VISIT USA 2023 Travel Planner Create your USA experience
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visitusa.org.uk 3 Published by BMI Publishing Ltd, 501 the residence, no.1 alexander terrace, guildford, GU1 3DA UK. Tel: +44 (0)20 8649 7233 Email: enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk Website: bmipublishing.co.uk EditorIAL DIRECTOR: steve hartridge, Publisher: Sally Parker, Feature writers steve hartridge, peter ellegard, Designer: MATT BONNER, Production Manager: Clare Hunter, Production administrator: Steve Hunter, Managing Director: Matt Bonner, CEO: Martin Steady | COVER IMAGES: Havasu Creek, Arizona. Credit: istockphoto.com/Andrew Peacock; Country and Western Music. Credit: istockphoto.com/ RapidEyei; Family hiking, Arches National Park. istockphoto.com/Yobro10; Love Statue, PhiladElphia, Visit Philadelphia; Mount Rushmore: Credit: Steve Hartridge; Road trip Hawaii: Credit bigstockphoto.com; New York: Credit florian-wehde on Unsplash.com. other Images sourced from Visit USA (UK) members, tourist boards, bigstockphoto.com and UNSPLASH.COM | Although every effort has been made to achieve accuracy, the publishers and Visit USA association (UK) do not accept responsibility for any mistakes or omissions ©BMI Publishing LtD 2023 VisitUSAUK @VisitUSA_UK visitusauk WELCOME TO THE USA Your gu i de to plann i ng the ult imate USA hol i day Features 4 American Diversity 6 American Road Trips 10 Six Train Journeys 14 Movie Locations 20 Food and Drink 24 Six Street Art Cities 26 History Makers 30 Adventure 36 Wildlife Watching 38 Wow Moments 42 Americana 48 Weird and Wonderful 52 The Old West 56 Twin Centres 60 Sports Stateside 61 Six U.S. Islands 64 The Great Outdoors Map 66 Plot your route around the U.S. with highways, gateway cities and train routes marked on this map of the nation Travel Toolkit 68 Helpful hints and tips Essential information you need to know before you go Visit USA Members 69 Find out more Contact guide to help you plan your perfect U.S. itinerary Be Inspired 8 Oklahoma City 12 Visit Central Florida 16 Visit Mesa 22 Washington State 28 New Jersey 34 Philadelphia 40 Maine 44 New Orleans 46 Atlantic City 50 Park City 54 Greater Birmingham 58 Oklahoma 62 Central Florida
4 visitusa.org.uk AMERICAN DIVERSITY AMERICA HAS IT ALL Marvel at the breadth of experiences on offer in the U.S. Courtesy of Related-Oxford Heidi Kaden on Unsplash jvOiEqEETss on Unsplash
visitusa.org.uk 5 AMERICAN DIVERSITY Top row: Blues fans head to B.B. KING's BLUES CLUB in MEMPHIS for live music and Southern food classics in a brightly decorated listening room. Rise early and experience a spectacular HALEAKALA SUNRISE from the summit of this dormant volcano that towers almost 10,000 feet over Maui, Hawaii. Dream Catchers: The annual Gathering of Nations in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is the largest Native American Pow-Wow in North America. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, carved into the Black Hills of North Dakota at MOUNT RUSHMORE. Bottom row: From Alaska to Vermont, GREAT SKIING is on offer in states both west and east. Scale the outside of New York’s 1,200-foot-high 30 Hudson Yards skyscraper – before leaning out from the Western Hemisphere’s highest outdoor deck, Edge. CADILLAC RANCH, a public art installation and sculpture in Amarillo, Texas, features 10 venerable Cadillacs partly buried alongside Route 66. KAYAK AMONG MANATEES in Florida's Crystal River area, 90 minutes north of Tampa. STEVE HARTRIDGE Jaime Handley on Unsplash
The USA is criss-crossed with highways and byways offering fabulous road trips and unforgettable motorbike rides. Along the way you will experience America at its most colourful and dramatic. Whichever route you choose, you can be sure adventure and stunning landscapes will be just around the next bend in the road. dress up for easy riding There are few experiences more deserving of the 'Americana' tag than travelling a highway on a motorbike. Top rides include New England’s 63-mile-long Mohawk Trail, an ex-Native American trade route, while Arkansas attracts bike enthusiasts to its wide open plains in the Delta and twisty mountain backroads of the Ozark Mountains, with the Pig Trail, known for its 'stacked switchbacks'. Pictured Main image: See America's wide-open spaces and national parks on a road trip; Above: A motorcycle adventure in the White Mountains of New Hampshire; Opposite page: Santa Monica Pier is the end of the road for iconic Route 66, which runs from Chicago to the popular coastal city near Los Angeles 6 visitusa.org.uk DRIVE TIME Hit the road Jack, on a memorable American journey istockphoto.com / swissmediavision AMERICAN ROAD TRIPS
MOTHER ROAD Several states are planning to celebrate the November 2026 centenary of Route 66, the Mother Road. The Illinois State Museum in Springfield is one of many that will host a major exhibition. Oklahoma has the longest driveable section of the highway, which runs from Chicago to Santa Monica; the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton is the largest dedicated to the 'must drive' road. MAUI MAGIC The spectacular Hana Highway in Hawaii is just 52 miles long but can take four hours to drive. Drivers encounter 620 curves and hairpin bends as the road winds around Maui’s rugged, rainforestswathed eastern side and 59 bridges, many single-file. Add time for photo stops of stunning views, waterfalls and pools. COASTAL BEAUTY Few drives match the allure of California’s Highway 1, colloquially known as the Pacific Coast Highway. It hugs picturesque bays, soaring cliffs and oceanside communities for 600 miles from just south of Los Angeles to Mendocino in Northern California. blue ridge highlights Cresting the Blue Ridge Mountains for 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the USA's longest linear park, connecting Skyline Drive in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina. The National Park Service-managed road is open year-round, although conditions vary by season. Drive the scenic Overseas Highway from Key Largo to Key West, which runs for 106 miles right over the ocean and through the Florida Keys. A highlight along the way is the Old Seven Mile Bridge, linking Knights Key to Little Duck Key, an architectural triumph when constructed in 1912. Drive 490 miles from ‘Black to Yellow’ on the scenic road from the Black Hills of South Dakota to magical Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. This nine-hour journey passes through the breathtaking Bighorn Mountains, the cowboy town of Sheridan and Buffalo Bill’s town of Cody. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, this Southern California oasis has long been a place for self-discovery and serenity. Whatever you’re seeking—relaxing hot mineral springs, inspiring landscapes, new trails to blaze—you’ll find it here. visitgreaterpalmsprings.com
8 visitusa.org.uk BE INSPIRED The Modern Frontier In OKC, you'll be greeted with overflowing kindness as you discover the heritage, culture and resiliency that lives on in the Oklahoma City of today. Modern Oklahoma City is known as the Modern Frontier. It's rich with opportunity and seasoned with character. It is a 'yes city' that actively makes things happen. Its collaborative and energetic vision has transformed OKC over the past several decades as it has invested nearly $2 billion in building world-class attractions, sports venues, urban parks and a new convention center complex. And they're not done yet! For two years running, OKC has also been named the #1 city in the nation for street art by USA Today. From alleyways filled with rotating murals to sculptures adorning bridges and parks, the city's street art scene offers plenty of Instagrammable moments while also expressing our culture and creative talent. This is one of many unexpected things to discover about Oklahoma City. If it's curated cuisine you crave, OKC is a hub for innovative chefs and locally owned restaurant groups that have cultivated a thriving food scene where flavor and creativity know no bounds. History Oklahoma City is where authentic Western heritage meets a thriving modern metropolis. True to its frontier roots, Oklahoma City embodies the Modern Frontier and offers the spirit of adventure with a down-to-earth atmosphere. Every destination has a story, and Oklahoma City's own story began with the several tribal nations which inhabited this special place, long before it was 'officially' designated a city. This complex past has led to OKC residents embracing a history of doing things their own way – a visionary spirit that can be seen today in its people and passion. From the classically trained to the wildly inventive, the city is home to pioneering thinkers, doers and creators. Enjoy your time in Oklahoma City and linger awhile. Discover those fresh perspectives and flavors that await you, and let the city and its people welcome you to the Modern Frontier. “If it's curated cuisine you crave, OKC is a hub for innovative chefs and locally owned restaurant groups that have cultivated a thriving food scene" Visit Oklahoma City Be inspired, visit VISITOKC.COM OKC is a city open to all, with a caring and open environment that embraces diversity. You'll fall in love with OKC.
visitusa.org.uk 9 BE INSPIRED Highlights of Oklahoma City The Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine The Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine, which is expected in 2023, will be a resource for the Catholic archdiocese of Oklahoma City and a beacon of faith to people around the world. Blessed Stanley Rother was the first martyr from the U.S. and the first U.S.-born priest to be beatified. The Shrine, built in dedication to him, is designed in the Spanish mission style. Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park Slated to open in Spring 2023, the Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park at RIVERSPORT expansion will include a new bike plaza, an outdoor classroom, a community garden, and play area, as well as paved parking. Shipping containers will be used to create a unique gathering place that includes a welcome center, a nature center, and ADA restrooms. Bricktown Bricktown Entertainment District is the go-to place for nightlife, dining and fun. Enjoy the sights along the mile-long Bricktown Canal on a Bricktown Water Taxi. Bricktown is also home to the American Banjo Museum, where you'll see more than 400 beautiful instruments and rotating exhibits. Located at south end of Bricktown, the Oklahoma Land Run Monument features 45 of the world's largest bronze sculptures. The First Americans Museum The First Americans Museum tells the collective histories of the 39 tribes of Oklahoma. This museum showcases exhibitions in history, culture and art; features live public and educational programs; a full-service restaurant presenting unique Native-inspired cuisine; plus an extensive gift shop with Native-made and artisan wares. Be inspired, visit VISITOKC.COM “Bricktown Entertainment District is the go-to for nightlife, dining and fun. Enjoy the sights along the mile-long Bricktown Canal on a Bricktown Water Taxi"
1 rocky mountaineeR The luxury train synonymous with Canada's Rocky Mountains now runs between Denver and Moab, in both directions (April to October). The 355-mile Rockies to Red Rocks two-day trip features canyons, rivers, valleys, prairie grasslands, red-sandstone cliffs and winelands. Guests overnight in Glenwood Springs, known for its natural mineral pools. 2 SUNSET LIMITED The scenery changes from Louisiana’s Bayou Country to south-western deserts and California mountains on this 48-hour Amtrak service from New Orleans to Los Angeles. The route takes in Houston, San Antonio, Tucson, Phoenix and Palm Springs. During peak season, National Park guides explain the landscape and natural heritage of each region. 3 california zephyr Operated by Amtrak, The Zephyr is a daily service that travels between Chicago and San Francisco. During the 51-and-a-half hour journey, guests travel through the plains of Nebraska to Denver, across the Rockies to Salt Lake City, and then through Reno and Sacramento and into Emeryville/San Francisco. Onboard accommodation options include a family room that can be booked for two adults and two children. The trains also have onboard dining options. 4 PIKES PEAK COG RAILWAY Built in 1891 and the world’s highest, longest and oldest cog railway, The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway reopened in May 2021 after a $100-million rebuild with new and refurbished trains, new track, a new depot and a new visitor centre at journey’s end atop 14,000-foot Pike Peak. Hear stories of historical points and significant people who shaped the region on the three-hour return trip, which runs year round. Guests have 45 minutes to savour the summit panoramas before returning, or they can hike or bike back down. 5 AURORA WINTER TRAIN Marvel at the majestic winter splendour of Alaska’s Denali National Park, towered over by its namesake peak – North America’s tallest mountain – and pristine backcountry on Alaska Railroad’s 12-hour, weekend service between Anchorage and Fairbanks (September to May). Some midweek services run in February and March. The flagship Denali Star Train operates the same route daily in spring and summer. 6 great smoky mountains railroad A historic train depot in Bryson City, North Carolina, is the departure point for various routes. Guests choose from a steam-powered experience onboard the official 'Steam of the Smokies' or an excursion powered by a diesel locomotive. Get a front-row view of Fontana Lake, the historic Fontana Trestle, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala National Forest, the Nantahala and Tuckasegee Rivers, historical structures, and stunning foliage. The four-and-a-halfhour Nantahala Gorge excursion is the scenery-serving star attraction. Pictured Main image: Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner, which travels from Santa Barbara to San Diego, INSET: Rocky Mountaineer 10 visitusa.org.uk SIX OF THE BEST Train journeys
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12 visitusa.org.uk BE INSPIRED Florida’s Sweetest Spot When it comes to holiday destinations it doesn’t get any sweeter than Central Florida. Home to more than 550 freshwater lakes, historic landmarks and theme parks, this bucket-list location has a little bit of everything under the Florida sun. The newly opened Peppa Pig Theme Park is perfect for kids and adults who are kids at heart. This one-of-a-kind attraction places guests right in the world of Peppa Pig and her friends. Guests will enjoy six new rides designed specifically for preschoolers, character meet and greets and a family-friendly adventure that lets mummy pigs and daddy pigs ride along with their little ones on almost every ride. Florida’s Sweetest Spot is also home to the LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, just steps from Peppa Pig Theme Park. Built around the historic Cypress Gardens, this fascinating attraction offers a water park, a 4-D movie theater, and roller coasters, including Pirate River Quest, coming in January 2023. Its most recent addition, Pirate Island Hotel, is the first LEGO® pirate-themed hotel in North America and is located just steps away from the entrance to the park. This fivestory hotel also houses the renowned Shipwreck Restaurant, Smuggler’s Bar for adult swashbucklers, an entertainment area with kidfriendly nightly programming as well as LEGO® play areas. If you’re looking to get outside for some family adventure, Florida’s Sweetest Spot has anything from water skiing and air boating to hiking, biking and kayaking. But that’s just the start. For the serious golfer, playing a round at Streamsong Resort is a must. This award-winning destination is renowned for its three Top 100 U.S. courses. Here, you’ll find Streamsong Black will push your irons to their limit, while Streamsong Blue and Red’s Mach 1 turf will test your putter with the fastest greens in the game. There’s no place better than Florida’s Sweetest Spot. We can’t wait to see you and your family soon. Explore everything we have to offer at VisitCentralFlorida.com. “Pirate Island Hotel is the first LEGO® pirate-themed hotel in North America and is located just steps away from the entrance to the park" Visit Central Florida Be inspired, visit VISITcentralflorida.COM With over 550 lakes, historic landmarks and theme parks, Central Florida is a bucket-list destination with something for everyone
visitusa.org.uk 13 BE INSPIRED Highlights of Central Florida Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo The largest dude ranch east of the Mississippi River, Westgate River Ranch, is an all-inclusive resort featuring glamping tents, RV campsites and luxe teepees. Visitors to this untouched area will enjoy airboat tours, golf, archery and a chance to experience a piece of Florida history, where the American cowboy tradition began. Bonnet Springs Park Just outside downtown Lakeland is a newly opened natural refuge just waiting to be explored. Bonnet Springs Park is 168 acres of peaceful and majestic green space with towering oak trees and a clear stream. In addition to the natural beauty, visitors can experience a botanical garden, children’s museum, a nature center, open air music concerts and many other attractions. Streamsong Resort Situated among 16,000 acres of stunning scenery and hushed seclusion away from the concrete and crowds, Streamsong's three Top 100 U.S. courses make it one of the USA's highest-rated golf destination. This one-of-a-kind golf destination has been created in complete harmony with its natural surroundings. Golfers can stay in a modern lakeside lodge that features outstanding dining and a relaxing spa. Peppa Pig Theme Park Our newest theme park is now open and ready to entertain all the little piglets who want to play in the world of their favorite cartoon character. Rides and attractions are designed with the littlest ones in mind and parents will love seeing their faces light up as they explore. A splash pad, fun shows, a nature trail and so many other adventures await! Be inspired, visit VISITcentralflorida.COM “Westgate River Ranch offer visitors airboat tours, golf, archery and the chance to experience a piece of Florida history"
Lights! Camera! Action! From serene rural landscapes to bustling cities and local communities, diverse settings across the USA have provided the perfect backdrop for countless movies – and are attracting both film buffs and those in search of familiar images of 'Americana'. Pictured Main image: The Griffith Observatory, which featured in La La Land, and Los Angeles city skyline; Right: The 'Rocky Steps' in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art; Opposite page: Last of the Mohicans was filmed in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina Rocky steps Few visitors to Philadelphia can resist the temptation of recreating the scene from Rocky where Sylvester Stallone runs up the 72 stone steps that lead to the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art – or imitating Stallone's famous two-arms-raised salute at the top. At the bottom of the stairs, snap a picture alongside the Rocky statue, originally created for a scene in Rocky III . istockphoto.com / f11photo DIRECTOR'S CUT Visit locations and settings made popular in classic and timeless movies 14 visitusa.org.uk MOVIE LOCATIONS
north carolina knows how to set the scene More than 800 movie and TV shows have been produced in North Carolina since 1980, among them the 1987's Dirty Dancing, which was largely shot in Lake Lure in the Blue Ridge foothills. Fans flock there each September for the Dirty Dancing Festival. Other films include Last of the Mohicans, The Hunger Games, the Green Mile and Forrest Gump. when harry met sally Katz’s Delicatessen in New York is famous for its cranky service and pastrami, corned beef and Jewish deli classics – and as the place where Meg Ryan’s character Sally faked an orgasm in front of Billy Crystal (Harry) in When Harry met Sally. You can have what she was having at the very same table they sat at in the movie. La la land Described by its producer as a “love letter to LA”, La La Land was shot in over 40 locations around the city. The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles has a starring role as does SmokeHouse Restaurant in Burbank (where Mia discovers Sebastian’s piano skills), and Cathy’s Corner on Mount Hollywood Drive (where the duo sing through A Lovely Night). Shawshank redemption Oscar-winning film The Shawshank Redemption was mostly shot in a real prison, the Ohio State Reformatory. Visitors can tour parts of the facility and the Shawshank Museum, guided by a former inmate. KAUAI'S mountains and gardens provided the setting for the first three Jurassic Park movies. The Hawaiian island's KEAHUA ABORETUM, a nature preserve on the Wailua River, was where cast and crew filmed scenes for the Avatar movies. The 2016 Ghostbusters remake revived interest in a tourist trail featuring sites in New York City that appeared in the original 1984 film, including the NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY MANHATTEN CITY BANK, CITY HALL and many others. Wes Hicks on Unsplash
16 visitusa.org.uk BE INSPIRED Authentic Arizona From hiking and biking to calm waters and majestic mountains, every outdoor pursuit is on offer in Mesa. Visitors can take a journey on the legendary Apache Trail and experience Western heritage at a number of attractions along the historic route 88, including Tortilla Flat Saloon and Goldfield Ghost Town dating back to the 1880s. Head to the Salt River and observe wild horses in the riverbank. The native herd is often seen at sunrise and sunset, putting on a spectacular show for visitors of all ages. Kayaking and paddle boarding are popular activities for visitors as well. Locals love Mesa’s Nature Center located at Usery Mountain Regional Park. This is a muststop and visitors are able to select from daily programmes centered on desert education and entertainment. Flashlight walks, scorpion hunts, stargazing sessions and full-moon hikes are just some of the fun activities available. We hope you enjoy your time here and invite you to linger awhile. Discover fresh perspectives and flavors that await you, and let us be among the first to welcome you to The Modern Frontier. Karl May wrote about the grandeur of Arizona and all its mystery and magnetism. Visitors will discover western lifestyle at Saguaro Lake Ranch, where time stands still. The ranch is a collection of original 1920s cottages where guests gather for cowboy dinners and entertainment. Even more adventure can be found in Mesa! The city will be home soon to Revel Surf Park at Cannon Beach. Opening in Spring 2023, this new experience will offer real surfing waves in the desert as part of a two-acre lagoon. Mountain bikers can access the Hawes Trail System in Mesa, a 62-mile labyrinth of recreational trails that weaves visitors through the cactus-studded desert land. On any given day you’ll find hikers, bikers and horseback riders enjoying the trail system paths. Mesa shines as one of the state’s premier golf destinations and is home to more than 40 golf courses designed by the best including Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye. Courses feature breathtaking views set against beautiful mountains and blue skies. “Mountain bikers can access the Hawes Trail System, a 62-mile labyrinth of trails that weaves visitors through the cactusstudded desert land" Visit Mesa, Arizona Be inspired, visit VISITMESA.COM Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert, City Limitless is a region full of wild west history and heritage that is still celebrated today
visitusa.org.uk 17 BE INSPIRED The highlights of Mesa, Arizona Destination Downtown The area is now home to the all-new Plaza at Mesa City Center, across from the renowned Mesa Arts Center. The city’s cultural venue and museum showcases a world of international arts. Main Street’s thriving nightlife scene features live music, and some of the best local dining. Experience one of Arizona’s longest pub crawls with breweries up and down Main Street. Fresh Foodie Trail Do not miss stops on the award-winning Fresh Foodie Trail®. This foodie road trip connects visitors to a collection of area farms and gourmet food stands. The trail takes in wineries, craft breweries, homemade ice cream, peaches, heritage grains, olive groves and citrus orchards, and features chefs celebrating the ever-changing seasonal bounty. You won't be going hungry when you take the Fresh Foodie Trail®. Discover Queen Creek This town’s charm and character can be experienced at the Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Centre, where they showcase rodeos and Western-style festivals. Don’t miss the Roots N’ Boots Rodeo every spring. From family-owned boutiques to large-scale superstores, the QC District has it all for shoppers. Take a tour and enjoy the Tuscan-inspired Queen Creek Olive Mill. Visit an organic peach orchard and go glamping in vintage trailers. Accessible Travel Mesa is one of the nation’s most accessible travel destinations. Visitors have several services and resources for trip planning for a seamless experience in the city. Aira, an on-demand visual interpretation, is available on smart phones for blind and low vision guests. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program is citywide and Mesa is the first-ever Autism Certified City! Be inspired, visit VISITMESA.COM “From small, family-owned boutiques to large-scale superstores, Queen Creek has a number of shopping centres, including the historic Town Centre area"
advertorial Guests to Gateway, with its focus on the present and future of collaborative space exploration, experience the interstellar travel of tomorrow while celebrating everything happening right now within the space programme. Through immersive education, atmospheric effects and a motion theatre experience, they see, hear and feel what it’s like to travel in space. Upon entering Gateway, ‘space travelers’ are greeted with a futuristic design intended to set the stage for their journey. Visitors are surrounded by actual spaceflown artifacts, displayed like massive space sculptures in an outdoor garden, and full-scale models that are placed around the floor and suspended from above to allow 360-degree viewing. Space flown Artifacts You can’t miss the flight-flown Orion spacecraft from Exploration Flight Test - 1 (EFT-1). Launched in 2014, this was the maiden voyage of the Lockheed Martin spacecraft. Learn about this mission and Orion’s key role in NASA’s Artemis missions. Interact with three screens to explore launch and liftoff, a comparison of the Orion to the Apollo capsule, training and flight preparation, navigation, key features and systems for the crew, and the path back to Earth. Seeing the SpaceX Falcon 9 booster suspended from the ceiling is jawdropping. Booster B1023 launched in 2016 on its first mission, Thaicom 8, and successfully landed. For its second mission, the B1023 was converted to a side booster for the Falcon Heavy Demo in 2018, which famously launched a bright red Tesla Roadster into space. Engaging Interactives As well as a ‘nose-to-nose’ view of the SpaceX Falcon 9 booster, Gateway’s second floor has a 30-foot, floor-to-ceiling Robotic Trail Blazers Wall with interactive, touchscreen displays where guests learn about 40 satellites and probes in space. Learn about the high-powered James Webb Space Telescope by manipulating holographic imagery, video and animation through a touchscreen kiosk at a HoloTube presentation station. Spaceport KSC Nearby, guests will be transported into the future of space travel at Spaceport KSC, the first and only airport of the future. Upon entering the concourse, travelers will be surrounded by the sights and sounds of a galactic spaceport: atmospheric airport chatter surrounds travelers as they peer through windows at distant views of active launches and landings. Guests board their “spaceships” – in the form of a two-story, motion theater ride – for one of four journeys: Cosmic Wonders, Daring Explorers, Red Planet or Uncharted Worlds. kennedyspacecenter.com Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex® Lands at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
This bold new attraction explores the future of space travel while highlighting what is happening right now in the space program. First, see the spacecraft of today and the visionary designs paving the way of human deep space travel and discover the current cutting-edge space exploration innovations from NASA and commercial partners. Then, enter the spaceport of the future, Spaceport KSC. With your commander steering the path, launch aboard one of four unique journeys through the solar system and beyond during an immersive ride. 866.870.5505 | KennedySpaceCenter.com
One of the joys of travel is enjoying the unique tastes of each destination – whether it’s Michelin-star restaurants, roadside eateries, wineries, distilleries or craft breweries tasty snacks. Discover regional specialities to satisfy every palate on food and drink trails across the USA. Pictured Main image: Maine is known as the 'Lobster Capital of the World'; Right: Farmers markets selling fresh local produce are found all across the U.S., such as this one in Seattle; Above right: The James Beard Awards are the 'Oscars' of the restaurant scene in the U.S. FARM TO FORK Tagging itself America’s farm to fork capital, California’s state capital Sacramento has numerous restaurants specialising in local produce. There are more than 40 farmers markets in the region that includes Yolo County's Davis Farmers Market, which is California’s oldest. The Sacramento River Train offers farm to fork lunch and dinner trains that visit a local farm for wine tasting. istockphoto.com / QEYES COMFORT FOODS Regional flavours and drinks leave the right taste 20 visitusa.org.uk FOOD & DRINK
hope for watermelons Held each August in Arkansas, the Hope Watermelon Festival pays homage to one of the South's most important fruits. Expect seedspitting contests, eating competitions and a watermelon auction. There are also arts and crafts stalls, a dog show and the chance to taste local fayre such as golden fried catfish. BOURBON TRAIL The Kentucky Bourbon Trail features 18 signature distilleries across the Bluegrass State, with another 24 craft distilleries on the trail’s Craft Tour. Take behind-thescenes tours, meet master distillers and taste select bourbons not available in stores on the trail, which starts at a welcome centre in Louisville’s Frazier Museum. Finger Lickin' lakes The Finger Lakes region of New York, named for the thin, long lakes that resemble fingers, is a scenic region suited to growing grapes. It has more than 140 wineries, cideries, and distilleries, with most gathered around three lakes: Lake Cayuga, Seneca Lake and Keuka Lake. native in minneapolis Named 2022’s Best New Restaurant in the U.S. by the prestigious James Beard Awards, Minneapolis restaurant Owamni specialises in Native American food sourced from local and national indigenous food producers. It has removed 'colonial ingredients' like wheat flour, cane sugar and dairy from its menu. THE GREAT WISCONSIN CHEESE TOUR is a suggested three-day itinerary starting in Madison that mixes hands-on learning with tastings washed down by some of Wisconsin’s best beers. More than 600 cheese varieties are produced in the state. Go to town in California along Santa Barbara’s URBAN WINE TRAIL, where local wineries have more than 20 downtown tasting rooms. In Oakland, urban wineries are housed in renovated warehouses. Beer lovers can try the OAKLAND ALE TRAIL. From award-winning vineyards to breathtaking hikes, lakes, rivers and iconic waterfalls—there are an endless amount of experiences to make visiting New York State. A trip you will remember forever. DISCOVER THEWONDERS From award-winning vineyards to breathtaking hikes, lakes, rivers and iconic waterfalls—there are an endless amount of experiences to make visiting New York State. A trip you will remember forever. Untitled-1 1 16/11/2022 09:29
22 visitusa.org.uk BE INSPIRED Rejuvenating Nature Whether you want to work up a sweat hiking through one of its beautiful national parks, or your style of taking in the natural world involves more of a lay back and watch the waves approach, the State of Washington allows for immersive and awe-inspiring experiences. From its myriad islands to the sun-soaked wine country, there are a variety of experiences to suit anyone's wanderlust. With three national parks and hundreds of state parks, mountains, lakes and rivers, Washington offers an abundance of natural beauty to help visitors gain a fresh perspective on the world – they are sure to return home feeling reinvigorated. Tasty Travels Just as the natural beauty of the State of Washington feeds the soul, the natural variety of harvest in the state feeds creative chefs and hungry travelers alike. Shuck oysters overlooking the ocean or sample apples straight from the orchard while you discover ever-evolving varietals. Savor culinary excellence at restaurants throughout the state’s cities or sip world-class wine from Washington’s wine country, the second-largest producing state in the U.S. Energize your trip at one of Seattle’s many renowned coffee roasters then head straight to the source and let farmers cook up their seasonal bounty fresh from the fields. Authentic Connections While you’re here, don’t miss discovering what really makes this place special – the people who live in the state year-round. Whether you strike up a conversation with a fourthgeneration farmer or an artist who moved recently, or you visit one of the many cultural centers maintained by the Native Tribal Nations throughout the state, you’ll come across a common love of this place and respect for what makes it great. People in Washington care about the quality of what they do and preserving the natural wonder that surrounds them, and they want to share this appreciation with everyone they meet. So share your passions with Washingtonians throughout your visit. “Savor culinary excellence at restaurants throughout our state's cities or sip world-class wine from Washington's wine country" True to Nature State of Washington Be inspired, visit stateofwatourism.com One of the world's most scenic places, Washington offers endless discoveries for people who love natural beauty, urban escapes and everything in between
visitusa.org.uk 23 BE INSPIRED Must visit... State of Washington Be inspired, visit stateofwatourism.com OLYMPIC PENINSULA Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Olympic National Park renowned for its diverse ecosystems and with its rugged mountains, mystical rainforests and wild Pacific Ocean beaches. Discover the charm of nearby small towns and enjoy fresh Olympic Coast cuisine. It's all just a ferry ride away from Seattle. olympicpeninsula.org tri-cities: in the Heart of Washington Wine Country The Tri-Cities, located in the sundrenched southeastern corner of Washington state, is a bucket list destination in the U.S. Enjoy wine country getaways with horseback riding through vineyards or outdoor adventures on the Columbia River, while supporting the local economy. visittri-cities.com Dream your next Adventure - Visit Mt St Helens Visit the Mt St Helens National Volcanic Monument, located, 55 minutes off I-5 Exit 49, Cowlitz County, offers a Safe Home Town hospitality, unique shops, restaurants, micro-brews and overnight accommodations. Find a little slower pace atmosphere, while supporting the local economy. visitmtsthelens.com walla walla Savor the best of Washington State Wine Country in Walla Walla. With award-winning wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and an historic downtown with boutique shopping, experience relaxed luxury in a rural setting – all within a scenic drive or a quick flight from Seattle. wallawalla.org Longbeach peninsula Enjoy the 28-mile-long silversand beach, explore state parks, a national historic park, a national wildlife refuge, and a birding destination of international importance. Discover authentic villages with ultra-fresh seafood, craft beverages, art and music. and unique places to stay. visitlongbeachpeninsula.com Mountains to Sea in Bellingham Experience the peak of the Pacific Northwest! Whether you are looking for a rugged outdoor adventure or a relaxing seaside escape, you’ll find it in Bellingham. Located between Seattle and Vancouver, this charming town pairs urban amenities with unbeatable outdoor recreation. bellingham.org
1 denver Colorado's capital has a thriving street art scene with alleyways, warehouses, storefronts, the backs of hotels and sidewalks brightened by more than 200 murals and spray and stencil paintings. Most of the works – a mix of curated, permanent and temporary exhibits – are in the River North (RiNo) district, a one-mile radius of four north Denver neighbourhoods. Famous works include Larimer Boy/Girl, painted on fins attached to a building, which depicts different murals when viewed from either side. Walking tours that explain the stories behind the art are offered by local companies. 2 los angeles Since the 1970s the city's street artists – from muralists to graffiti 'taggers' – have had an eye-catching impact on the city's real estate. LA's streets are like a living museum with ever-changing exhibits as new artists paint over older murals with their own work. Take a guided walk around LA’s Arts District to discover more than 100 murals decorating walls and alleys. You can also see eclectic street art in other downtown neighbourhoods and in Venice Beach. 3 NEW YORK CITY Over the past 50 years or so the Big Apple has become an urban canvas, displaying the colourful creations of artists on outdoor surfaces across its five boroughs and numerous neighbourhoods. Among these is Brooklyn, where the Bushwick Collective features murals, street art, graffiti, music and food trucks and unveils new works at its annual Block Party each June. 4 philadelphia In 'Philly' every wall and rooftop is a potential blank canvas: around 4,000 stunning murals adorn buildings all over the city. Started in 1984 to help eradicate graffiti, Mural Arts Philadelphia allows artists to constructively showcase their talent Join a walking or trolley tour. MIAMI Formerly home to Caribbean immigrants and old warehouses, Wynwood is one of Miami's most happening districts – and it has America’s highest concentration of street art. Colourful murals by global artists cover the sides of buildings and walls in and around open-air art gallery Wynwood Walls. The Wynwood Art Walk is a monthly celebration featuring live music, artwork and food that continues late into the night. 6 chicago The street art scene in the Windy City has exploded in recent years and become so significant that an official mural registry has been created. New pieces pop up every week with some so esteemed that they are now as much part of Chicago's identity as its iconic sculptures and landmarks. Visitors should head to the northeast Chicago neighbourhood Wicker Park and Bucktown which boasts a large collection of murals, several of which are listed on the registry. Many works celebrate different heritages, the fight for equality, and pay homage to local and international 'icons'. main image: Wall mural in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York Inset: Larimer Boy/Girl, a three-dimensional canvas in Denver 24 visitusa.org.uk SIX OF THE BEST Street art cities 5 Peter ELLEGARD
ONE DESTINATION, SO MANY CULTURES © Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau — The Official Destination Sales & Marketing Organization for Greater Miami & Miami Beach. CS-04197 Explore Greater Miami & Miami Beach’s diverse communities filled with mouthwatering cuisine and unique adventures. From Miami Beach to the Everglades and from South Dade to North Miami, discover the people who make our destination global. With stunning outdoor attractions, iconic beaches and our vibrant art scene, there are plenty of wonders for you to see and experience. Visit MiamiandMiamiBeach.com to learn more.
Boston's Freedom Trail The Freedom Trail in Boston, Massachusetts, is a 2.5-mile self-walking route that links 16 significant historic revolutionary sites. They include the Old State House, John Adams Courthouse, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House – he of 'The British are coming' – USS Constitution and Old South Meeting House, where a gathering to discuss English tea taxes led to the Boston Tea Party protest. the U.S. will mark the 246th anniversary of its independence in 2023, still a teenager in the history of nations. However, it is rich in attractions that trace its history to date, from those earliest days as a British colony to the civil war that shaped its identity to the struggle for civil rights and the momentous events of 9/11. 26 visitusa.org.uk Pictured Main image: the Lincoln Memorial, a pure-white ancient Greek temple-style building in Washington D.C. Right: the Massachusetts State House, completed in 1798; Opposite: Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia Photo by Caleb Kim on Unsplash HISTORY MAKERS IDENTITY LINEUP Visit key sites that trace significant moments in the nation's history
Manassas National Battlefield Park This 5,000-acre park in Virginia is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in the history of the U.S. Civil War. It was the scene of two of the war's major battles, including the first one on July 21, 1861. There are two visitors centers – one for each battle, with light-up topography maps and audio that reveal how the conflicts developed. new centre for alamo Davy Crockett met his fate at The Battle of the Alamo in 1836, when Mexican troops overran the fort during the Texas War for Independence. In early March 2023 a new museum, the Alamo Collections Center, will open to tell the Alamo’s story. It will include a priceless collection of Alamo and Texana artifacts donated by Genesis frontman, Phil Collins. Pilgrims’ Progress In 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts, after sailing from England. See the town's famous 'rock' and visit the complex of Plimoth Patuxet Museums which bring to life the history of Plymouth Colony and the indigenous homeland. september 11 memorial The World Trade Center was a complex of seven buildings in Manhattan, New York, destroyed by terrorist attacks on September 11 2001. Today, visitors can see the site where the attacks took place, with the World Trade Centre Memorial and Museum on the site where the Twin Towers once stood. Independence National Historical Park in downtown Philadelphia, preserves sites key to America’s birth. Independence Hall was where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both signed. America's most famous bell can be viewed at The Liberty Bell Center. The Martin Luther King Jr National Site in Atlanta, Georgia is dedicated to commemorating the life of the leader of the African-American civil rights movement and chronicling his campaign for racial equality. Visit Dr and Mr’s King’s crypt at the King Centre, view his birthplace and see exhibitions. Hey, hey, the blues is more than all right here in Mississippi. Just a stone’s throw from the legendary crossroads, you can catch performances from living legends and young sensations. And you can get deep down into the roots of American music at the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center, the Delta Blues Museum, and GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi. Find your rhythm at VisitMississippi.org/Blues. Bobby Rush | Hal & Mal’s | Jackson, Mississippi The blues. It’s still red-hot in Mississippi.
28 visitusa.org.uk BE INSPIRED No doubt you would have heard of the Jersey Shore, the state’s crown jewel with 130 miles of spectacular soft shoreline and white sandy beaches, with famous boardwalks, majestic lighthouses and surf and sun fun. Atlantic City is an oceanside playground with casino gaming, golf, and headlining entertainment; Cape May offers Victorian grandeur whilst Asbury Park’s historic club, The Stone Pony, was the venue that launched the careers of many musicians including Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, and Steve van Zandt. Yet New Jersey promises much more. It's a year-round destination where you can explore lush parks, forests and open spaces as well as taking in amusement parks, arts and culture, top-rated golf, dining, and tax-free shopping on clothes and shoes, experience over 200-plus wineries, breweries and distilleries. New Jersey has one of the oldest rodeos in the USA, Cowtown Rodeo situated only an hour and twenty minutes from Atlantic City. Garden State Adventure Known as the Garden State, New Jersey is also diverse and compact, with rolling farmland, the wild Kittatinny Mountains and the Delaware River, with its range of hiking and outdoor pursuits, freshwater wetland, and the Pinelands National Reserve. Visitors are also able to access 72 miles of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the world's longest hiking only footpath, from Delaware Water Gap National Recreation area and other state parks. Distinctive Destinations Northern New Jersey has undiscovered regions in Jersey City, Newark, Elizabeth, and Hoboken, all very close to New York City and across the Hudson River. Shop til you drop at American Dream retail and entertainment complex, see a variety of shows at the New Jersey Performing Art Center or watch the New York Giants or New York Jets at the MetLife Stadium. Across the state you will see some fascinating attractions, including the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton and Black History landmarks including the Harriet Tubman Museum and Underground Railroad sites. “The wild Kittatinny Mountains, Pinelands National Reserve and Delaware River are perfect for hiking and outdoor pursuits” Discover the Garden State / The Must-see State An East Coast Jewel Visit New Jersey Be inspired, visit visitNJ.org Cape May County, NJ Department of Tourism
visitusa.org.uk 29 BE INSPIRED Must visit... New Jersey Be inspired, visit visitnj.org Newark There is something for everyone in Newark. From the cherry blossoms at Brook Park to the food offerings within the Ironbound neighbourhood. Whilst in Newark take in a show at the New Jersey Prudential Center, Performing Arts Center or Symphony Hall. newarkhappening.com Cape May Cape May is a hidden gem, a National Historic District with 600 preserved Victorian buildings, and is one of the most beautiful spots in the USA. Stay in a B&B, enjoy fresh seafood, climb the 1859 lighthouse, take a trolley tour, go whale and dolphin watching or visit a local winery tour. visitnj.org Princeton-Mercer Region There is something for everyone to enjoy in the Princeton-Mercer Region! Within commuting distance of New York City and Philadelphia, are hundreds of hidden gems in Princeton and the surrounding towns. Discover historic landmarks, cultural attractions, superb dining options, entertainment, world-class shopping, and scenic parks. visitprinceton.org Wildwoods The Wildwoods have everything you love about the Jersey Shore all on one five mile island. Free beaches, a 38 block boardwalk with three action packed amusement piers with over 100rides and attractions, three beachfront waterparks, shopping, carnival games and arcades, great dining, watersports and nightlife. wildwoodsnj.com Hudson County Hudson County overlooks Manhattan, with spectacular views of the New York City skyline and a direct ferry service to the Statue of Liberty. Home to the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, the region offers over 40 hotels and restaurants including steakhouses and seafood along with ethnic cuisines, with many locations providing rooftop dining. visithudson.org Atlantic City With seven miles of beautiful sandy beach, the most historic and longest Boardwalk in the USA, worldclass entertainment, vibrant nightlife, local distilleries, craft breweries and wine trails, Atlantic City continues to attract global visitors to this East Coast destination. meetac.com Cape May County, NJ Department of Tourism Hudson County - David Bowie - Hoboken © Artist’s Estate, photo: David Michael Howarth Photography
30 visitusa.org.uk The USA's diverse terrain, fast-flowing rivers, majestic peaks and other natural wonders play host to a vast array of adventure activities. From climbing walls of ice to vertical descents on a mountain bike to going underground into one a labyrinthine cave system, you will never be never far from the next testing but memorable experience. Pictured Main image: Stand-up paddleboards in Havasu Creek, Arizona. Above: Ouray Ice Park, Colorado; Opposite page: Top: Hiking in Glacier National Park, Montana; Centre: Mammoth Cave National Park; Kentucky; Bottom: Jeep adventure in Moab, Utah A Scale of wall to Ice Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Ouray is the ‘Recreation Capital of Colorado’, with alpine canyons, lakes and rivers for canyoning, climbing and canoeing. In summer, mountain bikers and hikers ply the peaks, while winter brings intrepid climbers to the Ouray Ice Park, offering more than 200 climbs just a 10-minute walk from Main Street. ACTION STATIONS Leave your comfort zone and get the adrenalin flowing ADVENTURE Photo by Hybrid Storytellers on Unsplash
visitusa.org.uk 31 Xxxxxxx Knee deep in alaska Taking the off-piste concept to the limit, heli-skiing transports you to slopes only accessible by chopper. Located just north of Anchorage, Alaska, the Chugach Mountains offer thousands of miles of terrain, powder bowls and steep vertical descents. The deep, ungroomed powder makes it the preserve of advanced skiers. Moab's extreme tErrain Moab is Utah's adventure playground and one of the most thrilling options on offer is a Jeep tour. Custom-built vehicles tackle seemingly-impossible passages, steep climbs, heart-pounding descents and river washes. The Hell’s Revenge trail gives views of the La Sal Mountains and a vantage point high above the Colorado River. go caving in kentucky Deep beneath the forests and prairies of Kentucky, a labyrinth of tunnels and caverns form the longest known cave network on Earth. A World Heritage Site, Mammoth Cave National Park has more than 400 miles of explored passageways and offers a range of cave tours, nature trails and canoeing along the Green River. be a top gun in las vegas Sightseeing flights by helicopter are a popular activity when in Las Vegas, but for something far more thrilling feel the Gs by taking the controls of an aerobatic plane and doing manoeuvres such as a barrel roll, hammerhead and loop under the very close instruction of your Sky Combat Ace pilot. “Take a short hike to the top of a 100ft fall before rappelling down a rock face amid a deluge of foamy spray (with the help of a guide) in White Mountains, New Hampshire” MR TOAD'S WILD RIDE sounds like a ride in Disneyland but is in fact a challenging mountain bike trail in LAKE TAHOE, California. The single-track route heads downhill, a total descent of more than 2,000 feet. Expect multiple steep drops, sections traversing nothing but rocks and epic views of the lake. Experience the world’s largest dormant volcano by PARAGLIDING off its slopes. Daily flights for both beginners and hardened adventurers are available from the slopes of HALEAKALA in Maui, Hawaii. ADVENTURE
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