Big Cities In Usa Map: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
If you’re planning a trip to the United States, you’ll want to explore the top big cities in the country. From New York City to Los Angeles, Chicago to Houston, and Miami to San Francisco, there’s no shortage of attractions, hidden gems, and adventures to be had in these bustling metropolises. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in these vibrant cities.
Top Attractions
Each of the big cities in the USA has its fair share of top attractions that you won’t want to miss. In New York City, visit the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park. In Los Angeles, take a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, snap a photo at the iconic Beverly Hills sign, and visit the Griffith Observatory. In Chicago, check out the Willis Tower Skydeck, the Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago. And in Houston, visit the Space Center Houston, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Buffalo Bayou Park.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are a must-see, don’t forget to explore the hidden gems of these cities. In New York City, visit the High Line, a public park built on a historic freight rail line, and the Tenement Museum, a museum that tells the stories of immigrants who lived in the city’s tenement buildings. In Los Angeles, explore the street art in the Arts District and visit the Getty Villa, a museum dedicated to ancient Greek and Roman art. In Chicago, check out the Chicago Cultural Center, a stunning building that hosts free events and exhibits, and the Garfield Park Conservatory, a botanical garden with lush indoor and outdoor spaces. And in Houston, visit the Menil Collection, a museum with an impressive collection of art, and the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, which tells the history of African American soldiers.
Food Scene
One of the best things about visiting big cities in the USA is the food scene. From street food to fine dining, these cities offer a wide range of culinary experiences. In New York City, try a slice of pizza from Di Fara Pizza or a bagel from Russ & Daughters. In Los Angeles, feast on tacos from Guisados or Korean BBQ from Park’s BBQ. In Chicago, try the deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s or the Italian beef sandwich from Portillo’s. And in Houston, indulge in the Tex-Mex cuisine at Hugo’s or the barbecue at The Pit Room.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While the food scene can be expensive in big cities, there are plenty of budget-friendly options. In New York City, visit the Museum of Natural History, which has a suggested admission fee, and explore the Brooklyn Bridge, which is free. In Los Angeles, take a hike in Griffith Park or Venice Beach, both of which are free. In Chicago, visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free, and take a stroll down the Chicago Riverwalk. And in Houston, visit the Menil Collection, which is always free, and explore the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, these big cities have plenty of adventures to offer. In New York City, take a bike ride through Central Park or go kayaking on the Hudson River. In Los Angeles, hike to the Hollywood Sign or go surfing at Venice Beach. In Chicago, take a walk along the Lakefront Trail or go birdwatching at Montrose Point. And in Houston, explore the Buffalo Bayou Park or go birding at the Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge.
Historical Landmarks
For those interested in history, these big cities have plenty of landmarks to explore. In New York City, visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum or the Brooklyn Bridge. In Los Angeles, explore the Getty Villa or the Griffith Observatory. In Chicago, visit the Willis Tower Skydeck or the Chicago Water Tower. And in Houston, visit the San Jacinto Monument or the Battleship Texas State Historic Site.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? These big cities have plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. In New York City, take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty or visit the American Museum of Natural History. In Los Angeles, explore the Santa Monica Pier or visit the California Science Center. In Chicago, visit the Navy Pier or take a ride on the Ferris wheel at the Chicago Children’s Museum. And in Houston, visit the Children’s Museum of Houston or the Houston Zoo.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, these big cities have plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. In New York City, explore the abandoned City Hall subway station or take a tour of the Woolworth Building. In Los Angeles, visit the Museum of Jurassic Technology or take a tour of the Bradbury Building. In Chicago, explore the Pedway, a network of underground tunnels, or take a tour of the Glessner House Museum. And in Houston, visit the Orange Show Monument, a folk art monument, or take a tour of the Beer Can House.
Natural Wonders
While big cities may not be known for their natural wonders, these cities have plenty of options for nature lovers. In New York City, visit Central Park or take a trip to the Catskill Mountains. In Los Angeles, explore Griffith Park or take a hike in the Santa Monica Mountains. In Chicago, visit the Chicago Botanic Garden or take a trip to Starved Rock State Park. And in Houston, explore the Buffalo Bayou Park or take a trip to the Big Thicket National Preserve.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun sets, these big cities come alive with vibrant nightlife. In New York City, hit up a rooftop bar or see a Broadway show. In Los Angeles, explore the nightlife in West Hollywood or see a concert at the Hollywood Bowl. In Chicago, check out the blues scene in the South Side or visit a speakeasy in River North. And in Houston, explore the nightlife in Midtown or see a show at the Wortham Theater Center.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of the local culture, check out the local markets in these big cities. In New York City, visit the Union Square Greenmarket or the Chelsea Market. In Los Angeles, visit the Grand Central Market or the Original Farmers Market. In Chicago, visit the Chicago French Market or the Maxwell Street Market. And in Houston, visit the Houston Farmers Market or the Urban Harvest Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
While these big cities have plenty to offer, don’t forget to explore the nearby beaches and mountains. In New York City, take a trip to the Hamptons or the Catskill Mountains. In Los Angeles, visit Santa Monica Beach or the San Gabriel Mountains. In Chicago, take a trip to Lake Michigan or Starved Rock State Park. And in Houston, visit Galveston Island or the Sam Houston National Forest.
Cultural Immersion
One of the best ways to experience a new city is by immersing yourself in the local culture. In New York City, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art or see a Broadway show. In Los Angeles, explore the Getty Center or visit the Museum of Contemporary Art. In Chicago, visit the Art Institute of Chicago or take a tour of the Chicago Cultural Center. And in Houston, visit the Museum of Fine Arts or the Houston Ballet.
Art and Music Scene
These big cities have a thriving art and music scene that’s worth exploring. In New York City, visit the Museum of Modern Art or catch a show at the Apollo Theater. In Los Angeles, explore the street art in the Arts District or see a concert at the Greek Theatre. In Chicago, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art or catch a show at the Chicago Theatre. And in Houston, visit the Contemporary Arts Museum or catch a show at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot. In New York City, take a walking tour of the Lower East Side or the High Line. In Los Angeles, explore the historic Hollywood neighborhood or take a tour of downtown LA. In Chicago, take a walking tour of the Loop or the Magnificent Mile. And in Houston, explore the Downtown Historic District or the Heights neighborhood.
Architectural Marvels
These big cities are home to some of the world’s most impressive architecture. In New York City, visit the Empire State Building or the Chrysler Building. In Los Angeles, explore the Bradbury Building or the Walt Disney Concert Hall. In Chicago, visit the Willis Tower Skydeck or the Tribune Tower. And in Houston, visit the JP Morgan Chase Tower or the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park.
Historical Sites
For those interested in history, these big cities have plenty of historical sites to explore. In New York City, visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration or the Tenement Museum. In Los Angeles, explore the Hollywood Heritage Museum or the Museum of Tolerance. In Chicago, visit the Chicago History Museum or the Robie House. And in Houston, visit the San