Are you looking for something unusual and unique to do this year? Maybe you’d like to visit a lesser-known beach that feels like a best-kept secret.
Or how about a ghost town out in Arizona before heading north to a treehouse retreat? Whatever your heart’s desiring, we have some suggestions to help you craft the itinerary of your dreams.
1. Breckenridge, Colorado
When it comes to mountain towns, Aspen and Vail are chart-toppers during the winter ski season in Colorado. As for its picturesque cities, Denver and Boulder also get a lot of love.
But, there’s another mountain town nestled 10,000 feet in the air that doesn’t get all the attention it deserves. Breckenridge is postcard pretty, especially when it’s lit up at night.
With world-class restaurants, easy access to the slopes, and some high-end accommodations, Breckenridge may make for a more unique getaway than Aspen or Vail.
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
With easy access to beautiful lakes and an array of nature-filled destinations, Michigan has a lot to offer. But, do you know about its carless island named Mackinac?
Located in Lake Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsula, Mackinac Island can help you step back in time, forget about your everyday cares, and walk around one of the prettiest towns in all the nation.
You’re more likely to see horse-drawn buggies than cars while you’re here and, if you can swing it, your best bet is to stay in the gorgeous Grand Hotel.
3. Taos, New Mexico
Santa Fe gets a lot of heat when people are considering a desert getaway. But, don’t forget about Taos, either.
It has some of the most spectacular mountain views this side of heaven and a host of hot springs to heal your body and soul. Airbnbs abound, meaning there are plenty of different ways to soak up this beautiful state.
For more creative ideas while in Taos, check out our list of the best glamping spots in the nation which proudly features this beautiful city.
4. Jerome, Arizona
Flagstaff and Sedona are a dream come true with their red rocks and national parks. Watching the sun set on these red rocks is a true wonder.
Hidden in central Arizona is a ghost town that used to be a copper mining town. Filled with winding streets and quaint shops, you’ll be mesmerized by how well-preserved (and haunting) the town feels.
If you pick up a bite to eat at the Haunted Hamburger on Clark Street, you never know who – or what – you might meet!
5. Arches National Park, Utah
While you’re in this corner of the country, you might consider traveling north to Arches National Park.
It’s not as touristy as the other heavy-hitters in the area like the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone National Park. But, it doesn’t disappoint, either, with its incredible sandstone formations that will leave you in awe.
6. Whitefish, Montana
Continuing on up the line, Whitefish, Montana is another town that – like Breckenridge – doesn’t get all the hype it deserves. It’s not as popular as Bozeman or Missoula, but it has a lot on offer.
The shops are plentiful; the downtown is delightful; and the locals will meet you with a warm embrace. If you stay in nearby Columbia Falls, you can treat yourself to a treehouse retreat that has some of the most scenic views in the entire country.
7. Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville is so underrated, even its nickname gives it away: the Scruffy City. Here, you’ll find a unique city that blends an urban flair with sweet country touches, thanks to its access to the Great Smoky Mountains.
Right in the heart of downtown, there’s a lively square with shops and restaurants galore. The people are friendly; the coffee shops are delightful; and you won’t have to break the bank to visit this city, unlike its cousins over in Memphis and Nashville.
8. Boonsboro, Maryland
Set in a sleepy town about an hour and a half outside of Washington, DC, you’ll find one of the best couple’s getaways.
Boonsboro is right next door to the hometown of famed romance writer, Nora Roberts. She purchased and restored a huge building right on the square and turned it into a luxury inn.
Couples can travel to this city to luxuriate in her spa-like rooms, shop in her husband’s bookstore, and hop in the car to tour several different Civil War sites. With something for the spa lover and the history buff in the family, this secret destination has a lot to offer.
9. Watch Hill, Rhode Island
While Providence and some of the larger cities in Rhode Island are noteworthy in their own right, Watch Hill is an idyllic little town on the coast that’s well worth the drive.
The best time to visit is during the summer when its ice cream shops and boutiques are open. But, you can come here to rest your weary soul anytime, thanks to the soothing waves of the ocean.
10. Woods Hole, Massachusetts
Woods Hole is a quiet harbor town on Cape Cod. It’s slightly further off the beaten path, offering all the peace and tranquility that people seek when they head to the Cape.
If you can secure a room in the Woods Hole Inn, you’ll be delighted by its plush bedding, lemonade and cookies in the lounge, and friendly staff. You can easily walk into town or down to the shore from your room with easy access to total relaxation.
11. Tybee Island, Georgia
When you think about Georgia, do Atlanta and Savannah spring to mind? Fair enough. And, if it’s Savannah that’s on your mind, you might want to consider posting yourself on Tybee Island.
Located 30 minutes east of Savannah, you can stay in a lovely beach house with easy access to the Atlantic, restaurants, relaxation, and the southern belle that is Savannah whenever you want to spice up your night with a little more action.
12. Helen, Georgia
Helen is a sweet little surprise nestled in northern Georgia. You’ll find it right before you enter North Carolina or Tennessee, depending on where you’re headed.
It’s an amazing mountain town, known for its Bavarian-style buildings. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a fairytale as you dip in and out of its shops, dine in delight, and luxuriate in one of its plush accommodations.
13. Solvang, California
Solvang has a similar angle to Helen. But, instead of a Bavarian flair, it features prominent Danish influences.
People love to travel to this corner of the state to sip on delicious wines, enjoy the downtown flavor, visit the Hans Christian Andersen museum, and take easy hikes to the nearby Nojoqui Falls.
14. Fredericksburg, Texas
There’s one more American town with a European flair worth visiting. Located in Central Texas, Fredericksburg looks like it was dropped straight into the country from Germany.
Their Pioneer Museum makes for an interesting walk down memory lane as you explore settlers’ homesteads and artifacts. Surprising and delectable wineries also abound in this region of the state.
Aside from that, you’ll be able to sip on some savory beers and enjoy authentic food. You’ll also have to keep a close eye on your bank account because you’ll want to do some serious shopping in their adorable boutiques.
15. Cold Spring, New York
When visiting New York State, it has to be all about the city, right? What if you’re not a city-goer? Then, there’s a fantastic option that’s only an hour away by train in case you want to dip your toes into the waters of Manhattan without getting soaked.
Cold Spring is a Hallmark movie-style town on the Hudson River (which leads straight into Manhattan). Here, you’ll have access to a wealth of B&Bs, local shops, delicious restaurants, and hiking trails.
If you come in the fall, you won’t be disappointed by the changing leaves and soft breezes that fill the air.
16. Sunset Beach, Florida
Sunset Beach is a tiny strip of land in Treasure Island, FL where, if you blink, you’ll miss it. What’s unusual about it is it makes people wonder how a little bit of heaven fell from the sky.
Because it’s a lesser-known beach than nearby St. Pete’s, the shorelines are peaceful, the sunsets are stunning, and the waters are warm enough to enjoy in the summertime.
17. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
About an hour and a half south of the Ozark Mountains is a sweet little city known for its natural mineral springs and old Victorian houses.
There’s plenty of R&R on the menu here and, when you’re ready for a little excitement, you can also check out Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge to wave hello to some lions and tigers and bears – oh, my!
18. Bainbridge Island, Washington
Seattle has plenty of sights to see. But, just across the bay, you can take a ferry to Bainbridge Island and stroll through an affluent neighborhood with gorgeous homes, delightful eateries, and shops galore.
You could rent a bike for your downtown explorations and also use it to head out to the hiking trails. With peace and tranquility all around, this nature-lover’s destination never disappoints.
19. Ketchikan, Alaska
Cities like Juneau are easy to love. But, in a state known as the Last Frontier, you know there’s a lot on offer.
Ketchikan may have hit your radar if you’ve ever considered a cruise up the Inside Passage into Alaska. It’s a gorgeous town known for its unique architecture down Creek Street and easy access to waterfalls, streams, and wildlife sightings.
20. Sitka, Alaska
If you’ve made it to the edge of the country, you might as well stick around. Sitka is another hotspot for cruise goers sailing up the Inside Passage to Alaska.
Known for its wide open expanses over the water, totem poles, national parks, and bald eagles, Sitka is a sleepy little town that will warm your soul, even if you’re there for an authentic Alaskan winter experience.
Adventure Awaits off the Beaten Path
There’s so much to see in a country filled with endless variety. Whether on land or by sea, you can make a magical getaway out of any of these cities and towns.
As you prepare to craft the itinerary of your dreams, take a look at our destination guides. We have something in there to help you take off on one of your best adventures yet.