United States of America
The United States of America , or USA for short, is a large and diverse state in North America. The 50 states and the District of Columbia, with Washington, D.C. as its capital, cover a vast area from the Atlantic to the Pacific and offer an extraordinary variety of landscapes, including cities, deserts, forests, mountains and prairies. The USA is known for its cultural diversity, its economic strength and its political influence in the world.
Facts
With an area of around 9.8 million square kilometres, the United States is the third largest country in the world after Russia and Canada. The country offers impressive geographical diversity, including the Rocky Mountains, the Great Plains, the Mojave Desert and the Great Lakes. The climate zones range from arctic in Alaska to tropical in Hawaii.
With around 331 million inhabitants, the USA is the third most populous country in the world with a variety of ethnic groups and cultures. The capital is Washington, D.C. and, as the political centre of the country, is home to important government buildings and institutions. As a federal district, the District of Columbia (D.C.) is an independent political unit that reports directly to the federal government. The largest city is New York City and a global cultural and financial centre.
The United States emerged from 13 British colonies (Virginia, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maryland, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Georgia) along the east coast of North America. These colonies declared their independence from Great Britain in 1776 and formed the basis of today’s USA.
The USA has six main time zones, from UTC-5 (Eastern Time) to UTC-10 (Hawaii-Aleutian Time). The bank holidays, Independence Day, is celebrated annually on the 4th of July and commemorates the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
The United States is a federal republic with a democratic constitution. The president is both head of state and head of government. The country consists of 50 federal states and has a federal structure in which the states have a high degree of autonomy. Alaska and Hawaii were last admitted to the United States in 1959.
In terms of gross domestic product (GDP), the USA is the world’s largest economy and a leader in areas such as technology, finance, entertainment and energy. The most important export goods include aircraft, electronics, chemicals, petroleum products and vehicles.
The currency of the United States is the US dollar (USD), also known as $ or the dollar. It is the world’s most widely used reserve currency and plays a central role in the global trading and financial system.
The United States is known for its cultural diversity and its contributions to global pop culture, such as Hollywood, jazz, blues and Broadway. They are also leaders in higher education and home to many of the world’s most prestigious universities, including Harvard, MIT and Stanford.
With sights such as the Statue of Liberty, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Grand Canyon, the country attracts tourists from all over the world. The USA is also home to more than 60 national parks, including Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, which offer breathtaking scenery.
In the USA, the term ‘flyover states’ refers to states that are frequently flown over by travellers without necessarily making a stopover or a longer stay there. These states are mostly located in the Midwest and the Great Plains of the USA and are often less well-known to tourists or the media. However, they offer many natural beauties and a unique culture.
Sport plays a central role in the USA, both culturally and economically. The most popular sports are American football (NFL), basketball (NBA), baseball (MLB) and ice hockey (NHL). Major events such as the Super Bowl, the NBA Finals or the World Series attract millions of fans. College sports such as football and basketball also have large fan bases. Sport is not only entertainment, but also an important economic factor and characterises the everyday lives of many Americans.
Due to the right to private gun ownership, the United States of America has a high density of weapons, which contributes to a high level of violent crime. Crime rates vary greatly between individual states and cities, with metropolitan areas such as Chicago and Los Angeles often taking centre stage. Although the murder rate in the USA is higher than in many other industrialised countries, the overall crime rate has fallen in recent decades. The death penalty is permitted in many states and remains a controversial issue, as do gun control and reforms.
Food & Drinks
Food
Barbecue (BBQ): Barbecue is an important part of American cuisine, especially in the South and West. It consists of slow-cooked meat such as ribs, pulled pork or brisket, which is served with various sauces. Typical side dishes are coleslaw, beans and cornbread. Every region has its own barbecue sauce, from sweet to hot.
Hamburger and hot dogs: The classics of American fast food cuisine. The hamburger, usually made from beef, is often served with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions and various sauces. Hot dogs are sausages served in a soft bun and often garnished with mustard, ketchup, onions or sauerkraut. Both dishes are particularly popular at barbecues, in the fast food sector and at sporting events.
Soul Food: Soul food is the traditional cuisine of the American South, which combines African and European influences. Famous dishes include fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens and cornbread. These hearty and flavoursome dishes are an important part of the African-American heritage and culture of the southern states.
Tex-Mex: Tex-Mex is a mixture of Texan and Mexican cuisine. Popular dishes include tacos, burritos and quesadillas, often with hot spices, cheese, meat and beans. It is a fusion of both cultures and an important part of American cuisine.
Clam Chowder and Lobster: Clam chowder is a creamy clam chowder that is very popular in New England. Lobster rolls consist of lobster meat in a roll, often with butter or mayonnaise, and are particularly popular in Maine. Both are typical dishes from the North American coast.
Pizza and bagels: Italian-American specialities such as New York-style pizza or Chicago deep-dish pizza have a firm place in American food culture. Bagels are also a popular breakfast, especially in New York.
Desserts: In the USA there is a wide variety of desserts, including apple pie, cheesecake, brownies and donuts. Pecan pie, pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving and ice cream sundaes are also popular.
Drinks
Soft drinks: In the USA, soft drinks are an integral part of the culture. Popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Sprite dominate the market, but regionally known drinks such as root beer and Dr Pepper also have a large following.
Coffee: Filter coffee is widely available, as are speciality coffees from large chains such as Starbucks. Coffee is an important part of the American lifestyle.
Iced Tea und Lemonade: Iced tea and lemonade: Iced tea, often sweetened or unsweetened, and homemade lemonade are refreshing classics, especially in the warmer regions of the USA.
Milkshakes and smoothies: Milkshakes, usually made from ice cream, and fruity smoothies are popular sweet drinks that are often consumed as a snack between meals.
Beer: Craft beers are particularly popular in the USA, where breweries offer a wide variety of flavours. Brand beers and regional specialities characterise the beer culture.
Whiskey: Whiskey is an important part of American beverage culture, especially bourbon from Kentucky and Tennessee whiskey such as Jack Daniel’s. Bourbon is characterised by sweet aromas and maturation in oak barrels, while Tennessee whiskey is additionally filtered through charcoal. Other well-known varieties are rye whiskey and corn whiskey.
Wine: The USA is one of the largest wine producers in the world, with California as the leading region. Famous wine-growing regions such as Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley are synonymous with first-class wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Zinfandel. Oregon and Washington are also known for their Pinot Noir and Riesling wines. American wines are characterised by diversity and innovation, with a focus on quality and regional character.
Cocktails: There are many famous cocktails in the USA, including the classic Martini, the refreshing Margarita, the whiskey-based Old Fashioned and the legendary Manhattan. Other well-known drinks include the mint julep from Kentucky and the popular mojito. These cocktails reflect the diversity and creativity of American bar culture.
Sights
Niagara Falls – Niagara Falls is a spectacular natural wonder on the border between the United States and Canada, more precisely between the US state of New York and the Canadian province of Ontario. They consist of three main falls: The largest and most impressive, the Horseshoe Falls , the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls . Niagara Falls are around 51 metres high and are known for their huge volume of water and powerful currents. They attract millions of tourists every year, who can admire the waterfalls from viewpoints, boat trips or hikes. Niagara Falls is not only a popular tourist destination, but also an important source of hydroelectric power.
New York City (NYC) – New York City is the largest city in the United States and a global centre for culture, business and the arts. It consists of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx and Staten Island. The most famous sights include the Statue of Liberty , Central Park , NYC’s landmark Empire State Building , Times Square and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) . New York is known for its impressive skyline, diverse architecture and multicultural atmosphere. The city is an important financial, fashion, media and entertainment centre and attracts millions of tourists every year.
Washington, D.C. – The capital is located on the east coast of the country and is the political and administrative centre of the United States. It is home to important landmarks such as the White House , the United States Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial . Washington, D.C. is also known for its many museums, most of which are part of the Smithsonian Institution , including the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum . The city plays a central role in American history and politics and is a popular destination for tourists interested in history, culture and government.
New Orleans – New Orleans is a vibrant and culturally unique city in the US state of Louisiana, known for its mix of French, Spanish, African and American influences. The city is famous for its jazz music, which comes alive in the French Quarter , and for its Creole cuisine with dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya. Another highlight is the annual Mardi Gras, a colourful carnival festival with parades, masks and street parties. New Orleans is also known for its historic sights such as the St. Louis Cathedral , the Garden District with its magnificent houses and Bourbon Street , which is known for its vibrant nightlife and bars.
Miami – Miami is a vibrant coastal city in the south of Florida, known for its beautiful beaches, warm tropical climate and exciting nightlife. South Beach is particularly famous for its Art Deco architecture and the lively streets along Ocean Drive . Miami has a strong Latin American culture, which is reflected in its cuisine, music and festivals. The city is also an important international business centre, particularly in the fields of tourism and finance. Other highlights include the Little Havana neighbourhood, which celebrates Cuban heritage, and the Wynwood Walls , an open-air museum of street art. Miami is also the gateway to the Florida Keys and the Everglades National Park.
Everglades National Park – The Everglades National Park in Florida is one of the most unique ecosystems in the USA and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers around 6,000 square kilometres and includes freshwater and saltwater marshes, mangrove forests and vast grasslands. It is known for its extraordinary wildlife, including alligators, crocodiles, manatees and a variety of birds, including the endangered hooded bunting. The Everglades are an important habitat for many endangered species and offer numerous opportunities for boat trips, bird watching and hiking. The region is a paradise for nature lovers and environmental enthusiasts.
Yellowstone National Park – Yellowstone National Park is the first national park in the world and is located in the north-west of the USA, mainly in Wyoming, but also in Montana and Idaho. It was founded in 1872 and is famous for its geothermal wonders, especially its geysers such as Old Faithful , as well as its numerous hot springs and mud pots. The park covers around 9,000 square kilometres and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, bison and moose. With its breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountains, vast forests and picturesque lakes, Yellowstone is a favourite destination for nature lovers and outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and photography.
Mount Rushmore – Mount Rushmore in South Dakota is one of the most famous landmarks in the United States. It is a monumental mountain memorial that shows the faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. The sculptures were carved into the granite rock in the 1920s under the direction of the sculptor Gutzon Borglum. Mount Rushmore is not only a symbol of American history and democracy, but also attracts millions of tourists every year. The adjacent Mount Rushmore National Memorial offers visitors information centres, viewpoints and hiking trails.
San Francisco – San Francisco is a vibrant and culturally diverse city on the west coast of the United States, known for the famous red Golden Gate Bridge , its hilly landscape, Victorian homes and historical significance. The most famous sights include Alcatraz Island , a former prison, and Fisherman’s Wharf , a lively harbour district with restaurants and shops. San Francisco is also famous for Lombard Street , the ‘curviest street in the world’, and the Painted Ladies , a row of colourful Victorian houses. The city offers a lively art scene, first-class restaurants and an inclusive atmosphere that is characterised by its role as the centre of the LGBTQ+ movement.
Yosemite National Park – Yosemite National Park is located in California and is known for its breathtaking granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoia trees and diverse wildlife. Highlights include the Yosemite Valley , El Capitan , Half Dome and the Yosemite Falls , which are among the highest waterfalls in North America. The park offers countless opportunities for hiking, climbing and camping in one of the most spectacular landscapes in the USA. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yosemite attracts millions of visitors every year who want to enjoy the unique nature and impressive views.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park – The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park in California is known for its giant sequoia trees, including the famous General Sherman Tree , one of the largest trees in the world at over 84 metres long and with a trunk diameter of around 11 metres. It is estimated to be around 2,500 years old. The park impresses with a varied landscape characterised by deep canyons, high mountain peaks and alpine lakes. Hikers and nature lovers will find numerous hiking trails here, including the High Sierra Trail , which offers spectacular views. The two neighbouring parks together form a paradise for outdoor adventures and offer visitors a unique combination of majestic nature and impressive tranquillity.
Death Valley National Park – Death Valley National Park in California and Nevada is known for its extreme heat, impressive desert landscapes and highlights such as Badwater Basin , the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and the Zabriskie Point viewpoint. The highest temperature ever measured on Earth, 56.7 °C (134 °F), was recorded on 10 July 1913 in Furnace Creek . Despite the harsh conditions, the park is home to diverse flora and fauna and attracts nature lovers and photographers. Nearby is the mysterious Area 51 , a restricted military area that exerts additional fascination through UFO myths.
Las Vegas – Las Vegas is a world-famous city in the Mojave Desert of Nevada, known for its luxurious casinos, extravagant hotels and vibrant nightlife. The Las Vegas Strip is the heart of the city and is home to many of the most famous hotels and resorts, such as the Bellagio , Caesars Palace and the MGM Grand . In addition to the gambling opportunities, the city also offers numerous entertainment options, including first-class shows, concerts and spectacular circus performances. Las Vegas is also known for its spectacular themed hotels, famous lights and vibrant atmosphere. Although the city is most famous for its gambling scene, it also offers shopping opportunities, first-class restaurants and an exciting atmosphere that makes it a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.
Hoover Dam – The Hoover Dam on the border between Nevada and Arizona dams up the Colorado River to form Lake Mead , the largest reservoir in the USA. It was built in the 1930s and is used for power generation, water supply and flood protection. The Colorado River, which flows through seven US states and Mexiko, has formed impressive landscapes such as the Grand Canyon and offers recreational opportunities such as rafting and hiking. The Hoover Dam is a symbol of the engineering skill that makes the river controllable for man and nature.
Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park – Zion National Park in Utah is characterised by impressive sandstone cliffs, deep gorges and striking hiking trails such Angels Landing and The Narrows . Its varied landscape of deserts, forests and river valleys attracts nature lovers and adventurers alike. The nearby Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique red rock pyramids, the hoodoos, which offer a fascinating natural spectacle. Viewpoints such as Sunrise Point and Sunset Point offer spectacular views of the surreal landscape. Both parks are popular destinations for hikers and photographers and complement each other perfectly with their contrasting landscapes.
Grand Canyon – The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural wonders of the world and is located in the Grand Canyon National Park in the US state of Arizona.. The canyon was formed over millions of years by the Colorado River, is up to 1,800 metres deep and around 446 kilometres long. With its dramatic rock formations, impressive colours and breathtaking views, the Grand Canyon attracts millions of visitors every year. There are numerous hiking trails, viewpoints and boat trips on the Colorado River. The Grand Canyon has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an important geological and cultural landmark.
Los Angeles – Los Angeles, or ‘L.A.’ for short, is the largest city in California and a global entertainment centre, especially thanks to Hollywood , the heart of the film industry. The most famous sights include the iconic Hollywood Sign , the Walk of Fame , the famous TCL Chinese Theatre and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) . The ‘City of Angels’ also offers beautiful beaches such as Venice Beach and Santa Monica as well as a lively cultural scene with museums, galleries and theatres. Los Angeles is known for its multicultural population, first-class restaurants, shopping and exciting nightlife. The city attracts creative people from all over the world and offers numerous leisure and adventure activities.
Hawaii – Hawaii is a tropical island paradise in the Pacific Ocean and the 50th state of the USA. The archipelago consists of eight main islands, including Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island (Big Island). It is known for its breathtaking beaches, volcanoes, lush nature and a unique culture that is strongly characterised by Polynesian traditions. Popular sights include the active volcano Kīlauea , the Wailua Falls and Waimea Canyon . The islands offer a wide range of leisure activities such as surfing, hiking, snorkelling and diving. Honolulu , the capital of Hawaii, is home to the famous Waikiki Beach and the historic Pearl Harbor . Hawaii is a favourite destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Travel time
The best time to travel to the USA depends heavily on the region in question, as the country has a wide range of climate zones and weather conditions due to its size and diversity.
Alaska
The climate in Alaska ranges from mild summers (15-25 °C) to very cold winters (down to -30 °C in the interior). The best time to visit is from June to August, ideal for outdoor activities and mild temperatures. The winter months of February and March are particularly suitable for auroras and winter sports, but are significantly colder.
Northeast
The Northeast, with states such as New York, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, has a temperate continental climate. Summers are warm to hot and winters are cold to very cold with frequent snowfall, especially in the more northern states. Autumn (September to November) offers mild weather and spectacular foliage colors. Spring (April to June) is also pleasant with landscapes in bloom.
Southeast
The southeast of the USA includes states such as Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. The climate in this region is generally subtropical to humid and varies depending on the season. The winter months (December to February) are mild and pleasant. Spring and fall are also good times to avoid the crowds.
Midwest
The Midwest, which includes states such as Illinois, Michigan and Ohio, has a temperate continental climate. The summers are warm to hot and the winters cold to very cold with a wide variation in precipitation. Summer (June to August) offers pleasant temperatures for exploring the city. Spring and fall are also good seasons to enjoy the mild weather and events.
South
The south, with states such as Florida, Texas and Georgia, has a subtropical to tropical climate. Summers are hot and humid with frequent thunderstorms and mild winters, although some southern regions can have milder winters.
Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains, which run through several states such as Colorado, have a mountain climate. The altitude leads to cooler temperatures with cold winters and mild summers. Snowfall is frequent at higher altitudes. Summer (June to August) offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. Autumn with clear weather and beautiful landscapes for mountain hikes.
Northwest
The Northwest, including the states of Washington and Oregon, has a temperate oceanic climate. It is known for its mild, humid winters and warm summers. Rain falls all year round, especially in the coastal areas.
West
The West, including the states of California, Nevada and Arizona, has a variety of climate zones. The coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate with mild, humid winters and dry, hot summers. Further inland there is a desert climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Spring and fall are often more pleasant seasons.
Hawaii
The weather in Hawaii varies depending on the island and region, but in general the climate on the islands is tropical and pleasant all year round. However, the main tourist season is often from December to March and from June to September. The main rainy season in Hawaii is from November to March. During these months, there may be occasional rain showers, but these do not usually last long. The dry season lasts from April to October. The hurricane season in the eastern Pacific lasts from June to November. Although hurricanes do not occur regularly, there is a low risk during this time. Hawaii is less likely to be hit directly, but rain and waves can be affected by distant storms.
Events
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is a lively and colourful carnival celebration in New Orleans . It marks the highlight of the carnival season and traditionally takes place on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The celebrations include parades, masked balls, dancing, music and the distribution of necklaces and projectiles from the floats. The city is particularly famous for its Mardi Gras parades, where themed floats parade through the streets and thousands of people celebrate. The festival is deeply rooted in Creole and French culture and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Typical dishes include the King Cake, a festive cake decorated with icing and colourful sprinkles. Mardi Gras is a time of celebration and revelry before the start of Lent.
Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving Day Parade is a traditional parade that takes place on Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November) in the United States to celebrate the harvest festival. The most famous parade is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City , which has been taking place since 1924 and is broadcast live around the world. It attracts millions of spectators and offers a mixture of large balloons, festively decorated floats, music groups, dance performances and elaborate costumes. The parade usually starts in the morning and travels through the streets of Manhattan before ending in front of Macy’s department stores’ in Herald Square. The Thanksgiving Day Parade is a highlight of the festivities and heralds the Christmas season in many American cities.
Christmas time
The Christmas season in the USA (X-mas) is characterised by festive decorations, twinkling lights and traditional customs. Christmas markets, parades and ice skating are just as much a part of it as decorating Christmas trees and singing Christmas carols. The exchange of gifts on 25 December, accompanied by large family dinners, is a central component. Houses and gardens are often lavishly decorated with fairy lights and figures such as Santa Claus play an important role in creating a festive atmosphere.
Christmas is particularly magical in New York City : The famous Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center , the sparkling Fifth Avenue and ice skating under the huge tree attract visitors from all over the world. The shop windows of large department stores such as Macy’s are also lavishly decorated and create a magical atmosphere. In the Dyker Heights neighbourhood in Brooklyn, visitors can expect a top-class light show: Residents decorate their houses with thousands of lights, elaborate figures and animated displays. This tradition attracts numerous tourists every year and has earned Dyker Heights a reputation as the ‘Christmas Lights Capital’.
Whale watching
Alaska is an excellent destination for whale watching, especially in the summer months (May to September). During this time, humpback whales, orcas, grey whales and belugas migrate along the coasts and through the fjords. Popular places for whale watching are Juneau , Seward and the Kenai Fjords National Park .
In Hawaii, many humpback whales can be found in the shallow Auau Channel off the island of Maui from December to April. But humpback whales can also be observed off Kauai and Hawaii Island during this time.