It can be hard to find a way to escape the daily grind and unwind, even for a little while. Yet taking a break can work wonders for your stress levels and help you reconnect with family and loved ones.
America has a wealth of fascinating destinations to suit nearly all holiday styles. From soaking up the sun or venturing into a buzzing city, our shortlist will get you packing your bags for your next break away.
New York
New York is one of the most worthwhile city breaks in America and can be enjoyed all year round.
It is packed with landmarks such as the bustling Times Square, the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. Art lovers are spoilt for choice with the Guggenheim, the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Met Museum. Manhattan is the place to be if you want to catch a show, while Central Park and the boardwalks of Coney Island are ideal for making the most of the warm sun.
The array of jazz bars, comedy clubs, nightclubs and cocktail bars will ensure that your night is anything but dull. There is a range of hostels, luxury hotels and guest apartments to suit any budget.
Orlando
Renowned for its theme parks, Orlando also has a vibrant city culture. Head to the American Art Museum and the downtown City Arts Factory, or if you want to make the most of the outdoors then take a dip in the Rock Springs at Kelly Park.
Stroll along Disney’s Boardwalk, a recreation of a 1930s-style Atlantic coast village with street musicians, magicians and performers. If you crave some Disney magic, then head to Downtown Disney Marketplace for eateries and boutiques. Hotels such as Westgate Resorts offer flexible packages for those visiting Disney World.
San Diego
San Diego is California’s second-largest city and well known for its diverse culture and small-town feel. March through May and September through November the weather is warm and the crowds are small.
Families enjoy San Diego for laid-back getaways, and active types are drawn to the 70 miles of coastline. Beaches include La Jolla for surf seekers, Mission Beach to relax or Coronado for leisurely walks. Alternatively, visit the renowned San Diego Zoo, museums and galleries.
Mouthwatering cuisine will appeal to foodies, with the best Mexican food outside of Mexico and indulgent eateries where you can grab breakfast or brunch.
San Francisco
City breaks in San Francisco are fast-paced and will keep travelers busy from dusk until dawn. Take a ride across the Golden Gate Bridge, jump on atramride or try Dim Sum in China Town. For history and culture, hop on the ferry to Alcatraz or meander through the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
After an exciting day, there is no timeto hit the hay, as San Francisco’s colorful nightlife will keep you dancing until the sun rises.
Autumn months of September, October and November are the ideal times to visit with fewer crowds, sunny days and mild nights. When it comes to accommodation, there is something for everyone with Victorian B&B’s, guesthouses, hostels and high-end hotels.
Hawaii
Say ‘Aloha’ to these islands synonymous with paradise and natural beauty.
Take in the magnificent beaches and rich South Pacific culture. Spend days hiking in the Haleakala National Park on Maui or explore the magical river valleys of Kauai. Alternatively, stick to the Big Island with the world’s most active volcano and beautiful hiking trails.
There is no definitive time to visit Hawaii; however, to avoid the crowds, travel outside of the holidays, especially Christmas.
Miami Beach
Miami is a trendy hotspot with a mix of culture, beaches and vibrant neon nightlife. A multicultural and multi-sensory experience, you are likely to hear dulcet Latin beats, taste international cuisine and savor the aroma of Cuban coffee lingering in the air.
Known as ‘America’s Riviera’, its tropical shores attract people seeking solace from the winter. The art deco buildings and hipster vibe are what makes South Beach famous, yet for a calmer atmosphere head to the child and family-friendly beaches of North Beach. Grab your snorkel, head offshore and swim in the only barrier reef in North America.
Visit during March and May when it is sunny and temperatures reach the low 80s during the day.
If you want to unwind then don’t put off your holiday. There are so many iconic landmarks in America it is hard to whittle it down to just a few, andthere is plenty for all types of traveler to discover.