When is the Best Time to Visit USA?

This article was last updated and fact checked on June 9, 2022 by Mani Karthik.

Any time of year seems to be a good time to travel to the United States, given that the tourists numbers don’t seem to decline significantly during any single period. However, Google search statistics, quoted by Champion Traveler, show that the busiest month for tourists visiting America is July, followed by June and May, while November sees the lowest number of tourists.

According to an article on Audley, winter can bring heavy snowfall and frozen lakes, especially towards the north of the country, while spring often starts as late as May, albeit bringing with it some amazing flora and fauna. The summer time is best on the cooler coasts, while autumn in mesmerizing with the changing colors of the leaves. Every season has something special to offer. So, what you need to do is decide of what you wish to experience and then decide the time that would best suit you.

The Best Time to Visit USA

Here’s a list of some of the best times to visit the US. The best months and seasons to visit US for pleasure, work or just travel.

Magical Winter (December – February)

Winters are just magical in the northern states of USA. Other than the heavy snowfall, it is also the season of festivals. You can consider skiing in famous ski towns such as Montana, Aspen, Jackson and Vermont. If you like ice-skating, you will have great fun at Ice at the Galleria in Houston, Rockefeller Centre in New York or The Depot Rink in Minneapolis. This is also the best time to go Christmas shopping, watch parades and bring in the New Year at the Times Square. If you want to spend some time indoors, you can visit art galleries, museums or malls.

Interestingly, the milder winter temperatures in Southern and Western US makes it an ideal time for going to the deserts and visiting national parks such as those in Texas, Zion and Bryce. If you love some warmth and sand below your feet, the Caribbean Islands are one of the most popular places to visit during winter.

Sultry Summer (June – August)

Summer is the peak season for lots of fun and frolic with outdoor activities in USA. Warmer days mean that beaches and amusement parks are going to be crowded. There are a wide range of things to do in summers, such as visiting the Niagara Falls, enjoying fun times at Disneyland, camping near Zion, mountain biking from Bryce to Canyon and visiting national parks.

If you love adventure, you can also consider whitewater rafting on Snake River in Wyoming or whale watching in Massachusetts. If you are foodie and love to try food from different places, you can go to Maine for their fresh and delicious lobster rolls or go ice-cream tasting at the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Vermont.

Vibrant Spring (April – June)

Spring is a time for rejuvenation. With the winter gone, people are all excited to participate in outdoor activities once again, such as hiking, biking or just sun-bathing. There are some festivals to enjoy in spring too, such as Cinco de Mayo, National Grilled Cheese Day and St. Patrick’s Day.

According to Thrillist Travel magazine, if you want see some eye-popping flower destinations, visit Coachella Valley and Antelope Valley in California. If you are a music lover, you can book tickets for musical festivals, such as Ultra in Florida and Coachella. For a memorable trip, make sure you see the Aurora Borealis (the northern lights) in Alaska too.

With such diversity in geography and climate, USA is an attractive vacation destination all year round. So, first think of what you would like to see before choosing the best time to travel.