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Travel + Leisure

This Virginia City Was Just Named the Most Underrated Travel Gem in the U.S.

Luxury vacation rental service Wander recently conducted a study to determine the most underrated travel destinations in the U.S. By analyzing data from Google, Numbeo, Tripadvisor, and Instagram, Wander ranked often overlooked U.S. destinations that travelers can experience without the crowds. According to the report, Williamsburg, Virginia, came out on top, earning an impressive score of 9.29 out of 10. Williamsburg might not be at the top of most people's vacation wish lists, but it should be. With dozens of historical and cultural attractions in a compact city center, it's the kind of place where travelers can quickly dive into the city's roots and discover something new around every corner. As one of Virginia's historic capitals, Williamsburg is part of the state's famed Historic Triangle, along with Jamestown and Yorktown. The city has played a key role in shaping American history, including the Civil War Battle of Williamsburg. It's also home to the College of William & Mary, the second-oldest university in the country. While the city is most known for Colonial Williamsburg—the world's largest living history museum, spanning 300 acres—Williamsburg has far more to offer beyond its 18th-century roots. Explore the newly renovated Muscarelle Museum of Art, which houses nearly 8,000 artworks and compelling exhibits. This includes Haiti to Harlem: Toussaint L'Ouverture & Jacob Lawrence , which is on display through Jan. 4, 2026. Stroll through the Williamsburg Botanical Garden in Freedom Park, or paddle down the James River at sunset. Foodies will appreciate Williamsburg's culinary scene, which includes historic spots like King's Arms Tavern, contemporary establishments like the AAA Four Diamond-rated Fat Canary, and quirky spots like Food for Thought. Sip a flight of meads on tap or by the bottle at Silver Hand Meadery, or enjoy barrel-aged beers and craft lagers at Virginia Beer Co. For some lighthearted fun, head to Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Set across nearly 400 acres of landscaped grounds, the park has been named 'The World's Most Beautiful Theme Park' by the National Amusement Park Historical Association. Rounding out the top five underrated U.S. spots are two destinations in Montana—Bozeman and Missoula—followed by Fairbanks, Alaska, and Charlottesville, Virginia. To learn more about the methodology, visit