National Geographic has named Utah to its 2023 "Best of the World" list. The historic publication made the designation based on the “adrenaline rush” opportunities in the “less visited areas of the popular adventure state.”

Utah is one of 25 of the most inspiring travel destinations on Earth selected by National Geographic. The Beehive State is featured in the Adventure category as the lone United States destination in the group and one of only five U.S. locations selected for inclusion on the entire list.{mprestriction ids="1,3"}

“Utahns and visitors alike know that Utah is a place for a wide range of transformational experiences. National Geographic’s "Best of the World" recognition is a wonderful affirmation of our beautiful places,” said Utah Office of Tourism Managing Director Vicki Varela. “We welcome responsible visitation by people who share our vision of a perpetual visitor economy.”

According to National Geographic, the “Best of the World” list is themed around travel destinations and experiences that leverage the benefits of tourism to strengthen their local communities and environments, both natural and built.

“'Best of the World' is Nat Geo’s annual love letter to the most incredible places in the world, both near and far,” said Nathan Lump, National Geographic’s editor-in-chief. “We couldn’t be prouder to shine a light on these 25 extraordinary places that most inspired us this year, and which we know will define travelers’ itineraries for years to come.”

Other U.S, destinations making the list are Charleston, South Carolina, in the Culture category; Big Bend National Park in Texas in the Nature category, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the Community category; and the San Francisco Crosstown Trail in California in the Family category.

The entire "Best of the World" 2023 list can be found at https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/best-of-the-world-2023.{/mprestriction}