Best experiences / Blog articles
Short description: The United States is the birthplace of environmental conservation in the form of national parks, an idea that spread all over the world. Vast areas of almost undisturbed wilderness offer rare opportunities to enjoy solitude and tranquility, and are thus prime spots for camping and hiking. On the other hand, the “never-sleeping” metropoles offer with the widest selection of entertainment, from first-class theater and musicals to abundant Michelin-starred restaurants and even adrenaline-rushing theme park rides. Although not as old as some other countries, the USA does not lack history – the Native American sites dotted throughout the southwest provide a preview into the pre-Columbian lifestyle in North America. As a melting pot of cultures from all around the world, and a combination of nature and history, this country can cater to all tastes.
Best photos: check out our favourite photos from the United States
Best time to visit: late spring or early fall to avoid crowds but still enjoy nice weather
Best experiences
- national parks – One can visit almost 60 national parks in the United States, with each offering unique landscapes, adventures and wildlife. It’s hard to choose which park to visit first, but there are no rights or wrongs – however, we do have a few recommendations for what not to miss. Grand Canyon National Park with its desert-y landscape never fails to impress. Totally contrasting the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park and its unique wildlife and volcanic activity is also hugely popular. They both offer numerous hiking trails and adventurous activities with absolutely awe-inspiring sights, but tend to get a bit crowded during the summer months and holidays. During that time we advise a visit to one of the smaller and less known (but not less beautiful) national parks. Our favorites are: Death Valley where the singing sand dunes and mysteriously moving rocks can be found; Petrified Forest National Park which is scattered with rainbow-colored fossilized wood; and Channel Islands National Park with its aquatic wildlife.
- Native American heritage sites – There are over 550 different tribes in the US, each with a unique language and culture which are highlighted during festivals, and in galleries and museums across the country. Native American cuisine is a must-try – the Indian fried taco is probably the most well-known dish. Although most Native American settlements were destroyed during the colonization period, a few of them are preserved and offer a unique view into North American history. An incredibly popular historical site is Mesa Verde National Park, featuring impressive cliff dwellings. For a more off-the-beaten-track version, head to Canyon de Chelly National Monument. This canyon combines unique geological formations with Ancient Puebloan settlements and Navajo culture. There are many more interesting remains, but if we would have to pick one more, that would be Taos Pueblo with its multi-storied architecture that has been inhabited for over 1000 years.
- wildlife viewing – The highlight of a hiking trip is often the thrilling moment when you spot a bear, a herd of bison, seals or a condor. In Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park, little effort and luck are required to see elk, moose, bison and pronghorn antelopes grazing near the road or observe a bear crossing your path – but you do have to wake up before the sunrise to catch the animals when they are most active. However, if sea mammals and birds are your cup of tea then a visit to Channel Islands is sure to satisfy: numerous sea lions, 3 different species of seals, dolphins and whales (try to catch the pupping season for the most adorable sights) all call these islands their home. For those with a short amount of time, a good alternative for seal viewing is La Jolla beach in San Diego where these amazing creatures can be seen sunbathing. In addition, while visiting the Grand Canyon or surrounding areas, do not forget to look up to see the largest American bird that many times soars there, the condor. For the more adventurous, a summer visit to the Alaskan wilderness offers a unique opportunity to see sometimes even up to 20 bears fishing for salmon in the rivers from just a few meters away.
- cruising the Pacific coastline – The road on the West (or Pacific) coast can take you from green lush forests of Washington state to the desert and beaches of California. A combination of diverse landscapes, breathtaking seaside views and tantalizing cities makes for a perfect road trip. Obligatory activities on this road include: a hike through Olympic National Park with its snow-capped mountains and old growth forests; exploring the dynamic cities of Seattle and Portland; walking among the world’s tallest living beings in Redwood National Park; the perfect photo opportunity with Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco; a leisurely drive through the scenic coastline of Big Sur; and finally reaching Los Angeles and San Diego to mingle with celebrities and enjoy the luring sandy beaches. A great alternative to the long car ride is to take a scenic train ride along the coast from Los Angeles to Seattle (or vice versa) with Amtrak’s Coast Starlight line which offers the best views of the Pacific coast.
- green giants – We might be a bit partial on this one as we are both huge nature lovers, but who wouldn’t want to visit the largest and tallest living beings on the planet! You can even drive through them, over them and under them – we are talking about the Giant Sequoias and Redwood trees that can be found only in the US. The largest tree in the world, General Sherman, calls Sequoia National Park home. In addition, one can find in the park impressive sequoia groves that will make you feel really tiny. The tallest tree in the world (over 115 meters tall!), Hyperion, grows with its tall friends in Redwood National Park, located on the northern coast of California. Beside trees, park highlights include mesmerizing and almost unknown beaches.
- road trips – To explore the vast territories of the US, why not embrace the American love for cars and go on a long road trip? There are many options to go, either from east to west or from north to south. For the latter, the amazing Pacific Coast route is recommended. For a classic US experience the best choice would be a drive along the historic Route 66 running from Chicago all the way to Los Angeles while crossing the vast plains of the mid-west and numerous desert-like landscapes (including the Grand Canyon). Another great coast-to-coast option is U.S. Route 20 which passes through some American jewels like Yellowstone National Park and Niagara Falls, as well as the architectural wonders of Chicago and Boston.
