If you are thinking of taking a trip to the United States soon, you will probably be considering the usual tourist destinations.
You know; all the famous cities that attract millions of visitors each year – I’m talking about the likes of San Francisco, New York City, and Las Vegas. It’s true that all of these tourist-centric cities are fantastic to visit, especially if this is your very first time in America. But if you are ready to explore this fascinating country a little more it’s really worth getting off the well-beaten track and discovering some of its more underrated cities. Not sure which ones are worth a trip to? Here are some of our favorite.
Boston
Boston, Massachusetts
When most people travel to the east coast of America, they completely forget about Boston and instead head straight to New York City. Sure, NYC is a great destination for a few days, but you should also try and squeeze in a few days at Boston as well. It’s just over an hour’s flight, so you should be able to fit in a quick trip. There’s so much waiting for you in this historically rich city. For example, you can see the ships that were made famous during the Boston Tea Party and spend a day at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum and Library.
Phoenix, Arizona
If you want some more culture in your trip, you should also consider heading over to Phoenix in Arizona. You can find out about the history of music in the Musical Instrument Museum and spend a few hours in the Phoenix Art Museum. The city is also a very popular destination for those who want to get out into nature and do some hiking. Camelback Mountain features lots of trails and hiking routes, but if you want a gentler environment for walking, you can always go to the Desert Botanical Garden.
Detroit, Michigan
If you know a thing or two about music and its history, then you will know that we have a lot to thank Detroit for. Lots of the country’s biggest names in rap, hip hop, blues, and jazz all hail from this eclectic city. So, you should try and look in at one of the city’s popular music venues and jazz clubs while you are there. Attending an open-mic night will also give you a good idea of all the talent in this great city.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
You might know the city of Philadelphia as being the setting for the hilarious comedy show It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia or as the home of the liberty bell. But have you actually ever thought about going to visit? When you’ve seen the liberty bell, you can then head over to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see some fascinating artworks by local and international artists. Feeling peckish? If so, head straight for the Reading Terminal Market. This is where you will find some of the best food in the city. Most of the eateries here are quite upmarket, so you might have to save it for a special occasion.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
If you are a big Prince fan, then you might be very excited about visiting Minneapolis in Minnesota. That’s because it’s where you’ll find the musician’s former home, which is now a big tourist attraction and is open for tours. Paisley Park is right on the outskirts of the city so it won’t take you too long to get there at all. The tour will take you around the artist’s old living quarters and you’ll also get to peek into his former private studio. Once you’ve got your fill of all things Prince, you might want to stroll around the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. When you are ready to take a break and grab a drink, make sure you visit Surly Brewing for some great local beers.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
If you love getting to know wildlife, you will love all the adorable creatures at the Milwaukee County Zoo. You’ll get to say hello to giraffes, sea lions, meerkats, and a whole host of other cute creatures. Music lovers can get their fill of the arts at the renowned Pianoarts Center which regularly holds various concerts. Milwaukee also sits right on the shore of Lake Michigan and the best way to experience this Great Lake is, of course, by boat. Book a trip with Sea Dog Sailing – they offer various style boat trips out into this gorgeous lake.
Portland, Maine
Do you consider yourself a bit of a foodie? If so, then you will definitely want to book a trip to Maine’s food-centric city, Portland. Just don’t get this one confused with the Portland in Oregon as they are two completely different cities on either side of the country! Portland in Maine is right on the coast, so there are plenty of chances for long walks on the beach accompanied by bracing views. But the city’s food scene has to be the biggest attraction. It’s a great multicultural culinary experience and there are also some really great microbreweries doing business in the city too.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
The most populous city in the whole of New Mexico, Albuquerque isn’t usually on many tourists’ to-visit lists. That’s a huge shame, though, as this brilliant city has so much to offer. If possible, you might want to try and time your visit for when the city’s annual Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place – you will never have seen so many colorful balloons up in the skies! The city is also surrounded by some breathtaking and rugged scenery, and the best way to experience this is to take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway. There are also lots of beautiful walkways snaking through the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden.
No matter where you go in the United States, there will certainly be lots to see and do. Just make sure some of these awesome cities are on your bucket list, as they really are the cream of the underrated crop!