How to Discover the Hidden Gems at Your Travel Destination 

Americans love to travel, whether to destinations next door or across the globe. Here is how you can make the most of your next trip.

According to Statista data, the number of US residents visiting overseas destinations crossed 53 million in 2024. This was a significant increase from 48.9 million in the previous year. The numbers are likely far more for domestic travel. 

Besides the huge numbers, another aspect of traveling is the approach. It is no longer about landing with a bucket list and sticking with it. Most people love to explore hidden gems, the secret corners of a city or region. These may be neighborhood cafés with home-cooked meals, tranquil parks away from crowds, or offbeat museums and artisan markets.

Such unconventional destinations provide a deeper sense of place and culture, and often become the most memorable parts of a trip. In this article, we will share a few creative ideas to uncover the local treasures that don’t appear on the regular checklists. 

Research Before You Go

A successful quest for hidden gems begins with thorough, intentional research. The internet is the best source. Start by referencing reputable travel blogs, niche magazines, and local newspapers. Look for recent articles and personal stories that share off-the-beaten-path recommendations.

For example, CNN has a list of the best towns in the US to visit in 2025. You will not find the regular popular names on this list, but unexpected destinations like Ithaca (New York), Missoula (Montana), and Asheville (North Carolina). Such sources give you a better chance of finding unexpected destinations.

Also, check platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest for current, geotagged content. Try searching hashtags or location tags related to your destination to get a sense of what locals love. Websites like Reddit (e.g., r/solotravel or city subreddits) and Quora are goldmines for real-time, firsthand tips. 

Think Beyond the Guidebooks

Guidebooks offer useful information, but they often repeat the same mainstream suggestions. While you may rely on them to create a regular itinerary, don’t expect them to cover any destination beyond the popular ones. 

Consider digging deep by exploring alternative media, such as podcasts, YouTube channels, or newsletters produced by locals. These sources will likely spotlight places and experiences overlooked by big publishers. Look for events and pop-ups. Many lesser-known attractions aren’t permanent fixtures; rather, they are seasonal events, local markets, or performances. 

Scan local event calendars for happenings during your stay. Most importantly, learn to read between the lines. Sometimes, the mention of a venue in a tangential context can indicate a special spot removed from the tourist track. For example, you can check a café where writers meet, or a park famous for local dog walkers. 

Talk to the Locals

Local insight is irreplaceable for discovering hidden gems at a destination. Friendly chats with shopkeepers, baristas, taxi drivers, or hosts can yield tips that won’t show up online. Let us give an example of a popular destination with hidden gems: Napa Valley, the premium wine region in the US. 

According to the Wine Spectator, the region welcomed 3.7 million tourists in 2023. This number spells an impressive rebound from the impact of the pandemic. Expect huge crowds in the area, but hidden gems can be found here. You can discover wineries that offer free wine tasting in Napa by asking around. 

According to Napa Valley Aloft, larger estates may charge $40-$100 per tasting. However, smaller tasting rooms and wineries offer free tours for wine lovers who don’t want to spend. Besides locals, you can check community resources like bulletin boards and community centers for information. 

Niche or specialty tours led by locals are also a good option. These include food walks, street art tours, or city hikes, which often highlight lesser-known sites and local favorites.

Keep a Flexible Itinerary

Rigidity is the enemy of discovery, and this is applicable to travelers who want to find places beyond the ordinary. While research and planning are crucial, you must leave room in your schedule for spontaneity.

Allow for detours if you spot a charming alley or hear live music from a distance. Follow your curiosity, even if it means veering off your planned route. Schedule key activities that you don’t want to miss at the destination, but leave unstructured blocks of time in between for unplanned adventures.

Monitor real-time feedback and be open to changing your plans based on recommendations you gather during your travels. Your Instagram feed can be a great source of such recommendations. An article published in The Sun talks about Instagram influencers revealing the most amazing destinations that work as dupes for the popular ones. You can save thousands by checking these hidden gems. 

FAQs

What is the best way to look at travel destinations?

The best way is to combine thorough advance research with in-the-moment curiosity. Use a mix of online resources, local recommendations, and your own instincts. Look beyond the must-sees; seek out neighborhoods, communities, and experiences that align with your personal interests and values.

How to create the perfect travel itinerary?

Creating a perfect itinerary requires a mindful approach. Research the popular options, but also include the hidden gems you can find by asking locals. A flexible bucket list can be the perfect way to explore the best your destination has to offer. 

What is considered a hidden gem?

A hidden gem is a place or experience that isn’t widely known or frequented by the majority of visitors. It offers authenticity, uniqueness, or special local flavor. Hidden gems can range from a tucked-away tea house to a scenic overlook not listed on major travel websites, or a craft market cherished by locals.

The rewards of traveling lie not just in impressive sights that everyone shares on their social media. If you really want to see what a place offers, look for serendipitous moments of discovery. Just putting in a little extra effort will help you find the hidden gems that transform a trip into a rich, memorable experience.