I’ve traveled extensively and have received so much hospitality and advice abroad on how to travel and where to go, so I want to return the favor. I’ve visited 49 of the 50 states (Alaska is my last frontier), and I want to give foreign travelers a quick but informative guide to what our beautiful country can offer. For simplicity, I’m focusing on the mainland, since Hawaii requires a separate trip to explore properly, and I love Hawaii (I stayed for 3 months once).
The U.S. is complicated. Right now we’re experiencing major political protests, internal feuds and debates, and a war on immigration, and news about crime in our major cities makes it seem like bad people are everywhere. But many Americans are still very welcoming. Tourism is alive, and cities across the country are ready to receive visitors.
That said, it’s always smart to check local news before visiting, as protests or events can affect certain areas. Minneapolis, for instance, has had national attention recently due to federal agents sweeping through.
Jump to Section
- A Note on Perspective
- Indigenous Lands in the U.S.
- East Coast
- The South
- The Midwest & Heartland
- The Southwest
- West Coast & Pacific Northwest
- The Rest of the States: Quick One-Liner Guide
- Final Thoughts
A Note on Perspective
Before diving into this guide, I want to acknowledge that my experiences and opinions are inherently biased. I’m from Virginia, the first colony (and the home of Chris Brown and Pharrell, who has a Virginia clothing line I’d love to get my hands on). I’ve lived in Washington, D.C. for 7 years, visited New York 30+ times and Chicago more than 20 times, and lived in California for 4 years. Naturally, I know some places better than others.
I’ve also driven across the United States 3 times. I’ve visited 49 of the 50 U.S. states, but my perspective is shaped by my family’s roots in the American South, my experiences as a Black American, and the communities I’ve spent the most time in. What I share here is from my lens. Some places I know intimately, while others I’ve seen only briefly. I hope this helps readers understand what to expect and what to explore, but keep in mind there’s always more to discover!
Indigenous Lands in the U.S.
One part of the country that many travelers overlook is Indigenous lands and communities. I’ve driven cross-country three times, and each time I made it a priority to support and learn from Indigenous nations. Along the way, I visited the Hopi, Apache, Zuni, Navajo Nation, Lakota & Dakota, Choctaw Nation, Chickasaw, Muscogee, Cherokee Nation, and Crow Nation, among others.
The United States recognizes 574 federally recognized tribes, each with its own government, culture, and territory. Indigenous communities exist in all 50 states, even if they are less visible or widely known.
Personally, I never met an Indigenous person until I was 24, when I started working for the government. That experience completely changed my perspective on the country and its history.
When traveling in the U.S., I encourage visitors to explore Indigenous lands respectfully. Whether it’s visiting a museum, attending a festival, purchasing crafts directly from local artisans, or learning about the history of the land, it’s an opportunity to understand a part of America that is often overlooked. Indigenous nations deserve recognition in any conversation about a cross-country journey.
East Coast
Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital was historically called “Chocolate City” because it was majority Black until around 2011. It’s extremely international thanks to embassies and universities. The Smithsonian museums are the best in the country, and they’re free! The cherry blossoms bloom every spring, usually in late March or early April, and go-go music originated here. Listen to the most famous go-go song for a taste. Employment is historically strong thanks to the government, but Trump’s recent changes have shifted the economy in DC for the worse. Even after traveling to 85+ countries, I’ll always be biased: D.C. is my favorite city. If you’re visiting, here’s my local’s 3-day DC itinerary.
New York City
I’ve been over 30 times, and all my best friends live in NYC because it’s arguably the best and most diverse city in the world, with over 300 languages spoken, especially in the Queens borough. It’s easy to experience luxury or budget-friendly adventures, with vibrant communities from Russia, the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic, Africa, and more. Even with 30 visits, I still don’t know NYC. Does anyone?
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
A must-visit for American history buffs: the Declaration of Independence was signed here. Philly also has a lively sports scene, and Philadelphia Eagles fans are notorious for their pole-climbing antics. I’ve always enjoyed the nightlife.
Maine & New Hampshire
Portland, Maine is famous for lobster and maritime charm, while New Hampshire has stunning fall foliage. Both are scenic escapes for travelers wanting a quieter, picturesque side of New England.
The South
My family hails from the South, and I spent summers immersed in traditional Southern culture while growing up.
Southern Food
Let me start with the food. Southern cuisine, also known as soul food, is my absolute favorite. It’s home. When I die and leave this plane, God willing, my last meal will be my favorite combination:
- Fried fish with a cornmeal dusting: crispy, flavorful, and always perfectly seasoned
- Collard greens cooked with turkey neck: smoky, savory, and comforting
- Green beans: often cooked slow with ham or bacon for that rich Southern flavor
- Black-eyed peas: a traditional dish that symbolizes luck and prosperity
- Baked macaroni and cheese: creamy, cheesy, and perfectly golden
- Candied yams: sweet, buttery, and spiced just right
And for dessert? You cannot skip:
- Pecan pie: nutty, caramelized, and indulgent
- Sweet potato pie: silky, spiced, and comforting
You’ll find this spread served all over the South, from Alabama to Louisiana and Georgia to Mississippi, and every bite tells a story of history, culture, and family. Southern food isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about community, tradition, and the love poured into every dish.
North & South Carolina
My grandma hails from South Carolina, specifically Orange. Charlotte, NC, offers hiking, a growing cultural scene, and welcoming locals. Racism exists, as in much of the South, but Charlotte is vibrant and fun.
Alabama
Home to my mom and rich in history, Alabama was the stage for key moments of the civil rights movement, like the Montgomery bus boycott and the Selma to Montgomery marches led by Martin Luther King Jr. It’s also home to Tuskegee University, where George Washington Carver did his famous research on peanuts. The Alabama vs. Auburn football rivalry is iconic. For laughs, check out a viral YouTube brawl video from Alabama.
Atlanta, Georgia
Often called the Black Mecca, Atlanta is majority Black, home to TI, Outkast, Ludacris, and Ciara, and filled with Black-owned businesses. It’s also where Martin Luther King Jr. was born. It has a lively nightlife, thriving strip club culture, and highly educated residents. Some argue D.C. is the real Black Mecca, but Atlanta holds its own.
Florida
Florida is famous for “Florida Man” stories, wild parties, and natural wildlife. Miami is flashy and expensive, focused on being seen, while cities like Tallahassee are quieter and more authentic.
Mississippi
Jackson, MS, offers a slower pace and an authentic view of Southern life. Rich in civil rights history, the state is also home to vibrant music and local culture.
Louisiana
Definitely my favorite Southern state, because it is LAYERED in history. Also, my granddaddy attended Xavier University, an HBCU, and I still have many cousins who live there. Originally a French colony, Louisiana’s European influence is visible everywhere, from food to architecture.
New Orleans, the state’s most famous city, is known for its bayous, live music, and unique architecture. The city is the birthplace of jazz and the birthplace of Lil Wayne. It’s also deeply spiritual, with traditions like voodoo and hoodoo, reflecting the mix of African, Caribbean, and European influences that make the culture so distinctive. Famous figures like Marie Laveau, the “Voodoo Queen of New Orleans,” helped shape its traditions in the 19th century. There are many tours you can take in New Orleans to learn more.
New Orleans is home to Mardi Gras, the world-famous carnival held every year in February or early March. Parades, elaborate masks, and floats dominate the city streets, and the festival’s history dates back to French Catholic settlers in the 18th century, celebrating before the season of Lent. It’s a time of music, feasting, and celebration unlike anywhere else in the world.
Louisiana’s Creole culture is a blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. Creole cuisine, for example, combines local ingredients like seafood and spices with European cooking techniques to create dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée. Beyoncé’s mother is Creole, which shows just how influential this culture has been beyond the state.
Whether you’re exploring the French Quarter, floating along the bayou, or sampling classic Cajun and Creole dishes, Louisiana offers a rich cultural experience that’s truly unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
The Midwest & Heartland
Chicago, Illinois
I’ve visited over 20 times. Chicago is the third-largest city in the U.S., has the second-largest Mexican population outside California, and is historically Black on the South Side. House music was born here in the 1980s at clubs like the Warehouse, and the city’s architecture, rebuilt after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, is world-famous. You can take riverboat tours to admire the skyline and see landmarks like Willis Tower and John Hancock Center. Summers are lively, with beaches along Lake Michigan and music festivals. Planning a group trip? Here’s how to plan a Chicago bachelorette weekend.
St. Louis, Missouri
Home to the Gateway Arch, the tallest arch in the world at 630 feet, symbolizing the “Gateway to the West.” Missouri blends Midwest and Southern culture, and the Ozarks nearby offer lakes, hiking, and family-friendly vacation spots.
Montana, North Dakota & South Dakota
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, is the iconic carved monument of four U.S. presidents. Visit during less busy times if you can; July 4th is extremely crowded. Both North and South Dakota are on Indigenous lands, home to Lakota and Dakota tribes.
Jackson Hole & Yellowstone
Wyoming’s Jackson Hole is luxurious and scenic, perfect for skiing or mountain adventures. Yellowstone National Park, spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, is home to geysers, wildlife, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the U.S.
The Southwest
Arizona & New Mexico
The Southwest has a vibe unlike anywhere else in the U.S. Red deserts, canyons, and a strong Indigenous presence make this region unforgettable.
I’ve visited Arizona’s three national parks:
- Grand Canyon National Park: The most famous of the three, offering jaw-dropping views of layered red rock and the Colorado River. Hiking the trails or simply watching the sunrise is unforgettable.
- Saguaro National Park: Near Tucson, this park is full of iconic saguaro cacti towering over the desert landscape. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and distinctly “Southwest.”
- Petrified Forest National Park: Famous for fossilized trees, colorful badlands, and ancient petroglyphs, this park combines geology, history, and desert beauty.
Phoenix, the state capital, is a sprawling desert city with a large Mexican-American population, excellent food, and nearby hiking in mountains like Camelback and South Mountain. Scottsdale, just outside Phoenix, is known for luxury resorts, golf, and Southwestern-style shopping.
New Mexico is a cultural gem shaped by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican heritage. Santa Fe, the capital, is famous for its adobe architecture, art galleries, and Southwestern cuisine, including the iconic green and red chile dishes. The city hosts the Santa Fe Indian Market, one of the largest Native American art markets in the world, and the Canyon Road arts district is a must-see.
Another New Mexico highlight is White Sands National Park, where the glittering white gypsum dunes are surreal. Every September, the White Sands Balloon Invitational sends hot air balloons up over the dunes, and Albuquerque hosts the world-famous Balloon Fiesta every fall.
Navajo Nation
The Navajo Nation isn’t a U.S. state. It’s a sovereign Native American territory that spans parts of Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, and it’s the largest Native American reservation in the U.S. by land area.
- The capital is Window Rock, Arizona.
- While it’s within the borders of states, it has its own government, laws, and police.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a strong Indigenous presence. The Supreme Court ruled in 2020 that much of eastern Oklahoma remains Indigenous land, which has important legal and cultural implications. The state also has many tribal casinos, cultural centers, and festivals, making it a unique place to learn about Native communities. I actually used to live in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which I sometimes forget.
Texas
Texas is enormous, the 2nd biggest state after Alaska. I’ve visited Dallas, Houston, Austin, and El Paso. Houston is my favorite for its ethnic diversity, including Mexican, Hispanic, and Vietnamese communities. Overall, Houston feels relatively harmonious and has a vibrant social scene.
West Coast & Pacific Northwest
California
I’ve lived in Los Angeles and San Francisco, and California is one of those states where you can do something completely different every day. It’s unmatched in variety. I’ve done the classic road trip from San Diego to San Francisco multiple times, and honestly, a week is just enough to scratch the surface.
San Diego is all about beautiful beaches. Coronado Beach, with its wide sands and iconic Hotel del Coronado, is one of my favorites in the world. The city also has a laid-back vibe, great Mexican food, and a large immigrant population, making it culturally rich. It’s also right on the border, so you can easily add Tijuana or Valle de Guadalupe wine country to your trip.
Los Angeles is world-famous for Hollywood, but the city is so much more than movie sets. It’s home to a huge immigrant population, vibrant neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Ethiopia, and Boyle Heights, and some of the best food in the country. From the hiking trails in Griffith Park to the eclectic art scene downtown, LA is endlessly diverse. Here’s my full Los Angeles travel guide with where to stay, eat, and explore.
The Bay Area (San Francisco, Oakland, and the surrounding region) is absolutely gorgeous. Hiking trails, beaches, and the Golden Gate Bridge are just the start. San Francisco itself is layered with history: originally a Spanish colony, later booming during the Gold Rush, and now a tech and cultural hub. The architecture, the cable cars, the waterfront: everything feels iconic. I absolutely love it here.
Beyond the cities, California offers Temecula wine country, Santa Barbara’s coastal charm, Joshua Tree National Park, Death Valley, the towering redwoods, Monterey Bay, and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Each area has its own personality, history, and landscapes, making California perfect for road trips, outdoor adventures, and exploring local culture.
Boise, Idaho
Boise is incredibly underrated. With scenic rivers, hiking trails, and outdoor activities year-round, it’s a friendly city that feels both vibrant and relaxed. I found the people here very kind, and it’s a great place to explore if you want a slower, authentic American city away from the usual tourist crowds.
Oregon
Oregon is famous for its scenic wine regions, stunning coastlines, and natural wonders like Crater Lake and the Columbia River Gorge. A standout is Illahe Vineyards, a Black-owned winery. Portland is quirky, artistic, and famously liberal. It’s so liberal, in fact, that it’s become a kind of meme, even inspiring the sketch comedy show Portlandia. Portland has the most strip clubs per capita in the U.S., so the nightlife is unique too.
Washington State
Washington State is breathtaking, even in its famous rain and fog. I’ve visited Seattle four times, and even on cloudy days, the city is stunning. The skyline framed by Mount Rainier and the waters of Puget Sound is unforgettable. Seattle is a hub for coffee, music, and tech, but it also has beautiful waterfronts, Pike Place Market, and plenty of green spaces. A ferry ride north takes you to the San Juan Islands, a serene getaway of forests, wildlife, and small coastal towns, known as a setting for the movie “Practical Magic.”
Not Explicitly Covered: A Quick One-Liner Guide to the Rest of the States
This blog post isn’t meant to cover all 50 states in depth (it’s already a lot), but here’s a fun, quick overview. It’s meant to be funny.
- Alabama: Civil rights history, college football
- Alaska: Huge, ice, Indigenous, moose (still haven’t been!)
- Arkansas: Walmart headquarters and beautiful Ozarks scenery
- Arizona: Indigenous lands, canyons
- California: The most diverse state
- Connecticut: Rich people commuting to NYC
- Colorado: Super high elevation, Rocky Mountains, wookie culture
- Delaware: Small state with beaches and tax-free shopping
- Florida: Miami nightlife, theme parks, “Florida Man”
- Georgia: Atlanta culture, Black Mecca vibes
- Hawaii: Absolute paradise, and respect for Hawaiian people
- Idaho: Potatoes and scenic rivers
- Illinois: Chicago, house music, deep-dish pizza (already covered in detail)
- Indiana: Michael Jackson’s birthplace (Gary)
- Iowa: Corn capital; largest exporter in the world; cool girls move to Chicago
- Kansas: Tornadoes and The Wizard of Oz
- Kentucky: Bourbon and the Kentucky Derby
- Louisiana: Jazz, Mardi Gras, beignets, New Orleans vibes
- Maine: Lobsters and rugged coastlines
- Maryland: Crabs and good vibes
- Massachusetts: Boston, history, Irish mob
- Michigan: Detroit, Motown, Great Lakes
- Minnesota: Minneapolis, center for injustices? Vikings football
- Mississippi: Slow life, Southern charm
- Missouri: Gateway Arch, barbecue
- Montana: Big skies, Yellowstone, cowboy vibes
- Nebraska: Corn, flatlands, Omaha steak, billionaire Warren Buffett
- Nevada: Las Vegas and deserts
- New Hampshire: Mountains, fall colors
- New Jersey: New York + Philadelphia culture mashup; Whitney Houston, my husband’s home
- New Mexico: Red deserts, Indigenous culture, art scene
- New York: NYC, Niagara Falls (already covered in detail)
- North Carolina: Beaches, Charlotte, mountains
- North Dakota: Prairie landscapes, oil fields, very quiet
- Ohio: LeBron James, rock ‘n’ roll history
- Oklahoma: Indigenous history, casinos
- Oregon: Portland weirdness, scenic coastlines
- Pennsylvania: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, history
- Rhode Island: Tiny but scenic, coastal charm
- South Carolina: Charleston charm, Southern food
- South Dakota: Mount Rushmore, Badlands
- Tennessee: Country music; Memphis rock ‘n’ roll, Elvis
- Texas: Houston, Dallas, Austin, El Paso; big, diverse, fun
- Utah: National parks galore, Salt Lake City & Mormons
- Vermont: Maple syrup, fall foliage
- Virginia: Colonial history, Pharrell, Chris Brown
- Washington: Seattle coffee and tech hub
- West Virginia: Mountains, coal history, whitewater rafting
- Wisconsin: Cheese and football
- Wyoming: Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, luxury meets wilderness
Final Thoughts
The U.S. is a massive country with diversity in culture, geography, and people. From bustling metropolises to quiet national parks, there’s something for every type of traveler. I hope this guide helps foreign visitors plan a one-month tour of the mainland U.S., showing not just the famous sites but also hidden gems that make America truly fascinating.