United States

Highlights

• Statue of Liberty: (New York, NY) An iconic symbol of freedom and democracy, welcoming visitors and immigrants to the USA.
• Grand Canyon: (Arizona) A breathtaking natural wonder, offering stunning vistas and numerous outdoor activities.
• Yellowstone National Park: (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho) The first national park in the world, known for its geothermal features and diverse wildlife.
• Disney World: (Orlando, FL) The most famous theme park in the world, offering disney-magical experiences for families and children.
• Las Vegas Strip: (Las Vegas, NV) Renowned for its nightlife, luxury hotels, casinos, and entertainment shows.
• Golden Gate Bridge: (San Francisco, CA) An engineering marvel and an iconic symbol of the city, offering stunning views of the bay.
• Times Square: (New York, NY) Known as “The Crossroads of the World,” it’s famous for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and active atmosphere.
• Niagara Falls: (New York) A stunning set of three waterfalls on the border between the United States and Canada.
• Mount Rushmore: (South Dakota) Featuring the carved faces of four U.S. presidents, it’s a symbol of American history and heritage.
• Smithsonian Institution: (Washington, D.C.) The world’s largest museum and research complex, featuring 19 museums, galleries, and a zoo.
• Hollywood Walk of Fame: (Los Angeles, CA) Celebrates the stars of the entertainment industry with stars embedded in the sidewalks.
• Alcatraz Island: (San Francisco, CA) The site of the notorious former prison, now a fascinating historical and cultural landmark.
• Empire State Building: (New York, NY) A historic skyscraper offering panoramic views of New York City from its observation decks.
• French Quarter: (New Orleans, LA) Known for its nightlife, live music, and unique Creole cuisine and culture.

Destinations

• Alaska:

  Alaska, the largest state in the USA, is known for its rugged landscapes and natural beauty. From the peaks of Denali National Park to the icy expanses of Glacier Bay, Alaska offers stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, including bears, moose, and whales, and explore the unique culture and history of the state’s indigenous peoples.

  Anchorage • Barrow • Cordova • Denali National Park • Fairbanks • Girdwood • Haines • Homer • Juneau • Ketchikan • Kodiak • Sitka • Skagway • Talkeentna • Valdez • Wrangell

• California:

  California, located on the West Coast and home to Hollywood, is famous for its beaches, mountains, and deserts. Major attractions include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the entertainment hub of Hollywood in Los Angeles, and the scenic beauty of Yosemite National Park. Visitors can also enjoy the wine country of Napa Valley and the tech innovation of Silicon Valley.

  Anaheim • Bakersfield • Berkeley • Bishop • Burbank • Carmel • Chico • Death Valley National Park • Disneyland • Joshua Tree National Park • Lone Pine • Long Beach • Los Angeles • Malibu • Mammoth Lakes • Mill Valley • Monterey • Mount Shasta City • Oakland • Pacific Grove • Palm Springs • Palo Alto • Redding • Sacramento • Sacremento • San Diego • San Francisco • San Jose • San Luis Obispo • Santa Barbara • Santa Cruz • Santa Monica • Sausalito • South Lake Tahoe • Tahoe City • Venice • Yosemite National Park

• Florida:

  Florida, known as the Sunshine State, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, theme parks, and big cities. Orlando is home to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, while Miami is famous for its nightlife and cultural diversity. The Florida Keys provide a tropical paradise for snorkeling and diving, and the Everglades National Park offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

  Boca Raton • Daytona Beach • Everglades National Park • Flamingo • Fort Lauderdale • Fort Myers • Islamorada • Jacksonville • Key Largo town • Miami • Orlando • Palm Beach • Panama City Beach • Pensacoloa • Sarasota • St. Augustine • St. Petersburg • Tallahassee • Tampa • Walt Disney World Resort

• Great Plains:

  The Great Plains region spans several states, including Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota. This area is characterized by its vast open spaces, rolling prairies, and agricultural landscapes. Travelers can visit the historic Badlands National Park, see the famous Mount Rushmore, and experience the cultural heritage of the Native American tribes that have long called this region home.

  Kansas • Nebraska • North Dakota • Oklahoma • South Dakota

• Hawaii:

  Hawaii, an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean and popularized in many TV shows, is known for its tropical beauty and unique culture. The islands offer stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and lush rainforests. Visitors can explore the active volcanoes of the Big Island, the dramatic cliffs of Kauai’s Napali Coast, and the historic sites of Pearl Harbor on Oahu. Surfing, snorkeling, and hiking are popular activities.

  Hanalei • Hanna • Hilo • Honolulu • Kaanapali • Kailua (Kona) • Lahaina • Lihue • Waimea

• Mid-Atlantic:

  The Mid-Atlantic region includes states like New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. This area is rich in history and cultural attractions. New York City is a major draw with landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Philadelphia offers historic sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while the scenic Hudson Valley provides picturesque views and outdoor recreation.

  Delaware • Maryland • New Jersey • New York • Pennsylvania • Washington DC

• Midwest:

  The Midwest, often referred to as America’s heartland, includes states like Illinois, Ohio, and Michigan. Known for its friendly people and diverse cities, the region offers attractions such as Chicago’s Millennium Park, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, and the Great Lakes for boating and fishing. The Midwest is also home to beautiful national parks and charming small towns.

  Illinois • Indiana • Iowa • Michigan • Minnesota • Missouri • Ohio • Wisconsin

• New England:

  New England, located in the northeastern USA, is known for its historic sites, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant fall foliage. States like Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine offer a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Boston is famous for its colonial history and landmarks like the Freedom Trail, while Acadia National Park in Maine provides stunning coastal scenery and outdoor adventures.

  Connecticut • Maine • Massachusetts • New Hampshire • Rhode Island • Vermont

• Pacific Northwest:

  The Pacific Northwest, including Washington and Oregon, is celebrated for its lush forests, mountains, and coastline. Seattle is known for its Space Needle, high tech and coffee, while Portland offers a unique mix of urban and natural attractions. Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of the Cascade Range, the stunning Columbia River Gorge, and the pristine beaches of the Pacific Coast.

  Idaho • Oregon • Washington

• Rocky Mountains:

  The Rocky Mountains oeffers some of the most spectacular scenery in the USA. Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy skiing in Aspen, hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, and exploring the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone. The Rockies are also home to diverse wildlife and scenic drives.

  Colorado • Montana • Wyoming

• South:

  The South, encompassing states like Georgia, Tennessee, and Louisiana, is known for its history, culture, and warm hospitality. Atlanta offers a mix of modern attractions and Civil Rights history, while Nashville is famous for its country music scene. New Orleans is a major draw with its unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole cultures, vibrant music, and delicious cuisine.

  Alabama • Arkansas • Georgia • Kentucky • Louisiana • Mississippi • North Carolina • South Carolina • Tennessee • Virginia • West Virginia

• Southwest:

  The Southwest region, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada, is known for its desert landscapes, Native American heritage, and unique natural wonders. The Grand Canyon in Arizona is a must-see, offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. Santa Fe, New Mexico, is famous for its Pueblo-style architecture and vibrant arts scene. Las Vegas, Nevada, offers world-class entertainment and nightlife.

  Arizona • Nevada • New Mexico • Utah

• Texas:

  Amarillo • Austin • Canyon • Corpus Christi • Dallas • El Paso • Forth Worth • Fredericksburg • Galveston • Houston • Laredo • Lubbock • Nacogdoches • Nuevo Laredo • San Antonio

  Texas, the lone start state and second-largest state in the USA, is the land of cowboys, tex-mex and doing everything BIG. From the bustling cities of Houston and Dallas to the historic Alamo in San Antonio, Texas offers a mix of modern attractions and historic landmarks. The state’s natural beauty includes the rolling hills of the Hill Country, the vast deserts of West Texas, and the coastal beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can explore the music scene in Austin, enjoy outdoor activities in Big Bend National Park, and experience the unique cowboy culture at rodeos and ranches across the state.

Top Cities

• New York City: (New York) Known as “The Big Apple,” it is famous for landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and its cultural attractions including Broadway theaters and world-class museums.
• Los Angeles: (California) Known for Hollywood, the entertainment industry, beautiful beaches, and attractions like the Getty Center and Griffith Observatory.
• Chicago: (Illinois) Famous for its impressive skyline, Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and deep-dish pizza.
• San Francisco: (California) Known for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, its historic cable cars, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Fisherman’s Wharf.
• Miami: (Florida) Renowned for its beautiful beaches, Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and rich Latin American cultural influences.
• Washington, D.C.: The nation’s capital, home to iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol Building, the National Mall, and numerous Smithsonian museums.
• Boston: (Massachusetts) Known for its colonial history, prestigious universities, and cultural institutions like the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Freedom Trail.
• Las Vegas: (Nevada) Famous for its nightlife, casinos, luxury hotels, entertainment shows, and the one of a kind Las Vegas Strip.
• Seattle: (Washington) Known for the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, its coffee culture, and beautiful natural surroundings.
• New Orleans: (Louisiana) Famous for its unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole cultures, Mardi Gras celebrations, jazz music, and distinctive cuisine.
• Houston: (Texas) Known for its Space Center, diverse food scene, and major cultural institutions like the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
• Atlanta: (Georgia) A major hub of the South, known for its Civil Rights history, arts scene, and attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola.
• San Diego: (California) Known for its beautiful beaches, the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Denver: (Colorado) Famous for its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, outdoor recreational activities, and a growing arts and culture scene.
• Philadelphia: (Pennsylvania) Rich in American history with landmarks like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, and a strong cultural and culinary scene.
• Austin: (Texas) Their motto is “Keep it weird”. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” it has a fantastic music scene, diverse food culture, and numerous outdoor activities.

Islands & Beaches

• Waikiki Beach: (Oahu, Hawaii) Known for its iconic Diamond Head backdrop, surfing, and vibrant atmosphere.
• Maui: (Hawaii) Known for its stunning beaches, the scenic Hana Highway, Haleakalā National Park, and luxurious resorts.
• Kauai: (Hawaii) Famous for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, and beautiful waterfalls.
• Key West: (Florida) Known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites like Ernest Hemingway’s home, and stunning sunsets at Mallory Square.
• South Beach: (Miami, Florida) Famous for its Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and beautiful sandy shores.
• Malibu: (California) Renowned for its celebrity homes, stunning beaches like Zuma Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach, and surfing spots.
• San Juan Islands: (Washington) Popular for whale watching, kayaking, and exploring charming small towns like Friday Harbor.
• Nantucket: (Massachusetts) Known for its historic whaling heritage, beautiful beaches, and picturesque lighthouses.
• Martha’s Vineyard: (Massachusetts) Famous for its charming villages, scenic beaches, and as a popular summer getaway.
• Outer Banks: (North Carolina) Known for its pristine beaches, historic sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and wild horses.
• Clearwater Beach: (Florida) Famous for its soft white sands, clear waters, and family-friendly attractions.
• Hilton Head Island: (South Carolina) Known for its golf courses, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly resorts.
• Block Island: (Rhode Island) Famous for its unspoiled beaches, scenic bluffs, and historic lighthouses.
• Santa Monica Beach: (California) Known for its iconic pier, bustling boardwalk, and wide sandy beaches.
• Cannon Beach: (Oregon) Famous for its dramatic rock formations, including Haystack Rock, and picturesque coastal scenery.
• Myrtle Beach: (South Carolina) Known for its family-friendly attractions, amusement parks, and wide sandy beaches.

National Parks

• Yellowstone National Park: (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho) The first national park in the world, known for its geothermal features, including geysers like Old Faithful, hot springs, and diverse wildlife such as bison and grizzly bears.
• Yosemite National Park: (California) Famous for its dramatic granite cliffs, including El Capitan and Half Dome, as well as its waterfalls, giant sequoias, and picturesque valleys.
• Grand Canyon National Park: (Arizona) Known for its immense and colorful canyon, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and river rafting on the Colorado River.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: (Tennessee, North Carolina) Renowned for its mist-covered mountains, diverse plant and animal life, and historical Appalachian culture.
• Zion National Park: (Utah) Famous for its towering red rock formations, narrow slot canyons, and scenic hiking trails such as Angels Landing.
• Rocky Mountain National Park: (Colorado) Known for its rugged mountain terrain, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, offering excellent hiking and scenic drives.
• Glacier National Park: (Montana) Famous for its stunning glaciers, pristine lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery, as well as the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• Acadia National Park: (Maine) Renowned for its coastal landscapes, rocky shorelines, and Cadillac Mountain, which offers stunning sunrise views.
• Olympic National Park: (Washington) Known for its unique ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and the glaciated peaks of the Olympic Mountains.
• Grand Teton National Park: (Wyoming) Famous for its beautiful mountain range, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, offering excellent hiking, climbing, and scenic vistas.
• Arches National Park: (Utah) Renowned for its more than 2,000 natural stone arches, dramatic rock formations, and desert landscapes.
• Everglades National Park: (Florida) Known for its unique wetland ecosystem, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, airboat tours, and exploring the sawgrass marshes.
• Joshua Tree National Park: (California) Famous for its unique Joshua trees, rugged rock formations, and stark desert landscapes, popular for stargazing and rock climbing.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: (Utah) Known for its distinctive hoodoos (tall, thin rock spires), offering dramatic views and scenic hiking trails.
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: (California) Renowned for their giant sequoia trees, including General Sherman (the largest tree on Earth), and deep canyons, offering a variety of outdoor activities.
• Denali National Park: (Alaska) Famous for Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), the highest peak in North America, as well as its stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• Haleakalā National Park: (Hawaii) Known for its massive shield volcano, stunning sunrises from the summit, and unique flora and fauna.
• Mount Rainier National Park: (Washington) Famous for its iconic volcanic peak, wildflower meadows, and extensive hiking trails.

The best time to visit the United States varies depending on the region and the type of experience you’re seeking. The south is tropical, while the north can get quite chilly. Californians seem to be the luckiest with regards to weather, with plenty of sun, warm summers and cool winters.

Southerners see long summers, while those in the north experience long winters. However, snowfalls on the Rockies start early and finish late both in the north and the south, so ski bunnies can linger a bit longer.

The US is packed during the summer as tourists flood every single mall and fun park, making it more practical to come here in the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. What’s more, you don’t need to wake up 2 hours earlier to beat the traffic in front of Disneyland’s ticket office. Plan around holidays like Thanksgiving (late November), Christmas (December 25), and Independence Day (July 4) as these can affect travel prices and crowds.

Spring

(March to May) - Mild and pleasant with blooming flowers and moderate temperatures.

• Weather: Mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and moderate temperatures.
• Best for: Visiting national parks, cities, and coastal areas. Ideal for exploring Washington, D.C.’s cherry blossoms, California’s wine country, and the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Pros: Fewer crowds compared to summer, lower accommodation prices, and beautiful spring landscapes.

Summer

(June to August) - Warm to hot with long daylight hours and ideal conditions for beach vacations and outdoor activities.

• Weather: Warm to hot temperatures, with humidity in some regions.
• Best for: Beach vacations, outdoor activities, and family trips. Popular destinations include the beaches of Florida, California, and the Pacific Northwest, as well as national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite.
• Pros: Longer daylight hours, numerous festivals and events, and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
• Cons: Higher prices, crowded tourist spots, and hot temperatures in some areas (e.g., the Southwest and the South).

Fall

(September to November) - Cool and crisp with stunning fall foliage and fewer tourists.

• Weather: Cool and crisp temperatures, with stunning fall foliage in many regions.
• Best for: Leaf-peeping in New England, wine tasting in Napa Valley, and city explorations. Ideal for visiting New York City, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Rocky Mountains.
• Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices, and beautiful autumn colors.
• Cons: Cooler temperatures in some northern regions, shorter daylight hours.

Winter

(December to February) - Cold and snowy in the north, mild and pleasant in the south, with winter sports and holiday festivities.

• Weather: Cold temperatures and snow in the northern and mountainous regions; mild and pleasant in the southern states.
• Best for: Skiing and snowboarding in the Rockies, cozy city breaks, and escaping the cold in warm destinations like Florida, Southern California, and the Southwest.
• Pros: Holiday festivities, winter sports, and lower prices in many destinations.
• Cons: Cold weather in many parts of the country, potential travel disruptions due to snow and ice.

Regional Considerations

• Northeast: Best in late spring, summer, and fall. Winters can be cold and snowy.
• Southeast: Best in spring and fall. Summers are hot and humid; winters are mild.
• Midwest: Best in late spring, summer, and early fall. Winters can be harsh.
• Southwest: Best in spring and fall. Summers are very hot; winters are mild and pleasant.
• West Coast: Best year-round, though summer is ideal for beach activities, and spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for sightseeing.
• Pacific Northwest: Best in late spring to early fall. Winters are rainy and cool.
• Alaska: Best in summer for warmer temperatures and extended daylight hours.
• Hawaii: Great year-round, with the best weather from March to September.

Festivals & Events

Top Festivals and Events in America

• Mardi Gras: (New Orleans, Louisiana, February/March) A crazy celebration featuring parades, costumes, music, and parties leading up to Lent.
• Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival: (Indio, California, April) One of the largest and most famous music festivals in the world, featuring top artists and art installations.
• South by Southwest (SXSW): (Austin, Texas, March) A major festival showcasing music, film, and interactive media, attracting creative minds from around the globe.
• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: (Albuquerque, New Mexico, October) The largest hot air balloon festival in the world, featuring hundreds of colorful balloons taking flight.
• Burning Man: (Black Rock City, Nevada, August/September) An annual event in the desert focused on community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance.
• New Year’s Eve in Times Square: (New York, New York, December 31) The iconic ball drop event celebrating the start of the new year with music, fireworks, and millions of revelers.
• Independence Day Celebrations: (Various Locations, July 4) Nationwide festivities featuring fireworks, parades, concerts, and patriotic events.
• Thanksgiving Day Parade: (New York, New York, November) Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is famous for its giant balloons, floats, and performances.
• Comic-Con International: (San Diego, California, July) The largest convention of its kind, celebrating comics, movies, TV shows, and pop culture.
• Kentucky Derby: (Louisville, Kentucky, May) Known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” this horse race is accompanied by lavish parties and traditions.
• CMA Music Festival: (Nashville, Tennessee, June) A major country music festival featuring performances by top artists and opportunities to meet the stars.
• Boston Marathon: (Boston, Massachusetts, April) The world’s oldest annual marathon, attracting runners and spectators from around the globe.
• New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival: (New Orleans, Louisiana, April/May) A celebration of jazz, blues, gospel, and local culture, with live performances and delicious food.
• Lollapalooza: (Chicago, Illinois, August) A major music festival featuring a diverse lineup of artists, attracting music fans from around the country.
• Sturgis Motorcycle Rally: (Sturgis, South Dakota, August) One of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world, featuring bike shows, races, and concerts.
• Rose Parade: (Pasadena, California, January 1) Held on New Year’s Day, this parade features elaborate floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units.

Cultural Experiences

• Smithsonian Institution: (Washington, D.C.) The world’s largest museum complex, offering extensive exhibits on art, history, and science.
• The Alamo: (San Antonio, Texas) A historic site commemorating the Battle of the Alamo, significant in Texas history.
• French Quarter: (New Orleans, Louisiana) Known for its unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole cultures, music, and cuisine.
• Taos Pueblo: (Taos, New Mexico) A living Native American community with centuries-old adobe buildings.
• Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty: (New York, New York) Iconic symbols of American immigration and freedom.

Natural Experiences

• Grand Canyon National Park: (Arizona) Experience breathtaking views and hiking opportunities in this immense and colorful canyon.
• Yellowstone National Park: (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho) Known for its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
• Yosemite National Park: (California) Famous for its dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: (Tennessee, North Carolina) Renowned for its mist-covered mountains and diverse ecosystems.
• Denali National Park: (Alaska) Home to Denali, North America’s highest peak, offering incredible wildlife viewing and scenic vistas.

Urban Experiences

• Times Square: (New York, New York) Known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and bustling atmosphere.
• Las Vegas Strip: (Las Vegas, Nevada) Famous for its casinos, luxury hotels, and entertainment shows.
• Golden Gate Bridge: (San Francisco, California) An iconic symbol of the city, offering stunning views of the bay.
• Millennium Park: (Chicago, Illinois) Home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”) and various cultural events.
• Hollywood Walk of Fame: (Los Angeles, California) Celebrates the stars of the entertainment industry with stars embedded in the sidewalks.

Unique Experiences

• Burning Man: (Black Rock City, Nevada, August/September) An annual event focused on community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance in the desert.
• Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: (Albuquerque, New Mexico, October) The largest hot air balloon festival in the world, featuring hundreds of colorful balloons.
• Route 66: (Various States) Travel along the historic “Main Street of America,” experiencing nostalgic Americana and diverse landscapes.
• Niagara Falls: (New York) Experience the power and beauty of these iconic waterfalls, with boat tours and observation decks.
• Everglades National Park: (Florida) Explore the unique wetland ecosystem by airboat, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and adventure.

Traveling to the United States of America is a simple task by air, with countless international flights. The main centers to arrive in the country are New York, Boston, and Miami if you fly from Europe and Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle for those traveling from Asia Pacific. Tourists from Mexico and Canada can easily get here by car. Another option for Canadians is the Great Lakes ferries that connect the two neighbors. Trains and long-haul buses serve most destinations in the country and neighboring areas, and are usually reliable and in tip-top condition.