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This is the best U.S. city for a digital detox, says new travel study

Need a break from your phone?

By Amanda Teague Published July 26, 2025

Colorado Springs — comobilize / Pixabay

If you’re looking to unplug and recharge, Colorado Springs, Colorado has just been named the best U.S. city for a digital detox, according to a new study from Upgraded Points. The report ranked 100 park-rich cities across 14 criteria such as internet speed, 5G coverage, hiking access, off-grid Airbnbs, and wellness resources, to find the most screen-free destinations.

Colorado Springs claimed the top spot with an ideal mix of nature and limited connectivity. The city has slower internet (145 Mbps), just 64% 5G coverage, and 56 trail miles per 100,000 residents. It also boasts nearly double the national average of off-grid Airbnb listings, with strong guest ratings (4.92 stars) and a high number of wellness centers. Popular activities include hiking Garden of the Gods or escaping to a cabin near Pikes Peak.

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Boise, Idaho ranks second with just 34% 5G coverage (the fifth-lowest in the study) and excellent stargazing thanks to low light pollution. With 66 miles of trails and budget-friendly Airbnbs averaging $212 per night, it’s a top choice for nature-first getaways.

Henderson, Nevada comes in third, with 90 trail miles per 100,000 residents and more than 150 off-grid Airbnbs per 100,000 (triple the national average). It also offers strong wellness infrastructure and affordable accommodations for those looking to disconnect near the desert.

The best cities for a digital detox

Colorado Springs, Colorado
Boise, Idaho
Henderson, Nevada
North Las Vegas, Nevada
Madison, Wisconsin
Lexington, Kentucky
Anchorage, Alaska
Aurora, Colorado
Reno, Nevada
Portland, Oregon

The worst cities for a digital detox

The study also ranked the worst cities to disconnect in.

Newark, New Jersey
Jersey City, New Jersey
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Miami, Florida
Chicago, Illinois

Contributor

Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio, is a dedicated explorer of both the world and the written word…

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