If you’re looking to take a unique vacation to a destination that is less busy (and maybe less expensive) than one of the popular tourist destinations that you likely see friends traveling to all over social media, look no further. The United States is home to countless vacation destinations that have something to offer for every kind of traveler, but sometimes it can be difficult to find the right destination, especially if you are looking for something lowkey or a slightly less popular spot. Everyone deserves to take a vacation every once in a while, whether you work as an educator at the Health & Safety Institute or are a stay-at-home mom. To make things easy for you, here are 5 underrated travel destinations in the United States to choose from.
1. Upper Peninsula, Michigan
While many might think of Detroit as Michigan’s only tourist attraction, the state’s location amidst the border of the three Great Lakes makes it the site of hundreds of shipwrecks that can be explored by tourists looking for a unique experience while learning a little about the history of Michigan and the Great Lakes.
2. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
The perfect destination for outdoor adventure lovers, the Apostle Islands are a group of 21 islands off the coast of Wisconsin. In the summer months, the islands are the perfect spot for camping and hiking. In the winter, Lake Superior freezes over, creating frozen waterfalls and icicle-filled caves on the island.
3. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Colorado is mostly known for its mountains and year-round outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and kayaking, meaning many tourists forget about the Great Sand Dunes. Perfect for a day of exploring or activities like sand surfing or sledding, the Dunes are one of the most beautiful sites in the entire country.
4. Cape May, New Jersey
For those wanting to explore the East Coast without enduring the hustle and bustle of more populated areas like Atlantic City, Cape May is perfect. Walk along one of the Cape’s gorgeous beaches, and take a look at one of the many historic sights like lighthouses built in the 1800s.
5. Starved Rock State Park, Illinois
One of the most beautiful places in the midwest, Starved Rock is located in the heart of Illinois and is one of the best places in the state to swim, hike, or camp. With gorgeous waterfalls and birds-eye views of the park atop the highest rocks, this is the perfect destination for any nature lover in the midwest.