Travel isn’t just about hitting the big-name spots everyone raves about. There are many hidden treasures across the United States, and these underrated destinations offer a unique experience, minus the crowds.
Are you ready to discover our 10 underrated travel spots that might become your new favorites? We have visited all of them!
1. Devil’s Tower, Wyoming
- Best Time: May to September for nice weather and lots of outdoor activities
- Family Rating: Fantastic for families who are into nature and history
- Price Range: $$
Imagine a colossal rock formation rising up from the earth as if pointing to the sky.
Location
Devil’s Tower is in northeastern Wyoming, nestled in a rural area. The closest town, Sundance, is about an hour’s drive away. The surrounding region is a mix of forested lands and grasslands.
Why is it great?
From our perspective, Devil’s Tower offers an escape from the usual tourist traps. Imagine standing at the base of this massive geological formation, looking up at its grandeur.
The experience feels both humbling and invigorating. For rock climbers, the vertical walls are a dream come true, offering challenging routes. And if you’re not into climbing, the hiking trails provide a different, but equally awesome, way to experience the beauty.
What is special?
This gigantic tower isn’t just another rock; it’s a geological marvel. The unique columnar structure makes it stand out. Plus, Native American legends about the tower’s origins add a mystical quality to your visit.
Things to Do
- Rock Climbing: The vertical walls offer diverse climbing routes, but make sure to follow the National Park Service guidelines.
- Hiking: Walk along various trails surrounding the tower, each offering unique views and connection with nature.
- Wildlife Watching: Spot deer, prairie dogs, and many species of birds. Take binoculars for a closer look.
- Cultural Programs: The visitor center organizes educational programs. They’re super informative and great for all ages.
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2. Letchworth State Park, New York
- Best Time: Fall for stunning foliage; summer for camping and water fun
- Family Rating: Super fun for both kids and adults
- Price Range: $$
Welcome to a place often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East.”
Location
Situated in western New York, Letchworth State Park is about an hour’s drive from Rochester. The park stretches over a whopping 14,000 acres along the Genesee River.
Why is it great?
Visiting Letchworth State Park feels like you’ve stumbled upon a secret wonderland. With its deep gorges and high waterfalls, every viewpoint feels like a new world. The park has something for everyone.
Kids love the adventure playgrounds, while adults can’t get enough of the hiking trails that offer jaw-dropping views. And let’s not forget about the white-water rafting that gives you a dose of adrenaline while you take in the scenery.
What is special?
The park is famous for three significant waterfalls, offering spectacular photo opportunities. The deep gorges surrounded by lush forests add to the dramatic landscape.
Things to Do
- Hiking: Over 66 miles of hiking trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re a newbie or an expert, you’ll find a trail that’s just right.
- White-Water Rafting: Guided rafting tours give you a thrilling experience, along with a unique view of the park.
- Photography: The waterfalls, gorges, and wildlife are just begging to be captured on camera. It’s a photographer’s paradise.
- Picnicking: You’ll find many picnic areas. Great spots to relax and munch on some goodies.
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3. Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Best Time: Late spring to early fall for warm weather and outdoor activities
- Family Rating: Ideal for families wanting a unique, car-free experience
- Price Range: $$$
Imagine stepping into a time machine where cars are nonexistent, and horse-drawn carriages are the norm.
Location
Mackinac Island is in Lake Huron, sandwiched between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. To get there, you’ll need to hop on a ferry.
Why is it great?
Visiting Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time. The absence of cars means you hear the clip-clop of horse hooves and the chatter of people instead of engines.
You can walk or cycle freely without worrying about traffic, making it an incredibly relaxing experience. And don’t even get me started on the fudge shops! They’re everywhere, and they’re delicious.
What is special?
The entire island is a National Historic Landmark. You’ll find well-preserved Victorian architecture and historical museums that make the whole place feel like a living history lesson.
Things to Do
- Cycling: A scenic 8-mile path goes around the island. Rent a bike and enjoy the ride!
- Horseback Riding: There are several stables offering riding lessons or leisurely rides.
- Fort Mackinac: Visit this historic fort to get a glimpse of military life in the 1800s.
- Shopping: From fudge shops to boutiques, you’ll find unique items to take back home.
Check Hotel Deals for Mackinac Island
4. Orcas Island, Washington
- Best Time: Summer for the best weather and outdoor fun
- Family Rating: Perfect for families who love nature and the great outdoors
- Price Range: $$
Discover an island paradise that’s not just about spotting killer whales.
Location
Orcas Island is part of the San Juan Islands in Washington State. You’ll need to take a ferry from Anacortes, Washington to get there.
Why is it great?
Ah, Orcas Island—a nature lover’s dream. The hiking here is sublime, with trails leading you through lush forests and stunning views of the surrounding waters. If you’re into kayaking, the coastline is dotted with hidden coves and secluded beaches.
The island gives you a sense of peace and tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a place where you can truly unplug and become one with nature.
What is special?
The island is home to an incredibly rich ecosystem. And yes, you can actually spot orcas here, among other wildlife, making it a must-visit for any animal enthusiast.
Things to Do
- Kayaking: Rent a kayak and explore the numerous bays and inlets.
- Hiking: Whether you’re looking for a gentle hike or a challenging ascent, you’ll find it here.
- Whale Watching: Take a tour to see orcas, humpbacks, and more.
- Arts and Crafts: Visit local galleries to see the works of local artists and craftsmen.
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5. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
- Best Time: Late spring to early fall to avoid extreme temperatures
- Family Rating: Excellent for adventure-loving families
- Price Range: $$
Have you ever seen a desert right next to a mountain range? You can here.
Location
Great Sand Dunes National Park is in southern Colorado. It’s a bit isolated, making it an ideal spot for those looking to get away from it all.
Why is it great?
You get a two-for-one deal with vast sand dunes and beautiful mountains. It feels like you’re on another planet. Families love sledding down the dunes, and the stargazing here is top-notch. This park is lesser-known, meaning fewer crowds and more space to explore.
What is special?
The park houses the tallest sand dunes in North America, reaching heights of up to 750 feet. The dunes sit right next to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, creating a unique and contrasting landscape.
Things to Do
- Sandboarding: Rent a sandboard and slide down the dunes. It’s like snowboarding but warmer!
- Hiking: Explore the mountain trails and enjoy panoramic views.
- Stargazing: The park has a Dark Sky designation, making it a haven for night sky enthusiasts.
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for rare animals like the Great Sand Dunes tiger beetle.
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6. Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Best Time: Year-round, depending on what you enjoy
- Family Rating: Suitable for all ages
- Price Range: $
Where else can you find a city named after its naturally occurring hot springs?
Location
Hot Springs is located in central Arkansas and is part of the Ouachita Mountains.
Why is it great?
The natural hot springs have been a big draw for years, but there’s more. Bathhouse Row, with its vintage architecture, feels like a step back in time. Families enjoy walking through the historical district and learning about the health benefits of the springs.
What is special?
The hot springs here aren’t just any springs; they’ve been preserved and utilized for therapeutic baths for hundreds of years.
Things to Do
- Bathhouse Row: Experience a spa day like no other in these historical bathhouses.
- Hiking: Explore the surrounding Ouachita Mountains.
- Lake Activities: Boating, fishing, and more at the nearby lakes.
- Garvan Woodland Gardens: Visit this beautiful botanical garden, especially stunning in the spring.
Check Hotel Deals for Hot Springs
7. Door County, Wisconsin
- Best Time: Summer and fall for outdoor activities and festivals
- Family Rating: Great for families who enjoy nature and small-town charm
- Price Range: $$
Think of it as Cape Cod, but in the Midwest.
Location
Door County is a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan in Wisconsin.
Why is it great?
Door County gives you that coastal feel without actually being on the coast. With its cute little villages and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, it’s a perfect family getaway. The cherry on top? Literally, cherries. They’re famous here!
What is special?
The area is renowned for its cherry orchards, providing a unique agricultural experience. Don’t miss the cherry pies!
Things to Do
- Cherry Picking: Visit a local orchard and pick your own cherries.
- Water Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying the beaches.
- Lighthouses: Take a tour and learn about the maritime history.
- Art Galleries: The area has a vibrant arts scene, showcasing local talent.
8. The Outer Banks, North Carolina
- Best Time: Late spring to early fall for warm weather and water activities
- Family Rating: Great for families who love the beach and history
- Price Range: $$
Where the wild horses roam free, and the pirate legends live on.
Location
The Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina.
Why is it great?
The Outer Banks are way more than just beaches. Think lighthouses, shipwrecks, and even wild horses. It’s a unique blend of nature and history that’ll keep both kids and adults excited.
What is special?
Wild horses really do roam free here, especially in areas like Corolla and Shackleford Banks.
Things to Do
- Beachcombing: Perfect beaches for finding seashells and driftwood.
- Kite Flying: The Wright Brothers flew their first plane here; the winds are perfect for kite flying!
- Fishing: Try your hand at surf fishing or even deep-sea fishing.
- Historical Sites: Visit Roanoke Island, the site of England’s first settlement in the New World.
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9. Bisbee, Arizona
- Best Time: Fall and spring for moderate temperatures
- Family Rating: Suitable for older kids and history buffs
- Price Range: $$
A quirky mining town that’s now an artists’ haven.
Location
Bisbee is in southeastern Arizona, very close to the U.S.-Mexico border.
Why is it great?
Bisbee is rich in history but has a modern, artsy twist. Stroll through the streets lined with colorful houses and you’ll get why artists flock here. The local shops and galleries add to the town’s eclectic vibe.
What is special?
The town was one of the richest mineral sites in the world. You can still tour the old Copper Queen Mine.
Things to Do
- Mine Tours: Take an underground tour of the historic Copper Queen Mine.
- Art Galleries: Experience the vibrant local arts scene.
- Historic Walk: Learn about the town’s rich past through its well-preserved architecture.
- Local Dining: Enjoy Southwestern cuisine in a cozy, local setting.
10. Sanibel Island, Florida
- Best Time: Late fall to early spring for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
- Family Rating: Ideal for families who love beaches and nature
- Price Range: $$$
A tranquil island where seashells cover the beaches like snowflakes.
Location
Sanibel Island is located off the southwest coast of Florida, near Fort Myers.
Why is it great?
This isn’t your typical Florida beach scene. There are no high-rises or bustling boardwalks. It’s a calm, serene place perfect for family bonding. Nature reserves make up a good portion of the island, and it’s one of the best places in the world for shelling. Yep, you heard right; the beaches are filled with beautiful seashells.
What is special?
Sanibel Island is unique because of its east-west orientation. Most barrier islands are north-south, but Sanibel’s unusual alignment makes it a magnet for seashells. It’s a collector’s paradise!
Things to Do
- Shelling: Collect unique and beautiful seashells. There are even guided shelling tours.
- Nature Walks: Visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot a variety of birds and other wildlife.
- Biking: Miles of bike paths make this island an ideal location for cycling.
- Fishing: You can fish right off the beach or rent a boat for a deeper sea adventure.
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There you have it! An enriching list of 11 underrated but absolutely fascinating travel destinations across the United States. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or someone looking for a unique family vacation, this list has something for everyone. Safe travels and enjoy your next adventure!