Do you ever hear the term “Tri-State Area” on the news, weather report or ads? Maybe your favorite cartoon is set in “The Tri-State Area?” Well, just as the U.S. Board of Geographic Names lists 67 “Springfields” across the U.S., there are many, many Tri-State Areas!
A few months ago, we curated a series based on the US Tri-State Areas on Instagram. According to our count, the US has 24 Tri-State areas. Initially we simply wanted to list them, but as the series continued we started to dig a bit deeper into each of the areas to discover some really fantastic places within each Tri-State. If you'd like to see the additional images that come with each Tri-State, visit our instagram account!
Do you see your Tri-State Area? Did we miss one?
1: Cincinnati Tri-State
Our first is the Cincinnati Tri-State Area. Cincinnati, Ohio is just over the Ohio River from its neighbor to the south, Kentucky (you can even walk over one of Cincinnati’s historic bridges and be in Newport or Covington KY in just minutes)! A quick drive west and you’re in Indiana, reaching suburbs that house many people that live in one state and work in another!
The Cincinnati Tri-State is also located close to other metropolitan areas, such as Columbus OH, Indianapolis IN, Lexington KY, and Louisville KY.
2: The Berkshires
The Berkshires is a marvelous, mountainous region where the borders of three states – Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York—all come together in a delightful mix of rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic beauty.
These mountains aren't just any old hills. They're part of the larger Appalachian Mountain range, which stretches all the way from Canada to Alabama. The Appalachian Trail, one of the longest continuous footpaths in the world, runs right through the Berkshires! Hikers from all over the globe come here to tackle its challenging terrain, experience its breathtaking vistas, and maybe even spot some local wildlife like black bears, deer, and a variety of birds.
The Berkshires are also known for their cultural richness. Alongside all that natural beauty, you'll find world-class music festivals, art galleries, and historic sites. It's like the region has a double life – part nature wonderland, part cultural hotspot.
3: Dubuque Tri-State Area
Number 3 on our list is the Dubuque Tri-State Area, where Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin all meet in a spectacular confluence of geography and natural beauty. Here the mighty Mississippi River carves a natural border between these three states.
One of the coolest features of this area are the bluffs. These towering rock formations rise high above the Mississippi, giving breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscape.
The region is rich in limestone and dolomite, which were formed from ancient sea beds. That's right – millions of years ago, this area was covered by a shallow, warm sea teeming with life. As the sea creatures died, their shells and skeletons accumulated on the sea floor, eventually hardening into rock. So, when you're exploring the bluffs, you're actually walking on ancient ocean floors. How cool is that?
4: TAG Corner
The area where Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia meet has got a cool name that's easy to remember—it's called the TAG Corner. That's right, TAG, just like the game! TAG stands for Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia—the first letter of each state. Simple, right? It's a fun and handy way to talk about this unique Tri-State area.
We have to tell you about Tri-State Corner. This is the exact point where the borders of Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia come together! Visitors can stand in three states at once. You could have one foot in Tennessee, the other in Alabama, and your hand reaching out into Georgia.
Want to add even more states to the party? Look no further than Lookout Mountain, also located in TAG Corner. This mountain is a legendary landmark that stretches across Tennessee and Georgia. At its highest peak, you can see seven states! That's right—Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama.
Ever heard of the Tennessee-Alabama-Georgia (TAG) Cave System? This area is famous for its extensive network of caves. Ellison's Cave in Georgia is one of the deepest in the United States, featuring a drop called "Fantastic Pit" that's over 586 feet deep. That's taller than the Washington Monument!
Maybe TAG Corner is close to where you live, but even if it’s not, it sounds like the perfect destination for summer exploring!
5: Ark-La-Tex
Next, let's introduce the region where Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas meet: it's called the Ark-La-Tex Tri-State Area! Simple and catchy, right?
Flowing right through the heart of the Ark-La-Tex region is the Red River. This river is like the lifeblood of the area, providing water, transportation, and fertile soil for farming. Plus, it’s a great spot for fishing and boating adventures! The river doesn’t create the geographic boundary between these states (you can tell from the straight lines - rivers curve!), but it does run through all three.
The landscape of the Ark-La-Tex is a delightful mix of piney woods, rolling hills, and fertile plains. This diverse terrain supports a variety of ecosystems, making it a great place for hiking, camping, and nature photography.
Texarkana is a unique city that sits right on the border of Texas and Arkansas. It’s like a twin city, with one half in Texas and the other in Arkansas. You can stand in two states at once! Plus, each side has its own city government, but they share a lot of community services.
Caddo Lake straddles the border of Texas and Louisiana, and is also part of the Ark-La-Tex region. It’s one of the largest natural lakes in the South and is famous for its mysterious, swampy beauty. The lake is dotted with bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale. And it’s a wildlife paradise, home to alligators, herons, and a variety of fish.
6: Delmarva
Time to explore a unique region known as the Delmarva Peninsula. This Tri-State area includes parts of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia (VA)—hence the name Delmarva!
Much of the Delmarva Peninsula is surrounded by water. To the east, you've got the Atlantic Ocean, and to the west, the Chesapeake Bay. This makes for some stunning waterfront views and an abundance of seafood (crab cakes, anyone)?
Let’s gallop over to Assateague Island, which spans parts of Maryland and Virginia. This barrier island is famous for its wild horses! That’s right—these majestic creatures roam freely along the beaches. It’s like stepping into a real-life fairy tale.
Ever heard of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel? This engineering marvel connects the southern tip of the Delmarva Peninsula in Virginia to mainland Virginia. It’s nearly 18 miles long and includes bridges and tunnels that let you drive right over and under the water. Talk about a scenic route!
In Virginia, you’ll find the charming Tangier Island, located in the Chesapeake Bay. The island's isolation has led to its residents speaking a dialect of 17th-century English, though modern communication like television, radio and internet has reduced its use.
Delaware, the northern part of Delmarva, has the honor of being the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. You can visit the First State National Historical Park to learn all about Delaware’s pivotal role in American history.
7: Delaware Valley
The Delaware Valley covers Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. This area is centered around the mighty Delaware River, which flows from the Catskill Mountains in New York all the way down to the Delaware Bay. That's over 300 miles!
The largest city in the Delaware Valley is none other than Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – the City of Brotherly Love! It's where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776.
Love the beach? The Delaware Valley is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Atlantic Ocean. You can head to the Jersey Shore for some sun and surf, or explore the peaceful beaches of Delaware. It’s like having the best of both worlds – city life and beach vibes!
The Delaware Valley also boasts beautiful countryside and farmland, especially in Pennsylvania. This region’s fertile soil is perfect for growing all sorts of crops, like corn, soybeans, and even mushrooms. Kennett Square in Chester County, PA, is known as the “Mushroom Capital of the World” - it produces about 60% of the country's mushrooms!
Let’s not forget about the Brandywine Valley, which straddles Pennsylvania and Delaware. This picturesque area is known for its rolling hills, wineries, and the famous Brandywine River.
The Delaware Valley Tri-State Area is a mix of vibrant cities, historical landmarks, beautiful nature, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Philadelphia, relaxing on the Jersey Shore, or hiking in the Brandywine Valley, there's something for everyone.
8: KYOVA
Let’s take a trip to an amazing Tri-State region where Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia meet. It's the KYOVA Tri-State Area!
First, let's break down the name ‘KYOVA.' It's a mashup of the abbreviations for Kentucky (KY), Ohio (O), and West Virginia (W.Va, but for our purposes we’ll shorten it further). The cities that make up this area are Ashland, Kentucky; Huntington, West Virginia; and Ironton, Ohio.
Ashland, Kentucky is known for its beautiful parks and vibrant arts scene. One of the coolest spots is Central Park, a 47-acre oasis with walking paths, playgrounds, and the “Log House” - the oldest house in Ashland.
Home to Marshall University, Huntington West Virginia is a hub of education and culture. The university's iconic Memorial Fountain is not only a beautiful landmark but also a tribute to the victims of the tragic 1970 plane crash that took the lives of 75 people, including most of the football team. Huntington is also known for its bustling downtown and their annual ChiliFest.
Founded in the mid-19th century, Ironton Ohio has a rich industrial history, especially in iron production. The city hosts the oldest continuous Memorial Day parade in the nation, which started back in 1868.
The Ohio River is the lifeblood of the KYOVA region. This mighty river runs right through the heart of the area, providing water, transportation, and recreational opportunities. It's over 980 miles long, flowing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, all the way to the Mississippi River. It's the second-longest river in the United States that flows east to west.
And let's not forget the waterways! The Big Sandy River forms part of the border between Kentucky and West Virginia, and it's a great spot for fishing and boating. Plus, Yatesville Lake in Kentucky is a hidden gem for water sports, camping, and wildlife watching.
9: Sioux City Metro
We're zooming into a fascinating Tri-State region where Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota meet. It's the Sioux City Metro Tri-State Area!
Wanna visit “Sioux City?” Which state is it in? Would you guess all three?
Let’s start in Sioux City, Iowa. This vibrant city is known for its rich history and cultural diversity. One of the coolest spots is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, where you can learn all about the famous explorers' journey through this region. And don’t miss the Sioux City Public Museum – it’s packed with interactive exhibits that bring the past to life!
Just across the river, you’ll find South Sioux City, Nebraska. This community is all about parks and recreation. Crystal Cove Park is a local favorite, with a beautiful lake, walking trails, and picnic spots. Plus, the city hosts awesome events like the Cardinal Festival Days – a fun-filled celebration with parades, food, and music.
Heading north, you’ll reach North Sioux City, South Dakota. This area is a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the region. Stone State Park is a must-visit, offering hiking trails with panoramic views, picnic areas and bison.
The Sioux City Metro Tri-State Area is part of the Loess Hills, a unique landform made of wind-blown silt which rises 200 feet above the Missouri River valley and is recognized for its unusually deep deposits of loess (loess is known as one of the most fertile soil in the world). These hills create a striking landscape with steep ridges and rolling terrain, perfect for hiking and photography.
10: Wiregrass Region
The Wiregrass Region spans three states: Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The area gets its name from the tough, wiry grass called "wiregrass" that thrives here. This resilient grass can handle the hot, sandy soils of the region like a champ, making it a key player in the local ecosystem.
The Wiregrass region is home to several rivers, including the Chattahoochee, Flint, and Apalachicola. These rivers not only carve through the landscape but also provide vital water resources for farming and wildlife.
The Chattahoochee River offers great opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking. It’s a great way to cool off during the hot summer months and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. There’s even a song about The Chattahoochee, which you would have heard If you were listening to country music back in the 1990’s (ouch!).
Visiting in the fall? Don’t miss the National Peanut Festival in Dothan, AL. There are rides, games, concerts, and, of course, lots of delicious peanutty treats. The festival celebrates 80 years this November!
The region also boasts the Kolomoki Mounds State Park (in Blakely, GA). This park is home to some of the oldest and largest Native American earthworks in the Southeast. You can hike the trails, explore the museum, and learn about the ancient cultures that once thrived here.
11: New York City Metro
The New York City Tri-State Area isn’t just about New York; it’s where New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut come together in one big metropolitan mash-up. You can be in three different states in just a short drive!
Long Island is one of the world’s largest and most densely populated islands, stretching about 118 miles from NYC into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s home to everything from sandy beaches and vineyards to bustling suburbs as well as the Hamptons, where people go to escape the city heat!
The NY Metro Tri-State Area includes part of the Appalachian Mountains, like the Catskills in New York and the Highlands in New Jersey. These mountains aren’t just for hiking; they also play a big role in weather patterns, giving the region its mix of snowy winters and hot, humid summers
Ever taken a ferry across the Hudson River? You’re gliding along a river that’s been a lifeline for centuries! Besides the iconic Hudson, this Tri-State area is crisscrossed by rivers like the East River, Passaic River, and the Connecticut River. These waterways have shaped everything from the region’s industry to its transportation networks.
12: Three Rivers Region
The Pittsburgh Tri-State Area, which includes parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, doesn't have a widely recognized nickname like the "Wiregrass" does. However, the region is often referred to simply as the "Greater Pittsburgh Region" or the "Three Rivers Region," highlighting the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers in Pittsburgh.
The hills around Pittsburgh create a dramatic backdrop for the city’s skyline. Pittsburgh’s hilly terrain is a result of ancient glaciers carving out the landscape. These hills also mean that Pittsburgh has more bridges—over 440!—than any other city in the world. It’s a bridge-lover’s paradise!
Did you know Pittsburgh sits on a massive network of coal seams? This region was a coal mining powerhouse in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with coal extracted from deep underground to fuel the city’s steel industry. Today, you can still find evidence of this underground labyrinth in the form of old mine entrances and coal towns scattered throughout this Tri-State area.
13: Inland Northwest
This is what what we’ve learned about the Inland Northwest Tri-State region, where Washington, Idaho, and Oregon meet!
The Inland Northwest Tri-State is home to Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, which cuts through the border between Idaho and Oregon. At its deepest point, it plunges over 7,900 feet, making it even deeper than the Grand Canyon!
The rolling hills of the Palouse in southeastern Washington and parts of Idaho are one of the most fertile agricultural regions in the world, known for their picturesque, undulating landscapes and vibrant fields of wheat and beans.
Located in northeastern Oregon, the Wallowa Mountains, also known as the "Alps of Oregon," are a stunning range that can be seen from parts of Washington and Idaho. The Wallowa Lake and Eagle Cap Wilderness attract outdoor enthusiasts from all over.
This Tri-State is part of the larger volcanic landscape of the Pacific Northwest. The region is dotted with ancient lava flows, cinder cones, and other volcanic features, particularly visible in southeastern Washington and northeastern Oregon.
14: Fort Madison-Keokuk
Fort Madison and Keokuk are part of the Tri-State area where Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri meet. Keokuk is home to the largest privately constructed dam in the United States, completed in 1913. The Keokuk-Hamilton Lock and Dam No. 19 controls the flow of the Mississippi River and was a major engineering feat of its time.
Just north of Keokuk, the region is famous for its abundance of geodes, earning it the nickname "Geode Capital of the World." These spherical rocks contain beautiful crystals and are popular with rock collectors.
Fort Madison is unique for having two different forts in its history. The original Fort Madison, built in 1808, was the first military fort on the Upper Mississippi River. The second, modern Fort Madison, is a recreation of the original and offers historical reenactments.
15: Chicagoland
Chicago, often referred to as the "City of Broad Shoulders," is not only a hub of culture and architecture but also a geographical marvel. It’s built on a continental divide between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River watersheds. Chicago is crisscrossed by the Chicago River, which famously flows backward into the Illinois and Michigan Canal, and is also bordered by the expansive shores of Lake Michigan, making waterways a central feature of the city's landscape and history. But don’t let the nickname of this Tri-State fool you - Chicagoland reaches further than Chicago - it connects Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.
The southern tip of Lake Michigan, near the Indiana-Illinois border, is the only part of Indiana that touches one of the Great Lakes. This unique geographical feature has shaped the state’s economy and environment, as access to waterways in the middle of a country can. Can you think of some reasons why?
Just across the border in Wisconsin, the Kettle Moraine State Forest showcases the effects of the last Ice Age, with its glacially-formed hills, ridges, and kettles. It’s a popular destination for hiking and learning about glacial geology.
Located on Chicago’s South Side, the Pullman National Monument commemorates the nation’s first planned industrial community and the Pullman Strike of 1894, a pivotal event in labor history. The monument is a geographical landmark representing both industrial innovation and social change.
16: Erie Tri-State
The Erie Tri-State Area is number 16 of our Tri-State series. Erie’s Tri-State area includes Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York, all sharing the shoreline of Lake Erie. Lake Erie is a geologist’s dream. It was carved out during the last Ice Age, about 12,000 years ago, by glaciers. These massive sheets of ice sculpted the land and left behind the Great Lakes.
Just a bit west of the Erie Tri-State region, Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley National Park has a collection of parks and reserves known as the Emerald Necklace. It’s called that because if you look from above, the parks wrap around Cleveland like a green jewel-studded necklace—nature’s own bling! A favorite spot in the park is Brandywine Falls, which stands 65 feet tall. It was formed primarily through the process of erosion. The waterfall reveals millions of years of geological history in its rock layers.
The Erie Tri-State area is home to one of the largest grape-growing regions in the U.S. In fact, Westfield NY is known as the "grape juice capital" of the world! Welch's, the company that produces grape juice, was founded in this area. The best part? Over 30,000 acres of vineyards line the region.
17: La Crosse
The La Crosse Tri-State Area is where Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa meet. This region is part of the Driftless Area—a place where glaciers didn't flatten the land during our planet’s Ice Age - so you’ll see so many steep hills, deep valleys, and cool rock formations. It's like nature hit "pause" on the ice flattening!
La Crosse is famous for its bluffs—big hills that rise high above the land. One of the coolest is Grandad Bluff. It’s 600 feet tall, and when you reach the top, you can see all three states: Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa.
The area around La Crosse is home to some amazing wetlands, where plants and animals thrive in swampy, watery areas. These wetlands are super important because they help keep water clean, provide homes for wildlife, and protect the land from flooding. Frogs, turtles, and fish love it here.
Just a short drive from La Crosse is Cranberry Country! Wisconsin grows more cranberries than anywhere else in the world, and the Tri-State area is filled with bogs where these tart little fruits grow. Cranberries love the cold and wet conditions La Crosse’s climate provide
18: Joplin District
In the Joplin Tri-State Area, you can visit three states in just minutes! Joplin is in Missouri, but hop west, and you’ll find yourself in Kansas, or south to reach Oklahoma.
The Joplin Tri-State Area is part of Tornado Alley, where tornadoes are more common. The landscape is mostly flat, which can make it easier for these powerful storms to form. Tornadoes are serious, but the flat plains also mean there’s nothing blocking the view of the sky from horizon to horizon.
This area is also part of the Tri-State Mining District, which was once one of the largest sources of lead and zinc in the world. The mining industry shaped towns like Joplin, Galena (in Kansas), and Picher (in Oklahoma).
Near the town of Quapaw, Oklahoma, there’s a spooky light called the Hornet Spooklight. It’s been glowing for over 100 years, and no one knows for sure what causes it. Some say it's a ghostly lantern, while others think it’s car headlights playing tricks. Around world War II the Army Corps of Engineers tried to figure out what caused the glow, and came up with no answer. What do you think may be causing the light?
19: Minisink Valley
The Minisink Valley touches three states—New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Much of the landscape here, including those rolling hills and winding rivers, was shaped by glaciers during the Ice Age. When the glaciers melted, they left behind the Delaware Water Gap, a 1,200-foot-deep natural wonder.
At one time the Minisink Valley was once under the ocean! Millions of years ago, what’s now dry land was a shallow seabed. Rocks in the valley still contain fossils from that ocean time.
In certain parts of the Minisink Valley, particularly in Sterling Hill, New Jersey, you can find rocks that glow under UV light! These fluorescent minerals, like willemite and calcite, make you feel like you’re discovering buried treasure!
20: Mid-South
The Greater Memphis Tri-State, also known as the Mid-South, is where Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas meet. But when people think of this region, they are likely thinking about Memphis, Tennessee. It sits all the way in the most south-western tip of the state, right along the borders of Mississippi and Arkansas.
Memphis is built on the Chickasaw Bluffs, one of a series of bluffs that rise about 60-100 feet above the Mississippi River. These natural bluffs helped protect the city from river flooding (most of the time). In 1937, the river reached near-record levels, flooding the Arkansas side and reshaping it’s communities.
Locals call the Mississippi “The Big Muddy,” but it’s not just a nickname—it’s literally loaded with sediment! The river carries around 1.5 million metric tons of sediment a day, giving it that muddy appearance and helping build up the land along its path.
Memphis may miss flooding, but they can’t avoid earthquakes. The New Madrid Seismic Zone, just a bit to the north, caused some of the largest earthquakes in U.S. history back in 1811-1812. These quakes were so strong, they made the Mississippi River flow backward for a bit! Mother Nature really shook things up.
21: Providence Metro
The Providence Metro Area touches three states—Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut—making it a Tri-State hub. Rhode Island might be the smallest state, but the Providence metro is nothing to overlook just because one of its states is tiny (relatively speaking)!
Narragansett Bay is the largest estuary in New England, and it’s a huge part of the Providence Tri-State’s geography. The bay has over 30 islands, and its mix of fresh and saltwater makes it an ecosystem powerhouse—home to fish, shellfish, and even seals!
Hurricanes are not an oddity in the Providence metro - there’s plenty of water around to help power any storm coming up the coast. In 1938, the Great New England Hurricane caused major flooding in downtown Providence when the storm surge rushed up Narragansett Bay. Since then, hurricane barriers have been built to protect the city.
Providence is sometimes called the “Creative Capital,” and part of its charm comes from the rivers flowing right through downtown. The Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck Rivers meet to form the Providence River, and WaterFire, an art installation of bonfires on the river, lights up the night!
22: Illinois-Indiana-Kentucky
The Illinois-Indiana-Kentucky Tri-State Area is where not only three states meet, but where three major regions of the U.S. converge—the Midwest, the South, and the Great Plains.
This Tri-State area is home to the confluence of three mighty rivers—the Ohio, the Wabash, and the Mississippi. This watery intersection is key for the region’s ecology and commerce. Plus, it’s just really cool to see these giant rivers come together!
On the Illinois side, Cave-In-Rock State Park along the Ohio River hides a massive cave that once sheltered river pirates in the late 1700s and early 1800s! This outlaw haven has a colorful history of treasure hunters and bandits.
Spanning parts of southern Illinois, the Shawnee National Forest is like a giant playground for nature lovers. With waterfalls, rock formations, and endless trails, it’s the go-to spot for hiking and exploring. Garden of the Gods, with its dramatic cliffs, feels like a little slice of another planet!
Southern Indiana and Illinois are some of the best places in the world to find geodes—those rock formations with crystal-lined cavities inside. Crack one open, and it’s like discovering a hidden treasure right under your feet!
23: Mohave Valley
The Tri-State Area of Bullhead City, Laughlin, and Needles is a fascinating region where Arizona, Nevada, and California converge. Regionally it is known as “the Tri-State Area,” and doesn’t have a name (just like llinois–Indiana–Kentucky) BUT we’ve heard it has a few nicknames, such as “Arizona’s West Coast” & “Tri-State Oasis” (because it lies along the Colorado River), as well as “Mohave Valley” for the river valley in which it sits. Since Geography is what we’re all about, we’re going to stick with “Mohave Valley.” Are you from this Tri-State? Did we get it right?
Laughlin (Nevada) observes Pacific Time, while Bullhead City (Arizona) observes Mountain Standard Time (and doesn’t observe Daylight Saving). Needles (California) observes Pacific Time with Daylight Saving. So, depending on the time of year, crossing between these communities can mean changing your clock!
The Colorado River serves as a natural boundary between these three states. It’s both a recreational hotspot and a key water source for the region, making it crucial for the surrounding desert landscapes.
Big Bend is a scenic state park in Laughlin, Nevada, that hugs the Colorado River. Big Bend is home to a surprising variety of desert wildlife. Visitors might spot bighorn sheep, bobcats, and a range of bird species like hawks and ospreys. It’s also a great place to see diverse desert plants, including the iconic creosote bush and mesquite trees.
Because of its warm winters and sunny days year-round, Bullhead City attracts retirees and people looking for outdoor activities during the cooler months. Many residents of Bullhead City work or regularly visit Laughlin, which is just across the river. Laughlin’s casinos, resorts, and entertainment venues provide jobs and bring tourists who also explore Bullhead City’s riverfront and local businesses.
Needles is a classic Route 66 town, and this historic highway is a huge part of its identity. Visitors can see retro signs, motels, and gas stations that give a glimpse into mid-century American travel culture.
24: The DMV
The DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) Tri-State area is the epicenter of U.S. government and history. Washington, D.C. may be the star, but Maryland and Virginia provide the setting, blending government, industry, and nature. You can see history and future-changing decisions happening in real-time here!
The Potomac River is the lifeline of the DMV, snaking through D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. It’s more than just a scenic waterway—it forms the natural boundary between Maryland and Virginia and flows right past the National Mall.
The Chesapeake Bay, fed by the Potomac and Susquehanna rivers, is the largest estuary in the United States. It’s teeming with wildlife like blue crabs, oysters, and rockfish. The Bay’s health is vital for the region, making it a hot spot for environmental science and conservation.
Maryland’s capital, Annapolis, is known as the sailing capital of America. Nestled on the Chesapeake Bay, it’s home to the U.S. Naval Academy, where future naval officers are trained. Grab your life jacket and set sail—this place is all about maritime history and sea adventures.
Just a short drive from D.C., the Blue Ridge Mountains roll through Virginia, offering hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and a taste of wilderness close to the urban hustle. Shenandoah National Park, a gem of the Blue Ridge, is perfect for catching a sunrise over the misty peaks. Nature’s calling!
Our last choice for a Tri-State is not without a bit of controversy. Why? Washington, D.C. isn’t part of any state, and it’s not a state on its own—it’s a federal district! This setup was designed to keep the nation’s capital separate from state influence. So, when you’re standing in D.C., you’re technically not in Maryland or Virginia, even though they’re right next door!
Speaking of DC, The National Mall isn’t just a strip of museums—it’s a green space where history, culture, and science converge. From the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial, it’s like a walk through a giant outdoor history book. Plus, the cherry blossoms each spring make it a pink wonderland that people from around the country come to see.
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