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Sometimes the road less traveled leads to the most interesting and memorable places. No matter where you travel in the U.S., you are guaranteed to find under-the-radar spots and hidden gems that are worth seeing just as much as the most popular tourist attraction.
Cheapism searched around the country for all of the "hidden gem destinations" curious travelers should explore, compiling a list of the best in each state, the ones that are "often overshadowed, lesser-known oddities."
Among a list of spectacular sites like national parks larger than European countries and stunning glass chapels in the middle of the woods is a stand-out in North Carolina: Pisgah National Forest. This "often-overlooked" spot near Asheville was described as being "criminally underrated" compared to nearby tourist destinations. Here's what the site had to say about the best hidden gem destination to visit in North Carolina:
"Nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway are no doubt worthwhile attractions, but the criminally underrated Pisgah National Forest near Asheville is an often-overlooked feast for the senses. Enjoy crowd-free views of the region's purple mountains majesty, then set up camp and stay a while."
Check out the full list at cheapism.com to read up on more of the best hidden gems around the country.