From the bustling streets of New York City to the sandy beaches of Santa Monica, California, a cross-country road trip through the United States is a bucket list adventure that many Americans dream of undertaking. This epic journey promises stunning scenery, fascinating history, and unforgettable experiences. With a little planning, a road trip through the U.S. is an adventure that will be cherished forever.
Starting from the East Coast
To begin a cross-country road trip, you need to plan your starting point. One of the most popular starting points is New York City. Visitors to the Big Apple can marvel at the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan, stroll through Central Park, and visit the Statue of Liberty. From New York City, you can start your journey westward to experience the landmarks and natural wonders of the United States.
One of the first stops on the journey westward from New York City can be the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. Rich in history, Washington D.C. is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian Institution, which houses the country’s largest collection of historical artifacts and treasures. Time should also be set aside to visit the numerous museums, galleries, and art exhibits that dot the city.
As you continue heading westward, the next stop can be Nashville, Tennessee – the Music City. Nashville is known for its country music, and visitors can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the genre’s history. Another landmark attraction is the Grand Ole Opry, a live country music venue that has played host to many of the biggest names in the business.
From Nashville, you can head over to Memphis, Tennessee. Memphis is home to many famous landmarks such as Beale Street, Sun Studio, and Graceland – the former residence of legendary rock and roll singer Elvis Presley. While in Memphis, try some Memphis-style barbecue, famously known for slow-cooking the meat with a dry rub.
Continuing Through The Midwest
After soaking up the music culture of Tennessee, travel westward to the vast flatlands of the Midwest. The next stop should be St. Louis, Missouri. There, you’ll find the famous Gateway Arch, an iconic symbol of the United States’ westward expansion. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the arch to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Further west, visitors can stop in Kansas City, Missouri. Home of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs, sports fans would be missing a huge opportunity to pass through this city without taking in a game. They can also explore the city’s famed barbecue tradition, which is regarded as some of the best in the country.
After a few more hours driving through the Great Plains, you’ll reach Denver, Colorado. Denver is known for its breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, which lie just west of the city. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the many hiking trails and mountain biking paths that weave through the mountains.
Continuing the westward journey, arrive at Salt Lake City, Utah – the home of the Mormon faith. Visitors can explore the massive Temple Square, which houses the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, and visitors may hike, climb, or enjoy other outdoor activities nearby.
Heading South to the Desert Southwest
Next stop, the desert paradise of Las Vegas, Nevada. The city is famous for its glittering gambling and entertainment scene. Visitors can wander through the city’s many glitzy casinos or take a stroll down the famous Las Vegas strip to experience its incredible entertainment venues.
After a night of exploration in Las Vegas, visitors can travel south-east to the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. This natural wonder is one of the most renowned landmarks of the United States. Visitors can view the breathtaking canyon from various viewpoints, take a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view or get a permit for hiking to the bottom.
Continuing through Arizona, you’ll find Sedona, a beautiful artistic village nestled in the heart of Arizona’s red rock country. The natural beauty of the area, including towering rock formations, diverse vegetation, and beautiful sunsets, has made Sedona a favorite for tourists and landscape artists alike.
Back to the West Coast
The final destination for this cross-country journey is Santa Monica, California. This coastal city is located on the outskirts of Los Angeles and is known for its beautiful beaches, seafood eateries, and bustling nightlife. Visitors can take in the beach views or stroll down the famous Santa Monica pier.
As you can see, a cross-country road trip through the United States offers endless beauty and opportunities for adventure. From bustling cities to vast open spaces, visitors can experience the many landscapes, cultures, and histories that make this country unique. A road trip through the U.S. is a journey to cherish – it’s time to start planning the trip of a lifetime!