Catskills Named Top Underrated Travel Spot for 2025 – Discover Why!

Lake Worth Beach, Florida, USA - Summer travel plans are heating up, and a recent ranking by U.S. News & World Report has revealed some hidden gems for 2025. The list highlights the Catskills in New York as the 17th best underrated travel destination. Known for its skiing and hiking opportunities, the Catskills offer an enchanting blend of natural beauty and diverse lodging options, including cozy cabins and vibrant casinos. The picturesque towns of Catskill and Bethel, famous for the Woodstock Music & Art Fair, add to the allure, creating a travel experience that resonates despite a noted decline in popularity. As Yahoo reports, the challenge of labeling a destination as underrated lies in the varied perceptions of travelers.

But the Catskills aren’t the only spot claiming a prestigious ranking. Des Moines, Iowa, came in at 11th place on the same list, showcasing its affordability and friendly locals. Outdoor activities abound, pairing beautifully with the city’s vibrant culture. The rankings, which include user votes and editor recommendations, reflect the charm and variety that cities like Des Moines provide. This emerging interest is echoed in the data shared by Des Moines Register, noting how user insights inform these choices.

Exploring the List

Beyond the Catskills and Des Moines, the U.S. News list wrapped its arms around several other delightful destinations, including:

• St. Simons Island, Georgia
• Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho
• Big Bend National Park, Texas
• Charlottesville, Virginia
• St. George Island, Florida

The diversity in scenery and activities reflects a growing trend where travelers seek unique or less-explored areas rather than typical tourist traps. Even as these places strive for recognition, they offer a personal touch that can make trips memorable.

This year, vacationers seem ready to discover what lies off the beaten path. As summer rolls in, Milwaukee’s Mitchell International Airport gears up for a busy travel season, expecting millions of travelers as pairings of affordability and adventure beckon. As noted by USA Today, with passenger counts soaring and trending destinations like Madison, Wisconsin, making the list, travelers are finding viable alternatives that fit their budgets.

So, what makes these underrated destinations stand out? It’s the community spirit, the charm of local attractions, and the promise of lesser-known adventures that provide travelers with a sense of discovery. For those itching to explore, perhaps the Catskills or Des Moines is just what the summer doctor ordered. As the travel landscape evolves, these rich locales promise to offer something truly memorable.