VUSA Travel Planner 2018.pdf

VISITUSA2018 TRAVEL PLANNER Create your USA experiencevisitusa.org.ukCreate your USA experience Create your USA experience Cover 2018 - FINAL.indd 1 10/24/17 11:00 AM

We make holidays. It’s what we do. That’s why year after year, families come to Kissimmee for memories that last them a lifetime. From getting in the thrills at our world-famous theme parks to exploring the natural wonder of Florida from a hot air balloon, the possibilities are endless here. See everything there is to discover at EXPER IENCEKISSIMMEE.COM UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT™ Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™ Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2017 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. Untitled-2 1 02/10/2017 07:45Untitled-2 1 10/24/17 11:02 AM

Published by Selling Travel, BMI Publishing Ltd, Suffolk House, George Street, Croydon CR9 1SR, UK. Tel: +44 (0)20 8649 7233 Email: enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk Website: bmipublishing.co.uk EditorIAL DIRECTOR: steve hartridge Publisher: Sally Parker Feature writers: Peter ellegard & LAUREN JARVIS Creative Director: Matt Bonner Lead Designers: Louisa Horton & Monica Notarnicola Designers: Ross Clifford & ZOE TARRANT group editor: andy Hoskins Production Manager: Clare Hunter Production Controller: Steve Hunter COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: David clare Managing Director: Martin Steady | The natural and human environment is important to us. We take great care to ensure that the paper products used to produce this brochure are manufactured from timber which is sourced from responsibly managed and harvested forests | Although every effort has been made to achieve accuracy, the publishers and Visit USA association (UK) do not accept responsibility for any mistakes or omissions ©BMI Publishing LtD 2017 Welcome to the usa! Your guide to planning the ultimate USA holiday visitusa.org.uk 3 Be inspired 4 America's icons 6 Coast to coast 10 The Old West 12 Road trips 14 Natural wonders 16 Neighbourhoods 20 Sustainable tourism 22 Animal magic 30 Island hopping 34 Theme parks 38 Food festivals 42 Rivers and lakes 44 Shopping 46 Twin centres 50 Rail journeys Map 36 Plot your route around the U.S. with selected highways, gateway cities, train routes and cruise ports marked on this map of the nation State round-up 52 From Alabama to Wyoming, get the lowdown on the nation's states and territories, with highlights, essential information and contact details Travel toolkit 61 Helpful hints and tips The essential information you need to know before you go 62 Visit USA members A complete contact guide to help you plan the perfect U.S. itinerary 70 Tour operators Holiday experiences from members of Visit USA (UK) Spotlight 8 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 13 Mesa, Arizona 15 Birmingham, Alabama 18 Kansas & Oklahoma 19 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 21 Denver, Colorado 24 Mississippi 26 Tennessee 28 Kentucky 29 Deep South USA 32 Dutchess County, New York 33 Central New York 35 Central Florida 40 Arizona 45 Houston, Texas 48 Atlantic City, New Jersey 51 Bradenton Area, Florida Welcome17.indd 3 10/24/17 11:03 AM

America's icons Sights to beholdEvery U.S. trip should include an iconic landmark! The STATUE OF LIBERTY has stood guard over New York Harbour from Liberty Island since 1886. Washington DC's NATIONAL MALL encompasses more than 1,000 acres of green spaces, as well as several notable monuments. The famously-cracked LIBERTY BELL in Philadelphia is arguably the most powerful symbol of America’s independence and history. Seattle's striking SPACE NEEDLE was built for the 1962 World’s Fair in the city. The new FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT TRAIL self-drive route visits some of the esteemed architect’s best-known creations across Wisconsin. The impressive HOOVER DAM on the Arizona-Nevada border was completed in 1936. It took 400 workers 14 years to sculpt the 60ft-high faces of four U.S. presidents at South Dakota’s MOUNT RUSHMORE. Walk or cycle over San Francisco’s GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE then catch the ferry back from Sausalito. 4 visitusa.org.uk America's icons.indd 4 10/24/17 04:12 PM

In New Orleans, it’s Fat Tuesday every day of the week. Perhaps it’s because the city is the birthplace of jazz and the cocktail. There’s something to amuse and delight around every cobblestoned corner, especially the tax-free shopping savings. Visit NewOrleans.com and start planning your trip today! Mask optional. Fun inevitable. Untitled-6 1 16/10/2017 15:36 America's icons.indd 5 10/24/17 04:12 PM

Coast to coast Discover the allure of the ocean Ride the surf Nothing beats the feeling of riding along a beautiful beach on horseback, the sun in your eyes and the wind in your hair – apart, perhaps, from riding that horse in the ocean. The Great World Adventures' Beach Horses Experience in Bradenton, Florida, starts off on the white sands of Palma Sola Bay, before entering the water for some horse-riding fun in the surf. The U.S. has a staggering 95,471 miles of shoreline to suit every mood. Want to combine some relaxing beach time with upscale shopping and dining? Then head to Florida’s chic resorts of Naples or Sarasota. How about something altogether more wild? Check out California’s legendary Big Sur. Whether you’re a sailor, a snorkeller or simply a sun-lover, the United States’ beaches will deliver – every time. Pictured Main image: sundown on the West Coast; Above: South Beach, Miami; Right: a sunset stroll in Bradenton; Opposite page: resident pelicans in the Florida Keys 6 visitusa.org.uk Life's a beach RyanGrosjean Coast to Coast.indd 6 10/24/17 11:06 AM

sPiN Out The sweeping dunes of Oceano in San Luis Obispo County, California, are a playground for those who like to do more with their sand than just lie on it. Dune buggy rides, ATV tours and sand boarding are all on offer here, while visitors arriving by car can take a spin along one of California’s rare drive-on beaches. hit the BOARdWALK With a trio of wonderful beaches, great restaurants, bars, water- sports and playgrounds, Virginia Beach in southeastern Virginia has something for everyone. Make like a local and rent a bicycle or rollerblades to explore the three-mile-long boardwalk. hiGh ROLLeRs What could be more fun than hitting the beach in the afternoon, followed by a trip to the casino at night? Mississippi’s Gulf Coast has some top casino resorts, with many overlooking the Gulf’s 62 miles of golden shoreline, plus there’s excellent shopping, dining and entertainment to enjoy with your winnings. tO the LiGhthOuse There are some places that don’t live up to the hype but Cape Cod is not one of them. Think chic, nautically-designed resorts, friendly maritime towns, great local dining and the region’s iconic lighthouses. Cross the Cape Cod Canal from mainland Massachusetts and drive along the peninsula to discover 560 miles of beautiful beaches.  The new GuLf AdVeNtuRe CeNtRe at The Wharf on Orange Beach, Alabama, zooms thrill- seekers along on ziplines up to 90-feet high. Just make sure you don’t close your eyes – the coastal views of the Gulf of Mexico and surrounding sand dunes are spectacular. South Carolina’s MYRtLe BeACh has become a magnet for foodies, with oceanfront and marina-side restaurants serving a broad range of international cuisine, alongside traditional Calabash- style buffets and southern, ‘Lowcountry’ specialities. Look out for its great music and food festivals too. BOOK it NOW! FIND YOUR PERFECT TRAVEL PARTNERS. P.62-70 Entertainment | Bay Cruises | Dining | Shopping | & More Great Nightlife Fun Shopping Amazing Food THE EMBARCADERO @ BEACH STREET | 1.415.705.5500 | PIER39.COM CLASSIC DESIGN. CONTEMPORARY EXPERIENCE. AIANY TOURS & PRIVATE EVENTS | CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS AVAILABLE WWW.SAIL-NYC.COM | 212-627-1825 CHELSEA PIERS, NEW YORK CITY CLASSIC HARBOR LINE ARCHITECTURE TOURS TEAK. SKYLIGHTS. WATER VIEWS. TAKE A NEW KIND OF ARCHITECTURE TOUR. Named one of the “Top three day cruises” alongside the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s tour by The New York Times Coast to Coast.indd 7 10/24/17 11:06 AM

“The oldest art museum and art school in the U.S., the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts was founded in 1805 and houses a renowned collection of American paintings from the 1760s to the present” Be inspired, visit discoverPHL.co.uk America's birthplace discover America’s spirit in the city where it began, with abundant historical landmarks, museums, cultural attractions, restaurants, shops and more Visit Philadelphia T he 'American Dream' was born in Philadelphia, with the city playing a pivotal role in the development of a new nation founded on the principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. With more historic buildings from the colonial and federal periods of American history than anywhere else in the United States, many of Philadelphia’s original structures have been preserved. Philadelphia also has top-notch art museums, cultural offerings, tax-free shopping, award-winning restaurants and outdoor art, and it is home to the largest and first city-owned urban park system in the world. In 2015, Philadelphia earned the distinction of the first World Heritage City in the U.S., joining an elite network of global cities. Read on to learn why Philadelphia consistently ranks as one of the best places to visit in the U.S. national treasures Independence Hall, a UNSECO World Heritage Site, is the building where the Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution were debated and adopted. Nearby is Carpenter’s Hall, meeting place of the First Continental Congress in 1774. Liberty Bell, the symbol of American independence that cracked when rung upon arrival in Philadelphia, was once located in the steeple of Independence Hall. While in the area, stroll through Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America – one of Philadelphia’s most Instagram-worthy spots. explore the outdoors Traverse Fairmount Park, the city’s 9,000-acre park system with 215 miles of recreation trails. The first botanical garden, Bartram’s Garden, spans over 45 acres along the Schuylkill River. The Philadelphia Zoo, the nation’s first, is now home to Zoo360, a series of elevated mesh trails throughout the zoo that allow the animals to roam around the park. Arts and culture The first and oldest art museum and art school in the U.S., the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts was founded in 1805 by Charles Wilson Peale and houses a renowned collection of American paintings from the 1760s to the present. Visit the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, also known as Phila- delphia’s museum district, to explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its outstanding collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, including the largest collection of Marcel Duchamp’s artwork in the world. Exit the east entrance of the museum to the steps made famous by Philadelphia’s beloved fictional son, Rocky Balboa, whose statue stands tall on the edge of the museum’s grounds. 8 visitusa.org.uk Phili.dps.indd 8 10/24/17 11:11 AM

Be inspired Be inspired, visit discoverPHL.co.uk visitusa.org.uk 9 Philadelphia brings history to life, offering countless opportunities to explore and learn, and all within a compact walkable downtown Philadelphia Six of the best attractions in A World-Renowned Arts SCENE The Barnes Foundation houses the world’s finest private collections of early French- Modern and Post-Impressionist paintings in the world. The collection (more than 4,000 objects) also includes pieces of antique furniture, pottery and African sculptures. Tax-free Shopping Clothing and shoe purchases are tax-free so pack an extra suitcase and get ready to shop Rittenhouse Row, the Chestnut Hill Business District, King of Prussia Mall, the Philadelphia Premium Outlets and more. Philadelphia offers the biggest name brands as well as independent boutiques. love Named by its founder, William Penn, Philadelphia translates from Greek to 'City of Brotherly Love'. Penn envisioned a city of tolerance and Philadelphia is welcoming and inclusive. Take a picture with the iconic LOVE sculpture, designed by Robert Indiana, now back in the newly renovated LOVE Park. Fabulous Food Philadelphia restaurants feature Iron Chefs, Top Chefs and more in a melting pot of global cuisines. Visit Reading Terminal Market, where over 80 merchants sell food, groceries and gifts. Or head to East Passyunk Avenue, dubbed a 'Top 10 Foodie Street in America' to enjoy a classic Philly cheesesteak or gourmet cuisine. City of Murals Mural Arts Philadelphia started as an anti-graffiti programme and has grown to be an inter- national leader with nearly 4,000 works of community-based public art. Take a tour and find out why Philadelphia is called the 'Mural Capital of the World'. Historic Mile Philadelphia is rich in attractions that tell the country’s story, all within easy walking distance. Experience what it was like for the Continental Army on the front lines, climb aboard a replica of a privateer ship and see General George Washington’s original tent at the Museum of the American Revolution. Phili.dps.indd 9 10/24/17 11:12 AM

The Old West In the saddleRelive America's 'Wild West' culture VILLAGE LIFE Salt Lake City’s This is the Place Heritage Park attraction has opened a new Native American Village, showcasing life for native tribes in Utah before white settlers arrived. Native American dancers perform ceremonial dances inside America’s largest teepee, seating 110 people representing Shoshone dwellings. There are also Navajo Hogan dwellings in which stories are shared. THE spirit of America’s 'Wild West' is alive and kicking. Relive the frontier days and experience cowboy culture through a feast of events, museums, rodeos and ranch stays – and not just west of the Mississippi. You can find it in surprising places, such as rodeos in Florida and even in Hawai‘i, and there are numerous authentic Native American experiences right across the country. Pictured Main image: flying the flag at a local rodeo; Above: John Ford's Point, Monument Valley; Right: Native American dancers; Opposite page: colourful teepees in Utah 10 visitusa.org.uk The Old West.indd 10 10/24/17 11:09 AM

THE LAWLESS WEST Guests at Arizona’s Tombstone Monument Ranch can immerse themselves in Wild West legend. Just three miles from the lawless territory Wyatt Earp tamed, the entire ranch resembles a frontier town, with a dirt Main Street and boardwalk lined by guestrooms disguised as buildings including a blacksmith’s shop and bordello. NATIVE HERITAGE The National Museum of the American Indian, the first national museum in the U.S. dedicated solely to Native American heritage, is part of the Smithsonian Institution and is located on D.C.’s National Mall. It features one of the world’s largest collections of American Indian arts, artefacts and archives. TRAIL OF HISTORY The Chisholm Trail, along which cattle were herded from Fort Worth, Texas, to Abilene, Kansas, is 150 years old. Learn about it at Chisholm Trail Museums in Kingfisher and Wellington, Oklahoma, the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum in Cleburne, Texas, and the Heritage Centre in Duncan, Oklahoma. YIPPEE HAWAI‘I YAY Hawai‘i’s Makawao Rodeo has been held in Upcountry Maui every Fourth of July for over 60 years. It features a parade and traditional rodeo competitions with a Hawaiian twist. Visitors can learn all about paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) traditions at ranches across Hawai‘i. The three-day GATHERING OF NATIONS, held each April in Albuquerque, is North America’s largest powwow and draws 3,000 Native American people from over 500 tribes with traditional song, dance and drumming competitions. Visitors can buy indigenous art and try native foods. Denver’s 16- day NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW AND RODEO is America’s premier livestock, rodeo and horse show. It welcomes 650,000 visitors each year and features one of the richest professional rodeos, mounted shooting events and Colorado’s largest Western trade show. www.grandcanyontourandtravel.com inquiries@gctco.com Visit theVisit theVisit the Grand CanyonGrand CanyonSeeing is Believing! Grand Canyon National Park • Hoover Dam • Indian Country Grand Canyon West • Grand Canyon Overnight Packages • Group Services and Charters • Grand Canyon Overnight with the Grand Canyon Railway 1/4Standard_Grand_Canyon_AD.indd 1 17/10/2017 08:43 BOOK IT NOW! FIND YOUR PERFECT TRAVEL PARTNERS. P.62-70 dodge city, kansas The Old West.indd 11 10/24/17 11:09 AM

Pictured Main image: unusual traffic in Denali National Park, Alaska; Inset: destination Florida Keys 1 MIAMI TO KEY WEST, FLORIDA “I’m driving down to the Florida Keys,” is a phrase everyone should say at least once in their life. Rent a jeep in Miami for the 110-mile trip along the scenic Overseas Highway, crossing over 40 bridges that connect the sun- drenched Keys. Explore laid-back beach communities, pristine water- ways and the Florida Reef, before arriving in the lively, southernmost city of the continental United States, Key West, and prepare to party. 2 ANCHORAGE TO DENALI NATIONAL PARK LOOP, ALASKA One of the world’s last great wildernesses, Alaska is the ultimate destination for a self-drive adventure. Dramatic mountain landscapes, cascading rivers and the beauty of Denali National Park will lift the spirits and soothe the soul. For that extra sense of freedom, pick up a motor home – or recreational vehicle (RV) as they’re called in the U.S. – in Anchorage, and cruise your highway to holiday heaven. 3 SKYLINE DRIVE, SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK, VIRGINIA Take a leisurely 105-mile cruise along the Skyline Drive which runs along the Blue Ridge Mountains in the stunningly beautiful Shenandoah National Park. Black bears, deer and wild turkeys are regulars along the road, so stick to the speed limit and you’ll experience the wildest of adventures without even having to step out of the car. 4 GREAT LAKES CIRCLE TOUR, THE MIDWEST A scenic road system connects each of the five Great Lakes – Superior, Michigan, Ontario, Eerie and Huron – and the St. Lawrence River, meandering across eight states and the Canadian province of Ontario. Stretching over 6,500 miles, the highways around ‘North America’s Fresh Coast’ lead travellers from lush forests to dune lands, with no end of historic towns and attractions to explore. Choose one, or stay and drive them all. 5 AMERICANA MUSIC TRIANGLE, MEMPHIS, NASHVILLE AND NEW ORLEANS A great soundtrack is crucial to a memorable U.S. road trip, but on a tour of the Gold Record Road in the Americana Music Triangle the tunes won’t just be playing on your iPod – they’re everywhere! Visit key landmarks as you journey through the history of nine different musical genres, from jazz in New Orleans to rock ’n’ roll in Memphis. 6 MOHAWK TRAIL, MASSACHUSETTS This 63-mile road trip is a biker’s dream, and follows the old trade route used by the Native Americans of the Five Nations to pass between the Connecticut and Hudson Valleys. Crossing 50,000 acres of state forests, reservations and parks, it’s one of New England’s best spots to see the famous colours of ‘Fall’ as the foliage turns from vibrant green to dazzling golds. 12 visitusa.org.uk Six of the best... Road trips On the Road.indd 12 10/24/17 11:14 AM

Be inspired City limitless Outdoor recreation, one-of-a-kind attractions, fabulous weather, local flavours and Western heritage await visitors to Mesa Visit Mesa, Arizona W elcome to Mesa, Arizona’s third-largest city. This Sonoran Desert playground is the perfect Southwest spot for Western heritage, rugged outdoor adventure, culinary discoveries and authentic Arizona beauty with mountains and canyon lands surrounding the city. In fact, Mesa was named the Best Place for Outdoor Lovers by Money magazine, recognising the thousands of acres of natural desert that lies just north and east of the urban city core. Western heart Staying in Mesa is the best decision for visitors that want to take easy day trips to experience the Grand Canyon, visit the Native American communities, enjoy outlet shopping, take in a round of world-class golf and more. Mesa offers a premium selection of full-service hotels and is the ideal ‘hub and spoke’ destination for exploring all of Arizona’s unique experiences, heritage and landscapes. Visitors to Mesa arrive at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, located just ten minutes away from the city’s collection of brand-name hotels featuring extended stay options. Visitors can also gain easy access to Mesa hotels and the city’s core by hopping aboard the convenient Metro Light Rail. With the airport Sky Train, getting to and from the airport is easy for international visitors. The Metro Light Rail takes guests into Downtown Mesa, with rail stops at three museums and right in front of the renowned Mesa Arts Center. For further information about all these Arizona adventures and experiences go online and head to www.VisitMesa.com. “Staying in Mesa is the best decision for visitors that want to take easy day trips to experience the Grand Canyon, visit the Native American communities, enjoy outlet shopping, take in a round of world-class golf and so much more” NON-STOP ACCESS TO SUNSHINE British Airways is expanding its daily service from London to Phoenix in 2018. Starting in March, the airline will operate a second flight on Tuesdays and Fridays, with an additional Sunday flight in May. The added service will be available through to October. A DESERT OASIS Mesa shares a border with the Tonto National Forest, the fifth largest and one of the most visited forests in the United States. There are three lakes and two rivers that offer year- round recreation including cruises on the Dolly Steamboat. dollysteamboat.com FRESH FOODIE TRAIL® Take the ultimate road trip full of Arizona flavours on the award-winning Fresh Foodie Trail®. This in-demand collection of culinary outposts in the shape of farms, citrus groves, peach orchards and more has delights in store for all taste buds. freshfoodietrail.com WILD WILD WEST Head out on the legendary Apache Trail into the Superstition Wilderness. Today, the region still pays homage to its Western roots. Visit an Old West stagecoach, a ghost town, and the famous Elvis Presley Chapel to capture the true essence of Arizona. FUN FOR ALL AGES Mesa is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the state, with action-packed attractions, kid- friendly restaurants and a mix of fun entertainment. Mesa offers an enriching family experience for all visitors. BE INSPIRED, VISIT VISITMESA.COM visitusa.org.uk 13 Mesa.indd 13 10/24/17 11:15 AM

14 visitusa.org.uk 1 GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA One of the greatest natural wonders on earth, the Grand Canyon is just hours from the dazzling lights of Vegas but a world away from the frenetic pace of 'Sin City'. Vast, ancient and dramatic, there’s a quiet calm here: stand on the canyon rim gazing out over this immense natural rift and all you’ll hear is the timeless whispering of the wind, as the Colorado River rumbles over billion-year-old rocks a mile below you. Total bliss. 2 NIAGARA FALLS, NEW YORK Nothing can prepare you for the force of nature that is the mighty Niagara Falls in New York state. More than 600,000 gallons of water rush over the falls every second, plunging at speeds of up to 68mph into the gorge below. Jump aboard the historic Maid of the Mist boat tour and feel the spray on your face, or, for a spectacular view from above, take to the skies in a helicopter. 3 YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA Like when entering the gates of Disneyland, there are some places in the world where you just can’t help but smile: Yosemite National Park is one of them. This pristine slice of paradise boasts grandiose granite peaks, lush valleys and rainbow-splashed waterfalls, including America’s highest, Yosemite Falls. Black bears and mule deer graze its meadows, while giant sequoias soar skywards in ancient forests. A natural gem. 4 THE EVERGLADES, FLORIDA One of the most precious regions of our planet, the Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Covering 1.5 million acres of Florida wetland, it’s home to unique wildlife including manatees, alligators and the elusive Florida panther. Explore its primordial forests and swamps with a guide at dawn – its raw beauty will stay with you forever. 5 GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, MONTANA For those with a love of outdoor adventure, there’s no better place to indulge than amidst the stunning landscapes of Glacier National Park. With its turquoise mirror lakes, crystal-clear rivers and streams, 7,000-year-old glaciers, and soaring, snow-capped mountains, it’s a picturesque playground for trekkers, hikers and campers, who share this million-acre wilderness with grizzly bears, moose, wolverines and lynx. Pull on your boots and breathe deep. 6 HANAUMA BAY STATE PARK, O’AHU, HAWAI‘I Divers and snorkellers will find a multitude of watery wonders beneath the waves in Hanauma – Hawai‘i’s first marine preservation zone. Once a volcanic crater, the Bay and its coral reef now shelter abundant tropical fish, with nearby opportunities to whale-watch or swim with wild spinner dolphins and green turtles. Back on land, Hanauma’s award-winning beach is the perfect spot to dry off and soak up some of that endless Hawaiian sun. Six of the best... Natural wonders Pictured Main image: Arizona's spectacular Grand Canyon; Inset: making a splash at Niagara Falls Natural Wonders.indd 14 10/24/17 11:16 AM

Be inspired 15 “Birmingham has received tremendous press as a foodie city, and rightly so. You’ll discover exceptional chef-owned restaurants featuring locally farmed fare and delicious seafood brought up fresh from the Gulf of Mexico daily” BE INSPIRED, VISIT INBIRMINGHAM.COM O ften recognised as the gravitational centre of the civil rights movement, Birmingham offers a unique experience to the visitor who wants to sample the historical 'South', but enjoy the amenities of a modern city. Here you can spend the day in our Civil Rights District, exploring locations you’ve only read about, then enjoy phenomenal farm-to- fork fare at any number of top restaurants. After dinner, spend your evening in one of the last remaining true juke joints in the world – Gip’s Place. You’ll find Birmingham mixes old and new to create a cocktail with a flavour all its own. Feed your soul Birmingham’s got soul. You’ll find it at the 16th Street Baptist Church or Kelly Ingram Park. You’ll find it in quaint, out-of-the-way artsy shops, bustling boutiques, and our expansive green spaces. You’ll find Birmingham’s soul at the top of the statue of Vulcan overlooking the city, and you’ll find it in the music venues that offer everything from emerging new music to the blues. Feed your palate Birmingham has received tremendous press as a foodie city, and rightly so. Here, you’ll discover exceptional chef-owned restaurants featuring locally farmed fare and delicious seafood brought up fresh from the Gulf of Mexico daily. And to top it off, Birmingham’s breweries tap phenomenal craft brews, while the mixologists at the local bars sport handcrafted cocktails designed with the discerning imbiber in mind. If food and drink are what you hunger for, you’ll find no better than in Birmingham. Feed your body From hiking trails to pristine rivers and excellent golf courses, Birmingham offers diverse adventures aplenty. Visitors can discover hundreds of miles of walking trails and more than 140,000 yards of public golf within a cab ride of where you’re staying. Wander along the Cahaba River, which boasts more biodiversity than all of England’s waters combined. Or explore parks that celebrate Birmingham’s industrial past and peer into fascinating century-old, abandoned iron-ore mines. If golf is your bag, you’ll find that our rolling topography and lush flora make for stunning golf courses that wow you with their natural beauty and challenge you to make your shots. In sum, Birmingham is that gracious southern American city that shares its history with panache, its food and drink generously and hospitably, and its many varied adventures with delight. Southern meets spirited In this trending southern U.S. city, prepare to experience a taste of history mixed with the rich flavours of the contemporary Visit Birmingham, Alabama Birmingham.indd 15 10/24/17 11:17 AM

Neighbourhoods Want to really know the U.S.? Go local! HISTORICALLY HIP A whisker away from Washington D.C., Virginia’s pretty port town of Alexandria blends its historic colonial past with a cool and casual dining and arts scene that makes visitors feel instantly at home. Walk the Old Town’s cobbled streets, with its independent restaurants and boutiques, before exploring the waterfront’s Torpedo Factory Art Centre, home to over 80 working artists' studios. IT’S NO longer enough for travellers to tick off a destination’s top attractions or historic highlights on their trip. Now we all want to experience more, feel more and get an insight into where the locals go and what they know. Across the U.S. those residents are ready to welcome you to their own local neighbourhoods, so dive in – you won’t be disappointed. Pictured Main image: murals in Philadelphia; Above: Fremont Street, Las Vegas; Right: Old Town Alexandria; Opposite page: Terlingua Ghost Town, Texas 16 visitusa.org.uk Want to really know the U S ? Street life LucioRossi/Latitudeslife.com Neighbourhoods.indd 16 10/24/17 11:20 AM

Tear yourself away from the dazzling Strip to discover a very different vibe in DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS. Stay at the authentic Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino to explore funky Fremont Street and the excellent Mob Museum, and check out The Neon Museum’s collection of classic ’n’ kitsch Vegas signs. The lively college town of ATHENS in Georgia is a hub for some of the country’s finest craft beer breweries. The Terrapin Beer Co. also offers yoga classes, while the Southern Brewing Company has food trucks, and Creature Comforts Brewing Company hosts bands to sup and sway along to. ART OF THE CITY Outstanding art collections abound in Philadelphia’s world- class museums, including over 600 French post-Impressionist and modern masterpieces at the city’s Barnes Foundation. Beyond the galleries, colourful artworks adorn many of the city’s walls, supported by the Mural Arts Philadelphia programme. HIT A HOME RUN Even if sport’s not your thing, no visit to Boston is complete without catching a game at Fenway Park, the U.S.’s oldest Major League Baseball stadium. Stay across the road at The Verb hotel with its music memorabilia and record players, and grab lunch at vegan hotspot By Chloe. HOTTEST TOWN IN TEXAS It may be known as a ‘ghost town’ but Terlingua, near Big Bend National Park in Texas, is alive and kicking. Born from the mercury mining boom in the early 1900s, it’s now home to an artsy community and an annual international chilli cook-off, plus the straight-out-of-a-western Starlight Theatre saloon. GROWN-UP FUN While Mickey and co. are the major draw for Orlando, there’s plenty more beyond. Thornton Park District is within walking distance from Downtown and offers events such as a Wine & Art Walk, Thornton Thursdays with street DJs and live music, and a Sunday farmers’ market with yoga at Lake Eola Park. LucioRossi/Latitudeslife.com BOOK IT NOW! FIND YOUR PERFECT TRAVEL PARTNERS. P.62-70 Sweet Home Alabama is more than a song. It’s a place where the skies really are so blue - a land of history, culture, music and adventure. Here, Gospel is sung in churches and folks dance to Blues, Country and Jazz in bars. Locally owned restaurants dish up meals of mouth-watering barbecue and fresh seafood from Alabama’s fishing villages. Alabama’s top museums include the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum and the legendary studios of Muscle Shoals. Surrounded by great cities - New Orleans, Memphis, Nashville and Atlanta among them - Alabama is the heart and sould of any Southern USA trip. Untitled-1 1 18/09/2017 09:15 CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS ROCHESTER, NY FINGER LAKES NIAGARA FALLS, NY www.winewaterwonders.com EXPLORE NEWYORK BEYOND NYC AND DISCOVER OUR WONDERS Neighbourhoods.indd 17 10/24/17 11:20 AM

Where buffalo roam …and the deer and the antelope play. Where seldom is heard a discouraging word and the skies are not cloudy all day… Visit Kansas & Oklahoma H ere, against the backdrop of a big blue sky, the broad expanses of the Great Plains and the last stand of virgin tall grass prairies is the heart and soul of America. People here are kind and unassuming and full of humour, warm-hearted and hospitable. Western and American Indian backgrounds are well mixed within contemporary life offering a fascinating cultural experience in vibrant cities and thriving small towns. Kansans and Okies are proud of their history and love to share their stories. Visitors are genuinely welcome. Lip-smacking yummy! Delicious down-home food, prepared from locally-sourced ingredients, is on offer throughout the Heartland States: fried chicken, barbecue, onion burgers, pie (with ice cream)... but that’s not all! An eclectic food scene – from food trucks to farm-to-fork fine dining – is abundant across Kansas and Oklahoma. Rhythm & routes Live music is the soundtrack to many memorable evenings – classical, country, pop, red dirt, rock and bluegrass events are all common here. Legendary artistes like Melissa Etheridge, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Leon Russell and JJ Cale hail from Kansas/Oklahoma, whilst the beat goes on at the American Banjo Museum in OKC and at the Woodie Guthrie Center in Tulsa. “The place, the heart, the soul that inspired the national ‘unofficial anthem’ of the American West. Evocative historic trails bring to life stories alive with American Indian & western culture; energetic cities, quirky towns and landscapes of significant beauty” ROUTE 66 The Mother Road strikes out from Chicago towards distant California, forging 13 photogenic miles through Kansas before traversing Oklahoma’s 400+ miles of drivable route. Conceived in Tulsa in the 1930s this ‘must do’ experience is delivered through a kaleidoscope of quirky and historic, expressive and fun people, places and things, with photo-ops around every corner. Look for the diners, classic car shows, second-hand malls, and one- of-a-kind museums. SCENIC BYWAYS Kansas is home to 12 designated, signposted byways. Scenic and historic, they encourage visitors to take to the ‘side’ roads to explore at a gentle pace, allowing the journey to become the destination. NATIVE AMERICA Many American Indian tribes live in Kansas & Oklahoma. Each tribe has its own distinctive identity and culture, and many share this rich heritage with visitors through eloquent living history centres, at art markets, and during powwows. COWBOY CULTURE Cowboy life is not just historical – it is a way of life today. Cattle ranching, horse-riding and rodeos are all abundant in these inviting Heartland States. STATE PARKS Five of Oklahoma’s State Parks bring together a range of exciting outdoor activities – both on and off the water – from sailing to golf and from hiking to horse-riding, and each offering beautiful full-service lodge accommodation. BE INSPIRED, VISIT TRAVELKSOK.CO.UK Kansans and Okies are proud of their history and love to share their stories. Visitors are genuinely welcome. Lip-smacking Delicious down-home food, prepared from locally-sourced ingredients, is on offer throughout Rhythm & routes Live music is the soundtrack to many memorable evenings – classical, country, pop, red dirt, rock and bluegrass events are all common here. Legendary artistes like Melissa Etheridge, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Leon Russell and JJ Cale hail from Kansas/Oklahoma, whilst the beat goes on at the American Banjo Museum in OKC and at the Woodie Guthrie Center in Tulsa. 18 visitusa.org.uk IMAGES:KDWPTandOTRD Kansas Ok.indd 18 10/24/17 11:22 AM

Experience America's diverse culture throughout Oklahoma City's unique districts on historic Route 66 Oklahoma City The highlights of Outdoor adventure Home to the U.S. Olympic kayaking team's training site, get adventurous in Oklahoma City's Boathouse District. See the city skyline as you take on an urban whitewater rafting and kayaking experience where there's more rapids than not! Take on new heights on a six-storey adventure course where you can zip-line across the Oklahoma River, free fall 80-feet down, or take on one of four of America's tallest dry slides. Route 66 Oklahoma has more drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state! Stop by POPS to choose from more than 700 varieties of soda. Enjoy some lunch and take some pictures in this colourful space. Also, stop by the historic Milk Bottle Building on Route 66, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. “See the Oklahoma City skyline as you take on an urban whitewater rafting and kayaking experience where there's more rapids than not!” IMAGES:OklahomaCityConvention&VisitorsBureau visitusa.org.uk 19 BE INSPIRED, VISIT VISITOKC.COM American Indian experience A departure from a traditional museum, the Red Earth Art Center in downtown Oklahoma City represents the state’s American Indian heritage, primarily through contemporary art. Each June Red Earth hosts the annual Red Earth PowWow drawing in hundreds of dancers who gather to share their culture and heritage with the world. The cowboy experience Get a true cowboy experience in Stockyards City, home to the Oklahoma National Stockyards where live auctions take place every Monday and Tuesday morning. Shop for authentic cowboy gear and enjoy live music at the Rodeo Opry; visit The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; and don’t miss one of the many horse shows while you’re in town. Be inspired Oklahoma_right.indd 19 10/24/17 04:00 PM

Sustainable tourism Sometimes it IS easy being green 20 visitusa.org.uk Free roaming Explore Washington D.C. with a CAPITAL BIKESHARE CYCLE instead of on four wheels. Outside of the city, there are plenty of bike trails and Bikeshare stations in nearby Fairfax County, Arlington and historic Alexandria, so you can cycle along the Potomac River into Washington D.C. Exploring BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK in Texas? Spend a night at the extraordinary Eve’s Garden in Marathon before you go. This unique and organic B&B has beautifully decorated domed rooms made from Papercrete – a mixture of recycled paper, sand, clay, and cement – and serves possibly the best breakfast in the state. TURTLE TREKKING The beautiful beaches of Martin County host nesting sea turtles from February until September. Sign up for a late-night Turtle Walk, led by the Hobe Sound Natural Wildlife & Nature Centre, to see logger head turtles lay their eggs. There are great dive and snorkelling spots, too. PROTECT THE PRAIRIES The American Prairie Reserve, a non-profit organisation, aims to create the continental United States’ largest nature reserve in northeastern Montana, with three million acres of grasslands roamed by reintroduced native animals, including the bison. The Reserve’s Kestrel Camp has five luxury safari-style suites and offers tours with biologists. FROM FARM TO FORK California’s Sonoma County has more than 425 wineries and is renowned for its farm-to-fork dining scene. The SingleThread restaurant and its accompanying inn is not to be missed, with Asian-inspired haute cuisine, and tasting menus featuring delights from the adjacent farm. GET FRESH Follow Arizona’s Fresh Foodie Trail from the town of Mesa to the countryside beyond, and experience farmers’ markets, organic dining and pick-your- own produce. There’s a top craft brewery scene here, too, and look out for Mesa’s Food Truck Fridays. SADDLE UP Two million free-roaming mustangs once galloped the plains of the American west, but today less than 50,000 horses remain. Nevada's luxury Mustang Monument eco-ranch is home to 650 of these beautiful beasts, and a sanctuary for guests. Pictured Main image: Mustangs gather in Nevada; Above: Bikeshare in Washington D.C. FOR the conscientious traveller, there’s much to experience and celebrate across the U.S. Traditional communities are now embracing the shift towards sustainability and environmental awareness, with eco-tourism options in every state, from wildlife conservation initiatives to low-impact resorts. Green Tourism.indd 20 10/24/17 04:48 PM

Be inspired The outdoor city that's home to urban adventures for all ages, from Western history and shopping to craft beer and live music Denver, Colorado The highlights of Mile High Shopping Cherry Creek Shopping Center is home to more than 160 restaurants and stores including Macy's, Nordstrom, Apple and Levi’s. Head across 1st Avenue to find the charming, tree-lined streets of the Cherry Creek North neighbourhood to explore galleries, boutiques and great restaurants. Visit the historic downtown shop of Rockmount Ranch Wear, home to the first snap-button cowboy shirt. Denver Union Station & LoDo (Lower Downtown) Denver Union Station is a transport, dining, shopping and entertainment hub. Enjoy a burrito at Snooze, sip a beer at Terminal Bar, sample the locally sourced cuisine at one of the unique restaurants, or just hit the shops. A direct rail service connects Denver International Airport to this downtown landmark. Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is famous for its one-of-a-kind outdoor concert venue that is surrounded by giant, ancient rock formations. During the day, Red Rocks is a free city park with easy hiking trails and a visitor centre. Seeing a concert under the stars is a magical experience. Red Rocks Park is located 30 minutes west of downtown Denver. Denver Beer Trail Take a self-guided tour along the Denver Beer Trail and sample the craft beer paradise in 'The Mile High City'. Explore the featured breweries – most of which are in the walkable downtown area – and you will find everything from stouts to lagers and all the flavours in between. BE INSPIRED, VISIT VISITDENVER.COM “Take a self-guided tour along the Denver Beer Trail and sample the craft beer paradise that awaits visitors in ‘The Mile High City’” visitusa.org.uk 21 ScottDressell-MartinEvanSemon StevieCrecelius Visit Denver.indd 21 10/24/17 11:25 AM

Animal magic Wild at heartMeet the United States' wonders of nature 22 visitusa.org.uk Maine has the second-largest moose population in the U.S. after Alaska, and BAR HARBOR is a great place to see these iconic creatures from May to October. Take a short boat ride from Boston Harbour to see mighty humpback whales and white-sided dolphins feeding in the STELLWAGEN BANK NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY. On Hawai‘i’s BIG ISLAND, kayak brilliant-blue waters amid a pod of spinner dolphins or take a night tour from Kona for an exhilarating dive or snorkel with graceful, giant manta rays. Visit some of the 308 viewing sites on the GREAT TEXAS COASTAL BIRDING TRAIL to see over 450 bird species. The unspoiled ASSATEAGUE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE, off the coast of Maryland and Virginia, is home to a population of wild ponies that have roamed its beaches and marshlands since the 1600s. Slip into warm waters of KINGS BAY in Florida’s Crystal River and you’ll be entering the magical realm of the manatee. It is one of the few places in the world you can snorkel with these gentle marine giants. Feel the thunder of a stampeding herd at the annual autumn BUFFALO ROUNDUP in South Dakota’s Custer State Park. Native grey wolves were reintroduced to YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK in the ‘90s to help restore the ecosystem to its pre-colonial glory. Look out for grizzlies, mountain lions, coyotes and bison, too. Animal Magic.indd 22 10/24/17 04:11 PM

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“Elvis Presley is known for connecting blues and country music, helping to popularise rock 'n' roll , but his story begins in Tupelo. Tour his first home at the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum” Be inspired, visit visitmississippi.org Blues & bites savour the authentic sounds and flavours of Mississippi, the birthplace of America's music Visit Mississippi W hen you want to feel the most authentic American music experience, go where it all began. Blues, country and rock ‘n’ roll music are all rooted in the rich culture of Mississippi, the birthplace of America’s music. While the rhythm of the blues beats in every corner of the state, the heart is still the Mississippi Delta. Travel to Dockery Farms, where blues pioneer Charley Patton lived and worked. Up the road in Cleveland, the genre’s global impact is displayed at the GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi. Grab some of the Delta’s tamales from Airport Grocery before you hit the road for the B.B. King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center in Indianola. Download the Mississippi Blues Trail app and browse nearly 200 historical spots highlighting blues artists and iconic juke joints. Greenwood is home to eight Blues Trail markers, highlighting icons such as Robert Johnson, Furry Lewis and Hubert Sumlin. Drop by the Crystal Grill or Fan & Johnny’s downtown for traditional and eclectic takes on Southern food. Father of country music Jimmie Rodgers grew up in Meridian, where his namesake museum displays his personal guitars and memorabilia. A tour of the new Mississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience – opening April 2018 to celebrate the state’s musicians, actors, writers and other creative artists – pairs well with a meal at Weidmann’s, founded in 1870. Elvis Presley is known for connecting blues and country music, helping to popularise rock 'n' roll, but his story begins in Tupelo. Tour his first home at the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, then visit Tupelo Hardware and see where he got his first guitar. No Elvis trip is complete without Johnnie’s Drive-In, the 'King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s' favorite diner. Down in the ‘city with soul’, you can find Jackson’s own gospel-influenced blues at late- night music spot F. Jones Corner on historic Farish Street and Hal & Mal’s, which hosts a blues jam every Monday night. Let your inner foodie loose in the Fondren District, where choices range from the upscale menu at Walker’s Drive-In to gastropub fare at Barrelhouse. Pair a local brew with pulled pork at Pig & Pint, then enjoy dessert at the soda fountain at Brent’s Drugs or coffee at Sneaky Beans. Live music is alive, every week- end and most weeknights, from Jackson to Oxford to Hattiesburg. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is the prime spot for nightlife. For gaming and live entertainment, visit Biloxi’s Beau Rivage, Imperial Palace and Hard Rock Casino & Hotel. A beachfront sunset and the walkable downtown in Ocean Springs is the perfect way to end your Mississippi adventure. 24 visitusa.org.uk Mississippi dps.indd 24 10/24/17 11:28 AM

Be inspired Be inspired, visit visitmississippi.org visitusa.org.uk 25 The 'can’t-miss' itinerary highlights in the Magnolia State for history, music and culinary fans Mississippi Six of the best places to visit in GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi In the only GRAMMY Museum outside of Los Angeles, learn about the connections that the state's musicians have to the awards and music worldwide. The Cleveland attraction features songwriting pods and displays showcasing music memorabilia. grammymuseumms.org The Guest Room, Starkville Start your evening with a signature or traditional craft cocktail or throw back a round from a local brewery before diving into the dinner menu. Savour the flavours where farm fresh is never far from your table. eatlocalstarkville.com The White House Hotel, Biloxi This 1890s beachfront boutique hotel is the perfect launching pad for a night out in the entertainment center of Mississippi. Cora’s serves fresh Gulf Coast seafood and choice steaks and the pool overlooks the shimmering Gulf of Mexico. whitehousebiloxi.com new mississippi Museums, Jackson The new Museum of Mississippi History and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum invite visitors inside the state’s rich and complex history. Here they can learn about the true stories responsible for shaping a state and influencing the world. mdah.ms.gov/2MM The Chimneys, Gulfport Indulge in 'spirited dining' specialities created with local shrimp, oysters and trout in an open dining setting or with a Gulf breeze on the veranda. The Chimneys brings creative chefs and fresh seafood together. chimneysrestaurant.com Mississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience Creative genius in Mississippi is off the charts – or topping them, in the case of the state's incredible number of hit music makers. Learn about legends of music, film, literature and visual arts at this new experience in Meridian, opening April 2018. msarts.org Mississippi dps.indd 25 10/24/17 11:28 AM