The Best Hidden Gems in Each of the 50 U.S. States to Add to Your Bucket List

Goblin Valley Utah State Parks. Goblin Valley State Park is inhabited by strange and unique rock sculptures, carved by wind and water, that suggest mischievous goblins and phantasmagoric creatures

When it comes to exploring the United States, iconic landmarks and popular tourist attractions often steal the spotlight. However, hidden within each state are lesser-known treasures that offer equally breathtaking views, unique experiences, and the charm of discovery. From remote waterfalls and secretive caves to historic towns and untamed coastlines, these hidden gems are perfect for travelers looking to venture off the beaten path. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual traveler, this list of hidden gems across all 50 states will inspire you to uncover the beauty and mystery that lies just beyond the familiar.

Alabama: Little River Canyon National Preserve

Strong flowing turquoise water after heavy rain at Little falls in Little River Canyon National Preserve
Photo credit: Julie rubacha // Shutterstock.com

Located in northeastern Alabama near Fort Payne, this preserve offers stunning views, great hiking trails, and opportunities for rock climbing and kayaking.

Alaska: Mendenhall Ice Caves

Explorer Inside Ice Cave, Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau, Alaska, USA
Photo credit: Sean Lema // Shutterstock.com

Found near Juneau, the Mendenhall Ice Caves are accessed through a challenging hike, but the surreal blue glow inside is worth the effort.

Arizona: Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls at sunrise.
Photo credit: LHBLLC // Shutterstock.com

Located in the remote Havasupai Indian Reservation within the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls features striking turquoise waters cascading over red rock cliffs, creating an oasis in the desert. Access to the falls requires a challenging hike and a permit, which makes it a less crowded and more secluded destination.

Arkansas: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Arkansas, OCT 21 2023 - Twilight view of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Photo credit: Kit Leong // Shutterstock.com

Located in Bentonville, this museum is renowned for its extensive collection of American art and its striking architecture, set in a natural forested area.

California: Alabama Hills

Movie road in the California's Alabama Hills at Sunrise
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Near Lone Pine, east of the Sierra Nevada, this area is known for its unique rock formations and has been a filming location for many classic Western movies.

Colorado: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Sunny view of the landscape of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve at Colorado
Photo credit: Kit Leong // Shutterstock.com

Located in southern Colorado near Alamosa, the park features towering sand dunes surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, offering a surreal landscape for visitors.

Connecticut: Gillette Castle

Gillette Castle, a mansion reminiscent of a medieval stone castle. Shot in the State of Connecticut, USA.
Photo credit: Kit Leong // Shutterstock.com

Perched on a hill overlooking the Connecticut River in East Haddam, this quirky castle was designed by actor William Gillette, famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes.

Delaware: Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

Canada geese in migration at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware, USA
Photo credit: Bo Shen // Shutterstock.com

Located on Delaware’s eastern coast near Smyrna, this refuge is a peaceful sanctuary for birdwatchers, especially during migration seasons.

Florida: Devil’s Den

devil's den spring prehistoric florida
Photo credit: ADRIAN DIAZ CADAVID // Shutterstock.com

Near Williston in central Florida, this prehistoric underground spring is perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering crystal-clear waters and an otherworldly atmosphere.

Georgia: Providence Canyon State Park

Landscape of Providence Canyon, Georgia, USA
Photo credit: Sean Pavone // Shutterstock.com

Located in southwest Georgia near Lumpkin, this state park, known as “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” features striking red and orange canyon walls carved by erosion.

Hawaii: Molokai’s Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Aerial View of Kalaupapa National Historic Park,Kalaupapa, Molokai, Hawaii, USA
Photo credit: Kent Raney // Shutterstock.com

On the island of Molokai, this remote park can only be reached by mule ride, hike, or small plane, offering stunning sea cliffs and a glimpse into a poignant chapter of Hawaiian history.

Idaho: Craters of the Moon National Monument

USA, Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Reserve. Lava field with dwarf buckwheat at sunset
Photo credit: Danita Delimont // Shutterstock.com

Located in south-central Idaho near Arco, this unique volcanic landscape features lava flows, cinder cones, and caves, making it feel like a visit to another planet.

Illinois: Garden of the Gods (Shawnee National Forest)

Garden Of The Gods Camel Rock Panoramic View
Editorial credit: Tonya Kay / Shutterstock.com

Found in southern Illinois near Harrisburg, this area offers dramatic rock formations and scenic vistas, perfect for hiking and photography.

Indiana: Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a National Park on Lake Michigan's south shore. The sand dunes make this beach a popular tourist attraction in Indiana, USA.
Photo credit: Delmas Lehman // Shutterstock.com

Situated along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, this park features towering sand dunes, diverse ecosystems, and 15 miles of pristine beach.

Iowa: Pikes Peak State Park

Pikes Peak State Park Iowa in the fall
Photo credit: Lukun Zheng // Shutterstock.com

Located in northeastern Iowa near McGregor, this park offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the striking rock formations of the Driftless Area.

Kansas: Monument Rocks

Monument Rocks in Grove County, Kansas. The chalk rock formation is a listed National Natural Landmark.
Editorial credit: Lost_in_the_Midwest / Shutterstock.com

Found in western Kansas near Oakley, these ancient chalk formations rise majestically from the plains and are rich in fossil history, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding flat landscape.

Kentucky: Mammoth Cave National Park

Frozen Niagara in Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, USA. This national park is also UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.
Photo credit: Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock.com

Located in central Kentucky near Cave City, this park is home to the world’s longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passageways, offering fascinating tours and spelunking adventures.

Louisiana: Oak Alley Plantation

Looking down the tree tunnel of the infamous Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie, Louisiana, arguably one of the best preserved and most stunning plantations of the antebellum south.
Photo credit: Abbie Warnock-Matthews // Shutterstock.com

Located along the Mississippi River near Vacherie, this historic plantation is famous for its grand alley of ancient oak trees and offers a glimpse into the Antebellum South.

Maine: The Bold Coast

Bold Coast Trail. Northern Maine.
Photo credit: Alla Goferman // Shutterstock.com

Located in the Downeast region near the towns of Lubec and Cutler, the Bold Coast offers rugged, dramatic cliffs that drop sharply into the Atlantic Ocean, with stunning coastal trails that provide solitude and breathtaking views. This area is less frequented by tourists, making it a perfect spot for those seeking Maine’s wild, untamed beauty.

Maryland: Assateague Island

feral horses on the beach of Assateague early morning. Maryland
Photo credit: nathaniel gonzales // Shutterstock.com

Stretching along the eastern coast near Ocean City, this island is famous for its wild ponies, pristine beaches, and opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing.

Massachusetts: Mount Greylock

Adams, MA - 10/10/20: Visitors trek to the summit of Mount Greylock, the highest natural point in Massachusetts
Photo credit: Keith J Finks // Shutterstock.com

Located in the Berkshire Mountains near North Adams, this is the highest point in Massachusetts and offers stunning views, especially from the historic War Memorial Tower at the summit.

Michigan: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Park in Michigan's Upper Peninsula
Photo credit: Paul Massie Photography // Shutterstock.com

Located along the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula near Munising, this area is known for its colorful sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and clear blue waters.

Minnesota: Split Rock Lighthouse

Lake Superior waves roll onto the shoreline at Split Rock Lighthouse
Editorial credit: Dennis O’Hara / Shutterstock.com

Perched on a cliff along Lake Superior’s North Shore near Two Harbors, this historic lighthouse offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Minnesota’s maritime history.

Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park

Rock outcroppings in Tishomingo State Park, Mississippi
Photo credit: Fredlyfish4 // Shutterstock.com

Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains near Tishomingo, this park features unique rock formations, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.

Missouri: Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Castle Ruins and Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Photo credit: RN Photo Midwest // Shutterstock.com

Located near Camdenton, this park features the ruins of a European-style castle overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks, along with sinkholes, caves, and scenic hiking trails.

Montana: The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

One section of the Garden of One thousand Buddhas near Arlee, Montana.
Photo credit: Gregory Johnston // Shutterstock.com

Located in the Jocko Valley near Arlee, this spiritual site features over 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues arranged in a mandala, promoting peace and compassion.

Nebraska: Chimney Rock National Historic Site

Chimney Rock National Historic Site with sunflowers, western Nebraska, USA. The peak of Chimney Rock is 1289 meters above sea level.
Editorial credit: Don Mammoser / Shutterstock.com

Situated in western Nebraska near Bayard, this iconic rock formation served as a landmark for pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail and offers a glimpse into America’s westward expansion.

Nevada: Valley of Fire State Park

A hiker enjoys the desert views from atop the colorful Fire Wave in Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada.
Editorial credit: Ashley Hadzopoulos / Shutterstock.com

Located near Overton, this park is known for its vibrant red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and striking desert scenery.

New Hampshire: Franconia Notch State Park

Fall colours in Franconia Notch State Park | White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, USA
Photo credit: Winston Tan // Shutterstock.com

Located in the White Mountains near Lincoln, this park offers stunning mountain scenery, including the Flume Gorge and the historic Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.

New Jersey: Cape May

Cape May, NJ, June 24, 2015: Beach goers enjoy a beautiful day in Cape May, New Jersey.
Photo credit: Racheal Grazias // Shutterstock.com

Situated at the southern tip of New Jersey, this charming seaside town is known for its Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and historic lighthouses.

New Mexico: White Sands National Park

White Sands National Monument New Mexico, USA
Photo credit: sunsinger // Shutterstock.com

Located in southern New Mexico near Alamogordo, this park features a surreal landscape of rolling white gypsum sand dunes, perfect for hiking, sledding, and photography.

New York: Letchworth State Park

Hot Air Balloon Over The Middle Falls At Letchworth State Park In New York
Photo credit: Jim Vallee // Shutterstock.com

Located in western New York near Castile, this park is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East” with its deep gorge, stunning waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.

North Carolina: Lake Lure

Drone Aerial of Lake Lure in North Carolina NC.
Photo credit: Kevin Ruck // Shutterstock.com

Located in the western part of the state near Chimney Rock, Lake Lure is a serene mountain lake surrounded by lush forests and dramatic cliffs. It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere, clear waters, and stunning views, making it an ideal spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. The lake and the nearby Chimney Rock State Park offer beautiful scenery and outdoor activities without the crowds found in more popular destinations.

North Dakota: Little Missouri National Grassland

Badlands in the Little Missouri National Grassland North Dakota ND US. Created 09.14.23
Photo credit: Dennis MacDonald // Shutterstock.com

Situated in southwestern North Dakota, adjacent to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, this expansive grassland offers rolling hills, striking badlands, and a tranquil, expansive landscape. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing, providing a serene experience of North Dakota’s natural beauty away from the more frequented areas of the park.

Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park

Cedar Falls at Hocking Hills, Ohio
Photo credit: Pragadeesh Venkatesh // Shutterstock.com

Located in southeastern Ohio near Logan, this park features dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, caves, and some of the best hiking in the state.

Oklahoma: Turner Falls Park

Color photograph of Turner Falls waterfall (near Davis, Oklahoma) during fall / autumn.
Photo credit: Tyler Thomason // Shutterstock.com

Located in the Arbuckle Mountains near Davis, this park is home to Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall and offers swimming, hiking, and camping opportunities in a picturesque setting.

Oregon: Smith Rock State Park

The beautiful Canyon and River Trail on the Crooked River in Smith Rock State Park in Oregon
Photo credit: Foto-Jagla.de // Shutterstock.com

Located in central Oregon near Terrebonne, this park is famous for its towering rock formations, which are popular with rock climbers and hikers alike.

Pennsylvania: Ricketts Glen State Park

Shawnee Falls in Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania
Photo credit: Jennifer Yakey-Ault // Shutterstock.com

Located in northeastern Pennsylvania near Benton, this park is renowned for its 24 named waterfalls, making it a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Rhode Island: Beavertail State Park

Beavertail Lighthouse in Beavertail State Park aerial view in summer, Jamestown, Rhode Island RI, USA. This lighthouse, built in 1856, at the entrance to Narragansett Bay on Conanicut Island.
Photo credit: Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock.com

Situated on the southern tip of Jamestown, this coastal park offers stunning views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, along with a historic lighthouse.

South Carolina: Hunting Island State Park

Sand dunes with footpath at sunrise, Hunting Island State Park South Carolina.
Photo credit: Patrick Jennings // Shutterstock.com

Located near Beaufort, this barrier island park is known for its unspoiled beaches, maritime forests, and a historic lighthouse that visitors can climb for panoramic views.

South Dakota: Spearfish Canyon

Cascades on Spearfish Creek Dam and Savoy Pond, Spearfish Canyon State Natural Area, South Dakota, USA
Photo credit: Billy McDonald // Shutterstock.com

Located in the northern Black Hills near the town of Spearfish, this picturesque canyon is known for its towering limestone cliffs, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls and Roughlock Falls. The area offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and opportunities for fly fishing, making it a peaceful retreat with some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state.

Tennessee: The Lost Sea

Underground Lake in Lost Sea Cave in Sweetwater Tennessee
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Located in Sweetwater, this underground lake is the largest in the U.S. and offers boat tours that take visitors through a cavern system filled with fascinating geological formations.

Texas: Hamilton Pool Preserve

Hamilton Pool Preserve Texas
Photo credit: Brett K // Shutterstock.com

Located near Dripping Springs, west of Austin, this natural swimming hole was formed by the collapse of a limestone dome, creating a stunning grotto and a 50-foot waterfall.

Utah: Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley Utah State Parks. Goblin Valley State Park is inhabited by strange and unique rock sculptures, carved by wind and water, that suggest mischievous goblins and phantasmagoric creatures
Photo credit: Roig61 // Shutterstock.com

Located in central Utah near Hanksville, this park is famous for its eerie, mushroom-shaped rock formations known as “goblins,” which create a surreal, otherworldly landscape.

Vermont: Lake Willoughby

Lake Willoughby Vermont Pano
Photo credit: NEKVT // Shutterstock.com

Nestled in the Northeast Kingdom near Westmore, this glacial lake is surrounded by steep cliffs and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Vermont.

Virginia: Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns wishing well. Shenandoah Virginia
Photo credit: Abboud76 // Shutterstock.com

Located in the Shenandoah Valley near Luray, these caverns are known for their spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations

Washington: Palouse Falls State Park

palouse fall state park at sunset,washington,usa.
Photo credit: Checubus // Shutterstock.com

Located in southeastern Washington near Washtucna, this park features the 198-foot Palouse Falls, which dramatically plunges into a deep canyon, offering stunning views and a great spot for photography and hiking.

West Virginia: Seneca Rocks

This is the upper area of Seneca Rocks National Recreational Area in the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. Beautiful orange Autumn colors surround the rocks of this famous climbing area.
Photo credit: Arlene Waller // Shutterstock.com

Found in the Monongahela National Forest near Riverton, this towering rock formation rises nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River and is a favorite destination for rock climbers and hikers, offering breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.

Wisconsin: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Beautiful Sea Caves on Devil's Island in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Lake Superior, Wisconsin
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Located on Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin near Bayfield, this national lakeshore encompasses 21 islands and offers visitors the chance to explore stunning sea caves, historic lighthouses, and pristine beaches, as well as opportunities for kayaking and sailing.

Wyoming: Wind River Range

Sunrise Over Island Lake and Fremont Peak. The Wind River Range, Wyoming
Photo credit: Tobin Akehurst // Shutterstock.com

Situated in western Wyoming, this rugged mountain range stretches over 100 miles and includes some of the most beautiful and remote wilderness in the state, with towering peaks, alpine lakes, and excellent opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering.

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The Biltmont Estate in Asheville, North Carolina
Photo credit: ZakZeinert // Shutterstock.com

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Na Pali coast, Kauai, Hawaii view from sea sunset cruise tour. Nature coastline landscape in Kauai island, Hawaii, USA. Hawaii travel.
Photo credit: Maridav // Shutterstock.com

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NEW ORLEANS - 18 AUGUST 2017.Voodoo artefacts, a museum exhibit of theNew Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
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Mount Rushmore National Monument near Keystone, South Dakota
Editorial credit: Nagel Photography / Shutterstock.com

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Seattle,Washington,USA.02/17/15 : scene of a big sand troll sculpture under the Aurora bridge.
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