Map Of United States Growing Zones
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes and cultures. One of the best ways to explore it is by visiting its numerous growing zones. From the tropical climate of Florida to the arid desert of Arizona, each growing zone has its unique attractions and experiences to offer. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, natural wonders, and much more in each of the growing zones of the United States.
The Growing Zones of the United States
Zones 1 to 3
The first three zones of the United States are located in the northernmost parts of the country. These zones have a cold climate, with average temperatures ranging from -60°F to 10°F. The growing season is short, lasting for only 80 to 150 days. However, these zones are home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, including Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Denali National Park.
Zone 4
Zone 4 is located in the northern and central parts of the country, covering areas such as Maine, Minnesota, and Michigan. The climate is relatively mild compared to zones 1 to 3, with average temperatures ranging from -30°F to 0°F. The growing season lasts for around 150 to 180 days. This zone is known for its stunning fall foliage, charming small towns, and outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding.
Zone 5
Zone 5 covers areas such as Chicago, New York, and Pennsylvania. The climate is relatively moderate, with average temperatures ranging from -20°F to 10°F. The growing season lasts for around 180 to 200 days. This zone is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, including the Statue of Liberty, Niagara Falls, and the Empire State Building.
Zone 6
Zone 6 covers areas such as Virginia, North Carolina, and Arkansas. The climate is relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 0°F to 20°F. The growing season lasts for around 200 to 220 days. This zone is known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant food scene. It’s also home to some of the best hiking trails in the country, including the Appalachian Trail.
Zone 7
Zone 7 covers areas such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Georgia. The climate is relatively warm, with average temperatures ranging from 10°F to 30°F. The growing season lasts for around 220 to 240 days. This zone is known for its southern hospitality, lively music scene, and delicious cuisine. It’s also home to some of the best national parks in the country, including Big Bend National Park and Congaree National Park.
Zone 8
Zone 8 covers areas such as Florida, Louisiana, and Southern California. The climate is tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F. The growing season lasts for around 240 to 270 days. This zone is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural experiences. It’s also home to some of the best theme parks in the world, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
Zone 9
Zone 9 covers areas such as Arizona, New Mexico, and Southern Texas. The climate is arid, with average temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F. The growing season lasts for around 270 to 300 days. This zone is known for its stunning deserts, red rock formations, and unique flora and fauna. It’s also home to some of the best spas and wellness retreats in the country.
Top Attractions and Hidden Gems in Each Growing Zone
Each growing zone has its unique attractions and hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top things to see and do in each zone:
Zones 1 to 3
- Visit Glacier National Park and take a scenic drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Experience the natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park.
- Explore the rugged wilderness of Denali National Park.
- Discover the charming town of Banff in Canada.
- Go dog-sledding or snowmobiling in Alaska.
Zone 4
- See the stunning fall foliage in Vermont.
- Explore the quaint villages of Maine.
- Visit the iconic Mackinac Island in Michigan.
- Go skiing or snowboarding in Colorado.
- Take a scenic drive on the Great River Road in Wisconsin.
Zone 5
- Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in New York.
- Experience the beauty of Niagara Falls.
- Explore the historic landmarks of Philadelphia.
- Take a stroll through Central Park in New York City.
- Visit the Lincoln Memorial and other iconic landmarks in Washington D.C.
Zone 6
- Visit the beautiful beaches of North Carolina.
- Explore the historic city of Charleston in South Carolina.
- Take a hike on the Appalachian Trail.
- Experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Explore the vibrant food scene of New Orleans.
Zone 7
- Visit the Alamo in Texas.
- Explore the vibrant city of Austin.
- Experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Visit the historic city of Savannah in Georgia.
- Explore the unique culture of New Orleans.
Zone 8
- Visit the stunning beaches of Miami.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of Las Vegas.
- Explore the unique culture of New Orleans.
- Visit the theme parks of Orlando.
- Take a stroll through the historic French Quarter in New Orleans.
Zone 9
- Explore the stunning landscapes of Sedona in Arizona.
- Visit the unique town of Marfa in Texas.
- Experience the beauty of Big Bend National Park.
- Visit the historic city of Santa Fe in New Mexico.
- Explore the unique flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert.
Food Scene and Budget-Friendly Tips
The United States is known for its diverse food scene, with each growing zone offering its unique cuisine. Here are some of the top food experiences in each zone:
Zones 1 to 3
- Try the famous huckleberry jam in Montana.
- Sample the fresh seafood in Alaska.
- Try the homemade maple syrup in Vermont.
- Experience the unique cuisine of Quebec in Canada.
- Enjoy a hot bowl of poutine in Canada.
Zone 4
- Try the famous lobster rolls in Maine.
- Sample the delicious cheese in Wisconsin.
- Experience the unique cuisine of Chicago.
- Try the famous Rocky Mountain oysters in Colorado.
- Enjoy a slice of cherry pie in Michigan.
Zone 5
- Try the famous Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia.
- Sample the delicious pizza in New York City.
- Experience the unique cuisine of Baltimore.
- Try the famous hot chicken in Nashville.
- Enjoy a slice of cherry pie in Michigan.
Zone 6
- Try the famous biscuits and gravy in the South.
- Sample the delicious barbecue in Texas.
- Experience the unique cuisine of Louisiana.
- Try the famous boiled peanuts in Georgia.
- Enjoy a slice of pecan pie in the South.
Zone 7
- Try the famous Tex-Mex cuisine in Texas.
- Sample the delicious seafood in Florida.
- Experience the unique cuisine of New Orleans.
- Try the famous boiled peanuts in Georgia.
- Enjoy a slice of key lime pie in Florida.
Zone 8
- Try the famous Cuban cuisine in Miami.
- Sample the delicious sushi in Los Angeles.
- Experience the unique cuisine of New Orleans.
- Try the famous barbecue in Texas.
- Enjoy a slice of apple pie in America.
Zone 9
- Try the famous Mexican cuisine in Arizona.
- Sample the delicious Tex-Mex cuisine in Texas.
- Experience the unique cuisine of New Mexico.
- Try the famous barbecue in Texas.
- Enjoy