The United States of America has long fascinated the world with its unique culture, quirky habits, and larger-than-life lifestyle.
While globalization has blurred some boundaries, there are still many aspects of everyday American life that make foreigners do a double take.
From drive-through ATMs to tipping culture, these 20 things are deeply American and often leave international visitors either charmed, puzzled, or downright confused.
Let’s take a tour through 20 things you’ll likely only encounter in the good ol’ USA.
1. Drive-Through ATMs (and Everything Else)
Only in America can you complete an entire day’s errands without ever stepping out of your car. Drive-through ATMs are the tip of the iceberg.
Americans also enjoy drive-through pharmacies, coffee shops, liquor stores, and even wedding chapels. The car-centric culture runs deep, making convenience king.
2. Greek Life on College Campuses
Fraternities and sororities are a staple of American college life. These exclusive social organizations, with their Greek-letter names, play a major role in shaping friendships, networking, and campus events.
Outside of the U.S., the concept of “Greek life” is nearly nonexistent and often seems bizarre or elitist to international students.
3. Dessert Disguised as Breakfast
Where else is it normal to start the day with sugary cereals, glazed donuts, and chocolate-chip muffins?
While other countries favor savory or lighter morning meals, Americans are notorious for turning breakfast into a dessert buffet. It’s delicious but not exactly heart-healthy.
4. Introducing Yourself by State
Ask a traveler from another country where they’re from, and you’ll usually get the name of the country.
Ask an American, and you’re likely to hear “I’m from Texas” or “I’m from California.” It’s a reflection of the country’s size and strong regional identities.
5. Famous Cities Trump the State
In some cases, Americans skip the state name altogether. Say “I’m from New York” and everyone assumes you mean New York City.
Likewise, cities like Miami, Chicago, and Los Angeles are so iconic that they often stand in for their entire state on the global stage.
6. The Flag is Everywhere
American patriotism is hard to miss. From front porches and bumper stickers to clothing and sports stadiums, the U.S. flag is proudly displayed just about everywhere.
Foreigners often find this unusual, as many countries reserve flag-flying for government buildings or national holidays.
7. Free Refills at Restaurants
Ask for a soda refill in most other countries and you’ll be met with confusion or an extra charge.
But in the U.S., endless refills are standard in many diners and fast food chains. It’s a small perk that surprises (and delights) visitors from abroad.
8. Prescription Drug Commercials
Turn on a U.S. TV and you’re likely to see a commercial for a prescription drug, complete with smiling actors and a rapid-fire list of side effects.
This kind of direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical advertising is legal only in the U.S. and New Zealand and heavily criticized elsewhere.
9. Thanking Veterans Publicly
From “Thank you for your service” bumper stickers to military discounts at restaurants, Americans are vocal in expressing gratitude to veterans.
In many countries, military service is mandatory or more private, making public displays of appreciation less common.
10. Credit Cards Leave the Table
In most parts of the world, your credit card never leaves your sight. In the U.S., however, it’s normal for servers to take your card away to swipe it.
While this is starting to change with wireless payment devices, many international tourists still find it unsettling.
11. Car Dependency
America’s vast size and infrastructure have made the automobile essential. Suburban sprawl and limited public transportation in many areas mean that driving is not just a convenience, it’s a necessity. In contrast, many other countries rely heavily on trains, buses, and walking.
12. Prices Without Tax
A product may be labeled $9.99, but your total at the register will be more because taxes aren’t included in the displayed price.
Tourists often find this confusing or even deceptive, as most countries include tax upfront. In the U.S., tax rates vary by state, so the final cost is a surprise until checkout.
13. Photo Christmas Cards
Sending Christmas cards with a posed family photo is a cherished American tradition.
Whether it’s a professionally staged portrait or a snapshot from a summer vacation, these cards are a window into American family life.
In many other places, holiday cards stick to simple greetings without the personal photo shoot.
14. Paying to Give Birth
Medical expenses in the U.S. can be jaw-dropping, and childbirth is no exception. While having a baby is free (or low-cost) in many countries with universal healthcare, American parents often face hospital bills in the thousands. For foreign visitors, this is one of the most shocking aspects of American life.
15. Casseroles in a Can
Canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, fried onions mix it all together and bake. Welcome to the world of American casseroles.
While comfort food for many, the idea of preparing a meal primarily with canned goods feels strange or unappetizing to those used to fresher ingredients.
16. The National Anthem — All the Time
In the U.S., it’s not unusual to sing the national anthem before sporting events, even when there’s no international competition.
This patriotic ritual stands out globally, where anthems are typically reserved for special occasions or international matches.
17. Central Air Conditioning
Air conditioning exists around the world, but in the U.S., it’s built into most homes as a full-house system.
Central air, with vents in every room, is a luxury many visitors don’t expect. Elsewhere, you’re more likely to find a single unit in a living room or bedroom if any at all.
18. Epic Road Trips
Thanks to the country’s size and extensive highway system, Americans can drive for days without crossing a border.
From Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway, long road trips are a beloved tradition. In contrast, driving across some European countries might take just a few hours.
19. The Bill Comes to You
In many countries, diners have to ask for the bill when they’re ready to pay. Not in the U.S., the check often arrives without prompting, sometimes even before you’ve finished eating.
This efficiency can feel rushed to visitors who are used to lingering at the table.
20. Tipping Culture
Tipping is not only expected in the U.S. it’s essential to many workers’ livelihoods. In restaurants, 15-20% is considered standard, and tips are also expected for taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff.
This is a stark contrast to countries where service charges are included or tipping is optional.
Alicia Richards