8 Underrated Summer Travel Ideas Across the U.S.

Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, and you’ll find plenty of that to go around in these destinations. If your vibe is more wine country or fine dining, you’ll find that, too.

No matter where you head, a comfortable hotel makes all the difference on vacation, so you’ll find a Marriott Bonvoy hotel option for each destination, as well.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville manages to stay grounded while catering to travelers with glam tastes. Take a spin on the Blue Ridge Parkway or explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From the AC Hotel by Marriott Asheville Downtown explore the River Arts District and the Asheville Black Cultural Heritage Trail.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

While known for its ski areas, the scenery and amenities of Jackson Hole don’t stop when the snow does. The jagged peaks of Grand Teton National Park border this lively valley near Yellowstone. Set up base camp at The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection before heading out for hiking, biking or white-water rafting. At night, go stargazing at the Snow King Observatory & Planetarium.

Mackinac Island and Bay Harbor, Michigan

Mackinac Island in Lake Huron delivers the charm. Horse-drawn carriages rule the roads in this car-free area brimming with clapboard Victorian architecture. Anchor on the mainland at the Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection. Then, head northeast from the hotel to Mackinaw City and hop the ferry to Mackinac Island, where you can golf, explore historic forts and picnic.

New England’s Farm Coast

Punctuated by harbors, lighthouses and small villages, the New England farm coast sometimes looks more like the 19th century than modern life. Book the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Bedford in Massachusetts to embrace the area’s “coastal grandmother” cool. Browse galleries, enjoy the agritourism and sample seafood straight off the boat.

Beautiful view on Mount Rainier with Forest Canyon in front. — View of Mt. Rainier in Olympia, Washington

Olympia, Washington

A funky, laid-back city, Olympia helped unleash grunge music and keeps the flame alive at Rainy Day Records and the Capitol Theater. Catch a show at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, and make sure to stop by the capitol building, which sports the world’s largest Tiffany chandelier. Stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Olympia.

Sonoma County, California

Dip into mud baths and geothermal pools at Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs, a Member of Design Hotels in Calistoga. It’s the perfect spot for sipping on the area’s famous pinots. But the fun of Sonoma County extends beyond its legendary vineyards. Head to the coast to scan for whales, wander among stately redwoods and feast on unique dishes at the innovative Bravas Bar de Tapas.

Tucson, Arizona

Avoid crowds and find sweet deals vacationing in Tucson, during the summer, where the nightlife and fine dining scenes don’t dip when the mercury rises. Choose The Leo Kent Hotel, Tucson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel for your vacation. From here, you can visit the baroque San Xavier del Bac Mission, Tumacácori National Historical Park and the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory on Mount Hopkins.

Utah Crater and Park City, Utah

Slip into a geothermal hot spring inside Utah Crater, a limestone cave in Homestead. With an average temperature of 94 degrees, the sapphire water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboard yoga and scuba diving. Nearby is The St. Regis Deer Valley. This pet-friendly Park City resort offers ski access in the winter, guided hikes, lawn games and “dive-in movies” at the pool.

Book a Marriott Bonvoy hotel with AAA for your summer getaway.

Edited from Marriott Bonvoy Traveler.