Travelling across America: 34 states in 12 months.
From the moment I arrived in the United States, I had one dream in mind: to visit all 50 states. An ambitious but exciting challenge that pushed me to explore every corner of the country. My first year turned into a true immersion—both in American culture and its diverse landscapes. In just 12 months, I had the chance to travel through 34 states (all the ones marked in color on the Cultural Care map), each offering unique and unforgettable experiences. From the East Coast to the Rocky Mountains, through the South and the vast open spaces of the West, this is the story of my travels, the discoveries I made, and the moments that shaped this incredible adventure across the United States.
I've written another article with more details on the destinations, maps and sites to visit in each state.
October: first visit: Philadelphia
It may not be a road trip or a big journey, but it still counted as a "little" trip for me! After all, I absolutely had to discover my own city from a different perspective. Here are three photos of the places I visited, but I will also share a list of other spots I had the chance to explore..
1. Independence Hall
The historic heart of the city, where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. A UNESCO World Heritage site, a must-see for any visitor to Philadelphia..
2. Reading Terminal Market
One of the oldest and most famous markets in the country, where you can find local products, Philadelphia specialties like the "Philly cheesesteak," fresh produce, and dishes from around the world.
3. Eastern State Penitentiary
An iconic former prison that operated from 1829 to 1971. It is famous for its Gothic architecture and fascinating history. Guided tours tell stories of famous prisoners and the evolution of the penitentiary system in the United States.
4. The Franklin Institute
An interactive and scientific museum that is very popular with families. It offers fascinating exhibits on space, technology, medicine, and ecology, with hands-on experiences..
5. Schuylkill River Trail
A 13-mile trail that runs along the Schuylkill River, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and allows you to experience Philadelphia from a more natural perspective..
6. The Rodin Museum
Located right next to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, this museum houses an impressive collection of works by the artist Auguste Rodin, including the famous sculpture "The Thinker.".
7. Love Park (John F. Kennedy Plaza)
An iconic park with Robert Indiana's famous “LOVE” sculpture. A popular meeting place, especially for outdoor events and festivals, and an ideal place to relax. au cœur de la ville.
9. Liberty Bell
Just a stone's throw from Independence Hall, this famous bell symbolizes the independence of the United States. It is a true symbol of freedom and American history.
8. Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps
The museum is a must-see for art lovers, with an impressive collection of European and American paintings. Don't forget to climb the famous “Rocky Steps”, made famous by the film Rocky, and pose in front of the Rocky statue.
November: New York City under the Christmas decorations
Time Square
Christmas decorations
Thanksgiving
Brooklyn bridge
Central park
Manhattan bridge
As I mentioned in my article First Year in the USA: Month by Month, I was lucky enough to spend Thanksgiving in New York with my host family. This experience was a wonderful opportunity to discover the city from a slightly different perspective, more family-oriented and festive. It was also during this time that I explored some of the most iconic places in New York..
Times Square can be a bit disappointing if, like me, you were expecting a vast avenue like the Champs-Élysées, when in reality it’s just a few blocks of giant bright billboards. Don’t expect a grand square like the one you see in the movies, or you might end up disappointed! That said, it’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and enjoy typical fast food. If you have the chance to come during the holiday season, don’t miss the Christmas decorations! It’s magical! The gigantic Dior clock is definitely worth seeing, even in the rain, it’s stunning! The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is just as impressive, a true symbol of the city. And of course, Central Park is just as beautiful as in the movies, with its famous bridges, like those in Brooklyn and Manhattan at Dumbo. Gossip Girl fans won’t want to miss visiting Grand Central Station, absolutely gorgeous. Finally, a stroll down 5th Avenue is a must for shopping, a New York essential. !
The Budget in New York
Regarding the budget, it should be noted that most of these places are free, which is a real advantage for those traveling on a tight budget. Additionally, I was fortunate that my accommodation was covered by my host family, which allowed me to fully enjoy the city without worrying about housing costs. In terms of transportation, the subway costs $2.95 per ride, or you can opt for a weekly pass at $34, which allows you to travel unlimited for 7 days. If you take the subway frequently, know that after 12 rides, the 13th and all subsequent rides are free for the rest of the week, which can be a good saving. For food, food trucks are ubiquitous along the roads and offer hot dogs starting at $5 or $6, a quick and typical meal at a reasonable price.
December: Washington DC
First weekend, first road trip with friends! Destination: the capital of the United States: Washington D.C. We lived about 3 hours' drive from the city, so we decided to make the trip by car with four of us. Of course, we couldn't miss the White House. And honestly, I was a bit disappointed! I expected a large, imposing building, but in reality, it's a small white house, quite simple, in the middle of a garden, surrounded by tall black fences. !
My favorite spot in D.C. was the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Admission is free, and the museum is really well designed: very engaging for children and rich in information. It's a must-see. !
Budget: Gas cost us about $8 per person, as we only filled up once for about $35. On-site, we had booked a hotel room for four at $80 a night, which is $20 per person. For meals, we ate once at Shake Shack and another time at an Italian restaurant, which comes to about $30-40 per person for the two days. In total, this weekend cost us about $90-100 per person for one night and two days. Additionally, many activities in D.C. are free: all the museums, the tour of the White House, the Capitol, the botanical garden, etc. In short, a weekend that is both affordable and full of discoveries !
White house
botanical greenhouse
The Capitole
National Museum of Natural History
January : First adventure in Kentucky: between discovery and winter thrills
My first trip with my hosts was a getaway to the state of Kentucky, the birthplace of the famous KFC! We were a group of 5 adults and 2 children, including friends of my hosts. However, if I can give you one piece of advice: avoid visiting Kentucky in January! We faced freezing temperatures, reaching -15°C, with deserted streets and many sites closed. We had hoped to visit a horse farm, but unfortunately, all the horses had been brought in to escape the cold..
My hosts, great whisky enthusiasts, took advantage of the trip to tour the local distilleries while I watched the kids. To keep them occupied, we explored the science museum and visited the zoo, even though the freezing air made the experience a bit rough. !
My favorite? The baseball museum! The guided tour immersed us in the world of baseball bat manufacturing, and at the end, each visitor receives a small bat as a souvenir – really adorable. The cherry on top, my host gave me a session of 10 pitches with a machine to try to hit like a pro. !
I am convinced that Kentucky must be beautiful to explore in better weather conditions, but for now, my experience remains a bit unclear. In terms of budget, my hosts covered all the expenses, which allowed me to fully enjoy without worrying about the costs..
February: Express getaway to Miami: sun, design, and nights at the airport !
Between two getaways, I had the chance to have a short but intense stay in Miami. We visited Miami Beach and the design district, all in less than 36 hours! I arrived on Friday night, around midnight, and we had to leave on Sunday morning at 6 AM. My friend, with whom I was traveling, didn't want to book a hotel since we would ultimately spend very little time in a room. So we made a bold choice: to sleep in the airport. !
We spent Friday night in a quiet corner of the airport before leaving at 5:30 AM to admire the sunrise by the ocean. This spectacle was truly worth the trip! Afterwards, we spent the entire day exploring the different neighborhoods of the city, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Miami Beach and the design district with its galleries, shops, and contemporary art..
On Saturday evening, we headed to the airport for a second night on site, to rest and wait for our return flight. Winter is definitely the best season to visit Miami: it was 25 degrees, an ideal temperature for exploring without suffering from the sweltering heat of summer..
This stay was quick, a bit crazy, but absolutely memorable !
February: second trip: Los Angeles
My host mom went to visit her aunt in Los Angeles for a week, and we took the opportunity to all go to LA together. It was a chance to visit all the must-see spots in the city! I discovered Venice Beach, walked the Walk of Fame, admired the famous Hollywood sign, and, most importantly, I fulfilled one of my dreams by visiting Universal Studios. !
Even though the rain was present, it didn't ruin the experience. The sets were simply incredible, and the unique atmosphere of the studios was magical. I highly recommend this visit to all movie and adventure fans. !
I had the chance to spend a day in San Diego, and what an incredible experience! The weather was beautiful and warm, perfect for exploring the city. I was particularly enchanted by Balboa Park, with its lush gardens, museums, and unique architecture. This place is truly a gem! Although the time was short, this visit left me with an unforgettable memory, and all I want is to go back to discover even more..
Walk of fame
San Diego
Universal studio
Venice beach
San Diego
Sunset
March: A Day at Niagara Falls: Between the United States and Canada
My hosts were invited to a wedding in Rochester, New York, just two hours from Niagara Falls. Taking advantage of my day off on Friday, I took a bus from Rochester to the falls for a day of sightseeing..
The falls were absolutely magnificent, and since I arrived early in the morning, I was lucky enough to see rainbows forming above the falls! I also crossed over to the Canadian side, where I paid $22 to access a platform located just below the falls, allowing me to see them up close. It was an incredible experience. !
Right next door, on the Canadian side, there is a lively street lined with attractions and buildings featuring original and fun architectural styles. This day left me with unforgettable memories between the natural beauty of the falls and the vibrant atmosphere of the Canadian side. !
March : Weekend texan : discover Dallas and Fort Worth
I spent a weekend in Texas, first in Dallas, then in Fort Worth. The beautiful weather was on hand, and the atmosphere was incredible! Dallas is a vibrant city with plenty of activities to do. As for Fort Worth, it’s a typically Texan city, where you can find the cowboy spirit with horses and local cattle..
In terms of transportation, Fort Worth is very well served. There is a direct train from the airport to Fort Worth, and to get to downtown Dallas, buses are available, with clear and easy-to-follow directions..
My friend and I stayed in affordable Motel 6s. For two nights, we paid only $40 per person. As for dining, the prices are also very reasonable. In Fort Worth, we tried a typical dish: a huge portion of bone-in pork with fries, all for just $17! The portion was so generous that we could have easily shared it..
This weekend in Texas was a beautiful immersion in the local culture, between modernity in Dallas and tradition in Fort Worth !
May : Colorado
I went on a weekend road trip to Colorado with four other au pairs, and it was one of my best travel experiences! Colorado is truly beautiful. We visited Denver, the Colorado National Monument, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Manitou Springs, the Garden of the Gods, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and the Rocky Mountain National Park. We had splendid weather, with bright sunshine, a blue sky, and pleasantly warm temperatures. !
We drove a lot to cover a large part of Colorado in just one weekend – the timing was tight! But as au pairs, it was definitely not our last big road trip, haha !
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Garden of the Gods
Colorado National Monument
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
June: Lantern Festival and Baseball Game
Granted, it's not a trip, but it's a wonderful experience, so I still wanted to include it here.
I booked on the site Nightlight. As for me, I found a festival near where I live, in Philadelphia, but there are events like this all across the United States. I’m sure you’ll easily find one that suits you!
It was a game between Philadelphia (the Phillies) and San Diego (the Padres), and the Phillies won the victory 4-3. I admit that I didn't understand much of the rules, but the atmosphere was incredible. !
It was my very first baseball game in America, and it was awesome!
It felt like we were in Tangled, the Disney movie. When everyone released their lanterns at the same time, the sky filled with lights, and it was absolutely beautiful..
The festival does have a certain cost: I paid about $60 for entry and parking. It's quite expensive, especially since the show, once the lanterns are launched into the sky, lasts only 15 to 30 minutes. After that, there are no more activities offered..
June : Minnesota
I went on a road trip in Minnesota for a weekend. We traveled a large part of the "North Shore," stopping at the most beautiful viewpoints..
Like: Minnehaha Falls, Cuyuna Lakes mountain bike trails, Iona's Beach, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Duluth, black sand beach.
We even drove to Voyageurs National Park in hopes of seeing the Northern Lights, but unfortunately, we saw nothing..
For more details, you can take a look at my Instagram below, where all my travels are featured in the stories.
July : Road trip East coast
I took an incredible 6-day road trip, covering about 3000 miles (4800 km) and crossing 18 states, all on a budget of around $1300. Here’s an overview of our itinerary:
Day 1: We traveled through Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Richmond, and then North Carolina, with a final stop in Fayetteville.
Day 2: Heading to Charleston in South Carolina, followed by Savannah and Atlanta in Georgia, before stopping in Mentone, Alabama.
Day 3: We drove to Nashville, Tennessee, then took a break by the Mississippi River, in Mississippi. In Arkansas, we discovered a charming park, "The Old Mill".
Day 4: Visit to a buffalo ranch in Oklahoma, a stroll along the legendary Route 66 in Kansas, a stop in St. Louis, Missouri, and finally, a beautiful sunset in Kenosha County, Wisconsin.
Day 5 and 6: We spent these two days exploring Chicago, in Illinois.
Day 6: We made one last stop at Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana, then continued our journey through Michigan and Cleveland, Ohio. Before heading home, we made one final stop in Eastern Virginia..
August : Road trip New England
My parents came to visit me in Boston, and we had an amazing week there. We took the opportunity to explore all the states of New England, namely Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island..
Boston is simply amazing! I highly recommend doing the *Freedom Trail*, a route where you follow a red line marked on the ground that runs through the entire city. It allows you to discover the fascinating history of Boston. The city is vibrant, beautiful, and there is always something to do..
We also visited Salem, and it's a place not to be missed, especially during Halloween, to fully experience the witch atmosphere. But even in August, the vibe is unique and the shops are really interesting. !
Outside of Boston, we were fortunate to discover several picturesque towns in the area :
- FFranklin Farm, in Vermont, where we explored a typical farm and enjoyed the tranquility of the countryside.
- Portsmouth, in New Hampshire, a charming little town with beautiful architecture and a maritime atmosphere.
- Portland, dans le Maine, où nous avons savouré de délicieuses spécialités locales, dont le fameux homard.
- Providence, in Rhode Island, a vibrant city with a rich arts scene and trendy restaurants.
- North Canaan, in Connecticut, a perfect place for a peaceful break and to discover the beauty of the northern Connecticut landscapes.
Each state in New England has its own charms, and this week has been a true adventure through beautiful and character-filled places.
This first year of travel has been a true adventure, full of discoveries, encounters, and unforgettable moments. From Boston to Chicago, passing through the breathtaking landscapes of New England and the great American cities, each stop has been an opportunity to explore new horizons, taste different cultures, and create precious memories. These travels have not only enriched my view of the world, but they have also allowed me to better understand and appreciate the diversity of the United States. I am eager to continue this adventure, and I hope that my stories and advice will inspire you to embark on your own journey to discover new places. See you soon for new escapades. !
Travels and discoveries : My first-year tour of the United States