In 2027, the U.S. will be buzzing with major commemorative events and new tourist attractions centered around film, music, and sports. From the 50th anniversary extravaganza of Star Wars to events marking Elvis Presley’s passing half a century ago, and the Sundance Film Festival’s exciting venue change, globetrotters will have more chances than ever to immerse themselves in American pop culture.
The U.S. Travel Association announced on Friday that the country will roll out a diverse array of tourism programs next year. These will include significant historical and cultural celebrations, newly renovated museums, and fresh resort openings.
From Star Wars to Elvis: A Cultural Travel Bonanza
Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute is set to make history in February 2027 with the world premiere of Star Wars: The Experience, commemorating the iconic film series’ 50th anniversary.
Memphis, Tennessee’s Graceland will host Elvis Week, honoring the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll 50 years after his passing. Meanwhile, Bristol, Tennessee will celebrate the centennial of the Bristol Sessions, widely regarded as the birthplace of country music, with a special exhibition and music festival.
Detroit’s Motown Museum, a cornerstone of American music history, will reopen its doors next spring after extensive renovations. This revamped attraction is sure to be a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
Film buffs, take note: The Sundance Film Festival, America’s premier independent film showcase, is moving from its long-time Utah home to Boulder, Colorado, starting next year.
The festival’s debut in its new location will run from January 21 to 31, with events scattered throughout downtown near Pearl Street Mall and across the University of Colorado Boulder campus.
Sports fans, get ready for an action-packed 2027!
Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field will host the Major League Baseball (MLB) All-Star Game for the first time in 37 years, last held there in 1990.
The nation’s capital, Washington D.C., will be the stage for the National Football League (NFL) Draft from April 29 to May 1, drawing football fans from across the country.
St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida, will make history as it welcomes The Ocean Race, a world-class yacht competition, from May 4 to 16. This marks the race’s first visit to the area in its 54-year history and will be the sole North American stop in the 2027 edition.
During the event, the Ocean Live Park will come alive with live performances, sailing exhibitions, and sustainability-focused programs.
Speed demons can get their fix at New York’s Watkins Glen International, where the annual National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) race Go Bowling at The Glen will rev up engines and excitement.
New Museums and Resorts: Expanding Urban Travel Options
Established tourist hotspots are also upping their game with fresh attractions and accommodations.
Washington D.C.’s newly refurbished Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden is set to reopen on October 31, while next year will see the inauguration of the Gulf War Memorial.
As the U.S. celebrates two centuries of railroad history next year, Baltimore’s National Museum of Railroad History and Innovation will showcase its makeover. Pennsylvania’s Railroad Museum is also on track to open a new exhibition hall, featuring six magnificent steam locomotives.
Out West, California’s Yosemite National Park will welcome Outbound Yosemite, a brand-new resort in its southern gateway area. This marks the first new lodging development in the region in about two decades.
Food lovers, rejoice! Portland, Oregon will unveil the James Beard Public Market in spring, a permanent culinary paradise showcasing local produce and diverse gastronomic delights.
For stargazers, Fountain Hills, Arizona will open the International Dark Sky Discovery Center, complete with a large public telescope and observatory.
Disney fans can look forward to the opening of Disney Lakeshore Lodge at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida next summer.
Fred Dixon, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the U.S. Travel Association, enthused that America is constantly evolving, always offering fresh surprises and joys for travelers. The excitement of 2026 will build momentum towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with 2027’s diverse events and novel experiences serving as a magnet for global visitors to explore the U.S.
