Add these 20 unusual U.S. destinations to your travel bucket list

The highest paved road in North America, Mount Evans, is not for the faint of heart. But for anyone who wants to see some of the most gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountains, plus plenty of wildlife, it's definitely worth the drive to Colorado. 

This tiny town in far west Texas is a haven for artists and is best known for being the filming location for the Elizabeth Taylor film "Giant." Use it as a home base to explore the high desert and make a trip to the not-too-far-away Big Bend National Park if you've got the time. The views there are otherworldly — and breathtaking. 

Situated not far outside of Montana's stunning Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. It's also stunningly clear and filled with colorful stones, thanks to the water's high mineral content. Don't be afraid to stick your feet in during the summer, either — this water is cold but also refreshing. 

Sure, you probably know Bar Harbor as a vacation destination for rich people, but it's also one of the most beautiful places on the East Coast. Browse the shops, take a side trip to Acadia National Park, or simply enjoy the gorgeous views. 

Most folks think of the desert as a totally barren place, and Moab's a great place to see the desert in a whole new light. Even if you're not interested in skiing, there's rafting, hiking, and tons of natural beauty to enjoy here. 

Home to gorgeous white-sand beaches, stunning blue water, and plenty of family activities, the towns along Florida's Emerald Coast are perfect for anyone's vacation bucket list. Pretty much anywhere you go along the 30A Highway, you're guaranteed to find a beautiful place to soak up the sun. 

Home to theme parks, river tours, and great shopping, there are few family vacation destinations more appealing than the Wisconsin Dells. If you prefer to be more in the great outdoors, head to Mirror Lake State Park for camping and natural beauty galore. 

If you've never seen Michigan's Upper Peninsula, you just might be gobsmacked at its natural beauty. In the summer, it's a great destination for kayaking, lazy beach days, and gorgeous scenery like the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. 

First settled in the 1600s, Block Island is a tiny island with a ton of history, from early Dutch settlers to the War of 1812. It's also a great place to see old lighthouses, pretty beaches, and do lots of seashell hunting. 

The Danish influence is prominent in this California vacation town, from its name to its dominant architectural style. More than a million tourists visit Solvang yearly to sip wines, scope out the Hans Christian Andersen museum, and see outdoor attractions like the stunning Nojoqui Falls. 

Plot a road trip through Tennessee, especially in the fall, for some of the South's most gorgeous scenery. And while you take in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains, maybe consider making a side trip to Nashville, or, heck, even the Dollywood theme park, for a little bit of unique Tennessee culture. 

Situated beneath the towering Grand Tetons, Jackson Hole's natural beauty has made it a favorite among celebrities who probably didn't even know Wyoming was a state before moving there. Summer is probably the best time to visit, when you can get great views of the mountains and really temperate weather. 

Art and the gorgeous landscapes of the American Southwest collide in Santa Fe. Check out the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, buy pottery and crafts from local artisans, and learn about Native American culture, all while surrounded by beautiful views. 

Hitch a ride on a ferry to the San Juan Islands, just off the coast of Washington State. Depending on the time of year, you can see orca whales as they migrate, kayak the Salish Sea, and engage in some really great bird-watching. 

If you're looking for a laid-back beach destination that won't be too crowded, look no further than this Virginia destination. Nearby Assateague Island, which you may remember from Marguerite Henry's famed novel "Misty," is home to wild horses that can be seen in the summer months. 

This quirky little town offers a seriously wide range of stuff to do that doesn't feel too overwhelming. You can check out fine art in the luxurious Biltmore mansion or explore the Pisgah National Forest, along with taking a scenic drive down the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Even if it isn't Halloween, Salem is just a short drive away from Boston, and it's definitely worth the trip. Browse the witch trials museum, spend the afternoon browsing the House of the Seven Gables, and don't forget to stop by the Old Burying Point, one of the oldest cemeteries in the United States. 

Use Newport as a home base to explore as much of the stunningly rugged Oregon Coast as your time allows. There are tons of beaches, and lighthouses to explore, and if you go far enough north, you'll hit Haystack Rock, which you might recognize from "The Goonies." 

Wine and scenery? What's not to love. Texas's Hill Country is a beautiful destination for late summer and early fall. Head to Fredericksburg for wine touring and old-town charm, or try glamping in a yurt in Wimberley. 

This tiny town in the Ozark Mountains is off-the-beaten-path and a total charmer. After the Civil War, its mineral-infused waters were believed to be healing, and it remains a place replete with good vibes. Enjoy the gorgeous outdoor scenery, then explore the town's quaint shopping district.