Book and Go
United States of America Weather, climate and geography
Weather & climate
The United States has varied weather conditions, and the best time to visit depends both upon the location and the season. Spring (March- May) and autumn (September-November) are generally cooler, more comfortable times to visit. The summer months (June-August) are generally hot regardless of the region, but winter temperatures (December-February) can vary substantially depending upon the part of the US you are visiting.
The southern part of the country tends to be warmer than the north. The general climate of the continental US is temperate, but keep in mind that Hawaii is tropical and Alaska is arctic. Many of the country's dependent territories, such as Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, are also tropical.
Summer is considered the peak tourist season throughout the country; other popular travel times are major American holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as Easter Week and the school holiday known as Spring Break. Certain destinations, such as New York, are perennial favourites and are busy year-round; even when the weather may not be pleasant, these destinations have particular attractions or experiences that always draw travellers.
In some parts of the country, travel services may be limited during the low or off-season, largely due to weather conditions.
As the US is a vast country with varying climates and four distinct seasons, packing clothing that allows you to layer for warmer and cooler conditions is recommended, especially if you plan to travel to different regions of the country. What you pack will largely depend upon the kinds of activities you plan to enjoy. Outdoor-lovers will need clothing and shoes that are appropriate for the terrain and the activities they have planned; visitors to cities will need a range of casual outfits and perhaps one smarter outfit for a night of fine dining or theatre.
Geography
The United States is the third-largest country in the world by land area, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and from the Canadian border down to Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico. It also includes the non-contiguous states of Alaska, to the northwest of Canada, and Hawaii, an island chain in the central Pacific.
Geographically, the U.S. is incredibly diverse. The East Coast features rolling hills, historic cities, and rugged coastlines, while the Appalachian Mountains run north to south through its interior. Moving westward, the Great Plains open up into vast stretches of flat farmland and prairies, giving way to the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
The Southwest is characterised by deserts, red rock canyons, and unique geological formations—nowhere more famously than the Grand Canyon. Further west, California offers towering mountains and a stunning coastline, while the Pacific Northwest boasts lush forests and volcanic peaks. Alaska is home to glaciers, tundra, and North America's highest mountain, Denali. In contrast, Hawaii features tropical beaches, rainforests, and active volcanoes.
The U.S. also contains a rich variety of rivers, lakes, and natural wonders, including the Mississippi River, the Great Lakes, and Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world. This geographic variety supports a wide range of climates—from arctic cold in Alaska to subtropical heat in Florida and arid deserts in the Southwest.
Do you have any Feedback about this page?
© 2025 Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission, click here for information on Columbus Content Solutions.
You know where