This village on the edge of a national park offers trails to waterfalls, rivers teeming with fish, and a Victorian viaduct, as well as gorges, caves, and peaks.
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Step out of an industrial city into a preserve filled with wildlife, waterfowl, flowers, and stunning natural ecosystems, all waiting for you to explore.
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To understand the complex history of mining in Wales and enjoy some top-tier scenery as you do, head to this charming town not far from Cardiff.
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This city, just outside Jacksonville, offers a view into the laid-back side of Florida which is full of historic buildings, cute downtown shops, and trails.
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Don't be fooled by this city's industrial footprint — beyond the surface, you'll find thriving natural habitats, bayside trails, and an underrated arts scene.
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It's hard to appreciate the majesty of California's redwoods when the forests are overrun with crowds, like at Muir Woods. Visit these parks instead.
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Vermont may be small, but it is home to a lot of natural beauty, including at this state park, where you can go for a pleasant hike or get out on the water.
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Scotland is home to some colorful historic cities, including this one, where you can enjoy the festivals in town or head outside of it for mountain biking.
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This legendary nature reserve in northwest England features a mining shaft, waterfall, and a sandstone crag with views across the Pennine Hills.
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Stop by a city full of diversity, history, and fun sights to explore, from local festivals and a rich agricultural history to scenic walking and biking trails.
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Bordering Mount Rainier National Park is another Washington escape. A massive forest offers trails to stunning waterfalls and even an active volcano.
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This spot may be everything you hope for, so long as you like a small-town atmosphere coupled with easy access to mountain hiking and riverfront charm.
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Remnants of this town's industrial golden age in the 18th and 19th centuries still grace the streets, adding to its allure as an old-world escape.
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A fashionable resort destination in the 1930s, this town has long resisted the pressure of modernization and has retained its sophisticated, old-world feel.
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Discover a centuries-old market, a canal-side brewery pub, Mayflower Pilgrim history, and sprawling nature reserves in this North Nottinghamshire getaway.
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A former coal-mining village offers a quieter side of Scotland, with woodland walks leading to centuries-old castles and hearty meals waiting afterward.
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Named the No. 6 best small town in the Midwest in a 2026 ranking, this community boasts Amish food, riverside activities, vibrant festivals, and unique shops.
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High in the mountains of the Golden State is a gorgeous village straight out of a romantic Christmas movie, with scenic camping and hiking trails to boot.
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It doesn't get much more spectacular than a shimmering high-altitude lake with crystal-clear waters located high up in the magnificent mountains of France.
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There are plenty of fun cities to explore in the Pacific Northwest, including this Washington destination that is home to outdoor fun and popular Mexican food.
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Nestled in Texas, this plantation turned park offers a relaxing day trip under pecan trees, around fishing ponds, and along scenic hiking trails you'll love.
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This underrated destination in Southern Maine is a haven for lovers of the outdoors with multiple opportunities for kayaking and a nearby island to explore.
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This sprawling California paradise is an idyllic retreat where you can hike and bike among towering redwoods, then camp beneath their canopy.
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Complete with a 110-acre fishing lake, scenic woodland hiking, and an impressive variety of sports facilities, this park has something for everyone.
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Lake County is at its very best in this gorgeously serene forest preserve not far from the border between Illinois and Wisconsin.
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Ditch the crowds at Big Bear Lake for backcountry camping and trout fishing at this hike-in lake in California's Sierra Nevada.
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If you want to avoid disappointment, skip the more popular U.S. national parks and head to these two underrated parks with scenic water adventures.
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