Things To Do
in Central
Central United States is geographically located in the middle of the country, encompassing states such as Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, and South Dakota. This region is known for its vast and expansive landscapes, including the Great Plains and the Ozark Mountains. Agriculture is a major industry in Central United States, with crops like corn, wheat, and soybeans being commonly grown. The area is also home to a number of major cities, including Kansas City, St.
Louis, and Omaha.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, where you can enjoy world-class art collections. Stroll through the museum's beautiful outdoor sculpture park for a refreshing experience.
Head to the historic City Market for lunch, exploring local foods and unique shops. Afterward, visit the National World War I Museum and Memorial for an educational experience.
Dine at one of Kansas City's famous BBQ joints to taste their legendary brisket. Catch a live jazz performance at the Jazz District to end your day on a high note.
Begin your day at the Gateway Arch National Park, taking a tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the city. Explore the surrounding park and visitor center to learn about the history of westward expansion.
Visit the Missouri Botanical Garden to enjoy its stunning landscapes and diverse plant collections. Pause for lunch at a local café in the area.
Conclude your day in the vibrant Soulard neighborhood, known for its historic architecture and lively atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at a local brewpub and take in the lively nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location makes it easy to access both coasts and allows for efficient travel throughout the U.S.
- Generally lower cost of living compared to coastal metropolitan areas.
- Rich cultural diversity with a mix of urban and rural communities.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including national parks and recreation areas.
- Strong sense of community and friendly Midwestern hospitality in many areas.
- Limited access to major international airports compared to coastal cities, which can affect travel options.
- Weather extremes, including harsh winters in some areas and severe storms.
- Less economic opportunities in certain regions compared to larger urban centers.
- Potential lack of cultural and entertainment options in rural areas.
- Infrastructure may be less developed in rural regions, impacting transportation and services.
Best Activities in Central
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and beautiful landscapes in Central, United States by going hiking.
Enjoy the great outdoors and experience nature by going camping in Central, United States.
Relax and unwind by the lakes and rivers while fishing in Central, United States.
Paddle along the rivers and lakes for a thrilling water adventure in Central, United States.
Tours
Uncover the best of Central with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Central
Visit one of these nice places.
Located in St. Louis, Missouri, the Gateway Arch offers a stunning view of the city and Mississippi River. It's a great spot for photography.
Known for its red rock formations and scenic vistas, Sedona is a popular destination for capturing breathtaking landscapes.
This national park, located in Tennessee and North Carolina, offers diverse photo opportunities including waterfalls, wildlife, and panoramic mountain views.
Food in Central
Central Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Succulent and smoky slow-cooked meats, typically served with a tangy tomato-based sauce. Must-try places include Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Arthur Bryant's.
Must-Try!
A thick crust pizza with generous layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. Lou Malnati's and Giordano's are highly recommended for this iconic dish.
A hearty stew made with beef, spices, and beans, often topped with cheese, onions, and sour cream. Head to Texas to sample authentic bowls at establishments like The Original Ninfa's on Navigation.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Central better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This historic market offers a wide array of local produce, meats, and artisanal products. Visitors can also sample delicious ready-to-eat treats like bratwurst and gooey butter cake.
A vibrant market where one can savor everything from classic Chicago hot dogs to Mexican street food like elotes and tamales.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In the Central United States, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to someone when interacting with them.
Being on time is highly valued in the Central United States, so it is important to make an effort to arrive promptly for appointments and meetings.
Using polite language and maintaining a friendly, courteous tone of voice is important when engaging in conversations and interactions in the Central United States.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Central with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Central
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Central United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides and haircuts.
Payment methods in the Central United States are similar to those in other parts of the country, including cash, credit/debit cards, and digital payment platforms. Contactless payment options are increasingly popular, especially in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit the Central United States with pleasant weather and blooming flowers. Expect mild temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Summer offers warm weather and longer days, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports. Be prepared for hot temperatures and occasional thunderstorms.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit the Central United States as the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Expect cooler temperatures and occasional crisp, clear days.
Winter can be cold in the Central United States, but it also offers opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Expect snow and colder temperatures, especially in the northern regions.
Central at Night
Hiking in Central
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in Arkansas, the Ozark National Forest features numerous hiking trails, scenic views, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, this national park offers over 800 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.
Situated in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest offers beautiful hiking trails through rugged terrain, river views, and unique rock formations.
Located in Kansas, this preserve features vast grasslands with trails that allow hikers to explore the unique ecosystem and enjoy panoramic views.
In South Dakota, Badlands National Park is known for its striking rock formations and offers several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the landscape.
Located in Illinois, this state park is famous for its canyons and waterfalls, with a network of trails suitable for hiking and exploring.
Aiports
How to reach Central by plane.
Located in Chicago, Illinois, O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the United States and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Located between Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW is a major international gateway and one of the largest airports in the world by area.
Situated in Denver, Colorado, this airport is known for its distinctive architecture and is a prominent hub for flights across the United States and international destinations.
Located in Kansas City, Missouri, MCI offers a range of domestic and limited international flights and serves as a significant airport for the region.
Found in St. Louis, Missouri, Lambert Airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it one of the key airports in the central United States.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial group in Central United States, primarily of European descent.
A growing demographic group, with diverse backgrounds from Latin American countries.
A significant population with rich cultural contributions, predominantly descendants of enslaved Africans.
Includes individuals from diverse Asian backgrounds, including Chinese, Indian, and Filipino.
Indigenous peoples of the region, with unique cultural identities and histories.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting a more diverse population.
A smaller demographic group with ancestral ties to the Pacific Islands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in the Central United States, especially at the high school and college levels, culminating in the professional NFL league.
Widely played in schools and colleges, basketball has a strong following in the Central U.S., with several professional teams in the NBA.
Often referred to as America's pastime, baseball has a rich tradition in the Central United States, with many minor and major league teams.
Growing rapidly in popularity, soccer has a strong youth presence and multiple professional teams in the Central U.S.
Especially popular in the northern parts of the Central U.S., ice hockey has a dedicated fanbase and a professional league presence.
Amateur wrestling is widely practiced in schools and colleges, with notable competitive events in the region.
A widely enjoyed sport in the Central United States, with numerous golf courses and annual tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Central.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in the region offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly in urban areas. Places like Chicago Diner and True Food Kitchen provide extensive plant-based menus.
Diners with gluten restrictions can find accommodating options at restaurants such as Wheat's End Cafe in Chicago and Mud Pie Vegan Bakery & Coffeehouse in Kansas City that specialize in gluten-free fare.