Houston has climbed from the 13th to the 9th spot in Resonance’s annual America’s Best Cities ranking, which reflects the city’s momentum and economic vitality, the Houston First Corporation announced on June 17.
The” 2026 America’s Best Cities Report,” now in its 10th year, combines data and statistical insights with feedback from locals, visitors and future residents in three key categories: livability, lovability and prosperity. Resonance, a globally recognized strategic research company, explains the goal is to “help cities see what’s working, what isn’t, and where to act next.”
Houston’s ranking is driven by its celebrated food culture. The report recognizes Houston’s continuing affordability and also takes notice of the city’s thriving financial climate.
In addition, infrastructure upgrades at Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), the George R. Brown Convention Center transformation, improvements to Downtown’s Main Street Promenade pedestrian corridor, and a wave of new hotels and developments are mentioned.
“Houston is increasingly earning its reputation as one of the greatest cities on earth,” said Michael Heckman, President & CEO of Houston First Corp. “This ranking validates our strengthening global brand and demonstrates the incredible momentum we are seeing across tourism, economic development, culture, and quality of life.”
Find more information here.
Visit Anaheim is partnering with skateboarding legend Tony Hawk to spotlight a defining travel trend shaping 2026: nostalgia-driven travel.
The organization said on June 17 that the campaign highlights Anaheim as a destination where memories are not only made, but also meaningfully revisited, offering travelers a chance to reconnect with the places and moments that shaped them.
The partnership with Hawk brings a cultural lens to this trend, reflecting Anaheim’s longstanding influence on skateboarding and Southern California lifestyle. From its role in defining early skate culture to its continued relevance today, “Anaheim remains a place where personal history and cultural legacy intersect,” Visit Anaheim stated.
“Few people embody Southern California culture quite like Tony Hawk,” said Scott Oklin, CMO for Visit Anaheim. “His story is deeply connected to Orange County, and many of the experiences that defined his career happened right here in communities like Anaheim. His experience reflects the powerful connection people have to the places that helped shape their lives, making him a natural partner for this campaign.”
Hawk, who spent his early years skating throughout Orange County, including Anaheim, will help bring the nostalgia travel trend to life by reflecting on the places, experiences and memories that influenced his legendary career.
Launching just days before the official start of summer, the campaign aligns with Visit Anaheim’s “100 Days Til Summer” promotion. Find more information here.