Discover the USA with American Holidays – a destination packed with iconic cities, stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences. From the bright lights of New York and the history of Washington D.C., to the sunny beaches of Florida, the music of the Deep South and the natural wonders of the Great West, there is something for every type of traveller. Explore theme parks, coastlines, national parks or take a scenic road trip. Whatever your interests, the USA offers a wide variety of holidays to suit families, couples and solo adventurers alike.
With so many incredible experiences to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice on your next American holiday. Browse our suggested itineraries, pick your favourites, and explore the USA your way.
Ready to go? Chat with our team and start planning your getaway.
Florida is great for families and sun-seekers. Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are always popular, while the Gulf and Atlantic coasts offer long stretches of beach. Cities like Miami bring culture, nightlife and shopping into the mix. Further south, the Florida Keys offer a more laid-back pace with coral reefs and beautiful sunsets. With warm weather most of the year, it’s easy to combine beaches, parks and city attractions in one trip.
The East Coast is packed with famous cities and landmarks. Explore Washington, DC’s monuments, Philadelphia’s historic streets or Boston’s cobbled lanes. New York City offers iconic attractions, shopping and world-class dining. For a change of pace, head to the Maine coastline or small coastal towns. Whether it’s sightseeing, food or culture, the East Coast has plenty to keep you busy.
The Deep South is full of character and charm. New Orleans is famous for jazz and Creole cuisine, while Memphis and Nashville are known for their music history, with live gigs and historic venues. Visit historic plantations, Civil Rights landmarks or sun-soaked riverside towns. It’s a region that combines history, culture and warm southern hospitality in a relaxed way.
America’s National Parks are all about nature and adventure. From Yellowstone and Yosemite to the Grand Canyon, the region is perfect for outdoor exploration. Colorado offers the best access to the stunning Rocky Mountains, trails and scenic drives, while Utah has five national parks and stunning red rock landscapes. Parks like the Great Smoky Mountains, Acadia and the Everglades offer an incredible variety of scenery, from misty mountains to wild coastlines and wetlands. Small towns, wide-open spaces and the beautiful views make this a top choice for road trips, photography, or just getting out into the fresh air. Many scenic byways allow for off-the-beaten-track routes and are a great way to experience some local hidden gems not found along the bigger interstates.
Alaska is filled with glaciers, towering mountains and wildlife-rich forests. Cruise past icy fjords, spot bears, moose and whales, or explore scenic towns like Anchorage, Sitka and Juneau. Ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers and photographers alike, Alaska’s dramatic landscapes are a must-visit.
The West Coast offers a mix of cities and the outdoors. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway, explore San Francisco’s sights or soak up LA’s beaches and attractions. California also has wine regions and plenty of national parks. Head to Yosemite and Tahoe National Park or desert parks like Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks. In Washington, why not visit the state’s Olympic National Park? With so much on offer, there’s something for everyone, whether you want culture, scenery or a bit of both.
The Midwest offers wide-open landscapes and great road trip routes. Chicago’s skyline and lakefront are perfect for exploring, with world-class museums and food to match. Nearby, Detroit is known for its music and art scene. Beyond the cities, you’ll find the rolling plains of South and North Dakota, the stunning Great Lakes and Missouri and Oklahoma.
Spring brings mild weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and city breaks. See the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C., or wander through New York as it comes into bloom with outdoor cafés and bustling parks. In the Deep South, sunshine and music fill the streets of New Orleans and Nashville. Meanwhile, out west, Utah’s red rock formations are well worth visiting before the summer heat hits.
Summer is peak season for family holidays and outdoor adventures. California’s beaches and cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are perfect for sightseeing, coastal drives and outdoor dining. In the Great West, explore Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon for unforgettable natural wonders. Colorado is also a fantastic summer destination, with sunny days, national parks and wide-open spaces ideal for hiking and exploring.
Autumn offers cooler days and stunning scenery, making it a favourite for many travellers. New England is world-famous for its autumn colours, while California’s wine country is at its best with vineyard tours, harvest festivals and golden landscapes. The Deep South is also a great choice, with pleasant temperatures that make exploring Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans more comfortable than in the height of summer.
Winter in the USA means everything from festive city breaks to sunny escapes. New York dazzles with its Christmas lights, skating rinks and Christmas shopping, while California offers mild weather and plenty to see outdoors in Los Angeles and San Diego. Orlando is a winter favourite, with Disney offering festive decorations, seasonal shows and shorter queues than in the spring and summer, making it ideal for family visits.
Washington, DC
New York City
Around 335 million
Right-hand side
6 across the US. Ireland is usually 5 hrs ahead of New York, 8 hrs ahead of LA
Route 66, Route 1, Pacific Coast Highway, The Blues Highway
Washington, DC
New York City
Around 335 million
6 across the US. Ireland is usually 5 hrs ahead of New York, 8 hrs ahead of LA
Right-hand side
Route 66, Route 1, Pacific Coast Highway, The Blues Highway
Do I need a visa for holiday travel to the USA, or is an ESTA sufficient?
Irish and UK citizens can travel under the Visa Waiver Program using an ESTA for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business. For the latest entry requirements, you should check GOV.UK if you live in the UK or Ireland.ie if you are in Ireland.
What is ESTA, how do I apply, and when should I do it?
ESTA is the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation. While you can apply online and should submit it at least 72 hours before departure. We advise it is best to have this in place when you book.
How long is an ESTA valid, and does it cover multiple trips?
ESTA approvals are generally valid for two years (or until your passport expires) and allow multiple entries under the Visa Waiver Program.
What passport requirements are there for travelling to the USA from Ireland/UK?
You must have a passport that is valid on your return date. Travellers taking a cruise must have 6 months remaining on their passport. For ESTA, it needs to be an e-passport with a chip and meet security standards. Check GOV.UK or Ireland.ie for up-to-date information.
Do I need ESTA if I am just stopping over in the USA?
Yes. Even for transit through a U.S. airport or port, you will usually need an ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program.
What other documents might I need aside from a passport and ESTA?
You may be asked for proof of return or onward travel, sufficient funds, accommodation details, or travel insurance. Check GOV.UK or Ireland.ie for current entry requirements.
What are common entry requirements on arrival?
Immigration may ask about the purpose of your trip, U.S. address, length of stay, and return travel. Being clear about your plans helps. If you’re flying out of Dublin or Shannon Airport, you’ll clear U.S. customs before departure, allowing you to skip long queues when you arrive in the States.
Do I need any vaccinations or health checks before travelling?
There are no required vaccinations for most travellers from Ireland or the UK. Check GOV.UK or DFA.ie for current entry requirements.
What costs should I budget for beyond flights?
Consider car hire or other transport, meals, taxes, park entry fees, and tipping.
Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is highly recommended. US healthcare is expensive, so coverage for medical emergencies is strongly advised.
How early should I arrive at the airport for flights to/from the USA?
Arrive at least three hours before your flight to allow time for check-in, security, and immigration.
Can I use Irish or UK credit/debit cards in the USA?
Yes. Cards are widely accepted, though it helps to notify your bank of your travel dates and destinations to avoid blocks. Carry some cash for tips or small purchases.
What should I pack for my trip to the US?
Pack layers for variable weather across regions and seasons, a power plug adapter, travel documents, prescriptions, and any essentials for your trip.
