Sometimes you just need a weekend getaway to rest, recharge, and relax. But where to go?
If you want to avoid tourist spots, check out these 15 underrated but top-notch cities in the US. You may even need a long weekend to enjoy what each city has to offer.
1. Madison, Wisconsin
College students looking to road trip over the weekend may be interested in a visit to Madison. It’s a cool college town between two big lakes with plenty of water activities to enjoy. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants or bars throughout the city.
2. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Visitors like exploring Pittsburgh during summer, but don’t be afraid to plan a trip during other seasons. Downtown is lovely, with lots of historical monuments and landmarks. Plus, the food scene is on the rise, with dozens of restaurants within walking distance throughout downtown.
3. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga is two hours south of Nashville and a beautiful destination for a weekend getaway. Lookout Mountain is a must-see stop as is a hike through Audubon Acres along the South Chickamauga Creek. The city also offers museums, walking tours, and a thriving arts district.
4. Santa Fe, New Mexico
From Bob Dylan to songs in musicals like Rent and Newsies, people have been talking about Santa Fe for a while. It features a phenomenal food scene, an art community, and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing—perfect for trips any time of the year.
5. Ashland, Oregon
If you love live theatre check out the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. This repertory theatre is one of the major festivals around the world. And if you’re not a theatre fan? You can go wine tasting at Long Walk Vineyard or explore the lush greenery at Lithia Park.
6. Portland, Maine
The east coast shoreline is beautiful to stop along if you’re traveling up or down the coast. Portland, in particular, offers some of the best lobster rolls you’ll find. With a city close to the beach and great restaurant options, what more do you need?
7. Kansas City, Missouri
Visitors agree some of the best (if not the best) barbecue comes out of Kansas City, Missouri. Not to be confused with Kansas City, Kansas, which sits right on the other side of the state border. The cities may share a name, but one has a much superior barbecue.
8. Detroit, Michigan
The Motor City may have roots in the automotive industry, but nowadays, there are so many communities to explore it’s worth a weekend trip. Check out flea markets, antique stores, and its multicultural food scene. Not to mention the pride locals have for their city is unmatched and only enhances the experience.
9. Savannah, Georgia
Many tourists flock to this smaller city during fall and October to experience the spooky season, but Savannah is a great year-round destination, too. Visually, you can’t beat the Regency architecture and oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Not to mention the beautiful waterfront with cool bars and awesome restaurants to choose from.
10. Bend, Oregon
Tucked along the eastern edge of the Cascade Range, Bend is a small city with a big personality. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a weekend full of hiking, biking, or whitewater rafting. Also, it’s home to the last Blockbuster in existence. So cool!
11. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Summertime in Milwaukee means baseball season, Summerfest, and beach time along Lake Michigan. Throughout the year, the city hosts several ethnic festivals as well—Irish Fest, Bastille Days, and Polish Fest, to name a few.
12. Boise, Idaho
Although Boise has seen a surge in transplants since the pandemic, it’s still a relatively undiscovered destination. With tons of walking and bike paths along the river, plus a short drive from nearby ski resorts, if you’re looking to spend time outdoors think about Boise when planning your next trip.
13. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta draws thousands of visitors each year—rightfully so because it’s amazing to see. But you should also visit throughout the year to enjoy hiking trails, visit museums, and learn about the indigenous Pueblo people and culture.
14. Santa Cruz, California
Nearby Monterey might get all the tourists, but Santa Cruz is a cozy little surf town with tons of ocean activities. Spend the day at the Beach Boardwalk (for free), bike ride down West Cliff Drive, or have dinner on the Wharf. Beach and ocean lovers will never want to leave.
15. Flagstaff, Arizona
Another best-kept-secret is Flagstaff in the southwest. Considering that Flagstaff is in the middle of a desert, it’s a beautiful little oasis full of green mountains and pine forests! Visitors love how friendly the locals are, with tons of great food, breweries, and active nightlife.
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