There are some state capitals – think Boston, Austin and glittering Nashville – that have long attracted visitors from around the globe. But others remain decidedly under the radar, despite being creative hubs, little-known craft-beer meccas or cradles of American history. Here we reveal 30 underrated state capitals. Remember to check national and state travel restrictions, plus individual attractions' websites before visiting.
Getting to the USA's most northerly state capital is all part of the fun, as you have to arrive by plane or take a ferry. Once you're there, you'll find a stellar dining scene, with just-caught seafood at places like Tracy’s King Crab Shack (open seasonally). Plus it's surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery that you can access with ease. Marvel at the beautiful Mendenhall Glacier, a 20-minute drive out of town, or take a small-ship excursion to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions and eagles.
Named after a tiny rock that helped early European explorers navigate the Arkansas River, Little Rock boomed as a port city in the mid-20th century. Today it has lots to offer culture and history-lovers: enjoy a show at the popular Arkansas Repertory Theatre, or check out the fine old master and drawing collections at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (reopening fall 2022). The Little Rock Nine Memorial and Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site are testaments to the nine Black students who joined a previously all-white school in a historic move against segregation in September 1957.
Just edging out of the shadow of Los Angeles and San Francisco, Sacramento has an emerging restaurant scene with so much locally-produced, high-quality food on offer that it sells itself as America's 'Farm-to-Fork Capital'. While in town, don't miss a meander around Victorian Old Sacramento (pictured) with its quaint buildings and riverfront location. The Golden 1 Center, an impressive downtown arena, also opened in 2016 and now attracts major artists from Kanye West to The Eagles.
More Southern in atmosphere than people imagine, this laid-back city with tree-lined streets and temperate weather is located in the Florida Panhandle. Head to Lake Ella to soak up the city's vibe and if you're here on the first Friday of the month, enjoy late-night music, art and food across Tallahassee as part of the First Friday festival. Remember to pack your walking shoes too – the city is surrounded by nature trails, plus natural wonders like Piney Z Lake.
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Mention Idaho and most people think of one thing above all else: the state’s biggest export – potatoes. But the reputation of its under-visited capital is changing fast. Tree-filled Boise (pronounced BOY-see, if you’re wondering) is a growing mecca for indie, jazz and theatre fans. There are typically events throughout the year like the Gene Harris Jazz Festival or the Treefort Music Festival. Craft-beer fans will feel right at home in its many well-rated bars and breweries, while outdoorsy types should join Idahoans rafting at the Boise Whitewater Park.
Des Moines might have once been lumbered with the 'Dead Moines' moniker, but things are changing fast. Check out trendy East Village, peruse the farmers’ market on Saturdays and enjoy drinks and arcade games at Up-Down. Surrounded by impressive countryside, the Neal Smith Trail runs for more than 20 miles (32km) along the Des Moines River. It makes for a great day out on foot or bike through pretty, contrasting landscapes, whatever your fitness level.
A few days in the state capital should be enough to realise that New Orleans is not the only city worth visiting in Louisiana. Start by admiring the USA’s tallest state capitol building or tour the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center, whose boardwalks get you up close to local wildlife. You can also find some fantastic restaurants and pop-ups in the city. Devour mouthwatering morsels at Gov’t Taco and wholesome local food at Downtown's Cocha.
Check out America's most charming small lakeside towns and cities
The state of Montana is all about scenery, mountains and outdoor experiences and its capital, Helena, is no exception. It's a great jumping-off point for two national parks – Yellowstone and Glacier – as well as the city's own Mount Helena City Park (pictured). But it's worth lingering in the city before heading to the great outdoors. Visit the Last Chance Gulch Road, the grand Neo-Gothic cathedral and historic Reeder’s Alley to understand how the Gold Rush once made Helena one of America’s richest cities.
Sure there are cowboy hats and rodeos aplenty, but Oklahoma City has much to offer beyond the stereotypes. The Bricktown warehouse area is now thriving, with restaurants like the Deep Deuce Grill and Bricktown Brewery. Culture seekers will also love the Museum of Art, the Civic Center Music Hall, and the Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival, which typically takes place in summer. Meanwhile, the shores of Lake Hefner are a beautiful spot for a stroll or a seafood meal.
This affordable, architecturally-charming city is no more than a four-hour drive from New York, and it has an incredible food and drink scene to boot. Buy some bread and a croissant at Seven Stars Bakery and head to Gracie’s in the evening for a spot of fine dining. When you've had your fill, peruse art exhibitions at the RISD Museum (free on Sundays).
Trendy Portland might attract more tourists than nearby Salem, but the capital is a fantastic place to enjoy some of America’s finest wine, and it's a great detour on a road trip along the Willamette Highway. Become a Pinot Noir connoisseur at Cherry Hill Winery or J Wrigley Vineyards, not far from town. Salem itself also has some pretty landmarks to admire, like the 19th-century Bush House, set in the centrally-located Bush's Pasture Park. The annual Salem Film Festival, usually held in March, is a top time to visit.
You could be forgiven for assuming that the USA’s smallest state capital would have very little to offer. Fewer than 10,000 people actually live in Montpelier and it certainly has a small-town feel, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to food, history and Vermont’s lifeblood – maple syrup. Stroll around pretty downtown, drop into a few small galleries, have a drink at the Three Penny Tap Room and sample some syrup at the Bragg Farm Sugarhouse.
This riverside city has transformed itself into something of a hipster hub. Scott’s Addition, an old industrial area, is now a popular night spot, with microbreweries like Vasen Brewing. Elsewhere, the Downtown district has unique brunch spots such as Jewish deli Perly's and a whole load of street art, while the short Canal Walk offers an insight into the area’s trading and maritime history. But Richmond’s biggest selling point is the James River, which has made it a paradise for water-based adventures – there are rapids for everyone to enjoy, from families to experienced rafters.
While Seattle usually takes the limelight in the Pacific Northwest, relaxed Olympia has lots going for it too. Come for one of the many festivals and events that typically take place throughout the year, like the Olympia Brew Fest or Music in the Park, and make time to get outdoors. You can hike, bike, climb or go cross-country skiing in Mount Rainier (around two hours away) and sip craft beer at the Fish Tale Brew Pub or Three Magnets Brewing Company in town.
This small, liberal and friendly city has a big student population and is easy to navigate thanks to its network of cycle routes. Plus there are lots of things to see and do that won't set you back a penny, like the free Madison Museum of Contemporary Art or the city's pretty parks. The huge Dane County Farmers’ Market (held on Saturdays) is a must-visit for foodies, as are the city’s many superb restaurants like posh L’Etoile. Madison also sits near three lakes – Mendota, Monona and Waubesa – which are a treat for sailing, fishing and hiking enthusiasts.
The Big Apple casts a long shadow over Albany, but this culture-rich capital, around 150 miles (241km) north of NYC, is well worth your time. Spread out along the Hudson River, the city has a burgeoning arts scene that sees warehouses covered by murals, sculptures dotting downtown and galleries brimming with contemporary and fine art. A highlight is The Egg (pictured), a head-turning performing arts centre that looks a bit like a flying saucer.
From sobering Civil Rights stories to a literary legacy, this Deep South capital has a whole lot of history. It was in this city that Rosa Parks famously refused to give up her bus seat, and there’s a museum dedicated to her life and legacy. The bold granite Civil Rights Memorial remembers 41 people killed during the movement – their tales are told in the adjoining education centre. For bookworms, the one-time home of F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife Zelda is preserved as a museum too.
The Windy City hogs all the attention in Illinois, yet history buffs will love capital Springfield for its presidential history. Abraham Lincoln lived in this city for several decades and visitors can explore a slew of sites relating to the leader. Guided tours explore his family home, preserved as it was in the 1860s, while the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum is filled with artefacts and exhibits bringing the 16th president to life.
Detroit has a big reputation but Lansing – the Motor City’s grown-up, slightly more bookish cousin – is worthy of attention too. You’ll spend most of your time in the charming Old Town, whose galleries, independent shops and restaurants are packed into Victorian-era buildings. Then there’s the comprehensive Michigan History Museum, which includes a replica of a 1920s street, and cutting-edge contemporary art at Eli & Edythe Broad Art Museum.
Ohio’s underrated capital is almost slap-bang in the middle of the more popular Cleveland and Cincinnati – so you can combine all three on a road trip across the state. When it comes to green space, Columbus really shines. The Scioto Mile spools out along the waterfront, joining up landscaped parks and bikeways, while the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is known for its seasonal blooms and butterflies.
While there’s no denying the appeal of ever-popular, history-steeped Philadelphia, capital Harrisburg is a top choice for families. Right on the doorstep is Hersheypark, a deliciously sweet-themed amusement park that’s packed with thrill rides and kid-friendly attractions. Back in the city proper, children under 12 go free at the Susquehanna Art Museum and boardwalks route through marshes and forest at Wildwood Park.
Few state capitals are as pretty, or as booze-soaked, as Kentucky’s. It’s right in Bourbon Country, so the city and its surroundings are awash with distilleries offering tours and tastings. Sweet-toothed travellers should head to the Rebecca Ruth candy factory, proud home of the 1938-invented 'bourbon ball'. You can take a tour and discover how these liquor-filled chocolates are made. The city's location on the wiggling Kentucky River is a draw too.
Jackson’s ski resorts pull in the crowds, but the frontier history of capital Cheyenne merits the trip southeast. Downtown, stores are stuffed with cowboy boots and Western wear, and the city is home to one of the world’s largest rodeos: Cheyenne Frontier Days. Start your explorations at the Cheyenne Depot Museum, which unpicks the city’s railroad history, then make time for some live music in the evenings. You’ll find bluegrass, country, folk and classic rock on the stages of Cheyenne’s indie venues.
There’s a lot to be discovered in Dover, which is often overshadowed by Wilmington to the north and the shores of Rehoboth Beach to the south. Delaware was the first state to ratify the US constitution and the capital’s First State Heritage Park joins up sites relating to this history. The Dover International Speedway is another big draw – adrenaline junkies can ride along with professional race-car drivers or get behind the wheel themselves.
Right in the centre of the state, Jefferson City is held up for its Victorian architecture and its scenic spot on the Missouri River. The capital’s attractions are typically overlooked in favour of St Louis’ enormous Gateway Arch – but here you’ll find the Missouri State Penitentiary, a shuttered 19th-century prison that offers history and ghost tours. The city is just off the Katy Trail too, so you can blow away some cobwebs with an afternoon bike ride.
Endlessly cool Asheville typically eclipses Raleigh, but North Carolina's capital has a buzz about it too. It’s especially beloved for its live music scene, which sees big-name bands perform at venues like the PNC Arena and indie acts fill venues such as the Red Hat Amphitheater. The area is also known for its many universities and science and tech firms, and you can feel studious yourself in the city’s museums. A highlight is the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, with its colossal globe outside and its fascinating animal exhibits within.
No – not that Charleston. West Virginia’s capital is far less touristy than South Carolina’s Spanish moss-covered city, but it has charms all of its own. Culture vultures will love the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, which combines a 1,000-strong artistic collection with a planetarium and theatre plays. You can head to the Haddad Riverfront Park for free concerts too.
Arranged neatly along the Kennebec River, Augusta is a quaint city away from coastal big hitters like Portland, Camden and Rockland. You’ll wander by charming, Victorian-era buildings downtown; gaze up at the Capitol Building as you picnic in manicured Capitol Park; and feast on New England seafood at independent restaurants. If you’re in need of fresh air, you can join locals along the Augusta Greenway Trail.