crescent hotel tours eureka springs

Uncover the Untold Stories of America’s Most Haunted Hotel

Step into a world where restless spirits roam and whispers of the past echo through time. Embark on an extraordinary journey through the haunted corridors of America’s Most Haunted Hotel, where chilling tales await.

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America's Most Haunted Hotel

America’s Most Haunted Hotel is in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Officially known as the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa, its legend has been formed from the many “guests who check out but never leave”.  Have you heard about the Baker Burial Site?   Check out the Bizarre Discovery found in 2019.

Eureka Springs offers year-round haunted tours, chilling shows, ghost stories, and thrilling events. The secluded mountain city comes to life with séances and zombies every Halloween. Whether you are looking for an investigation, a murder mystery, or a ghost hunt – Eureka Springs is the paranormal destination for you!

Stay at the Haunted Crescent Hotel

• 1 night stay in a Premium Room
• $75 credit to the Crystal Dining Room
• 2 Tickets to the Ghost Tour
• 2 Ghost Mugs

Ghost Sightings at the Crescent Hotel

Ghost seen in the main lobby

Ghostly image in a jacuzzi suite

Unknown mist in front of the hotel

Mysterious woman walking upstairs

Baby face in a mirror

Strange figure in a window

Misty image in the garden

Close-up of girl's face on a wall

Shop our collection of America's Most Haunted Memories

Popular Events

Crescent Hotel Ghost Tours

Eureka Springs Paranormal Weekends

Basin Park Hotel Paranormal Investigation

Kids Ghost Tour!

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More from inside the hotel.

Crescent Hotel Ghost Tour

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Crescent Hotel Ghost Tour - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Arkansas' Mountaintop Spa Resort

1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa

Perched high above the Victorian Village of Eureka Springs, Arkansas is the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa, a palatial structure and landmark hotel known widely in the Ozark Mountains as the “symbol of hospitality” for the State of Arkansas and brought to life year round.

Creating Lifetime Memories

At the Crescent Hotel, we have been creating lifetime memories since 1886. Steeped in rich history and nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty, our renowned establishment is the perfect setting to make your moments truly unforgettable. Whether it's an enchanting wedding, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, our dedicated team is committed to ensuring every detail exceeds your expectations.

Guest Rooms, Suites, & Cottages

• PREMIUM ROOMS Victorian accents and modern conveniences are the trademark of these accommodations.
• SUITES These are the finest suites with the highest amenities. All suites feature king beds and a seating area.
• COTTAGES Cabins surrounded by walking and bike trails, pristine woodlands, and fine gardens.

What’s Happening in Eureka Springs

Eat, Drink, Enjoy

Eureka Springs’ Crescent Hotel offers many unique dining experiences, from casual dining to memorable events and celebrations happening every week.

Detox & Refuel

Feel Relaxed, Look Beautiful and Be Happy at the Crescent Hotel’s full day spa and salon, located on the garden level. Included in your spa visit are relaxation spaces such as the hot tub, infrared sauna, spa lawn, hot pool, and studio.

Live the Legend

As an esteemed member of the Historic Hotels of America and listed on the National Historic Registry, our hotel stands as an iconic landmark in Eureka Springs lodging. Discover the captivating history and timeless charm of this iconic destination, nestled in a stunning landscape. Our full-service resort experience is a one-of-a-kind, rooted in our rich heritage and commitment to exceptional hospitality.

BOO! Experience Eureka Springs’ Chilling (and Historical) Ghost Tours

You ain’t afraid of no ghosts!

And neither are we, to be honest. Here in Eureka Springs, we embrace our paranormal neighbors — not literally, of course — and we want our visitors to do the same. That’s why we offer the best ghost tours in the Ozarks. Whether you’re a believer or not, these excursions guarantee a spooky good time. For the uninitiated, our ghost tours do not include jump scares or promise actual ghost sightings. They are fun, storytelling experiences, and some involve hands-on ghost hunting with meters and other “ghostbusting” gear. Certain tours are even appropriate for school-age children.

Here’s a rundown of our town’s ghost tours. Eureka Springs’ robust spirit world is rooted in a checkered history that’s littered with a roll call of rogues and scoundrels. We’ll tell you about the tours, and some of the history as well.

Crescent Hotel – Morgue

Crescent Hotel Ghost Tours

This magnificent building that looms over downtown is widely hailed as “the most haunted hotel in America.” More than 15 ghost hunting shows have produced episodes at the hotel.

The Crescent Ghost Tour guides, dressed in period garb, are natural storytellers — and they have plenty to tell. They’ll walk you through the halls, stopping at some of the more haunted rooms — like 419, where the spirit of Theodora has been known to tidy up—but only if she likes the guest staying there. Crescent Ghost Tours run daily, starting at 6:30, 7 and 7:30 p.m.

If you care to intensify your paranormal experience, opt for the Crescent Ghost Tour: Expert & Extended — Friday through Monday, 10 p.m. — where the hotel’s senior guides take you on a longer trek and explore the devious criminal mind of one Norman Baker.

Who is Norman Baker, you ask? He was a charlatan from Iowa — a former Vaudevillian — who falsely claimed to be a doctor with a cure for cancer. From 1937-1939, he ran the Crescent as a self-named “hospital,” and filled it with suffering victims in search of a miracle. He treated patients with fake potions and other bogus treatments. No one was ever cured, and of course, people died. The hospital closed when Baker was convicted of mail fraud and sent to Leavenworth Penitentiary.

The Baker years existed largely as folklore until 2019, when nearly 500 bottles were unearthed on the northwest corner of the Crescent’s 15-acre property. They included Baker’s potions, as well as what appeared to be cancer tumors preserved in alcohol. (Pause here for a quick shudder.) The Expert & Extended tour delves more deeply into Baker, and includes visits to the bottle dump site and Baker’s morgue.

Lastly, visitors can choose to stay in Crescent rooms reputed to have strong paranormal activity. A spirit might even tuck in your covers while you sleep. Oh, and keep an eye on the hotel’s hall mirrors. You never know when you might catch a ghostly reflection. Have your camera ready. To sample some images captured by guests, check out the ghost tour’s Facebook page .

And finally, for you true fanatics, the Crescent holds annual paranormal weekends, deep immersions into the hotel’s haunted history. Paranormal investigators of all experience levels do overnight ghost hunts, receive ghost-hunter training, and behind-the-scenes access to the most haunted spaces on the property of America’s most haunted hotel.

Next year’s Paranormal Weekends are Jan. 28-30 and Feb. 4-6. The schedule has yet to be finalized. Check the Facebook event page for updates.

Purchase Tickets

Basin Park Hotel

1905 Basin Park Hotel Paranormal Investigation

You can join the Basin Park’s paranormal investigators nightly to probe the hotel’s most active spaces. You’ll meet in the Barefoot Ballroom — among the hubs of Eureka Springs past illegal goings-on — and work your way through the halls to the Roof Garden and the Grand Ballroom. You’ll explore from the heights of the Crow’s Nest to the depths of the Cave (which stored illicit whiskey, and is accessed through a secret hole). Guides teach the evolution of ghost hunting, while sharing tales and evidence.

Best of all, you get to do some paranormal sleuthing yourself. Ghost meters and other paranormal tools are provided. Tours run daily starting at 10:30 p.m.

Ever since opening in 1905, tales of the paranormal have coursed through the hallways of this structure, built into the side of a mountain. Some say it’s because the Basin Park Hotel was built on the site of the Perry House, which burned to the ground in 1890. Others cite its proximity to the “healing spring,” a sacred place to the Native Americans who discovered it before the town existed.

In the 1940s and ‘50s, the Basin Park served as a haven for Chicago gangsters and an illegal gambling spot that served unlicensed alcohol. In ’55, a new sheriff known as “The Weasel” raided the place and drummed out the criminal element. Are some of those rogue-ish spirits still hanging around the hotel?

Basin Park guests have reported sightings of flashing orbs and human-shaped apparitions, shadows in the ballroom, reflections in mirrors, young girls walking down the stairs laughing, balls bouncing through the halls, and other unexplained phenomena.

The Paranormal Investigation tours run nightly, beginning at 10:30 p.m.

Underground “Catacombs”

Haunted Eureka Springs Tours

The spirit world doesn’t just live in our hotels. It’s all over town. Haunted Eureka Springs takes you on a guided walking tour of some of the most actively haunted sites downtown. It starts at the Courthouse, followed by a quarter-mile stroll up Spring Street, as storytellers regale you with the town’s colorful history, which includes gamblers, gangsters, bootleggers, hustlers, cons, quacks and — of course — ghosts and their habitats. You’ll hear about model citizens and founding fathers as well. The tour ends with a visit to the best-preserved stretch of our famous underground tunnels, which locals affectionately call “the Catacombs.”

Tours start at 8 p.m., with extended hours on weekends. The latest one goes out at 10:15 on most Saturdays.

Haunted Eureka Springs ordinarily offers two other tours, which were suspended due to Covid as of late September.

The 90-minute Shuttle Van Tour takes you to three haunted buildings, where you get off the bus and learn about the sites. In the Catacomb Ghost Hunt you learn how to use Victorian and modern ghost-hunting tools, and do some actual ghost hunting. Check the Facebook page for updates on when they’re apt to start up again.

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Somewhere In Arkansas

The Crescent Hotel: The Most Haunted Hotel in America

The Crescent Hotel in the Ozark Mountain town of Eureka Springs is said to be the most haunted hotel in America!

The hotel certainly has an eerie and unsettling history and many guests and staff have claimed to have seen ghosts and evidence of supernatural activity. Recent finds have only added to the creepy allure of this haunted place.

However, In addition to the resident ghosts, The Crescent Hotel is also an extraordinary grande dame of Arkansas hotels with plenty of non-supernatural activities and amenities to offer its guests.

It also has a wonderful hilltop location from which you can visit the charming and quirky town of Eureka Springs.

Table of Contents

America’s Most Haunted Hotel: The Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs

Before we dive into the ghostly history of the hotel let me tell you what it is like today!

The Crescent Hotel was fully restored in 2002. Since then it has become a perfect place from which to explore the town of Eureka Springs and enjoy the beauty of the Ozark Mountains.

We found the hotel to be a beautiful place with a stunning hilltop location. It’s beautiful signature crescent graces the front entrance, the public spaces are grand, and service is both warm and impeccable.

Do be aware that this is an old hotel and in many ways it feels old. In other words, it hasn’t been restored in a way that takes away all the signs of age.

Rooms at the Crescent Hotel

The rooms come in a variety of sizes and configurations.

We stayed in room 202, a King parlor room, which supposedly is near much of the supernatural activity. Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on your point of view) we had no ghostly experiences.

The decor has darker woods, old fashioned furnishing, carpets, curtains. It is very pleasant but has a very different than the style of most modern hotels.

Some of the rooms have balconies with very nice views overlooking the grounds and the mountains.

There are several dining options in the hotel.

• The Crystal Dining Room serves breakfast and dinner. We did not have dinner there but we really enjoyed the breakfast buffet.
• The SkyBar Gourmet Pizza is really good! It is on the 4th floor of the hotel so it has great views from the balcony. You can choose to sit inside or out.
• We happily enjoyed the Frisco Bar and Burgers at the Frisco Sporting Club . They have a full bar along with burgers, shaved ice, chicken tenders, and desserts.
• Top of the Crest a great place to get a snack or a drink with a view. Try to come here at sunset!

New Moon Spa

The New Moon Spa and Salon is said to be one of the finest spas in Northwest Arkansas. You can choose from a variety of services.

Some of the products from the spa are also in your room. I loved the lotion!

Frisco Sporting Club

The Frisco Sporting club might have been our favorite area of the hotel!

You can just relax in the pretty surroundings here or you can participate in games, do a little hatchet throwing, listen to live music, have a drink or a snow cone and so much more. We loved it!

Activities at the Crescent Hotel

The hotel offers a wide variety of activities for their guests. You will always want to check the schedule to see what is going on.

Many of the activities are free to hotel guests while others, like the ghost tour, have a cost.

Some of the activities are:

• Guided History tour
• Scavenger hunt for kids
• Cake tasting of the day
• Family games on the back porch
• and MANY more!

The Ghost Tour at the Crescent Hotel

We took the ghost tour and it was so much fun! They start every night at 6:30 and last about 1.5 hours. You get to hear the stories of many of the hotel’s spirits, learn about the various guest sightings, and see the infamous morgue of Dr. Baker.

I had no ghostly experiences while on the tour but definitely was a little afraid!

Hotel Amenities and Activities

• Swimming pool
• New Moon Spa & Salon
• Crystal Dining Room
• SkyBar Gourmet Pizza
• Concierge and bellman service
• Gorgeous manicured gardens
• Easy access to town
• Ghost tours
• Biker Friendly
• Daily Activity Programming
• A Shuttle into town
• Fitness room
• and so much more!

History of the Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs

Now let’s talk about the history and the ghosts of The Crescent Hotel.

Over the years many of the guests have reported not only ghost sightings but also strange, paranormal events occurring both in their rooms and in other areas of the Crescent hotel.

Here is how it all came about.

Michael the ghost

May of 1886 marked the opening of the opulent Crescent Hotel on its majestic hilltop location. It was built at a cost of almost $300,000 and was a showplace!

During the building of the hotel Irish stonemasons carved and assembled 18-inch-thick blocks of limestone from a White River quarry not too far from the hotel.

(The quarry was across the river from the town of Beaver which is now known for the little Golden Gate Bridge of Arkansas.)

One of these masons may be the hotel’s first ghost. He tragically fell to his death into what is now room 218. This room just happens to be the most “active” of the haunted rooms with slamming doors, visions in the mirror, and opening drawers.

This mason turned ghost is called Michael by the hotel and many visitors actually request room 218 in hopes of experiencing paranormal activity.

Victorian Ghosts

The hotel attracted wealthy visitors during the Victorian years and several of todays ghosts appear dressed in Victorian garb. Much of this activity seems to be centered around the Crystal Dining Room where dancing Victorian ghosts have been seen in the wee hours of the night.

Staff have experienced decor being moved around when nobody was in the room.

Guests and staff have reported seeing a man in dapper Victorian clothing sitting and looking pensively out a window

Boarding School Days

The hotel began to struggle financially during the off-season and became the Crescent College & Conservatory for Young Women during the winter months while continuing as a resort in the summer months.

The Crescent College was a boarding college for “fine young ladies” and according to my research several of the attendees went on to have celebrated lives.

This was during a time that education for women wasn’t highly valued yet many prominent families sent their daughters to study here. It was considered to be one of the most exclusive boarding academies in Arkansas

During the ghost tour you will learn that one of the hotel ghosts is said to be a young woman from the college who was pregnant at the time of her death.

Nobody really knows her story. Some speculate that the father of her baby was one of the professors at the school. She fell…or perhaps jumped…or perhaps was pushed, from her 3rd floor balcony and died from her injuries.

This ghost is seen as a mist-like apparition in a nightgown, sometimes jumping from the balcony, but also drifting in the hallway and on the back courtyard. 

The Sad Days of the Baker Hospital

Due to the tough economic times of the depression the college was forced to closed completely. In 1937 the hotel was purchased by a psychopathic con-man named Norman Baker. Thus began the creepiest time period of the Crescent Hotel.

Baker began a pseudo-scientific establishment which he named Baker’s Cancer Curing Hospital.

He was called Doctor Baker although he had no medical training. Patients were attracted to the “hospital” through the mailing of brochures that claimed he could cure cancer without surgery.

Many people, sick and weak and dying, came to the hotel to take his “cure” which consisted of a magical elixir which, of course, did nothing. He bilked families out of their savings by telling them that he could cure their loved ones.

On some occasions even after patients died in his care he would not tell their loved ones that they had passed in order to continue collecting payments.

It is probably not surprising that many of the hotel ghosts are from these dark days.

Here are just a few of the sightings:

• Theodora is a ghost who lives in Room 419. She is seen to be looking for her room key. Theodora has even been known to tidy up or repack bags after the guests leave the room to have a meal or go into town.
• “Doctor” Baker himself has been seen in the hotel lobby. He wears a purple shirt and white linen suit and his appearance matches that of known photographs of the charlatan.
• A nurse pushing a gurney has been seen in the area of the “hospital’s” morgue and the squeaky wheels of a gurney have been heard on other floors.
• People report hearing screaming or voices when no one is around.  
• Some people report feeling faint while on the 3rd floor.

Fortunately Baker’s time at the Crescent Hotel did not last long. He was arrested for mail fraud and sent to Leavenworth prison in 1940.

It was those fancy lying brochures that convicted him.

The Hotel Falls into Disrepair and Comes Back to Grandeur

During the next years the building had various owners and experienced various levels of restoration and neglect. It seemed that the death knell for the hotel was in 1967 when a fire destroyed much of the south wing of the hotel.

Although there were some more owners and various restorations it wasn’t until 1997 when Marty and Elise Roenigk purchased the historic inn that the fortunes of The Crescent Hotel really began to change.

The new owners announced, “In five years, we pledge to have this ‘Grand Lady of The Ozarks’ back to where she was 100 years ago.”

I suspect that the residents of Eureka Springs were skeptical of this claim. However, by 2002, after spending 5 million dollars in renovations, the hotel had been fully restored and was once again presiding grandly over the town.

Recent Chilling Discovery at the Crescent Hotel

In 2019 the hotel’s landscape gardener made a discovery.  She dug up some strange bottles. Soon it was realized that the bottles were identical to those that had been used on one of Norman Baker’s advertising posters and brochures.

Some of the bottles even had what appeared to be tumors floating in liquid in them.

This hit the Arkansas news hard. I remember the whole state was talking about it.

Archeologists from the nearby University of Arkansas were called. The state crime lab was called, a hazmat crew was called, and…eventually the dig moved forward.

The site turned out to be the lost dump site for the infamous con-man Norman Baker. As each bottle, surgical tool, and specimen jar was unearthed it became clear that the stories and rumors not only were completely true but were probably worse than had previously been thought.

This has simply added to the mystery and allure of the Crescent Hotel.

Although the hotel leans heavily (and dare I say, happily) into their ghostly reputation it is also a perfect place for those who just want to experience a stay at a great historic hotel.

You absolutely do not have to believe or buy into the ghost stories to enjoy a get away at the Crescent.

I have never experienced anything supernatural or even creepy while there. But I assure you that I keep an eye out for ghosts or misty apparitions!

Here are some lists of some more of our favorite places to stay in Arkansas!

• Romantic getaways in Arkansas
• Treehouse stays in Arkansas
• Rental cabins in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Thanks for stopping by!

Hey y'all! Thanks for stopping by.

We are Karen and Emily, a mother and daughter duo who write this blog together. We are based in Central Arkansas but love to travel all around our beautiful home state and share our discoveries with you!

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Crescent Hotel Ghost Tour – Kids

Crescent Hotel – Kids Ghost Tour

This 45 minute walking tour will introduce the Crescent ghosts to children ages 5-12. One guardian age 18 or older must accompany the child and is FREE to Accompany. The tour begins on the 4th floor and ends after a visit to the morgue. This is not a ‘special effects haunted house’ tour. Each child receives a special token from the Crescent hotel. Please note: All adults must be accompanied by a child

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Crescent hotel self-guided walking tour.

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Treat yourself to a self-guided walking tour of the Crescent Hotel. This tour is FREE of charge, simply  download the Walking Tour Guide .

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Attractions - Z-Crescent Hotel Self-Guided Walking Tour

Address: 75 Prospect Ave, Eureka Springs, AR 72632

Web Address: www.eurekasprings.com/history/CrescentWalkingTourBook.pdf

Treat yourself to a self-guided walking tour of the Crescent Hotel. This tour is FREE of charge, simply download the Walking Tour Guide .

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15 Underrated Cities to Visit in the USA

Posted: May 31, 2024 | Last updated: June 1, 2024

Looking to discover some hidden gems right here in the USA? We’ve put together a list of 15 underrated cities that are perfect for your next adventure.

From charming small towns to vibrant mid-sized cities, each destination offers its own unique attractions and local flavor. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, rich history, or culinary delights, these lesser-known spots are sure to surprise and delight you.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina is an energetic hub of arts, culture, and outdoor activities. This underrated city offers a captivating mix of historical landmarks like the Biltmore Estate and a thriving arts scene in the River Arts District.

Whether you’re exploring scenic trails or enjoying its eclectic downtown, Asheville blends natural beauty with a lively cultural vibe that’s perfect for any traveler. Discover why this gem deserves to be on your must-visit list.

Bend, Oregon

Situated in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Bend, Oregon is a hidden gem that perfectly blends natural beauty with a lively local culture. Known for its outdoor adventures along the Deschutes River and stunning Cascade Mountain views, Bend is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

The city’s bustling craft beer scene, historic mill buildings, and lively downtown area add to its distinctive charm. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or enjoying a local brew, Bend offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin, the state’s capital, is a vibrant city that boasts picturesque lakes, dynamic culture, and strong educational roots. Nestled between Lakes Mendota and Monona, this underrated gem offers abundant outdoor activities like sailing, kayaking, and cycling.

Anchored by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the city pulsates with a youthful, progressive spirit and is home to beautiful gardens, museums, and the lively Capitol Square. Whether exploring its scenic parks or enjoying the bustling farmers’ market, Madison delivers a unique and diverse getaway.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico, blends rich history and an enthralling sense of culture, making it a truly amazing destination. Established in 1610, this oldest state capital in the U.S. showcases a fascinating mix of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo heritage through its well-preserved adobe architecture and historic sites like the Palace of the Governors.

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, Santa Fe is renowned for its thriving art scene on Canyon Road and its flavorful culinary landscape. From exploring world-class galleries to savoring local dishes, Santa Fe promises an enriching and memorable experience.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga, Tennessee, beautifully blends rich history, dazzling culture, and stunning natural scenery. Nestled between the Appalachian Mountains and along the Tennessee River, this “Scenic City” offers attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, the Walnut Street Bridge, and Lookout Mountain.

History enthusiasts can explore Civil War landmarks and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, while outdoor lovers will find ample hiking and biking trails. With its revitalized downtown brimming with restaurants, shops, and the lively Chattanooga Market, this underrated city has something for everyone.

Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville, South Carolina masterfully blends Southern charm with modern innovation, making it a standout destination in the Southeast. The revitalized downtown area, highlighted by the tree-lined Main Street and the iconic Liberty Bridge in Falls Park, invites visitors to explore its lively boutiques, dining spots, and cultural venues.

Rich in history and surrounded by amazing natural landscapes, Greenville offers a perfect mix of urban appeal and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re enjoying its parks and trails, delving into its arts scene, or savoring its culinary delights, Greenville promises a memorable and enriching experience.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs, Arkansas is a charming town known for its unique Victorian architecture, natural springs, and engrossing arts community. Founded in 1879, the town’s historic downtown area, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features winding streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and antique stores.

Don’t miss the iconic Crescent Hotel, often called “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” offering ghost tours and panoramic views of the Ozarks. With its rich history, artistic flair, and impressive natural beauty, Eureka Springs offers a delightful and underrated escape.

Boise, Idaho

Boise, Idaho, the state capital, is a dynamic city that beautifully combines natural landscapes with a thriving cultural scene. Nestled along the Boise River and at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the city offers an array of outdoor activities, from the scenic Boise River Greenbelt to the ski slopes of Bogus Basin.

Boise’s vibrant downtown features a mix of historic and modern architecture, lively shops, and impressive cultural spots like the Basque Block. With its flourishing food scene, notable museums, and a strong sense of community, Boise stands out as an underrated gem worth exploring.

Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan, is an extraordinary town known for its marvelous natural beauty, thriving wine industry, and vivacious cultural scene. Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, the city offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication.

Traverse City is celebrated as the “Cherry Capital of the World” and is a hub for Michigan’s wine country, with numerous wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. From the towering sand dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to the impressive arts and culinary scenes downtown, Traverse City is an underrated destination offering something for everyone.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida, holds the title of the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental U.S., brimming with history and charm. Founded in 1565, this city offers a rich array of historic sites, including the iconic Castillo de San Marcos and the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.

Stroll through the old town’s cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings, quaint shops, and inviting restaurants. With its vibrant cultural scene and proximity to pristine beaches like Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine provides a unique blend of historical intrigue and coastal relaxation.

Lexington, Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky, often called the “Horse Capital of the World,” beautifully combines Southern hospitality, rich history, and a bustling cultural scene. Surrounded by scenic horse farms, the city is renowned for its equestrian heritage, highlighted by the Kentucky Horse Park and Keeneland Race Course.

In addition to its equestrian attractions, Lexington is at the heart of Kentucky’s bourbon country, with historic distilleries like Town Branch offering tours and tastings. The city’s lively downtown, historic antebellum homes, and the cultural influence of the University of Kentucky make Lexington an underrated destination worth exploring.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona, offers a charismatic blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located at 7,000 feet in the Coconino National Forest, the city is known for its stunning mountain scenery and access to spectacular Southwestern landscapes, including the nearby Grand Canyon.

Flagstaff’s historic downtown is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, reflecting its roots as a small railroad town founded in 1876. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the year-round activities available in the San Francisco Peaks, Arizona’s highest mountain range, and the extensive Flagstaff Urban Trail System.

Providence, Rhode Island

Providence, Rhode Island, beautifully blends historic charm with modern innovation, making it a captivating destination in New England. Founded in 1636, the city showcases its rich history through well-preserved architecture in neighborhoods like College Hill, home to Brown University and RISD.

Providence’s exciting downtown area features iconic landmarks like the Rhode Island State House and the magical WaterFire art installation. With a thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and youthful energy from its prestigious educational institutions, Providence is an underrated gem that invites exploration.

Galena, Illinois

Galena, Illinois, is a quaint and picturesque town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and rich history. Nestled in the rolling hills of northwest Illinois, this former bustling mining town offers visitors a step back in time with its charming streetscapes and historic landmarks.

Highlights include the Ulysses S. Grant Home and the Dowling House, the oldest building in town. With its vibrant Main Street filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, along with numerous outdoor activities and local wineries, Galena is a delightful and underrated destination.

Durango, Colorado

Durango, Colorado, is a delightful town known for its remarkable natural beauty and rich history. Nestled in the Animas River Valley and surrounded by the rugged San Juan Mountains, Durango offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.

Explore the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a scenic journey through the San Juan National Forest, or stroll through the lively downtown area with its preserved Victorian buildings, unique shops, and art galleries. For outdoor enthusiasts, Durango provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and river activities, making it an underrated gem in the American Southwest.

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