MyFavouritePlaces.org is a travel website dedicated to highlighting some of the world’s most amazing destinations. While the site covers all the popular tourist attractions and famous sites, there are also many hidden gems waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers.
The goal of this article is to uncover some of the lesser-known spots on MyFavouritePlaces.org:// blog that you may not have heard of before. These are the underrated places that don’t always make it into guidebooks or get talked about much, but are beloved by locals and those in the know. Whether you’re looking to get off the beaten path or find somewhere away from the crowds, read on for a curated list of hidden gems on MyFavouritePlaces.org.
Lesser-Known Beaches
Hidden along the coastline are some of the most pristine and untouched beaches you’ll ever come across. Though popular beaches get all the crowds and attention, there are a few hidden gems worth seeking out if you want to find seclusion, beauty, and have the beach all to yourself.
Paradise Cove
Paradise Cove is a small, crescent-shaped beach tucked away down a windy cliffside road. Don’t let the bumpy drive deter you, because you’ll be rewarded with soft white sand and stunning turquoise waters protected by pine tree-dotted cliffs. Waves gently lap the shore instead of crashing, making swimming and snorkeling calm and peaceful. At low tide, fascinating tide pools filled with sea creatures appear. You may have the entire cove to yourself any time other than summer weekends. Paradise Cove remains one of the most serene and untouched beaches in the area.
Crescent Beach
Down an unmarked dirt road and sheltered by soaring cliffs lies Crescent Beach, an aptly named perfect crescent strip of soft sand. The shallow, clear waters make it ideal for families with kids, while the lack of amenities and facilities give it a castaway feel. The only other “people” you may see are the seals who like to sunbathe on the rocks offshore. At low tide, exposed tide pools contain a fascinating array of sea creatures. Pack a picnic, build sandcastles uninterrupted, hunt for seashells, and relax at this hidden gem. With towering cliffs on either side and hardly a soul around, you’ll feel like you have the beach entirely to yourself.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Hiking Trails
When it comes to hiking, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut hitting up the same popular trails over and over. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and experience nature without fighting crowds, here are a couple under-the-radar hiking spots worth checking out.
Opal Creek Trail
Located about an hour east of Salem in the Willamette National Forest, the Opal Creek Trail offers a peaceful hike through old-growth forests and alongside a pristine stream. The trail leads to Opal Pool, a beautiful emerald-green swimming hole fed by a small waterfall. Late summer is the best time to catch the fall colours starting to turn. Just don’t expect to have the place to yourself on a summer weekend. Opal Creek gets less traffic than many spots but remains a local favorite.
Eagle Creek Trail
Starting about 30 miles east of Portland, the Eagle Creek Trail delivers spectacular scenery without the headache of overwhelming crowds. The hike features waterfalls, old-growth forest, and unique geologic formations like punchbowl falls and the narrow “High Bridge” crossing steep cliffs. Early summer is a great time to catch the waterfalls at peak flow. While not a complete secret, Eagle Creek tends to attract fewer people than the ultra-popular Multnomah Falls trail nearby.
Underrated Historical Sites
While some historical sites inevitably get more attention than others, myfavouriteplaces.org has several fascinating but often overlooked historic places that are worth exploring. For history buffs looking to get off the beaten path, consider visiting the Jefferson County Courthouse or the Townsend House.
The Jefferson County Courthouse in Smalltown, USA, may not look like much from the outside, but this unassuming court building has an incredible history. Built in 1872, it was the site of several high-profile court cases during the late 19th century that had major impacts locally. Despite its historical significance, few tourists know about this courthouse or visit it. Take a guided tour to see the largely unchanged courtrooms and learn about the building’s past.
For an intriguing piece of more recent history, check out the Townsend House just north of Smalltown. While it looks like a typical suburban home today, during the 1950s it was owned by a mysterious scientist believed to be doing secret government research in the basement. Some think experiments on new technology like radar occurred here. Though his work was classified at the time, the home’s historical connection to research that shaped modern technology makes it a fascinating, albeit largely unknown, site to visit.
Quirky Roadside Attractions
One of the joys of road-tripping is stumbling upon the wonderfully weird roadside attractions that dot the American landscape. Though they may seem like random oddities, these offbeat attractions often have intriguing backstories or provide a window into local history and culture.
An excellent example is the World’s Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City, Kansas. Started in 1953 by Frank Stoeber, the ball was originally only a few feet wide. But Stoeber kept adding to it over the decades until he died in 1974. Today, the twine ball weighs over 8 tonnes and has a 41-foot circumference! The winding roadside creation has become a beloved, if eccentric, symbol for the tiny town.
For a truly surreal pitstop, be sure to check out the future birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk in Riverside, Iowa. Trekkies will appreciate the campy replica of the fictional starship captain’s humble childhood home. Though Kirk is not real, the town has embraced the playful hoax as part of its identity. The tourist attraction is complete with a bronze Kirk statue and an annual festival in his honor. Because, after all, Kirk will be born in Riverside on March 22, 2228 – and fans are invited to attend!
Local’s Favorite Restaurants
Myfavouriteplaces.org is filled with amazing restaurants, but some of the very best are just a bit off the beaten path. These are the hidden gems cherished by locals that you might not discover as a tourist. Here are two not-to-miss local favorites:
Jansen’s Roadside Cafe
Tucked away on a backcountry road outside of town, Jansen’s Roadside Cafe is easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. But for locals, this unassuming cafe serves up some of the best homestyle cooking around. Their menu focuses on classic comfort foods like pot roasts, meatloaf, chicken fried steak, and biscuits with gravy. Every single dish is made from scratch using local ingredients. Don’t miss their famous peach cobbler for dessert! With its retro 1950s decor and friendly wait staff, Jansen’s offers a cozy, welcoming vibe.
Ristorante Bellavista
Hidden in plain sight downtown, Ristorante Bellavista is housed in a nondescript building you might walk right by. But step inside and you’ll discover a romantic Italian restaurant adored by locals. Chef Giada Russo serves up authentic northern Italian cuisine, with handmade pastas and sauces based on traditional recipes. Locals rave about the osso buco braised in a rich red wine sauce. With just 8 tables, Ristorante Bellavista offers an intimate dining experience in a setting that feels like you’ve been invited into the chef’s own home. This charming hole-in-the-wall is a little tricky to find, but that just makes it more of a local secret.
Cozy Cafes and Bookshops
Nestled away in quiet corners of the city, these charming cafes and bookshops are local gems just waiting to be discovered. With cozy furniture, great coffee, and that lingering scent of old books, they make the perfect rainy day retreats.
The Nook Cafe
Tucked away down a cobblestone alley in the historic district, The Nook Cafe is a hidden treasure. Lit by strings of fairy lights and furnished with well-worn armchairs and sofas, it has a magical charm. Their coffee is locally roasted and they make delicious homemade cakes and savory pies daily. It’s the ideal spot to while away an afternoon reading or chatting with friends.
Whispering Pages Bookshop
Located upstairs in a 19th century building, Whispering Pages Bookshop feels like stepping back in time. Floor-to-ceiling oak shelves overflow with books on every topic imaginable. Mismatched, overstuffed armchairs invite you to curl up for hours of reading. Classical music plays softly in the background as you browse. The owners are bibliophiles who give great recommendations. Spend an afternoon getting lost in the pages amidst the cozy, peaceful atmosphere.
Obscure Museums
Most tourists flock to the major museums, but many local gems fly under the radar. For an offbeat museum experience, visit these fascinating and quirky collections that offer something you won’t find anywhere else.
The National Mustard Museum
Tucked away in Middleton, Wisconsin, the National Mustard Museum houses the world’s largest collection of prepared mustards. With over 6,000 mustard jars and bottles from all 50 states and over 70 countries, you’ll find mustards of every flavor imaginable. Learn about mustard’s history and sample unique creations like garlic mustard and pineapple mustard. It’s a delicious way to spend an afternoon!
The Museum of Bad Art
The Museum of Bad Art in Somerville, Massachusetts collects some of the world’s worst pieces of art. You’ll find everything from sloppy still lifes to creepy portraits of pets. It’s hilarious to see what pieces they deemed terrible enough to acquire. And you might just spot a hidden gem amidst the oddities. Don’t miss their permanent collection of velvet masterpieces!
The Vent Haven Ventriloquist Museum
Located in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, Vent Haven is the only museum dedicated entirely to ventriloquism. It houses over 700 figures, including many of the most famous dummies from vaudeville and TV. See memorabilia from ventriloquist legends like Edgar Bergen and Shari Lewis. You can even attend ventriloquist conventions held annually at the museum. It’s a quirky treat for anyone fascinated by this artform.
Out-of-the-Way Markets
One of the best ways to experience local culture is by visiting markets where locals shop. Get off the main tourist routes and you’ll find some hidden gem markets worth exploring.
Miller’s Flea Market
Located about an hour outside of town down some winding backroads, Miller’s Flea Market is only open on weekends and many tourists miss it entirely. But this sprawling outdoor market is beloved by locals for its amazing deals on antiques, locally grown produce, and unique handmade items. Wander through the stalls and you’ll find everything from vintage decor to fresh baked goods. Be sure to come early for the best selection and expect to haggle for deals.
Oak Tree Farmer’s Market
For an authentic taste of farm life, visit the Oak Tree Farmer’s Market on Thursday afternoons. Local farmers gather to sell fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and breads, jars of honey, and more. This is the place to find organic, seasonal ingredients for cooking farm-to-table meals. You can also watch cooking demonstrations and even meet the goats that produce the milk for the goat cheese. It’s a great way to connect directly with farmers and discover the bounty of the region.
Conclusion
There are so many underrated spots across Myfavouriteplaces.org just waiting to be discovered. From secluded beaches and hiking trails to unique museums and local eateries, this region has hidden gems around every corner.
While this article only highlighted a small selection, there are countless more under-the-radar destinations that offer memorable adventures and experiences. Part of the joy is stumbling upon them yourself – turning down an unmarked walking path or stepping into a hole-in-the-wall cafe. You never know what you may uncover.
The amazing thing is these are not just random places, but the local favorites and go-to spots appreciated by those in the know. Hitting these hidden gems lets you experience the area like one of its own residents. You get a glimpse of its authentic culture and real character.
So don’t settle for just the major tourist attractions. Venture off the beaten path to find the area’s best kept secrets. Let curiosity and spontaneity be your guide. Immerse yourself in the magic of discovery. Let Myfavouriteplaces.org become your personal travel guide to a world of under-the-radar adventures. The hidden gems are waiting to be found.