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Home » North America » USA

USA Travel Guide

This USA travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Travel in the 50 states, 5 major territories, and islands is as staggeringly diverse as what the American dream is all about.

As a Canadian, our friends in the south have always been an enticing travel destination because of how easy it was to hop in a car and drive across the border or catch a quick flight.

The travel opportunities here are endless as you can go up to the north and see glaciers in Alaska, catch some surf in Hawaii, party in Las Vegas, see the redwoods of California, or head east to see some of the biggest metropolis’ in North America.  What I’ve always envied about the United States is just how beautiful their landscape is coast to coast.  As a land of opportunity, there really is so much to see, do, eat, and experience.

Personally, the best way to see the country is to rent a car and drive from coast to coast.  That’s the only true way to see and truly appreciate what the USA is all about.

 

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Notable Places

Discover the United States

Use the map to explore the United States of America and read about some of our favorite places. Start with our Utah and Arizona itinerary for the ultimate trip.

Read the itinerary

USA Quick Guide

  • Currency: US Dollar (USD)
  • Language: English (no official national language, but English is dominant)
  • Emergency Number: 911 (nationwide)
  • Tipping: Expected in most service industries (15–20% in restaurants, $1–2 per drink or bag)
  • Fun Fact #1: The USA spans six time zones across its states and territories
  • Fun Fact #2: It has more national parks than any other country – 63 designated parks and over 400 protected areas
  • Fun Fact #3: The US interstate highway system is the largest in the world, with over 48,000 miles of road

Explore the National Parks

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Where to Stay in the USA

Accommodation ranges from budget motels and mid-range chain hotels to luxury resorts, boutique stays, and vacation rentals. In big cities, expect high prices but a wealth of options. National parks and rural areas offer campgrounds, lodges, and cabins, while road trips are supported by plentiful roadside motels.

Start by planning out where you would like to visit and then search for accommodation in those areas. We use Booking.com for all our hotel stays, many hotels have pay later offers and you can build up your Genius level to get discounts on your stays. 

CHECK BOOKING.COM

Visit New York City

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How to Get Around the USA

The USA’s vast size means long-distance travel often requires domestic flights, with major carriers and budget airlines serving most cities. In urban areas, public transport varies, New York, Chicago, and San Francisco have extensive systems, while many cities rely more on buses or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft.

Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore rural areas, national parks, or regions like the West Coast and the South. Interstate highways make road trips easy, with plenty of roadside services. Amtrak trains and long-distance buses (Greyhound, Megabus) connect many cities but can be slower than flying. In some destinations, like Alaska or Hawaii, ferries and small planes provide access to remote areas. Cycling infrastructure is growing in some urban centers but varies greatly by location.

SEARCH FOR A RENTAL CAR

Plan a Weekend Trip

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Must-Visit Places in the USA

  • New York City – Iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway, and Central Park
  • Grand Canyon National Park – Stunning natural wonder in Arizona
  • Yellowstone National Park – Geysers, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes
  • San Francisco – Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and vibrant neighborhoods
  • Las Vegas – Entertainment, casinos, and nearby desert attractions
  • Hawaii – Volcanic landscapes, beaches, and Polynesian culture
  • Washington, D.C. – National monuments and Smithsonian museums
  • Orlando – Theme park capital with Disney and Universal Studios
  • Chicago – Architecture, deep-dish pizza, and lakefront parks
  • New Orleans – Jazz, Creole cuisine, and Mardi Gras celebrations
Stay Connected

Don’t waste time hunting for SIM cards or stressing about roaming. With an eSIM, you can get connected as soon as you land and stay online wherever your adventures take you.

👉 Check out our guide to the best eSIMs for USA travel

Find the best eSIM

Explore Disney

Whether it is Disneyland in Florida or Disney World in California, we’ve got you covered!

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American Food to Try

The USA’s cuisine reflects its multicultural heritage, with regional specialties from coast to coast. From comfort food to gourmet dining, here are some classic dishes worth trying:

  • Hamburger – A quintessential American sandwich of beef, cheese, and toppings
  • Hot Dog – A baseball game staple, often with mustard, relish, or sauerkraut
  • Barbecue (BBQ) – Varies by region, from smoky brisket in Texas to pulled pork in the Carolinas
  • Clam Chowder – Creamy New England soup with clams and potatoes
  • Buffalo Wings – Spicy fried chicken wings served with blue cheese dressing
  • Mac and Cheese – Comforting baked pasta in a creamy cheese sauce
  • Apple Pie – Iconic dessert symbolizing American tradition
  • Lobster Roll – Buttered or mayo-based seafood sandwich, popular in New England
  • Key Lime Pie – Tart and sweet Florida dessert
  • Gumbo – Rich stew from Louisiana with seafood, sausage, and Creole spices

Explore American Cities

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Top 5 Things To Bring On Every Trip

  1. Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
  2. Power Bank: Keep your devices charged on the go, ensuring you stay connected and capture every moment.
  3. Universal Travel Adapter: A must-have for international travelers to plug in and power up devices in different countries.
  4. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste; many destinations have refill stations available.
  5. Packing Cubes: Organize your luggage efficiently, making it easier to find items and maximize space.

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