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USA Tours & Trips

Two young women looking out over the Empire State Building
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Travel America for a super-sized adventure you’ll never forget! There’s no destination quite as famous and naturally diverse as this one, with 50 entire states that await exploration. Maybe you’re a New Yorker at heart and feel like the shining city that never sleeps is your true home. You could be a movie buff chasing the Hollywood sign and glistening golden coast, a hiker hoping to discover America’s finest national parks or a music lover hoping to rock out in Memphis, learn how to line dance in Nashville or sway to the sound of Jazz in New Orleans. Whatever kind of traveller you are, there’s bound to be a USA experience that suits you. No matter if you’re planning a gap year, epic USA road trip or a short but sweet getaway: Chase your own American dream today! 

Read more in our USA Travel Guide.

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USA Facts

Capital City

Washington, D.C.

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Language

English

Dialling Code

+1

Plug Type

Types A & B

USA Highlights

Empire State building and New York skyline at sunset

New York City

The bar is set sky-high for New York – and it still delivers. It’s the concrete jungle where dreams are made of, whether it’s a performer hoping to make it to the Broadway stage, an art lover browsing the MET gallery or a sports fan looking to tour the Yankee stadium. Once you’ve had a taste of the city that never sleeps, you’re left craving more.

Red rocky canyon with blue and green lake running through each side, Horseshoe Bay, Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon

If you’re taking a trip to the Wild West, then don’t skip out on the Grand Canyon. Named as one of the world’s seven natural wonders, its red and rocky landscape is exhilarating to explore. From the rugged trails and the breezy sky-walk to the turquoise waterfalls tucked inside gorges, the Grand Canyon is made for adventure.

Huge waterfall lit up like a rainbow with tree to the right side, Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

As the largest waterfall in North America, Niagara Falls is a show-stopper! This astonishing attraction is straddled across the US and Canadian border, and this side of the water is where you’ll get to experience the scenery up close in all its splashing, misty glory. Plus, the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are unique to the New York State.

The Hollywood sign on the dry green hill with a beautiful pink and orange sunset over Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Featuring golden stretches of sand and rolling red carpets, LA is off the charts. It’s an essential destination for movie lovers, and you could easily fill your days touring Universal Studios and pacing the star-studded Walk of Fame. For off-screen action, check out the vibrant rides at Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach’s bustling boardwalk.

Bright red bridge at misty soft sunrise with city in the distance, San Francisco

San Francisco

Between the lantern-lit Chinatown Alleyways, the revival-style homes of Haight Street, the charming cable cars that glide across the steep hills and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge… San Francisco is a top city destination. After exploring its cultural icons (many of which are free!), get acquainted with San Francisco’s diverse culinary palate!

Eclectic cityscape with Eiffel Tower to the right amid neon-lit buildings and fountain, Las Vegas

Las Vegas

Some call it “Sin City”, others call it “Disneyland for Adults” - but regardless, Las Vegas needs no introduction. What happens here stays here, but the city’s roaring nightlife, jackpot-hitting casinos and eclectic world tour architecture is an open secret. Las Vegas is a whole load of fun, no matter how you play your cards!

Beautiful landscape with bright blue sky, fresh green grass, a still lake, tall forest trees and high grey cliffs above

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite stands out from the crowd for good reason. Its waterfalls reach record heights, and when the sun sets in February, look just like lava. Then there are the forests featuring groves that touch the sky! Add in the staggering rock formations like El Capitan which daredevil climbers aim to climb (even without ropes) and it’s an active paradise.

Route 66 in police badge marked into sandy ground

Route 66

Drive one of the greatest routes in America as part of an epic USA road trip. Route 66 whisks you from the east to the west coast, starting in Chicago until you reach Santa Monica in Los Angeles. Explore the enchanting scenery of New Mexico, the spray-painted Cadillac Ranch of Texas and the neon lights of Las Vegas on this 3-week adventure.

Neon-lit signs featuring guitars and phrases like

Tennessee

Tennessee has a lyrical legacy like no other USA state, as it’s where legendary sounds like Country and Rock & Roll were born. When you’re not dancing downtown in Memphis and Nashville in Cowboy boots, or touring the spots where music legends like Elvis made it big, fill up on hot chicken and fiery BBQ, and learn more about history Down South.

Creole style curved building with delicate white banisters and plotted plants hanging above each section

New Orleans

New Orleans is an extraordinary cultural melting pot featuring Creole staple dishes like Gumbo and Jambalaya, French architecture and world-famous Jazz. Whether you take it slow in the blues bars or have come for Carnival, New Orleans promises adventure to the sound of sweet music. Start at Bourbon Street and see where your travels take you!

Birdseye shot of a white sand beach with colourful umbrellas and sunbathers with bright water that has swimmers in it

Miami

There’s magic in Miami. From the moment you step foot onto the sensational beaches lightly shaded by palm trees, your life is changed. Discover Art Deco wonders, Cuban cuisine and all the flavours of Latin America at the tip of Florida. You’ll feel like a VIP partying as the sun sets over this vibrant city blessed with incredible nightlife!

Bright blue sky with bright pink palace with purple, grey and gold accents in the centre, Disneyworld

Orlando

Orlando offers over a dozen theme parks to travellers, so you could easily spend weeks hopping between all the adrenaline-rush activities and colourful attractions! At the top of the queue are Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios, because who doesn’t want to explore sparkling castles, ride movie-themed rollercoasters or feel like a wizard?

USA Travel Advice

People hanging out on sunny park with palm trees, people are doing gymnastic tricks and standing around smiling

Climate & Weather

The USA’s climate variety is huge, with each of the five regions offering something different to travellers. From arctic wonderlands to tropical beaches and national parks, you can experience every end of the weather spectrum in just this one country. Escape to the Rockies for hiking trails and skiing, fall head over heels for New England’s autumn foliage and go for long walks on California’s golden beaches.

Swirly bright orange cave ceiling with bright blue sky peaking in the centre

Best Time to Visit

Because of how naturally diverse the country is, there’s always a good time to travel America and join USA tours! Some states have weather seasons, so it is always best to check before you travel for each region you plan to visit. 

December and March is an ideal time of year for skiing and wintery city breaks. Meanwhile, June to August is perfect for beach days, Fourth of July parties and water activities. The shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October typically have milder weather and cheaper prices; so they’re a great time for exploring the national parks or planning a road trip.

Traditional Native American fabrics hanging in organised pile on golden brown stone wall

Customs & Culture

America is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, and so cultural customs will vary based on where you travel. Small talk and a smile go a long way here, as does respecting people’s personal space and beliefs. 

Tipping culture is the norm here, and it is customary to tip 20-25% for bars, cafes, restaurants and taxis. While this sounds like a lot, the USA is comparatively cheaper than the UK when it comes to public transport, petrol and car hire. The portion sizes at restaurants are also much bigger, so you’re getting more bang for your buck!

Red and blue british passports

Passports & Visas

The majority of British passport holders will be eligible for the ESTA visa waiver, but we always recommend that travellers check the list of requirements first before booking any trip in case they need to complete a visa application. 

Your passport must be in good condition and be valid for the duration of your stay while visiting the USA.

Red and white striped flag with stars in navy box up-close, golden sunlight peaking through the USA flag

Health & Safety

Medical treatment is expensive and some hospitals may ask you to pay a deposit upon admission. Before you travel abroad, always organise travel insurance to cover the length of your stay. At least 8 weeks before you travel, check that you have the necessary vaccinations.

The USA is a great destination for tourists and general precautions are encouraged. Laws can change slightly from state to state, so it is always best to read up on each destination you plan to visit. Extreme weather is uncommon but can occur in some parts of the USA; follow the advice of local authorities in an emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

America is an incredible location to do a gap year in. With 50 states to explore, you’ll never run out of activity options or destinations here! There’s something for everyone in the USA - whether you’re a city break person, a nature lover looking to explore a few national parks or wanting to run to the nearest beach. We offer multiple America tours that cover country highlights and regions in closer detail, or you could even apply to be an Au Pair!

Flight times will vary slightly depending on which region of the USA you plan to visit, but most flights are typically direct. London to New York is typically the fastest route at around 7-8 hours, while flights to Nashville and Miami take around 9 hours. If you’re visiting Los Angeles from London, your flight length will typically be 11 hours and 20 minutes. Finally, if you are flying to Alaska or Hawaii from London, there will be one stopover as flights take at least 13 hours and 17 hours each.

Because the minimum wage in America is quite low, workers rely on tipping to make up this difference. Travellers are encouraged to tip 20 to 25% for services like at a restaurant, bar, cafe, hotel, taxi or delivery food service. However, sometimes your tip will automatically added to your bill as a gratuity; if you see this, then it means you don’t have to tip any extra (although you’re welcome to!). If you join one of our America tours, then the trip leader will be happy to go over how tipping works in the USA.

Most car hire companies in the USA will only accept drivers who are aged 21 or over. It is sometimes customary for drivers who are under the age of 25 to pay a higher amount in insurance to cover their car hire. While a USA road trip is an incredible travel opportunity, it may be more budget-friendly for you to join one of our USA tours or look into renting a campervan where you can take your accommodation with you!

The legal drinking age in the USA is 21. While this can be frustrating for under 21 travellers, a gap year in America can still be a fantastic experience with epic national parks, exciting city breaks and exhilarating theme parks for you to explore!

Your passport must be valid for the length of your stay in the USA. Most British passport holders are eligible for the ESTA visa waiver, but we always encourage travellers to check the requirements before they book any America tours or trips. Your ESTA visa waiver will cover any trip to the USA for tourism purposes under 90 days.

@gap360official | USA

Group traveller standing at top of viewpoint at the Grand Canyon in USA
New York to San Francisco Adventure ⭐⁠...
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Traveller standing near viewpoint of San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge in America
Kick off your tour with the Big Apple waving for a yellow taxi and then hitting all the iconic destinations of the USA and finish at the Golden Gate Bridge in San Fran! ⁠...
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Group travellers looking over New York skyline at Empire State Building
t's #NationalSkyscraperDay 🌇⁠Celebrate with us by booking your dream trip to the USA!⁠...
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Group travellers at Grand Canyon viewpoint in USA
What is better than seeing America's amazing canyons, coasts and casinos? 🦅⁠...
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USA Trip Reviews

3.8
Rating
98
Reviews

Emily

The tour itself wasn't as fast-paced and had plenty of time to do things. Our tour guide was amazing, easy to chat to and ask questions. She gave us clear information about things in regards to safety and what to expect and loved…

Chris

Very helpful and informative.

Oliver

The trip was really good and the activities were great! Olivia our tour guide,was excellent, Olivia would be the life of the party but was also professional and did her job well

Lucy Crowley

I had an absolute blast! I can't recommend it enough! Well organised with a good balance between arranged/included activities and free time. A trip of a lifetime and I have made so many friends.

Freya MacKenzie

Really straightforward to book and good email contact if any questions needed answering

Jake

Best time of my life and amazing experience!

Karl Damerell

Best thing I have ever done

Grace

Micah and Bill our bus driver were amazing. They knew so much and have great recommendations for places to go to eat and places to see. Activities were great.

Judith Jones

Good value and smooth experience!

Felicity

Love, love, loved the tour, all the new people I met and the tour guide and driver. We became like a family and was so hard to say goodbye.

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