I’ve always had the travel bug, but it didn’t fully click for me until the start of 2026—after I finished high school.

That’s when I decided I didn’t just want to travel more casually. I wanted a real direction. A goal that would push me to see more of the country I’ve grown up in and understand it on a deeper level.

That goal became simple: visit all 50 U.S. states.

At first, it was curiosity. Then it turned into a challenge.

Why this matters to me

This journey is about perspective.

I’m trying to gain a better understanding of America—how different places think, live, and experience daily life. I think a lot of people would benefit from seeing more of their own country instead of only their own region or state.

There’s something powerful about realizing how much variety exists within the U.S.—not just in landscapes, but in people, culture, and mindset.

At the same time, it’s also a reminder that you don’t have to leave the country or fly across the world to experience beauty. It’s already here—you just have to go look for it.

What most people get wrong about travel in the U.S.

One of the biggest misconceptions I see is that domestic travel isn’t “real travel” unless it’s international or exotic.

I don’t agree with that at all.

Some of my best experiences have been right here in the U.S.—hiking in national parks, exploring historic sites, or finding small local restaurants that actually reflect the place you’re in.

When I travel, I usually focus on a few things:

• A great hike or outdoor experience

• Local food that represents the city

• History that helps me understand the place

That combination tells you more about a destination than anything else.

A few places that stood out

Two states that really changed my perspective early on were Colorado and Arizona.

Denver gave me a balance of city life and outdoor access that I didn’t expect to appreciate as much as I did. And Tucson surprised me completely—the Sonoran Desert was incredible, and the people there were some of the most genuinely friendly I’ve met on the road. Those trips made this feel less like an idea and more like something worth committing to.

I’m currently at 23 out of 50 states, and I’ll be sharing everything as I continue the journey.

If you’re here, you’re early—and I appreciate it.