After college, I traveled around Europe, hitting the major cities. I went to Dublin, Ireland, and had been dying to check out the Guinness storehouse. Although Guinness was cool, it was also crowded with tourists (myself included). My fondest memory from Ireland was when I made friends with a local Dubliner who drove me out to the country to take me to an old palatial estate and showed me where to get the best cup of Irish tea.
We often stick to well-known destinations so we don’t miss out, but sometimes uncommon sights are more memorable than the run-of-the-mill tourist attractions. There’s a sense of thrill in finding unexpected places to go.
If you’ve traveled within the U.S., you’ve undoubtedly heard of iconic spots like Mt. Rushmore, the Grand Canyon, and the Statue of Liberty. But sometimes, a quaint, remote little town with stunning views and fewer crowds can be just what you need. Unknown places might surprise you with their authenticity and charm.
If you’re craving a peaceful escape from everyday stress, check out these top lesser-known destinations across the United States.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is a quirky little town tucked away in the middle of nowhere. Some say it’s one of those rare places where hippies, bikers, and even far-right Christians all call the same town their home. Visitors say that staying at the historic Crescent Hotel, built in 1886, makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule.
If you need a break, take a stroll on Magnolia Trail, just below the Crescent. You’ll also find the charming St. Elizabeth Catholic Church nearby, or you can relax by the little fountain below the Arvest Stage in Harmon Park.
Blue Ridge Parkway
They don’t call it America’s Favorite Drive for nothing! The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles, linking Shenandoah National Parks in Virginia and the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina. It’s the most visited spot in the Nation Park system, but there are lesser-known areas along the way worth exploring.
For a quick adventure, hike the easy one-mile loop to Beacon Heights. The overlook has smooth rocks that are perfect for a picnic with a view. Want a sunset you’ll never forget? Head to Cowee Mountains Overlook for a stunning 180-degree view of the Nantahala National Forest.
Bishop Castle, Colorado
Some call it a monument to madness and grit. Jim Bishop started building it at age 15 in 1969, aiming for a simple cabin. But, he ended up creating a huge, whimsical stone castle deep in the San Isabel National Forest.
It’s not for the faint of heart, though. The spiral stairs and balconies are made of mesh-like wrought iron that sways with each step. If you’re brave enough to reach the top, the views are breathtaking and worth the adventure!
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Did you know Isle Royale National Park is the least visited national park in the U.S.? It’s only accessible by boat or seaplane, so the quiet atmosphere and lack of crowds make it feel like your own secret hideaway.
Visitors sometimes spot moose on the trails and hear wolves howl at night. The stunning landscapes change with the seasons, and the trails are easier than those in the Appalachian or Rocky Mountains. It’s no wonder this park is the least visited but often the most revisited—it’s truly special!
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
This park has it all—access to the Appalachian Trail, rock scrambles, the famous Old Rag hike, and stunning fall foliage. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, no need to worry because you have plenty of options here.
Hazel Falls and Caves offers an easy, scenic trail with a canopy of trees and mountain laurel leading to the falls. Mill Prong, a lesser-known hike with stream crossings, waterfalls, and history, was once home to President Hoover’s Camp Rapidan. For history buffs, the Byrd Visitor Center has a cool exhibit on the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Luray Caverns, Virginia
This place will leave you wondering why more people don’t know about it. Formed when the area was once an ocean floor, Luray Caverns is a natural wonder millions of years in the making. Imagine—life evolved from tiny cells in that ancient sea, leading to the age of dinosaurs!
As you explore the largest cavern in the eastern U.S., you’ll descend over 200 feet into massive rooms filled with stunning formations. The stalactites, stalagmites, and mirrored pools on the 1.5-mile walk are truly breathtaking.
Poconos Mountains, Pennsylvania
Known as the Honeymoon Capital of the World, the Pocono Mountains can get pretty crowded, but there are plenty of peaceful spots to escape the summer rush.
Head to Lansford, Pennsylvania, away from the high-season buzz, for a dose of history and quiet. If you’re planning a more relaxing, adults-only getaway, Cove Haven Resort in Lakeville is perfect. Check out the charming village of Danielsville, with just over 3,000 residents, where cozy bed and breakfasts like the Filbert offer a low-key, historical stay in the Poconos.
Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
This spot feels as far from Los Angeles as you can get while still being in California. That’s probably why it’s way less crowded and underrated compared to other California parks. While it’s known for its volcanic activity, the real draw might be the diverse wildlife and range of hikes.
Lassen Peak is the star of the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade range. Yep, an active volcano! You can hike to the top, but be prepared; it’s a tough journey. If you’re looking to relax, just enjoy the view from below. Where else can you see all four types of volcanoes in one day?
San Juan Islands, Washington
Locals adore the San Juan Islands, but most international tourists have never heard of this charming spot. Friday Harbor is the only real town here, home to about 2,000 people. During the off-peak months, this place transforms into a peaceful paradise where you can relax without the crowds.
You can ditch your car and explore Lopez Island on two wheels. The flat roads are perfect for biking. If you prefer to paddle, head to Orcas Island for kayaking along the shore, where you might spot seals, eagles, and even orcas in the distance.
Lake Champlain, Vermont
Lake Champlain is a picnicker’s dream, and the warm months are the best time to explore its islands. South and North Hero, Grand Isle, and Isle La Motte are all easy to reach since a causeway connects them to the mainland. Isle La Motte has a beach near St. Anne’s Shrine, perfect for a relaxing day.
This lake offers everything from vibrant city life to peaceful wilderness. With some planning, you can find a quiet spot to swim or rent kayaks and paddleboards for a full, fun day on the water.
Source: Reddit
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