Planning a holiday to the United States? Well then, get ready to explore the extraordinary diversity, vibrant cities, iconic landmarks and many more in the United States. This country offers something for every kind of traveller, adding the spices of thrill, joy and excitement. In this blog, we have provided significant insights into the US to make your vacation unforgettable. Scroll down below to learn more about the United States.
Visa Requirements for Travelling to the United States
UK tourists will be required to apply for a US visa only for a long tenure of stay, but for a short tenure of stay, that won’t be needed. Check out the visa requirements below based on your tenure of stay for your holiday in the United States.
Planning to stay in the US up to 90 Days
UK travellers can apply under the Visa Waiver Program, before which they need to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). The passport must be biometric and valid for the tenure of the stay.
Planning to stay in the US for over 90 Days
UK travellers planning for a longer stay must apply for the appropriate US visa in advance.
Make sure that you have a return ticket and can also be asked to show proof of your accommodation and sufficient funds. Upon arrival, entry permission is granted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Seasons in the United States
The United States experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year, marked by changes in weather, temperature shifts, and varying daylight in its different regions. Check below to learn about these four seasons more briefly before setting out on your holiday in the United States.
Spring (March to May)
Enjoy mild weather with vibrant landscapes, making it ideal for sightseeing. You will find fewer crowds, making it comfortable to explore various attractions.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| March | 5° to 15° |
| April | 10° to 27° |
| May | 4° to 16° |
Summer (June to August)
Find hot and sunny weather in Summer, ideal for outdoor adventures, road trips and beach time. You will also encounter crowds, especially in the coastal region.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| June | 18° to 30° |
| July | 21° to 38° |
| August | 26° to 32° |
Autumn (September to November)
You get to witness a vibrant fall foliage with cool weather. You can find dynamic colours spread on your way while taking scenic drives or hikes.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| September | 18° to 30° |
| October | 12° to 24° |
| November | 6° to 18° |
Winter (December to February)
Feel the snowy and cold weather in the United States. You get to experience a number of winter sports and holiday festivities. You will also find fewer crowds, ideal for a winter escape.
| Month | Temperature (in °C) |
| September | 18° to 30° |
| October | 12° to 24° |
| November | 6° to 18° |
Best Time to Visit in the United States:
The best time to visit the United States is either April to May or September to October. Both of these periods offer pleasant weather and travel conditions to explore iconic attractions and various activities across the US.
Best Places to Visit in the United States
There are many popular places to visit during your holiday in the United States, making it hard to fit them all into one trip, so we have handpicked some of the best destinations you can visit.
New York
Your trip to the US will be incomplete if you fail to visit New York. Witness a mix of iconic landmarks, world-class arts and culture, incredible diversity and mouthwatering culinary experiences.
Best Time to Visit New York
From April to June and September to October.
Best Places to Visit in New York
- Central Park
- Statue of Liberty
- Times Square
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Brooklyn Bridge
Las Vegas
Enjoy world-class entertainment as you visit Las Vegas, offering places to gamble, vibrant nightlife, and dining options from cheap eats to food cooked by celebrity chefs.
Best Time to Visit Las Vegas
From March to May and September to November.
Best Places to Visit in Las Vegas
- Fremont Street Experience
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
- Fountains of Bellagio
- Springs Preserve
- Hoover Dam
Washington D.C.
Get ready to dive into the rich American history as you visit Washington D.C. Find a concentration of vibrant neighbourhoods, historical sites, iconic monuments and world-class museums.
Best Time to Visit Washington D.C.
From March to May and September to November.
Best Places to Visit in Washington D.C.
- Lincoln Memorial
- Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum
- National Mall
- Washington Monument
- National Gallery of Art
Miami
Soak yourself in the amazing beach setting and witness the vibrant Art Deco architecture and a rich Latin-Cuban culture. From relaxed sunbathing to thrilling watersports, you get it all.
Best Time to Visit Miami
From December to April.
Best Places to Visit in Miami
- Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
- Wynwood Walls
- Perez Art Museum
- Zoo Miami
- Little Havana
Chicago
Chicago is another popular destination to visit in the US, known as the birthplace of skyscrapers. Explore its world-class museums, beautiful lakefront, charming neighbourhoods and diverse cuisine.
Best Time to Visit Chicago
From May to June and September.
Best Places to Visit in Chicago
- The Art Institute of Chicago
- Millennium Park
- Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
- Lincoln Park Zoo
- Skydeck Chicago
San Francisco
Visit San Francisco, offering a cosmopolitan vibe with diverse neighbourhoods, historic cable cars, iconic landmarks, and a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit San Francisco
From March to May and September to November.
Best Places to Visit in San Francisco
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Alcatraz Island
- Golden Gate Park
- Palace of Fine Arts
- The Walt Disney Family Museum
Los Angeles
Find the essence of Hollywood as you travel to Los Angeles, where you can find iconic landmarks, sprawling beaches, diverse cultures, and, if you are lucky, you can also spot celebrities.
Best Time to Visit Los Angeles
From March to May and September to November.
Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles
- Griffith Observatory
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- The Getty
- The Broad
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Seattle
Travel to Seattle, also called the Emerald City, which offers lush green scenery, fresh Pacific Northwest seafood, iconic attractions, and serves as a hub for coffee culture and outdoor activities.
Best Time to Visit Seattle
From April to May and September to October.
Best Places to Visit in Seattle
- Space Needle
- Museum of Pop Culture
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- Kerry Park
- The Seattle Great Wheel
Boston
Learn about the rich American history by visiting Boston, exploring different points of interest, charming neighbourhoods, and beautiful parks where you can find a mix of modern culture and old-world charm.
Best Time to Visit Boston
From May to June and September to October.
Best Places to Visit in Boston
- Museum of Fine Arts
- Boston Common
- Public Garden
- New England Aquarium
- Museum of Science
Charleston
Charleston offers you a chance to learn about its rich colonial history and walk its cobblestone streets while admiring well-preserved architecture. Do enjoy the renowned southern cuisine and hospitality.
Best Time to Visit Charleston
From March to May and September to November.
Best Places to Visit in Charleston
- Waterfront Park
- South Carolina Aquarium
- Fort Sumter National Monument
- Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon
- Middleton Place
Best Things to Do in the United States
Get ready to indulge in some of the best activities during your holiday in the United States. We have picked some activities for you that you can partake in to make your holiday in the United States more memorable.
Explore National Parks
Discover stunning natural landscapes in various national parks around the US, which will offer you chances to spot the wild animals, participate in outdoor adventures and many more.
Taste the Regional Cuisines
When you are travelling across different regions around the US, don’t forget to try out their regional cuisines, offering you a taste of their local ingredients, spices and gastronomic culture.
Visit a Ghost Town
Explore the abandoned mining towns, also called the Ghost Towns, offering you a glimpse into the Old West, which is hard to find in Europe.
Stay on a Dude Ranch
Book a Dude Ranch to enjoy the cowboy lifestyle with activities like horse riding, sitting by the campfire and enjoying the vast open landscapes.
Enjoy Adventure Sports
On your holiday to the US, you have the chance to indulge in a number of adventure sports like skydiving, skiing, rafting and hiking, making your holiday more thrilling.
Attend Cultural Festivals
Throughout the year in the US, numerous cultural festivals take place, such as Mardi Gras, Coachella, Sundance Film Festival and many more, highlighting the local traditions, culture and art.
Visit Historical Landmarks
If you are interested in learning about American history, then visit the historical landmarks scattered around the country.
Relax on Famous Beaches
Go to the popular beaches around the US to help you partake in various water activities, or simply relax on the golden sands or enjoy sunbathing under the warm sunlight.
Take a Classic Road Trip
Take a road trip on some of the famous routes like the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66 and more, offering you unforgettable scenery, roadside attractions and small-town charm.
Visit the Iconic Film Locations
Visit the popular film locations around the US, especially Los Angeles, where you can explore movie studios, see the Hollywood Sign or walk the Walk of Fame.
Popular Festivals in the United States
Check out some of the popular festivals that you can experience in the United States during your visit.
| Name of Festivals | Place | Tenure | Month |
| Mardi Gras | New Orleans | Several Weeks | February or Early March |
| Coachella | Indio, California | 6 Days | April |
| Sundance Film Festival | Park City, Utah | 10 Days | January |
| Thanksgiving Day Parade | New York City | 1 Day | November |
| Burning Man | Black Rock Desert, Nevada. | 7 to 9 Days | August to September |
| SXSW – South by Southwest | Austin, Texas | 7 to 10 Days | March |
| Jazz & Heritage Festival | New Orleans, Louisiana | 2 Weeks | April to May |
| Oktoberfest | Various Cities | 1 to 3 Weeks | September to October |
| Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta | New Mexico | 9 Days | October |
| Comic-Con International | San Diego, California | 4 to 5 Days | July |
Traditional Dishes to Try in the United States
Here are some of the traditional dishes to try in the United States.
- Hamburger
- Hot Dog
- Fried Chicken
- Mac and Cheese
- Clam Chowder
- Apple Pie
- Buffalo Wings
- Cornbread
- Philly Cheesesteak
- Jambalaya
Transportation in the United States
When you are travelling to the US for a holiday, you must also know about its reliable transportation system.
By Bus
Travel from one part of the city to another or enjoy an intercity ride via bus service, which is also an affordable option.
By Metro
Metro is another convenient means of transport when planning to travel within a city or connecting major cities.
By Taxi
Travel via taxi to cover a short distance in traditional cabs, but also check whether the driver uses a meter for fair pricing.
By Renting a Car
You can rent a car if you are planning a road trip in the US, however, do check and comply with the rules when travelling cross-border and ensure you have an International Driving Permit.
By Air
Domestic flights are the fastest means of travel from one corner of the country to another. You can visit the domestic airports offering frequent flights.
United States Travel Tips for UK Tourists
In order to ensure a seamless holiday experience in the US, check out the following travel tips:
- Ensure that your passport is valid before applying for your visa, to avoid any hassle later on your trip.
- Get your flights booked early to gain early bird flight deals to save you money.
- For a hassle-free holiday experience in the US, book your holiday with Perfect Holiday, covering your hotels, flights, transfers, and also offering you the option for customisation.
- Carry the necessary documents and also ensure a round-trip ticket on your trip to the US.
- Make sure to add travel insurance to cover your trip from any uncertainties.
- Tipping culture is present in the US, and you will be expected to leave a tip after taking a service.
- Carry small bills of USD to use them in tipping, parking or purchasing items from local vendors.
- Check the local laws, as you are travelling to different states, especially in the case of driving, smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Dial 911 in case of medical, police or fire emergencies.
- You can rely on public transport to travel conveniently around a city or travel to a different city.
Conclusion
Packed with some of the best cities and attractions, the United States attracts visitors from every corner of the world every year. The information provided here shall help you plan a wonderful holiday this year, whether you are looking for entertainment, a beach holiday, or to witness the glamour and glitz of the Hollywood stars. Moreover, follow the travel tips and ensure you choose the visa type that best suits your holiday in the United States.
Check out some of the best travel packages brought to you by Perfect Holidays, offering an amazing holiday experience at a budget. Moreover, you also get the option to customise your travel itinerary by contacting our travel expert.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit the US for a holiday?
The best time to visit the US for a holiday is either between April and May or between September and October.
How long does it take to fly from the UK to the US?
It takes approximately 8 to 10 hours to land in the US from the UK.
Are there direct flights from the UK to the US?
Yes, there are direct flights from the UK to the US.
Are public transport options reliable for travel in the US?
Yes, public transport options are reliable for travelling in the US.
Is tipping mandatory in the US?
Tipping is not legally mandatory, but it has been a deeply ingrained cultural expectation for service workers.
Do I need a visa to travel to the US from the UK?
UK citizens need a visa to travel to the US if they plan to stay for more than 90 days.
What are some of the must-visit destinations in the US?
Some of the must-visit destinations in the US are New York, Washington D.C. and many more.
Can UK tourists drive in the USA?
Yes, UK tourists can drive in the USA with a valid driving license, and in some states, they may also need an International Driving Permit.
Which are the best beach cities to visit in the US?
Some of the best beach cities to visit in the US are Florida, California, Hawaii and more.
