Random state generator
The random state generator picks one or more of the 50 US states the moment you press the button. Results show the USPS abbreviation and Census region.
Ways to use the state generator
Run a geography drill
Draw a state for a capitals or map round.
Pick a trip target
Draw one state, or draw three and vote.
Pick from one region
One Census region
Choose Northeast, Midwest, South, or West.
DC and territories
An extra list adds DC and five inhabited territories.
How the random state generator works
Choose the state pool
Use all 50 states, one Census region, or the DC and territories list.
Set how many
Draw up to 50, or the loaded list size. A batch has no duplicates.
Generate again
Avoid repeats works through the list before a state returns.
Random state generator questions
Answers about the list, regions, capitals, and repeats.
Are all 50 US states included?
Yes. The default list runs from Alabama to Wyoming.
Does it include Washington DC or the territories?
Not by default. A separate list adds DC and the five inhabited territories.
Can I generate a state from just one region?
Yes. Choose Northeast (9), Midwest (12), South (16), or West (13).
Can I generate more than one state at once?
Yes. Draw up to 50, or the loaded list size. A batch has no duplicates.
Can it avoid repeating states?
Yes. Avoid repeats works through the loaded list before a state returns.
Does it show state capitals?
Yes. The result card puts the capital under the state name.
Does it show state flags?
No. Results use the USPS abbreviation and a Census-region color.
Is this the same as the state wheel?
No. This tool returns picks at once. The state wheel spins all 50 on screen.
Can it pick states from other countries?
No. It covers US states. Use the random country generator for countries.