These hidden havens across the US are perfect for your next quiet escape
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When most people dream of an American getaway, their minds go straight to the usual suspects—New York, California, maybe Florida.
But beyond the bright lights and big cities lie quiet corners of the country full of charm, character, and adventure.
Heather Anderson, an avid traveler who’s explored all 50 states, has a different take on where the magic truly lives.
She shared with The GrayVine her list of five unexpectedly delightful states that deserve more love—and one that might not be worth the detour.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers sweeping views of canyons and bluffs, where bison and wild horses roam free.
Adventurous cyclists will love the 100+ mile Maah Daah Hey Trail, while urban explorers can dive into Fargo’s local arts scene.
Museums, farmers markets, and unexpected sophistication make this a state full of surprises.
Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are iconic for a reason—but there’s more.
The Wind River Mountains offer solitude and striking alpine beauty without the crowds.
Whether it’s fly fishing in crystal-clear rivers or catching a rodeo in towns like Cheyenne and Laramie, Wyoming delivers a timeless blend of frontier spirit and natural wonder.
Acadia National Park is the crown jewel, but Heather also recommends wandering Portland’s coastal streets and checking out the state’s many lighthouses.
Don't forget to head inland—hiking trails, lakes, and the occasional moose encounter await. It’s a place that invites you to unplug and breathe a little deeper.
The Ouachita range is a dream for hikers and mountain bikers alike.
Little Rock brings the culture, with a solid lineup of museums and historic sites.
Whether you're outdoorsy or just looking for a relaxed weekend trip, this state might just win you over.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must, where you can hike windswept trails and hunt for petoskey stones along Lake Michigan.
Historic Fort Michilimackinac and charming Mackinac Island add a layer of depth, while cities like Grand Rapids offer everything from botanical gardens to summer festivals. Michigan packs more than most expect.
To be clear, Heather doesn’t believe any state is “bad”—but when pressed for a least favorite, Indiana stood out.
“I went to university there and it was quite dull,” she admits, citing limited hiking and outdoor options.
Her advice? Don’t skip Indiana entirely—but maybe don’t make it the centerpiece of your trip.
Have you discovered a hidden gem that deserves more attention? Or maybe you’ve got a totally different take on Indiana? We want to hear it! Drop your travel stories and suggestions in the comments below—and let’s keep exploring together.
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But beyond the bright lights and big cities lie quiet corners of the country full of charm, character, and adventure.
Heather Anderson, an avid traveler who’s explored all 50 states, has a different take on where the magic truly lives.
She shared with The GrayVine her list of five unexpectedly delightful states that deserve more love—and one that might not be worth the detour.
1. North Dakota: Wild Beauty and Warm Vibes
If North Dakota isn’t on your radar, it should be.Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers sweeping views of canyons and bluffs, where bison and wild horses roam free.
Adventurous cyclists will love the 100+ mile Maah Daah Hey Trail, while urban explorers can dive into Fargo’s local arts scene.
Museums, farmers markets, and unexpected sophistication make this a state full of surprises.
Heather Anderson, a travel writer from Washington, has visited all 50 US states and shares her insights about underrated travel destinations within the country. Image source: Ryan Stone / Unsplash
2. Wyoming: Rugged, Remote, and Revered
If you're yearning for the wild, Wyoming is your ticket.Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are iconic for a reason—but there’s more.
The Wind River Mountains offer solitude and striking alpine beauty without the crowds.
Whether it’s fly fishing in crystal-clear rivers or catching a rodeo in towns like Cheyenne and Laramie, Wyoming delivers a timeless blend of frontier spirit and natural wonder.
3. Maine: Coastal Calm and Inland Adventure
Located in New England, Maine boasts an incredible coastline, making it an underrated gem.Acadia National Park is the crown jewel, but Heather also recommends wandering Portland’s coastal streets and checking out the state’s many lighthouses.
Don't forget to head inland—hiking trails, lakes, and the occasional moose encounter await. It’s a place that invites you to unplug and breathe a little deeper.
4. Arkansas: A Southern State with Surprising Depth
Arkansas offers a mix of forested mountains and slow-paced charm.The Ouachita range is a dream for hikers and mountain bikers alike.
Little Rock brings the culture, with a solid lineup of museums and historic sites.
Whether you're outdoorsy or just looking for a relaxed weekend trip, this state might just win you over.
5. Michigan: Freshwater Coastlines and Small-Town Joy
Michigan is a fantastic destination for an adventure holiday, explains Heather.Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must, where you can hike windswept trails and hunt for petoskey stones along Lake Michigan.
Historic Fort Michilimackinac and charming Mackinac Island add a layer of depth, while cities like Grand Rapids offer everything from botanical gardens to summer festivals. Michigan packs more than most expect.
To be clear, Heather doesn’t believe any state is “bad”—but when pressed for a least favorite, Indiana stood out.
“I went to university there and it was quite dull,” she admits, citing limited hiking and outdoor options.
Her advice? Don’t skip Indiana entirely—but maybe don’t make it the centerpiece of your trip.
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