Near the former imperial palace, which served as the seat of power during China’s Ming and Qing dynasties, hundreds of styling studios now offer visitors the opportunity to transform themselves into emperors, empresses, princesses and court officials. Customers are outfitted in embroidered robes, decorative jewelry and ornate hairstyles before posing for photographs around the historic complex.

Traditional Culture Meets Social Media

The popularity of the experience has been driven in part by social media, where visitors share photos and videos blending historical aesthetics with modern life. Many participants pair traditional clothing with contemporary accessories such as sneakers, sunglasses or popular beverages, creating a visual contrast between China’s imperial past and present-day urban culture.

Makeup artist Chen Jiao, who works at one of the studios near the Forbidden City, told The Associated Press that demand remains high throughout much of the year. She said peak periods, including public holidays and weekends, often bring large numbers of customers seeking historical makeovers and professional photography sessions.

The cost of participating typically ranges from around 300 yuan ($45) to more than 1,000 yuan ($150), depending on the complexity of costumes, styling and photography packages offered by individual businesses.

Industry Expands Around Historic Landmarks

Local media reports cited by The Associated Press indicate the industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. A building housing one costume studio reportedly contained only a handful of such businesses around 2020, but now hosts more than 100. The growth reflects rising interest in traditional Chinese clothing and historical-themed experiences among domestic tourists.

Many visitors travel from other provinces specifically to participate. College students interviewed by AP said they viewed the experience as a way to connect with the historical setting of Beijing’s landmarks while expressing appreciation for traditional Chinese aesthetics.

Some visitors choose Qing dynasty-inspired attire associated with imperial princesses, while others prefer styles linked to the Ming dynasty. Participants often select outfits based on personal interests in Chinese history, costume dramas or cultural heritage.

Historical Dramas Help Fuel Interest

The enduring popularity of Chinese historical television dramas has contributed significantly to the trend, according to people involved in promoting traditional clothing culture. Enthusiasts say younger generations are increasingly discovering historical fashion through entertainment before exploring its cultural and historical roots.

Cai Zehong, founder of Hanfu Beijing, told AP that many young people are drawn to the visual appeal of traditional garments while also developing a greater interest in China’s cultural heritage. Organizations promoting traditional clothing have played a role in encouraging public engagement with historical customs and attire.

The phenomenon is part of a wider cultural movement that has gained visibility across China in recent years. Similar scenes have appeared at historic sites nationwide, where visitors dress in period-inspired clothing for photographs, events and cultural activities. Earlier Associated Press reporting documented comparable trends at heritage attractions throughout Beijing and other cities.

Tourism and Heritage Intersect

The resurgence of historical costume experiences highlights how cultural tourism in China is evolving beyond traditional sightseeing. Visitors increasingly seek interactive experiences that allow them to engage directly with historical settings and share those experiences online.

As demand continues to grow, businesses surrounding the Forbidden City are benefiting from a trend that combines tourism, fashion, entertainment and cultural heritage. The movement has transformed parts of central Beijing into a thriving marketplace where China’s imperial history is reimagined for a new generation of visitors.

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Recent reporting from the Associated Press highlights how museums, tour operators, and tourism agencies are adapting services—from sensory-friendly programs to sign-language tours—to better accommodate diverse needs.

Data Behind the Trend

Globally, an estimated 1.3 billion people—around 16% of the population—live with significant disabilities, according to data cited by the World Health Organization. This figure, alongside aging populations, has contributed to growing demand for accessible travel experiences.

Market research indicates that accessible tourism is expanding rapidly, with projections showing sustained growth driven by demographic changes and increased advocacy for inclusion. The sector is no longer considered niche, but part of mainstream travel planning.

This shift reflects both social inclusion efforts and the recognition of a large, underserved travel market.

What Barrier-Free Tours Offer

Barrier-free tours are designed to remove physical, sensory, and cognitive obstacles that may limit participation in traditional travel experiences. These include features such as tactile exhibits for visually impaired visitors, guided tours using sign language, and quieter, structured environments for individuals with autism or dementia.

Cultural institutions, including major museums, have introduced specialized programs that aim to reduce sensory overload while maintaining educational value. Technology also plays a role, with digital tools supporting navigation, interpretation, and communication.

These adaptations signal a shift from reactive accessibility measures toward more proactive, inclusive design.

Planning and Preparation

Experts cited in AP reporting emphasize that planning remains essential to making the most of barrier-free tours. Travelers and caregivers are encouraged to research destinations, consult accessibility-focused travel specialists, and communicate specific needs in advance.

Studies on accessible tourism suggest that lack of reliable information is one of the most common barriers, with many travelers reporting difficulty assessing whether facilities meet their needs.

Organized tours or specialized agencies can help address these challenges by coordinating logistics and ensuring appropriate accommodations are in place.

Cultural and Industry Shifts

The rise of barrier-free tours reflects broader cultural changes in how accessibility is understood. Rather than focusing solely on physical mobility, inclusive tourism increasingly considers sensory, cognitive, and social dimensions of travel.

Industry stakeholders are also being encouraged to integrate accessibility into standard pricing and planning, rather than treating it as an optional add-on. This approach aligns with wider calls from international organizations to view accessible tourism as a fundamental right and economic opportunity.

Broader Implications

Accessible tourism has implications beyond individual travel experiences. With more than one billion people directly affected by disability—and billions more as family members or caregivers—the sector represents a significant portion of global demand.

As barrier-free tours become more widespread, they may influence how cities design public spaces, how institutions present cultural content, and how the travel industry defines inclusivity.

Analytical note: The expansion of barrier-free tours illustrates how tourism is evolving from standardized offerings toward more personalized, inclusive experiences shaped by demographic and social change.

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New York City — New York’s vibrant streets are a bit quieter these days, and it’s not just because of the usual ebb and flow of tourists. The city is noticing a significant drop in foreign visitors, and local businesses and guides are starting to feel the impact.

“There’s a worldwide fear about what’s happening in the U.S.,” says Bill Martin, an Australian traveler currently touring New York on an open-air bus. On his six-week journey from Tokyo to Vancouver, with a stop in NYC, Martin has heard the same concerns from fellow tourists around the globe.

“People worry about getting into the U.S.,” he explains. “There’s a real doubt about whether they’ll be allowed in, and that makes them consider other destinations.”

Political Climate Fuels Travel Anxiety

It’s not just casual tourists who feel the heat. Eman Moretti, an Italian student studying in the U.S., shares that President Trump’s tough immigration policies have made his family hesitant to visit him in New York.

“It was a bit harder for them to come,” Moretti says, walking through Times Square with his family. “You never know if they’ll get through customs. It feels like a hostile environment.”

Javier Muenala from Ecuador agrees. “Your visa could be canceled,” he says bluntly. “That risk scares many people away.”

The Numbers Tell the Story

This anxiety is reflected in the data. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, international travelers are expected to spend $12.5 billion less in the U.S. this year.

For cities that rely heavily on tourism dollars, this drop is painful. New York City, the top U.S. destination for international visitors, is expected to host 2 million fewer international tourists in 2025 than it did in 2024 — a 17% decline, according to New York City Tourism + Conventions CEO Julie Coker.

“International visitors make up only 20% of our total tourists but account for 50% of visitor spending,” Coker says. “We were hoping to hit pre-Covid levels this year, so this slowdown is really disappointing.”

Canadians Are Staying Home — And It’s Hurting NYC

Historically, more Canadians visit the U.S. than any other nationality. But recent political tensions are causing many Canadians to reconsider.

Matt Levy, owner of Spread Love Tours, which offers customized New York tours, has seen business slow, especially among Canadian student groups.

“Canadians are choosing places like Halifax, Nova Scotia, or Vancouver instead,” Levy says. “They’re spending money in their own country.”

He adds that Canadian travel agents have warned clients away from the U.S., citing tariffs and political rhetoric — including Trump’s controversial comments about making Canada the 51st state.

“If this political climate doesn’t improve, 2026 could be even tougher,” Levy warns. “Forty percent of my business depends on Canadian visitors, and they’re staying home.”

Tour Guides and Small Businesses Feel the Impact

Renée Rewiski, a New York City tour guide for over 10 years, says the slowdown is the worst she’s seen since the Covid pandemic.

“This time last year, I’d have 20 people on a tour; now I have five,” she says while leading a small group through lower Manhattan. “Fewer people, fewer countries represented.”

Rewiski worries that if the trend continues, jobs in the tourism industry could be at risk.

“It’s not the policymakers or politicians who lose out—it’s people like me and my colleagues,” she says. “The folks who rely on tourism every day are the ones feeling the pain.”

Hope on the Horizon

Despite these challenges, optimism remains. NYC Tourism + Conventions is running an international campaign called “With Love + Liberty, New York City” to remind travelers that the city is open and welcoming.

Coker points to upcoming events — like the 2026 World Cup nearby in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and the U.S.’s 250th anniversary celebration next summer — as opportunities to bring international visitors back.

“We’ve hit a bump in the road,” she says, “but New York City is here, ready and waiting for you whenever you decide to visit.”

Bottom Line: NYC Still Has Its Magic — And It Wants You Back

So, if you’re thinking about a trip, remember: New York City’s doors are wide open. The concerns around travel may feel daunting, but the city’s iconic energy, culture, and warmth remain as strong as ever. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, or first-time visitor, NYC is ready to welcome you back with open arms.

Source: CNN – Fewer foreign tourists are visiting NYC. The city is feeling the pinch

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Benidorm, once a quiet Spanish fishing town, now attracts millions of tourists each year, earning the nickname “the New York of the Mediterranean.” This remarkable transformation began in the 1960s when 23-year-old Ramon Martinez Martinez left Madrid in search of better opportunities. What was once known for its tuna fishing and orange groves soon became a hotbed of tourism, offering Martinez and his family the chance to build a better life.

As the tourism boom began, Benidorm’s future was forever changed, although even Martinez could never have predicted the scale of what was to come. By 2023, nearly 2.7 million tourists flooded the town—36 times the size of its permanent population.

Today, Benidorm is a towering city of skyscrapers and busy streets, a symbol of Spain’s rapidly growing tourism industry. Yet it also remains a flashpoint for both admiration and criticism, with some hailing its economic success and others pointing to its over-commercialization. The story of Benidorm’s rise is now the subject of a fascinating new book by British photographer Rob Ball, who has captured the town’s unique landscape and thriving tourist culture.

Benidorm’s most noticeable feature is its appeal to British tourists. In fact, nearly a third of all visitors come from the UK. This has led to a unique blend of British culture and Spanish traditions, with British pubs, English breakfasts, and even horse races from England shown on giant outdoor screens. In March, thousands of Brits descend on Benidorm to watch the Cheltenham Festival, a beloved horse racing event.

Despite its popularity, Benidorm is often divisive. For some, it’s the ideal getaway—hot weather, familiar comforts, and a bustling nightlife. For others, it’s a symbol of everything that’s wrong with mass tourism—rowdy tourists and an inauthentic experience. Ball, however, chose to focus on the town’s positive aspects, highlighting its natural beauty and the happy tourists who gather on its sandy beaches.

Some Brits even refer to Benidorm as “Blackpool with sun,” comparing it to the British seaside town known for its working-class tourists. The nickname is used both affectionately and disparagingly, depending on perspective. As Ball notes, the town’s appeal is simple: it’s a place where hard-working people can unwind and have fun without judgment.

When Ramon Martinez arrived in Benidorm, the town was still relatively quiet. But Martinez, like many others, was seeking new opportunities, and he found them as a painter working on the newly built hotels along the coast. These hotels were being constructed by ambitious developers who couldn’t afford to pay him with cash, so instead, they offered shares in their businesses or apartments in their buildings. Martinez’s gamble paid off.

Behind Benidorm’s growth was the vision of Pedro Zaragoza, the town’s mayor from 1950. Zaragoza recognized the town’s untapped potential and set about turning Benidorm into a tourist hotspot. In 1959, he took the bold step of legalizing bikinis on the beaches—a move that shocked Spain’s Catholic establishment. Zaragoza even traveled to Madrid to secure the support of General Francisco Franco, who gave the green light for Benidorm to become a major tourist destination.

As package vacations became popular in the 1960s, foreign tourists flocked to Benidorm, bringing with them a new wave of growth. The town’s economy boomed, and with it, the number of high-rise buildings, including Spain’s tallest skyscrapers outside Madrid, such as the Gran Hotel Bali and Residencial Intempo.

As Benidorm’s popularity soared, so did its architectural growth. Situated between the mountains and the sea, there was little room to expand horizontally, so the town began to build upwards. The result is a skyline filled with towering structures, a stark contrast to the modest fishing village of its past.

Despite the rapid development, Benidorm has avoided the large-scale protests against mass tourism that have occurred in other parts of Spain. While the town has faced issues such as rising rents, the local attitude remains welcoming. Jaime Martinez Gallinar, CEO of the Hoteles Benidorm Group, explains that tourism is essential to the town’s economy. “During Covid, it was like a ghost town. We discovered how much we depend on the people who come here,” he says.

Gallinar is proud of Benidorm’s lively atmosphere, where people from all over the world, including Spaniards, Brits, and others, gather to enjoy the town’s unique charm. However, he is also aware of the challenges that come with such rapid growth. “The challenge now is how to grow with the natural environment. The land is almost used up. Benidorm is almost full all year round,” Gallinar reflects.

Benidorm’s transformation is a tale of ambition, vision, and opportunity—but it also brings with it the pressure of sustainability. As the demand for its beaches, bars, and high-rise accommodations continues to rise, the town faces the challenge of maintaining its natural beauty while accommodating millions of tourists.

If Benidorm is to remain a top destination, it will need to address the environmental concerns that come with such rapid expansion. However, for now, the town shows no signs of slowing down. It remains a place where the sun never sets on the tourist season and where people either love it or hate it—but can’t seem to stop visiting.

Key Takeaways:

• Benidorm’s transformation from a quiet fishing village to a bustling tourist city has drawn millions of visitors, particularly from the UK.
• The town’s rapid development, driven by visionary leaders like Pedro Zaragoza, has resulted in a skyline full of skyscrapers.
• While some view Benidorm as a symbol of uncontrolled mass tourism, others embrace its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
• Balancing growth with sustainability will be key to Benidorm’s future, as the town continues to grapple with the demands of a thriving tourism industry.

Source: – CNN – It was once a small Spanish fishing town. Now it attracts millions of tourists every year

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Mile-High Club, Officially Approved?

A California-based hot-air balloon company is taking romance to new heights—literally. Magical Adventure Balloon Rides now offers a private “Mile-High Club” flight, inviting adventurous couples to enjoy amorous moments at 5,280 feet (1,610 meters) above the Temecula countryside.

What’s Included?

• A private balloon basket with a privacy screen separating passengers from the pilot.
• A pilot wearing protective hearing gear, focused only on flying.
• Your own bedding and music playlist for a personalized experience.
• A complimentary Champagne breakfast to celebrate the occasion.

Pricing starts at $1,400 for two passengers, with an option to bring additional guests for $159 per person in a 10-person basket. If you prefer something a little more PG-rated, the company also offers wine tours, corporate events, and family-friendly rides.

Solo Travel: The Rising Trend

Not everyone is floating on cloud nine this season, but that’s okay—solo dining and travel are more popular than ever.

With millennials and Gen Z embracing solo experiences, restaurants are seeing a rise in reservations for one. Some travelers go solo for freedom, others for convenience, but either way, it’s a trend that’s here to stay.

Solo Adventures That Inspire:

• British explorer Alice Morrison is on a five-month, 2,500-kilometer trek across Saudi Arabia, earning her the nickname “Indiana Jones for girls.”
• Jason Bennett left his life in San Francisco for Colombia, where he says his happiness is now “off the charts.”

Ski Season: Where to Save and Where to Explore

As ski season heats up, North America’s most expensive resorts are under scrutiny. But don’t worry—we’ve got budget-friendly alternatives for you.

What’s Trending on the Slopes?

• “Earning your turns” – A new ski trend encouraging skiers to climb uphill before skiing down.
• Turkey’s Kaçkar Mountains – A hidden gem for heli-skiing enthusiasts looking for untouched terrain.
• 18-year-old Nepalese mountaineer Nima Rinji Sherpa – The youngest climber to conquer the world’s highest peaks, now inspiring fellow Sherpas to aim for athletic careers.

Dancing in the Ice: Viral Ballerina Moment

A mesmerizing video of ballerina Victoria Dauberville dancing on a ship’s bow in Antarctica has gone viral—so much so that people thought it was AI-generated! Filmmaker Mathieu Forget shared how they captured this unreal yet real moment.

In Case You Missed It…

Canadians boycott US travel due to Donald Trump’s policies—“We’re keeping our money at home,” say some.

Greece’s Santorini island declares a state of emergency after earthquakes force 11,000 people to flee.

A small Japanese town is attracting movie-loving couples, but overtourism is straining the locals.

Two best friends met on vacation 30 years ago… and just recreated their iconic travel photo!

Which of these travel trends caught your eye? Let us know in the comments!

Source

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Overtourism became one of the defining concerns of 2024, with major destinations continuing to face the pressures of overwhelming tourist crowds. The summer season was especially chaotic, marked by protests, heightened visitor fees, and new restrictions aimed at managing the influx. In Barcelona, locals even took to spraying tourists with water pistols as a public demonstration of frustration.

Efforts to address overtourism, including government regulations and local initiatives, gained momentum throughout the year, but the demand for travel showed no signs of slowing down. Experts predict that overtourism will remain a critical challenge well into 2025, with significant implications for visitors, residents, and the destinations themselves.

The Need for Proactive Solutions

Paula Vlamings, Chief Impact Officer of Tourism Cares, a global nonprofit focused on sustainable tourism, highlights the urgent need for a strategic, proactive approach to tourism. “How do we conduct business? How do we market destinations? How do we serve local communities impacted by tourism?” she says, emphasizing that sustainable strategies are essential for the future as more tourists continue to flock to popular sites.

While there has been some progress — such as a growing interest in lesser-known destinations — experts caution that much remains to be done. Popular European cities like Paris, Barcelona, and London are likely to remain crowded, particularly during peak summer months.

Audrey Scott, co-founder of Uncornered Market, a sustainable tourism consulting firm, points out that while some positive changes have occurred in response to overtourism, the demand for travel will likely keep popular destinations struggling with overcrowding. “The crisis from last year might have led to some positive changes,” she says, “but 2025 will still bring the same challenges.”

Increased Regulations and Tourist Fees

In an effort to manage tourist numbers, many European cities have implemented higher taxes, banned cruise ships from historic centers, and restricted short-term rentals. Venice and Amsterdam, for example, have introduced higher tourism taxes and blocked cruise ships from entering central areas. In Japan, a popular tourist town near Mount Fuji erected barriers in 2024 to curb the growing number of selfie-takers. Cities like New York and Barcelona have also cracked down on Airbnb rentals.

Protests against overtourism were widespread in 2024, with locals in places like Spain, the Netherlands, and Greece taking to the streets to voice their frustration. Issues like rising housing costs, overcrowded public transportation, and a loss of community identity were central to these protests.

However, despite these challenges, tourism numbers continued to rise. In 2024, European countries saw a significant increase in foreign arrivals, surpassing 2019 levels. Portugal, for example, saw a 26% increase in visitors. Spain projected a 5% increase in tourism, and major events like the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam and the Catholic Jubilee celebration in Rome were expected to draw millions of extra visitors.

From Destination Marketing to Management

The shift from marketing tourism to managing it has become a key trend in 2024. Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) have started adopting the term Destination Marketing and Management Organizations (DMMOs), reflecting their broader role in managing both tourism and its impact on local communities.

Barcelona, a city often highlighted as a “poster child” for overtourism, changed its tourism slogan in 2024 from “Visit Barcelona” to “This is Barcelona.” This shift signals a commitment to balancing tourism growth with sustainable practices that support local culture and communities. Scott explains that effective destination management involves creating experiences that benefit both tourists and residents, while maintaining environmental and cultural sustainability.

In addition to better management, some cities are also focusing on educating and inspiring tourists. Amsterdam’s controversial “stay away” campaign aimed at discouraging rowdy tourists and Copenhagen’s CopenPay program, which rewards sustainable travel choices, are prime examples of how destinations are taking a more targeted approach.

Sharing the Tourism Load: Exploring Alternatives

While overtourism is a serious challenge, it has also led to new opportunities for less-visited destinations to shine. Many travelers are now exploring “destination dupes” — alternative cities that offer unique experiences but with fewer crowds. For example, Antwerp, Belgium, has become increasingly popular for its food, culture, and fashion, while remaining less crowded than neighboring hotspots like Bruges or Amsterdam.

Programs like Canada’s Tourism Corridor Strategy, which promotes regions beyond its popular coastal provinces, also aim to disperse tourists more evenly. By highlighting lesser-known destinations, these initiatives aim to alleviate pressure on high-demand spots.

Progress on the Horizon

Although overtourism remains a significant issue, experts see promising signs of progress. Local governments and tourism organizations are dedicating more resources to sustainable tourism initiatives. In Lake Tahoe, for instance, a comprehensive stewardship plan has introduced solutions like vanpools and improved parking programs to reduce congestion. Such efforts reflect a growing recognition that sustainable tourism can benefit both visitors and residents.

Similarly, tourism organizations are focusing on ensuring that local communities thrive alongside growing visitor numbers. Scott cites Destination Karakol in Kyrgyzstan, where tourism is being developed with a focus on improving local residents’ quality of life. Such long-term strategies are gaining traction, offering hope for more balanced tourism models.

How Travelers Can Make a Difference

Travelers, too, have a role in mitigating overtourism. Simple adjustments — like visiting popular destinations during the off-season or choosing alternative neighborhoods — can ease the pressure on crowded locations. Vlamings encourages tourists to consider where and how they spend their money, supporting locally owned businesses and services that contribute to the community.

Tourism Cares’ Meaningful Travel Map is one tool that helps travelers discover locally-led accommodations, tours, and services in destinations worldwide. Vlamings emphasizes that sustainable tourism is about more than just avoiding crowded sites — it’s about being conscious and intentional in how we interact with places and people.

Ultimately, sustainable tourism is about making the destination a better place for both visitors and locals. Scott’s definition encapsulates this idea: “Tourism that makes the place better for local people to live.”

Conclusion: A Long Road Ahead

While overtourism remains a major challenge, the ongoing shift towards sustainable, community-focused tourism is an encouraging trend. Governments, tourism organizations, and travelers must continue to collaborate to create solutions that benefit all stakeholders. With concerted efforts and responsible travel choices, the future of tourism can be more balanced and sustainable for both visitors and the places they love to explore.

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While global travel is easier than ever, with more destinations being connected through countless new flight routes, some iconic attractions are disappearing. Whether due to natural disasters, financial struggles, or changing tastes, these once-popular sites are no longer accessible. Here’s a look at several major tourist spots you won’t be able to visit in 2025 — and perhaps never again.

1. Two Las Vegas Landmarks Gone

Las Vegas said goodbye to two major casino-hotels in 2024. The Mirage, a classic property from 1989, will be replaced by a Hard Rock hotel shaped like a giant guitar. The Tropicana, meanwhile, was demolished to make way for a new stadium for the Oakland Athletics baseball team, relocating to Vegas.
Plan B: Check out the futuristic Sphere, an event venue with a massive LED-lit orb, which transformed the Vegas Strip in 2024.

2. Chez Michou, Paris

The famous drag club Chez Michou in Paris’ Montmartre neighborhood closed in 2024 after the death of its beloved owner, Michel “Michou” Catty. Known for inspiring the musical “La Cage aux Folles,” the club was a Parisian institution for decades.
Plan B: For a taste of Parisian cabaret, head to Crazy Horse near the Champs-Elysees for burlesque and performances by top stars like Lisa from Blackpink.

3. The Rubin Museum of Art, New York

New York’s Rubin Museum, renowned for its Himalayan art collection, closed its physical location in 2024 and transitioned to a “museum without walls.”
Plan B: Explore the Nicholas Roerich Museum, a hidden gem on the Upper West Side, featuring stunning Himalayan-inspired artwork.

4. Fotografiska, New York

Fotografiska, the photography museum with a Stockholm-based origin, closed its Park Avenue location in 2024. While they hope to reopen elsewhere in NYC, for now, the museum is no more.
Plan B: Visit the International Center of Photography in the Lower East Side for dynamic photography exhibitions, talks, and book signings.

5. Wayfarers Chapel, California

California’s Wayfarers Chapel, designed by Lloyd Wright, is closing due to climate change and the risk of landslides in the area. The chapel will be dismantled and stored until a new location is found.
Plan B: Explore Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, known for its striking glass architecture, just 40 miles west.

6. Private Streets in Gion, Kyoto

Kyoto’s historic Gion neighborhood—famous for its geishas—is limiting public access to many side streets and alleys, to preserve privacy for residents and trainees.
Plan B: Learn more about geisha culture at the Gion Kagai Art Museum, which opened in 2024 and offers performances and exhibits on geishas.

7. Rothko Chapel, Houston

The iconic Rothko Chapel in Houston suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Beryl in 2024, and it’s currently closed indefinitely.
Plan B: Check out Rothko Rooms at museums like the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC, or Tate Modern in London for a dose of Rothko’s mesmerizing art.

8. Living Computers: Museum + Labs, Seattle

Seattle’s Living Computers: Museum + Labs, showcasing vintage tech and interactive exhibits, closed its doors in 2024. Founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the museum’s collection will be auctioned off.
Plan B: Visit the Museum of Pop Culture, also supported by Allen, for a colorful and eclectic collection of pop culture and sci-fi history.

9. “Double Arch” at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

In 2024, the Double Arch in Utah’s Glen Canyon collapsed due to natural erosion and changes in water levels, taking one of the region’s most iconic rock formations with it.
Plan B: Visit Arches National Park nearby, or explore other natural landmarks like Goblin Valley and Coral Pink Sand Dunes for beautiful, uncrowded views.

While these closures are sad, they open the door for new experiences. Whether visiting other cultural institutions or exploring different natural wonders, there’s always something new to discover. Keep exploring!

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