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Fredericksburg Today
By the People, for the People
Fredericksburg, Texas Named America's Most Welcoming Travel Destination
Small-town charm and Southern hospitality top Booking.com's annual Traveler Review Awards
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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According to Booking.com's 2026 Traveler Review Awards, the small Texas town of Fredericksburg has been named the most welcoming travel destination in the United States. The city is known for its German heritage, charming main street, location in Texas Wine Country, and the National Museum of the Pacific War. Other top welcoming destinations include Palm Desert, California; Cape May, New Jersey; Broken Bow, Oklahoma; and Waikoloa, Hawaii.
Why it matters
The rankings from Booking.com highlight the continued appeal of smaller, charming towns and cities across America, which are often overlooked in favor of big metropolitan areas. This data shows that travelers value the unique local character, hospitality, and outdoor offerings that these smaller destinations can provide.
The details
Fredericksburg received the most positive traveler reviews on Booking.com, with reviewers praising the town's mix of history, adventure, and Southern hospitality. The city's German heritage, main street, and proximity to Texas Wine Country were also cited as major draws. Other top welcoming destinations like Palm Desert, Cape May, Broken Bow, and Waikoloa were recognized for their luxury resorts, outdoor recreation, historic charm, and scenic natural settings.
- Booking.com released its 2026 Traveler Review Awards in February 2026.
The players
Booking.com
An online travel booking platform that recently released its annual Traveler Review Awards, ranking the most welcoming destinations in the United States.
Fredericksburg, Texas
A small Texas town in the Hill Country that was named the most welcoming travel destination in the United States according to Booking.com's 2026 Traveler Review Awards.
The takeaway
The Booking.com rankings show that smaller, charming destinations can still hold strong appeal for travelers seeking an authentic, welcoming experience, even as big cities continue to dominate the tourism landscape. This data highlights the enduring value of local character, hospitality, and natural beauty in the eyes of modern travelers.
