Move over, New York, there’s a new heavyweight champion in America’s culinary scene. A new study commissioned by Visit Anaheim and conducted by Talker Research has revealed that Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has officially topped the list as the nation’s No. 1 foodcation destination, beating out the Big Apple itself.
The survey of 2,000 Americans explored the growing trend of “foodcations,” trips taken specifically to experience a destination’s cuisine. According to the findings, 21% of travelers have already taken a food-focused getaway, with the average respondent traveling 484 miles and spending around $910 on their most recent trip. But food lovers are willing to pay up to $1,929 if it means tasting something that’s been on their must-try list.
At the top of that list? The iconic Philly cheesesteak, a gooey, savory sandwich that’s become synonymous with the City of Brotherly Love. For many Americans, no culinary pilgrimage is complete without biting into that perfect combo of shaved beef, melted cheese, and soft hoagie roll.
New York City came in second for its world-famous New York-style pizza, while Kansas City and Missouri ranked third for their legendary BBQ. In fourth place was Chicago, Illinois, home to deep-dish pizza that’s more casserole than slice, and rounding out the top five was Central Texas, celebrated for its slow-smoked brisket and classic BBQ culture.
Interestingly, most respondents said they prefer “hole-in-the-wall” eateries (41%) over big-name restaurants (14%) when traveling, though 45% like a mix of both.
The top “foodcations” that Americans would like to experience
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Philly cheesesteak
New York City, New York; New York-style pizza
Missouri and Kansas; Kansas City BBQ
Chicago, Illinois; deep-dish pizza
Central Texas; Texas BBQ
Memphis, Tennessee; Memphis BBQ
Alaska; King crab
Boston, Massachusetts; lobster roll (warm with butter)
Louisiana; gumbo
Southeast; biscuits and gravy
Maine; lobster roll (cold with mayonnaise)
California; In-N-Out Burger
Maryland; Chesapeake Bay crab
California; California-style pizza
New York City, New York; pastrami on rye
Chicago, Illinois; Italian beef sandwich
Oklahoma; chicken-fried steak
Arizona and New Mexico; Navajo tacos and fry bread
Napa Valley, California; wine
San Antonio, Texas; Tex-Mex