On October 11, 2023, U.S. Embassy Prague U.S. Commercial Service organized its second U.S. Destination Showcase. Five U.S. travel destinations interested in attracting Czech tourists were introduced. The U.S. Embassy’s Commercial Service joined forces with the VisitUSA Committee of Czech Republic and with its global partners including BrandUSA to highlight the wide range of travel experiences that travel to the United States offers. And where to visit in the United States? Consider Fairbanks, Alaska; Orlando, Florida; the state of North Carolina; the Summit One Vanderbilt lookout in New York; or Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Fairbanks, Alaska (www.explorefairbanks.com)
Fairbanks is known as the “Golden Heart of Alaska,” this Interior Alaska river city is home to a charming downtown, a thriving arts community, dynamic Alaska Native culture and exceptional events, activities and attractions. Fairbanks is one of the best locations on Earth to see the lights during Aurora Season, August 21 through April 21, because of its position directly under the “Auroral Oval” – a ring-shaped zone over the Far North where aurora activity is concentrated. Winter Season offers world class ice sculptures and outstanding dog mushing. The sun shines up to 24 hours a day during the Midnight Sun Season from April 22 to August 20. Many attractions are open year-round including an awe-inspiring visitors center, art galleries, museums, an outdoor hot spring, quaint shops, breweries, distilleries, the town of North Pole, the Arctic Circle and Denali National Park.
Orlando, Florida (www.visitorlando.com)
Orlando is one of the most-visited cities in the world. Orlando is home to amazing theme parks and water parks including the world-famous Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld, and Fun Spot America. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is one of Florida’s top attractions, after the Orlando theme parks. The complex is located on Cape Canaveral, at the center of NASA’s spaceship launches and is the place for all things space and moon landing. Orlando Florida’s nickname is “The City Beautiful”, downtown Orlando has lake Eola Park and the dazzling Orlando skyline.
The State of North Carolina (www.visitnc.com)
From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina features natural beauty, history, arts and adventure as well as 500 golf courses and a bevy of wineries. The mountains offer hiking and rafting. In the winter, ride the slopes or find serenity on snowshoes. Central North Carolina has one-of-a-kind shopping, dynamic cities and is the “heart” of NASCAR. The coast offers lighthouses, 300 miles of unspoiled beach and Calabash seafood.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, New York (https://summitov.com)
Set against the incredible backdrop of the New York City skyline, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt blends elements of art and technology, taking the concept of an “observation deck” to entirely new heights. Guests are invited to explore three levels of mind-bending multi-sensory immersive experiences set atop the tallest commercial skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (www.discoverphl.com)
With its iconic historic attractions, award-winning food scene, world-class arts and cultural institutions, and distinctive neighborhoods, Philadelphia exudes an authentic energy and spirit. Philadelphia is one of the most walkable cities in the United States and boasts one of the largest city-owned urban park systems. It offers endless trails, parks and opportunities for outdoor activities. Growing shopping districts showcase mainstream brands to small independent boutiques, making Philadelphia a tax-free paradise for clothes and shoes.