10 best road trip destinations
In honor of this being unofficial Road Trip Week- I have pulled together some of the 10 best places to road trip to across this fantastic country of ours. Of course this is personal opinion and opinion gathered from others, so this is by no means a comprehensive list. Just a list of awesome locations that people from all over the world visit each year.
Grand Canyon: Of course the quintessential Grand Canyon trip that must be done in every American’s lifetime. Since the closest airport is a few hours away from this natural wonder- it must be done by car and most preferably an RV. Riding burrows down the canyon is also a long standing tradition that musn’t be missed.
Yellowstone: Who doesn’t ride in a car for hours to see Old Faithful erupt in a big mass of watery awesomeness? Yellowstone (not to be confused with Jellystone) is the perfect place to encounter wildlife, camp, hike to waterfalls, and enjoy nature at all it’s finest. Just don’t forget to stop by the stink pots.
Mount Rushmore: A big rock carved into heads of the founding fathers of our country? Who can pass on such a wonder? Located in beautiful South Dakota, Mount Rushmore stands as a tribute to Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, and T. Roosevelt, but there is much more to this park then carved mountains- there are many different species of beautiful wildflowers to look at along the path.
San Diego: If you are getting tired of all the state parks you can also head over to San Diego for a healthy mix of beach and sun, with a dose of history, SeaWorld and excellent shopping. San Diego is a great vacation spot that can be easily accessed by car and is a day trip away from Los Angeles.
The Outer Banks: Located in North Carolina and serves as a popular road trip destination, The Outer Banks are famous for their famous annual hang gliding spectacular. It’s also a great beach destination for anyone on a budget.
Niagara Falls: While I don’t recommend seeing it strapped into a barrel about to be plunged over the falls, it is a great place to take a road trip, highly recommended for honeymooners and lovers looking for a romantic road trip getaway.
Lake Powell: More than 400 feet deep, 186 miles long and nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline, Lake Powell surrounds you with spectacular rock canyons and towers. People flock here every summer and rent houseboats or go camping and enjoy the glassy waters. Spend your time fishing, water skiing or just exploring.
Daytona Beach: The perfect destination for families looking to spend quality time together or college students looking to blow off some steam during spring break. A place where you can find all the beachy things to do but also find great museums, shopping, dining and don’t forget Daytona 500!
Wisconsin Dells: Ever since I heard about this destination I have been obsessed with it. Wisconsin Dells boasts over twenty outdoor and indoor water parks. What could be better than that? We are big lovers of water parks in my family and this is a spot that is definitely worth visiting.
Disneyland/Disneyworld: Does this really even need any explanation? People of all ages flock to Disneyland and Disneyworld every year and it appeals to everyone. It’s basically a no brainer if you are looking to satisfy a group of unique individuals.
I probably missed your favorite place to road trip to- now is your chance to sound off! I’d love to hear about some of your favorite destinations via the open road or places you are dying to visit.
Tags: road trip destinations
May 12th, 2009 at 3:19 pm
This post would be 10 times better if you have PICTURES of the places.
I’ve been to five of these places: Yellowstone, Mr. Rushmore, Disneyland/World, San Diego, and right by the Grand Canyon.
Yellowstone was my favorite – we went snowmobiling on the road there and drove right by huge bison (within 5-10 feet at times) – now that’s a rush.
May 12th, 2009 at 3:21 pm
Since you mentioned Niagra Falls, I wanted to also add New England. Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Upstate New York, Conneticut – that whole area is such a lovely place for a road trip. Winding mountain roads, beautiful trees arched over the roads, beaches always close-by, amazing 20th century architecture and rolling estates. I love this area and highly recommend New England to your list of the best road trips.
May 12th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
ahhh all the places I’m dying to go! Thanks Ghennipher for the additions! I’ll make it someday.
May 12th, 2009 at 3:41 pm
If I had to vote for the #1 place to road trip to, that would be Lake Powell. But the Grand Canyon would be a close second. My daughter and I are planning a trip to the Grand Canyon this summer. Word of caution: if you are going to Grand Canyon West, where the Skywalk is, be prepared. It’s costly. We paid $85 each which covered the skywalk, the bus ride to the skywalk, a small lunch and something else.
May 14th, 2009 at 5:23 am
You must put the Outer Banks of NC (or OBX)on your list for road trips. It is centrally located on the east coast and within a reasonable driving distance from many states. We are a family oriented beach with 100 plus miles of beautiful, public beaches from Carova to Ocracoke. There are many historical sites (Wright Bros. Memorial, The Lost Colony,etc), lighthouses, fishing, nature in it’s finest. We don’t have high rises, just a few nightspots, fantastic restaurants, and unique local art and shopping. Visit: http://www.outerbankschamber.com/
or http://www.NCOuterBanksHomes.com and check out the links.
May 14th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
Just a quick note to thank you for placing Mount Rushmore on your road trip list! There are many different routes travelers can take across South Dakota to get to Mount Rushmore and our office encourages them to check out what is on the beaten path and experience what else there is to see and do in South Dakota while they are on their way to “see the boys”. For more information, visit http://www.TravelSD.com. Thank you again, Emily from the South Dakota Office of Tourism
May 19th, 2009 at 8:16 am
8/10 visited! The Outer Banks and Daytona Beach are next on my list. All of those places are pretty sweet, but I’m going to have to say Niagra Falls is one of my favorites.
May 19th, 2009 at 12:35 pm
Lake Powell all the way! Fun post
May 21st, 2009 at 8:21 am
I haven’t been to almost half of these places. Now i’m determined to change that!
I would also add Portland/Seatttle to the list, stopping at Mt. Saint Hellan Haystack Rock and the Goonies house along the way.