Grab your maps, pack your sense of adventure, and buckle up for a journey through the heart and soul of America! As I sit here contemplating the audacity of my latest scheme – a grand tour of the nation’s diverse regions – I can’t help but chuckle at the sheer magnitude of my ambition. Armed with a plethora of colorful maps, an unwavering determination, and perhaps a touch of madness, I’m embarking on a quest to explore every nook and cranny of this vast and wondrous land. Join me as I unveil my master plan, brimming with optimism, spontaneity, and the inevitable chaos that ensues when dreams collide with reality.
As a reference page of sorts, I am creating this and posting this as a sort of reminder of what my plans ahead of the start of this journey is at this point, a couple of weeks before I begin this challenge I presented to myself. I continue to lay these breadcrumbs as I go for those of you that might be on similar journeys.
When prepping and planning for this year long journey of sorts, I created several series of reference posts about each state, scenic drives, small towns, and National Parks. As I mentioned, I am not taking an entire year off, but I AM heading out just about every month for a while to visit and document the trip through a particular region of the USA. The breakdown and maps below are my vision and plans before we get started!
May 2024 – The Northwest
“The Northwest – Washington, Oregon, and Alaska” encapsulates a region renowned for its diverse landscapes and robust natural beauty. Washington offers lush evergreen forests and the iconic Seattle skyline, while Oregon is famed for its rugged coastline and verdant woodlands. Alaska, often seen as the final frontier, boasts vast wilderness areas characterized by dramatic mountain ranges and untouched expanses. Together, these states provide a tapestry of experiences, from urban exploration in hip cities to secluded adventures in some of the most breathtaking wilderness areas in the United States. Whether you’re looking to hike, fish, or simply take in the scenic views, the Northwest promises an unforgettable journey.
June 2024 – The South
“The South – Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi” offers a rich tapestry of cultural history, natural beauty, and vibrant life. Florida’s sandy beaches and bustling nightlife contrast with its tranquil wetlands, providing a blend of relaxation and adventure. Alabama offers deep roots in American history with its significant Civil War sites, coupled with charming old towns and rolling countryside. Mississippi enriches the mix with its deep blues music heritage, emblematic river views, and warm Southern hospitality. Together, these states form a region where tradition and modernity converge, offering travelers an immersive experience of the historical, culinary, and natural delights of the Southern United States.
July 2024 – The Great Lakes
“The Great Lakes – Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota” represents a region defined by its profound connection to the freshwater lakes that give it its name. Michigan, surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes, is famed for its beaches and maritime history. Ohio offers rich agricultural lands and vibrant cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati. Indiana’s rolling farmlands and lively cultural festivals blend seamlessly with Illinois, home to Chicago, a hub of architectural innovation and blues music. Wisconsin brings a blend of dairy heritage and natural beauty, while Minnesota’s thousands of lakes and the expansive wilderness of the Boundary Waters invite endless outdoor activities. This region is a heartland of industry, nature, and Midwestern charm, making it a dynamic area for exploration and discovery.
August 2024 – The Rocky Mountains
“The Rocky Mountains – Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho” span a majestic and rugged landscape that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. Montana, known as Big Sky Country, offers vast open spaces and some of the country’s most spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. Wyoming is home to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, where geothermal features and dramatic peaks create unforgettable natural scenery. Idaho features a diverse terrain, from the snowy mountain ranges that are a haven for skiers and snowboarders, to serene lakes and rivers ideal for fishing and kayaking. Together, these states offer a quintessential slice of the American wilderness experience, characterized by towering mountains, rolling plains, and outdoor adventures that are second to none.
September 2024 – The Southwest
“The Southwest – Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado” presents a landscape rich in geological marvels and cultural heritage. Utah dazzles with its iconic red rock formations and canyons, epitomized by national parks like Zion and Arches. Arizona is famed for the Grand Canyon, an immense natural wonder that offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. New Mexico, known as the Land of Enchantment, blends Native American and Hispanic cultures, visible in its arts, architecture, and vibrant festivals. Colorado rounds out the region with its Rocky Mountain peaks, providing a haven for skiers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The Southwest is a region of vivid landscapes and dynamic cultures, offering visitors a profound connection to nature and a deep dive into the area’s rich historical tapestry.
October 2024 – New England
“New England – Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut” is a region steeped in American history and brimming with picturesque charm. Maine, with its rugged coastline and famed seafood cuisine, offers quiet seaside retreats and forested wilderness. New Hampshire and Vermont are treasures of the fall season, displaying some of the most spectacular autumn colors and hosting a range of outdoor activities from hiking to skiing. Massachusetts, rich in colonial history, is the home of Boston, a city that blends historical sites with modern culture and innovation. Rhode Island, the smallest state, boasts extensive coastlines and maritime history, while Connecticut offers a mix of coastal cities and rural havens, with numerous trails and parks for exploring. Together, these states provide a quintessential northeastern experience, combining natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural richness.
November 2024 – The Southeast
“The Southeast – North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, South Carolina, and Georgia” encapsulates a region deeply rooted in American history and culture, celebrated for its hospitable communities and scenic beauty. North Carolina offers diverse landscapes from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic beaches, providing a wide array of outdoor activities. Tennessee is known for its vital role in the development of American music, particularly in cities like Nashville and Memphis. Kentucky, famous for its bourbon distilleries and the historic Kentucky Derby, also showcases beautiful bluegrass landscapes. South Carolina boasts charming historic cities like Charleston, with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culinary scene. Georgia, with its blend of old and new, features everything from the bustling metropolis of Atlanta to the peaceful, mossy oaks of Savannah. This region offers a blend of southern charm, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
December 2024 – Middle Atlantic
“The Middle Atlantic – New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia” is a region that epitomizes the rich historical and cultural tapestry of the Eastern United States. New York, with its bustling metropolis of NYC, offers iconic landmarks and a melting pot of global cultures. New Jersey, with its vibrant shorelines and diverse communities, serves as a bustling neighbor to the Big Apple. Delaware, small but mighty, boasts historic sites and charming beach towns. Pennsylvania is home to the historical heart of the nation, Philadelphia, and the beautiful Pocono Mountains. Maryland and Virginia share the Chesapeake Bay, offering scenic waterways and a plethora of seafood delights. West Virginia, the mountain state, provides rugged landscapes ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and whitewater rafting. Collectively, these states offer a blend of urban excitement, historical depth, and natural beauty, making the Middle Atlantic a dynamic region to explore.
January 2025 – South Central
“The South Central – Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas” is a region celebrated for its distinct cultural identity and rich historical heritage. Louisiana, with its deep roots in French and Spanish cultures, is renowned for its jazz music, Mardi Gras festivities, and unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. Texas combines a fierce independent spirit with a diverse landscape that ranges from deserts to lush forests, alongside vibrant cities like Austin and Houston known for their music, arts, and technology scenes. Oklahoma offers a blend of Native American history and western cowboy culture, visible in its museums, festivals, and rodeos. Arkansas, known as the Natural State, features abundant wilderness areas with caves, hot springs, and mountain trails. Together, these states provide a vivid tableau of American life, where tradition blends seamlessly with modernity, offering visitors a rich array of experiences from lively cultural festivals to serene natural retreats.
February 2025 – The Far West
“The Far West – California and Nevada” represents a region of dramatic contrasts and boundless opportunities. California, a global trendsetter, is home to the entertainment powerhouse of Hollywood, the tech innovation of Silicon Valley, and a variety of natural landscapes from sun-drenched beaches to towering redwoods. Its vibrant cities and scenic coastal drives offer a glimpse into a lifestyle that blends laid-back allure with cutting-edge culture. Nevada, while famous for the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, also offers vast desert landscapes that provide a stark beauty of their own. The state’s rich history of mining and its modern-day entertainment and gambling industries make it a unique blend of the old and new. Together, California and Nevada capture the essence of the American dream, where natural beauty meets human creativity and enterprise.
March 2025 – Hawaii
“Hawaii” offers a stunning tropical paradise unlike any other region in the United States. Comprising a series of islands each with its own distinct personality, Hawaii blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. The islands are renowned for their dramatic landscapes, including volcanic mountains, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches with waves that attract surfers from around the world. Hawaiian culture is celebrated through music, dance, and festivals that highlight the unique traditions and history of the native Hawaiian people. From the laid-back atmosphere of Oahu and the luxurious resorts of Maui to the rugged terrain of the Big Island and the quiet charm of Kauai, Hawaii provides a profound connection to nature and a deep sense of peace, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure.
April 2025 – The Central Plains
“The Central Plains – North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa” encapsulate the heartland of America, characterized by its sprawling landscapes and agricultural prowess. North Dakota and South Dakota are known for their vast prairies and significant Native American heritage, prominently displayed at landmarks like the Badlands and Mount Rushmore. Nebraska and Kansas embody the classic American Midwest with their extensive farmlands and commitment to preserving the pioneer spirit. Missouri offers a mix of urban and rural charms, with vibrant cities like St. Louis and Kansas City contrasting with the tranquil Ozark Mountains. Iowa, often celebrated for its quintessential American landscapes, is a leader in corn production and epitomizes rural American life with its small towns and community-focused living. This region, rich in history and natural beauty, is a testament to America’s agricultural heart and pioneering spirit.
