American Originals: The USA’s Creative Spirit - Visit The USA

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In honor of America250, we’re celebrating the creativity, innovation and culture-shifting moments that define our country’s soul. Walk in the footsteps of movie stars, hear music where genres were created and transformed, and taste foods that could only have been dreamed up here. These are the American Originals.

American Originals – Texas Barbeque

American stories, places, and heritage, celebrating the country’s cultural roots, historic traditions, and unique contributions that define the American spirit — showcasing people, landscapes, and traditions that make the United States distinct and beautiful.

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American Originals – Monument Valley

American Originals – Texas Barbeque

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Silver Screen Dreams

See epic views synonymous with the American West and experience living history with Navajo guides.
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Spotted in countless films, this Art Deco skyscraper is one of New York City’s most visited landmarks.
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See San Francisco’s famed landmark from myriad viewpoints or cross it via foot, bike or car.
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Barbecue: An American Art Form

From small-town Lockhart to big-city Austin, Texas barbecue is all about the brisket.
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Eastern and Western styles differ, but their common thread is pork, slow-smoked over hardwood with tangy sauce on the side.
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Both styles favor ribs with sauces that vary. Burnt ends are a favorite in Kansas City too.
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World-Shaking Sounds

This vibrant Southern city is the home of blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll; visit music museums and live venues galore.
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The birthplace of Jimi Hendrix and grunge music, this gateway to the Pacific Northwest remains an alt music capital.
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The bright lights of Broadway beckon millions to the Big Apple each year to revel in the artistry, sounds and storytelling of the renowned theater district.
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Discover Nearby Wonders

Horseback rider overlooking Monument Valley

Monument Valley

Experience the vast beauty and timeless spirit of Monument Valley.

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Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area near Las Vegas, Nevada.

4 Corners

Stand in four states at once and experience the unique wonder of the Four Corners

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Aerial of the Strip in Las Vegas, Nevada.

From LA To Las Vegas

Cruise the open desert highway from Los Angeles to Las Vegas for iconic views and nonstop adventure

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America The Brilliant

Browse the map below to follow more stories of big dreams and bigger impacts.

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Southwest
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Pacific

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Trip Ideas & Itineraries

Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi; Credit: Visit Mississippi

American Originals

U.S. Cities That Shaped the Music of the World

Explore the U.S. cities where world-changing sounds were born, and walk in the footsteps of the legends who helped shape the soundtrack of our lives.

Family posing for a photo in Times Square in Manhattan, New York

American Originals

Cultural Tour: Experience Broadway Across the USA

From Manhattan’s historic stages to theater districts across the country, discover U.S. cities where Broadway magic meets vibrant neighborhoods and cultural landmarks.

Smitty’s Market in Lockhart, Texas

American Originals

Austin & the Hill Country: A Tour of Central Texas Barbecue

Savor slow-smoked brisket, riverside adventures and cultural gems on this ultimate Central Texas barbecue road trip from Austin to Fredericksburg.

Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee

American Originals

From Memphis, Tennessee: Musical Tour of the South

This road trip traces the Southern roots of American music through the cities, stories and sounds that shaped it.

Dining at Kreuz Market in Lockhart, Texas

American Originals

Low, Slow & Delicious: Regional Guide to U.S. Barbecue Styles

From brisket in Texas to mustard-sauced pork in South Carolina, discover how American barbecue evolved across regions, each with its own meats, sauces and slow-smoked pride.

Dreamcatcher Tour in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park in Arizona

American Originals

6 Iconic U.S. Landmarks Featured on the Silver Screen

Whether you’re a cinephile or a casual viewer, these legendary filming locations in the USA bring moments from the silver screen to life.

View of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park from the Visitor Center in Navajo County, Arizona

American Originals

Monument Valley on the Silver Screen: Stunning Landscapes & the Spirit of the Navajo People

Monument Valley’s towering buttes and cinematic legacy set the stage for a trip full of red-rock wonders. Navajo culture and iconic film locations await at every turn.

6-7 days

Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Credit: J. Fusco

America250

Road Trip Across Pennsylvania from Big Cities to Small Towns

Discover a place where buzzing cities border breathtaking countryside and strangers feel like old friends.

Family exploring around Fort Popham State Historic Site in Phippsburg, Maine

America250

Step Back in Time: Historical & Cultural Highlights of the Eastern USA

From colonial towns to interpretive museums, the Eastern USA brings the nation’s origin story to life.

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Celebrate America250

See how to honor the USA’s 250th birthday in 2026 and beyond.

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Indigenous Heritage

Connect with the living history of the USA’s Indigenous peoples.

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There’s More to Discover

Explore the world of the American Originals – stories that could only be brought to life here.

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