The USA is such a varied and complex country with so much to visit that many travellers who want to visit the USA have no idea where to start. With mountain ranges, deserts, forests and lakes, along with mega-cities and barren wasteland, the USA is a country that has an incredible amount diversity, with each of the 50 states representing a different flavour of the country. So, in order to help you get an idea of where to go, we have picked 3 different, but 3 very popular cities that are worth a visit. Chicago, Miami and Washington. Which is your favourite?
Chicago
State: Illinois
Population: 2.7 Million
What to see: The Culture and Parks
What to eat: St. Louis Style ribs, Deep Dish Pizza, Hot Dogs and Garrett's Popcorn.
Where to stay: Freehand Chicago
If you’re one of our many cultured travellers (or at least are trying to be!) then Chicago is the city for you. Full of museums and galleries, from the Art Institute of Chicago and The Fields Museum, or the Museum of Contemporary Art, there is something in the city for everyone. The other big plus is Chicago’s many open areas where that you can explore on foot, something not always possible in American cities - take a walk to down the Chicago Riverwalk, which is lined with restaurants and bars. We would also really recommend visiting the 606, a 2.7 mile stretch of abandoned elevated rail line that has now been converted into a pedestrian walkway, connecting famous sites, parks and more. Need somewhere cheap to stay, no problem! Have a look at our accommodation options in Chicago.
Miami
State: Florida
Population: 450,000
What to see: The beaches, shops and nightclubs!
What to eat: Arepas, Cuban Sandwich, Frogs legs and Gator Bites
Where to stay: Ocean Blue Hostel
We probably don’t really need to describe Miami to you - the amazing beaches and palm trees and colourful streets lined with Art Deco Architecture are famous across the world. The city itself has also been the filming location for many films and TV shows. But, when you’re not sunbathing, sipping a refreshing cocktail, or dancing the night away in one of the city's many nightclubs, we suggest you check out the Calle Ocho in the Little Havana area to experience an area with a heavy Cuban vibe, or if you are into shopping then head towards the Lincoln Road Mall for an incredible shopping experience. If you want to get out of the city centre then we can also recommend one of the many airboat rides across the marshes of Florida. You can check out all our properties in Miami here.
Washington
State: The District of Columbia (It’s not in a state!)
Population: 7.4 million
What to see: The Monuments, Memorials and Museums!
What to eat: Chesapeake blue crabs and oysters, half-smoke sausages, Senate Bean Soup
Where to stay: DC Lofty
Home to the President of the United States (we’re not sure if this is a good thing or not) is, of course, Washington D.C. Visiting the city is a must if you are into history, monuments and memorials! Of course, the first thing you have to see when you leave your hostel or hotel in the morning is the White House, closely followed by the Lincoln Memorial and the United States Capitol Building. You can also head over to the Smithsonian Institution if you want to experience 19 entire museums in one place, a.k.a, the world’s largest museum. If you are looking for some accommodation in the city then have a look at our super affordable options in Washington D.C.
