The Explore All 50 States Project
Let's Go!
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...]
From the land of Lincoln, to the Gateway Arch, through Iowa farmland, the wilds of Minnesota to the home of Harley Davidson. Here's a music playlist to keep you humming along as you explore the great Midwest. Enjoy some St. Louis Blues, and a bit of Polka from Wisconsin along with some other hits as you hit the road. "Chicago" Frank Sinatra "Bad Bad Leroy Brown" Jim Croce "You're The … [Read more...]
Just looking at this picture I am instantly taken back to the soft breezes, the gentle rolling waves and the wonderful calming sounds of Hawaiian music. As you cruise around the islands, here's an awesome list of inspired sounds to capture the spirit of Hawaii, tunes that will stay with you long after you have returned home. My personal favorites are the songs by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole. Sadly he is no longer with us, … [Read more...]
Alaska is definitely one of the most beautiful, remote and wild places we have ever experienced. I've tried to come up with songs that inspire that wild spirit, but also included some fun choices dealing with cold, ice and anything else that kinda sorta relates to the frozen north of the last frontier. Enjoy this eclectic group of songs if you are lucky enough to hit the road through some of the most beautiful and … [Read more...]
Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma are the center and the heart of America. Representing a way of life that seems to have disappeared from larger urban area, these three states celebrate wholesome values, family, and hard work. Get in touch with your All American heart with these tunes that celebrate the center of the USA also known as "Tornado Alley". While you are humming along, be mindful of the twisters and the "Dust … [Read more...]
North and South Dakota may not be tops on most peoples road trip destination list but anyone who ventures to explore here will be blown away by the natural beauty and the amazing array of uniquely interesting activities. Here's a list of songs that celebrate the spirit of the Dakotas as you drive along the prairies and through the Badlands, from the faces on Mt. Rushmore to the roaring motorcycle towns of Sturgis … [Read more...]
Ahhh, the beach, the sunsets, and a slice of key lime pie-these experiences make up our fondest memories of The Sunshine State. Florida is a magical place where you can swim (or jetboat) with dolphins on the gulf coast, hunt for treasure on sunken ships in the Keys, or delight in any fantasy you can imagine at Disneyworld in Orlando. Wherever you're headed from Jacksonville to the Everglades and everywhere in … [Read more...]
There is something so incredibly peaceful as you travel through the magnificent and unique landscapes of New Mexico and Colorado. These states share a natural spirituality but each is vastly different. Just like John Denver's "Rocky Mountain High" and The Champs "Tequila!" The painted desert of New Mexico is vibrant and almost otherworldly. Home to many Native American Indian tribes, it is also known as home to some … [Read more...]
Assembling the playlist was so much fun because our theme for this trip was Civil Rights and American Music. I felt this trip was a golden opportunity to introduce my kids to Elvis Presley and learn about the roots of Rock and Roll which by the way is rooted in Gospel and Country music. I had no idea until we hit Stax Records in Memphis where we also learned about Rhythm and Blues and it's evolution into Soul music. … [Read more...]
For the longest time I couldn’t figure it out. On every road trip we've eaten well, we've sampled treats all along the way, and for some reason I always come back lighter than when I left. And then the light bulb went off. Sure we were sitting in the car for a couple of hours a day, but the rest of the time we were walking everywhere-museums, attractions, tours you name it. Road trips can be an awesome way to … [Read more...]
