Did You Know These 20 Unbelievable U.S. Spots Actually Exist?

Spanning from one coast to another, our great nation is bursting at the seams with both natural and manmade wonders. While we’ll always encourage our readers to visit some of our most popular destinations, we think it’s also important to highlight the lesser-known ones.

No, this doesn’t mean that all our picks are inaccessible and that you’d have to traverse perilous territories in order to visit these gems. The ones we’ve picked for our list today are great vacation spots for both avid travelers and more laid-back people, for families and singles, young and old alike.

So, click NEXT if you want to see our breathtaking picks for America’s best-hidden spots!

1. Biosphere 2 in Oracle, Arizona.

It seems that every day we’re getting closer and closer to the possibility of setting foot on distant planets. Sure, we might not colonize Mars in our lifetime, but what if we told you you could still visit a place that can simulate life on other planets?

Hidden in Arizona, Biosphere 2 will provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those curious about our chances of surviving out there among the stars. Today, Biosphere 2 is used as a research facility that is open to the public. But to get to this point it has gone through trials and errors.

During its inception years, contamination of the water supply, the growth of invasive species, and disputes between participants almost doomed the experiment completely. Biosphere 2 has come a long way since then!

2. Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

If you want to take a peek at some of America’s most awe-inspiring rock formations, look no further than the Garden of the Gods. Located in Colorado Springs, this public park showcases natural rock formations that appeared millions of years ago.

Even prehistoric people visited this location around 1330 BC, according to archaeological evidence. If our ancestors thought the Garden of the Gods was worth a visit without modern modes of transportation, there’s no reason for you to not visit.

This is also a less crowded choice than Monument Valley, especially for those who’ve already visited the world-renowned site and would like a change of scenery with a similar flavor.

3. Fly Geyser in Washoe County, Nevada.

Visiting Fly Geyser in Washoe County will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a surreal world. Located just 20 miles north of Gerlach, it is hard to believe that this geyser came about naturally.

Well, actually, it didn’t! In fact, its creation was an accident. More than 100 years ago, during an effort to make the desert usable for farming, work began on drilling a well. Instead of finding suitable water, they discovered geothermal water that was about 200 degrees Fahrenheit, deemed unsuitable for farming purposes. This first geyser was left alone and later called The Wizard.

When a geothermic energy company returned to the site to test the same waters, they discovered that it was not hot enough for their purposes. They attempted to reseal the hole, but it did not hold. Consequently, a new geyser formed several hundred feet from The Wizard. Today, this second geyser is known as Fly Geyser.

4. Tamanawas Falls in Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon.

A fan of dense greenery? How about a trip that will reward you with a beautiful waterfall- a waterfall so entrancing you’d think you walked straight into a fairy tale vista by simply approaching it.

Situated near the eastern base of Mount Hood, Tamanawas Falls falls over a 150’ lava cliff. You don’t have to be a pro climber to visit the waterfall, but those with a bit more experience and willing to try can climb up the rocks above the falls. The incredible view is said to be well worth the effort.

But whoever way you chose to experience this waterfall, we know it’ll be worth the trip!

5. Roaring Fork Motor Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Fans of hiking, rejoice! We may have found the most stunning, underappreciated hiking trail in the nation. Take a walk through this old-growth forest along one of the largest mountain streams in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also known as the fastest flowing mountain stream, it’s perfect for long exposure pictures, so whatever you do, do not forget your camera equipment.

At the end of your journey across this uncrowded hiking trail, you’ll find Rainbow Falls, an 80-foot tall waterfall named after the beautiful rainbows it creates in the mist. Make sure you time your visit just right in order to not miss out on all the dazzling colors!

6. Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona.

Not all forests are populated with trees. Some, such as the Chiricahua National Monument, are populated by hoodoo rock formations. Eroded by layers of ash deposited by the Turkey Creek Volcano eruption which took place more than 27 million years ago, this one-of-a-kind monument is one of Arizona’s true hidden treasures.

You can go for an eight-mile paved scenic drive or explore 18 miles of hiking trails by foot. All in all, you’ll have 11,985 acres to visit. If you’re interested in equal parts history and exploration, make sure to pop by the Faraway Ranch Historic District to learn about the people who used to call this area home such as the Buffalo Soldiers and the Chiricahua Apaches.

7. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Ice Caves, Wisconsin.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a place of many wonders, and we could spend all day telling you could their beautiful lighthouse, entrancing forests, or unique sandstone formations. But today we’re going to talk about the Ice Caves instead.

During the winter, if you’re not afraid of a little chill, make sure to visit Wisconsin’s hidden treasure, the seaside cave that becomes encrusted in glittering icicles. The ice forms as the waves splash against the rock, offering the caves a look that is, to put simply, out of this world.

Do keep in mind that ice is fickle. Ice conditions can change rapidly, so you’ll only be able to visit while the area is deemed Low Risk by park staff.

8. Blue Lakes around San Juan Mountain, Colorado.

The Blue Lakes around San Juan Mountain are so vibrant, you’d think they’re photoshopped! Far from it! The unbelievably turquoise shade, caused by the water’s unique mineral makeup and by natural filtering processes, has long since baffled and thrilled visitors.

Most intriguing of all, depending on where you view the lakes from, you could spot entirely different shades of blue. Of course, much of that depends on the lighting during your particular visit.

Make sure to snap a lot of pictures in order to commemorate this epic visit off the beaten path.

9. The International Car Forest of the Last Church in Goldfield, Nevada.

You’d think that a place known as the world’s largest national car junk forest would not make it to anyone’s bucket list. Well, think again, because this isn’t just any car junk, it’s a ‘forest’ unlike no other.

This off-the-beaten-path destination also doubles as a car and art museum. All the vehicles in this area are arranged in unique ways, painted with vibrant colors that are just begging for that perfect vacation snapshot. The precarious angles make this vista look like a rejuvenated post-apocalyptic scene.

Best of all, it’s free, but we do encourage you to leave a donation in order to keep the project alive for generations to come.

10. Fort Jefferson in Key West, Florida.

What has 16 million bricks and sits in the middle of stunning blue waters? Fort Jefferson in Key West! It’s the biggest masonry structure in the United States, situated around 70 miles west of Key West yet despite that, it remains unfinished.

The juxtaposition of the glistening water and the haunting sight of the unfinished fortress makes this the perfect destination for fans of the uncanny and bizarre.

Join a 45- to 60-minute guided tour to learn about the fort’s history, both rich and cut short. Most surprisingly of all is the fact that up to 2,000 people lived within this remote city on the sea at one point!

11. The Ghost Town of Bodie, California.

If Fort Jefferson in Key West sounds like an eerie destination, wait till you see what the Ghost Town of Bodie has in store!

What began as a bustling mining town in 1859 could now be considered a time machine. With over 2,000 buildings and 7,000 residents at the height of its prosperity, Bodie was once the place to be for hopefuls wanting to make it big in the mining industry.

In the 1870s and 1880s, two booms helped keep the town on the map before its inevitable decline. In 1920 only 120 people remained in Bodie until, eventually, none remained.

What’s fascinating about this travel destination is that you can peruse old shops still populated with stocked goods.

12. Blue Hole in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Instead of booking a room at a fancy resort with a swimming pool, why not visit Blue Hole in Morgantown. This natural swimming hole is surrounded by lush greenery. Start hiking in any direction and you’ll be met with breathtaking views. After working up a little sweat, turn back around and go for a dip!

It’s a perfect place to visit with your family, away from the hustle and bustle of some of our famed beaches or resorts, especially if you’re looking for a vacation spot filled with friendly, local faces.

Apart from swimming, you can spend hours upon hours in nature while (hopefully!) spotting some wildlife!

13. Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau, Alaska

Hidden beneath Mendenhall Glacier is a cave unlike no other. You can only visit this vibrant icy natural cathedral during certain times of the year, so make sure you book your Alaskan trip just right!

The 12-mile-long glacier opens up with one of the most stunning caves in the world. We recommend visiting during cloudy afternoons in order to experience the most vibrant blues.

We’d also recommend visiting as soon as possible. Since 1958, the Mendenhall Glacier has receded almost two miles. Climate changes may soon make this impressive natural wonder impossible to visit in the near future.

14. Mildred B. Cooper Chapel in Bella Vista, Arkansas.

This non-denominational chapel, constructed in 1988, is an architectural marvel unlike no other in the world. Designed by E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings, this is the perfect place to visit if you’ve been looking for a stunning, ethereal backdrop for your photography.

The chapel’s delicate design makes it blend beautifully into its surrounding. Yet, somewhat miraculously, it also stands out without ruining the natural greenery that hugs its arches and walls.

Make sure you book your visit ahead of time, as it’s a popular wedding ceremony location. You wouldn’t want to crash a wedding, would you?

15. Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

Here’s a travel destination that might make you weep as much as it could delight you. It’s delightful because of the views, as the Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs has an exhilarating turquoise color. It’s a unique place to photograph, as you’ll find no other lake similar to it within the borders of the U.S.

Why are we saying it’ll make you weep? Because we guarantee you’ll feel a burning need to go for a swim. But swimming is prohibited as it might disrupt the lake’s fragile ecosystem. After all, it was created when the valley flow sheared off from the fault and dropped. Nowadays, that same valley represents the bed of the lake.

16. Grotto of the Redemption in Iowa

There are 7 known Wonders of the World, but all those who have laid their eyes on the Grotto of the Redemption have claimed it to be the Eight Wonder of the World. The largest man-made Grotto in the world, it contains the largest collection of precious stones and gems.

Everywhere you look you’ll see a collection of thousands of precious stones, glistening back at you.

When Father Paul Dobberstein became ill with pneumonia, he promised to build a shrine to the Virgin Mary in order to gain his health back. After his recovery, he began collecting gems, fossils, and precious stones. Construction began in 1912 and continued for 42 years.

17. Smith Rock State Park, Oregon.

Have you ever wondered where modern American sport climbing all started? Then head on over to Smith Rock State Park. Host to cutting-edge climbing routes, this destination is perfect for both thrill-seekers and those who want to be dazzled by breathtaking views.

Beginners and experts alike are welcome to try climbing the cliffs as there are several thousand climbs in the park- take your pick!
This is also a great spot for those who want to catch a glimpse of wild animals such as prairie falcons, golden eagles, mule deer, river otters, and beavers.

18. Neptune Memorial Reef in Key Biscayne, Florida.

Found off the coast of Key Biscayne, the Neptune Memorial Reef is the world’s largest man-made coral reef. Residing at a depth of 40 feet, covering over 600,000 square feet the reef was designed to look like an underwater city. It’s no wonder then that it’s also known as the Atlantis Reef Project.

It involves underwater roads that lead to a central feature with benches and statuary.

It’s a surreal place to visit for divers who want to experience the wonders of mystical underwater cities populated by curious marine life. You can visit with a boat, but fishing is strictly prohibited.

19. Plaza Blanca near Abiquiú, New Mexico.

Whatever you do, make sure you book your vacation to Plaza Blanca near Abiquiú on the sunniest day of the year. That way you can experience the truly stunning beauty of the ivory pillars, complete with a clear sky backdrop.

Many people compare it to walking on a different planet.

Looks familiar? If you’re passionate when it comes to the art world, you’d know this famous view was painted by famous artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Known as “White Place”, the piece perfectly embodies the out-of-this-world feel of this spot. Still, going to see it with your own eyes is well worth it. Who knows, maybe you’ll feel inspired to paint too!

20. Byodo-In Temple in the Ko’olau Mountains, Hawaii.

This Buddhist temple located on the island of Oʻahu in Hawaiʻi in Valley of the Temples Memorial Park might seem surreal- well, you might think you’ve stepped outside the U.S. borders.

In fact, it’s a small-scale temple of a famed Japanese temple. Over 950 years old, this temple perfectly embodies the beauty of Japanese architecture. It commemorates the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants in Hawaii, complete with meditation areas, statues, small waterfalls, and a large reflection pond.

We recommend visiting the Byodo-In Temple whenever you need a break from surviving and basking in the sun on the beautiful Hawaiian beaches!

So, which one of these hidden spots made it on your bucket list? Which one surprised you the most? Comment down below with your opinions!