States popular in the Work and Travel program are often a topic of curiosity for students researching the program. The Work and Travel program offers university students the opportunity to work in small towns and tourist areas across various states in the United States. This program provides a chance to step away from the hustle and bustle of big cities and experience the authentic culture and lifestyle of America up close.
So, which states’ small towns can you work in as part of the Work and Travel program? Here are some popular states in the Work and Travel Program and the opportunities they offer:
Wisconsin Wisconsin, known for its natural beauty and large lakes, is one of the popular states preferred in the Work and Travel program. Popular tourist areas like Door County and Wisconsin Dells come alive in the summer months. In these towns, you can work in water parks, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment centers. The local people of Wisconsin are quite hospitable, offering a rich cultural interaction experience.
Maine Located in the northeastern United States, Maine is known for its small, charming towns along the coast. In towns like Bar Harbor and Old Orchard Beach, you can find jobs in the hospitality and restaurant sectors. By working in these areas, you can spend your summer amidst stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s also possible to find work in seafood restaurants or gift shops. Maine is another state frequently preferred in the Work and Travel program.
Colorado With its small towns at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado offers a perfect work environment for nature lovers. In areas like Estes Park and Glenwood Springs, you can work in hotels, restaurants, and businesses organizing outdoor activities during the tourism season. In your free time, you can go hiking, camping, and create unforgettable memories. It’s a state that can help you keep your expenses to a minimum, which is why it’s another frequently chosen state.
Alaska Alaska offers a unique experience with its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. You can spend an adventurous summer working in small fishing towns or tourist facilities. In areas like Denali or Juneau, you can work for companies organizing nature tours or find seasonal jobs in fish processing facilities.
South Carolina The small towns along South Carolina’s coast attract tourists during the summer months. In popular areas like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island, there are job opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant sectors. Working in these areas allows you to enjoy the warm climate while getting to know Southern American culture up close.
New Hampshire New Hampshire is home to small towns known for their historic and natural beauty. During the tourism season, you can find jobs in hotels and restaurants in areas like Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains. You can also enrich your cultural experience by participating in local festivals.
New York The state of New York is usually associated with New York City, but for Work and Travel participants, the state’s small towns are more suitable. Resorts and hotels near the Adirondack Mountains offer ideal job opportunities for students. In regions with natural beauty, like the Catskills, you can work in restaurants, campsites, and amusement parks. Serving tourists in these areas will give you a chance to experience American hospitality.
California California is often known for big cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, but Work and Travel students usually work in rural areas or coastal towns of the state. In coastal towns like Monterey or Santa Cruz, you can work as a waiter in restaurants, as a lifeguard on beaches, or as a sales clerk in local shops. Additionally, in the Central Valley region, there are seasonal job opportunities in agriculture or in the vineyards.
Florida Florida is a state with heavy tourism, but Work and Travel students often work in small coastal towns or areas outside the main tourist regions. You can find jobs in smaller islands like the Florida Keys or in coastal cities like Destin and Pensacola. By working in hotels, restaurants, or businesses organizing tourist activities in these areas, you can gain work experience while enjoying the warm climate.
New Jersey New Jersey is a state located in the northeastern United States with a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The small coastal towns along the state’s shoreline are popular with tourists during the summer months. In towns like Ocean City, Wildwood, and Cape May, which are close to Atlantic City, you can find job opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant sectors. By working in beach hotels, cafes, ice cream parlors, or water sports centers in these towns, you can gain work experience and enjoy a pleasant time by the sea.
When evaluating popular states in the Work and Travel program, it’s important to consider your interests, climate preferences, and the type of living experience you want. By doing so, you can make the most of the Work and Travel program and create memories that will last a lifetime. For participation requirements, you can check out our article on “What are the current registration requirements for Work and Travel 2025 Program?”.
You can fill out the contact form for details and more. Our experts will get back to you as soon as possible.