The Top 5 Destinations for Student Music Travel
Every year, student musicians across the country step beyond their rehearsal rooms to perform, learn and grow through travel. While every program’s goals are different, one thing is clear: some destinations consistently rise to the top. Based on Music Travel Consultants’ 2025 trips, these five destinations stood out as the most popular choices for bands, choirs and orchestras. From cultural hubs to performance-packed cities, here’s our countdown of the Top 5 destinations for student music travel, starting at No. 5 and ending with the most-traveled destination of the year.
No. 5 — Nashville
Music City with Big Educational Impact
Nashville earns the No. 5 spot thanks to its deep musical roots and strong performance opportunities for student groups.
Programs traveling to Nashville benefit from:
- A city built around live music and songwriting
- Performance venues that welcome student ensembles
- A walkable downtown packed with musical history
For choirs, bands and orchestras alike, Nashville offers an experience that connects classroom learning to real-world music culture.
No. 4 — Chicago
A Cultural Powerhouse for Student Performers
Chicago remains a go-to destination for music educators seeking balance: strong performance opportunities paired with rich educational experiences.
Why directors choose Chicago:
- Renowned concert halls and performance venues
- A rich musical legacy spanning jazz, classical and contemporary styles
- Museums and attractions that easily support curriculum goals
Chicago consistently delivers a big-city experience while remaining accessible for many programs.
No. 3 — Southern California
Music City with Big Educational Impact
Southern California, including Los Angeles and Anaheim, takes the No. 3 spot for its unique blend of performance, education and inspiration.
Music programs are drawn to Southern California for:
- Festival and competition performance opportunities
- Exposure to the entertainment and recording industries
- Memorable experiences that reward students beyond the stage
These trips often spark creativity and open students’ eyes to future possibilities in the arts.
No. 2 — New York City
Iconic Stages and Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences
Coming in at No. 2, New York City remains one of the most inspiring destinations for student musicians.
Programs choose New York City for:
- Historic and professional-level performance opportunities
- Broadway shows and behind-the-scenes educational experiences
- An unmatched cultural environment that motivates students to perform at their best
For many students, a trip to New York City becomes a defining moment in their musical journey.
No. 1 — Orlando
The Most-Traveled Destination for Music Travel Consultants’ Groups
Taking the No. 1 spot by a wide margin, Orlando continues to be the most popular destination for Music Travel Consultants’ student groups.
Orlando stands out for its:
- High-quality performance festivals and adjudicated events
- Educational clinics designed specifically for student musicians
- Theme park experiences that create unforgettable rewards for students
With flexible travel options and experiences that appeal to a wide range of age levels, Orlando remains a favorite for both first-time travelers and returning programs.
Why These Destinations Rise to the Top
Across all five destinations, common themes emerge:
- Meaningful performance opportunities for student musicians
- Educational experiences that align with classroom instruction
- Infrastructure that supports safe, well-organized group travel
At Music Travel Consultants, we don’t just plan trips. We partner with educators to design experiences that support musical growth, student engagement and lasting memories.
Ready to Start Planning?
Whether your program is drawn to the excitement of Orlando, the inspiration of New York City or the musical heritage of Nashville, our team is here to help.
From itinerary design to performance coordination and on-the-road support, Music Travel Consultants is proud to support music educators every step of the way.
