Every year, 10 Best collaborates with a panel of travel experts are nominated for the best new openings across various categories. These include Best New Hotel, Best New Attraction, Best New Cruise Itinerary, Best New Restaurant, Best New Theme Park Attraction, Best New Festival, and Best New Museum. After a four-week voting period, 10Best readers have cast their votes, and the winners have been revealed.
Let’s take a closer look at the winners in each category:
Best New Attraction: Little Plumeria Farms in Haleiwa, Hawaii
Nestled in the scenic landscape of Haleiwa, Hawaii, Little Plumeria Farms has been captivating visitors since the ’70s. This 20-acre estate, opened to the public in 2023, showcases the beauty of the Aloha State with vibrant flowers stealing the spotlight. Farm tours provide guests with a delightful hour-long experience immersed in stunning landscapes, and visitors even have the opportunity to take home a piece of the paradise with their own plants.
Best New Cruise Itinerary: Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island in Margaritaville at Sea
Bringing a touch of Jimmy Buffet to the open seas, Margaritaville at Sea offers a unique cruise itinerary from the Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island. This three-day/two-night sail is an immersion in the Margaritaville lifestyle, featuring nonstop casino action, live shows, and exciting shore excursions such as swimming with dolphins or snorkeling with turtles. With live concert and dance productions in the Stars on the Water Theater, entertainment is never lacking on this lively voyage.
Best New Festival: Troy Art Block in Troy, New York
Troy Art Block, situated in Troy, New York, is a haven for art enthusiasts. Established to create a distinctive art destination, the festival commissioned 27 temporary murals from various artists, including Aerosol Kingdom and Joe Iurato. Beyond the murals, the event featured panel discussions, live painting sessions, and a block party, creating a vibrant celebration and drawing attention to local businesses.
Best New Hotel: Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach in Oxnard, California
Providing a serene escape just 60 miles from Los Angeles International Airport, Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is an all-suite resort. Boasting beachfront rooms, a cabana-lined pool, refined dining, a food truck, and nearby gear rental, the resort caters to both relaxation and activity. Whether guests seek laid-back lounging or engaging adventures, Zachari Dunes offers a diverse retreat.
Best New Museum: Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
While Gettysburg is renowned for its 1863 Civil War battle, the Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum delves deeper into the borough’s history. Featuring firsthand accounts from residents before and after the war, the museum’s “Caught in the Crossfire” exhibit allows visitors to experience the battle within a reconstructed farmhouse, offering a comprehensive exploration beyond the famous skirmish.
Best New Restaurant: Otto’s High Dive in Orlando, Florida
Otto’s High Dive in Orlando, Florida, stands out as a multifaceted establishment, combining a bar, cafe, and eatery in one. Recognized with a Bib Gourmand by Michelin, this Cuban restaurant offers a culinary journey with Floridian and Cuban cuisine infused with tropical influences. Guests can savor dishes like lechon asado (roasted pork) and ropa vieja (braised short rib) while enjoying early weekday happy hours featuring Cuba Libre highballs, classic mojitos, and other well-crafted libations.
Best New Theme Park Attraction: Primordial at Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington, Utah
Lagoon Amusement Park, the largest theme park in Utah, introduced the thrilling Primordial coaster in September 2023. This new attraction promises an exhilarating experience with sudden drops, a shooting game, and top speeds of 40 mph, offering visitors an unforgettable adventure within the park.
In summary, these outstanding new openings across diverse categories provide travelers and enthusiasts with unique experiences, from picturesque farms to lively festivals, serene beachfront resorts to captivating museums, and thrilling theme park attractions to vibrant restaurants. Each winner represents a standout addition to the travel landscape, offering a blend of innovation, entertainment, and cultural richness.