While others spend their summer in the same routine, you could be working in an exciting U.S. destination, meeting new friends, and making unforgettable memories. Seasonal jobs in the USA for international students provide a unique chance to earn money while exploring a different culture.
Everyone has heard of New York, LA, and Las Vegas, but these cities can be pricey for students. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best destinations where you can find some of the best places to work in the US and how you can land one of the best seasonal jobs for traveling this summer. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy affordable living and experience the real American lifestyle!
Top 5 Destinations for Seasonal Work in America
Looking for seasonal jobs in USA for international students? Here are five top destinations that offer exciting work opportunities and vibrant cultural experiences:
1. Texas
The state’s booming hospitality and tourism industry creates fantastic opportunities for seasonal work, from luxury resorts and amusement parks to outdoor adventure jobs.
One of the best things about Texas is its variety. You can experience the live music and vibrant energy of Austin, explore the historic charm of San Antonio’s River Walk and the Alamo, or find hospitality jobs in the bustling cities of Dallas and Houston. Each location offers a different work environment, giving you plenty of options based on your interests.
Beyond job experience, Texas is a great place to practice and improve your English. With a mix of locals and international visitors, you’ll engage in daily conversations that boost fluency and confidence. Employers are generally welcoming to international workers, making it easier to adjust to the work culture.
Another perk? Texas is well-connected for travel! Road trips to Louisiana, Oklahoma, or New Mexico are popular, and major airports make it easy to visit top destinations across the U.S. Whether you’re looking for city life, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Texas has something for everyone.
2. Florida
If you dream of spending your summer by the beach, Florida is a top destination for seasonal work in the U.S. With world-famous theme parks, stunning coastlines, and tropical weather, the state offers exciting opportunities for international students looking for work and travel experiences. Jobs range from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios to beach resorts, restaurants, and water sports companies.
Florida attracts millions of tourists each year, making it an ideal place to gain hospitality and customer service experience. If you enjoy working with people in a fast-paced environment, roles in hotels, amusement parks, and restaurants can help you develop strong communication and teamwork skills that will benefit your future career.
With its diverse international visitors, you’ll interact with people from all over the world, helping you improve your English in a natural setting. Many employers also offer training programs to enhance your professional and language skills.
Beyond work, Florida is perfect for exploring! You can visit famous cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, each with its own unique vibe. Plus, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America are just a short flight away, making it easy to plan weekend getaways. Whether you love beaches, theme parks, or nightlife, Florida has it all!
3. West Virginia
West Virginia is a hidden gem for seasonal jobs in the U.S. Known as the “Mountain State,” it offers breathtaking natural landscapes and adventure-filled work opportunities. If you enjoy hiking, rafting, or working in nature, this is an ideal spot to gain experience in tourism and hospitality while enjoying the great outdoors.
West Virginia is also a fantastic place to practice English. Unlike major tourist hotspots, the state has fewer international visitors, which means you’ll engage more with native English speakers, improving your fluency in both professional and casual settings.
Another bonus? West Virginia is close to Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh, making it easy to explore major U.S. cities on your days off. If you’re looking for a seasonal job that combines adventure, professional growth, and cultural immersion, West Virginia is a great choice!
4. Chicago
As one of the largest cities in the country, it has a thriving hospitality industry, with job opportunities in hotels, restaurants, museums, and event venues. If you want to experience big-city life while gaining valuable work experience, Chicago is a great option.
One of the biggest perks of working in Chicago is the city’s vibrant culture. From famous festivals and live music to world-class food, there’s always something happening. During your time off, you can explore iconic attractions like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago. The city’s diverse neighborhoods and social scene make it easy to meet new people and make lifelong connections.
The city is diverse, but English is widely spoken in workplaces, helping you improve your fluency in a real-world setting. Many employers offer training programs that enhance customer service and hospitality skills, making it a great place for career development.
Another advantage is Chicago’s central location. It’s easy to take weekend trips to nearby cities like Milwaukee and Indianapolis, or even catch an affordable flight to New York or Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for work experience, adventure, or cultural immersion, Chicago offers an unforgettable summer!
5. Maryland
This state offers the perfect mix of work and fun for international students and young professionals. If you want a summer filled with exciting experiences while gaining valuable hospitality or tourism skills, Maryland is an excellent choice.
One of the top destinations for seasonal jobs is Ocean City, a lively beach town known for its boardwalk, amusement parks, and oceanfront dining. During the summer, businesses need extra staff to accommodate tourists, creating plenty of job opportunities in customer service, food service, and entertainment. Working here allows you to interact with people from different backgrounds while enjoying a fun and social atmosphere.
For those who love nature, Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Assateague Island National Seashore offer unique work experiences. Jobs in parks and outdoor adventure companies let you explore stunning coastal landscapes while improving your English in a real-world setting. Whether leading kayaking tours or assisting visitors at a lodge, you’ll build communication skills and gain hands-on experience in tourism and recreation.
Benefits of Seasonal Work in the USA
Choosing seasonal jobs in USA for international students is more than just a way to earn money—it’s an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Here are some benefits:
- Gain valuable work experience in hospitality, tourism, and culinary roles.- Meet people from all over the world and build lifelong connections.
- Immerse yourself in American culture while traveling to new places.
- Improve your English skills in a professional setting.
- Explore new cities and outdoor destinations in the U.S.
“I am currently in the Work and Travel program at the Kalahari Resort and Convention in Wisconsin Dells, and I love my retail associate job. It offers many opportunities to learn, enjoy activities, and has been a very enriching experience. I have also improved my level of English.” – Aria Alcantara. Work & Travel Participant, 2025.
With programs like ours at Alliance Abroad, finding the best seasonal jobs for traveling becomes easier. We offer seasonal jobs in the USA through programs like: Work and Travel, and Summer Camp Crew. Plus, we help all our participants secure job placements before arrival, and we provide orientations for your resume, interview, and the visa process.
Learn more about our available programs at Alliance Abroad →
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in seasonal jobs in the United States, here’s how you can apply:
1. Submit your application – Before deciding where you’d like to work for the summer. You need to send your application through our website, fill out the form, and our team will reach out to you to review eligibility, answer any questions you might have, and see what positions you are interested in.
Remember that, many seasonal jobs require basic work experience and good communication skills. For example, some of the main requirements for our Summer Work & Travel program, are: To be at least 18 years old, be a full time university student, and ability to speak conversational English.
2. Choose your position – We’ll help you choose from the available jobs, and help you prepare for the host company interview. And once your application is completed, we’ll procede with the Visa paperwork.
3. Secure your visa – Our program assists with visa applications to ensure a smooth process. We’ll help you set up everything, so you will only have to worry about booking your flights and start planning for an unforgettable summer!
Remember to apply early – The sooner, the better! The best jobs fill up fast, so start your application as soon as possible.
Your Summer, Your Job, Your Experience – Make It Count
Whether you’re working along Florida’s sunny beaches, exploring the natural beauty of West Virginia’s mountains, or diving into the bustling life of Texas, Chicago, or Maryland, there’s a perfect opportunity waiting for you.
With our programs, we’ll help you secure a job, manage visa paperwork, and guide you through every step of the process. So that you’re ready to go when the time comes. With opportunities across a wide range of industries—from hospitality to tourism and beyond—you’ll find a seasonal job that matches your skills and interests.</p>
This is more than just a summer job—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in American culture. You’ll improve your language skills, and develop valuable professional experience in one of the world’s most diverse and dynamic countries. With our program, you won’t just work—you’ll grow, connect, and explore.
Discover the opportunities that are waiting for you! Click here to start your application →
