Summer is here and nothing says vacation like hiding from the world with a new show obsession. Often we find ourselves re-watching our favorite series or jumping on a new show's bandwagon. However, between those two extremes lies a treasure chest of TV shows that live on only in the hearts of their die-hard fans. Shows that were on and off the air before many had a chance to fall in love with them. These five shows may not reside in any prime time spots, but their value is still alive and waiting to be discovered by you.

1. Veronica Mars (2004-2007)

Set in the fictional town of Neptune, California, "Veronica Mars" follows the life of once popular-now-pariah high school student (you guessed it) Veronica Mars played by Kristen Bell. After her best friend is murdered and her dad accuses the wrong guy, Veronica finds herself on the outside of the popularity circle. Her dads' accusation leads him to be removed from his position as sheriff, and he turns his talents into a new career as a private eye. Veronica works along side her father and, in between real clients, digs for answers about her best friend's murder. The quick-witted script and all-star cast make it the perfect series to get lost in this summer. The series ran for three seasons before it was abruptly cancelled, but have no fear, the die-hard fans of "Veronica Mars" got their wish for a movie in 2014 after crowdfunding more than $5 million. Stream the seasons for free on Amazon Instant Video.

2. Friday Night Lights (2006-2011)

Texas. Football. High school students that definitely don't look like high school students. What more could you ask for? As one of the highest-ranked shows on Netflix, "Friday Night Lights" is a must-watch (or re-watch) for anyone looking to get too invested in a series this summer. With several character storylines that will hook you from the beginning, you should be prepared to give up a weekend to this show. "Friday Night Lights" has a huge following of dedicated fans, and the show's stars are stilled peppered with questions about the a possible movie at every red carpet they attend. I have yet to meet one person who watched this show and wasn't a fan. With a beautiful and talented cast, and more drama between the adults than students, this show will have something, or someone, for everyone to root for. "Clear eyes. Full hearts. Can't Lose!"

3. Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)

There may only be one 18-episode season, but "Freaks and Geeks" is a must-watch. Packed with before-they-were-famous stars like James Franco, Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini and Busy Phillips, "Freaks and Geeks" follows a group of high school students as they navigate through the trials and tribulations of being a teenager. Created by Paul Feig and produced by Judd Apatow, "Freaks and Geeks" will forever be a show that was gone too soon. The show is considered the best teen show ever written, but you don't have to be in your teen years to see its value. The lone season can be found on Netflix, so don't hesitate to check this show off your TV bucket list, but be prepared to be left wanting more.

4. Parenthood (2010-2015)

"Parenthood" may sound like a show that wouldn't appeal to a college student, but trust me when I tell you to give it a try. There are very few episodes that you will watch without crying, but it is not a sad show. "Parenthood" follows the trials, tribulations and celebrations of the Braverman family. It's one of those shows that will resonate with everyone in some way. Every issue you could think of is a part of this show, but the story is really about family. The series finale aired earlier this year, but it feels like it has been too long already. See the first five seasons on Netflix now, or wait for the sixth season to be added if you can't live without the conclusion before starting!

5. The Following (2013-2015)

"The Following" is one of the few shows I was fortunate enough to watch from the pilot episode. It's the story of serial killer Joe Carroll and the detective-turned alcoholic that caught him, Ryan Hardy. The pilot episode opens with Joe Carroll escaping from prison and the suspense only grows from there. The are enough nail-biting moments in the first episode for an entire season, but you'll want to keep on watching. The season follows Hardy as he chases the Edgar Allen Poe-obsessed Joe Carroll and his cult of followers. The show only ran for three seasons, but if you're looking for a thrill this summer, check it out on Netflix!