If you think that the USA is all about famous cities and landmarks, you are highly mistaken. Yes, I agree that urban spaces, skyscrapers, and national parks are a part and parcel of every USA trip, but the numerous hidden gems have a place of their own.
When I visited the US last year with my friends, I was a bit reluctant to let go of the famous spots and opt for offbeat places. Well, the decision did not come as easy as it looks, but in the end it was worth every second. The popularity of these spots is not limited to only backpackers, as many of the travel agencies have now started offering USA holiday packages featuring these spots as well.
My trip was a 100% success, and this is the reason I am sharing my experience with the world. I explored around 10 hidden gems across my 15-day trip spread across different US states. I am sharing some of them with you here.
Top 5 Hidden Wonders in the US
Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, Oklahoma
I had an idea about Oklahoma that it is one of the most agriculturally rich states in the US, but I didn’t know that it housed many hidden gems as well. One of them is the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, a small town in the state.
The moment I set my eyes on this magnificent place, I was amazed by the building’s looks and vibes. The art collection inside looks out of this world, and even those that don’t have any interest in the art will fall in love with it.
The architecture of the museum makes you believe that you are in Italy, but it is just a small town in the US. The gardens and flowers around are expansive, and you can take a stroll here to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the place. The place is open to everyone who wants to visit, and all you need is a $12 ticket to get inside.
Dungeness Ruins on Cumberland Island, Georgia
Very few people know that Georgia is also known as the Peach State due to the high-quality peaches it produces. While Georgia’s peaches are not hidden, Cumberland Island is a secret gem. The place is all about beaches with white sands, wild horses, and numerous mansion ruins. I am sure that if you witness a sunset here, you will fall in love with this place and never want to come back.
The most remarkable structure, however, is the Dungeness Ruins. You can arrive there via a small and easy-to-conquer trail. The history of this place is quite interesting, and I will leave it for you to explore once you visit this place.
An interesting fact about Cumberland Island is that it is not fully developed, and you can reach there only by a public ferry that leaves from downtown St. Mary’s every morning.
Petrified Forest, Arizona
As the name implies, the beauty of this place really petrified me with awe when I first looked at it. If the paradox is too tough for you to handle, wait until you visit this place.
The Petrified Forest National Park is located in northern Arizona and is home to countless structures of petrified wood. The history of this park says that millions of years ago, there used to be a lush and fully green forest. There are plenty of preserved tree trunks that support the park’s story.
There are plenty of things to do here and explore. The stunning vistas are the best thing. You can go to one of the lookout points that show the place’s vastness. If you are planning to go there, I would suggest you visit during a cooler month, as this place is best in the winter season. And before going, ask about the opening and closing time.
St. Augustine, Florida
While many know Florida as home to beautiful beaches and theme parks, I count it as a state with some of the best and most hidden gems that every traveler must explore. There is no way I am stopping you from exploring the famous attractions, but St. Augustine is a place that you simply can’t miss if you visit Florida during your USA holidays.
The reason I mention an entire city as a hidden gem is that it is full of various spots that are counted in the list of secret spots. The first place I explored was the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a fortress built by the Spanish in the 17th century. Then there are the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum that can’t be described in words. If you are a daring soul like me, climb up the 219 steps of the lighthouse and see the magic yourself.
Goblin Valley, Utah
Let me draw a contrast for you before actually explaining what this place is like. In folklore, a goblin is a supernatural creature with small height and pointed ears. You will know about them if you have watched Harry Potter or the Lord of the Rings.
The looks of Goblin Valley are different than almost every other in the country. The park is located in central Utah and is often overlooked by travelers due to the presence of the five major state parks in the state. I was about to make the same mistake, but thank God, I didn’t.
The best way to explore this valley and national park is to hike The Goblin’s Lair, Three Sisters, and Goblin Valley hikes. You can explore the park on your own as well and take some pictures. Don’t forget to bring some snacks with you, as there is nothing on offer here to fill your belly.
Wrap-Up
This is where I have to leave you to your imagination for the rest of the hidden places in the USA. If you want to make your USA trip easy, smooth, and stress-free, contact Virikson Holidays and get their remarkable USA holiday packages.
