Top 3 Underrated Summer Travel Ideas and Where to Stay

Need some travel inspiration for the summer? The typical beach vacation or theme park vacation can get boring. Where’s the adventure? This summer, take the road less traveled. National parks, picturesque mountain ranges, and seaside towns await the curious traveler. So, pack your hiking boots and explore the great outdoors with these top 3 underrated summer travel ideas. Not to mention, you can kick back in comfort at some amazing outdoor boutique hotels during your vacation.

Underrated Summer Travel Ideas

Escape the busy cityscapes and overcrowded resorts this summer with these truly spectacular destinations in the New York Catskills, the national parks of Wyoming, and Maine’s Mount Desert Island. Not familiar with these pristine locations? Perfect. Adventure wasn’t made in comfort. However, the boutique hotels nearby these destinations were. Read on to learn more and plan your outdoor getaway.

Venture the Hiking Trails of the Catskills

Drop the Upstate New York trip this year and adventure to the Catskills instead. The Catskills are a scenic mountainscape in southeastern New York. Part of the sprawling Appalachian Mountain system, these rolling mountains turn to shades of emerald green in the summer, revealing bare rock formations and rushing waterfalls.

With thousands of miles of picturesque wooded hiking trails, featuring bubbling streams, thundering waterfalls, and countless sparkling lakes, the Catskills mountain range is truly one of the most underrated summer travel ideas. Spend your days wandering the flourishing landscape on foot or bike. Or, enjoy a day spent on the water, fishing or kayaking.

What’s more, the Catskills in the summertime offer a wealth of outdoor summer events you can’t find anywhere else. In fact, the Northern Catskills are known for their vibrant art scene and being a hub of culture, entertainment, and delicious eats and drinks. Farm-to-table local eateries and authentic breweries feed the tummy while nature feeds the soul.

Take a look at some events within the yearly summer line-up below:

• Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival
• Midsummer Magic
• Little Shop of Horrors
• Greene County Youth Fair

Stay at Callicoon Hills

Just two hours from New York City in the small village of Callicoon Center is Callicoon Hills, a casual outdoor boutique hotel. Nestled among the natural beauty of the Catskills, Callicoon Hills boasts charming yet rustic architecture and amenities designed to immerse you in the outdoors while maintaining the warmth and comfort of any top hotel.

During your stay on this 23-acre property, fall into the swing of a peaceful retreat with tranquil fishing on nearby ponds and lakes, invigorating hikes through the Appalachian countryside, or fortifying swims in the property’s pool. To work up even more of a sweat, take a soak in the on-site sauna. This outdoor boutique hotel also offers a restaurant and bar, Conover Club, as well as a coffee shop. So, you never have to sacrifice a full stomach.

Settle by the fire pit in the evening to enjoy the cool breeze and a bit of socializing. Hidden gems of the Catskills are also mere minutes from this pristine outdoor hotel. For instance, Angler’s Paradise is ten minutes up the road and offers five of America’s top trout streams. Moreover, Sullivan County is perfect for both novice and advanced hikers. The terrain varies from flat and smooth to more rustic and wooded, so explore with variety!

Accommodations

What’s more, this Catskills retreat can accommodate at least 140 guests, making it perfect for group getaways. However, smaller groups will fare just fine, as well. Each accommodation option carries one-of-a-kind charm and character reminiscent of the humble outdoors.

First, the Tree House Standard King sleeps two adults and one child. Next, the Deck House Standard King sleeps three adults and one child and is dog-friendly. For larger parties, the A-Frame sleeps three adults and two children. It features wooded privacy, a fire pit, bathhouse access, and individual rain showers. Additionally, the Creekside Suite sleeps four adults and two children and offers a private space that feels like home. Finally, the Pool House rooms sleep two to four guests in a modern indoor room with plush furnishings.

Explore Grand Teton National Park in Jackson, Wyoming

Typically known for being a ski town popular in the winter months, Jackson, Wyoming, is second among underrated summer travel ideas. When it comes to outdoor adventures, a summer trip to Jackson, Wyoming, is truly evergreen. Watch as the region comes to life in the summer, teeming with greenery and natural activity.

The rolling hills and unforgiving mountain spires are home to countless mountain biking trails, as well as opportunities for horseback riding and exploring the stunning landscapes on foot. With both Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest local to the area, you’ll find other outdoor recreation across the surrounding mountains and forests.

What’s more, as part of the greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Jackson Hole is teeming with abundant wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and more. Yet, when you’re ready to immerse yourself in the nearby town, you’ll find plenty to do. Not only does Jackson Hole have a rich history of cowboys and dude ranches, which you’ll see traces of all over, but it is right beside New York and San Francisco as an art hub. Stop to browse nearly 30 local art galleries around town, as well as charming shops and local restaurants.

Other outdoor adventures include:

• Whitewater rafting Snake River Canyon
• Paddleboarding Jenny Lake
• Soaking at Astoria Hot Springs
• Fly fishing Snake River

Stay at Alpine House

Just twenty minutes from Jackson Hole Town Square is Alpine House, a boutique hotel nestled among the majestic Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges. This cozy wooden lodging places you in the heart of Jackson Hole’s scenic beauty, providing respite with quaint gardens, restful nooks, and delicious food.

Rustic, warm, and charming, you’ll quickly settle into this peaceful retreat with all the comforts of home. Enjoy a complimentary chef-prepared breakfast on the porch, snuggle up in the library after a day spent in nature, or unwind in the Finnish sauna on-site, allowing the heat to soothe your aches and pains.

Further, gather for lunch at Glorietta, the on-site restaurant, before heading into town. Or, slip onto a free cruiser bike and explore the scenic trails and historic sites in the area. However you vacation, Alpine House provides a soothing, relaxed atmosphere for your home base and puts you just moments away from the natural beauty of Grand Teton and the rest of Jackson, Wyoming.

Accommodations

Moreover, rooms at Alpine House sleep between two and four guests, featuring plush king, queen, full-size beds, or a combination of such. These charming suites often include either a private or shared bathroom, deep soaking tubs, and balconies. However, this varies by suite. The Alpine House Suite with Kitchenette, however, is the only accommodation that offers a kitchenette.

A gem among underrated summer travel ideas, nature lovers gather for an intimate getaway among the serene landscapes of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. With Alpine House, indulge in the best of both worlds. Enjoy immersive outdoor adventure at a cozy boutique hotel, just steps from the vibrant historic district.

Underrated Summer Travel Ideas: Treehouse Edition

Be enchanted this summer with glamorous treehouse rentals in the scenic Texas Hill Country. Learn more about treehouses below.

Explore Treehouse Rentals

Go Glamping on Mount Desert Island

Finally, Mount Desert Island is the third among underrated summer travel ideas. In the summer months, this location exudes stunning natural beauty and historic charm that is sure to capture the hearts of any avid explorer. Known as the home to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, this memorable summer getaway amazes with pristine beaches and picturesque hiking trails that explore the rounded, bare mountain tops of the island.

What’s more, the island’s maritime heritage offers a rich culture of seaside living that makes for a tranquil, laid-back summer vacation. Enjoy fresh seafood, including the famous Maine lobster, whale watching, wine tasting, and exploring historic sites during your stay. Or, tug on your hiking shoes for a trek up Summit Road to the top of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, the most dominant land feature on the island.

Among the most underrated summer destinations, Mount Desert Island blends coastal ambiance with the wooded charm of the great outdoors. Imagine deep green evergreens beside granite mountains, with the sound of the waves crashing on the shoreline. This New England destination has it all.

Some adventure inspiration for your trip:

• Walk the Shore Path (originating 1880)
• Whale Watching Tour
• Wildwood Stables (carriage rides and tours)
• Downeast Windjammer Cruises (boat tours)

Stay at Terramor Outdoor Resort

A serene glamping experience like no other, Terramor Outdoor Resort allows travelers to embrace the natural landscape of Mount Desert Island without forgoing their comfort. Think of chilly nights around a blazing fire, sipping wine beneath trees of fairy lights, the crunch of leaves beneath your feet, and, most importantly, a soft bed to snuggle into at night. Sound good to you?

In addition, Terramor features down-to-earth amenities designed to immerse you in nature and provide a legitimate camping experience. As such, this one-of-a-kind resort offers hiking trails, a bee apiary, a refreshing pool, a hot tub, grills, and a communal fire pit for socializing over s’mores. However, the glamour can be found in the on-site restaurant and bar, screened windows, wellness programs, events, activities, and, of course, Wi-Fi.

So, take the stress out of camping. Find freedom and bliss in exploring the outdoors unhindered and unbothered with Terramor’s unique glamping experience.

Accommodations

Terramor’s stunning glamping accommodations are as simple and homey as they are soft and lush. The spacious Birch, Alder, and Moosewood tent each sleeps five travelers with plush linens, overhead fans, and stylish bathrooms for your comfort and ease. However, the Alder tent offers a patio for gathering and an updated bathroom.

For smaller groups, the Bayberry and Hemlock Tent each sleep two. These accommodations are perfect for couples on a romantic getaway among beautiful scenery. Both options feature a king-size bed, an overhead fan, and a private bathroom with a luxurious rainwater shower. Yet, the Hemlock Tent features a private outdoor shower, as does the larger Moosewood Tent, to connect to nature in its rawest form.

Book Underrated Summer Travel Ideas

Want more underrated summer travel ideas? Lucky for you, Nook Experiences has unique vacation experiences for every kind of traveler. Our eclectic collection of boutique hotels is thoughtfully curated to provide you with distinctive outdoor getaways without sacrificing comfortable and luxurious accommodations. Click the button below to browse our stunning portfolio and step into adventure.