Tired of visiting overcrowded vacation spots?

If you're anything like me, sometimes you just want to unwind in a peaceful, relaxing vacation destination.  Don't get me wrong, sometimes you want to be a tourist and go where all the people go but I also get wanting to choose a spot where it's quiet and chill. In my traveling adventures, I've done both but for the sake of this post I've put together my top United States vacation destinations that aren't overly crowded. 

The list has a city in each region of the US so pick a place and go enjoy! 

Stinson Beach, California: If you follow this blow then you'll know I've already done a couple of posts on Stinson Beach, mainly because I love this little town! It is one of Northern California's best kept secrets! My husband and I stayed in Stinson Beach during the month of February which was a downtime for the community but you could still do everything you want in the winter other than lay out at the actual beach.  If you're looking to catch some rays I'd recommend going in the summer months but since it's on the Pacific it's always going to be a bit windy and the water will always be chilly.  Some of my favorite things to do in this area include hiking, eating at the amazing local restaurants, and taking a day road trip up Highway One. 

Overlooking Stinson Beach from one of the many hiking trails

Boone, North Carolina: Boone is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway so I'd highly recommend renting a car for this trip or taking a road trip to the area as the drive is beautiful! We went "in season" to the area which is in the winter months because of the mountains and skiing but it still wasn't crowded because there are other more popular towns around Boone.  Although, all of the towns in this area are within close proximity and it doesn't take long to go from one town to the next.  The downtown area is very quaint and has a ton of cute stores.  Boone is also home to the original Mast General Store.  There are so many great hiking trails around the area but if you're only picking one then you should definitely hike Linville Falls.  Boone just oozes the chill mountain vibe.  This is one of those places that you could rent a cozy cabin, build a fire, and play games as a family and be as happy as ever. 

Mountain View, Arkansas: Some of you may know that Mountain View holds a special place in my heart because my parents now live here.  At first, it was somewhere close to our hometown that we could enjoy a long weekend get-a-way but now they've officially made the move and every time I visit I feel like I'm on a vacation.  Mountain View is mostly for the outdoor adventurer.  Some of my favorite things to do here include trout fishing on the White River, floating down the Sylamore creek either in a kayak or canoe, and exploring numerous trails that lead to beautiful waterfalls and overlooks.  Blanchard Springs Caverns is located in Mountain View.  It's a living cavern and can hardly be described in words!  If you go to Mountain View you have to experience the caves.  They have a ton of different guided tours.  Another fun family adventure would be the Loco Ropes!  It's an adventure park offering treetop activities like rope climbs, bridge walks, and zip-lining. 

Making friends in Mountain View

Floating down the Sylamore Creek

Omaha, Nebraska: There are a multitude of things to do in Omaha! You could spend a long weekend there or even a full week and you wouldn't get it all done.  Omaha boasts the number one zoo in the entire world, that's right, in the world!  The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a must visit!  I've been to the zoo at least five times and it never gets old. Another place in Omaha that's amazing to visit is the Lauritzen Gardens which is a living museum of plant displays.  It has both indoor and outdoor displays and is a hidden sanctuary in the heart of the city.  Speaking of museums, Omaha has the Durham Museum which features Omaha and Nebraska history as well as traveling exhibits.  This town also plays host to some of the best restaurants in America.  Lastly, for adults only, Omaha boasts a number of awesome breweries and a great beer selection. 

Just hanging out at the zoo!

The Florida Keys (not Key West): The only reason I say "not Key West" is because this post is about vacation in places that aren't overly crowded. I love Key West and have nothing but great things to say about it but it's always crawling with people.  If you're looking for more of a relaxing stay, there are so many other keys you can visit.  This string of tropical islands are known as a destination to fish, boat, snorkel, and dive.  I'd highly recommend staying at a number of different keys during one trip as each island offers its own unique atmosphere and vibe. You can feed the Tarpon at Robbie's in Islamorada, explore John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, visit The Turtle Hospital in Marathon, and pick a spot on any beach to enjoy yourself and gaze out at the beautiful blue water.  

Andrew fly fishing in the Keys

This list of places to visit in the US is mostly unconventional and that's why I like it! But hey, don't knock a place until you've been there! I would love to know what some of your favorite destinations are that aren't overly crowded tourists spots or if you'd been to any of the places I have listed.