16 days in United States Itinerary

More than the country of car-packed streets seen in TV shows and movies, the United States of America is a complex and diverse home to over 300 million people living in a wide range of landscapes and climates. From its big-city skyscrapers to its sprawling natural parks, the country's ''melting pot'' combines many ethnic groups that share a strong sense of national identity despite their cultural differences. A country of road trips and big blue skies, the United States harbors orderly cities filled with restaurants, parks, museums, and innumerable sightseeing opportunities, as well as pristine natural areas perfect for a holiday in the great outdoors. To see as much as you can of this diverse land quickly, drive over some of the more than 6 million km (4 million mi) of highways leading through deserts, mountain peaks, fertile fields, and giant urban centers.

Perhaps best known as the birthplace of religious and political freedom in the United States, Maryland retains the spirit of colonial America, with stately 18th-century villages and historical landmarks. Although it's one of the nation's smallest states, there is no shortage of things to do here and you may find your itinerary fills up quickly. Make time in your vacation to tour Maryland's diverse landscape, which includes mountain peaks, picturesque Atlantic coastline, and the bustling city of Baltimore. Military buffs will enjoy touring the state's four Civil War Trails, where you can follow the footsteps of U.S. soldiers, or visiting the port city of Annapolis, home to the United States Naval Academy.

Often overshadowed by its legendary neighbor, New York, New Jersey holds its own as a land of thriving industrial cities, sprawling farmland, and lively coastal towns. Called the Garden State, New Jersey is a hub of entertainment and cultural attractions for the east coast, from the famous sandy beaches and carnival-like atmosphere of the Jersey Shore to alluring Atlantic City, the Las Vegas of the east. New Jersey also boasts a wealth of historical places to visit, including battle sites and memorials, such as George Washington's Revolutionary War headquarters.