15 of the Most Underrated Attractions Across the US

When COVID-19 hit in 2020, travel plans for many people went by the wayside. Now that travel is more open, we're remembering how fun it is to visit new and exciting destinations. Specifically, destinations we've never seen before.

Numerous attractions across the country are well-known. From the Empire State Building in New York City to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and back to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, these attractions can sometimes be more crowded and less exciting than realized. Additionally, if you've already seen a few bigger attractions but have the itch to travel, you might be wondering what else is out there.

Whether you're looking for a quieter national park or a beach getaway that's both beautiful and less crowded, our list below covers it all. From the unknown Capitol Reef National Park in Utah to the quirky and mountainous city of Asheville, North Carolina, these attractions are worth the trip. And, if you're looking for more unique travel destinations, be sure to check out the most underrated natural wonders in every state.

To create this list of underrated U.S. attractions, 24/7 Tempo compiled information from various sources. These include CNN, Reader's Digest, The Guardian, and Tripadvisor. Here are 15 of the most underrated attractions across the U.S.A.

• Location: Utah

During a study conducted by the Hawaiian Islands, Capitol Reef National Park was ranked one of the top underrated attractions in the country. When visiting national parks in Utah, many people plan to see Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park. These are both beautiful destinations as well, but few understand what awaits them at Capitol Reef.

This national park is about 60 miles long and 6 miles wide. At this size, you'll probably want to spend more than one day checking out the colorful cliffs, domes, and archways. The park also includes a few well-known attractions inside of it. You can take an off-road excursion to drive through Cathedral Valley with its towering rock walls or hike along a portion of Burr Trail, whose iconic switchback section is located inside the park, too.

• Location: Arizona

While Arizona is known for its dry, desert landscape, some areas were once lush forests. This is true for the area in Northeast Arizona where the Petrified Forest National Park exists. This park now looks like a desert, but inside you'll find remnants of petrified wood and signs of an ancient forest.

Covering nearly 346 square miles, Petrified Forest National Park is also home to colorful rock formations and a large wildlife habitat. Part of the area stretches into the Painted Desert while about a third is reserved specifically for wildlife. Keep in mind that this area is prone to hot temps in the summer and cold temps in the winter. The best times to visit are during months of milder weather like fall or spring.

• Location: Wisconsin

When people think of islands, they usually think of a tropical getaway or a travel destination off the East Coast. But few know about the 22 islands off the shores of Lake Superior in Wisconsin that make up the Apostle Islands.

During warmer months, you can rent a kayak and take your time exploring the nearby islands by water. You'll find sea caves along the North Shore of Devils Island and several other rock and tree formations. During winter months, this area is covered with frozen waterfalls and icicles. Additionally, while the islands are all part of the city of La Pointe, there are other cities nearby like Bayfield that make a great getaway.

• Location: Michigan

Staying in the same area of the Great Lakes, you can also explore Mackinac Island off the coast of Michigan in Lake Huron. This island covers just over 4 square miles of land. It's also listed as a National Historic Landmark due to its historical significance to the country.

On the island, you'll find remnants of Fort Mackinac which was constructed during the Revolutionary War. You'll also find several homes and buildings that have been restored to preserve their historical significance. The island is also home to beautiful forests, coastal shops, and delicious dining. Additionally, you can find ferry rides, cruise boats, and several lodging options on the island. While this island isn't as well known, it was still voted Travel + Leisure Magazine's Best Island in the Continental U.S. in 2022.

• Location: Georgia

When visiting Georgia or the surrounding Southern states, there are several cities you'll want to see. Well-known stops include historic Charleston and the nightlife of Nashville. But few take the time to visit the tree-covered and history-infused city of Savannah.

Founded on a cliff next to the Savannah River, the city of Savannah, Georgia was founded in 1733. The downtown area is known for its "town squares" every couple of blocks. Each square is covered with vegetation and large live oak trees capped in Spanish Moss. There's also a monument in each one with historical significance to the area. Forsyth Park is a beautiful place to visit with its historic fountain and over 30 acres of greenery as well. And if you're interested in older structures, take a walk down Jones Street where each existing home is over 100 years old.

• Location: Florida

If you're looking to get out in nature, especially to somewhere mild during colder winter months, don't miss the Everglades National Park in Florida. While the area might seem like a marshy swamp, this park covers 1.5 million acres of habitat.

Beyond alligator and dolphin sightings, you can also take an airboat ride, rent a kayak, or camp along the Everglades. This wetland area is also dedicated to protecting the wildlife habitat that resides within it. Added to the list of national parks in 1934, the Everglades are now part of the International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a Wetland of International Importance according to the National Parks website.

• Location: Oregon

Crater Lake is one of the most unknown national parks in the country due to its remote location in Oregon. What makes this lake unique is its origin story. Thousands of years ago, a volcano erupted, causing the tall peak of Mount Mazama to collapse. This collapse made way for the iconic pure and bright blue water destination we know today.

In the summer months, you can hike along Cleetwood Cove Trail. You can also drive along the lake's rim via Rim Road, which offers several locations to get out and catch the view of the crystal blue water. In order to protect the lake, no water sports are allowed, however. Additionally, during winter months, some of the trails and roads might be closed due to snow, so the best time to visit is during warmer weather.

• Location: San Antonio, Texas

When you think of Texas, you probably don't think of a serene and lush garden. But that's exactly what you'll find in San Antonio's Brackenridge Park. This iconic garden was developed in the setting of an abandoned rock quarry in 1918.

The park was closed in the early 2000s to restore and protect some of the structures. It's open today, though, and you can expect to find Japanese music, a year-round garden, and waterfalls that run into koi ponds. You'll also find stone arch bridges and a Japanese pagoda on site.

• Location: Colorado

Located near Grand Junction, Colorado, are the towering red rocks and canyon views of the Colorado National Monument. While this area is less known for travelers, its sights are breathtaking and worth a visit.

If you're looking to simply take in the sights of this national monument, you can travel along Rim Rock Drive. This 23-mile-long road takes you into the valley, along canyon walls, and on top of the surrounding mesas. However, if you're looking for more recreational activity within the park, you can hike, camp, rock climb, and backpack through the area. If you're looking to camp, the area is large enough to contain 80 campground sites with some available all year long.

• Location: North Dakota

When we think of North Dakota, we often think of cold winters. But this state is also home to a beautiful National Park where Theodore Roosevelt himself once used to hunt bison and other wild animals.

Founded in 1947, this National Park's main significance is to conserve the encompassing wildlife. While there, however, you can also experience the Elkhorn Ranch Site where Teddy Roosevelt spent most of his time in the 1880s. You can also view the Maltese Cross Cabin where Roosevelt once lived. Additionally, if you're up for a trail ride, you can visit Peaceful Valley Ranch. This area was once a dude ranch but has now become part of the National Park.

• Location: New Mexico

While Albuquerque may be known as New Mexico's largest city, this area is also home to some incredible views and historic sites. Founded as a Spanish colony in 1706, Albuquerque is located in the high desert at the base of the Sandia Mountains.

Inside the city, you'll find historic adobe buildings and museums in Old Town. Outside city limits, you can take the Sandia Peak Tramway up the mountains, hike the Petroglyph National Monument, or learn about Native American history at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Additionally, seasonal activities are sprinkled within the city at certain points throughout the year. In October, Albuquerque is known for its incredible Balloon Fiesta. And in April, this city becomes the home to North America's largest powwow.

• Location: Texas

Some of the most popular cities in Texas include Dallas, Austin, Houston, and San Antonio. But few know about the historic and beautiful city of Fort Worth located just outside Dallas.

Founded in 1849 as a military outpost, Fort Worth is known today as a hidden tourist attraction. While there, you can take in the cowboy way of life by visiting the Stockyards. These Stockyards cover a 98-acre area within the city that's now on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, live cattle drives come through the area twice a day. Other areas to visit in the city include a walk along the Trinity River or a visit to the Fort Worth Water Gardens.

• Location: North Carolina

North Carolina is typically known for its East Coast locations. But a little further inland, you'll find the beautiful and artsy city of Asheville. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this underrated attraction offers both outdoor adventures and a unique downtown setting.

If you're looking for outdoor fun, you can hike, bike, fish, or swim through the nearby mountainous regions. You can also drive the Blue Ridge Parkway to capture a scenic view of the area. If you're looking for more of a city scene, you can check out the River Arts District downtown or visit one of the city's numerous breweries. You'll also find Biltmore House, a castle-like private home built by George Vanderbilt in 1895.

• Location: West Virginia

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. This national park covers more than 70,000 acres along the New River, giving plenty of room for hiking, biking, fishing, and rafting.

Because the park is so large, it might seem overwhelming at first. A few must-see attractions within the park include the New River Gorge Bridge and a scenic drive along Fayette Station Road. If you're interested in hunting or white water rafting in the area, you can also check out the park's website for more information.

• Location: South Carolina

While you may have heard about Hilton Head or James Island in South Carolina, you're likely unfamiliar with the quieter island of Pawleys. This island provides a plethora of activities and things to do, making it an easy destination no matter what you love.

Outdoor activities on the island include tree-lined bike paths, golf courses, and Huntington Beach State Park. You can also enjoy shopping and eateries along the Pawleys Island Historic District. When looking for places to stay on the island, there are several beachside hotels and resorts to choose from, along with vacation rental homes. (For more reading, click here to see 20 of the most underrated attractions in the world.)