5 Underrated Summer Travel Ideas in the U.S. and Where to Stay Nearby

Do you have summer travel plans? You’re not alone. According to travel experts, 90% of Americans plan to travel in 2024. And the majority of those travel plans are for summertime. With so many people taking to the roads and skies this summer, popular family vacation destinations like the Great Smoky Mountains, Myrtle Beach, Yellowstone National Park, and the Orlando theme parks will all fill up. Likewise, area resorts are sure to book up fast. You don’t have to battle for booking or fight the traffic and crowds. With these five underrated summer travel ideas and places to stay nearby, you and your family can beat the summer crowds and enjoy a unique, totally unforgettable travel experience. 

1. Mackinac Island, MI: Underrated Summer Travel Ideas for Taking it Slow

Located in Lake Huron, between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan, Mackinac Island is a place lost in time. With a year-round population of just over 580 residents and a strict prohibition on motor vehicles, this historic family vacation destination likes to take things slow. And with famous landmarks such as the Revolutionary-era Fort Mackinac and Victorian-era Grand Hotel still standing, much of its history remains intact. 

The natural beauty of Mackinac Island, exemplified by dramatic limestone rock formations, boreal forests, pastoral fields, and other terrains, has made it a favorite filming location for movies and TV shows. The most notable example is the 1980 film “Somewhere in Time,” in which many Mackinac Island landmarks feature as backdrops. Other examples include 1947’s “This Time for Keeps,” an episode of “Emily in Paris,” and two episodes of “Dirty Jobs.”

In addition to Fort Mackinac and the Grand hotel, other family-friendly Mackinac Island attractions include fudge shops (sure to be a hit if you’re bringing the little ones), the third-oldest live butterfly exhibit in America, Arch Rock, the most famous limestone formation on the island, and more. 

Mountain Run at Boyne

Mountain Run at Boyne is a beautiful Gold Crown resort that offers year-round recreation opportunities just an hour south of Mackinac Island. As the name implies, Mountain Run at Boyne is geared towards downhill snow sports in the winter. Its immaculately groomed slopes offer world-class skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. 

In summer, however, the possibilities for outdoor recreation are nearly endless. Set out into the pristine wilderness area for scenic hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Or, stay on site and enjoy hours of family-friendly competition with amenities like tennis, volleyball, and miniature golf right outside your door. Are you looking for golf action on a larger scale? With two championship courses located just minutes from the resort, you can save the long drives for the tee boxes. 

The resort offers spacious one- and two-bedroom suites with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Enjoy all the comforts of home, with generous appointments like a full kitchen, master bedroom with attached bath, in-unit washer and dryer, private balcony, and cozy fireplace. Need a little more space? With combined three-bedroom suites and four-bedroom Presidential suites, both of which comfortably sleep up to ten guests, Mountain Run at Boyne is ideal for families of all sizes. 

2. Dry Tortugas National Park: Underrated Summer Travel Ideas for Vacationers Who Need to Get Away

Dry Tortugas National Park was established in 1935 to preserve Garden Key’s Fort Jefferson, the largest brick structure in the Americas, and the other Dry Tortugas Islands, the most isolated of the Florida Keys. 

Because of its protected status and unique tropical savanna climate, Dry Tortugas National Park is home to abundant sea life, a pristine coral reef, large populations of tropical birds, several shipwrecks, and buried treasure. This makes it an ideal location for activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, saltwater fishing, and birdwatching. 

Only about 63,000 people visit Dry Tortugas National Park a year. That makes it one of the least-visited national parks in America. Camping is permitted on Garden Key only, and there are only eight primitive campsites next to Fort Jefferson. Thus, when it comes to underrated summer travel ideas, Dry Tortugas National Park is tops for sheer escapism. 

Banyan Resort Key West

Located in Key West, this historic resort lies two hours east of Dry Tortugas National Park by ferry. The Banyan Resort boasts a storied past. Occupying a mid-1800s estate, the resort initially comprised six private residences. In the early 1980s, the individual owners joined forces and converted the property into the Banyan Guest House. The Guest House proved popular during tourist season (December-April), but business slowed down during summer. However, with the emerging popularity of timesharing in the U.S., the owners saw an opportunity and ran with it. Soon, their newly rebranded Banyan Resort was struggling to keep up with demand. This led to the construction of 32 additional suites and the creation of one of the best timeshares in Florida.

Today, the Banyan Resort is still very much rooted in the past. Old-Key-West architecture and detailing create an elegant Victorian ambiance. Meanwhile, lush gardens obscure street views and provide an oasis from the tourist crowds. However, the resort also has one foot firmly in the present. Everything the island has to offer, including art galleries, shops and restaurants, watersports opportunities, and more, lies just steps away.

Choose from studio, one-, and two-bedroom loft suites with all the comforts of home and more. While each suite boasts a unique layout, every unit is well-appointed with hardwood floors, fully equipped kitchens with granite finishes and upgraded stainless appliances, a spacious dining room, and a sunroom, patio, veranda, or balcony.

3. Lake Ouachita, Arkansas: Underrated Summer Travel Ideas for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Lake Ouachita is the largest lake entirely within Arkansas state borders. Located in Hot Springs, it was created between the late 40s and early 50s by the Army Corps of Engineers, who dammed the Ouachita River for hydroelectricity, water supply, wildlife preservation, and recreation. 

Today, Lake Ouachita, along with other attractions in Hot Springs, is a popular tourist draw and family vacation destination. It offers tons of recreational activities you can add to your vacation itinerary, including world-class Trophy Striped Bass fishing, as well as excellent scuba diving, with non-stinging jellyfish and sponges found in a few other lakes. 

Many islands dot the lake. These islands feature forested interiors and sandy beaches, making them ideal for birdwatching, camping, swimming, and picnicking. Pack a lunch and rent a boat from one of the many marinas for a family-friendly day of island hopping. Or, bring your tent and spend the whole weekend on the lake. 

SunBay Resort

SunBay Resort lies less than half an hour southeast of Lake Ouachita State Park. However, you’ll find plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities on-site at the resort. Nestled on the shores of picturesque Lake Hamilton, SunBay Resort boasts a full dock, a lake cruise on Captain Jack’s luxury pontoon boat, a sandy beach, an outdoor pool, and tennis courts. 

Indoors, you’ll find even more fun things to do. Owners and guests staying at SunBay Resort will enjoy access to the Hot Springs Athletic Club. Here, they’ll find a fitness center with state-of-the-art Nautilus machines, a racquetball court, indoor pool, hot tubs, and more!

In addition to Lake Ouachita State Park, SunBay Resort boasts convenience to lots of other premier attractions. At just 20 minutes away, Lake Catherine is even closer than Lake Ouachita. It’s also great for boating, fishing, and watersports. Nine unique golf courses offer endless fun on the fairways. Meanwhile, Magic Springs amusement park offers fun for the whole family.

Accommodations at SunBay Resort range from studios to one- and two-bedroom villas. Depending on the configuration, studios can accommodate two or four guests. One-bedroom villas can sleep up to four, and two-bedroom villas can sleep four or eight guests. Every unit, however, comes with a fully equipped kitchen, while most feature a fireplace, whirlpool soaking tub, and views of Lake Hamilton.

4. San Juan Islands, Washington: Underrated Summer Travel Ideas for Wildlife Lovers

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago of 128 named islands and many more unidentified islands and rocks between Washington State and Vancouver Island in the Salish Sea. The islands are best known for being the site of the Pig War of 1859, a border dispute between the U.S. and the U.K. sparked by the shooting of a pig. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction, with sea kayaking and orca whale-watching among the top attractions.

In addition to a thriving orca population, the San Juan Islands host the largest concentration of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. They’re also home to many other species of birds, as well as seals, sea lions, and porpoises. Thus, the San Juan Islands is one of the best underrated summer travel ideas for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. Other attractions on the San Juan Islands include scenic hiking and biking, beachcombing, museums and art galleries, live entertainment, stunning sunsets, and more.

WorldMark Deer Harbor

WorldMark Deer Harbor is located on Orcas Island, considered the most beautiful of the San Juan Islands. However, you’ll enjoy access to all 400 islands and rocks in the archipelago. Consisting of just 25 units, Worldmark Deer Harbor has a boutique feel. Yet, with eleven unspoiled acres to explore, you won’t feel confined at this resort. Venture out to explore the harbor and breathtaking grounds. Or, stay close to your unit and take advantage of many top-notch amenities. They include an outdoor pool, barbecue facilities, a fitness center, and an owner’s lounge. 

Deer Harbor’s rustic, cabin-style suites and villas are available in studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. Each cottage features custom decor for a unique feel. However, every unit comes with standard features like a fireplace, a private deck, and an outdoor hot tub.

5. El Yunque National Forest: Underrated Summer Travel Ideas for the Adventure Set

While not technically located in the United States, this underrated summer travel idea in the American territory of Puerto Rico offers a vacation experience you can’t have in the U.S. proper. The El Yunque National Forest is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest registry. It’s also the only one stewarded by the United States Forest Service. These factors make it one of the most unique underrated summer travel ideas on our list.

As a true tropical rainforest, El Yunque National Forest is home to a wide diversity of animal and plant life. The forest comprises four distinct vegetation areas: the Tabonuco Forest, Sierra Palm Forest, Palo Colorado Forest, and Cloud Forest. Depending on what vegetation area you’re in, you may be lucky enough to see such animals as the Puerto Rican parrot, various species of fruit bat, and up to 16 species of the frog genus Coqui. Many trails traverse the jungle, from which you can admire its rich flora and fauna. Biking is also allowed in designated areas. 

Once home to the indigenous Taino people, El Yunque National Forest is famous for its unique Taino petroglyphs. They’re scattered throughout the jungle, making this Caribbean vacation destination as rich in history as it is in life. Moreover, the forest features dramatic waterfalls, several observation towers, and overlooks offering majestic long-range views. With so much to see, you should spend more than a day in El Yunque National Forest to maximize your excursion. Fortunately, campgrounds in the forest and cabin rentals let you take your time exploring this bucket list travel spot. 

Hyatt Hacienda Del Mar

Located right on the ocean in Dorado, Puerto Rico, less than an hour and a half from El Yunque National Forest, Hyatt Hacienda Del Mar offers a tropical getaway complete with swaying palms, a sparkling pool, and direct beach access. Other relaxing amenities include a pool bar, full-service spa, and hot tubs. Are you looking for more active entertainment? Hit the fitness center for some exercise, or ball out on the tennis and basketball courts for a workout that doesn’t feel like work. 

In addition to the El Yunque National Forest, Hyatt Hacienda Del Mar offers convenient access to some of Puerto Rico’s best attractions. For an over-the-top under-ground vacation experience, book a tour of the Camuy Caverns, the third-largest cave system in the western hemisphere. Or, check out nearby Old San Juan. Here, you can learn about the territory’s history as you tour historic churches and museums and enjoy duty-free shopping and authentic dining as you stroll the streets of Calle San Francisco and Calle del Cristo. 

After a long day in the jungles or caverns, this Hyatt Vacation Club resort invites you to unwind in comfort and classic Caribbean style. Choose from studio suites and one- and two-bedroom villas, all generously appointed with flat-screen T.V.s, free Wi-Fi, state-of-the-art electronics, and private balconies with breathtaking garden and ocean views. One- and two-bedroom villas also come with a full kitchen perfect for whipping up home-cooked meals and whirlpool tubs where you can soak away your stress.

Stay at an Underrated Summer Travel Location Each Year

Do you want to make one of these underrated summer travel ideas an annual family vacation tradition? Then, buying a timeshare might be right up your alley. With a timeshare, you can enjoy more space, luxury, and long-term savings on family vacations. And with a timeshare resale, you can enjoy it all for less.

So, whether you choose an underrated summer travel idea or a perennially popular vacation destination, selecting the timeshare lifestyle can enhance the way you vacation.

This post originally appeared on Hello Sensible.

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