Top U.S. Destinations to Visit in 2026 with Jim Benning and Derrik Lang

What will your next domestic getaway look like? Imagine arriving to a gleaming new airport terminal opening its doors to California sunshine, a Midwestern city claiming its title as America's soccer capital, or the birthplace of independence preparing for the celebration of a lifetime.

2026 isn't just another year. It's a milestone moment when extraordinary, yet often overlooked, destinations are rewriting their stories with billion-dollar renovations, world-class events, and experiences you won't want to miss.

In this episode, host Angie Orth welcomes two AAA insiders who spend their days tracking trends and scouting destinations: Jim Benning, Editor-in-Chief of Westways, and Derrik Lang, Editor-in-Chief of AAA Explorer. Recording from the historic Ace Garage in Tustin, California, they reveal the domestic destinations that deserve a spot on your 2026 travel list.

You'll discover why San Diego's new terminal and NASCAR debut make it more than just a beach town, and how Kansas City is transforming with adaptive architecture and high-profile athletics. You’ll hear what makes Santa Fe's art scene timeless, how Lexington is redefining its identity beyond horses and bourbon, and how Philadelphia is preparing for America's 250th birthday.

What You’ll Learn:

3:41 Why San Diego's multi-billion dollar airport renovation and first-ever NASCAR race

6:25 The soccer capital of the USA and the FIFA World Cup

8:27 The innovative Rock Island Bridge project

18:54 Lexington's transformation beyond horses and bourbon

22:13 Philadelphia's year-long America 250 celebration

Where are YOU planning to go in 2026? Tell us in the comments!

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