Top spots to visit in America's heartland this summer

(BPT) - This July 4th, and as summer travel season heats up, travelers across America's Heartland are embracing the joys of staycations and local travel. Whether it's exploring nearby hidden gems or retreating to the comfort of a cozy home, Airbnb is at the heart of these memorable experiences. Eighty-seven percent of Airbnb users say the location was the most important consideration when booking a family vacation.¹

Here's a closer look at the top trending destinations² and the most wishlisted homes across the heart of America, including Texas, Illinois, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Jersey and Ohio.

Some of the top trending destinations for the Fourth of July weekend across America's Heartland are:

• Port O'Connor, Texas — known as "The Best Kept Secret on the Gulf Coast," offers world-class fishing, boating and relaxing beach vibes in a quaint coastal setting.
• Galena, Illinois — celebrated for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and rich history, provides visitors with a charming glimpse into the past amidst rolling hills and cobblestone streets.
• Luray, Virginia — home to the stunning Luray Caverns and scenic hiking trails, is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Shenandoah Valley.
• Pocono Township, Pennsylvania — a favorite for its outdoor activities, boasts beautiful lakes, lush forests and ample opportunities for hiking, fishing and boating.
• Munising Township, Michigan — gateway to the breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, is ideal for nature lovers seeking stunning cliff views and serene water activities.
• Stafford Township, New Jersey — offers charming beaches, a relaxing coastal environment and a variety of water-based recreational activities for a perfect summer getaway.
• Logan, Ohio — known for the picturesque Hocking Hills State Park, features spectacular waterfalls, scenic hiking trails and a serene natural landscape.

The most wishlisted listings across America's Heartland

Ahead of Independence Day, Airbnb is showcasing some of the most wishlisted listings in the United States. These unique and extraordinary homes highlight the diverse landscapes, captivating designs and regional styles across the country. From the HoneyHive in Texas, a bee-themed cabin, to The Haven, an A-framed eco-cabin in Ohio, here is a roundup of some of the most wishlisted stays, perfect for family gatherings or solo getaways.

• Texas: The HoneyHive — a beehive cabin for your sweetest dreams.
• Illinois: Belmont Treasures — including a hot tub and arcade gaming room.
• Virginia: Hobbit Cave — a hobbit-style underground cavern stay.
• Pennsylvania: The Log Cabin — a scenic, new scenic waterfront cabin with views of Muddy Creek.
• Michigan: Frank Lloyd Wright — stay at the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright Eppstein House, a rare architectural gem.
• New Jersey: Luxe Glass House — a luxurious stay, equipped with a bedroom crystal chandelier and spacious views of a city skyline.
• Ohio: The Haven — an A-cabin nestled in a wooded area with a view of a pond and rolling hills, located in the heart of beautiful Amish country.

So, why choose Airbnb? Here's what guests have to say about their recent travels on the short-term rental platform.

Reliability and comfort

"The couple of Airbnbs that we have used so far have been exactly as described in the listing. The most delightful surprise is the responsiveness of the host. I like immediate results or the ability to contact the host through cell phone contact. It makes my life easier." — Nicole, Airbnb guest from Michigan.

Value and convenience

"We were in downtown Richmond, and the hotels were not as well located and ridiculously priced. Airbnb was just a better value for the location. It was wonderful to have a full kitchen, instead of just a microwave in a hotel room. I was having a stressful medical procedure the next morning, and it was great to have glassware to have a glass of wine and extra space to calm my nerves." — Joanne, Airbnb guest from Virginia.

Unique experiences

"We sold our home and decided to travel the United States staying in Airbnb one month at a time. Our host in Oregon would cut beautiful flowers from her backyard and put them in a vase for us. In Arlington, Massachusetts, we stayed in a home built in 1835, right off the trail where Paul Revere took his midnight ride. It was so charming, and the host was so hospitable." — Kim, Airbnb guest from Texas.

Space and amenities

"It was a beautiful apartment. Big and spacious. Better than the photos and description. Super close walking distance to Wrigley Field and the fun nightlife. You can't compare it to a hotel. When you have a large living room, two bedrooms and bathrooms, a great fully stocked kitchen, and a pretty balcony with lights, it’s just incomparable." — Sharon, Airbnb guest from Illinois.

This July 4th and beyond, explore the heartland's hidden treasures on Airbnb. Whether you're looking for a scenic escape, a cozy retreat, or a place that feels just like home, guests can find their perfect staycation spot and create unforgettable memories this summer.

¹ Based on a survey of nearly 3,000 Airbnb guests with U.S. bookings that included three or more guests between July 1, 2023 and June 24, 2024.

² Trending destinations in the U.S. based on searches by U.S. guests made from January to June 15, 2024 for stays in July 4-7, 2024 versus comparable period in 2023.