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USA (north)
The northern U.S. features diverse landscapes, including the Great Lakes, vibrant cities like New York, and scenic areas like the Rockies. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and cultural attractions.
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Summary
Overview
Months
09. September, 10. October, 11. November, 02. February, 07. July, 12. December, 06. June, 03. March, 05. May, 04. April, 08. August, 01. January
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Nature, Sightseeing, Mountains, Hiking, Skiing, Party
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€, <100€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C, Under 0°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
North America
Currency
U.S dollar
Languages
English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Northern USA is during the spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild temperatures and generally pleasant weather, ideal for exploring cities, natural landscapes, and outdoor activities.
- Spring (May to June): Features warming temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. It's a great time to visit cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, and to enjoy outdoor activities in national parks such as Yellowstone and the Great Lakes region.
- Autumn (September to October): Offers cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, perfect for scenic drives, hiking, and visiting national parks. It’s also a good time to explore cities and avoid summer crowds.
- Summer (July to August) can be warm to hot, with high temperatures, especially in inland areas. This is a popular time for vacations, national parks, and outdoor activities, though it can also be crowded.
- Winter (November to March) can be cold, snowy, and harsh in many northern regions, making it suitable for winter sports enthusiasts. However, it might not be ideal for general travel due to the potential for severe weather and travel disruptions.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($60-120/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (budget motels, hostels).
Food: $10-25/day (casual dining, fast food).
Activities: $15-30/day (museums, sightseeing, national parks).
Transportation: $15-20/day (local transit, car rentals).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($120-250/day)
Accommodation: $60-120/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $30-50/day (local restaurants, casual dining).
Activities: $30-50/day (guided tours, outdoor activities).
Transportation: $20-30/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $40+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $50+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $30+/day (private transport, premium services).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping, exclusive activities).
Off-Peak Season: October-May (Winter, Fewer Crowds)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget motels, guesthouses).
Food: $5-15/day (street food, fast food).
Activities: $10-20/day (museums, historical sites).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transit).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-160/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (local restaurants, cafes).
Activities: $15-40/day (sightseeing, local tours).
Transportation: $10-20/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, activities).
Luxury Vacation ($160+/day)
Accommodation: $70+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, high-end meals).
Activities: $30+/day (exclusive experiences, private tours).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Chicago, Illinois
- Known for its architecture, museums, vibrant arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods.
2. Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Offers a thriving arts scene, beautiful lakes, and numerous parks.
3. Detroit, Michigan
- Renowned for its rich musical history, revitalized downtown, and automotive heritage.
4. Cleveland, Ohio
- Home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, world-class museums, and a rejuvenated waterfront.
5. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Known for its brewing history, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse neighborhoods.
6. Buffalo, New York
- Offers a revitalized waterfront, historic architecture, and proximity to Niagara Falls.
7. Madison, Wisconsin
- Features a lively cultural scene, beautiful lakes, and a strong emphasis on outdoor activities.
Chicago
Islands
1. Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Famous for its historic charm, horse-drawn carriages, and lack of motor vehicles.
2. Lake Michigan's Manitou Islands, Michigan
- Known for their natural beauty, outdoor activities, and scenic landscapes.
3. Washington Island, Wisconsin
- Offers picturesque landscapes, outdoor activities, and a peaceful retreat.
4. Bainbridge Island, Washington
- Features a charming small-town feel, local shops, and beautiful views.
5. Block Island, Rhode Island
- Known for its beaches, nature reserves, and historic lighthouses.
6. Santa Catalina Island, California
- Offers outdoor adventures, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere.
7. Antelope Island, Utah
- Located in the Great Salt Lake, known for its wildlife, hiking trails, and stunning views.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)
- Explore the geothermal features like Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Yellowstone Canyon, along with abundant wildlife and scenic landscapes.
2. Glacier National Park (Montana)
- Discover stunning landscapes with glaciers, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes. Highlights include the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald, and many hiking trails.
3. Denali National Park (Alaska)
- Experience breathtaking views of North America's highest peak, Denali, and explore the park's wilderness with opportunities for wildlife viewing and backcountry hiking.
4. Great Lakes
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Great Lakes, including activities like boating, fishing, and visiting landmarks around Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario.
5. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)
- Explore dramatic landscapes with eroded buttes, pinnacles, and canyons, along with fossil beds and unique geological formations.
6. North Cascades National Park (Washington)
- Discover rugged mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems with opportunities for hiking, climbing, and scenic drives.
Cultural Attractions
1. The Henry Ford Museum (Michigan)
- Explore American innovation and history with exhibits on automobiles, aviation, and the history of industrialization.
2. Chicago’s Art Institute (Illinois)
- Visit this renowned museum with an extensive collection of art, including works by Grant Wood, Georges Seurat, and many other significant artists.
3. The Field Museum (Chicago, Illinois)
- Discover exhibits on natural history, including Sue the T. rex, ancient civilizations, and cultural artifacts.
4. The Museum of Pop Culture (Seattle, Washington)
- Explore interactive exhibits and collections focused on music, science fiction, and pop culture, including memorabilia from influential artists and genres.
5. Minneapolis Institute of Arts (Minnesota)
- Visit this museum with an extensive collection of artworks from around the world, including European, Asian, and American art.
6. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland, Ohio)
- Celebrate the history of rock and roll with exhibits on influential artists, landmark performances, and iconic artifacts from the genre’s history.
7. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration (New York)
- Explore the history of American immigration through exhibits and artifacts at this historic site where millions of immigrants first arrived in the U.S.
8. Mount Rushmore National Memorial (South Dakota)
- Admire the iconic sculpture of four U.S. Presidents carved into a granite mountain and learn about its history and significance at the visitor center.
9. National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche (Florida)
- Visit this historic Catholic shrine dedicated to Our Lady of La Leche, featuring beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.
10. The Dakota War of 1862 Museum (Minnesota)
- Learn about the Dakota War and its historical impact through exhibits and educational programs focused on the Native American experience and American history.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are the fastest way to cover long distances between major cities in the North. Airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and United offer flights connecting cities such as Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee. This is especially useful for long trips across the northern states.
2. Trains
- Amtrak provides train services across the northern U.S. The Empire Builder connects Chicago with Minneapolis and Seattle. The Cardinal connects Chicago with New York City. Trains are a scenic and relaxing way to travel between key northern cities.
3. Buses
- Long-distance buses are an economical option for travel between cities. Companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus operate routes that connect major cities such as Chicago, Minneapolis, and Detroit. Buses are a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Car Rentals
- Renting a car provides flexibility to explore the northern U.S. at your own pace. It's ideal for road trips, visiting national parks like Voyageurs National Park or Sleeping Bear Dunes, and exploring smaller towns. Highways such as I-90 and I-94 offer scenic routes and easy access to various attractions.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in cities and larger towns. They are convenient for local travel and short trips within urban areas. Ride-sharing apps can often be more affordable and flexible than traditional taxis.
6. Regional Trains and Light Rail
- In major northern cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, regional trains and light rail systems offer convenient local transportation. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates buses and trains, while the Metro Transit light rail in Minneapolis provides access to key destinations.
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 Minneapolis and Chicago are known for their bike-friendly infrastructure and have numerous trails and parks.
8. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers and local attractions. Cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee offer pedestrian-friendly areas with landmarks, museums, and restaurants within walking distance.
For the best experience, use domestic flights for long distances, trains for scenic and comfortable travel between major cities, and buses for budget travel. Rent a car for flexible exploration, and use taxis or ride-sharing for local trips. Regional trains, light rail, cycling, and walking are excellent for navigating cities and enjoying local attractions.
What to eat
1. Bison Burgers
- Juicy burgers made from bison meat, showcasing local ingredients.
2. Casserole
- A baked dish often made with pasta, meat, and cheese, popular in the Midwest.
3. Fish Fry
- Fried fish served with coleslaw and tartar sauce, a regional favorite.
4. Wild Rice Soup
- A creamy soup made with wild rice and vegetables, often enjoyed in Minnesota.
5. S'mores
- A sweet treat made with graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows.
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), Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
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 $300.
- 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: $1,000 to $1,800.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- 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.