Tired of Crowded Vacation Spots? These States Are Your Best Bet

Additional Coverage:

Top 10 States for People Who Hate Crowds (financebuzz.com)

Beyond the Sunshine State: 10 Hidden Gem States for Your Next Adventure

Tired of the usual suspects like Florida and California hogging all the vacation glory? If you’re yearning for an escape from the tourist throngs, theme park lines, and overpriced resorts, it’s time to cast your net wider! We’re talking about venturing off the well-trodden path to discover some truly spectacular (and budget-friendly) destinations.

While the Golden State and the Sunshine State certainly have their charms, they’re not the only places to find adventure and relaxation. In fact, we’ve scoured the remaining 48 states to bring you 10 incredible alternatives that promise an unforgettable experience without breaking the bank.

Let’s dive in!

1. Idaho: The Gem State’s Sparkling Secrets

Beyond its famous spuds, Idaho is a treasure trove of natural beauty and exciting activities. From the vibrant capital city of Boise to the stunning Coeur d’Alene region, this state offers diverse landscapes and attractions. Plus, like many on our list, Idaho boasts a cost of living that’ll keep your travel expenses in check.

While parts of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks spill into Idaho, don’t overlook the state’s own remarkable park system. City of Rocks State Park, true to its magical name, provides a unique high-desert experience with fascinating rock formations. For those who prefer a more urban exploration, Boise’s botanical gardens and Idaho Falls’ distinctive city waterfalls offer a taste of Idaho’s charm, often paired with burgeoning culinary scenes.

2. North Dakota: Where Quirky Meets Quiet

Craving space? North Dakota is one of the largest states by land area but has a population of under a million, making it the perfect antidote to crowded destinations.

This “Peace Garden State” is also wonderfully quirky, boasting the 32-mile Enchanted Highway, adorned with the world’s largest scrap-metal sculptures, and the sprawling International Peace Garden on the U.S. /Canada border.

3. Oklahoma: Sculptures, Spiders, and Stuffed Cows, Oh My!

Oklahoma takes roadside attractions to a whole new level with its colossal figurines, including a giant spider crafted from an old Volkswagen bug and 20-foot Transformers near Lexington. If giant metal art isn’t your jam, don’t fret! The state also offers the unique Pigeon Museum in Oklahoma City and a fascinating (if slightly spooky) stuffed two-headed cow from the 1930s.

4. South Dakota: Beyond the Presidential Faces

While Mount Rushmore is undoubtedly South Dakota’s most iconic landmark, there’s a world of wonder beyond those presidential visages. Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop offers a scenic drive through gorgeous prairie lands, perfect for spotting bison, coyotes, and pronghorns. In Sioux Falls, the state’s largest city, you’ll find affordable aquariums, zoos, museums, and delightful candy shops.

5. Wyoming: The Land of Wide-Open Spaces

Looking for the polar opposite of California’s bustling crowds? Look no further than Wyoming, the least populated state in the nation.

While California boasts sprawling metropolises, Wyoming’s largest city, Cheyenne, has a population of under 65,000. But what Wyoming lacks in people, it makes up for in breathtaking landscapes.

Beyond Yellowstone and Grand Teton (best visited in the off-season!), explore Devils Tower National Monument, the Museum of Aerial Firefighting in Greybull, and the infamous outlaw hideout of Hole-in-the-Wall.

6. Nebraska: More Than Just Cornfields

Don’t let Nebraska’s reputation for endless cornfields fool you! Omaha’s 160-acre Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium consistently ranks among the top five zoos globally. The state also shines with its diverse art and science museums, from the niche Museum of American Speed to the magnificent Joslyn Art Museum, housed in a stunning 1930s building.

7. Kansas: History, Oddities, and Exotic Animals

Like its neighbor Nebraska, Kansas offers much more than idyllic farmlands. Topeka, the capital, is home to the Evel Knievel Museum, the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center, and the Kansas Museum of History.

In Abilene, history buffs will appreciate the Dwight D. Eisenhower Library and Museum.

For something a little wilder, check out the privately run Safari Zoological Park, which borders Oklahoma and houses lions, tigers, kangaroos, and more!

8. West Virginia: Mountain Majesty and Thrilling Views

Nestled entirely within the Appalachian Mountain region, West Virginia is a feast for the eyes with its spectacular mountain scenery. Experience the landscape in unique ways, from soaring through the trees on massive ziplines to taking in breathtaking views from a biplane rooftop tour.

9. Utah: National Park Paradise (with a Twist)

Utah boasts six incredible national parks: Arches, Bryce, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Mesa Verde, and Zion. While these are must-sees, their popularity can lead to crowds, especially in summer.

For a more serene experience, consider visiting during the off-season. Beyond the parks, Utah offers fantastic skiing, historic exploration in Park City’s old mining sites, and the chance to savor a local burger with the region’s beloved fry sauce.

10. Delaware: The First State’s Undiscovered Charms

The “First State,” despite its small size and population, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From the rolling hills of New Castle County, dotted with du Pont family estates and museums, to the inviting beaches of Sussex County, Delaware offers a delightful variety.

In the Wilmington area, visit the Hagley Museum along the Brandywine River, the original site of the DuPont Company gunpowder works, or explore the Winterthur Museum, showcasing American decorative arts. Heading south, a stop at the Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton for a tour and a brew is a highly recommended detour.

The Bottom Line

While Florida’s beaches and California’s theme parks remain popular for a reason, don’t limit your horizons! If you’re seeking unique experiences, fewer crowds, and a more budget-friendly adventure, these ten states offer a wealth of fascinating opportunities just waiting to be discovered. Happy travels!