no longer apply time-based reservation regulations in 2026.
At the same time, the international aviation network continues to expand with many new routes from Europe, Asia and Canada to the US. EVA Air opens a direct Taipei (China) - Washington D.C. route from June 2026, while Qantas operates a seasonal Sydney - Las Vegas route from the end of the year.
Mr. Fred Dixon - Chairman and CEO of Brand USA said that the combination of global events, new experiences and expanded tourism infrastructure will help the US become one of the most attractive destinations in 2026 for international tourists.
