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Experience the Mediterranean Life

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Expertly Designed

We get it. You’re not the homebody type. We aren’t either. Your passion, needs, and desires have shaped our business. Destination experts hand-craft transformative experiences designed specifically with you – our fellow traveler – at heart. We wouldn't trust your experience with anyone else.

Guided Touring Reimagined

We know you want to explore and also dive in. We’re curious travelers, just like you, so rest assured, you’ll experience must-sees and connect with the people and culture that define the destination. You’ll eat in locals’ homes, take cooking classes, travel by trains and tuk tuks, explore cities with food tours, and stay in igloos, castles, and chateaus.

Value Beyond Price

Your time is one of your most precious commodities, so you should spend more of it in the destination, not driving between places. We design tours that spend the fewest hours on the coach. One-night stays are a rarity. This is your trip, and you shouldn’t feel rushed. With choice, flexibility, and free time, take it all in – this is your tour.

Confidently Collette

Travel with trust. Because this is your trip - something you've planned for and dreamed about. You should feel confident in your journey every step of the way.

Industry-Leading Travel Protection

Cancel for any reason (bad hair day applies) up to 24 hours before your tour leaves and get a full money-back refund. Collette issued a record-breaking $185 million cash back to travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experience & Expertise

We've been doing this for a long time. Since 1918, in fact. Collette is the most experienced and longest-running tour operator in North America. You choose...

Traveling Well

Our team is on the pulse of world events and protocols, so you are kept fully aware and feel well-prepared for your trip.

Service Rating

Independent

Why Guided Travel

You're a traveler with places to go. We'll take care of the details. You embrace the journey.

Social Connections

Meet a group of people who share your love of travel. Learn from locals. Forge friendships in the coolest places.

Independence

There's plenty of time built into our itineraries, plus optional tours, Choice on Tour excursions, and more. It's your trip, your way.

Expertly Planned

You know what you want to see and do - let a team of experts handle all the details from the must-sees to centrally-located accommodations and local lessons.

The Best Pacing

Don’t rush – this is your time to see the world. Get more time in the destination, and enjoy an ideal balance of included excursions and free time.

Our Best Moments

When you go, capture all those incredible moments, and use the hashtag #GoCollette so that we can share your joy!

Featured Tours

Collette travelers choose from 160 tours across all 7 continents, as well as 5 travel styles including small group touring and destination spotlights. Check out some trending tours for inspiration on your next adventure.

Explorations

African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside featuring Italy's Charming Hill Towns

Alaska's Northern Lights

Winter in Croatia featuring Plitvice Lakes and the Adriatic Coast

$4,949 pp* $5,399 pp.

Icelandic Adventure

Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park

Mediterranean Coastal Journey Spain, France & Italy

The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way

Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

$3,299 pp* $3,699 pp, historical greenbrier featuring washington d.c. & williamsburg, $2,299 pp* $2,499 pp, spotlight on northern italy featuring venice, verona & the dolomites.

Spain's Costa del Sol & Madrid

Find a travel agency.

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Coach Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 71 most popular coach trips. compare tour itineraries from 21 tour companies. 226 reviews. 5/5 avg rating., popular coach tours.

Trans-Siberian Railway from Beijing to Moscow

• Witness demonstrations of traditional Mongolian wrestling, archery and horsemanship
• Ride the Old Railway along UNESCO-listed Lake Baikal
• Visit classic sites in Moscow such as Red Square and the Kremlin’s Armory Museum

The Best of England and Wales: Shakespeare to Snowdonia Castles to Colleges

• Discover Oxford’s soaring spires, lovely landscapes and intriguing lore with university insiders
• Walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps and see the Royal Shakespeare Company perform in one of England's iconic theatres
• Experience the dramatic mountain environment of Snowdonia National Park in Wales

10 Day Taste Of Scotland & Ireland

• Enjoy a true Scottish Evening
• Enjoy a Dublin Canal Cruise Dinner
• Visit Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet
• Embark on a Loch Ness Scenic Cruise
• Visit the Cliffs of Moher

Floral Festivals of Spring

• Enjoy the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers
• Visit the magnificent Hunter Valley Gardens, located amongst the vineyards of the Hunter wine region
• Travel through Sydney’s suburbs
• Visit Corbett Gardens, home to the tulip display at the Bowral Tulip Festival, one of Australia’s oldest floral festivals
• Marvel in the spectacular views over Canberra from the Telstra Tower at Black Mountain

Hobart Explorer

• Visit the Hobart Model Village Port Arthur site
• See the Gordon River Dam
• Explore Hobart city
• See many native species, including the famous Tasmanian Devil in Bonorong Wildlife Park
• Visit Mt Wellington to enjoy stunning views from the often snow-capped mountain which forms the backdrop to the city

Majestic Mountains

• Explore historic Beechworth, a gold rush era township
• Visit the Milawa Gourmet Region
• Explore Kosciuszko National Park
• Visit Alpine National Park
• Visit Charlotte Pass, the highest permanent settlement in Australia with sweeping views of nearby Mt Kosciuszko

Tasmanian Experience

• Visit the Cataract Gorge
• Visit East Coast Natureworld, set amongst 150 acres of natural parklands and lagoons and featuring many of Tasmania’s unique wildlife
• Explore Freycinet National Park
• Visit Hobart’s famous Salamanca market with more than 300 stalls selling fresh produce, arts and crafts
• View the striking rock formations of the Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen at Eagle hawk Neck

Kangaroo Island Treasures

• Enjoy a horse drawn Tram to Granite Island
• Visit the Penneshaw Maritime and Folk Museum
• Enjoy a guided walk through the beach of Seal Bay, home to Australia’s third largest sea lion colony
• See the Raptor Domain “Birds of Prey” show
• View the spectacular Remarkable Rocks, Cape du Couedic and Admirals Arch

All Coach , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Coach

Small Group Coach Tours

Kenya Safari

• Exploration of Kenya’s most famous nature reserves
• 1 night at 2,000 metres of altitude on the foothills of Mount Kenya in a hotel built in wood just by a water source lit at night and where animals come drink and fetch salt
• 4 camp nights in the Amboseli National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve for an authentic experience
• Visit of a Masai village
• Opportunity to extend your stay on the heavenly beaches of the Seychelles

Canada Adventure Tours by Mini Bus

• Explore Western Canada’s famous national parks by minibus and on foot: Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Pacific Rim.
• Visit Olympic National Park (USA) with glacier peaks and rare old growth rain forests.
• Hike to the edge of the enormous Columbia Ice Field at Athabasca Glacier.
• See Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, one of the oldest hotels in Banff National Park.
• Enjoy the waters in natural hot mineral springs, and in the warm fresh water Lake Okanagan.

Best Coach Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

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Trip reviews, our guide was awesome. john did an amazing job.

I took my 80 year old Dad and he bragged about it every day till he passed 5/2...

Jerome & Katherine

We had a phenomenal time

We had a phenomenal time on our Taste of Scotland and Ireland tour. Pat, our driver, and Malackey, our tour guide for Scotland, were so informative and funny. Pat wa...

Valerie & Dennis

Best vacation ever

Best vacation EVER!!! The locations and landscapes were breathtaking. There is beauty everywhere in both countries. The hotels, meals and attractions were top notch....

Trip was FANTASTIC

Trip was FANTASTIC. Great fellow travelers and our tour guide, Damian, was top, top notch. Incredibly helpful when my husband messed up our travel plans. Brought hum...

made the trip beyond memorable

What can I say ..... we'll always have France. What a wonderful tour. Short of waking us up at 2:00 a.m. I don't think we could have seen more. Days were packed with...

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Charter Bus

Coach USA is ready to charter you and your group around the United States and Canada. Reserve one of our charter buses to travel comfortably and in style. We pride ourselves on making your charter bus trip fun, convenient, and economical. We offer a variety of charter bus services to ensure you get the best service at the lowest price depending on the size and needs of your group. Hop on board one of our charter buses to any special event you may have coming up.

Weddings are stressful without planning a rental charter bus for you and your guests. Let us take the hassle out of the charter bus rental process. We will work with you or your wedding planner to make sure all special requirements are met and no detail is overlooked during your rehearsal dinner, bachelor(ette) parties, and more. Our charter bus service will help make your special day, memorable.

We understand how much planning goes into meetings, outings, training sessions, promotional events, conferences, and more without worrying about charter bus rentals. Coach USA's charter bus services takes the hassle out of renting a bus. We can handle small group outings to large conventions, offering a variety of corporate charter bus options.

An incredible amount of time goes into planning large conventions and we understand the pressure of your guests arriving/departing as scheduled. Coach USA’s charter buses can accommodate almost any group, regardless of the size. Our team of experts have experience working with both large and small event planners, offering many different charter bus rentals to make sure your event is a success.

Coming together as a family is a special time and we understand the importance of providing safe, reliable and timely transportation. We have experience helping families plan bus charters for birthdays, anniversaries, annual traditions, and more. Our charter bus services help bring families and friends together daily.

Whether your group is traveling to a local luncheon, game night, casino or shopping trip, we can provide safe, comfortable and reliable transportation. Our team of experts will work through any special charter bus requirements your group may have to make your trip relaxed and convenient. Choose our charter bus services for your next group outing.

Church and youth groups looking for a safe and reliable charter bus rental to bring a group to the park for a picnic, across the county to work on volunteer projects, youth camps and more can count on our experts to assist with all transportation planning needs.  Luckily, our bus charters can accommodate mostly all groups and any special requests.

When it is time for your school or college group to hit the road, let Coach USA help you plan safe, reliable and affordable transportation. We have experience providing group charter bus services for athletic teams, band trips, theater groups, field trips, and more.

Athletes and fans can count on Coach USA to provide safe, reliable, and affordable transportation to every game. Our team of professionals have extensive experience providing charter bus services to professional, college, high school, junior-level athletic events, and more. Rent a charter bus today and ensure your team arrives safely and on-time.

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Heartland Tours and Travel Tours You’re Going to Love

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Our Locations

Bus tours across north america.

Touring across America has never been easier or more comfortable than with Heartland Tours and Travel. We offer a variety of exciting bus tours to sites and events all across the United States in our luxury coach buses.

We carefully curate our destinations and excursions along the way to provide a fun, active, and entertaining experience for our passengers.

With convenient departure locations in Bloomington and Rochester, MN, choose from a variety of motorcoach tours and see the country like never before.

Tour America with Comfort and Convenience

Planning a trip is time consuming, expensive, and stressful, so let us handle the myriad of details so you can enjoy your travels! We handle everything including excursions, events, accommodations, transportation, and more. All you have to do is board our luxury motorcoach, sit back in relaxed comfort, and enjoy.

All of our motorcoaches include an onboard restroom, video systems, reclining seats, footrests, overhead storage, window shades, climate control, individual reading lamps, device charging outlets, and more! And, with advance notice, we can provide wheelchair lifts.

Our tours include accommodations at three and four-star hotels, and you will have a professional escort for the entire tour.

What to Expect on Your Bus Tour

Our coach tours are comfortable, affordable, and offer enriching experiences as we escort you on your travel dreams. For customers of all ages, we work to provide memorable and enjoyable experiences without the stress of planning the details of vacations and family trips. Our fleet of motorcoaches is ready to take you on exciting excursions, relaxing vacations, or delightful tour traditions.

Our tours offer a luxurious and comfortable travel experience. Coaches stop every 2 to 2½ hours for rest breaks, and exciting roadside and town attractions are planned along the tour route.

When you travel with Heartland Tours, your trip experience will be much more than a simple bus ride. Not only are our motorcoaches clean, comfortable, accommodating for all ages, and wheelchair friendly, they are luxury vehicles with onboard bathrooms, video systems with multiple monitors, reclining seats, headrests, fold-down foot rests, climate control, tinted windows, window shades, individual reading lamps, ventilation, and more.

Each seat includes Wi-Fi, extra leg room, 110v electrical outlets, and more. We’ve outfitted our motorcoaches specifically for a comfortable touring experience.

Environmentally Conscious Bus Tours

In addition to comfort for passengers when on the road, you can also take comfort in our environmentally-friendly coaches. Our buses are fueled with a biodegradable, nontoxic, sulfur- and aromatic-free B20 biodiesel fuel. Motorcoaches are also an average of six times more fuel and energy efficient than single occupancy vehicles like cars. When measuring passenger miles per gallon, motorcoaches with over 50 passengers will still have an efficiency of 350 passenger miles per gallon, compared to the 28 passenger miles per gallon of an average car.

Carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by about 85% per passenger mile per person when driving a motorcoach. That’s about three times more efficient reduction of CO2 output compared to commuter trains and cars.

View Our Upcoming  Bus Tours Today!

To learn more about our services and trips, contact Heartland Tours and Travel today at (507) 288-4353 .

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Call: 507-288-4353 Email: [email protected] Office Hours: M-F 8am - 4:30pm

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LUXURY MOTORCOACH SERVICE

Board. relax. nap. arrive. it's that simple., what is napaway /.

Napaway is a new kind of premium coach service that combines the comfort, privacy, and service of a first-class airline suite with the convenience and flexibility of bus travel. Both our business-class seats and first-class suites (with lie-flat beds!) offer a human-focused travel experience that’s easy and relaxing.

Napaway offers premium charters for sports teams, tour groups, bands, productions, group trips, student transportation, and beyond!

Virtual Tour /

Why napaway /, travel in comfort.​.

Our patented Butterfly suites are built for comfort and flexibility. Each Napaway suite features 13 square feet of usable space—plenty of room to stretch out for even the largest and tallest people. Want to do some work? Convert your suite into a private office, complete with a desk and outlets. Ready to relax? Switch your seats into lounge mode and surf the web. 

FLEXIBILITY

Each Napaway suite can be converted into two business-class, extra-legroom seats. Suites are converted individually, so total coach capacity is anywhere between 18 and 36 passengers. 

PRODUCTIVITY

With in-suite power outlets, onboard Wi-Fi, and full-sized tray tables (large enough for a laptop and more) you’re never off the grid (unless you want to be!)

ARRIVE REFRESHED AND READY TO ROLL.​

Ready for a snooze? Convert your suite into your own private bedroom. We’ll provide the pillows, the blankets, the eye masks, and the… well, you get the idea. With 40” of hip width in your 6.5–foot lie-flat bed (compared to just 25” in business class), you’ll be napping in no time (day or night!). Every aspect of the Napaway experience is designed to leave you refreshed, rested, and ready to roll.

More privacy = less stress.

Travel in the privacy and comfort of your personal suite. Watch a movie, read a book, or get some work done—and never fight over an armrest again.

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USA Tour Companies

Looking for an unforgettable USA tour? Book a fully-organized trip with the best tour companies in USA and let the tour operator take care of everything for you. Check out the tour details and read 191659 reviews from our customers to help you choose the perfect tour for you.

List of USA travel companies & tour operators with 191659 reviews

Bamba Travel

• Good - 1,691 reviews for USA tours

The itinerary provided by tour radar was not exactly how the tour was set up. One of our stops said we would be doing a cruise on lake Powell. That was not provided with the tour. Also the hotels that they said we would be staying at did not line up.

Overall, the tour was very fun and we'll put together. The tour guides were all friendly, and seemed to work well as a team. Accomodations were not bad, but there were better options directly adjacent. Food options were pretty much all fast food, which makes sense for the tour concept. However, dinner options could have been a bit better. We really would have appreciated a little more hiking and exploring time, and a couple of the guides did the best to accommodate that. However, 20 minute stops are just not enough time to get "out and experience" the areas.

G Adventures

• Excellent - 19,135 reviews for USA tours

the tour itself was amazing. The national parks do not disappoint. The travel accomodations were very cramped and uncomfortable. I am only 5 foot tall and I was cramped in this 14 passenger van. Food opportunities were limited.

Fantastic experience - efficient use of time, great itinerary. Well-informed and interesting guide who is also just a great person.

Bindlestiff Tours

• Excellent - 1,480 reviews for USA tours

Did the 3 day mini park explorer tour to Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon and Grand Canyon. Joe and Adrian, our guides, were exceptional and made the trip comfortable and very memorable. They were knowledgeable, helpful, accommodating to special requests, and very approachable. Great planning, incredible views and hikes, a real window to the American southwest. This was my second tour with Bindlestiff and I highly recommend traveling with them!

Our guide Adrian was amazing he is very knowledgeable about the parks that we went to and very understanding,the hotels were beyond my expectations,every day was special and a new adventure.I highly recommend doing this tour with them.

Southwest Adventure Tours

• Excellent - 102 reviews for USA tours

It was 5 days of beautiful canyons and scenic highways. Our guide and trainee were wonderfully informative and helpful

Everything was great. We enjoyed the pacing of our itinerary and our guide Gogee was excellent.

• Excellent - 989 reviews for USA tours

Handled adversity well.

1. The bus driver, did an excellent job. 2. We could of used a better bus with a bathroom 3. The tour guides were good, they were very informative about our activities 4. The motels chosen were ver ckean 5. The length of time, was right for the amount of days 6. The travel packet i received needed clearer instructions, the hotel staff were not familiar with this tour operator. nor were they able to help me. 7. The security guard berween the luxor and the excalibur srated "the bus location and pick up tours:, was the place to be. 8. I was in the wrong location, after talking to your customer service, which at first she was hesitating to help me. She finslly was sble to contact me with Patrivia. Whom did not hesitate to contact me via text. Aand pick me up! Patricia's excellent customer service. Changed the entire scenario., and made it possible for me to join this wonderful 3 day tour of sightseeing. Photography. And hiking.

Intrepid Travel

• Excellent - 11,723 reviews for USA tours

We were fortunate to have Claire Kredens as our driver guide. She is a gifted leader and could cope with ant situation. Such a tour is useful to learn which cities you might like to re-visit because our time in each is very short. Four and five hour drives every other day is exhausting and maybe the number of places visited could be edited downward. On the whole, I enjoyed the trip altho the age range 15-99 is unwise. 15-80 would be much more realistic.

My son and I had a great hiking adventure on the Sedona tour! The scenery was stunning, the hikes were fun! Tolman was an excellent guide, who was very knowledgeable about the area, he had great hiking tips, and he picked some enjoyable challenging hikes for us! He was also an excellent cook! He prepared us some great meals! His positive outlook on everything helped the group of strangers on the trek quickly bond which led us all to have a great hiking experience!

BrushBuck Wildlife Tours

• Excellent - 23 reviews for USA tours

Although the tour was very expensive- over $2000 for 3 days is over the top- it wss a great experience, saw lots of wildlife and the guide was outstanding

What an amazing experience this was; from the greeting and pick up by our guide/driver, to the phenomenal sights and the historical references that accompanied them! I am so pleased. This was an exceptionally planned tour that successfully met all of my needs. I would not change a thing and look forward to future adventures with them.

• Excellent - 5,486 reviews for USA tours

The tour was amazing, the manager did a top notch job, it’s great for making lots of friends, such a blast. A little rushed and fast paced, but it’s better than the stress of organising your own trip. Definitely doing it again

I thought it was great and would do it again any time!

• Excellent - 1,895 reviews for USA tours

Excellent. Great guide, driver, weather, hotels, food. Great itenirary. Love love this trip.

Optional excursions were reasonably priced. Suggest you put together other places in each city as a walking guide or short taxi or uber ride. Example access to close by museums open late and could walk to from hotel. Free time activities and what they are and where located is helpful.tour guide can offer to accompany a group interested to explore more during free leisure tome.Provide more detail info about the logistics of site visits. Niagara falls..suggest more water proof gear clothing and shoe types etc. Terrain to expect when visiting certain sites and possible alternatives.climbing and how difficult-easy or more strenuous or advanced climbing activity. Overall, small groups so much better than filling up bus. Thank you for giving single travelers their own bus space. Would love to watch more travel videos on longer driving distances.

National Geographic Journey…

• Excellent - 258 reviews for USA tours

Good time with lots of riding in the van going to interesting places

We had a wonderful time. The tour was well planned and well managed. The CEO was excellent ..good driver, good communicator, had good knowledge of the local attractions and made great recommendations for restaurants. The group we were with was also a very pleasant group which made the experience that much more enjoyable. That said, would have loved to see the accommodations updated.. most except the Denali cabins were old and "weathered".

Infinite Adventures

• Excellent - 118 reviews for USA tours

It was my first group trip and also my first camping trip. I have to say it was one of the best trips I've been on. It was an adventure! We were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights at Remote Camp. Tory and Dave took care of everything and made sure everyone had a great time. No matter what problem you had, they always helped each other! Dave cooked delicious food, we had marshmallows by the fire in the evening and it felt like family. It's a great tour and I can only recommend it to anyone! It certainly wasn't my last tour with Infinite Adventure! Many thanks to Tory, Dave and Natalie (who you could ask any question you wanted to know beforehand) for this unforgettable time! :)

Jump on the bus with Infinite Adventures for a magnificent Alaskan expedition! Dave and Tory are excellent guides and will keep you informed about the areas you visit and give expert advice. I found this to be a truly joyful experience!

Insight Vacations

• Excellent - 634 reviews for USA tours

My first experience with an organized tour like this. Expense alone will limit future trips. Much more walking than my wife was prepared for. This alone reduced her enjoyment. Tour guide was very knowledgeable and thorough with his planning and execution. Andrew has a fun personality and very personable. One item that disappointed me was the shuttle from airport to resort at both ends of the

Insights Tours are always amazing and this one was no exception. Nice balance of free time to relax and experience Hawaii on your own with visits to places on the islands to experience the culture. Learned a lot of Hawaii’s history throughout our visit. Overall a lovely experience and would highly recommend if you want to visit Hawaii and learn more about the islands.

• Excellent - 74,890 reviews for USA tours

This was our second trip on Globus and both experiences were fantastic.

I was skeptical of a group tour, particularly by coach. The experienced guide, Jason, along with driver Shauna, changed my view completely.

Bucket List Group Travel LL…

• Good - 16 reviews for USA tours

leider entsprach der Reiseverlauf nicht ganz der ursprünglichen Ausschreibung. Die kurzen Wanderungen in die Canyons waren gestrichen worden, was insbesondere für das Bryce canyon sehr schade war. Der Ersatz (Death Valley) war dafür lohnenswert. Die Toursprache "only in english" stimmte nicht, Englisch war nachrangig. Ein Großteil der Gruppe sprach kein Englisch, so dass man sich wie ein Aussenseiter fühlte.

Had a wonderful time - a lot of hiking, seeing the sites in Alaska and viewing the Northern Lights.

The Coyote Trip

• Good - 11 reviews for USA tours

This trip was run like a school trip, we were told that we had to stick to the schedule rigidly even though I asked several times to visit a different museum/shop. Free time was limited and it seemed like the guide had specific ideas of what he wanted to do and see. Our guide also left us on a subway in New York to get home close to midnight and then we had issues getting checked into the hostel. FYI most tour guides make sure their group gets to the hotel safely and without hassle. Waste of time and money.

From a speedboat to the Statue of Liberty to fireworks on 4th July in Washington to hiking to Yosemite Falls, this trip showcased the very best the USA has to offer. I went on the 21 day Full Cyote trip from New York to San Francisco with my brother. With such a packed itinerary of included activities, it offered great value for money. The guides in every region we visited were excellent. A particular shout out to Ryan, who added in extra stops and experiences based on the group's interests. Other highlights included the Grand Canyon, Washington's museums, whale watching in Boston, cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge and sunset in Griffeths Park. I met a great group of people on the trip, and I wouldn't hesitate to book with the Cyote Trip again.

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Popular tour operators in:.

• North America (89)

This article was updated on July, 2023.

In the United States, bus travel is often seen as a cheaper and more convenient alternative to flying or driving. Bus companies offer a variety of services, from long-distance trips between cities to short-distance shuttle services between airports and hotels.

When it comes to bus travel in the USA, the biggest icon is  Greyhound , America’s flagship service. Yet, particularly in rural areas and the heart of the USA , travelers will come across other bus providers.

The companies can be differentiated according to the areas they serve, their target clientele, and their pricing.

In the Northeast, Ourbus , Flixbus , Adirondack Trailways, New York Trailways and Megabus dominate the landscape. Jefferson Lines ‘ and Southeastern Stages’ buses can majorly be found in the heart of the US, as they serve routes between regional cities and rural areas. In Florida and Texas, a premium bus provider, RedCoach , offers rides in three different classes. And there are many more add to that list.

Some of those companies operate the same route. Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, a restroom, air conditioning and reclinable seats are now standard features on most buses.

But if they seem to have the same amenities and serve the same route, what makes one bus line better than another? In general, there are a few things to consider when choosing which bus line is best for you.

Here is a comparison of the coverage, booking options, and amenities for the major bus companies in the USA:

Known for:  Its iconic logo and vast coverage, Greyhound is the biggest bus company in the United States. They cover all states except Alaska and Hawaii.

Coverage: Nearly 2300 destinations in the US, Canada, and Mexico (combined with Flixbus)

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, restrooms, air conditioning, reclining seats.

Are tickets refundable?: Tickets can be fully or partially refunded in the form of a voucher. Refund percentage varies based on cancellation time: less than 1 day (25%), 1 to 6 days (50%), 7 to 29 days (75%), 30 days or more (100%). Maximum deduction is $35 USD from the ticket price. Booking & service fees are not refundable.

Boarding requirements: show your ticket on your phone or print it for the driver to scan it. You also need a valid photo ID.

The company was acquired in late 2021 by Flix SE, a global mobility provider that started services in the USA in 2018. The Greyhound brand will be a part of this global company.

Known for: being a prominent intercity bus service provider that offers affordable, comfortable, and eco-friendly transportation across Europe and the United States, with an extensive network of routes and modern amenities for passengers. In 2021, Flixbus acquired Greyhound Lines, incorporating the BoltBus brand into the Flixbus fleet and keeping Greyhound buses running normally across North America.

Coverage : The company has over 400.000 routes around the world. Combined with Greyhound, the company serves over 2.300 cities in North America.

Amenities : in general, Flixbus offers air conditioning, bathrooms, reading lights and comfy seats. On most buses, you can also find Wi-Fi, power sockets and snacks and beverages sold by the drivers.

Are tickets refundable? You can cancel your ticket and get a full or partial voucher refund depending on how far in advance you cancel. Under 1 day (25%), 1-6 days (50%), 7-29 days (75%), and 30+ days (100%). Deductions max out at $35 USD. Booking & service fees are not refundable.

Boarding requirements: show the driver your printed ticket or your online ticket on your phone. You must also show a valid photo ID.

Known for: its low-cost trips offered in the US, Canada, and Europe. Travelers can often find tickets for as little as $1 when booking in advance.

Coverage : hundreds of destinations in the US, with a particular focus on the Northeast (Washington to NYC, Philadelphia to NYC) and Florida (Miami to Orlando).

Amenities : Megabus buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi (on most routes), comfortable reclining seats, bathrooms, air conditioning, power outlets and panoramic windows.

Are tickets refundable? No, but Megabus does provide an option for modifying reservations. You can make changes online, but only if it’s done more than 3 hours before your scheduled departure. Keep in mind that there are trade-in fees, ranging from USD $3.00 to USD $7.50, depending on the proximity to the departure time. Additionally, there’s a USD $2.99 fee for new reservations (or USD $7 if made by phone) for altered bookings, contributing to the overall cost.

Boarding requirements: you can board after showing the driver your reservation number, which you’ll get after the booking is confirmed.

Adirondack Trailways

Known for:  Their popular  Montreal – NYC  route and for their customer service.   Clients can easily reach the company by email, phone, Facebook, or Twitter and will receive a quick response.

Coverage:  49 cities, with routes between rural areas and major cities in the heart of New York state, as well as Montreal and Toronto, in Canada. The company is part of Trailways of New York.

Amenities:  Reclinable seats, reading lights, Wi-Fi, power outlets, restrooms on most buses, air conditioning, wheelchair lift, and extra leg room.

Are tickets refundable? No, but the date & time can be changed. A $20 fee may apply.

Boarding requirements:  Printed ticket & a valid photo ID.

If you travel with Trailways, know that this is an association of about 60 regional bus companies. They are mostly recognizable through a similar logo – the Trailways logo. If booked online, the refund and exchange policy remains the same. If you book at a bus terminal, it may be different for each bus company. When changing from one provider to another, fees may incur for baggage within the usual limits of the first provider.

• Jefferson Lines

Known for:  Being a major bus provider in the heart of the US, serving 14 states from North Dakota down to Texas.

Coverage:  Arkansas, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

Amenities:  Wi-Fi, power outlets, restrooms, air conditioning, reclinable seats.

Are tickets refundable?:  No, but the date & time can be changed. A $20 fee may apply.

Known for:  Its premium bus rides in three different classes.

Coverage:  Major destinations in Florida (Miami, Orlando, Ft Lauderdale, etc.) and Texas (Austin, Dallas, Houston and more).

Amenities: All Classes:  High-speed Wi-Fi, power outlets, restrooms, air conditioning, lap trays.  First & Business Class:  Reclinable leather seats (140 degrees), footrests, LCD screens.  First Class only:  Snack boxes.

Are tickets refundable?:  Yes, in the form of a voucher. Standard tickets can be refunded with a 30% service fee, while flexible tickets can be refunded without fees, with both fares refundable up to three hours before departure.

Boarding requirements:  To board the bus, you must provide photo identification matching all information provided during booking. Presenting a physical or electronic ticket is optional.

Known for : their comfortable buses connecting main cities in the Midwest.

Coverage : Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

Amenities:  Wi-Fi, reclining seats, power outlets, GPS tracking, footrest, restrooms and flatscreen monitors

Are tickets refundable?  Generally, no, but the company might be flexible in case of emergencies. You can reissue your tickets before travel time by paying a fee.

Boarding requirements:  printed ticket and photo ID.

Known for : providing comfortable rides between NYC and DC.

Coverage:  New York City and Washington, DC, with stops in Northern VA (Franconia-Springfield, Vienna-Fairfax and Manassas).

Amenities : Wi-Fi, power outlets on most buses, restrooms, air conditioning.

Are tickets refundable?  The company does not offer refunds, but you can change your reservations up to 12 hours before the trip at no cost.

Boarding   requirements : E-ticket and valid photo I.D

Known for:  its flexible rescheduling policy and good customer service.

Coverage : New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, Massachusetts, Illinois, Indiana, and Florida.

Amenities : modern buses, estimated time of arrival tracking in real-time, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, reclining seats, sanitized restrooms and free bottled water.

Are tickets refundable:  Yes .  Customers can get all their money back up to 24 hours before the departure and full credit up to 30 minutes before the trip.

Boarding requirements:  online tickets and photo ID.

Known for:   providing first-class inter-city bus service between Boston, New York City (Midtown Manhattan) and Washington, DC

Coverage : Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, Massachusetts, Rhode Island & Connecticut, New York & New Jersey, Manhattan

Amenities : clean bathrooms, reclining seats with footrests, reading lights, temperature control system, overhead luggage storage compartments and free Wi-Fi.

Boarding requirements:  e-tickets and photo ID.

• Southeastern Stages

Known for:  their friendly and courteous staff.

Coverage:  Major destinations in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina

Amenities:  Wi-Fi, power outlets, restrooms, air conditioning

Are tickets refundable?  Tickets are fully refundable if you cancel up to 14 days before your trip. If you wish to change the date of your trip, you’ll be charged a small fee.

Boarding requirements:  To board the bus, you  must have a printed ticket.  You also have to provide photo identification matching all information provided during booking.

What can you expect from most USA bus companies:

Free Wi-Fi, power outlets, a restroom, air conditioning, and reclinable seats are the standard on most buses in the USA. Also, they all offer the possibility to book online.

Rescheduling:

The date and time of tickets can usually be changed against a fee, though some companies are flexible and reschedule tickets for free prior to 24 hours before departure.

Boarding requirements:

Printed tickets are becoming a thing of the past, but some companies still require them for boarding the bus, so don’t forget to check that when planning your trip.

Also, remember that you’ll always need a photo ID to board the bus.

To compare baggage allowances in the US, check out our  article on luggage policies in the USA .

Luxury bus companies:

Numerous luxury bus companies are revolutionizing the bus scene in the USA with their extra comfortable and hassle-free services, redefining standards of convenience. Find out who they are in this article. 

Additional US bus companies

A trip through  America  may lead you to board one of the following companies.

• ACN Autobuses
• Burlington Trailways
• Express Arrow
• Indian Trails
• Jet Set Express
• Lamers Bus Lines
• Turimex International
• Wanda Coach
• Yankee Line

Looking for the best way to travel affordably in the United States? Search and book your bus tickets to and from the United States directly on Busbud.com

Book your bus tickets

My mother, father, brother, and two sisters traveled by bus over most of the USA from the time I was seven to 12 years of age. We were a vagabond family, traveling from town to town. Not for fun, but out of necessity. Greyhound was the company we were almost always on, with Trailways in some situations. From 1950 to late 1955, this was our life. There were no amenities such as wifi, power outlets, However, the seats did recline, there was air conditioning, there was heat in the cold. No TV screens, no lap trays. Small restrooms in the back of the bus. Friendly drivers who also invoked authority. Regular rest stops for resting, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As a kid, I loved it!

You forgot about Vonlane!

Very informative for visitors. Such updates are really a blessing when you are unsure about the travelling services.

Thanks again, Sandeep http://bit.ly/2nqVAqe

WOW ! Amazing Bus Pictures . Great article, thanks!

You may want to check out Rally – they do charter to events and they have been great. Also you don’t have to charter a whole bus you can crowdshare if you want. The website is https://rally.co for those interested

I want to travel from NYC to Pittsburgh by bus, so could you pleased give me the information about which bus company I can book a ticket?

Thank you very much for your helpful information.

Brgds, Thuy

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Thanks Admin to shared a nice description with us. Most luxurious buses is really suitable for our long tours like friend and family tours. Stay with you. Keep going and shared with us some new content about luxurious bus.

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The Grayhound sucks because my son is stuck LA CA. The are telling him he has to wait until 2:30 am on Sunday 12-26-21. I am not a happy mother.

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I have good impressions of the baron bus. In general, the interior and amenities are quite good and I like this car the most

Excellent resource for site visitors. When you don’t know what to expect from your travel services, having access to such updates is a godsend.

Greyhound and Jefferson Lines are my favourites

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Accessible access? (Wheelchairs)

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Thanks Admin to shared a nice description with us

I found so many interesting articles in your post, especially in its discussion part. It was very well explained and easy to understand for anyone. Thanks a lot to you for sharing this type of content with us.

Which bus do you like the most?

Amazing information for frequent travelers. These updates make happy for long distance travelers in luxurious buses.

Thanks for sharing wonderful information. I really enjoy reading your blog.

When comparing these bus providers, consider factors such as ticket prices, route availability, departure frequency, amenities, and customer reviews. Each provider might have different levels of comfort, service quality, and coverage. It’s also recommended to check for any updates related to COVID-19 protocols, as they might impact services and amenities.

Some popular bus tour companies in the United States include Gray Line, Big Bus Tours, and City Sightseeing. These tours provide an organized and hassle-free way to discover the beauty and diversity of the United States.

How is the service of Greyhound bus company in 2023?

Thanks for your article, I love the bus. I usually go to school by bus. It’s save for the environments.

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Bus Travel in the US

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Choose now from almost 2,300 destinations across the US and benefit from our extended network with Greyhound.

Get Cheap Bus Tickets with FlixBus!

If you're looking to travel around The United States or even worldwide, FlixBus has got you covered with our extensive bus routes! With over 400,000 routes across the globe, you can easily find the perfect option for your trip. Plus, our cheap bus tickets make it easy and affordable to get wherever you want to go, whether it's for work or play.

Bus Routes and Timetables to Suit Your schedule

Traveling with FlixBus is hassle-free with our modern and comfortable buses, frequent connections, and reliable schedules. Our extensive network spans almost 2,300 destinations in 40+ countries, including major cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Plus, enjoy free WiFi on most of our buses and track your journey in real-time using our bus tracking system. What's more, our integration with Greyhound provides even more coverage and travel options throughout North America, making FlixBus the ideal choice for domestic and international travel.

Buying Your Bus Tickets is Easy with FlixBus

Our website and app make it easy to plan your journey, find the cheapest bus fares, and purchase your bus tickets securely. Whether you're planning or booking a last-minute trip, FlixBus makes buying bus tickets a breeze. Plus, with our convenient e-ticket system, you can board your bus without the hassle of paper tickets as your phone will serve as your ticket!

Discover the Best Destinations FlixBus has to Offer

With FlixBus' extensive network of routes, you can easily explore some of the most popular cities in the US , as well as travel to Canada and Mexico. And thanks to our integration with Greyhound, our network is even more expansive, giving you even more options for intercity travel. Whether you're exploring New York City , spending a weekend partying in Las Vegas , soaking up the culture in Boston , or discovering the hidden gems of Los Angeles , FlixBus makes it effortless to experience all that the US has to offer.

Travelling with FlixBus is a more sustainable choice

Traveling by bus is not just a convenient choice but also an environmentally responsible one, as bus travel reduces traffic and emissions compared to travelling by car. We are working to make bus travel even greener with high environmental standards across our fleet of buses, the use of alternative drive and fuel technologies, and the option for all passengers to offset their carbon when buying their bus tickets. So, when you travel with FlixBus you can know you are making a responsible choice

Travel in Comfort and Style with FlixBus

FlixBus not only prioritizes comfort and convenience for your journey, but also ensures that you can travel with all your necessary luggage. Each passenger is allowed to bring one carry-on and one stowed luggage with them on the bus. In addition to the luggage allowances, our buses offer amenities like on-board WiFi, extra legroom, power outlets, and toilets, making your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. With our user-friendly app and simple booking platform, planning your bus travel has never been easier. Book your bus ticket with FlixBus today and travel in comfort and style with all your luggage in tow.

Top Destinations and bus connections

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Affordable bus travel from Greyhound

More travel options, enjoy free onboard entertainment, reserve a seat, need to make a change, discover all the places you can go.

Choose from almost 2,300 destinations with Greyhound, FlixBus and our connecting partners!

Greyhound connects thousands of communities across North America by providing convenient, comfortable and affordable bus travel .

With almost 2,300 destinations across the U.S., Canada and Mexico, Greyhound helps you travel when you want, from where you want. Leave from big cities like New York , Chicago , Atlanta or from smaller cities like Omaha , El Paso , Albany . Big or small, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re booking online or using our Greyhound app we’ve made planning your bus trip easy. You can find ticket prices, up to date bus schedules and bus station information all in one place. Then when you’re ready to travel you can buy your bus ticket online and keep your ticket on your smartphone, so no need to print it out!

With Greyhound you can always travel stress-free . Track My Bus gives you real-time bus stop information and up to date bus timetables. Just add your line number or confirmation number and you can stay up to date on your journey.

Onboard, sit back in our all leather, reclining seats while you’re enjoying our free onboard entertainment (Movies, Games, TV!) or surfing our free Wi-Fi . Stay charged with in seat power ports.

Explore Popular Destinations and Connections

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Your Open Dated Return is valid for 3 months from your outbound journey. To guarantee your seat on your return you need to confirm your ticket before you travel on www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call 0371 781 8181.

Open Dated Return Information

If your return date is not yet known, open return tickets provide flexibility. When travelling within the UK, the return journey can be made within 3 months of the outward date of travel. To guarantee your seat on your return journey you need to confirm your ticket before you travel by visiting www.nationalexpress.com/en/help/tickets/open-returns or call us on 03717 81 81 81. Lines open 7 days a week, 8am - 8pm (calls to this number are charged at local rate). Valid on any day throughout the year.

Open returns are not available on European journeys.

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Accessible coaches.

The majority of stops along the routes listed below are accessible to wheelchair users but are subject to change. Please call us to check the latest situation before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

To see a list of accessible coach routes please visit our Accessibility page.

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If you are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance, please call our helpline before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

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For more information please visit our Disabled travellers page.

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Children under 14 cannot travel alone unless accompanied by an adult (16+). Please note, you may be required to show proof of age at any point during your journey. Failure to do so, may result in the full adult fare being charged.

Children (3-15)

Children under 14 cannot travel alone unless accompanied by a responsible adult (16+).

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Should be booked as Children. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance, please call our Assisted Travel Helpline.

We strongly recommend that you bring a car seat appropriate to your child's age, but ask you to take responsibility to fit the seat.

Booster Seats

Children aged between approximately 4-11 years old, or up to 150cm tall, may use booster seats. We carry a limited number onboard most coaches.

If travelling with a child, you may be required to show proof of age when buying tickets or at any point during your journey. Failure to do so may result in the child being required to pay the full fare for the journey on that day.

Booster seats

Children aged between approximately 4 years and 11 years or up to 150cm tall may use booster seats, we carry a limited number onboard most coaches along with our comfort fit seat belts.

Disabled children should be booked as children rather than 'Disabled'. If they are travelling in a wheelchair or you wish to book assistance with travel please call our Assisted Travel Helpline before booking and at least 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

You can find a list of accessible coach stops on our Accessibility page .

Please call us 36 hours prior to travelling to check the latest status.

If you are travelling in a wheelchair or require assistance we recommend that you contact us on the following local rate telephone number: 03717 81 81 81 (lines open 8am - 8pm 7 days a week) 36 hours in advance of when you would like to travel.

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Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged between of 26 and 59 inclusive.

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Children aged 12 or under travelling on any European service must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.

Unaccompanied children will not be carried

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United States Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 14, 2024

The United States isn’t a popular destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Most overseas tourists come here for a short vacation, visit one or two cities, and then head home. They usually stick to the big coastal cities or places like Disney.

And it wasn’t until COVID that Americans en-masse bothered to hop in their cars and explore their backyard.

The U.S. is massive country that lacks a lot of tourist infrastructure or good cross-country transportation. Hostels haven’t quite caught on, trains don’t go to many places, and we don’t offer working holiday visas to attract young working backpackers. In short, it’s hard to get around.

However, the United States has a lot to offer: stunning national parks, gorgeous landscapes, incredible and diverse culture, world-class music, and a variety of delicious cuisine that varies from region to region.

I think the U.S. is one of the best destinations in the world to road trip . I’ve done several multi-month road trips across the United States . While the coastal cities are fun, the U.S. really reveals itself in the middle and countryside (it’s much more affordable there too). It’s in the nooks and crannies of America that you get a sense of its quirks.

But even if you aren’t spending months visiting the country in a car, there’s still a lot you can do via train, bus, or plane.

This travel guide to the United States can help you navigate the country, save money, and get off the beaten path.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the United States

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the united states.

1. Explore New York City

The city that never sleeps is one of the greatest cities in the world. There’s nothing you can’t do or see and you’ll find every language and food from around the world here. From world-class museums and art galleries to innovative theater performances to unique restaurants to the expansive Central Park, you can fill a lifetime of activities here. You can take the ferry to Ellis Island, see the Statue of Liberty, hang with the hipsters in Brooklyn, see a Yankees game, and so, so much more. Check out my detailed guide for everything you need to do .

2. Visit the Grand Canyon

Words can’t describe how epicly beautiful the Grand Canyon is. It’s simply breathtaking. Most people just look out at the canyon from the overlook at the top, but its vast size and beauty are best appreciated with a hike down to the Colorado River so try to do that if you have time (make the time). The canyon itself is 6,000 feet deep, and you can find plenty of hikes to take you further into the canyon that will give you a chance to experience it in more detail. For a shorter hike, Grandview Trail to the first overlook at Coconino Saddle and back is only a couple of miles. If you have a whole day to spend and want to challenge yourself, try the 12.5 miles from Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!

3. Discover Austin

The warm weather, lively honky-tonks, funky house bars on Rainey Street, amazing walking and biking trails, tons of outdoor activities — Austin is great (I lived there for many years). You can always find great live music on 6th Street. On a hot day, Barton Springs pool is the perfect place to cool off, there’s always something to do, the food scene gets better and better, and everyone is very welcoming. It’s one of the best cities in the U.S., boasting a combination of nature, city, and delicious food. Be sure to binge on BBQ while you’re here!

4. Visit Glacier National Park

This is my favorite national park in the country. It’s home to gorgeous snow-topped mountains, a beautiful lake from which to admire said mountains, large glaciers, and hiking trails galore. It is one of the most mind-blowing places I’ve seen on my adventures. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails in the park that provide everyone an opportunity to explore the landscape. Park rangers offer various programs and guided tours are also available. There are spots for fishing and additional trails for biking and horseback riding. (If you plan to visit multiple national parks while traveling throughout the United States, it’s worth it to get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and provides entry to all the national parks for a year.)

5. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast is considered one of the most scenic landscapes in the world, offering sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of beaches, and giant redwoods. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) runs 1,650 miles from San Diego, California to Seattle, Washington taking you from the warm, sunny beaches to the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Highway 1 thorough California is one of the longest historic state highways in the country. The California portion alone route takes 10 hours without stopping but I recommend dedicating at least several days to enjoy all the great stops along the way.

Other Things to See and Do in the United States

NOTE: There’s a lot to do in the United States and you can spend months traveling around the country . I could write an entire book on the places to visit! This is just a list to give you some ideas. Be sure to check out some of my other articles and city specific guides (scroll to the bottom of this guide for links) for more suggestions.

1. Have fun in Memphis

Gritty and industrial, Memphis appears like its best days are behind it. But don’t let the rough exterior fool you — the city is home to some killer food and a vibrant blues music scene. It is a cool city with boisterous and friendly locals. I love the vibe here. There’s Graceland (Elvis’s home) for fans of the King, a big waterfront for walking, and the phenomenal Museum of Civil Rights (it’s huge, so don’t rush it!). The city is going through a big revival right now. To use a cliché, it’s a hidden gem as most people, to their detriment, skip over it.

2. Discover Asheville

Asheville is full of tasty craft beer, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor loving residents. The beautiful Smoky Mountains are a short drive away, Asheville Botanical Gardens are right near the university, and the gigantic Biltmore estate (the largest privately-owned home in the U.S. and once home to George Vanderbilt) is on the outskirts of the city. (If you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the house is like!) The town has a lot of parks and there are a lot of beautiful biking and hiking trails that you can get to from the center of town.

3. Explore Redwood National Park

Along the Pacific Coast is Redwood National Park, a huge expanse of towering redwood trees filled with picnic areas, places to camp, and miles upon miles of hiking trails. Trails range from easy to strenuous, and there are many loops that head out to nearby beaches. The trees range from 200-240 feet tall. It’s utterly beautiful, awe-inspiring, and humbling in every way. Admission is free, though the three adjoining state parks (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) each charge $10 USD.

4. Explore Denver

Known as the Mile High City (the city is one mile above sea level), Denver offers a mix of outdoor ruggedness and big-city living. It has a huge craft beer scene, excellent restaurants (including, Sushi Sasa, one of my favorite sushi restaurants), a large international airport with lots of connections, and is close to the mountains. There are a lot of interesting museums, including the Denver Art Museum, Meow Wolf Denver, and the Clifford Still Museum. There’s plenty of art outside of the museums as well and there are walking tours available to show you around, if you prefer that to exploring on your own. It’s clean, lively, and the locals are incredibly friendly.

5. Get off-the-beaten-path in Natchez

I was surprised by Natchez . I didn’t know anything about it when it was recommended as a place to see historic 19th-century homes. These mansions were built by white plantation owners wanting to escape the summer heat and socialize with each other. As cotton became king, the houses became ever larger and more elaborate. Today, the homes are historic monuments you can tour while enjoying a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the beaten path and you’ll need a car to visit but it’s worth the trek.

6. Visit Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil War, allegedly because General Sherman thought it was too pretty to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss-covered oaks, large and inviting parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a wonderful place to experience the slow pace of the South. There are a number of interesting historical sites like the Bonaventure Cemetery and Factors Row. The city is full of small squares and sprawling parks where you can enjoy a stroll or a picnic. And nearby Tybee Island is a draw for many visitors due to its sandy beaches and slow pace of life.

7. Dive into Nashville’s music scene

Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. It’s got a wonderful music scene (duh), a growing cocktail bar culture, and some world-class down-home Southern restaurants. There’s not a lot of “touristy stuff” to do here, but what makes this city one of my favorites are the music, the food, the wildly friendly people, and the positive energy the city seems to exude. When you’re here, plan to spend a few hours at the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into detail about the state’s history (and it’s more exciting than you might think!).

8. Catch some rays in sunny San Diego

I love San Diego. San Diego’s weather is almost always perfect, leading to a permanently happy population that’s friendly and outgoing and that loves the outdoors. From hiking, days at the beach, or running, people here love to get out and enjoy the sun. The downtown Gaslamp area — as well as the famous Pacific Beach — is full of trendy restaurants, bustling bars, and some seriously life-changing taco stalls.

9. Get tipsy in California’s Wine Country

California is home to some of the best wine in the world, and a visit to the Sonoma or Napa Valley shouldn’t be missed. While Sonoma is cheaper than Napa, both these destinations are meant for splashing out. Take a tour, book a cozy vineyard Airbnb, and enjoy a relaxing few days learning about the region’s wines. Tastings usually cost between $15-20 USD. If you go to Sonoma, check out Three Fat Guys winery. They have phenomenal reds.

10. Hike around Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is impressive and beautiful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, this is a terrific place for hiking and boating in the summer and skiing in the winter. For fun in the sun, be sure to spend some time lounging at Kings Beach. For hikes, check out the Rubicon Trail (16 miles/25.7 kilometers) or the Cascade Falls Trail (1.4 miles/2.2 kilometers). You can’t really go wrong here.

11. Anywhere in Montana

A lot has been written about how stunning Montana is, but words cannot do this state justice. To me, it’s the most beautiful state in the Union, filled with wondrous mountains and hills as far as the eye can see. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and there is a huge craft beer scene here too, with tons of local breweries all around the state. If you want nature, good food, friendly locals, and just quiet, Montana is it!

12. Relax in Cape Cod

I spent a lot of summers on the Cape since I grew up in Boston. You’ll find plenty of small beach towns along the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being the most famous but I also love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). There’s not a lot to “do” but if you’re looking for seafood, beaches, boardwalks, and that perfect family vacation, visit the Cape! Just avoid the weekends when it gets a little too crowded.

13. Explore Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this town was famous during the Old West days (noteworthy enough to be the focus of the eponymous HBO series). Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok, and many other infamous gunslingers all spent time here. Sort of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a very cool place where you can experience a taste of the old frontier days. It’s also conveniently located near the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore so you can use it as a base for exploring the region.

14. Be surprised by Kansas City

I really loved this city, which features some of the world’s best BBQ and a lively downtown core. There’s a detailed and enlightening jazz museum here, as well as the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that’s the actual name). This is yet another super underrated and under-visited destination.

15. Stay weird in Portland

Portland , Oregon is incredible. Here you’ll find an impressive food truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s religion to residents, relaxing parks (including a peaceful Japanese garden), a vibrant art scene, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Portland is just an awesome city, especially in the summer when the weather is perfect and there are festivals and events galore.

16. Hike our national parks

America has 63 national parks as well as countless state and local parks. These parks highlight the best of the American wilderness. Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, Byrce, the Smokey Mountains, Rocky Mountain Park, the Badlands — the list goes on. Make sure you visit as many national parks as you can to get a sense of the grand and diverse landscape that is the United States. You can use this government map to find a park near you! If you plan to visit multiple parks, get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and gets you free entry to all the national parks for a year.

17. Admire the architecture in Chicago

One of my favorite cities in the world, Chicago is full of amazing architecture, great parks, delicious and hearty food, and a fun nightlife. One of the best ways to see the city’s unique architecture is on a river cruise. There are multiple operators and prices start around $45. Don’t miss trying deep-dish pizza (it was invented here, along with stuffed-crust pizza) and seeing the iconic “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park. Additionally, check out the city’s famous pier, aquarium, and waterfront park. The city also hosts one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country.

18. Enjoy Lively New Orleans

This French-influenced city has incredible seafood and Cajun cuisine and even better live music. A visit to New Orleans is a must for any jazz or blues fan. Live music is available seven nights a week. Frenchman Street is one of the best places to go (my favorite venue is the Spotted Cat). There are also tons of amazing walking tours that highlight the city’s unique culture and history (including ghost and voodoo tours). Nature lovers will enjoy wandering through the massive oak trees in City Park where you can also visit the city’s Botanical Gardens, which are open year-round. Admission is $12. Plus, there’s incredible independent bookstores, creole food, art museums, and the simply incredible and informative World War 2 museum. Don’t skip roaming the redone and revitalized Bywater district too. It’s a bit hipster. If you plan on celebrating Mardi Gras in NOLA , book early. Accommodations fill up fast.

19. Get some sun in Hawaii

Closer to Asia than the United States, Hawaii is America’s slice of South Pacific paradise. White sands beaches, clear blue water, tropical jungle, and great surf — Hawaii has it all! Don’t miss the otherworldly landscapes of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the somber memorial at Pearl Harbor, and the hikes at Diamond Head and the Lanikai Pillbox Trail near Honolulu. There are a ton of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving where you get a chance to see manta rays, sea turtles, and plenty of colorful fish. Waimea Canyon and the Napali coast on the island of Kauai are places you can get up close and personal with the natural landscape. There are helicopter and boat tours or, if you’re up for a challenge, you can hike the iconic Kalalau Trail. Every island has its own vibe so, if you can, visit more than one.

20. Check out Boston

The birthplace of the revolution (and my hometown), no one leaves Boston disappointed. It’s a big city, but its lack of high-rises, as well as its cobblestone streets and brick buildings, give the city a small-town feel. The Freedom Trail, which covers all the main historic stops, is a must because it gives you a look at the city’s historic past. Be sure to lounge in the Boston Common and catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park too (the city is big on sports).

21. Visit the nation’s capital

The country’s capital is home to many of the best museums in the country. And, given the large number of international embassy workers here, it’s unsurprising one of the most international cities in the country. You can find food from anywhere in the world thanks to all the embassies in the city. Plus, there’s a vibrant music and cocktail scene. Don’t miss the National Mall and all its monuments, the Holocaust Museum, and the various Smithsonian Museums (some of the best are the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of the American Indian, the African American Museum, the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum). If you visit in the spring, you’ll get to see the cherry blossoms bloom along the Mall.

22. Learn about Mt. Rushmore

Completed in 1941, this historic monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a lot smaller than you expect, but it makes a good stop while driving. Originally, the indigenous Lakota Sioux inhabited this area, however, when gold was found in the hills, white settlers forcibly removed them from their homeland. At the Wounded Knee massacre, U.S. forces killed over 250 indigenous women and children. Decades later, Rushmore was built, much to the dismay of the local indigenous population, who consider the land to be sacred. Take a guided tour to learn more about this iconic monument’s complex and tragic history.

23. Be a kid at Disney World

Sure, it’s cheesy . Yes, it’s built for kids. True, it’s not authentic. But despite all that, Disney World is still a fun time and they have a lot of rides for adults too. I recently went back as an adult and there’s a lot to do there: they have some good restaurants, and Disney Springs has a fun nightlife. If you are in Florida, take a stop for a few days. Indulge your inner child. Tickets cost around $110 USD per day and go up from there.

24. Hike the Appalachian Mountains

Stretching the east coast of America, these mountains are almost 500 million years old and offer great hiking, camping, and trekking. For a multi-month adventure, hike the 2,190-mile (3,524-kilometer) Appalachian Trail which covers the entire mountain range and takes 5-7 months to complete. You can also do day hikes or weekend hikes of its various sections if you want a more manageable outdoor getaway.

25. Unwind in Put-In-Bay

One of the coolest, not-so-hidden places in the U.S. is this group of islands in Lake Erie. Widely known to Midwesterners (but unknown to most everyone else), South Bass Island is home to Put-in-Bay, where Midwest hospitality meets Caribbean vibes (you ride around in golf carts and bars have sand as floors). My favorite spot is Mojito Bay, an outdoor tiki bar with sand floors and swings for bar seats that offers up more than 25 different mojitos. These places get very wild on the weekends too.

26. Explore Maine

Tucked away up in the northeast, Maine evokes images of endless shorelines, wild forests, iconic lighthouses, and lots and lots of lobster dinners. It’s often overlooked yet it’s incredibly beautiful and perfect for a short road trip. Don’t miss trying lobster rolls (a regional favorite) and hiking in Acadia National Park. Portland has some great eateries (such as Duckfat and Eventide Oyster Co.) and picturesque historic lighthouses, including Maine’s oldest operating lighthouse, the Portland Head Light, which opened in 1791 when George Washington was president. Additionally, tiny Bangor is home to tons of breweries and Moosehead State Park is an incredible place to go hiking for a few days. And you can’t go wrong stopping in any of the quintessential New England fishing villages up and down the coast. Maine is one of the best states in the union!

27. Take a road trip

The only good way to see this vast and diverse landscape and the small towns that populate it is with a road trip . I highly suggest renting a car and driving across the U.S. It’s an amazing experience. I’ve done several coast-to-coast trips as well as regional trips around New England , California , and the South . It’s the best way to see the country and you can do it for under $50 USD a day.

For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

28. Take a tour

You can find all sorts of amazing walking tours, bike tours, and food tours all around the country. They’re a great way to get an in-depth look at the city you’re in with the help of an expert local guide. Take Walks is my go-to walking tour company when I’m looking for something thorough and insightful (and fun). They can get you behind the scenes and are much more comprehensive than your average free walking tour.

For information on specific cities in the United States, check out these city guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• New York Travel Guide
• Philadelphia Travel Guide
• San Francisco Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

United States Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels can be found in most major cities, though options are generally slim in the country. A bed in a dorm room with 4-6 beds usually costs between $35-55 USD per night. Rooms with more beds are marginally cheaper (they start around $25-30 USD per night). Private rooms are usually $75-125 USD. Expect prices on the higher end in bigger cities and during peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Hostels with free breakfast are rare.

If you plan on camping, expect to pay at least $20-30 USD per night for a basic tent plot for two without electricity.

Cheap motels usually start around $60-75 USD per night and can be found along any highway. Expect basic amenities like TV, Wi-Fi, and AC. Some have pools.

Budget two-star hotels start at $90 USD per night. But, in major cities like NYC, LA, or Chicago, they start closer to $125 USD. The U.S. is very vast and prices fluctuate a lot depending on what region you’re in so check out the specific city guides listed above for more detailed information on accommodation. The United States is too diverse to pin down a specific number!

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at $40 USD per night, though for good rooms, you’ll likely pay closer to $60 USD. For an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least $100 USD per night. Prices in large cities are usually double. Again, there’s a lot of variation depending on where you’re going so check out the city guides for more specific prices!

Food – From seafood in New England to BBQ in the South to Tex-Mex and organic whole foods in the West to German influenced food in the Midwest, there is no singular food culture in the US. Every region has its own staples, which means you’ll never get bored of eating your way around the country.

Since the country is so big, prices for food vary a lot. What is $5 USD in Kansas is probably $15 USD in New York City. Below are some country averages but, if visiting a big metropolis/coastal city, add about 25% to the price.

Grab-and-go sandwiches usually cost around $10 USD while fast food costs $10-12 USD for a combo meal. Meals from food trucks will cost between $10-15 USD. Mid-range casual restaurants cost between $25-30 USD for a meal and drink. At some place a little nicer (think white table cloth), expect to spend at least $60 USD per person on dinner. Prices go up from there and the sky is the limit. Again, consult the city and destination guides for specific prices.

You can generally find takeout pizzas for around $10-15 USD while Chinese and Thai cuisine start around $10-12 USD for a main dish.

Beer is around $6-8 USD, a glass of wine is $8-10 USD, and cocktails start at $14 USD in most cities (about $20 USD in NYC though!). A latte/cappuccino is $4-5 USD and bottled water is $2 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay about $60-80 USD per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking the United States Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit the United States? Well, how much you spend largely depends on where in the United States you’re going to visit. For example, New York City is much more expensive than Memphis and San Francisco is going to hit your budget harder than Boise. The South is cheaper than the North and the interior states are cheaper than the coasts. The comparisons are endless! However, this overview can give you a basic look at what to expect based on your travel style and assuming you’re going to mix cheap and expensive destinations.

On a backpacking budget of $75 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free activities like walking tours, hiking, and hanging out at beaches. If you plan on drinking, add another $10-20 USD per day. If you can camp or Couchsurf, you can likely get this down to $50-60 USD per day.

On a mid-range budget of $210 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or motel, eat out for most meals, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On an upscale budget of $350 USD or more per day, you can stay in a midrange hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

United States Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There are plenty of ways to save money when you travel the U.S. but it varies a lot by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help you get started but, for more specific tips, visit my city guides.

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to a new place, and most major cities in the U.S. have free walking tours. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Take the bus – The cheapest way to get around the U.S. is by bus. Bus fares cost as little as $1 USD, though 2-3-hour journeys start around $30 USD. Between cities, the best companies are Megabus, Greyhound, and FlixBus.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in big cities. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car.
• Get a U.S. Park Pass – This national park pass lets you into all the national parks for free so you don’t have to keep paying admission. The annual fee is $80 USD and it pays for itself after four parks.
• Cook – The United States has some of the cheapest groceries in the developed world, while eating out here can add up quickly once you factor in a tip and tax (which varies by state). Grocery shopping can about $60 USD per week and is way cheaper and healthier than eating out every day. Cook and save!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with a local who can share their tips and advice while sharing your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Camp – Most campsites start around $20-30 USD per night for a tent — much cheaper than a hostel. You can use nps.gov to find campsites run by the National Park Service. You can also camp for free in National Forests or Bureau Land Management (BLM) lands (search for “dispersed camping” options). Just be sure to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when camping.
• Use city tourism cards – City tourism cards allow you to see a large number of attractions (and often include free public transportation) for one low price, usually $75–100 USD. If you plan on seeing a lot, these can save you a ton.
• Share your ride – If you have a car, taking on riders can be a way to lower your costs. On my first trip across the U.S., I offered rides to people I met in hostels. On another trip, I had friends and readers join me along the way. You can post ads on Craigslist and at hostels to find riders. This not only makes the trip more enjoyable but lowers your gas costs too. If you don’t have a car, you can use look for rides in the same places.
• Stay at roadside hotels – There are a plethora of cheap roadside hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8 to the rescue. Rooms start around $60-75 USD a night (plus tax). They’re great when you’re traveling with someone and can split the cost.
• Find free museums and events – Inquire at tourism offices, use Google, or ask hotel or hostel staff for information about free events and museums. Many museums offer free or discounted admission times throughout the week.
• Get free water or free refills – If you order a drink, most restaurants allow free refills while you eat your meal or refills at a low cost. If you ask, tap water is usually provided for free.
• Save on gas – If you’re on a road trip, use the app GasBuddy to find cheap gas near you. Also, sign up for gas station loyalty programs as they can save you money on fill ups.

Where to Stay in the United States

Hostels are not all that plentiful across the United States yet. Generally, those that do exist are clean, social, and fun. You’ll find a lot of budget hotels wherever you go. here are some of my recommended places to stay around the USA (the cities guides will have even more suggestions):

• HI Hostel (Boston)
• The Revolution Hotel (Boston)
• HI Hostel (Chicago)
• The Arlo (Chicago)
• Banana Bungalow (Los Angeles)
• Hollywood Historic Hotel Los Angeles
• Hostel Memphis (Memphis)
• Hu Hotel (Memphis)
• Freehand (Miami)
• Hotel Ocean (Miami)
• HI New Orleans (New Orleans)
• Villa Convento (New Orleans)
• The Local (New York City)
• Heritage Hotel (New York City)
• ITH Adventure Hostel (San Diego)
• Old Town Inn (San Diego)
• The Green Tortoise (San Francisco)
• SW Hotel (San Francisco)
• The Green Tortoise (Seattle)
• MarQueen Hotel (Seattle)

How to Get Around the United States

City transportation – Most U.S. cities have public transportation, including metro systems and buses. Fares cost around $2-3 USD for a single journey, but there are usually packaged options for visitors. For example, you can get a 7-day unlimited MetroCard in New York City for $34 USD, which covers both buses and the subway system, while San Francisco offers a 7-day transit pass for $41 USD.

Outside of major cities, subways are rare. Some of the smaller cities have trams. Everywhere has a bus though and that’s usually the best way to get around.

Taxis – Taxis are metered with charges starting around $3 USD plus $2-3 USD per mile. This is one of the most expensive ways to get around, however, so I’d skip it unless you have no other choice.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are generally cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.

Intercity Bus – Taking the bus is one of the cheapest options for getting around the country, with fares as low as $1 USD if you book far enough in advance. Popular bus companies include:

A 4-5-hour bus ride from New York to Washington D.C. starts at $30 USD, while the 7-hour journey from Chicago to Detroit starts at $27 USD. Austin to New Orleans is around $54 USD. Booking early can save you upwards of 50% so try to plan ahead if you’re going to be taking the bus.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Flying is your quickest option for long distance. You can occasionally find sales for as little as $100 USD so it’s worth it to check several websites ahead of time to see what deals are on. Post-COVID, fares are a lot higher than they were in the past. But if you find a deal, book in advance, or go off season, you can usually get a cheap fare. Sample one-way fares include San Francisco to Maui for $100-150 USD, Seattle to Austin for $85-115 USD, or New York to L.A. for $250 USD (round trip). However, prices can easily double if booked last minute.

For more information on how to find a cheap flight, check out this article .

Train – Amtrak is the rail provider for the United States, but it’s not the quickest or most affordable way to travel. They have routes all around the country ( here’s their route map ) and offer a cross-country pass for $499 USD. The USA Rail Pass gives you 30 days of travel over 10 segments, which averages out to around $50 USD per leg.

If you have a valid student ID you can save 15% on your tickets.

As for prices, A 20-hour train ride from Chicago to New Orleans costs around $110 USD, while a multi-day trip from New York to Los Angeles is around $280 USD. Book in advance to find the best deals. Shorter trips lasting 2-4 hours are usually under $40 USD.

Car rental – Roadtripping is a great way to explore the country, and car rentals can be found for as little as $35 USD for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in the United States is common and safe. Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and a light meal or two, like sandwiches and fruit. Hitchwiki is a great resource for additional hitchhiking tips.

When to Go to the United States

Since the United States is such a large country, the climate and temperature change drastically from coast to coast and from north to south.

The northern states have clearly defined seasons. In cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York, winter can bring heavy snowfall and more severe temperatures. Coastal areas like Seattle and Portland, Oregon, tend to be milder. Spring can start as late as May in the northernmost parts of the country, but this is a good time to visit because the weather begins to warm up and the busy tourist season hasn’t started yet. Summers are gorgeous and temperatures climb into the 80s°F (30s°C). It’s also the busiest time of year for tourism. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the northern states because many parts of this region have a lot of trees. Temperatures have cooled, crowds have dwindled, and the changing leaves offer an something extra to enjoy.

The southern states have less defined seasons. In the southwest, winters tend to be dry and mild. In the southeast, temperatures are mild but places like and Memphis can be rainy. Spring is a wonderful time to visit this part of the country because temperatures are warm but not stifling. Summers get incredibly hot and humid in the southeast. In the desert areas of the southwest, like Las Vegas, temperatures can soar well above 104°F (40°C) on some days. Autumn cools things off across the southern states, but can also bring severe weather in the southeast. .

Ultimately, the best time to travel to the United States depends on where you’re headed and what kind of activities you’d like to do. Visit our city guides for more specific information on when to go.

How to Stay Safe in the United States

The United States is a massive country and “safety” changes a lot depending on where you go and what you do. Generally, the US safe place to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo.

Violent attacks tend to be confined to certain areas (especially where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, especially around popular tourist landmarks and in larger cities, especially on the west coast where theft is a much more common problem. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially while taking crowded public transportation.

Gun violence and mass shootings tend to dominate headlines when they happen. However, the chances of it happening to you are slim. Do not let this discourage you from exploring the United States. The U.S. is very big and very, very diverse. And, due to this size, there is a lot of cultural (and political) variation. Despite what you hear, crime in America is low. (There was far more crime in the US in the 1990s!). For more information, read this post, “ Is it Safe to Visit the United States?”

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Take common sense safety measures and you’ll be fine.

Moreover, be sure to read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe but all the standard safety cautions apply. For specific tips, I would read one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

United States Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

United States Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in San Francisco: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

The 5 Best Hotels in San Francisco

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

American Airlines Launches Luxury Motorcoach Service Connecting Wilmington and Philadelphia Airports

WILMINGTON, DE — American Airlines, in collaboration with The Landline Company, is set to introduce a novel “tarmac-to-tarmac” luxury motorcoach service linking Wilmington Airport (ILG) with Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), marking a pioneering initiative to streamline travel between the two key aviation hubs. This innovative service is slated to commence operations on October 7, 2024, offering customers a seamless and convenient travel experience.

The new service, designed to enhance passenger connectivity and comfort, enables travelers to clear security and check their bags at ILG before boarding a luxurious American Airlines branded motorcoach bound for Philadelphia International Airport. Upon arrival at PHL’s Terminal F, passengers can disembark directly at a secure gate, facilitating a smooth transition to their connecting flights within American’s expansive global network.

Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Fred Strathmeyer emphasized the significance of this service for enhancing traveler convenience and supporting local ecosystems, stating, “Protecting our environment starts with each of us. By planting native species in our gardens and yards, we create vital food and shelter for native wildlife and pollinators critical to our food supply.” This initiative aligns with a broader commitment to fostering biodiversity and promoting sustainable ecosystems.

The luxury motorcoaches, featuring premium leather seats and amenities like free WiFi and in-seat power, offer passengers a high-end travel experience akin to the premium cabin of a regional jet. Furthermore, passengers have the opportunity to earn and redeem AAdvantage® miles through these Landline connections, adding a rewarding dimension to their travel experiences.

With six daily roundtrip operations planned, the service will cater to passengers’ needs by aligning its schedule with key American Airlines flights departing from PHL. By enabling travelers to seamlessly navigate between airports, this new offering aims to optimize connectivity, minimize travel disruptions, and elevate the overall passenger experience.

Thomas J. Cook, Executive Director of the Delaware River and Bay Authority, expressed enthusiasm for the introduction of the service at ILG, highlighting the airport’s hometown appeal and customer-centric approach. Through this partnership with American Airlines and Landline, ILG aims to provide travelers with a hassle-free airport experience, characterized by efficient parking options and superior service standards.

Joe Sottile, Director of Shorthaul Network Planning for American Airlines, lauded the expanded partnership with Landline as a means to extend American’s global reach to residents of Wilmington and Delaware, granting them access to over 100 destinations worldwide through the Philadelphia hub. This integration underscores the airline’s commitment to enhancing passenger connectivity and accessibility.

Michael Sharer, Landline’s Northeast Operations Lead, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the seamless nature of the service that allows passengers to clear security at ILG and transit through Philadelphia post-security, streamlining their travel experience. By offering a premium motorcoach connection, this service embodies a convergence of comfort, convenience, and connectivity for travelers bound for diverse destinations.