Sometimes, you just want to go on a low-key vacation and be done with it. No Instagram photos. No expensive business-class flights. Just you and your thoughts.
That’s where this post could help you. It explores some of the affordable, non-showy vacations you could go on in and around the U.S., and why they’re worth doing.
Asheville, NC
One low-key destination that isn’t on many people’s radar is Asheville in NC. This town is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers things like hiking trails, craft beers, and art.
Most people who travel to this location do it to check out the Biltmore Estate gardens. These are stunning and show that there was once profound wealth in the area.
You can also go to the local breweries in and around the town. These are supported by quirky shops selling cheers and farm products.
Keene, TX
If you really want to get away from it all, you might consider going to Keene in North Texas. Here, you can find RV Ranch, park up, and then settle in for a week or two, or a long-term stay, using all the nearby facilities as you please.
Most people who go to this area travel to the Cleburne State Park. This is where you can go hiking and encounter wildlife (so be careful).
You can also check out the nearby Fort Worth Stockyards. These feel like going back 100 years into Texan history, watching the ranchers marshal and sell their cattle.
Taos, NM
If you want a low-key trip to New Mexico, you might consider checking out Taos. This location is a hybrid of Native American culture and a sort of boho vibe. Not many people visit, so it is the sort of place that will always give you something new to do if you decide to go there.
Hiking the Rio Grande Gorge is perhaps the best thing to do here. Just make sure you go prepared with plenty of water, especially in the summer.
You could also pay a visit to Taos Plaza. Here, you’ll find various art galleries and exhibits to enjoy. Many people stay here for hours, just looking around away from the crowds.
Another option is to stay in a casita and then go to Taos Pueblo.
Finger Lakes, NY
The Finger Lakes in New York state have criminally few people visiting them every year, and nobody seems to know why. People love New York as a whole, but this area attracts surprisingly few individuals and families.
If you head to this part of the state, make sure you go wine tasting at Keuka and Seneca Lakes. These have among the best wineries anywhere in the northeast.
Sanibel Island, FL
Finally, Sanibel Island in Florida could be a great low-key destination if you want to go to the beach and avoid high-rise construction projects, which dominate most of the rest of the state.
If you like cycling, we recommend J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a great place to get out into nature and just enjoy yourself.
