Once in a Lifetime Experience things to do in USA

Once in a Lifetime Experience things to do in USA 

experiences you can only have in the USA

America is home to people from all around the world, so when you study at a US university, you’ll likely encounter unique cultures, traditions, arts, sports, and more. Over time, these many multicultural traditions have blended and adapted to become the face of culture in the USA. 

If you are planning to study in the US, it helps to know what to expect when you arrive, and also to prepare for culture shock. Read on to learn more about culture in the USA and what you can expect as an international student living in America.

The USA is one big country – and that means it’s absolutely jam-packed with bucket list experiences that are distinctly American. From spectacular national parks and road trips, to iconic cities, sporting events and the best food and wine, here are 21 experiences you have to add to your USA travel bucket list.No USA travel bucket list is complete without a trip to at least one national park. The country currently has 62 spectacular national parks, all filled with natural wonders, ancient history and amazing wildlife. The most popular national parks are the Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Yosemite, Yellowstone and Grand Teton.

We also love Bryce Canyon, Joshua Tree, Canyonlands, Redwood, Mesa Verde, Monument Valley and Arches National Park. Whichever national parks you choose to discover, it’s sure to be an experience you’ll never forget.

The Big Apple certainly lives up to its name, and you could spend weeks exploring all its famous treasures. Don’t forget to swing by the highlights including Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building. Then head down to Lower Manhattan where you’ll discover a hub of diverse languages, food and cultures.

Pick up a slice of real New York pizza, go shopping in Greenwich Village, or watch an incredible Broadway show. One thing’s for sure – you won’t run out of adventures in the city that never sleeps!

There’s no better place to get your kicks than Route 66! The most famous road in the country originally ran from 3,940 kilometres from Chicago to Santa Monica through eight different states. A symbol of the American dream, Route 66 is still the road trip to end all road trips today.

You’ll find plenty of outposts to stop and get a taste of all things Americana, from classic motels and petrol pumps to kitsch roadside diners dishing up steaming slices of apple pie.

Venture off the mainland and you’ll discover the natural wonderland that is Alaska. Explore the spectacular national parks bursting with pristine nature and incredible wildlife, and chase the northern lights, a mesmerising natural phenomenon.

See Denali, the largest mountain in North America and cruise Prince William Sound to see the densest concentration of tidewater glaciers in the world. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled whales, seals, otters, puffins and many more magical creatures in Alaska.

With a reputation as big as the fortunes many have made (and lost here), there’s no place like Vegas to let your hair down. As the entertainment capital of the world, all you have to do is head towards the neon lights… Then get lost in the glittering casinos, rooftop pools, and incredible shows.

Check out the Elvis impersonators and the drive-thru wedding chapels. Take a walk down the Strip and see the icons like Caesars Palace, the Bellagio and the Venetian. Or swing by the Downtown area to explore the creative Fremont East District. 

You can’t miss out on the 50th state! This beautiful island is a paradise for surfers, nature lovers, foodies, history buffs and thrill-seekers… and you can even see an active volcano. There are five active volcanoes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island and you’ll witness the red-hot bubbling lava up close.Besides the volcanoes, you can see giant manta rays swimming in the ocean, spot sea turtles on the famous black sand beach, discover Kauai’s magical Tunnel of Trees, visit Pearl Harbour, learn about local farming on Maui, and marvel at Oahu’s spectacular North Shore… The wonders never endAs the home of jazz, there’s always a reason to party in the Big Easy. This lively city is famous for its rich history, annual Mardis Gras festival and it’s the incredible music scene. It’s always a winner on any USA travel bucket list.You’ll find funky jazz spots and cosy blues clubs in every nook and cranny of this city, along with amazing bars and restaurants to top off your New Orleans experience.Stretching over 1,000 kilometres from Southern California to San Francisco, the Pacific Coast Highway is one epic road trip. Be sure to soak up the sun in the Southern California Beach Communities.Then hit the road, making stops at Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur to see the iconic giant redwoods towering over the forest floor. This is western USA at its finest.

From the Mardis Gras and Jazz Festivals in New Orleans to the famous Burning Man in the desert and the spectacular Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, there are no shortage of festivals to add to your USA travel bucket list.

If you’ve always wanted to experience a festival in the USA, just ask our friendly Trafalgar staff for the best festivals in your favourite destinations.If you love amusement parks, you’ve come to the right place. The United States is a mecca for all things theme park, from California to Florida. Whether you want to hit the magical Disney Parks, Universal Studio’s World of Harry Potter, or the Dollywood Stampede, you’ll find your inner child in the USA.Whether it’s football, baseball or basketball, the USA goes mad for a sporting event. From crazy mascots to half-time shows, to screaming fans and prancing cheerleaders, a live game in the USA is an exciting experience. Grab your tickets and snacks, and feel the electric atmosphere… you’ll no doubt find yourself cheering along with all other fans.Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply a fan, everyone will love exploring the sunny vineyards of California. From the famous Napa Valley to the lush Temecula Valley, you’ll discover a Mediterranean climate shining down on rolling green hills and some of the world’s best wineries. Spend a few days here and you’ll become a wine aficionado in no time at all.Pack your raincoat and your sense of wonder – the Niagara Falls is one of America’s greatest natural marvels. You can get up close to this incredible phenomenon with a boat ride to the base of Horseshoe Falls, the largest waterfall of the Niagara.

Get a stunning view of both the Canadian and American sides of the falls, and feel the spray of the thundering water, as 750,000 gallons of water plunge into the gorge every second. The United States doesn’t have a royal family – but it did have a king. Elvis Presley was the undisputed King of Rock and Roll and he lived in his Graceland Estate in Memphis, Tennessee, a mecca for music lovers.

Thousands of visitors flock here every year to worship the King and honour him with his favourite meal – a peanut butter and banana sandwich. You can see his private garden and aircraft, and walk through his glitzy mansion filled with tributes to his music.There are few things more beautiful in the United States than the blazing fall foliage of northeastern USA. Hop in a car during peak foliage

season (usually October) and drive up the scenic byways that wind through farmlands, forests and the Green Mountains. Start in Massachusetts, then weave through Vermont, New Hampshire and finish up in gorgeous Maine. 

If there’s one type of food you have to try in the USA, it’s got to be Southern soul food. They have all the comforting favourites like crispy fried chicken, candied yams, steaming macaroni and cheese, and good old-fashioned banana pudding. The secret ingredient? Lashings of love.As the iconic location for western films like ‘Stagecoach’ starring John Wayne, Monument Valley is just as historic as it is beautiful. You could spend the night among the rich film history at the pioneering Goulding’s Lodge, or experience a Navajo Cookout on the valley floor.You’ll marvel at the rusty red sandstone towers, then learn about the sacred meaning and history behind this amazing place. Enjoy delicious local specialities and witness a traditional performance from a local Native American. This is one bucket list experience you won’t soon forget.This incredible piece of the USA is a true bucket list experience. Starting in the historic city of Boston, make your way along the windswept New England coastline, soaking up picture-perfect scenery and fresh seafood on the beach all the way.See the colourful cottages and farmers’ markets of Martha’s Vineyard and stroll through the Heritage Museum & Gardens of Sandwich, Cape Cod’s oldest town. Be sure to check out the thriving craft beer scene on Cape Cod.Visit the popular fishing port of Provincetown and go on a whale-watching cruise. Or take a 4WD tour over the sand dunes along the Cape Cod National Seashore. Don’t forget to fill up on lobster rolls and clam chowder!Los Angeles is all about glitz and glamour, and you can’t visit the city without taking a stroll along Venice Beach and the palm-lined Santa Monica Pier, complete with the famous Ferris wheel.Find your favourite stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and enjoy a spot of people watching on Sunset Boulevard. Check out the mansions of Beverly Hills, or practice your acceptance speech on the steps of the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards.Pike Place Market is unlike any farmers’ market you’ve ever seen before. It has more performers than it does produce and it’s been a Seattle institution for over a century. See the lively fishmongers literally throw their catch of the day around, and be sure to leave your mark on the gum wall in Post Alley.f you are planning to live, learn and grow in the United States, you already possess a well-known American characteristic—a sense of adventure! As an international student, you will experience many new and exciting things. In this section, we hope to prepare you for some of the adventures involved in living in the United States.

It is difficult, if not impossible, to discuss exactly what "Living in the U.S." means to everyone. American culture has been enriched by the values and belief systems of virtually every part of the world. From an international student's perspective, that diversity is very valuable. If you choose to live in a completely different environment, you may be challenged with new situations every day; but if you decide to live in a part of the U.S. that resembles your home country in some ways, you may find comfort in those similarities.

Learning more about yourself is perhaps the most important part of your decision to travel to the U.S. Once you know what you want to achieve, then you can identify the right place to study and live and grow in the States.

One of the most common challenges international students face is dealing with “culture shock.” Culture shock is a feeling of disorientation many people feel when experiencing an entirely new way of life. Many international students find it difficult to adjust to the culture of their host country, so we are here to help you deal with culture shock and make the most of your experience abroad.

Studying internationally is a new experience for everyone, and with new experiences come new challenges. You may occasionally feel confused, unsure and uncomfortable in the United States. People may have different values and new ways of doing things that seem strange to you. You may feel that everything has changed, including your immediate support system of family and friends.

To minimize the shock, you will probably want to keep in touch with family and friends back home—but it is important to also identify new sources of support. People whom you meet through your school’s international student office may also be a likely source of support. You could also contact relatives or friends who live in the United States to ask for their advice.

American Culture

USA many international students, adjusting to American culture can be difficult and at times frustrating. American customs and values might be very different from those of your home country, and you might find them confusing. You will probably want to familiarize yourself with American culture before your departure, in order to make the transition as easy as possible.

Values
Independence. Americans strongly believe in the concept of individualism. They consider themselves to be separate individuals who are in control of their own lives, rather than members of a close-knit, interdependent family, religious group, tribe, nation, or other group.
Equality. The American Declaration of Independence states that “all [people] are created equal,” and this belief is deeply embedded in their cultural values. Americans believe that all people are of equal standing, and are therefore uncomfortable with overt displays of respect such as being bowed to.
Informality. This belief in equality causes Americans to be rather informal in their behavior towards other people. Don’t be surprised if store clerks and waiters introduce themselves by their first names. Many people visiting the US are surprised by the informality of American speech, dress, and posture. Don’t mistake this for rudeness or irreverence; it’s just a part of their culture!
Directness. Americans tend to value, frankness and openness in their dealings with other people. They believe that conflicts and disagreements are best solved by means of forthright discussion among the people involved. Americans believe that if someone has a problem with someone else, they should tell the person clearly and directly in order to come up with a solution to the problem.

People Are Sharing Distinctive "American Experiences" That Anyone Vacationing In The US Should Seek Out

Every country has certain traditions that define it, so it's no surprise that there are customs, experiences, and activities that — to some — just scream U.S. of A. So when a Redditor recently asked, "What is a quintessential American experience that every tourist should have?" Here's how people responded.
Go to a professional sporting event, specifically an MLB game. Cheap and relatively mellow compared to other sporting events, a baseball game basically feels like an excuse to day drink casually and eat snacks with your friends while watching occasional pointed moments of mass excitement."

Described as a “melting pot” of cultures, the US is the third-largest country in the world, with residents representing different ethnic groups such as African Americans, Asian Americans, Indigenous Americans, and Latin Americans. As a result, US culture may at once seem both familiar and different, whether its shared values, food portions, driving, fashion, and even slang. Learning about American culture in advance can give you a sense of what to expect while studying in the US!

Every country has its own set of values and principles, and this is also true for America. Speaking generally, people in the USA align with the values stated in our Declaration of Independence: that all are created equal, with unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Let’s take a closer look at what this means from a cultural values perspective.

Independence

From a young age, Americans are taught to be self-sufficient and independent. The importance of a person being able to mold their own identity and future via their own choices, abilities, and efforts is heavily emphasized in American culture, education, and institutions. Americans value taking care of themselves and having the freedom to pursue their own definition of happiness. This extends to university life, where students are in charge of selecting their own major and pursuing the degree program that best aligns with their personal goals. 

For international students who come from a culture where everything is done collectively as one unit/family, this emphasis on individualism and autonomy could take some getting used to. Focusing on independence does not mean you are alone, however, as there are many communities, advisors, and support services in the US you can rely on in times of need.

Equality

For Americans, equality means everyone is born equal and no one is inferior or superior to the other. US universities take equality seriously, and will often include statements affirming equal rights in their charter, annual reports, and student and staff codes of conduct. Additionally, anti-discrimination policies are often in place and enforced for admissions, hiring, events, etc.

If you attend a US university, you can expect to live and study in an equitable and inclusive campus environment, where everyone can learn and freely pursue their goals.  

Individualism

Similar to valuing independence, culture in America places a great deal of importance on individualism. Individualism usually refers to being self-sufficient, with community and/or government assistance as a last resort. This means people are free to pursue their USA goals, often on their own terms, within the context of US laws. 

Americans hold the ideals of freedom and order in high regard, and individualism is a key component — everyone in the US is entitled to their personal beliefs. The ability to express your individual views and opinions is considered part of this USA freedom.

Materialism

America has the built off the principles of capitalism. As a result, culture in the USA often places a strong importance on materialism. 

Competition and capital accumulation encourage businesses to maximize efficiency, allowing investors to profit from growth while customers benefit from cheaper pricing on a broader selection of goods. Equally, consumers are incentivized to purchase goods and services to feed back into the economy, and many financial systems in the US are designed around encouraging spending.

Due to America’s strong economic position and capitalist economy, people can sometimes be encouraged to assess their wealth based on personal possessions and compare material possessions with others. This materialism plays an important role in explaining inequities in America, but can depend on many factors such as your personal community, city, or the state where you live.

Holidays
In US culture, there are a few significant holidays that may be new to international students. Here’s a list of federally recognized holidays in the US:  

New Year’s Day — The first of January is a holiday in the US, with Americans celebrating the arrival of a New Year. As this day symbolizes new beginnings, many Americans start the New Year with family and loved ones.

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day (MLK Day) — On the third Monday of January, the US honors the life of American civil rights activist Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK), who protested against racial discrimination and made immense contributions to end USA segregation and prejudice. On this holiday, Americans are encouraged to reflect on racial equality and social change, as well as to devote time to community service. 

Memorial Day — The last Monday of May is dedicated to US military personnel who lost their lives in service. To honor their lives and service, Americans place flowers and flags on the graves of military personnel; many towns also hold parades. USA Memorial Day is also considered the official kickoff to summer, and many Americans have outdoor parties, gathering with family and friends for barbecues, swimming, and/or outdoor recreation. 

Juneteenth — To recognize the day slavery officially came to an end (June 19, 1865), Juneteenth is commemorated across America with parades, fairs, barbecues, and more. 

Independence Day — Celebrated with fireworks, USA barbecues, parades, and live festivals, the Fourth of July marks the day the United States declared their independence from British rule.

Labor Day — The first Monday in September honors and appreciates the American labor movement, as well as laborers’ contributions to the country’s progress and achievements. This holiday is considered the close of summer, and Americans gather outdoors for food, swimming, games, and other festivities.

Veterans Day — Observed on November 11, Veterans Day acknowledges living veterans who previously served in the United States military. 

Thanksgiving — Thanksgiving is a holiday of gratitude, commemorating the Pilgrim settlers’ first harvest back in the 1600s. Now, every fourth Thursday of November, Americans celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends over a hearty meal of turkey and all the trimmings.

Christmas Day — Celebrating the birth of Jesus, USA Christmas Day is USA celebrated every December 25. It’s a huge holiday in America, with parades, shopping events, music, and decorations. You may experience the country getting into the festive spirit even before October ends! 

Along with these holidays, individual states or regions will observe local holidays based on their cultural history, or for members of specific communities or religions. For example, Massachusetts celebrates Patriots’ Day the third Monday of April, honoring the first battles of the Revolutionary War in Lexington and Concord; the Boston Marathon is also held that day. 

Religion
With its many multicultural communities, US states and cities tend to be home to a variety of different religious denominations. According to a 2021 study, Americans identify as: 

63% — Christian (40% Protestant, 21% Catholic, 2% other)

25.1% — Unaffiliated with any religion

2% — Jewish

1% — Buddhist

1% — Hindu

1% — Muslim

Even though the majority of Americans practice Christianity, the United States does not have an USA official state-endorsed religion. This is a foundation of the US Constitution: Everyone has the freedom to follow and observe whichever religion they wish. 

Social Norms and Etiquette

Culture in the USA is also built around different social norms and etiquette (which may be new to you). Let’s take a look at some basic cultural behaviors and best practices to be aware of when interacting with people in America.

• Don’t ask personal questions — As a general rule, Americans value privacy. Asking questions about weight, age, salary, wealth, religion, or politics is considered rude. 

• Be punctual — Time management and punctuality are important in America. Being late or delaying a USA gathering/meeting will reflect badly on you, and you may be regarded as inconsiderate and disrespectful. Be on time!

• Tip correctly — At restaurants and bars in the US, sales tax and tips are not included in the menu; therefore items can cost up to 25% more. Additionally, those who serve you when you go out will expect a tip, as this is considered part of their income. (Don’t know how much to tip? Tipping 15-20% of the cost of the meal is the general standard.)

• Don’t skip lines — It is rude to push in line or skip people in a queue. If you are in a rush, ask the person in front of you whether you can skip ahead (but expect them to say no). 

• Be aware of pets — If you visit a home in America, remember that many Americans have pets. If you are allergic or uncomfortable being around certain animals, let your host know in advance so they can accommodate your needs. 

• Discuss dietary preferences — If you invite your American friends over for a meal, keep in mind that they may follow a certain diet or choose to omit certain foods. Be sure to ask for their preferences and follow them accordingly. 

• Follow social pleasantries — Smiles are basic signals of politeness and are seen as a non-verbal way of being friendly. "Small talk" when waiting in line is also considered acceptable. 

• Be prepared for big portions — Portion sizes in America tend to be quite big, so it is perfectly fine to ask for your leftovers to be packed up when you go out to eat!

Diversity in America

With its many multicultural societies, America gives you the chance to experience and connect with different cultures, whether you’re dining at ethnic restaurants, attending a live performance celebrating particular types of music or artists, collaborating on a group project with fellow students from various USA backgrounds, and much more.

Because the US seeks to honor its multicultural roots, you can find historical landmarks, monuments, and locations that tell the story of many of the minority communities in the US. American culture examples of these communities include African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanics, Latinx Americans, Native Americans, and more.

Even the international student community in the US mirrors how diverse the country is — nearly 4.6% of the total US student population is made up of international students from 200+ countries. Each of these students bring their own culture and identities to add to the mix, with unique traditions, food, and USA sports — which you’ll definitely experience during your university studies!

Sports

Sports play a critical role in American culture, with many sports enthusiasts and fans found all over the USA country. The most popular sports in America are American football, basketball, and baseball; each has its own professional league. These sports have fan communities, built over decades, with rich history, cultural transitions, and sports icons who have become world-famous. 

There are also annual championship sporting events such as the Super Bowl (football), USA NBA Finals (basketball), and World Series (baseball). Many of your American friends will be highly enthusiastic while watching these matches on television (or, if you’re lucky, you might even get to go watch games live at the stadium). The US’s massive stadiums hold hundreds of cheering fans and are a strong part of the American experience — they are a must-visit at least once during your stay in the US.

If you have an interest in sports, they can be a great way to get involved on campus and make new friends. Many universities and colleges in the US have their own sports teams and clubs, with many offering national competitions!

Other Tips for Living in America

The US is a large country divided into different USA states, each with their own unique USA culture. Your cultural experience is bound to differ depending on where in the US you choose to pursue Living away from your home country can be challenging, but there are so many new experiences and adventures waiting for you. If you want to know more about preparing for your future in America,

Remember, if you ever need support with adjusting to your life in the US, your Shorelight advisor is always ready to help. From tips for preparing for your flight to managing culture shock, they are with you every step of the way to help you succeed and thrive.

Posted on 2025/09/25 05:07 PM