USA
Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the USA (United States of America) with Northern Wanderers!
Get ready to pack your bags and start planning! This is your go-to spot for everything you need to know about travelling the USA. Whether you’re picturing those classic road trips across endless deserts, want to feel the energy of bustling cities, or long to uncover those tucked-away places only locals know about, we’re here to make it happen.
Think of this page as your travel buddy, sharing practical tips, highlighting the absolute must-see destinations, and dishing out all the inspiration you need to design the American adventure you’ve always wanted.
Best Time To Visit
The USA is so huge, the ‘best’ time to go really depends on where you want to explore and what kind of experience you’re after. Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown:
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up, flowers bloom – it’s perfect for national parks and enjoying the outdoors without summer crowds. The shoulder season means some great deals too!
- Summer (June-August): Classic ‘road trip’ season. Expect sizzling weather (especially in the South), and vibrant festivals. It’s peak time, so book accommodations ahead, especially for iconic places.
- Fall (September-November): Gorgeous fall foliage sweeps across the Northeast,making it a photographer’s paradise. Many areas enjoy pleasantly mild weather, great for hiking and sightseeing.
- Winter (December-February): Holiday magic in December! If you love snow,you’ve got winter sports galore in places like Colorado. The South offers a sunny getaway from the cold.
What To Expect
Capital: Washington D.C.
Population: 341 million (2023)
Language: The United States does not have an official language. English is the most widely used language in the U.S., and some states designate it as their official language.
Currency: The official currency in the USA is the Dollar. £1 GBP is around $1.26 or €1 is $1.08. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: You can pay for almost anything with your credit or debit card in the USA. There are plenty of ATMs as well, and most machines will accept Mastercard and Visa. A lot of places will now also accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google pay.
Plugs: The plugs in the USA are type A and B. The standard voltage is 120 V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: The USA is generally a safe destination for solo travellers, but you should always stay aware of your surroundings and err on the side of caution. In bigger cities, theft can be common, and if you’re renting or driving a car around, always be sure to lock up your valuables.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in the USA
(Note: USA is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
The USA is blessed with some of the world’s most epic national parks. You have the rugged peaks of Yellowstone, the otherworldly desert landscapes of Arches, the vastness of the Grand Canyon…the list goes on!
The Big Apple needs little introduction. Feel the buzz of Times Square, wander through Central Park, catch a Broadway show, and devour world-class food. It’s the city that never sleeps for a reason!
3. Soak Up the Sun and Fun in Florida:
From the thrills of Disney World and Universal Studios to the endless beaches of Miami and the Florida Keys, there’s something for everyone in the Sunshine State.
4. Road Trip Along the Iconic Pacific Coast Highway:
Rent a convertible and cruise along California’s Highway 1. Stunning ocean views, charming beach towns, and towering redwood forests await. Keep an eye out for whales!
5. Discover the Soul of the South:
Explore historic cities like Charleston or Savannah, tap your toes to live music in Nashville, or savor mouthwatering barbecue in Memphis. Southern hospitality is a real thing!
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in the USA and reasons to visit the USA
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Travel Resources
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