We are starting an amazing adventure across the United States! We will see breathtaking vistas and have life-changing experiences on this road trip. We will travel down some of America’s most famous highways, from the untamed Pacific Coast to the quaint South.
Imagine exploring little towns for hidden treasures, traveling Route 66, and taking in the breathtaking scenery. We travel hundreds of miles to bring you the finest sights and cultures of the United States. For experienced drivers as well as novices, it’s ideal.
Prepare to discover incredible eateries, strange sights, and stunning national parks. We will lead you on the Loneliest Road in America as well as the Great Northern Route. Your journey will be unforgettable, thanks to our advice.
Key Takeaways
- The Pacific Coast Route covers 1,650 miles of stunning coastline
- Route 66 offers iconic landmarks and quirky attractions
- The Loneliest Road spans 3,200 miles across America’s heartland
- Great Northern Route is the longest transcontinental road trip
- The Great River Road follows the Mississippi for cultural experiences
- Appalachian Trail Drive showcases diverse landscapes and national parks
- Border to Border Route offers varied terrain, from mountains to deserts
Planning Your Cross-Country Adventure
As American road trippers, we know the open road calls to us. Our cross-country journey begins with detailed planning. We’ll help you pick the best route, pack what you need, and get your vehicle ready for a smooth trip.
Choosing the Perfect Route
Selecting your path is essential. The northern, central, and southern routes are the three main routes that lead to the USA. Every one has its own special sights and experiences to offer. To fully enjoy the rest stops along the way, we advise driving no more than six hours per day. It is all about the process, not the destination alone.
Essential Packing Tips
For a successful cross-country trip, pack wisely. Bring clothes for different weather, a first-aid kit, and snacks. And don’t forget a camera to capture the memories. Here’s a quick packing list:
- Versatile clothing
- Road atlas (backup for GPS)
- Emergency car kit
- Reusable water bottles
- Portable chargers
Vehicle Preparation
Before you start your journey, make sure your car is in top shape. Schedule a thorough check-up, including an oil change, tire rotation, and brake check. Pay attention to these important areas:
Area | Action |
---|---|
Tires | Check pressure and tread depth |
Fluids | Top up oil, coolant, and windshield washer |
Battery | Test and replace if necessary |
Lights | Ensure all are functioning |
Emergency Kit | Include jumper cables, flashlight, and basic tools |
With these tips, you’re all set for your amazing cross-country adventure. The open road is waiting for you!
The Pacific Coast Route: From Washington to California
We’re starting an epic road trip across the USA on one of America’s most scenic routes. The Pacific Coast Route stretches 1,650 miles from Washington’s Olympic National Park to sunny San Diego, California. This journey takes us through three states, offering a feast for the eyes and the soul.
Our journey starts in the 922,000-acre Olympic National Park in Washington, a vast wonderland of mountains and rainforests. The Pacific Ocean becomes our constant traveling companion as we head south. As the route follows the coast, we are treated to amazing vistas of rocky cliffs and immaculate beaches.
We will visit numerous quaint coastal towns in Oregon. The Three Capes Loop, which offers breathtaking views of the Pacific, is a must-see. We must not miss the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which narrates the story of Lewis and Clark’s expedition, or the Astoria-Megler Bridge, which is the longest continuous truss bridge in North America.
“The West Coast is a treasure trove of well-preserved historic sites and natural wonders.”
California is greeted by the state’s tallest living organism, the majestic redwoods. We will cross the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco as part of the itinerary. Further south, we’ll discover the wine country of San Luis Obispo and the Spanish colonial history of Santa Monica.
This road trip across the USA is perfect for explorers of America seeking diverse experiences. From fresh seafood in cozy cafes to nights in converted lighthouses, the Pacific Coast Route promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the West Coast.
Historic Route 66: Chicago to Los Angeles
Get ready for a road trip across the USA on the famous Route 66! This legendary 2,448-mile journey from Chicago to Los Angeles takes you through classic Americana. It was paved in 1926 and officially ended in 1984, but its history and charm still enchant us.
Iconic Landmarks Along the Way
Our trip covers 8 states, each filled with unique sights. We’ll drive through Illinois cornfields, see the Grand Canyon, and explore cities like St. Louis and Chicago. Make sure to check out these must-see spots:
- Cadillac Ranch in Texas
- Santa Fe’s adobe architecture
- The Gateway Arch in St. Louis
- Meramec Caverns in Missouri
Quirky Roadside Attractions
Route 66 is known for its roadside attractions. These quirky spots make our trip fun:
- The Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma
- Gigantic rocking chair in Fanning, Missouri
- Painted Desert in Arizona
- Bottle Tree Ranch in California
Best Diners and Drive-Ins
No trip on Route 66 is complete without trying classic American food. We’ll eat at neon diners and truck stops. Don’t miss these favorite spots:
- Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago
- Cozy Dog Drive-In, Springfield, Illinois
- Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo
- Midpoint Cafe in Adrian, Texas
This three-and-a-half-week trip will cover about 100 miles each day. This lets us enjoy the nostalgia and make lasting memories. Let’s start this epic journey and feel the heartland’s charm!
The Loneliest Road: San Francisco to Ocean City
Start a cross-country trip on US-50, known as “The Loneliest Road in America.” This epic 3,019-mile journey goes from San Francisco to Ocean City, crossing 12 states and the nation’s capital.
We begin our journey in California and travel through a variety of environments. We travel through seventeen mountain passes to get from the Sierra Nevada to the Rocky Mountains. At Colorado’s Monarch Pass, 11,312 feet is the highest point.
With just two gas stations spread out over 287 miles, the road in Nevada is renowned for being incredibly desolate. We view the red rock country of Utah, which includes the national parks of Canyonlands and Arches. Quirky attractions such as Lucas’s Garden of Eden lend fun to Kansas’ vast Great Plains.
“The Loneliest Road is a testament to America’s vastness and diversity.”
History lovers will enjoy stops in Manassas and Arlington, Virginia. Our trip ends in Ocean City, Maryland, after crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. This bridge, finished in 1952, connects the route.
State | Notable Stops | Miles Covered |
---|---|---|
California | San Francisco, Lake Tahoe | 395 |
Nevada | Great Basin National Park | 408 |
Utah | Canyonlands, Arches National Park | 335 |
Colorado | Monarch Pass | 467 |
Maryland | Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Ocean City | 151 |
Great Northern Route: Washington to Maine
We’re excited to take you on a journey along the Great Northern Route, one of America’s most scenic routes. This epic road trip spans 3,600 miles from Washington to Maine. It’s perfect for explorers of America seeking adventure.
National Parks and Natural Wonders
Olympic National Park in Washington is where our journey begins. Stunning scenery is accessible for a $30 entrance fee. Heading east, Montana’s Glacier National Park beckons, complete with the striking granite vista of Grinnell Point. The sights make the $35 admission cost well worth it.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota costs $30 per car and provides a view of the untamed Badlands. The route continues through the Great Plains’ expansive woods and prairies. were the ancestral home of the Shoshone and Blackfeet Native American tribes.
Scenic Drives and Photo Opportunities
The Great Northern Route offers countless photo opportunities. Don’t miss the Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia Plateau, a marvel of civil engineering. In Michigan, Canyon Falls Roadside Park provides free access to stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.
Cultural Highlights
This family vacation route is rich in cultural experiences. Visit Minnesota, birthplace of Paul Bunyan and Judy Garland. In Michigan, take a ferry to car-free Mackinac Island for $34 per adult. The journey ends at Maine’s Acadia National Park, where the mountains meet the Atlantic.
State | Distance (miles) | Suggested Time |
---|---|---|
Washington | 326 | 2-4 days |
Idaho | 80 | 1-2 days |
Montana | 650 | 2-4 days |
North Dakota | 358 | 1-2 days |
Minnesota | 264 | 1-2 days |
Appalachian Trail Drive: New England to Dixie
Starting a road trip along the Appalachian Trail Drive is an exciting journey. It takes us from New England’s rugged lands to Dixie’s heart. We see the Eastern United States’ beauty without the hiking effort.
Our trip begins in Maine’s North Woods and goes through New Hampshire’s White Mountains. We must drive up Mount Washington and take the scenic Kancamagus Highway. As we head south, the Appalachian Trail shows us different places, from rich areas to simple communities, against stunning views.
When we reach Pennsylvania, we see the Delaware Water Gap and Lehigh Valley. Virginia welcomes us with Shenandoah National Park’s stunning fall colors. The Blue Ridge Parkway takes us into North Carolina, where the Great Smoky Mountains are waiting.
“The Appalachian Trail Drive isn’t just a road trip; it’s a journey through America’s soul, where every mile tells a story.”
Some important places to visit on our trip include:
- Norman Rockwell Museum in Massachusetts
- Monticello in Virginia
- Biltmore Estate in North Carolina
- Chattooga River in Georgia
This road trip across the USA mixes natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking for fall colors or summer fun, the Appalachian Trail Drive is unforgettable.
Road Trip Across the USA: From Border to Border
Are you ready for the ultimate cross-country adventure? We’re about to start an epic road trip across the USA. It will take us from the Canadian border to the Mexican frontier. The open road beckons as we travel through some of North America’s most stunning landscapes.
We start our tour in Canada’s Jasper National Park and finish in the Sonora Desert. With 2,245 miles traveled, this journey offers us a genuine experience of the American West. Our views and climate will drastically change as we go down US-93.
Picture snow-capped peaks transforming into abrasive desert scenes. About 500 miles of breathtakingly barren landscape will be seen as we travel through Nevada’s Great Basin Desert. Next, we’ll pass through the wild Snake River Plain and the breathtaking alpine scenery of Idaho.
- Experience the glitz of Las Vegas
- Discover the charm of Sun Valley
- Explore the vibrant cities of Missoula, Twin Falls, Phoenix, and Tucson
The last part of our journey in Arizona is almost 200 miles long. We’ll see unique sights like Biosphere 2 and Cold War-era missile silos. It’s a perfect end to our cross-country adventure, showing the diverse wonders of America.
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine
Did you know that 53% of American families have taken their own version of The Great American Road Trip? Join them and make lasting memories on this unforgettable journey from border to border.
The Great River Road: Minnesota to Louisiana
We invite you to join us on an unforgettable family trip along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. This 3,000-mile journey takes you from Minnesota to Louisiana. It’s a chance to see the heart of the nation.
Mississippi River Highlights
Our adventure starts at Lake Itasca State Park in Minnesota. Here, you’ll find hiking trails and peaceful waters. As we move south, we’ll go through 10 states and many charming river towns.
The route is easy to follow, with white signs and a green pilot’s wheel logo. You’ll see diverse landscapes and vibrant cities along the way.
Southern Charm and Cuisine
The Great River Road gives you twice the local flavor of other routes. You’ll enjoy authentic Southern food in riverfront diners. And you’ll feel the warm welcome of small-town America.
From Wisconsin’s Main Street USA to New Orleans’ French Quarter, each stop shows a unique part of American culture.
Music and Cultural Experiences
Our trip wouldn’t be complete without the music of the Mississippi. We’ll dance to the blues on Beale Street in Memphis. And we’ll visit the National Civil Rights Museum.
We’ll end our trip with the soulful jazz of New Orleans. This family vacation is full of unforgettable moments for all who love to explore America.
FAQ
What are some essential items to pack for a road trip across the USA?
The correct packing is essential when organizing a cross-country trip. Do not forget to pack a first aid kit and a roadside emergency kit. Bring water and snacks, as well as navigational aids like maps and a GPS. You must have appropriate clothing for the various climates and any necessary medications. Additionally, remember to bring backup power sources and device chargers.
How do I choose the perfect route for my road trip across the USA?
Choosing the right route depends on what you like, how much time you have, and where you want to go. Think about taking famous routes like Route 66 or the Pacific Coast Highway for a real American road trip feel. Or, plan a path that goes through national parks, historic sites, or cities you’ve always wanted to see. Make sure to research each route to fit your travel style and goals.
What vehicle preparation is necessary for a long-distance road trip?
Before you hit the road, make sure your car is ready for the long haul. Have a mechanic check the oil, fluids, tires, brakes, and other important parts. Consider getting a tune-up, new tires, and any upgrades for better comfort and safety on the road.
What are some must-see attractions along Historic Route 66?
Route 66 is famous for its cool landmarks and quirky stops. You should see the Meramec Caverns in Missouri, the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Wigwam Motel in Arizona, and the Santa Monica Pier in California. Don’t miss the small towns, neon diners, and nostalgia of America’s classic road.
What are the best ways to experience the diverse cultures along the Great River Road?
The Great River Road, following the Mississippi River, is full of cultural gems. Dive into the music of Memphis and New Orleans, try Southern cooking, visit historic plantations, and explore lively river towns. Enjoy the unique vibe of each place and talk to locals to learn about their lives.
How can I ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip across the USA?
Staying safe is key on a road trip. Plan your route well, take regular breaks, and follow the rules of the road. Always have emergency supplies, stay alert while driving, and have a plan B for surprises. With the right precautions, you can have a great time exploring America’s roads.