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USA (central)
Central U.S. is characterized by its expansive plains, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the bustling cities of Chicago and Dallas, natural wonders like the Ozarks, and historic sites along the Mississippi River. Visitors can enjoy diverse attractions, from lively urban scenes to scenic landscapes.
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Summary
Overview
Months
04. April, 08. August, 10. October, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 03. March, 01. January, 11. November, 09. September, 02. February, 12. December
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Nature, Sightseeing, Mountains, Hiking, Party
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, <100€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
North America
Currency
U.S dollar
Languages
English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Central USA is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring cities, national parks, and outdoor activities.
- Spring (April to June): Features warming temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. It’s a great time for visiting major cities, enjoying outdoor events, and exploring national parks.
- Autumn (September to October): Offers cooler temperatures, vibrant fall foliage, and generally good weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It’s also a great time to visit before the onset of winter.
- Summer (July to August) can be hot and humid in many parts of Central USA, with high temperatures and occasional thunderstorms, especially in the Midwest.
- Winter (November to March) can be cold, with snow and ice in northern regions, but is suitable for winter sports and certain indoor attractions.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($50-100/day)
Accommodation: $30-50/night (budget hotels, motels).
Food: $10-25/day (casual dining, fast food).
Activities: $10-30/day (national parks, museums).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local transport, car rentals).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($100-200/day)
Accommodation: $50-100/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $20-40/day (restaurants, local dining).
Activities: $30-50/day (guided tours, activities).
Transportation: $20-30/day (car rentals, local taxis).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (souvenirs, experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $40+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $30+/day (private transportation).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Winter, Lower Crowds)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget motels, guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (fast food, street food).
Activities: $10-20/day (local attractions, outdoor activities).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport, buses).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (casual restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $20-40/day (cultural sites, tours).
Transportation: $10-20/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, high-end restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (private experiences, tours).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury experiences, shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Chicago, Illinois
- Known for its deep-dish pizza, architectural landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene.
2. Kansas City, Missouri
- Famous for its jazz heritage, barbecue, and historic sites.
3. Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Offers beautiful parks, a thriving arts scene, and a high quality of life.
4. St. Louis, Missouri
- Home to the Gateway Arch, diverse neighborhoods, and cultural attractions.
5. Omaha, Nebraska
- Known for its family-friendly attractions and growing food scene.
6. Indianapolis, Indiana
- Offers sports events, museums, and a revitalized downtown area.
7. Des Moines, Iowa
- Features a robust local economy, cultural events, and beautiful parks.
Chicago
Islands
1. Madeline Island, Wisconsin
- Known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and relaxed atmosphere.
2. Kelleys Island, Ohio
- Offers scenic landscapes, outdoor recreation, and historical sites.
3. Put-in-Bay, Ohio
- Popular for its vibrant nightlife, historical landmarks, and waterfront activities.
4. Starved Rock State Park Islands, Illinois
- Includes smaller islands along the Illinois River, known for hiking and scenic views.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)
- Explore the unique and rugged landscapes of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and deep canyons, known for its dramatic geological formations and fossil beds.
2. Mount Rushmore National Memorial (South Dakota)
- Admire this iconic monument featuring the carved faces of four U.S. Presidents (Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, Lincoln) on a massive granite cliff.
3. Ozark National Scenic Riverways (Missouri)
- Enjoy outdoor activities such as canoeing, hiking, and camping in this scenic area known for its clear rivers, limestone bluffs, and diverse wildlife.
4. Gateway Arch (Missouri)
- Visit this iconic stainless steel arch in St. Louis, symbolizing the westward expansion of the United States, with a museum and observation deck offering panoramic city views.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
- Experience the breathtaking mountainous landscapes with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives along the Trail Ridge Road.
6. Great Sand Dunes National Park (Colorado)
- Explore the tallest sand dunes in North America, with opportunities for sand sledding, hiking, and enjoying the diverse landscapes of dunes, grasslands, and alpine forests.
Cultural Attractions
1. Chicago’s Millennium Park (Illinois)
- Visit this urban park known for its modern art installations, such as the reflective Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the interactive Crown Fountain.
2. Kansas City’s National World War I Museum (Missouri)
- Discover comprehensive exhibits on World War I at this museum, which includes detailed artifacts, multimedia displays, and a panoramic view of the city from its Liberty Memorial Tower.
3. The Henry Ford Museum (Michigan)
- Explore this museum in Dearborn, which showcases American innovation and history with exhibits on automobiles, aviation, and the history of industrialization.
4. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (Oklahoma)
- Reflect at this memorial dedicated to the victims of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, featuring a poignant museum and a memorial with symbolic elements like the Reflecting Pool and the Gates of Time.
5. St. Louis Zoo (Missouri)
- Visit this renowned zoo, one of the few in the U.S. with free admission, known for its diverse animal exhibits, conservation efforts, and educational programs.
6. Denver Art Museum (Colorado)
- Explore this museum in Denver with its extensive collection of Native American art, contemporary pieces, and exhibits highlighting various art movements and cultures.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances between major cities such as Kansas City, Oklahoma City, St. Louis, and Des Moines. Airlines like Southwest, American Airlines, and United offer flights connecting these central hubs.
2. Trains
- Amtrak provides train services connecting several central U.S. cities. Routes like the Southwest Chief and California Zephyr link cities such as Kansas City, St. Louis, and Chicago. Train travel is a scenic and relaxing way to explore the central region.
3. Buses
- Long-distance buses are an affordable option for traveling between cities. Companies such as Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus operate routes across central states. Buses can be a good choice for budget travelers and are often well-connected to smaller towns.
4. Car Rentals
- Renting a car provides maximum flexibility to explore the central U.S. at your own pace. It’s ideal for road trips, visiting national parks, and exploring smaller towns and rural areas. Highways like I-70 and I-40 offer scenic drives through the region.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in cities and larger towns. They are convenient for local transportation and short trips within urban areas. Ride-sharing apps are often more affordable and flexible.
6. Regional Trains and Light Rail
- In cities like Kansas City and St. Louis, regional trains and light rail systems offer convenient local transportation. The KC Streetcar in Kansas City and the Metrolink in St. Louis provide easy access to major attractions and neighborhoods.
7. Cycling
- Cycling is a great way to explore urban areas and scenic routes. Many cities have bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes. Cities like Des Moines and Kansas City have been expanding their cycling infrastructure.
8. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers, parks, and local attractions. Cities like St. Louis and Kansas City have pedestrian-friendly areas where you can enjoy landmarks, museums, and restaurants.
For the best experience, use domestic flights for long distances, trains for scenic routes, and buses for budget travel. Rent a car for flexible exploration, and use taxis or ride-sharing for local trips. Cycling and walking are great for exploring urban areas and nearby attractions.
What to eat
1. Barbecue Ribs
- Slow-cooked ribs slathered in barbecue sauce, a regional favorite.
2. Cornbread
- A sweet and savory bread made with cornmeal, often served as a side.
3. Chili
- A spicy stew made with meat, beans, and tomatoes, showcasing local flavors.
4. Fried Chicken
- Crispy fried chicken, often served with sides like mashed potatoes.
5. Pecan Pie
- A sweet pie made with pecans and syrup, enjoyed as a dessert.
Barbecue
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airports: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €300 to €600.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $100 to $200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $800.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $900 to $1,500.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of many countries, including the U.K., Canada, Australia, and most European nations, may require a visa to enter the U.S. for tourism, business, or study.
2. Visa Waiver Program (VWP)
- Citizens from VWP countries can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they have an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
3. Visa Application
- Travelers not eligible for the VWP must apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Common visa types include a B1/B2 Visa: For business and tourism, typically allowing stays of up to 6 months.
4. Processing Time
- Visa processing times vary but generally take several weeks. It's advisable to apply well in advance of your travel.
5. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; visa holders should refer to their specific visa for duration.
6. Health Requirements
- Vaccination requirements may vary; check current guidelines, especially for COVID-19.
7. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
8. Proof of Funds
- Visitors may need to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in most areas.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 120V, and plug types A and B (flat pins) are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 15-20%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Verizon and AT&T.
6. Driving Side
- In the United States, people drive on the right side of the road.