When it comes to famous American tourist attractions, most people immediately think of the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. For first-time travelers to the US, they might still want to visit those well-known check-in spots. But today, I'd like to recommend some more off-the-beaten-path locations. Unlike the well-known, traffic-clogged metropolises like New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle, these are destinations that are less crowded, sparsely populated, lesser-known, and hidden gems—places that offer surprising and unforgettable experiences.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont, is a quaint village with historic buildings and gentle hills. Here, you’ll encounter the impressive herd of Jersey cows at Billings Farm—just as visitors did a century ago.
Autumn is the most beautiful season here. It's the quintessential Northeast season—clear, crisp days perfect for apple and pumpkin picking, with leaves bursting into vibrant colors. From most vantage points, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of colorful foliage. A visit in autumn also holds pleasant surprises: local farms host harvest celebrations and make homemade pumpkin ice cream, offering a one-of-a-kind flavor. You can stop by a farm in Vermont, then go mountain hiking or take a scenic drive through the countryside, exploring rolling mountains, rural barns, and the fiery red autumn leaves.

  1. Solvang, California

Solvang, meaning "Sunny Place" in Danish, is a small town perfect for strolling around. The hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops lining the streets are all uniquely styled, making it a great spot for girls to take photos.
Founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, the town was planned to preserve and promote their culture, with Danish-style architecture like churches, schools, houses, and windmills. Initially, the design was fairly informal, However, after World War II in 1964, to boost tourism, the town began formally reinforcing and marketing its Danish identity. For instance, all buildings, whether chain hotels or public restrooms, were required to feature a vintage Danish style. This strategy achieved tremendous commercial success, earning Solvang the title “Danish Capital of America.” It has been listed among the Top 10 Most Beautiful Towns in the American West.

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is a long, narrow peninsula surrounded by water on three sides. It separates Green Bay from the vast Lake Michigan to the east, with beaches, bluffs, ferries, and historic brick lighthouses dotted around it. Blessed with fertile limestone soil, the region nurtures world-renowned cherry and apple orchards. Its 482-kilometer (300-mile) coastline teems with whitefish, a local favorite caught year-round. Therefore, when you come here, you must try the local specialty foods: American-style cherry pie and Scandinavian-style fish stew.
Set out from Ellison Bay for a leisurely bike ride along the lakeshore highway, taking in the autumn scenery. You can also visit the local vineyards along the way, taste the wine, and learn about the winemaking process.