Underrated Cities Worth Traveling To

Head to the hidden gems in the United States with this detailed guide. It covers underrated cities with local charms, culture, and fun for the family. Savannah, Georgia, offers a taste of the South with its warm hospitality.

Then there’s Durango, Colorado, known for its thrilling outdoor activities. West Virginia boasts historical beauty that you shouldn’t miss. These lesser-known destinations are great for a unique city trip or a quiet adventure off the main path.

If you’re looking for¹ places to stay that don’t break the bank, special ways to get around, or the chance to¹ discover hidden treasures, this guide is for you.

Key Takeaways

Discover the top underrated cities across the United States, from the South to the West and beyond.
Explore lesser-known destinations that offer a unique blend of local attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.
Learn about budget-friendly travel options, off-the-beaten-path accommodations, and transportation tips for these hidden gems.
Uncover the charming history, vibrant food scenes, and natural wonders that make these underrated cities worth visiting.
Plan your next unforgettable trip to one of these up-and-coming destinations and avoid the crowds of major tourist hubs.

Savannah, Georgia: A Charming Southern Gem

Savannah is a stunning city on the Georgia coast. It dazzles with its historic buildings and lively food scene. It’s also close to lovely beaches².

Walking downtown, you’ll see beautiful old homes and ancient oak trees. The historic places make you feel like you’ve gone back in time³.

Stunning Architecture and History

Over 40% of Savannah’s buildings have great historical or architectural value³. The city’s 22 squares are special. They show the deep history of Savannah³. The Cathedral Basilica of St. John is a must-see. It has amazing art and its design is beautiful³.

Vibrant Food and Culture Scene

The food and culture in Savannah are exciting. The area is famous for its seafood and unique Southern dishes². Enjoy a fancy meal at Elizabeth on 37th. Or try Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room for a taste of the South². At night, visit the Good Times Jazz Bar. Live jazz is played there from Thursday to Sunday².

Nearby Beach Getaways

Close to Savannah are beautiful beaches. Tybee Island, with its relaxed atmosphere and sand dunes, is perfect for families³. Savannah and its outskirts offer something for everyone. Whether you love the sun, sand, or just the South, you’ll find it here⁴.

“Savannah is consistently hailed as one of the ‘world’s friendliest cities.'”⁴

Savannah Highlights	Key Details
Forsyth Park	Largest park in the city, spanning 33 acres²
Bonaventure Cemetery	Established in 1846, offers free guided tours on the second weekend of the month²
First African Baptist Church	Oldest Black church in North America, organized in 1773²
Savannah Museum Scene	Includes Telfair Academy, Savannah African Art Museum, Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, and Andrew Low House Museum²
Dining Highlights	Elizabeth on 37th, The Grey (with James Beard Award-winning chef Mashama Bailey), Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room²
Nightlife and Entertainment	Good Times Jazz Bar and Restaurant, Drayton Hotel, Top Deck Bar, The Lost Square²
Accommodation Options	Hamilton-Turner Inn, Sonder apartment-hotel, Airbnb rentals²³

Savannah is a city full of wonders. Its historical sites and friendly people make it special. Don’t miss its coastal charm⁴.

Savannah travel destinations, Visit Savannah, The Ultimate Savannah Travel Guide

Porto, Portugal: The Underrated Wine Capital

Lisbon might get more attention, but Porto has its own special charm. It’s set by the Douro River and is famous for port wine. This city is a great starting point for visiting the beautiful Douro Valley⁵. The Douro Valley is well-known for its wineries and stunning vineyards⁵.

Explore the Douro Valley Wine Region

The Douro Valley is just a 1.5-hour train ride from Porto. It’s filled with terraced vineyards by the Douro River⁶. Getting to the Douro Valley from Porto by train takes about 1.5 hours⁵.

The grapes for port wine are grown here and then aged in Gaia⁵. It’s a perfect place to visit historic wineries, enjoy wine tastings, and admire the countryside’s peace.

Savor the Seafood and Culinary Delights

⁵ Porto is home to some of the finest dining places in Portugal. Its food scene is vibrant, with lots of local treats and great wines⁶. Travelers will love the variety of dishes and wines here.

Discover the Charming Riverfront and Historic Sites

⁵ On the south side of the Douro River is Gaia, where the port cellars are. The city is linked to Porto by the Dom Luis Bridge, making it easy to visit both⁵. The Porto Cathedral, from the 12th century, is a must-see historic site⁵. Walking is great in Porto’s small, car-limited old town.

⁷ Porto’s artistic vibe is breathing new life into the old city. It’s become a magnet for local and foreign artists and creatives⁷. The city now shines as a creative hotspot with a lively gallery scene, much like Hoxton in London or Kreuzberg in Berlin.

“Porto is Portugal’s second largest city and is known for being the most picturesque city in the country.”⁵

Porto is a hidden gem, with its beautiful riverfront, historic buildings, and rich culture⁵⁷⁶.

Durango, Colorado: Outdoor Adventures and Hot Springs

Durango, Colorado sits in the Rocky Mountains, making it a gem for those who love nature and want to relax. It’s known for the Durango Hot Springs, with pools of different temperatures, and the nearby Purgatory Ski Resort. Nature lovers and adventurers will find joy in the San Juan Mountains, a short drive away.

Its historic downtown is lively, with lots of places to eat and shop. You can pick from over 500 shops and 180 restaurants. The Derailed Pour House is famous, and the Living Tree Live Foods Salad Bar is a top choice for healthy and organic food⁸.

If you step out of downtown, Durango’s beautiful nature waits⁹. The Rocky Mountains nearby are perfect for backpacking. The area also has great mountain bike trails just minutes from the city. The Animas River is great for rafting and fishing. Plus, you can stay at the historic Strater Hotel, which has been around since 1887⁹.

Durango is a dream for outdoor fans¹⁰. Purgatory Resort is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. There are also options like horseback riding, kayaking, and climbing. And, the Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa has 26 water features, including natural hot springs and private tubs¹⁰.

Looking for a relaxing or thrilling trip? Durango, Colorado is ideal. It mixes small-town charm with stunning scenery. This not-so-well-known city has a lot to offer any traveler⁸.

Perugia, Italy: A Tuscan Treasure Without the Crowds

Florence may be a top pick, but Perugia is a hidden gem in Tuscany, offering a more authentic Italian experience¹¹. With a population of 160,000, it’s the largest place between Rome and Florence¹¹. Nestled in the heart of Umbria, it’s not far from major cities, surrounded by peaceful valleys and hills¹¹. This gives it the title of being the “Green Heart of Italy.”

Stroll Through the Picturesque Old Town

Take a walk in Perugia’s charming old town, full of exciting bars, churches, and a lively university scene¹². You’ll see buildings made with Italian stone and Roman-style construction¹². Perugia’s past includes big historical events and centuries of hosting the Catholic Popes¹². Every weekend, a market at Piazza Italia showcases the city’s local life.

Indulge in Chocolate and Wine Tasting

If you love chocolate, Perugia is a must-see with its world-famous Baci chocolates¹². Its chocolate-making story began in 1907 by a lady named Luisa Spagnoli¹². You can also explore wineries in Umbria, famous for hearty reds and refreshing whites.

Stay in a Authentic Italian Castle

For a special lodging, think about staying in a castle near Perugia¹¹. Options range from luxury hotels like Brufani Palace to the medieval Castello di Monterone¹¹. Rates start from 125 euros for hotels and 150 euros for the castle¹¹. For budget travelers, places like Primavera Minihotel offer rooms from 85 euros.

Just outside Perugia, you’ll find other charming Umbrian towns to explore, like Assisi and Gubbio¹¹. Assisi, only 30 minutes away, is famous for the Basilica di San Francesco and historic architecture¹³. It’s a great place to see and not far from Perugia.

“Perugia is off-the-beaten-path compared to popular Italian destinations like Rome, Sicily, Tuscany, and Cinque Terre, but has gained popularity in recent years after being overlooked in the past.”¹²

Perugia fits any travel style, offering culture, great food, and unique stays in historic castles¹¹. It’s easy to get to from Europe, with flights from London on airlines like British Airways and Ryanair¹¹. Visit in spring for mild weather and wildflowers, or in October for a cool, pleasant trip¹¹.

City travel guide: Discovering Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of cities in the United States with this travel guide. It goes beyond the usual tourist spots to show you a world of unique places and local culture. These are often missed by most travelers¹⁴.

Visit places like Savannah, Georgia, with its Southern charm. Or explore Durango, Colorado, for outdoor fun. You can also check out the history in Perugia, Italy. This guide is your ticket to unique cities with lots to offer¹⁴.

Find hidden spots like tiki bars and old grave sites across the U.S. Try Malaysian food in Katy, Texas, or Choctaw/Thai dishes in Kemah, Texas. Learn about the history and food that make these cities special¹⁴.

Ready to start your adventure? We’ll show you the best travel apps and online tools. They help you find new places to see and plan your trip well¹⁵.

This guide is perfect for anyone wanting to explore something new. It includes tips for the South, Europe, and Western U.S. Find the hidden wonders of these great cities¹⁴.

Visit unique places and find hidden spots in these cities¹⁴. Enjoy tiki bars and old grave sites. They offer something different from the usual trips¹⁴.

Underrated City	Highlight	Unique Feature
Katy, Texas	Malaysian cuisine	Choctaw/Thai restaurant
Kemah, Texas	Classic oyster stew	Tiki bars
Akyem Kukurantumi, Ghana	Cacao fruit sampling	Indigenous cuisine exploration
Witnica, Poland	Studying local history	Historic gravesites

Are you someone who loves to travel? This guide will show you the hidden gems in different cities¹⁴. It’s your key to find new and exciting places. Get ready for a journey full of surprises¹⁴.

“Exploring the hidden gems and local cultural experiences in underrated cities is the best way to truly immerse yourself in the authentic character of a destination.” – Travel Enthusiast

Start planning your adventure today. These cities have a lot to offer beyond the obvious¹⁵. With these apps and tips, you’ll design a trip that’s all your own. Experience the rich culture of these hidden cities¹⁵.

Atlas Obscura Visit a City app New York City Travel Guide 2023-2024

Block Island, Rhode Island: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Block Island is a hidden gem in Southern New England. It’s a small island you can only reach by ferry or plane. This island has kept its clean beaches, lots of hiking trails, and safe spaces for wildlife¹⁶.

Explore the Pristine Beaches and Trails

Block Island shines with its beautiful beaches. There’s Crescent Beach for families, Scotch Beach for young adults, and Baby Beach for the little ones. Each beach has something special for visitors¹⁷. You can explore 28 miles of trails that are perfect for bird watching, biking, or walking¹⁸.

Visitors can also try the 16-mile Block Island Bicycle Tour to see the island’s top spots¹⁸. They must visit Mohegan Bluffs for a beach under cliffs and Rodman’s Hollow for great ocean views¹⁸.

Embrace the Laid-Back Island Vibe

Block Island is more than its nature. It has a rich history shown in places like lighthouses and the Historical Society¹⁶. Plus, the island offers great food and places to relax after exploring outdoors.

Buffalo, New York: A City Reborn

In the past, Buffalo, New York, was a city in decline. However, it has recently seen a big comeback. The city’s historic buildings, like those from the Art Deco and Victorian eras, have been saved. This shows off Buffalo’s deep historical roots¹⁹. There are almost seven dozen National Historic Landmarks in the city. This underlines their commitment to keeping these beautiful buildings¹⁹.

The Buffalo waterfront is now a lively place thanks to the Canalside area. This spot offers great trails for hiking and biking, plus a museum all about ships¹⁹. Buffalo is also known for its art, culture, and food. Plus, it’s near the stunning Niagara Falls²⁰.

Here are some interesting things about Buffalo’s comeback:¹⁹

At one time, Buffalo had more rich people per person than any other U.S. city during the Gilded Age¹⁹.
The Resurgence Brewing Co. in Buffalo makes the Imperial Sponge Candy Stout. It has a 10% Alcohol By Volume (A.B.V.)¹⁹.
There are almost two dozen small breweries in Buffalo¹⁹.
The Richardson Olmsted Complex is turning into a special Hotel Henry, covering 48 acres¹⁹.
Unity Island in Buffalo has beautiful waterfront paths that lead to Canalside. It also has designs by Frank Lloyd Wright¹⁹.
Larkin Square in Buffalo is a newly popular spot near old Larkin Soap Company buildings. It has food trucks, pubs, and more¹⁹.
Buffalo has many waterfront paths, including the Canalside area¹⁹.
You can take kayak tours in Buffalo near the historic grain elevators in “Elevator Alley”¹⁹.
The Albright-Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo has been collecting art since 1890. It’s in a grand Beaux Arts building with new parts¹⁹.

With its deep history, lively culture, and exciting outdoor fun, Buffalo, New York, is now a top place to visit in the Northeast²⁰²¹.

Buffalo, New York Statistics	Value
Population (2020 census)	278,349²⁰
Buffalo-Niagara Falls Metro Area Population (2020 estimate)	1.2 million²⁰
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the Buffalo-Niagara Falls MSA (2019)	$53 billion (~$62.3 billion in 2023)²⁰
Urban Population Rank in the U.S.	50th²⁰
Urban Population Density	2,786.7/sq mi (1,075.9/km2)²⁰
City Land Area	52.48 sq mi (135.92 km2)²⁰
City Population Density	6,893.41/sq mi (2,661.58/km2)²⁰
Latitude and Longitude	42°53′17″N 78°52′37″W²¹
Incorporation Date	1804²¹

These stats show how much Buffalo, New York has turned around. It’s now a lively city with a rich mix of old and new. You can enjoy its architecture, culture, and outdoor adventures¹⁹²⁰²¹.

“Buffalo’s downtown has seen a remarkable renaissance in recent years, with the city’s classic architecture, revitalized waterfront, and thriving arts and culture scene making it a must-visit destination in the Northeast.”

The Wilds of Pennsylvania: Untamed Beauty

In north-central Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Plateau, a vast wilderness awaits. The Allegheny National Forest²² is its heart, drawing nature lovers. Here, they can enjoy mountain streams, ancient forests, and a Mid-Atlantic version of the grand canyon. Nearby, Jim Thorpe stands ready, an hour and a half from Philadelphia, beckoning as the door to this wild realm²².

Outdoor Adventures in Allegheny National Forest

For adventurers, the Allegheny National Forest is a paradise. Hiking, river paddling, and biking down scenic roads fill the days. Lancaster folks can make the trip to Jim Thorpe. There, bike rentals wait, costing around $12 an hour or $30 for a whole day²². For a cool twist, they can hop on the Bike Train. This unique service carries cyclists to far-off trails. But remember, tickets must be bought ahead of time²².

Historic Landmarks and Scenic Vistas

This area is also filled with history and stunning views. Travelers can visit the Old Jail Museum in Jim Thorpe, linked to the Molly Maguires²². Or, they can see the Asa Packer Mansion, which Disney’s Haunted Mansion was based on²². Don’t miss Turn Hole Tunnel, an old railroad path nearly 500 feet long. It’s a favorite spot for visitors²².

“The Allegheny National Forest is a true gem, offering a taste of the untamed beauty that can be found in the eastern United States. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or a glimpse into the region’s rich history, this area is sure to leave a lasting impression.”

Seeking something truly special? The Allegheny region in Pennsylvania won’t disappoint. It mixes outdoor fun, history, and natural beauty like nowhere else. Venture off the beaten path and discover the wild beauty of this area.

West Virginia: History and Outdoor Thrills

West Virginia sits in the Appalachian region, blending a rich history with stunning nature. It’s home to places like Harpers Ferry, known for sparking the Civil War, and the new New River Gorge National Park²³.

Adventure lovers have lots to do in West Virginia. The Hatfield-McCoy Trails spread over 600 miles, welcoming riders of all levels²³. The state also has calming spots like the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park for walks and bird-watching²³.

West Virginia is also great for those looking to unwind. There are around 50 state parks with comfy cabins, perfect for a quiet break²³. You can fish at Boley Lake and Glade Creek for various fish types in Babcock State Park²³.

For unique trips, the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau helps with scenic train rides. And the area around the New River and Greenbrier Valley is perfect for boating, with rentals at Bluestone State Park²³.

If you seek real thrills, West Virginia is the place. The Adventure on the Gorge spot offers climbing and rappelling in New River Gorge for all levels²³. Seneca Rocks features a hike to a summit with great views, perfect for an adventure²⁴.

The natural beauty in West Virginia is not just for outdoor fans. Places like Spruce Knob and Blackwater Falls are must-sees. They offer stunning views and peaceful moments in the state’s highlands²³.

If you love the arts, head to Tucker County. There, you’ll find galleries and open studios. FestivALL in Charleston is a grand celebration of arts in October²⁴.

The state’s history shines in towns like Harpers Ferry and Moundsville. The Belle Boyd House Museum in Harpers Ferry is a special stop. It tells stories of West Virginia’s role in the Civil War²⁴.

Adventure, history, or art, West Virginia has something for everyone. It’s a place full of great stories and beautiful moments, ready to be explored²³²⁴²⁵.,,

Top Cities in West Virginia	Categories of Hidden Wonders
Point Pleasant Harpers Ferry Fayetteville Moundsville Morgantown Charleston	Ruins (8) History & Culture (8) Museums (7) Geology (5) Nature (4) Places To Stay (3)

West Virginia is perfect for those who love the outdoors, history, or the arts. It’s packed with exciting experiences and beautiful sights. This hidden gem is just waiting to be explored²³²⁴²⁵.,,

“West Virginia is truly a state of contrasts, where the rugged beauty of nature collides with the rich tapestry of Appalachian history. It’s a place that beckons the adventurous spirit and the curious mind alike.”

Start planning your West Virginia adventure today. There’s so much history and fun in this often-overlooked state. Explore the top adventures in West Virginia, find hidden gems, and experience its unique culture²³²⁴²⁵.,,

Durham, North Carolina: A City Transformed

Once a tobacco factory town, Durham, North Carolina, has changed a lot in the past few decades²⁶. Its downtown and the American Tobacco Campus now buzz with science, art, sports, and fun²⁷. You can watch the Durham Bulls play, visit the Duke Lemur Center, and try the city’s new craft breweries and distilleries. All this shows Durham’s amazing new life.

The heart of Durham is now a lively place where you can walk around. It has seven unique parts, each offering something special²⁷. The American Tobacco Historic District is a huge area for all kinds of activities. It has eateries, shops, and places for fun²⁷.

The Warehouse District has changed a lot too. Before, it was the spot for tobacco buildings of Liggett & Myers. Now, it’s full of art galleries, breweries, and cool places to eat²⁷. The Central Park District offers a big park. It’s a peaceful place in the middle of the city²⁷.

For food lovers, Durham is a dream²⁸. You can go to Monuts for baked goods or Mike D’s BBQ for some great barbecue²⁸. There are also Ponysaurus Brewing Co. for beer fans and Mystic Farm & Distillery for those who like spirits²⁸.

Durham is also rich in culture²⁶. The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University has always-changing exhibits. Right now, they have an exhibit chosen by ChatGPT²⁸. Don’t miss out on the music scene. DPAC is a top venue for live shows.

Outdoorsy people will love Durham²⁸. Places like Eno River State Park and West Point on the Eno have many trails. The city center is also easy to explore on foot²⁶.

Interested in science, sports, art, or just soaking up a city’s vibe? Durham, North Carolina, is perfect for you²⁶.

Attraction	Description
Durham Vintage Collective	A new and inviting second-hand shop downtown²⁸.
Mike D’s BBQ	A new barbecue joint in East Durham that serves brisket and smoked beans²⁸.
Mystic Farm & Distillery	A 22-acre bourbon distillery that offers weekend tours and free tastings²⁸.
The Durham Hotel	Offers double rooms from around $240²⁸.
Ponysaurus Brewing Co.	A downtown craft brewery with crackling fire pits in a leafy garden strung with lights²⁸.
Monuts	A bustling Ninth Street bakery and cafe that began as a tricycle vendor peddling doughnuts at the Durham Farmers’ Market²⁸.
Ideal’s	A sandwich shop in East Durham with lines out the door at lunchtime²⁸.
Rose’s Noodles, Dumplings and Sweets	A former meat market and sweets shop that evolved into a casual East Asian-inspired eatery²⁸.
Corpse Reviver	A cocktail bar in a former coffin shop²⁸.
Carolina Soul Records and Bull City Records	Two spots to browse vinyl on Main Street²⁸.
Eno River State Park and West Point on the Eno	Offer dozens of trails to choose from²⁸.
The Nasher Museum of Art	Presents rotating exhibitions, including a current exhibition curated by ChatGPT²⁸.
The Velvet Hippo	A lively new bar serving fruity slushies and creative cocktails on a rooftop downtown²⁸.

“Durham goes from a tobacco town to a vibrant hub. Its revitalized downtown and special places make it a must-see in North Carolina.”

Cumberland Island, Georgia: A Coastal Treasure

Georgia’s biggest barrier island, Cumberland Island, mixes beach fun with outdoor thrill and lots of animals. It keeps a unique, natural beauty²⁹. Some just visit for the day. But, you can also stay overnight at the beautiful Greyfield Inn³⁰.

The island’s 18-mile beach is home to wild horses and sea turtle nests. It also has a historic African American area and links to the Carnegie family²⁹. It can take 40 minutes to 5 hours to get there from places like Atlanta or Jacksonville²⁹. This island is a special and peaceful hideaway.

To get there, take the 45-minute ferry from St. Marys, Georgia²⁹. Visit in spring (March to May) or fall (September to early November) for the best weather²⁹. For entering the island, adults pay $10. Kids 16 and below go in free²⁹.

The ferry costs between $38 (for seniors) and $40 (for adults), but is free for kids under 6²⁹.

There are six campgrounds for those who want to stay. From wild areas like Yankee Paradise to more basic spots at Stafford Beach²⁹. The ferry only takes 145 people. This helps keep the island peaceful and quiet³¹.

If you love history, wildlife, or just relaxing on the beach, Cumberland Island is perfect. It’s a true gem of the coast³¹.

“Cumberland Island is a place that feels untouched by time, a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”

For a tour, try Lands & Legacies. It shows the best of the island for $65. With taxes and fees, it becomes $73.45³¹. Or, join the National Park Service’s tour for $45 plus tax. They cover the island’s historical sites in a day³⁰.

Whether alone or with a guide, Cumberland Island’s charm will stay with you. Plan your visit to see why it’s a hidden Georgia treasure³⁰²⁹³¹.

The Forgotten Coast of Florida: Unspoiled Beauty

The Florida Forgotten Coast runs along the Gulf of Mexico from Port St. Joe to St. Marks. It’s a quieter, more natural choice compared to Florida’s busy spots³². Here, you’ll find soft Gulf of Mexico beaches that are perfect for a peaceful, remote vacation³².

Get to know the wildlife by looking out for manatees and monarch butterflies³². Also, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the local seafood festivals and fresh catches³².

The region is made up of many different coastal towns, each with its own special vibe. Visit Apalachicola’s old town, St. George Island’s calm beaches, and Alligator Point’s beautiful views³². Whether you love the outdoors, new cultures, or just some peace and quiet, the Florida Forgotten Coast welcomes you³².

The area’s history and love for the sea are clear in its museums and landmarks. You can see this at places like the lighthouses on St. George Island and Carrabelle Beach³³. For those who enjoy activities, there’s fishing, kayaking, and hiking at Bald Point State Park³².

“The Forgotten Coast offers a rare glimpse into Old Florida, where the natural beauty and local culture have remained largely untouched by modern development.” – Jane Doe, travel writer

With its untouched beaches, rare wildlife, and real sea life experiences, the Forgotten Coast of Florida is a treasure³². It’s perfect for a quiet or fun holiday. This part of the Gulf Coast is ready to amaze you³².

Coastal Destination	Highlights
St. George Island	9 miles of pristine white sand beaches³²
Mexico Beach	4-mile stretch of serene beaches along Highway 98³²
Port St. Joe	Stunning white sand beaches at St. Joseph Peninsula State Park³²
Cape San Blas	Uninterrupted views of turquoise waters and pet-friendly vacation rentals³²
Apalachicola	Historic downtown area with local art galleries and shops³²
Alligator Point	Slender peninsula with extensive salt marshes³²
Eastpoint	Working waterfront town with serene and untouched beaches³²

The Forgotten Coast is a special place with its “Old Florida” feel and untouched nature. Compared to more popular spots, it’s a breath of fresh air³². The beautiful beaches, unique wildlife, and rich culture make this part of the Gulf of Mexico memorable³²³³³⁴.

Western Tennessee: Music, History, and Flavors

In the heart of the South, Western Tennessee mixes music, historic civil rights moments, and tasty local foods. Memphis, the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll, is a top spot for music lovers³⁵. Memorable places like Beale Street, Graceland, and Sun Studio salute the area’s musical history³⁵.

Even more, Western Tennessee is key to the Civil Rights Movement. It has 12 stops on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail and sites like the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis³⁶.

Foodies will love it too. The region is famous for its pork barbecue and soul food³⁵. You’ll find many local coffee shops, bakeries, and wineries showing off true Southern charm³⁵. For outdoor lovers, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers peace and beautiful trails³⁷.

Western Tennessee welcomes all who appreciate music, history, and great food. You’ll find hidden gems and unique stories in this Southern spot. Discover them on your next trip.

“Tennessee played a pivotal role in women’s suffrage with the ratification of the 19th Amendment, as it was the 36th state needed for ratification.”³⁶

This area also shines in outdoor activities. Meeman-Shelby Park is perfect for those who love nature. It has trails, calm water, and lots of wildlife³⁷. Shiloh National Military Park and Fort Donelson National Battlefield are great for history fans. They have interesting displays and preserved battlefields³⁶.

Western Tennessee is a treat for music fans, history lovers, and foodies. It’ll win your heart with memorable moments that last forever. Discover the hidden gems and captivating stories that make this corner of the South so special.³⁵³⁶³⁷

Hot Springs and the Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas

In west-central Arkansas, you’ll find the Ouachita Mountains and Hot Springs National Park. This area is rich in natural beauty and history. The park has been a favorite since the 1830s for its hot springs, offering a space for both relaxation and exploration. Here, visitors can enjoy peaceful activities like hiking and fishing³⁸.

The Ouachitas are different from the Ozarks, known for their wild, untouched nature. This makes them perfect for anyone looking for a real taste of the wilderness³⁸. On April 8, 2024, Hot Springs National Park will see a total solar eclipse. It shares this rare event with Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley³⁸.

In Hot Springs town, the story is just as fascinating. From its early days as a small settlement, it transformed into a spa hub. Now, it’s famous for its grand Victorian bathhouses on Bathhouse Row. The town is also celebrated as a key place for baseball spring training, hosting sports legends³⁸.

Recently, Hot Springs has become even more alluring with places like The Reserve at Hot Springs, which has quickly become a favorite among travelers. You can stay in historic spots like Hotel Hale, which dates back to 1892. The city’s rich history is waiting to be explored³⁸.

Aside from the city, the Ouachita Mountains are an outdoor lover’s dream. Lookout Point Lakeside Inn offers gorgeous Lake Hamilton views. And Hot Springs’ Oaklawn has been thrilling visitors with horse races since 1905³⁸. The area also has unique dining, cultural spots, and live music, making it a great all-around destination³⁸.

If you love natural hot springs, outdoor fun, or checking out history, Hot Springs is perfect for you. It’s best to visit from late spring to early summer when the area is less crowded. Plus, this time offers the most activities³⁸.

Attraction	Description
Garvan Woodland Gardens	A 210-acre botanical garden offering a vast space for exploration³⁹.
Bathhouse Row	A National Historic Landmark District featuring eight bathhouse spas constructed between 1892 and 1923³⁹.
The Ohio Club	Arkansas’ oldest bar, established in 1905 and frequented by famous individuals like Al Capone and Babe Ruth³⁹.
Superior Bathhouse Brewery	The only brewery in a US National Park and the world that uses thermal spring water in beer production³⁹.
Lauray’s The Diamond Center	A 96-year-old family-owned business offering one of the largest diamond selections in Arkansas³⁹.

To reach Hot Springs and the Ouachitas, you can fly into airports like Little Rock (LIT) or Hot Springs Memorial Field (HOT). If you’re staying within Hot Springs, a car is your best bet for getting around. But, do know that the downtown area and Bathhouse Row are good for walking³⁸.

“Hot Springs and the Ouachita Mountains offer a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and outdoor adventure that truly sets this region apart.”

For those seeking peace in nature, relaxation in the hot springs, or a look at history, Hot Springs is a must-visit. It’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left. So, start planning your trip to uncover the beauty and stories of this special area³⁸⁴⁰³⁹.

Kansas City, Missouri: Jazz, Barbecue, and More

As Missouri’s second-largest city, Kansas City is a hub of music and food. It has earned the nickname “The Barbecue Capital of the World.” This is thanks to its slow-smoked meats⁴¹.

Moreover, the city is famous for its jazz culture. It has over 40 venues where you can hear live music. Kansas City also boasts a rich art scene, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art⁴¹.

The city’s cultural wonders extend to its many museums, like the National World War I Museum. You can watch the Royals play at Kauffman Stadium. Or enjoy the Crossroads Arts District. This area has tons of galleries, restaurants, and spaces for performances⁴²⁴³.

Whether it’s the lively jazz, tasty barbecue, or vibrant culture, Kansas City has something to offer everyone. The city holds dearly to its music history. It also celebrates its love for barbecue every year with a big festival⁴¹.

FAQ

What types of underrated cities are featured in this travel guide?

The guide showcases lesser-known spots across the US. It includes scenic Southern cities, top places for outdoor adventures, and historic jewels. You’ll also find hidden European gems to explore.

What makes Savannah, Georgia a captivating Southern city to visit?

Savannah charms visitors with its old-world architecture. It’s famous for its lively food and culture scene. Also, it’s near stunning coastal spots like Tybee Island.

Why is Porto, Portugal considered an underrated alternative to Lisbon?

Porto’s allure lies in its relaxed vibe and rich port wine heritage. The city boasts a picturesque riverfront and historic sites like Palácio da Bolsa.

What outdoor adventures and relaxation options are available in Durango, Colorado?

In Durango, you can enjoy the natural Durango Hot Springs. There’s also skiing and snowboarding at Purgatory Ski Resort. Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, it’s perfect for outdoor lovers.

What makes Perugia, Italy an appealing alternative to the more crowded Tuscan destinations?

Perugia serves as a hidden Italian gem. It features a charming old town and an active university scene. Visitors love its chocolate and wine tours. You can even stay in historic castles or castle-like villas.

What hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences are highlighted in this city travel guide?

The guide unearths unknown delights like Block Island’s natural beauty in Rhode Island. It also spotlights Buffalo’s renewal in New York, Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Plateau, and Florida’s secluded Forgotten Coast.