If you’ve ever thought about the goal to visit all 50 states, you’re in the right place!
This is more than a bucket list for me. It’s a personal commitment to experience the fullness of this country through its cities, small towns, food, culture, and the histories we were not always taught. It is part of a larger goal I set for myself to visit all 50 states and 50 countries by age 50.
What started as curiosity has grown into something deeper. The more I travel, the more I realize how much there is to see, eat, learn, and unlearn. And even more, how much I want to connect with Black people, Black communities, and Black stories across this country. With America’s 250, this journey to visit all 50 states becomes more important than ever.
Now I want to bring you along with me! I created this post because nothing exists like this from a Black person, man or woman. Trust me, I’ve done numerous Google searches, and I’ve found absolutely nothing. You can thank me later for this black woman’s guide to visiting all 50 states.
So if you’ve ever wondered:
Then this ultimate black woman’s guide to visit all 50 states is for you!
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This journey to all 50 states started in 2014, two years after my first flight ever to Indianapolis, Indiana, when I first named it in my teacher portfolio. At the time, I didn’t even fully see myself as a traveler. I had only taken a handful of work trips and road trips, but when I reflected, I realized I had already been to nearly 20 states.
That shifted everything. Suddenly, the goal felt possible. Since then, I’ve aimed to visit at least two new states each year to remain on track to visit all 50 states by age 50. Some years, I exceeded that. Other years slowed down, especially during lockdown and in this current slower season. But slowing down hasn’t meant stopping. It has meant traveling more intentionally, revisiting places, and experiencing states through a deeper lens. Along the way, travel has also shown up unexpectedly through conferences, work, and opportunities that expanded my map in ways I didn’t plan for.
This blog documents that evolving journey to visit all 50 states, plus Washington, DC, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. My hope is that it helps you see travel differently, too, not just as a visit to all 50 states checklist, but as a way of understanding place, history, and possibility.
Because every state has something to offer. And more importantly, every destination in this country is a Black destination.
I love a checklist. There’s something satisfying about progress you can see. But this journey has become more than crossing states off to visit all 50 states checklist. It has been a practice in discipline, patience, and long-term vision.
It’s about breaking something big into something doable. Tracking progress. Staying consistent even when momentum slows. Sometimes that looks like spreadsheets. Sometimes maps. But also, sometimes posting as accountability. Because big goals only work if you keep showing up to them.
As a Black woman, I want to be what I couldn’t always find. When you search “visit all 50 states,” the content is overwhelmingly white. Even when I add “Black woman” to my key word search, there’s very little.
That doesn’t mean we aren’t traveling. We are. But our stories aren’t always centered or visible in the same way. I was reminded of this when I spoke to middle school students in Brooklyn. I shared that I had traveled to 40 states and 35 countries, and a young girl said, “I want to be like you when I grow up.” That moment stayed with me. Visibility creates possibility.
The goal to visit all 50 states sounds common, but it isn’t.
When you add race into that, the percentage who visit all 50 states becomes even smaller. It is easy for me to lose sight of that because I am plugged into 50-state clubs & communities, as well as creators doing similar things. It can feel like everyone is on this journey. But they are not. Which makes this goal not just personal, but meaningful.
There is so much Black history I never learned in school. Not just national history, but local history rooted in specific places. Travel changed that for me. I’ve learned about Tulsa’s Black Wall Street, the Hayti community in Alexandria (Virginia), Ona Judge’s escape to Portsmouth (New Hampshire), and so many other stories that reshape how I see this country.
U.S. travel became a classroom. One that is always open.
This country spans deserts to coastlines, rural towns to global cities, and communities shaped by layered histories and migration. Mistakably, at first, I compared everything to New York City. Over time, I learned to stop doing that. Now I try to experience each place on its own terms. Some of my best memories have come from places people overlook.
I learned to embrace that every state has something to offer if you let it.
This question sparks a lot of debate in the All Fifty States Club. There is no right or wrong way to do this. It’s your journey!
For me, a visit means three things:
What does not count as a visit to all 50 states is simply passing through. Driving across a state, flying over it, or stopping at a national chain without engaging in anything local does not qualify as a visit for me.
Black Trailblazers Trolley Tour at Greenwood Cemetery in Brooklyn, NY
To actually visit all 50 states takes intention. Especially if you are not driving. While I have a separate post on how I navigate this journey without a car, there are a few core strategies that apply no matter how you travel. These are the things I’ve learned along the way.
One of the best ways to visit all 50 states is to stop jumping all over the map and start thinking in regions. Instead of bouncing from coast to coast, I focus on one area at a time and give myself space to actually experience it. One to two weeks in a region goes a lot further than scattered weekend trips. New England is a perfect example. Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Maine are all close together and easy to connect. With some planning, you can move through multiple states without feeling rushed or like you are just collecting stops.
Border cities are one of the easiest ways to double up on states without even realizing it. For instance, Kansas City sits in both Missouri and Kansas. Omaha is right next to Council Bluffs, Iowa. Fargo connects with Moorhead, Minnesota. And in the Northeast, New York City gives you direct access to New Jersey cities like Jersey City, Hoboken, and Newark. Even places like Cincinnati, Ohio and Covington, Kentucky or Louisville, Kentucky and nearby Indiana make it easy to cross lines in a single trip. Once you start paying attention to this, you realize how much closer everything actually is makes your goal to visit all 50 states more feasible.
Some states become easier when you stop thinking “state by state” and start thinking “city by city.” This strategy is known as city hopping or city coupling. A lot of major cities are only a short train or bus ride away from each other. Indianapolis and Louisville are about two hours apart by greyhound. Chicago and Milwaukee as well as New York and Philadelphia are connected by Amtrak. When you plan this way, you naturally start stacking states without forcing separate trips for every visit to all 50 states.
This one sounds simple, but it’s easy to lose track of. There was a time when I was traveling often, but I hadn’t visited a new state in almost two years. That shifted how I approach travel. Now I’m more intentional about making sure I’m still moving the list forward. Early on, this helps you build momentum toward your visit to all 50 states. Later on, it becomes more about planning and being strategic with where you go next.
You are not going to see everything in one visit. And you don’t have to. Do not feel the pressure to visit all 50 states in a year, or visit all 50 states in 50 days, or visit all 50 states in 12 trips. Visiting all 50 states means making trade-offs. Some trips will be deep, some will be quick, some will just be enough to say “I was here.” The goal is not to overextend a place. It’s to experience it in a real way, knowing you can always come back and go deeper later after you visit all 50 states.
City hopping from Southern Indiana to Louisville (just a bridge apart!)
One of the most helpful things I’ve learned on this journey is that you do not have to figure it out alone. There is a whole ecosystem of travelers, creators, and communities who are either actively working toward all 50 states or have already done it and are sharing what they learned along the way. As a Black woman, I want to acknowledge that it is even more important for us to see examples of others who look like us on the same journey because the reality is there are other aspects of this journey we must consider, like racism, sexism, and intersectionality, that impact how we feel about safety and belonging.
Following other people on this path is not just inspiration, it is strategy. You start to notice how people plan routes, think about timing, budget trips, and even prioritize states that are not always top of mind. For me, this has been one of the most practical ways to stay motivated and intentional.
These are the people I think of as possibility models, showing what is possible in real time.
Black women who have visited all 50 states (left-to-right: Ashley Nealy, Ebony Walden, Jessica Nabongo)
All Fifty States Club: A community for people working toward or who have visited all 50 states. Members can receive recognition, such as certificates and plaques, and those with 35+ states can join for added motivation. They also host an annual in-person convention.
Visit All 50 States Facebook Group: A large community of over 600,000 members sharing itineraries, tips, and experiences from all 50 states. It is a strong space for crowd-sourced advice and real-time travel inspiration.
Travel Noire: A digital travel platform and media brand highlighting Black travel experiences around the world. It features stories, itineraries, and “Spend a Day in Black-Owned” guides that center Black travelers and destinations.
ABC Travel Greenbook: A modern “Green Book”-inspired platform that connects travelers to Black-owned businesses, events, and communities globally. It curates listings, itineraries, and travel recommendations rooted in cultural connection and support.
Greenbook Global: an app that enables Black travelers to plan trips with confidence and less anxiety by providing user-generated travel insights from the Black perspective across 9 dimensions for cities around the world. They even have an option to plan safer driving routes in the USA as a Black Traveler
Support Black Periodt Greenbook: My own modern Green Book-inspired guide focused on intentionally supporting Black-owned businesses and cultural sites across the U.S. It offers curated listings and a simple framework: Buy, Learn, Amplify, Celebrate, Knowingly. A way to make supporting Black communities more intentional and consistent.
Unlock Black Journeys: The Podcast: My podcast sheds a light on the black experience across all 50 states, one conversation at a time, from a local’s perspective
Traveling While Black Series: My Traveling While Black series on the blog provides my personal insights, looking at categories such as safety, vibes, and comfort
Black-Owned Guides: You can find one-day Black-owned guides and detailed long weekend itineraries for many U.S. cities. This will eventually become the largest archive of U.S. Black-owned guides
Visit all 50 States Apps: Here are a few recommended apps from the visit all 50 state club to track your progress.
Two modern-day green books as resources (left by Dr. Franny, right by Martinique Lewis)
As of June 2025: 40/50 states visited!
What follows is my evolving journey to visit all 50 states, documented in the order I visited each state. Some were deep explorations. Others were quick stops. All are part of the story. Each state will eventually have its own guide, reflections, and memories that shaped how I see this country.
Dates Visited: 1989–Present
Places Visited: New York City (all five boroughs and New York City islands), Hudson Valley (Beacon, Cold Spring, Warwick, Hyde Park, Fishkill), Westchester (Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, Yonkers, Croton-on-Hudson), Capital Region (Albany), Finger Lakes (Watkins Glen State Park), Long Island (Freeport, Oyster Bay, North Fork, Montauk, Jones Beach), Niagara Falls, and more
Wish to Visit: Buffalo, Rochester, Poughkeepsie, Auburn, the Adirondacks, the Catskills, Saratoga Springs, New Paltz, Schenectady, Sag Harbor, Southampton, Syracuse, Lockport, Letchworth State Park, West Point game day, New York State Fair
New York is my home state. With roots in Brooklyn, I’ve lived here my entire life. All of my higher education degrees occurred here. But living somewhere doesn’t automatically mean you’ve explored it. I’ve been intentional about changing that. From summer trips out to Long Island beaches and vineyards, to Hudson Valley day trips for fall foliage, to glamping on Governor’s Island, to reconnecting with all five boroughs through a more curious, tourist lens, I’m still discovering New York in new ways. Yes, I’ve visited all the U.S. tourist attractions in New York, like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Top of the Rock, One World Observatory, The Edge, and walked across the Brooklyn Bridge. I continue to explore it from both a local and tourist lens.
Here are my guides for the Empire State.
Dates Visited: 1996–Present
Places Visited: Ellis Island, Jersey City, Hoboken, Newark, Paterson, Edgewater, Elizabeth, Camden, Cape May, Avalon, Wildwood, Atlantic City
Wish to Visit: Trenton, Montclair, Princeton, Bayonne, Harrison, Jersey Shore, Ocean City
New Jersey has always felt like New York’s hated cousin, but honestly, it moves like a 6th borough, particularly Northern New Jersey. It’s easier to get to some parts of Jersey than Staten Island thanks to the PATH, NJ Transit, ferries, and buses. It’s all right there.
Because of that, I’ve been trying to be more intentional about exploring it. Jersey City jazz festivals, Hoboken brunches (it’s a thing!), Newark’s Black history and culture, Paterson waterfalls, and those classic beach days in Wildwood, Atlantic City, and Cape May. It’s closer than people think, and there’s a lot more in this state than people realize.
In 2026, I set out to explore New Jersey beyond food by taking more immersive, story-driven day trips. That journey has led me to a Black Heritage Trail walking tour in Jersey City, a visit to the Krueger-Scott Mansion in Newark, and time spent in Cape May exploring the only surviving Black-owned business (Freda’s Cafe) and the only surviving Black church (Historic Macedonia Baptist Church).
Here are my guides for the Garden State.
Dates Visited: 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2014, 2017, 2026
Places Visited: New Haven, Stamford, Hartford, Mystic, Essex, Fairfield, Waterbury
Wish to Visit: New London, Danbury, New Canaan, Stratford, Litchfield, Gillette Castle State Park
Connecticut is one of those states I’ve always been close to, but not close enough. My first memory was Stamford as a child. Later, I spent a college preview weekend at Trinity College in Hartford, where I felt like I was transported to a whole different world. Then came New Haven for a 5-week Yale pre-med program that was my first real time away from home. Since then, I’ve returned in different seasons of life: college visits, school trips, work, and quick getaways to Essex. But it’s been almost a decade since I’ve really spent time there. That’s changing soon.
Here are my guides for the Constitution State
Dates Visited: 2009–2018
Places Visited: Boston, Cambridge, Cape Cod, Salem, Martha’s Vineyard, Hyannis, Aquinnah
Wish to Visit: Nantucket, Oak Bluffs, Roxbury, Berkshires, Plymouth, Gloucester
Massachusetts was one of my earliest states, but I haven’t been back in a while. Most of my visits were tied to education (pathway programs, conferences, and school-related trips), but I’ve also experienced Boston more personally with my mom and through leisure travel. From Dorchester summer cultural festivals and Downtown Boston museum passes to experiencing beach days during a sand castle contest along the coast, I’ve gotten to know Boston in layers. Now I want to go deeper and explore the Black communities I didn’t fully understand or see in plain sight at the time.
Here are my guides for the Bay State.
Dates Visited: July 2009; March 2011; December 2013; July 2014; May, June, and December 2017; July 2018; July and September 2022; July 2024; August 2025; April 2026
Places Visited: Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Hershey, Lancaster, Kennett Square, Amish Country, Bernville, Hummelstown
Wish to Visit: Erie, Gettysburg, New Hope
Pennsylvania is one of those states I keep coming back to, especially Philadelphia. My visits started during my pre-med years at the University of Pennsylvania, but over time, it’s become everything from long weekend trips with my husband, celebrating the Fourth of July in the birthplace of independence, to riding a buggy through the sweeping green fields of Lancaster and playing Family Feud at a local vineyard in Hummelstown. It has also been concerts with friends, chaperoning school trips, and attending a convention with other 50-state challengers. One of the best parts? Philly is only about 1.5 hours away, making Pennsylvania one of my easiest repeat states, and I take full advantage of that with day trips.
Here are my guides for the Keystone State.
Dates Visited: July 2009; February 2012; February 2014; May 2014; December 2018; June and July 2019; May 2023
Places Visited: Baltimore, Annapolis, Bethesda, Columbia
Wish to Visit: Silver Spring, St. Michaels, Solomon Islands
Maryland has grown on me over time. I’ll be honest. My first impressions of Baltimore weren’t great. But over the years, I’ve experienced it differently each time I return. From crab cakes and Fort McHenry with my mom to Christmas Village visits with my husband, Baltimore has shown up in different ways for me. A tour of the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, in contrast to waterfront dinners in Annapolis and an all-pink Celebrez en Rose festival at a Columbia park with friends, helped me see that Maryland is one of those places that changes depending on how you show up.
Here are my guides for the Old Line State.
Dates Visited: November 2011, July 2017, October 2021
Places Visited: Providence, Kingston, Johnston, Exeter, Wakefield
Wish to Visit: Newport, Block Island
My first trip to Rhode Island was a quick stop on the way to Boston with a friend who was headed to his alma mater, Brown University. My second visit was with my mother on a New England bus trip, including a trolley ride around Roger Williams Park Zoo. In October 2021, I took a long weekend with my husband, about a month after we got married. We took a gondola ride through Providence and spent a day moving through several small towns across the state. We walked through corn mazes, ate fresh apple cider donuts, watched glass blowing, and tasted farm-fresh cheese. It gave me a fuller picture of Rhode Island beyond the more well-known spots.
Here are my guides for the Ocean State.
Dates Visited: February 2012, December 2019
Places Visited: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lutcher (Levee), Vacherie (Laura Plantation), Edgard (White Plantation)
Wish to Visit: Shreveport
Have you really been to Louisiana if you have not been to New Orleans? My first trip to New Orleans was an immersive introduction to the city’s energy and culture. I took a road trip with three other people from New York to experience Mardi Gras in person. A friend who lived in Baton Rouge also gave me a local’s perspective and introduced me to traditions beyond the usual tourist path. From beaded parades to learning how to eat crawfish, from spicy Popeyes Chicken in its birthplace to hand grenades (definitely be careful with those drinks), it was a full experience!
My second visit offered a different but equally meaningful lens. I spent Christmas week there with my mother, experiencing midnight mass, reveillon dinner traditions, gator meatballs, and the Levee Bonfires. We also visited two different plantations, which added important context and a fuller historical story. And of course, there were beignets. New Orleans is a place I can keep returning to, with so much still on my list.
Here are my guides for the Pelican State.
Dates Visited: February 2012, December 2014, October 2015, December 2016
Places Visited: Miami, Naples, Orlando (Disney), Key West, Everglades, Fort Meyers, Tampa, Daytona Beach
Wish to Visit: Jacksonville, Tallahassee, St. Augustine, Fort Lauderdale, Dry Tortugas National Park, Clearwater, Marco Island, St. Petersburg
Each time I’ve visited Florida, it has felt completely different. My first visit was a quick stop on a road trip back to NYC from New Orleans. The second was a bus tour to Orlando with my mom, where we visited Disney World, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Universal Studios. I finally got to experience the theme parks I had not as a child, and you really do need a full week to do them justice.
My third trip was to Miami for Carnival, which meant j’ouvert, powder and paint, all-white yacht parties, and nonstop energy. Another visit included time with family and a weeklong bus tour across the state, from the tip of Key West to airboat rides through the Everglades to those gorgeous Florida sunsets. It really showed me how diverse Florida is across its cities and regions.
I want to return and experience Florida more deeply through a Black lens, especially Miami’s Wynwood and Little Haiti, and also explore places like Jacksonville, FAMU, Dry Tortugas National Park, and St. Augustine.
Here are my guides for the Sunshine State.
Dates Visited: February 2012, February 2014, December 2018
Placed Visited: Atlanta
Wish to visit: Savannah, Augusta, Southwest GA (Thomasville, Albany, Cordele, Americus)
I’ve been to Georgia three times, and each visit has been centered in Atlanta. I know I need to change that and make it to Savannah next. My first trip was a road trip from New Orleans, during which we visited the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and ate at the famous Mary Mac’s Tea Room. The second was while chaperoning an HBCU tour down South and back, stopping at Spelman, Morehouse, and Clark Atlanta.
My most recent visit was with my mother via Amtrak over the Christmas holiday. We did the classic stops like the Coca-Cola Museum and the Civil Rights Museum, but also leaned into local experiences like a Black history and food walking tour and live music. I loved watching my mom experience Georgia in an unexpected way, especially seeing how it challenged and expanded some of her assumptions.
Here are my guides for the Peach State.
Dates Visited: March 2012, June 2025
Places Visited: Indianapolis, Carmel, Southern Indiana (Jeffersonville, New Albany)
Wish to Visit: Fort Wayne, Indiana Dunes National Park, Bloomington, South Bend, Gary
Indiana, especially Indianapolis, holds a special place in my heart. It was the first state I ever flew to on my own for the National Science Teacher Conference. I remember meeting Bill Nye, walking the riverwalk, and noticing how many monuments reflected the state’s deep ties to history. It is also where I first discovered Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and went out of my way to try a spot I had seen on TV. Coming back 13 years later felt like a full circle moment during my trip to Indiana (a returning state) & Kentucky (a new state). Some parts felt familiar, while others felt new, and I got to experience the city in a different way.
Carmel surprised me in the best way. It was clean, calm, and made me think about what it could feel like to live there. I also explored southern Indiana by way of Louisville, where towns like Jeffersonville and New Albany offered a slower, small-town feel and deeper historical context.
Here are my guides for the Hoosier State.
Dates Visited: April 2012, July 2018
Places Visited: Detroit, Lansing, Okemos, Dearborn
Wish to Visit: Mackinac Island, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Holland, Traverse City
My first trip to Michigan was to visit a college friend in Okemos, a small town with farmland and no street lights at night. During that visit, we explored Lansing, the capital, and Dearborn, including the Henry Ford Museum.
Six years later, I returned to Detroit for a Black-themed girls trip. The city felt like it was in a renaissance, with a revitalized downtown and so much to do, from live jazz and museums to the waterfront. One of my favorite moments was doing the Hustle on a rooftop, surrounded by Black community, music, and joy. It was also powerful to hear firsthand experiences of growing up in Detroit from twin lawyers and a judge I met through my friend (who was serving as a lawyer there at the time).
Here are my guides for the Great Lakes State.
Dates Visited: July 2012, October 2014, December 2014, March 2021, December 2022, November 2024, October 2025, February 2026, October 2026
Places Visited: Roanoke, Blacksburg, Natural Bridge, Shenandoah Caverns, Richmond, Bluemont, Williamsburg, Yorktown, Jamestown, Alexandria, Mount Vernon
Wish to Visit: Norfolk, Arlington, Leesburg, Culpeper, Hampton Roads, Newport News, Charlottesville
Virginia is one of those states that keeps drawing me back. My first visit was a Chinese bus tour from NYC to Natural Bridge and Shenandoah Caverns. Over the years, my experiences have ranged from Roanoke and Blacksburg, where I visited a close friend in medical school, to more recent trips exploring Alexandria and Mount Vernon, which feel like a natural extension of DC.
Roanoke gave me small-town vibes in the best way, from homemade popcorn at a farmers market to taking in sweeping mountain views. That contrast, from quiet, scenic moments to the rich history of places like Alexandria and Mount Vernon, is what keeps Virginia so dynamic for me. I have also taken in the breathtaking views of Bluemont’s wine country and immersed myself in the deep colonial history of Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown. And Richmond has a chokehold on me. I love its rich Black history and the city’s warmth.
Here are my guides for the Old Dominion State.
Dates Visited: July 2012, February 2014, April 2016
Places Visited: Nashville, Gatlinburg, Chattanooga
Wish to Visit: Memphis, Franklin, Knoxville, Clarksville
My first two trips to Tennessee were through Chinese bus tours to Gatlinburg and Chattanooga, where I visited Ruby Falls, rode the Incline Railway, and went to Dollywood. My most recent trip took me to Nashville for the National Science Teacher Conference. I explored the live music scene on Broadway, had my fair share of BBQ and hot chicken, embraced the party vibes, and visited the Parthenon.
Every time I visit Tennessee, it gives me a vibe I’m not used to. From the laid-back mountain towns to the high energy of Nashville, each experience feels distinct and keeps me curious about what the state has to offer next.
Here are my guides for the Volunteer State.
Dates Visited: October 2012, July 2018
Places Visited: Chicago, Aurora
Wish to Visit: Evanston, Peoria
In Illinois, I’ve only explored Chicago and Aurora (a suburb). While I have only been to Chicago twice, it holds a special place in my heart and is on my short list of places I would move. The first time, I unexpectedly spent a week there after getting stuck due to Hurricane Sandy. I visited a school in Aurora, spent Halloween in the city, saw the Bean, took a photo with Oprah’s former chef, and had Portillo’s. I loved the sweeping skyscrapers that reminded me of NYC, but cleaner and more spacious.
The second time was a Chinese bus tour with my mom. She had fond memories of Chicago from the 70s, so I wanted her to experience it again. We revisited the Bean and the fountain, took in views of the Sears Tower, and did the architecture cruise, which really sold me on the city. Seeing the river cut through the skyscrapers was unforgettable.
Here are my guides for the Prairie State.
Dates Visited: March 2013, June 2015, January 2019, January 2024
Places Visited: Dallas, Houston, San Antonio
Wish to Visit: Austin, Fort Worth, Galveston
My first trip to Texas was in 2013 for the National Science Teacher Conference in San Antonio, and it felt like a whole different world. I saw cowboys, wandered the River Walk, took a boat ride, and had some of the best tacos, refried beans, sopapillas, and big margaritas while connecting with other teachers. I have been to Dallas twice for conferences. One that stands out was the Courageous Principals Conference with Deloitte in Westlake through Teach For America. I also had time to explore, attend an MLK concert, and visit the Presidential Library.
My most recent trip (Houston) did not go as planned. Freezing rain hit halfway through, and I quickly learned Texas is not built for cold weather. Still, I made the most of it, from painting my own doormat and showing it off in a Soul Train line, to enjoying great food, seeing colorful murals, and attending a Pretty Girls That Brunch vision boarding event. I even connected with a woman from the Bronx who had moved there.
Here are my guides for the Lone Star State.
Dates Visited: July 2013, July 2021
Places Visited: Portland, Bar Harbor, Peaks Island
Wish to Visit: Kittery, Acadia National Park, Bangor, Lewiston
My first trip to Maine was a Chinese bus tour with my mom, where we visited Bar Harbor and Portland. We took a boat ride, tried lobster ice cream, and explored lighthouses inside and out. The second time was also with my mom, but it was a much more intentional and in-depth trip I planned. We indulged in lobster rolls, took a wine sail tour, explored more lighthouses during golden hour, and visited museums like the Portland Museum of Art and the Maine Historical Society. There was, of course, also plenty of ice cream along the way. One of the highlights was visiting Peaks Island, where we took a golf cart tour and ended at an umbrella museum. It was one of my favorite mother-daughter trips.
Here are my guides for the Pine Tree State.
Dates Visited: Feb 2014, Nov 2016, Jan 2017
Places Visited: Charlotte, Durham, Greensboro, Raleigh
Wish to Visit: Asheville, revisit Charlotte, Wilmington
Looking back, North Carolina is where I started traveling differently. I visited a few times while a friend was there for his residency program, mostly in short bursts, and my first introduction came through an HBCU college tour. I did not get to experience the cities deeply then, but it was a meaningful way to first engage with the state.
By November 2016, I was back exploring Durham, Greensboro, and Raleigh more intentionally. In Durham, I had some of the best chicken and waffles, spent time on Duke’s campus surrounded by fall leaves that still felt warm enough for no coat, and listened to live music around the city. In Greensboro, I visited the International Civil Rights Center and Museum and experienced the sit-in simulation, which stayed with me. This is also when my intentional focus on Black museums and Black-owned businesses really sharpened.
A couple of months later, I returned during MLK weekend in Charlotte. I explored the Gantt Center, experienced performances hosted inside the museum, and spent more time moving through the city with that same intentional lens.
Here are my guides for the Old North State.
Dates Visited: Feb 2014, June 2014, Feb 2025
Places Visited: Columbia, Myrtle Beach, Charleston
Wish to Visit: Greenville
Similar to North Carolina, my first introduction to South Carolina came through an HBCU college chaperone trip where I stopped briefly at several campuses. My first extended time came in June 2014, when I spent two weeks in Columbia for a science teacher training. I explored local restaurants and sites, but I was a different kind of traveler then and I know I would experience it differently now. While many of the participants went home for the weekend, I took a Greyhound to Myrtle Beach and spent the weekend by the water. It was one of my first lessons in maximizing a trip and making the most of in-between time.
Most recently, I spent a week in Charleston, which offered a very different experience. This was intentional Black travel in practice, encompassing two Black history walking tours, shopping at the City Market, and visiting the International African American Museum. We even attended a college lecture focused on local Black history. Even with a full week, it felt like I only scratched the surface.
Here are my guides for the Palmetto State.
Dates Visited: April 2014
Places Visited: Jackson, Gulfport, Biloxi
Wish to Visit: Vicksburg
My one and only time in Mississippi was visiting a friend I met through a pre-med pathway program. She was a student at Jackson State University working on her doctorate, and through her, I was connected with her friends who showed me around the state. We experienced live jazz in Jackson, visited the Civil Rights Museum, and spent time along the coast in Gulfport and Biloxi with casino stops and beach views in between. It was a full mix of culture, history, and coastal energy in one trip.
I will be honest: I came to Jackson with some fear because of the South’s history, so I am grateful my first experience was with friends who could guide me through it. It was also one of the trips when I felt most out of my comfort zone. Now that I know there is an Amtrak route from New Orleans, I am looking forward to going back and exploring Mississippi more intentionally.
Here are my guides for the Magnolia State.
Dates Visited: July 2015, June 2016
Places Visited: Denver, Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Golden, Garden of the Gods
Wish to Visit: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Boulder
I have some great memories in Colorado. My first visit was for a teacher conference, during which I traveled with an eclectic group of colleagues. In Denver, we took a drive up Lookout Mountain, and the views truly lived up to the name. It was my first time being fully in awe of mountain landscapes and that crisp, high-altitude air.
My second visit was a two-week science teacher training in Colorado Springs, which came with a real adjustment to the altitude. I was lucky to make quick connections that helped me explore more of the area, including Garden of the Gods and other nearby spots that required a car. I also made time for solo exploring, riding the railway up Pikes Peak, eating the famous altitude high donuts, and wandering through Manitou Springs. The nature there is truly unmatched.
Here are my guides for the Centennial State.
Dates Visited: April 2015
Places Visited: Lincoln (Flume Gorge, Franconia Notch State Park), Mount Washington, Lake Winnipesaukee
Wish to Visit: Portsmouth, Exeter
I’ve only been to New Hampshire once, over 10 years ago, so I am long overdue for a return. My only visit focused on the nature side of the state through a Chinese bus tour with my mom. I still remember climbing over slippery rocks through Flume Gorge, taking the incline railway up Mount Washington, and cruising Lake Winnipesaukee, where we even danced on the boat. It was a full immersion in New Hampshire’s natural beauty. Next time, I want to balance that experience with more of the city side, especially Portsmouth and Exeter, and ideally pair it with a trip to Boston. I also want to explore Sankofa African heritage tours while I am there.
Here are my guides for the Granite State.
Dates Visited: April 2016, April 2017, July 2018, April 2019
Places Visited: San Francisco, Oakland, San Diego, Los Angeles, Alcatraz, Sonoma, Angel Island
Wish to Visit: Napa, Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, Palm Springs, revisit San Francisco, Oakland, San Diego, and Los Angeles
California is one of those states where I feel like I am always barely scratching the surface. Every city feels like its own world, and I have never fully felt like I “loved” the state as a whole, but San Diego is the one place that really stood out to me the most. My first visit was in April 2016, to San Diego and Los Angeles, to visit a childhood friend. We explored attractions such as Balboa Park and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
In April 2017, I traveled to San Francisco and Oakland to visit a friend, and that trip is what really shifted things. I explored Golden Gate Park, Muir Woods, the Golden Gate Bridge, and took a boat ride around the bay. I also visited Alcatraz, the Palace of Fine Arts, Sonoma Valley, and did an overnight trip to Las Vegas during that same stretch. That entire trip was expensive, so I am definitely not rushing back anytime soon.
By July 2018, I was back on the West Coast with my husband for a broader bus road trip. We stopped in Los Angeles for a day and packed it in with Griffith Observatory views, authentic Mexican tacos, the Grammy Museum, the El Pueblo Historic District, and the California African American Museum. It was fast but full.
In April 2019, I returned for a conference with colleagues, but still made space to explore. We walked through murals, spent time in La Jolla (San Diego), and had ocean views paired with fresh ice cream and sorbet. That was the moment the state really stood out to me. We also sang along in a dual piano bar and indulged in some of the best pancakes I’ve had in my life.
Here are my guides for the Golden State.
Dates Visited: October 2016, March 2017
Places Visited: Wilmington
Wish to Visit: Rehoboth Beach, New Castle, Lewes
Both of my trips to Delaware were for leadership training. I am here to say Wilmington really is small. It felt even smaller than Rhode Island. You do not have to go far to get from the riverfront to the Delaware Historical Society, and everything feels very walkable and contained.
One of the more memorable stays was at the Hotel du Pont, where I had a very unexpected mix of experiences in one place: afternoon tea, a Broadway show, and even seeing Jerry Springer host The Price Is Right. It was one of those trips that felt oddly full for such a small city. Because it is so close to NYC, I definitely want to return and do a more intentional Black-owned day trip experience across the state.
Here are my guides for the First State.
Dates Visited: April 2017, July 2018
Places Visited: Las Vegas, Hoover Dam
Wish to Visit: Reno, Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Seven Magic Mountains
My first impression of Las Vegas was honestly a bit shocking, seeing smoking even at the airport to the overall intensity of the Strip. A lot of the casinos also had a strong smoke smell, which was a turnoff for me. ,That first trip was still exciting. I saw the Backstreet Boys in residency during their early run, explored the Strip, tried the overpriced food and drinks, and rode the massive Ferris wheel. But Vegas really hit my pockets, and I left feeling like I did not want to rush back. The second time was with my husband during a West Coast road trip. We still experienced the Strip but also explored more off-Strip sites like the Mob Museum and the Neon Museum, and did a walking tour that gave more context to the city’s history and layers. Still, Vegas has never fully captured my heart. I am more curious now about places like Reno, Red Rock Canyon, and the colorful landscapes beyond the city.
Here are my guides for the Silver State.
Dates Visited: November 2017
Places Visited: Seattle, Bainbridge Island
Wish to Visit: Bremerton, San Juan Islands (Orcas, Lopez), Spokane, Bellevue, Tacoma, Vancouver
I was not feeling my best on this trip, but somehow, travel still worked its magic. Even with that, I have really fond memories of Washington. Seattle immediately stood out for its gloomy, cozy vibe, which I actually loved. I visited Pike Place Market, took a delicious food tour, and watched the fishmongers at work. Of course, I had to see the Gum Wall too. I also remember having really interesting conversations with Uber drivers about how tech has changed the city and the impact of gentrification. One of the highlights was taking advantage of the ferry system. I did a day trip to Bainbridge Island and even extended the experience with an overnight trip to Victoria, Canada, which made the whole trip feel bigger than just one city.
Here are my guides for the Evergreen State.
Dates Visited: July 2018
Places Visited: Salt Lake City, St. George
Wish to Visit: Revisit Salt Lake City
This trip was part of a 10-day bus road trip from Los Angeles to Wyoming and back to Las Vegas, and Utah was the first leg. It was already memorable from the start. In St. George, we stopped at a scenic restaurant on top of a hill, but I accidentally left my credit card behind. Thankfully, our Lyft driver went out of their way to return and get it for us, which really set the tone for the kindness we experienced. On the way back, we spent some time in Salt Lake City, visiting the Capitol, the Ski Museum, Temple Square, and the Salt Lake. One of the most unexpected highlights was discovering some of the best Indian food in the hotel lobby. It was a quick visit, but one that made me want to come back and explore more intentionally.
Here are my guides for the Beehive State.
Dates Visited: July 2018
Places Visited: Page (Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon), Grand Canyon
Wish to Visit: Tucson, Tempe, Phoenix, Scottsdale
As part of our extended West Coast bus road trip, we made our way through some of Arizona’s most iconic natural landmarks, including Lower Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon. I never thought a trip like this would be possible since my husband, then boyfriend, and I do not drive, but we figured it out. Thanks to group tours and long travel days, we made this happen!
Each stop felt unreal in its own way. Walking through Antelope Canyon with the light hitting the curves just right, standing at Horseshoe Bend looking down at that perfect curve, and then seeing the Grand Canyon stretch endlessly in front of us. It really put into perspective how vast and powerful nature is. It was also incredibly hot, the kind of heat you feel instantly, but it added to the intensity of the experience. Arizona felt grand, overwhelming, and unforgettable all at once.
Here are my guides for the Grand Canyon State.
Dates Visited: July 2018
Places Visited: Cody, Casper, Gillette, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Devil’s Tower
Wish to Visit: Cheyenne
I am telling you, we were really traveling on this bus road trip, and Wyoming was one of the states we explored the most. We made multiple stops along the way, each with its own surprise. In Casper, we had some of the best pizza and lasagna, supposedly made with Brooklyn water, which I still think about. In Gillette, we found great Mexican food, and in Jackson Hole, I tried an elk burger for the first time.
But the true highlight was the nature. Grand Teton completely surprised me. I did not know what to expect, and it turned out to be one of the most breathtaking places on the trip. Yellowstone was just as impressive, especially seeing the Grand Prismatic Spring in person with its unreal colors. Wyoming really reminded me how expansive and beautiful the U.S. can be. It felt untouched, vast, and full of moments that stayed with me.
Here are my guides for the Equality State.
Dates Visited: July 2018
Places Visited: Yellowstone National Park, Gardiner
Wish to Visit: Bozeman, Billings, Glacier National Park
While we did not spend much time in Montana, the time we did have was still memorable. We stayed in Gardiner, a small town right on the edge of Yellowstone, and it really felt quiet and tucked away. One moment that stands out is grabbing a bison burger within walking distance of our hotel, simple, but it added to that small-town kind of experience. I also remember walking into a local grocery store right after, at sunset, which made the whole moment feel even more memorable in an unexpected way. This is definitely one of the states I have spent the least time in, so I would love to return and explore it more intentionally, especially places like Glacier National Park.
Here are my guides for the Treasure State.
Dates Visited: July 2018
Places Visited: Keystone (Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse), Devils Tower
Wish to Visit: Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park
This was another short stop on our bus road trip, but we packed a lot into it. For our day trip in South Dakota, we visited Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, which felt surreal to see in person. One fun highlight was trying the original ice cream recipe at Mount Rushmore, and it did not disappoint. Even in a short time, this stop felt full, a mix of iconic landmarks, history, and just enough unexpected moments to make it memorable.
Here are my guides for the Mount Rushmore State.
Dates Visited: July 2018, October 2019, September 2023, June 2026
Places Visited: Cleveland, Sandusky, Put-in-Bay, Kelleys Island, Cincinnati
Wish to Visit: Columbus, Dayton, Toledo
My first time in Ohio was very brief, just a quick photo stop with my mom on a bus tour. In October 2019, I returned for a long weekend in Cleveland to cross another state off my list. I stayed in an Airbnb, which is rare for me, but hotels were expensive and it ended up being a great choice. It was peak fall, with crisp air and colorful leaves. I explored the West Side Market, ate at Michael Symon’s restaurant, and even did an Italian food tour. One of my favorite memories was visiting a Black-owned urban winery, sampling wines while listening to stories from the owner, who has since passed. He even drove me to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which made the experience feel extra personal.
I did not expect to return, but in September 2023, a fundraising conference brought me back, this time to Sandusky. I decided to add an overnight in Cleveland, and it was the best decision. I experienced the city in a completely different way, including a Black history tour, an incredible bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit, and a visit to a powerful “Door of No Return” monument. I also took a day trip to the Lake Erie islands, Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, which turned out to be one of the most unique experiences. From wine flights and slushies to riding a trolley around a small island, it felt like a hidden world. Visiting the Peace Memorial, which marks the closest point to Canada and is the only international peace monument in the U.S., really stood out. Ohio truly surprised me and felt like an unexpected hidden gem.
An in true fashion with Ohio, I unexpectedly returned again in June 2026. This time, I added Cincinnati as a trip after attending my first Creator’s Weekend with the Black Travel Alliance in Lexington, KY. Once I found out Cincinnati was only 1-2 hours away from Lexington, I knew this was my chance to visit it. This city had been on my list for quite some time, and it did not disappoint. Honestly, it ranks Top 5 of cities I would move. I loved the Black history of the National Underground Railroad Center and Harriet Beecher Stowe house. I also loved the cleanliness and public transportation options. Cincy is worth a long weekend!
Here are my guides for the Buckeye State.
Dates Visited: October 2018
Places Visited: St. Louis
Wish to Visit: Kansas City, Route 66
Missouri was another long weekend trip as I worked my way through visiting all 50 states, and I ended up really loving St. Louis. I rode up the Gateway Arch, took a steamboat ride along the Mississippi River, and spent time soaking in the city’s music scene. One of the highlights was a small local bar with live blues, paired with charcoal oysters, plus a visit to the National Blues Museum.
I also remember how many locals asked me why I was visiting St. Louis of all places, but that is exactly what made it interesting. Between the food, especially the barbecue, and the music, the city had a real sense of soul.
Here are my guides for the Show Me State.
Dates Visited: May 2019
Places Visited: Minneapolis, St. Paul
Wish to Visit: Moorhead, Duluth, Stillwater
I took full advantage of long weekends during this phase of my 50 States journey, and Minnesota was one of those intentional stops. I visited at the perfect time weather-wise (Memorial Day weekend), which made me slightly alarmed after reading what winter is really like there. In the Twin Cities, I explored the Sculpture Garden, listened to a live Prince tribute by one of the only bands allowed to perform his music, and wandered through neighborhoods that felt both familiar and new. I also visited a local waterfall and had one of the best cinnamon rolls I’ve ever had, thanks to an Uber recommendation. Beyond the food and sights, I learned a lot about the Somali community, immigration, and job pathways in the region. Since then, I’ve met several Black women from Minnesota, which has only made me more curious to return and explore further.
Here are my guides for the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Dates Visited: October 2019
Places Visited: Burlington, Stowe (Smugglers Notch State Park), Waterbury
Wish to Visit: Woodstock, Manchester, Montpelier
Vermont had been high on my list for a while, so I was excited to finally make the drive up from NYC with one of my closest friends. About six hours later, we landed in peak fall, and it was everything I hoped for. Over a long weekend, we ate the freshest pizza and cheese curds, watched a breathtaking sunset over Lake Champlain, and even caught an intimate comedy show with college students. Between the foliage, the food, and the pace of life, it felt like stepping into a completely different version of the U.S.
Here are my guides for the Green Mountain State.
Dates Visited: October 2022
Places Visited: Tulsa
Wish to Visit: Oklahoma City
Oklahoma was one of my most memorable trips. It was the weekend I published my first book, and I chose to celebrate it in Tulsa on Black Wall Street, which made the experience feel even more meaningful. I took a powerful Black history tour solo, hands down the best one I’ve taken. I’m still in contact with the tour guide. Downtown was small, walkable, and Black. I learned how much it had changed over time compared to its past scale, which the tour helped bring into perspective. What stood out most was the people. The warmth, the conversations, and the ease of connection made the trip. And the affordability explained a lot about why so many people are choosing to move there.
Here are my guides for the Sooner State.
Dates Visited: February 2023
Places Visited: Honolulu, Oʻahu
Wish to Visit: Maui, Big Island
Hawaiʻi, like for many people, was our honeymoon destination. It was peaceful in ways I expected: slow mornings, beach time, and space to just be, but it also brought up a lot of reflection and tension for me. I found myself holding the beauty of the island alongside its colonial history and hearing local perspectives on places like Pearl Harbor. It felt distant and remote, yet still very much shaped by the United States in ways I couldn’t ignore.
Some of my most vivid memories include a luxury beach picnic with a fire show framed by mountains and palm trees, and attending a Black film festival in Hawaiʻi, which felt powerful and unexpected in that setting. Even the food told a story, from Portuguese sausage to the blend of cultures present across the island.
Here are my guides for the Aloha State.
Dates Visited: November 2023
Places Visited: Milwaukee
Wish to Visit: Madison, Wisconsin Dells, Eau Claire,
Milwaukee was a surprise in the best way. I went in with no strong expectations and left feeling wrapped in a sense of community and warmth. It was a long weekend trip filled with moments that stood out, from a 1:1 paint-and-sip to Black brunch spaces and Sherman Phoenix to learning at the America’s Black Holocaust Museum. One of my favorite stops was a Black-owned tea house, and I also found some dope earrings that I still think about. I was also struck by the largest concentration of Haitian art in a museum, which added another layer to the experience. I can’t wait to return and explore more, especially Madison.
Here are my guides for the Badger State.
Dates Visited: November 2024
Places Visited: Harpers Ferry, Bolivar, Shepherdstown, Charles Town
Wish to Visit: Charleston, New River Gorge National Park, vineyard region
I did not know what to expect from West Virginia, but it surprised me in the best way. Harpers Ferry stood out for its deep Black history, including sites tied to John Brown’s Raid and the legacy of Storer College, a historically Black college in the area. The town itself felt preserved in time, with views stretching across three states. We also got a real feel for small-town life, from shopping at a local Christmas craft market to a Friday night block party with country music, sitting in hay and taking in Appalachian sounds and culture at a barn bar. There were moments I felt out of place, but people were welcoming in a way that made it easy to settle in.
Here are my guides for the Mountain State.
Dates Visited: June 2025, June 2026
Places Visited: Louisville, Lexington, Covington
Wish to Visit: Bellevue, Versailles
Kentucky surprised me in the best way. I visited Louisville as part of a broader trip to Indiana in June 2025. It took a two-hour Greyhound ride to get there. I am not sure what I expected, but what I found felt more vibrant, more Black, and more layered than I anticipated. A major highlight was the Black racing tour at Churchill Downs. It was one of the best tours I’ve ever done, giving real behind-the-scenes context and history. I also learned more about Muhammad Ali’s legacy, including how deeply rooted he is in the city as both a native and someone laid to rest there. I loved the mix of experiences, from creative workshops with drinks to Friday-night rooftop vibes to community-centered events. I left feeling energized and wanting to explore much more.
One year later, I had the opportunity to visit Lexington, KY, through Creator’s Weekend, organized by the Black Travel Alliance and VisitLex. This allowed me to experience my first press trip ever with a group of Black creators. More importantly, I got to experience this city in depth in a way I would not have otherwise. From the series of Juneteenth celebrations to walking the African American trail to experiencing what the state is known for (which is bourbon and horses) from a Black lens, I left feeling that Lexington, KY, is such a hidden gem.
I tagged on a trip to Cincinnati, Ohio which led me to explore Covington, KY for a day. I honestly fell in love with it because of the views, how cheap things were, and how progressive and inclusive it felt.
Here are my guides for the Bluegrass State.
Dates Visited: First time in 2008, many times but most notable trips were June 2016, October 2016, December 2017, May 2023
I’ve been to Washington, D.C. many times, from quick day trips to long weekend excursions. My first visit was in 2008 for a College Advocacy Day, and over the years, I’ve returned for workshops and other short trips. However, my first truly memorable experience beyond that was in June 2016, when I was honored as a recipient of the 30 Under 30 Caribbean American Emerging Leader and Changemaker Award. During that trip, I even got to meet Machel Montano at the reception. It was also my first time stepping inside an embassy, which made the experience even more special. Later that same year, I had another surreal moment. I was invited to attend the South by South Lawn event hosted by the Obamas, which meant I got to walk through the White House and spend time on the South Lawn. I even got a selfie with Common! During that trip, I also visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture for the first time. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I was able to share it with my mom.
My next visit was in December 2017, when my husband (then boyfriend) and I took a Christmas-themed trip. We leaned fully into the holiday spirit—seeing a show at Ford’s Theatre, viewing the Christmas lights at the National Zoo, and exploring the 50-state display at the U.S. Botanic Garden. Most recently, I visited in May 2023 and brought my mom along again. We revisited the African American Museum, took a trolley tour around the city, and I joined a walking tour of Black Broadway. I even met the owner of the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl while eating there.
Here are my guides for Washington, D.C.
Also: Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands
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Welcome to the Franny the Traveler blog! I’m Dr. Franny, a national award-winning educator, entrepreneur, author, and Black travel enthusiast on a personal mission to make every destination a Black-owned destination. As I visit all 50 states and 50 countries by age 50, this Black travel blog is a growing collection of Black-owned city guides, itineraries, travel tips, and reflections on traveling while Black for the conscious traveler. I’m so happy you’re here!
