The 5 Regions of the United States

Where American history began: the most densely populated region, home to the Boston-Washington corridor, rocky coastlines, and the Appalachian Mountains.

From the Appalachian foothills to Gulf Coast beaches, with a warm climate, rich agricultural traditions, and the fastest-growing population centers in the country.

America's breadbasket: the Great Plains, Great Lakes, and the agricultural heartland that feeds the nation. Home to major rivers and extreme seasonal weather.

Desert landscapes, canyons, and mesas: a region shaped by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican heritage with booming modern cities and energy industries.

From the Pacific Coast to the Rocky Mountains, the most geographically diverse region, with volcanoes, rainforests, deserts, and the nation's tallest peaks.