Little Countries
America has 50 states, and some of these regions feel like their own little countries due to culture, geography, or politics. Whether you’re planning a road trip or live in one of these states, here are some standouts and why they feel so unique.
1. Hawaii
This makes perfect sense, as at one point Hawaii was its own separated island with a native history. Now, while it is technically a U.S. state, the region retains deeply rooted Native Hawaiian traditions, and is the only place in the world to get a taste for their unique island traditions and customs.
2. Texas
Many people think Texas is the biggest state in the U.S., but in reality, it’s second to Alaska. Either way, it feels huge! Unlike other states, Texas takes its Western identity seriously, and you can immediately feel the strong Southern presence and cowboy culture at work.
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3. Alaska
Speaking of Alaska, considering just how disconnected it is from the rest of the U.S., no wonder it feels different. It has a smaller population than other states, and is known for its rugged remoteness. The winters are long, surviving ain’t easy, and the Native Alaskan heritage ties are strong.
4. New York
New York is like a different animal, and is the epitome of a global melting pot. It’s as if you combined ten countries to make this little city, as it has neighborhoods dedicated to every cuisine and culture.
5. Maine
Maine is probably as close as you can get to Maritime Canada without having to leave the country. They’re known for their delectable lobsters, scenic lighthouses, and sleepy town vibes that feel right out of a Stephen King novel.
6. Florida
Florida is the perfect vacation destination for many, and it greatly blends beach life with Latin American culture. Miami in particular feels like a vibrant city that is practically its own genre.
7. Oregon
There was a time where everyone in America was itching to get to Oregon (think Oregon Trail), and who can blame them? This environmentally conscious little region is perfect for those who want their coffee cups indulgent and their nature lush and fresh.
8. Nevada
Now it may just be a desert, but let’s not forget the alien lore. And Vegas for that matter! This state is a destination for many Americans, and it’s simply so strange, from gambling to Area 51.
9. California
California feels like a giant, and there’s so much to do and see, it can be a bit overwhelming. It has one of the largest economies in the world, is home to Hollywood, and is synonymous with sunshine. It’s also pretty darn progressive for America.
10. Utah
You can practically step back in time when you visit Utah, as it’s always retained a strong Mormon influence. It’s also home to numerous canyons, deserts, and somehow at the same time, snow-covered mountains as well. It’s the perfect place to live if you want to partake in family-centric traditional living.
11. West Virginia
“West Virginia, Mountain Mama! Take me home, country roads.” By now everyone knows that song, and the state actually does have a bustling traditional music scene. But it also has a culture set in its coal mine history and rugged survival practices. It’s like its own little country nestled in the mountains.
12. North Dakota
You might think you know what the deep south is, but North Dakota will redefine it. It’s all about farming no matter the weather. The vibe in particular is like taking a step back into a polite frontier colony.
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13. Louisiana
The French and Creole influences are what make Louisiana so unique. Not only is it the home of Cajun food, but the culture is so vibrant, with nods to jazz, Mardi Gras, and voodoo.
14. Michigan
Michigan is undoubtedly a product of its geography, as the closeness to the Great Lakes creates a unique ecosystem altogether. While the upper regions are forested wilderness, the main city hubs are known for their grit and musical legacies.
15. Vermont
Vermont is the perfect blend of progressive politics and quaint rural life. They pride themselves on their maple syrup, and have roots as a republic before integrating into the U.S.
16. South Carolina
Home to the southern sweethearts, South Carolina is known for its sweet tea, Charleston elegance, and Antebellum architecture. It’s also one of the original 13 colonies, and it certainly shows.
17. Washington
Washington is known as the political centerpoint of the U.S., and it has strong historical ties to the founding fathers. But nowadays, Washington is like its own little tech center. Plenty of billionaires make these misty forests their home, and you’ll feel like you’re living in the Pacific Northwest.
18. Kentucky
Best known for its Southern charm and Appalachian culture, Kentucky is the perfect place to be if you want to watch some horse racing and drink a bourbon or two. It’s also the home to bluegrass music and just has that old-timey feel other states have abandoned.
19. Rhode Island
Tiny but mighty, Rhode Island blends Italian and American cultures and does it all settled on the coastline. It’s like a tiny European microstate, and really digs into its nautical and colonial vibes.
20. New Mexico
Living true to its name, New Mexico really does feel like a little slice of Latin America. The terrain is also pretty unique, as you have expansive deserts, buildings made up with old-school adobe, and an influential art scene and regional cuisine to partake in.
