At a Glance

Capital 

Washington, D.C.

Local Currency

United States Dollar

• Currency Converter

Local Time 

There are six time zones followed throughout the country. From east to west they are Atlantic Standard Time (AST), Eastern Standard Time (EST), Central Standard Time (CST), Mountain Standard Time (MST), Pacific Standard Time (PST), Alaskan Standard Time (AKST) and  Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST).

• Local Time

Official Language

 English

Visa Information

United States Visas

Power

Electric power is standardized in all states across the USA. It is set at 110 Volts and 60 cycles. 220 Volt power is used in homes only for large appliances like stoves, water heaters, and clothes dryers.

Local Weather

Weather varies widely across the continental USA, as well as in Alaska and Hawaii. In general terms, summers are hot and humid in the plains and southern states, while the southwest is very hot and quite dry.

• Current Weather

Tourism Website

United States Government Tourism

U.S. Department of State Tourism

Health Information

Vaccinations

Recommended Vaccines for United States

Health Tips

Health Tips for United States

Transportation

Car Seat Laws

Children under age 4 must be properly secured in a child restraint system in the rear seat. They must then ride in a booster seat until they turn 8, weigh more than 80 lbs., or are taller than 4 feet 9 inches. Violation of the child restraint law is a standard offense.

Transportation Services

Taxis are metered and widely available. Ridesharing companies such as Uber and Lyft have seen a recent surge in popularity as an alternative to taxis. Amtrak has an extensive rail system throughout the USA.

Emergency Services

Police

911

Fire Department

911

Ambulance

911

Other Things To Know

Tipping Customs

A general rule for waiters is to tip 15 to 20 percent of the pre-tax bill, and $2 to $5 per night for housekeeping service. Consider tipping as mandatory here because in certain situations service givers may frown upon not receiving a tip.

Important Holidays

US Public Holidays

Safety Issues

As a whole it is safe, but certain areas can be unsafe. Generally speaking, cities have more crime than other areas.

Families Love Travel is not liable for any injuries and/or damages to persons or property occurring as a result of your vacations influenced by the suggestions on this website. We are not responsible for any information given on this website, such as recommendations for babysitting services, car rentals, or accommodations. All content provided is for informational and review purposes only. The information we provide is meant to make it easier for families to travel together and nothing more. Try the suggestions at your own risk. 

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