Traveling is not just about checking off popular destinations and landmarks on your bucket list and snapping pretty pictures along the way. It’s about being open to new experiences, seeking a deeper connection to the places you visit and trying to observe, understand and appreciate the diversity of the world and all the wonderful things that surround you at every step. And what better way to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle and discover your destination more intimately than to engage in authentic experiences that are specific to that part of the world?
With just 247 years since it declared independence from Great Britain on July 4th, the US is a relatively young nation, especially when compared to countries on the Old Continent. However, during its rather short but eventful history, the US has shaped a unique character stemming from the blending of cultures, traditions and influences from all over the world, the spirit of liberty and the vision of the American dream that has inspired generations of residents and immigrants to attain their goals in life.
From sports and entertainment to food and sights, there are many things that are distinctly American and people automatically associate with this great country. So, if you want to get a feel of the American lifestyle, here are some iconic experiences you don’t want to miss out on while visiting the US.
Attend a sporting event
It’s no secret that Americans love their sports and go all out when it comes to organizing these types of events, with over-the-top halftime shows, private boxes brimming with A-listers and crowds of excited fans contributing to an electrifying atmosphere.
So, whether it’s the Super Bowl, an NBA game or a basketball game, you should definitely attend a sporting event while you’re in the US. It doesn’t even matter if you’re a fan or if you even understand what’s happening on the playing field. It’s the entertainment factor and the overall experience that make it worth your time and money.
Visit a national park
The US is a huge country, covering a surface of 3,618,780 sq miles and almost half of this area is unoccupied. This means there’s a lot of land where nature reigns supreme, providing some spectacular sceneries to visitors. The US boats 63 National Parks in total, each of them comprising an impressive array of natural wonders, from towering mountains and majestic waterfalls to dense forests and rich flora and fauna.
Obviously, you won’t be able to visit all of them, but including at least one National Park in your trip is a must. Yellowstone, Yosemite, The Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains, Zion, or Roky Mountain National Park are among the most popular options, but don’t hesitate to give others a check, depending on your itinerary.
Hit the road on Route 66
Spanning eight different states, from Chicago to LA, route 66 is not just a historic road that connects the East and West coasts, but also a symbol of freedom and a reminder of America’s stunning evolution, with numerous references in modern pop culture.
A Route 66 road trip can be the experience of a lifetime as it allows you to discover some of the most famous landmarks, follow in the footsteps of American history and get a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle as you make your way from one place to another. Think of it as the ultimate road trip that proves it’s not the destination that matters but the journey. While you’re out and about exploring the vastness of the United States, an eSIM card can help you stay connected effortlessly with unlimited and reliable data plans, as you’ll discover more here.
Explore the Big Apple
New York is the most populated city in the US and also one of the most dynamic and iconic urban areas in the country, packed with famous American landmarks from the Empire State Building and Times Square to the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge and many more.
If you want to experience the big city life in the US, the Big Apple is the place to go. Apart from sightseeing, you should also make time to enjoy some famous local dishes like New York pizza or a pastrami sandwich, and maybe attend a Broadway show to get the full NY experience. Since the metropolis is a treasure trove of attractions and activities, you might want to allocate some extra days to explore it.
Enjoy the glitz and glamour in LA
If your Route 66 trip took you all the way to LA, you’re in the right place to get a taste of the celebrity lifestyle. The city is dominated by Hollywood’s glitz and glamour, being the birthplace of the American film and entertainment industry and home to many famous actors, filmmakers and musicians.
Apart from spotting celebrities, walking along the Santa Monica Pier, taking in the vista from the Griffith Observatory, taking a stroll on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or spending a whole day at an amusement or theme park are some of the things that will keep you thoroughly entertained in La-La Land.
Eat at a 24-hour diner
24-hour diners are an emblem of American urban culture, booming in the ‘20s and the years following World War II. Although their heydays are long gone, diners are still very much a part of the US’ culinary landscape and many still preserve that nostalgic charm, including the original décor that will make you feel like you’re stepping into a scene from a ‘50s movie. So, if you want to grab a quick bite, stop by a 24-hour diner for a cheeseburger and fries.
So, here you have it, a short but comprehensive list of bucket list activities, complete with a healthy dose of awe and adventure to make your American experience truly unforgettable.
