If introverted tendencies tend to steer you away from crowded places, but you still want to enjoy everything America has to offer, there are plenty of opportunities to have it all.
In this list, we’ll explore 24 cities, states, and attractions that are slightly off the beaten path yet still offer a world of wonder.
Vancouver, Washington
Located just 10 miles across the border from Portland, Vancouver rarely receives the attention it deserves. It has that small-town feel but is chock full of character and history.
In terms of history, visitors love to visit Fort Vancouver, a 19th-century fur trading post. In terms of character, there are a host of craft breweries to frequent. Better yet, if you can take one of those pints down to Vancouver Lake or Columbia River Gorge, you’re in for a splendid day, indeed.
North Cascades, Washington
Glacier National Park is one of the nation’s most-visited parks, and rightly so. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to take in the many delights of Montana. But, across the border – back in Washington – you’ll find North Cascades, a beautiful expanse of land filled with crystal blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, and plenty of ancient fir trees.
Ironically, North Cascades is actually home to even more glaciers than Glacier National Park while still opening up to a host of skiing, hiking, and walking opportunities.
Morro Bay, California
When driving down the west coast of California, Malibu and San Diego receive top billing – and rightly so. Nestled into the coastline, you’ll find the smaller Morro Bay.
While there, you can enjoy a full menu of watersports with fewer crowds. Keep your eye out for Morro Rock, as well, a volcanic monolith that’s home to otters and sea lions.
Thousand Steps Beach, California
Here, you have another alternative to California’s busy beaches. You can swap Santa Monica Beach for Thousand Steps Beach and find just as much to smile about. Its name is a little dramatic because it doesn’t require a thousand steps to get there.
But, it is a bit of a hike to reach these sandy shorelines. Your effort will soon be rewarded, though, as you breathe a sigh of relief on this soft beach and savor the sight of the coast’s famous sea cliffs.
Knott’s Berry Farm, California
When people aren’t delighting in Disney in Florida, they’re thrill-seeking in California’s version. Since it’s difficult to compete with Disney, Knott’s Berry Farm can fall under the radar. But, this is a lovely family-owned spot filled with attractions that tip their cap to the Old West.
Check their calendar of events before you go because it’s loaded with ongoing festivals, especially its trademark Boysenberry Festival. In October, fall- and Halloween-themed events take center stage. But, truly, any time of year is a nice time to come and support this family-run enterprise and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping rides.
Lions, Tigers, and Bears, California
Truth be told, the San Diego Zoo shouldn’t be struck from your list; it’s a wonderful day trip. When you’re in a quieter sort of mood, however, Lions, Tigers, and Bears offer a calmer, gentler experience.
It’s a sanctuary for abused and neglected animals, offering many introductions to lions, tigers, and bears – from a respectable distance, of course. Given the nature of their work, advance reservations are required. So, don’t forget to skip that step before your adventure begins.
Mokuleia Beach Park, Hawaii
Mokuleia Beach Park is a lesser-known opportunity to take in the most beautiful shorelines in the entire nation. Situated on Oahu’s North Shore, you’ll find a smaller stretch of sand waiting to embrace you with warm ocean breezes. Going here allows you to escape the busy beaches of Waikiki, and you may still be rewarded with the sight of a kite surfer or two.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Sedona often make the news sooner than Flagstaff. But Flagstaff is well worth the visit. It has an even more diverse terrain and slightly cooler temperatures when the summer temps are afire.
Being here also means you’re close enough to venture through the Grand Canyon and still visit pretty Sedona while basing yourself out of a less hectic city.
Rapid City, South Dakota
The way Flagstaff offers a quieter, calmer approach to the Grand Canyon, Rapid City also opens the door to a host of cultural activities. The most important one on the list is Mount Rushmore.
Yet, you’ll also have easy access to the Badlands National Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, as well as Custer State Park. When you’re downtown, you’ll be delighted by its artsy feel, complete with bundles of boutiques, countless coffee shops, and an array of eclectic eateries.
Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah
Aptly named, Natural Bridges features a trio of natural bridges that have been carved out by the swift rapids of river water throughout the ages. This park is a nice alternative to the ever-busy Arches National Park, also in Utah.
Here, you can bask in similar natural wonders and marvel at a starry night or two with far fewer crowds. In many ways, the opportunity for solitude enhances the entire experience.
Devils Tower, Wyoming
Yosemite Park harkens visitors from all around the world, with good reason. But, over in Wyoming, Devils Tower stands tall and proud, with an equal measure of wonder. The easiest comparison point is Yosemite’s Half Dome, yet Devils Tower is a worthwhile substitute.
The hiking trails here are equally enchanting if your boots are up for it. You’ll also find fewer crowds and quickly understand why it’s considered sacred to certain tribes of Native Americans.
Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis is a hotspot when the Indy 500 is on. But it’s well worth a visit any other time of year. If you come during the summer, you might enjoy a stroll along the Central Canal walking path in the center of town or a bike ride down the Cultural Trail.
Like Pike Place Market in Seattle or Faneuil Hall in Boston, Indianapolis has its own version of the Indianapolis City Market. It’s a lovely place to stock up your Airbnb before venturing out to enjoy another day or two in the city.
Columbus, Ohio
People rarely think about Columbus when planning thrill-seeking fun. They usually opt for Disney or Six Flags. Yet, Columbus has Cedar Point, a fabulous amusement park filled with 18 different roller coasters. Then, there’s Zoombezi Bay, a thrilling water park well worth a day trip.
There’s also the Columbus Zoo, the Columbus Art Museum, and an enchanting part of town known as German Village. If you find yourself in the Heartland, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by everything Columbus has to offer.
Covington, Kentucky
From Columbus, you could make a pass through Cincinnati on your way to Covington, Kentucky. It’s surprising how far Covington flies under the radar because it’s an absolute sensation where foodies unite.
Since the city has German roots, you’ll find an array of Bavarian delights. But it’s also known for its fusion of other international cuisines and enough craft breweries to give Vancouver a run for its money.
Palo Duro Canyon, Texas
It’s not likely you’ll hear people discussing the Grand Canyon vs. Palo Duro Canyon. But, this Texan delight can certainly hold its own by comparison. Located just outside Amarillo, there’s plenty to be seen and done in the area, including Palo Duro.
With about 30 miles of trails, you can savor the same beautiful sunsets and walk across similarly red rocks. You can also choose from a few different modes of transportation, whether by foot, by bike, or, best of all, by horse.
Fort Tryon Park, New York
When roaming through Manhattan, Central Park is a central attraction. A little further north, along the West Side, you’ll find something equally appealing and far more quaint – Fort Tryon Park.
It’s actually home to The Cloisters, an amazing museum specializing in unique medieval finds. Aside from that, it also hosts a large dog park for fur babies and humans to socialize, as well as playgrounds, and enchanting walks along the Hudson River.
Governors Island, New York
New York is filled with hidden treasures and gems if you do a little bit of legwork. For every ferry ride to the Statue of Island, there’s an alternative option, such as Governors Island.
Here, you’ll find a unique vantage of magnificent Manhattan, with plenty of space to stroll around and enjoy the quiet before returning to the busy streets of the greatest city on earth.
If New York is in your sights, this handy guide to unique experiences will help you curate the itinerary of your dreams.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
If the thought of Las Vegas overwhelms you, you’re not wrong. You can dip your toes into a similar scene in Atlantic City after your jaunt through New York. There’s the famous boardwalk, where you can savor the Atlantic and enjoy countless sweet treats.
Then, when you’re ready to try your hand at the poker table or the slots, there are plenty of opportunities in this smaller Sin City, as well as oodles of hotels to luxuriate in as you count your winnings.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
If you’re not up for the hustle and bustle of frenetic Philly, you might go further west to Pittsburgh. It’s no longer the capital of steel, although it will never abandon those roots.
It’s also a mecca for interesting museums like the Andy Warhol Museum. When you’re ready for a little sustenance, the best place to take aim is the Strip District, simmering with wonderful shops to patron and fantastic eateries to enjoy.
Italian Market, Philadelphia
Over in Philly, there are countless opportunities to escape the crowds and try something new. In lieu of the Reading Terminal Market (which is, in fairness, one of the jewels of the city), you can enjoy a slower pace in the Italian Market.
To be fair, it’s not that much quieter, and it’s certainly not small. Just be certain not to overlook it, especially if you have your sights set on finding the best cheesesteak in town.
National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C.
You could spend days, if not weeks, exploring the museums and galleries in Washington, D.C. With the likes of the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian, who can compete? Of course, no one can.
But, don’t let a stroll through the National Museum of Women in the Arts pass you by. It offers a far more peaceful exploration with far fewer crowds. That makes your study of thousands of works of art, dating as far back as the 16th century, exponentially more enjoyable.
Newport, Rhode Island
The whole of Rhode Island could be listed as unpopular or forgotten, but make no mistake – it’s a lovely state. Newport, in particular, is brimming with charm, thanks to its cobblestone streets and stunning harbor views.
Here, you’ll find ancient mansions that remain tall and proud, even through the winds of fate. As you embrace the literal winds from the sea, you can also make your way to Castle Hill Lighthouse for a picture or two to remind you of your fabulous stay in this fantastic city.
Deerfield Beach, Florida
The comparison point here is South Beach in Miami. But you really have to be up for a big dose of humanity to take on the swarming crowds of South Beach. Only an hour away, Deerfield Beach is far quieter, with the same showstopping sunrises, soft beaches, and relaxing waves.
Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida
Further inland in Florida, you have the swampy lands known as the Everglades, which are filled with fascinating finds, including egrets, herons, alligators, and crocodiles. It’s a unique ecosystem well worth exploring.
For a quieter sort of exploration, you can bypass the Everglades and head north to Big Cypress National Preserve for similar finds. Here, you can marvel at its trademark cypress forests and still befriend a family of alligators from a very far distance, of course.
Beat the Crowds In These Unique Destinations
The U.S. is easily one of the most diverse countries on the planet. With showstopping cities, natural wonders, and nearly every type of region or climate, there’s so much to see.
If you’d like to do something a little different, beat the crowds, and still savor this eclectic country, these 24 spots are your gateway to freedom and fun.
Wherever you’re headed, in America and beyond, we have a detailed destination guide to help you make the most of your travels. Here’s hoping we meet you along the way someday!