Things to do in the USA

Things to do in  USA

America the beautiful, indeed

From the towering tip of the Empire State Building in New York City to the dips and dunes of California's Death Valley, the USA is a land of extremes. Don't miss the country's splendid cities and monuments—San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge, Miami's sun-washed streets, New Orleans' Creole accents—or the expansive national parks that welcome visitors all across the country. Guided private and small-group tours will help you take in everything you most want to explore, from sea to shining sea. Head west from the Great Smoky Mountains to see the dramatic landscapes of Denali National Park; watch native grizzlies and eagles in Yellowstone; and climb to the stars up a mountain in Yosemite. Delight in a helicopter ride over the incomparable Grand Canyon. Head down the East Coast from Maine to Florida, with stops to tour Niagara Falls, visit the quaint colonial towns of New England, and check out the booming city of Nashville. Take a West Coast trip to soak up the laid-back vibes of San Francisco on a boat, walking, or bike tour; or explore funky desert communities and art in the Southwest. Finally, head out to Hawaii and Alaska for unbeatable hiking, biking, and great outdoor adventure tours, like an early-morning hike to a volcano or a cruise through Prince William Sound, and get your fill of these areas' stunning beauty.

Top 15 attractions in USA

Statue of Liberty

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Guarding the entrance to New York Harbor on Liberty Island, the 305-foot (93-meter) Statue of Liberty came to the United States as a gift from France to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—Lady Liberty has been a symbol of democracy and hope for NYC and the US almost ever since.More

Na Pali Coast

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With steep emerald cliffs, lush valleys, and remote cascading waterfalls, the Na Pali Coast is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful regions, and no visit to Kauai is complete without a visit to this magical coastline. There are only three ways to explore the Na Pali Coast—by air, by sea, and on foot—and each offers its own unique perspective.More

Molokini Crater

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When was the last time you had a snorkel adventure inside of a sunken Hawaiian volcano, or enjoyed a freshly cooked BBQ lunch on the deck of a sailing catamaran? Thanks to its calm, crystal clear waters, bright coral reef, and 250-plus species of tropical fish, Molokini Crater is the most popular spot for snorkeling tours on Maui. Spend a day on a snorkeling tour as you explore the protected marine preserve and come face to face with some of Hawaii's most colorful marine life.More

Alcatraz

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A former federal prison that held notorious criminals Al “Scarface” Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, Alcatraz is now a national historic landmark and one of the most sought-out (and sold-out) attractions in the San Francisco Bay Area. Highlights include touring what’s left of the maximum-security facility, hearing stories from former inmates, and sailing past the Golden Gate Bridge to reach the craggy isle.More

Ryman Auditorium

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Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” Ryman Auditorium helped transform Nashville into a legendary music destination. Since 1892, the venue has hosted notable stars such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Van Morrison, and Minnie Pearl. Today, visitors can tour the 2,362-seat auditorium, visit the museum, or catch a live show.More

French Quarter

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The French Quarter, with its vibrant atmosphere and unique blend of architectural styles, is easily New Orleans’ most famous and popular area to visit. It's also the city's oldest neighborhood, and its elegant streets are lined with an appealing mix of lively bars—especially along the legendary Bourbon Street—historic monuments, delicious restaurants, and inviting jazz clubs.More

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

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Made up of several historic sites and memorials, Pearl Harbor honors and educates the public about the Japanese attack on the United States on December 7, 1941 that propelled the country into World War II. It’s one of Hawaii’s most-visited attractions, and one of the country’s most significant WWII memorial sites.More

Boston Common

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The starting point of the Freedom Trail, Boston Common is the oldest park in the country. At 50 acres (20 hectares), it is the anchor for the Emerald Necklace, a system of connected parks that winds through many of Boston’s neighborhoods. The historic park was once a campground for British troops during the Revolutionary War.More

Empire State Building

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The world's tallest building from 1931 to 1977, the Empire State Building is topped with a stepped Art Deco pinnacle that's floodlit at night and boasts holiday and commemorative colors throughout the year. After admiring the mosaics in the Art Deco lobby, take an elevator ride to the 86th or 102nd floor and get ready to drink in astounding 360-degree views from this iconic skyscraper observatory.More

Mokolii Island

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Located a short distance offshore of Kualoa Point, Mokolii Island is one of Oahu’s most famous landmarks. This small, cone-shaped island attracts adventurous visitors with its secluded coves, rugged hikes, and views of Oahu’s windward coast and the Koolau mountains; the same mountains featured in scenes of the movie Jurassic Park.More

Ellis Island

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As the gateway for over 12 million immigrants to the United States, New York City’s Ellis Island was America’s busiest immigrant inspection station for more than 60 years. Today, the island’s restored main building houses the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, which honors the US’s immigrant heritage, chronicles the island’s role in immigration history, and gives voice to the immigrants themselves.More

Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower (Sears Tower)

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Once the world’s tallest building, Willis Tower is still way up in the clouds. Though it functions as an office building, the skyscraper’s 103rd-floor Skydeck Chicago draws 1.7 million annual visitors for a trip out onto The Ledge, an enclosed glass balcony extending 4 feet (1.2 meters) out over the city, as well as panoramic views that—on clear days—extend as far as Indiana, Michigan, Iowa, and Wisconsin.More

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

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The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial commemorates the life and legacy of the renowned civil rights leader. Located in West Potomac Park and overlooking the Tidal Basin, the memorial includes a commanding 30-foot (9-meter statue of Dr. King and a 450-foot (137-meter Inscription Wall of quotes from Dr. King.More

The White House

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The official residence of each US president since 1800, the 132-room White House in Washington DC draws visitors from around the world. Admire from afar; stop by the White House Visitor Center; or request access for a self-guided tour of the East Wing, State Dining Room, China Room, and the White House Rose Garden.More

Bayside Marketplace

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Bayside Marketplace, a vibrant waterfront mall in downtown Miami—and the city’s most-visited attraction—sits above Biscayne Bay and features many shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The open-air market has more than 100 shops ranging from apparel to bath products to electronics, and often live performers are on hand to keep shoppers entertained.More

Trip ideas

Top activities in USA

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

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Las Vegas Helicopter Night Flight with Optional VIP Transportation
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90-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour
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Paradise Cove Luau

Paradise Cove Luau

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Grand Canyon, Skywalk, Hoover Dam Day Trip with Lunch from Las Vegas
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Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial
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Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial

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Grand Canyon West Rim Luxury Helicopter Tour
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Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise

Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise

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DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour

DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour

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Hughes 500 Helicopter - 4 guests max with no middle rear seats!
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Las Vegas Dunes Tour by ATV

Las Vegas Dunes Tour by ATV

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New Orleans Airboat Ride
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New Orleans Airboat Ride

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US$59.00
Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner & Show
Special Offer

Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner & Show

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US$180.98  US$18.10 savings
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All about USA

When to visit

The United States is so large that there’s no such thing as a bad time of year to visit. Still, summer is probably your best bet, with many things to do. The Fourth of July sees festivities erupt nationwide; annual cultural festivals and events are at their peak; and the weather is often ideal for outdoor pursuits—whether you're on the beaches of California, exploring the country's wealth of national parks, or pounding the pavement in its culture-rich urban centers.

Getting around

The United States is a vast country, with vast transportation options. Traveling by air is often the speediest option for getting from place to place. Nationwide Amtrak rail networks offer a slower and more scenic way to travel, and Greyhound bus services make for an affordable alternative. Most major cities have their own public transit options—hubs like New York City and Chicago are particularly well-served. Car rentals offer opportunities to experience the American cultural institution known as the road trip.

Traveler tips

The bulk of federal public land—managed by government agencies but typically free for the public to explore—is located in the western half of the United States. For unimpeded time in nature, it's worth heading beyond the major destinations and prioritizing rural areas in states like New Mexico, Wyoming, Idaho, and Nevada, all of which offer spectacular and varied landscapes.

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People Also Ask

What activities can you do in the USA?

The USA is a huge country—the world’s fourth largest. It contains mountains, deserts, plains, forests, and many cities. You can do almost anything you’d like. Experience history in Washington, DC, nightlife in New York, beaches in Southern California, and so many national parks covering all sorts of beautiful terrain.

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What are cultural activities in the USA?

The USA is a big country with many cultures and cultural activities. Experience everything from feasting on dim sum in NYC to seeing a ball game in Chicago to attending a buffalo roundup in Wyoming to celebrity spotting in Hollywood to participating in Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

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How many countries are in the USA?

The United States of America is one country with 50 states (each with its own capital) and one district, Washington DC. The USA claims 14 global territories, including Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam.

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What is the most famous place in the USA?

Many people consider the most famous place in the US to be New York City, the country’s largest city. It’s home to some 8.5 million people, Broadway shows, world-class restaurants, and skyscrapers galore. Another contender is Hollywood, the world’s show-business capital and home to the glamour of American film.

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What is the USA famous for?

Many will say the USA is famous for its film and TV contributions, concentrated around Hollywood. Others will say the USA is famous for New York City, home to Broadway and the Statue of Liberty. Still, others might say the USA is famous for being the leader of the free world.

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What should I do for my first time in America?

What to do on your first visit to America depends on your interests—the vast country is nearly 4 million square miles. You could see world-class theater in New York; stroll the beaches of Southern California; go mountaineering in Colorado; see the Great Lakes in Chicago; or hit some national parks.

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