5 of the most underrated U.S. travel destinations, according to Reader's Digest

The U.S. has no shortage of iconic destinations, from New York City to the beaches of Miami, yet sometimes the most memorable trips are found off the beaten path. Crowds and high prices can sap the joy from a vacation, which makes seeking out underrated destinations a smarter, more rewarding approach.

Smaller cities, hidden coastal towns, and cultural pockets often offer the same vibrant experiences without the hassle. They provide space to explore, the chance to discover something new, and a slower pace that turns a weekend into a mini adventure.

Underrated destinations also offer an authentic glimpse into local life. You can stroll historic streets nearly alone, sample regional cuisine without waiting in line, and find boutique hotels with character rather than cookie-cutter chains. These spots appeal to travelers who value experiences over notoriety—places where local music, arts, and outdoor recreation are more than just attractions; they are woven into everyday life.

For travelers seeking adventure, culture, or just a quiet escape, underrated destinations deliver a balance of charm, convenience, and discovery. From Southern towns steeped in history to Western cities surrounded by natural beauty, these under-the-radar gems from Reader’s Digest show that some of the best U.S. travel experiences aren’t the ones everyone already knows. 

Here are five of the most underrated travel destinations in the U.S.

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Asbury Park provides an affordable, low-key alternative to the Hamptons or Nantucket, blending wide beaches with a lively, independent cultural scene, says RD. Visitors will find a boardwalk dotted with eclectic restaurants, boutique shops, and year-round music venues that make the city attractive beyond the summer months. The Stone Pony, legendary for launching Bruce Springsteen’s career, continues to host major and emerging acts, cementing Asbury Park’s reputation as a music hub. The city’s architecture and colorful murals contribute to a visually engaging experience for casual walkers or photography enthusiasts. Staying at the Asbury Hotel, a renovated Salvation Army building, gives travelers access to rooftop bars, outdoor pools, and alfresco entertainment without compromising on style or affordability. With its combination of cultural vibrancy, historic charm, and accessibility from the Tri-State area, Asbury Park is a prime example of a destination where fun and relaxation coexist seamlessly.

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Savannah stands out as a Southern gem, voted the top underrated destination in the U.S. by Talker Media respondents, according to RD. Cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and a historic district evoke a romantic and hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, perfect for off-season travel when crowds are thinner. Visitors can explore City Market’s open-air galleries, enjoy local cuisine, and take leisurely strolls through Forsyth Park, a thirty-acre urban green space. The Perry Lane Hotel, located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District, offers boutique accommodations with a swanky rooftop pool and attentive service, making it a convenient base for exploring the city’s historic and cultural landmarks. Savannah’s combination of history, walkable streets, and vibrant dining and music scene demonstrates why it remains a compelling destination for travelers seeking charm without the chaos of larger Southern cities.

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Boise, nicknamed the “City of Trees,” is a rising destination for both food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, says RD. The city offers nearly 200 miles of hiking and biking trails in nearby foothills, as well as 104 urban parks and a 25-mile Greenbelt along the Boise River, ideal for recreational exploration. Boise also boasts the largest Basque population in the U.S., concentrated in a downtown city block filled with authentic restaurants and cultural experiences. The Riverside Hotel provides convenient accommodations along the Greenbelt, with amenities such as a pool and complimentary breakfast, making it a practical choice for travelers combining urban and outdoor activities. Boise demonstrates how a city can balance nature, culture, and gastronomy, all while remaining relatively undiscovered compared with traditional Western tourist hubs.

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Carlsbad, located between San Diego and Anaheim, is an under-the-radar Southern California destination suitable for families and beachgoers, according to RD. Unlike nearby crowded theme parks, it provides peaceful coastal retreats along seven miles of Pacific shoreline and easy access to attractions such as Legoland California. The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch bloom across fifty acres in spring, offering a seasonal visual spectacle for visitors. Carlsbad Village hosts the largest one-day street fair in the country, providing vibrant local flavor. The Hilton Cassara Carlsbad exemplifies the region’s relaxed beach vibe with multiple pools, a splash pad, and shuttle service to local attractions, making it a convenient and family-oriented base. Carlsbad highlights how lesser-known coastal towns can offer both leisure and seasonal excitement while avoiding the crowds of more popular Southern California destinations.

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Fort Worth, emerging from Dallas’s shadow, offers a unique combination of Western tradition and urban sophistication, according to RD. The Stockyards National Historic District brings cowboy culture to life with twice-daily cattle drives, rodeos, and historic honky-tonks such as Billy Bob’s Texas. Hotel Drover provides rustic luxury with pools, hot tubs, cabanas, and live music in a spacious outdoor setting, making it ideal for visitors seeking both comfort and immersive local culture. Known as “Cowtown,” Fort Worth presents an authentic glimpse of the American West, from historic architecture to contemporary arts and dining. Its rapidly growing cultural and entertainment scene allows travelers to experience Western heritage without sacrificing modern convenience, illustrating how an underrated city can deliver a distinctive and memorable vacation experience.