Travel Takeoffs: Underrated Places to Visit this Summer

By Claire Weston

Edited by Taylor Morgan

CLAY BANKS / UNSPLASH

We all love a familiar warm, sunny beach vacation, but sometimes it’s more fun to venture into the unknown. Even if it’s just a day-trip or a quick stop, here’s a list of eight underrated places you should add to your travel bucket list for the summer: 

Camden, Maine 

• A classic New England coastal and harbor town.

• Known for sailing and stunning seaside views. 

Hocking Hills, Ohio

• Beautiful waterfalls, caves and rockside hiking.

• Perfect for hiking, staying in a cabin and zip-lining. 

Channel Islands National Park, California

• A national park on a remote island with unique wildlife. 

• Known for kayaking, snorkeling and accessibility by boat.

KAILEEN FITZPATRICK / UNSPLASH

Sedona, Arizona

• Known for its towering red rock formations, like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. 

• Great way to hike, practice photography, ride on a jeep tour and see a stunning sunset. 

Mobile, Alabama

• A Gulf Coast port city with pretty southern architecture and history. 

• Has the oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States. 

Cape May Point, New Jersey

• A quiet, coastal town with the Cape May Lighthouse. 

• More nature-focused than the nearby Cape May, perfect for watching wildlife. 

Apostle Islands Sea Caves, Wisconsin

• Located within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. 

• Kayak Lake Superior and take a boat tour to sandstone sea caves. 

St. Michaels, Maryland

• A historical waterfront town located on the Chesapeake Bay.

• Stay at a historic hotel, go sailing and try some fresh seafood. 

From coastal towns to desert landscapes, each destination offers something different to travelers seeking new experiences. These gems often get overlooked, but are worth adding to your traveling itinerary.