Wondering where to go on your summer vacation this year? Put these places chosen by Conde Nast Traveler’s Underrated Destinations World Rankings at the top of your list!
Summer is about to start and if you choose the right destination, your days will be filled with pristine beaches, national parks, bonfires, the cool breezes of beautiful lakes, good food and outdoor adventures.
This time we bring you some of the most amazing underrated hotspots in the United States that you should consider if you want to go off the beaten path.
Catalina Island, California
Santa Catalina Island is a hidden gem in plain sight. With sun-drenched beaches surrounded by blue waters, Catalina is the place to go if you want to enjoy water sports or try fresh seafood and local craft beers.
Hollywood has chosen this destination several times to film popular movies. Yes, it is that beautiful! This island is meant to be explored on foot or by bike, which makes your vacation days extra exciting.
While in town, don’t miss the chance to visit El Rancho Escondido and meet amazing Arabian horses and an extensive vineyard.
A visit to this island is possible with a one-hour ferry ride from Long Beach, Dana Point, San Pedro or Newport Beach to Avalon.
San Juan Islands, Washington
This collection of 400 award-winning Washington Islands is perfect for a relaxing summer vacation full of nature and fun.
The three most visited islands include Orcas, San Juan and Lopez. They are all accessible by ferry.
Travelers from all over the country flock to these islands for whale watching and wildlife excursions, as well as kayaking, hiking and swimming.
July and August are the busiest months on the islands, so booking your accommodation for the next few days is probably the best idea.
Finger Lakes, New York
The Finger Lakes is a region blessed with 11 beautiful glacial lakes, majestic waterfalls and several charming small towns. The location makes it perfect for a weekend away with family and friends.
This area is full of recreational options, including water sports for adventure lovers. With perfect temperatures around 80 degrees, Finger Lakes are ideal for hiking, kayaking, canoeing and swimming.
Hot air balloon rides and rafting at Letchworth State Park are other great outdoor activities you can participate in here.
Many travelers dream of a summer vacation to these lakes, so make sure you book your accommodation as soon as possible.
Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota
Unlike other popular nature parks in the United States, Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota is not yet overrun with tourists. Visitors to this natural wonder can enjoy activities such as boating, paddling, swimming, as well as hiking and walking.
If you enjoy stargazing, this spot has an International Dark Sky Park Certificate due to its unique features that make it ideal for admiring the night sky. You can even spot the Northern Lights, but that is between November and April.
This park is conveniently located a five-hour drive north of Minneapolis-St. Paul, three hours north of Duluth, or four hours south of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Flying into Falls International Airport is another way to get there.
Crystal River, Florida
Many travelers are drawn to this city for the exciting opportunity to interact with wildlife, such as manatees in their natural habitat. This activity is illegal in most of the United States, but not here.
If you plan to swim with manatees, it is a good idea to hire a tour company as they will know where to spot them. These companies also provide you with special equipment so that you can have an unforgettable experience.
One of the most recommended tourist highlights is the Crystal River National Nature Reservewhere visitors can get to know different species while surrounded by beautiful untouched nature.
You can also visit Three Sisters Springs, a popular spot for swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Isle Royale is a ‘hidden gem’ National Park in the United States, not because of a lack of beauty, but because getting there is an adventure in itself.
Take a five-hour boat trip from the Upper Peninsula to discover this remote national park. Its location makes it ideal for visitors to explore lush forests and wildlife.
Visit Lake Superior during the summer months as it can be too cold the rest of the year.
This park is mainly aimed at families and people with a sense of adventure. So take a few days off to visit Isle Royal and don’t forget to pack your walking boots and binoculars to admire the wildlife.
