The Best Hidden Wonders Around the US

Key Takeaways

• Rhode Island has the most hidden wonders among U.S. states, while Santa Fe, NM, claims the most per city.
• Boulder, CO, has the most natural hidden wonders of any U.S. city.
• The best unknown accommodations are found in the city of Ashland, OR.
• Providence, RI, is the top city to visit for the best under-the-radar food.
• Santa Fe, NM, has the most hidden wonder activities.

Undiscovered Destinations

With summer right around the corner, Americans will soon hit the road to escape the heat and see the sights. But nothing can throw a wrench into well-oiled travel plans like endless lines, jam-packed beaches, and crowded tourist destinations.

If you’re up for a road trip off the beaten path, this is the perfect guide for you. We scoured Yelp to identify cities and states with top-rated, lesser-known vacation destinations across the U.S. Read on to find picturesque beaches, awe-inspiring hiking trails, and delicious summertime treats—all away from the bustle of the crowds.

Hidden Wonders Around the Country

Every state has unique qualities that attract summer travelers, providing an array of enticing vacation spots and activities. But for those seeking the best value for their money, which places offer the highest number of hidden gems?

Rhode Island ranked first on the list of states with the most hidden wonders, followed closely by Utah, Connecticut, and Oregon. Rhode Island’s status as the smallest state in the U.S. suggests a high concentration of unique and interesting places for tourists. And despite its large size and dense population, California only ranked fifth on the list.

Santa Fe, New Mexico, topped the list of cities with the most hidden wonders, followed by Melbourne, Florida, and Bend, Oregon. Jumbo-sized Texas had three cities make the list: McAllen, Tyler, and College Station (home of Texas A&M). But

California won the top prize for most hidden wonder cities with four: Redding, Chico, Santa Barbara, and Victorville. In all of the business scraped in Alaska, none had under 50 reviews with all five stars.

The Secluded Outdoors

Nothing says vacation bliss like getting a taste of the great outdoors. Whether it’s summertime beaches or national parks, Americans love to enjoy the fresh air. Which cities have the most serene beaches, quietest campgrounds, and idyllic national parks?

If hiking and lakes are your thing, Boulder, Colorado, boasted the most natural hidden wonders of any U.S. city. Other great outdoor locales included Bend, Oregon, which made the list for hiking, parks, and camping. California and its giant coastline had the most beaches, with Encinitas and Oceanside outranked only by New Haven, Connecticut. The Golden State also had beautiful hidden gardens, with Temecula topping the list and Stockton coming in second.

A Peaceful Place to Stay

If you aim to escape the hustle and bustle, you’ll surely want a quiet place to kick up your heels. Which cities are tops in categories that are all about hospitality?

The quaint city of Ashland, Oregon, had the best unknown accommodations. Still, southern hospitality was alive and well, as half of the resorts on the list are in the southern area of the United States. From smaller cities like McAllen, Texas, and Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to more well-known vacation destinations like Chattanooga, Tennessee, there are a variety of options for travelers looking for a broad range of accommodations. The historic city of New Orleans appeared on three top-five lists, proving it the home of jazz and great lodgings.

Among hidden wonder accommodations, we noticed a growing number of health resorts on the list. Many travelers have begun incorporating wellness into their vacations, such as yoga, arts and crafts, meditation, and the like. The fact that California made the health resort list twice suggests the state is a leader in the wellness vacation trend.

Gourmet Gems

Nothing says summertime fun and relaxation like a tasty treat. We explored which cities seem to offer the best options for those looking to dine without the muss and fuss of crowds.

Providence, Rhode Island, topped the list for most hidden gem restaurants. Providence also nabbed the No. 1 spots for bakeries and bars, boasting a thriving food and beverage culture worth exploring. Meanwhile, Spokane, Washington, won the prize for best breweries. California, Texas, and Florida had at least one city in half of the eight culinary categories, bringing diverse cuisine to travelers and aspiring foodies.

Underrated Activities

Some travelers enjoy relaxing at the spa or shopping ‘til they drop, while others prefer to view art or take in a live show. Let’s see which cities offer the best little-known activities to enjoy.

Overall, Santa Fe, New Mexico, was the best city for hidden wonder activities. More specifically, Hopkins, Minnesota, was tops for secret shopping destinations, while Fremont, California, boasted some of the best out-of-the-way museums. Travelers who enjoy fun and games may want to visit Yuma, Arizona, or Fraser, Michigan, to enjoy some bowling or arcades. Music lovers can soak up the sounds in Mount Vernon, New York; Louisville, Kentucky; or Lake Worth, Florida. Whatever your chosen activity, there’s a city with a hidden wonder for you!

Journey Off the Beaten Path

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to vacations. Those seeking adventures off the beaten path can find hidden wonders of all kinds throughout the U.S. From small but glorious national parks and quiet health resorts to delectable diners and hidden museums, there are so many fun and interesting destinations to choose from. As you plan your next getaway, consider exploring one of these hidden wonders and enjoy your time away from the crowds.

Methodology

We looked at 2,679 cities in the United States on Yelp and found their natural wonders, accommodations, restaurants, and activities that had all 5-star reviews and at least five reviews but no more than 50.

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