If chasing wellness is your biggest priority, certain states make for better getaway destinations than others.
America’s Health Rankings’ 2025 annual report (produced by the United Health Foundation) provides comprehensive data on health and well-being in different states, which travelers may find helpful while determining where to visit next. Considerations for the rankings included each state’s social and economic factors, physical environment, clinical care, health outcomes, and more. The healthiest states were largely dominated by states in New England (New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Utah), whereas the least healthy states were primarily in the South (Louisiana, West Virginia, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Alabama).
If you’re interested in which healthy states to have on your radar, keep reading. The picks below are travel-friendly destinations that ranked within the top 10 of America’s Health Rankings’ 2025 report.
What Are the Best States To Visit For A Wellness Getaway?
Hawaii
When it comes to health, Hawaii ranks highly compared to other states thanks to its low levels of obesity and instances of adults experiencing frequent mental distress. Also, cigarette smoking is low, and the percentage of adults who exercise is higher than average.
Combined with its established hospitality sector and stunning natural beauty, Hawaii is definitely one of the U.S.’ best states for a wellness getaway. All types of travelers can find healthy activities, food, and ways to relax in “The Aloha State.” That’s whether they’re visiting solo, with a significant other, or with families or friends. If spa days, soaking up Vitamin D, and water sports make you feel like you’re living your best life, Hawaii is the best pick for you.
Colorado
According to the report and data, Colorado has a low obesity prevalence and a low score for economic hardship. Additionally, the state ranked highly for its air and water quality, as well as for its percentage of adults who exercise. The latter is no surprise as cities such as Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge are major hubs for skiing and winter sports.
Colorado is also jam-packed with ways to enjoy other forms of outdoor recreation, from skateboarding and rollerblading to hiking, mountain climbing, and white-water rafting. In addition to its access to the Rocky Mountains, 300 annual days of sunshine, and dramatic landscapes, the state is perfect for sporty adventures, crisp, clean air, and nature bathing.
Utah
The report notes Utah as having a low prevalence of excessive drinking. Also, the state ranks highly for its percentage of adults who exercise and do not have multiple chronic health conditions. The Beehive State is regarded as being one of America’s most stunning, so it’s an ideal pick if enjoying nature makes you feel your best. A major draw is its “Mighty 5” national parks, visited by people from all over the world, including Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion.
Utah is one of the best states for a wellness getaway for those interested in awe-inspiring scenic landscapes, luxury spas, and sober living. If glamping is your idea of the perfect vacay, there are opportunities for that too. Moreover, the state offers an immense variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, ATVing, skiing, boating, and dark sky tourism.
Vermont
According to the report, Vermont boasts high rates of volunteerism and exercising adults who eat their fruits and veggies. Additionally, the state has low rates of obesity and adults who vape or get insufficient sleep. Those wellness factors position “The Green Mountain State” as a premier destination for voluntourism (studies show that volunteering can offer various mental and physical wellness benefits), healthy eating, and being active.
To avoid the brunt of New England’s chilling winters, the best time to visit Vermont is during late summer through fall (July through October). That’s unless you’re going for skiing, for which winter is best. Enjoy laid-back outdoor activities like walking, hiking, swimming, and biking during the warmer months. Volunteering and charming farm-to-table dinners can be done indoors or outdoors in any season.
Massachusetts
Another of the best states for a wellness getaway, the report highlights that Massachusetts is a leading place for health. The state boasts low obesity and smoking/vaping rates. Offering more than just Boston’s city life, “The Bay State” is home to some of America’s most iconic coastal destinations, including Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. Particularly in the warmer months, these oases are the perfect settings for relaxed sailing, swimming, and sunbathing.
For other forms of wellness, Massachusetts offers yoga, spa, and nature retreats in the mountains if you head into the Berkshires.
