Get Off the Beaten Path with These Less-Traveled U.S. Destinations

We all love a trip to classic vacation destinations like Hawaii, Florida, and New York City. However, the United States has so much to offer beyond those popular locations. Getting off the beaten path sets you up for less-crowded shops, unique memories, and the all-important peace and quiet.

Here are our suggestions for when you want to add a secluded destination to your itinerary:

Sunriver, OR

A vibrant sunset over a calm river surrounded by dark pine trees and distant mountains, with the sky glowing in deep shades of orange and red.

Photo Credit: @jeffkboyce

Portland is the staple Oregon destination, but we recommend heading to the central part of the state. Beautiful Sunriver is just south of Bend and has plenty of alpine appeal. Hiking and biking Mt. Bachelor are popular in the summer, but if you visit in the colder months, you simply can't miss the snow activities!

This small town receives double the snowfall of Bend and is the ideal place for skiing and snowshoeing. If you're looking for a more relaxing experience, you can always spend the day at your lodging from Cascara Vacation Rentals or head to the local spa for a massage!

West Yellowstone, MT

A large brown bear stands on a snowy patch near a fallen tree branch, surrounded by pine trees, while a black bird sits nearby on the snow.

Photo Credit: @dsarver1967

Discover Yellowstone National Park from this Montana small town! West Yellowstone offers lots of activities year-round. In the summer, you can take a raft out on the river, bike through the mountains, or trek the hiking trails. When the leaves change and the snow starts to come down, skiing and snowmobiling are local favorites.

Beyond that, its downtown area is home to several bars, bakeries, and high-end restaurants. West Yellowstone is the perfect home base to explore one of the US's favorite national parks, and Roam Property Management can help you find the right accommodation for your off-the-radar trip.

Big Canoe, GA

Autumn trees in rich shades of red, orange, and yellow frame a panoramic view of rolling purple mountains at sunset under a pastel sky.

This private mountain community is the ultimate in rest and relaxation. Big Canoe's views are absolutely incredible, and many of the accommodations from Mountain Home Rentals of Georgia offer an excellent vantage point.

Once you're done taking in the landscape, head over to the Big Canoe Marina for some fishing and boating. In addition to water activities, you'll be close to a golf course, hiking trails, and tennis courts. Big Canoe is ideal if you want a truly private destination for your next vacation.

Southwest Michigan

Sandy dunes covered with grasses and small trees lead toward a turquoise lake under a bright blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds.

Photo Credit: @kry_lyte333

When you think of visiting Lake Michigan, you probably imagine yourself staying in Chicago. We recommend seeing the lake from the Michigan side! Southwest Michigan has lots of charming small towns scattered along the coastline to explore. Wineries are plentiful in this part of the country, so just picture yourself enjoying a glass overlooking the beach.

What's more, no trip to Michigan is complete without seeing the historic lighthouses or taking a cycleboat out on the lake! As you plan your trip to this less-traveled destination, be sure to check out the accommodations from Juniper Holiday + Home.

Chincoteague, VA

A wooden pier stretches out over rippling water toward the setting sun, casting long shadows as a small dog walks along the dock with houses and trees in the background.

Photo Credit: @raydonpix

It's off to the East Coast for our next secluded destination- Chincoteague Island. Located in Virginia, this is a dream destination for those who love wildlife watching and water activities. In fact, the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is home to majestic wild ponies!

Once you're done exploring the nature, end the evening with a delicious seafood dinner and a walk down Main Street. Seaside Vacations & Sales can help you find an accommodation right on the water with easy access to restaurants and attractions.

Willamette Valley, OR

Neatly aligned rows of grapevines stretch across rolling green hills with a pond and farmhouse in the distance under a clear blue sky.

Photo Credit: @dmey503

Maybe the Pacific Northwest is calling your name. In that case, you'll love Lifestyle Properties' rentals in Oregon's beautiful Willamette Valley. You'll be staying right in the middle of the state's wine country and have your pick of more than 700 wineries.

If you aren't a big drinker, be sure to embark on one of the Willamette Valley Food Trails to really get a taste of the region. Besides food and drink, don't forget to check out the waterfalls throughout the valley. Pair your waterfall adventure with a hike or bike trip for a truly unforgettable time.

Boothbay, ME

A large coastal home with gray siding and white trim sits on a grassy lot surrounded by trees, overlooking a calm blue lake under a bright sky with scattered clouds.

Maine is often overshadowed by New England, but that's partly why it ranks as a top secluded destination. With fewer tourists compared to the regional hubs, Boothbay provides the perfect blend of solitude and fun.

You can't go wrong with a drive up the coast, especially to check out the fall foliage. However, if you're looking for something a bit more involved, consider taking a lobster boat tour or booking a whale-watching expedition. Need a cozy place to come back to after seeing the sights? Cottage Connection has some incredible rentals along the coast.

Suches & Blairsville, GA

Aerial view of a small green-roofed cabin surrounded by bare autumn trees, with a gravel driveway leading to a firepit area in the forest.

Perhaps you love the idea of vacationing in Big Canoe, but you'd prefer an accommodation deeper into the mountains. SVR Properties has several rentals between Blairsville and Suches that fit the bill. This stunning private destination will absolutely bring you a sense of serenity.

You can elect to stay at your accommodation and cozy up by the fireplace, but if you get out to explore the area, you'll find beautiful vineyards, state parks, and charming small towns. Should you head out hiking, be sure to research the best overlooks in your area for some remarkable views!

Cody, WY

A geodesic dome home with wood and shingle siding sits in an open field surrounded by golden grass, overlooking vast rugged mountains under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

We've already recommended the west side of Yellowstone, but the east side is just as good a choice. This region offers some of the most majestic views in the country, and visitors have easy access to activities like hiking, fly fishing, and wildlife watching.

We recommend staying with Cody Lodging Company near the small Wyoming town of Cody. Named after the real-life Buffalo Bill, this town is now known for the rodeo. If rodeo events aren't your speed, you can always go horseback riding or zipline through the breathtaking Absaroka Mountains.

Harpers Ferry, WV

Cozy living room with vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a mountain view, featuring a wood-burning stove, stacked firewood, and plush sofas with blue plaid pillows.

When was the last time you considered going to West Virginia? You'll certainly keep it in mind once you hear about Harpers Ferry. This charming small town is a National Historic District, and you'll feel transported back in time as you wander down High Street.

History is truly on display here, and you'll definitely want to book a walking tour- be it a historical one or a spooky ghost adventure. If you love hiking, be sure to do a few miles of the Appalachian Trail while you're in the area! Mountain Mama Cabins can set you up with a modern vacation rental as you explore this historic town.

There's certainly nothing wrong with typical bucket-list travel destinations, but why not get off the beaten path once in a while? Our partners make it easy to see your secluded destination of choice without missing out on luxury amenities.