While everyone talks about wanting to visit New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles, there are plenty of other cities around the country that offer exciting attractions worth exploring. The next time you want to get out there and see some of this beautiful country, consider visiting one of these underrated cities.
Marco Island, FL
Image via Flickr by Elin B
Situated in the Gulf of Mexico about 17 miles south of Naples, Marco Island, Florida, is a barrier island known for its beaches, golf courses, and network of inland waterways. By far the most popular attraction on Marco Island is the long stretch of sandy beach that covers most of the west coast. Here you can check out the hotels just steps from the beach. Nature lovers should also take some time to head to the Briggs Boardwalk to explore the hiking trails.
Memphis, TN
Known as the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll, Memphis, Tennessee, is a music lover’s dream city. Head to Sun Studio to tour the place where legends like B.B. King, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash recorded albums. When you’re done there, you can go to Elvis Presley’s Graceland mansion to see his house, car museum, and private airplanes. If you know checking out all the action at Beale Street Historic District is high on your priority list, explore the variety of nearby hotels so you’re close to everything.
Wildwood, NJ
Wildwood is a resort city in New Jersey that sits on a barrier island known for its sandy beaches. If you’re looking for some classic beach fun, Wildwood is the place to go. You can head to Morey’s Piers, which is a six-block amusement park that sits right on the ocean. Here you can enjoy over 100 rides, games, and shows. Another attraction you can’t miss is Wildwood Boardwalk. This old-fashioned boardwalk stretches for 2 miles and offers rides, games, shopping, and dining. Consider staying at one of the nearby hotels so you can simply walk to these popular attractions.
Orange Beach, AL
The small city of Orange Beach, Alabama, is located on the Gulf Coast and is known for all its recreational opportunities available on the water. Head to the Orange Beach Waterfront Park on Wolf Bay to discover a 400-foot long fishing pier that offers covered pavilions and seating. Find a hotel near Gulf State Park and you can go there for swimming, fresh and saltwater fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Portland, ME
Located on a peninsula in Maine, Portland offers plenty of unique history worth exploring. Old Port is a historic district from the 19th century with cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and old fishing piers. While it once served as an important shipping hub for the city, today it’s where you’ll find one-of-a-kind dining, shopping, and entertainment opportunities. The city is also home to the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, which is the childhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and now a museum dedicated to his life and writings.
Santa Barbara, CA
When you think of vacationing in California, you might think of Los Angeles, or Napa Vally (aka the commonly known wine country). Rarely does Santa Barbara come to mind, but it should. Santa Barbara is a quaint tucked away city with a lot to offer. From gorgeous beaches that are lightly populated, to delicious wine and an active night life, Santa Barbara has so much to offer. The experts at CasaGo have a wide list of things to do in this area that you can’t miss.
Whether you’re looking for family fun or simple relaxation, these underrated cities offer something everyone will enjoy.
