Sure, there are plenty of amazing reasons to visit big, bustling cities like New York City and Los Angeles or ever-popular natural wonders like Zion National Park and The Grand Canyon, but the US is full of lesser-touristed destinations that deserve way more attention. So, I compiled a bunch of suggestions from the BuzzFeed Community. Here are some of their favorite under-the-radar vacation destinations in the country. Perhaps you haven't considered visiting these spots...yet.
1.Laconia, New Hampshire: "It's home to beautiful unspoiled lakes, beaches, and a boardwalk with all kinds of lovely shopping and food options."
2.The Outer Banks, North Carolina: "Some of the islands that comprise the Outer Banks will make you feel like you're on a deserted island in the middle of the Atlantic. Cape Lookout is one of my favorites. There's no electricity, houses, roads, or anything of the sort. It's just pure and unadulterated peace and tranquility."
3.The California-Oregon Coastline: "This stretch of Northern California, where it meets neighboring Oregon, is wonderful. It's nowhere near as populated as other parts of California, and the weather is beautiful all year round. Even during the hottest days of summer, the weather here stays in the 80s."
4.Carmel-by-the-Sea, California: "Don’t plan on an active nightlife or anything (in fact, mostly everything closes by 7:00 p.m.), but it’s a charming little community by the ocean with lots of independent shops and local restaurants. Most of this town can be seen in a day, but if you want to make it a longer trip, there are hotels nearby overlooking the ocean as well as budget hotels close to the highway. Nearby Monterey is also worth a visit."
5.The Kenai Peninsula, Alaska: "This whole area and specifically Homer, the city at the end of the peninsula, is incredible to visit. The scenery is everything you could ever dream of: There are sprawling mountains overlooking the coast, and it's just so magical. If you like Colorado, you will love the Kenai Peninsula."
6.Hilo, Hawaii: "Many travelers overlook this whole island, but the lush and green Hilo side of the Big Island of Hawaii is especially incredible. The highway from Waipi’o Valley down to Hilo extends over valleys and cliffs. There are waterfalls and dramatic ocean views, and we were constantly pulling over wanting to take photos."
7.Taos, New Mexico: "The whole state is underrated, but specifically Taos and the surrounding high desert. The scenery is utterly breathtaking, the culture and history are unique, and the food is delicious. You'll know why people call it 'The Land of Enchantment' as soon as you see this place."
8.Leavenworth, Washington: "This city is nicknamed 'Little Bavaria,' thanks to the fact that it looks like a cute little German town. There are lots of fun shops and good food, plus the mountain views are gorgeous."
9.Door County, Wisconsin: "It’s the 'thumb' of the state, and it is really just beautiful. You'll find a cluster of coastal towns with nice restaurants, breweries, wineries, and shopping. There’s Peninsula State Park, which is perfect for outdoor activities. You'll find something for everyone in Door County."
10.Cincinnati, Ohio: "I love it there. It's the perfect midwestern city: There's a beautiful riverfront park with bars, restaurants, and stadiums, as well as a super fun downtown area. They also have an amazing food market at Findlay Market. Plus, it's home to one of the best zoos in the country."
11.Buffalo, New York: "Buffalo gets a bad rap because of our brutal winters, but if you visit between April and November, it's a totally different city, and it’s pretty darn great. There's a revitalized waterfront, amazing food (way more than just wings), and festivals nearly every weekend."
12.Eugene, Oregon: "Eugene is a beautiful town, and it experiences four distinct seasons. Visiting Eugene gives you access to just about everything: coast, mountains, forest, desert, wineries, breweries, and hiking trails, all within a few hours' driving distance. The Saturday farmer's market is incredible, as is the Oregon country fair."
13.Ouray, Colorado: "Pronounced 'your-ray,' this tiny mountain town in southwestern Colorado is so stunning that it’s been nicknamed the 'Switzerland of America.' You can stay in a Swiss-style chalet and soak in one of the town’s natural hot spring pools while staring up at the surrounding mountains."
14.Harper's Ferry, West Virginia: "This town is home to tons of history and beautiful views. In fact, the Appalachian trail passes right through it. There are ghost stories galore, cute little shops, and more. I've visited during each distinct season and always love returning."
15.Guerneville, California: "This is one of our favorite affordable spots to visit. It's a super cute town on the Russian River where you're surrounded by big, beautiful redwoods, and you're also close to Jenner and Bodega Bay. There are great restaurants and shops to hit up. Best of all, during the spring and summer, the river is so much fun."
16.St. Augustine, Florida: "As you’d expect from the first US city founded by settlers, St. Augustine boasts eclectic European architecture, Ponce de Leon’s 'Fountain of Youth,' and an impressive fortress, all of which give the city a Spanish feel. For a true Spain-like experience, spend the evening sampling tapas before walking down the cobblestone streets of Aviles Street, the oldest street in the country."
17.Knoxville, Tennessee: "Downtown and Old City are vibrant spots with many restaurants, shops, bars, and theaters. Plus, World's Fair Park is gorgeous and perfect for enjoying one of Knoxville's many festivals. Downtown North is turning into a hipster's paradise of breweries and food trucks, and South Knoxville is filled with outdoor activities, including incredible hiking and mountain biking trails in the Urban Wilderness. Best of all, the city is only an hour away from Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It has urban and outdoor fun all in one!"
18.Portsmouth, New Hampshire: "This is a great place to visit, especially for those who like small New England towns. It’s located just an hour’s drive from Boston. It is one of the oldest settlements in the country, and the old town area is really picturesque with cute restaurants and shops. Finally, you can hop right over a short bridge to the nearby town of Kittery and the rest of southern Maine."
What's an often-overlooked destination right here in the US that is well worth a visit? Tell us your favorites in the comments?
