Restaurants are shaping summer travel plans across the U.S., with nearly all domestic travelers planning to dine out while on vacation, according to a new report from the National Restaurant Association.
The association's 2026 Summer Travel and Dining Report, based on a May survey of more than 1,000 consumers, found that 55 percent of Americans plan to take at least one overnight domestic trip this summer. Among those travelers, 98 percent said they expect to visit a restaurant during their trip, making dining the most popular vacation activity ahead of shopping, sightseeing and beach visits.
For restaurant operators, the findings underscore the importance of travel-related demand during the summer season. The report notes that $3 of every $10 spent at U.S. restaurants comes from travelers and visitors, highlighting the role tourism plays in restaurant revenue.
Travelers are planning to engage with restaurants in multiple ways while away from home. According to the survey, 93 percent expect to dine in at restaurants, 90 percent plan to use takeout, delivery or drive-thru options, and 84 percent anticipate visiting coffee shops or snack-oriented concepts.
The report also found that travelers are increasingly seeking local food experiences. Nearly eight in 10 respondents (79 percent) said they plan to seek out restaurants known for the foods and flavors of their destination, while 88 percent intend to visit a restaurant they have never tried before. Another 87 percent said they rely on recommendations from family and friends when choosing unfamiliar restaurants.
"Restaurants are more than a place to eat; they're a gateway to local culture," Chad Moutray, chief economist for the National Restaurant Association, said in a statement. "Whether it's a coastal seafood shack or a neighborhood taqueria, dining is how travelers connect with the places they visit and make memories that last long after the trip ends."
Despite consumers' willingness to explore new dining experiences while traveling, value remains a key consideration. The survey found that 90 percent of travelers consider convenient location and affordability important factors when selecting a restaurant during a trip. Seven in 10 respondents said they actively look for restaurants offering daily specials, discounts or other value-focused promotions.
The findings suggest that operators located in tourism markets may benefit from highlighting regional specialties, promoting value-driven offerings and making it easy for travelers to discover their concepts. As summer travel activity continues, restaurants remain a central part of how consumers experience destinations across the country.