The USA states make up a diverse and fascinating country. You could explore America’s vast lands for years and still only just touch its surface. With so many different USA states to choose from, in any season you can find the perfect vacation spot. Whether you want beaches or mountains, city sights or national parks, or are a history buff or music lover, here’s our pick of the USA states.
A FOODIE’S PARADISE
As such a big and varied country, it comes as no surprise that American cuisine is about as diverse as it gets. Influenced by Europeans and native Americans in its early history, each state offers a unique take on popular national dishes along with a tantalizing menu all of its own.
Traditional US dishes include the delicious Apple Pie. This sweet treat is a national institution that you simply must try, with people devoting a lifetime to its perfection. The USA is also the home of the hamburger, with New Haven in Connecticut recognised as its birthplace. Here in 1900, the hamburger was established at Louis’ Lunch, ran by one Louis Lassen. And you have to try Clam Chowder. Whilst maybe not the most attractive looking dish its taste is divine.
When choosing from the USA states for foodies, we recommend Louisiana. The home of creole and Cajun cuisine. The state’s flavours are influenced by a myriad of cultures including French, African, Spanish and more. Home to the famous gumbo, jambalaya and po’boys. Travel with Insight and catch your own crawfish in Lafayette. Enjoy a hot tamales demonstration at the Viking Cooking School in Greenwood and a cocktail- Making demonstration in Natchez. Visit the Southern Food and Beverage Museum and the Tabasco Museum in New Orleans and dine on the most magnificent cuisine every step of the way.
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FOR THE HISTORY BUFF
If you love history, then you will be spoiled for choice in the USA. From monuments to museums, historical sights to meeting the people that call these great landscapes home, every minute is a fascinating historical voyage.
We recommend Washington D.C for the ultimate historical exploration. One of the most famous USA states, as the capital, it is an amazing place. Join us on a guided tour and delve into the proud heritage of a nation with a sightseeing tour. View the White House, the striking Washington Monument and sprawling National Mall. Reflect on the country’s most turbulent days at the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial.
Travel with Insight and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and learn about the museum’s educational programmes and experiential learning. The newest member of the Smithsonian Institution, explore the richness and diversity of the African American experience, what it means to their lives, and how it helped shape this nation.
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THE MUSIC LOVER
Known for blues, jazz, rock and roll, hip hop, house and country, the contribution of the USA to the world’s music scene is immeasurable. From its Native American roots through to trail blazing visionaries, America’s musical culture is a melting pot of influences.
If you love music, immerse yourself in Tennessee, one of the most musical American states. You must visit Nashville and Memphis. In Nashville, “Music City” and the the capital of Tennessee, you will find the USA’s glittering center stage. From the Everly Brothers’ “Bye Bye Love,” to Roy Orbison’s “Oh, Pretty Woman,” the streets are paved with talent.
Let us take you to historic RCA Studio B, Nashville’s oldest remaining recording studio. Here you can hear the fascinating stories behind the legendary recordings. Featuring iconic artists such as Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison. Visit the Grand Ole Opry, the world-renowned country music stage and longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history. And MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® with your visit to the National Museum of African American Music, the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans.
Join us in Memphis, see Graceland, the home of “The King of Rock ‘n Roll” Elvis Presley and enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a private evening at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum is part of The Soulsville Foundation, which aims to prepare young adults for life success and inspire future artists. Tour Sun Studios with a local musician. Learn about the recording studio where Elvis got his start along with many other greats.”
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SPECTACULAR NATIONAL PARKS
Literally spoiled for choice, the National Parks of the USA states could fill a lifetime of vacations. From the spectacular geysers of Yellowstone, the majestic Grand Canyon to the leafy landscapes of National Parks in the Eastern States.
On the border of Utah and Arizona lies the magnificent Monument Valley National Park. In fact, not a valley, the park is a wide, flat landscape peppered by magnificent red buttes and spires rising hundreds of feet into the air. Take a guided tour with Insight and have the privilege to learn about Monument Valley from Navajo Local Experts. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you board all-terrain vehicles for a private, off-the-beaten path exploration of this magical valley. Learn about Navajo history, culture and heritage from your expert as you travel deep into this unique landscape.
Then, amongst the dramatic red sandstone, taste the true heart of your destination with a traditional Navajo cookout. Lovingly prepared by Navajo women in their tribal lands, this unique dining experience, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, not only demonstrates their culture, but also supports the community. Enjoy traditionally prepared steak and Navajo tacos, with tasty vegetarian options, all served with fried bread, corn on the cob and beans, and about life on their beautiful land.
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Whether you want to travel through the multiple USA states or parks, or enjoy an in-depth discovery of just one, our premium guided tours show these amazing landscapes in their full glory.
Take a look at Iconic National Parks of Utah, Yellowstone Discovery, Enchanting Canyonlands and Spectacular National Parks of Eastern USA
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FOR THE BEACH LOVER
Boasting some the world’s most stunning and famous beaches, the USA is a haven for lovers of the sand and sea. Look no further if you want surfing, swimming, rugged coastal drives or just a chance to mix with nature.
And for some of the best of the USA states you can’t beat Hawaii, the world’s largest island chain. Its beaches are some of the most diverse in the world. You can find white sand, black sand, red sand and even green sand, as well as rocky beaches. Travel with Insight and enjoy the coastal delights and cultural treasures of Hawaii, Oahu and Maui. Explore beaches, snorkel the warm waters and get to know the islands and their history intimately while having time to relax at your oceanfront resorts.
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UNMISSABLE CITIES
The USA is home to many of the world’s most iconic skylines and renowned cityscapes. Fuelled by Hollywood the whole world knows the Empire State Building, the Seattle Tower and the White House.
With so many USA states to choose from we recommend New York, home to New York City. It certainly lives up to its worldwide reputation. Packed with diversity and dynamism, you’ll be spell bound by its sights, sounds and splendid cuisine.
Join us and see museums and Times Square. Visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck for stunning views of the New York skyline. Take a scenic bike tour of Central Park. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® in the Essex Lower East Side Neighborhood Market for a food tour and demonstration.
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Where in the USA will you choose?
