United States of America

The United States of America is a vast country in North America. It borders on Canada to the north and Mexico to the south and has a land area of about 9.6 million km² (about half the size of Russia and about the same size as China). It also has the world's third-largest population, with more than 320 million people. It includes densely populated cities with sprawling suburbs and vast uninhabited areas of natural beauty. Representing the world's single largest economy with its history of mass immigration dating from the 17th century, it is a "melting pot" of cultures from around the world.

Islam is the third-largest religion in the United States, with an estimated 3.5 million Muslims residing in the nation. While the Muslim community in the U.S. is a diverse and vibrant mosaic of cultures and traditions, it has faced challenges in terms of integration and acceptance.

The presence of Islam in the United States dates back to the 17th century when African slaves, many of whom were Muslims, were brought to the nation. In the 19th century, Muslims began to arrive in the U.S. from the Middle East, South Asia, and Eastern Europe, contributing to the growing diversity of the American religious landscape.

An Introduction to the regions of United States

The United States comprises 50 states and the nation's capital city of Washington, D.C., which for the purposes of are grouped into the following regions:

New England (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont) Home to gabled churches, rustic antiques, and steeped in American history, New England offers beaches, spectacular seafood, rugged mountains, frequent winter snows, and some of the nation's oldest cities, in a territory small enough to tour (hastily) in a week.

Mid-Atlantic (Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C.) Ranging from New York to Washington, D.C. and the Mid-Atlantic is home to some of the nation's most densely populated cities, historic sites, rolling mountains and seaside resorts.

South (Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia) The South is celebrated for its hospitality, down-home cooking, and its blues, jazz, rock 'n' roll, bluegrass and country music traditions. This lush, largely subtropical region includes cool, verdant mountains, plantations, and vast cypress swamps.

Florida Northern Florida is similar to the rest of the South, but this is not so in the resorts of Orlando, retirement communities, tropical Caribbean-influenced Miami and the Everglades, and miles 1,200 of sandy beaches.

Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Wisconsin) A region of simple and hospitable people, farmland, forests, picturesque towns, industrial cities and the Great Lakes — the largest system of freshwater lakes in the world, which forms the North Coast of the U.S.

Texas The second biggest state is like a separate country (and indeed once was), with strong cultural influences from its Spanish and Mexican past. The terrain is quite varied, with swamplands in the southeast, flat land and cotton farms in the South Plains, sandy beaches in South Texas and mountains and deserts in far West Texas.

Great Plains (North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma) A former Wild West frontier land often described as "flatter than a pancake," this region used to consist of endless grasslands. Much of it is now one huge farm after another, with occasional towns, but the remaining prairies are still vast and somewhat desolate.

Rocky Mountains (Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming) The spectacular snow-covered Rocky Mountains (United States of America)

Southwest (Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah) Heavily influenced by (Spanish), Mexican and Native American cultures, this area is home to some of the nation's most spectacular natural attractions and flourishing artistic communities. Although mostly empty and the region's deserts contain some big cities.

California Like the Southwest, California is heavily influenced by its former Spanish and Mexican rulers, and also by Asian culture and cuisine. California offers world-famous cities, deserts, rainforests, snowy mountains, and beautiful beaches.

Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon) The pleasantly mild Pacific Northwest offers outdoor pursuits and cosmopolitan cities. The terrain features spectacular rainforests, scenic mountains and volcanoes, beautiful coastlines and sage-covered steppes and deserts.

Alaska One fifth as large as the rest of the United States, Alaska reaches well into the Arctic, and features mountainous wilderness, including North America's tallest mountain, Denali, and Native Alaskan culture unseen elsewhere in the United States.

Hawaii A volcanic archipelago in the tropical Pacific, miles 2,300 southwest of California (the nearest state), laid-back Hawaii is a vacation paradise.

The U.S. also administers a collection of non-state territories around the world, principally in the Caribbean (Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Oceania (Guam, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands, and various uninhabited islands and island groups). As these are quite different from the 50 states from a traveller's point of view and they are covered in separate eHalal Travel Guides.

Other Muslim friendly Cities in United States

The United States has over 10,000 cities, towns, and villages. The following is a list of nine of the most notable. Other cities can be found in their corresponding United States#Regions|regions.

• Washington, D.C.  — the nation's capital, filled with major museums and monuments
• Boston  — best known for its colonial history, its passion for sports, and its universities
• Chicago  — heart of the Midwest, transportation hub of the nation, and the world's largest commodities trading hub, with massive skyscrapers and other architectural gems
• Los Angeles  — home of the film industry, musical artists and surfers, with beautiful mild weather, great natural beauty from mountains to beaches, and endless stretches of freeways
• Miami  — this city with a vibrant Latin-influenced Caribbean culture attracts sun-seeking Northerners
• New Orleans  — "The Big Easy" and the birthplace of jazz, is known for its quaint French Quarter and annual Mardi Gras celebration
• New York City  — the nation's largest city, home to Wall Street, big media and advertising, world-class cuisine, arts, architecture, and shopping
• San Francisco  — the City by the Bay, featuring the Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant urban neighborhoods, dramatic fog and high technology
• Seattle  — rich museums, monuments, recreation and the Space Needle

Other Muslim Friendly Destinations in United States

D7498 - The Grand Canyon in Arizona

These are some of the largest and most famous destinations outside of major cities.

• Denali National Park GPS: 63.069,-151.007}} — a remote national park featuring North America's highest peak, Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley)
• Grand Canyon  — the world's longest and most visited canyon
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park  — national park in the southern Appalachians
• Mesa Verde National Park  — excellently maintained Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings
• Mount Rushmore  — the iconic memorial of four former presidents carved into a cliff face
• Niagara Falls — the massive waterfalls straddling the border with Canada
• Walt Disney World — the most popular vacation resort destination in the world
• Yellowstone National Park — the first national park in the U.S., and home of the Old Faithful geyser
• Yosemite National Park — home of El Capitan, Half Dome, and famous Giant Sequoia trees

Islam in the United States

Islam is the third-largest religion in the United States, with an estimated 3.5 million Muslims residing in the nation. While the Muslim community in the U.S. is a diverse and vibrant mosaic of cultures and traditions, it has faced challenges in terms of integration and acceptance.

The presence of Islam in the United States dates back to the 17th century when African slaves, many of whom were Muslims, were brought to the nation. In the 19th century, Muslims began to arrive in the U.S. from the Middle East, South Asia, and Eastern Europe, contributing to the growing diversity of the American religious landscape.

The establishment of the Moorish Science Temple of America in 1913, and the Nation of Islam in 1930, marked the beginning of the indigenous American Muslim movements. These organizations played a significant role in the development and growth of Islam in African American communities.

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 transformed the demographics of the Muslim population in the US, as it opened the doors for immigrants from Muslim-majority countries. In recent decades and the Muslim population has continued to grow and diversify, reflecting the global nature of the Islamic faith.

The Muslim community in the United States is ethnically and racially diverse, with no single ethnic group dominating. American Muslims come from various backgrounds, including African American, South Asian, Arab, African, Iranian, and Southeast Asian, among others.

According to the Pew Research Center, as of 2021, roughly 58% of American Muslims are first-generation immigrants, while 42% are native-born citizens. A majority of Muslims in the U.S. are Sunni, followed by Shia and other smaller sects. The largest concentration of Muslims can be found in metropolitan areas such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

American Muslims have made significant contributions in various fields, including education, medicine, technology, business, and the arts. Notable American Muslims include the former US Representative Keith Ellison, among many others.

Muslims have also made strides in public service, with a growing number of Muslim-Americans being elected to various offices. In 2006, Keith Ellison became the first Muslim elected to the U.S. Congress, followed by André Carson in 2008. In 2018, Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib became the first Muslim women to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, American Muslims faced heightened suspicion, discrimination, and hate crimes. While the majority of Muslims in the U.S. are peaceful and law-abiding citizens, a small minority has been involved in extremist activities, leading to misconceptions about the faith.

To counter these negative stereotypes and promote understanding, many American Muslims have engaged in interfaith dialogue, community service, and social activism. Organizations like the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), and the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) work tirelessly to foster interfaith cooperation, protect civil liberties, and challenge misinformation about Islam.

Travel as a Muslim to United States

The United States has exceptionally onerous and complicated visa requirements. Read up carefully before your visit, especially if you need to apply for a visa, and consult the Bureau of Consular Affairs]. Travellers have been refused entry for many reasons, often trivial.

Planning and pre-arrival documentation

Visa-free entry

Muslims of the 38 countries within the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), as well as Canadians and Bermudians do not require visas for entry into the United States. Canadians and Bermudians Muslims are normally allowed to visit for up to six months. Permanent residents of Canada are not eligible for visa-free entry, unless they are also citizens of a country that participates in the Visa Waiver Program, or one of the separate provisions for a few other countries.

The Visa Waiver Program permits visa-free stays of up to 90 days; it applies to Muslims from Andorra, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco and the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan (must include ID card number), and the United Kingdom (must have right of abode in the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man).

Visa Waiver Program requirements

Under new rules passed in 2015, Muslim travellers who have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011, are not eligible to enter under the VWP. They remain eligible to apply for a regular tourism or business visa – at the expense of more cost and hassle than with the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

Similarly, dual citizens who hold the citizenship of Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria in addition to a nationality otherwise eligible for a visa waiver cannot enter under the VWP.

The program is open only to travellers who are in the United States for tourism or business purposes. You cannot be coming to the U.S. for formal education, to get a job, or to conduct journalism; if you are, you must get an appropriate visa in advance no matter how short your trip to the U.S. may be.

The 90-day limit is not extendable. A short trip to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean will not allow a fresh 90 days upon return to the U.S. An extended absence to the neighboring countries may reset the limit, particularly if your first trip to the U.S. was short. Take care if transiting through the U.S. on a trip around North America that exceeds 90 days.

Having a criminal record, having been refused entry, or having been denied a U.S. visa will make you ineligible to enter on the VWP; you will have to apply for a U.S. visa instead.

Entry under the VWP by air or sea requires the completion of an online form and a payment of $14, preferably 72 hours before arrival. The form is called the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). ESTA approval covers multiple trips and is valid for two years (unless your passport expires earlier). This requirement is waived if entering by land.

All passports must be biometric. If your passport is an older one that was issued before biometric passports were available, you will need to obtain a new passport to travel to the U.S. on the VWP.

Entry under the VWP by air or sea requires travel with a signatory carrier. Any commercial scheduled services to the U.S. will be fine, but if you are on a chartered flight or vessel you should check the status of the carrier, as you may require a visa. Flying your own personal aircraft, or sailing your own personal yacht to the U.S. will require you to obtain a tourist visa in advance.

Travellers entering by air or sea should also have a return or onward ticket out of the United States. This requirement is not necessary for residents of Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean.

Entry under the VWP does not allow you to change your immigration status, and if you are denied entry and the decision can't be appealed and you will immediately be placed on the first flight out.

Obtaining a visa

• B-1: Business visitor
• B-2: Tourist ("visitor for pleasure")
• B-1/B-2: Combo visa that can be used for either or both tourism and business
• C-1: Transit
• F-1: Academic Student
• H-1B / L-1: Employment
• J-1: Exchange Program / Postdoctoral Researcher
• Monday - 1: Vocational Student
• O-1 / P-1: Sportsperson / Performing Artiste
• WB: Visa Waiver Program, Business; not extendable past 90 days
• WT: Visa Waiver Program, Tourist; not extendable past 90 days}}

For the rest of the world and the visa application fee is a non-refundable $160 (as of October 2022) for visas that are not issued on the basis of a petition and $190 for those that are; this fee is waived under very limited circumstances, namely for people requesting certain exchange visitor visas.

Depending on your nationality and the category of visa you are requesting, you may need to pay an additional fee (ranging from $7–200) only if the visa is issued. This is called a reciprocity fee and is charged by the U.S. to match the fees charged by other countries on U.S. citizens.

Additionally, Chinese (PRC) citizens (that is, anyone travelling to the U.S. on a PRC passport) must enroll in the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) for travel into the Unites States on any 10-year B-type visa. The enrollment is valid for two years (or until passport/visa expiry, whichever comes first) before it needs to be updated again.

The Immigration and Nationality Act states that all persons requesting entry into the U.S. as non-immigrants are presumed to be immigrants until they overcome that presumption by showing evidence of "binding ties" to their home country, and sufficient proof that the visit will be temporary. Applicants also need to demonstrate that they are genuinely entitled to the visa they are applying for. Face-to-face interviews at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate are required for almost all nationalities and waits for interview slots and visa processing can add up to several months.

Embassies are closed on U.S. holidays and on holidays of the host country, so you need to know both holidays when setting dates to apply for a visa. You should start planning your trip far in advance, as the application process is known to take up to six months.

Your visa is generally not tied to your permitted length of stay; for example, a 10-year visa does not allow a stay of 10 years. On the other hand, you can enter the nation on the last day of validity of your visa and still be allowed to stay, for example, up to 180 days as a tourist.

A great advantage is that many countries will accept a US B-type visa as a substitute for their own visa procedure for tourism.

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in United States

Entry by sea is not very common today. The most common entry points for private boats are Los Angeles, or Florida and other Eastern coastal states. Some passenger ferries from Canada exist, mostly between British Columbia and Washington State or Alaska.

Cunard offers transatlantic ship travel between the United Kingdom and New York City.

The ferries between British Columbia and Washington (state)|Washington state are treated as land border crossings rather than sea entry points. This means that while ESTA is not required for VWP visitors, visitors entering the U.S. this way will be required to pay the $6 entry fee levied at land border crossings.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in United States

Amtrak offers international service from the Canadian cities of Vancouver (Amtrak Cascades has two trips per day to Seattle), Toronto (Maple Leaf once daily to New York City via Niagara Falls), and Montreal (Adirondack once daily to New York City via Albany).

On international trains from Montreal and Toronto, immigration formalities are conducted at the border; this takes significantly more time than it would on a bus, which means the bus is often less expensive and faster than the train.

Travellers from Vancouver clear U.S. immigration and customs at Pacific Central Station before they get on the train itself, just as they do for air travel. Be sure to allow enough time for inspections.

From Mexico the nearest Amtrak stations are in San Diego, Yuma, Del Rio and El Paso. Amtrak trains do not cross the border into Mexico so passengers continue to the border by local public transportation or by taxi from the Amtrak station. There are no passenger trains to the border from anywhere in Mexico.

By foot

There are many border crossings in urban areas which can be crossed by pedestrians. Crossings such as those in or near Niagara Falls (New York)|Niagara Falls, Detroit, Tijuana, Nogales (Arizona)|Nogales, and El Paso are popular for persons wishing to spend a day on the other side of the border crossing. In some cases, this may be ideal for day-trippers, as crossing by vehicle can be a much longer wait.

How to get around in United States

The size of the U.S. and the distance separating major cities make air the dominant mode of travel for short-term travellers. If you have time, travel by car, bus, or Amtrak|rail can be interesting.

Some states offer traffic and public transport information by dialing 511 on your phone.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from United States

The quickest and often the most convenient method of long-distance intercity travel in the U.S. is by plane. Coast-to-coast travel takes about 6 hours from east to west, and 5 hours from west to east (varying due to winds), compared to the days necessary for land transportation. Most large cities in the U.S. are served by one or two airports; many smaller towns also have some passenger air service, although you may need to detour through a major hub airport to get there. Depending on where you are starting, it may be cheaper to drive to a nearby large city and fly or, conversely, to fly to a large city near your destination and rent a car.

The largest airlines are the three remaining mainline legacy carriers ( American Airlines, Delta, and United) and two of the nation's low-cost carriers, Southwest and JetBlue. Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are legacy regional carriers, while smaller airlines Spirit, Frontier, Allegiant and Sunday Country are trying to make inroads. There are also smaller regional airlines that are subsidiaries of the mainline carriers and can be booked through their parents.

Major carriers compete for business on major routes, and travellers willing to book two or more weeks in advance can get bargains. However most smaller destinations are served by only one or two regional carriers, and prices there can be expensive. The difference in fees and service between low-cost and mainline carriers is, however, virtually nonexistent these days. Low-cost carriers occasionally offer more amenities than mainline carriers, such as inflight entertainment for even a short-haul flight, or free checked baggage in the price of their tickets. Southwest Airlines, for instance, allows passengers to check in up to two pieces of bags in their base price.

Mainline carriers also offer first class for a larger seat, free food and fruit drinks and overall better service. Round trip fares can run over $1,000, even for short flights, making the added cost not worth it for the vast majority of travellers. (Many travellers in first class get their seat as a free frequent flier upgrade or similar perk.) You may also be offered an upgrade at a much lower cost during check in or at the airport if there are open seats available. Depending on the cost for a last minutes upgrade and the savings in checked bag fees alone may make this a worthwhile option (and you'll also get priority boarding and the bigger seat, more legroom, free beverages and food.)

By private plane

The cost of chartering the smallest private jet begins at around $4000 per flight hour, with the cost substantially higher for larger, longer-range aircraft, and affordable for smaller propeller planes. While private flying is by no means affordable, a family of four or more can often fly together at a cost similar to or even favorable to buying first-class commercial airline tickets, especially to smaller airports where scheduled commercial flights are at their most expensive, and private flying is at its cheapest. Though you may find it cheaper than flying a family of four first-class internationally, it is commonly the case, except when traveling from Western Europe. General aviation is the most practical way to reach the outer boroughs of Alaska.

Air charter refers to hiring a private plane for a one-time journey. Jet Cards are pre-paid cards entitling the owner to a specific number of flight hours on a specified aircraft. As all expenses are pre-paid on the card, you need not concern yourself with deadhead time, return flights, landing fees, etc.

Many small-town airports on America's borders welcome individually-owned small aircraft. Give them an hour or two advance notice so that they can fetch border officials to meet the tiny private plane from exotic and foreign Brockville, and you've provided just the excuse they needed to add "International Airport" to their names.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in United States

Due to the popularity of flying and cars and the passenger rail network in the United States is a shadow of what it was a century ago. While the United States still has the world's longest rail network, it is primarily used for freight transport these days. Except for certain corridors (mostly in the Northeast where a second cousin of high speed rail is available), passenger trains in the United States can be surprisingly scarce, slow, unreliable, and expensive. The national rail system, Amtrak (+1-800-USA-RAIL), provides service to many cities, offering exceptional sightseeing opportunities, but not particularly efficient inter-city travel, and is often more expensive than a flight. In more urban locations, Amtrak can be very efficient and comfortable, but in rural areas delays are common. Plan ahead to ensure train travel between your destinations is available and/or convenient. They have promotional discounts of 15% for students and seniors, and a 30-day U.S. Railway Pass for international Visitors only. If you plan to buy a regular ticket within a week of travelling, it pays to check the website for sometimes significant "weekly specials". There is no dedicated high-speed rail network in the United States, and driving yourself will often be quicker than taking the train when travelling long distances.

Amtrak offers many amenities and services that are lacking from other modes of transport. Amtrak's routes traverse some of America's most beautiful areas. Travellers with limited time may not find travel by train to be convenient, simply because the nation is big, and that "bigness" is particularly evident in many of the scenic areas. For those with ample time, though, train travel offers an unparalleled view of the U.S.. Some of the most scenic routes include the California Zephyr that runs between Emeryville in the Bay Area (California)|Bay Area of California to Chicago and the Empire Builder that goes from Chicago to Seattle or Portland. Both offer a lounge vehicle with floor-to-ceiling windows and double decker cars.

During usual American vacation times, some long-distance trains (outside the Northeast) can sell out weeks or even months in advance. Booking early also results in generally lower fares for all trains. Same-day reservations are usually easy, and depending on the rules of the fare you purchased, you can change travel plans on the day itself without fees.

Separate from Amtrak, many major cities offer very reliable commuter trains that carry passengers to and from the suburbs or other relatively close-by areas. Some commuter train stations have park and ride facilities where you can park your vehicle to use the commuter train to get to a city's downtown core where traffic and parking problems complicate vehicle use. Parking rates at the stations vary (some facilities may be operated by third parties). Some commuter train systems and services do not operate on weekends and holidays, and even those that do often have greatly reduced frequencies, so it's best to check the system's website to plan ahead. Buy tickets before you board the train as you will either face a substantially more expensive fare or a hefty fine.

Historical attractions

The U.S. has a tremendous wealth of historical attractions—more than enough to fill months of history-centric touring.

The prehistory of the continent can indeed be a little hard to uncover, as most of the Native American tribes did not build permanent settlements. But particularly in the Rocky Mountains (United States of America)|West, you will find magnificent cliff dwellings at sites such as Mesa Verde National Park|Mesa Verde and Bandelier National Monument|Bandelier, as well as near-ubiquitous rock paintings (Petroglyph National Park has some of the best rock art in the nation, and it is located only 17 kilometers outside of Albuquerque). The Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C./National Mall|Washington, D.C. is another great place to start learning about America's culture before the arrival of European colonists.

As the first part of the nation to be colonized by Europeans and the eastern states of New England and the Mid-Atlantic, and the South have more than their fair share of sites from early American history. The first successful British colony on the continent was at Colonial Williamsburg|Jamestown, Virginia, although the settlement at Plymouth (Massachusetts)|Plymouth, Massachusetts, may loom larger in the nation's mind.

In the 18th century, major centers of commerce developed in Philadelphia and Boston, and as the colonies grew in size, wealth, and self-confidence, relations with Great Britain became strained, culminating in the Boston Tea Party and the ensuing Early United States history|Revolutionary War.

There are a large number of historic sites related to the American Civil War and the most destructive conflict on American soil.

Monuments and architecture

Americans have never shied away from heroic feats of engineering, and many of them are among the nation's biggest tourist attractions.

Washington, D.C., as the nation's capital, has more monuments and statuary than you could see in a day, but do be sure to visit the Washington Monument (the world's tallest obelisk) and the stately Lincoln Memorial, and the incredibly moving Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The city's architecture is also an attraction—the Capitol Building and the White House are two of the most iconic buildings in the nation and often serve to represent the whole nation to the world.

A number of American cities have world-renowned skylines, perhaps none more so than the concrete canyons of Manhattan, part of New York City. There, a new World Trade Center tower has risen on a site adjacent to the fallen twin towers, and the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building still stand tall, as they have for almost a century. Chicago, where the skyscraper was invented, can no longer claim the tallest building in the nation, but it still has an awful lot of Chicago skyline guide|really tall buildings. Other skylines worth seeing include San Francisco (with the Golden Gate Bridge), Seattle (including the Space Needle), Miami, and Pittsburgh.

Some human constructions transcend skyline, though, and become iconic symbols in their own right. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the Statue of Liberty in Manhattan and the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles, and even the fountains of the Bellagio casino in Las Vegas all draw visitors to their respective cities. Even the incredible Mount Rushmore, located far from any major city, still attracts two million visitors each year.

Museums and galleries in United States

In the U.S. and there's a museum for practically everything. From toys to priceless artifacts, from entertainment legends to dinosaur bones—nearly every city in the nation has a museum worth visiting.

The highest concentrations of these museums are found in the largest cities, of course, but none compare to Washington, D.C., home to the Smithsonian Institution. With almost twenty independent museums, most of them located on the National Mall and the Smithsonian is the foremost curator of American history and achievement. The most popular of the Smithsonian museums are the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of Natural History, but any of the Smithsonian museums would be a great way to spend an afternoon—and they're all 100% free.

New York City also has an outstanding array of world-class museums, including the Guggenheim Museum and the American Museum of Natural History,the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

You could spend weeks exploring the cultural institutions just in D.C. and the Big Apple, but there are also many other cities with world class museums such as Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Pittsburgh and Boston. Many universities also operate small museums that have interesting exhibits and are often free to enter, while those interested in specific sports or topics will often be able to find museums even in some small towns that suit their tastes.

Halal Tours and Excursions in United States

Here is a handful of itineraries spanning regions across the United States:

• Appalachian Trail — a foot trail along the spine of the Appalachian Mountains from Georgia to Maine
• Braddock Expedition — traces the French-Indian War route of British General Edward Braddock (and a younger George Washington) from Alexandria (Virginia)|Alexandria, Virginia through Cumberland, Maryland to the Monongahela River near Pittsburgh
• Interstate 5 — the primary interstate highway along the west coast from the Mexican border with California to the Canadian border with Washington state, passing through the major west coast cities and the capitals of three states
• The Jazz Track — a nation-wide tour of the most important clubs in jazz history and in jazz performance today
• Lewis and Clark Trail — retrace the northwest route of the great American explorers along the Missouri River
• Oregon Trail — the mid-19th century path taken by western settlers from Missouri to Oregon
• Route 66 — tour the iconic historic highway running from Chicago to Los Angeles
• Santa Fe Trail — a historic southwest settler route from Missouri to Santa Fe (New Mexico)|Santa Fe
• Touring Shaker country — takes you to one current and eight former Shaker religious communities in the Mid-Atlantic, New England and Midwest regions of the United States
• U.S. Highway 1 — travelling along the east coast from Maine to Florida

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to United States of America

United States of America - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to United States of America, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for United States of America. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in United States of America and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to United States of America. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to United States of America. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inUnited States of America: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in United States of America.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in United States of America: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in United States of America, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in United States of America.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in United States of America, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in United States of America, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within United States of America and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in United States of America, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in United States of America, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of United States of America without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for United States of America is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring United States of America.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group United States of America is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in United States of America, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group United States of America Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in United States of America

eHalal Group United States of America is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in United States of America. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in United States of America.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in United States of America ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within United States of America. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in United States of America, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in United States of America are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in United States

Seligman SupaiMotel - |Classic 1950s motel in Seligman, Arizona, along Route 66]]

By far the most common form of lodging in rural United States and along many Interstates is the motel. Providing affordable rooms to automotive travelers, most motels are clean and reasonable with a limited array of amenities: telephone, TV, bed, bathroom. Motel 6 (+1-800-466-8356) is a national chain with reasonable rates ($30–70, depending on the city). Super 8 Motels (+1-800-800-8000) provide reasonable accommodations throughout the nation as well. Reservations are typically unnecessary, which is convenient since you don't have to arbitrarily interrupt a long road trip; you can simply drive until you're tired then find a room. Often they will also light up their sign outside to tell if there is vacancy, in which case you can simply walk in if they have one. However, some are used by adults looking to book a night for sex or illicit activities and many are located in undesirable areas.

Business or extended-stay hotels are increasingly available across the nation. They can be found in smaller towns across the Midwest or in coastal urban areas. Generally they are more expensive than motels, but not as expensive as full-scale hotels, with prices around $70 to $170. While the hotels may appear to be the size of a motel and they may offer amenities from larger hotels.

Some extended-stay hotels are directed at business travelers or families on long-term stays (that are often relocating due to corporate decisions). These hotels often feature kitchens in most rooms, afternoon social events (generally by a swimming pool), and serve continental breakfast. Such "suite" hotels are roughly equivalent to the serviced apartments seen in other countries, though the term is not generally used in American English.

Hotels are available in most cities and usually offer more services and amenities than motels. Rooms usually run about $80–300 per day, but very large, glamorous, and expensive hotels can be found in most major cities, offering luxury suites larger than some houses. Check-in and check-out times are almost always fall in the range of 11AM Monday - noon and 2PM Monday - 4PM, respectively. Some hotels in the U.S. will not take people under the age of 21 if not checking in with older adults. Many U.S. cities now have "edge cities" in their suburbs which feature high-quality upscale hotels aimed at affluent business travelers. These hotels often feature all the amenities of their downtown/CBD cousins (and more), but at less exorbitant prices. A minority of hotels are dog-friendly, with even fewer allowing other types of pets; either way you'll likely need to pay a surcharge and a refundable damage deposit. Amenities such as wi-fi and breakfast are usually free in mid-range hotels, but often not available at all in the cheapest motels, and only available for exorbitant prices in luxury hotels.

In many rural areas bed and breakfast (B&B) lodging can be found that are usually in converted houses. B&Bs feature a more home-like lodging experience, with free breakfast served. Bed and Breakfasts range from about $50 to $200 per day and can be a nice break from the impersonality of chain hotels and motels. Unlike Europe, most American bed and breakfasts are unmarked.

The two best-known hotel guides covering the U.S. are the AAA (formerly American Automobile Association; typically pronounced "Triple-A") TourBooks, available to members and affiliated auto clubs worldwide at local AAA offices; and the Mobil Travel Guide, available at bookstores. There are several websites booking hotels online; be aware that many of these sites add a small commission to the room rate, so it may be cheaper to book directly through the hotel. On the other hand, some hotels charge more for "drop-in" business than reserved rooms or rooms acquired through agents and brokers, so it's worth checking both.

Hostels|Youth hostels haven't really taken off in the U.S., but they exist across the nation. Some are affiliated with the American Youth Hostel organization (a Hostelling International member). Quality of hostels varies widely, but at $8–$24 per day and the prices are unbeatable. Despite the name, AYH membership is open to people of any age. Non-AYH hostels are also available, particularly in larger cities. Hostels are clustered in more touristy locations: do not assume that all mid-sized cities will have a hostel, and even very big cities may only have one or two.

Camping can also be an affordable lodging option, especially with good weather. The downside is that most campgrounds are outside urban regions, so it's not much of an option for trips to big cities. There is a huge network of National Parks (+1-800-365-2267), with most states and many counties having their own park systems, too. Most state and national campgrounds are of excellent quality, with beautiful natural environments. Expect to pay $7–$20 per vehicle on entry. Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has a chain of commercial campground franchises across the nation, of significantly less charm than their public-sector equivalents, but with hookups for recreational vehicles and amenities such as laundromats. Countless independently owned private campgrounds vary in character.

Some unusual lodging options are available in specific areas or by prior arrangement. For example, you might enjoy staying on a houseboat in Lake Tahoe or the Erie Canal. Or stay in a treehouse in Oregon. More conventional lodging can be found at college or university dormitories, a few of which rent out rooms to travelers during the summertime. Finally, in many tourist areas, as well as big cities, you can rent a furnished house by the day.

Study as a Muslim in United States

Studying full-time in the United States is an excellent opportunity for young adults seeking an advanced education, a chance to see a foreign country, and a better understanding of the U.S. and its people. It can be done independently by applying directly to a college for admission, or through the "study abroad" or "foreign exchange" department of a college in your own country, usually for a single term or one year. The latter is usually easiest; the two institutions will handle much of the arrangements, and you don't have to make a commitment to four years living in a strange country. The U.S. is home to many of the world's most prestigious universities and attracts more international students than any other country in the world, and a lot of cultural diversity can be seen throughout its top universities.