How to Explore the World Without a Passport: 5 Amazing Destinations for U.S. Citizens
If you're a U.S. citizen who loves traveling but hates the hassle of getting a passport, you might think that your options are limited. But you'd be wrong. There are plenty of amazing destinations you can visit without a passport, as long as you have a valid driver's license or another form of identification.
From tropical islands to snowy mountains, from scenic coastlines to historic landmarks, there are many options for passport-free travel. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventurous trip, or a cultural experience, you can find it in one of these five destinations.
Fairbanks, Alaska: See the Northern Lights
Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, the dazzling display of colors and shapes that light up the night sky. The best time to see them is in the winter months, when the skies are dark and usually clear. But be prepared for the cold. Fairbanks can get as low as -50°F in January.
To warm up, you can visit the Chena Hot Springs, where you can soak in the soothing mineral waters and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains. You can also try some adrenaline-inducing activities, such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling. And don't forget to stay up late at night to catch the spectacular aurora.
What to bring: warm clothes, a camera, and a sense of wonder.
Expert tip: Book a tour with a local guide who can take you to the best spots to see the northern lights and tell you more about the science and folklore behind them.
New York City: Taste the World
New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and that means you can taste cuisine from around the world without leaving the city. Whatever culinary adventure you'd like your taste buds to go on, you'll likely find a restaurant to suit your wishes. From Ethiopian to Colombian, from Uzbek to Korean, you can sample dishes that will make you feel like you've traveled to another country.
But don't just stick to the standalone restaurants. There are entire neighborhoods that are known for their international communities, and they're filled with restaurants that reflect those groups. For example, you can visit Flushing for authentic Chinese food, Astoria for delicious Greek food, or Jackson Heights for spicy Indian food.
What to bring: a smartphone to take photos and navigate the subway.
Expert tip: For cheaper hotels, consider staying just across the river in New Jersey. Depending on the location, you can take trains, buses, or ferries into New York in as little as 10 to 15 minutes.
Chicago: Catch a Game
Chicago is a big sports town, and you can catch professional sports year-round. From April to September, Chicago's two Major League Baseball teams, the Cubs and the White Sox, play at their iconic stadiums, Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field. From October to April, it's all about basketball and hockey, with the Bulls and the Blackhawks playing at the United Center. And don't forget football, which runs between September and January or February, with the Bears playing at Soldier Field.
No matter what time of year you visit Chicago, there's always going to be a game to go to. And that's not to mention all of Chicago's other attractions, such as its world-class museums, its stunning architecture, and its vibrant nightlife.
What to bring: a baseball mitt, since Chicago has two baseball teams in town.
Expert tip: Take the L from the airport to downtown, as it's much cheaper and often faster than a taxi.
Northern Mariana Islands: Dive into History and Nature
The Northern Mariana Islands are a group of 14 islands in the Pacific Ocean that are a U.S. territory. They offer a unique blend of history and natural beauty, and they don't require a passport for entry. The three most famous islands are Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.
When it comes to history, there's a lot to learn. The islands were first inhabited around 1500 BC by an Austronesian people who eventually became the Chamorros. Then they were conquered by Spain, Germany, Japan, and finally the U.S. There are plenty of historic sites to help you understand this complex past, such as World War II relics, Spanish-era forts, and ancient stone monuments.
Once you've had your fill of history, you can hit the water. The islands have beautiful beaches and spectacular dive sites, from wrecks to limestone caves. You can swim with colorful fish, turtles, sharks, and even manta rays. You can also enjoy other water sports, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing.
What to bring: your scuba certification, as this is an excellent place to dive.
Expert tip: The only way to get here from the U.S. is to fly through Hawaii then Guam. Plan ahead and book your flights in advance to get the best deals.
Acadia National Park: Enjoy the Canadian Scenery Without Crossing the Border
If you're dreaming of a rugged Canadian getaway, but you don't have a passport, you can head to Acadia National Park in Maine. This park is one of the closest places you can get to Canada without crossing the border, and it offers a similar scenery of rocky coastlines, jagged mountain peaks, and wooded wilds.
The park covers 47,000 acres on Mt. Desert Island and the surrounding islands. It was established in 1916, and it was the first national park in the U.S. east of the Mississippi. It's known for its stunning fall foliage and cool summer weather, but it's also scenic in the winter and spring.
You can capture photos of the impressive Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast. You can also see the popular Bass Harbor Head Light Station, a lighthouse built in 1858. You can enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean, the sandy beaches, and the wildlife, such as bears, moose, and whales.
What to bring: hiking boots, a camera, and a picnic basket.
Expert tip: Rent a bike and explore the park's 45 miles of carriage roads, which were built by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the early 1900s. They offer a scenic and peaceful way to see the park.
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