There are lesser-known yet extraordinary destinations in the United States that often linger in the shadows of the bright lights of Las Vegas, Los Angeles, or New York. While these cities are undoubtedly iconic, there are lesser-explored but equally fascinating places. Now armed with a visa, it’s time to explore hidden gems and discover the authentic essence of this vast country. These five destinations are must-sees, and I’ll explain why.
1. Kansas City, Missouri: Home to Swifties and Sports
Kansas City is now on the map thanks to a couple of stars who, each in their field, have millions of fans. The American pop queen Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce have everyone rushing to discover the city of fountains.
Kansas City is a true sports mecca, from soccer to pickleball; but beyond sports, visitors can enjoy the vibrant culinary scene, especially its famous BBQ joints, where restaurants grill everything from pork, beef, and chicken to fruits, mushrooms, and fish.
For those visiting Kansas City in the fall, The American Royal is the world’s largest barbecue competition, with over 600 teams and a discerning audience as gourmet as they come.
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico: An Unexpected Folkloric Destination Surrounded by Nature
Set against the incredible backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is a city as mystical as it is eclectic.
This city is steeped in a historical legacy of Native Americans. Its land is famous for its healing qualities and being a spiritual, as well as natural and historical, haven.
Santa Fe is home to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, featuring the exhibition ‘Making a Life’ until March 2024, as well as the fantastic Meow Wolf: a fully immersive art experience called “House of Eternal Return,” with over 70 rooms created by local artists.
The city also hosts eight Native American pueblos and the Santa Fe Indian Market, one of the most prestigious Native American art fairs in the world, showcasing the work of over 200 tribes (taking place from August 17th to 18th, 2024).
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: A Foodie Paradise With a Lot of History
The birthplace of the United States and the first city with the World Heritage City designation, Philadelphia is steeped in history, yet it exudes a vibrant and contemporary culinary and cultural scene.
The Michelin Green Guide names Philly as an “open-air museum” thanks to over 600 statues and more than 4,400 outdoor murals.
Moreover, gastronomy has gained prominence in recent years. Here, foodies can find everything from street food and markets to gourmet restaurants and even BYOB (bring your bottle) establishments.
Philadelphia is famous for its iconic cheesesteaks, hoagies, and soft pretzels made with icy water, as well as the roast pork sandwich.
4. St. Pete / Clearwater in Florida: Endless Beaches and Art
There’s a world beyond Miami. Nestled on a perpetually sunny peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico lies St. Pete / Clearwater, a collection of 24 communities that perfectly blend outdoor activity with an incredible art scene.
In addition to paradise islands, there’s a significant artistic lineup. Here, you’ll find the Dalí Museum with a collection of Salvador Dalí’s works, including Dali Alive 360° Dome, an immersive and multisensory experience that envelops visitors with 360 degrees of light and sound.
Another must-visit is the Imagine Museum, which showcases glass art exhibitions from around the world, featuring the first installation by American sculptor Dale Chihuly.
5. Asheville, North Carolina: The Majestic Mountain City
Shielded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, surrounded by millions of hectares of protected nature and the tallest peaks in the eastern United States, Asheville takes pride in its history and heritage.
With music and vast outdoor spaces, every summer, the Folk Heritage Committee invites visitors and locals to join the celebration ‘Shindig on the Green,’ a free festival supporting the preservation of traditional bluegrass music, as well as southern Appalachian dances and narratives.
For those looking to connect with nature, the city offers facilities for trekking, cycling, rafting, and horseback riding, as well as the opportunity to observe birds, bears, and deer. Here, there’s fun for everyone. Who would have thought that the plains of Kansas, the historic Philadelphia, or the picturesque Asheville could offer so much charm and authenticity?
This story was written in Spanish by Cora Bravo in Cultura Colectiva.
