Under-the-Radar Places to Visit in the U.S. with Kids
Searching for the best places to go with kids? Well, you are in the right place! What we found in these under-the-radar destinations wasn’t just fun, it was connection. Without the crowds or the chaos, we slowed down, grew curious, and let each place leave its mark in the best possible way. Drawing on my 15 years of experience covering family travel, I’ve picked some of my favorite spots, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Grand Marais, Minnesota
I thought Grand Marais, a little harbor town on the North Shore of Lake Superior was truly special. This is where the world’s largest freshwater lake meets rugged cliffs and forests. The jagged shoreline is dotted with lighthouses and ancient volcanic rock. We could feel a deep connection to nature here.
After a scenic two-hour drive northeast from Duluth along Lake Superior beside me, we had a great stay at 3-star Gunflint Lodge for two days. There is a private beach area with stunning views that was a highlight for my son. You can stroll along the harbor, explore artist-run galleries, and hike to Artists’ Point for panoramic views of the lake. Kids can make simple crafts at North House Folk School.
- Location: Map & Directions
I loved sitting around a campfire after a day of hiking, the stars above while the lake hummed softly behind us, my personal highlight.
2. Leavenworth, Washington
This alpine village in the Cascade Mountains was truly enchanting, a Bavarian-style town nestled among rugged peaks. It felt both whimsical and majestic, radiating an inviting mix of Old World charm and outdoor adventure.
After a scenic two-hour drive east from Seattle over Stevens Pass, we spent an inspiring weekend at 3-star Icicle Village Resort. You can walk through cobblestone streets, browse specialty shops filled with German treats, and hike along a nearby trail for unforgettable mountain vistas.
- Location: Map & Directions
My personal highlight was my lunch at Munchen Haus, a family-friendly open-air beer garden. I had the 1/4 pound coarsely ground organic chicken wurst made with bell peppers, Italian spices, and paprika.
3. Lake Charles, Louisiana
I thought this Southern destination was a fascinating mix with waterways, rich Cajun culture, casinos, and a surprising balance of outdoor adventures and indulgent relaxation.
I based myself right in the city, staying two nights at the 4-star L'Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles. From there, you can explore the Creole Nature Trail, visit Gulf beaches just 30 minutes away, and spending an afternoon birdwatching in the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge.
- Location: Map & Directions
In the evenings, check out the city’s culinary scene (gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and boudin sausage) and listen to live Zydeco music, my personal highlight.
4. Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio is quite unique with its grand 19th-century architecture, artsy neighborhoods, and a thriving food scene. While I was there this month, I stayed downtown at the 4-star AC Hotel Cincinnati at The Banks for two days. It was east to walk to landmarks, and hop on the streetcar, and cross the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge.
During the day, I wandered through Over-the-Rhine, a beautifully revitalized historic district lined with red-brick buildings, trendy shops, and some of the best German-inspired food in the country. I also visited the striking Cincinnati Art Museum.
- Location: Map & Directions
Krohn Conservatory, where exotic plants filled glass-domed rooms that felt like stepping into another world, was a personal highlight.
5. Athens, Georgia
Athens, Georgia is youthful and creative, with historic streets shaded by oaks, indie shops tucked into old brick buildings, and live music drifting out of legendary venues.
We stayed at the 3-star Hyatt Place Athens near the University of Georgia campus for two days. During the day, we explored the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, checked out quirky vintage shops, and admired the city’s murals and street art that completely won me over.
History buffs will love the Georgia Museum of Art. Between food trucks, farm-to-table restaurants, and old-school Southern staples, every meal was a treat (we couldn’t leave without trying fried green tomatoes and pimento cheese). Kids love Bear Hollow Zoo inside Memorial Park that focuses on native Georgia animals. Sandy Creek Park has plenty of room for kids to run and a family picnic by the lake turned into an afternoon of playing at the beach area.
- Location: Map & Directions
6. Madison, Wisconsin
In September, this vibrant lakeside capital greeted us with crisp, sunny days, tree-lined streets buzzing with students, and hotel prices far more reasonable than in bigger Midwestern hubs. The air carried that first hint of autumn, and golden light glistened across the waters of Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
We loved the city’s perfect balance of small-town friendliness and big-city energy. With the graceful Wisconsin State Capitol dome rising above downtown, five lakes, and a lively campus scene, Madison felt both accessible and inspiring.
There was an incredible lineup of events – the community-focused Willy Street Fair with its colorful parade, the energy of Badgers football kicking off at Camp Randall Stadium, and the annual Taste of Madison food festival on Capitol Square, where we happily sampled local cheese curds, craft beer, and farm-to-table bites.
After landing at MSN, we spent four days at The Edgewater Hotel within walking distance of the Capitol. You can stroll down State Street, pop into quirky bookstores and cafés, and walk through the lush Olbrich Botanical Gardens. One of my favorite mornings was spent at the Dane County Farmers’ Market where we filled a bag with crisp apples, fresh bread, and creamy local goat cheese for a picnic later.
- Location: Map & Directions
7. NYC's Central Park Carousel, a Hidden Gem for Kids
New York City is not exactly under-to-radar but while living there I discovered many attractions that qualify. They are my private hidden gems and best places to visit that let you experience something unique and different in this massive city. Here is one of my favorites.
The music reached us before we saw it, that playful calliope tune weaving through the trees. My child tugged my hand, eyes wide when the carousel finally came into view, brightly painted horses circling in a blur of color.
For a few minutes, the skyscrapers and traffic felt far away, replaced by the simple joy of a ride that has been spinning for generations. I loved watching my son get on the horse, gripping the reins with a mixture of excitement and pride. He was smiling, enjoying the music.
Afterward, we shared a pretzel from a nearby cart. It was still warm, the salt crunching just enough. We sat together on a shaded bench while the carousel kept turning behind us. The small pause became as memorable as the ride itself.
A downside? On weekends the line stretched longer than a child's patience allows. A weekday visit made the experience easier.
From the Carousel, you can walk south to reach the entrance to the Central Park Zoo ($22.95 for adults, $16.95 for kids, free under 2 years old). It's a nice, scenic walk past statues like the Statue of Balto your kids probably know from kids books. The Central Park Zoo is one of the smaller city zoos but it's very pretty and lots of fun.
If you head west from the Carousel, you'll reach the Natural History Museum and Hayden Planetarium, also a big hit with my son. Not sure which way to go? Let the weather decide for you. If it's warm and sunny, head to the zoo. If it's cold, too hot or rainy, head to the museum.
8. Montgomery, Alabama
Montgomery blends history with family fun, making it a meaningful and surprisingly playful destination for kids. Wide tree-lined streets, colorful riverfront parks, and world-changing civil rights landmarks make the city feel both educational and full of discovery. After a 1.5-hour drive south from Birmingham, we arrived in a city that balances its deep history with spaces where kids can run, play, and learn in creative ways.
You will have a chance to step back in time and learn about the Civil Rights movement at the Civil Rights Memorial Center and the Rosa Parks Library and Museum. Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents plays and shows such as The Importance of Being Earnest, As You Like It and King Lear that older kids will like. The Mann Wildlife Learning Museum and Montgomery Zoo showcase exotic animals from around the world.
Where to Stay: The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa has a rooftop pool, a spa and modern guest rooms. I went for a 60-minute classical massage as soon as I checked in.
Where to Eat: The Tipping Point serves great sandwiches, hot dogs and a fun kids menu.
Don’t Miss: Jump on board the Harriott II Riverboat, docked beside the Riverwalk and Amphitheater, for dinner, dancing and live entertainment, along with a variety of activities for children.
Conclusion
These destinations offered us new adventures, space to breathe, places to explore, and experiences that we'll always remember.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
