The InterExchange Top Cultural Picks in the U.S. > Cultural Learning Opportunities in the Eastern U.S.

1. Chicago, Illinois

The biggest city in the Midwest, Chicago is known by many names - The American City, The Windy City, The City of Big Shoulders - but you just need to remember that the subway here is called the "el" and the pizza is deep-dish! The city is known for its lakefront parks and beaches, clean and beautiful streets and friendly locals. It is famous for being the backdrop for movies like Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Chicago and The Blues Brothers; books like The Jungle and Devil in the White City; and its rich history in blues music, all-American architecture and one-of-a-kind Millennium Park, where you can enjoy a view of Chicago's famous skyline and free concerts throughout the summer. Told by our staff, the top picks for a visit to Chicago should always include: Millennium Park and the Oak Street beach; riding the Brown Line "El" around the Loop (downtown); visiting the Art Institute; eating a famous "red hot" hot dog and a slice of deep dish pizza; and going to the Green Mill jazz club.

2. Austin, Texas

Maybe Texas seems a bit too far to visit. But, if you want to visit a state with a culture all its own, Texas is definitely the place to do it! And Austin may be the coolest city in the state. Home of Mac design offices, the South by Southwest music festival and lesser-know sites like The Cathedral of Junk, you can get your cool on no matter what you do (just be sure to wear your favorite jeans and a concert t-shirt). Spending time in Austin, you will feel the fun spirit that inspired its motto, "Keep Austin Weird."

3. Denver and Boulder, Colorado

The beautiful Rocky Mountains can be seen at every spot in Denver and neighboring Boulder. The cities are a favorite among everyone at the InterExchange offices and offer a great range of outdoor activities - from hiking, biking and mountain climbing to skiing and snowboarding. Experience America's historical traditions of pioneers, cowboys and “wild west” culture at nearby mining towns or relax at some of Boulder's organic restaurants and bakeries. For the very adventurous, you can go camping and hiking at the Rocky Mountain National Park.

InterExchange Picks for Off the Beaten Path Sites

1. Madison, Wisconsin

The home of the University of Wisconsin and the second-largest capitol building in the country is definitely worth the 3 hour drive north from Chicago. There, you can try Wisconsin's holy trinity of "delicacies" - bratwursts, local beer and cheese curds - or catch a live show at the Memorial Union Terrace while eating Babcock custard (way better than ice cream!), another Wisconsin tradition. If you are there during the fall, don't miss Saturday Game Day, when thousands of Badger fans wearing red come to Madison to cheer on the American football team. Go Badgers!

2. Michigan

Maybe not first on your list of must-sees in the U.S. But, if you made the trip to Chicago and Madison, WI, there are some great attractions in Michigan that are only a ferry ride across Lake Michigan away! Mackinac Island (pronounced Mak*in*aw) is a beautiful island with beaches, seafood restaurants and plenty of outdoor activities. Don't miss the famous fudge! One of our staffers at InterExchange from Michigan says not to miss Sleeping Bear Dunes near Traverse City, which has  local wineries, artist communities and Lake Michigan beaches.