Bellevue has earned national recognition as one of the top places to visit this summer, landing on the 2026 USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice list of Best Summer Travel Destinations.
The ranking, announced by Bellevue’s destination management organization, Visit Bellevue, placed the city at No. 10 among destinations across the country selected by readers.
According to USA Today, Bellevue stands out for offering visitors an urban experience paired with easy access to outdoor recreation. Located across Lake Washington from Seattle, the city was recognized for its waterfront beaches, boating opportunities, scenic parks, and warm summer weather.
The publication also highlighted the annual Bellevue Arts Festival, describing it as one of the nation’s premier fine art festivals. Additional attractions noted in the ranking included luxury shopping and outdoor dining at The Shops at The Bravern, as well as access to hiking, kayaking, and more than 2,000 acres of parkland throughout the area.
“Being named one of USA TODAY 10Best top summer escapes is an incredible honor and a meaningful reflection of Bellevue’s growing reputation as the Pacific Northwest’s premier destination,” said Brad Jones, executive director of Visit Bellevue, in a news release.
Another Washington city also made the list. Spokane ranked No. 7, earning recognition for its outdoor concerts and festivals, the 40-mile paved Spokane River Centennial Trail, and the SkyRide attraction overlooking Spokane Falls.
Topping the 2026 rankings was Mackinac Island, Michigan, known for its car-free streets, horse-drawn carriages, historic Fort Mackinac, and outdoor recreation opportunities along Lake Huron.
The annual rankings were determined through a two-step process. A panel of travel experts first selected destinations they considered ideal summer vacation spots, and readers then voted to determine the final order.
The complete top 10 list includes:
- Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Ocean City, New Jersey
- Madison, Wisconsin
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee
- Saratoga Springs, New York
- Tybee Island, Georgia
- Spokane, Washington
- Branson, Missouri
- Bellevue, Washington
