I Visited All 50 States And Ranked Them From My Least Favorite Travel Spot To My Top Pick

John Elk/Getty Images

There has to be a last-place spot in any ranking, but Oklahoma is here mostly because I haven't spent enough time there to rank it any higher.

I've been through several times and made some stops around Oklahoma City — but none wowed me or felt especially memorable.

I'd be interested in exploring more of the state's highlights, like the Wichita Mountains, in the future. However, I wouldn't travel here over other states ranked higher on this list.

Emily Hart

North Dakota's Theodore Roosevelt National Park is actually one of my favorite national parks due to its rugged badlands, dramatic landscapes, and wildlife.

But North Dakota is often listed among the least-visited states. And although it is beautifully vast, its spread-out nature can also make it difficult to explore.

Other than the park, there wasn't much else in the state that made me want to immediately book a return trip.

Emily Hart

I've driven the length of Kansas more times than I can count and have ventured off the highway several times to explore along the way.

Although I appreciate the hidden gems like Monument Rocks, the plains just aren't my preferred destination or landscape.

Emily Hart

Like Kansas, I've found many places in Nebraska surprisingly beautiful and unique, such as Scotts Bluff National Monument and the quirky Carhenge — a replica of England's Stonehenge made from 39 vintage American cars.

Still, in my opinion, Nebraska's plains can't compete with other parts of the country.

David Radzieta/Getty Images

Although the Mississippi Gulf has some gorgeous beaches, I haven't found much else in the state that would make me book a return trip.

If I find myself in the state again, I'd love to check out De Soto National Forest.

Shutterstock

My time in Alabama was similar to the time I spent in Mississippi, as I've mostly explored the Gulf shores.

Although beautiful, the distance from my home in Colorado means I'm unlikely to head here when I want a beach vacation. Still, I'd say it's a great spot for beach access for those in the neighboring states.

Despite its low ranking, this is a state I'd like to return to.

Emily Hart

This one is tough for me because I love a few Texas destinations like Fort Worth, Austin, and Big Bend National Park. But the size of the state means it's difficult to get anywhere without a direct flight into it, and the heat is a little too much for me.

Although there are some beautiful landscapes, there are others outside the state I prefer more.

Jon Lauriat/Shutterstock

During several visits to the state, I've found that Indiana consists of the same Midwestern landscapes I grew up with in Illinois but didn't necessarily love.

While Indianapolis has a lot to offer — and the state is home to Indiana Dunes National Park (which has a view of a power plant on one side and Chicago on the other) — it's not a place I'd choose to travel to if I had other options.

Emily Hart

I'm again showing my slight bias against traditional Midwestern states, but Ohio doesn't do much for me.

I've heard Hocking Hills State Park has incredible hiking trails and waterfalls, but I haven't had the chance to visit just yet.

I also thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. However, I haven't had the most impressive experiences in other parts of the state due to the gloomy, gray weather and little variation in landscape, so I wouldn't choose to visit Ohio over other states.

Jennifer M. Ramos/Getty Images

Pennsylvania is another low-ranked state that I'd like to return to. Its spot at number 41 is more due to a lack of ground covered than anything else.

On a return trip, I'd love to spend time in some of Pennsylvania's state parks — especially Cherry Springs State Park, known as one of the best places for stargazing due to the exceptionally dark skies.

Bruce Goerlitz/Shutterstock

Although it's small, Delaware is a gorgeous state with many outdoor activities, beaches, and history.

I enjoyed my time there and found it truly beautiful, but I feel there are other destinations in the east I'd choose over Delaware, which is why it's not higher in the ranking.

Philippe Debled/Getty Images

Most of my travel to New Jersey has been in the context of trips to the undeniably incredible New York City.

As a result, I haven't found a reason to visit New Jersey again apart from a detour from the city. Despite the lower ranking, I'd love to go back and visit some of New Jersey's 49 state parks and forests.

Marianne Campolongo/Shutterstock

I loved my short time visiting the beaches of Rhode Island but didn't find them unique enough to warrant a return trip.

I'd love to spend more time in Newport, Providence, and some of its popular state parks.

Emily Hart

I'd love to spend more time in Virginia, as my previous trips were marred by bad weather, such as snow, rain, and wind.

I was also disappointed by my outdoor experiences due to park, road, and trail closures, which unfortunately meant I couldn't rank it any higher.

However, it's home to the famous Shenandoah National Park and plenty of beaches, so I'd love to rank it higher on my next list.

Emily Hart

Maryland is home to part of one of my absolute favorite national seashores: Assateague Island.

The 37-mile barrier island stretches from Maryland to Virginia and is known for its beautiful beaches, wild horses, and abundant wildlife.

Although I absolutely loved my time visiting Maryland, there are other states I'd rather visit again.

Michael Andrew Just/Shutterstock

Unfortunately, Connecticut was one of the first states I traveled to solo, spending just a few days without much direction.

I enjoyed my time there, but I didn't see enough to give it a higher ranking. Still, I'd love to return and visit some of its impressive 142 state parks and forests.

Emily Hart

Nevada has some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the US, like Valley of Fire State Park and Great Basin National Park. However, it also has hours upon hours and miles upon miles of desolation.

Although it can be beautiful, driving for hundreds of miles across barren landscapes without seeing another car just isn't something I crave when traveling these days.

Emily Hart

I grew up in Illinois, and while I didn't appreciate it much then, I've grown to love certain parts of the state now.

In my opinion, Chicago is one of the best cities in the world — especially in the summer when the city comes alive, with activities on Lake Michigan in full swing.

It's also home to many parks and charming towns and boasts the first 301 miles of historic Route 66.

Marcio Jose Bastos Silva/Shutterstock

Although I really enjoyed Cape Cod and a few of the other areas of Massachusetts I've visited, I've never found the love for Boston that many travelers seem to have.

If I want to visit a city in the East, I'm more likely to travel to New York City.

And if I want a quintessential New England experience, I love traveling north to the coast of Maine. Therefore, unfortunately, Massachusetts is ranked lower despite its beauty.

Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock

Iowa gets a bad rep as just a cornfield filled with political signage. And although the state has both of those things, it also has so much more.

I love spending time in Des Moines, near the Mississippi River, and quirky small towns like Winterset, Pella, and Fairfield.

Emily Hart

Minnesota would surely be near the top of this ranking if it weren't for its harsh winters. After all, the state is a paradise for outdoor and water activities in the summer.

I love visiting the Boundary Waters area and Voyageurs National Park, hiking along some of the state's extensive trails, and driving the scenic road from Duluth up the coast of Lake Superior.

Unfortunately, I don't like the long and cold winters in the north, so I had to rank the state lower than spots with more year-round accessibility.

Emily Hart

As an outdoor enthusiast, Kentucky completely surprised me. I loved spending time in the Red River Gorge area and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, hiking to incredible rock formations I didn't expect to find.

Louisville is one of my favorite smaller major cities, with many downtown walkable activities. I especially loved visiting Whiskey Row and the gorgeous waterfront to walk or run across the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge.

Emily Hart

It might be surprising that North Dakota is so much further down the list than South Dakota. But if you've visited both, you know the states are actually very different, despite often being thought of as one.

I love visiting Badlands National Park for its stark beauty and dramatic landscape of layered sedimentary rock before heading to the Black Hills for forested hiking.

I also appreciate Custer State Park, the quaint town of Deadwood, and, finally, Crazy Horse Monument.

Emily Hart

Missouri is a state that's slightly misunderstood and under-the-radar. Despite being home to Kansas City and St. Louis on either side, the middle portions of the state are a mystery to many.

Although I love visiting St. Louis, the real star of the state is the Ozarks. Also known as the Ozark Mountains, this beautiful region is known for its rolling hills, deep valleys, clear streams, and abundant natural beauty.

The state has many lakes for outdoor adventures, and I especially love Lake of the Ozarks, a massive man-made lake where you can fish, swim, or partake in water sports.

Jeff Morgan/Shutterstock

In my opinion, Arkansas is one of the country's most beautiful states.

With diverse landscapes — from the Ozark Mountains to the Delta Lowlands to over 2,000 lakes and reservoirs — it is an amazing choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

The only reason it doesn't rank higher on this list is that one of the few national parks in the state — Hot Springs National Park — is, in my opinion, one of the least outwardly scenic parks and would be more suited as a national historic landmark.

Emily Hart

Vermont was the 50th state I visited solo, at peak fall colors, no less.

Although it was one of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful experiences I've had, Vermont is not higher simply because I prefer nearby New Hampshire and Maine.

Burlington is an incredible city, but it feels very similar to the one I live in, so I don't see myself traveling there as often.

Emily Hart

I love visiting the Florida Keys, Miami, Tampa, St. Augustine, Jacksonville, and the state's national parks, including spots like the Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas.

Unfortunately, I don't get there as often due to the longer flight from my home in Colorado.

Grindstone Media Group/Shutterstock

South Carolina is known for historic Charleston — which I love — but the rest of the state is also teeming with charm and outdoor recreation.

I love visiting Congaree National Park, strolling around charming Columbia, and hiking in some of the state's 47 state parks.

Emily Hart

Some may be surprised to hear that Idaho is one of the country's fastest-growing states percentage-wise in terms of population, but I don't find it shocking at all.

For years, Idaho was mostly known for its potatoes, but it's actually an outdoor lovers' paradise.

It has endless recreation opportunities, plus incredible hot springs and the Sawtooth Mountain Range.

I especially love the Teton Valley, a scenic area just over Teton Pass.

Emily Hart

With its soft sandy beaches and crashing waves, Lake Michigan's shores have a striking similarity to the ocean. Paired with its quaint lakeside towns, it's a summer vacation paradise.

Michigan is also home to one of the least visited major national parks — Isle Royale, which I think is underrated.

I also love visiting Mackinac Island, a car-free escape in Lake Huron that feels like it's in another world.

Emily Hart

Georgia, specifically its coast, is one of my favorite underrated vacation spots. From Cumberland Island to St. Simons to Savannah, the coast's beauty is mesmerizing.

Georgia is also home to what many believe will be named the next major national park: Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon.

Emily Hart

Tennessee is a surprisingly diverse state that I continue to go back to.

From outdoor recreation to the urban energy of the cities, the state has it all. It's also home to much of the Great Smoky Mountains, the most visited US national park.

I love visiting Nashville for music and food, Chattanooga for hiking and views, and the Smoky Mountains for the national park and Dollywood.

Emily Hart

As someone who has visited all 50 states and lived in Louisiana for five years, I can confidently say that it's truly unlike anywhere else in the country.

Although I appreciate much of Louisiana for its laid-back vibe and culture, I'd be lying if I didn't say New Orleans is the biggest draw.

From visiting the historic French Quarter to riding a streetcar, seeing live music, eating great food, and maybe even heading on a swamp tour, this legendary city has no shortage of excitement.

Emily Hart

It's difficult to compare anywhere in the US to the stunning islands of Hawaii. However, it's crucial to remember and respect the local communities while visiting.

I've only visited three of the islands so far, but I've been blown away by each one. The state offers plenty to do, such as exploring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or snorkeling at the black-sand beaches.

From Maui's Road to Hana to Oahu's Waikiki Beach, visiting here is a true privilege.

Emily Hart

Washington is home to three major national parks. Although many are aware of the incredible Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park, far fewer have visited the stunning North Cascades National Park.

Just over two hours from Seattle, the park is one of the least-visited in the country despite being one of the most gorgeous, in my opinion.

I love to visit all three parks, explore Seattle, and take a ferry to Bainbridge or Vashon Island for a day trip.

Emily Hart

North Carolina consistently has one of the highest levels of population growth, and it's easy to see why when visiting.

The state is incredibly diverse, from Charlotte's urban energy to Asheville's mountain vibes to the otherworldly beaches of the Outer Banks.

I love visiting Cape Lookout National Seashore for its pristine beaches, Pisgah National Forest for hiking, and any of the 40-plus state parks for outdoor adventure.

Emily Hart

There's no place in the US like New York City.

I love a weekend trip to the Big Apple for great food and culture. I'm primarily an outdoor-adventure seeker, so I love checking out Central Park, the High Line, and the unique Little Island.

But there's a lot more to New York than the city. I loved my recent trips going wine tasting in the Finger Lakes and hiking at the gorgeous Watkins Glen State Park.

Visiting New York can be as energetic or laid-back as you choose, especially since it's home to more than 200 state parks and historic sites.

Emily Hart

Growing up in Illinois, I generally considered Wisconsin a northern extension of my Midwestern state.

However, as I've visited several times as an adult, I can confidently say that the state is entirely unique and completely underrated as a vacation destination for fans of the outdoors.

Surrounded by Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and the Mississippi River, Wisconsin is a water lover's paradise, with more than 15,000 documented lakes in the state.

It's a great place for water sports, and I also like visiting the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which winds 1,200 miles through the state.

I also recommend checking out some of its over 250 supper clubs, which bring visitors back to another time.

Emily Hart

My first trip to New Hampshire was part of a longer New England fall-foliage road trip.

To be honest, I didn't have many expectations when it came to visiting the state, but I was completely blown away by what I found.

Driving through the White Mountains is still one of the most memorable experiences of my life, and watching the sunset over the horizon from the historic Omni Mount Washington actually brought tears to my eyes.

The state's Franconia Notch State Park is also a gem for outdoor adventure.

Emily Hart

Home to the Grand Canyon — arguably one of the most bucket list-worthy spots in all of the US — Arizona is so much more than the vast canyon.

I love to visit the forested hiking trails in Flagstaff, the red rocks of Sedona, and the sleek resorts in the Pheonix and Scottsdale areas.

Heading south, there's something for everyone. Visitors can explore Saguaro National Park, the intriguing science museum Biosphere 2, and the energetic Tuscon.

Although the heat in the summer months can be prohibitive, I can easily travel to Arizona from my home for warmer adventures throughout the winter months, which earns it a high spot on my list.

Emily Hart

Alaska is undoubtedly a must-see destination for most people.

The massive state has numerous national parks, amazing wildlife, glaciers, the northern lights, and the midnight sun in the summer months.

Whether traveling there by cruise ship or on the roads (I've done both), Alaska has no shortage of epic views.

Although the weather and daylight change dramatically throughout the year, it's surreal to be able to admire glaciers in the morning before hiking in shorts in the afternoon.

Emily Hart

West Virginia might seem like a surprising entry to my top 10 if you haven't spent much time here.

The "wild and wonderful" state has quickly become one of my favorites with its abundant outdoor activities and charming small towns.

From visiting the nation's newest national park that is not a historical site — New River Gorge — or the 36 state parks to world-class rafting on the Gauley River, there is something for everyone here.

Despite not having any city with over 50,000 people, the state is still fairly easy to access, with plenty of larger airports just over state lines.

Emily Hart

Montana is home to Glacier National Park, the stunning Beartooth Mountains, and portions of Yellowstone National Park.

Although the state has gained popularity over the past several years, it still feels somewhat untouched.

Traveling to Montana is not the easiest undertaking because the state is vast with long distances between many populated areas. Still, it is well worth visiting to see some of the most stunning scenery in the country.

Glacier National Park is a standout. I've been overcome with emotion from the beauty of driving along the park's Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Emily Hart

The least-populated state in the country is also home to some of its most incredible scenery.

With under 600,000 total residents in the state, Wyoming offers an incredible array of beauty and recreation opportunities.

Home to the majority of Yellowstone National Park and the unbelievable Grand Teton National Park, the state is a bucket-list destination that I believe everyone should aim to see at least once in their lifetime.

I visit about once a year to camp at Colter Bay in Grand Teton, where I hike, kayak, and swim before heading to Yellowstone to marvel at the geothermal features and abundant wildlife.

chasin__views/Shutterstock

Utah is the definition of otherworldly.

With five major national parks, 46 state parks, and an impressive 15 ski resorts, it's not an exaggeration to say Utah is an outdoor-recreation mecca.

With the massive Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, the awe-inspiring Zion National Park, and the underrated Capitol Reef National Park, you'll never be bored on a trip to Utah.

Emily Hart

Oregon is the land of green ferns, hiking, waterfalls, and the stunning Crater Lake National Park, but its coast is what makes me rank the state so highly.

I've driven the entirety of the East and West coasts, and the Oregon coast is hands down my favorite.

There is something serene, peaceful, and simultaneously powerful about the crashing waves and dramatic, rugged beauty. I love to visit Pacific City and Cannon Beach before exploring the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.

Emily Hart

It took me a while to get to Maine, but since then, I've prioritized being there as often as possible.

The entire state is picturesque, but the coast, which includes the quaint Kennebunkport, the iconic Portland Head Light, and Bar Harbor, is simply magical.

From the idyllic Acadia National Park to Lubec, home to the most Eastern point in the continental US, visiting Maine's coast is like stepping into another world entirely.

Emily Hart

From the beaches of the southern coast to the desert and art of Palm Springs and the forests of Redwoods and Sequoias, California has it all.

Home to nine major national parks — more than any other state — there are endless exploration opportunities.

I love visiting Yosemite's awe-inspiring rock formations or wine country in Napa for the laid-back vibes of the northern part of the state.

Emily Hart

I like to say that New Mexico has my heart.

In my opinion, the Southwestern state, which has long been a hideout for artists and writers, has a style and feeling unlike any other.

The state is much more diverse than one might expect. The north is home to the famed Taos and Santa Fe art communities, and the south hosts Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Park. Meanwhile, Albuquerque gives the state an urban feel.

I love to visit the rock formations and hiking trails at Ghost Ranch, the former home of Georgia O'Keeffe, and the historic town of Chimayo — where one of the largest Catholic pilgrimage sites in the country is located.

I'll also make time to enjoy one of the many hot springs and wineries before dining at one of the state's incredible restaurants.

Visiting New Mexico feels like leaving the US, making it a completely unique experience.

Emily Hart

My only complaint about my current home state of Colorado is we don't have access to any oceans.

Our Rocky Mountains are legendary for a reason, and there is no shortage of activities here. From the incredible San Juan mountains in the Southwest — home to the town of Ouray, known as the Switzerland of the US — to the Western slope wine country, Colorado is an outdoor lover's playground.

From my city, I can take short trips to Colorado Springs for hiking, Crested Butte in the summer for wildflowers, and Aspen and Vail in the fall to catch the shimmering golden leaves change.

Home to four major national parks, 42 state parks, and several national forests and recreation areas, there's no chance of being bored on a trip to the Centennial State.