One of the best things about travel is new discovery – and there are plenty of places to discover in the United States!
While America’s big cities, famous beaches and most popular national parks are magnets for tourists, we know it is worth it to get off the beaten path.
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Coast to coast, there are nearly 20,000 cities, towns and villages in the USA. Together they offer ample opportunities for travelers to seek out lesser visited locales. For your inspiration, we’ve rounded up our Top Underrated Places to Visit in the US this year!
Why Visit Underrated Cities in USA?
Top US Destinations – like Las Vegas, New York City and San Francisco – will always intrigue tourists. That said, there are some fantastic reasons for travelers to visit underrated cities in the United States as well.
Less Crowded
Contending with crowds can put a damper on any trip. One of the best things about going to underrated vacation spots in the USA is escaping the herds.
Furthermore, many of the top tourists spots in the US are pushing to the limits of being over-touristed. The environmental impact is reason enough for eco travelers to find alternate destinations.
Less Disappointment
Highly touted tourist destinations are often over-hyped. This can lead to big expectations, and therefore disappointments.
You can blame TikTok and Instagram for the crazed competition…or you can get outside of the box and seek out underrated US cities to visit!
Pro Tip: Whether you are traveling to top places to visit in the US or one of the best unknown vacation spots in the United States, setting realistic expectations for your trip is key.
Less Expensive
Another one of the benefits of making a trip to underrated places to visit in the US is that they are often cheaper. The cost of transport, accommodations and activities can all be significantly lower than in major US cities.
However, we know it is possible to travel anywhere for less. Even NYC on a Budget is possible! For more tips on budget travel, sign up for our step-by-step guide and get a free Vacation Budget Planner, too!
More Creativity
Our biggest reason for traveling to underrated cities in the US is the renewed sense of discovery. When you explore lesser-visited destinations, you are not following in the footsteps of millions before you; you are making your own path.
Rather than tackling a city with a checklist, you can let your creativity and curiosity lead the way to hidden gems in the most underrated destinations USA!
17 Underrated Places To Visit in the US
Ready to book your next trip to an underrated US travel destination? Great! Let’s get to our picks for the top underrated cities in the US and other less-visited spots.
#1 Spokane, Washington
Spokane tops our list as one of the most underrated cities in the US for a vacation. With an abundance of nature and a historic downtown, Spokane ticks a lot of boxes for a fantastic destination.
As a bonus, the city is incredibly easy to get around on foot and the Gonzaga University campus fuels a youthful and fun vibe.
Visitors will not want to miss Riverfront Park and the beautifully cascading waterfalls. The well-preserved historic neighborhoods and art installations are other top Spokane sights.
Plan your trip with our guide to the Best Things To Do in Spokane.
#2 Florence, Oregon
Many people have never even heard of Florence, Oregon – which is why it ranks as one of the best unknown vacation spots in the US!
Located on the Oregon Coast and boasting a population of just 9,000 residents, Florence is somewhat of a sleepy town. But that is all part of the charm!
The historic Old Town is nestled along the Siuslaw River and the main street is lined with locally owned restaurants and shops.
Where Florence extends to the Pacific Ocean, visitors will find one of the most underrated US beaches as well.
While the weather is often too cool for sunbathing or swimming, the wide, flat beach is perfect for long walks and whale spotting. Plus, excellent Florence Hiking Trails take you through dense forests and along pleasant creeks and lakes.
Find out more in our article: Top Things To Do in Florence, OR.
#3 Columbus, Ohio
Although one of the most populous cities in the United States, Columbus still makes our list of underrated places to visit in USA.
Perhaps I am biased because I grew up in the Columbus suburb of Dublin OH! Other great areas to explore are quaint German Village, the Short North Arts District and The Ohio State University campus.
On sunny days, travelers can get in touch with nature at one of the Best Columbus Parks or visit the famed Columbus Zoo.
When the weather is foul, it’s time to check out the city’s museums. COSI (an interactive science center) and the engaging Columbus Art Museum are two of our favs.
Read about all our favorite Things To Do in Columbus!
#4 Morro Bay, California
We were introduced to Morro Bay, one of the most underrated places to visit in California, on our drive down the West Coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
Unlike other top beach cities in California, like Malibu and San Diego, Morro Bay exudes a quiet and quirky community vibe.
Nestled along the Central Coast, it’s not far from the famous Hearst Castle, hip San Luis Obispo and the popular wine town of Paso Robles.
While Morro Bay is one of the underrated beaches in the US, there are a few distinct features that make it an absolute gem!
First, there is Morro Rock. This huge volcanic monolith is perched just offshore and welcomes an array of wildlife. Second, being a fishing village, there is seafood…really, really good seafood.
#5 Missoula, Montana
Ranking as the hippest destination in Montana, Missoula is a fun place to visit for live music, good times and outstanding nature. Nevertheless, Missoula remains one of the most underrated cities in the US.
A perfect stop on a Montana Road Trip, Missoula offers up a historic downtown, a beautiful college campus and a few fantastic foodie haunts.
Use our Things To Do in Missoula to plan your underrated trip in the US!
#6 Vancouver, Washington
One of the most underrated places to visit in the US, Vancouver just doesn’t get a fair shake. The easy-going city sits in the shadow of its neighbor, Portland.
To be honest, we discovered Vancouver by accident…then promptly fell in love with the city. With a cool mix of modern and historic sights, VanWa is a fun and easy place to explore on foot.
The inviting Waterfront Park, the historic Fort Vancouver and loads of local Vancouver Craft Breweries are top reasons for a quick visit.
However, the nearby nature at Vancouver Lake and the Columbia River Gorge are reasons to stay even longer!
Use our complete guide to the Best Things To Do in Vancouver.
#7 Flagstaff, Arizona
Arizona has long been a tourist destination, but Flagstaff flies under the radar as one of the most underrated places to travel in the US.
Living in Phoenix for many years, Flagstaff was one of our favorite city escapes. The lush nature, diverse terrain and fresh mountain air beckoned us on hot summer weekends.
The city provides a fantastic base for visiting the Grand Canyon, peering into Meteor Crater and hiking in Sedona. Downtown Flagstaff has breweries, cafes and crafts all wrapped around a historic setting.
Find out all the Top Things To Do in Flagstaff, AZ!
#8 Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis might be one of the most underrated vacation spots in the US, but it should be on your list!
The classic midwestern city has a few unique activities and is a great base for exploring more of Indiana.
Of course, Indianapolis’ biggest attraction is the Indy 500 – but there is so much more to the city than a single car race.
Visitors can hop on bikes to discover the Cultural Trail or simply take a stroll along the Central Canal walking path in the heart of Indianapolis.
Foodies will want to pop into the Indianapolis City Market or try one of the stellar restaurants on Mass Avenue.
Unlike nearby Chicago, Indianapolis is not known for grand architecture, however, the revitalized Bottleworks District is an old Coca-Cola plant and a hub of entertainment.
Read our Complete Guide to Indy!
#9 Rapid City, South Dakota
When it comes to the best underrated vacation spots in the US, Rapid City certainly fits the bill. Especially for fans of the great outdoors!
Visitors to Rapid City will find that it is ideally located within reach of several magnificent sights – including a few of the most famous spots in America.
Top nearby attractions include Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, the lush Custer State Park and the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park.
While the city itself is one of the unknown places to visit in USA, travelers will find an abundance of artworks.
The streets are decorated with bronze statues of US presidents and museums feature historic and modern works from regional artists.
Check out our full list of Top Weekend Destinations in the USA!
#10 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is one of the most underrated places in America! Filled with historic sights, fascinating museums and classic eats, travelers could easily spend a week exploring the vibrant city.
To be fair, American history buffs have long been in on the secret about Philadelphia. The city was the site of numerous events that shaped the USA. The Independence National Historical Park is the prime place to learn about US history.
However, there is so much more in Philly than the past. The city has several fine art museums – and there are installations and murals found throughout Philly.
Furthermore, the food scene is spectacular. Plus, no visitor should leave without trying at least one classic Philly Cheesesteak!
Get specifics on more things to do in our Philadelphia Itinerary.
#11 Covington, Kentucky
Covington lays south along the Ohio River – just a stone’s throw from Cincinnati – and goes unnoticed by far too many travelers in our opinion!
The city, which originated as a German settlement in the 1800s, is steeped in history and much of that past remains intact.
Those strong ties – as well as wonderfully preserved neighborhoods – are a couple reasons why Covington ranks as one of the off-the-beaten-path places to travel in US.
What’s really astounding – and the reason we rank it as a top underrated US destinations – is the exciting Covington Culinary Scene.
The city is home to an incredible array of restaurants serving up everything from southern comfort classics to international fusion fare.
Read more Things To Do in Covington to find out why it’s an underrated city in the US!
#12 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, PA, which has long been known as an industrial city, doesn’t get the fanfare it deserves as a tourist destination.
It’s actually come a long way from its steel-producing past and now ranks as one of the most underrated places in the US for a vacation.
Boasting historic and modern attractions, numerous sports teams and incredibly interesting neighborhoods, Pittsburgh is one of the absolute best places to visit in USA!
Other top attractions are the Heinz History Center and the Andy Warhol Museum. However, what we liked best about visiting Pittsburgh were the excellent eateries and shops in the buzzing Strip District.
Find out more in our article, Things To Do in Pittsburgh.
#13 Newport, Rhode Island
A quintessential New England coastal town, Newport, RI ranks as one of the most beautiful underrated places in the US for a vacation.
The quaint downtown features cobblestone lanes, boutique shops and fantastic eateries. Plus, a gorgeous harbor that hosts bobbing boats.
Visitors can drive, pedal or trek along the shoreline and take in the epic sea views. There are sights along the way, too. They include the historic Castle Hill Lighthouse and opulent mansions that are perched on the coast.
Ferries from the Newport Harbor take passengers to picture-perfect Block Island. Travelers can also explore the nearby coastal communities that make the entire region unique and a hidden gem vacation spot.
#14 Santa Cruz Island, California
Part of the Channel Islands National Park off the Central California coast, Santa Cruz is one of the best secluded vacation spots in the US.
Unlike crowded US National Parks – like Glacier and Yellowstone – Channel Islands NP is one of the least visited in the United States. In fact, it’s one of the best places to go on vacation for a primitive camping experience.
Hiking is a top activity on Santa Cruz Island – as well as wildlife spotting, diving and kayaking. Just keep in mind that secret getaways to Santa Cruz require some preparation. There are extremely limited services on the remote island.
#15 St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine on the northeast Florida coast, is one of the most underrated places to go on vacation in the US.
Staking claim as the Oldest City in the United States (settled 55 years before the Pilgrims arrived), the city boasts a fascinating history and a fantastic beach.
What makes St. Augustine a unique vacation in the US is the historic Spanish colonial architecture and the iconic Fountain of Youth.
Visitors can stroll down the pedestrianized St. George Street, explore the Colonial Quarter and visit an old Spanish fort.
Additionally, the regular line up of fun community events – from culinary celebrations to music festivals – contribute to St. Augustine being one of the best vacation spots in the United States.
#16 Cleveland, Ohio
Stretching out along the banks of Lake Erie, Cleveland has had many ups and downs over the course of it’s history.
Recently, however, Cleveland has experienced a massive revitalization and is a great underrated place to visit!
Perhaps it’s most famous attraction is the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame, but there are actually numerous other incredible museums to visit in Cleveland.
Additionally, the food scene in Cleveland has really taken off. From Downtown to Little Italy to Ohio City, foodies will have no problem getting their fill!
Sports fanatics won’t be short for entertainment either. Cleveland boasts MLB, NBA and NFL teams. Fans of hockey and soccer aren’t left out, as the AHL and MLS both have franchises in the city.
Read our honest advice for Planning a Trip to Cleveland!
#17 Crescent City, California
While the southern California Coast is no stranger to tourists, the northern shoreline is woefully underappreciated.
Crescent City – a destination just 20 miles south of the Oregon state line – is easily bypassed, but we think it’s an worth seeking out!
The oceanside location features long stretches of sandy beaches and fresh-caught seafood eats. However, the soaring Redwood trees that stand just inland are the reason we decided to visit – and they do not disappoint!
The city itself evokes small-town vibes with family-owned shops, locally-run hotels and just a handful of interesting sights.
The locale makes a great base for exploring more off-the-beaten-path destinations in Del Norte County – and continuing north along the famed Oregon Coast.
Read our guide of Things To Do in Crescent City!
Travel Tips for Underrated Vacation Spots USA
Ready to start planning your trip? We have some final advice that will make planning your vacation easier!
Organizing Trips to Underrated Cities to Visit in USA
As you plan vacations within the US to underrated destinations, you will need to keep track of your research and reservations. We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables to stay on top of all the details!
Find Flights
The underrated places to visit in the USA that we recommend can all be reached by plane (except for the Channel Islands).
Before buying tickets, make sure you read our guide to Booking The Best Flights for our top advice on getting low fares.
Book Accommodations
One of the best things about traveling to underrated cities in the US is that lodging is often less expensive.
Use our tips for Booking Hotels to find accommodations that suit your needs and fit your budget!
Reserve Rental Cars
While most of the underrated US travel destinations we featured can be explored without a car, you will need one to get beyond the city center.
Read our Top Tips for Rental Cars to book a car at the cheapest rate!
Start planning your next US Vacation! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Planning a Winter Getaway? Excellent! We have heaps of suggestions in our article, Top US Winter Travel Destinations!
Looking for Secret Vacation Spots in the World? Check out these Underrated Destinations Worldwide.
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