Adventure Awaits: Your Guide to Conquering All 50 States!

Visit all 50 States

Traveling as a family is one of the most enriching experiences you can share with your children. While it may seem like an ambitious goal to visit all 50 states, the journey is not only possible but a fantastic way to create unforgettable memories together. Here are some compelling reasons why you should set out on this exciting adventure!

• Learning Opportunities: Each state has its own unique history, culture, and geography. From the iconic landmarks of Washington D.C. to the beautiful beaches of Hawaii, your kids will gain a deeper understanding of our nation’s diverse landscape. Visiting museums, historical sites, and cultural festivals can spark interest in subjects like science, history, and geography in fun and engaging ways.
• Real-Life Experiences: Nothing compares to experiencing the world firsthand! Traveling to different states allows your children to see everything they learn in school come to life. They can taste local cuisines, participate in regional traditions, and explore natural wonders—all of which form connections that books and classrooms simply can’t provide.
• Family Bonding: Road trips and vacations are perfect opportunities for families to connect and strengthen their bonds. Gather around the campfire, share stories during long drives, or explore new places together. These shared experiences foster communication and teamwork, creating treasured memories that your family will reminisce about for years to come.
• Adventure Awaits: Each state offers unique outdoor adventures, whether it’s hiking in the stunning national parks of Utah, kayaking in Florida’s everglades, or skiing in Colorado’s mountains. Embracing the great outdoors not only promotes physical activity but also instills a love for nature in your children.
• Cultural Diversity: Traveling across the US exposes your kids to a variety of cultures, languages, and lifestyles. This exposure can be incredibly beneficial, fostering open-mindedness and understanding in a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected. Encouraging your kids to try local specialties or celebrate local festivals will give them a broader perspective of the world.
• Building Resilience: Traveling can come with its challenges, from missed flights to unexpected weather. Navigating these ups and downs as a family teaches kids resilience and adaptability. They will learn how to cope with change and emerge from each experience a little wiser and more adaptable.
• Creating Lifelong Memories: Finally, there’s no better way to create lasting memories than through adventures together. Each state you visit will have its own stories—from silly moments in the car to the breathtaking sights you’ll encounter. These memories will be cherished and recounted for generations to come.

Visit all fifty states

Start by making a plan. We opted for shorter trips, Disney World, and cruises when our kid were really young, too young to remember any of the cool places our great country has to offer! We planned our trips based on our first child and everyone else just jumped into the rotation when came along.

Years 1-5

• Take a cruise! Enjoy the Bahamas,  Eastern Carribean, or Western  Carribean. Enjoy having someone cook and clean for you, entertainment when you want it on the ship, and relaxing beaches and free childcare!
• Disney World
• Head to a nearby beach
• Spend time camping, or in a cabin within 4 hours of home
• Staycations exploring local museums, zoos, family camps, etc.

Years 6-18

Start close to home or with the less exotic trips as your child may not remember these as well. We tried to save Hawaii, Alaska, etc. for when they reached high school.

• Midwest – Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio
• North East – New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey
• Historical – Washington DC, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland
• South East – Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida
• West Coast – California, Oregon, Washington
• Northwest – North / South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and Nebraska
• Southwest – Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma
• South – Texas, Louisiana, Arkansa, Alabama, Mississippi
• Alaska – I highly recommend booking a cruise as you will see the inner passage, easily get to so many cities that are hard to get between, and it is very cost effective. Consider booking 1-2 years in advance and in May or September for the best rate. I encourage you to do a pre or post visit to Denali National Park.
• Hawaii – Suprisingly affordable depending on when you travel!
• BONUS: Overseas – I encourage everyone to take their kids overseas! There is so much world out there – from amazing Europe rich in history, to charming South America, take an African Safari, explore exotic Asia, and more!
• BONUS: Two Extra Years – There are even 2 “extra’ years built-in that you can use to head back to Disney, another cruise, travel overseas more, take an epic family vacation, or take off to save up for the next year!

Travel all 50 states

Don’t worry,  taking your kids to visit all the US States doesn’t have to break the bank! Actually it can be very affordable! The budget can really be whatever you need it to be by using cost saving tips like these:

• Travel in off season
• Make it a fun road trip! If you are doing the west coast, fly into a city then rent a car and make the rest a road trip, fly home from the last city.
• Visit lots of national parks! You can get a membership to save money, or go when your child is in 4th grade and you are all FREE!
• Camp for a fun, inexpensive option
• grab groceries at a local walmart and picnic instead of eating out
• bring a cooler for snacks and groceries

See all 50 states

We try to allow 2 weeks per state vacations to allow for travel between states/cities.  there are so many fun things to do you can break it up into maneagable chunks! And remember, you can always fly into the first city, rent a vehicle, and fly out of the last city to save you more time!

Trip to all 50 states

Are all the states worth visiting? Absolutely! While we deffinetly have our favorites, there is something fun and unique to see in each of them! Take a peak:

Alabama

US Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Birmingham Civil Rights Center,  Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Gulf Shores Beach, and step aboard some living history at the Battleship Memorial Park

Alaska

Visit a Glacier, watch wildife, scenic railway, see Northern Lights in Fairbanks, or explore Denali National Park

Arizona

The Grand Canyon is an absolute must-see! Stand on the rim and take in the awe-inspiring views, or hike down to the Colorado River for a different perspective.

Arkansas

Explore Hot Springs National Park, where natural hot springs and beautiful hiking trails beckon outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike.

California

See giant Redwoods, explore Yosemite National Park, scenic drive along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, marvel at death Valley, visit the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Hollywood, or the San Diego Zoo

Colorado

Visit Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can hike stunning trails and witness breathtaking alpine scenery. Plus don’t miss stepping back into a period of US history at a ghost town, Mesa Verde cave dwellings,  and a Colorado Gold Mine tour.

Connecticut

Don’t miss the charming Mystic Seaport, a living museum of maritime history with quaint shops and eateries.

Delaware

Explore the picturesque beaches of Rehoboth and Dewey

Florida

Relax on one of the many stunning beaches, go shelling, visit Alligators, NASA Kennedy Space Center, or Everglade boat ride through sawgrass

Georgia

Hike to the top of Stone Mountain for a panoramic view, or explore the vibrant culture and history of Savannah. There is lots to see and explore in Atlanta from the Coca Cola Museum to the amazing Atlanta Aquarium!

Hawaii

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Na Pali Coast on Kauai or unwind on the pristine beaches of Maui; visit Pearl Harbor

Idaho

Explore the serene landscapes of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area or visit the Potato Museum.

Illinois

Check out the iconic skyline of Chicago, including the renowned Willis Tower and Lake Michigan beaches, explore world class museums, IL Railroad Museum, or Springfield to learn about Abraham Lincoln.

Indiana

Experience the thrill of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the famous Indy 500 race, world largest children’s museum, or explore Fair Oaks pig and dairy farms

Iowa

Enjoy fields of corn and charming farms, the field of dreams site, and John Deere Tractor Museum.

Kansas

Boot Hill Museum, National World War 1 Museum, Arabia Steamboard Museum, and Wizard of Oz Museum.

Kentucky

Experience the beauty of the largest cave system in the world – Mammoth Cave National Park, enjoy horseback riding in the scenic Bluegrass region, visit the Kentucky Derby, or the Louisville Slugger Museum.

Louisiana

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of New Orleans, famous for its lively music scene and delicious Creole cuisine. Stroll through a historic plantation, swamp tour,  fun Audubon Insectorium, and the must visit National World War 2 Museum .

Maine

Visit Acadia National Park for stunning coastal views and picturesque hiking trails. Don’t forget to try the fresh lobster!

Maryland

Explore the rich nautical heritage in Annapolis or step back in time at the historic sites of Baltimore.

Massachusetts

Walk the Freedom Trail in Boston, where you can uncover the rich history of the American Revolution.

Michigan

Discover the beauty of the Great Lakes, Henry Ford Museum, and enjoy the stunning views from Mackinac Island.

Minnesota

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Mill City Museum, and Mall of America.

Mississippi

Visit the cultural landmarks along the Mississippi Blues Trail, U.S.S. Cairo Museum, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum.

Missouri

Visit the Gateway Arch, outrageously fun City Museum, Titanic Museum, Mark Twain boyhood home and museum, plus discover the beauty of the Ozarks, complete with lakes, mountains, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Montana

Experience the untouched wilderness of Glacier National Park, where you can hike, camp, and soak in stunning vistas. Plus check out a ghost town and World Museum of Mining.

Nebraska

Don’t miss the Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, explore the natural wonders of Chimney Rock and the scenic Sandhills region, and car enthusiasts will enjoy Carhenge.

Nevada

Visit the impressive Hoove Dam, experience the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, or explore the breathtaking landscapes of Red Rock Canyon.

New Hampshire

Drive the scenic Kancamagus Highway in the fall for stunning foliage or visit the charming towns of the White Mountains.

New Jersey

Explore the iconic boardwalks of Atlantic City or visit the historic sites in Hoboken.

New Mexico

Discover the unique culture and cuisine in Santa Fe, explore the otherworldly landscapes of White Sands National Park, or visit in October for the amazing Hot Air Balloon Festival.

New York

Don’t miss a visit to the Statue of Liberty and soak in the vibrant energy of Times Square! Head to the beautiful upstate New York to see the world famous Niagra Falls and enjoy The Strong National Museum of Play.

North Carolina

Visit Battleship North Carolina, hike the beautiful trails of the Blue Ridge Parkway,  relax in the Outer Banks, visit the Wright Brothers Memorial, and see the picturesque Cape Hatteras Light House.

North Dakota

Explore the stunning landscapes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, known for its magnificent badlands.

Ohio

Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland or unwind in Hocking Hills State Park. Don’t miss the National Museum of the US Airforce, the Cincinnati Zoo with reknown Fionna the Hippo, and the Cincinnati Museum Center. One of our favorites was the drive through safari!

Oklahoma

Experience the vibrant culture of Oklahoma City with some great places to eat and the engaging Science Museum Oklahoma. Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial to relive some modern history, revel in the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum,  or explore the natural wonders of the Wichita Mountains. Plus you can see the Centennial Land Run Monument and don’t miss the Museum of the Great Planes with lots of hands-on fun and a realistic tornado simulator.

Oregon

Marvel at the stunning beauty of Crater Lake National Park and explore the amazing coastlines along the Pacific. See the 5th largest waterfall in the US – Multnomah Falls. See the iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach and check out the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum.

Pennsylvania

Tour the historic sites in Philadelphia like Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin’s Print Shop, the Liberty Bell, and more. Outside of Philadelphia you can enjoy the beauty of the Pocono Mountains, visit the Hershey Chocolate Museum, and don’t miss Gettysburg National Military Park.

Rhode Island

Discover the charming coastal towns of Newport, famous for its stunning mansions and maritime history.

South Carolina

Explore the historic charm of Charleston including the market or unwind on the beautiful beaches of Hilton Head Island. Plus don’t miss Magnolia Plantation or Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum.

South Dakota

Visit the iconic Mount Rushmore and explore the natural beauty of Badlands National Park. The nearby Reptile Gardens and Bear Country USA are both really nice stop for families!

Tennessee

Discover the musical heritage of Nashville and the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Near Chattanooga you can enjoy the impressive Tennessee Aquarium and Lookout Mountains Rock City and Ruby Falls. In Memphis discover the National Civil Rights Museum.

Texas

This large state has a lot to explore form the vibrancy of Austin’s music scene, state capital,  Bullock Texas State History Museum, and kid-friendly Thinkery.  There is lots to see in the busy Metropolis of Dallas including the Dallas Zoo, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza (to explore Kennedy’s assasination), and Perot Museum of Nature and Science.  One of my favorites is San Antonion where you can explore the infamous Alamo and Missions plus the River Walk. Then head down to Houston where you can explore the mesmerizing Space Houston Museum, the zoo, children’s museum or depending on the age of your kids – the Holocaust museum.

Utah

Marvel at the incredible rock formations in Arches National Park – one of my all-time favorites! You can also explore the unique beauty of Zion National Park or Bryce Cayon National Park – each with their own unique beauty.

Vermont

Experience the stunning fall foliage or visit the famous Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory for a sweet treat!

Virginia

Step back in time at Historic Jamestowne, Colonial Williamsburg, and Yorktown. Discover Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello or George Washtington’s Mount Vernon.  Explore the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.

Washington

Visit the iconic Space Needle in Seattle, Pike’s Place market, fascinating Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and the remarkable Museum of Flight.  Dont’ forget to save time to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Olympic National Park and Moutn Rainier.

West Virginia

Discover the outdoor adventures in New River Gorge National Park, famous for its white-water rafting and rock climbing.

Wisconsin

Explore the charm of Door County or enjoy the beautiful lakes and parks in the Northwoods. If you are looking to cool off, don’t miss Wisconsin Dells – the waterpark capital of the world!

Wyoming

Experience the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, including geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. Explore nearby Old Trail Town and Jackson Hole Rodeo to get a taste of the wild west. Then don’t miss the beautiful Grand Teton National Park.

Dreaming of an epic family adventure across all 50 states? It’s absolutely doable with some savvy planning! My family and I checked every single state off our bucket list before the kiddos graduated high school, and let me tell you, it was an unforgettable ride!

Ready to turn that dream into a reality? Drop a if you’re in, and let’s dive into some tips and tricks to help you embark on your own amazing journey! Let’s start planning!