Big Sky is Expedia’s prime trending journey vacation spot for 2026

EBS STAFF

A report by fashionable journey platform Expedia recognized Big Sky as Destination of the Year and the highest trending journey vacation spot for 2026. Pulling information from 24,000 vacationers throughout 18 international locations, Big Sky saw a 92% increase in flight and lodging searches in 2025 in comparison with 2024. 

Other high-ranking curiosity locations embody Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; and Phu Quoc, Vietnam.

Expedia additionally launched the Smart Travel Health Check for the primary time primarily based on a 2025 report by the World Travel and Tourism Council. The WTTC name to motion challenges journey locations to handle overcrowding by evidence-based approaches to sustainable tourism. 

Actions like group impression, environmental stewardship and long-term planning are required to be highlighted by Expedia within the Smart Travel Health Check framework, in accordance with a information launch from Visit Big Sky on Oct. 20. Big Sky was awarded that verify by Expedia this yr. 

“Big Sky’s recognition as the top trending destination underscores what locals and longtime visitors already know. This is a place where adventure and awe-inspiring landscapes come together in a way that’s truly special,” Brad Niva, CEO of Visit Big Sky, said within the launch. “We work hard to balance the benefits of tourism with our responsibility to protect what makes Big Sky unique, ensuring the visitor economy thrives while listening to and supporting the residents who call this place home.”

The launch famous new tourism sights and lodging coming to Big Sky quickly, together with One&Only Moonlight Basin, Kircliff, an all-glass viewing platform on Lone Mountain, Explorer Gondola, and a culinary residency by Chef Grant Achatz and The Alinea Group. They additionally talked about the opening of Gravity Haus Big Sky in July, a brand new boutique lodging possibility in Town Center.