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Golden Gate Bridge, USA

Weather in the USA

Table of contents

Weather by season
Weather by month
Weather by region
The best time to visit
Travel tips for every weather
Your packing list for the USA
Weather phenomena
FAQ


Embark on an adventure of a lifetime with TourRadar in the USA. There’s something for everyone in this vast country, from sun-drenched summers to snow-capped winters. Experience the contrasting landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks and discover everything this incredible country has to offer, with unique experiences across every season.

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Weather in USA by season

  • Women in Washington D.C.

    Spring (March to May)

    Spring breathes life into the USA. As the USA is so big, the weather varies across the states – but there are generally mild temperatures. Catch the cherry blossoms in Washington or take advantage of the good weather with a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains.
     

    USA tours in spring
  • Arches National Park

    Summer (June to August)

    Enjoy a sun-kissed summer across the majority of the USA, from the golden beaches of California to the balmy nights of New York. The weather is ideal for outdoor adventures and beach vacations, so whether you’re a beach lover or a hiking fan, there’s plenty to enjoy across the country. 
     

    USA tours in summer
  • Appalachian trail

    Autumn (September to November)

    Autumn in the USA is a spectacle of color, with hues of orange, gold and red in the trees. It’s the perfect time to hike the Appalachian trail – or if you prefer a less active experience, spend time enjoying the vineyards of Napa Valley.
     

    USA tours in autumn/fall
  • Skiing in Colorado

    Winter (December to February)

    Winter transforms much of the USA into a snowy wonderland. From ice-skating in Central Park to skiing in Colorado, there are plenty of opportunities to experience winter sports – but if you prefer the heat, you’ll find it in the southern states like Florida and Texas.
     

    USA tours in winter

    Monthly overview of the weather in the USA

    MonthAvg Temp °CAvg Temp °FRain/Snow
    January-130Moderate
    February134Moderate
    March541Moderate
    April1152Low
    May1763Low
    June2272Low
    July2475Moderate
    August2376Moderate
    September1966Low
    October1355Low
    November745Moderate
    December236Moderate

    Weather in the USA by region

    • Southwest USA

      Southwest

      The Southwest, including Arizona, is known for its dry, hot summers and mild winters. This offers unique desert landscapes and vibrant sunsets, beautiful in all seasons.
       

      See Southwest USA tours
    • Seattle

      Northwest

      The Northwest, with cities like Seattle and Oregon, is known for its cool, damp weather. It might be wet at times, but it offers lush green landscapes and a coffee culture like no other.
       

      See Northwest USA tours
    • New York, Liberty Statue

      Northeast

      The Northeast, home to New York and Boston, offers a full range of seasons, from hot summers to snowy winters. It’s great to explore in any weather, whether you prefer city trips or skiing. 
       

      See Northeast USA tours
    • Florida

      South

      The South, including Florida, is known for its tropical climate. Enjoy year-round warm weather, ideal for beach escapades and activities, such as water sports.
       

      See Southern USA tours

    Best time to visit the USA based on weather

    The best time to visit the USA based on the weather largely depends on your preferred activities. For beach lovers, the glorious summer months, especially June to August, are perfect. On the other hand, winter sports enthusiasts will prefer the snowy months of December to February. Or perhaps you’ll love mid-September to October, the best time to witness the country in its full color glory. With TourRadar, every season in the USA offers a unique adventure waiting to be explored.

    Read more about the USA
    Grand Canyon

    Weather-related travel tips

    General tips for all seasons

    Plan according to the season: The weather in the USA changes significantly with the seasons – and it’s also largely dependent on which part of the States you’re visiting. Plan your travel itinerary around these changes to get the most out of your adventure. 

    Keep an eye on the forecast: Weather in the USA can be unpredictable. Regularly check forecast updates to stay prepared – you don’t want to be caught out while you’re out exploring everything the country has to offer.

    Dress in layers: The temperature can vary throughout the day, particularly during the shoulder seasons. Dress in layers to stay comfortable, allowing you to throw on a layer or take one off when you need it.

    Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen: During the summer, temperatures can soar. Always carry water and apply sunscreen – and don’t forget to regularly reapply if you’re out in the sun or take a dip in the sea.

    Consider the altitude: Weather can change rapidly at higher elevations, such as in the Rockies. Keep this in mind when planning hikes or mountain adventures to ensure you stay safe.

    Packing list for the USA

    • Spring and fall

      • Lightweight Layers
      • Sunscreen
      • Sunglasses
      • Hat/Cap
      • Comfortable Walking Shoes
      • Light Jacket
      • Scarf
      • Water Bottle
      • Insect Repellent
      • Umbrella

    • Summer

      • Lightweight Clothing
      • Sunscreen
      • Sunglasses
      • Hat/Cap
      • Swimwear
      • Beach Towel
      • Sandals
      • Water Bottle
      • Insect Repellent
      • Lightweight Raincoat

    • Winter

      • Warm Clothing
      • Winter Boots
      • Thick Socks
      • Gloves
      • Thermal Underwear
      • Scarf
      • Insulated Jacket
      • Lip Balm and Moisturizer
      • Snow Goggles
      • Hand Warmers

      Weather phenomena in the USA

      • Northern Lights

        Witness the Northern Lights

        Alaska's stunning auroras are a mesmerizing natural spectacle unique to the northern latitudes. Will you get lucky and spot these beautiful dancing lights?

      • Mystical fog in San Francisco

        Explore the mystical fog of San Francisco

        The city's famous fog, affectionately named "Karl", creates an enchanting atmosphere as it rolls in.

      • Kansas

        Experience the power of a Midwest thunderstorm

        The central plains are home to some of the most intense thunderstorms on the planet.

      • Snow

        See the snowfall in New England

        There's nothing quite like a New England town blanketed in fresh, white snow. It’s a picture-perfect sight you’ll be lucky to see. 

        Best USA tours

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        Top-rated operators for USA tours

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        What people ask about the USA

        • What's the hottest part of the USA?

          Death Valley in California holds the title for the hottest place in the USA. Temperatures often reach over 120°F in the summer. 

        • What's the average winter temperature in the USA?

          Winter temperatures in the USA vary widely from state to state, with warmer southern states and cold winters in the north. On average, they range from 20°F in the northern states to 70°F in southern Florida.

        • Does it snow everywhere in the USA?

          While many areas of the USA experience snow, there are also several regions, such as southern Florida and Hawaii, where snow is a rare occurrence.

        • What time of year is hurricane season in the USA?

          Hurricane season in the USA typically runs from June 1 through November 30. The peak hurricane period is from early August through the end of October.

        • What's the best time to visit the USA for good weather?

          Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are generally considered the best times to visit the USA for mild weather. Summers can be hot, so if you’re a sun worshiper, you may prefer to visit during the peak season.

        • Does the altitude affect the weather in the USA?

          Yes, higher elevations often have cooler temperatures and more precipitation than lower areas. Always check local forecasts if you’re heading to mountainous regions to make sure you stay safe. 

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