These Are The Best Underrated U.S. Wine Regions Worth Visiting—And Where to Stay

Published on August 31, 2026

written by Lauren Dana Ellman, freelance writer and contributor to Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, The Knot, ShermansTravel, Time Out, and more

While Napa and Sonoma remain America's most recognizable wine destinations, they're only part of the story. Across the country, a growing number of lesser-known wine regions are producing award-winning vintages, showcasing distinctive terroir, and offering more relaxed tasting experiences without the crowds. From Arizona's high-desert vineyards to Virginia's historic wine trails, Washington's acclaimed wineries, and Rhode Island's coastal vineyards, these destinations invite travelers to discover a different side of American wine country—paired with exceptional places to stay nearby.

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Scottsdale & Verde Valley, Arizona

Less than two hours from Scottsdale, the Verde Valley has become one of Arizona's premier wine regions, thanks to high-elevation vineyards and dramatic day-to-night temperature swings that produce balanced, expressive wines. But you don't have to leave Scottsdale to taste the region's bounty: Along the Scottsdale Wine Trail, a collection of walkable tasting rooms showcases wines from across the state. Stops such as Aridus Wine Company, LDV Winery, Carlson Creek Vineyard, and Los Milics Vineyards pour their own Arizona wines, while The Wine Collective of Scottsdale offers tastings from dozens of producers under one roof—making it an easy introduction to Arizona's fast-growing wine scene.

Where to Stay

In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Hotel Valley Ho blends iconic mid-century design with modern luxury. Spacious rooms and suites, many with private patios or balconies, provide a stylish retreat after a day of wine tasting. Guests can unwind at the spa, relax beside one of two sparkling pools, or enjoy inventive Southwestern-inspired cuisine at ZuZu before exploring the Scottsdale Wine Trail, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife—all just steps from the hotel.

Woodinville Wine Country, Washington

Just 30 minutes from downtown Seattle, Woodinville has become one of the country's premier wine destinations, with more than 130 wineries and tasting rooms clustered into four walkable wine districts. Visitors can sample Washington's acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Riesling at iconic producers like Chateau Ste. Michelle, boutique favorites such as DeLille Cellars, or sophisticated tasting rooms like Long Shadows Vintners, all without making the four-hour drive to the vineyards of Eastern Washington, where most of the grapes are grown. The result is one of the easiest wine getaways in the country, where visitors can spend an entire weekend walking or biking between tasting rooms, restaurants, breweries, and distilleries.

Where to Stay

Located in the heart of Woodinville Wine Country, Willows Lodge places guests within walking distance of many tasting rooms. Spacious rooms and suites feature fireplaces and oversized soaking tubs, and the wellness-centric spa offers a relaxing retreat after a day of wine tasting. Here, you'll also find The Herbfarm, an acclaimed dining destination for seasonal tasting menus.

Charlottesville & the Monticello Wine Trail, Virginia

Centered around Charlottesville, the Monticello Wine Trail has helped establish Virginia as one of the country's most exciting wine destinations with more than 40 wineries. Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the region is known for producing standout Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and increasingly acclaimed Bordeaux-style blends. Visitors can tour historic estates like Barboursville Vineyards, sip award-winning wines overlooking the polo fields at King Family Vineyards, or stop by Jefferson Vineyards, where Thomas Jefferson first envisioned Virginia as one of America's great wine-growing regions. Between tastings, visitors can browse Charlottesville's lively Downtown Mall, dine at acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants like the aptly named restaurant foraged. at patowmack farm, or tour Monticello, Jefferson's historic estate.

Where to Stay

Located on the University of Virginia campus, the newly opened Virginia Guesthouse offers contemporary accommodations with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests are just minutes from the Monticello Wine Trail, Charlottesville's acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants, the historic Downtown Mall, and landmarks like Monticello, making it an ideal base for exploring Virginia wine country.

Newport & Coastal Rhode Island

Newport's renowned sailing culture and Gilded Age mansions often steal the spotlight, but the surrounding coastal region has quietly become a rewarding destination for wine lovers. At Newport Vineyards, one of New England's largest estate wineries, visitors can sample everything from Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc to Vidal Blanc while enjoying seasonal farm-to-table cuisine. Just a short drive away, Greenvale Vineyards offers intimate tastings of estate-grown wines overlooking the Sakonnet River. About 40 minutes away in nearby Little Compton, Sakonnet Vineyard—founded in 1975 and among the pioneers of Rhode Island's modern wine industry—is well worth the scenic drive. The 169-acre property includes more than 20 acres of vineyards producing balanced, estate-grown wines in a picturesque coastal setting.

Where to Stay

After a day exploring the nearby vineyards, Wayfinder Newport offers a stylish retreat just minutes from Newport's waterfront and beaches. Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, grab a cocktail before heading out, or settle in for fresh seafood and coastal fare at Little Clam, the hotel's buzzy all-day restaurant. From there, it's just a short drive to Newport's historic waterfront, harbor, and many of the city's best restaurants.

Explore more destinations across the Benchmark Resorts & Hotels portfolio, a collection of distinct, independent properties by Pyramid Global Hospitality. Located in diverse destinations across the globe, Benchmark’s resorts and hotels reimagine immersive travel, inspiring guests to create memories born from meaningful exploration, authentic moments, and innovative experiences – no matter the occasion. Benchmark guests can earn complimentary gift cards, on-property perks, and destination experiences through the collection’s signature Mosaic Rewards program.


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