Underrated Summer Travel Ideas

Are you tired of the same summer vacations? Sure, you can have fun visiting old favorites like Disney World, but do you really want to do the same thing over and over again? Isn’t this the year to take a chance and do something truly unexpected? Better still, if it is something that few know about or value, you won’t have to fight the crowds. Vacation is for resting and recharging your batteries. For the adventurous soul who craves the strange, the eerie, and the uncanny, typical beach vacations and city breaks may not cut it. If you’re a weird travel enthusiast longing for underrated summer travel destinations that offer a twist, this guide is for you. Here are ten hidden gems where spooky history, haunted attractions, and quirky destinations can all be found.

Unusual summer travel ideas Winchester Mystery Mansion

Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California, USA

This bizarre Victorian mansion is a must-visit, filled with architectural oddities and rumored to be haunted. This architectural anomaly is the brainchild of Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune, who famously believed the house was haunted and kept the house perpetually under construction.

Take a guided tour and explore the labyrinthian Victorian mansion overflowing with oddities. Wander through rooms with staircases leading nowhere, doors opening onto blank walls, and windows positioned at peculiar angles. Let your imagination run wild as you hear tales of Sarah’s eccentric spirit and the restless souls supposedly lingering within the walls. Many people know about the Mystery House thanks to horror movies, but few actually make it the focus of their trip. This ensures its place on the underrated summer travel ideas.

The Winchester Mystery House offers a unique glimpse into eccentricity and Victorian architecture. With various tours available, including evening flashlight tours, there’s an option for every curious soul. General admission tickets are affordable, and discounts are available for seniors, students, and military personnel. So ditch the expected summer vacation and delve into the delightfully weird at the Winchester Mystery House. Book a tour here.

Tip: Opt for the Explore More tour to access areas typically off-limits.

Catacombs, Paris, France

Skip the Eiffel Tower and delve into the depths of the Paris Catacombs. Are you seeking a truly unique and slightly macabre summer adventure? Look no further than the Paris Catacombs. Hidden beneath the bustling City of Lights lies a network of tunnels containing the remains of millions of Parisians.

Expect an eerie yet fascinating guided tour through the catacombs. Human bones are meticulously arranged into walls and columns. Tours are led in English and cost around €27 for adults, with tickets available online or at the entrance (be prepared for potential lines!).

While it might not be for the faint of heart, the Catacombs offer a glimpse into Parisian history and a unique perspective on death and mortality. Trading sunshine for cool, damp air, it’s also a perfect escape from the summer heat. Remember to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes – uneven surfaces and countless steps await! Get tickets here.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid long lines. This may be underrated, but that doesn’t mean unknown.

Charleston, South Carolina

Steeped in Southern charm and shrouded in Spanish moss, Charleston, South Carolina, is an underrated gem offering a delightful summer escape. The weather is idyllic, with balmy days averaging in the low 80s (F) and refreshing evening breezes.

Beyond its historic architecture and cobblestone streets, Charleston boasts a surprising array of quirky experiences. Take a carriage ride through the historic district, encounter friendly ghosts on a nighttime ghost tour, or explore the beauty of Magnolia Plantation’s graveyards. To taste the unusual, visit Ripley’s Aquarium, housing bizarre sea creatures and oddities, or marvel at the historic Joseph Manigault House, adorned with thousands of colorful tiles.

Foodies will delight in Charleston’s world-renowned cuisine, from fresh seafood to classic Lowcountry dishes. History buffs can delve into the city’s rich past at Fort Sumter National Monument or explore the Drayton Hall plantation. For a luxurious stay, consider a charming historic inn, or for a more modern experience, various hotels cater to all tastes. Unveil Charleston’s hidden gems and unique experiences. More information can be found here.

Tip: Explore beyond the historic district. Charleston’s historic district is undeniably captivating, but don’t miss the unique neighborhoods that add to the city’s charm.

Highgate Cemetery, London, England

Craving a summer adventure that’s both historic and a touch haunting? There is so much more to see than Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. Explore the hidden gem of Highgate Cemetery in London. Steeped in Victorian Gothic atmosphere, this atmospheric graveyard is the final resting place of famous figures like Karl Marx, author of Communist Manifesto, and novelist George Eliot.

However, Highgate Cemetery offers more than just celebrity graves. Embark on a guided tour and discover Egyptian-inspired mausoleums, towering monuments, and eerie statues shrouded in mystery. Explore the “Egyptian Avenue,” a spooky tunnel lined with imposing Egyptian-style tombs.

Highgate Cemetery is an underrated gem, offering a unique blend of history, art, and a touch of the macabre. Adult tickets cost around £15 and can be purchased online or at the entrance. So ditch the crowded museums this summer and delve into the haunting beauty of Highgate Cemetery for an unforgettable London experience. Book a tour here.

Tip: Visit on a foggy day for a proper Victorian Gothic ambiance.

Mitchell, South Dakota

Home to the World’s Only Corn Palace, Mitchell is an unexpected getaway. The outside murals, designed by local university students, attract over 500,000 annual visitors. Summer in Mitchell sizzles with sunshine, with average highs reaching the comfortable mid-80s (F). Explore the town’s main attraction, the Corn Palace, a unique architectural marvel adorned with vibrant corn murals celebrating South Dakota’s agricultural heritage. Embrace the weird by visiting the Prehistoric Indian Village, an active archaeological site where you can witness excavation efforts and learn about the region’s indigenous history.

Mitchell offers a variety of accommodation options, from charming historic hotels to budget-friendly motels and even camping options when combined with National Park destinations. It is genuinely a budget-friendly, underrated summer idea. For activities beyond the Corn Palace and Prehistoric Indian Village, explore the scenic Lake Mitchell State Recreation Area, perfect for swimming, boating, or picnicking. History buffs can delve into the Dakota Discovery Museum, showcasing the region’s rich past.

Pro Tip: Combine Mitchell with a visit to Badlands National Park, roughly two hours away. Combining these incredible places puts Mitchell firmly on the underrated summer travel idea lists.

Sedlec Ossuary, Kutná Hora, Czech Republic

This small chapel with thousands of human bones offers a unique, macabre experience. The Czech Republic is a truly underrated gem. It is a stunning old-world country with charm and history for days. The Sedlec Ossuary, a bone chapel nestled in Kutná Hora, is just 80 kilometers east of Prague. This hauntingly beautiful church houses the skeletons of over 40,000 individuals artistically arranged into chandeliers, coats of arms, and other decorative displays.

Summer in Kutná Hora offers pleasant weather, with average highs reaching the comfortable mid-70s (F), perfect for exploring the town’s charming streets. Tickets to enter the Sedlec Ossuary are cheap, typically costing around Kč 90 (around $4) for adults. Prepare to be awestruck by the bone art and contemplate the fragility of life within this unique chapel. Book a tour here.

Tip: Don’t miss the grand chandelier, which comprises of every bone in the human body.

Isla de las Muñecas, Mexico

Nestled amidst the canals of Xochimilco, south of Mexico City, lies Isla de las Muñecas, also known as the Island of the Dolls. This underrated summer travel location is often overlooked for Mexico’s beachy all-inclusives. This creepy yet oddly fascinating islet is not your typical tourist destination. As the name suggests, the island is brimming with hundreds of decaying dolls of all shapes and sizes hanging from trees, crammed in windows, and scattered throughout the island.

The island’s dark history and spooky atmosphere fuel its allure. Legend says a former resident, Julian Santana Barrera, found a drowned girl on the island and began collecting dolls to appease her spirit. While the story’s truth remains uncertain, the abundance of dolls has transformed the island into an eerie spectacle.

Currently, no travel advisories against visiting Isla de las Muñecas and Xochimilco, Mexico is considered safe for tourists. You can access the island by taking a trajintera, a colorful gondola-like boat, from the canals of Xochimilco. Tickets can be purchased directly from trajintera operators, with prices typically ranging from MXN 500 to MXN 700 per boat (around $25 to $35), depending on the group size and negotiation. The boat tour usually includes a trip around the island and briefly narrating its history and legends. Book your spooky boat tour here.

Tip: Take a guided boat tour at dusk for the most thrilling experience.

Underrated Summer Travel Idea- The Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel, Colorado, USA

Horror movie fans should absolutely visit the hotel that inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. Nestled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains, The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, beckons with a blend of historic charm and a touch of the eerie. Expect crisp mountain air and comfortable temperatures in the summer months, with average highs hovering in the low 80s (F) – perfect for exploring the surrounding scenery. Room rates vary depending on the season and room type, ranging from around $200 per night for a standard room to luxurious suites exceeding $1000.

Beyond its spooky reputation, The Stanley offers a plethora of activities. Embark on a guided ghost tour, delve into the hotel’s history at the onsite museum, or tee off on the scenic Stanley Golf Course. For a touch of relaxation, unwind at the spa or take a dip in the heated outdoor pool. Everyone remembers the Stanley in the winter, but it remains an underrated summer travel destination because of the lack of snow.

Reaching The Stanley Hotel from Denver, the closest major city, is convenient. The drive takes roughly an hour and 15 minutes along scenic highways. Alternatively, car rental services are readily available at Denver International Airport. So, ditch the beach crowds and immerse yourself in the mountain majesty and unique history of The Stanley Hotel this summer. Book a room here.

Tip: Join a Night Spirit Tour for a ghost-hunting adventure.

Salem, Massachusetts, USA

Salem is renowned for the 1692 witch trials and offers a wealth of spooky history. It is located just 30 minutes north of Boston by commuter rail and provides a unique blend of history, maritime charm, and, of course, all things witchy. Combine this with a stay in Boston for a rich vacation that is far from typical.

Summer in Salem is delightful, with average highs in the low 80s (F) and refreshing sea breezes. Explore the town’s walkable streets, lined with historic brick buildings and independent shops brimming with local crafts and witchy souvenirs. History buffs can delve into the Salem Witch Museum or the Witch House, the only structure remaining from the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

For a taste of the macabre, take a ghost tour through the town’s supposedly haunted streets. In the evening, indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many harbourfront restaurants, savoring the salty air and stunning coastal views. After a day of exploration, cozy up in a historic Salem Inn or a charming Bed and Breakfast, many boasting their own spooky stories and legends. Hotel rates start around $100 per night. Book your stay here. This is consistently an underrated summer travel destination.

Tip: Fly into Boston and take the train to Salem. It is the best and most relaxing way to get around.

Bran Castle, Romania

No underrated summer idea list would be complete without including Dracula’s Castle. Towering over the rolling hills of Transylvania, Bran Castle, often mistakenly called Dracula’s Castle, is a must-visit for history buffs and castle enthusiasts alike. While the fictional Dracula never resided here, the imposing 14th-century fortress served as a crucial border defense point and a residence for Romanian royalty. Explore its maze-like corridors, courtyards, and watchtowers, soaking in the rich history and legends surrounding the castle.

Reaching Bran Castle is a breeze. Fly into Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest, Romania’s capital. From there, numerous bus and train options connect Bucharest to Bran, a scenic journey taking roughly 2-3 hours. Adult tickets to explore the castle’s interior typically cost around €12 (around $13).

While Transylvania conjures images of perpetual gloom, summers offer pleasant weather with average highs reaching the mid-70s (F) and comfortable nights. For a truly unique experience, consider visiting during the late Summer or early Fall season when the castle comes alive with special night tours (availability and prices may vary, so check the official website beforehand). Book a tour here.

Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of the castle’s night tours for a truly eerie experience.

For the weird travel enthusiast, these underrated summer travel destinations offer a unique blend of history, mystery, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring a ghostly town, wandering through a bone-filled chapel, or spending the night in a haunted hotel, these travel ideas will satiate your desire for the strange and unusual. Embrace the uncanny, dive into the eerie, and embark on an adventure that’s anything but ordinary.