My family has a collective goal: to travel to all 50 states. While we are all at a different number of states visited, we try to make sure that we are all hitting at least one new state on each trip we take. I have currently traveled to 26 states, and while I have the least out of my family, I feel like I get an excuse because I’m the youngest. I have done something worthwhile in every state I have been to, but these are some of my favorites so far!
Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee
If you are an Elvis Presley fan, you must visit here when in Memphis! Graceland was the home of the legendary singer/actor. When you tour the Graceland Mansion, there is an audio tour that takes you through the house narrated by the one and only John Stamos who famously played Elvis-loving Uncle Jesse on Full House. Not only do you see the entire estate but you also will get to see some of Elvis’ automobile collection, his private jet and even some of the iconic outfits that he wore on stage.
The Monuments in Washington D.C.
I have been to Washington D.C. more than once, and each time my favorite part of the trip is seeing the monuments. As impressive as all of these monuments are on their own, seeing them at night is something that I always look forward to. If you ever find yourself in D.C. I highly suggest setting aside some time one night to either walk by or drive by some of the monuments lit up.
Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia
As silly as it sounds, one of my favorite things to do every time we go to a new state is to go to a zoo or aquarium (I even made my family walk around an outdoor zoo when it was 25 degrees once), and I have to say that the Georgia Aquarium is in my top three favorites. With so much to do and see just within the aquarium itself, you could spend the majority, if not all, of your day there. Whether it’s something you want to plan your day around or just a way to kill some time before your next excursion in Atlanta, I definitely recommend checking it out.
Road to Hana on Maui in Hawaii
While there is so much to do while on Maui, the Road to Hana was such an amazing experience because the entire tour is filled with views that will leave you breathless. The Road to Hana can be done either through a tour company or by driving the highway yourself, and there is truly nothing like it. My family and I did this tour almost nine years ago, and I still remember the beautiful waterfalls and the nature that surrounds them. This tour allowed us to see even more of the breathtaking island that we would not have been able to see otherwise.
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina
This one is another place that my family has made sure to visit more than just once. The Biltmore Estate built by George Vanderbilt is more than just a historical site. With an audio-guided tour, visiting their farm, multiple on-site restaurants, a spa and so much more, there is something for everyone. One of my favorite parts was the greenhouses and garden that they have, you could easily spend an hour on that part of the Biltmore alone. If you ever find yourself in North Carolina, make sure that you plan a day at the Estate.
While there have been so many more places that I could talk about, these five are the ones that stick out to me the most. I cannot wait to continue to travel the U.S. and eventually reach our goal of visiting all 50!
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