USA TODAY 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards - USA TODAY 10BEST

We want to know what's on your mind! Make your opinion count by helping us choose the 10 best across several travel and lifestyle categories. A panel of experts makes nominations in awards covering food and drink, shopping, sports and outdoors, travel destinations, lodging, attractions — the list goes on. It's up to you to help crown the winners by casting your votes.

As the sun dips below the horizon and the lifts come to a halt, ski towns across the U.S. come alive with après-ski energy.

For those seeking a more laid-back winter sport, cross-country skiing offers a peaceful alternative to downhill thrills.

Not everyone is drawn to the adrenaline rush of skiing or snowboarding — and not all snow lovers have the time or gear to hit the slopes. That’s part of what makes snow tubing so irresistible.

What’s better than a day carving turns on the slopes? Extending the adventure with an overnight or multi-day stay.

As the leaves begin to turn and a chill creeps into the air, ski areas across the United States are gearing up for another thrilling winter season.

These days, on-mountain restaurants are upping their game with elevated menus, cozy atmospheres, and unbeatable convenience.

Even the most dazzlingly talented skiers had to start somewhere, and ski schools are a tried-and-true path to mastering the fundamentals.

When it comes to gearing up for the slopes, visiting the right ski shop can make all the difference.

Fresh powder and easy slope access are just the beginning — the best ski towns offer so much more, like top-notch restaurants, cozy lodging options, and charming shops.

Looking for the perfect gift for someone who’s always on the go? Whether they’re jetting off to client meetings or hopping between conferences, business travelers appreciate thoughtful items that make life on the road smoother.

This holiday season, celebrate the families in your life with a gift that brings everyone together.

Know someone who’s always chasing their next great bite? These foodie-friendly gifts are sure to satisfy.

The jet-setter in your life is always on the move — from first-class flights to five-star stays, they know how to travel in style. They'll appreciate gifts that blend elegance with practicality.

This holiday season, show your appreciation for the outdoor enthusiasts in your life with a gift that supports their next big adventure.

Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a cross-country RV adventure, road trippers know that the right gear can turn a good trip into a great one.

Texas-style barbecue is all about letting the meat speak for itself. No heavy sauces, no distractions — just beef brisket (and other cuts) cooked low and slow over hardwood, seasoned simply with salt and pepper to let the smoke do the talking.

Kansas City-style barbecue is a feast for the senses: smoky, saucy, and unapologetically bold. Known for its wide variety of meats cooked low and slow over hardwood and finished with a thick, sweet tomato-based sauce, this style brings big flavor to every bite.

Low and slow: that's the Carolina way. Renowned for its tender, hardwood-smoked pork and tangy vinegar, ketchup, or mustard-based sauces, Carolina-style barbecue is a regional treasure that's rightly earned fans all over the country.

Memphis-style barbecue is all about balance — smoky, savory pork cooked low and slow over hardwood, seasoned with a bold dry rub or finished with a tangy, tomato-based sauce. It’s a style that's deeply rooted in tradition but leaves plenty of room for personality on the plate.

A great cup of coffee can set the tone for the entire day, and coffee chains make it easy to find one wherever you are.

Sometimes you just need a quick pick-me-up, and that's where drive-thru coffee comes in. You can just order, pay, and go — and you can often do this on an app ahead of time, further streamlining the process.

There’s something special about settling into an independent coffee shop. Beyond serving great coffee, these locally owned cafés foster a sense of community, offering welcoming spaces where regulars are known by name and every visit feels a little more personal.

With a coffee subscription, you'll never have to worry about running out of coffee again. Plus, you can choose from different roasts, origins, and flavors to suit your personal taste, as well as save time and money.

Enjoy your favorite hot or iced coffee on the go with a travel coffee mug or tumbler. Coming in a variety of colors and designs, these vessels also offer a way to express your personality and style — all while preserving the quality and taste of your beverage.