Welcome to USABucketList.com. I’m Erin and I created this site for travelers who love a good plan and the thrill of discovering places that make you say, “I can’t believe we almost skipped this.”
So why now? In 2026, the United States turns 250. That felt like a pretty great excuse to celebrate by getting out there and seeing more of the country we call home.
Not just the obvious spots, either. I’m talking about 250 must-go places — one for every year of America’s history — spanning national parks, cultural landmarks, small towns, museums, natural wonders, scenic drives, and delightfully quirky roadside stops.
For every destination, you’ll find a simple five-item must-do checklist — the highlights you shouldn’t miss without turning your trip into homework. These are the places you’ll be talking about long after you’re home, and they go well beyond our founding fathers.
Before you dive in, a quick intro. I’m Erin Gifford. I grew up in Northern Virginia and still call it home. I’ve got four kids, a husband, and a dog. We occasionally manage to get everyone in one photo.
I’m a long-time freelance travel writer and have visited all 50 states. I’ve even run a half-marathon in every single one.
Over the years I’ve logged countless road miles: multi-week road trips, sections of Route 66, and lesser-known drives like I-94 across South Dakota (a favorite of mine).
My goal is simple: help you explore the best of America without feeling overwhelmed. Come back often. Build a list. Chase a few unexpected stops. And most of all, have fun doing it.
If you want to follow me on social, I would love that. I’m on Facebook and Instagram. You’ll find photos, road trip itineraries and video reels. You can also reach me anytime by email. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Ready? Let’s go.