As the final days of summer 2025 come to an end, we’re revealing some travel insights on where Americans truly felt their best on vacation this season. Whether it was snapping selfies beneath iconic landmarks or soaking up thrills at Universal Orlando Resort, these destinations left travelers beaming the most, according to our data research.
Behind the US Happiest Vacations Index
To uncover the places that sparked the most joy this summer, our travel pros crunched the numbers across six feel-good factors. These included everything from sunshine hours and overall destination ratings to online buzz, specifically reviews featuring the words “happy,” “perfect,” and “magic.”
By combining emotional sentiment with traveler behavior and destination popularity, we’ve been able to build a one-of-a-kind index revealing where Americans made their happiest memories in 2025.
The Top 20 Happiest Vacation Spots for Americans in 2025
Leading the list is the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, with an overall score of 29.65 out of 30. But it's not all about overseas escapes, as Universal Studios Hollywood and Central Park came in strong, showing the continued love Americans have for homegrown destinations too.
The Top 20 Ranked:
Rank | Destination | Score out of 30 |
|---|---|---|
1 | Leaning Tower of Pisa (Italy) | 29.65 |
2 | Universal Studios Hollywood (California) | 27.8 |
3 | Central Park (New York) | 27.75 |
4 | Eiffel Tower (Paris) | 26.65 |
5 | Warner Bros. Studio Tour (London) | 26.55 |
6 | Disneyland Paris (France) | 26.25 |
7 | Alton Towers (UK) | 26.1 |
8 | Tivoli Gardens (Copenhagen) | 25.95 |
9 | Discovery Cove (Orlando) | 25.75 |
10 | The Louvre (Paris) | 25.5 |
11 | Top of the Rock (New York) | 25.4 |
12 | Busch Gardens (Orlando) | 25.3 |
13 | Villa Park (Maldives) | 25.15 |
=14 | Griffith Observatory (Los Angeles) | 24.65 |
=14 | Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando) | 24.65 |
16 | Longleat Safari Park (UK) | 24 |
17 | Bryant Park (New York) | 23.65 |
=18 | Acropolis of Athens (Greece) | 23.6 |
=18 | Universal Orlando Resort (Florida) | 23.6 |
20 | Aquaventure Waterpark (Dubai) | 23.55 |
Key Takeaways from the Index
- Pisa tops the list: The Leaning Tower delivered the highest happiness score across every category.
- US favorites held strong: From New York’s parks to California’s theme parks, Americans love their local icons.
- Florida fun still wins: Discovery Cove, Walt Disney World Resort, and Universal Orlando Resort ranked high for emotional resonance.
- Europe continues to inspire: Paris and London attractions made multiple appearances in the top 10.
Why These Spots Spark Joy
Oliver Brendon, CEO of AttractionTickets.com, shares his thoughts:
"This index shows that happiness on vacations comes from a combination of factors. While sunshine plays a role, it's the emotional resonance of places that truly makes them unforgettable. Destinations like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Central Park, Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Walt Disney World Resort have that magic formula of excitement and bucket-list appeal. It's also fantastic to see so many domestic favourites in the mix, proving you don't have to travel far for a feel-good summer."
Plan Your Happiest Vacation Ever
Whether you're chasing sunshine, thrills, or cultural wonder, we’ve got exclusive deals and expert-approved packages to help you Add Happiness® to your holiday. Start planning your own unforgettable trip today with us at AttractionTickets.com.
