These Are the Top 10 Trending Beautiful Places to Visit in the U.S., According to Google

"North Carolina's Outer Banks topped the list of trending destinations in the United States, according to data from Google that was shared with Travel + Leisure. Known for its Southern charm and dozens of miles of beaches and shores, the Outer Banks is an affordable and relaxing place to spend a vacation. Made up of several islands off the Atlantic coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks boasts amazing hotels, incredible food, and more. It was also the inspiration behind Netflix's hit series Outer Banks and many of the filming locations are available to visit in real life (though most locations are in neighboring South Carolina)."

"The islands also have a 4.8 ranking on Google Maps with more than 2,600 reviews. "Best kept secret," one traveler wrote in a Google review. "Everything is amazing here, from the view, to the beach, to the homes." To give back while traveling, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau operates a volunteer program, connecting tourists to local organizations working to protect the beaches, support animals, and more."

"Beyond the Outer Banks, Google told T+L that Florida's Siesta Key was the second most-trending U.S. destination. The 8-mile-long barrier island is known for its calm Gulf waters, dolphin sightings, and more. That was followed by two locations in Colorado: Garden of the Gods, a recognized National Natural Landmark in Colorado Springs known for its breathtaking sandstone rock formations and variety of activities like cycling, hiking, and even horseback riding; and the town of Steamboat Springs, renowned for its incredible skiing and fluffy "Champagne Powder." California's Yosemite National Park rounded out the top five."

Google data identified North Carolina's Outer Banks as the top trending U.S. destination, noted for Southern charm, dozens of miles of beaches, and affordable relaxation. The Outer Banks comprises several islands off the Atlantic coast with notable hotels, dining, and attractions tied to Netflix's Outer Banks series, though many filming sites are in neighboring South Carolina. The islands hold a 4.8 Google Maps rating from over 2,600 reviews and a visitor called the area a "best kept secret." The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau runs a volunteer program that connects tourists with local conservation and animal-support organizations. Other trending U.S. spots include Florida's Siesta Key, Colorado's Garden of the Gods and Steamboat Springs, and California's Yosemite National Park.

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