This Montana Town Was Just Named The Hottest Travel Destination On Earth

Montana, as we know, has made more than a few “best of” lists over the years. Whether it is top dining, top camping, top fly fishing, or any outdoor adventure you can imagine, our state always seems to land somewhere near the top. Tourism is a major driver of our economy, so national recognition is usually a good thing, but for the locals who live here year-round, it can feel like a double-edged sword. And whether you see it as good news or not, Montana has just claimed another major title.

Big Sky, Montana, has officially been ranked the number one trending travel destination for 2026. The recognition comes from Expedia Group’s annual Unpack ’26 report, which analyzes travel interest from more than 24,000 global travelers from 18 countries. Among all destinations worldwide, Big Sky saw a massive 92 percent jump in flight and lodging searches, placing it above places like Okinawa, Sardinia, and Phu Quoc.

According to the report,Big Sky continues to grow its reputation for year-round outdoor recreation.  From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, rafting, and mountain biking in the summer. The area’s expanding dining scene, increase in family-friendly activities, and rise in local events all played a role in earning that number one spot.

Get our free mobile app