2025's Most Underrated Destinations In The United States
Explore the United States like a geography and history expert. It should be easy to skip the big cities and the overcrowded attractions; you just have to know where to look. That's where we step in to give a helping hand.
Join us as we uncover these underrated gems across the nation that we highly recommend you give a chance in 2025. Whether you are aiming to see a new park, relax in a quiet resort, check out a lesser known historic district, or anything in between, there should be something for anyone on our list of potential travel destinations.
Eureka, Nevada
Eureka sits in one of the most lonely regions in the United States, the deserts of northern Nevada. Far from the nearest interstate highway and even more distant from any major towns or cities, this community is among the best places for those in need of some legitimate solitude in 2025.
Located along U.S. Route 50, aptly called 鈥淭he Loneliest Road in America,鈥� this town of just over 400 residents is a cool example of a 19th-century mining town. Better yet, it is one that hasn鈥檛 been overrun by mass tourism (yet).
Eureka's historic district is home to many original period buildings, including the Eureka Opera House, which still hosts performances, and the Eureka Sentinel Museum, housed in a former newspaper office with intact printing equipment from the late 1800s.
Unlike nearby Virginia City, a similar town that sits about 230 miles to the west, Eureka draws smaller crowds and still retains an authentic small-town atmosphere in this remote part of the state. Be sure to stop by local businesses, such as the Owl Club Bar and Steakhouse, a joint that feels as if it is still meant to serve the miners who settled the area generations ago. Moreover, stay the night at the Sundown Lodge, a surprisingly affordable hotel housed in a historic red brick building at the heart of downtown.
For those interested in exploring the area's vast wildernesses, the surrounding Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest offers rugged hiking trails, various ghost towns, and scenic driving routes through the high desert for you to enjoy. Just be sure to fill up on gas before you leave!
Goshen, New York
Located in the Hudson Valley, Goshen is a New York state community with an interesting history, deep-rooted equestrian culture, and a revitalized downtown that deserves more attention.
Renowned for its harness racing (when the horse pulls a two-wheeled buggy), the historic Goshen Historic Track is the oldest continuously operated horse racing track in North America. Opened in 1838, this venue still hosts events to this day. The adjacent Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame provides insight into the sport鈥檚 long legacy.
If horse racing isn't really your thing, stop by downtown Goshen, which is home to some cool looking locales like the Orange County Government Center, a very interesting example of Brutalist architecture that architecture enthusiasts will certainly appreciate. This modern flair contrasts with the town's more traditional buildings, including the flat brick storyfronts along Main Street.
See the natural side of Goshen too at nearby greenspaces like the Heritage Trail, a scenic path for cyclists and hikers. This extensive trail connects Goshen to the neighboring town of Harriman, another nice community worth a visit.
Just outside of town, wineries, distilleries, breweries, and farms contribute to the area鈥檚 growing agritourism scene too. If this interests you, definitely check out the Orange County Distillery at brown Barn Farms, which sits a short drive west, or the Orange County Brewing Company for locally crafted beverages. A little further away, near the Pennsylvania border, sits the renowned Warwick Valley Winery.
Goshen is also home to Legoland New York, making it a top spot to bring the kids to this year. Note that the park closes during the winter months and 2025's opening date is set for April. 10th.
Wallace, Idaho
Surrounded by the scenic Bitterroot Mountains, a part of the larger Rocky Mountain range, this former silver mining hub is entirely listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with old brick buildings, ornate facades, and other notable historic landmarks lining its streets.
Wallace is a quiet town that draws tourists throughout the year, with several nearby parks to hike in the summer and ski resorts, like Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area, for some fun in the winter. Here, you will get direct access to the Trail of the Coeur d鈥橝lenes, a 72-mile paved path ideal for cycling, as well as the rugged Route of the Hiawatha, known for its tunnels and trestles through mountain terrain. Both of these routes are amazing ways to see the natural beauty of this area on a prolonged outing, making Wallace a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure in 2025.
Learn more about the history of this town as well. Start as the Sierra Silver Mine Tour, which offers a look into the region鈥檚 storied mining history led by guides with firsthand knowledge of the industry.
Yellow Springs, Ohio
Yellow Springs rests between the cities of Springfield and Dayton, and is an arts-driven town that delivers a respite from big city life in the heart of the Midwest. Home to Antioch College, this quaint community of just under 4,000 residents has long attracted artists, thinkers, and independent business owners, resulting in a downtown filled with tons of cool shops, galleries, and other local spots to check out.
You may also come across Yellow Springs' budding food and drink scene, exemplified by the very popular historic Ye Olde Trail Tavern and Yellow Springs Brewery.
The town鈥檚 calendar is filled with exciting events like music festivals and art fairs, such as the annual Street Fair, which brings together regional artisans, musicians, and food vendors. The next fair will be taking place in June of 2025.
Yellow Springs is also a place that is a gem for nature lovers, with several notable parks and greenspaces in and around town. Glen Helen Nature Preserve, located just steps from dowtown, is a 1,000-acre protected area that contains hiking trails and picturesque waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and the town鈥檚 namesake yellow spring.
Moreover, nearby John Bryan State Park and Clifton Gorge provide additional ways for you to get out into the great outdoors. Unlike more crowded Ohio national and state parks, these areas remain relatively quiet, even in peak seasons.
Avila Beach, California
Avila Beach is a perfect destination this year for a beach escape on California's gorgeous Pacific Coast. Located along San Luis Obispo Bay, it offers a quieter alternative to the more crowded beach towns of the Central Coastline. It's small downtown, set just steps from the sand, also has all the high-quality amenities you could want for a weekend getaway.
This town鈥檚 main beachfront is known for its calm waters, making it ideal for paddleboarding and swimming. If you want something a bit more active to do than lounging on the sand, a short drive away leads to the Avila Valley, home to the Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort. This scenic spot is where natural hot springs flow into hillside soaking tubs, with a hotel conveniently located on the property as well.
In town, the Inn At Avila Beach is another great option for accommodations. Many of its rooms offer unobstructed views over the water.
Avila Beach鈥檚 compact size and lack of major chain stores help preserve its relaxed atmosphere. Instead, you can explore its collection of longstanding landmarks, like the historic Harford Pier. This locale is still used by commercial fishermen and offers an up-close look at the area's marine life too, including sea lions lounging near the docks. The Central Coast Aquarium is another great place to learn more about local aquatic wildlife and contains several curated exhibits on the region's natural and human histories.
Bisbee, Arizona
Bisbee delivers an experience unlike any other small town in the Southwest. Located in the Mule Mountains near the U.S.-Mexico border, this former copper mining town has since transformed into a bustling arts and culture hub while maintaining its historic appeal on top of it all.
The town鈥檚 unique topography also serves as a major draw in itself, with steep, narrow streets and staircases built into the hills, leading through Bisbee's various neighborhoods. This has created a walkable environment that feels more like a European village than a typical desert town.
Here, you are open to exploring the town's preserved architecture, which dates back well over a hundred years. One such spot is Brewery Gulch. Once a rowdy district that was formerly home to saloons and brothels for the early residents to enjoy, it now is home to craft breweries, restaurants, hotels, and other amenities. Bisbee's Table is a particularly highly rated place to grab a bite, serving up tasty pub fair in an eclectic setting.
For those seeking a truly offbeat experience, Bisbee鈥檚 eccentric spirit shines through its small museums, such as the Bisbee Seance Room and the Museum of Bizarre, as well as its annual events, including the Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb. Moreover, the Queen Mine Tour allows visitors to descend into an actual mine, guided by former miners who share firsthand accounts of Bisbee鈥檚 past.
Rosemary Beach, Florida
Are you itching for a relaxing Gulf Coast getaway as winter nears its end? Rosemary Beach, Florida is a low-key option and one of the most underrated beach towns in the country. Located along the Emerald Coast in Florida's panhandle, its walkable layout and relatively low levels of urban development will allow you to kick back under the sun without the crowds.
The town鈥檚 beachfront is known for its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, with limited public access points ensuring a quieter atmosphere for all. Pedestrian-friendly boardwalks connect the local beaches to a network of small city parks and a compact commercial area where you can enjoy local dining options, mom-and-pop boutiques, and easy-to-reach accommodations.
The Pearl Hotel towers over the ocean and provides great views and a variety of eateries just steps from the beach. A favorite joint like LaCo serves authentic Mexican seafood dishes with ingredients sourced from the nearby waters.
Cyclists love seeing the area via the Timpoochee Trail, which provides a scenic biking route along the 30A corridor, passing through state parks and coastal dune lakes. Sitting just east of Rosemary Beach is Camp Helen State Park, one of such parks that is definitely worth a stop. Overlooking the Phillips Inlet, this unique ecosystem houses a web of short footpaths on land, and options for kayak rentals should you wish to spend an afternoon paddling around the inlet and the adjacent Powell Lake.
Goliad, Texas
Sitting almost centrally between San Antonio, Houston, and Corpus Christi, the town of Goliad is one of the most historically significant yet underrated tourist destinations in Texas. Located along the San Antonio River, it played a major role in Texas鈥� fight for independence in the mid-1830s and remains a destination where its past still feels remarkably intact.
Start your adventure here at the Presidio La Bah铆a, a reconstructed 18th-century Spanish fort. This is widely regarded as the town鈥檚 most prominent landmark and was the site of the 1836 Goliad Massacre, a pivotal event in early Texan history. Nearby, the Mission Esp铆ritu Santo, also originally established in the 1700s, provides another window into what early Spanish colonial life was like. Both sites are within Goliad State Park, where you can also hike, fish, or paddle along the river.
Downtown Goliad houses a few other historic buildings and local shops you should make time to see. The courthouse, in particular, is a draw, with its highly distinct Empire-style design making it a popular spot for street photography. Just around the corner sits the Market Street Museum, too. Housed in a cozy building that once served multiple purposes, including as a grocery store and then a firehouse, this little museum houses a big collection of artifacts gathered from the residents of Goliad over the centuries since its founding.
With this in mind, Goliad seems to be the top spot for history buffs to explore in 2025. The area's nearly year-round excellent weather doesn't hurt either.
See These Lesser-Known American Gems this Year
Why not try something new this year? From fascinating historic districts that will teach you something new about the United States' past to unrowded parks and more, you can't go wrong with a visit to any of the towns mentioned above. Whether you are exploring the coast or embarking on a road trip across the country, we made sure to provide you with a plethora of options across the country, now it is your turn to go experience what they have to offer in-person!
