Television has become a major player in top travel destinations
- Karen Kilian
- Apr 22
- 2 min read
Ever watched a TV show and found yourself ready to pack your bags and head straight to the dreamy location seen on screen? You’re not alone! Television has become a major driver of travel inspiration. From the neon lights of Las Vegas to the rustic charm of Montana, here are some of the most popular and trending U.S. television series that have sparked serious travel buzz — both at home and around the world.
1. Yellowstone – Montana & Wyoming, USA
This gritty modern Western starring Kevin Costner has done wonders for ranch tourism. The Dutton family's sprawling ranch scenes are filmed in the stunning Bitterroot Valley of Montana, with scenes also shot in Wyoming. As a result, travelers are now flocking to Montana for luxury dude ranch stays, horseback riding, and fly-fishing experiences.
One of my favorite places to road trip to.
2. The White Lotus – Hawaii & Sicily
While Season 1 transported viewers to the lush landscapes of Maui, Season 2 switched gears to the opulence of Sicily. The Four Seasons resorts featured in both locations became immediate hotspots, with bookings soaring.
I booked a trip for my guests to Sicily because of White Lotus, they loved it. There are plenty of places to stay that are not as pricey as The Four Seasons.
3. Emily in Paris – Paris, France
Though a French setting, this U.S.-created Netflix hit has driven American audiences to flock to Paris for croissants, couture, and selfies in front of the Eiffel Tower. Love it or hate it, Emily in Paris is a binge-worthy passport to wanderlust.
I love Paris and have traveled there several times-I did not need Emily in Paris to motivate me:)
4. Big Little Lies – Monterey, California
Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman’s drama was almost upstaged by the dramatic Pacific coastline of Monterey and Big Sur. Coastal California experienced a spike in tourism thanks to this moody, atmospheric series.
I did not watch Big Little Lies but would have if I knew that it was filmed in Monterey-one of my absolute favorite short weekend travel destinations.
5. The Bear – Chicago, Illinois
This culinary drama set in a scrappy Chicago sandwich shop has drawn new attention to the city’s food scene. Travelers are making food pilgrimages to try both classic Italian beef and the city’s high-end culinary gems.
Heck yes to the Chicago food scene. This is another show I have not watched but fly me to Chicago any day and take me on the architecture river tour. Okay maybe not in the winter.
Whether you’re dreaming of sipping a spritz on the Amalfi Coast or riding horses in Montana, television continues to be one of the most powerful (and entertaining) sources of travel inspiration. What show have you watched that inspired you? Add Hawaii Five-O for me.
