The Explore All 50 States Project
Let's Go!
With so much technology out there it can be a little confusing finding the right system to guide you. The days of folding and unfolding those paper maps have now given way to all kinds of electronic gadgetry to get you from point A to point B without getting lost. They can also give you really helpful information about the nearest gas station, restaurants even local attractions. But with so many options to choose … [Read more...]
This was our last and final stop and the place where we actually completed visiting all 50 states. It was such a momentous moment we forgot to capture it on film...Ugh..I will regret that till the day I die. Just a word of warning though, when using your GPS make sure it knows you want Harpers Ferry National Park in West Virginia. It's important to note that this is where the states Maryland, Virginia and West … [Read more...]
Sometimes we start a project and the benefits that we derive from it exceed our expectations in ways we could never imagine. I don't think Val Pentony ever thought back in 2004 when she started her quest to see all 50 by 50 what kind of impact it would have on her, her family and her friends. Her project has not only inspired deeply felt patriotism, but also a love of learning and an appreciation … [Read more...]
Sure you can find just about anything you need online these days, but I still love thumbing through travel books to research my road trips. I not only find it more efficient, but infinitely more enjoyable to go city by city and tag the things that look super interesting. Later I map out my "wish list" and see what falls on or near our route in some cases adjusting our route to include something really awesome. … [Read more...]
My kids and I were so excited to check out Thomas Edison's lab but sadly we never made it. First off our GPS took us to Thomas Edison's home in Edison NJ also known as Menlo Park about one hour south. Upon realizing our mistake, we also realized I had lost my wallet at Ellis Island and made a beeline back the Statue of Liberty Cruise at Liberty State Park. What a nightmare. By the time we got what we could sorted … [Read more...]
When it comes to pacing your road trip, balance is key. The pace of your trip is a key factor in making the experience a success that leaves everyone excited for the next one. A trip that’s too jam-packed with activities can be overwhelming and exhausting. On the other hand, a trip that is too slow or with too few planned outings can leave everyone bored. A well-paced trip keeps everyone excited for the next … [Read more...]
One of my biggest motivations for starting The Explore All 50 Project with my kids was to create a family history, one rich with rituals that define who we are giving us a collective sense of identity and purpose. I instinctively knew this was really important for my kids, but I didn't realize just how much, and how important it would come to be in connecting us all together. Rituals can be defined as "a sequence … [Read more...]
As the Explore All 50 Project has grown and is now reaching more readers, it's really given me the opportunity to "meet" some amazing people all across the country who like me, share a real passion to see all of America. About two weeks I got to know Nicole White from Maryland who along with her husband Chad and kids Gavin (13) and Lucy (10) have already visited 27 states and are in the process of planning this … [Read more...]
As Seen On Monster Fish & Game. Traveling in the great outdoors here in the USA is not only an amazing way to spend time with your family but it’s also a great opportunity to discover and learn so much about the world around us. As a single mom who’s taken on the goal of seeing all 50 states with my kids (after 10 years and 14 trips we are at 42), I can tell you that adventure and learning can take place in … [Read more...]
Reading all the reviews of the dining options in Fairbanks we were a little disheartened by the lack of overwhelmingly positive experiences. I combed through Yelp, Tripadvisor, and Urban Spoon searching desperately for a good dining option. There was so much negative, from rude service, to tasteless food, and way too expensive. The only place that had consistent positive reviews no matter where we checked was … [Read more...]
