Recent data from EF Go Ahead Tours and Qualtrics Research reveal that American travelers are turning their attention inward. In a May 2026 survey of 1,200 U.S. and Canadian high‑intent travelers, 73% said they want tours focused on U.S. history, a sharp rise from the 16% who previously expressed interest.

Historic sites top the wish list

The nation’s semiquincentennial is driving this surge. Among those interested in history‑focused travel, 48% are drawn to the American Revolution era, with Civil War and civil‑rights periods close behind, followed by the Gilded Age and World War II.

Gap between interest and experience

Despite the enthusiasm, many travelers have yet to visit foundational locations. While 70% have been to New York City and 65% to Washington, D.C., only about half have visited Boston or Philadelphia, and fewer than one in five have seen Valley Forge, Lexington‑Concord, or Yorktown.

Six itineraries to bring history to life

EF Go Ahead Tours recommends six itineraries that blend historic sites with natural wonders:

• American West: Seven national parks—including Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Yellowstone—showcase the continent’s geological story.
• Hawaii: From the USS Arizona Memorial on Oahu to Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, the islands trace Polynesian navigation, annexation and World War II.
• Alaska: Fairbanks to Denali and Kenai Fjords highlight rugged landscapes and the heritage of Athabascan, Yup’ik and Tlingit peoples.
• New England roots: Starting in Quebec City, the tour moves to Stowe, Vermont’s von Trapp Family Lodge, then Boston, Lexington‑Concord and the Maine coast, spotlighting the Revolution’s birthplace.
• Fall foliage and heritage: Vermont’s Stowe, Woodstock, Massachusetts’ Berkshires and Pioneer Valley towns combine spectacular autumn colors with Puritan, witch‑trial and abolitionist history.
• Rail‑and‑river adventure: A transcontinental‑rail experience through the Rockies, with stops at Arches and Zion, plus a Colorado River float and a sunset ride through Moab.

Travel sentiment

The survey shows 75% of high‑intent travelers plan to travel within the next one to two years, and 58% rate learning about history and culture as very important. As the nation marks its 250th year, these itineraries offer a way to turn curiosity into lived experience.

Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.