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Unique Travel Destinations Worth Visiting In 6 Popular Vacation Spots

Discover the best hidden gems across the United States

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The Vacationeer
Chicago

Summary: Check out these underrated travel destinations tucked away in some of the most popular cities, and make your trip one for the books.

Every vacation destination has its go-to tourist attractions, and it's only natural to check the boxes off your must-see list. However, there are plenty of unique travel destinations to explore in the most popular cities across America.

Here are underrated travel destinations worth exploring to make your next vacation unforgettable.

1. New York City

For history buffs, there’s plenty of less traditional sightseeing to be had in The Big Apple. See an actual piece of the Berlin Wall in a plaza on Madison Avenue. Discover an old World War I fighter plane on the rooftop of 77 Water Street. Visit the southern tip of Roosevelt Island to explore the forgotten ruins of the country’s first hospital dedicated to treating smallpox patients.

Where to stay in NYC: Soak in picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline while enjoying world-class accommodations at one of our four New York City timeshare properties.

Rest your head at West 57th Street, a Hilton Club, The Quin, a Hilton Club, The Hilton Club — New York or The Residences, a Hilton Club for an incomparable location and award-winning service during your stay in The City That Never Sleeps.

2. Chicago

You won't find a yellow brick road, but Oz Park is worth visiting for Wizard of Oz fans. It's dedicated to Chicago-native Lyman Frank Baum, who authored the beloved children’s book series. Appreciate the wonders of modern medicine at the International Museum of Surgical Science, or check out a real $10,000 bill at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago's Money Museum.

Where to stay in Chicago: Take in the Windy City's breathtaking architectural wonders with spacious accommodations along the Magnificent Mile at Chicago Magnificent Mile, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club.

3. Las Vegas

Step off the crowded Strip, and you’ll find no shortage of one-of-a-kind destinations. Feel like a kid in an arcade at the Pinball Hall of Fame while playing vintage machines from the 1960s to 1980s. Experience the glow of Vegas signs from the past at The Neon Museum® Las Vegas, or marvel at famous rides like the Dukes of Hazzard’s “General Lee” and the Batmobile at the Hollywood Cars Museum.

Where to stay in Las Vegas: Rest and relax amid the bright lights and bustle of Las Vegas at one of our five Sin City properties.

Choose from Elara, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Flamingo, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club,Paradise, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Trump International Hotel Las Vegas, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club or The Boulevard, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club to reserve well-appointed accommodations from studios to 4-bedroom suites.

4. San Francisco

San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz are no secret to travelers, but consider a hike to the top of Grand View Park to test your strength and endurance. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Bay Area.

Open your ears to the sounds of wave-activated music at The Wave Organ, an acoustic sculpture. Travel back to the 1960s and experience hippie subculture on display in the Haight Ashbury district.

Where to stay in San Francisco: Retreat from your adventures in The Golden City at the stylish four-star boutique timeshare Club Donatello, complete with rooftop dining and idyllic views of San Francisco’s Union Square.

5. Myrtle Beach

Sneak away from the crowded boardwalk and promenade to discover Lowcountry history on Sandy Island. Bring your tackle box and hiking shoes because the island, accessible only by boat, is home to plenty of opportunities for fishing and hiking.

Head down to Inlet Point Plantation and saddle up, where you can explore the shoreline by horseback. Spot the birds and wildlife along the hiking trails and boardwalk at Huntington Beach State Park.

Where to stay in Myrtle Beach: Ocean 22, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Anderson Ocean Club, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club and Ocean Enclave, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club each provide the ideal setting to savor the sand, surf and southern charm of one of the most beloved beach towns in America.

6. Miami Beach

Venture away from South Beach to enjoy underrated South Florida fun, but first, begin the day with a Cuban-style breakfast in Miami’s Urban Core. Suit up in your snorkeling and diving gear to explore the reefs of Biscayne National Park.

Experience "Old Florida" at The Barnacle Historic State Park, an area once owned by pioneers or make a splash in the Venetian Pool, where competitive swimmer Esther Williams once made her way through the waters.

Where to stay in Miami: After a day spent discovering this coastal city's hidden gems, grab a mojito and put your feet up at McAlpin Ocean Plaza, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club, which personifies the casual glamour for which this seaside playground is known.

Travel With the Comforts of Home with Vacation Ownership

Experience popular travel destinations worldwide with Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare. From famous attractions to hidden gems off the beaten path, vacation ownership makes exploring the world, how you please, easy.

Read The Benefits of Membership to see how vacation ownership with Hilton Grand Vacations puts the world at your fingertips.

About the Author The Vacationeer
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The Vacationeer is a collective of Hilton Grand Vacations storytellers whose goal is to inspire travelers to go further. We're always on the lookout for new destinations to explore, useful travel tips, and unique ideas to help you plan the most memorable vacations possible.

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