Movies and television have made so many U.S. landmarks familiar to the world—big city skylines, the white marble memorials of Washington, D.C., the plains and high mountain "cowboy" country of the west and, of course, the hillside Hollywood sign announcing the glamour of Los Angeles—that it is not unusual for people to think they know what America is like before ever setting foot here.

Once actually in the United States, however, visitors find a remarkably diverse nation —often far different from their expectations—full of wonderful and unique sights, sounds, foods, and friendly, welcoming people.

While U.S. icons, like Chicago's Sears Tower, the Grand Canyon, and Disney World are well worth seeing, there are other treasures and often a few surprises to be found off the beaten path.

Think, for instance, of New York City … did you come up with the image of a Hansom cab ride through Central Park in the snow?

We've put together a collection of photos to suggest ways to expand the possibilities of seeing the United States, even those places you already think you know.