The United States is a country of diverse destinations, from coastlines to big cities, making it a great place to travel around. The country has a unique fascination with the open road, and the Great American Road Trip is a rite of passage for many. The US offers a range of transport options, including scenic train rides, bus trips, and flights, but to reach rural areas and national parks, a car is essential.
The US has something for everyone, from the historic New England city of Boston to the vibrant and diverse San Francisco. Nature lovers can visit national parks like Glacier, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Olympic, while city-goers can explore New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and more. With a mix of urban and natural attractions, the US has endless possibilities for travellers.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Diversity of destinations | Coastlines, big cities, national parks, small towns, regional culinary traditions, historic sites, museums, natural wonders |
Popularity | The Great American Road Trip is a rite of passage |
Cost | $53.98 USD per day; $4/gallon of fuel; $45-$80/day or $245-$500/week for car rental; $120-$300/day for camper van rental; $220-$300 for a coast-to-coast train ticket |
Transport options | Car, train, bus, plane, bicycle, ferry, subway/light rail, shuttle |
Accommodation options | Hotels, motels, hostels, Airbnb, Couchsurfing, camping, house sitting, sleeping in your car |
Visa requirements | International Driving Permit (IDP) and a driver's license from your home country |
What You'll Learn
Transport options: plane, train, car, bus, bike, or ferry
The USA is the world's fourth-largest country by area, so getting around can be time-consuming. Fortunately, there are several transport options to suit different travel preferences and budgets.
Plane
If you're short on time, travelling by plane is the quickest way to get from one region to another. The US has an extensive domestic air system, with numerous competing airlines, hundreds of airports, and thousands of daily flights. However, flying is typically more expensive than other modes of transport.
Train
The USA's national rail operator, Amtrak, has thirty routes travelling to over 500 destinations across 46 states. Train travel is a great way to see the country, especially if you're on a budget. The California Zephyr route, for example, takes you through Colorado's canyons and is considered one of the world's greatest train journeys.
Car
For convenience and flexibility, a car may be the best option. Driving is a quintessentially American pursuit, and with thousands of miles of interstates and backroads, it's easy to explore the country by car. However, it can also be expensive, especially with rising fuel and car rental costs. A car is essential if you want to reach rural areas and most national parks.
Bus
Bus travel is an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around the country. Greyhound is the largest bus company in North America, with 3700 locations throughout the US and over 1300 in Canada. Other options include Flixbus and Megabus, which offer comfortable buses with amenities such as onboard restrooms and Wi-Fi.
Bike
Bicycle touring is an invigorating way to immerse yourself in regional scenery. On a biking tour, you can soak up the sights along winding backroads and calculate your progress in miles per day.
Ferry
Some states offer coastal ferry services, providing efficient and often photogenic links to major islands. For example, ferries run along the southeastern coast of Alaska and through the Inside Passage, offering spectacular views. Ferries also serve the San Juan Islands in Washington and Catalina Island in California.
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The East Coast, Southern US
The East Coast and Southern US offer a diverse range of attractions, from vibrant cities to serene natural landscapes. Here are some highlights for each region:
The East Coast:
The East Coast of the United States boasts a variety of destinations, from historic cities to picturesque coastal towns. Here are some key places to visit:
- Boston: Known as the "Cradle of Independence," Boston is rich in history and culture. It is one of the oldest cities in the US and home to iconic sports teams like the Red Sox and the Celtics. While in Boston, a visit to Cambridge and its renowned universities, Harvard University and MIT, is a must.
- New York City: The Big Apple, a city that needs no introduction, is a bustling metropolis full of diversity and energy. From the iconic skyscrapers and bright lights to the charming neighbourhoods of Brooklyn and Little Italy, New York has something for everyone.
- Washington, D.C.: The nation's capital offers a wealth of historical monuments and museums. Beyond the famous White House and National Mall, explore the vibrant neighbourhoods, restaurants, and shopping venues that give the city its unique character.
- Atlantic City: This New Jersey hotspot is famous for its casinos, but it also offers a lively boardwalk, amusement parks, and family-friendly attractions like Ripley's Believe It or Not.
- Virginia Beach: With three separate beaches spanning 56 km of coastline, Virginia Beach caters to all types of visitors. From the relaxed atmosphere of Chesapeake Bay Beach to the fun and active Resort Area Beach, there's something for everyone.
- Maine: Maine is a hidden gem, offering serene beauty in its mountains, lakes, sandy beaches, and picturesque harbours. Portland, nicknamed "The Eastern San Francisco," is a must-visit with its narrow streets and abundance of Victorian homes.
Southern US:
The Southern United States is known for its rugged landscapes, rich history, and cultural attractions. Here are some highlights of the region:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This national park, shared between Tennessee and North Carolina, offers stunning mountain scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities. Cades Cove, in the Tennessee section of the park, is a particularly popular destination.
- Savannah, Georgia: Savannah is known for its beautiful green spaces, such as the 33-acre Forsyth Park, and its historic cemeteries, including Bonaventure Cemetery and Laurel Grove Cemetery.
- Chattanooga, Tennessee: Chattanooga is home to Lookout Mountain, rich in Civil War history, and the Tennessee Aquarium, the city's most visited attraction. Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center is also worth a visit, offering a mix of outdoor recreation and botanical gardens.
- Atlanta, Georgia: Atlanta boasts world-class museums like the High Museum and the Center for Civil and Human Rights. The city also has a vibrant music scene and is home to the National Civil Rights Museum.
- New Orleans, Louisiana: New Orleans is full of Southern charm and cultural significance. The Lafayette Cemetery exudes a strong sense of subtropical Southern Gothic, and the Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden offers a peaceful escape.
- Memphis, Tennessee: Memphis is a music lover's paradise, with attractions like Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, and Sun Studio, where artists like Elvis, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash recorded their hits.
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The South, Southwestern US, West Coast
The United States is a large country with a diverse range of landscapes, cultures, and attractions, making it a great place to travel around. Here are some reasons why you should consider travelling to The South, Southwestern US, and West Coast:
The South
The South boasts a rugged landscape of craggy hill country, thick woods, and rivers such as the Mississippi. Here are some must-see attractions in the South:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This national park offers a chain of mountains and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
- Chattanooga, Tennessee: Home to songbirds and the newly revamped Songbirds, an interactive learning space.
- Savannah, Georgia: A city with picturesque cemeteries like Bonaventure Cemetery and Laurel Grove Cemetery, as well as Forsyth Park.
- Lookout Mountain: Rich in Civil War history and just a short drive from Chattanooga.
Southwestern US
The Southwestern US is known for its stunning desert scenery, including cliffs, canyons, buttes, and mesas of varying colours. Here are some highlights:
- Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: A steam train ride through the Rockies to the old mining town of Silverton, Colorado.
- Acoma Pueblo: A thousand-year-old Native American village on a mesa, 50 miles west of Albuquerque.
- Toroweap Overlook: A unique Grand Canyon overlook with a visceral impact, offering a 3000-foot drop from the southern edge of the parking lot.
- Saguaro National Park: A two-part national park near Tucson, Arizona, featuring "forests" of monumental saguaro cacti.
- White Sands National Monument: Knife-edge, snow-white dunes in southern New Mexico made of fine gypsum deposited on an ancient seabed.
- Zion National Park: Carved by the Virgin River and featuring red-rock cliffs, forests, and waterfalls.
West Coast
The West Coast is often considered the "best coast" of the US, offering a variety of urban and natural attractions:
- San Diego, California: Known for its Mexican food, beaches, and pleasant weather.
- San Francisco, California: Nicknamed "America's most beautiful city" for its Victorian homes, parks, beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Yosemite National Park, California: Home to North America's highest waterfall, famous rock formations, and giant sequoia trees.
- Palm Springs, California: A wellness and photography destination with retro vibes.
- Joshua Tree National Park, California: An ancient desert park featuring otherworldly Joshua trees and unique rock formations.
- Zion National Park, Utah: Explore caves, canyons, red rock sandstone, and even go canyoneering in Utah's first national park.
- Arches National Park, Utah: Wander through acres of orange sandstone, canyons, and over 2,000 arches.
- Los Angeles, California: Home to Hollywood and the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- Portland, Oregon: A quirky city with microbreweries, coffee shops, and bookstores, surrounded by nature.
- Seattle, Washington: Explore the Space Needle, the Farmer's market, and unique attractions like the Fremont Troll and the Gum Wall in Post Alley.
- Yellowstone National Park: The first declared national park in the world, featuring Old Faithful Geyser, Tower Fall waterfall, and Hot Springs Terraces.
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: One of the most well-known national parks in the US, offering breathtaking views and geological wonders.
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The Pacific Northwest, Western US
The Pacific Northwest and Western US offer a plethora of attractions for travellers, from natural wonders to vibrant cities. Here is a guide to help you explore this captivating region:
The Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest, encompassing Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of British Columbia, boasts diverse natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences. Here are some highlights:
- Seattle, Washington: Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is renowned for its music, business, art, and adventure. Visit the iconic Space Needle for panoramic views, explore Pike Place Market, and indulge in the city's renowned seafood and coffee culture.
- Olympic National Park, Washington: This diverse park includes old-growth rainforests, mountains, and coastline. Hike through the temperate rainforest, beachcomb on wild stretches of coast like Ruby Beach, and enjoy outdoor activities such as boating and climbing.
- Mount Rainier, Washington: As the tallest peak in the Cascade Range, Mount Rainier offers stunning views and outdoor adventures. Explore the surrounding national park with its glaciers, lakes, and abundant wildlife.
- Columbia River Gorge, Oregon and Washington: This dramatic gorge, forming the boundary between the two states, features towering waterfalls, such as Multnomah Falls, and is a popular destination for hiking and sightseeing.
- Crater Lake National Park, Oregon: Home to the deepest lake in the US, formed by a volcanic eruption, this park offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Hike the surrounding trails or drive the Rim Drive for spectacular views over the lake's mirrored surface.
- Cannon Beach, Oregon: A picturesque town nestled along the Pacific Coast, famous for its boulder-studded beach and the iconic Haystack Rock rising from the water.
- Portland, Oregon: Known for its quirky, hippie vibe, Portland is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy the city's unique neighbourhoods, such as the Alberta Arts District, and sample the diverse food scene, including the famous Voodoo Doughnut.
- Mount Hood, Oregon: Oregon's highest peak, Mount Hood is a dormant volcano offering ample opportunities for camping, hiking, and skiing. It provides a stunning backdrop to the Columbia River Gorge and the city of Portland.
- San Juan Islands, Washington: This archipelago offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to whale watching. Explore the charming towns, wineries, and artisan producers that dot the islands.
Western US
The Western US is renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders, including some of the country's most famous national parks. Here are some highlights beyond the Pacific Northwest:
- Glacier National Park, Montana: Explore glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, mountain ranges, and waterfalls in this stunning park. Enjoy hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, or drive along the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: Experience awe-inspiring views and challenging hiking trails. The Colorado River winding through the canyon also makes it a top destination for whitewater rafting.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho: America's first national park boasts over 900 miles of hiking trails and an array of natural wonders, from geysers to hot springs and wildlife, including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears.
- Yosemite National Park, California: Reconnect with nature in this park known for its landmarks like Half Dome and Glacier Point, and its numerous waterfalls, including the towering Yosemite Falls.
- Moab, Utah: A gateway to two iconic national parks—Arches and Canyonlands—Moab offers otherworldly red rock formations and a charming downtown with cafes, shops, and food trucks.
- Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada: North America's largest alpine lake is a year-round destination. Ski resorts abound in the winter, while summer brings hiking, boating, and golf.
- San Diego, California: Enjoy the Southern California charm of this city, with activities ranging from hiking to surfing. Explore the Gaslamp Quarter for fresh seafood and authentic Mexican cuisine, and don't miss Balboa Park with its museums and gardens.
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The Midwest, Northeast US
The Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States offer a diverse range of attractions, from bustling cities to charming small towns, rich history, and natural wonders. Here are some highlights and suggestions for an unforgettable journey through these regions:
The Midwest:
The Midwest, with its rolling vineyards, lush river valleys, and limestone bluffs, is a perfect road trip destination. Here are some ideas for routes and places to visit:
- Wisconsin's Great River Road: This 234-mile route hugs the curves and bluffs of the Mississippi River, offering pretty views and culinary delights in tiny river towns. Start in Prescott and end in Kieler, with stops in Bay City, Pepin, and La Crosse.
- Indiana's Natural Wonders and Small Towns: A 288-mile trip from Indiana Dunes National Park to Bloomington, via Indianapolis. Enjoy nature, art, and laid-back fare in lake towns, and explore Indianapolis's Canal Walk and acclaimed Children's Museum.
- Nebraska's Sandhill Journey: Starting from Grand Island, follow Highway 2 to Broken Bow and Anselmo, with a detour to Victoria Springs State Recreation Area for paddleboarding and fishing. End at Carhenge, a quirky replica of England's Stonehenge made with old cars.
- Route 66's First Leg: Embark on the iconic Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois, to St. Louis, Missouri. Stop in Wilmington to see the Gemini Giant Muffler Man, and explore Springfield, Illinois, with its many Abraham Lincoln sites.
- Minnesota's North Shore: This 112-mile trip along Lake Superior's rocky shores begins in Duluth, the birthplace of Bob Dylan. Sample artisan spirits at Vikre Distillery, and spend time in Two Harbors, exploring Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse.
The Northeast:
The Northeast is a region steeped in history, boasting world-class cities and quaint towns. Here are some must-visit destinations:
- Boston, Massachusetts: Follow the Freedom Trail, indulge in Italian food in the North End, and shop on Newbury Street. Don't forget to try a cannoli from Mike's Pastry!
- New York City, New York: From Broadway shows to Central Park and the Empire State Building, NYC has endless attractions. Explore beyond Manhattan to discover the unique charms of Queens and Brooklyn.
- Portland, Maine: Famous for its lobsters, Portland offers seafood delights and attractions like the Portland Head Light, the Portland Museum of Art, and Bug Light.
- Montpelier, Vermont: Surrounded by mountains, Montpelier is home to the impressive Vermont State House and the Vermont Historical Society Museum. Stroll through Hubbard Park and indulge in maple treats at Bragg Farm Sugar House.
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Rich in history, Philadelphia is home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Take a walking tour to explore the cobblestone streets and learn about the American Revolution.
These suggestions only scratch the surface of what the Midwest and Northeast have to offer. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or city explorer, these regions will leave you with unforgettable memories.
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Frequently asked questions
The US has a lot to offer in terms of natural wonders, cities, and historical sites. Here are some of the top places to visit:
- Glacier National Park, Montana
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- Yosemite National Park, California
- Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
- Olympic National Park, Washington
- Zion National Park, Utah
- New York City, New York
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Washington, D.C.
- Los Angeles, California
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- San Francisco, California
- Seattle, Washington
- Chicago, Illinois
There are several ways to travel around the US, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Car: Driving gives you the most flexibility to explore the country, especially when it comes to reaching rural areas and national parks. However, it can be time-consuming and expensive, especially with rising fuel and rental car costs.
- Train: Amtrak trains provide a scenic and relaxing way to travel, especially along the eastern seaboard and western routes. While they may not be the fastest or cheapest option, they are a great way to see the country.
- Bus: Traveling by bus is economical and reliable, allowing you to see the countryside as you travel between cities. Greyhound is the major long-distance bus company, but there are also independent bus companies like Megabus and FlixBus.
- Plane: If you're short on time, flying is a good option. The US has an extensive domestic air system, and you can find low-cost carriers that offer extremely low fares.
Traveling the US on a budget is definitely possible, especially if you plan ahead and are flexible. Here are some tips:
- Use Couchsurfing or house-sitting to find free or low-cost accommodation.
- Cook your own meals or eat at cheap restaurants instead of dining out at expensive restaurants.
- Purchase a National Parks pass to save money on entrance fees.
- Take advantage of free attractions, such as museums, walking tours, and natural landmarks.
- Use public transportation or carpool to save on fuel costs.
- Look for deals and discounts on accommodation, transportation, and attractions.
If you are visiting the US, you will need to have the appropriate travel documents, which may include a non-immigrant visa, Form I-94, or ESTA. If you plan to drive, you will need a valid driver's license from your home country and may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).