THE AMERICAN NORTHEAST

The American Northeast, a historically rich and densely populated region, stretches from the Canadian Maritimes down to the Mid-Atlantic states of the U.S. This area is a tapestry of rugged coastlines, rolling hills, and vibrant cities, playing a pivotal role in the founding and development of both the United States and Canada. From the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, it boasts a blend of colonial heritage, academic excellence, and a dynamic modern economy.

Region: North America (Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada)

Capital: No single capital (major cities include New York City, Boston, Montreal, Toronto)

Official Language: English, French

Level of Travel Safety: Generally safe. Exercise normal precautions, particularly in busy urban centers where petty crime can occur. Be mindful of seasonal weather changes.

A map of North America with the Northeast highlighted in green.

Why Visit the American Northeast ?

Founding History: Walk the path of revolution in Boston, Philadelphia, and New York.

Fall Foliage: The leaf-peeping season (late September–October) is world-famous.

World-Class Cities: Explore New York City’s skyline, Boston’s academia, Montreal’s festivals.

The Portland Head Light lighthouse on a rocky coast at dusk.

Charming Small Towns: Vermont’s covered bridges, Cape Cod villages, Quebec’s old-world charm.

Outdoor Escapes: Hike the Appalachians, ski Vermont, kayak in Maine, or cruise the Thousand Islands.

Four-Season Beauty: From snow-covered Quebec to summer beaches in Rhode Island, every season offers a new experience.

A serene harbor with boats at sunset, reflecting colorful clouds.

Essential Trip Information

The U.S. and Canada have separate entry policies. Confirm requirements for both.

U.S.: Check eligibility for the ESTA visa waiver program or apply for a B-1/B-2 tourist visa.

Canada: Many visitors need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for entry.

Passports must be valid at least 6 months beyond your stay.

May need to show proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds.

ESTA: US$21, must be obtained at least 72 hours before departure.

  • U.S. Dollar (US$) in the U.S.; Canadian Dollar (C$) in Quebec.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount for immediate expenses.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (e.g., TD Bank, Chase, Desjardins). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) widely accepted.

  • What to Avoid: Airport exchange booths and dynamic currency conversion (always choose to pay in local currency).

English is dominant throughout the U.S. and parts of Canada.

French is the official language in Quebec. Most tourist services are bilingual.

Helpful Phrases (French)

  • Bonjour (Hello), Merci (Thank you), Où est…? (Where is…?)

Overall safe. Exercise caution in urban nightlife districts late at night.

Be alert for pickpockets in tourist-heavy areas (e.g., Times Square, Montreal Metro).

Emergency numbers: 911 (U.S. and Canada)

No vaccines required. Healthcare is excellent but expensive in the U.S. — travel insurance is a must.

Pharmacies: CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens (U.S.); Jean Coutu, Pharmaprix (Canada).

Tap water is safe everywhere.

Public Transit: Efficient subways in NYC, Boston, and Montreal.

Trains: Amtrak (U.S.), VIA Rail (Canada) for intercity trips.

Driving: Ideal for rural New England or Pennsylvania; beware tolls and snow in winter.

Cycling: Common in cities like Boston and Montreal (rentals from US$10/hour).

Varies by city; New York and Boston are among North America’s most expensive. Quebec offers better value.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/Motels (US$70–130/night)

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$160–280/night)

  • Luxury: 4–5 star hotels (US$350+/night)

Food

  • Quick eats: Food trucks, diners (US$8–18)

  • Casual dining: US$20–45/person

  • Fine dining: US$70+/person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$6–12 (bars), US$2–4 (stores)

  • Wine: US$8–15/glass

  • Cocktails: US$14–22

Transportation

  • Subway/bus: US$2.90 (NYC), CA$3.75 (Montreal)

  • Regional trains: US$20–60 (Amtrak/MBTA)

  • Taxis/Uber: US$15–40 for city rides

  • Car rentals: US$60–100/day (plus tolls)

Money-Saving Tips

  • Get metro day/week passes (e.g., NYC MetroCard, Montreal OPUS card).

  • Visit free landmarks and museums (e.g., NYC’s Staten Island Ferry, Boston Freedom Trail).

  • Consider city passes for multi-site discounts (e.g., CityPASS, Go City).

Explore the the American Northeast

The iconic “Big Apple” offers unparalleled experiences, from Broadway shows and world-class museums to diverse neighborhoods and Central Park. It’s located in the southeastern part of New York State, on the Atlantic coast.

Rich in American history, Boston boasts the Freedom Trail, charming cobblestone streets, and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s situated on the coast of Massachusetts, in the eastern part of the state.

A stunning blend of mountains, coastline, and forests, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and picturesque lighthouses. It’s the only national park in the northeastern United States. Located on Mount Desert Island in coastal Maine.

 

One of the world’s most scenic drives, winding along the rugged coastline and through the highlands of Cape Breton Island. Offers breathtaking ocean views, charming fishing villages, and abundant wildlife. Located on the northern tip of Nova Scotia.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, North America’s only walled city outside of Mexico is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Its historic Old Town, cobblestone streets, and European feel are unforgettable. Located on the Saint Lawrence River in southern Quebec.

Known for its 11 long, slender lakes, this region offers picturesque vineyards, waterfalls, and charming small towns. It’s a prime destination for wine tasting, boating, and enjoying natural beauty. Located in west-central New York State.

A vibrant coastal city known for its acclaimed culinary scene, historic Old Port district, and charming waterfront. Enjoy fresh seafood, craft breweries, and boutique shops. Situated on a peninsula in Casco Bay, coastal Maine.

A dynamic city blending North American energy with European flair, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic Old Montreal, and lively festivals. Enjoy world-class dining and a bilingual atmosphere. Located on an island in the Saint Lawrence River in southern Quebec.

Home to the highest tides in the world, the Bay of Fundy offers dramatic coastal landscapes, sea caves, and unique geological formations like the Hopewell Rocks. Experience extraordinary tidal fluctuations. Located between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

A historic coastal city famous for its opulent Gilded Age mansions, scenic Cliff Walk, and a rich sailing heritage. Explore charming streets, boutiques, and a vibrant harbor. Situated on Aquidneck Island in southern Rhode Island.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Winter Sports (excluding peak holiday weeks)
  • Cozy Atmosphere

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures (often below 32ºF / 0ºC, can drop to 0ºF / -18ºC or lower)
  • Shorter Days
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
  • Some closures (seasonal businesses, coastal attractions)

Key Regions:

  • Vermont & New Hampshire: Excellent for skiing/snowboarding, quaint towns, and maple sugaring.
  • Coastal Maine: Dramatic, stark beauty; quiet coastal villages without summer crowds.
  • Québec City, Canada: Magical, snowy European charm, ice hotel experiences.
  • Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada: Rugged, remote beauty; opportunities for ice fishing and snowmobiling.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (temperatures generally range from 40-70ºF / 4-21ºC)
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events (e.g., maple festivals in spring, harvest festivals in autumn)
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Spring Mud Season (especially in northern New England/Atlantic Canada due to melting snow)
  • Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn can see sudden shifts)
  • Autumn Crowds for Foliage Season (especially in popular New England routes)

Key Regions:

  • New England (all states): Prime for spring blooms and unparalleled fall foliage drives.
  • Hudson Valley, New York: Wineries, historic estates, and stunning fall colors.
  • Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada: The Cabot Trail is world-renowned for autumn scenery.
  • Prince Edward Island, Canada: Charming coastal drives and Anne of Green Gables sites, beautiful in late spring/early fall.
  • Mid-Summer (June-August)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Peak Ski Season (late January – mid-March)

Planning Your Trip

Tipping: 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per bag for porters.

Quebec: French is preferred (say “Bonjour” first).

Punctuality: Arrive on time for tours/dinner reservations.

Outdoor respect: Leave no trace in national parks (Acadia, Adirondacks).

Accommodation:

  • Hostels: US$35–60
  • Mid-range hotels: US$120–250
  • Luxury stays: US$400+

Food:

  • Street food/deli lunch: US$8–15
  • Casual restaurant: US$20–30
  • Fine dining: US$70+

Transport:

  • Metro/bus pass: US$2–6/day
  • Intercity bus: US$10–40
  • Car rental: US$60–100/day

Activities:

  • Many parks, museums, and festivals are free or low-cost.
  • Tickets for Broadway or fine arts events can cost US$50–150+.

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$80–120 (hostel, transit, food trucks)

  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (decent hotel, meals, some events)

  • Luxury: US$350+ (upscale dining, boutique hotels, private tours)

Free Wi-Fi: Cafés, libraries, most hotels.

SIM Cards: AT&T/T-Mobile (US$30–50 for 10GB).

Canada (Quebec): Roaming fees apply—consider an eSIM (Airalo).

Recommended for: Medical coverage (US healthcare is costly), winter travel delays.

Adventure activities: Skiing/snowboarding often requires extra coverage.

Cross-border trips: Ensure coverage includes Canada.

From luxury NYC high-rises to rustic Vermont B&Bs.

Hotels:

  • Luxury: The Plaza (NYC), Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (Quebec City).
  • Mid-range: Kimpton (Boston), Loews Philadelphia.
  • Budget: Pod Hotels (NYC), chain motels (Holiday Inn Express).

Hostels:

  • HI NYC, Generator Boston, Auberge Saintlo (Montreal).

Airbnb/VRBO:

  • Great for ski cabins, Cape Cod beach houses, or Quebec farmstays.

Unique Stays:

  • Lighthouse stays (Maine), historic inns (Concord, MA).

Tip: Book ski lodges and coastal stays 6+ months ahead.

Transport varies by region—public transit excels in cities, but a car helps in rural areas.

Trains:

  • Amtrak (Northeast Corridor: NYC–Boston–Philadelphia–DC).
  • VIA Rail (Montreal–Quebec City).
  • Book early for discounts; Acela Express is faster but pricier.

Buses:

  • Megabus, Greyhound (budget-friendly between major cities).
  • Peter Pan, Trailways (serves New England small towns).

Subways/Public Transit:

  • NYC Subway ($2.90/ride), Boston T, Philadelphia SEPTA—get a multi-day pass.
  • Montreal Metro (CA$3.50) is clean and efficient.

Car Rentals:

  • Necessary for Vermont, New Hampshire, and coastal Maine.
  • Winter driving requires snow tires (especially in Quebec).

Flights:

  • Major hubs: JFK (NYC), Logan (Boston), Trudeau (Montreal).
  • Regional airports (Burlington, Portland) useful for ski/beach trips.

Handy Tips

United States (New York, Pennsylvania, New England) uses the U.S. Dollar (US$).

Canada (Quebec) uses the Canadian Dollar (C$). Currency is not interchangeable, so prepare if you’re crossing the border.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks in both countries. Use ATMs or bank branches for better rates. Quebec has widespread ATM access.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are widely accepted, even at small businesses and coffee shops. However, carry some small cash for rural towns, street food, or tips.

  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Restaurants/Bars: 15–20% in the U.S.; in Quebec, 15% is standard (check if included in Quebec bills as “service compris”).

    • Taxis/Rideshares: 10–15% or round up.

    • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag; US$2–5 per night for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person; same in C$ for Quebec.

  • U.S. Northeast: English is dominant, though Spanish is spoken in cities like New York and Boston.

  • Quebec: French is the official language. Many speak English in Montreal, but smaller towns may be French-only.

Helpful Phrases in French (Quebec):

  • “Où est la station de métro la plus proche ?” (Where’s the nearest metro station?)

  • “Combien ça coûte ?” (How much is it?)

  • “Puis-je avoir un reçu ?” (Can I get a receipt?)

Pro Tip: Quebecers appreciate efforts to speak French—even just a “Bonjour” goes a long way. In New England or NYC, be direct and concise—locals move fast.

The region is generally safe, with precautions needed in large cities.

  • New York: Stay alert in Times Square, subway stations, and avoid Central Park after midnight.

  • Boston/Philadelphia: Exercise standard urban caution.

  • Quebec: Low crime, especially in cities like Quebec City.

Emergency Contacts:

  • U.S.:

    • 911: Police, fire, ambulance.

    • 311: Local non-emergency (NYC, Boston).

  • Canada:

    • 911: All emergencies.

    • Info-Santé 811: Non-emergency health line in Quebec.

U.S. & Canada: 120V/60Hz using Type A/B plugs (two flat pins or three-pin grounded plugs). Bring a universal adapter if needed. No voltage converter required for most electronics.

  • Tap water is safe to drink across the Northeast and Quebec.

  • Ask for tap water at restaurants in both regions—it’s free and filtered.

  • Mountain towns in Vermont and Quebec have especially clean-tasting water.

Most public services and businesses shut down. Expect closures on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 3rd Mon Jan (U.S.): Martin Luther King Jr. Day

  • 3rd Mon Feb (U.S.): Presidents’ Day

  • Late Feb (Quebec): Family Day (varies by province)

  • Last Mon May (U.S.): Memorial Day

  • 1 Jul (Quebec): Canada Day

  • 4 Jul (U.S.): Independence Day

  • 1st Mon Sep: Labor Day

  • 2nd Mon Oct: Indigenous Peoples’ Day (U.S.) / Thanksgiving (Canada)

  • 11 Nov: Veterans Day (U.S.) / Remembrance Day (Canada)

  • 4th Thu Nov (U.S.): Thanksgiving

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Note: Museums stay open in NYC and Boston but are crowded. In Quebec, businesses close earlier on holidays.

Stores: Open 10:00–20:00. NYC shops may run later (some 24/7).

Pharmacies: Walgreens, CVS (U.S.), and Jean Coutu (Quebec) often open late or 24/7.

Farmers’ Markets:

  • NYC: Union Square Greenmarket (Wed/Sat)
  • Boston: Copley Square Market (Tues/Fri)
  • Montreal: Jean-Talon Market (daily, year-round)

Lobster Roll: Classic New England sandwich (best warm with butter in Maine).

Montreal-Style Bagel: Smaller, denser, slightly sweet—try Fairmount or St-Viateur.

Poutine: Québec’s comforting trio—fries, cheese curds, and brown gravy.

Clam Chowder: Creamy soup with potatoes and clams (Boston’s iconic bowl).

Corned Beef Sandwich: Jewish deli classic in NYC (try Katz’s or Liebman’s).

Tourtière: Hearty meat pie from Québec—spiced and usually served during winter.

Pepperoni Rolls: West Virginia-origin snack popular in rural Northeast towns.

Fenway Frank: Boston’s baseball staple—grilled hot dog in a split-top roll.

Italian Sub: Packed with cold cuts, provolone, and oil/vinegar—ubiquitous in NYC and Boston delis.

Maple Taffy: Hot maple syrup cooled on snow, rolled on a stick (sugar shacks in Canada).

Boston Cream Pie: Technically a cake—custard-filled, chocolate-glazed.

New York Cheesecake: Rich, dense, and legendary—try at Junior’s or Eileen’s.

Whoopie Pie: Chocolate cake sandwich with creamy filling—Maine’s official treat.

Blueberry Pie: Wild blueberries from Maine or Vermont—best served warm with cream.

Alcoholic:

  • Finger Lakes Riesling: Crisp, aromatic white wine from upstate New York.

  • Ice Wine: Sweet dessert wine made from frozen grapes—specialty of Ontario.

  • Cidre de Glace: Québec’s unique apple ice wine—tart, syrupy, and delicious.

  • VQA Wines: Ontario’s top-quality wines from Niagara and Prince Edward County.

  • Vermont IPAs: World-famous craft beers like Heady Topper and Lawson’s.

  • Sam Adams Boston Lager: Classic American lager from one of the oldest U.S. breweries.

  • Unibroue La Fin du Monde: Belgian-style Canadian beer—fruity, strong, complex.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Maple Water: Lightly sweet, hydrating drink tapped straight from maple trees.

  • Tim Hortons Coffee: Canada’s unofficial national brew—double-double for full Canadian immersion.

  • Apple Cider: Fresh-pressed and hot in fall, cold and sparkling in summer.

  • Coffee Milk: Rhode Island specialty—coffee-flavored syrup mixed with milk.

  • Moxie: Unusual herbal soda from Maine—bit of an acquired taste but iconic.

Museums:

  • NYC: MoMA, Met, 9/11 Memorial.
  • Boston: Museum of Fine Arts, Isabella Stewart Gardner.
  • Quebec: Musée de la civilisation.

Historic Sites:

  • Philadelphia: Independence Hall, Liberty Bell.
  • Boston: Paul Revere’s House, USS Constitution.

Neighborhoods:

  • NYC: Harlem for jazz, Williamsburg for hipster vibes.
  • Montreal: Plateau Mont-Royal (murals, cafés), Old Port.

Hidden Gems:

  • Storm King Art Center (Hudson Valley): Open-air sculpture park.
  • Acadia National Park (Maine): Stunning coastal hikes.
  • Eastern Townships (Quebec): Scenic countryside + wineries.

Literary History:

  • Concord, MA: Home of Louisa May Alcott and Thoreau.
  • NYC: Beat poetry, NYPL’s grand reading room.

Broadway Shows (NYC): Book early or try same-day TKTS booth.

Niagara Falls: Iconic—and stunning in winter too.

Fall Foliage Drives: Vermont, New Hampshire, and upstate NY peak in late Sept–Oct.

Live Music:

  • NYC: Jazz at Village Vanguard.
  • Montreal: Jazz Festival (July).

Boston’s Freedom Trail: Self-guided walk through U.S. history.

Quebec City Old Town: Cobblestone streets + European charm.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center (NYC): Mid-Nov to Jan.

Skiing in the Berkshires, Vermont, or Quebec: December to March.

Maple Syrup Tours (March): Sugar shacks across Vermont and Quebec.

Lighthouses + Coastal Walks: Maine’s rugged Atlantic beauty.

BarChef (Toronto): Experimental cocktails served with smoke and storytelling.

The Dead Rabbit (NYC): Irish pub meets craft cocktail legend.

Drink (Boston): No menu—just tell the mixologist your mood.

Big in Japan Bar (Montreal): Hidden, sleek speakeasy with Japanese whisky.

Battery Park Beer Garden (NYC): Views of the Statue of Liberty with craft beer in hand.

Québec City Ice Hotel Bar: Winter-only spot made entirely of ice—cocktails included.

Thirsty Scholar Pub (Boston): Cozy, literary bar near Harvard.

Moosehead Breweries (Saint John, NB): Canada’s oldest independent brewery.

Smalls Jazz Club (NYC): Tiny, legendary Greenwich Village spot with live jazz nightly.

Montreal Casino Cabaret: Glam, games, and dancing until late.