For destinations that are on the rise, making names for themselves as top student travel havens, check out this list of emerging cities chosen by SYTA member tour operators.
Cleveland
Cleveland rocks—it’s true! Students can explore the power and science behind rock music as they admire priceless memorabilia, before taking a trolley tour that covers more than 20 miles. Theaters where famous actors got their start offer elevated exposure to the professional arts. You could even learn about Tatoo! (Not that tattoo.) Travel back in time with museums featuring everything from diamonds to dinosaurs. Some serious rollercoaster and other ride fun happens nearby.
New Orleans
New Orleans teems with rich culture, one-of-a-kind stories and celebrations coveted worldwide. Students are afforded the opportunity to learn about the French Quarter on foot, the beauty of the natural world on dry land and underwater, and in-depth World War II history. Whether you’re seeking exposure to world-class jazz and musical heritage or a chance to perform alongside some of the world’s most renowned musical artists, students are sure to leave feeling inspired.
Branson
Located in Missouri’s beautiful Ozark Mountains, Branson is filled with live entertainment, the world’s top theme parks, three pristine lakes for swimming and boating, and miles of hiking trails. Best known for live music shows, Branson boasts dozens of theaters featuring American music genres, such as rock ‘n’ roll, magic, comedy, country, gospel and bluegrass. It’s a bursting hub of live entertainment and fun education.
Memphis
The Home of the Blues. The Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The place where Elvis Presley swung his hips, B.B. King strummed his signature sound, and Johnny Cash donned his outlaw persona. Music is central to Memphis, Tennessee—or maybe Memphis is central to music. Head here for endless inspiring music history, featured in museums all over the city. There’s also lots to learn about the incredible impact influential African American figures had on our culture, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who tragically lost his life in the city, but is honored there now.
St. Louis
The Gateway of the West, St. Louis, Missouri is the perfect entry point to what makes the “Show Me State” special. The famous 630-foot arch is a must-see, but the surrounding national park is equally impressive, running alongside the Mississippi River and full of beauty and information about American settlers’ movement west. The city’s civic center is also a sprawling park, home to multiple museums, science centers, zoos, war memorials, historic houses, interactive sculptures, a skating rink and more.
Gettysburg
For Civil War history enthusiasts, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania can’t be beat. The town is filled to the gills with American history going back to 1736. From interactive museums and hands-on demonstrations to civilian stories, unique battlefield tours, agricultural experiences and a multitude of group-friendly dining options, Gettysburg and the surrounding Adams County is an ideal student destination. See where Lincoln gave his famous address four months after a decisive battle turned the tides of the war.
