NEED TO KNOW
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National Geographic released its annual “Best of the World” list for 2026
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A less obvious U.S. city was highlighted in the feature due to its bustling arts scene and a number of attractions opening next year
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The outlet also spotlighted other destinations in North Dakota, Oklahoma and Hawaii
While Pittsburgh may not be at the top of every traveler’s bucket list, there are a number of reasons why it’s worth making the trip next year, according to National Geographic.
The outlet recently released its “Best of the World” list for 2026, highlighting a number of international and domestic destinations for U.S. travelers to consider when booking their next getaway.
Nathan Lump, editor-in-chief of National Geographic, shared some insight with CNN as to why Pittsburgh is a top destination.
“Pittsburgh is a favorite city of mine in America. It’s an easy long weekend,” Lump said, highlighting the “fantastic” museums and “fun neighborhoods” that the city has to offer. CNN also notes how the city boasts a young population buzzing with creativity thanks to the many universities in the area, from Carnegie Mellon to the University of Pittsburgh.
Thomas O’Neill/Getty
Pittsburgh skyline
The Pennsylvania city made the list not only for its scenic river views and sparkling skyline, but for its growing arts and culture hotspots that are perfect for those who love an urban getaway, Nat Geo explains.
The outlet spotlights Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History as a must-see, noting that the 59th Carnegie International exhibition, which is only held every four years, is set to draw a number of contemporary art lovers to the city when it opens in May next year.
Additionally, the outlet highlights the Andy Warhol Museum‘s $60 million expansion that will be bringing a new performing arts venue to the Pop District of the world famous artist’s hometown.
Another noteworthy development is Arts Landing, a four-acre city park in Downtown Pittsburgh featuring public art, greenery and performance space set to soft open in April 2026.
The city also boasts 90 unique neighborhoods that travelers can take their time exploring during their getaway. For direct views of the skyline and surrounding foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, Mount Washington is the place to visit.
Jean-Erick PASQUIER/Gamma-Rapho via Getty
In addition to Pittsburgh, National Geographic recommends a trip to the North Dakota’s Badlands to witness the grand opening of the 93,000-square-foot Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in July 2026 to honor the 26th president of the United States.
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Another getaway worth considering next year is an Oklahoma road trip in celebration of Route 66’s 100th anniversary. Ahead of the milestone, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation invested $82 million in the revitalization of the historic highway that stretches 400 miles through the state, per National Geographic.
Maui also made the list for 2026, as the Hawaiian island has proved its resilience since the devastating 2023 wildfires and has continued to rebuild.
Read the original article on People
