Explore these 8 amazing destinations in North America that are off the beaten path

It’s time to venture further. Skipping over-crowded hotspots is not just about avoiding the masses; it’s also about supporting local communities in lesser-known areas.

Finding truly off-the-beaten-path spots can feel increasingly challenging, especially as terms like 'hidden gem' and 'local secret' become more clichéd.

That’s why we reached out to our writers for their top under-the-radar picks. They shared insights on regions and national parks you might not know about, along with cities and states you may have overlooked.

The outcome is Dinogo Planet’s newest title, Offbeat North America. This book highlights 100 of the continent's most underrated spots, featuring the remote wilds of Alaska’s Dalton Highway and the hidden Mayan ruins at Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. North America still has countless untold stories waiting to be discovered.

The destination I was most eager to write about is Grasslands National Park in southern Saskatchewan. While Banff National Park basks in the spotlight with over four million visitors each year, Grasslands boasts one of the planet’s rarest ecosystems: mixed-grass prairies. Although it lacks Banff’s glaciers and stunning blue lakes, the swaying grasses, wandering bison, and chirping prairie dogs create a unique beauty that only around 20,000 visitors annually get to experience.

If you’re seeking less crowded alternatives to some of North America’s most famous vacation destinations, here are eight entries from the book that showcase the continent's vast and diverse offerings.

1. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Consider this delightful Midwestern city for your next getaway

When you think of a “city break,” you might only consider the usual suspects like New York, Montréal, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. However, we have an unexpected contender to add to your list: Tulsa, Oklahoma.

For over a century, oil has been the backbone of its economy, fueling Tulsa’s transformation into a vibrant Midwestern city perfect for your next long weekend. Notably, its remarkable collection of grand Art Deco architecture from the 1920s stands out. The city boasts well-supported art and cultural institutions like the Philbrook and Gilcrease museums, which rival those in larger cities. Recent additions include the Greenwood Rising museum, addressing the 1921 racially motivated attack on the city's “Black Wall Street,” as well as the Woody Guthrie Center and the newly opened Bob Dylan Center. Plus, enjoy a vibrant music scene at venues like Cain’s Ballroom, craft breweries, and engaging walking tours of its historic areas.

How to get there: Tulsa International Airport serves as the main entry point, offering nonstop flights from various U.S. locations. To explore the city, walking, rideshares, or bike shares are the best options.

Best time to visit: From September to November, when Tulsa enjoys its most pleasant weather.

Insider tip: For an in-depth exploration of Tulsa’s historic neighborhoods or its stunning Art Deco buildings, consider scheduling a personalized walking tour with Tours of Tulsa.

2. Moloka‘i, Hawaii

This welcoming Hawaiian island boasts untouched landscapes and a rich cultural heritage

In recent years, there has been a push to rethink vacations in Hawaii, as locals and sustainability advocates raise concerns about the impact of nine million annual visitors on the islands' culture and environment. However, if Hawaii has long been on your travel bucket list, consider visiting one of its lesser-known islands.

Although it is the fifth largest island in the state, Moloka’i welcomes fewer than 30 tourists each day during the summer months. This small island—just 38 miles long and 10 miles wide at its broadest—lacks luxury resorts, trendy bars, major retailers, and chain restaurants. In fact, there are no traffic lights, and cell phone service can be unreliable. Yet, those who venture here are rewarded with pristine sandy beaches devoid of crowds, tranquil hiking trails through ancient rainforests, and a vibrant culture free from plastic leis.

How to get there: Mokulele Air is the sole commercial airline servicing Moloka’i, offering nonstop flights from Oʻahu, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island on nine-seat Cessna planes. Once you arrive, renting a car is essential for getting around, as public transit is nonexistent and taxi options are limited.

Best time to visit: From May to October. Spring marks the end of the rainy season, bringing refreshing trade winds and sunshine that lasts into the fall.

Insider tip: Bring cash, as not all shops and restaurants on the island accept credit cards.

3. John Day Region, Oregon

A rich biosphere in Central Oregon deserves the spotlight

The first time you catch a glimpse of the John Day Region’s Painted Hills—a vibrant tapestry of yellows, golds, blacks, and reds, reminiscent of Peru’s Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain)—you may find yourself pondering how much longer this stunning location will remain a hidden gem.

However, the breathtaking claystone formations are just one of the geological wonders that make this region a must-visit. A variety of landscapes are packed into a relatively small and easily navigable area. Here, you’ll discover the iconic old-growth rainforests that Oregon is renowned for, canyons reminiscent of the Southwest, expansive high-desert plains akin to those in Big Sky country, and Oregon’s longest undammed river, lined with sandy beaches and lush meadows.

Writer Joshua Samuel Brown, who contributed this entry to Offbeat North America, notes: “You’d need to travel through every state west of the Rockies to truly appreciate the diverse terrain found in the John Day Region.”

How to get there: The John Day Region is approximately a five-hour drive southeast of Portland. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bend, with Grant County Transportation running services between Bend and Prairie City three times a week.

Best time to visit: From April to October. For a chance to see wildflowers in bloom, plan your visit in spring or early summer. Otherwise, consider the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and cooler weather.

Insider tip: Bring a trowel. The hill behind Wheeler High School in the aptly named town of Fossil is a designated digging site for amateur paleontologists. Admission costs $5.

4. Alamosa, Colorado

Tucked between towering peaks and tranquil wildlife refuges, this laid-back town showcases the truth is out there

While Colorado is famously associated with its ski resorts and stunning mountain views, the Centennial State offers much more. Venture south from the bustling lift lines and crowded trailheads near Vail, and you’ll find Alamosa, a high-altitude agricultural hub.

For Alamosa’s typical visitors, a shared passion for flying objects is a common thread. Known as a hotspot for UFO sightings and a significant stopover for migratory birds—such as the 20,000 sandhill cranes that arrive each spring—Alamosa also has much to offer on the ground. Its streets are lined with charming boutiques, antique stores, and craft breweries, plus it’s just a 30-minute drive from the Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to North America's tallest sand dunes.

How to get there: The nearest airport is Albuquerque International Airport in New Mexico. Renting a car will take you about hours to reach Alamosa.

Best time to visit: From June to August. This is patio season, perfect for enjoying Alamosa’s craft beers, along with great weather for exploring the San Luis Valley and the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Insider tip: Take time to acclimate. Alamosa is situated at an elevation of 7,544 feet, so drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.

5. Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin

Explore glacier-formed landscapes on this extensive hiking journey

While hiking trails often don’t evoke thoughts of overtourism, it’s a growing issue in natural areas. Popular long-distance hikes like the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) have even implemented lottery systems for permits to help control foot traffic.

This is where Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail comes into play—a 1,200-mile route that winds across the state. Though still under development (it connects through trails and rural roads), it’s easier and shorter than the PCT or Appalachian Trail. To date, fewer than 500 adventurers have completed it, leaving plenty of bragging rights for those who do.

If you’re pressed for time, consider the 600-mile “Ice Age” segment, which guides hikers through forested hills and shimmering lakes sculpted by ancient glaciers. Along the route, you can camp by the trailside or stay in nearby towns, helping to support local communities.

How to get there: The most accessible trailhead is at the western end in St Croix Falls, Minnesota, approximately 55 miles from Minneapolis. The eastern trailhead is located in Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, which is a bit trickier to reach. You’ll need a vehicle to access either trailhead.

Best time to visit: From April to October. While winter is the quietest season, parts of the trail close during hunting season. Spring or fall is preferable when both temperatures and insects are more manageable.

Insider tip: Although the Ice Age Trail sees fewer hikers than its more renowned counterparts, it still has plenty of trail angels who offer support through shuttles, accommodations, and showers. You can find contact details for these volunteers through the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

6. Alabama

An unexpected spot for underground outdoor escapades

If you’re part of the paddling community, you likely know that Alabama boasts some of the finest canoeing and kayaking in the nation, with an impressive 6,300 miles of navigable waterways. What may surprise you is that its underground adventures are equally remarkable, featuring around 4,800 known caves throughout the state. (Jackson County, located in the northeast, has the highest concentration of caves per square mile in the entire US.)

Some caves are straightforward to navigate while others demand specialized spelunking skills, yet each one is more breathtaking than the last. At Dismals Cave, you can gaze in wonder at the glow of phosphorescent worms. Rickwood Caverns State Park offers an Olympic-sized swimming pool fed by cave water. Manitou Cave showcases 200-year-old Cherokee Nation inscriptions on its towering 50-foot ceiling. And on summer evenings, over 250,000 bats can be seen emerging from Sauta Cave. With experiences like these, Alabama might just be the most “underground” destination in this guide.

Getting there: Alabama is served by three major airports: Huntsville, Birmingham, and Montgomery. The state is also conveniently linked by road to key cities such as Atlanta, Nashville, and New Orleans. Regardless of your arrival method, a car is essential for getting around.

Best time to visit: From May to October. Although summers can be hot, cave temperatures remain consistent throughout the year, making summer an ideal time to observe bats in action.

Pro tip: Plan your cave excursions ahead of time, as even popular sites like Sauta Cave Wildlife Reserve and Manitou Cave may lack nearby dining or restroom facilities.

7. “Ukrainian Bloc,” Alberta

Quirky roadside attractions in Alberta’s unique cultural landscape

Attention, lovers of “Giant Things”! Northeast of Edmonton, Alberta, you’ll find an abundance of oversized roadside attractions that share a common theme: Vegreville’s giant pysanka (a traditional Ukrainian Easter egg), Glendon’s giant perogy (a beloved Ukrainian dumpling), and Mundare’s giant kovbasa (Ukrainian sausage). At the turn of the century, this area was home to Canada’s largest population of Ukrainian settlers.

The Eastern European influence remains evident in the gleaming domes of Ukrainian churches scattered across the landscape, and is celebrated at sites like the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. Historically, the lack of accommodations meant visitors often passed through without stopping, but that has changed with the advent of Métis Crossing. In the past two years, this cultural center has introduced a boutique lodge and stargazing domes by the North Saskatchewan River, providing an ideal spot to witness the northern lights at night.

Getting there: The Ukrainian Bloc doesn’t have specific borders, but most towns are located along Highways 16 and 28, east and northeast of Edmonton. A car is necessary to reach the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village (a 30-mile drive east of Edmonton), while Métis Crossing is about a 75-mile drive to the northeast.

Optimal visiting period: May to October. Be aware that some attractions, such as the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, operate seasonally from late May to early September, so it’s wise to verify their opening hours beforehand.

Insider tip: Bring a cooler to gather delicious foods crafted by local babas. Smoky Lake’s bakery offers bags of frozen pierogies and borscht (beet soup), while Stawnichy in Mundare sells freezer packs of cabbage rolls, kielbasa sausage rings, and perishke (cheese buns).

8. Ruta Puuc Yucatán, Mexico

Explore ancient Maya architecture along an off-the-beaten-path Yucatán route

As one of the “new” seven wonders of the world, it’s no surprise that over 2.5 million people visit Chichén Itzá each year. However, only about 40,000 venture to Labná, Sayil, and Xlapak, three Maya sites within the larger Uxmal UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located in the hilly Puuc region, just south of Mérida, these intricately detailed archaeological sites represent a pinnacle of Maya architecture. Labná, with its grand arch, intricate carvings, and temple-topped pyramid, is often the highlight. Yet, there’s a unique charm in discovering a partially hidden structure at Sayil, tucked away in the forest. Don’t forget to take breaks at refreshing cenotes or indulge in Yucatecan cuisine along the way.

How to get there: The journey starts 70 miles south of Mérida (about a 90-minute drive), where a smaller road diverges from Hwy 261 towards Sayil, then leads to Xlapak and Labná. Guided tours are also offered from Mérida.

Ideal visiting period: September to April. Avoid the sweltering, humid summer months; from September onward, temperatures cool down and the crowds diminish.

Tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the 8am opening. You’ll likely find yourself among the few visitors enjoying the refreshing morning atmosphere.