The United States is a vast and multifaceted land, a mosaic of cultures, histories, and landscapes that beckon to be explored. To truly know where you’re from is to walk its streets, stand among its mountains, and listen to the stories whispered by its rivers and forests. For a country with a relatively brief history, the richness of its diversity and the depth of its narratives are astonishing.
I’ve journeyed through 27 of the 50 states, and yet, it feels like I’ve only scratched the surface of what this country has to offer. Texas, my home state, holds a special place in my heart, with its expansive skies and bold spirit. Now, life has led me to explore the serene hills of Tennessee, the storied paths of Alabama, and the lush beauty of North Carolina. Each state carries its own heartbeat, a rhythm unique to its people, its land, and its past.
To explore the United States is to step into a living tapestry where every thread tells a story. It’s a journey of understanding—of who we are as individuals, as communities, and as a nation. There’s a profound connection to be found in standing where others have stood before, feeling the weight of their dreams and struggles, and recognizing how those echoes shape us today.
Though there’s still much of this country I’ve yet to see, I’m reminded that even in the familiar, there is always more to uncover. The United States, in all its vastness, invites us to look closer, to go deeper, and to embrace the complexity of the place we call home.
ALABAMA:
Why We Moved to Florence, Alabama (And Why We Love It)
Florence, Alabama: Where the River Sings the Blues
ARIZONA:
Things to Do in Tucson: 13 Unique & Low-Key Adventures
15 Cool and Unexpected Things to Do in Flagstaff, Arizona
ARKANSAS:
Hidden Gems and Open Roads: The Most Underrated Adventure Through Midwest America
CALIFORNIA:
San Francisco and Big Sur Roadtrip: A 10 Year Look Back
COLORADO:
San Juan Mountains in Southern Colorado: The Swiss Alps of America
NEW MEXICO:
Austin to Santa Fe and Back: A 4-Day Road Trip
NEW YORK:
10 Things to do in New York City
How I Survived 9 Days of Salmonella Hell in the Heart of NYC
OREGON:
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE:
Ultimate Guide to Memphis
10 Things to Know Before Visiting Memphis
6 Cool Hotels in Memphis (and Why You’ll Love Them)
7 Iconic Things to Do in Memphis (Even If They’re a Little Touristy)
35 Off-the-Beaten-Path & Must-See Gems in Memphis
Where to Eat the Best BBQ in Memphis (2025 Guide)
A Brief History of Memphis: 7 Defining Chapters That Shaped the Soul of a City
AUSTIN, TEXAS:
101 Unique Things to Explore in Austin: A Local’s Perspective
12 Pool Passes in Austin TX That Are Totally Worth It
21 Murals That Bring Austin’s Walls to Life
50 Tastes of Austin: The Best Restaurants in 2025
Austin’s Scenic Outdoors: 38 Must-Visit Adventures
Austin’s 15 Essential Coffee Shops for 2025
Where to Stay: 16 Best Boutique Hotels in Austin
WEST TEXAS:
Backpacking the Highest Peak in Texas: Guadalupe Mountains
New Year’s in West Texas & Big Bend State Park during the Government Shut Down
Shooting a Music Video in Big Bend of West Texas
