This paper presents a scan of futures inquiry trends, an outline of recent advances in relevant theory, and critically reviews similar ‘transition’-focused and related projects in Europe and the United States. Five leading projects are described and examined: ‘Retrofit 2050’, ‘Urban Transition Labs’, ‘SPREAD Sustainable Lifestyles 2050’, ‘Future Car(d) Urbanism’, and ‘Futurescape City Tours’. Collectively, the projects epitomise four key trends in visioning and scenario practices.