Being such a large country, the weather in the US is different depending on which areas you are in and when. We’re talking drastically different.

The best time to visit the East Coast, Alaska and the northern mountains is June to August when the summer months bring warm weather, blue skies and longer days. This is a time for coastal visits, refreshing swims or soaking up the 20 hours of daylight in Alaska, where outdoor adventures are at their peak.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are perfect for visiting national parks across the country with mild, comfortable weather and typically fewer crowds. It’s also the best time to visit California when the summer heat isn’t at its max. These seasons showcase the beauty of USA’s parks at their finest.

In Winter (December to February), head to the West Coast for milder temperatures if you’re looking to avoid the cold temps and deep snow of the northeast. It’s a good time to explore California, Joshua Tree National Park and to see the mountains covered in snow in Jackson, Wyoming.

Learn more about the best time to visit the USA

With a variety of international influences, you can find all your favourite foods in the USA, but it’s known for its Creole cuisine, traditional Jewish fare like bagels and pastrami sandwiches in New York, and barbecue down south. The United States has everything, from burger joints to taco shacks, organic cafes to refined Michelin-starred restaurants.

Things to try in the USA

Bagels

Whether smeared with cream cheese or stacked high with lox, this easy grab-n-go breakfast might be one of the best ways to break bread in the morning. 

Pizza

You’ll be hard-pressed to find somewhere in the USA that doesn’t have good pizza. There are several variations across the country, from the thick, deep-dish Chicago style to the thin New York style that’s sold by the slice. 

Gumbo

This iconic Creole dish is most commonly served in Louisiana and other states down south. The thick, hearty soup usually has a base made of stewed tomatoes, bell peppers, okra, onion, celery and lots of herbs and seasonings. It’s then loaded with shellfish, chicken, sausage and other types of meat and is best served over rice. 

Fried Chicken

American-style fried chicken is a southern delicacy but is found all over the country, from crispy buffalo wings to buckets of chicken thighs, seasoned up and served with plenty of sides. 

Cheeseburger

You can’t go wrong with a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheese, often stacked with tomato, lettuce and other fixings on a soft bun. They’re a staple in most places, and for good reason – but a veggie burger is always a good option, too!

Barbeque

Another southern favourite but found all over, barbecue ranges from off-the-bone ribs to pulled pork or tender brisket, all marinated and smoked to perfection. The meat is the whole point, but it’s often served with creamy slaw, mac n’ cheese, baked beans and buttery corn. 

Coffee

Coffee is a major part of American culture, with popular styles ranging from drip coffee to cold brew and specialty lattes. There are many chains scattered across the country, but the best cups are from the local, independent shops. 

Craft beer

Microbreweries can be found all over brewing distinct styles like hazy IPAs, stouts, lagers and sours. They’re known for their variety and creativity, and many independent breweries emphasise local ingredients and unique flavours. 

Whiskey

Distilleries across the country make both traditional and innovative varieties of whiskey. Styles like bourbon, Tennessee whiskey and rye are the most popular and are a big part of both history and culture in the USA, especially down south and out west. 

Sweet tea

This classic drink is made by brewing black tea and adding plenty of sugar while it’s still hot, then served ice cold. It’s a refreshing drink popular at family meals, barbecues and summer gatherings down south and is best paired with a fresh lemon wedge. 

Learn more about what to eat in the USA

From the alpine lakes of Montana to the red-hot deserts of Nevada and the urban jungles of San Francisco and Las Vegas, the United States has many different environments and ecosystems. Sharing borders with Canada in the north and Mexico in the south, the USA has deserts, glaciers, freshwater lakes, rapid-filled rivers, mountain ranges, sprawling plains, forested national parks, beaches and bays.

The major national parks – Yellowstone, Zion, Yosemite, Bryce Canyon, Denali and Joshua Tree – offer a glimpse into what much of America looked like before development. Lush vegetation, towering mountains and sparkling lakes give deer, moose, bears, bison and many other species of wildlife a fertile home to live in.

When travelling, you’re likely to see modern cities filled with traffic, skyscrapers and high-density housing, as well as sleepy, spaced-out towns and Native reservations, all mixed between dramatic landscapes filled with mountains, rivers and plains. A complex network of highways connects the major cities, making overland travel a popular choice. The great American road trip is still alive and well.

The United States began with Indigenous peoples who lived across America for thousands of years before European colonisation. European settlements expanded during the 1600 and 1700s, eventually leading to the American Revolution and independence from Britain in 1776. The country grew rapidly during the 1800s, including westward expansion, the Civil War and the abolition of slavery. In the 20th century, the USA became a major global economic and political power. 

American culture reflects its complex history and diverse roots. Immigration plays a major role, blending many cultural traditions, cuisines, religions, art and festivals. At its core, the country values individual freedom, entrepreneurship and cultural diversity, and places a strong focus on entertainment, sports and technological advancement.  

1. Alaska

If the wild is calling, Alaska is answering. Enter a land of untouched wilderness where mountains and dense forests are your playground. Visit North America’s tallest peak in Denali National Park and cruise past towering glaciers while you look out for orcas on a paddle through Resurrection Bay. Alaska is vast, raw and beautifully remote, making it a truly unique experience in the States. 

2. Utah

Utah is one big outdoor playground and an adventure-lovers dream. It’s home to five national parks and packed with diverse scenery, from massive canyons and rugged cliffs to desert plains. Spend your days hiking, climbing and wandering, then unwind beneath a canopy of stars in the quiet desert night.  

3. California

A treasure trove of adventure where sun-drenched coasts meet dramatic deserts and national parks – this is California. Make your way through major cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco or get into the wild in Yosemite National Park where you can gaze up at the massive Half Dome. Walk among ancient giant sequoias and chase waterfalls in one of the most breathtaking natural spots in the country.  

4. Arizona

Arizona is home to the country’s most esteemed national park – the Grand Canyon. Here, you can hike along its massive rim and connect with the traditions of the Navajo Nation. This is a great place for outdoor adventurers whether you like hiking, kayaking or just exploring national parks while also learning about Native American history and Southwestern culture.  

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is more than just Mardi Gras – it's the birthplace of jazz music and home to a distinct Creole and Cajun culture worth exploring. With its legendary culinary scene, architecture and music, there’s always something to do and try in this city. Check out the architecture in the French Quarter, step into a jazz club on Frenchman street, join the party on Bourbon Street, or take a tour of the spooky St. Louis Cemetery. But if we had one recommendation, it would be to experience a jazz brunch – oh, and try the city’s famous beignets (a doughy sweet treat).

The official currency of the USA is the United States Dollar (USD).  

Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout the States. The only time you may need cash is if you visit an independent market, so it’s good to have some with you just in case.  

ATMs are extremely common, so finding them won’t be a problem in most towns and cities.