America has long since been a place of wonder and non-Americans love US culture. These elements are so well-regarded, that they are often imported or replicated into countries around the world.
From National Parks, patriotism, Disney, sports, food, and everything in between, let’s take a look at 18 of the best-loved elements of US culture.
1. National Pride and Patriotism
Nothing is more iconic than the American flag and what it represents: America’s values of freedom, liberty, and equality. Non-Americans love the devotion and patriotic pride that US Citizens have for their country.
2. The American Dream
Non-Americans love the notion of the American Dream: the idea that anyone can attain their own version of success and upward mobility. America is seen as the land of opportunities and new beginnings for immigrants, particularly regarding entrepreneurship. No matter where you were born or what class you were born into, The American Dream, including economic prosperity, is believed to be achievable by all.
3. Technological Advancements
The entrepreneurial spirit of America has led to incredible advancements in information technology (IT). Companies like Microsoft, Apple, and Intel (which all started as small businesses in the US) are leaders in IT innovation. Individuals such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos (among many others) are continually pushing to develop and create new tech and are revered around the world.
4. Sports Culture
Without question, Americans love their sports! Whether they’re at the national level (NFL, NBA, NHL, or MLB), their favorite college teams, or even their child’s local league, Americans are huge fans.
While sports are huge in other countries, Americans seem to take it to another level. Branded paraphernalia is everywhere—jerseys, stickers, balls, and big foam fingers are just a drop in the ocean of what is available.
Americans also love to make an event of attending sports games. Tailgate parties are a common way to prepare fans before the big sports event. These parties host food and drink out of the back of a pickup truck!
5. Hollywood Movies
While films are shot and produced around the world, America seems to have the most well-known, highly-rated, and critically acclaimed films and stars.
Hollywood is a beacon for aspiring actors and filmmakers everywhere and conjures images of glitz and glamor. Its beginnings as the epicenter for filmmaking saw the rise of big studios, such as MGM (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer), Warner Brothers, 20th Century Studio, Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures, and Columbia Pictures.
6. American Music
American music has a global influence. Mega-stars such as Elvis Presley, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, The Beach Boys, Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Prince, to name just a few, all hail from the US and had and have an incredible impact on music around the world. Non-Americans flock to concerts in the US and when these artists perform abroad on tour.
7. NASA
Space is the final frontier. No other country has such an iconic space program as America’s NASA – National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Tourists from around the world flock to NASA’s Visitor Centers in over 10 states. Here, visitors can engage in “interactive, instructional, and exciting activities and programs” about NASA’s work.
Through these engaging activities, visitors can gain an appreciation of how NASA “explores the unknown in air and space, innovates for the benefit of humanity, and inspires the world through discovery.”
8. National Parks
There are over 60 “official” national parks in the US. However, over 400 parks could be considered national parks but fall under different designations, such as National Battlefields or National Monuments. Both Americans and tourists love these diverse locations. Here, they can experience nature and learn about the heritage and history of the great outdoors.
9. Disney Parks
Considered the most visited vacation resort in the world, Walt Disney World sees over 58 million visitors each year. It’s even called “The Happiest Place on Earth”.
Walt Disney World (Florida) is seen as the ultimate Disney experience, despite Disneyland Park (California) being built nearly 20 years before it! Non-Americans love the Disney experience so much that there are now four Disney resorts outside of the US.
10. American Cuisine
American cuisine, like America itself, is an amalgamation and is difficult to define. Given the vast physical geography of the US – encompassing land and coast – the American cuisine varies based on where it originates.
American cuisine is also heavily influenced by both the indigenous and the immigrant populations that helped to form the nation. However, some staples of American cuisine include apple pie, hotdogs, Coca-Cola, and a Thanksgiving Turkey.
While American portions get a lot of flak for being too large, let’s be honest: we sometimes love indulging!
11. Fast-Food
We hate to admit it, but America has a love affair with fast food. Non-Americans enjoy this element of American cuisine so much that many of their iconic fast-food restaurants have made their way around the world. McDonald’s, Starbucks, Subway, Kentucky Fried Chicken(KFC), and Pizza Hut are just some of the chains that began in America but have now been embraced by countries around the globe.
12. Diners
It should come as no surprise that Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives is such a successful program both within the US and abroad—with over 400 episodes to date. Non-Americans love diners, with some making a point of eating in diners while visiting the US. With their classic dishes, freshly brewed coffee, and friendly staff, diners are a must-see for visitors.
13. BBQ
Americans know their barbeque. BBQ is considered a classic element of American cuisine and culture, particularly in the Southern states. While this style of cooking exists around the world, Americans seem to have perfected it with a range of regional sauce styles and flavors.
With only three ingredients: meat, smoke, and sauce, this simple and mouth-watering dish is a must-taste for non-Americans. You might even be lucky enough to watch (and sample) one of the many BBQ competitions.
14. Cowboy and Cowgirl Culture
Western lifestyles are a significant part of America’s culture, with romanticized images of cowboys rounding up cattle on their horses. Some farms still employ cowboys or cowgirls in a return to more traditional cattle-rearing styles, and Texas is known as the cowboy capital of the world.
Western-style clothing—boots, hats, jeans—has also influenced fashion worldwide. Beyoncé has just released a country-style album, reigniting the love of the culture among Americans and non-Americans worldwide.
15. Muscle Cars & Motorcycles
Americans love their cars and motorcycles. With wide open spaces to drive, it’s no mystery why! American muscle cars, such as Mustangs, Cudas, and Chargers, are just some of the most iconic. They embody power, speed, and all things American.
Non-Americans love renting these while visiting the US; we can see why! Motorcycles such as Indian and Harley-Davidson are also popular among Americans and non-Americans alike.
16. Road Trippin’
With such a wide variety of muscle cars and motorcycles available, the iconic American road trip is another element of American culture loved by tourists. From Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway, there is no shortage of ways to visit all America has to offer.
17. Iconic Landmarks
Along said road trips, or just while visiting the US, it’s possible to see some of America’s most iconic landmarks. From man-made landmarks like Mount Rushmore in South Dakota to natural landmarks such as The Grand Canyon, there is no shortage of attractions to visit on a trip to the US!
18. Property Sizes
Enviable by property owners around the world, the US seems to have endless space! Their houses and yards are huge. For comparison, the average size home in the UK is just over 800 square feet, while the average size of a home in America is over 2000 square feet – over double the size!
Whether you’re drawn to the American Dream, the delicious food, iconic landmarks, or Hollywood films, America has something for anyone and everyone! It’s no wonder that US culture has such influence around the world!
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Caitriona Maria is an education writer and founder of TPR Teaching, crafting inspiring pieces that promote the importance of developing new skills. For 7 years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.