Lists of the best places to visit in summer often include the expected: Hawaii, New York City, the biggest National Parks, or other destinations that rank high on the popularity lists. This year, try looking beyond the expected to find the best underrated summer travel ideas that truly resonate with your interests, dreams, and budget. No matter what part of the United States you’re in or where you want to explore next, you can find the perfect surprise spot.
Northeast US Summer Ideas for Vacation
Consider the road less traveled in New England and the MidAtlantic states this summer. These options will give you everything from ocean views to quaint village life to unforgettable wilderness.
1. Shelter Island, New York
A quick boat trip brings you to a more secluded and less-known destination with the air of the Hamptons and Montauk. Beaches, watersports, and quick trips for shopping and dining fill your time there.
2. Bar Harbor, Maine
Classic, quintessential, and quaint, this town offers all that’s wonderful about the Maine coast on Mt. Pleasant Island. Sample lobster, take in unforgettable sunrise views over the rocky coast, and count the lighthouses on fun day trips.
3. Finger Lakes, New York
If you love nature, this is the perfect summer idea for you. It’s known for amazing waterfalls and outdoor recreation like camping and hiking, but nothing is too far away from towns that offer all the conveniences you need on your trip.
4. Diana’s Bath, New Hampshire
For a family-friendly outing in nature, visit Diana’s Baths, a series of cascading waterfalls and rock pools with some natural water slides. Just note that it’s a leisurely three-quarter-mile hike on a gravel path to get there. Plan your trip
5. Block Island, Rhode Island
The island itself offers a lovely blend of seaside nature and history. The 150-year-old lighthouse is a must-see spot. The state is one of the best places to visit in summer because it’s not that popular. Still, you can sample local lobster, visit the stunning Mohegan Bluffs, and take daytrips from Newport’s historic mansions to the White Horse Tavern, the oldest operating one in the US. Plan your trip
6. Assateague Island, Maryland
Just a few hours from the nation’s capital, you can enjoy a relaxing weekend at this national seashore. While spending time at the beach, you can visit the wild horses on this quaint island. Just don’t feed them because they can get sick from human food.
7. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
History soaks into every building and iconic spot in Harper’s Ferry. The town boasts some of the oldest buildings in the region, and the national park offers unbelievable views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and more.
Best Places to Visit in Summer Down South
The southern part of the United States offers a magnificent blend of history, unique culture, and natural beauty. These are the best underrated summer travel ideas in this part of the country.
8. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
If you’re tired of stunning vistas and gorgeous river valleys, head underground to one of the world’s most impressive cave systems. Take multiple guided tours through the National Heritage Site and then explore the surface on hiking trails or horseback.
9. Vineyards in Virginia
Do you love a quality glass of white or red while relaxing on your vacation? There’s no need to head to France or California. Virginia wine-country offers plenty of new tastes and experiences to enjoy. There are more than 300 vineyards to visit.
10. Beaufort, South Carolina
Nestled along the coast, this city is a treasure trove of Southern charm and historical depth, often overlooked due to the fame of Charleston and Savannah. Its quiet streets and rich heritage make it a captivating destination for exploring historical sites.
11. Dry Tortugas National Park
Just a day trip from Key West, this fort surrounded by wildlife is a good place for camping, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and swimming to getaway from the crowds. It is one of the rare parks that is mostly underwater. There are seven different islands in the 100 mile space that are part of the park. These islands have wonderful coral ecosystems where you can snorkel and see underwater life.
12. Blue Ridge, Georgia
With rolling peaks, wildflowers everywhere, lush trees giving you shade, and colorful leaves painting the landscape, North Georgia is a must-visit year-round! The Blue Ridge Mountains stay cool most of the year, making them perfect for romantic weekends, family vacations, or trips with friends.
13. St. Augustine, Florida
Founded by the Spanish in 1565, this historic city on Florida’s Atlantic Coast is anything but sleepy. Visit one of the most architecturally significant structures in the city, the waterfront Castillo de San Marcos, which also happens to be the oldest masonry fort in the country, as well as the statuesque Lightner Museum to see regional art and more. Walk around downtown to catch live music, settle into a snug restaurant, and perhaps join in on a ghost tour. Plan your trip
Summer Ideas in the Midwest
Don’t believe what they say about “Flyover Country.” The Midwest has some of the best vacation spots in the US for women who love to explore new things. There’s no need to travel far to book a wonderful trip.
13. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Experience life in the Great Lakes region by booking a room in a quaint inn or BnB on this island. While it can get busy during the summer, consider the autumn for prime leaf-peeping opportunities and warm days. Sample fudge, take a boat ride, or just relax. Plan your trip
14. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
For outdoor recreation enthusiasts, this certified Dark Sky Park offers unending adventure. Camp, kayak, hike, or stay up late to stargaze. You’ll find everything from intriguing rock gardens to active fish camps, and more.
15. Cedar Rapids, Iowa
If you want a taste of the city without the bustle and expense of the biggest destinations, consider this spot instead. Cedar Rapids is chock full of museums, historical sites, and event venues. You can also find tons of farms to visit, the Greenbelt National Recreation Trail, and local nature centers.
Southwest Destinations for a Summer Trip
Many of the best places to visit in summer offer a blend of natural beauty, relaxation opportunities, and modern excitement. The Southwest doesn’t disappoint.
16. Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico
This well-known destination for history lovers sends you back in time to when the Pueblo people built their unique cliff homes and painted petroglyphs on the wall. If you get tired of hiking, visit the local history and science museums including the location of the Manhattan nuclear Project.
17. Tucson, Arizona
The city of Tucson itself is quite a popular destination for travelers, but there are underrated summer travel ideas you should not miss if you head out there. Take a horseback tour to Catalina State Park, hike past Saguaros in the morning and visit a historic Spanish mission in the afternoon. Don’t forget to schedule a stop at the Valley of the Moon art-exhibit/creative fairyland.
18. Bluff, Utah
This small town opens its arms to vacationers looking for a unique mix of southwestern history, nature, and artistic exploration. You can visit a pioneer fort recreation, go rafting down the San Juan River, or browse through seemingly unending art shops and galleries.
Visit the Northwest for Your Next Vacation
This far corner of the country has iconic cities and must-see National Parks, making it one of the best vacation spots in the US. There are plenty of underrated gems to check out, too.
19. Leavenworth, Washington
Although popular with people who crave the Bavarian feeling, many vacationers opt for different experiences. This adorable, German-themed town lets you step into something quite unusual. Avoid Oktoberfest if you don’t like crowds. You’ll still find plenty of great beer to sample, museums, and shops.
20. Willamette Falles, Oregon
If you’re a fan of waterfalls, visit the tallest and most voluminous one in the entire region. It’s close enough to Portland to give you plenty of city nightlife and shopping opportunities. Why not stick to the underrated options, though. The area offers lamb farm tours, biking trails aplenty, and horseback rides through wine country.
21. Jacksonhole, Wyoming
Known for being a ski town, you can’t help be in awe of the beauty that is Jacksonhole during the summer season. It offers hiking trails through fields of wildflowers, fly fishing on glacier-fed streams, horse back riding, hot springs and rafting for an adrenaline rush.
22. Fort Worden State Park, Washington
History fans can spend days exploring the Port Townsend seaport, and historical army base buildings. Nature fans will delight to experience the forested hills, sandy beaches, and wetlands. There’s enough in the area to fill a week or more: wine tasting, boating, art museums, the Marine Science Center, farmer’s markets, and antique shopping.
These underrated summer travel ideas in the US will bring you new adventures, chances for relaxation, and unique experiences you will remember forever. Look beyond the ordinary for this year’s summer vacation.
