Best New Travel Attractions of 2017: Top Openings 11-20
Imagine training with the world’s top rugby team, exploring profound Buddhist art, or recording in Prince’s personal studio. These extraordinary experiences and more became reality in 2017 with groundbreaking new openings worldwide.
Lonely Planet’s curated countdown of the year’s most compelling attractions inspires even seasoned travelers to rediscover favorites or venture into the unknown. Discover the top 10 here. Stay updated with ongoing travel news to be first in line for future highlights.
11. National Museum of African American History & Culture, Washington D.C., USA
After over a decade of development, this landmark museum opened as the first national institution dedicated solely to the rich, resilient history of African Americans. Featuring 36,000 artifacts—many donated by everyday people—it weaves personal stories into a vivid narrative from the 1850s onward.
12. First Commercial Flights from Cuba to USA
Ending a 55-year ban, commercial flights now connect the US and Cuba, unlocking the island’s storied history and vibrant culture for more travelers. With thawing diplomatic ties, tourism is booming—following record visitor numbers in 2015 and 2016—and 2017 promises even greater access.
13. Eataly World, Bologna, Italy
In Italy’s culinary heartland, Eataly World (eatalyworld.it) spans 20 acres as a ‘field-to-fork’ paradise. Explore six immersive ‘worlds’ tracing produce from farm to table, then savor dishes at 25 restaurants. Highlights include chocolate fountains, a craft beer factory, and zones for truffles and oils.
14. All Blacks Experience, Auckland, New Zealand
Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s rugby passion at this interactive center. Master All Blacks tactics, test your skills against the legends, and uncover the Haka’s cultural significance. Perfect for fans visiting off-season.
15. Royal Opera House, Mumbai, India
India’s sole surviving opera house (royaloperahouse.in) reopens after 22 years, restored to baroque splendor with gilded ceilings and stained-glass windows. Expect a vibrant lineup of performances reclaiming its cultural legacy.
16. New Holland Island, St Petersburg, Russia
This historic artificial island transforms into a public park, arts hub, and entertainment venue. Newly accessible after nearly 300 years, it features restored buildings, playgrounds, shops, design spaces, a herb garden, and winter ice skating.
17. Art 42, Paris, France
France’s inaugural street art museum (art42.fr) showcases works by Banksy, Speedy Graphito, and Shepard Fairey in a free-flowing space. Reserve free entry Tuesdays and Saturdays for an uncurated urban art adventure.
18. Prince’s Paisley Park, Minnesota, USA
The iconic Paisley Park Studios (officialpaisleypark.com)—Prince’s 30-year creative haven—now welcomes fans. Choose themed tours: record over his hits, join after-dark dance parties, or enjoy brunch with rare footage screenings.
19. The Chung Tai Chan World Museum, Puli, Taiwan
Dubbed the ‘Louvre of Buddhist art,’ this museum adjoins the towering 43-storey Chung Tai Chan Temple. Explore 18 Tang-dynasty-style halls housing vast collections of illustrations, sutras, and statues.
20. Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve, Malawi
Witness one of history’s largest elephant relocations: 500 elephants moved from Malawi’s overpopulated Majete Wildlife Reserve to Nkhotakota. Enhanced management and conservation efforts elevate both wildlife and visitor experiences.
