The United States of America is a country that captures the imaginations of many travellers, and with so many things to see and do when you go there, it is easy to understand why. If you are planning a trip to America, you should definitely consider going to watch some live sports. The sports of America are an important part of the culture, and often unique to the nation. Here are five live sports we think you should check out on a trip to the US.
American Football
This game is a lot different from its European namesake. Funnily enough, the ball is kicked very rarely and spends most of its time in the hands of players as they storm across the field, gaining yard after yard until they reach the end-zone to score. The scores often run into high numbers in this sport, and the teams use a high number of players, as a whole different line-up is used for offensive and defensive plays. This game is a lot of fun to watch and lasts a long time, giving you value for money and a full day out.
Basketball
This sport is fast-paced, fun to watch, and played all across the country, so wherever you go in the USA, you will never be far from a basketball game. Watching basketball live can be thrilling, with the play taking the teams from end to end. The team that has the upper hand can switch in an instant, and games can go right to the buzzer, with the final throw of the ball often deciding the victor in these close games.
Ice Hockey
This sport is probably as well known for its fights between players as it is for the speed and skill it takes to succeed on the ice. Players are often sent to the ‘sin bin’ for fisticuffs between members of opposing teams and even for in-fighting between players on the same side! This game is a lot of fun to watch live and the crowds often give the arenas a great atmosphere. Scores are low but the sport keeps you entertained throughout the game.
NASCAR Racing
A National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) race is a lot more fun and thrilling to watch than you may think. NASCAR races are often overlooked as the cars mostly race on simple oval tracks, turning on steeply banked left turns just twice per lap. The simple oval tracks allow the cars to hit huge top speeds and maintain that speed as they attempt to overtake one another at up to 200 miles per hour. These races can be thrilling, and the atmosphere that crowds at NASCAR races create is legendary.
Poker
Poker is one of the fastest-growing sports in the USA. You probably wouldn’t think that watching a professionally played card game could be that interesting, but the huge sums of money on the table often grab people’s imaginations and seeing the risks that players take can be nail-biting. Professional games and competitions are played across the country, but for the biggest games, there is only one destination - Las Vegas, Nevada.
Watching some of these live sports on a trip to the United States is a fantastic experience that you will remember for a lifetime, and a great way to enjoy some of the best of American culture.
