Planning the perfect summer trip can take weeks of research, preparation, and organization to ensure it goes off without a hitch. But before you get to the planning and booking phase, you’ll need to decide where to go. There’s a seemingly endless amount of great options out there, and while there’s nothing wrong with heading to the same familiar spot over and over again, sometimes you want to get a little off the beaten path and go somewhere you haven’t been before. Whether you’re in the mood for a nature escape with jaw-dropping vistas, hiking paths, 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 15 underrated summer travel ideas, perfect for avoiding the crowds while you explore someplace new.
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Domestic destinations:
Finger Lakes, New York | Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota | Isle Royal National Park, Michigan | Catalina Island, California | San Juan Islands, Washington | Crystal River, Florida
International destinations:
Kosovo | Budapest, Hungary | Copenhagen, Denmark | Buenos Aires, Argentina | Sardinia, Italy | Mauritius | Kyoto, Japan | Bora Bora | Quebec, Canada
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.
