The United States of America is home to some of the most beautiful, intriguing, and captivating cities on the planet. We all know how exciting it can be to travel to places like NYC, Los Angeles, and Chicago. But hidden within our 50 states are some seriously underrated cities that make for amazing travel destinations.
The cities on this list often fly under the radar when people think of places to visit, but oh, what a mistake! Some of my family’s favorite vacations have been in these less-traveled locales. Austin may be weird, but it’s awesome. Bellevue has the most incredible Christmas parade. Scottsdale is arguably one of the most family-friendly cities in the country. Which one will you visit next?
1. Pensacola, FL
Nestled in the northwestern corner of the state, this city is the site of the very first Spanish settlement in America. With white sandy beaches and plenty of local charm, this place is a hidden gem for tourists who want to experience the magic of a Florida vacation without traveling to overcrowded cities like Orlando or Miami.
2. Fort Collins, CO
Places like Denver, Aspen, and Boulder might be synonymous with Colorado vacationing, but tucked away at the very top of the state is an idyllic destination that has tremendous value to offer. The area itself has no shortage of scenic walking trails to enjoy, plus recreational options like rock climbing gyms. It won’t take you long to drive from this city to Rocky Mountain National Park, making it the perfect home base for your next Colorado vacation.
3. Santa Fe, NM
The oldest capital city in America, this spot is chock full of history and culture. From a strong Native American Pueblo presence to a slew of intriguing museums and historic sites like ruins and centuries-old adobe structures, you could spend weeks in this city and still not see everything. Even
if the stories of years gone by aren’t your cup of tea, this bustling city has lots of modern options for entertainment, lodging, and food.
4. Austin, TX
Did you know this city is titled the Live Music Capital of the World? It’s true! Austin is famous for hosting vibrant music festivals that celebrate this art form to the fullest. But music performances aren’t just reserved for professional shows in Austin. In fact, visitors are often greeted when they land at the airport with the sound of live musicians playing! If live music is something you’re passionate about, Austin is the place to be.
5. Long Island City, NY
Everyone knows the excitement of Manhattan, and many hail Brooklyn as a cornerstone of the NYC arts community. However, Queens deserves some serious love too. Located just across the East River in relation to Manhattan, Long Island City offers more affordable lodging, a variety of local eateries which are full of character, a beautiful waterfront, access to a ferry system, and easy subway transportation straight into the heart of Manhattan.
6. Saint Louis, MO
Located right along the Mississippi River, this city is a friend to all. Lovers of outdoor activities will adore the multitude of public parks and beautiful waterways. Tourists love to spectate and take pictures of the iconic Gateway Arch, which honors the exploration of Lewis and Clark. The hospitable people who call this city home are just the icing on top of the cake, which makes this place a totally underrated gem.
7. Bellevue, WA
Washington is a gorgeous state, but you don’t have to stay in a city as bustling as Seattle to have an amazing experience. Bellevue, located just 20 minutes from Seattle, is home to attractions like a scenic downtown park, some relaxing beach and nature parks, and even the famous Bellevue Botanical Garden. They also have an incredible Christmas parade called Snowflake Lane that rivals anything Disney could do. With tons of delicious restaurants to choose from offering a diverse range of cuisines such as seafood, Mediterranean dishes, Mexican fare, and more, you’ll never go hungry when you stay in Bellevue.
8. Scottsdale, AZ
Located near the capital city of Phoenix, this spot is full of interesting attractions. Scottsdale is also one of the most family-friendly cities in the U.S. This place boasts numerous popular museums, art galleries, and even golfing tournaments for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros. The trademark desert scenery of this area makes it a must-visit city for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers. Anyone and everyone will enjoy the clear, warm temperatures of Scottsdale.
9. Greenville, SC
This city might be a little more small and homey than some of the other entries on this list, but that is a huge part of its undeniable charm. From mouthwatering meal establishments to stunning Southern landscapes, you’ll never run out of places to explore in Greenville. If you’re looking for a place that is fun and engaging without being too loud or overwhelming, book a trip here for some much-needed respite.
10. Minneapolis–St Paul, MN
For the avid sports fan, a trip to these Twin Cities is a no-brainer. Explore the lively metropolitan center, sample some local craft beer, and take in the stunning skylines. Don’t forget to stop by the Mall of America: the biggest mall in the entire country. You can easily spend a whole day at this establishment, and the best part is that you won’t need to pay any tax on clothing or shoes!
11. Milwaukee, WI
Celebrate this city’s German heritage by indulging in some beer and bratwurst. Then, if you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, you absolutely must stop in at the Harley-Davidson Museum, which
celebrates the history and impact of this world-renowned brand. Into interests that are a bit on the quirky side? Pay a visit to this city’s National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum. Now that’s a story you can tell at parties for years to come.
12. Richmond, VA
The capital city of Virginia is an area full of life, culture, and specialty shops packed with personality. Explore the region of Carytown to take an unforgettable food tour or adventure through the scenic parks of the city for a breath of fresh air. For more adventurous types, try out whitewater rafting on the James River to really get your blood pumping.
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This article was produced by Our Woven Journey.
Karee Blunt is a nationally syndicated travel journalist, focused on discovering destinations and experiences that captivate and inspire others through her writing. She is also the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel site focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.