30 “Quintessential American Experiences” That Tourists Should Try, As Shared By Internet Users

Many of the top suggestions point towards the United States’ natural beauty and this is overwhelmingly correct, Americans should feel proud not only for the abundance of outdoor activities but the world-famous national park system, which includes 85.1 million acres of land for Americans and visitors alike to enjoy. This is literally more land than some entire nations and includes some of the most breathtaking places on Earth.

The national park service, which maintains and manages the parks that we can all enjoy, was established in 1916, though the first “park,” as in an area set aside for preservation, was created in 1872, and protected by a nearby fort for US troops. This park was Yellowstone, known for its canyons, forests, and downright breathtaking views. 

Diners, restaurants, and good food aren’t limited to the US either, but pop culture, Hollywood, and even paintings have made the 1950s-style diner absolutely iconic. Some have been preserved in the same condition since then, serving the same dishes, a piece of vintage Americana for anyone to enjoy. Some have become famous landmarks, due to showing up in films and TV shows. 

Others point to state or county fairs, which typically include a bizarre arrangement of attractions, some unique to each state, and the sort of food that looks like it’s designed to give you a heart attack in under five minutes. As always, Americans do things big, and that includes health risks. Statistically, the largest is in Texas (figures,) where the State fair reported over two and a half million attendees. They really do things bigger in Texas.  

Another quintessentially American festivity is the tailgate party, where people gather in the parking lots (Americans have a lot of these) of sports stadiums before a game to barbecue, drink, and just party. It’s so ubiquitous that certain teams even have tailgate snacks associated with them, such as palmetto cheese, which originated at Atlanta Braves tailgate parties. Expect games like beer pong and the wonderfully American cornhole. 

Speaking of sports, many foreigners are surprised to see just how seriously Americans take high school and college sports, football in particular. Small towns might have stadiums that rival major teams and college football is a multibillion-dollar industry. Rivalries are ancient and fierce, but without the unpleasantness of, for example, European football hooliganism. Viewing parties are a normal state of affairs and a fun time, generally, for all around.