New York City, NY — June 6, 2025
In 2025, the American travel landscape is shifting towards a quieter, more intentional form of tourism: “slow travel.” After years of jetting across the globe in search of the next Instagram-worthy destination, travelers are increasingly seeking more intimate, local experiences. Whether it’s a weekend getaway in the Appalachian Mountains or a week-long retreat at a cozy bed-and-breakfast in New England, this trend emphasizes the journey over the destination, encouraging deeper connections with local communities and natural landscapes.
As the world rebounds from the disruptions of recent years, Americans are reconsidering how and why they travel. The days of ticking off countries from a bucket list in a hurry are waning in favor of experiences that offer a slower, more thoughtful pace. “Slow travel is about disconnecting from the frantic nature of modern life and re-engaging with the places and people around us,” said travel industry expert Jane Mitchell.
A New Perspective on Travel
The rise of slow travel can be attributed to several overlapping factors. With growing environmental concerns about carbon emissions from long-distance flights, travelers are finding local options that allow them to minimize their ecological footprint. At the same time, economic pressures are making distant, international vacations more expensive and, for some, less appealing. Experts also point to the pandemic’s long-lasting impact, which has prompted many people to re-evaluate their priorities and travel habits.
According to a recent survey by the American Tourism Association, 55% of U.S. travelers in 2025 plan to venture within 100 miles of their home. The figures suggest a seismic shift in consumer preferences, as more people are choosing destinations within easy reach and embracing the idea that travel doesn’t always have to involve long flights or packed tourist attractions.
“Slow travel allows people to immerse themselves in the stories of their own country,” Mitchell added. “Instead of rushing through a destination to take photos for social media, travelers are now savoring the moment, whether it’s hiking in a local forest or spending time in a quaint coastal town.”
Redefining the American Road Trip
One of the most popular expressions of slow travel is the revived road trip. This time, however, it’s not about crossing the country in a rush—it’s about stopping to smell the roses along the way. Americans are rediscovering their own backyard, seeking out hidden gems that might have once been overlooked in the quest for far-off locations.
From charming small towns in the Midwest to off-the-beaten-path spots in the South, the appeal of local travel is resonating with travelers who crave authenticity and personal connection. For many, it’s a chance to reconnect with nature and history on their own terms.
Take Sarah and Tom Reynolds, a couple from Chicago who recently spent a week exploring the rugged shores of Lake Michigan, where they visited local wineries, hiked along the lakeshore, and stayed at a locally owned B&B. “We wanted to experience the area more deeply, not just drive through it,” Sarah explained. “It’s been eye-opening to find so many beautiful places within just a few hours of home.”
Environmental and Economic Drivers
In the wake of heightened environmental awareness, slow travel has gained momentum as a more sustainable alternative to conventional tourism. Long-haul flights are a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, and as more travelers become eco-conscious, opting for local vacations is seen as an eco-friendly choice.
Sustainable travel advocate Claire Peterson notes that choosing destinations within a 100-mile radius of home not only cuts down on carbon footprints but also supports local economies. “When you travel locally, you’re putting money back into small businesses, and that’s been especially important for communities recovering from the pandemic’s economic impact,” she said.
The economic strain of international travel is another key motivator for the rise of slow travel. As airfare prices climb and uncertainty surrounding global travel remains, many Americans are turning to local adventures that are far more affordable. Whether it’s a weekend camping trip or a staycation in a nearby town, slow travel provides a more budget-friendly way to satisfy the desire to explore without breaking the bank.
The Benefits of Slow Travel
While slow travel has undeniable environmental and economic benefits, it’s the personal enrichment that has travelers most excited. The slower pace allows for deeper immersion in local culture, history, and natural beauty. Instead of racing to check off a list of tourist attractions, travelers can enjoy activities that foster genuine connections with the places they visit.
For example, in the mountains of North Carolina, visitors are taking part in community-led farm tours, learning about sustainable agriculture and the region’s history of artisanal food production. In California’s wine country, travelers are staying in small villages where they can visit family-owned vineyards and even participate in grape harvesting.
“Instead of just passing through, I’ve been able to talk to local farmers, artisans, and business owners,” said Rachel Diaz, a frequent slow traveler from Denver. “It’s the kind of experience you can’t get by rushing from one tourist attraction to another.”
The Future of Slow Travel
While slow travel may seem like a passing trend, industry experts believe it’s here to stay. As Americans continue to prioritize meaningful experiences over rushed vacations, the demand for immersive, local travel options is expected to grow.
Tourism boards and local businesses are taking notice, with many creating specialized packages aimed at slow travelers. For example, the state of Maine is offering curated, off-the-beaten-path itineraries designed to showcase the state’s natural beauty and local culture without the crowds. Similarly, California’s Central Coast is promoting eco-friendly travel options that highlight the region’s biodiversity and artisan communities.
As slow travel continues to evolve, it’s clear that many travelers are rediscovering the beauty of their own backyards, taking time to enjoy the simple pleasures that often go unnoticed in a fast-paced world. This shift towards more intentional travel is not just a trend—it’s a new way of seeing the world, one that prioritizes depth over distance, connection over consumption, and local over global.
