A Guide of the Best Detour Destinations in North America to Enjoy a Road Less Traveled

If you’ve never tried it, sometimes the most memorable getaways are the ones where you can step away from the crowds by taking a detour destination vacation instead. Undoubtedly, North America is blessed with countless picturesque coastal towns and awe-inspiring natural landscapes, so we’ve handpicked five of the best detour destinations perfect for exploring travel at your own pace.

Detour From Atlanta to Warm Springs, Georgia

Our first top detour destination to visit this year must be Warm Springs, Georgia, the quaint town with a very notable previous resident – Franklin D. Roosevelt. In fact, FDR actively sought healing from the region’s therapeutic geothermal natural springs, whereas today, Warm Springs remains a thoroughly relaxing getaway to recharge your batteries.

Kick off your visit by tracing Roosevelt’s footsteps by visiting the iconic Little White House he built back in 1932, before heading off to another national treasure, namely the insightful Warm Springs National Fish Hatchery. In addition to these prestigious cultural landmarks, be sure to also spend time at Warm Springs Winery, best known for extracting the exquisite flavors from the rich Georgian soils that surround the town.

Make your detour destination vacation to Warm Springs, Georgia, even more memorable by staying at the exquisite Aiden by Best Western Warm Springs Hotel and Event Center.

Detour From Chicago & Milwaukee to Green Bay and Wisconsin’s Fox Valley

Perhaps best known for its Super Bowl-winning football team, our next detour destination finds us in the rolling forests and fertile farmlands of Green Bay and Wisconsin’s Fox Valley. Steeped in history and small-town midwestern charm, Green Bay and Wisconsin’s Fox Valley offer a terrific combination of scenic trails and cultural attractions, complemented by the warm local hospitality extended to every visitor.

For fans of NFL history, our first stop is to visit the Packers Hall of Fame and take a tour of Lambeau Field, home of the four-time Super Bowl champions, the Green Bay Packers. Other key attractions in and around the city include the fascinating National Railroad Museum, where vintage locomotives and railcars bring the past to life, before heading to the Green Bay Botanical Gardens to check out the mesmerizing blooms on display.

Elevate your detour destination experience to Green Bay and Wisconsin’s Fox Valley by booking your stay at the delightful CopperLeaf Boutique Hotel & Spa, BW Premier Collection in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Detour From San Francisco to Big Sur, California

Another marvellous detour destination in the US is Big Sur, where California’s rugged coastline meets the Pacific Ocean to create some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the country. With a myriad of hidden beaches and panoramic viewpoints, our first recommendation when visiting Big Sur has to be to drive the famous Pacific Coast Highway.

Along the way, you can stop to stroll a few of the most pristine beaches in America, before catching an epic sunset snap at Bixby Creek Bridge or Pfeiffer Beach’s Keyhole Arch. Another excellent attraction, especially for families visiting with kids, is to head down to the outstanding Monterey Bay Aquarium, which provides guests with the chance to watch and meet some of the aquatic wildlife on show.

Take your detour destination getaway to Big Sur to the next level by getting a great night’s sleep every night at the fantastic Best Western Plus Monterey Inn in Monterey, California.

Detour From Vancouver to Nelson, British Columbia

Tucked away in the Selkirk Mountains, our next top detour destinations see us heading to Canada, and the laidback, artesian town of Nelson, British Columbia. Immensely popular with travelers who love an outdoor adventure, with a host of lakeside views, mountain trails, and historic buildings, Nelson is a majestic location for those who enjoy the magic of alpine-inspired vacations.

When visiting Nelson in the summer, why not spend a day kayaking on Kootenay Lake, or for those arriving in the winter months, head over to Whitewater Mountain for its world-class skiing and snowboarding runs. Then, after a day of activities, you can take in a show at the stunningly restored 1920s Capitol Theatre before heading to the amazing Nelson Brewery Company, one of BC’s original craft breweries, to try their crisp draught beers.

Turn your detour destination trip to Nelson, British Columbia, into something special by relaxing at the brilliant Best Western Plus Baker Street Inn.

Detour From Toronto to Cobourg, Ontario

Our second Canadian-inspired detour destination can be found along the shores of Lake Ontario and the enchanting lakeside town of Cobourg, Ontario. Offering the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and a true sense of total tranquility, Cobourg’s historic downtown is the idyllic location to completely forget about your worries.

For the art lovers amongst you, we highly recommend visiting the Art Gallery of Northumberland, which is packed with exhibitions showcasing the imaginative talents of its regional and Canadian artists. Furthermore, you can visit the legendary Presqu’ile Provincial Park, famed for its vibrant wildlife and a prime spot for birding, before refuelling afterwards with the culinary delights available at George & Orange restaurant.

Recharge during your detour destination trip to Cobourg, Ontario, by staying at the incredible Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn & Convention Centre.