Best Time To Visit USA

Seasons in the USA

The USA experiences four seasons: a spring season that runs from March to May, warm summers that extend from June to August, a crisp fall season during September, October, and November, and a winter season that extends from December through February.

Due to its enormous size, different parts of the country experience these seasons differently. The northeastern and midwestern parts of the country, including Massachusetts, New York and Illinois see distinct seasons with heavy snowfall during winters and autumn colors filling the landscape in the fall. However, the southern parts of the country, like Florida, experience warm temperatures throughout the year with hot summers and mild winters. Expect showers across the country during the spring months.

Regions in the USA

The East Coast – For some of the best fall foliage, head to the northeastern states and national parks during September and October. While DC is ideal during cherry blossom season, NYC is best experienced from April – June and September – early November. The period from July – August is a busy time but weather conditions can get hot and humid during these months.

The West Coast – The period from July – October sees the best weather conditions in San Diego while spring and autumn months are best for L.A. San Francisco is at its warmest, surprisingly, during September and October. The northwestern states experience frequent rain showers and cold temperatures during winter and spring, making summer the best time to visit the cities and national parks of Oregon and Washington.

The South – Florida experiences a subtropical weather system. Summers are hot and humid while the months just before and after experience pleasant temperatures. The winter months are a popular and excellent time to visit Key West and Everglades National Park.

What to Pack

With such varied geography and seasons, what you pack for your trip around the USA depends on where you are traveling and when. 

Summers in the cities call for light clothing and sun protection. However, if you are visiting national parks, the difference in day time and night time temperatures can be significant. So, plan on taking warm clothes for chilly nights. 

Spring and fall months call for warm layers that you add or remove depending on weather conditions.

If you are visiting the northern parts of the country during the winter months, pack your warmest jackets and winter wear – thermals, gloves and winter hats. 

If you are planning on visiting the national parks, we recommend good quality trekking shoes, quick-dry shirts and trousers, thin yet warm layers, and a backpack that can carry snacks, water, a sun protection hat and insect repellant.

Our national parks are a treasure trove of the most extraordinary sights and landscapes. Talk to our travel experts and find out the best time to visit the USA and head off on an adventure to discover the Great Outdoors.