Cupid's Pulse Article: Vacation Destinations: Underrated Vacation LocationsCupid's Pulse Article: Vacation Destinations: Underrated Vacation Locations

By: Emily Green

It’s finally June, which means it’s officially summer! Summer is the prime time for people to relax and try new things, like checking out new destinations for vacation. While most people tend to think of relaxing on tropical islands or Florida beaches, or heading on a trip to spot your favorite celebrity, there are plenty of less obvious places all around the United States where you can travel and experience new and exciting adventure.

There are plenty of fun and exciting new places you can go to on vacation! Here are Cupid’s top five underrated vacation destinations:

1. Sedona, Arizona: Beaches not your thing? Try heading out to Sedona for some hiking in the beautiful, picturesque red rock cliffs. After hiking, the town of Sedona is full of relaxing day spas, bed and breakfasts, and small shops that you can go through- relaxing at its finest! Once you’re ready to head out again, if you want to visit the Grand Canyon, it is only a 2 hour drive from Sedona, making Sedona the perfect place to stay on your vacation!

Related Link: Travel Tips: Visit the Grand Canyon

2. Fire Island, New York: If you’re looking for a place to relax for the weekend, Fire Island is the perfect place to stay. Only about an hour and a half drive outside of New York City, Fire Island offers long stretches of beautiful beaches, a scenic lighthouse, and many resorts and shops. Whether you’re looking for a simple weekend away or a special trip, Fire Island has everything you could possibly need.

Related Link: 5 Unique Travel Destinations You Can Drive to from NYC

3. Annapolis, Maryland: Annapolis is a great place to visit, especially if you’re a history buff. Home to the US Naval Academy, the Banneker-Douglass Museum and State House and much more, Annapolis is a key place to learn about the history of Maryland. After exploring the different monuments and landmarks, enjoy a cruise on one of the tour boats on the Chesapeake Bay or on one of the surrounding rivers. Once your tour is through, you can get some of Maryland’s infamous fresh crab, and can learn just how much Marylanders love old bay on their crabs (and everything else).

4. Nashville, Tennessee: As the capital of country music, Nashville has everything a country music lover could ever want. See a show at  the Grand Ole Opry or take a tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame. You never know who you might see! Aside from the awesome country music spots, you can take a trolley tour of the town to see all of the historical spots and landmarks the town has to offer. Afterward, try the Nashville Pub Crawl (if you are of age) and get a taste of what nightlife is like in this country-filled town.

5. Charleston, South Carolina: Another place for a great taste of the south is Charleston, SC. Ranked America’s #1 small city, there’s a bit of everything for everyone in this small city. The bustling French Quarter and Battery Districts are great places to get a taste of typical life in Charleston, from the shops to the amazing views and scenery. Charleston also has a lot of history, with the Fort Sumter National Monument finding home in Charleston’s harbor, a short boat ride for an amazing tour. After, make sure you stop by the University of South Carolina for a football game. Go Gamecocks!

Which one of these locations caught your interest? Let us know in the comments below!