With 50 states, huge cities, and a population of over 313 million people, the United States of America is a vast and diverse place to visit. It is home to numerous iconic landmarks, world wonders, and world-renowned sights, offering plenty to explore. Apart from its attractions, there are several destinations in the USA that have plenty in store for Muslim travelers. In the past, the Muslim community living in the USA comprised a very small number. However, Islam is now one of the most rapidly growing religions in the country and has become the third-largest faith, just behind Christianity and Judaism.
The USA is home to over 2 million Muslims and has over 2,000 mosques across the country. Some regions, in particular, are home to large and active Muslim communities. With the huge number of Muslims and their communities, facilities such as prayer facilities and Halal food will be readily available in such areas, and can make Muslim travelers feel very welcome. Here are some of the destinations in the USA that will be perfect for Muslim travelers.
Image Credit: Joel Mott on Unsplash
Illinois is the 5th most populous state in the USA and is found towards the northeast of the country. Muslim travelers will be able to find an active Muslim community in the area, particularly in Chicago, which is home to over 400,000 Muslims. Over 60 Halal restaurants and nearly 30 mosques can be found in Chicago and the city also occasionally hosts Halal food festivals.
Explore the recognisable Millennium Park first, which is home to the well-known Cloud Gate sculpture, sometimes referred to as "The Bean." Immerse yourself in the world-class art collections at the Art Institute of Chicago, where you may discover treasures from all around the world. Take a trip along the historic Route 66, which is lined with charming roadside attractions and eateries and provides a window into America's past.
Visit Starved Rock State Park for a taste of the grandeur of nature. There, you'll find breathtaking sandstone canyons and waterfalls that make for an amazing outdoor experience. Lastly, treat your taste buds to the wide variety of cuisine that defines Illinois's character at one of the state's thriving restaurants, from deep dish pizza places to fine dining establishments.
Image Credit: Aaron Burden on Unsplash
Being the birthplace of America, Virginia is a state rich in history and offers a diverse range of landscapes and natural sights for travelers. Quite a large Muslim community can be found in the state, where Islam remains one of the fastest-growing religions.
Full of natural beauty, Southern charm, and history, start your adventure in Colonial Williamsburg, where period interpreters in costume bring the rich tapestry of American history to life. Explore the immaculately maintained mansion of Thomas Jefferson, Monticello, and learn about the nation's illustrious past.
Nature lovers will find countless hiking paths and breathtaking views in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and calm sailing and seafood dining are available on the Chesapeake Bay. Remember to take advantage of Virginia's dynamic city culture, which can be found in the trendy neighbourhoods of Richmond and the busy streets of Alexandria, where you can find delicious food, live music, and artwork.
Image Credit: Joey Pedras on Unsplash
New Jersey is a state located towards the northeast of the country and is also the second-richest state based on median household income. It is famed for its beaches and attractions and has plenty in store for travelers. A sizable Muslim community resides in New Jersey and facilities should not be very difficult to find.
Lazing in the sun along the well-known Jersey Shore is definitely a thing you need to do during your visit, which is beach is home to vibrant boardwalks, immaculate beaches, and a thriving entertainment district. Explore history at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, where the tales of immigrants and the prospect of freedom reverberate over the ages.
Discover the quaint alleys of Princeton, the location of one of the most esteemed institutions in the world as well as a wealth of architectural gems. The Delaware Water Gap's breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, waterfalls, and recreational opportunities entice nature lovers. A trip to New Jersey wouldn't be complete without sampling its delectable cuisine, which ranges from sophisticated eateries highlighting the state's rich culinary legacy to traditional diners offering up warm comfort food.
The state of New York is one of the most populous states and is located towards the northeast of the country. It is home to some of the USA's most famous attractions - the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, Finger Lakes, and Niagara Falls. New York City - often dubbed the city of opportunities - is home to a diverse community of people including quite a large Muslim population. It is home to a total of 12 mosques and over 300 Halal restaurants, in addition to other facilities for Muslim travelers.
Commence your voyage by admiring the city's renowned skyline from the summit of the Empire State Building or the One World Observatory, where an infinite array of opportunities awaits you. Experience the many flavours and sensations that each neighborhood, such Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem, has to offer.
Discover the world-class museums in Manhattan, such as the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where fascinating exhibitions bring history and art to life. Explore the breathtaking Adirondack Mountains, the picturesque Finger Lakes, and other natural wonders by venturing outside the city boundaries.
Looking for other destinations? There are 6 states that you can add to your travel plans. These states also boast large Muslim populations, easing the access to Muslim-friendly facilities and Halal Food.
Explore the ancient beauty of the San Antonio River Walk, where cobblestone walks meander past bustling cafés and colorful stores, to start your amazing journey through Texas. Experience the essence of cowboy culture at the storied Fort Worth Stockyards, where daily rodeo performances and cattle drives evoke the Wild West. Next, explore the surreal surroundings of Big Bend National Park, where craggy mountains and meandering valleys provide countless chances for outdoor discovery and breathtaking views.
Discover the alluring splendor of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts where the breathtaking Lake Superior shorelines meet lush woods and gushing waterfalls. Then, immerse yourself in Detroit's dynamic culture, which includes world-class museums, historic sites, and a flourishing arts scene all waiting to be discovered within the city's restored neighborhoods.
In Florida's captivating Everglades, beautiful wetlands teeming with unique animals and airboat excursions offering exhilarating experiences through the mangrove woods, await you for a tropical getaway. Then, take in the breathtaking splendour of Florida's unspoiled beaches, which range from the lively shores of Miami's South Beach to the serene sands of Clearwater and provide countless opportunities for leisure and enjoyment by the sea.
The enchanting and magnetizing appeal of Delaware's historic villages, whose colonial buildings and cobblestone streets take tourists to a bygone era of American history. Then, take a break and head to Delaware's serene beaches, where fine sands and mild waves provide the ideal setting for unwinding and fun at the beach.
Discover the breathtaking magnificence of Yosemite National Park in California. This natural wonderland is demanding to be explored through hiking, rock climbing, and animal spotting thanks to its towering granite cliffs, gushing waterfalls, and lush forests. Next, travel to San Francisco's famous Golden Gate Bridge, which offers visitors a wonderful combination of natural beauty and urban excitement with its eclectic appeal and stunning views of the bay.
The enchanting ambiance of Los Angeles could also be an option for you, where vibrant cultural scenes, well-known structures, and sunny beaches meld with Hollywood glitz and glamour to offer a never-ending stream of entertainment and transformative experiences.
Take in the rich history of one of the most famous tourist attractions of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where famous sites like as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell narrate the tale of the country's birth. Next, travel to the magnificent Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, where you may engage in outdoor activities amidst picturesque scenery, tranquil lakes, and quaint mountain villages.
