10 Hidden Gems in the U.S. That Most Tourists Skip
Skip the tourist crowds! These 10 hidden gems in the U.S. promise unforgettable adventures in peace.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
America is packed with underrated destinations that most travelers overlook. From surreal landscapes to charming small towns, these hidden gems offer beauty, adventure, and culture without the usual crowds. Whether you’re into nature, history, or quirky roadside attractions, these spots prove that the best places are often off the beaten path.
1. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Thesavagenorwegian on Wikimedia Commons
Tucked away in Lake Superior, this stunning archipelago is a paradise for kayakers, hikers, and adventure seekers. In winter, the sea caves transform into a frozen wonderland, with shimmering icicles hanging from the cliffs. Summer brings crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and historic lighthouses. It’s a dream destination for anyone looking to escape into nature.
2. North Cascades National Park, Washington
IIP Photo Archive on Wikimedia Commons
Often called the “American Alps,” this park has snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and miles of untouched wilderness. Despite its jaw-dropping beauty, it’s one of the least-visited national parks in the country. Hikers can explore hidden waterfalls, while wildlife lovers might spot bears, eagles, and mountain goats. If you want epic views without the crowds, this is the place.
3. Great Basin National Park, Nevada
AndrewKPepper on Wikimedia Commons
Most people drive right past this Nevada treasure on their way to bigger-name parks, but they’re missing out. Home to the otherworldly Lehman Caves and the ancient bristlecone pine trees (some over 4,000 years old), Great Basin offers an incredible mix of geology and history. It’s also one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing—on a clear night, the Milky Way puts on a show. With no entrance fees and minimal visitors, it’s a hidden gem in every sense.
4. Door County, Wisconsin
Leif and Evonne on Wikimedia Commons
This charming peninsula on Lake Michigan is like a slice of New England in the Midwest. With scenic lighthouses, cherry orchards, and cozy waterfront towns, it’s the perfect escape from city life. Summer brings kayaking, fish boils, and art festivals, while fall turns the area into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. It’s Wisconsin’s best-kept secret—until you visit and tell everyone about it.
5. Cumberland Island, Georgia
Will.i.am on Wikimedia Commons
This remote island is home to wild horses, untouched beaches, and hauntingly beautiful ruins. Accessible only by ferry, it offers a glimpse into a wilder, quieter America. Visitors can explore maritime forests, watch dolphins play in the surf, or wander through the eerie remains of the Carnegie family’s mansion. With no cars and limited visitors, it feels like stepping back in time.
6. The Enchanted Highway, North Dakota
Carol M. Highsmith on Wikimedia Commons
A road trip like no other, this 32-mile stretch of highway is lined with giant metal sculptures, including a 110-foot-tall grasshopper and a towering tin family. Built by a local artist to attract visitors, it’s one of the quirkiest roadside attractions in the country. The tiny towns along the way add to the charm, with old-school diners and friendly locals. If you love offbeat adventures, this is a must-see.
7. Letchworth State Park, New York
Daniel Christensen on Wikimedia Commons
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this stunning park features massive waterfalls, deep gorges, and scenic hiking trails. Unlike its more famous cousin out west, you won’t have to fight for elbow room at the viewpoints. In fall, the changing leaves turn the landscape into a fiery masterpiece. It’s an easy day trip from Buffalo or Rochester, but it feels like another world.
8. Marfa, Texas
John Cummings on Wikimedia Commons
This tiny desert town is a magnet for artists, mystery seekers, and anyone who loves weird, wonderful places. The famous Marfa Lights, which are glowing orbs that appear in the night sky, have baffled scientists for decades. Art lovers flock to the minimalist installations, including the famous Prada Marfa, a fake luxury store in the middle of nowhere. Equal parts eerie and artsy, Marfa is unlike anywhere else in Texas.
9. Makalawena Beach, Hawaii
Janine Sprout on Wikimedia Commons
Most tourists in Hawaii stick to the easy-to-reach beaches, but Makalawena rewards those willing to go off the beaten path. A short hike over lava fields leads to one of the state’s most pristine, secluded beaches. The sand is powdery white, the water is crystal clear, and you might have the whole place to yourself. It’s paradise without the crowds—just don’t forget your sunscreen and water.
10. The Lost Coast, California
Frank Schulenburg on Wikimedia Commons
Unlike the rest of California’s well-developed coastline, this rugged stretch is completely untouched—no highways, no towns, just wild beauty. Backpackers and campers love the remote beaches, towering cliffs, and dense redwood forests. Seals, elk, and even the occasional black bear call this place home. If you want to see California as it was before civilization, this is it.