Exploring America's Least Visited States And Why

When it comes to the least-visited states in the US, Alaska takes the top spot, with only 13% of respondents in a 2022 survey claiming to have been there. The northern state is famed for its natural wonders, including Denali National Park, and its long summer days and bitterly cold winters.

Other states that don't attract many tourists include West Virginia, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Delaware, all of which received fewer than 10 million visitors in 2024. These states offer a range of attractions, from Nebraska's sandhill crane migration to Delaware's beaches and historic sites.

While these states may not be the first to come to mind when planning a trip to the US, they offer unique experiences and authentic insights into American culture that are well worth exploring.

Alaska: 2.26 million visitors

Alaska: A Seemingly Unpopular Destination

According to statistics, Alaska is the least visited state in the US, with only 2.26 million visitors. Its reputation among travellers is quite prominent, yet it is far less accessible than the other states. This may be a significant factor in its low visitor count.

However, Alaska has a lot to offer, from its natural beauty to its cultural attractions. It is a popular cruise destination, with many travellers opting to explore its stunning landscapes by boat. The state is also ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, offering activities like fishing, hiking, dog sledding, and snowmobiling.

Getting to Alaska

Due to its remote location, reaching Alaska can be a challenge. Most visitors fly into Anchorage or Fairbanks, the state's two major airports. Alternatively, for those seeking an epic road trip, it is possible to drive through Canada's British Columbia and Yukon to reach Alaska by land.

Exploring Alaska

Once in Alaska, renting a car is the best way to explore the state's diverse attractions. In the summer, visitors can spend a week in the southern Kenai Fjords National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including brown bears, sea otters, whales, and birds. A boat tour of the fjords, kayaking, and hiking the dramatic Exit Glacier are all must-do experiences.

Denali National Park is another highlight, offering hiking in the summer and cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and snowshoeing in the winter. For a truly unique Alaskan experience, visitors can try their hand at ice fishing on a frozen lake.

Annual Events in Alaska

Alaska also hosts several notable events throughout the year:

• The World Ice Art Championships in February-March, where artists create wild sculptures from blocks of ice.
• The Sundown Solstice Festival in June, Alaska's biggest music event, celebrating the summer solstice.
• The Great Alaska Craft Beer and Home Brew Festival in May, showcasing beers from over 25 regional breweries, cideries, and distributors.

West Virginia: 3.96 million visitors

West Virginia welcomed 3.96 million visitors, making it one of the least-visited states in the US. However, this state is home to some of the most beautiful scenery and thrilling adventure activities in the country. From waterfalls to national parks, to rivers for whitewater rafting, to stargazing sites, West Virginia has a lot to offer.

New River Gorge, the largest gorge in the Appalachian Mountains, is a must-visit. This national park boasts stunning natural beauty and is an adventure hotspot for rafting, rock climbing, and base jumping. The New River is also an excellent spot for rafting, with rafts navigating past huge sandstone walls and pine, willow, and aspen trees. West Virginia also has a plethora of beautiful waterfalls, from the huge cascades of Sandstone Falls in New River Gorge and Blackwater Falls in Blackwater River State Park, to the more intimate Babcock Mill Creek Falls, set beside the bucolic Glade Creek Grist Mill.

For stargazers, the 25-mile North Fork Mountain Trail, labelled "epic" by the International Mountain Bicycling Association, offers the opportunity to ride backcountry ridges while soaking up breathtaking views of Seneca Rocks. Another river that adventure seekers can brave is the Gauley River, one of the world's top whitewater rivers, featuring a 14-foot raftable waterfall.

West Virginia also hosts several notable events throughout the year. The Cheat River Festival, held in May, is an annual celebration of the Cheat River watershed, featuring live music from Appalachian bands. In the same month, runners of all ages can explore the hills and trails of Pocahontas County at the West Virginia Trail Fest, with races ranging from a 5k to a 100k. For barbecue enthusiasts, the Almost Heaven BBQ Bash in June is the state's largest barbecue competition, featuring live entertainment, food vendors, and arts and crafts.

Nebraska: 6.5 million visitors

Nebraska, located in the Midwest, is the least-travelled-to state in the US, with 6.5 million visitors. The state is landlocked and borders South Dakota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming. It is the 16th largest state by land area, with a population of over 1.9 million, making it the 38th most populous state and the eighth least densely populated. The state is divided into two major land regions: the Dissected Till Plains and the Great Plains. The former, consisting of gently rolling hills, is home to Nebraska's two largest cities, Omaha and Lincoln. The latter region, occupying most of western Nebraska, is characterised by treeless prairies.

Nebraska is a top destination for birdwatching, with nearly one million sandhill cranes stopping in the state during their spring migration. The state also boasts several lush state parks that are perfect for hiking, biking, and camping. Fort Robinson State Park in Crawford is home to herds of buffalo and longhorn cattle, and the state's calendar is packed with dozens of rodeos. For campers, the Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area in Ogallala is a popular spot, with campsites along the shoreline of the state's largest lake. Nebraska also has one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the country: the Ashfall Fossil Beds in the northeast, famous for their immaculately preserved rhino, three-toed horse, and ancient dog skeletons.

Nebraska has a rich history, with Indigenous peoples, including the Omaha, Missouria, Ponca, Pawnee, Otoe, and various branches of the Lakota (Sioux) tribes, living in the region for thousands of years before European colonisation. The state was also crossed by many historic trails, including the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad and the passage of the Homestead Acts in the late 19th century led to rapid population growth and the development of a large agriculture sector, for which Nebraska is known today.

Despite its reputation as "flyover country," Nebraska offers a range of unique experiences, from exploring its diverse landscapes to discovering its vibrant cities and cultural heritage.

Wyoming: 8.1 million visitors

Wyoming: A Nature Enthusiast's Dream

Wyoming, the least-visited state in the US, welcomed only 8.1 million visitors in 2024. However, this western state has a lot to offer, from its sprawling natural wonders to its deep-rooted cowboy culture.

Wyoming is home to two famous tourist attractions: Jackson Hole and Yellowstone National Park. However, there is much more to explore, such as the annual celebration of all things Wild West, the Cheyenne Frontier Days, held in the state's capital, and Wind River Country, a year-round destination for a classic Western experience.

Nature enthusiasts and state and national park lovers will be spoilt for choice with Wyoming's two national parks, two national monuments, one national recreation area, and one national historic site, along with four national historic trails. The state also boasts over 4,000 lakes and reservoirs, many of which are open for paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and other water recreation activities.

For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, Star Valley, located an hour south of Jackson, is the perfect escape. Known for its abundant wildlife, open grasslands, and rugged mountains, Star Valley offers a classic Wyoming experience. It is particularly popular in winter, with its deep snow ideal for snowmobiling and skiing. With over 300 miles of groomed trails and vast backcountry areas, winter in Star Valley brings a sense of limitless freedom for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wyoming also offers unique hiking experiences, such as Killpecker Dunes, part of the state's Red Desert, where you'll find towering sand dunes and otherworldly rock formations. The Boars Tusk, a 400-foot monolith, is another fascinating site. It is the exposed core of a volcano, and hikers can take on the three-mile trek to the spire.

So, if you're looking for wide-open spaces, untouched natural wonders, and a chance to immerse yourself in the Wild West culture, Wyoming is the place to be. With its vast expanses and diverse outdoor offerings, it's no wonder that Wyoming is a nature enthusiast's dream destination.

Delaware: 9.2 million visitors

Delaware: A Mid-Atlantic Gem

Delaware may be one of the least-visited states in the US, but it has a lot to offer. With 9.2 million visitors, this small state is packed with fascinating history and beautiful beaches. Nicknamed "The First State," Delaware was the first to ratify the Constitution in 1787, and history buffs will find much to explore here.

One notable historical site is the Winterthur Museum and Gardens in Winterthur, which boasts one of the richest collections of Americana in the country. The estate features 175 rooms furnished with decorative arts and priceless antiques, all displayed with historical accuracy. Another must-see is the Nemours Estate in Wilmington, home to the largest formal French gardens on the continent. Spanning over 200 acres, visitors can spend a day exploring its lawns, meadows, woodlands, and huge conservatory.

But Delaware is not just about history. It also offers a vibrant beach scene that can hold its own against more famous destinations. Rehoboth Beach, for example, is one of the best beaches on the East Coast, with wide stretches of white sand and a lively boardwalk. It's also home to Funland, a beloved local amusement park since the 1960s. For a younger and more energetic atmosphere, head to Dewey Beach. If you're looking for a more relaxing and family-friendly vibe, check out Delaware Seashore State Park or Bethany Beach.

Delaware also has a calendar full of exciting events. Jazz enthusiasts will enjoy the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival in Wilmington, while the Delaware State Fair in Harrington offers a mix of concerts, casino games, and rides. For music lovers, the Firefly Music Festival at The Woodlands of Dover International Speedway features a diverse lineup of artists.

Practical Information

When planning your trip to Delaware, consider the following practical information:

• Wilmington, the largest city in the state, is a convenient gateway and offers easy access to nearby attractions.
• Burlington is home to the state's only airport, making it a good entry point for air travelers.
• The summer months are a popular time to visit, especially for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.
• Delaware offers a range of accommodation options, from seaside resorts to charming Airbnbs.

Frequently asked questions