The land of lights, glitz and gold. The only question you should be asking yourself before a USA holiday is what role you want to play. Whether it be donning a cowboy hat and boots on a Western set in Monument Valley, starring in a Nora Ephron film in Manhattan or heading to California to make it big under the Hollywood spotlight, the United States is the place to go big. With so many classic American landscapes and movie moments to choose from too, you are sure to be spoilt for choice. Stop by New England to see autumn in action and travel to New York to see where dreams are made of. In Florida, it’s all about coast, colour and cuisine. Drive in style down Miami’s Art Deco Ocean Drive and dive deep into its underwater utopia, past reefs, shipwrecks and sharks. And if you’re after a soundtrack to boot, then look no further than New Orleans and Nashville, Tennessee. Home to some of the best blues and country stars and bars in the land, you’ll find yourself toe tapping, yeehawing and drink shotting in no time. And if you feel the urge to blow the cobwebs away, the United States of America isn’t short of fresh air, with 423 national parks under its belt. Thanks to the likes of Ansel Adams and the Kolb Brothers, even its parks feel like they’ve had a bit of Hollywood fairy dust sprinkled on them. Really, every USA holiday will make you feel like you are part your very own Hollywood classic. So, without further ado – action!

USA holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Why visit USA with Original Travel ?

From New York to California and all the states in between, our team knows the USA's hotspots incredibly well. What we really excel at, though, is the under-the-radar regions, thanks to our in-depth experience and the hand-picked guides we work with on the ground. Whether you’re travelling as a family or à deux, road trips are the ultimate way to explore the USA, and we're brimming with suggestions to improve journeys, from scenic route options to photogenic stop-off points (all based on our own experiences, of course). And if that's not enough, you'll have our in-country Concierge team on hand at all times for extra help and advice.

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Travel to USA by Region

Alaska

The USA struck gold - literally and metaphorically - when buying Alaska from Russia in the 19th century. The state was purchased for just $7.2 million back in 1867 and within 50 years the USA had made that back - and some. Latter-day Alaska holidays should be the dream for anyone wanting to heed the call of the wild. This is wilderness on an epic scale, but it's not just the landscapes that are big - this is also the land of brown bears that make Leonardo Di Caprio's 'Revenant' assailant look like a teddy bear. The bears get so big in part because they can call on 70lbs king salmon (that's about the weight of an 11-year old child) as part of their diet, and offshore it's possible to take a boat trip to see enormous humpback and blue whales as well. On any Alaska holiday you'll want to check out the natural wonders of Denali National Park, including pristine glaciers on Denali (Mount McKinley) itself; admire the Wrangell St. Elias icefields and the clear waters of Prince William Sound. During the summer season spend days kayaking alongside majestic glaciers and colonies of puffins and seals, hiking almost virgin trails, fly-fishing for Alaska king salmon and observing a sloth of bears (possibly our favourite collective noun). And with 20 hours of daylight during the summer, there is plenty of time to pack in the adrenaline pumping activities. Come winter, the Tordrillo Mountains provide prime heli-skiing and boarding terrain. Throughout your trip, follow in the footsteps of the indigenous Inuit people and trace the same trails as prospectors and explorers.

California

Everybody knows the one about California being the world's eighth biggest economy if it was a standalone country, but fiscal statistics aside, this is undoubtedly one seriously blessed corner of the world. California is blessed with as perfect a climate as you could wish for (OK, maybe except for in Death Valley), and landscapes running the full scenic gamut from gorgeous beaches to ski-friendly mountain ranges via perfect winemaking country, vast (in all senses) forests and some of the world's most dramatic National Parks. All rather sickening, really, but boy does it make California holidays alluring. Throw in the culture, creativity and sheer energetic output of the key cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco, and a few treasures that are less well known - just ask! - and California is the perfect destination for family holidays or couples alike.

Chicago

America’s ‘Windy City’ has plenty to impress. With its mighty skyline, vast lakes and swinging blues music scene, a holiday in Chicago is guaranteed to blow you away. Chicago holidays are all about culture and art; home to Hemingway, its very own blend of soulful blues and a generous spattering of high-flying architecture from Frank Gehry's futuristic Pritzker Pavilion to Frank Lloyd Wright's stained-glass Robie House, Chicago is nothing short of a cultural treasure trove. Wander along the streets and stop to admire whimsical public art or duck into one of the many art museums housing everything from impressionist masterpieces to psychedelic paintings. As well as culture, the city boasts an eclectic array of nature from long stretches of coastline studded with beaches and recreational areas to hills blanketed in orchards and vineyards. And don’t miss a visit to The Great Lakes - so vast they could be mistaken for inland seas; explore quaint resort towns, climb substantial sand dunes and stop off to snap a shot of a picturesque lighthouse.

Florida

Florida holidays: think pristine sandy beaches, mind-bending amusement parks and trendy art deco districts. For culture, visit Miami’s chic South Beach and duck into one of the many trendy bars and restaurants. Lovers of sandy beaches and crystal clear water can get their fill of coastal beauty in the Gulf of Mexico on the legendary beaches of Sanibel and Sarasota, or underwater for a diving adventure in Key Largo. Encounter alligators in the Everglades and take an unforgettable ride on an airboat. And for the perfect holiday snaps? Head to Key West and pose beside the picturesque lighthouses, colorful wooden houses and famous Hemingway house.

Hawaii

Aloha and welcome to Hawaii, the most isolated population centre on Earth, a mere 2,390 miles from the coast of California and some 3,850 miles from Japan. As you can imagine, this is a place that takes a while to reach, but boy is it worth the effort. Hawaii is the land of colourful coral reefs, sun bleached surfers, vibrant green forests and a volcano or two, and the perfect place to slow down and embrace the chilled-out island lifestyle. Comprised of eight major islands and a scattering of smaller islets, Hawaii holidays are guaranteed to have something for everyone. Be seduced by the tropical paradise that is Maui with its thundering waterfalls, tropical forests and transparent waters. Discover Oahu, the most famous island, where surfing enthusiasts flock to Waikiki Beach in Honolulu before moving to Kailua Beach, one of the most beautiful spots in the world. See the imposing volcanoes on Big Island and don’t miss Kauai, the most cinematic of all, with its majestic Waimea Canyon, crystalline sands and unbeatable diving spots. Whichever island combo you choose, there is plenty of indigenous culture to enjoy alongside the creature comforts that mainland Americans do so well, and speaking of the mainland, Hawaii holidays also dovetail beautifully with either California or the west coast of Canada to provide perfect combinations or an ideal multi-stop honeymoon.

Louisiana and the Deep South

A holiday to New Orleans and the Deep South is a trip down a long and complicated memory lane in which Louisiana was a French colony turned Spanish protectorate turned reluctant American purchase. The history of the Deep South is also a rich tapestry interwoven with the history of black African Americans, and on New Orleans and Deep South holidays you can visit the large plantations along the Mississippi and the perfectly preserved city of Natchez with its palatial antebellum mansions while learning how the African influence in the Deep South lead to the birth of jazz, gospel and blues. A New Orleans holiday isn’t complete without experiencing the wonderfully eclectic music scene and exploring the vibrant streets of the French Quarter, complete with the tantalising smells of Cajun cuisine and Jambalaya. While New Orleans works well as a destination in its own right, we strongly recommend hitting the road to get a deeper cut (appropriately enough a musical term for an artist's less well known songs - often B-sides) of appreciation for the Deep South. Head cross country (Mississippi to be precise) to Memphis to pay homage at Elvis's home Graceland; and then to Country music capital Nashville in Tennessee. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Ryman's Auditorium are absolute must-sees for any budding Kenny Rogers. Next, walk the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, and finally swing by Atlanta, Georgia.

New England

New England is home to some of the most iconic places in America, from Boston to Cape Cod, and some of the country's most iconic images - think clapboard houses with fluttering stars and stripes or long lobster lunches. Come 'fall', venture inland to verdant Vermont and New Hampshire to see beautiful autumnal colours. Add beaches, lakes, sailing, islands, mountains and picture perfect towns and there's pretty much something for everyone in New England. Walk barefoot on huge beaches and climb old lighthouses in Connecticut; bicycle past pretty wooden houses and white churches in Massachusetts; charter a boat for the day to explore Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard from the water; stride along trails through golden autumnal maple forests in Vermont; enjoy culture by day and fun nightlife by night in Boston: to a Brit a New England holiday can feel at once charmingly familiar and excitingly new.

New York

Go on, admit it: New York, the city of dreams, awakens a childhood fantasy in all of us. We grew up seeing New York as the backdrop to thousands of stories - the Empire State Building gleaming, avenue vents steaming under yellow cabs - but a real life visit to the city that never sleeps is better than any dream. Wander the galleries of MoMA and the Guggenheim, experience the luxury of the legendary Fifth Avenue shopping, go for a jog in Central Park like a true New Yorker and be seduced by Soho's trendy neighbourhoods of Tribeca, Little Italy and Greenwich Village. Climb to the top of the Empire State Building or Rockefeller Centre to see the city spread out below like an extravagant toy town. Afterwards, come back down to Earth to enjoy soulful gospel singing during a mass in Harlem and a decadent show on Broadway. After all of this, you’ll be able to come home from your New York holiday saying 'I love NY' and truly mean it.

Rocky mountains

America’s rugged north-west is a land of wild national forests and vast mountain ranges. Walk in the footsteps of brave explorers, Native Americans, fortune-hunting gold prospectors. On Rocky Mountain holidays you'll hike through some of the country’s wildest corners from the pristine wilderness of Yellowstone National Park to the wild prairies of Montana where you can experience the ranch life of old Western movies. While nature is the north-west's real showstopper, there’s more to be experienced on a Rocky Mountains holiday. Head to Oregon and Washington for vibrant cities full of vitality and to Seattle for its avant-garde, bohemian vibe that champions all the latest trends from craft cider to vegan ice creams that are as flavoursome as they are healthy.

The American West

Not even the experts can agree on where exactly constitutes the American West, but all the Stateside visitor needs to know is that The West is home to two iconic American experiences - cowboy ranches and national parks. Immerse yourself into the scenery of the most legendary Westerns and live out your very own Wild West story, where rocky landscapes and endless plains are the norm and a sense of escape and freedom is around every corner. Away from the metropolitan meccas of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, there are parts of America that still live as simply as they ever did – with single-street villages peppered across the landscape that enjoy ancient monuments and sun-scorched deserts as their backdrop. Nostalgic to almost mythical proportions, to get a true taste of cowboy life head to a real-life dude ranch or let your jaw drop as you watch a modern rodeo. Delve into some of the region’s beautiful national parks (there are plenty to choose from), then complete your American West holiday in Las Vegas, Salt Lake City or in the mountains of Montana.

The Pacific Northwest

Don't let the weather or the prevalence of teen vampire novels set in the Pacific Northwest put you off visiting. The destination takes in the US region to the north of California and to the south of the Canadian border (some interpretations even include British Columbia in Canada) and this is a lesser-visited gem, with rugged landscapes, towering mountains and spectacular lakes. This is also prime road trip territory, where you can take your time driving up from San Francisco to Seattle through Oregon and Washington (State, not D.C; if you find yourself in front of the White House you've taken a serious wrong turn). En route, you'll pass thriving vineyards on the sunny eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains, temperate rainforests further upstate and lakes and waterfalls in abundance in Olympic National Park. Talk of rainforests, lakes and waterfalls might indicate a healthy amount of rain, and we're not going to lie - there's plenty of precipitation in the Pacific Northwest - but the silver lining to this particular raincloud is that this translates to lush green landscapes and a slew of watersports from white water rafting and kayaking to kitesurfing. Back on dry land there's hiking, cycling, mountaineering, skiing (from November to April) and generally gawping at the sheer magnificence of the Mount Rainier and Mount St Helens National Parks. So far so rural, but the Pacific Northwest's urban centres are every bit as intriguing as their country cousins. American coffee shop culture (and grunge, remember that?) began in Seattle with the launch of Starbucks, and Seattle and Portland are now home to countless artisanal coffee roasteries, the natural habitat of the region's skinny-jeaned hipster population. In a similar vein, the Pacific Northwest also produces some excellent craft beers, and this is the epicentre of the farm-to-table and locavore (only eating locally sourced produce) movements in the US. It's safe to say that wherever you go in the region you will be well fed and watered. It is even possible to enjoy a 'damn fine cup of coffee' and a slice of cherry pie at Twede's Café, the old school American diner made famous by David Lynch's seminal Pacific Northwest-set Twin Peaks.

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Our USA
specialists

Our specialists have explored over 45 of the USA’s states – and we haven’t just scratched the surface either. We’ve gone under the radar, discovering exclusive experiences, be it a tasting at a prestigious Napa Valley winery or a tour of New Orleans’ music bars with a local musician. Our Concierges can share recommendations from NYC to Honolulu, and our hand-picked guides are personally matched to you for a truly tailored experience. So, whether it’s helping you beat the coach-tour crowds at the Capitol, revealing secret road trip viewpoints or sharing hiking trail tips, we’re here to ensure you get the most out of your USA holiday.

What you can find in the USA that you won't find anywhere else

What's most astonishing about USA holidays is their potential for constant, jaw-dropping discoveries. Thanks to Christopher Colombus, Lewis and Clark, Bill Gates and even Steve Jobs, no country has had such an impact on the modern world – which isn’t bad for a country just over 200 years old. Despite the feeling of déjà vu books and Hollywood have created, there is always something new to discover in the USA. Scale is one thing. From the Grand Canyon and mighty Montana, nicknamed the 'Big Sky' state, and cities that sprawl from coast to sky, this is a country that rarely suffers from boredom. Jet set from Florida to California, New York to Nevada and discover the American sense of indelible nostalgia in the Wild West. American history may be short compared to Europe’s, but where else can you cavort with cowboys one day, see into space the other and walk the walk down the National Mall the next? We don’t need to tell you this though. Thanks to the country’s plethora of culture, literature, cinema and music, we bet you already know.


Who is the USA best for?

The simple answer? Everyone. After all, this is the land of the free, the place where everything is possible, so of course USA holidays are for all. Baby boomers? Come with the parents and children on a 3G (three generational) trip. Millennials? The perfect family holiday for young ones – especially if Disneyland is on the cards. Here, everyone is encouraged to explore the homeland of western culture.


What is the best option for a USA holiday?

Car is king in the United States of America. Because it is so big, and visiting more than one city and state is a given, you’ll be needing four wheels to do it justice. Pick a theme to shape your trip, from the music musings along the Mississippi to train travel along the east coast. And if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush like no other, hitch a wagon ride to Oregon, snorkel with manatees in Florida, heli-ski at the foot of Alaskan glaciers and take a road trip along The Great Prairie Highway through national parks, desert and towns. A USA holiday for the books, we’re sure.


The West

The American West is huge. So huge that unless you have a couple of months to spare, you’ll have to choose your route wisely. Take a trip through Monument Valley and follow in the footsteps of some of its cowboy legends, go on a whistle-stop tour of its epic cities and settle into ranch life in Wyoming and Colorado. Whether it be Denver or Seattle, Glacier, Bryce or Crater Lake, Billy The Kid or Jesse James, prepare for an adventure of a lifetime on an ultimate Wild West trip.


New York

'I wanna wake up in a city that doesn't sleep…'. Follow Frank's advice and pound the streets of New York from dawn till dusk. While the city is a far cry from its roles in 'The Godfather' and 'Gangs of New York', you’ll find heaps of history buried deep in Greenwich Village’s endless avenues of brownstones, downtown’s picturesque parks and floating along the Hudson on Ellis Island. Travel on the subway from Queens to the Bronx, catch a play on Broadway and join die-hard baseball teams at the Yankees Stadium or at the Mets’ Citi Field, take your pick.


Miami

Miami makes the most of its beach location, especially since the decision was taken to protect its dreamy Art Deco Ocean Drive. With stylish hotels, fun restaurants and chic boutiques on every block, it’s no wonder that the United States of America’s students travel to this sunny part of Florida every spring to let their hair down. Miami has its fair share of luxurious hideaways too though. So, if you’re wanting to avoid the spring break party, hit the city’s art districts and trendy museums. Miami and Florida really know how to take a seaside getaway to a whole new level.


New Orleans, Louisiana and the Mississippi

In New Orleans’ nearby bayou (wetlands), there's a sense of indolent sophistication, particularly as you edge closer to its splendid old plantation houses. But pair them with the state’s frenetic and energetic blues and jazz scene and you have one of the country’s most diverse regions. What better place to enjoy a scotch on the rocks with a side of Southern hospitality than Louisiana. Join locals on stoops, bathing in the afternoon haze, before hitting the town to experience a cocktail of new rhythms, whether it be Mardi Gras or not.


Las Vegas

Designed from scratch, Las Vegas is a twinkling urban mirage in the middle of the Mojave desert and the ultimate contradiction. From relaxing rooftops to crazed clubs, which welcome some of the world’s biggest performers, Las Vegas often feels like an X-rated Disneyland. And like moths to a flame, visitors often find themselves caught up in its biggest ride – the casinos. Also home to hotels, shopping centres, museums and entertainment venues, this is a place where high bidding and high rolling go hand in hand. Some find it vulgar, but every once in a while...


California

From sun-kissed So-Cal to the golden north, California represents the best of the United States. With its legends and history, dazzling deserts and carefree cities and more national parks and museums to count, it’s not hard to see how the state became the poster child of the American Dream. Travel up the Pacific coast, past the dizzying lights of Los Angeles to the bohemian north, where groves of redwoods and winelands pockmark the landscape. Or discover how the state keeps its cool in Palm Springs and Joshua Tree, where everything feels effortlessly chic. California is the fully-fledged holiday destination and so vast that it would be unrealistic to attempt to see it all in a single trip.


FAQs

Culture

What can I experience in the United States?

The brilliance of the United States is the sheer amount of different experiences on offer. From the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles to the rich colours of New England in autumn (or fall, as the Americans say) and the natural beauty of the country’s many national parks - you can choose your own adventure.


What food and drink should I try in the United States?

From delicious barbecue pulled pork sold from roadside shacks to fish freshly caught that day and the best and biggest burgers you can imagine – it’s possible to eat like royalty every day of your trip. For a true slice of American life, head to a diner in the morning and tuck into a classic breakfast of pancakes and waffles, maple syrup, bacon, eggs and coffee - the perfect fuel for anyone on a US road trip.

The United States is a country of sodas - generally very sweet and sugary, although ‘light’ versions of popular drinks are popping up all the time. Beer is the most popular alcoholic drink and it’s usually served bottled and very cold. Californian wines now enjoy a well-established reputation and most come from French grape varieties, although the Zinfandel grape gives an exclusively American wine. Along with Scotland and Ireland, the States are also a major producer of whiskey.


When was the United States founded?

The United States was founded on 4th July 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was issued.


What is the most historic city in the United States?

The oldest city is St Augustine, Florida, which was founded in September 1565 by Don Pedro Menendex de Aviles, who travelled over from Spain.


What is the tallest building in the United States?

One World Trade Center in New York is the tallest building in the United States, standing at 1,776ft. As of 2024, it’s also the seventh tallest building in the world, and the tallest in the Western hemisphere.


Planning your trip

Where can I stay in the United States?

Hotels come in a wonderful array of shapes and sizes in America. Rooms are often small in big cities where space is at a premium, especially New York, San Francisco, Miami and, to a lesser extent, Los Angeles. Even in the most exclusive hotels, if you’re at the heart of a bustling city, you can expect to hear the urban jungle in all its noisy glory.


How far in advance should I book a trip to the United States?

We suggest booking at least six months in advance, so you can reserve tickets to any attractions you want to see (especially the more famous ones) and get your ESTA (Electric System for Travel Authorization) sorted in good time.


What's the best way of getting around in the United States?

The United States is big, so they had no choice when it came to developing its transport links – they had to be good.

- For a classic US road trip: If you’re imagining a cross-country adventure up The Overseas Highway, East Coast and beyond, a car (soft-top roof optional) is much the best option. With pick-up and drop-off points at each major airport, as well as key locations across the country, you’ll have ample destinations to choose from.
- For a New York city break: If you have the hang of the London underground, you’ll be a pro navigating New York’s subway system. There are 36 rail lines and no zones, so nowhere is off-limits.
- For travelling between states quickly: Domestic flights are much the preferred mode of transport among Americans. Every major city has an airport (sometimes two or three) that schedules multiple daily domestic flights.

Read our guide for more information about transport in the United States.


Local information

What is the capital of the United States?

The capital of the US is Washington D.C. Often simply referred to as ‘D.C.’, the city is best known for being home to the country’s government, but it’s also packed with interesting historical sites and large plant-filled parks, with a sophisticated yet friendly centre.


What language is spoken in the United States?

While not enshrined in law, English is the official language of the US. After English, Spanish is the most widely spoken language. America is a land of immigration and ethnic diversity, and the languages in use reflect that, with French, German, Chinese and many indigenous languages all spoken.


What plugs are used in the United States?

The US uses both Type A and B plugs, so be sure to take an adapter. The voltage in the US is between 110 and 115 volts so be careful with any appliances you wish to take, although many have the option to reduce the voltage.


What currency does the United States use?

The currency of the USA is the United States dollar (USD). Notes are available in one, five, ten, 20, 50 or 100 dollar denominations. Coins are in one, five, ten, 25 and 50 cents.


What's the time zone in the United States?

There are multiple time zones in the US. From east to west, they are:

- Eastern - 5 hours behind GMT
- Central - 6 hours behind GMT
- Mountain - 7 hours behind GMT
- Pacific - 7 hours behind GMT
- Alaska - 8 hours behind GMT
- Hawaii - 10 hours behind GMT

Some states observe daylight savings time during the summer, while others do not.

Travel information

Where can I find the latest travel advice for the United States?

The latest travel advice for the United States is available on the UK government’s foreign travel advice pages.


How long does it take to fly to the United States from the UK?

Flight times to the US vary considerably depending on where you’re travelling to. For example:

- It takes between 7 and 8.5 hours to fly to New York.
- It takes around 8.5 hours to fly to Chicago.
- It takes around 10 hours to fly to Dallas.
- It takes around 10 hours to fly to Denver.
- It takes around 11 hours to fly to Los Angeles.


Do I need a visa to visit the United States?

You must have an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) or a visa if you’re not eligible for an ESTA. If you’re a UK passport holder, you can apply for an ESTA if you’re visiting for less than 90 days for a holiday or business trip, unless you don’t meet the requirements.


What are the passport requirements for visiting the United States?

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. If you travel through another country on your way to or from the United States, you may need to have six months of validity on your passport.


Do I need vaccinations to visit the United States?

NHS Fit For Travel recommends that your courses and boosters for life in Britain are up to date and suggests considering vaccines for Hepatitis A and Tetanus.

Best places to go in USA



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