Angkor Wat is a breathtaking temple complex in north-central Cambodia formerly a major part of the ancient city of Angkor. With some preparation, modern travelers can travel to Angkor Wat without much difficulty.
Obtain a U.S. passport if you don't have one. Then apply for a tourist visa from a Cambodian consulate by mail. Allow time to receive them before you leave for Cambodia.
If traveling independently, consult airlines or air-ticket websites such as Kayak.com for round-trip tickets. An alternative is to book a tour through a travel agent that specializes in Asian travel, though that will make your trip more expensive. Almost all Cambodian tours would include time at Angkor Wat.
Book a few nights' accommodation at a website such as tourismcambodia.com. It's likely that your air travel will take you through Bangkok, Thailand. The two international airports in Cambodia are in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. (Siem Reap is closer to Angkor Wat.)
If arriving at Phnom Penh, don't hurry to visit Angkor Wat. Acclimate yourself, get to know the country and take time to find a local travel specialist or tour operator you like. From Siem Reap, Angkor Wat can be visited during a succession of day trips.
After finding a local travel specialist or tour operator in Phnom Penh, book a tour to Angkor Wat that includes mass transportation such as a minivan taxi or buy independent transport to the site. The two best options for independent travel are rental car, which comes with a driver, or air-conditioned long-distance bus.