Underrated U.S. States That Beat the Tourist Favorites – 2025 Guide
When most people plan a U.S. vacation, they head to the usual spots—California, New York, Florida. But what if the best travel experiences in America aren’t in the headlines? In 2025, five of the most underrated states offer stunning national parks, food scenes, and coastline—often with fewer tourists and much better prices.
This guide reveals the places travelers often miss—from turquoise lakes in Michigan to stargazing in New Mexico. If you're looking for fresh ideas, these states deserve a spot on your 2025 travel list.
Our video gives you a quick look at the 5 most overlooked states for travel in 2025. From secret coastlines to desert festivals and bourbon trails—see where smart travelers are heading instead.
5. Michigan – Two Coastlines, No Crowds
Michigan offers over 3,000 miles of freshwater shoreline—more than California, Oregon, and Washington combined. The Great Lakes feel like oceans, with turquoise water and sandy beaches minus the sharks or salt.
- Upper Peninsula: Dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and untouched forests
- Sleeping Bear Dunes: Massive 450-foot sand dunes diving into bright blue water
- Hotels: Lakefront cabins from $100/night
- Best time: September for fall colors and warm weather without crowds
It’s like the Caribbean, but with pine trees instead of palm trees—and a whole lot cheaper.
4. New Mexico – Desert Magic & Ancient History
While Arizona gets all the glory, New Mexico offers surreal landscapes and a deeper cultural legacy. White Sands National Park feels like the moon. Ancient cliff dwellings reveal 11,000 years of human history.
- Top spots: White Sands, Santa Fe, Taos, Bandelier National Monument
- Hotels: Historic adobe stays from $90/night
- Best time: October for the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta and cool weather
Between the food, the art, and the skies—New Mexico is the soul of the Southwest.
3. Idaho – Wilderness Without the Hype
Idaho doesn’t try to compete with Colorado—it just beats it in affordability and serenity. You’ll find the jagged Sawtooth Mountains, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and wild hot springs you can soak in solo.
- Nature highlights: Sawtooths, Redfish Lake, and scenic Highway 75
- Hotels: Mountain lodges from $120/night
- Best time: July–August for sunshine, hiking, and swimming
Fewer tourists, better prices, and scenery straight from a postcard—it’s a smart alternative to overhyped Rocky Mountain spots.
2. Kentucky – Bourbon, Caves & Rolling Hills
Kentucky surprises with its blend of outdoor adventure and world-class culture. The Bourbon Trail draws food and drink lovers, while Mammoth Cave is the largest cave system in the world.
- Don’t miss: Horse farms, Red River Gorge, historic distilleries
- Stays: Quaint B&Bs from $80/night
- Best time: April for spring weather and Derby season energy
Think Napa with bourbon—or Tuscany with horses. But way more affordable.
1. Rhode Island – Small State, Big Surprise
The smallest state in the U.S. might be the most underrated. Rhode Island is packed with culture, coastline, and charm—with no traffic or long drives between towns.
- Newport: Gilded Age mansions, dramatic coastal walks
- Providence: A food and arts scene that rivals much larger cities
- Stays: Historic inns from $110/night
- Best time: September for warm days and fewer tourists
It’s a slice of New England elegance—without the Boston or Cape Cod crowds.
Final Thoughts
Skip the typical travel brochure states. In 2025, some of the best American vacations are found in the places no one talks about—yet. From the crystal coasts of Michigan to desert art towns in New Mexico, these five states deliver beauty, culture, and value.
Whether you’re after lakes, caves, bourbon, or star-filled skies, these hidden gems prove that America’s best travel experiences aren’t always where you expect.
Keiko Tanaka
Fluent in Japanese, 7 years documenting offbeat Asia travel
Japanese-American travel blogger and filmmaker exploring Asia’s hidden gems, street food scenes, and cultural quirks.