Swing States Map 2020 Travel Guide
Introduction
If you’re planning to explore the United States, one of the most exciting experiences you can have is visiting the swing states. These are the states that have unpredictable voting patterns, and they play a critical role in deciding the outcome of presidential elections. In 2020, there are seven swing states, including Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, North Carolina, and Georgia. Each of these states has its unique attractions, food scene, and outdoor adventures that you don’t want to miss. This guide will give you a comprehensive overview of the top places to visit and things to do in these swing states.
Top Attractions
Florida
Florida is known for its sandy beaches, theme parks, and warm weather. However, there’s more to the Sunshine State than meets the eye. Some of the top attractions in Florida include the Kennedy Space Center, the Everglades National Park, South Beach in Miami, and the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll also enjoy visiting the Dry Tortugas National Park, the Biscayne National Park, and the Crystal River Wildlife Refuge.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a rich history and culture that you can explore through its museums, landmarks, and festivals. Some of the top attractions in Pennsylvania include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Gettysburg National Military Park, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. If you’re a fan of Amish culture, you can visit Lancaster County and experience a unique way of life. You can also explore the Hershey’s Chocolate World and taste some of the best chocolate in the world.
Michigan
Michigan is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its Great Lakes, forests, and sand dunes. Some of the top attractions in Michigan include the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Mackinac Island, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and the Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park. If you’re a fan of cars, you can also visit the Henry Ford Museum and learn about the history of the automobile industry in Michigan.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is known for its cheese, beer, and bratwurst, but it also has plenty of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Some of the top attractions in Wisconsin include the Wisconsin Dells, the Door County, the Apostle Islands, and the Harley-Davidson Museum. If you’re a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright, you can also visit his famous buildings, including the Taliesin and the Johnson Wax Headquarters.
Arizona
Arizona is a land of contrasts, with its red rocks, canyons, deserts, and forests. Some of the top attractions in Arizona include the Grand Canyon National Park, the Sedona Red Rocks, the Saguaro National Park, and the Hoover Dam. If you’re a fan of Western movies, you can also visit the Old Tucson Studios and experience the Wild West.
North Carolina
North Carolina has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, beaches, and forests. Some of the top attractions in North Carolina include the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Outer Banks, the Biltmore Estate, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you’re a fan of aviation, you can also visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial and learn about the history of flight.
Georgia
Georgia is a state with a rich history, culture, and cuisine. Some of the top attractions in Georgia include the Georgia Aquarium, the Stone Mountain Park, the Savannah Historic District, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. If you’re a fan of music, you can also visit the birthplace of Ray Charles in Albany and the Allman Brothers Band Museum in Macon.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions in these swing states are undoubtedly worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems that you don’t want to miss. These include small towns, local markets, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that will give you a unique perspective on the state’s culture and history. Some of the hidden gems in these swing states include the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia, the Leelanau Peninsula in Michigan, the Amish Country in Pennsylvania, the Crystal River Archaeological State Park in Florida, the Sedona Vortexes in Arizona, the Linville Gorge Wilderness in North Carolina, and the Apostle Islands Ice Caves in Wisconsin.
Food Scene
Each of these swing states has its unique cuisine that reflects its history and culture. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some budget-friendly eats, you’ll find plenty of options in these states. Some of the top dishes to try include Philly cheesesteak in Pennsylvania, key lime pie in Florida, cheese curds in Wisconsin, barbecue in Georgia, biscuits and gravy in North Carolina, pasties in Michigan, and Sonoran hot dogs in Arizona.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to these swing states doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly tips that you can follow to save money without sacrificing your travel experience. These include booking your accommodation in advance, using public transportation, cooking your meals instead of eating out, traveling during the off-season, and taking advantage of free attractions and activities.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for adventure in these swing states. From hiking and biking to kayaking and surfing, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top outdoor adventures in these states include hiking the Grand Canyon in Arizona, skiing in Michigan, surfing in Florida, kayaking in Wisconsin, biking the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, and hiking the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.
Historical Landmarks
These swing states have a rich history that you can explore through their landmarks and museums. Some of the top historical landmarks in these states include the Liberty Bell in Pennsylvania, the Wright Brothers National Memorial in North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, the Ford Rouge Factory in Michigan, the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Taliesin in Wisconsin, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in Georgia.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids can be challenging, but these swing states have plenty of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained. Some of the top family-friendly activities in these states include visiting the theme parks in Florida, exploring the museums in Pennsylvania, going to the water parks in Michigan, hiking in the national parks in Arizona, visiting the zoos in Wisconsin, and going to the aquariums in Georgia.
Natural Wonders
These swing states are home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. From the Grand Canyon to the Great Smoky Mountains, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring landscapes to explore. Some of the top natural wonders in these states include the Everglades National Park in Florida, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan, the Sedona Red Rocks in Arizona, the Linville Falls in North Carolina, the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin, and the Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, these swing states have plenty of options for nightlife. From live music and comedy clubs to rooftop bars and night markets, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top nightlife destinations in these states include South Beach in Florida, Beale Street in Tennessee, Bourbon Street in Louisiana, Broadway in Nashville, the River Walk in San Antonio, and the French Quarter in New Orleans.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the culture of these swing states is by visiting the local markets. These markets offer a glimpse into the local cuisine, arts, and crafts, and they’re a great place to find unique souvenirs. Some of the top local markets in these states include the Reading Terminal Market in Pennsylvania, the Eastern Market in Michigan, the French Market in Louisiana, the Pike Place Market in Washington, and the City Market in Georgia.
Beaches and Mountains
These swing states offer a perfect blend of beaches and mountains, giving you the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or hit the slopes, you’ll find plenty of options in these states. Some of the top beaches and mountains in these states include the Gulf Coast in Florida, the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina, the Porcupine Mountains in Michigan, the Black Hills in South Dakota, the Grand Tetons in Wyoming, and the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, these swing states have plenty of opportunities to do so. From attending festivals and events to visiting cultural landmarks and museums, there’s no shortage of ways to learn about the state’s history and traditions. Some of the top cultural immersion experiences in these states include the Mardi Gras in Louisiana, the Amish Country in Pennsylvania, the Native American powwows in Arizona, the Civil War reenactments in Georgia, and the Scandinavian festivals in Michigan.
Art and Music Scene
These swing states have a vibrant art and music scene that reflects their unique