Facts About Traveling Through the USA
Traveling through the USA can be an exhilarating experience filled with diverse cultures, landscapes and iconic destinations. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of New York City or breathtaking national parks, there’s something for everyone.
1. Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses are a Great Way to Sightsee
In many large cities, tourists can take advantage of hop-on, hop-off bus tours, which provide an easy way to see the major sights at your own pace. These buses run on set routes, and passengers can disembark at various tourist spots and board again when ready. It’s a convenient option if you want to see a lot of attractions in a short time.
Cities with tours include New York City, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Las Vegas.
2. The USA is Incredibly Diverse
One of the first things to understand about the USA is its immense geographical, cultural and social diversity. From the sun-soaked beaches of California to the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, each region offers a unique experience. Major cities like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago have their own distinct culture, while rural areas offer a slower pace and natural beauty. Make sure to plan your trip with this diversity in mind to get a fuller picture of the country.
Top destinations for many tourists include New York City, San Francisco, Miami and the Grand Canyon.
3. Plan for Long Distances
The USA is large, spanning over 3.8 million square miles. It’s essential to consider travel time when planning your trip. Driving from one coast to the other can take several days, and even traveling between states in a region can involve long distances. While renting a car is a popular option for road trips, many travelers prefer flying between major cities to save time.
Many people recommend driving along Route 66 or taking a flight to explore the contrasting landscapes of New York City and Los Angeles.
4. National Parks are a Must-See
The USA is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the world. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the towering redwoods of California, these parks offer breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. National parks are perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Top national parks to visit include Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park.
5. Tipping is Expected in the USA
In the USA, tipping is a common practice and is expected in many service industries. Restaurant servers typically earn lower wages and rely on tips to supplement their income. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the bill in restaurants. You should also tip taxi drivers, hotel staff and others providing services.
6. Public Transportation Varies by City
Public transportation options vary significantly from city to city. New York City has an extensive subway system, while cities like Los Angeles and Miami are more car-centric and require driving or ride-sharing services to get around. Be sure to research the best transportation method for each destination you plan to visit.
Major cities with excellent public transit include the New York City subway, Washington, D.C. metro and San Francisco’s BART system.
7. Food Diversity is Unmatched
American cuisine combines flavors from around the world. It’s influenced by its immigrant population and regional specialties. From deep-dish pizza in Chicago to southern barbecue in Texas, you can taste the country’s diverse culture through its food. Make sure to try local delicacies and explore the many food trucks and markets available in most cities.
If you’re a foodie we recommend visiting New Orleans for Creole cuisine, Chicago for pizza and Austin for barbecue.
8. English is the Predominant Language, but Spanish is Widely Spoken
While English is the official language, Spanish is widely spoken, especially in states like California, Texas, Florida and New Mexico. In major cities, you'll often find signage and services available in both languages and having some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful in many areas.
9. American Road Trips are Iconic
A road trip across the USA is a quintessential travel experience. From the Pacific Coast Highway in California to the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Appalachian Mountains, there’s no shortage of scenic drives. Renting a car and exploring the open roads gives you a chance to see the vast and varied landscapes the country has to offer.
If you can, drive down the Pacific Coast Highway (which includes the Golden State Bridge), Route 66 and the Florida Keys Scenic Highway.
10. Iconic Landmarks are Everywhere
The USA is home to many of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, iconic spots like the Statue of Liberty, the White House and Mount Rushmore are must-see attractions. Be sure to allocate enough time for these famous landmarks, as they often require advance booking or long lines.
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