USA Tour Packages

1. About USA
2. Tidbits
3. Things to Remember When Booking USA Tour Packages
4. USA Visa
5. Our Best Budget USA Tour Packages
6. USA At A Glance
7. Top Reasons To Visit USA
8. Best Time to Visit the USA
9. Popular Tourist Destination in the USA
10. Things To Do in USA
11. Shopping
12. Dos and Don’ts For Indian Travelers
13. Food and Cuisine
14. Art and Culture

The United States of America is the second-largest country on the North American continent. The Pacific Ocean borders it to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. It shares land borders with Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. It also shares maritime borders with Russia, Cuba and the Bahamas.

The United States has a rich history as a nation of immigrants, with people from around the world seeking a better life. The country is divided into six regions: New England, the mid-Atlantic, the South, the Midwest, the Southwest, and the West. Each region has its unique characteristics and history.

New England: Known for its historical significance, cities like Boston and Providence feature rolling hills and coastal landscapes.

Mid-Atlantic: This region includes bustling cities such as New York City and Philadelphia. It is a mix of urban areas and fertile farmland.

The South: Cities, like Atlanta and New Orleans, in this region experience a warm climate, and the terrain ranges from swamps to rolling hills.

Midwest: Home to cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, this region is often called the “nation’s breadbasket” and has flat plains and rich farmland.

Southwest: Known for cities like Phoenix and Santa Fe, the terrain includes deserts and stunning landscapes like the Grand Canyon.

West: With cities like San Francisco and Seattle, the West has diverse terrains, from the Rocky Mountains to beautiful coastal areas and vast deserts.

U.S. governance involves citizens over 18 voting every four years for the President and Vice President. The government has two houses of Congress: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The country has faced many challenges, including conflicts with Native Americans and the issue of slavery, which persisted until the Civil War ended in 1865. The 20th century brought significant progress, including industrial growth and civil rights movements. Today, the United States of America is one of the leading economies in the world and is a pioneer in technological advancements and urban conveniences.

• The USA has no official language or religion.
• The USA is the third most populous country in the world after China and India.
• The USA flag has 13 white and red stripes, representing the 13 original states that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776, and 50 stars, representing the 50 states of the country.
• Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is the first national park in the world. The country has around 470 national park sites with diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
• The United States has 4 time zones: Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific Standard Time from its east to the west coast. Alaska and Hawaii have their own time zones. There is a 4-time difference between the east and west coasts of the country.
• The United States has around 13,000 airports.
• In the USA, the imperial system is used for measurements, i.e., pounds and yards are used instead of kilograms and meters.
• Temperatures are measured in Fahrenheit instead of Celcius.
• The date is written as Month/Day/Year instead of Day/Month/Year.
• Fast food chains such as McDonalds, KFC, Burger King, etc., originated in the USA.
• The ARPANET, which eventually evolved into the Internet, was developed in the USA.
• Influential tech companies like Apple, Google, Facebook, and Tesla have headquarters in Silicon Valley, California.
• There are over 5000 universities in the USA.
• Mount Denali in Alaska is the tallest mountain in North America.

• To holiday in the USA, you must apply for a B-2 tourist visa. To apply for the visa, you need to fill out the DS-160 form on the US Department of State website, pay a visa fee (approximately $160), schedule an appointment, and attend a visa interview.
• Exchanging your INR to USD in India can provide better exchange rates than in the USA.
• We suggest you buy comprehensive travel insurance as medical costs in the USA are high.
• The USA is a vast nation, so pick a few states, regions, or coasts rather than trying to cover a lot in one trip. (Call us at +91 9940882200 and we’ll plan a customised USA tour package itinerary for you, depending on your interests and budget) 
• Familiarise yourself with U.S. customs regulations regarding what you can bring into the country.

The U.S. visa allows Indian travellers to enter the country and other countries such as Mexico, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Panama, and Jamaica. Countries like Turkey and the United Arab Emirates issue e-visas or visas on arrival for travellers with a valid US visa.

The visa usually has a validity of 10 years. If you’re a frequent traveller, investing in a US visa is recommended. The wait times in India are really long, so apply for the visa well in advance of your travel dates.

The USA should be on your holiday bucket list. With an average of around 80 million tourists annually, this vast, well-developed and tourist-friendly country offers diverse experiences for everyone. One of the oldest developed countries in the world, the excellent infrastructure ensures you get from one place to another with ease. The country’s sheer size makes it impossible to cover all areas of interest in one trip, so it’s a good idea to pick a region or coast when choosing USA tour packages so as to cover all the activities you want to enjoy.  

For nature enthusiasts, the country has more than 40 national parks with various astounding geographic features, including the iconic Great Canyon, Niagara Falls, long east and west coasts, exotic islands, volcanoes, hot springs and a wide variety of flora and fauna. These locations also present idyllic settings for adventure activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, surfing, rafting, rock climbing, horse riding, skiing and snowboarding.

Tourists interested in history can explore the Museum of the American Revolution, Mount Rushmore, the American Museum of Natural History, the Statue of Liberty, and more. Patrons of the arts and sciences can visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Smithsonian Museums, NASA, and the Kenedy Space Centre. You can also learn more about the country’s indigenous cultures at places like the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.

The USA is a hub for entertainment. Hollywood, Disneyland, Universal Studios, Broadway shows, and casinos in Las Vegas spoil you for choice. There is something for every budget. If you’re looking to visit Sin City, make sure you include it on your USA tour package itinerary. 

You cannot visit the USA and not shop! This country is a true shoppers’ paradise. Clothes, electronics, toys, books, stationery, jewellery, bags, shoes the list can go on and on. Shopping malls, outlet centres, and festivals with amazing discounts make this one of the most prominent reasons to visit the USA.

The US is the only country with all five major climate zones: tropical, dry, temperate, continental, and polar. Here’s an overview of the weather and seasons across the U.S., along with the best activities for each season:

• Temperatures begin to warm up across the country, with averages ranging from mild to pleasantly warm.
• Northern regions still experience some snow, while southern states enjoy blooming flowers and comfortable conditions.

• Hiking: Enjoy the blooming flora in national parks like Yosemite and the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Festivals: Participate in spring festivals, such as cherry blossom festivals in Washington, D.C., and various music festivals across the country.

• Central Texas – San Antonio, Austin
• Georgia
• Washington DC

• The East and South are hot and humid, while the West experiences dry heat, especially in desert areas.
• Coastal regions provide a refreshing escape from the heat with breezy conditions.

• Beach Trips: Enjoy sunny days at beaches in Florida, California, and Hawaii.
• Camping: You can explore national parks and forests, like Yellowstone or the Rockies, with full access to trails and amenities.
• Water Sports: Go kayaking, paddleboarding, or jet skiing in lakes and coastal areas.

• Hawaii
• Alaska
• Arizona (Grand Canyon)

• Temperatures begin to cool down, especially in the North, with vibrant autumn foliage.
• Southern states remain warm, but the weather becomes more comfortable.

• Leaf Peeping: Visit places known for fall foliage, such as New England or the Smoky Mountains.
• Harvest Festivals: Attend apple picking and pumpkin festivals, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast.
• Outdoor Sports: Enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities in cooler weather.

• Maine (Acadia National Park)
• New York
• Vermont

• Cold temperatures dominate the North, often resulting in snow, while the South enjoys milder winters.
• Coastal and southern states generally experience more temperate conditions.

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes in states like Colorado, Utah, and Vermont.
• Holiday Celebrations: Experience festive events and light displays in cities across the country.
• Winter Sports: Enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, and other winter activities in snowy regions.

• Aspen
• Florida 
• New York City 

At GT Holidays, we can customise your USA tour package to include multiple destinations even if they are in different regions, but are suitable for a particular climate.

Here’s a list of some of the most popular tourist attractions in the USA, along with a brief description and the best time to visit:

1. Grand Canyon, Arizona

A breathtaking natural wonder known for its stunning vistas and hiking trails along the rim and into the canyon.

Best Time to Visit: April to June (mild weather).

2. Statue of Liberty, New York

An iconic symbol of freedom, this colossal statue can be visited via ferry to Liberty Island. It offers stunning views of NYC.

The Best Time to Visit is May to September (warm weather).

3. Disneyland, California

Walt Disney created the original theme park, which features attractions, rides, and beloved characters in a magical setting.

Best Time to Visit: September to October (fewer crowds, pleasant weather).

4. Yosemite National Park, California

Famous for its breathtaking granite cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit: May to September (full access to park).

5. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The first national park in the U.S., it is known for its geothermal features, including around 500 geysers and diverse ecosystems.

Best Time to Visit: June to September (accessible roads and trails).

6. Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

A vibrant area known for its casinos, entertainment, and nightlife, packed with world-class shows and dining options.

Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November (mild temperatures).

7. National Mall, Washington, D.C.

A park that features iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, surrounded by museums.

Best Time to Visit: April to June (cherry blossoms and pleasant weather).

8. Golden Gate Bridge, California

An iconic suspension bridge offers stunning views of San Francisco Bay and the city, and there are walking paths for visitors.

Best Time to Visit: September to November (clear skies and fewer tourists).

9. New Orleans French Quarter, Louisiana

Famous for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage, best experienced during festivals.

Best Time to Visit: February (Mardi Gras) or April to May (mild weather).

10. Niagara Falls, New York

A spectacular natural wonder with breathtaking waterfalls, offering boat tours and viewpoints for visitors.

Best Time to Visit: June to August (warm weather and full access).

11. Hollywood Walk of Fame, California

A famous sidewalk honouring stars of the entertainment industry, located in the heart of Hollywood.

The Best Time to Visit is March to May (pleasant weather).

12. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

An iconic monument featuring the carved faces of four U.S. presidents, surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Best Time to Visit: June to September (ideal weather).

13. Walt Disney World, Florida

A massive resort complex featuring theme parks, entertainment, and dining experiences for all ages.

Best Time to Visit: January to February (fewer crowds).

14. The Alamo, Texas

A historic site and symbol of Texas independence, where visitors can learn about its significant role in history.

Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November (mild temperatures).

15. Chicago Millennium Park, Illinois

Home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture and numerous outdoor events and concerts, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture.

Best Time to Visit: May to September (outdoor activities).

Here’s a comprehensive list of popular tourist destinations included in your USA tour package categorised by regions and including all 50 states:

• Maine: Acadia National Park – Stunning coastal scenery with hiking trails and beautiful vistas.
• New Hampshire: White Mountains – Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
• Vermont: Stowe – A charming town famous for skiing and fall foliage.
• Massachusetts: Boston – Historic city with the Freedom Trail and vibrant cultural scene.
• Rhode Island: Newport – Known for its coastal mansions and beautiful beaches.
• Connecticut: Mystic – A quaint seaside town famous for its maritime history and aquarium.
• New York: New York City – Iconic metropolis with landmarks like Times Square and Central Park.
• New Jersey: Atlantic City – Known for its boardwalk, casinos, and beaches.
• Pennsylvania: Philadelphia – Home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
• Delaware: Rehoboth Beach – Popular beach destination with a lively boardwalk.
• Maryland: Baltimore – Known for its historic harbour and the National Aquarium.
• Virginia: Williamsburg – A living history museum reflecting colonial America.
• West Virginia: New River Gorge – Famous for its outdoor activities like white-water rafting.
• Washington, D.C.: National Mall – Home to historic monuments and museums.

• North Carolina: Asheville – Known for the Biltmore Estate and vibrant arts scene.
• South Carolina: Charleston – Historic city with neo-classical architecture and rich culture.
• Georgia: Atlanta – Known for its history in the civil rights movement and the Georgia Aquarium.
• Florida: Orlando – Famous for its theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
• Tennessee: Nashville – The heart of country music, featuring the Grand Ole Opry.
• Alabama: Gulf Shores – Beautiful beaches and a vibrant coastal scene.
• Kentucky: Louisville – Known for the Kentucky Derby and bourbon distilleries.
• Mississippi: Vicksburg – Historic Civil War site with a scenic waterfront.
• Arkansas: Hot Springs – Famous for its natural hot springs and beautiful parks.
• Louisiana: New Orleans – Renowned for its vibrant music scene and unique cuisine.

• Ohio: Cleveland – Home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Lake Erie.
• Indiana: Indianapolis – Known for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500.
• Illinois: Chicago – Famous for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, and Millennium Park.
• Michigan: Detroit – Known for its music history and the Henry Ford Museum.
• Wisconsin: Milwaukee – Famous for its breweries and the Summerfest music festival.
• Minnesota: Minneapolis – Known for the Mall of America and vibrant arts scene.
• Iowa: Des Moines – A growing city known for cultural attractions and parks.
• Missouri: St. Louis – Famous for the Gateway Arch and lively music scene.
• North Dakota: Medora – Gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
• South Dakota: Mount Rushmore – Iconic monument featuring the faces of four U.S. presidents.
• Nebraska: Omaha – Known for its Henry Doorly Zoo and vibrant downtown.

• Texas: Austin – Known for its live music scene and cultural festivals.
• Oklahoma: Oklahoma City – Famous for its cowboy culture and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
• New Mexico: Santa Fe – Known for its Pueblo-style architecture and vibrant arts scene.
• Arizona: Grand Canyon – Breathtaking natural wonder with stunning views and hiking opportunities.
• Utah: Zion National Park – Famous for its red cliffs and scenic trails.
• Nevada: Las Vegas – Renowned for its entertainment, casinos, and nightlife.

• California: San Francisco – Known for the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
• Oregon: Portland – Famous for its food scene, parks, and quirky culture.
• Washington: Seattle – Known for the Space Needle and vibrant coffee culture.
• Alaska: Denali National Park – Home to North America’s highest peak and stunning landscapes.
• Hawaii: Maui – Known for its beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and lush rainforests.

• Idaho: Boise – Known for its outdoor activities and vibrant downtown.
• Montana: Glacier National Park – Famous for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails.
• Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park – The first national park in the US known for its geothermal features.
• Colorado: Denver – Known for its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and vibrant arts scene.

Shopping in the United States is an exciting experience filled with endless options. You’ll find everything from high-end boutiques and department stores to quaint local shops and bustling malls. The country offers various shopping venues to cater to various tastes and budgets. Here are some popular options:

• Shopping Malls: Massive complexes like the Mall of America in Minnesota and Aventura Mall in Florida house hundreds of stores, including luxury brands, popular retail chains, and dining options.
• Outlet Centers: For bargain hunters, outlet malls such as Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in New York and Sawgrass Mills in Florida provide discounted prices on designer and brand-name items.
• Local Markets: Farmers’ markets and flea markets across the country offer unique, handmade goods and local produce, adding a personal touch to the shopping experience.

Popular Items to Buy

• Clothing and Accessories: The USA is home to many well-known fashion brands, offering everything from casual wear to high-end fashion at stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s, and local boutiques.
• Electronics: Tech enthusiasts can find the latest gadgets and electronics at stores like Best Buy and Apple, often at competitive prices.
• Souvenirs: You can look for unique souvenirs, including local crafts, Native American jewellery, and themed merchandise from national parks or cities.

Frequent sales events make it easier for shoppers to snag great deals. Popular shopping events include:

• Black Friday: The day after Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, featuring massive discounts across all retail sectors.
• Cyber Monday: The following Monday offers online shoppers exclusive deals, making it a great day for tech and electronics purchases.
• End-of-Season Sales: Retailers often discount seasonal items at the end of each season to clear inventory, making it an ideal time to shop for clothing and accessories.

One important aspect of shopping in the USA is understanding sales tax. Most states impose a sales tax on purchases, which varies by location. Prices displayed often do not include tax, which is added at checkout.

Consider visiting states with tax rebate programs on certain items, such as California and Texas or those that do not charge sales tax, such as Delaware and Alaska.

Always check with individual retailers to confirm their participation in tax rebate programs and the specific items eligible for refunds.

Here’s how the refunds typically work:

• Eligibility: Show proof of residency outside the USA and a valid passport.
• Claiming Refunds: To claim refunds, you must fill out forms and provide receipts, which can often be done at the airport before departure.

American supermarkets offer an impressive variety of items. You can find fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and many packaged goods. Many stores also have sections for organic and health foods, catering to diverse dietary preferences. In addition to groceries, you can often purchase household items, personal care products, and even clothing. There are several well-known supermarket chains across the country. Walmart is one of the largest, offering low prices and a wide selection. Kroger is another popular choice, known for its fresh produce and bakery items. Whole Foods Market focuses on organic and natural products, attracting health-conscious shoppers. Other chains include Safeway, Trader Joe’s, Target, etc. You can visit these stores as a part of our USA tour package. 

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe.
• Travel in groups or with a guide on hiking trails, while camping, etc.
• Always check the weather and dress accordingly.
• Always be polite and respectful.
• Do not litter.
• Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
• Respect nature and follow guidelines.
• Maintain personal space when interacting with locals.
• Don’t be overly loud in public places: Maintain a moderate volume to respect local customs.
• Don’t take photos in restricted areas: Always check for signs indicating photography restrictions.
• Don’t ignore local tipping customs: Tipping is expected in many service sectors, usually around 15-20%.

When you think of American food, you might picture burgers and fries. But the truth is, American cuisine is much more diverse. It reflects the country’s rich history and the many cultures that have come together. Make sure you sample some of America’s iconic dishes during your USA tour package. 

First up, you can’t visit America without trying a classic hamburger. Many restaurants serve juicy burgers with various toppings. You can customise it with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and bacon. Another favourite is hot dogs. You’ll find them at street vendors and restaurants with a choice of toppings such as mustard, ketchup, or sauerkraut.

Barbecue is another essential part of American cuisine, especially in the Southern states. Each region has its own style, but you can expect tender meats like ribs and pulled pork, often served with tangy sauces. Pair it with macaroni and cheese, a creamy pasta dish many people love.

America is famous for its fast food chains. Places like Domino’s, Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC and Wendy’s are everywhere, serving quick meals that are tasty and affordable. Don’t be surprised if the food from these fast food chains differs from what you are used to in India.

Don’t miss trying clam chowder in New England. This hearty soup is made with clams, potatoes, and cream. If you’re in Chicago, sample the famous deep-dish pizza with a thick crust and lots of cheese and toppings.

In the Southwest, try tacos and enchiladas. These dishes are filled with meats, beans, and cheese, wrapped in soft tortillas. They are often topped with fresh salsa and guacamole.

America is a melting pot of cultures; you can find global cuisines in almost every city. For instance, in places like Los Angeles and New York, you can enjoy authentic Mexican, Chinese, Indian, and Italian food. Try sushi at a Japanese restaurant or curry at an Indian eatery. Many cities also offer Middle Eastern foods like falafel and shawarma.

Street food is also popular, with food trucks serving everything from gourmet tacos to artisan grilled cheese.

Also, if you have the chance, experience a traditional Thanksgiving Day meal, which typically includes roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.

For dessert, you must try cheesecake. New York-style cheesecake is rich and creamy, often topped with fruit or chocolate. Another popular dessert is apple pie, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Another must-try is a peach cobbler, a delicious Southern dessert made with fresh peaches and a buttery crust.

When it comes to drinks, start with sweet tea, especially in the South. It’s refreshing and very popular. Root beer is another unique American soda with a distinct flavour. If you prefer something alcoholic, try a craft beer. Many cities have local breweries with a variety of flavours. Lastly, don’t forget to taste American coffee. It’s often served in large cups and can be enjoyed black or with cream and sugar.

If there’s something you’d like to try during your USA tour package, remember to check with our travel expert.

America is a land rich in culture and showcases a variety of influences that reflect its diverse history. American architecture is a mix of styles: beautiful colonial buildings, modern skyscrapers, and stunning historical landmarks. Cities like New York and Chicago are famous for their iconic structures. For example, the Empire State Building represents the Art Deco style, while the Guggenheim Museum showcases modern design. Each building tells a story about the time and place it was built.

American art is just as diverse. From the bold colours of abstract expressionism to the intricate details of realism, artists express their feelings and experiences. The works of famous artists like Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock and Georgia O’Keeffe are showcased in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, allowing everyone to appreciate the creativity of American artists.

America has a rich tradition of craft and design. You can find handmade pottery, textiles, and woodwork that reflect local cultures and histories. Craftspeople often use traditional methods passed down through generations. Whether it’s quilting in the South or Native American beadwork, these crafts tell stories about the people and places they come from.

Hollywood is known worldwide for producing blockbuster movies. From classics like ‘Casablanca’ to modern hits like ‘Black Panther,’ American films often explore themes that resonate globally. Authors like Harper Lee, Ernest Hemingway, T.S. Elliot, Mark Twain, Toni Morrison and Stephen King have shaped American storytelling and literature. Their works reflect people’s diverse experiences in the country.

Music in America is incredibly varied. Genres like jazz, blues, rock, and hip-hop have roots in American soil. Artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Louis Armstrong Ketty Perry, Beyoncé and Eminem have influenced music around the world. Events like music festivals showcase this diversity, bringing together fans from all backgrounds to celebrate different styles and sounds.

Native American tribes have rich traditions, including storytelling, music, and art. Powwows are vibrant gatherings where people celebrate their heritage through dance, music, and crafts. For a customised USA tour package itinerary involving Native American culture, call GT Holidays.