Color Factory lands on Expedia’s 2027 travel trends list

Expedia Group named Color Factory one of the experiences to try in 2027 under its new “Un-Adulting” travel trend, highlighting the Chicago-based immersive art experience alongside destinations including Tokyo Disneyland, Xcaret and Dreamworld. The recognition points to growing traveler interest in playful, low-stress trips centered on joy, nostalgia and shared experiences.

Why it matters: - Expedia Group’s 2027 travel trends report puts a spotlight on experiences that help travelers step away from routine and responsibility. - Color Factory’s inclusion signals that immersive art experiences are becoming part of the travel conversation, not just local entertainment. - The report also suggests demand for “Un-Adulting” trips could translate into real travel bookings in 2027.

What happened: - Expedia Group named Color Factory among the top experiences to try in 2027 in its newly released Unpack ’27: The Trends in Travel report. - The report places Color Factory inside Expedia’s emerging “Un-Adulting” travel trend. - Expedia listed Color Factory alongside Tokyo Disneyland in Japan, Xcaret in Mexico and Dreamworld on Australia’s Gold Coast. - Color Factory said the recognition reflects its focus on joy, play and human connection through color.

The details: - Expedia’s annual Unpack report uses data from Expedia, Hotels.com, Vrbo, global traveler research and social listening. - The report identifies experiences and behaviors expected to shape travel in the year ahead. - Expedia describes “Un-Adulting” as travelers seeking a break from adult responsibilities through playful, nostalgic and spontaneous experiences. - The report says 48% of surveyed travelers are likely to book an Un-Adulting trip in 2027. - Among travelers interested in the trend, 69% cited enjoying a carefree day as a motivation. - Another 62% cited spending quality time with loved ones. - A further 53% said they want a genuine break from responsibilities. - Color Factory said its experience is designed to let guests let go, embrace curiosity and experience the world with a renewed sense of wonder. - Since 2017, Color Factory has offered immersive installations built around the joy of color. - The experience uses participatory rooms designed with local and international artists and collaborators. - Color Factory opened first in San Francisco in 2017 as a temporary location. - The brand later expanded to permanent locations in New York in 2018, Houston in 2019 and Chicago in 2022. - The experience is aimed at traveling friends, couples and families looking to make memorable moments together. - More information and tickets are available here. - Color Factory also links to its Instagram account for updates and social content: Instagram.

Between the lines: - The report’s travel trend framing suggests consumers are looking for experiences that feel more playful and less utilitarian. - Color Factory fits that shift because the product is built around participation, sensory immersion and shared experience rather than passive viewing. - Expedia’s inclusion gives the company third-party validation at a moment when experiential travel is competing for attention with traditional destinations.

What's next: - Expedia’s 2027 trend list may influence how travelers plan trips around playful attractions and family-friendly experiences. - Color Factory can use the recognition to reach new visitors who are seeking “Un-Adulting” getaways in 2027. - The broader trend could encourage more immersive attractions to position themselves as travel-worthy destinations.