Unforgettable 2-Week Ideas for Your First Time in America
America is an enormous country, offering so many different experiences that it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. But with two weeks to spare, you can explore a great mix of bustling cities, stunning natural landmarks, and iconic attractions that will make your trip truly memorable. If you're unsure where to start, we've put together six epic two-week itinerary ideas, each combining multiple unique places to see and things to do across the U.S. Whether you're a culture buff, a nature lover, or a city explorer, we've got you covered with a number of itineraries covering the entire United States.
Option 1: The Classic East Coast Adventure (New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Boston)
For those wanting to explore America's roots and culture, this East Coast adventure will take you through some of the country’s most iconic cities.
What to Do:
New York City: See the Statue of Liberty, explore Central Park, and visit the Empire State Building. Catch a Broadway show and walk through Times Square.
Philadelphia: Walk through Independence Hall, see the Liberty Bell, and try the famous Philly cheesesteak. Don’t miss the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the “Rocky” steps.
Washington, D.C.: Tour the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol. Visit the Smithsonian museums and take a stroll by the White House.
Boston: Walk the historic Freedom Trail, see the Boston Common, and explore the renowned Harvard University campus in nearby Cambridge.
Why It’s Great for First-Timers:
You’ll immerse yourself in America's history, from revolutionary landmarks to the bustling streets of one of the world's greatest cities.
Explore our New York, Washington, Philadelphia and Boston itineraries.
Option 2: Iconic West Coast Road Trip (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas)
This road trip is perfect for those looking to experience vibrant cities and world-famous attractions all along the West Coast.
What to Do:
Los Angeles: Visit Hollywood, take a studio tour, and relax on Venice Beach. Explore Griffith Park and hike to the Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city.
San Francisco: Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz Island, and take a ride on the famous cable cars. Explore the quirky shops in Haight-Ashbury.
Las Vegas: Experience the dazzling lights of the Las Vegas Strip, watch a world-class show, and try your luck at the casinos. Take a day trip to the nearby Hoover Dam or Red Rock Canyon for a change of pace.
Why It’s Great for First-Timers:
This trip combines the excitement of city life with a dash of glitz and glamour, all while offering incredible natural sights and the freedom of a road trip.
Explore our Los Angeles, San Francisco and Las Vegas itineraries.
Option 3: The Ultimate Nature and Adventure (Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon and Salt Lake City)
This itinerary is ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers looking to explore America's most awe-inspiring national parks.
What to Do:
Yellowstone National Park: See the famous Old Faithful geyser, explore the colourful Grand Prismatic Spring, and spot wildlife like bison and elk.
Grand Canyon: Hike along the South Rim, take in breathtaking views, and consider a helicopter ride over the canyon. You can also raft on the Colorado River for a truly unique experience.
Salt Lake City: Take a break from the wilderness in this vibrant city. Visit the Great Salt Lake, explore Antelope Island, and enjoy the local culture, food, and history.
Why It’s Great for First-Timers:
This nature-focused itinerary is perfect for outdoor lovers, offering a blend of diverse landscapes and opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and awe-inspiring views. Plus, Salt Lake City provides a perfect urban retreat in the middle of your adventure.
Explore our Yellowstone National Park, Grand Canyon and Salt Lake City itineraries.
Option 4: Southern Charm and Coastal Beauty (New Orleans, Texas, Florida)
This itinerary captures the essence of the Southern United States, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning coastlines. From the lively spirit of New Orleans to the vibrant cities of Texas, and the sun-drenched beaches of Florida, there’s something for everyone.
What to Do:
New Orleans: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the French Quarter, enjoy live jazz in the historic bars, and take a steamboat ride on the mighty Mississippi River. Don’t miss the mouth-watering Creole cuisine and be sure to try a traditional po' boy.
Texas: Visit cities like Austin for live music and BBQ, San Antonio to explore the Alamo, or Dallas for its rich culture and history.
Florida
For Families with Children: Florida is a world-renowned destination for family holidays. With places like Orlando offering a wide variety of theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, kids (and adults) can enjoy an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and fantasy. For a more relaxed family experience, head to the beaches of Destin or Clearwater, where the warm waters and soft sand are perfect for little ones to play.
For adults without children: Florida also offers plenty for those seeking a quieter, more adult-focused getaway. Explore the glamorous and lively Miami, with its vibrant nightlife, world-class shopping, and art scene. Alternatively, you could visit the serene Florida Keys, a chain of tropical islands perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. For history lovers, St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., provides charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a relaxing atmosphere.
Why It’s Great for First-Timers:
This trip is a celebration of the South’s distinct culture, food, music, and history, offering a balance of vibrant cities, charming small towns, and stunning coastal beauty. Whether you’re travelling with children or enjoying an adults-only escape, Florida offers two very different yet equally rewarding experiences.
Explore our New Orleans, Texas and Florida itineraries - our Florida itineraries are designed for both a family holiday and a trip for adults.
Option 5: The Best of the Midwest and New York State (Chicago, Detroit, Upstate New York, Niagara Falls)
This itinerary offers an exciting mix of Midwestern cities and the scenic wonders of New York State, from the cultural highlights of Chicago and Detroit to the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes and Niagara Falls.
What to Do:
Chicago: Visit Millennium Park, see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Willis Tower Skydeck. Take an architecture boat tour along the Chicago River and don’t miss a deep-dish pizza.
Detroit: Dive into history at the Motown Museum, explore the Detroit Institute of Arts, and learn about America’s industrial heritage at the Henry Ford Museum.
Upstate New York (Finger Lakes Region): En route to Niagara Falls, pass through the stunning Finger Lakes region. Enjoy wine-tasting tours at the numerous vineyards, explore the charming towns of Ithaca and Corning, and hike around the dramatic waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park.
Niagara Falls: Marvel at the Falls from both the American and Canadian sides, take the Maid of the Mist boat ride into the falls, and explore the surrounding Niagara Falls State Park. Beyond the falls, you can visit nearby attractions like the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario or venture to the Finger Lakes for more natural beauty.
Why It’s Great for First-Timers:
This itinerary offers a dynamic blend of big city culture, natural wonders, and tranquil landscapes. Explore the vibrancy of Chicago and Detroit, and then immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of New York State, culminating in the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls.
Explore our Chicago, Detroit and New York to Niagara Falls itineraries.
Option 6: Pacific Northwest & Alaska (Seattle, Alaska, Portland)
This itinerary offers a combination of vibrant cities and stunning natural beauty in the Pacific Northwest, with a dash of adventure in Alaska.
What to Do:
Seattle: Visit the iconic Space Needle, explore the Pike Place Market, and take a boat trip around Puget Sound. Don’t miss the Museum of Pop Culture and the Chihuly Garden.
Alaska: Head to Denali National Park for breathtaking mountain views, experience the stunning glaciers, and spot wildlife like bears, moose, and eagles. You can also take a scenic cruise or go on a wildlife safari to make the most of Alaska's remote beauty.
Portland: Enjoy the quirkiness of Portland with visits to Powell’s City of Books, the Portland Japanese Garden, and the food truck scene. Explore the nearby Columbia River Gorge for incredible waterfalls and hikes.
Why It’s Great for First-Timers:
This trip combines cosmopolitan cities with gorgeous landscapes, offering a great blend of culture, nature, and international travel across the U.S. and Canada. Alaska will add a truly unforgettable adventure to your journey.
Explore our Seattle, Alaska and Portland itineraries.
Conclusion: Your Perfect 2-Week American Adventure
Two weeks in the USA is the perfect amount of time to experience its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. Whether you’re into history, adventure, music, or beaches, these six itineraries offer something for every type of traveller. With a combination of iconic destinations and hidden gems, your first trip to America will be an unforgettable journey. Choose your ideal adventure and start planning the trip of a lifetime.
