Best Time to Visit the USA
Table of contents
Fall/Autumn in USA
Spring in USA
Monthly activities and tourists
Seasonal guide to prices
Travel companies in the USA
FAQ
The USA, a land of contrasts, offers unique experiences all year round. However, the best time to visit the USA is during fall (September to November). From the vibrant colors of New England to Día de los Muertos in San Antonio, there’s plenty to explore across this vast continent.
Best time to visit the USA: Autumn/Fall
Why this is the best time to visit the USA:
Pleasant weather: Enjoy a comfortable climate for outdoor activities, whether you’re keen to hike in the National Parks or paddle on the coast.
Fewer crowds: Skip the summer rush and enjoy quieter museums, parks and other attractions.
Fall foliage: Fall in New England is something special – and you’ll get the opportunity to witness the spectacular color change first hand.
Cultural Festivals: Experience the country's rich culture through numerous fall events, including apple festivals and Halloween parties.
Harvest season: From pumpkin pie to lobster rolls, savor fresh produce at local markets and food festivals.
Affordable travel: With fewer tourists across the US in fall, you’ll benefit from lower flight and accommodation prices.
Top things to do and see in the USA during fall/autumn
Fall foliage in New England
New York City
San Francisco
Three essentials to pack for your USA trip during fall
Layered clothing
Fall temperatures can fluctuate, so it’s wise to pack a mix of light and warm clothing to ensure you’re not caught out.
Comfortable footwear
Whether you're exploring city streets or hiking trails, comfortable shoes are a must.
Rain gear
An umbrella or raincoat can come in handy for unexpected showers. Pop one in your bag so you’re prepared for anything.
Best time to visit the USA: Spring
Here's why spring is considered the second best time to visit the USA:
Enjoy the pleasant weather: Spring in the USA is comfortably warm in most states, making it the perfect time for outdoor adventures.
See the country come alive: Discover the country in bloom, from cherry blossoms in Washington DC to wildflowers in California.
Avoid summer crowds: Tourist attractions are less crowded in the spring months, so you can enjoy a more enjoyable and relaxed experience.
Take part in unique spring festivals: From the New Orleans Jazz Fest to the National Cherry Blossom Festival, spring is a time of celebration.
Great for wildlife viewing: Many species come out of hibernation and birds start migrating, making spring a great time for wildlife spotting.
Outdoor activities: Hiking, camping, and biking trails are open and less crowded, so nature lovers can explore the best of the US without the oppressive summer heat.
Top things to do and see in the USA in spring
Explore the National Cherry Blossom Festival
Join the New Orleans Jazz Fest
Visit Yosemite National Park
Three essentials to pack for your USA tour in spring
Comfortable footwear
Pack walking shoes or sturdy sneakers for exploring cities and light hiking.
Light Jacket or Sweater
With unpredictable spring weather, a light jacket or sweater will keep you warm during cooler evenings.
Sun Protection
Include sunglasses, a brimmed hat, and sunscreen, as the spring sun can be surprisingly intense.
USA outside the peak times
Overview of activities and tourists in the USA per month
Discover a host of experiences across all seasons in the USA. Summer is perfect for beach adventures in Florida and California, while the spring bloom in Washington D.C.'s Cherry Blossom Festival is a sight to behold. Fall is the best time to embark on a scenic drive through the foliage-clad roads of Vermont, and winter in New York City is an experience of a lifetime – don’t miss skating in Central Park and the Rockefeller Christmas Tree.
| Month | Popular Activities | Tourist Volume | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Skiing in Colorado, Visiting museums in DC | Low | Low season |
| February | Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Winter sports | Moderate | Shoulder season |
| March | Spring break in Florida, Cherry Blossom Festival in DC | High | Shoulder season |
| April | National Parks hiking, Music festivals | High | High season |
| May | Beach vacations, Memorial Day events | High | High season |
| June | Road trips, Cultural festivals | High | High season |
| July | Independence Day celebrations, Beach holidays | Very high | High season |
| August | Music festivals, Outdoor adventures | Very high | High season |
| September | Wine harvests, Fall foliage tours | High | Shoulder season |
| October | Halloween events, Oktoberfest celebrations | Moderate | Shoulder season |
| November | Thanksgiving parades, Fall festivals | Low | Low season |
| December | Christmas markets, Skiing in the Rockies | Moderate | Low season |
USA adventures
By region
By experience
The best time to visit the USA: A seasonal guide to prices
Discover the magic of every season in the USA with TourRadar. Our adventure packages are priced to reflect the unique experiences each time of year offers. Whether you're chasing the sun in summer, marveling at the fall foliage, exploring winter wonderlands, or celebrating spring bloom, we've got an adventure waiting for you. Discover the best time to visit the USA and let TourRadar guide your journey.
High Season: June - August
- Peak summer means peak prices.
- Warm to hot weather across all states.
- Ideal for beach vacations, national park visits, and city tours.
- Lots of tourists at major attractions, so plan ahead.
- Best suited to sun-seekers and family vacationers.
Low Season: December - February
- Reduced prices, especially in the northern states.
- Cold weather with snowfall in many regions.
- Perfect for winter sports in states like Colorado and Vermont.
- Fewer tourists at most attractions – except ski resorts, which are busy.
- Recommended for snow-lovers and budget travelers.
Shoulder Season: March - May & September - November
- Moderate prices, offering a balance of cost and comfort.
- Mild weather, with beautiful spring blossoms or vibrant fall foliage.
- Great for outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
- Less crowded tourist spots, providing a more relaxed experience.
- Ideal for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking tranquility.
Deals for USA tours
Grand Canyon Express - 3 days
Best of Cali Express - 3 days
National Parks Winter Tour
Cali Coast & Yosemite From San Fran - 4 days
Philly, Washington & Niagara - 4 days
Niagara, Philly & Washington - 4 days
LA to Monument Valley & Vegas - 5 days
LA to Vegas & Grand Canyon - 4 days
California Coast & Las Vegas - 5 days
Great Eastern Cities
Top-rated operators for USA tours
What people ask about the USA
When is the best time to visit the USA for beach vacations?
Summer (June - August) is the best time for beach vacations, with warm weather and clear skies across the country. From Hawaii to New Jersey, there are plenty of beaches to enjoy across the States.
What is the ideal season for a budget trip to the USA?
The low season (December - February) offers reduced prices, especially in northern states, making it ideal for budget travel.
When can I experience the USA's fall foliage?
Fall foliage can be best experienced during the shoulder season, particularly from September to November. It’s at its most vibrant in New England – don’t miss Vermont and New Hampshire.
Is it advisable to visit the USA in winter?
Absolutely! Winter (December - February) is perfect for snow sports in states like Vermont and Colorado. You’ll also be able to enjoy milder winter weather in southern states like Florida, Texas and Georgia – and big cities like New York have plenty to offer all year round (just be sure to wrap up warm).
When is the best time to visit the USA for outdoor activities?
The shoulder season, March - May and September - November, offers optimal weather for outdoor activities. Whether you plan to hit the trails in National Parks like Zion, Mount Rainier and Glacier, want to try rafting down one of the major US rivers, or are bikepacking in the countryside, you’ll enjoy mild weather and fewer tourists.
What season offers a balance of cost and comfort for traveling in the USA?
The shoulder season provides a perfect balance of moderate prices and mild weather, making for a comfortable trip.
24/7 Customer Support
Our team of experienced tour specialists have traveled to hundreds of countries around the globe and have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!
More about the USA
- Fully Guided (1006)
- Explorer (908)
- Western USA (826)
- August 2025 (727)
- Family (709)
- September 2025 (705)
- June 2025 (679)
- July 2025 (662)
- May 2025 (626)
- Sun Belt (512)
- April 2025 (509)
- Southwest USA (504)
- October 2025 (497)
- Pacific (450)
- 7 Day (377)
- March 2025 (373)
- Hiking & Trekking (331)
- Canada and USA (322)
- Arctic / North Pole (291)
- Rocky Mountains (277)
- Atlantic (272)
- Coach / Bus (246)
- 10 Day (243)
- November 2025 (241)
- Eastern USA (240)
- Four Corners (239)
- February 2025 (229)
- Historical (220)
- January 2025 (200)
- West Coast USA (193)
- Eastern Canada (179)
- 2 Week (179)
- California (167)
- In-depth Cultural (167)
- East Coast USA (159)
- Christmas & New Year (155)
- Las Vegas (146)
- Camping (138)
- December 2024 (133)
- Los Angeles (129)
- Pacific Northwest (127)
- Pacific Coast USA (124)
- Active (120)
- Southeast USA (117)
- 3 Week (116)
- Northeast USA (113)
- Southern USA (108)
- Alaska (105)