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United States Travel Information
Key facts
Capital:
Washington, D.C.Location:
North America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean, between Canada and MexicoCurrency:
United States Dollar (USD)Area:
9,833,517 sq kmPopulation:
334,998,398 (July 2021 est.)Languages:
English only 78.2%, Spanish 13.4%, Chinese 1.1%, other 7.3% (2017 est.)Religion:
Protestant 46.5%, Roman Catholic 20.8%, Jewish 1.9%, Church of Jesus Christ 1.6%, other Christian 0.9%, Muslim 0.9%, Jehovah's Witness 0.8%, Buddhist 0.7%, Hindu 0.7%, other 1.8%, unaffiliated 22.8%, don't know/refused 0.6% (2014 est.)TimeZone:
UTC-5Tel Code:
+1Things to Do
1. Grand Canyon National Park
Explore the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon National Park. With its towering cliffs, vibrant colors and breathtaking views, it is truly a natural wonder. Take a hike along the rim, go white-water rafting in the Colorado River or simply enjoy the sunset over this awe-inspiring landscape.
2. Statue of Liberty
Visit the iconic Statue of Liberty in New York City. This world-renowned symbol of freedom and democracy is a must-see attraction. Take a ferry ride to Liberty Island and explore the museum, climb up to the crown for a panoramic view of the city, or simply enjoy a leisurely picnic in the park surrounding the statue.
3. Yellowstone National Park
Discover the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Known for its geothermal features, including the famous Old Faithful geyser, as well as its diverse wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison, this park offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
4. Golden Gate Bridge
Marvel at the engineering marvel that is the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Spanning the entrance to the San Francisco Bay, this iconic landmark offers stunning views of the city skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Pacific Ocean. Walk or bike across the bridge, or simply enjoy a picnic in the nearby Golden Gate Park.
5. Walt Disney World
Experience the magic of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. With its four theme parks, including the iconic Magic Kingdom, as well as two water parks, shopping and dining districts, and endless entertainment options, there is something for everyone at this world-famous resort.
6. Niagara Falls
Be awed by the magnificent beauty of Niagara Falls. Located on the border between the United States and Canada, this natural wonder consists of three majestic waterfalls - the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Take a boat tour to get up close to the falls, or enjoy the view from one of the observation decks.
7. Mount Rushmore
Visit the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota. Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills, this iconic sculpture features the heads of four American presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this national treasure.
8. Yosemite National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park. With its towering waterfalls, granite cliffs, and ancient sequoia trees, this park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Go hiking, rock climbing, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
9. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Immerse yourself in the world of art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. With its extensive collection spanning thousands of years and diverse cultures, this renowned museum is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. Explore the galleries, attend a lecture or workshop, or simply marvel at the beauty of the artwork.
10. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Witness the power of nature at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world - Kilauea and Mauna Loa - this park offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Take a hike through lava fields, explore underground lava tubes, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the volcanic landscape.
Stories
Weather
The United States has a diverse climate with different regions having different weather patterns and temperature.
Northern United States
- Northern states such as New York, Maine, and Minnesota have four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.
- Summer, which runs from June to August, is the warmest season, with temperatures averaging around 25-30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
- Winter, which runs from December to February, is the coldest season, with temperatures averaging around -5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23-41 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, and can go below freezing point, with snowfall and cold winds.
Southern United States
- Southern states such as Florida, Texas, and California have a subtropical and Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers.
- Summer, which runs from June to August, is the warmest season, with temperatures averaging around 30-35 degrees Celsius (86-95 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
- Winter, which runs from December to February, is the coolest season, with temperatures averaging around 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
West United States
- Western states such as California, Oregon, and Washington have a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
- Summer, which runs from June to August, is the warmest season, with temperatures averaging around 25-30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
- Winter, which runs from December to February, is the coolest season, with temperatures averaging around 5-10 degrees Celsius (41-50 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
Food
Accommodation
There are a variety of accommodation options available for visitors to the USA, including:
Hotels
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there are hotels available in most major cities and tourist destinations.
Guesthouses
These are a more budget-friendly option and can be found in many smaller towns and villages.
Motels
Motels are common in the USA and offer a variety of amenities such as self-contained units and kitchen facilities.
Vacation Rentals
Renting a vacation rental such as apartments and houses that can be rented on a short-term basis is a popular option for visitors to the USA, particularly for those traveling with families or groups of friends.
Hostels
Hostels are popular in major cities and tourist destinations, and can be a good budget-friendly option for solo travelers or backpackers.
Campsites
Many national parks and other remote areas in the USA have camping facilities for visitors, which can be a great way to experience the natural beauty of the country.
It's important to note that depending on the location and type of accommodation, prices and availability may vary greatly. It's always a good idea to research and book in advance, especially during peak tourism season. Additionally, the peak tourism season in the USA vary depending on the location, for example, places like Florida, California, and New York City may be more crowded during the
Transportation
There are several transportation options when visiting the USA, including:
Air travel
- The USA has a well-developed air transportation system, with many major airports located in cities across the country. These airports offer direct flights to and from various international destinations. Additionally, there are several domestic airlines that offer flights between major cities and regional areas within the USA.
Ground transportation
- Public transportation such as buses and trains are available in major cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco.
- Rental cars and campervans are popular options for road trips and exploring regional areas.
- Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also widely available in most major cities.
Water transportation
- Ferries are available for travel between islands, particularly in areas such as Hawaii and Alaska.
- ### Other
- Bicycles and e-bikes are also available for rent in some cities, such as New York City.
- Walking and hiking are also popular options for exploring natural areas and national parks.
It's important to note that transportation options and availability may vary depending on the location in the USA. It's a good idea to research and plan transportation in advance, especially if you're planning to visit more remote areas.
Money
Currency
- The currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD).
Cash And Cards
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the United States.
- It is recommended to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.
ATMs
- ATMs are common and easily accessible throughout the country.
- Make sure to check if your debit or credit card has international withdrawal fees.
Tipping
- Tipping is expected in the United States.
- It is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants and for services such as taxis and hairdressers.
Cost Of Living
- The cost of living in the United States varies depending on the city and region.
- Major cities like New York and San Francisco tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas.
Scams
- Be cautious of credit card fraud and skimming devices.
- Avoid exchanging money with unauthorized individuals or street vendors.
