Upper
,Upper is a small town located in the northern part of the United States, known for its picturesque scenery and charming downtown area. The town is surrounded by forests and lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating. Upper is also home to a close-knit community that values traditions and local events, such as the annual summer festival and holiday markets.
Despite its rural setting, Upper offers modern amenities and conveniences, ensuring residents have access to everything they need for a comfortable lifestyle.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Stunning Nature Adventures
morning
:Start your day early with a hike at Glacier National Park. Experience breathtaking views and diverse wildlife as you explore the trails.
afternoon
:Have a picnic lunch by Lake McDonald and soak in the serene environment. Afterward, consider taking a scenic drive through the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
evening
:End your day with stargazing in the park, as the clear skies offer a stunning view of the Milky Way. Capture the moment with some beautiful night photography.
Urban Exploration in Minneapolis
morning
:Begin your day at the Walker Art Center to explore contemporary art exhibits. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.
afternoon
:Enjoy lunch at a local eatery before heading to the Mall of America for some shopping. Explore the unique attractions, including the indoor amusement park.
evening
:Relax at a rooftop bar with views of the Minneapolis skyline. Savor a delicious dinner, followed by a stroll along the Stone Arch Bridge.
Highlights
Good
- Scenic natural beauty, including mountains, lakes, and forests.
- Outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and snow sports.
- Tight-knit communities with a slower pace of life.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditions.
- Lower cost of living compared to many urban areas in the U.S.
Bad
- Limited access to major urban amenities and services.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Economic opportunities may be fewer in rural areas.
- Transportation can be challenging due to rural nature and weather conditions.
- Healthcare services might be less accessible in remote locations.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Explore the beautiful trails of the Upper United States, including national parks and scenic byways, providing breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature.
Camping
Experience the great outdoors by camping in national forests, lakeshores, and state parks, where you can enjoy stargazing and campfires.
Fishing
Take advantage of the numerous rivers, lakes, and streams to go fishing, whether it’s fly fishing in a mountain stream or casting off a boat.
Wildlife Watching
Observe diverse wildlife, including elk, bears, and eagles, in their natural habitats by visiting wildlife refuges and national parks.
Kayaking & Canoeing
Navigate the tranquil waters of lakes and rivers, experiencing the beauty of nature from a different perspective while getting a workout.
Mountain Biking
Ride through scenic trails that cater to all skill levels, offering adventure and adrenaline among stunning landscapes.
Snow Sports
Enjoy winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the mountainous regions, which offer excellent snow coverage.
Rock Climbing
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in designated areas, providing adrenaline-pumping excitement along with picturesque views.
Bird Watching
Engage in bird watching in reserves and parks, where you can spot a variety of species, ideal for both novices and seasoned birders.
Photography Tours
Capture the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of the Upper United States through organized photography tours in renowned locations.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Upper with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Famous for its colorful sandstone cliffs, Pictured Rocks offers stunning views of Lake Superior, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and photography at various lookout points.
Mackinac Island
Known for its unique charm and no motor vehicles, the island provides picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and stunning views from Fort Mackinac and the Butterfly House.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, Tahquamenon Falls features breathtaking views and excellent hiking trails that allow for various vantage points for photography.
Pictured Rocks Cruises
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pictured Rocks from the water. The boat tours provide an unparalleled perspective of the cliffs and their vibrant colors against the backdrop of Lake Superior.
Mount Bohemia
With its incredible views of the surrounding Keweenaw Peninsula, Mount Bohemia is not only a great skiing destination but also offers picturesque views year-round, perfect for landscape photography.
Copper Harbor
This northernmost part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula provides stunning views of the harbor, Lake Superior, and the surrounding woods, making it a perfect spot for sunset photography.
Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring)
Located in Palms Book State Park, this natural spring is the largest in Michigan and offers crystal clear water views, where visitors can take a glass-bottomed boat tour for unique photo opportunities.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Upper Farmhouse Burger
A juicy beef patty topped with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce, served with a side of seasoned fries. Best enjoyed at the Upper Farmhouse Diner.
Must-Try!
Lakeview Fish Tacos
Fresh-caught local fish, lightly grilled and served in warm tortillas with a zesty coleslaw and homemade salsa. Available at the Lakeside Grill overlooking the beautiful Upper Lake.
Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie
A decadent dessert made with locally-sourced maple syrup, rich bourbon, and crunchy pecans in a flaky buttery crust. Indulge in this sweet treat at Grandma's Kitchen Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Upper better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Upper Farmers' Market
Open every Saturday morning, the Upper Farmers' Market is a vibrant hub of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade jams, and local crafts. Sample freshly baked goods and grab a gourmet coffee while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Downtown Food Truck Festival
Throughout the summer, the streets of Downtown Upper come alive with a variety of food trucks offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and artisanal ice cream to fusion tacos and wood-fired pizzas. Explore the flavors of Upper on the go!
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness and Courtesy
In Upper Midwestern states, it's important to be polite and courteous. This includes greeting people with a smile, using 'please' and 'thank you' frequently, and engaging in small talk with neighbors and acquaintances.
Respect for Nature
Residents often have a strong connection to nature. Participating in outdoor activities and showing respect for local wildlife and natural spaces is important. This includes following basic rules of outdoor etiquette such as cleaning up after yourself and respecting trails.
Community Involvement
There is a high value placed on community involvement and support. Participate in local events, volunteer for community service, or simply engage with local initiatives. This demonstrates respect for the culture and fosters a sense of belonging.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Upper with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In the United States, tipping is a common practice, especially in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and hospitality. The customary tip amount is usually between 15% to 20% of the total bill. Some establishments may include a service charge, and customary tipping practices can vary based on the region or the level of service provided.
Payment
Payment practices in the U.S. have evolved, with cash often being supplemented by credit and debit card transactions. Digital payment methods, including mobile wallets and online payment platforms, have gained popularity. In many places, it is common to split bills and pay collectively, particularly in social settings.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Upper.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Upper United States (March to May) is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching. Expect occasional rain and bring layers as temperatures can vary.
Summer
Summer (June to August) offers warm weather and is ideal for visiting lakes and enjoying water sports. This season often sees the highest number of tourists, making it perfect for festivals and outdoor events. Be prepared for heat and occasional thunderstorms.
Fall
Fall (September to November) showcases stunning foliage as the leaves change color. The weather is crisp but pleasant, making it perfect for hiking, apple picking, and enjoying scenic drives. Early November can start to see colder temperatures.
Winter
Winter (December to February) brings snow and cold temperatures, making it perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports. Expect cold weather and snowstorms, so pack accordingly if you plan to visit during this time.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Rainier National Park
Located approximately two hours from Upper, Mount Rainier National Park features stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and a variety of hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.
North Cascades National Park
A bit further north, the North Cascades offer breathtaking mountain scenery and numerous hiking opportunities, including scenic alpine trails and rugged backcountry routes.
Olympic National Park
This expansive park features diverse ecosystems and numerous trails, from coastal hikes to rainforest exploration, all within a short drive from Upper.
Tacoma Nature Center
A short distance away, this nature center offers a network of hiking trails through wetlands and forests, suitable for all skill levels.
Copper Creek Falls
A relatively easy hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall, ideal for a quick outdoor adventure and suitable for families.
Bitter Lake Natural Area
Located near Upper, this natural area features flat, accessible trails around a serene lake, perfect for nature walks and bird watching.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Upper by plane.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
Located approximately 130 miles south of Upper, MSP is the largest airport in Minnesota and serves as a hub for both domestic and international flights.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Located about 350 miles southeast of Upper, ORD is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves a large number of international destinations.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
Situated roughly 300 miles southeast of Upper, DTW serves as a major hub for international flights, particularly for routes to Europe and Asia.
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
Located about 300 miles southeast of Upper, CLE offers a variety of domestic and international flights.
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
Located around 800 miles southwest of Upper, HOU is primarily a domestic airport but also has limited international services and is part of the larger Houston metropolitan area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
The majority demographic group in Upper, United States.
Black or African American
A significant demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity.
Hispanic or Latino
An important and growing demographic group in the area.
Asian
A smaller but influential demographic group in Upper, United States.
Native American
An indigenous group with a rich cultural heritage.
Multiracial
A demographic group representing individuals of mixed racial backgrounds.
Other races
Includes various other racial and ethnic backgrounds not categorized above.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
American Football
A team sport that combines elements of running, passing, and tackling, prominently featured in local high schools and colleges.
Basketball
A fast-paced sport where two teams score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop, popular in schools and recreational leagues.
Baseball
Often referred to as America's pastime, baseball is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams, widely enjoyed at various levels.
Hockey
A fast and physical sport played on ice or field, involving two teams trying to score goals by hitting a puck or ball.
Soccer
Growing in popularity, soccer is played globally and features two teams competing to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net.
Golf
A precision club-and-ball sport where players aim to hit a ball into a series of holes on a course in the fewest strokes possible.
Running
A widely practiced individual sport, with local events ranging from marathons to fun runs, often promoting fitness and community.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian
Many eateries in Upper offer vegetarian options, ranging from fresh salads and veggie-packed wraps to creative plant-based entrees. Be sure to inquire about vegan substitutions and customizations.
Vegan
While vegan options may be more limited, several restaurants and cafes in Upper are committed to accommodating vegan diners with flavorful plant-based dishes. Check out specialized vegan-friendly eateries for a wider selection.
Gluten-Free
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free choices at various dining establishments in Upper. From gluten-free pastas and pizzas to scrumptious desserts, inquire with staff for tailored recommendations.