12 Hidden US Territories Worth Knowing
Most people can rattle off the 50 states without a second thought, but ask about U.S. territories, and you might get a blank stare. These places, scattered across the Caribbean and Pacific, are part of the United States but don’t always get the same attention.
From remote islands teeming with wildlife to communities with deep Indigenous roots, these U.S. territories are more than just dots on a map. They have their own cultures, landscapes, and histories, some of which might surprise you. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or just curious about the lesser-known corners of the country, these 12 territories are worth knowing.
American Samoa
Tucked away in the South Pacific, American Samoa is the only U.S. territory south of the equator, according to the Washington Times. It boasts dramatic volcanic landscapes, untouched beaches, and a rich Polynesian culture. The National Park of American Samoa is one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S., meaning you’ll likely have its rainforests, coral reefs, and towering cliffs all to yourself.
Guam
If you’ve ever played “Where in the World Is Guam?” you’re not alone. This Western Pacific island is known for its stunning beaches, Chamorro culture, and deep military history. World War II relics dot the landscape, and the food: think red rice, barbecued meats, and coconut desserts is reason enough to visit.
Northern Mariana Islands
This chain of 14 islands, just north of Guam, is a paradise for divers and history enthusiasts. Saipan, the largest island, was a pivotal battleground during World War II, and remnants of that era still stand today. The island’s blue holes, coral reefs, and shipwrecks make it one of the most underrated diving spots in the Pacific.
Puerto Rico
While Puerto Rico is well known compared to other U.S. territories, its rich culture and history deserve a closer look. From the colorful streets of Old San Juan to the lush trails of El Yunque National Forest, the island offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Puerto Rico’s unique political status means residents are U.S. citizens but don’t vote in presidential elections (a topic that continues to spark debate).
U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands is made up of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, it combines postcard-perfect beaches with a fascinating history. St. John is home to Virgin Islands National Park, where hiking trails lead to centuries-old sugar mill ruins. Meanwhile, St. Croix’s historic towns, Christiansted and Frederiksted, showcase the island’s colonial past.
Midway Atoll
Few places are as remote or historically significant as Midway Atoll. Located in the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between the U.S. and Asia, it was the site of the pivotal Battle of Midway during World War II. Today, it’s a wildlife refuge teeming with albatrosses, monk seals, and green sea turtles. While it’s not open to casual tourists, conservation efforts here are helping protect some of the world’s rarest species.
Wake Island
This tiny atoll in the Pacific is primarily a military outpost, but its history runs deep. Captured by Japan in World War II, Wake Island saw fierce fighting before being reclaimed by U.S. forces. Today, access is limited to military personnel, but its strategic location still makes it an important part of American history.
Baker Island
If you’re looking for the middle of nowhere, Baker Island comes close. This uninhabited coral island in the central Pacific is about as isolated as it gets. It’s home to seabirds, sea turtles, and little else. Though you won’t find any hotels or resorts here, Baker Island serves as a reminder of how vast and wild U.S. territory can be.
Howland Island
Famous for being Amelia Earhart’s planned refueling stop before she disappeared, Howland Island is another remote U.S. territory lost in the Pacific. Like Baker Island, it’s uninhabited and designated as a wildlife refuge. Today, it’s mostly visited by researchers studying seabirds and marine life.
Jarvis Island
Another Pacific outpost, Jarvis Island is small, uninhabited, and rarely visited. Once part of a failed U.S. government project to colonize remote islands, it’s now a protected nature reserve. The island’s coral reefs support a rich marine ecosystem, making it an important conservation site.
Palmyra Atoll
Unlike most of the remote islands on this list, Palmyra Atoll actually has a few temporary residents (mostly researchers and conservationists). It’s a tropical paradise with dense jungles, pristine reefs, and lagoons. Scientists study everything from climate change to marine biodiversity here, making it one of the most scientifically valuable places under U.S. jurisdiction.
Kingman Reef
This partially submerged reef doesn’t see many visitors, but it plays a key role in protecting marine life. Its lagoon serves as a habitat for fish, sharks, and coral species. While it may not have sandy beaches or resorts, Kingman Reef is a hidden gem in ocean conservation.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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