A SOUTH-west haven has been dubbed the ‘US’s biggest small town’ to become tourist hotspot in 2026 with thanks to its desert trails.
In just a couple of years, it’s expected to cement itself as one of the country’s hottest new travel destinations.
The Arizona city, nestled in the sprawling Sonoran Desert, is already beloved by outdoor adventurers and food lovers.
But with global recognition growing and new travel rankings putting it firmly on the map, Tucson is being tipped as a must-visit hotspot by 2026.
Iconic desert trails
Known for its iconic desert trails, Tucson offers everything from gentle nature walks to challenging hikes across Saguaro National Park, where towering cacti rise like skyscrapers from the earth.
It’s one of the rare places in the U.S. where desert and mountain terrain collide in a spectacular, versatile way, so tourists can go hiking, biking or even skiing.
Hiking trails like Valley View Overlook and Signal Hill give tourists unforgettable sunsets, while also offering a glimpse into history with ancient petroglyphs etched into the rock.
Tourists can even visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which offers a deep dive into the wildlife and flora of the region.
Sun reporter Will Metcalf described the appeal after a recent visit, telling how the city feels compact but never small.
“There are parks, mountains and that sprawling Sonoran Desert,” he said, crediting the mix of nature, history and food as Tucson’s real pull.
Foodie haven
And when it comes to food, the city has a reputation few can rival.
Dubbed a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Tucson’s culinary scene blends Indigenous traditions with bold Mexican influences.
From the birthplace of the chimichanga at El Charro Café to the mesquite-grilled flavors of Tito & Pep, it has been called home to some of the best Mexican food in the US.
Beyond the table, Tucson brims with history.
Visitors can explore the white-washed Mission San Xavier Del Bac, wander the walls of the old Presidio, or grab breakfast at Hotel Congress — famous as the spot where gangster John Dillinger was captured.
Cowboy fantasy
The city’s vibe is also fueled by its breweries, whiskey tastings at Whiskey Del Bac, and even old-fashioned dude ranches for travelers looking to unleash their inner cowboy.
With affordable food and stays, experts say the city appeals to solo travelers, outdoor lovers and families alike.
With its balance of culture, cuisine and outdoor adventure, Tucson is set to shake off its “hidden gem” tag and shine as one of America’s biggest destinations by 2026.
Which other cities are set to be big?
Tucson isn’t the only US city set to take over as a tourist hotspot in 2026.
In fact an unlikely US city has been dubbed a ‘Gateway to the West’ set to be big next year after $27.5m renovation with flights from $31.
As the birthplace of music icon Chuck Berry – and home to the legendary Route 66 – this city is preparing for a deluge of travelers after undergoing a multi-million dollar transformation.
Dubbed the “Gateway to the West” by early settlers – more of which later – St Louis is intrinsically linked with its art and culture scene, nurturing jazz icons such as Clark Terry and Miles Davis.
Its jazz bars and cafes still pump out hypnotic melodies to casual passersby today – and that temporary footfall looks set to massively increase next year.
With one-way flights starting from just $31, St Louis is being talked up as one of the “must visit” cities in the USA next year.
Much of the city’s transformation is down to the $27.5m renovation of St Louis’ Old Courthouse.
Why Tuscon is perfect for outdoor adventure
Tucson is fast becoming a playground for adventurers thanks to its rare mix of desert heat and mountain peaks, making it one of the few places in America where visitors can hike, bike, and even ski in the same trip.
The city is ringed by five mountain ranges, giving hikers endless options from easy canyon strolls to rugged summit climbs.
Trails like those in Sabino Canyon and Saguaro National Park showcase the drama of the Sonoran Desert, complete with towering saguaros and sweeping views.
Cyclists are just as spoiled, as Tucson is ranked among the top biking destinations in the country, with miles of designated cycle paths, desert road routes, and mountain trails that challenge even the pros.
Every year, the city plays host to El Tour de Tucson, one of the largest cycling events in the US.
And for a twist no one expects from the desert, Mount Lemmon, which is just an hour’s drive from downtown, offers skiing in the winter months.
At 9,000 feet, the mountain transforms into a snow-covered escape with runs for beginners and seasoned skiers alike, meaning visitors can start their day under palm trees and finish it carving through powder.
This unique combination of landscapes makes Tucson one of the most versatile outdoor destinations in the Southwest.
