Fun facts about our 2025 USA cycling route

Join us as we embark on an epic journey from Key West, Florida, to Calais, Maine, cycling through the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities along the East Coast Greenway. This breathtaking route spans over 3,000 miles, weaving through 15 states, from the sun-drenched beaches of Florida to the rugged coastlines of Maine. Along the way, we'll experience bustling cities, charming small towns, and stunning natural wonders.

As we pedal northward, our adventure is about more than just the miles—we’re embracing the journey. We’ll pause to soak in local cultures, explore iconic landmarks, and share our experiences with you through daily updates, fascinating encounters, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Let’s take a look at the 15 states we’ll be cycling through along the way:

Florida

Our journey begins in Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Florida, known as the Sunshine State, boasts warm weather, stunning beaches, and unique wildlife. Home to the Kennedy Space Center and Everglades National Park, Florida is the only place on Earth where both alligators and crocodiles coexist.

Fun Fact - Weeki Wachee Springs State Park features live mermaid performances in an underwater theatre, a tradition since the 1940s!

Georgia

Georgia is steeped in history, from the civil rights legacy of Atlanta to the well-preserved historic district of Savannah. Albany, Georgia, is known as the "Peanut Butter Capital of the World," while Atlanta is home to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Fun Fact - Georgia is home to the Cabbage Patch Kids Babyland General Hospital, where visitors can witness the "birth" of Cabbage Patch Kids dolls.

South Carolina

Renowned for its picturesque coastline, South Carolina is a top peach producer and home to the historic city of Charleston. This charming city boasts cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a rich cultural heritage.

Fun Fact - South Carolina is famous for the legend of the Lizard Man, a mysterious reptilian creature said to inhabit the swamps of Lee County.

North Carolina

North Carolina holds a special place in aviation history, as the Wright brothers’ first powered flight took place at Kitty Hawk. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for its biodiversity and breathtaking scenery, is another highlight of the state.

Fun Fact - High Point, North Carolina, is home to the world's largest chest of drawers, a quirky landmark standing over 36 feet tall.

Virginia

Virginia, known as the "Mother of Presidents," has produced eight U.S. presidents. The state is famous for Shenandoah National Park and the stunning Skyline Drive.

Fun Fact - Virginia is home to The Pentagon, the world’s largest office building, covering over 6.5 million square feet.

Washington, D.C.

As the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. is rich in history and culture. Iconic landmarks such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Smithsonian museums make this a must-visit destination.

Fun Fact - The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, with over 170 million items in its collection.

Maryland

Maryland is home to the historic Fort McHenry, which inspired the writing of the U.S. National Anthem. The state is also famous for its blue crabs and delicious crab cakes.

Fun Fact - Maryland has the National Museum of Dentistry, where George Washington’s dentures are on display!

Delaware

Delaware hosts the quirky "Punkin Chunkin" contest, where participants launch pumpkins across impressive distances. Dover offers a glimpse into Amish culture, with traditional farms and markets.

Fun Fact - Delaware is the only state without a National Park System unit.

Pennsylvania

Home to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania played a pivotal role in American history. The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the first general-purpose computer all originated here.

Fun Fact - Pennsylvania is home to the world’s largest shoe, built in 1948 by a shoe salesman named Mahlon Haines.

New Jersey

New Jersey boasts notable figures and landmarks, from Bruce Springsteen to Princeton University. It was also home to the first drive-in movie theater in 1933.

Fun Fact - New Jersey has the most diners in the world, earning it the title "Diner Capital of the World."

New York

New York is home to the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the bustling energy of Times Square. Beyond the city, the state offers breathtaking natural landscapes like the Adirondacks and Niagara Falls.

Fun Fact - Central Park in New York City is larger than the entire country of Monaco!

Connecticut

Connecticut is known for its academic excellence, with Yale University as a key landmark. It also claims the first-ever hamburger, made in 1900 at Louis’ Lunch in New Haven.

Fun Fact - Connecticut published the world’s first telephone book in 1878.

Rhode Island

Despite being the smallest U.S. state, Rhode Island is packed with coastal charm. Known as the "Ocean State," it boasts over 400 miles of coastline.

Fun Fact - Rhode Island has the longest official state name: "The State of Rhode Island."

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a treasure trove of history, from the Boston Tea Party to the Salem Witch Trials. It’s also home to Harvard University and Plymouth Rock, where the Pilgrims landed in 1620.

Fun Fact - Massachusetts’ official state sport is jousting!

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is known for its rugged beauty, with 81% of the state covered in forests. Mount Washington, famous for its extreme weather, once held the record for the highest wind speed recorded on Earth.

Fun Fact - New Hampshire has the world’s longest candy counter, measuring 112 feet long!

Maine

Our journey concludes in Calais, Maine, where we’ll celebrate completing this incredible adventure. Known as the "Lobster Capital of the World," Maine also boasts stunning landscapes, including Acadia National Park.

Fun Fact - Maine is the only U.S. state with a one-syllable name.

If you’re following along and enjoying our content, please consider donating to our chosen charity, Go Beyond. Any donation, no matter the amount, will positively impact a child’s happiness. Let’s make this journey even more meaningful together!