Three Routes for an Unforgettable American Road Trip
Planning a road trip across America is no simple feat, with so many routes to choose from and so many attractions to visit. Whether you want to immerse yourself in history, culture or nature, thereβs a road for every type of adventure. If America is the next destination on your travel list, take a look at these routes across the USA for an unforgettable road trip.
Route 66
The historic Route 66 is on many travellerβs bucket lists, and features many incredible sights along its 2,448 miles. Established in 1926, it served as an important route for migration across America, and linked rural villages and towns to the bigger cities with a stable road that is accessible year-round. Featured in many television shows, movies and songs, the route from Chicago through to Los Angeles has become an iconic road trip.
St Louis is a popular stopping point which is well-deserving for a day trip, known as the βGateway to the Westβ. Enjoy a walk through the forest park, join in with the vibrant sports scene and dine on exquisite food whilst being serenaded by smooth blues live music.
Holbrook is an unmissable point of interest for anyone travelling Route 66, where you can revel in the authentic history of this Wild West-themed town. You can drink in the taverns and even sleep in the Wigwam hotel to fully embrace the Native American culture. The town also borders the stunning Petrified Forest National Park, where you can explore an ecosystem over 200 million years old and view Triassic fossils in the rocks. Stay until sunset to witness this rocky badland of pinks, oranges and lavender blend seamlessly into the crimson sky.
Memphis to New Orleans
For a shorter road trip, try the culturally rich route of Memphis to New Orleans. If blues and soul music are your cup of tea, youβll love the authentic vibe of these iconic cities. Heading down Highway 61, youβll wind through the rustic Mississippi Delta and be welcomed with true southern hospitality in every bar and restaurant you stop at. Stop off at Vicksburg Battlefield to learn about the history of the Civil War that affected this area for 18 months in 1862-1863.
Finally, pass into Cajun Country, where nature lovers will enjoy exploring swamp forests teeming with rare wildlife, including alligators. Travel through the plantation-filled countryside before arriving in New Orleans, where jazz music and horse-drawn carriages offer a wholesome vibe thatβs hard to match world-over. Be sure to indulge in some mouth-watering Cajun and Creole dishes, and if you plan your visit at the right time, you can join in with the colorful and indulgent Mardi Gras festivities.
Utah to Yellowstone
If wide open spaces and panoramic views are what youβre yearning for on your road trip across the USA, this is the route for you. Taking you through multiple national parks, where glacial lakes, snow-capped mountains and luscious valleys await, the journey from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park is nothing short of mesmerizing.
The first park on the way is Bear River State Park, where elk and bison can be found wading in the water or roaming the plains. Next, Bridger-Teton National Forest offers 3.4 million acres of glistening lakes and waterways beneath soaring peaks and lush wildlands. Test your nerves with some white-water rafting, or enjoy a relaxing day of fishing as you take in the picturesque scenery.
Head southeast towards Grand Teton National Park to hike through the idyllic natural landscape of deep valleys and dense pine forest. Black and grizzly bears can often be spotted here, so always read up on how to stay safe in bear country. Thereβs plenty of dedicated spaces to camp here overnight and enjoy some first-class stargazing, or thereβs also lodging available on site.
Finally, explore the famous Yellowstone National Park. This is a unique expanse which actually sits on top of an active volcano, which is the reason for Yellowstone's many geysers, hot springs and fumaroles. With over 290 waterfalls and 1,000 miles of hiking trails, be sure to dedicate a large portion of your time to discover this beautiful landscape.
