MENTALHEALTH.INFOLABMED.COM - Santa Fe, N.M., has officially been named the “Best City in the U.S.” for the second consecutive year by Travel + Leisure. This prestigious accolade, part of the 2026 World's Best Awards released on Tuesday, July 7, cements the destination's status as a top travel preference for Americans.
The annual recognition highlights the finest destinations, hotels, and travel experiences, as determined by the magazine’s extensive readership. Readers consistently favor the New Mexico capital for its unique blend of cultural attractions, stunning landscapes, and culinary excellence.
Why Santa Fe Reigns Supreme
For the second year in a row, travelers have flocked to Santa Fe, praising its remarkably sunny climate and vibrant atmosphere. The city boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year, creating an ideal environment for outdoor exploration and tourism.
Beyond the weather, the city’s robust food scene continues to draw significant acclaim from both food critics and casual tourists alike. Visitors often cite the rich, multi-layered cultural experiences available throughout the city as a primary reason for their repeat visits.
Cultural Highlights and Artistic Appeal
A centerpiece of the city's appeal remains the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which draws art enthusiasts from around the globe to New Mexico. This institution honors O’Keeffe’s legendary career and her profound contribution to modern art while living in the scenic foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges.
Repeat visitors frequently describe the New Mexico capital as a "true gem of a place in America" that reveals new secrets with every visit. The convergence of historical significance and artistic innovation provides a depth of experience that is difficult for other cities to replicate.
Competitive Landscape Among U.S. Cities
While Santa Fe secured the top spot, the competition remained fierce among other notable American travel destinations this year. Charleston, S.C., which held the title for a decade until being dethroned in 2025, successfully claimed the second-place spot in the latest rankings.
Rounding out the top five, Savannah, Ga., New Orleans, and Chicago secured their positions as fan favorites among the magazine's voting demographic. The ranking highlights a subtle shift in travel preferences, though historic charm and urban excitement remain top priorities for domestic tourists.
Global Rankings and Survey Methodology
The 2026 World’s Best Awards extend beyond domestic borders, recognizing excellence in travel across the entire globe. San Miguel de Allende in Mexico earned the top spot in the global category, followed closely by Kyoto, Japan, and Chiang Mai, Thailand.
This extensive list was compiled through the insights of 207,000 readers who shared their personal experiences with various destinations, hotels, and airlines. The annual survey aims to provide a comprehensive guide for travelers, incorporating feedback on everything from cruise lines to international tours.
Other notable winners in this year’s survey included Koh Samui, Thailand, which was awarded "Best Island in the World" for the first time. The airline industry also saw significant shifts, with EVA Air taking the top spot among international carriers this year.
As travel trends continue to evolve, these awards serve as a significant barometer for current visitor sentiment across the industry. Interested readers can view the full list of winners in the August issue of Travel + Leisure, which will be available on newsstands starting July 17.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why was Santa Fe named the best city in the U.S. for the second year?
Santa Fe earned the top spot due to its consistent appeal among readers, specifically highlighting its 300+ days of sunshine, robust food scene, and strong cultural attractions like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
Which city holds second place in the 2026 awards?
Charleston, S.C., claimed second place in the 2026 World's Best Awards after being dethroned by Santa Fe in 2025.
How does Travel + Leisure determine these winners?
The magazine compiles its list based on an annual survey sent to its readers. This year, the results were based on the personal experiences and votes of 207,000 readers.
What is the top city in the world according to the 2026 list?
San Miguel de Allende in Mexico was ranked as the number one city in the world in the 2026 World's Best Awards.
