Latest news with #AmericaTheBeautiful
The Hill
08-07-2025
- The Hill
The national parks where international visitors could face a surcharge under Trump order
(NEXSTAR) — Under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump last week, millions of visitors could have to pay an increased fee when visiting national parks, a move the Department of the Interior's budget proposal for fiscal year 2026 says could bring in an additional $90 million for the National Park Service. Trump's order directs Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to develop a 'strategy' to boost revenue and improve recreational experiences at national parks. As part of that, entrance fees and the cost for a recreation pass are intended to rise for 'nonresidents.' While exact details haven't been released, like how much the additional fees will be and when they'll be imposed, the executive order does offer a glimpse into where the surcharges will appear. The price hikes, according to Trump's order, will apply only to those parks that charge entrance or recreation pass fees. Currently, only 106 of the 475 sites that are managed by the National Park Service charge an entrance fee. The most expensive among them — like Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Zion — charge $35 per private vehicle. Few charge on a per-person basis (for those entering on foot or by bicycle), but the highest fee there is $20, found at the same three parks. If you'd prefer an annual membership, which is not available at all of the fee-charging parks, the most you'll pay is $70. You'll also find entrance fees at some of the most visited parks, like the Grand Canyon and Lake Mead, as well as some of the more remote, like Denali and Isle Royale. Other parks that already charge entrance fees include Mount Rainier, Grand Teton, Death Valley, the Everglades, Joshua Tree, Shenandoah, and Hawai'i Volcanoes. Some parks also require reservations to get in or visit certain features within the parks. Entrance fees are used to 'enhance visitor experience' under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act. If you're a frequent visitor to many national parks or federal recreational lands, you may want the America The Beautiful annual pass worth $80. That price, too, is set to rise for foreign visitors under Trump's order, as well as the costs for 'any site-specific agency or regional multi-entity passes.' Like the entrance surcharge, it's unclear how large that price increase will be. While the foreign visitor fees could bring in more revenue for the parks, the Trump administration has also proposed cutting the National Park Service's staffing budgets and service operations by 30 percent, The Hill reports. Meanwhile, the Interior Department's budget proposal is requesting $2 billion for the national parks, down more than $1 billion from the current budget. It would be the largest cut in NPS history, according to the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). Nonetheless, Trump's order calls for efforts to increase visitor capacity at America's national parks, invest in infrastructure at the sites, and improve park access to American families by ensuring they 'receive priority access in any permitting or reservation systems.' It's estimated that of the record-setting 331.8 million visits recorded at national parks last year, 14.6 million were international tourists.
Forbes
01-07-2025
- Forbes
How To Best Experience The Great American Road Trip
Iconic Route 66 is part of the Great American Road Trip. getty The USA is open for business. 'There's never been a better time to explore the beauty and energy of the USA, which continues to be the world's most aspirational long-haul travel destination,' says Fred Dixon, president and CEO of Brand USA, the United States' destination marketing organization and premier sponsor of U.S. Travel Association's IPW. The organization introduced a new global tourism campaign, America the Beautiful , developed to showcase the best of the United States to visitors from around the world. In addition, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy recently hosted the inaugural Great American Road Trip Expo, where he unveiled a new website in collaboration with Brand USA: This platform celebrates the lead-up to America's 250th birthday spotlighting 250 stops across the country. Hordes of traveler will drive to the majestic Grand Canyon. getty Nearly 80% of Americans are expected to take a road trip this year, many choosing the 4th of July as their starting date. In addition to these domestic travelers, over 77 million people from around the world will visit the U.S. this year. A large number of these travelers will experience the sights and sounds of the country via the 'Great American Road Trip,' a tradition that emerged as a popular cultural phenomenon during the 1920s with the rise of auto camping, but its roots trace back to earlier influences and evolved significantly after World War II. Launching in August, America the Beautiful is designed to stir emotions and reignite passion for U.S. travel. Global visitors can experience the richness, warmth and diversity of U.S. destinations and people. Dixon says, 'Visitors come to do more than see America. They come to feel it, to connect with our people, explore our landscapes and experience our stories. America the Beautiful gives us a new way to tell those stories and invite the world to be part of them.' Orlando, Florida, is a "must see" road trip destination. getty In 2025 and 2026, the country is unveiling reimagined landmarks, new attractions and unique experiences, while also highlighting tried and true destinations. Universal Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida has ushered in a new era of themed entertainment, and 2026 will see that energy continue with the arrival of Mattel Adventure Park's second location in Kansas. The MegaZip in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers adrenaline-filled adventure high above the Great Smoky Mountains on one of America's longest ziplines. In Kansas City, the brand-new Museum of BBQ showcases how this quintessential American cuisine is made. The Golden Gate Bridge during sunset is a spectacular sight. getty Road Cruise Take a road cruise along a captivating northeast loop that's filled with urban attractions, rugged coasts and gorgeous mountains. Along the way, stop to stroll through quaint villages, tour fascinating historic sites and soak up the natural beauty of the region. Visit the USA's oldest state park showcasing New York's Niagara Falls via boat tours, cave hikes and scenic overlooks. Or head south to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Known as 'America's favorite drive,' the Parkway spans the southern and central Appalachians and offers an exceptional glimpse of the regional flora and fauna. Out west the majestic Golden Gate Bridge spans 4,200 feet and is 1.7 miles long. It's known for its orange color and Art Deco design. Route 66 is perhaps the most famous road in the country. getty Route 66 Major milestones will also take center stage in 2026 with the Route 66 Centennial , the world's most iconic highway. Spanning eight states from Illinois to California, this historic road will come alive with commemorative experiences that celebrate the spirit of the Great American Road Trip and the communities that line its path. Also in 2026, the United States will celebrate America 250 , marking America's semiquincentennial, with a yearlong series of exhibitions, events and programs across all 50 states. Nature lovers can trek the newly completed 34-mile Adirondack Rail Trail in scenic upstate New York. Meanwhile, San Antonio Zoo's new Spekboom Lodge will immerse guests in wildlife experiences. Across the country, experiences big and small - urban and rural - are redefining travel to the USA. Florida Dream Drive Package Sun seekers will love the Florida Dream Drive package. This offering from four premier resorts in South Florida and the Florida Keys is designed to make one of America's most iconic road trips through the Keys easier for travelers. The drive begins at The Singer Resort in Palm Beach where guests will receive a detailed map with unique spots to check out in each destination. Enjoy rum tastings and a curated boat journey. Three Waters Resort & Marina, Tribute Portfolio Guests will then head down to Eden Roc in Miami Beach where they can enjoy a private stargazing experience and a mixology class with the resort's bartending team. Then travelers head down to the Keys to stay at Baker's Cay in Key Largo where they'll experience a sunset Tiki Cruise and a "Dock to Dish" fishing experience. Lastly, they'll head to Three Waters Resort & Marina in Islamorada where they'll enjoy rum tastings and a curated boat journey. Highway 1 Slip off Highway 1 just 30 miles south of San Francisco and you'll find a stretch of coast that feels like California before the crowds. Half Moon Bay pairs postcard-ready scenery with quietly historic stops: wander the uncrowded redwood giants of Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve. Between bites of warm artichoke bread from Norm's Market and goat meet-and-greets at Harley Farms, you'll feel like you've stumbled onto the coast's best-kept secrets. Half Moon Bay offers panoramic Pacific views for adventurous travelers. getty For a home base that's as inspiring as the journey itself, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay rises from the cliffs like something out of a coastal daydream. Framed by panoramic Pacific views, this luxury resort weaves together the area's natural beauty, culinary spirit and community pride. Guests can explore the rugged coastline with direct beach access, tee off at the legendary Half Moon Bay Golf Links, or walk the scenic coastal trail. Experience small town Americana in the Berkshires. Leslie Morgenthal Tucked into the northern edge of the Berkshires, Williamstown offers a summer road trip escape where art, design and tranquility meet. Unlike the more bustling Great Barrington, Williamstown trades crowds for calm, without sacrificing culture. This charming college town is a magnet for art lovers thanks to its world-class museums, antique shops and creative experiences that make it one of New England's most inspiring seasonal destinations. It's a scenic three-hour drive from both Boston and New York. The Williams Inn is a charming boutique hotel located at the foot of Spring Street, placing guests steps from Williamstown's shops, galleries and cultural attractions. Thoughtful touches and locally sourced dining at The Barn make it a favorite for travelers seeking comfort, style, and connection to the local scene. Dining at The Barn, the inn's signature restaurant, is a must. The rustic-modern setting and regionally inspired menu make it ideal for lingering over locally sourced meals after a day on the road. The Back Roads and Byways of America No matter your destination, the back roads and byways of America are sure to showcase the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage of the United States. These routes, often chosen for their historical, natural, recreational or cultural significance, offer an alternative to the major highways and interstates, providing travelers with a more immersive and intimate experience of the country. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes The Uber-Rich Are Flocking To This Small Mountain Town By Roger Sands Forbes 'Skill-Cations' Provide Options For Personal Growth And Enrichment By Roger Sands
Wall Street Journal
30-06-2025
- Politics
- Wall Street Journal
Ray Charles Improved on a Hymn to America
As is common in U.S. parishes, my church closed out Sunday Mass this pre-July 4 weekend with a stirring rendition of 'America the Beautiful.' One of the great virtues of America is that, with no established church, the celebration of the nation and its values is entirely consistent with the formal celebration of anyone's faith. In most Western countries, with long histories of religious strife, patriotic songs can be complicated for those who don't belong to the established church. In Europe especially, glorification of the modern state's sovereignty can't escape that it is often the result of one religious sect's bloodily stomping all over another at some time. I grew up Catholic in England. Even as we thought ourselves as patriotic as the rest, we would never have sung the national anthem at Mass. While the scars of a few centuries of persecution have mostly healed, it is an unavoidable, awkward fact that the king the lyrics ask God to save is still the symbolic head of an institution established to destroy the church we belong to and the descendant of monarchs who once chopped the heads off people like me.
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Good Morning America' Launches '50 States In 50 Weeks: America The Beautiful' Yearlong Series
EXCLUSIVE: In honor of its 50th anniversary and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, ABC News' Good Morning America has launched a new yearlong series, 50 States in 50 Weeks: America the Beautiful. The weekly series kicks off on July 3 from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, the first state to join the Union, and will run through July 2026. More from Deadline 'GMA' Anchors Channel 'Wicked' For Oscars After-Party Opener; Robin Roberts Defies Gravity As Elphaba ABC News Hires Tara Narula As Chief Medical Correspondent Woody Fraser Dies: Prolific Producer Behind 'The Mike Douglas Show' & 'Good Morning America' Was 90 In the series, a GMA anchor or correspondent will head out across the country to spotlight the people, places, and spirit that define each state. Each week will feature a new state, following the order in which they joined the U.S., to highlight a local changemaker and showcase the state's unique culture, history, traditions and landmarks. Viewers will be invited to nominate inspiring individuals in their communities who are making a meaningful impact. 'This series is a chance for us to explore the country and share stories that reflect the heart of each state,' said Simone Swink, senior executive producer of Good Morning America. 'We're looking forward to meeting people, highlighting what makes each state special, and proudly keeping the 'A' in 'GMA.'' In the first episode, chief meteorologist Ginger Zee will feature the heroic lifeguards of Rehoboth Beach. 'I can't think of a better way to kick off this journey than in Delaware, our very first state,' said Zee. 'Meeting the Rehoboth Beach lifeguards and seeing their commitment to community and safety perfectly captures the spirit of what this series is all about, especially ahead of Fourth of July weekend.' Additional coverage from the series will air on GMA3, ABC News Live, and ABC News digital and social platforms. Best of Deadline 2025 TV Cancellations: Photo Gallery 2025 TV Series Renewals: Photo Gallery 2025-26 Awards Season Calendar: Dates For Tonys, Emmys, Oscars & More
Travel Weekly
16-06-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Brand USA's 'America the Beautiful' campaign aims to rekindle inbound travel
CHICAGO -- In an attempt to drive U.S. visitation amid a downturn in inbound travel, Brand USA will launch a tourism campaign this August called "America the Beautiful." Fred Dixon, CEO of Brand USA, said at U.S. Travel Association's annual IPW event being held here that with the campaign, "we're sending a clear message: the USA is open for business and ready to welcome legitimate international travelers. We're confident this effort will spark renewed interest and deepen connections with audiences around the world." The campaign was launched ahead of the upcoming decade of major U.S. events, including America's 250th anniversary, the 2026 World Cup, the Route 66 Centennial and Olympic Games in both 2028 and 2034. It will go live in markets around the world in August and be supported by a digital hub, which launched today. The campaign uses AI in partnership with Mindtrip to enable visitors to plan trips more easily and allow Brand USA to better understand what inspires global audiences. "In this environment, there are travelers that are on the fence about their destination choice, and we're using data and various other measurements to target folks who are leaning into travel, who are looking internationally, who would be in our target demo, to attract them to come to the U.S.," Dixon said. "They need to be encouraged across the fence. That's exactly what this campaign is designed to do." • Related: Tariff turmoil leads to worries about travel He said the campaign leans into U.S. destinations "and the emotional connection between travelers and in the memories that they make and the experiences that they have in the U.S., and it celebrates the people and the places and the connections that make the U.S. unforgettable and really unparalleled in so many ways." The campaign's launch comes as the National Travel & Tourism Office (NTTO) released the latest overseas visitation numbers, which showed an 8% bump in April, followed by a 2.8% decrease in May, compared with the same months of 2024. Year-to-date international visitation to the U.S. is now off 0.8%. Numbers from each of the last two months show an improvement over the 11.6% dip in March, which Dixon said had a lot to do with Easter falling in March of 2024 and April of this year. The NTTO's numbers do not include visitors from Canada, the No. 1 source of visitation to the U.S., or land crossings from Mexico. A warming trend from Canada, Mexico "The likelihood to visit the U.S. in the most recent sentiment poll is actually up," Dixon said. "Mexico was up seven points over prior month. Canada was up three points. So it's moving in the right direction." The poll found that intent to travel to the U.S. from Mexico was at its highest level since January, while Canada improved for the second month in a row, reversing a sustained period of decline. Intent also increased month over month in several other key markets, including Japan, France, South Korea. Dixon said that he attributes that to people looking ahead to summer and fall, and their attitudes about the U.S. "stabilizing, and in some of the major markets, we're actually seeing it go up." "The U.S. is still the world's most aspirational long-haul travel destination" he said. Dixon said that Brand USA has also partnered with the U.S. DOT to promote The Great American Road Trip to international travelers, featuring 250 points of interest across the country, and had officially finalized a partnership with the America250 Commission to help bring the nation's upcoming anniversary to life.
