The Complete Travel Guide to the USA: From Iconic Landmarks to Hidden Gems
So, USA, huh? Awesome location, I must say. Now that you have decided to plan a trip to one of the most picturesque places on planet Earth, make sure you get the planning part down perfectly. Know the right time to visit the USA and the best places to spend your time there so that you have the absolute time of your life!
The Best Time To Visit USA
The ideal time to visit the US differs by location owing to its varying temperatures. Spring travel is great, especially in the south and on the West Coast. Mild weather and flowering flowers make this season pleasant, while cherry blossoms brighten Washington, D.C.
Northern, coastal, and mountainous locations thrive in summer (June–August). Outdoor activities, beach vacations, and national park visits are popular this season. In the summer, certain southern and southwestern locations can reach high temperatures.
Fall (September to November) is another good season to visit the U.S., as many areas have good weather. The brisk air and changing foliage make it a great season for outdoor activities as well as some sightseeing. This season is very lovely in New England.
Winter (December–February) is ideal for winter activities and holiday cheer. The northern states and mountainous regions of Colorado and Utah provide great skiing and snowboarding. Warmer Florida and Southern California offer a break from winter.
Top 8 Places To Visit While You Are There
Who doesn't love the USA, right? And we all have our own set of private bucket list places all set to visit. But for those of you who don't have one or want to explore the best places to visit in the USA, this list is for you.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in the world. The red granite structures in the canyon show how the Colorado River carved out millions of years of our planet’s past. You can find peace and quiet at the North Rim and forget yourself in the breathtaking views at the South Rim. Hiking trails like the Bright Angel Trail let both new and experienced hikers see how deep and beautiful the canyon is. The Grand Canyon's walls are a rainbow of colors at sunrise and sunset, which are both nothing less than stunning.
Things to do:
- The South Kaibab Trail and Rim-to-Rim Trail are two of the Grand Canyon's numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views and varying difficulty.
- Fly over the canyon to observe its geological wonders and vast landscapes. Canyon walls may be seen while rafting the Colorado River.
2. Maui
Maui is a Hawaiian island paradise with beautiful scenery, pristine beaches, and diverse sceneries. With its lush forests, waterfalls, and beaches, the Road to Hana showcases Maui's natural splendor. In Haleakalā National Park, you may witness the dawn above the clouds from a dormant volcano. Swim and relax at Wailea and Kaanapali's lovely beaches and seas. Historical Lahaina has fantastic stores, art galleries, and a vibrant waterfront that preserves Hawaiian culture.
Things to do:
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Take in the colorful coral reefs and marine life of Maui.
- Take a picturesque drive to Hana, stopping at waterfalls, black sand beaches, and tropical gardens.
- Whale Watching: See humpback whales breaching and playing in the waters from December to April.
3. Yosemite National Park
Nature enthusiasts appreciate Yosemite National Park in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. Rock climbers and hikers from throughout the world visit El Capitan and Half Dome. North America's tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls, is in Yosemite Valley. The Grizzly Giant and other giant trees live in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Glacier Point's sunset view of the park is breathtaking. Alpine meadows and old woodlands make the park a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to do:
- World-class rock climbing on El Capitan and Half Dome awaits the daring in Yosemite.
- Photography Safaris: Experience the park's breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, and animals with trained guides who know the finest spots.
- A guided astronomy session under Yosemite's brilliant night skies is a great way to learn about the constellations and marvels of the universe.
4. Lake Tahoe
The Sierra Nevada mountains surround Lake Tahoe, a beautiful alpine lake on the California-Nevada border. Tahoe, with its crystal-clear lakes, offers year-round recreation. Heavenly and Squaw Valley draw skiers in winter. People like to do water sports, hike, and mountain bike at the lake in the summer. As you drive along the beach, you can enjoy the stunning views. At Emerald Bay State Park, you can visit Vikingsholm Castle and Emerald Bay. Lake Tahoe is beautiful and fun to visit.
Things to do:
- Get a chance to be a part of the thrilling snow activities in Heavenly and Squaw Valley in winter.
- Fun activities on the lake include kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in the summer.
5. New York City
New York City, also known as the "Big Apple", has many buildings, a lot of different kinds of culture, and lots of fun things to do. The lights and plays in Times Square show that New York City never sleeps. Manhattan's Central Park is a peaceful place to get away. Above New York City, the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center stand tall. At the port opening, the Statue of Liberty stands for freedom. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art have a lot of art and history.
Things to do:
- Broadway Shows: Experience classic and cutting-edge Broadway shows.
- Central Park Bike Ride: Rent a bike and tour Central Park's vast grounds, finding Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge.
- Statue of Liberty Tour: Take a boat to Liberty Island to see the Statue of Liberty and then visit Ellis Island to learn about U.S. immigration.
6. Washington, D.C.
The US capital, Washington, D.C., is rich in history and politics. The Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol are on the National Mall. Knowledge and cultural discovery are available at Smithsonian institutions, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History. The Jefferson Memorial looks beautiful in the springtime Tidal Basin with cherry blossoms. The White House, the U.S. President's dwelling and office, makes D.C. a political and cultural hub.
Things to do:
- Monument Night Tour: A guided tour of the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument lighted at night.
- Smithsonian Museum Hopping: Visit many Smithsonian museums with distinct art, history, and science displays
7. Telluride
A charming Colorado town in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is noted for its outdoor activities and landscape. Winter turns it into a world-class ski resort with steep slopes and mountain vistas. Telluride summers include hiking, mountain biking, and festivals. Main-street Victorian houses host boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. This unique transportation experience gives panoramic views of the surrounding peaks from the free gondola. Natural beauty and small-town charm make Telluride a mountain lover's secret.
Things to do:
- Skiing and snowboarding: Telluride's world-class powder draws skiers from around the world every winter.
- Film Festivals: In September, the Telluride Film Festival showcases films in the San Juan Mountains.
- A hot air balloon flight above Telluride's beautiful surroundings is a unique and tranquil experience.
8. Las Vegas
Las Vegas, a.k.a the "Entertainment Capital of the World," never disappoints. Luxury resorts, landmarks, and premier entertainment venues line the Las Vegas Strip. The Bellagio fountains and Venetian and Caesar's Palace hotels' themed architecture make the city beautiful. City attractions include casinos and live music. This vibrant metropolis provides a variety of outdoor activities in Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam beyond the Strip.
Things to do:
- Casino Gaming: Play poker, blackjack, or slots at one of the many Las Vegas Strip casinos.
- Cirque du Soleil Shows: "O" and "Michael Jackson ONE" combine acrobatics and narration.
- The world's highest observation wheel, the High Roller, offers panoramic views of the city and desert.
Eat Well, Stay Safe, Have Tons of Fun!
Traveling can bring you some of the biggest joys in life and help you create the best memories. This is why choosing the right location, right people, and right services makes your trip super special. You have already chosen the right location, and I believe you have the best people to travel with you (and if you plan to go solo, double great). Now it's time to choose the right services, so make sure to add travel assistance to the list. AirportAssist.com offers you exclusive and customized travel assistance services, making your time at the airport easy, breezy, and stress-free.