By: Dana Trumpower
There are U.S. travel destinations beyond the obvious, New York City and Los Angeles. Here are some lesser known, but just as fun, vacation adventures.
Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons- WYOMING- Visit the the United States’ first national park! Canyons and alpine lakes are waiting to be explored. Of course, Old Faithful, possibly the most famous geyser, is located here. Next, journey south to the Teton mountain range for more excellent hiking and beautiful scenery. However, grizzlies and gray wolves commonly prowl the campsites, so caution needs to be taken.
Tucson- ARIZONA- This city truly has something for everyone. For hiking and outdoor adventures, the Catalina mountains are close by. For those looking to relax, there are numerous spas, including the Miraval, known for its deep body tissue massages. History lovers will be pleased with the Navajo culture that surrounds the city.
Portland- OREGON- This eclectic town definitely earns a spot on this list. Known for its hippie culture, art, coffee houses, organic and local markets, this place has everything. The Portland Japanese Garden is a must-see along with Pittock Mansion. And of course, the natural beauty of the Northwest is at its finest at the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Branson- MISSOURI- a.k.a. “The Live Music Show Capital of the World.” Most likely, that alone lures people in, but just in case it isn’t enough, this city is also home to numerous theatres. On any given day there are concerts, plays, and comedy shows to be seen. Hiking, biking and water sports are also an opportunity in the nearby Ozarks.
Louisville- KENTUCKY- Of course, the Kentucky Derby is hosted here at Churchill Downs, but there are other attractions, too. Try visiting NuLu, or New Louisville, to see galleries, bakeries, and antique shops, all in a sustainably renovated area. Then there’s Old Louisville, where gothic homes and gargoyles are everywhere for touring. The Highlands offer coffee bars and thrift shops galore. And for a bit more culture, visit the Muhammad Ali Center or the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory.
San Juan Islands- WASHINGTON– Only a ferry ride away from Seattle, these three islands (Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Island) offer farmland, beaches, and gourmet food. Whale-watching and scenic flights are a great way to take in nature in ways other than hiking and kayaking, although both are also available. Zip lining is another fun adventure with Zip San Juan. The natural beauty here is not to miss.
Hammondsport- NEW YORK- This is a recycling haven. Almost everything here seems to be vintage or restored: vintage sea planes, birdhouses, you name it. This is the perfect small town hideaway. Relax on Keuka Lake or enjoy one of their many outdoor concerts. You’ll never want to leave this quaint town.
Guffey- COLORADO- This town is worth mentioning just for its bizarre qualities. All of the 98 people who live here place more value on their pets than other humans, hence the fact that the town’s mayors have been cats and dogs for the most part. This odd little town also has rustic cabins to stay in and is perfect for a camping adventure. If you want to get a Wild West experience, this is the place. NWA- ARKANSAS- (Northwest Arkansas)- This area comprises Fayetteville, Bentonville, Siloam Springs, Bella Vista, Rogers, Eureka Springs and Huntsville. Make a road trip out of these fast-growing cities. In Bentonville, check out the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Fayetteville boasts the Walton Arts Center and the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. For adventure, try Eureka Springs; they have Ozark Mountain Ziplines. There are many religious attractions here as well. For something really extreme, Skydive Skyranch in Siloam Springs is a place of life and death.
Fort Worth- TEXAS- This last selection comes from the state where everything is big, including the good times. The Bass Performance Hall always has a show playing. The Fort Worth Zoo is a family fun experience. Epic Helicopters offers a chance to see the city lights from above in a truly amazing flight.
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