Discover Tailor-Made United States Vacations

Many travellers opt to visit during the fall (September to November) and spring (March to May), as these seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the busy summer and festive seasons.

June to August is peak season for families travelling to national parks, theme parks, and coastal towns. Summer’s long, sunny days are ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking.

Fall dazzles with colour and harvest. Gold and red foliage blankets New England, grape harvests fill valleys from Napa to the Finger Lakes, and fairs pop up across the Midwest.

Winter (December to February) splits travellers into two camps: skiers chasing fresh powder in the Rockies and sun-seekers escaping to Florida and Hawaii. Cities sparkle with holiday spirit—from New York’s Rockefeller Center tree to Chicago’s Christkindlmarket.

Spring brings the country’s parks back to life. Wildflowers bloom across California, migratory birds return north, and in Washington, D.C., cherry blossoms transform the National Mall into a sea of pink, perfect for pairing with museum explorations.

Explore our guide to the best time to visit the U.S. for more insights. Whether you’re an avid photographer or culture enthusiast, let us help you choose the perfect season for your U.S. adventure.

In the Southwest, Navajo artisans keep centuries-old traditions alive, while New Orleans bursts with brass bands that weave French, Spanish, Creole, and African rhythms into something distinctly American. The open plains of the Midwest still echo with cowboy lore, while cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago pulse with art, innovation, and global culture.

When it comes to celebration, the U.S. has no shortage of spectacle. On the Fourth of July, fireworks light up skies nationwide, while Thanksgiving tables brim with roast turkey, pumpkin pie, and regional dishes passed down through generations in November. Chicago dyes its river green every St. Patrick’s Day, New York’s Times Square pulses with the world’s most famous New Year’s Eve countdown, and Louisiana revels in Mardi Gras parades and masked balls in February or March. In December, cities transform with holiday markets, skating rinks, and tree-lighting ceremonies. Each season brings a chance to gather, celebrate, and experience a slice of Americana. Explore our guide to U.S. culture and traditions and experience the rich cultural mosaic of the United States.

From the smoky barbecues of Texas to the fresh seafood of New England and the vibrant, health-driven menus of California, every region offers a unique reflection of the people who shaped it. Eating in the United States is as much about connection as it is about flavour.

Across the country, food takes many forms—classic diners, bustling food trucks, elegant wine estates, and neighbourhood cafes all contribute to a culture that values both creativity and comfort. Regional dishes such as fried chicken, clam chowder, and deep-dish pizza stand beside national icons like hamburgers and apple pie, creating a landscape that blends tradition with reinvention. Barbecue, in particular, has deep regional pride, with Texas, Memphis, and Kansas City each claiming their own style and spirit.

Dining etiquette tends to be relaxed and friendly. Meals are social occasions where conversation flows easily, and tipping between 15–20 per cent is standard. Alcohol is typically enjoyed in moderation, with local craft beers, Napa Valley wines, and cocktails such as the Old Fashioned all playing a part in American drinking culture. Dietary preferences are widely accommodated, with vegan, halal, kosher, and gluten-free options available almost everywhere.

Whether sampling street food in New York, sipping wine in California’s valleys, or sharing barbecue in the South, eating in America is an experience rooted in community, flavour, and diversity—a culinary journey that mirrors the country’s ever-evolving identity.

Flying between regions is common, though many travellers rent a car for the freedom and fun of a classic American road trip. Train journeys offer a slower but equally rewarding way to enjoy the scenery.

The U.S. dollar is the national currency. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s smart to carry some cash for tipping, which is deeply ingrained in U.S. culture. Gratuities typically range from 15 to 25 percent at restaurants and bars, and it’s also customary to tip guides, hotel staff, and drivers.

English is spoken everywhere, but Spanish has a strong presence too, particularly in the Southwest and parts of California, Florida, and Texas. Customs vary by state, but friendliness, smiles, and polite small talk go a long way.

For entry, travellers need a valid passport, and many nationalities require either a visa or ESTA authorization under the Visa Waiver Program. With logistics sorted, the rest is simply about embracing the journey. Read our guide to things to know for more practical tips and insights.