5 Underrated Domestic Destinations to Visit in 2024
As 2023 winds down and we spend the last month in the rush and glow of the holiday season, it’s time to start thinking ahead to 2024! If you’d like to stay domestic for your next getaway, want to avoid large crowds, and visit a new location, consider one of these fly under the radar destinations.
Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Also known as the U.P., this remote area of the state is harder to get to and therefore less touristy than other parts of the state. The peninsula is surrounded by three of the Great Lakes, and its beautiful, natural landscape is reason enough to head a little farther north. Mackinac Island is part of the U.P. and is the most well known, crowded area, so plan a day trip here but plan to spend the majority of your trip exploring the quieter areas of the Upper Peninsula: Isle Royale National Park, Les Cheneaux Islands, and the staggering cliffs of Lake Superior.
2. Dead Horse Point, Utah
Don’t let the uninviting name turn you off from this show-stopping destination; the views of southern Utah will stick in your mind long after you’ve returned home from Dead Horse Point, Utah. Canyonlands and Arches are two popular state parks nearby, but the landscape is just as staggering with far less tourists at Dead Horse Point. This destination is truly a must-see for the outdoor adventurer.
3. Driggs, Idaho
Is Jackson Hole, Wyoming, on your bucket list but you haven’t pulled the trigger yet because of the cost and crowds? Consider Driggs, Idaho, which is just over the Teton Pass from the infamous Jackson Hole and a much more obtainable destination. The town has a casual vibe, with affordable accommodations and a whimsical downtown area. Make sure to see this hidden jem before it becomes a booming mountain town, as it is sure to in the coming years!
4. Jensen Beach, Florida
Ever heard of Jensen Beach? Many have not, which means it’s a perfect location for a quiet beach getaway. It is one hour north of West Palm Beach and a breeze to get to. If you visit, make sure to plan your travel dates around a Thursday, as every week the town has Jammin’ Jenson and offers live music in the area. There is also the annual “Pineapple Festival” which last three days and is a blast, although if you’re looking for low crowds you may want to travel to Jensen one of the other 363 days of the year.
5. Schoodic Peninsula, Maine
The second peninsula to make the list, the quieter Schoodic Peninsula, Maine, is a great option for travelers who want to visit Maine during the picturesque summer months but want to beat the crowds that the MDI (Mount Dessert Island) draws to Acadia National Park. The Schoodic Peninsula is located on a more remote area of Acadia and offers visitors much lower crowds and quieter hiking trails with just as much natural beauty.
If you are drawn to the idea of a quieter getaway in 2024, reach out today and let us help you plan your next vacation to one of these remote, beautiful destinations.
