Picking the perfect destination for your dream summer trip can be difficult, especially considering there are so many amazing places to visit in every corner of the world. While it can be fun to head to a familiar spot that you’ve vacationed in time and time again, there are thousands of unique and impressive cities out there just waiting to be visited by you for the first time. To help you narrow down the list, we’ve done the research and found some great spots worth checking out that you may have heard of before, but might not have visited just yet. Whether you’re in the mood for a nature escape with jaw-dropping vistas, hiking paths, natural park access, and secluded lodges, or are looking for a big city excursion surrounded by trendy restaurants, unique neighborhoods, and great shopping, we’ve got ideas for you.
From islands to national parks, here are 19 underrated summer travel ideas, perfect for exploring a new-to-you corner of the world.
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Domestic destinations
The Lake House on Canandaigua
Finger Lakes, New York
A fan-favorite of New York City residents, the New York Finger Lakes are unquestionably idyllic. The perfect destination for a summer weekend, or a weeklong trip with the family, this region is home to some of the most beautiful waterfronts. Dotted with adorable small towns, the 11 long, slender lakes that make up this area are exactly what East Coast summer dreams are made of. Spend your trip navigating nearby state parks; hiking, biking, and exploring; and enjoying everything that lake life has to offer, from jet-skiing to swimming.
Where to stay: Check out the Gould Hotel, a modern boutique property in Seneca Falls; book a night at The Lake House on Canandaigua for an airy, design-forward stay; or head east to the Inns of Aurora.
A night in Voyageurs National Park surrounded by starsPer Breiehagen
Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Completely immerse yourself in nature at Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park. This gorgeous destination is ideal for getting in some of the best stargazing you could ever imagine. Just like dozens of other national parks, this one has an International Dark Sky Park certificate, designating it as a location that is particularly good for viewing the night sky and stars. Unlike the others, however, Voyageurs is one of the least-visited national parks in the country, meaning you’ll be able to truly connect with nature and enjoy seclusion. It’s ideal for boat rides and swimming, as it’s primarily made up of waterfronts and islands—almost 40 percent of the park is water.
