As international travel continues to be more complicated than life before the pandemic, a lot of people’s interests have turned to traveling within the US, with road trips becoming more and more popular than ever. While you can visit the classic road trip destinations, the U.S. has endless possibilities to offer when it comes to adventures. Here are some lesser known places that you can visit if you’re looking for something a bit different on your next getaway.
Travel Around The US
Northern California
While California is certainly a popular state to travel to, a lot of visitors tend to flock to Southern California. While SoCal is absolutely lovely, Northern California has so much to offer to those whole love exploring new things. If you love a scenic drive, the coastal views of Mendocino as well as along the Pacific Coast Highway are absolutely jaw-dropping. For wine lovers, of course there’s Napa but also Sonoma.
Mendocino, California
Oregon
When it comes to visiting the Western part of the U.S., Oregon is often overlooked which is truly a shame as this gorgeous state really has so much to offer travelers. You can head over to Portland, which is known for its coffee scene (try Rimsky-Korsakoffee) and relaxed vibes. Thor’s Well is a must see sinkhole that will truly take your breath away off the Highway 101. In Blue River, you will find Terwilliger Hot Springs that will offer your muscles a relaxing soak especially after a long hike.
Thor’s Well, Oregon
Maine
Heading over all the way to the other side of the country, Maine is yet another state that is not on the top of traveler’s list and should be. Maine is full of natural, rugged beauty and gorgeous coastlines. For lovers of the outdoors, there’s nothing quite like Acadia National Park, which is found right the the mid-section of the Maine coast. Southwest of there is Bar Harbor, which is the classic picturesque New England coastal town that you must visit.
Acadia National Park
Alaska
Alaska is the largest and also least populated state in the country, so if you’re looking for a quiet, outdoorsy trip, this is the state to visit. There are so many national parks here that you need several months to even start. The place to state is at the stunning Denali State Park, where you’ll find snow-capped mountains reflected in glass-like lakes. If you truly want to be wowed, visit a glacier or two like Hubbard Glacier. You can also head to Fairbanks to see Auror Borealis, the Northern Lights.
Denali National Park
New Mexico
New Mexico is severely underrated as well, as it is full of national parks, natural wonders, and incredible Native American and Southwestern culture to explore. Make sure to head to White Sands National Park to experience endless white sand as far as the eye can see. For incredible cave hikes, visit Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Take a scenic trip with the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad.
White Sands National Park
