I have a Trangia methylated spirits cooker. In europe 1L (one litre) bottles are the standard. My next trip will be over the pond in the USA... Is there a standard size that methylated spirits is sold in (I assume there's no problem finding it "everywhere"... right?)
I live in San Francisco and I can find "methylated spirits" in most hardware stores and REI (sports equipment store with lots of backpacking and biking equipment). I'm told you can find it in places that sell car parts (called HEET) but have never looked there.
When I was in France, I found methylated spirits pretty much everywhere. I don't think there is that kind of availability in the US.
Assuming you are starting in a big city, you should have no problem. But, don't assume that you will be able to find it within walking distance of the airport or wherever you are staying on your first night.
As for containers, the only ones I seen are squarish metal liter (quart) containers ($6.95
here):
As for aluminum bottles, those you should be able to find in any sports store.
Ray