Recent Upgraded Points Report Reveals the Best and Worst U.S. Cities for a Digital Detox

AUSTIN, Texas, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- From mountain retreats to desert hideaways, a new study from Upgraded Points ranks 100 U.S. cities on their ability to help travelers truly unplug from all the gadgets in their lives.

"As screen fatigue reaches epidemic levels, more travelers are seeking vacations where Wi-Fi is optional and fresh air is mandatory," said Keri Stooksbury, editor-in-chief at Upgraded Points. "This study focuses on highlighting the cities that invite you to log off, look up, and truly recharge."

Study Methodology

The study evaluated 100 park-rich cities (sourced from the Trust for Public Land) across 14 weighted criteria that influence a screen-free getaway. Each factor, from internet speed and 5G coverage to hiking trails and the availability of off-grid Airbnbs, was scored on a 0–5 scale.

Scores were then summed and normalized to a total of 0–100, with higher values indicating superior digital-detox conditions. Off-the-grid Airbnb analysis focused on "entire home" cabin and farmhouse listing availability, average nightly cost, and guest ratings, while wellness resources encompassed spas, retreats, saunas, and massage studios.

The Top 5 Best U.S. Cities for a Digital Detox

For travelers craving a true escape from digital life, these cities offer the perfect blend of unplugged charm and off-grid amenities:

1. Colorado Springs, Colorado (Score: 63.8)
   With 145 Mbps average internet speeds, just 64% 5G coverage, 56 trail miles per 100K residents, and 60 off-the-grid Airbnbs per 100K residents (4.92-star average), Colorado Springs delivers pristine trails, peaceful cabins, and 13 wellness centers per 100K residents for a top-rated digital detox.
   
   
2. Boise, Idaho (Score: 62.9)
   Boise boasts only 34% 5G coverage and among the lowest artificial brightness levels for stargazing, plus 66 trail miles per 100K residents and affordable off-grid stays at $212 per night (4.91 stars), with budget-friendly amenities that keep the focus on nature, not notifications.
   
   
3. Henderson, Nevada (Score: 62.7)
   Nestled near the desert edge, Henderson offers 62% 5G coverage, 90 trail miles per 100K residents, 157 off-grid cabins per 100K people (average cost $245), and robust wellness infrastructure, making it easy to swap screen time for fresh air.
   
   
4. North Las Vegas, Nevada (Score: 62.4)
   Covering 25% of its area in parks, North Las Vegas pairs low 5G coverage (63%) with 188 off-grid stays per 100K residents at just $206 per night, plus 11 spas, 93 spa employees, and 16 walking loops per 100K residents, creating a surprisingly serene desert retreat.
   
   
5. Madison, Wisconsin (Score: 61.3)
   Madison shines with low light pollution, 117 Mbps average internet speeds, 51 off-grid Airbnbs per 100K residents (4.91 stars), and 4.55 community gardens per 100K residents.

But when it comes to dialing back screen time, these five urban centers are more likely to tie users to their devices:

• Newark, New Jersey — Score: 21.1
  
  
• Jersey City, New Jersey — Score: 23.9
  
  
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania — Score: 27.2
  
  
• Miami, Florida — Score: 28.5
  
  
• Chicago, Illinois — Score: 30.2

For the full top ten list and other detailed results, check out the complete study online.

About Upgraded Points LLC

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Upgraded Points is a travel company that helps to demystify the complex world of travel and credit cards. Launched in 2016 by Alex Miller, Upgraded Points uses targeted research efforts and in-depth studies to help travelers maximize their travel, points, and experiences. Learn more at: www.UpgradedPoints.com.

Media Contact: 

Alex Miller, Founder
1-214-646-8866
[email protected] 

SOURCE Upgraded Points LLC