50 States Travel Challenge: How to See the Entire U.S.

One of our bucket list dreams has always been to visit all 50 states. While we’re not there just yet, we’ve checked off a good number—and each one has added something new to the story.

From roadside diners in the South to mountain hikes out West, every state has offered a different slice of America, and the more we see, the more we want to keep going.

This post is part progress tracker, part inspiration board, and part practical guide for anyone else with a “50 states” dream of their own.

Whether you’re just getting started or down to your final five, we’re sharing our best tips for planning, how to stay motivated, and a full state-by-state breakdown of the places we’ve visited—and the ones still calling our names.

Let’s just say… Alaska and North Dakota, we see you 👀

Ready to start mapping out your own U.S. adventure? Let’s go.

How to Visit All 50 States: The Tips

1. Start Close to Home

Zack and I are both from Wisconsin, so naturally, we started checking off nearby states first. Weekend trips to Chicago made Illinois an easy win, and with family in Minnesota just a 6–7 hour drive away, it was simple to turn visits into mini road trip adventures.

Starting close to home is the easiest way to build momentum—you’d be surprised how many states are within driving distance once you start looking.

• Weird Wisconsin: Roadside Attractions Worth the Stop
• House on the Rock in Wisconsin: A Wonderfully Weird Experience
• Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin Preservation in Wisconsin

2. Group States Together By Region

One of the smartest ways to make progress on your 50 states goal is to group them by region. If you’re heading to the Southeast, tack on Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama in one trip.

Visiting New England? You can knock out four or five small states in just a few days. Planning your travels this way not only saves time and money—it also makes your itinerary feel like one big, satisfying checkmark.

3. Visit for a Special Occasion!

One of my favorite ways to knock a state off the list? Plan a trip around a special occasion.

I usually take a birthday trip in May—it’s that perfect sweet spot before peak summer crowds, and the weather is just starting to warm up. One of my favorites? A trip to New York City to see Hamilton on Broadway. A bucket list moment within a bucket list moment.

And we also got engaged in Las Vegas.

Our anniversary is also in May, but since it often falls on Memorial Day weekend, we don’t always plan something big. That said, we’ve definitely used anniversaries as excuses for bigger trips—like our honeymoon to Italy which we count as both celebration and inspiration.

Tip: Think about planning a trip for your next birthday, anniversary, graduation, or even a friend’s wedding in another state. It’s an easy way to make the trip feel meaningful and productive—you’re celebrating and making bucket list progress all at once.

4. Pursue Your Passions

One of the easiest ways to plan meaningful trips across the U.S. is to build them around the things you already love.

Into live music? Plan a trip to Tennessee for a show in Nashville or a music festival in Memphis.

Love food? New Orleans, Chicago, and Austin practically plan themselves. For us, seeing shows, trying new restaurants, and finding scenic places to hike often determines where we go next.

Tip: Think about your hobbies or bucket list experiences—chasing fall foliage, visiting baseball stadiums, national parks, or historic landmarks—and let those passions guide your state-by-state travel. It makes each trip more personal, and before you know it, you’re checking off states without even trying.

Want to Visit All 50 States? Start Here

Ready to track your progress and plan your next adventure? I created a free 50 States Travel Challenge Checklist to help you stay motivated as you explore every corner of the U.S.—plus a few bonus destinations too.

Sign up below and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. It’s printable, easy to use, and honestly kind of satisfying to check off (trust me, I’ve been using mine for years).

👉 Let’s start checking off states—one road trip at a time.

USA Bucket List: Best Things to Do in Every State

1. New York

There’s nothing quite like the energy of New York City. Seeing a Broadway show is the kind of big-city magic that sticks with you—especially if it’s your first time.

From classic musicals to cutting-edge dramas, the experience of live theater in the heart of Manhattan is unforgettable. Pair it with a stroll through Times Square or a sunset view from the Top of the Rock and you’ve got a full New York moment. Pair it with a Brooklyn walking tour and you’re set for a long weekend!

2. Louisiana

New Orleans is practically buzzing with culture, music, and mouthwatering food. Start your visit with a hot, powdered-sugar-covered beignet from Café du Monde. From there, wander the French Quarter, hop between jazz clubs, and let yourself get swept up in the rhythm of the city. It’s a place that feeds your soul (and your belly).

3. Texas

Texas is massive, but Big Bend National Park offers a slice of quiet, remote beauty that feels worlds away. Hike along the scenic canyons, dip your feet in the Rio Grande, and stick around after sunset—the stargazing here is some of the best in the country. It’s rugged, peaceful, and totally unexpected.

4. Florida

Sure, Florida has beaches and theme parks—but don’t skip the wild side. The Everglades are teeming with life, from gators to rare birds. Take an airboat tour or paddle a kayak through the mangroves to see this one-of-a-kind ecosystem up close. It’s humid, it’s swampy, and it’s absolutely fascinating.

5. Virginia

History lovers, this one’s for you. Touring Monticello, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, gives you a deeper look at the founding of the U.S.—along with stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The gardens are beautiful, the architecture is iconic, and the story it tells is layered and worth exploring.

6. North Carolina

One of the most scenic drives in the country, the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through mountains, forests, and foggy overlooks that’ll have you pulling over every few miles. It’s especially gorgeous in the fall, but there’s something peaceful about it year-round. Bring snacks. Bring your camera. Bring your playlist.

7. South Carolina

f you’re looking for Southern charm and coastal calm, head to Hilton Head Island. Whether you’re biking through tree-lined paths or watching dolphins from the beach, it’s the kind of place that makes you breathe a little deeper. Charleston is another gem—don’t miss Rainbow Row or a slow afternoon beneath the Spanish moss.

8. Georgia

The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta isn’t just massive—it’s awe-inspiring. You’ll walk through a tunnel surrounded by whale sharks, rays, and schools of fish all swirling above you. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike—and a great way to escape the heat while learning something new.

9. Alabama

Huntsville’s U.S. Space & Rocket Center is an out-of-this-world experience (pun intended). Home to the largest space museum in the world, it’s packed with rockets, interactive exhibits, and astronaut training programs. It’s nerdy. It’s cool. It’s a must-visit for science lovers.

10. Pennsylvania

You can’t visit Philly without tackling the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It’s iconic, it’s fun, and it gives you a fantastic view of the city when you reach the top. After that, grab a cheesesteak and explore the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, or just soak up the history on every corner.

11. New Mexico

New Mexico is bursting with color, from the adobe buildings of Santa Fe to the alien landscapes of White Sands National Park. Dive into the art world with a visit to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum or get otherworldly at the International UFO Museum in Roswell. The culture here is a rich blend of Native, Hispanic, and frontier influences—and it’s absolutely delicious if you like your food with a little heat.

**I have been skiing in Taos, New Mexico when I was younger. I would have to go through printed photos to find any from here!

12. Kentucky

Bourbon and bluegrass are just the beginning in Kentucky. Tour the iconic Kentucky Bourbon Trail and learn how America’s native spirit is made (with tastings, of course). Don’t miss a visit to Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. And if you’re into natural wonders, the massive cave system at Mammoth Cave National Park will blow your mind.

13. Tennessee

Music is the heartbeat of Tennessee. Walk down Broadway in Nashville to hear live tunes pouring out of every honky tonk, then tour the Country Music Hall of Fame. In Memphis, visit Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, and explore the roots of blues, soul, and rock at Sun Studio and Beale Street. For nature lovers, the Great Smoky Mountains offer epic hikes and scenic drives.

14. Mississippi

Follow the Mississippi Blues Trail through the Delta, stopping in small towns where legends were born. Visit the Grammy Museum in Cleveland or soak up the laid-back charm of Natchez. Along the Gulf Coast, enjoy shrimp boats, fresh seafood, and quiet beaches that feel like a hidden gem.

I have been to this state have one of the most horrible photos of me in someone’s backyard in Jackson, but I’m not posting it because it’s so unflattering!

15. Arkansas

Known as “The Natural State,” Arkansas is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through the Ozark Mountains or unwind in Hot Springs National Park, where historic bathhouses and steamy pools await. Little Rock offers a blend of history and culture, including the Clinton Presidential Library and Civil Rights landmarks.

16. Missouri

Kick things off in St. Louis with a visit to the iconic Gateway Arch—you can ride to the top for sweeping city views. Dive into the city’s music history at the National Blues Museum, or catch a Cardinals game if you’re in town during baseball season. Outside the city, explore the caves and springs of the Ozarks or take a float trip down the Current River.

17. Ohio

Cedar Point in Sandusky is a must for thrill seekers—this amusement park has more roller coasters than any other in the country. In Cleveland, rock out at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, or spend a day exploring the shores of Lake Erie. Down in southern Ohio, Hocking Hills offers stunning hikes, waterfalls, and cozy cabins.

18. Indiana

Speed lovers can’t skip a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway—home of the Indy 500. But there’s more to Indiana than racing. Visit Bloomington or Indianapolis for great food and art, or explore Brown County State Park for hiking, biking, and beautiful fall foliage.

19. Michigan

Mackinac Island is pure Michigan magic—no cars, just horse-drawn carriages, bikes, and the smell of fresh fudge in the air. The Great Lakes are everywhere, offering beaches, lighthouses, and charming lake towns. Don’t miss Sleeping Bear Dunes or a fall color drive through the Upper Peninsula.

20. Illinois

Chicago steals the spotlight in Illinois with deep-dish pizza, The Bean, and stunning architecture tours along the river. Catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, take in the views from the Willis Tower Skydeck, or stroll Navy Pier. For something quieter, head south to Shawnee National Forest for scenic hikes and rock formations.

21. Wisconsin

Start with cheese curds and end with supper clubs—Wisconsin knows how to feed you right. Explore the charming harbor towns of Door County in the fall for apple picking, leaf peeping, and lake views that feel downright coastal. In summer, head to the Wisconsin Dells for waterpark fun or rent a cabin up north for a peaceful lake escape.

22. Minnesota

Minnesota’s natural beauty shines in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness—a paradise of crystal-clear lakes, towering pines, and total tranquility. If city life is more your speed, check out Minneapolis and Saint Paul for museums, breweries, and the massive Mall of America (yes, it has a theme park inside).

23. Maryland

History and seafood go hand-in-hand here. Visit Fort McHenry in Baltimore, where the Star-Spangled Banner was born. Then grab a paper-lined table and crack into a pile of Old Bay–seasoned blue crabs along the Chesapeake Bay. If you love quaint towns, Annapolis delivers with cobblestone streets and sailboats galore.

24. California

ou could spend a year exploring California and still not see it all. Drive Highway 1 along the coast from Big Sur to Malibu for epic ocean views. Visit Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Death Valley for wildly different landscapes. From surfing in San Diego to wine tasting in Napa Valley, California is as diverse as it gets.

We spent time exploring Muir Woods just outside of San Francisco.

25. Arizona

The Grand Canyon is a bucket list essential—but Arizona’s beauty doesn’t stop there. Explore red rock formations in Sedona, hike through Saguaro National Park near Tucson, or take a scenic drive through Monument Valley. Desert sunsets here are next level—don’t forget your camera.

26. Nevada

There’s more to Nevada than the neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip (though a night or two there is an experience!). Catch a show, try your luck in the casinos, or explore themed resorts that feel like mini-worlds. For a totally different vibe, visit Red Rock Canyon or head up to Lake Tahoe for hiking, skiing, and alpine beauty.

Zack and I got engaged in Vegas, but we also went on a tour to Hoover Dam.

27. Utah

Utah is home to not one, but five national parks—and each one feels like a different planet. Hike Angel’s Landing in Zion if you’re up for the thrill, or take in the arches of (you guessed it) Arches National Park. The landscapes here are dramatic, surreal, and unforgettable.

**I got to go to the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The photos are super old and printed – so I’m not finding them anytime soon!

28. Colorado

From powder-covered peaks to high-alpine hikes, Colorado is a year-round outdoor playground. See a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre—a natural rock venue with unbeatable acoustics. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park, go brewery-hopping in Denver, or soak in the hot springs in Glenwood or Ouray.

Growing up my dad would take us skiing all the time. We’ve been to Crested Butte, Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, Beaver Creek, Vail, Aspen and probably some more!

29. Oklahoma

Oklahoma surprises visitors with its mix of cowboy culture and vibrant art scenes. Tour the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in OKC, or explore the revitalized Tulsa Arts District. Route 66 runs right through the state—perfect for a nostalgic road trip with quirky roadside stops.

30. Connecticut

ake a step back in time at Mystic Seaport, a charming maritime village where tall ships and cobblestone streets transport you to the 1800s. Or relax along the coast in towns like Old Saybrook or Greenwich. Fall in New England? Yes please.

31. Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it packs a serious punch when it comes to coastal charm. Newport’s Gilded Age mansions are a must-see—walk the Cliff Walk to get sweeping ocean views paired with old-world opulence. Don’t miss a seafood dinner at a local dockside restaurant or a summer sail in Narragansett Bay.

32. Massachusetts

Boston is brimming with history and character. Walk the Freedom Trail to explore Revolutionary landmarks, from Paul Revere’s house to the Old North Church. Beyond the city, head to Cape Cod for beachy vibes, or Salem for a dose of witchy lore and colonial architecture.

33. Maine

Maine is rugged, remote, and ridiculously beautiful. Acadia National Park (on my bucket list) is the crown jewel—hike Cadillac Mountain, bike the carriage roads, and feast on fresh lobster with ocean views. The coastline here is dotted with lighthouses, charming fishing villages, and chilly but gorgeous beaches.

34. New Hampshire

Fall in New Hampshire is legendary, and there’s no better way to take it in than a scenic drive through the White Mountains. Don’t miss a ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway or a hike to one of the many waterfalls. In winter, it’s a snowy wonderland with cozy ski towns and maple syrup everything.

35. Vermont

There’s something nostalgic about Vermont’s rolling hills and red barns. Take a tour (and taste test) at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury, then explore the Green Mountains. Autumn here is like stepping into a postcard—complete with apple cider donuts and foliage that sets the hills on fire.

36. Iowa

owa is full of hidden gems and scenic landscapes, and the High Trestle Trail is a true standout. This 25-mile biking and hiking path includes a striking half-mile bridge with dramatic, glowing steel arches—especially gorgeous at night. Add in charming towns like Decorah or the historic Amana Colonies for a relaxing Midwest escape.

37. Nebraska

f you played the Oregon Trail game in school, you already know about Chimney Rock. This iconic natural spire once guided pioneers west, and it’s still an impressive sight today. In Omaha, check out the world-class zoo or stroll the Old Market district for great food and indie shops.

38. Kansas

Don’t sleep on Kansas sunsets—especially over the rolling Flint Hills. This prairie region feels wide open and wild in the best way. While in the state, visit the quirky small town of Lucas (home of the Garden of Eden), or learn about frontier history in Dodge City.

39. Washington State

Spend some time visiting the Seattle Public Market on your next trip. See the gross gum wall and seek out the troll under the bridge.

40. Oregon

Oregon is a nature lover’s dream. Visit Crater Lake National Park to see the deepest lake in the U.S., formed in a collapsed volcano and surrounded by cliffs. Explore Portland’s food scene and quirky culture, then drive the coast for sea stacks, tide pools, and small-town charm.

41. New Jersey

The Jersey Shore is a summertime rite of passage. From the iconic boardwalk at Asbury Park to the family-friendly charm of Cape May, the coast delivers beach days, funnel cakes, and plenty of people-watching. For a quieter getaway, check out the Pine Barrens or explore the surprisingly scenic Delaware Water Gap.

42. North Dakota

Head west to Theodore Roosevelt National Park where colorful badlands, roaming bison, and scenic drives make this one of America’s most underrated parks. In Medora, enjoy cowboy charm and catch the famous Medora Musical under the stars.

43. South Dakota

You can’t visit South Dakota without seeing Mount Rushmore—but the Black Hills offer so much more. Drive the scenic Needles Highway, hike around Sylvan Lake, and keep an eye out for bison in Custer State Park. And if you’re up for it, venture into Badlands National Park for otherworldly landscapes.

44. Wyoming

Wyoming is pure western magic. Grand Teton National Park is one of the most photogenic places in the country—especially from Jackson Hole (you can check out our full guide to that here!). My favorite was hiking at hiking at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Yellowstone is also right next door, giving you geysers, hot springs, and wildlife galore.

45. Montana

If “big sky country” had a crown jewel, it would be Glacier National Park. Drive the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road for jaw-dropping views of alpine peaks and turquoise lakes. Hike to hidden waterfalls or take a boat across Lake McDonald—it’s as wild and wonderful as the West gets.

46. Idaho

Often overlooked, Idaho is a stunner for outdoor adventurers. Visit Shoshone Falls, dubbed the “Niagara of the West,” for a powerful waterfall experience. Hike in the Sawtooth Mountains, relax in hot springs near Stanley, or raft the wild Salmon River—it’s rugged, beautiful, and seriously underrated.

47. Delaware

Tiny but mighty, Delaware is packed with coastal charm. Wander through the historic streets of New Castle or explore the Brandywine Valley’s gardens and museums. In summer, hit the beaches in Rehoboth or Bethany for laid-back boardwalk fun and saltwater taffy.

48. West Virginia

Adventure lives in the mountains here. Whitewater rafting in the New River Gorge is thrilling and unforgettable—especially when paired with the dramatic backdrop of the New River Gorge Bridge. For something calmer, hike to waterfalls or enjoy scenic drives through Appalachian backroads.

49. Hawaii

This island paradise is overflowing with beauty. Snorkel in Hanauma Bay on Oahu, hike to waterfalls on the Road to Hana, or take in a sunset at Waikiki Beach. From volcanoes to luaus, Hawaii is every bit as dreamy as you imagine. They even have a cat sanctuary!

50. Alaska

Alaska is America’s wild frontier. Spot bears, moose, and caribou in Denali National Park, or take a cruise through Glacier Bay to see calving icebergs up close. It’s vast, remote, and humbling—ideal for travelers who want something truly epic.

And for a Bonus…

Washington DC

Walk the National Mall and explore world-class museums like the Smithsonian. Tour monuments by moonlight for a totally different vibe, and if you time it right, the cherry blossoms in spring are pure magic.

Puerto Rico

Colorful buildings, rich history, and island beaches await in Old San Juan. Hike in El Yunque National Forest or kayak through a bioluminescent bay—Puerto Rico delivers tropical beauty with a side of culture.

US Virgin Islands

Trunk Bay on St. John is basically the definition of “postcard-perfect.” Swim, snorkel, or lounge in the shade of palm trees. No passport required—and no regrets.

Final Thoughts on the 50 States Travel Challenge

Visiting all 50 states isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about the stories, the surprises, and the small moments in between.

It’s realizing that each state has something unique to offer, from jaw-dropping landscapes to quirky roadside diners and everything in between. This challenge pushes you to see the U.S. beyond the coasts and discover the places that don’t always make the top of the travel lists—but probably should.

Whether you’re just getting started or halfway through the list, the key is to keep it fun, flexible, and meaningful. Use long weekends, tag on states during road trips, or plan around birthdays and anniversaries.

And don’t stress about doing it all at once—this is a marathon, not a sprint (unless you’re planning one in all 50 states… in which case, good luck and maybe ice your knees).

We’re still on our journey, but each new state adds a new chapter. And if you’re taking on this challenge too—cheering you on all the way.

Where to next?

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