When we think about underrated travel spots, we’re really looking for those quiet, magical corners of the country that somehow haven’t yet been overrun with tourists. They’re the places that greet you with open arms and invite you to slow down, breathe deeper, and just be. That kind of calm is heavenly, especially when you’re travelling solo.
Solo travel is one of the most grounding things you can do for yourself. There’s no agenda but your own. No expectations to meet. Just you, your own rhythm, and the freedom to wander wherever your heart wants to go.
If you’ve been craving a getaway that’s gentle, full of charm, and away from large crowds of tourists, these eight underrated U.S. destinations might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Asheville, North Carolina
Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is equal parts artsy and peaceful. The city hums with creativity: murals, indie bookstores, local pottery, and cozy cafés all blend into the kind of place that makes you want to stay a while.
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and let the mountain views speak to your spirit. Take a slow stroll through the gardens at the the historic Biltmore Estate, or spend a quiet afternoon people-watching downtown with a warm cup of something comforting.
Asheville doesn’t ask anything of you, it just welcomes you in and lets you breathe.
Traverse City, Michigan
Sitting on the edge of Lake Michigan, Traverse City feels like a deep exhale. The water is crystal clear, the vineyards stretch for miles, and the sunsets here? Unforgettable.
You can spend your day beachside with a good book, wander through the Sleeping Bear Dunes, or sip your way through wine country as the sun sinks low. It’s calm, grounding, and effortlessly beautiful.
If you’re looking for soft mornings and golden-hour moments, this lakeside gem will deliver.
Sedona, Arizona
Often overshadowed by more widely recognized destinations, Sedona, Arizona, presents a captivating blend of breathtaking natural landscapes and a unique spiritual ambiance, making it a prime location for solo travelers seeking relaxation. There’s something undeniably magical about Sedona. The red rocks rise around you like nature’s cathedral, and there’s a stillness in the air that feels like an invitation to come back to yourself.
Whether you’re hiking near Bell Rock, journaling beside Oak Creek, or just soaking in the quiet energy of the landscape, Sedona encourages you to move slow and listen inward. One of the leading attractions in Sedona is its renowned energy vortexes, which are believed to enhance meditation and foster spiritual growth, so these picturesque places are sure to be mentally and spiritually healing.
Portland, Maine
If your soul lights up at the sight of a rocky coastline and the smell of salty sea air, Portland, Maine, is your place. This cozy coastal city has everything you need for a soft, soothing solo escape.
You can wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Port and eat the freshest lobster roll of your life. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hop on a ferry to a nearby island and spend the afternoon surrounded by peace and calm.
Portland, with its lighthouse views, small-town charm, and deeply comforting vibe, is a gentle reminder that peace isn’t always complicated to get.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is like a balm for the overstimulated soul. The warm adobe walls, golden light, and earthy colors immediately calm you.
Here, you’ll find art everywhere: from the galleries lining Canyon Road to the brushstrokes of Georgia O’Keeffe at her namesake museum. Then, when you’re ready for nature, the nearby mountains offer great trails and a surreal golden hour.
Whether you’re savoring local chile stew, exploring local craft markets, or just sitting quietly in the sun, Santa Fe invites you to move at your own pace. It’s soulful, sun-drenched, and perfect for solo travelers who crave connection, both within and with the world around them.
Burlington, Vermont
Burlington feels like a cozy, warm blanket. Nestled along Lake Champlain, it’s somewhere simplicity is celebrated, and nature is just a natural part of the daily rhythm.
Here, you can rent a bike and follow the lakefront trail or wander through local shops and cafés downtown. Church Street Marketplace is full of life but never overwhelming; it’s just the right amount of buzz for solo travelers who love people-watching and discovering local treasures.
There’s something so charming about Burlington. It doesn’t try too hard to impress, and that’s exactly why it impresses.
Galena, Illinois
Galena is one of those towns that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. It’s quiet and full of character and history in the most comforting way.
Here, you can walk the charming Main Street lined with boutiques and antique stores, sample wine at local vineyards, or take a slow afternoon stroll through Grant Park with views of rolling hills and peaceful skies.
Galena is cozy, kind, and easy to fall in love with. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most restorative trips are the ones that don’t need a ton of planning. All you need is just a little curiosity and the willingness to slow down.
Conclusion: Embracing the Beauty of Underrated Destinations
These destinations may not be plastered all over travel guides or trending on social media, but that’s exactly what makes them special. They hold space. They offer stillness. They give you room to reconnect with yourself, without the noise.
So if your heart is whispering that it’s time for a break, maybe it’s time to listen. Whether you’re watching waves roll in on Lake Michigan, journaling in the desert light of Santa Fe, or sipping wine beneath the Vermont sky, these underrated spots are waiting for you. Trust me, what you find there might be even more beautiful than you imagined.