New research finds nostalgia is influencing where Americans travel, with summer emerging as the peak season for memory-driven trips
Anaheim, Calif. (June 15, 2026) — Visit Anaheim, the official destination marketing organization for Anaheim, is partnering with skateboarding legend Tony Hawk to spotlight a defining travel trend shaping 2026: nostalgia-driven travel. The campaign highlights Anaheim as a destination where memories are not only made, but meaningfully revisited, offering travelers a chance to reconnect with the places and moments that shaped them.
The partnership with Tony Hawk brings a cultural lens to this trend, reflecting Anaheim’s longstanding influence on skateboarding and Southern California lifestyle. From its role in defining early skate culture to its continued relevance today, Anaheim remains a place where personal history and cultural legacy intersect.
“Few people embody Southern California culture quite like Tony Hawk,” said Scott Oklin, Chief Marketing Officer, Visit Anaheim. “His story is deeply connected to Orange County, and many of the experiences that defined his career happened right here in communities like Anaheim. His experience reflects the powerful connection people have to the places that helped shape their lives, making him a natural partner for this campaign.”
Hawk, who spent his early years skating throughout Orange County, including Anaheim, will help bring the nostalgia travel trend to life by reflecting on the places, experiences and memories that influenced his legendary career. That connection is especially timely as Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center is currently showcasing Concrete Wave: Vans at 60 & The Birth of Anaheim’s Skateboard Culture, highlighting Anaheim’s pivotal role on skateboarding and creative expression.
Launching just days before the official start of summer, the campaign aligns with Visit Anaheim's “100 Days Til Summer” promotion, encouraging travelers to plan their summer getaways and take advantage of savings at participating hotels.
The timing also coincides with growing consumer interest in nostalgia-driven travel. New research commissioned by Visit Anaheim and conducted by Talker Research found that nearly half of Americans (48%) believe 2026 will be a “year of nostalgia,” while more than half (53%) say nostalgia influences where they travel. The study also found that nearly one in two nostalgia-driven trips (49%) take place during the summer months, with June emerging as the peak travel period.
“Our research shows nostalgia isn’t just about looking back,” said Oklin. “For many people, it provides a sense of comfort, joy and connection. As travelers plan their summer vacations, they’re increasingly seeking out experiences that remind them of the moments and traditions that matter most.”
Travelers are encouraged to book their summer trip to Anaheim now as part of Visit Anaheim’s “100 Days Til Summer” promotion and rediscover the joy of their own nostalgia story.
About Visit Anaheim
Founded in 1961, Visit Anaheim is the official destination marketing organization for Anaheim and Garden Grove, driving growth and innovation in the region. Through transformative projects like OCVIBE and DisneylandForward, Visit Anaheim is shaping the future of tourism and positioning Anaheim as the world’s ultimate playground. To learn more about Visit Anaheim, visit: visitanaheim.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
