Best Time to Visit the United States

The United States is vast and diverse — from New York City’s skyline and California’s beaches to the Rocky Mountains and the deserts of Arizona. Because of its size, there’s no single “best” time to visit the U.S.; instead, it depends on which region you’re exploring and what kind of experience you want. Here’s a guide to help you decide when to go.

United States by Season: A Complete Guide

🌸 Spring (March – May): Blooming Parks and Pleasant Weather

Spring is one of the best times to visit many parts of the U.S. The weather is mild, flowers are in bloom, and national parks come alive with colour. It’s an ideal time for city breaks and outdoor adventures before the summer crowds arrive.

• Highlights: Comfortable temperatures (10–25°C depending on region), perfect for visiting Washington, D.C., New York, and the national parks, Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., lower hotel prices than in summer.

☀️ Summer (June – August): Sunshine, Road Trips, and Festivals

Summer is peak travel season in the U.S., with warm weather across most of the country. It’s perfect for exploring beaches, taking scenic road trips, and enjoying outdoor events. Coastal states like California, Florida, and Oregon are at their best, while national parks attract millions of visitors.

• Highlights: Warm to hot temperatures (20–35°C, higher in the south and desert areas), ideal for beach holidays, theme parks, and road trips, Independence Day (4 July) celebrations and music festivals, expect higher prices and busy attractions.

🍂 Autumn (September – November): Fall Colours and Harvest Season

Autumn is one of the most picturesque times to visit the United States. The changing leaves transform the landscapes of New England, the Great Smoky Mountains, and the Midwest into a palette of reds and golds. The weather is pleasant, and the summer crowds have thinned.

• Highlights: Mild temperatures (10–25°C), stunning fall foliage in the northeast and mountain regions, perfect for scenic drives and harvest festivals, lower accommodation costs than in summer.

❄️ Winter (December – February): Snow, Sunshine, and Festive Spirit

Winter in the U.S. offers both snow-covered getaways and warm escapes, depending on where you go. Northern regions are perfect for skiing and Christmas markets, while southern destinations such as Florida, Arizona, and California provide sunshine and outdoor fun.

• Highlights: Cold in the north (−5–10°C), warm in the south (15–25°C), excellent skiing in Colorado, Utah, and Vermont, Christmas and New Year celebrations in major cities, off-season bargains in many destinations.

From the neon lights of Las Vegas to the glaciers of Alaska and the beaches of Hawaii, every season in the United States brings something different. With a little planning, you can experience the best of America — whatever time of year you visit.

Top Travel Tips for the United States

• Tipping is Customary: Tipping (gratuity) is a significant part of the culture and service workers' wages. Expect to tip 15-20% at sit-down restaurants (on the pre-tax bill), $1-2 per drink at a bar, $2-5 per day for hotel housekeeping, and 10-15% for taxis or rideshares.
• Sales Tax Isn't Included: The price you see on a tag is not the final price. Sales tax is added at checkout and varies by state and city (ranging from 0% in some states to over 10% in others).
• Transportation: The U.S. is vast and, outside of major cities like New York, Washington D.C., and Chicago, public transport is limited. Renting a car is often the best way to explore. For long distances (e.g., New York to Los Angeles), you will need to fly.
• Understand the Distances: Don't underestimate the size of the country. A drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco takes about 6-7 hours; a drive from New York to Los Angeles would take 4-5 *days*. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
• National Parks Pass: If you plan to visit multiple national parks (like the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, or Zion), buy an "America the Beautiful" pass. It costs $80 for a year and covers entry for a carload of passengers to all national parks and federal recreation sites.
• Legal Drinking Age: The legal age for purchasing and consuming alcohol is 21 everywhere in the country. Be prepared to show photo ID (like a passport) even if you are well over 21.

Things to do in the United States

See the Statue of Liberty in New York, explore the majestic Grand Canyon, discover the national parks of California, or experience the magic of the theme parks in Florida. Book easily via our trusted partners: