The United States’ west has been a dominant area for tourism for years. Massive destinations like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and San Francisco attract millions of visitors every year. People come from across the country and worldwide to explore the familiar appeals of these classic spots. But while these areas are as popular as they are for a reason, America’s west is much more than just the main attractions.
If you’re looking to avoid some of the massive crowds, the overdone attractions, and the high prices, the good news is that many different areas on the West offer this opportunity. Whether you’re looking for a big city or a small town with beautiful natural scenery, there are plenty of options.
For travelers looking to explore destinations a little more less-traveled, who want to go somewhere new and exciting, we’ve got you covered. This list will introduce or re-introduce you to some incredible destinations on America’s west. With great spots for food and entertainment, Instagram-friendly scenery, and some one-of-a-kind finds, this list has it all. Here are three lesser-known western destinations to add to your bucket list.
The Row- Reno, Nevada
While Las Vegas holds the spotlight for tourism in Nevada, travelers have been missing out as the city of Reno has undergone a major transformation to become an incredible visit in its own right. Located in the northern region of Nevada, Reno has a vibrant culture, incredible arts scene, including over 80 murals in the downtown area, and has seen a ton of investment into the city’s revitalization. One example of this is the incredible destination in Reno that is classic Nevada: The Row.
The Row is a Caesars Entertainment destination that brings Vegas magic to the quieter, less flashy Reno. The Row features three massive properties in downtown Reno. These mixed-use buildings are El Dorado, Circus Circus, and Silver Legacy. They are centrally located in the town and only 10 minutes from the airport. The Row features thousands of hotel rooms, making it the perfect place to stay in central Reno.
The Row also has 25 restaurants, 23 bars and lounges, and incredible venues for live performance, making Reno a new entertainment hotspot. With a large casino, great eats, and unbelievable entertainment, The Row is the perfect spot for those who want a bit of the Vegas glamor in a quieter, more unique location that is home to a great local culture.
North America’s Lavender Capital- Sequim, Washington
Off the beaten path is where some of the prettiest sights lie, and Sequim, Washington is a small-town gem with some truly breathtaking imagery. Sequim is a small town with a population under 10,000, located in the northern area of Washington, right on the Dungeness River near the base of the Olympic Mountains. With ocean waters nearby and a quaint town with cozy stays, tranquil coffee shops, and delicious food, Sequim has a ton to offer. But the biggest appeal for this small town is the unique lavender fields nearby.
Because of Sequim’s warmer and more mild climate, it is the ideal place for growing lavender. Known as the lavender capital of North America, Sequim is home to many lavender farms that grow this stunning plant in bulk. This means there are fields upon fields of vibrant purple lavender flower stretching as far as the eye can see. These Instagrammable backdrops smell as good as they look. Sequim also has incredible hiking, with the nearby Olympic National Park. It is a beautiful hidden gem that is perfect for nature lovers.
Haystack Rock- Cannon Beach, Oregon
If you’ve been searching for that perfect outdoor destination with coastal scenery, Cannon Beach, Oregon, may be the right place for you. A popular spot for weddings due to the scenery that has to be seen to be believed, Cannon Beach is a one-of-a-kind west coast gem that lacks the crowds and tourism of most major sights. Cannon Beach is a small city right on the Pacific Ocean, with only 1,500 permanent residents. While the town itself is quiet and quaint, with boutique shops and small hotels, the nature is spectacular.
Cannon Beach is known for its sprawling coastline, but the most eye-catching landmark is Haystack Rock, a giant rock that rises out of the ocean water. It is a beautiful and iconic location that is also a haven for tufted puffins, making it a popular birdwatching spot. Beyond Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is right near Ecola State Park, which has Oceanside hiking trails, coves, and a lighthouse. Cannon Beach is a small city with some of the best natural scenery you’ll find anywhere in America, making it the perfect spot for travelers seeking their next great hike.
