The summer of 2026 includes the 250th birthday of the United States, but it’s also an important milestone for TikTok. A year ago, we first learned the details of the U.S.-locked version of TikTok, which is now operating under the name TikTok USDS Joint Venture.
TikTok USDS has now been operating long enough to possess a slew of new features, and the app’s representatives are highlighting those products as part of a nationwide tour. Discover America is a six-city swing that will bring attention to local small businesses while also reminding TikTok creators about the tools they can use to connect with their communities.
Discover America began in New York on July 7 and will hit Atlanta, Des Moines, Denver, and Las Vegas before concluding in Phoenix on July 19. Each stop on the tour is a city where thousands of small business owners are active on TikTok. In Atlanta alone, TikTok claims there are 300,000 small businesses with ties to the app.
“From small towns to big cities, TikTok has become a destination for discovering local communities, businesses, and culture,” reads a post published by TikTok USDS JV. “As Discover America travels across the country, we’ll spotlight local creators and entrepreneurs who are bringing their stories to life on TikTok while showcasing our latest discovery, creativity, and safety features that power them.”
The lip service TikTok pays to small businesses is mutually beneficial. As it supports the entrepreneurs who capitalize on the potential of the For You Page, the app insulates itself against criticism. The last time TikTok faced regulatory pressure from U.S. officials, it defended itself by pointing to its small business impact
. Should a similar situation arise in the future, you can bet that TikTok will bring up those talking points.In the meantime, Discover America doubles as a promotional tool for some new TikTok USDS JV products. The app’s Local Feed shows restaurants, shops, and events that are close to a user’s precise location, and some of those happenings will involve the businesses that are highlighted during Discover America.
TikTok’s decision to fashion Discover America as a road trip brings attention to TikTok GO, the app’s two-month-old travel booking service. TikTok GO has already delivered some insights regarding the travel habits of young Americans. TikTok USDS JV reported that many U.S. travelers are preferring trips to the middle of the country, and it’s becoming more common to pursue a blend of historic and modern vacation destinations.
Discover America will continue to produce insights as TikTok’s road trip rambles on. If you don’t live in one of the feature cities, you can follow the jounrey via the main Discover America hub.
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