California, Florida, Nevada, Texas and New York are (in that order) the most visited states in America, according to recent hotel bookings. Partly because those states are brimming with people. But also because they’re known for having lots of cool things to do.
But what about states at the opposite end of the popularity spectrum? The ones that, for whatever reason, don’t get as much love as their contemporaries? To answer that, here are five less trendy states that are high on adventure and rate well among the relative few that visit them.
Michigan
Although more recently known for its dimming industrial star (i.e., Detroit) than its statewide beauty, Michigan is an excellent choice for the big outdoors. In addition to the Great ones, it has 12,000 lakes, more coastline than any state but Alaska, famous scenic drives and several national parks and landmarks. Highlights include Mackinac Island, Pictured Rocks Lakeshore, Porcupine Mountains State Park, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and the whole Upper Peninsula.
Arkansas
Dubbed “The Natural State” for its wilderness, Arkansas features the soft-rolling Ozark Mountains to the northwest and slow-moving Mississippi River to the east. Popular attractions include Hot Springs National Park (often ranked in the top 20 for its Bathhouse Row), floating or fishing Buffalo National River (pictured) and the caverns at Devil’s Den. But Arkansas is more than just backcountry. The city of Bentonville is unexpectedly hip.