23 Hidden Gems in USA That Will Make Your Friends Jealous

1. Apostle Islands, WI

If you’re seeking serenity, the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin are a splendid pick. Picture crystal clear waters bordering a chain of 22 islands, each telling its own story. A boat tour might just be what you need to learn about the history etched in the ancient sea caves.

Are you into kayaking? Glide over to the hidden beaches that standard tours might not show. The sunsets here are the painters of the sky, casting hues to make any canvas envious.

One secret spot is the Apostle Islands Lighthouse, but why stop at sightseeing? Nearby, the cozy Old Rittenhouse Inn offers a warm bed and hearty breakfasts, setting you up perfectly for an early start or a day of leisure.

2. Cumberland Island, GA

Cumberland Island is a coastal haven where serenity and natural beauty combine. Start your day ambling amongst ruins that once housed 19th-century millionaires.

With over 17 miles of secluded beaches, you’ll find yourself strolling where sea turtles nest and rare birds call the expansive dunes home.

For a comfy stay, lay your head down at the Greyfield Inn, a charming southern hideaway acclaimed for its hospitality.

3. Capitol Reef National Park, UT

Capitol Reef National Park is a vibrant world of red rocks stretching into the sky. This natural playground is home to cliffs, canyons, and towering domes. Hidden in plain sight, it’s a slice of wilderness many travelers miss.

You’ll find Capitol Reef’s Waterpocket Fold, a wrinkle on the earth’s surface, unlike anything you’ve seen. It’s not all above ground; there are secrets beneath the surface!

Check out the petroglyphs etched into rock faces by Native Americans. When the sun sets, the unspoiled dark skies are perfect for stargazing.

Looking for a place to rest? Capitol Reef Resort is a comfy spot just outside the park and offers a stunning backdrop of the red rock vistas.

4. Dry Tortugas National Park, FL

Located about 70 miles west of Key West lies a remarkable cluster of islands known as Dry Tortugas National Park. Here, the serene blue waters and historic Fort Jefferson are a sight to behold.

Did you know that Dry Tortugas is mostly underwater? Only 1% is dry land, so the chances to spot colorful marine life are abundant! Reach this secluded paradise by a ferry from Key West or take to the skies on a seaplane for a spectacular aerial view.

After an adventure-packed day, unwind at a popular Key West hotel, like the Southernmost Point Guest House. With stunning ocean views and a refreshing pool, this elegant beachfront hotel promises comfort after your island escapades.

5. Hocking Hills State Park, OH

At Hocking Hills State Park, you’re surrounded by lush forest, cascading waterfalls, and deep, serene gorges. You’ll uncover Cedar Falls, boasting the region’s largest water flow—a sight that summons the sound of rushing water in your ears.

While the popular Old Man’s Cave gets most of the limelight, it’s the serene paths like Conkle’s Hollow that offer a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds. Your trails echo with birdcalls, and the vibrant green canopy above is a living stained glass work.

After a day of exploration, settle in for the night at the nearby Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls. The cozy comfort of this accommodation, surrounded by nature’s panorama, caps off a day well spent.

6. Isle Royale National Park, MI

Set sail to Isle Royale National Park and uncover a secluded island teeming with natural beauty. Miles away from the usual hustle, this haven awaits your footprints.

Did you know that Isle Royale is more than just a park? It’s home to wolves and moose, living in an ever-changing dance of nature. Most visitors don’t realize they’re stepping into a live study of wildlife ecology.

Get cozy at the Rock Harbor Lodge, just a heartbeat away from serene waters. It’s the perfect base camp for your daylight explorations.

7. Makoshika State Park, MT

Emerging from the dusty trails of eastern Montana, Makoshika State Park greets you with colossal rocky formations and verdant junipers. These badlands, Montana’s largest state park, are a canvas painted with rich earthy hues, drawing you into a prehistoric world.

The park’s fame lies in its ancient residents; dinosaur fossils lay hidden beneath the rugged surface. Your footsteps here follow the once thunderous roars of T-Rexes!

As you walk among the caprocks and hoodoos, you might catch the sight of a mule deer peering cautiously from behind a pine, or the swift shadow of a mountain lion disappearing into the wild.

Want to cozy up after a day of exploration? The Yellowstone River Inn in Glendive isn’t just a comfy stay; it’s a stone’s throw from the park.

8. Dauphin Island, AL

Nestled off the coast of Alabama, Dauphin Island is a serene spot boasting sugar-white sands and a rich history. Nature lovers will adore the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, a vital stopover for migrating birds.

If history stirs your soul, step back in time at majestic Fort Gaines, where echoes of the past meet stunning seaside views. And here’s something you may not know: the island played a strategic role during the Battle of Mobile Bay.

For a cozy stay, consider the charming Inn at Dauphin Island, known for its warm hospitality and breezy porches—perfect for savoring a sunset or a good book.

9. Lassen Volcanic National Park, CA

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a wonderland of fiery peaks and soothing hot springs hidden in northeastern California. Picture lakes so clear and pure, they reflect the sky like gigantic mirrors, and meadows that bloom with the freshest wildflowers.

Lassen is one of the few places in the world containing all four types of volcanoes. Lassen Peak, the largest plug dome volcano worldwide, last erupted a century ago, but the park still buzzes with geothermal activity.

The hissing fumaroles and boiling springs, like Bumpass Hell, tell tales of the earth’s fiery heart just beneath your feet.

For your stay, consider the Highlands Ranch Resort, known for its rustic charm and proximity to the park’s entrance.

10. Pawleys Island, SC

Pawleys Island, in South Carolina, is your sunny slice of paradise with a twist. Picture endless sandy beaches where you can stroll and feel the soft grains sift between your toes.

It’s a quieter spot, off the beaten path, with a laid-back vibe that lets you breathe in relaxation and exhale stress.

When the day wanes and it’s time to rest, the Litchfield Inn beckons with open arms, just a stone’s throw from the island’s calming waves.

11. Olympic National Park, WA

Olympic National Park in Washington offers you a peek into nature’s heart with its lush rainforests and rugged coastline. One unique spectacle is the Kalaloch Tree of Life, a mighty Sitka Spruce that defies gravity with its roots exposed, as if holding the earth’s secrets beneath its towering branches.

Venture just 17 miles from Port Angeles, and you’ll find yourself at Hurricane Ridge. This area boasts trails with breathtaking mountain panoramas, a beautiful counterpoint to the park’s verdant valleys. For those keen on a serene morning, visit the awe-inspiring waterfalls, best enjoyed on early weekdays when you have the trails more to yourself.

After a day of exploring, rest your head at a cozy spot nearby. The Lake Crescent Lodge is a popular choice, not far from the alluring Devil’s Punchbowl.

12. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, NM

Tucked away in New Mexico’s rugged terrain, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is a portal to the past. Here, crescent-shaped caves cradle the history of the Mogollon people, who meticulously constructed their homes against the cliffside over 700 years ago.

When you visit, the dwellings reveal tales etched in stone and earth—rooms woven into the cliffs tell of lives once led beneath the very ground you walk on. Make sure to wear comfy shoes for the trails and bring water.

After a day of exploring, rest your head at the Bear Mountain Lodge, a popular nearby retreat known for its quiet charm and comfort.

13. Great Basin National Park, NV

Great Basin National Park is like a secret, sitting quietly in the vast Nevada desert. Have you ever felt the cool darkness of a limestone cave, or gazed up at stars untainted by city lights? Here, the natural world comes alive in a display that’s all too rare.

From the ancient bristlecone pines, boasting 5,000 years of growth, to the majestic Wheeler Peak rising at 13,063 feet, you’re in for an adventure that lifts the spirits.

This park’s magic goes beyond its solitude. You’ll feel a sense of discovery exploring Lehman Caves with its stunning stalactites. If your heart longs for unspoiled views, trek the Timber Creek Loop; it’s a hiker’s delight.

And when the day is done and your heart’s full of Nevada’s rugged charm, rest up at Hidden Canyon Retreat.

14. Caddo Lake, TX

Caddo Lake in Texas is not your average lake. Its waters are home to a burst of life and a maze of bayous cloaked in mystery. Picture moss-draped cypress trees standing tall, their reflections shimmering in the still water. That’s not all – over 70 species of fish swim in these waters, making it a fisherman’s paradise.

The paddling trails stretch out like nature’s waterways, beckoning you to explore. With over 50 miles to navigate, each stroke of your paddle takes you deeper into the thrill of discovery. And here’s a little secret – the sunrise over the lake is a breathtaking spectacle, so getting up early is worth it.

Your stay is an easy puzzle to solve with The Excelsior House close by, offering warm Southern hospitality to cap off your adventure.

15. White Sands National Park, NM

At White Sands National Park, you can stroll through wave-like dunes of pearly white sand, which isn’t really sand but gypsum crystal—a sight unique to this corner of New Mexico. You won’t find dunes quite like these anywhere else in the world, as it’s the largest gypsum dune field!

Get ready for adventure under vibrant blue skies and embrace the calm of the desert. Don’t just stick to the day; as night falls, you’ll find the stars aren’t shy here. They glitter and dance in the vast desert sky, a display that will steal your breath away.

Here’s a fun fact: this place is shrouded in history as it sits entirely within the White Sands Missile Range, where the first atomic bomb was tested.

After a day of exploration, rest your head at the elegant Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces, known for its luxurious comfort that mirrors the splendor of the park.

16. The Wave, AZ

At The Wave in Arizona, you’re surrounded by swirling colors of red, orange, and pink sandstone. The Wave is nature’s playground, with ribbons of rock folding into whimsical shapes.

Getting here has its tricks. You’ll need a permit, which keeps the place serene and uncrowded; apply for the online lottery four months ahead. While you’re exploring, remember to drink lots of water and wear sun protection—the desert sun is no joke!

No visit is complete without a comfy place to rest. Stay at Amangiri, a luxurious hideaway just a short drive away.

17. Midway Geyser Basin, WY

Known for the vibrant colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring, Midway Geyser Basin in Yellowstone is a kaleidoscope of hues that paints a picture only nature could create.

You’ll find that early mornings are the secret trick to beat the crowds, giving you a serene view of this steaming spectacle. And just between us, keep an eye out for the lesser-known smaller pools like Opal Pool, their beauty often overshadowed by their larger neighbors.

When the day is done, the nearby Old Faithful Inn invites you to rest with its rustic charm, only a short drive away.

18. Chincoteague Island, VA

You’ll find Chincoteague Island nestled on Virginia’s eastern shore, a place where wild ponies roam freely. Each year, the island hosts an annual pony swim, a tradition that’s become the heart of Chincoteague.

But ponies aren’t all this charming spot has to offer. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge beckons with its 14,000 acres of pristine beaches and nature trails. Fancy some time on the water? Take a wild pony-watching boat tour along Assateague.

When the day winds down and your feet need rest, consider a stay at the cozy Marina Bay Hotel & Suites; it’s a beloved retreat that promises serene water views.

19. North Cascades National Park, WA

Ever heard of a place where skies blush with auroras over snow-dusted mountain peaks? North Cascades National Park is where Mother Nature shows off her grandeur.

The park’s trails wind through ancient forests and by alpine lakes so clear, they could mirror your thoughts. Stroll along the short but sweet Sterling Munro Trail; it’s a breeze and guides you to jaw-dropping views of the Picket Range.

For a cozy nest nearby, the Freestone Inn charms travelers with its rustic elegance and a warm, crackling fireplace.

20. Black Canyon Of The Gunnison, CO

Black Canyon of the Gunnison in Colorado sports some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rocks, and craggiest spires in North America.

The canyon’s walls are so steep they’re often in shadow, giving it the name “Black Canyon.” Its unique narrowness and depth create a distinct world, where you can listen to the Gunnison River rushing far below.

Don’t miss the painted wall — at 2,250 feet, it’s the tallest cliff in Colorado. Look closely and you may spot the canyon’s resident Peregrine Falcons.

For a comfortable stay, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Montrose is popular among visitors, providing cozy accommodations after a day of exploration.

21. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI

At Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, you’ll find cliffs adorned with streaks of mineral stain that create colorful patterns on the sandstone. The sight is unique and breathtaking, with Lake Superior’s crystal blue waters complementing the kaleidoscopic cliffs.

Did you know that Pictured Rocks has some of the clearest freshwater found anywhere? You can peer down into the depths and spot ancient rock formations—nature’s own history book.

For a cozy stay nearby, The Roam Inn in Munising offers comfort close to the park’s wonders.

22. Congaree National Park, SC

In the heart of South Carolina, Congaree National Park offers a lush haven with the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States.

Stroll on the Boardwalk Loop, and feel the soft hum of the forest, the creak of the cypress. Discover secrets like the synchronous fireflies event in May and June, where the tiny creatures light up the park in unison—a natural light show!

If kayaking is your style, the park’s waterways will reveal a new world just waiting under the surface.

Stay at the nearby Best Western Charleston Inn for a comfortable night’s rest—it’s a favorite among those who cherish a cozy nook and warm Southern hospitality.

23. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, AK

In Alaska’s rugged heart, you’ll find the vast expanse of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve. It’s unmatched in size-bigger than some countries!

It’s not just large; it houses some of North America’s tallest mountains and most impressive glaciers. For a one-of-a-kind view, take a flightseeing tour that’ll leave you awestruck.

A tip for your adventure: visit the historic town of McCarthy. It’s like stepping into the past without a time machine. Not many know that McCarthy is a fantastic base to explore the area, especially the breathtaking Kennecott Mines.

After a fulfilling day of exploring, rest up at the cozy comforts of the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge, just a stone’s throw from the park’s entrance.