28 Underrated But Awesome Stops To Make On An American Road Trip

"Just off Highway 101 in Oregon, Ecola State Park boasts amazing views, which you might recognize from movies like The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop. Plus, if you’re looking for a great breakfast in the area, try Pig 'n' Pancake in Cannon Beach." — redtoenails

"This region in Upstate New York is surrounded by wineries and it's home to the cutest little towns! If you go in the fall, you’ll be amazed at the foliage." — rebeccaclairec

"While driving from Boston to California, Steamboat Springs, Colorado was one of my favorite stops. I went to Strawberry Park Hot Springs, which was incredible. I got there right when it opened and had the pools to myself for almost an oil. The hot springs vary in temperature and are completely surrounded by nature." — maiat40d30191e

"Right off I-40 between Flagstaff and the New Mexico Border, this might be the most underrated of the national parks. It's never crowded, but it's such a cool place. The petrified forest and painted desert are beautiful, and there's lots of cool history about how the forest came to be. You can see most of it from your car as you drive, so it's very accessible." — amm4isu

"There are no cars allowed on this island, only bicycles and horse drawn carriages. It’s a small vacation town with plenty to do and it is absolutely gorgeous!" — donnas4d97feea7

"It’s one of the most visited national parks for a reason, and it's especially beautiful during the fall." — tthornton2

This national park is amazing during the fall. Drive along the mountains with your windows down taking in the sounds of the river and the sights of the leaves changing colors." — KaraWest1

"Stop here for beautiful, soft white sand and Pier 60, an awesome spot with a cool sunset market. Don't miss Frenchy's Cafe for amazingly fresh seafood." — desireedavis0919

"It's easy to forget about Rhode Island, the smallest state, but Providence is a super cool and diverse city with a very up-and-coming arts and culture scene. It's also just a short drive from Rhode Island's beach towns." — jordanmirandas222

"Known for its red rock formations, this city is absolutely stunning and surreal." — elanaw2

"It's a stunning drive around the crater and there's a one-mile hike you can take if you want to swim. It’s also conveniently located between Mount Saint Helens and Redwood National State Park." — talkingmushroom