Skip to main content

This U.S. attraction was just revealed as the top bucket list destination in the world

Yosemite took the top spot

Yosemite Firefall at Yosemite National Park in Winter
Katie Rodriguez / Unsplash

If you’re planning your next bucket list adventure, you might not have to travel far. According to a new study by Iglu Cruise, which analyzed Google search trends from January 2024 to January 2025, Yosemite National Park has been crowned the top bucket list destination in the world. With a 96% increase in searches year-over-year, this iconic U.S. park has captured the attention of travelers worldwide.

Nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite is renowned for its gorgeous landscapes, including ancient sequoia trees, cascading waterfalls, and towering granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, favorites among adventure seekers and rock climbers. 

Recommended Videos

Which other destinations made the list?

China
JLP1988 / Pixabay

Following Yosemite, the Great Wall of China claimed the second spot, with a 62% increase in searches year-over-year. A monumental piece of Chinese history, the 13,000-mile-long wall dates back to the 7th century, with its most famous sections built during the Ming Dynasty in the late 1300s as a defense against invaders. 

Coming in third is Pompeii, with a 56% increase in searches. Located in Southern Italy’s Campania region, this ancient city remains one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Buried under volcanic ash by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, Pompeii offers a well-preserved glimpse into daily life in the Roman Empire.

Here’s the full list of the top bucket list destinations, according to Iglu Cruise.

  1. Yosemite: 96% increase in searches
  2. Great Wall of China: 62% increase in searches
  3. Pompeii: 56% increase in searches
  4. Niagara Falls: 51% increase in searches
  5. Serengeti: 36% increase in searches
  6. Stonehenge: 33% increase in searches
  7. Dead Sea: 29% increase in searches
  8. Himalayas: 28% increase in searches
  9. Pyramids of Giza: 26% increase in searches
  10. Grand Canyon: 11% increase in searches
Amanda Teague
Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…
This is the most affordable warm-weather destination to travel to this spring
Mexico City brings great weather and fun experiences at an unbeatable price
Mexico City

If you're craving sunshine but not looking to splurge, you're in luck. KAYAK’s newly released Spring Savings Report has named Mexico City the most affordable warm-weather getaway this season. With average airfare at $416, hotel rates around $211 per night, and an estimated $1,471 total for a five-day trip, it’s an unbeatable deal for spring travelers.

May is the warmest month in Mexico City, with daytime temperatures hovering around 80ºF. Spring also brings a full calendar of events, including the Corredor Cultural Roma-Condesa, a lively festival celebrating design, food, fashion, music, and architecture in two of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods. Travelers in early May can also catch local observances of Cinco de Mayo, which includes historical reenactments and festive dining experiences throughout the capital.

Read more
What travelers should know about visiting Rome after the Pope’s passing
How to travel carefully and respectfully during this time
people walking beside white and brown dome building during daytime

Travelers heading to Rome in the coming weeks will find themselves arriving during a moment of historical and emotional significance. With the passing of Pope Francis, both Rome and Vatican City are experiencing an extraordinary influx of visitors, pilgrims, mourners, and world leaders alike, many of whom were already planning trips for the upcoming Jubilee Year. As such, navigating it all will require patience and planning.

“This is a time of great reflection and reverence in Rome,” says Kathy McCabe, host of Dream of Italy and Dream of Europe on PBS, and founder of Dream of Italy Magazine. “If you already have plans to visit during this period, reconfirm all reservations, book ahead wherever possible, and plan your days with flexibility and patience.”

Read more
Cunard reveals part one of its 2026 Event Voyages, featuring exclusive onboard experiences
The new lineup includes musical guests, wellness sessions, and more
Cunard

Cunard is setting the stage for another unforgettable year at sea with the reveal of part one of its 2026 Event Voyages program. Known for its immersive, themed sailings curated in collaboration with leading names in the arts, literature, music, and beyond, the luxury cruise line has announced the return of several fan-favorite voyages aboard its iconic Queen Mary 2 and the newly launched Queen Anne.

These special itineraries are designed to go beyond the traditional cruise experience, offering guests unique opportunities to engage in hands-on workshops, attend exclusive performances, and interact with world-renowned talent across a range of disciplines.

Read more