Planning a vacation, weekend trip, or girl’s getaway doesn’t have to mean a huge expensive trip to a tropical resort. There is an overwhelming amount of incredible places to visit in the U.S. that are hidden little gems and are not top tourist attractions.

But here’s a little secret: The best places to visit are never tourist attractions. These towns are not commercialized and there might not be a 5-star resort, but they are home to some of the coolest restaurants, wineries, natural phenomena, and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

1. Traverse City, Michigan

If you love quaint towns on the water, this is the place for you. Surrounded by Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, there is something for everyone. On the outskirts of town, visit Traverse City State Park, or take a 30 minute drive to Empire, MI and witness the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes. If hiking isn’t really your thing, take a wine tour and experience local wineries and the charm of Michigan. In the summer, Traverse City is the home of the National Cherry Festival. Try cherry wine, cherry pie, chocolate-covered cherries and find all the cherry-inspired merchandise like cherry socks, earrings, and even underwear.

2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Elfreth’s Alley, see the house of Betsy Ross, and experience old world charm. There are museums on every corner - The Franklin Institute, the Museum of the American Revolution, or run up the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art like Rocky. Philadelphia is home to some of the best restaurants on the East Coast, like Zahav, and home to the DiBruno Bros., or join the battle and try cheesesteaks from long-time rivals, Pats and Genos.

3. Hill Country, Texas

the best swimming holes to take a quick dip. Swing on ropes into refreshing water at Blue Hole in Wimberley, go boating on Lake Lady Bird Johnson Lake, or take a risky jump into the world-famous Jacob’s Well. Don’t forget to try Texas BBQ - go to the original Salt Lick BBQ location in Driftwood, TX and experience true Texas BBQ, or drive into Austin and wait in line for 4 hours to get a taste of the famous Franklin’s BBQ.

4. Mystic, Connecticut

The Spice & Tea Exchange for seasonal flavors, mulled cider, and kitchen staples. For classic New England staples like clam chowder, and fish and chips, eat at Captain Daniel Packer Inne. To end your trip, take a sunset cruise and soak in all the views of lighthouses, historic homes, and islands.

5. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island, SC offers 12 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches perfect for running, riding bikes, beach volleyball, or lying in a private cabana. And with over 250 restaurants with cuisine ranging from Indian, Japanese, French, Mexican, and All-American fare, there is no doubt you can overindulge in your favorite tastes. If playing golf is your idea of a good time, Hilton Head offers 24 Championship golf courses - 7 of them are nationally ranked! There is boutique shopping galore, over 200 shops to be exact! Visit Michael Anthony’s for fine dining, or stop by a local seafood joint like Fishcamp on Broad Creek to experience true Southern cuisine. Not a lot of nightlife on the Island, but if you ask some locals, they’ll share their favorite places for late-night hangouts and libations.

Next time you are looking for awesome vacation spots, make sure you check out some of these hotspots that may not have been on your radar. Always research the best, hidden gems to make your trip on for the books!