The 11 Most Underrated Cities To Visit In America
Obviously there is the tourist favorite cities (tourists being both Americans and people from all over our beautiful world) in the USA. New York City, LA, Boston, Miami come to mind immediately of course. And those cities are amazing in their own, respective ways. But America is massive and has so much more to offer than just the major tourism cities.
We have cities below that have unique aspects that should not be counted out from your next trip. From beach towns you may have never even heard of to cool food scenes that haven’t been killed by Instagram yet.
So let’s get into chatting about these underrated travel destinations in America so you can get to planning your next trip!!
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The 11 Most Underrated Cities To Visit In America
No tourism overcrowding here- check out these USA cities:
Underrated US City: Duluth, Minnesota
As a born and raised minnesotan we are going to start by chatting about the gorgeous city of Duluth!
Duluth is a dream for outdoorsy travelers who want fresh air and gorgeous scenery. Sitting on the shores of Lake Superior, it offers stunning coastal views, epic hiking trails, and cozy small-town charm. The North Shore Scenic Drive is one of the most beautiful road trips in the country, and if you love craft beer, Duluth’s brewery scene is one of the best in the Midwest.
And personally don’t worry about only visiting in the summer- the florals and foliage in spring and fall are gorgeous too. I would just generally avoid driving there in the winter unless you are used to the brutal winters!
Underrated US City: Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville is one of the South’s best-kept secrets. It has a walkable downtown with indie shops, rooftop bars, and an award-winning food scene. But what really makes it special is Falls Park, a gorgeous green space with a waterfall right in the middle of the city. If you love Charleston vibes but with fewer tourists and better mountain access, Greenville is your spot.
And if you live in Charlotte like me it’s a quick drive!
I truly love exploring the Carolinas more than I ever realized so come visit 🙂
Underrated US City: Spokane, Washington
Spokane is a hidden gem for nature lovers who also want great food, craft beer, and history. Home to Spokane Falls, stunning riverside parks, and wineries, this city offers big adventure without the Seattle price tag. Whether you’re biking the Centennial Trail, exploring the beautiful Manito Park, or sipping wine in nearby vineyards, Spokane is way cooler than most people realize.
Also- can you tell my husband and I love finding cities with a great brewery culture?!
Underrated US City: Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City feels like a beach town, a wine country, and a charming Midwest getaway all in one!!
Located along Lake Michigan, it offers stunning freshwater beaches, incredible wineries, and the best cherry pie you’ll ever taste.
It’s perfect for a relaxing weekend trip, and in the fall, the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is breathtaking.
Underrated US City: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a magical mix of art, history, and Southwest charm. With its well known architecture, world-famous galleries, and incredible food (green chile everything, pleaseeee), it’s one of the most unique cities in the country.
Outdoor lovers can explore the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, while those looking for culture can visit Meow Wolf’s immersive art experience.
Underrated US City: Lexington, Kentucky
If you love horses, bourbon, and Southern charm, Lexington is where you need to be. This is the heart of horse country, where you can tour legendary thoroughbred farms, sip bourbon at distilleries like Woodford Reserve, and explore the scenic rolling hills of the Bluegrass region. It’s less touristy than Louisville but just as fun.
Underrated US City: Grand Junction, Colorado
Love the outdoors but want Colorado vibes without Denver’s price tag?!
Grand Junction is the perfect mix of adventure and wine country. With Colorado National Monument’s stunning red rock landscapes, amazing mountain biking trails, and incredible local wineries, this city is like Moab but way less crowded.
Underrated US City: Asheville, North Carolina
While Asheville is getting more popular, it’s still underrated compared to bigger Southern cities. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s a dream destination for hikers, beer lovers, and art enthusiasts. The Biltmore Estate, funky downtown scene, and scenic Blue Ridge Parkway make Asheville an unforgettable trip.
Plus as Asheville and the rest of western NC continues to recover bringing in tourism money can help that process- support those in need!! And be kind when visiting- the trauma they went through will be there forever.
Underrated US City: Eugene, Oregon
Eugene is a mix of Portland’s artsy vibe and the Pacific Northwest’s outdoor beauty, but without the overwhelming crowds. The Willamette River runs through the city, offering great kayaking and biking trails, and the local food and craft beer scene is top-notch (LOL had to add it). Plus, it’s close to Oregon’s stunning coastline and the Cascade Mountains.
Underrated US City: Providence, Rhode Island
Providence is New England’s artsy, underrated gem. It has a thriving food scene, historic architecture, and the famous WaterFire festival, where bonfires light up the city’s rivers. It’s like Boston, but more affordable and way more relaxed.
Underrated US City: San Luis Obispo, California
San Luis Obispo (or SLO) is the Central Coast’s most underrated city. With beautiful beaches, rolling vineyards, and a relaxed, small-town feel, it’s a perfect California getaway without the dreaded LA crowds.
And guys that is all for now- I hope that this article inspired you to look into some less common travel destinations in the United States!
Korra The Explorer
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