Us Map Of Big Cities
The United States is home to some of the most vibrant and bustling cities in the world. From the skyscrapers of New York City to the sunny beaches of Los Angeles, each city has its unique charm and attractions that draw in millions of visitors every year. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top big cities in the US, highlighting the best things to do and see in each one.
Top Attractions
When it comes to top attractions, each big city has its own unique offerings. In New York City, you can’t miss the iconic Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. In Los Angeles, the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios are must-see destinations. Chicago is home to the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), while San Francisco boasts the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions may be the most popular, there are also plenty of hidden gems in each city that are worth checking out. For example, in New York City, you can take a stroll through the High Line, an elevated park built on an old railway line. In Los Angeles, visit the Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city. Chicago has the Garfield Park Conservatory, while San Francisco has the Sutro Baths ruins.
Food Scene
The United States is known for its diverse cuisine, and each big city has its own unique food scene. In New York City, you can try everything from pizza to bagels to hot dogs from street vendors. Los Angeles is famous for its tacos and Korean BBQ, while Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. San Francisco has its sourdough bread and seafood.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visiting big cities can be expensive, but there are also plenty of budget-friendly options available. For example, in New York City, you can take advantage of free admission to many museums on certain days of the week. Los Angeles has plenty of free outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Hollywood Hills. Chicago has many free festivals throughout the year, while San Francisco has plenty of free walking tours.
Outdoor Adventures
While big cities may be known for their concrete jungles, there are also plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. In New York City, you can take a bike ride through Central Park or go kayaking on the Hudson River. Los Angeles has plenty of beaches for surfing and swimming, while Chicago has 26 miles of lakefront for biking and running. San Francisco has many hiking trails, including Lands End and Mount Tamalpais.
Historical Landmarks
The United States has a rich history, and each big city has its own historical landmarks that are worth visiting. In New York City, you can visit the 9/11 Memorial and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. In Los Angeles, there’s the Getty Villa and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Chicago has the Chicago History Museum, while San Francisco has the Cable Car Museum and the Palace of Fine Arts.
Family-Friendly Activities
Big cities can be a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike. In New York City, you can visit the Children’s Museum of Manhattan or take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry. Los Angeles has the California Science Center and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Chicago has the Shedd Aquarium and the Lincoln Park Zoo, while San Francisco has the Exploratorium and the San Francisco Zoo.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those who want to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations, there are also plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had. In New York City, you can take a ghost tour of Greenwich Village or visit the abandoned City Hall subway station. Los Angeles has the Museum of Jurassic Technology and the Last Bookstore. Chicago has the International Museum of Surgical Science, while San Francisco has the Camera Obscura and the Musee Mecanique.
Natural Wonders
While big cities may be known for their man-made attractions, there are also plenty of natural wonders to be found. In New York City, you can visit the Central Park Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden. Los Angeles has the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and the Griffith Park Observatory. Chicago has the Lincoln Park Conservatory, while San Francisco has the Muir Woods National Monument and the Point Reyes National Seashore.
Vibrant Nightlife
Big cities come alive at night, with plenty of options for those who want to hit the town. In New York City, you can visit the bars and clubs in the Meatpacking District or catch a Broadway show. Los Angeles has the Sunset Strip and the Hollywood Bowl. Chicago has the Second City comedy club and the Green Mill jazz club, while San Francisco has the historic Fillmore auditorium and the Great American Music Hall.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience a city’s culture is through its markets. In New York City, you can visit the Union Square Greenmarket or the Chelsea Market. Los Angeles has the Grand Central Market and the Original Farmers Market. Chicago has the Chicago French Market and the Maxwell Street Market, while San Francisco has the Ferry Building Marketplace and the Alemany Farmers’ Market.
Beaches and Mountains
While big cities may be known for their urban landscapes, there are also plenty of opportunities to escape to the beach or the mountains. In New York City, you can visit Coney Island or take a day trip to the Catskill Mountains. Los Angeles has the beaches of Santa Monica and Malibu, as well as the nearby San Gabriel Mountains. Chicago has the beaches of Lake Michigan and nearby Starved Rock State Park, while San Francisco has the beaches of Baker Beach and the nearby Muir Woods.
Cultural Immersion
Big cities are melting pots of cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in different traditions and customs. In New York City, you can visit Chinatown or Little Italy, or take a food tour of the city’s different neighborhoods. Los Angeles has the Japanese American National Museum and the Museum of Latin American Art. Chicago has the National Museum of Mexican Art and the Polish Museum of America, while San Francisco has the Asian Art Museum and the Contemporary Jewish Museum.
Art and Music Scene
Each big city has its own vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of opportunities to see live performances and exhibitions. In New York City, you can visit the Museum of Modern Art or catch a show at the Apollo Theater. Los Angeles has the Getty Center and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Chicago has the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, while San Francisco has the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the San Francisco Opera.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore a city is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours available in each big city. In New York City, you can take a walking tour of the Lower East Side or the Brooklyn Bridge. Los Angeles has the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Chicago has the Chicago Riverwalk and the Magnificent Mile, while San Francisco has the Golden Gate Park and the Mission District.
Architectural Marvels
Big cities are home to some of the most iconic buildings in the world, and there are plenty of opportunities to admire their architecture. In New York City, you can visit the Empire State Building or the Chrysler Building. Los Angeles has the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Bradbury Building. Chicago has the Willis Tower and the Tribune Tower, while San Francisco has the Transamerica Pyramid and the Palace of Fine Arts.
Historical Sites
Each big city has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. In New York City, you can visit the Tenement Museum or the African Burial Ground National Monument. Los Angeles has the Watts Towers and the Autry Museum of the American West. Chicago has the Pullman National Monument and the Robie House, while San Francisco has the Fort Point National Historic Site and the Golden Gate Park.
Biking Routes
Biking is a great way to explore a city, and there are plenty of bike routes available in each big city. In New York City, you can bike along the Hudson River Greenway or the Brooklyn Greenway. Los Angeles has the Ballona Creek Bike Path and the Strand Bike Path. Chicago has the Lakefront Trail and the 606, while San Francisco has the Embarcadero Bike Path and the San Francisco Bay Trail.
Wellness Retreats
For those who want to relax and rejuvenate during their trip, there are plenty of wellness retreats available in each big city. In New York City, you can visit the Aire Ancient Baths or the Great Jones Spa. Los Angeles has the Beverly Hot Springs and the Spa at the Four Seasons. Chicago has the Chuan Spa and the Trump Spa, while San Francisco has the Cavallo Point Healing Arts Center and the Kabuki Springs & Spa.
Adventure Sports
For the adrenaline junkies, there are plenty of adventure sports available in each big city.