Exploring Northern States: Travel Destinations To Discover

The northern states of the USA are packed with incredible travel destinations, from big cities to quaint coastal towns, serene beaches, and rugged mountains. If you're looking for a trip filled with natural beauty, delicious food, and a rich history, here's an introduction to some of the best places to visit in the northern states.

New York City, New York, is a classic destination, offering diverse experiences across its five boroughs. Manhattan is a bustling hub of skyscrapers, world-famous attractions, and cultural landmarks. Beyond Manhattan, each borough has its unique charm, from the birthplace of hip-hop, The Bronx, to the trendy eateries and nightlife of Brooklyn.

For a change of pace, head to Boston, Massachusetts, a city steeped in history with its own set of iconic landmarks. Follow the Freedom Trail to explore the city's past, and don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the famous clam chowder and lobster rolls.

If you're craving natural beauty and outdoor adventures, the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire is a must-see. With wild hills, mountains, lakes, and streams, it offers ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, leaf peeping, and river rafting.

For a quaint coastal experience, look no further than Bar Harbor, Maine. This picturesque town offers incredible views of Cadillac Mountain and the ocean, as well as a vibrant downtown scene filled with craft breweries and restaurants.

These are just a few highlights of the northern states, but there's so much more to discover, including the charming city of Newport, Rhode Island, with its opulent mansions and scenic ocean views, and the vibrant, eclectic city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, steeped in American history. Whether you're seeking natural wonders or cultural delights, the northern states have something for everyone.

The Northeast: New York City, Niagara Falls, Washington DC

The Northeast is a vibrant region offering a plethora of attractions, from the bright lights of New York City to the majestic natural wonder of Niagara Falls and the historical significance of Washington, DC.

New York City, with its constant energy and endless attractions, is a must-visit destination. The city is comprised of five unique boroughs, each with its own distinct character and charm. Manhattan, the most visited borough, boasts iconic landmarks such as Broadway and Central Park, while Brooklyn is renowned for its world-class nightlife and culinary scene. The Bronx is a hub of history and culture, including Yankee Stadium and the birthplace of hip-hop, and Queens offers a diverse range of cuisines and scenic surf spots.

Niagara Falls, located on the Canada-US border, is a breathtaking natural wonder. The falls themselves are just the beginning; the region offers a variety of entertainment, including theme parks, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and events such as the Niagara Falls Marathon and Drummond Hill Cemetery Tours.

Washington, DC, the cultural and political heart of the nation, is a city like no other. It boasts the world's largest library, vibrant foliage, and waterfront views. DC's theatre scene is exceptional, with 60+ playhouses and 180+ productions annually. The city also offers interactive museums, a vibrant sports culture, and family-friendly festivals. The National Mall, with its monuments and memorials, is a must-visit.

The Northeast provides a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling metropolis of New York City to the natural grandeur of Niagara Falls and the historical and cultural richness of Washington, DC, making it a captivating destination for travellers seeking adventure, nature, and knowledge.

Alaska: Northern Lights in Fairbanks

Alaska, the northernmost state in the US, is a great choice for travellers looking to explore the northern states of the country. Fairbanks, in particular, is a popular destination for witnessing the Northern Lights. Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your trip to Fairbanks for an unforgettable experience.

When to Go

The Northern Lights or the aurora borealis can be witnessed in Fairbanks from 21 August to 21 April. The peak viewing season is during the winter months when the weather is coldest and the nights are darkest.

Where to Stay

Fairbanks offers a range of accommodation options, from hotels to lodges and chalets. The Aurora Borealis Lodge, located 20 miles north of Fairbanks in the Cleary Summit area, is known internationally as one of the best spots to view the Northern Lights. The lodge provides comfortable rooms and evening aurora tours for guests. Another option is the Borealis Basecamp, located on a quiet ridgeline outside of Fairbanks, offering elegant igloos and aurora-viewing cubes.

What to Do

Fairbanks provides excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing. The Chena River State Recreation Area, Chena Lake Recreation Area, and Murphy Dome are popular spots to witness the aurora. You can also take a tour to nearby locations like North Pole, Cleary Summit, or even further to Coldfoot, above the Arctic Circle. These tours can include other activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and more.

Practical Tips

• Be prepared for cold weather and dress accordingly.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance due to potential last-minute flight changes or cancellations.
• Check out the aurora forecast, weather conditions, and daylight hours before planning your viewing locations and times.
• Consider taking a tour to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights and gain access to prime locations.
• Be patient and resilient, as the aurora can be unpredictable.
• Minimise light pollution by turning off headlights when parked at viewing locations.
• For a more comfortable experience, view the Northern Lights from a heated cabin, yurt, dome, or lodge.

Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a unique opportunity to witness the stunning phenomenon of the Northern Lights. With its ideal location, range of accommodation, and exciting activities, it is a must-visit destination when exploring the northern states of the US.

Washington: The Space Needle

The Space Needle is an iconic landmark and observation tower located in the Lower Queen Anne neighbourhood of Seattle, Washington. It was built for the 1962 World's Fair, which drew over 2.3 million visitors, and has since become a symbol of the city and the Pacific Northwest. Standing at 605 feet (184 metres) tall, it was once the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River.

The tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Seattle, the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Elliott Bay, and various islands in Puget Sound. Visitors can enjoy these views from the observation deck, which features floor-to-ceiling windows and unique glass benches known as "Skyrisers". The tower also features The Loupe, an indoor observation deck with a revolving glass floor—the first and only one in the world. Here, guests can enjoy 360-degree views while enjoying cocktails, local wines, and snacks.

The Space Needle is more than just an observation tower; it is a testament to human ambition and ingenuity. It was designed by architect John Graham, who drew inspiration from his previous work on the La Ronde tower restaurant in Hawaii. The tower's unique hourglass profile and tripod design resemble the isthmus that Seattle sits on. The Space Needle is built to withstand winds of up to 200 mph (320 km/h) and earthquakes of up to 9.0 magnitude, showcasing its structural resilience.

Over the years, the Space Needle has undergone renovations to enhance the visitor experience. The most recent renovation, the Century Project, cost $100 million and added an all-glass floor to the restaurant, replaced the observation platform windows with floor-to-ceiling glass panels, and upgraded internal systems. The tower also features a gift shop, a café, and additional accessibility options.

A visit to the Space Needle is a must for anyone travelling to Seattle. It offers a birds-eye view of the city and provides a unique perspective on the surrounding natural landscape. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply looking for a thrilling experience, the Space Needle is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Montana: Glacier National Park

Montana is home to the Glacier National Park, a nature reserve that borders Canada. The park is known for its photogenic trails and scenic beauty, as well as its diverse wildlife and outdoor recreation opportunities. Located in the western part of the state, the park is characterised by forests, rivers, and wildlife, with the bold granite spectacle of Glacier National Park serving as its centrepiece.

The Glacier National Park is a great destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and nature exploration. The park offers innumerable options for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and exploring the various trails that run along the Canadian border. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, macaws, lemurs, and snow leopards.

One of the most notable features of the Glacier National Park is its glaciers, which are a remnant of the last Ice Age. The park is dedicated to preserving what is left of these ancient ice masses, and visitors can learn about the impact of climate change on these glaciers. The park also offers a unique opportunity to experience the contrast between the alpine splendour of the Cascade Range and the arid Columbia Plateau, which has been transformed into fertile farmland by New Deal public works projects such as the Grand Coulee Dam.

When visiting the Glacier National Park, Grinnell Point is a must-see destination. This granite spectacle offers incredible scenic views and is a popular spot for hiking and nature photography. The park is also a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes who once inhabited the region, including the Shoshone, Blackfeet, Sioux, and Cheyenne nations.

The Glacier National Park is best accessed by road, and it is a popular stop on cross-country road trips across the United States. The park is located near the city of Seattle, which is known for its scenic beauty, blue-collar grit, and high-tech panache. Visitors can also explore the nearby Idaho Panhandle and the windswept prairies of the northern Great Plains to get a sense of the diverse landscapes and rich history that Montana has to offer.

New England: Boston, Cape Cod, Vermont

New England is a region in the United States that is comprised of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. It is known for its beautiful forests and coastlines, as well as its historical landmarks and cultural attractions.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is a popular destination in New England, offering a variety of appealing activities and sightseeing opportunities. The city is home to some of the oldest historical landmarks and artifacts in the country, making it a great place to explore American history. Boston also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and festivals throughout the year.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of water activities such as whale watching, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and windsurfing. It is also known for its world-class beaches and premier golf courses. Cape Cod has a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, art studios, and museums to explore. The region also offers scenic bike paths and coastal hiking trails, providing a great way to take in the natural beauty of the area.

Vermont

Vermont is a nature lover's paradise, offering outdoor activities throughout all four seasons. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at various resorts, while the warmer months are perfect for exploring the many hiking and biking trails. Vermont is also known for its breweries, with guided tours available in Burlington and Stowe. The state is also home to historic sites, such as Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, and the Billings Farm & Museum, which offer a glimpse into the past. Quechee Gorge, often referred to as Vermont's "Grand Canyon," is another popular attraction, offering easy hiking trails, camping, and kayaking.

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