16 Underrated US Travel Destinations

The coronavirus pandemic has forced Americans to think outside of the box this summer, leading many to uncover lesser-known destinations, whether right in their own backyard or hundreds of miles from home. Those seeking inspiration for the second half of 2020 and beyond can find it in these overlooked places.

Far from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania's Ricketts Glen State Park offers visitors more than 13,000 acres of serenity in the form of nearly two dozen named waterfalls-including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls-the scenic Falls Trail and picturesque Lake Jean, which is ideal for kayaking and camping.

With Cannon Beach gaining lots of momentum, visitors to the Oregon coast seeking a spot off the beaten path should consider Brookings just over the California-Oregon border. This stunning locale is home to otherwordly beaches, lush parks and gardens and a wide array of wildlife.

Located outside of the Austin-Dallas-Houston triangle in the country's second-largest state, San Antonio is easy to overlook. Nonetheless, pleasant surprises await. The Alamo and River Walk are must-visit sites, sure, but the city is also home to incredible museums and a plethora of family-friendly attractions such as SeaWorld San Antonio, the San Antonio Zoo and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

Southern Illinois' Shawnee National Forest boasts hundreds of miles of hiking trails that traverse rolling hills, lakes and seemingly endless nature. The extraordinary Garden of the Gods and Jackson Falls are among the must-see sites for visitors to this underrated forest nestled between the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.

Families, beach bums and culture seekers will all feel welcome in Naples. Visitors to this Gulf Coast city can spend their days lounging on white-sand beaches and their nights exploring the historic downtown, which features numerous high-end shops, art galleries and no shortage of phenomenal restaurants.

There's no better place to explore the great outdoors than in Buena Vista, a Colorado town of fewer than 3,000 people that serves as an unparalleled setting for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, whitewater rafting and outdoor adventure. Visitors can even swim in natural hot springs.

North Carolina's first state capital, New Bern was settled more than three centuries ago. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the riverfront city is rich in history and oozing with Southern charm. Must-see sites include the Tryon Palace complex and the Birthplace of Pepsi.

Letchworth State Park was voted the best attraction in New York in 2017 and it isn't hard to see why. Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East," this gorgeous park features soaring cliffs and dramatic waterfalls in addition to more than 60 miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding and much more.

Laconia is situated between New Hampshire's Lake Winnipesaukee and Winnisquam Lake, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to have some fun on the water. Weirs Beach is one of the top spots in the state's Lakes Region and always a hit with visitors, many of whom plan to trip around the annual Laconia Motorcycle Week.

With San Francisco to the north and Los Angeles to the south, it's easy to overlook San Luis Obispo. Nonetheless, this scenic and relaxed locale along California's Highway 1 is not to be missed. Visitors will discover amazing landscapes, historic attractions like the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and one-of-a-kind sites such as Bubblegum Alley.

Travelers will find Sandpoint on the shores of scenic Lake Pend Oreille about an hour north of Coeur d'Alene in northern Idaho. An outdoor enthusiast's paradise, Sandpoint is just a half-hour from the largest theme park in the Pacific Northwest in Silverwood, which boasts more than 70 rides and attractions.

A worthwhile stop on the route between Atlanta and Nashville, Chattanooga has got everything you want from a marquee city with more scenic views than you ever thought possible. Neighboring Lookout Mountain in Georgia is home to the spectacular Rock City while a nearly 150-tall underground waterfall awaits at Ruby Falls. The city is a must for nature lovers but also offers plenty of cultural attractions, including the Chattanooga Zoo, Tennessee Aquarium and several fascinating museums.

You don't need to be a lighthouse or lobster lover to appreciate Portland, Maine but this historic New England city certainly isn't short on either. Outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, shopaholics, foodies and even craft beer aficionados are all guaranteed to be impressed with what they find here along the shores of the Casco Bay.

Located just west of Baltimore, Old Ellicott City is beaming with charm and plenty of awesome attractions, including dozens of mouthwatering restaurants, one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries and historic sites. Visitors can also explore tons of nature nearby, including Patapsco Valley State Park and Centennial Lake.

A gateway to Utah's mesmerizing Zion National Park, Springdale is home to just over 500 permanent residents but attracts millions of adventure seekers every year. In addition to tremendous access to Southwest Utah's eye-popping red rock monoliths, this charming town features several stellar galleries showcasing native art, Zion and much more.

Beaufort is a highlight of North Carolina's Crystal Coast. Whether on the water or overlooking it, visitors will have no shortage of sensational views to choose from. Those coastal vistas pair well with the town's world-class seafood. Visitors will also want to tour Beaufort's historic district and stop by the fascinating North Carolina Maritime Museum.