This surprising island was rated the ‘Best Underrated Travel Destination’ in the US — and an upstate New York spot even made the top 20

2 weeks ago

Get packing!

The latest champion picnic recreation ranking from US News & World Report has revealed a caller hidden gem.

Each year, the publication analyzes complete 1,500 locations utilizing a operation of traveler reviews and master opinions, factoring successful things for illustration taste offerings, recreational opportunities, eating scenes and really uncrowded and unexpectedly delightful an acquisition is.

Leading its 2025 database of “Best Underrated Travel Destinations” is simply a coastal land that’s agelong been a quiet favourite for locals but mostly overlooked by nationalist travelers: St. Simons Island, Georgia.

And among others recognized successful nan apical 20 is simply a standout location successful upstate New York, nan Catskills, pinch nan upland belt landing astatine No. 17.

The full US News list includes a assortment of overlooked destinations crossed nan country, catering to travelers who’d alternatively waste and acquisition taxable parks for hiking trails aliases bustling cities for small-town charm.

St. Simons Island successful Georgia was named nan “Best Underrated Travel Destination” successful nan US. Guy Bryant – stock.adobe.com

Top-ranked St. Simons checks each nan boxes. While its neighbors — Florida and South Carolina — often predominate picnic itineraries, this tranquil obstruction land remains blissfully low-key.

Winding motorcycle paths, majestic oaks draped successful Spanish moss, and quiet beaches create a mounting that feels for illustration a measurement backmost successful clip — and a awesome upgrade from nan emblematic packed summertime basking spots.

“This dreamy obstruction land is location to stately unrecorded oaks, dune-lined beaches, maritime forests and quaint shopping villages, lending it a peaceful, laid-back ambiance moreover during highest season,” US News wrote.

The island’s entreaty isn’t conscionable successful its postcard-worthy landscape.

From historical landmarks for illustration Fort Frederica to haunts for illustration Frosty’s Griddle & Shake and Southern Soul BBQ, nan area offers rich | experiences for nutrient lovers, history buffs and families alike.

There’s kayaking done brackish marshes, browsing shops successful nan quaint colony area, and catching vibrant sunsets from nan pier.

For play fans, scenic seaside courses supply a relaxing tee clip pinch Atlantic breezes.

While St. Simons is yet starting to pull nationalist attraction — Travel and Leisure precocious highlighted it arsenic a apical summertime municipality — it still retains nan benignant of unspoiled vibe that vacationers crave but seldom find.

Back successful nan Empire State, nan Catskills characteristic cool upland lakes and wooded trails that clasp conscionable arsenic overmuch allure arsenic sandy shores.

“Picturesque rounded mountains – beloved by scenery painters for hundreds of years – are perfect for skiing and hiking. Meanwhile, mini towns specified arsenic Catskill connected nan Hudson River and Bethel, location of nan Woodstock Music Festival, are good worthy checking out,” US News noted.

As travelers progressively activity escapes that consciousness some typical and uncrowded, places for illustration St. Simons Island and nan Catskills are emerging arsenic caller favorites.

The Catskills besides made nan list. demerzel21 – stock.adobe.com

However, pinch nationalist nickname sparkling a ray connected these unsocial offerings, they mightiness not enactment a concealed overmuch longer.

So, you’re hereby warned: don’t hold excessively agelong to book.