8 Quiet U.S. Getaways Where You Can Actually Escape the Crowds

These spots may be busy in the summer months, but there won’t be elbow-to-elbow tourists if you plan it right and go in the shoulder or off season.The U.S. is the world’s largest travel market, though it has started losing market share in recent years. But its most devoted fans are Americans who spent $1.54 trillion in 2025 and continue to travel domestically. This is especially evident during trying times, when Americans turn to their own backyard rather than foregoing travel altogether. So, it can be a bit challenging to find quiet spots in the holiday season, but fret not, Reddit has found places to get their own slice of nature. A Reddit user posted a question on the r/traveladvice subreddit. The individual went on a cruise and then visited Disney parks, and wanted to switch it up with destinations without constant crowds and music. “The itinerary I have in my head is somewhere you can walk to a coffee shop, check out local stores, hit the spa, grab a bite to eat, go for a hike, hang out on a quiet beach, do some sort of activity like mini golf or something all without thousands of people.” And travelers showed up. They offered recommendations from different parts of the country, and though many countered them, some places came up over and over. These spots may be busy in the summer months, mind you, but it won’t be elbow-to-elbow tourists if you plan it right and go in the shoulder or off season. 1 OF 8 Mendocino WHERE: California This California spot made the very first comment. A Reddit user recommended Mendocino for its beautiful beaches, coastal bluffs, restaurants, and shops. But they warned it’s a bit crowded on holiday weekends. Mendocino, along the coast of Northern California, is a dramatic seaside village that lures artists and nature-lovers to its redwood forests and sandy beaches. Come here to walk along the coast, pop into art galleries, and stay in boutiques cradled by redwood trees. The hamlet welcomes nearly two million visitors every year and has faced a water crisis in the past. If you’re visiting, definitely travel off-season and be mindful about where you stay. 2 OF 8 San Juan Islands WHERE: Washington Off the coast of Washington, a set of Pacific islands calls to travelers who enjoy the great outdoors. San Juan Islands have 172 named islands, but less than half are populated. Here, you can hike, see whales, and visit state marine parks—public ferries can take you to San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island. Indoor activities include spas, wineries, and boutiques. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities. Avoid it in summer, and you’ll be able to rest without throngs of tourists.These islands have inspired artists for a long time, and you’ll find galleries everywhere. If you’ve ever read romance novels by Lisa Kleypas, you might enjoy the Friday Harbor series, which is set on the island. There’s also a Hallmark movie based on the first book, Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor. 3 OF 8 Sedona WHERE: Arizona It’s hard to argue that Sedona is ruggedly beautiful, and it came up multiple times in the Reddit thread. Arizona often brings to mind the imposing Grand Canyon, but Sedona’s red rock formations add a mystical feel to the destination. It’s a popular destination, but if you go on serious hikes and trails, you might leave them behind. Downtown is the most touristy part, so stick to the outskirts to enjoy the vistas that inspired more than 80 westerns. Related: 25 Ultimate Things to Do in Arizona 4 OF 8 Asheville WHERE: North Carolina Another highly recommended, popular destination is Asheville. The city is currently getting extra attention due to the G20 Summit, which has brought global leaders to western North Carolina. After Hurricane Helene in 2024, the region has recovered, and it’s still a top destination for leaf-peeping in autumn. Whether you drive or hike the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll be met with gorgeous views at every turn. The River Arts District is another must-stop, while people can’t stop raving over the Baltimore Estate. Go early or late spring to beat the crowds, someone recommended.Related: The Family Trip That’s More Fun (and Way Cheaper) Than a Theme Park 5 OF 8 Stowe WHERE: Vermont A small mountain town, Stowe is another destination where you’d find idyllic trails, gorgeous fall foliage, and plenty of slopes for skiing and snowboarding. But that’s exactly when you should avoid the town if you want a little slice of it for yourself. No matter when you go, drop by Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory for a cutesy behind-the-scenes experience. 6 OF 8 Upper Peninsula WHERE: Michigan Michigan is known for its lakes and 2,000 miles of shoreline. The state has lovely coastal towns, but Redditers recommend the Upper Peninsula for some quiet time. The Upper Peninsula is calmer than the Lower Peninsula and has a more rugged vibe. Here, you can visit the Lake of the Clouds within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, or hike the Chapel-Basin Loop to see beautiful waterfalls. There is a lot of history to be discovered here, such as Ironwood (an iron-mining town) and Sault Ste. Marie (Michigan’s oldest city).Travelers also recommend the small community of Fishtown and Muskegon on the west coast—you will find many other resort towns on this side of the state.Related: The Midwest’s 10 Most Charming Small Towns 7 OF 8 Berkshires WHERE: Massachusetts The Berkshires are also a great escape if you’re looking for quiet towns and scenic mountain vistas. The highland region in western Massachusetts is peppered with cozy towns, lovely museums, and unspoiled mountain views. Go in early fall, before the colors change, to hike in the area, one Reddit user suggested, while another recommended the city of North Adams, with museums, galleries, and cafes all around. 8 OF 8 Vieques WHERE: Puerto Rico Escaping the crowds in Puerto Rico means going anywhere outside San Juan. But Vieques is particularly stunning, a traveler insisted. This island off San Juan has beautiful beaches without the commercialization often found in resort towns. The Vieques National Wildlife Refuge covers 17,771 acres of land with stunning beaches, wetlands, and forested areas. An unmissable experience is Puerto Mosquito, a bay filled with bioluminescence-producing dinoflagellates. Related: How to Spend 1, 3, or 5 Days in Puerto Rico’s Vieques and Culebra