Are you tired of the usual crowded US tourist spots? Are you looking for some lesser-known yet worthy places to visit? If so, then you need to peruse these 18 under-the-radar locations that are quite worthy of attention:

Bend, Oregon

 

Bend is conveniently close to a volcano, a mountain range, and a river. There are various activities available throughout including hiking, skiing, and paddleboarding down the river. In town, you can check out the numerous bars and restaurants after exploring the local wineries and breweries.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Relatively close to such popular summer spots as Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and the Hamptons, Block Island has a comparatively low profile. The island, therefore, has 17 miles of white, pristine beaches that are free of crowds. Once you’ve had enough surf and sand, enjoy the hiking trails or explore the pair of distinctive lighthouses too.

Bozeman, Montana

 

Bozeman is near Yellowstone National Park. Home to Montana State University, it has a surprising cultural scene. Surrounded by mountains, visitors may enjoy fishing, hiking, and skiing. See the famous Museum of the Rockies, which features an extensive collection of different dinosaur fossils including a complete, full-size T-rex skeleton.

Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota

 

Considered by those in the know to be the state’s premier vacation destination, The Brainerd Lakes area includes 450 lakes. Lake Mille Lacs is the best place for those who like to go swimming. You can go biking, boating, fishing, water-skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding then relax at the local spa.

Door County, Wisconsin

 

Situated between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, Door County is a peninsula that’s home to an artistic community complete with galleries and shops. Once known as “Cherryland USA,” the majority of the nation’s cherries were once grown here. Visitors can still stroll through the orchards and even sample some cherry pie.

Fredericksburg, Texas

 

Located in Central Texas, this rustic spot was settled by Germans and is named after an ex-Prussian prince. Veteran visitors consider it a hidden gem. It features a German market square and unique 19th-century German architecture. There’s even a wonderful wine region there in the surrounding Texas Hill Country.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

 

See the country’s tallest sand dunes, Go sand-boarding and sledding too. At present, you will have to bring your own board because they don’t rent them. The park service has distinct guidelines, however, on what will work best for you if you choose to go sledding.

Hermann, Missouri

 

Situated on the banks of the Missouri River, the picturesque town of Hermann was originally settled by German immigrants who chose the area for its resemblance to Germany’s Rhine Valley. Now known for its wine-production, visiting tourists always enjoy wine tasting. Attend Maifest in May or Oktoberfest later in the year.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

 

This spa town has natural springs. There are several historic bathhouses along Bathhouse Row. One of the first bathhouses, the Buckstaff Bathhouse, first opened its doors in 1912. Just north of the city, you’ll find Hot Springs National Park. The water in the pools there can actually climb to 143 degrees Fahrenheit.

Lake George islands, New York

 

Lake George is no “secret.” Camping on the 44 state-owned islands in the lake, however, is. There are 387 campsites. Each site has its own dock, a toilet, a picnic table, and a fireplace. Visitors must either rent a boat or pay to be dropped off and then later picked up.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

 

This island is actually a National Historic Landmark. A vacation hotspot since the 1880s, it remains a charming, “no motor vehicle” isle. Explore the fudge shops and take in the Victorian architecture via bicycle, buggy or horseback. There’s enough to see just by strolling the streets too.

Mount Bohemia, Michigan

Mount Bohemia Is a surprisingly excellent ski resort in the Upper Midwest. The resort receives an average of 300 inches of snow annually. In the summer and fall, it’s popular with those who like to hike and go mountain-biking. The views across Lake Superior are Instagram-worthy as well.

 

Ross Lake, Washington

 

Deeply ensconced in the North Cascades National Park, this is one of the most remote spots on this list. Within the dense forest is Ross Lake which is 23 miles long and has several state campsites along its edges that can only be reached by boat or on foot.

Swan’s Island, Maine

 

Tourists know about Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. Those who wish to avoid the tourists head for nearby Swan’s Island. It’s just a 30-minute ferry ride out of Bass Harbor on Mount Desert Island. Known for its lobstering industry, the island locals total a mere 350 people. Enjoy the seafood

Taos, New Mexico

 

Still a relatively well-kept secret, Taos is a surprisingly artsy community thanks to the noteworthy earth-colored buildings and dramatic landscapes. Don’t miss the Taos Pueblo which is an ancient adobe village still home to 150 Taos Native Americans. If you like skiing, visit in the winter and enjoy the excellent skiing terrain.

Tongue Point, Washington

 

Tongue Point extends out of the state’s northern coastline. Enjoy the nearby campground and go for a swim, hike and take in the scenery. If you like to observe birds and sea life, you can stroll across the outcropping at low tide.

Topsail Island, North Carolina

 

This 26-mile long coastal barrier island remains low key even though it features some of the area’s most beautiful beaches. This is the place to avoid the tourist crowds and enjoy the sun and surf. The average cost for a four-person house rental is $276 according to Airbnb.

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

 

An hour away from the Vegas Strip, this is the place to escape the tables when you’ve had your share of gambling. Named for its bright red sandstone formations, this is a great place to hike, see petroglyphs and relax in the spring or fall. It’s beautiful to see in the summer too but they do not permit hiking then because of the famous heat.