Top 10 Best State Slogans

Top 10 Best State Slogans

These slogans say a lot about their states! Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we’re counting down our picks for the top 10 best state slogans.

For this list, we’re strictly ranking slogans from U.S. states – whether they’re official or not. Note also that American states generate slogans to encourage tourism and, as any form of advertisement does, these slogans have changed over time. Additionally, slogans should not be confused with a state’s motto, like New Hampshire’s “Live Free or Die.”

#10: “Enter a Higher State”
Colorado

Colorado has long been proud of its beautiful nature, as this state spans a wonderful portion of the Rocky Mountains. If you like skiing, hiking, or rock climbing, this state has got a lot going on for the outdoorsy types. Beyond this, city life in the state’s capital Denver is phenomenal and Colorado is quickly becoming recognized for its micro-brewing scene as well as its recent legalization of marijuana – which gives you meaning to the slogan, if you catch our drift. Whatever the nature of your visit, the slogan, “Enter a Higher State,” definitely sells Colorado in a positive light.

#9: “Wild and Wonderful”
West Virginia

West Virginia is in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and is often seen on the frontlines of environmental struggles, most of which stem from the pollution caused by the state’s historic coal mining operations. With an emphasis on its environment, “Wild and Wonderful” sells that state’s natural beauty and stunning sites, such as the New River Gorge. West Virginia is truly a hidden American gem that is well worth a visit – and a John Denver song.

#8: “Great Potatoes. Tasty Destinations.”
Idaho

Seriously – what more do they need to say? This state is known for growing some truly great potatoes and, partially as a result, has some exceptionally tasty destinations to boot! Idaho’s slogan sticks to what it knows best and it’s definitely not underselling the state’s draw. Just the word Idaho instantly brings their delicious spuds to mind. We love this slogan for its direct message and brutal honesty, and for being the most straightforward slogan on our list.

#7: “Beyond Your Dreams, Within Your Reach”
Alaska

Since it is not directly connected to the Lower 48 of the U.S.A., Alaska is often thought of as beyond many Americans’ reach, as you have to fly or take a boat there – or drive through Canada. As such, Alaska is America’s last frontier, and no wonder – it has a ruggedly beautiful natural environment and exceptionally cold winters! While it takes a bit of planning to get to, it is definitely reachable. This slogan definitely hooks you in!

#6: “Unbridled Spirit”
Kentucky

While the slogan “Unbridled Spirit” can be linked to Kentucky’s association with horse racing, this state is known for much more than its internationally recognized Kentucky Derby in Louisville! Kentucky has a wide range of historical sites to visit, towns to see, and natural sites to experience! Furthermore, this is the proper homeland of bourbon whiskey, which this state has a fine appreciation for. With such a wide range of great things, Kentucky’s slogan is all the more endearing.

#5: “Sunshine State”
Florida

Florida has been known as the Sunshine State for quite some time and this slogan appropriately embraces that moniker by keeping things as simple and obvious as possible. As such, it’s a great state to visit due to natural sites such as Everglades National Park, historic sites such as St. Augustine, and island getaways like Key West – especially when the sun is out! Don’t forget its many amusement parks such as Walt Disney World or Universal Studios and its Harry Potter theme park! Whether you’re in Tampa, Orlando, or Miami, you’re going to feel the sunshine!

#4: “Georgia on My Mind”
Georgia

Georgia’s slogan is derived from the eponymously named song made famous by Ray Charles in 1960, though Stuart Gorrell and Hoagy Carmichael wrote the tune back in 1930. Georgia is a stunningly beautiful state that definitely attracts a diverse range of tourists and residents. With Georgia on our minds, we can certainly think of some great cities to visit, like Atlanta or Savannah. Georgia’s southern charm makes it all the more appealing.

#3: “Virginia Is for Lovers”
Virginia

This state’s original slogan alternated between “Virginia is for history lovers,” “Virginia is for beach lovers,” and so forth; however the state settled on a uniform slogan in 1969 and Virginia hasn’t stopped using it since. And why not? Some of the state’s greatest historical figures were well known for their romantic lives, including the stories revolving around Pocahontas and John Smith at Jamestown as well as Thomas Jefferson’s famous obsessions. Virginia is great for beaches, mountains, history, and, of course, love!

#2: “Big Sky Country”
Montana

Also known as the Last Best Place, Montana is unashamedly proud of its wintry beauty. The state pushes this to the forefront of its tourism campaigns, unlike other states that try to emphasize the warmth as much as the cold. But whether you enjoy the heat or cooler temperatures, Big Sky Country, as Montana is affectionately known, offers a lot to do and its outdoor activities offer stunning natural backdrops throughout the state.

Before we unveil our number one pick, here are some honorable mentions:
- “It’s Good Being First”
Delaware
- “Smiling Faces. Beautiful Places.”
South Carolina
- “Eureka!”
California
- “Great Lakes, Great Times”
Michigan
- “Honest-to-Goodness Indiana”
Indiana

#1: “It’s Like a Whole Other Country”
Texas

Despite its location, Texas is unlike anywhere else in the U.S. – it’s not quite like the rest of the South and it’s exceptionally different from the Southwest – at least, culturally and historically speaking. But Texas’s inherent uniqueness has a lot to offer! Beyond the delicious Tex-Mex food and barbecue galore, you’re just as likely to encounter people speaking Spanish as you are English. Also, this slogan isn’t kidding – the Republic of Texas was its own independent country between 1836 and the mid-1840s, though it became an American state by the end of 1845. Texas is truly like a whole other country.

Do you agree with our list? What are your favorite state slogans? For more excellent Top 10s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.