Fun & Surprising Facts About the USA 🇺🇸

15 Things You Probably Didn’t Know

Rowes Wharf, Boston, Massachusetts

Hello Everyone,

This past Friday, Americans celebrated the country’s 249th birthday! Last year, I shared some key events that take place across the nation in honor of the 4th of July. If you’re curious about how we celebrate our Independence Day, check out this post. This year, I thought it would be fun to share some unique facts about the United States. Keep reading to learn more!

1. You can drive for days and still be in the same country
It takes over 40 hours to drive coast to coast, from New York to California, without stopping!

2. It’s home to the world’s busiest airport
Atlanta’s airport (ATL) in the state of Georgia handles more passengers annually than any other in the world. Their personal record is 110 million passengers in 2019!

3. Each state has its own laws, culture, and slang
Traveling from Texas to New York or California can feel like visiting different countries. Make sure to do your research before visiting another state to avoid any misunderstandings!

4. Americans tip a lot, and it’s expected
In most restaurants, leaving 15–20% for your server is standard. It’s not just polite, it’s how they get paid!

5. The U.S. loves national parks
There are 63 official National Parks and hundreds of other protected lands. Visiting them is a favorite American pastime and often a bucket list item.

6. College sports are a big deal
Some U.S. university football stadiums seat over 100,000 people, bigger than many professional arenas in other countries.

7. Each state has its own nickname
Like “The Sunshine State” (Florida) or “The Big Sky State” (Montana). They even have their own state flag, birds, and flowers.

8. TV ads for medicine are totally normal
In most countries, it’s strange to see prescription drug ads on TV. In the U.S., they’re everywhere, and always end with a long list of side effects!

9. You can buy almost anything drive-thru style
Not just fast food; there are drive-thru pharmacies, banks, coffee shops, and even wedding chapels (hello, Las Vegas!).

10. You can find a “Main Street” in nearly every town
“Main Street” is a classic term for the heart of a small American town, it’s even used metaphorically in politics and media.