The Continental United States refers to the 48 contiguous states located on the North American continent, excluding Alaska and Hawaii. This region stretches from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and it includes a diverse range of landscapes, climates, and cultures. The term is often used in contrast to the United States as a whole, which includes all 50 states, as well as territories like Puerto Rico and Guam. The Continental United States is home to major cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago, and it plays a significant role in the country's economy and culture.