The New ‘Calmcation’ Trend That’s Replacing the Classic Las Vegas Trip
For decades, a trip to Las Vegas was the go-to escape for Americans. But in 2025, more travelers are ditching the idea and going for something a lot more relaxing: the calmcation. Think of it as a chance to truly breathe with spa days and scenic hikes. The trend is picking up steam fast, and it may just explain why Las Vegas is struggling to fill hotel rooms.
A study found that 70% of travelers want calm and relaxation on their trips. Other data shows that wellness tourism is growing 27% faster than general tourism and reached $229.2 billion in North America in 2024. There’s a shift happening, and it’s not slowing down.
The appeal is simple. Calmcations are about stress-free getaways where the priority is mental and physical restoration. That might mean long mornings journaling on a porch or a glass of wine overlooking quiet vineyards. Instead of bragging about how many landmarks you hit in a weekend, the bragging rights now come from how refreshed you feel when you return.
Destinations Made for Calm
Image via Getty Images/adisa
Canada came out on top in a recent study of the best calmcation spots worldwide, with its affordable flights and safety. It also has an incredible number of spas per visitor. Italy and Greece also ranked well, thanks to budget-friendly accommodations and plenty of relaxing activities. But not everyone is heading overseas. Right in America, places like Sedona, Big Sur, and Napa Valley are drawing visitors who want peace without traveling abroad.
Sedona, Arizona, is famous for its energy vortexes and red rock views that pair perfectly with spa treatments. Big Sur delivers towering cliffs, redwoods, and the sound of crashing waves to lull even the busiest minds into relaxation. Meanwhile, Napa Valley is ideal for those who want serenity with a side of wine.
Vegas Is Feeling the Pressure
While the calmcation trend is booming, Las Vegas is facing a serious downturn. Visitor numbers were down more than 11% in June 2025 compared to the year before. Traffic from California, which supplies nearly a third of Vegas visitors, has also dropped. Air arrivals are down, too, with Californians accounting for a big share of that decline.
International tourism is slipping as well. A report projected that the U.S. would lose $12.5 billion in international travel spending in 2025, with bookings from countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada down 15% to 20%. Political tensions and travel hassles at the border aren’t helping. All of this puts Las Vegas in a tough spot. The city still made $1.16 billion in gambling revenue in June, up slightly from last year, but fewer visitors mean a weaker foundation for the future.
The Perfect Season to Slow Down
Image via Getty Images/Alberttch
Timing plays a role, too. September is shaping up as the best month to take a calmcation. Airfares are trending 3% to 8% lower than in 2024, crowds thin out after the summer rush, and resorts roll out off-season deals. Travelers on a budget can still make it happen by choosing affordable lodging and cutting dining costs, a shift that 31% and 29% of Americans say they’re already making.
The calmcation trend is a response to how people feel about their time off. With stress levels high and wallets under pressure, the idea of slowing down and resting up, while stretching every dollar, is resonating. Las Vegas will always have its neon glow, but the rise of calmcations shows that in 2025, the quiet trip is taking the stage.