In the diverse landscape of American tourism, there are states that everyone wants to visit (California, New York, Florida, etc), iconic national parks, coastal beauties and then there are the lesser-known gems, the indie films of travel, if you will. States that quietly revel in the background in their own authenticity, waiting for the discerning traveler to stumble upon their beauty. In this article, we’ll cover the least visited states in the US for a different experience.
Exploring the Uncharted: Least Visited States
The United States is one of the most visited countries in the world but most people who visit or plan to visit this country, they associate it with cities like Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, etc. but let’s not forget that the US consists of 50 states and many of them get barely if any international visitors.
Data Collection & Raning Criteria
For the purpose of ranking the least visited states in the US, we have used data from several different sources, including U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, the World Tourism Organization, and independent research websites like Statista. We have gathered the numbers from different sources, made moving averages of the data, and adjusted it for seasonality, getting to this list of 12 least visited states in the US.
So, let’s dig in and answer the question…
Alaska
We’re starting the list of least visited states in the US with Alaska. On average, Alaska welcomed approximately 2.26 million visitors per year. Of these, the majority were domestic travelers, and only 130,000 international visitors. However, when compared to the bustling streets of New York or the star-studded boulevards of California, these numbers might seem a bit… frosty.
Why So Chilly On The Visitor Front?
Alaska might be the largest state in the U.S., but it’s not the most frequented, and there are a few reasons for that:
Distance & Accessibility: For many, Alaska feels like that distant cousin who lives overseas. It’s not as easy to pop by for a weekend visit.
Climate Concerns: Alaska’s chilly temperatures and long, dark winters aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.
Cost: Venturing to Alaska can be pricier than other stateside destinations.
Alaska Highlights
But for those who dare to venture, Alaska offers an array of unforgettable experiences that aren’t just about spotting polar bears (though that’s pretty cool, pun intended):
Northern Lights: Nature’s very own psychedelic light show, the auroras offer a mesmerizing dance of colors in the sky.
Midnight Sun: With nearly 24 hours of daylight during certain months, you can do anything you want.
Glacier Tours: Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of glaciers up close, either by boat or, for the more adventurous, by ice trekking.
Wildlife Galore: You can see whales breaching in the waters and bald eagles soaring overhead, making Alaska a wildlife lover’s dream.
Indigenous Culture: you can experience first hand Alaska’s indigenous culture.
Quirky Events: Ever watched moose dropping or participated in an outhouse race? That’s just one of many.
Idaho
The bread and butter (or should I say, the potato and butter?) of Idaho’s tourism lies in its vast landscapes, from the peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains to the depths of the Hells Canyon but even despite this, it’s still one of the least visited states in the US. Approximately 6.2 million fellow Americans and 40,000 international visitors explore these rugged landscapes annually.
Potatoes And… Privacy? Why Idaho’s Not A Tourist Magnet
Quiet Competitor: With neighbors like Montana’s Glacier National Park and Wyoming’s Yellowstone, Idaho’s wonders often stay in the background.
Marketing Mutedness: Idaho’s not out there with a megaphone, shouting about its beauty and that’s an important factor.
The Great Misconception: Some think it’s all about agriculture. And while Idaho does sport the most delightful potatoes, it’s so much more than a one-crop wonder.
Idaho Highlgihts
Sun Valley: A winter wonderland, it’s the Aspen for those in the know – without the Colorado price tag.
Shoshone Falls: Sorry, Niagara Falls, you’ve got competition. Higher than its eastern counterpart, this natural beauty is an Instagrammer’s dream.
Coeur d’Alene: This isn’t just a pretty name; it’s a lakeside paradise perfect for boat trips, picnics, and some top-notch R&R.
Boise’s Boomin’ Scene: From a lively arts scene to some unexpectedly hip eateries and craft breweries, Boise is one of America’s most underrated cities.
The Scenic Byways: Particularly the Sawtooth National Scenic Byway which is one of the most scenic road trips in the US.
Historic Wallace: A silver-mining town where every single building is on the National Historic Register.
Wyoming
Next up on this list of the least visited states in the US we have Wyoming which attracts a cool 8-9 million U.S. adventurers and about 150,000 international travelers annually.
Reasons Wyoming’s Not Getting All the RSVPs:
Wide Open Spaces: Wyoming has a population density so low, even the tumbleweeds need GPS to find each other.
No Direct Routes to Fame: Wyoming isn’t the poster child on most direct flights. It’s not typically a “passing through” state unless you plan to visit the Old Faithful or Devil’s Tower.
Underestimated Underdog: Wyoming’s rep is that of an empty expanse, but it actually has a lot of natural beauties.
Wyoming Highlights
Yellowstone National Park: There’s a reason it’s the first national park ever. With geysers, hot springs, and grizzlies, it’s a mosaic of Mother Nature’s finest work.
Grand Teton National Park: Those mountains aren’t just for postcards, it’s one of the best places in the country for hiking, climbing, or just some good ol’ gazing.
Cheyenne Frontier Days: Rodeo, anyone? Dubbed the “Daddy of ’em All,” this annual event is a wild, rootin-tootin’ celebration of the American West.
Devil’s Tower: Wyoming’s eerie, iconic landmark has been a sacred site for Native Americans and a climbing hotspot for daredevils.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West: Dive deep into the history of the Wild West via this often forgotten historic museum.
Hot Springs State Park: No spa can rival nature’s own.
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Delaware
This small state may be the first to ratify the Constitution and is an administrative hub, but it’s often last on most travel bucket lists and as such, a natural fit for this list of least visited states in the US. Around 9 million domestic travelers and 60,000 foreigners dip their toes into Delaware waters or just stop by for a tax-free shopping spree.
Reasons Delaware Might Be Getting Ghosted:
Size Matters (Or Does It?): Being the second-smallest state in the U.S., some folks might think there’s less to see.
Overshadowed Neighbors: With heavy hitters like New York, D.C., and Philly nearby, Delaware is often forgotten.
Stealthy State: Many only know of Delaware from their history books or business dealings.
Delaware Highlights
Rehoboth Beach: A sun-soaked haven that offers saltwater taffy, boardwalks, and festivals. It’s like the Hamptons without the Hampton prices.
Delaware Wine and Ale Trail: Who needs Napa when you’ve got 20 craft beverage locations offering beer, wine, and spirits?
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library: Once owned by the du Pont family, this estate is a feast for the eyes with its sprawling gardens and American decorative arts.
Dover International Speedway: A sanctuary for NASCAR fans.
Delaware Seashore State Park: A coastal paradise perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and seafood binging.
Hagley Museum and Library: The birthplace of the DuPont Company where you can experience the mix of industry, innovation, and elegance.
Fort Delaware State Park: Time travel to the Civil War era and experience life as it was on Pea Patch Island.
Connecticut
The Nutmeg State, where people often mistakenly leave out one of the “c’s” and one of the “n’s”. With around 250,000 international visitors and 9-10 million domestic visitors annually, Connecticut is one of the least visited states in the US.
Connecticut: Under The Radar, But Why?
Overshadowed Elegance: Nestled between the Big Apple and Boston, it’s a bit like being the incredibly talented middle sibling in a superstar family.
Low-Key Vibes: Connecticut doesn’t scream; it whispers its elegance.
“It’s Just a Commuter State”: Some might mistakenly think of Connecticut merely as a throughway to flashier destinations. Their loss, right?
Connecticut Highlights
Yale University: The Ivy League beauty located in New Haven is worth the trip with Its museums, architecture, and cultural offerings.
The Mystic Seaport: The nation’s leading maritime museum.
The Mark Twain House & Museum: Ever wanted to step into the world of Huck Finn or Tom Sawyer? Hartford is just the place.
Gillette Castle State Park: A medieval fortress meets American ingenuity.
Covered Bridges: Connecticut boasts some of the most picturesque covered bridges in the country, and each tells a story.
Greenwich: A delightful cocktail of upscale charm and coastal allure.
Montana
Next on this list of least visited states in the US, we have Montana. On average, Montana is visited by 12-13 million visitors every year. When it comes to international amigos making their way to Montana, the numbers flutter around the 60,000 mark annually. It’s not a metropolis-like influx, but hey, more unspoiled nature for the rest of us!
The Low Down On The Low Foot Traffic
Geographical Peekaboo: Tucked up and nestled against Canada, Montana doesn’t exactly wave a big flag on the map of the US.
Ad Campaign Under the Radar: Unlike the flashy adverts of California beaches or the neon allure of Vegas, Montana’s marketing is like its nature, subtle and understated.
Isolation Sensation: Some folks like a bustling city corner with a Starbucks at every turn. Montana offers something a bit… quieter.
Montana Highlights
Glacier National Park: This is THE park. It’s where clouds come down to kiss the mountains and where you’ll regret wearing those not-so-comfy shoes. But oh, the views!
Yellowstone’s North Entrance: Most people flock to Wyoming’s Yellowstone gates but Montana’s Gardiner is as beautiful and a lot less crowded.
Missoula’s Hipster Vibes: Craft breweries, art walks, and a pinch of that classic Montana ruggedness. It’s like Brooklyn had a baby with the Wild West.
Big Sky Resort: Ever wondered where the term “Big Sky Country” comes from? Spend a day here, and you’ll get it.
The Great Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame: Yes, it’s real. And yes, you can learn the difference between a lasso and a lariat.
Bannack Ghost Town: For a touch of eeriness sprinkled with history.
Vermont
This list of the least visited states in the US couldn’t be complete without Vermont. An estimated 100,000 international explorers and 13-14 million US travelers don their best flannel and venture to Vermont every year.
Why Vermont Isn’t Isn’t a Mainstream Maven
Location, Location, Location: Vermont isn’t precisely on the way to…well, anywhere. Unless you’re a die-hard leaf peeper or on a pilgrimage to Ben & Jerry’s, it’s a bit of a detour.
Hibernation Station: Vermont winters can be colder than a snowman’s nose, not everyone’s cup of tea.
Quiet Marketing: You don’t see a lot of tourism promotions about Vermont. It’s quiet like the wind rustling its iconic fall foliage.
Vermont Highlights
Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour: Need we say more? Get your spoons ready and indulge in some frozen euphoria.
Lake Champlain: This freshwater giant offers islands to explore, waters to sail, and even stories of a mysterious lake monster (take that, Loch Ness)!
Stowe: Ski in the winter, hike in the summer. Plus, if you’re into craft beer, the renowned Alchemist Brewery calls Stowe home.
Maple Open House Weekend: March in Vermont means maple galore, so tap a tree, savor syrup, and eat as many pancakes as you can.
Covered Bridges: With over 100 of these picturesque beauties, you can literally and figuratively cross many bridges when you come to them.
Shelburne Museum: Think of it as an eclectic treasure chest of American history, spread over 45 acres. Art, architecture, and Americana in one sweet spot.
South Dakota
You might think that Mount Rushmore alone would be enough to remove South Dakota from the list of least visited states in the US but you’d be wrong. Approximately 15-16 million U.S. residents satisfy their wanderlust and 100,000 international travelers visit this state (and I don’t blame them, it’s in the middle of nowhere, after all) .
Why’s Everyone Passing Up On South Dakota?
Hidden Gem Syndrome: Most people who visit the west coast venture to California’s coast with Oregon and Seattle following after. As you can see by now, most states in the Midwest are often forgotten and take a backseat in the tourism world and South Dakota is no exception.
Expectation vs. Reality: People might think South Dakota is just flat plains, but that’s actually wrong.
Overshadowed Neighbors: With neighbors like Wyoming’s Yellowstone and Colorado’s Rockies, South Dakota’s splendors often get eclipsed by its more famous neighbors.
Perception of Remoteness: For many, South Dakota might feel like it’s in a far-off land, akin to where the wild things are and its central location perceived as “in the middle of nowhere,” doesn’t help its case.
South Dakota Highlights
Mount Rushmore: More than just a giant stone selfie of four U.S. presidents, it’s a symbol of our country.
Badlands National Park: It’s as if Mars and Earth had a baby and gave birth to a surreal, rugged landscape.
Custer State Park: Want to play ‘Spot the Bison’? This is your playground.
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: Rev your engines, because this is the Super Bowl of biker rallies.
Deadwood: A town straight out of a Western, with a history filled with outlaws, cowboys, and gamblers.
Corn Palace: Yep, you read that right. An entire palace. Made of corn. It’s quirky, corny (pun intended), and so worth an Instagram post.
Nebraska
Next on our list of least visited states in the US, we have Nebraska. Roughly 19-20 million U.S wanderers and 30,000 foreign globetrotters choose to spend their vacation days visiting Nebraska.
Nebraska: Overlooked Or Just Over-Shadowed?
Big Fish, Bigger Pond: Let’s face it; America is jam-packed with tourist-heavy states. With coastlines and mountains, sometimes the heartland just doesn’t get the love it deserves.
Quiet Achiever: Nebraska’s not about the glitz and glam. It doesn’t flaunt. It’s like that student who aces the test without waving their grade around.
Overshadowed: Next to Colorado’s Rockies and South Dakota’s Badlands and Mount Rushmore, Nebraska might seem a bit demure.
Nebraska Highlights
Omaha’s Old Market: Cobbled streets unique boutiques, and a dining scene that will have you loosening your belt buckle.
Chimney Rock: This iconic landmark guided pioneers westward and still stands tall, as one of the most important historic landmarks in this part of the country.
Carhenge: Think Stonehenge but with cars. It’s quirky, it’s kitschy, and it’s oh-so-Nebraska.
The Sandhills: One of America’s most unique landscapes, these grass-covered dunes ripple on for miles.
Henry Doorly Zoo: We’re talking world-class here. From desert domes to massive aquariums, it’s a whole globe-trot in one place.
Nebraska Star Party: In the absence of city lights, the stars over the Snake River shine brighter than your grandma’s sequin collection.
North Dakota
On average, North Dakota welcomed about 20 million visitors which may seem like a rather large number but it’s still one of the top 10 least visited states in the US. But hold your horses! This figure includes domestic visitors on leisure trips, business ventures, and even those just passing through. When it comes to international visitors, the number is a tad more modest—sitting somewhere around the 30,000 mark.
Why The Cold Shoulder For North Dakota?
Why, you might ask, does North Dakota play second fiddle in the U.S. tourism orchestra?
Off the Beaten Path: Unlike its attention-grabbing siblings (looking at you, Florida), North Dakota isn’t on many international travel radars. Its remote location and lack of shouty landmarks is the main factor for this.
Weather Woes: With winters that can turn your nose hairs to icicles and summers that can fry an egg on the pavement, North Dakota’s climate isn’t always the most welcoming.
Marketing (or Lack Thereof): North Dakota isn’t exactly throwing Super Bowl ads or flashy billboards our way. Many folks just don’t realize what they’re missing out on.
North Dakota Highglights
For those curious souls willing to sidestep the mainstream, North Dakota boasts:
Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Named after ol’ Teddy himself, this park is a beautiful mixture of badlands, forests, prairies, and diverse wildlife.
Maah Daah Hey Trail: A mouthful to say, but oh, what a sight to see! One of the longest single-track trails in America, it’s a dream for bikers, hikers, and nature lovers alike.
Fargo: Not just a movie, folks. This quirky city (well, town, really) offers an eclectic mix of arts, culture, and a dash of the unexpected. Ever seen a wood chipper turned into a monument? Now’s your chance!
Norwegian Heritage in Minot: “Velkommen” to the Norsk Høstfest, North America’s largest Scandinavian festival. Enjoy folk music, lefse, and perhaps even an encounter with a Viking or two.
Legendary Sunsets: You might think sunsets are more or less the same everywhere but in North Dakota, they’re special. You often get a hue of pink or purple, affected by the Northern Lights that although not appearing here, influence the colour of sky and make up for a nice spectacle.
Mississippi
Around 23 million American wanderlusters and 150,000 globetrotters opt to explore Mississippi annually, placing it on the 11th spot of the list of least visited states in the US.
The Mystery Of Mississippi’s Muted Popularity
Neighborly Shadows: With iconic states like Louisiana and Tennessee flashing their jazzy and country vibes respectively, Mississippi often plays second (or in this case, third fiddle).
Perception Predicaments: Just like its southern siblings, Mississippi grapples with some outdated stereotypes and some of it might be true but things aren’t so bad in Mississippi.
Mississippi Highlights
The Mississippi Delta Blues: Grab a front-row seat at one of the juke joints in Clarksdale. From B.B. King to Muddy Waters, Mississippi lives and breathes good, old blues.
Natchez Trace Parkway: A 444-mile scenic drive filled with history, hiking, and harmonious views.
Vicksburg National Military Park: Civil War buff? Here’s your playground. Explore the battlegrounds, monuments, and trenches of America’s nation-defining conflict.
Gulf Islands National Seashore: Golden sands, azure waters, and that elusive tranquility we’re all seeking—this is a beach bumming with a touch of Southern grace.
Mississippi Civil Rights Museum: A deeply moving and powerful narrative of the civil rights movement.
The Walter Anderson Museum of Art: Celebrate the artistic spirit of the South, with a deep dive into the works of this iconic 20th-century American painter.
Rhode Island
Last but not least, we wrap up this list of the least visited states in the US with Rhode Island. A cool 23 million Americans say “Let’s scoot over to the Ocean State” annually while 150,000 worldly wanderers trade in their globe-trotting shoes for Rhode Island’s coastal charm each year.
Why Rhode Island Is One Of The Least Visited States In The US?
Diminutive Dimensions: Being the smallest state means there’s less territory to explore. Some tourists mistakenly think they can cover it during a pit stop.
Overshadowed by Siblings: With bustling neighbors like New York and Massachusetts, Rhode Island can sometimes feel like the middle child of the Northeast.
Quiet Demeanor: Unlike its flashy peers, Rhode Island isn’t known for its braggadocio. It’s more the classy, reserved type at the party.
Limited Airport Links: T.F. Green Airport, while efficient, doesn’t have the extensive flight connections that larger hubs offer.
Rhode Island Highlights
Newport: Think grandiose mansions that give Downton Abbey a run for its money, scenic cliff walks, and the iconic Newport Jazz Festival.
Providence: This capital city has WaterFire—an art installation that sets the downtown river ablaze (in a good way)—and a culinary scene that’ll make your taste buds think they’ve gone to flavor heaven.
Block Island: Just a ferry ride away, this island offers serene beaches, scenic bluffs, and the sort of tranquility you’d expect from a meditation retreat.
RISD Museum: Art enthusiasts, this one’s for you. With over 100,000 artworks, this museum in Providence is a testament to creativity.
The Breakers Mansion: Step back in time and get a taste of the Gilded Age. It’s opulence, darling!
Narragansett Bay: Ideal for those who love sailing, fishing, or just lounging by the water with a seafood platter in hand.
How did you like this list of the least visited states in the US? Did you ever get the chance to visit any of these underrated destinations? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below.
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