9 Underrated United States Spots for Your Next Vacation Trip

When you're traveling in the US, destinations like Los Angeles, Miami, and New York are probably one of the top places that are on your list. However, apart from the big cities, there are also underrated destinations that you must see.

In this post, we'll be delving more on off-the-beaten-path destinations, everything from secluded beaches and tropical islands, to little-known national parks.

Whether you're an American who wants to see more of this country, or you're a foreigner, make sure to check out America's best-kept destinations in your next United States vacation.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

What makes this island so special is that it has been a well-known vacation spot in the 1880s, and yet still manage to maintain its charm. In fact, this place has been listed as a National Historic Landmark.
Cars are absolutely not permitted inside the island, and therefore, only buggies, horses, and bikes are used as a means of transportation. Fortunately, you can explore most of the place by foot, the main street that is ‒ filled with fudge shops and beautiful Victorian buildings.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Despite being relatively close to Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, Block Island still manages to keep a low profile, as hordes of people flock the more famous summer spots near the area. The island has pristine white beaches that span 17 miles, remain free from the maddening tourist crowd.

It also features two towering lighthouses in the area, with a lot of hiking trails if ever you feel a little more adventurous.

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

The Valley of Fire State Park is just an hour away from the Las Vegas Strip. Named after the stunning red sandstone formations, it's an excellent spot if you want to escape the madness of Vegas. The best time of the year to visit is during the fall or spring. Hiking in the area is highly discouraged during the summer months as temperatures can turn dangerously hot.

The best part? It's beautiful and not as crowded, making it an ideal destination for short hikes, It also gives you the chance to see historical places and the petroglyphs up close.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs is known to be a spa town because of the natural springs in the area. In the main town, you can find the Bathhouse Row along with several others.

The place first gained popularity back in the 1940s when wealthy tourists from St. Louis and Chicago came to the area. Even one of the original bathhouses, the Buckstaff Bathhouse that was built in 1912, remains open up until this day. Meanwhile, several others were renovated to give way to more modern spas.

In the north, you can also find other hot springs like the Hot Springs National Park . Although guests couldn't bath here, they're asked to place their hands on the thermal pools and test out that water that's naturally heated, which in some days, can reach up to 143 degrees Fahrenheit.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

If you're into hiking, then head off to an exotic hike of a lifetime at Colorado’s Great Sand Dunes National Park . It’s known to have the tallest sand dunes in the US, with some rising about 700 feet in height.

Once you hike to the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of endless dunes. You'll also get the chance to try sand-sledding or sand-boarding. Note that you can't bring boards there, though. So, you have to bring your own. Also, because of its clear skies and high elevation, it also makes a perfect spot for star-gazing.

Taos, New Mexico

For about 1,000 years, Taos Valley has been largely inhabited, that's why it's one of the country's well-kept secrets. The area has been divided into two. Taos is the main town where travelers and guests can stay. Meanwhile, Taos Puebla is an ancient village that has been populated by about 150 Taos Indians.

The main town, Taos is a great spot to visit in its own right. Mostly, it's the main draw for artists because of its earth-colored building and picturesque landscapes. During the winter season, the entire area turns into a ski resort, thanks to the region's ideal skiing terrain.

Door County, Wisconsin

Door Country is nestled between Lake Michigan and Green Bay and is home to about 19 communities along its shoreline.

Its natural beauty became the main draw for most writers and artists. Many have even opened their shops here, opening their galleries in farmhouses. Some artists also hold art workshops.

An interesting history about the place is that it was once known to be the "Cherryland USA," because it grew about 95 percent of US' cherry crop in the 1950s. Up until this day, you can wandecr through the area's breathtaking cherry orchards and take a sample of its delicious cherry pie.

Lake George Islands, New York

Spending summers on Lake George isn't a well-kept secret anymore since it's largely popular with the public. But do you know that you can camp on the little islands in the middle of the lake?

All in all, there are about 387 campsites in the islands, and every shoreline site has a dock for at least a boat, picnic tables, toilets, and a fireplace. These 44 state-owned islands can be reached via boat, and visitors have the option to rent a boat or stay to be picked up and dropped off.

Texas Hill Country

Lying just east of Austin's capita city, Texas Hill Country has eight wine growing regions, and the fastest growing in the country today. Here, world-class wines are produced like Cabernets and Tempranillos.

At the very heart of Hill Country, the town of Wimberley is known for its beautiful wildflowers during the spring. It also holds regular art and crafts festivals bluegrass concerts.

Over to You

So there you have it. If you're prepared to ditch the crowds and go for a more off-the-beaten-track, then these lesser-known destinations are certainly worth the visit.

Do you appreciate what this blog do? Want to send help for this blog? Your every cents goes a long way

DONATE TO EXOTIC PHILIPPINES!