Under-the-radar spots in America
America’s best-loved attractions are popular for a reason – but, at present, most travelers will be hoping to escape the crowds and find their own space in some of the USA’s quieter spots. There are plenty of alternatives to the country’s biggest sights, and they’re often a little easier on the pocket too. Here are 24 of our favorites. The current situation is changeable, so remember to double check travel advisories for states and individual attractions before planning a trip.
Bypass Mount Rushmore for the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota
Typically upwards of three million tourists visit Mount Rushmore every year to take in the carvings of four formative American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. And while crowds are likely to be lighter at present, they’re almost guaranteed to be fewer at the Crazy Horse Memorial, less than 20 miles (32km) away.
Bypass Mount Rushmore for the Crazy Horse Memorial in South Dakota
The tribute to Crazy Horse (pictured), a Lakota Warrior who famously led Native fighters in the Great Sioux War of 1876–77, was begun in 1948. Upon completion, it’s set to be the largest mountain carving in the world, peaking at a gargantuan 563 feet (163m), and far eclipsing Mount Rushmore’s mere 60 feet (18m). The landmark generally receives around one million visitors per year (a third of Mount Rushmore’s) and the mammoth sculpture and its trio of museums are currently open – check here for any updates before setting out.
Forget New York’s Central Park and visit Fort Tryon
Central Park is touted as New York City’s ‘green lung’ for a reason – its beautiful 843 acres are hard to match. But its unrivaled popularity means it attracts the masses, and though the Big Apple has fewer tourists right now, locals are still making the most of this stunning open space. Fort Tryon Park, however, might be the perfect antidote to Central Park’s maddening crowds.
Forget New York’s Central Park and visit Fort Tryon
At 67 acres Fort Tryon (pictured) is much smaller than Central Park – but what it lacks in size it makes up for in serenity, with eight miles (13km) of peaceful pathways and the Cloisters, a branch of the Met focusing on medieval works (due to reopen in September). The park is at its prettiest come fall, when its shady canopy is dyed red and ocher. It’s currently open, but check the NYC Parks website for any changes.
Skip Glacier National Park, and visit North Cascades instead
Glacier National Park in Montana regularly ranks in the top 10 most visited US national parks – but North Cascades, about 500 miles (805km) away in Washington state, remains blissfully off the radar. In terms of landscape, though, there’s little between them: they each wow with blue lakes, snowy peaks, fir-covered hills and, of course, plenty of glaciers.
Skip Glacier National Park, and visit North Cascades instead
North Cascades actually boasts more than 300 glaciers (compared with the now approximately 26 active ones in Glacier National Park), and breathtaking hiking trails wiggle out from the North Cascades Scenic Highway. Among the most striking natural wonders here is the North Klawatti Glacier, which is more than one mile (1.6km) in length. The preserve is currently undergoing a phased reopening and some areas remain closed – see the NPS Alerts page for more details.
Swap the Vegas strip for Atlantic City’s Boardwalk
There are few places on Earth quite like the Las Vegas strip with its all-you-can-eat buffets, bustling casinos and ritzy hotels. But, though it’s no doubt quieter than usual, the notorious buzz of Sin City might not appeal right now. Those visitors looking for something (slightly) tamer could set their sights on the East Coast instead.
Swap the Vegas strip for Atlantic City’s Boardwalk
Though hardly under the radar, the Boardwalk (pictured) in Atlantic City, New Jersey is usually eclipsed by Vegas’ bright lights. It has the slots, hotels and bars that Sin City is famous for, but it’s dialed down a notch or two, with a breath of sea air in place of that oppressive desert heat. It also typically has slightly fewer crowds than its western counterpart. The Atlantic City Boardwalk currently has measures in place for COVID-19: see this advice before traveling and check the opening times of individual attractions as they may be different to normal.
Swap the Grand Canyon for Texas’ Palo Duro Canyon
Arizona’s Grand Canyon draws millions each year: in fact, its visitor numbers are usually second only to those of the Great Smoky Mountains. And while crowds might be slightly thinner than usual at present, they’ll be sparser still at Palo Duro Canyon, on the outskirts of Amarillo. This lesser-known landscape may be second in size to the Grand Canyon, but it’s certainly not second best.
Swap the Grand Canyon for Texas’ Palo Duro Canyon
Palo Duro (pictured) has the same rugged red rocks and epic sunsets and sunrises as the Grand Canyon, but a mere fraction of the visitors. Some 30 miles (48km) of trails beat through the craggy landscape, too, so it shouldn’t be difficult for hikers, bikers or horse-back riders to find their own quiet pocket of the park. Visitors are currently required to make advanced reservations for both day use and camping here, and face masks are mandatory in state park buildings.
Take in Vertical Gallery over the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is rightly lauded, with displays running the gamut from medieval masterpieces to contemporary works. And the storied museum’s typical crowds are reduced at present since it’s operating at 25% capacity. But if you fancy something more alternative that’s even lighter on visitors, the avant-garde Vertical Gallery might be up your street.
Take in Vertical Gallery over the Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago’s Vertical Gallery (pictured) is quirkier than its strait-laced sister, showcasing new and established talent in street art, prints and illustration. There’s also usually work for sale if your walls are looking bare. Only eight people are allowed to enter the gallery at any one time and face masks are required – see the website for details.
Visit New York’s Letchworth State Park instead of Niagara Falls
The Niagara Falls draw the crowds from both sides of the US-Canada border and beyond: in fact, in a regular year it’s thought that the Niagara Region welcomes some 14 million visitors. The famous natural wonder is actually a trio of falls – American Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Bridal Veil Falls – and, though it’s likely to be quieter of late, this September snap from a few years back shows the typical crowds Niagara can bring in. But travelers don’t have to venture too far to find some slightly quieter cascades.
Visit New York’s Letchworth State Park instead of Niagara Falls
While visitors crowd the vantage points at Niagara, you can typically expect a little more elbow room at Letchworth (pictured). Less than two hours’ drive from Niagara Falls, Letchworth State Park boasts its own impressive set of cascades – at their highest, the waterfalls reach 600 feet (183m), rushing over craggy cliff faces and cloaked by lush woodland. The site still gets pretty busy in summer, but come in late fall or even winter and you’ll likely have pockets of the pretty park to yourself. Note that it’s currently operating at reduced capacity in order to maintain social distancing – see the NY Parks website for details.
Explore Knott’s Berry Farm instead of Disney Resort California
Disney is making bold moves to keep visitors to its magical parks safe, but those after a smaller scale adventure might set their sights on Knott’s Berry Farm. A historic, family-owned spot, Knott’s Berry Farm proudly touts itself as California’s “best theme park and amusement park” and is filled with Old West-themed attractions and fun thrill rides.
Explore Knott’s Berry Farm instead of Disney Resort California
Knott’s Berry Farm’s rides and attractions aren’t fully open just yet, but they’ve put together some fun events to keep lovers of the California park happy. These include the Taste of Knott’s experience, which invites guests to dine on the park’s classic eats (such as Mrs Knott’s famous fried chicken) in themed areas like the Ghost Town. The Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel has also just reopened. When the park welcomes back visitors for good, it’s got some brand new rides up its sleeve too: keep an eye on the website for updates.
Gaze up at Wyoming’s Devils Tower rather than Yosemite’s Half Dome
There’s little wonder Yosemite’s Half Dome (pictured) draws the crowds: rising 5,000-feet (1,524m) over the Yosemite Valley it makes for a dizzying hike and offers fabulous views. The national park and its mighty peak are likely to be quieter than normal since a temporary day-use reservation system is in place – but if you’d still rather avoid it, there are plenty of other unique bluffs to be found in America’s West.
Gaze up at Wyoming’s Devils Tower rather than Yosemite’s Half Dome
Northwest of the Yosemite monolith, in Wyoming, you’ll find Devils Tower (pictured), a national monument that matches well-loved Half Dome’s height and is sacred to many groups of Native peoples. Several of the hiking trails with views of the tower remain little trodden, and the climbing here is world class. The campground and visitor center remain closed for now – see the NPS website for updates.
Follow the Black Heritage Trail instead of the Freedom Trail in Boston
Self-guided trails are a good way to take in the USA’s sights on your own terms right now and The Freedom Trail, Boston’s most popular attraction, has detailed advice on what to expect at present. But the powerful and poignant Black Heritage Trail should not be overlooked.
Follow the Black Heritage Trail instead of the Freedom Trail in Boston
The Black Heritage Trail chronicles the history of Boston’s African-American inhabitants, from the 400 enslaved people who were brought to the city in the 17th century, to the first free black community here. Sights include the memorial to the Massachusetts 54th Regiment (one of the first official African-American units in the Civil War) and The African Meeting House. The Meeting House and the Museum of African American History are currently open with some restrictions and a modified schedule.
Bask on Deerfield Beach instead of Miami’s South Beach
Prime people-watching territory, South Beach attracts many a well-heeled visitor and is typically known for its glamorous nightlife and buzzing shores (as snapped in this photo from a previous summer). But most visitors will be looking for a quieter pocket of sand this summer, and the Sunshine State has plenty.
Bask on Deerfield Beach instead of Miami’s South Beach
A gorgeous South Florida city whose shores draw far fewer crowds is Deerfield, less than an hour’s drive from South Beach. Deerfield’s beach lends itself perfectly to an afternoon’s basking, with its photogenic pier and its quiet, champagne-hued sands fringed with palms. Check here for current city-wide alerts and advisories before traveling.
Give San Diego Zoo a miss and head to California’s Lions, Tigers and Bears
Travelers usually flock to San Diego Zoo, and since it’s currently operating at half its normal capacity, visitors might experience long wait times to enter (especially at the weekends and other busy periods). But it’s not the only attraction for animal lovers in the Golden State, nor is it the only center making strides when it comes to conservation.
Give San Diego Zoo a miss and head to California’s Lions, Tigers and Bears
Lions, Tigers and Bears is a mid-sized, not-for-profit, no-contact sanctuary outside Alpine, California, dedicated to rescuing and caring for abused and/or abandoned animals. As its name suggests, the site is home to big cats and grizzly and black bears, among other wild species. Visits are by appointment only and there are currently guidelines in place for COVID-19.
Visit Natural Bridges National Monument over Arches National Park in Utah
The orange structures of the Natural Bridges monument are almost carbon copies of those at Arches (pictured). But while the latter typically heaves under the weight of ever surmounting visitor numbers (more than 1.5 million people per year), Natural Bridges’ beauty remains more under the radar (it usually attracts around 100,000 people per year).
Visit Natural Bridges National Monument over Arches National Park in Utah
The quieter beauty spot (pictured) is named for its trio of natural bridges, carved out by rivers over millennia. This was also the first designated International Dark Sky Park in the world and its trails are open to visitors after nightfall, so you’ll almost certainly find some star-studded solitude. Find up-to-date park alerts here.
Swap New York City’s Grand Central Terminal for Denver’s Union Station
Any first-time traveler to New York will likely head to Grand Central Terminal (pictured here prior to 2020), and protocols are currently in place to make the attraction and working station as safe as possible for visitors. But an even more likely departure from the crowds awaits if you happen to be out west.
Swap New York City’s Grand Central Terminal for Denver’s Union Station
Dubbed “Denver’s living room”, the airy atrium of the city’s 100-year-old Union Station is dotted with comfy chairs, hooked up with free Wi-Fi and lined with indie shops and plenty of great places to get a quick bite (see the website for details on all current openings). Up-to-date station hours and protocols are also listed here.
Forget California’s Big Sur, drive on to Oregon’s coast instead
Big Sur is a fabled stretch of California coastline along Highway 1, best loved for its windswept ocean and dramatic mountain views. But road trips are proving particularly popular at present and Big Sur’s status as a hero route means it can get pretty busy, particularly during peak season (summer and into early fall). Those looking for a quieter journey might set their sights farther north.
Forget California’s Big Sur, drive on to Oregon’s coast instead
Oregon has an equally beautiful slice of America’s shoreline – with jewels like Ecola State Park – but it doesn’t attract quite the same amount of traffic as that famous stretch of the California coast. Drivers will find the same rock-studded sands and dramatic bluffs, and may even spot a whale if they’re lucky. Now discover the most stunning US spots to relax in your RV this summer.
Swap Denali for the bears and mountains of Lake Clark National Park in Alaska
Denali is the tallest peak in North America and its namesake park is among the most popular and well-visited in The Last Frontier. Of course, with six million acres, it’s not hard to spread out in Denali – but the overlooked wilderness of Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is more remote and quieter still.
Swap Denali for the bears and mountains of Lake Clark National Park in Alaska
Lake Clark, home to the Chigmit and Neacola mountain ranges, remains one of the least-visited parks in Alaska and indeed in North America as a whole. Its relative quietness typically allows for unparalleled wildlife viewing, including of brown and black bears, dall sheep and caribou, who roam undisturbed in the park’s four million acres. The beaches of Chinitna Bay are one of the best places for bear spotting. An outdoor, unstaffed visitor center is currently in operation here.
Discover the National Museum of Women in the Arts instead of Washington DC’s National Gallery of Art
The nation’s capital is renowned for its world-class museums – including the string of Smithsonian institutions that line the Mall and the revered National Gallery of Art. Free, timed passes are currently available for the National Gallery’s freshly reopened West Building, but they may be difficult to get your hands on. Luckily, the sheer volume of cultural venues in DC mean some inevitably shake off the crowds.
Discover the National Museum of Women in the Arts instead of Washington DC’s National Gallery of Art
The National Museum of Women in the Arts (pictured) is one of them. The only major museum of its kind, it highlights the work of female artists all over the globe, from the 16th century onward, and its core collection consists of 4,500 works. It’s currently open with timed admission slots and other protocols.
Sunbathe in Mokuleia Beach Park instead of on Waikiki Beach in Hawaii
Waikiki in Oahu is Hawaii’s most famous beach resort, a busy, sandy playground with legendary surf. Yet the island has plenty of sandy strands, and those who venture to shores further afield will be rewarded with extra space, peace and quiet.
Sunbathe in Mokuleia Beach Park instead of on Waikiki Beach in Hawaii
On Oahu’s quieter North Shore, travelers will find Mokuleia Beach Park, home to a secluded arc of sand, and waters that lend themselves perfectly to wind and kite surfing. Amenities are limited here, so it’s best to bring a picnic.
Don’t stop at New York City’s Liberty Island, hop over to Governor’s Island instead
Most visitors to New York City will want to steal a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, and even visit the island to explore the museum or look out from the statue’s pedestal or crown. Though the museums and outlooks here are closed at present, visitors are still making the trip to explore the island’s grounds and see Lady Liberty up close. But, for those seeking an alternative, there are some Big Apple islands that aren’t quite so famous.
Don’t stop at New York City’s Liberty Island, hop over to Governor’s Island instead
Lesser-known Governors Island is a military base turned public park that’s home to sights including Fort Jay and Castle Williams (both temporarily closed). Fresh air and stellar views of Manhattan are the main draws here, though, with ample open space and plenty of trails for walking and biking. The Governors Island ferries are currently operating with reduced capacity and an advanced reservation is required. Now take a virtual tour of America’s most charming historic towns and cities.
Leave Yellowstone’s Grand Prismatic Spring behind and head for Bumpass Hell
Yellowstone is typically in the top 10 national parks for visitor numbers and, despite boasting limited services at present, the incredible wilderness is still attracting plenty of travelers. The Grand Prismatic Spring is the park’s crowning jewel – and one of America’s most-touristed natural wonders – so you’ll probably share the surrounding boardwalks with a fair few other visitors.
Leave Yellowstone’s Grand Prismatic Spring behind and head for Bumpass Hell
Few places in the world can match it for sheer awe factor, but sights like Bumpass Hell (pictured), a geothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park, do their best – and they’ll likely be a lot less crowded too. Visitors can hike a three-mile (5km) trail here and take in the blue and yellow pools, the whistling steam vents and the simmering mud pots. See more of America’s natural wonders here.
Make for Pier 7 instead of Pier 39 in San Francisco
Pier 39 is a favorite tourist stop in the City by the Bay – visitors generally come in their hordes to take in the basking sea lions, colorful amusements and wacky street performers. Modified operating hours and one-way systems aim to keep Pier 39’s visitors safe, but those hoping for a quieter experience might make a beeline for Pier 7 instead.
Make for Pier 7 instead of Pier 39 in San Francisco
You won’t find any sea lions on Pier 7. Instead, visitors can take in ocean views from the bench-lined jetty and gape at the impressive, pyramid-shaped Transamerica building – the upscale Waterfront Restaurant, opened in 1969, is temporarily closed. This is a quieter (and dare we say more sophisticated) alternative to the flurry at Pier 39.
Relax on Thousand Steps Beach instead of Santa Monica Beach in California
Santa Monica is known for its kitsch pier (now open), the humming promenade and its sands peppered with palm trees. Yet, for those wishing to escape the Ferris wheels (and the people), Thousand Steps Beach is a quieter option.
Relax on Thousand Steps Beach instead of Santa Monica Beach in California
Feast at the Italian Market instead of Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia
Reading Terminal Market is a Philadelphia institution – operating since the late 1800s, it’s packed with merchants hawking everything from artisan ice cream and local cheeses to jewelry and artworks by Philly makers. It’s housed in a landmark building, and typically attracts upwards of six million people per year.
Feast at the Italian Market instead of Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia
Reading Terminal Market’s long-standing Italian counterpart is hardly quiet, but it’s enormous, spread across 20 city blocks and including almost 200 vendors. It’s also alfresco – the oldest continuously operating outdoor market in the country, in fact. Both Pat’s and Geno’s – the city’s two premier (and rival) vendors of its beloved cheesesteak – can be found at the market too.
Swap Yellowstone’s Old Faithful for Castle Geyser
Yellowstone is one of the USA’s largest national parks but, despite the ample space, most visitors still collect around the preserve’s most famous sights. Natural wonders like the kaleidoscopic Grand Prismatic Spring and the Old Faithful geyser (pictured here on a typical busy summer’s day in 2017) hog the limelight, while equally impressive sites like Castle Geyser draw far fewer crowds.
Swap Yellowstone’s Old Faithful for Castle Geyser
Cone-shaped Castle Geyser (pictured) is actually larger and older than its famous sister, though eruptions are less frequent. But when Castle does put on a show, waters can shoot up to 90 feet (27m). In winter, when visitation is low, you might well have areas of the fizzing geyser basins all to yourself too. Some facilities, including accommodations and outfitters, are closed at present – see the NPS website for details.
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