Compass: United States

“The diversity of America is a strength of the country, and I don’t think that we use that. We don’t talk about our strengths. I mean, having so many diverse people in this country from all aspects of all over the world, and we don’t use that. I think we should talk about who we are – that melting pot that we’ve become.”
–Steve Stoute
The lyrics in the anthem America the Beautiful expresses it best–the United States of America really is beautiful.
O beautiful for spacious skies…For amber waves of grain…For purple mountain majesties…Above the fruited plain!…America! America!…God shed His grace on thee…And crown thy good with brotherhood…From sea to shining sea!
The United States really is a beautiful and wonderfully diverse country. When you travel to each of the 50 States and even within each State you will feel as if you’re traveling to another country.
The United States is a country built by immigrants and each corner of this country is influenced by a variety of cultural diasporas including former enslaved people from Africa and the West Indies. Even traces of Native American culture can be found despite earlier efforts to erase them from the narratives of American history.
The United States has not always been the land of the free but it has always been the home of the brave.
As Paul Tsongas said, “America is hope. It is compassion. It is excellence. It is valor.”

America’s First Native American Civil Rights Leader—Chief Standing Bear of the Ponca Tribe
By Lana Van CleaveHowever, there is a lesser-known story. Yet one that exemplifies enormous courage and one which has had an immense impact on our nation. It is a story of forced settlement, death, devotion, and incredible spirit. It is the story of Chief Standing Bear. Read more
United States History Indigenous
The Two Sides of Mark Twain
By Kathleen WallsWith the arguments in schools about Critical Racial Theory and not teaching many facts about history because they might embarrass some people, some books are being banned. Mark Twain’s books have long been on the firing line for opposite reasons, i.e. his use of prejudicial language. Because Huck Finn helped … Read more Read more
United States Literature & Music
Exploring Pyramid Lake by Boat – A unique Southern Californian Adventure
By Thomas SpäterAre you looking for an adventurous nature-getaway to escape the hectical Los Angeles city life for a few days? Search no more! Located inside the Los Padres National Forest of California, Pyramid Lake offers a great option for those who truly like to enjoy nature. Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors
Hiking to Bonita Falls – A perfect Californian daytrip within the San Bernardino National Forest
By Thomas SpäterHiking to a waterfall is likely not the first thing that comes to the mind when people are visiting Southern California. Overwhelmed by all the well-known and frequently recommended must-dos, it is easy to miss the smaller and less famous opportunities, especially when it comes to spending time in nature. Read more
United States Adventure Nature & Outdoors
Vue Orleans: A Love Letter to New Orleans
See New Orleans like you’ve never seen her before atop a 34th floor observation deck and experience the richness of New Orleans history as cutting-edge technology immerses visitors into the spirit and soul of the city. Experience a love letter to New Orleans inside the new Vue Orleans. Read more
New Orleans Experiences History
Old Alabama Town Takes You Back In Time
By Kathleen WallsStep back in time as you walk through Old Alabama Town—a living history museum that reflects late 19th and early 20th century life along six-blocks of downtown Montgomery. Within the six-block radius of Old Alabama Town you can visit 50 recreated buildings that reflect the time and see the “residents … Read more Read more
United States History
Valley of Fire Slot Canyon – A geological masterpiece
By Thomas Später“What could it mean?” was crossing my mind as I carefully tried to interpret the engravings covering an entire wall of fiery red sandstone within the Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada, USA). It was 10 AM, and I found myself standing on a metal platform in front of a … Read more Read more
United States Nature & Outdoors History
Kansas City – More than just a Sleepy Mid-Western City
By Tonya FitzpatrickKansas City, founded in 1838 (the Missouri side), is a city that has a full and rich history for being in the mellow Mid-West region of the United States. Read more
United States Family Travel History Literature & Music
10 notable Fourth of July celebrations across America
By Tonya FitzpatrickOn July 4th, the nation sings Happy birthday to the United States of America. This summer day is Independence Day in the US and one of the busiest travel and tourism holidays in North America. Flights coming to America and from coast to coast are full. Hotels in the top … Read more Read more
United States Family Travel Events & Festivals History
St. Simons Museum Shows that War is Hell on the Home Front, Too.
By Kathleen WallsSt. Simons Island in Glynn County, Georgia is filled with history. Its newest museum, the World War II Home Front Museum, gives a different view of the war from typical accounts. Read more
United States History
5 Places to See Dinosaur Fossils in the U.S.
By Breana JohnsonOn your next trip, bring natural history to life with a dinosaur encounter! The U.S. offers many attractions where you can view dinosaur fossils—or even participate in a dino dig. Read more
United States Accessible Experiences History
Winston Churchill’s Connection to a Small Midwestern Town
In this World Footprints podcast, Tonya and Ian Fitzpatrick explore the life and times of Winston Churchill, his impact on the world and his relationship with the small town of Fulton, Missouri (MO). Read more
United States History
Attractions on Arizona Tribal Land (That Aren’t Casinos)
By Breana JohnsonLooking for family-friendly attractions in Arizona? Support Native economy, experience culture, and have fun by visiting these destinations. Read more
United States Family Travel Indigenous
What to do about Racism and Bigotry as Travelers of Conscience and Culture
By Ian FitzpatrickWith everything taking place in the world from the coronavirus pandemic, global recession, and America’s racial reckoning, even a brief escape from these problems can be an elixir for the body, mind, spirit, and soul. Read more
United States Backpacking & Camping Insights Social Responsibility
Where to Celebrate National Pride Month This June
By Lola MéndezCities across the States get a little more colorful as groups of people come together to celebrate Pride each year in June, with rainbow flags and clothes to symbolize gay pride. Read more
United States LGBTQ Events & Festivals