10 U.S. Alternatives to International Destinations
Here at Moon Travel Guides, we love the excitement of international trips to far-flung locales, but we know they’re not always feasible. Whether a big trip just isn’t in the budget this year or you’re running out of vacation days, we’ve got you covered! Consider these U.S. alternatives to international destinations for a wonderful getaway closer to home.
Instead of the Netherlands, try Holland, Michigan
Anyone wanting a taste of the Netherlands here in the U.S. should pay a visit to Holland, Michigan. For years, people of Dutch ancestry dominated the city of Holland, and residents know it’s the Dutch touch that brings thousands of visitors each year.
The city hits its stride in early May, when the annual Tulip Time Festival is in full bloom, but you can visit the Veldheer Tulip Gardens anytime in the spring to see this rainbow of blooms (followed by more perennials such as lilies, then annuals from June to October). Adjacent to the gardens, the De Klomp Wooden Shoe & Delftware Factory is the only working Delft production factory in the United States.
And Holland’s iconic windmill presides over the east end of town: The 240-year-old De Zwaan (The Swan) was shipped to Michigan in 1964, the last authentic windmill the Dutch government allowed to leave the Netherlands. Guides give careful and thorough tours of the wooden windmill, lovingly reconstructed and still operating.
Instead of the Greek Islands, try Tarpon Springs, Florida
If you’re daydreaming about white sand beaches, azure waters, and maybe a cold ouzo lemonade, but the Greek Islands are a bit too far away, explore Tarpon Springs in Florida instead!
Tarpon Springs is one of the most concentrated Greek American communities in the U.S. The atmosphere is like that of a Greek coastal town — think fishing boats, grilled seafood bright with lemon and herbs, and lively festivals. Visit famous St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral to see its intricate stained-glass windows and detailed ceiling or check out the historic Sponge Docks and learn about the city’s heritage.
Instead of Morocco, try New Mexico
If experiencing the otherworldly landscape of the Sahara feels too far-flung, check out New Mexico’s White Sands National Park. The sand itself is a little different—in White Sands, the powder beneath your feet actually contains gypsum. This mineral, which is used in toothpaste, makes up 98 percent of the dunes in White Sands.
Much like the Sahara, summer sees blistering heat with mid-day temperatures up to 110°F, so consider a visit in spring or fall when the weather is more pleasant. (Spring visitors will want to wear protective glasses, since wind gusts get up to 50 mph!)
Take a ranger-led Moonlight Hike to see a sky full of stars, play in the white sand off of Dunes Drive, or go on a backpacking adventure for the chance to stay in the park overnight.
Instead of the Galápagos Islands, try the Channel Islands, California
Any avid nature lover probably has the famed Galápagos Islands at the top of their bucket list. But there’s a shockingly similar getaway much closer to home. California’s Channel Islands National Park is a haven for wildlife watching, with hundreds of endemic plant species and unique animals like the tiny island fox. This archipelago is studded with lush forests and sandy coves (sound familiar?) that provide tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation, as well as visitor centers with interactive scientific exhibits.
But these two destinations have more in common than just ecology—they also share names! Funnily enough, there is a “Santa Cruz Island” at each location, and both are known for having fantastic diving and snorkeling sites. While not as remote, a visit here is still sure to ingrain a sense of wonder and respect for nature’s delicately balanced ecosystems, just like the Galápagos Islands.
Get inspired, get outdoors, and discover the wild beauty of the United States with parks expert Becky Lomax in Moon USA National Parks.
Instead of Germany, try Leavenworth, Washington
The mountains are calling, and you should go! For a taste of Germany right here in the United States, head to Leavenworth, Washington. This town in the North Cascades features extensive Bavarian-style architecture and a stunning alpine setting.
Year-round outdoor recreation includes skiing and snowboarding, hiking, rock climbing, and water sports like white-water rafting and tubing. Leavenworth also hosts many seasonal festivals, including Maifest in the spring, the annual Christmas Lighting Festival in December, and Oktoberfest in the fall. The town comes alive with yodeling, live polka music, and lots of traditional German costumes.
Leavenworth’s charming downtown features plenty of shopping and unique stops like the Nutcracker Museum, home to over 9,000 nutcrackers. After a busy day exploring, kick back with a bratwurst at a Bavarian beer garden and watch the sun set over the beautiful Cascades.
Instead of Provence, France, try Door County, Wisconsin
Calling all oenophiles! Wisconsin might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a world-class wine-tasting destination, but Door County is a hidden gem. For a top-notch tasting experience, check out Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery or Red Oak Winery. Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market has pick-your-own-fruits, a summer cherry festival, and winter sleigh rides in addition to award-winning fruit wines.
Visitors can also enjoy Door County’s outstanding natural beauty. Colorful bays are surrounded by variegated shoreline: 250 miles (more than any other US county) of alternately rocky beaches, craggy bluffs, blossom-choked orchards, bucolic heath, and meadows. Hikers, cyclists, and fishing enthusiasts will find a plethora of options to get outside in any season. Spring and early summer bring blooms of wildflowers, apples, and cherry trees, while fall comes alive with stunning foliage.
After a long day of exploring charming towns, cap off your evening with an authentic Wisconsin dining experience and head to a classic supper club or experience the one-of-a-kind theatrics of a Door County fish boil.
Instead of Costa Rica, try Puerto Rico
U.S.-based travelers seeking the rainforest atmosphere of Costa Rica can find it passport-free (and potentially closer to home) in Puerto Rico.
Visit the only tropical rainforest in the United States, El Yunque National Forest, which is the crown jewel of Puerto Rico’s natural treasures and a hiker’s paradise. It encompasses 29,000 acres and contains some of the only virgin forest remaining on the island. This ecologically diverse wonderland is home to thousands of native plants, including 150 fern species and 240 tree species, and a variety of birds and reptiles.
Of course, you’ll also find gorgeous beaches, surf lessons, and ziplining adventures, making it a wonderful alternative to Costa Rica or other Central American destinations.
Instead of the Swiss Alps, try Vail, Colorado
If you’re itching to explore the quirky, colorful towns tucked into the Swiss Alps, might we suggest Colorado’s Vail instead. With its perfectly cozy village streets and jaw-dropping mountain views, you won’t be left wanting. The architecture here is intended to mirror towns in Austria and Switzerland, so you’ll feel utterly transported as you wander the downtown square.
Vail, just like the Swiss Alps, offers world-class outdoor recreation year-round. You can glide down the powdery slopes of a ski resort one month and hike along glittering blue lakes and lush tree lines the next! Witness the wildflowers blooming in the spring or take a chairlift ride and soar over a sea of orange and yellow foliage in the fall. These destinations are similarly idyllic, with their stunning landscapes, lavish cabins, and tranquil small towns.
Instead of Atlantic Canada, try the San Juan Islands, Washington
If you’re yearning for the quiet coastal escape of Atlantic Canada, but hoping to stay a bit closer to home, consider the windswept shorelines of the San Juan Islands in Washington. The rocky bluffs, evergreen forests, and cold, salty Pacific air don’t disappoint.
From whale-watching and kayaking to oyster shacks and forest hikes, there’s no shortage of things to do. Each season comes with its own unique experiences, whether it’s outdoor dining from local farms in the summer (July – September) or moody, foggy morning walks in winter (November – February). Whatever the season, there’s nothing like watching a Pacific Northwest sunset.
Instead of Dublin, Ireland, try Boston, Massachusetts
If you’re dreaming of the Emerald Isle’s bustling capital, look no further than its twin metropolis: Boston, Massachusetts. It’s no shock that these energetic, timeless cities have so much in common, as much of New England’s population today has Irish ancestry (due to mass immigration during the Great Famine). Irish influence is still everywhere in Boston: from the Irish punk band covers of sea shanties pouring out of local bars to the city’s NBA team mascot (a leprechaun!) dancing on the flags hanging throughout downtown.
Wander down Boston’s twisting cobblestone alleys in search of a pint and explore the campuses of distinguished universities like MIT and Harvard. Or cross the Charles on one of the many bridges for a stunning view of the skyline set against the charming brick homes built along the river. These iconic cities seem to share a spirit, from their nation-defining history to their cozy, pub-lined streets.
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