It’s easy to get locked into the idea of visiting historic monuments and iconic landmarks that we see on TV every day. Where do you go if you don’t want to see Times Square, Niagara Falls, or Central Park?
There’s more to the US than New York, but even then, do you really want to join the queue visiting The White House (it’s white), the Grand Canyon (it’s grand), or Disneyland (it’s Disneyland)?
Instead of walking the Hollywood Walk of Fame, here are some ideas to get off the beaten path.
8 Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations to Visit in the United States
Acoma Pueblo, New Mexico
It’s probably no surprise to you that a list of destinations off the beaten track begins with New Mexico, but this destination should fire up your imagination. Nicknamed Sky City, it is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in North America, with people living in this beautiful area for more than 2000 years.
Valdez, Alaska
Alaska is a great place to get off the beaten track. There are many places to visit and it’s fairly easy to avoid the crowd while availing yourself of nonetheless fantastic landscapes and wildlife. Valdez is a port community that promises culture, wildlife, and views of glaciers and the snowy Alaska Range along the way.
Rosebud Indian Reservation, South Dakota
Visiting an Indian reservation gives people a great opportunity to learn about the history of Native Americans, offering an underrated view of the US and a rich history and culture that can change people’s perspectives, one of the major goals of traveling to great destinations. Arrange a visit to Rosebud Indian Reservation for insights into Native American history, language, and culture.
Baxter State Park, Maine
Visit Baxter in the fall for the rich colors that accentuate the beauty of New England’s mountains and lakes. Some parts of the park, including the Knife Edge Trail (nothing to do with Stephen King, honest), require a reservation or turning up at Oh God, it’s early. Nonetheless, it will get you off the mainstream and into some authentic US sightseeing and experiences.
Moab, Utah
With its dazzling starlight and iconic red rock canyons, Moab should delight anyone seeking beauty, adventure, and exploration. Moab’s natural beauty is breathtaking and you can gasp on foot, water, or wheels. There are also opportunities for rock climbing, hot air ballooning, and skydiving for the more adventurous.
Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska
Alaska is home to the massive Mendenhall Glacier (13 miles long) and, unsurprisingly, some of the country’s most unspoiled landscapes. Visit the glacier, lakes, waterfalls, and forests with respect and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. Those who enjoy seeing bears may well be rewarded with a sighting here. Bear activity can be heavy.
Molokai, Hawaii
If you feel like life itself is a beaten track, visit Molokai. On this island, you’ll be treated to a world without the usual commodities of daily life. You’ll be treated to authentic Hawaiian culture unlike what you experience on the other Hawaiian islands. Home of the hula, Molokai is working hard to retain its identity and culture. For a fully authentic experience of another way of life, visiting Molokai is an excellent idea.
Estes Park, Colorado
This mountain town rounds out this list with its picturesque mountains and unspoiled wilderness. Ideal for hikers and cyclists, horse-riders and nature lovers, you’ll enjoy being amid elk and eagles in this historic town.
If the earlier mention of Stephen King didn’t phase you, you might also like to visit the Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for King’s novel The Shining after his stay in room 217. The massive hotel developed a reputation for paranormal activity after being associated with the book and, subsequently, various horror TV shows and events.
Resources and Safety
While getting off the beaten track is an admirable goal, it’s vital to do so safely. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of these fantastic (and sometimes fantastically remote) destinations.
Check out your hosts
Do use sites like Couchsurfing and AirBnB. These are excellent ways to obtain affordable accommodation.
In the case of Couchsurfing, you can meet people who will help you integrate into the community and have a deeper more connected experience than if you were to go it alone. AirBnB offers you a true getaway where you can get out from under the wings of others and have an experience all of your own.
In either case or wherever you stay, make sure that you check out your host or hosts before you arrive. Use reviews on booking sites and do vanity searches on Google for red flags.
You can use Leadar to check out potential hosts and get information that can help you make decisions about who you trust, who you feel comfortable with, those whose values appear to align with yours, and who you really want to spend time with.
Google Maps
While you will want to have an adventure while getting off the beaten track, it’s a good idea to have an idea of where you’re going and where you’ll be staying. It will make your adventure safer and smoother.
You can use Google Maps to check out important aspects of your location before you arrive, such as where you will be staying and how close you are to pharmacies, hospitals, police stations, and transport.
Arrive in daylight
If you plan to arrive during the day, you are more likely to be able to find your way around. Pickpockets and other organized criminals are likelier to target people when it’s dark. Also, if you do get into trouble, it will be easier to fix it when things are open than in the evening.
Keep important docs and numbers
Make sure you travel with copies of important documents in case they are lost or stolen. Having your passport stolen and having to find an embassy can seriously impair your off-the-beaten-track experience.
Keep cash
It’s wise to keep cash on you, but not too much. Many people recommend between $50 – $100 per day per traveler, depending on the destination. Whatever the amount, consider keeping it in two or three locations on your person so that it can not be exposed, lost, or stolen all at once.
Memorize numbers
Enhance your traveling experience by memorizing important phone numbers. You’ll be grateful when your phone runs out of battery and you need to get in touch with someone urgently. Memorize the numbers of anyone you are traveling with, a close friend or family member, and the number of your host if you have one.
Conclusion
The main benefit of the beaten path is that it’s tried and tested. If you’re looking for adventure, however, the destinations in this post should excite you. With these off-the-beaten track recommendations and a little advice about security when visiting them, you should be all set for an excellent adventure. Remember to be respectful, open, and safety-minded to have a memorable experience for you and all your fellow travelers.
