Choosing Your Route
When planning your cross-country road trip, selecting the right route sets the tone for the whole journey. Major highways like Historic Route 66, The Loneliest Road, and the Lincoln Highway each offer distinct views of America's diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
The Loneliest Road, known officially as US-50, stretches from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland. This route offers sprawling views and fewer crowds. You'll pass through spots like South Lake Tahoe and the Million Dollar Highway.
For those interested in historical paths, the Lincoln Highway spans from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco. Travel through places like Cheyenne Mountain and small, historic towns of 14 states.
If natural beauty is more your style, consider the Pacific Coast Highway. Starting near the Canadian border in Washington and stretching down to San Diego, this drive is renowned for stunning coastal views. Hit up spots like Astoria's coastline and Redwood Forest National Park.
The Blue Ridge Parkway connects the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks. The real magic here is during autumn, when the foliage bursts into a brilliant display of colors.
The Overseas Highway in Florida connects the Florida Keys. You'll enjoy sun-drenched drives over Seven Mile Bridge, lighthouses, and coral reefs. Must-see stops include Islamorada for swimming with dolphins and ruins exploring.
The Great River Road, following the Mississippi River, offers a different flavor. This 3,000-mile route stretches from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, showcasing the river's grandeur and rich cultural history.
Choosing the right route means knowing your interests and constraints. Each highway tells its own American story.
Key Stops and Must-See Attractions
Maximizing your cross-country road trip involves identifying key stops that will enrich your journey. Let's explore some must-see attractions along these iconic routes.
- On The Loneliest Road (US-50), the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado offers dramatic cliffs and panoramic mountain views. Also, make time to visit Lake Tahoe, known for its stunning blue waters and scenic landscapes.
- On the Lincoln Highway, Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado offers an opportunity to explore the intriguing NORAD facility. Don't forget to visit the iconic Willowbrook Wildflower Preserve in Pennsylvania, which provides a serene escape with trails showcasing local flora.
- Traversing the Pacific Coast Highway, take a detour to the Redwood National and State Parks to witness the ancient, towering redwoods. Nearby, the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for a quaint lunch or shopping stop.
- If you're driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mount Pisgah in North Carolina offers extensive hiking trails and beautiful vistas. During autumn, the parkway's panoramic views of the vibrant fall foliage are nothing short of magical.
- Heading down the Overseas Highway in Florida, you'll be captivated by the Seven Mile Bridge, surrounded by turquoise waters and tropical scenery. Islamorada offers attractions like the Theater of the Sea, where you can swim with dolphins, and historical ruins in the Indian Key Historic State Park.
- If your route is the Great River Road, start your journey with the Itasca State Park in Minnesota, the headwaters of the Mississippi River. When you reach New Orleans, indulge in the city's vibrant culture, jazz music, and some of the best culinary experiences in the U.S.
Plan your itinerary to incorporate a mix of natural wonders and historical sites, sprinkling in unique cultural experiences along the way. As your adventure unfolds, you'll soon realize it's about the moments you capture, the places you discover, and the memories you create.
Planning Your Itinerary
Creating a detailed itinerary is essential for ensuring your cross-country road trip goes smoothly. First, allocate specific days for travel and others for exploration. Balancing your schedule helps you enjoy the scenery and destinations without feeling rushed.
Aim for manageable daily driving hours, ideally between 5 to 6 hours, to avoid burnout. Use online tools like Google Maps to gauge drive times and pick suitable midway stops to break up long stretches.
Making reservations in advance, especially for popular stops like national parks, is crucial. Many parks require timed entry passes and campsites can fill up quickly. Similarly, book accommodations along your route ahead of time to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure a comfortable rest after long drives.
Factor in scenic detours and rest stops to keep your journey enjoyable. It's important to remain flexible; unexpected attractions and spontaneous breaks can add to the richness of your trip.
Incorporate a mix of quick, spontaneous stops with more leisurely, planned ones. Use the time at each stop to explore local culture, cuisine, or just relax and rejuvenate.
Remember to occasionally schedule buffer days for unplanned adventures or to recover from unexpected delays. This offers wiggle room to explore hidden gems or restock supplies without disrupting your entire plan.
Apps like Roadtrippers or AllStays help identify nearby attractions, camping spots, and fuel stations. Always have a backup GPS or detailed maps, especially for remote areas with spotty cell service.
Lastly, enjoy the journey and the unexpected detours as much as the destinations. Each town, scenic view, and roadside diner has a story to tell, making your road trip an unforgettable adventure.
Accommodation Options
Choosing the right accommodation can significantly enhance your road trip experience. Options range from budget-friendly motels and charming Airbnbs to scenic campgrounds and luxurious hotels. Research and book accommodations based on their proximity to key attractions and your personal comfort preferences.
- Motels offer a convenient place to rest after a day on the road. They're often located near highways and provide easy access to dining options.
- Airbnbs offer an array of options from chic city apartments to cozy countryside cabins. They provide a more personalized experience, giving you a taste of local life with the added benefit of amenities like kitchens.
- Scenic campgrounds can bring you closer to nature. Many national parks and state parks provide camping areas that range from basic tent sites to RV-friendly locations with full hookups.
- For a more luxurious stay, consider hotels that offer amenities such as pools, spas, and room service. Luxury hotels can provide a welcome respite from the road with added comfort and convenience.
- Consider unique stays, such as historic inns or glamping sites, to add variety to your trip. Staying in a historic inn can immerse you in the local culture and history. Glamping combines the best of camping and luxury accommodations.
When booking accommodations, always check reviews and ratings to ensure you're choosing a place that meets your expectations. Proximity to key attractions is crucial; staying close to the places you intend to visit saves travel time and allows for more leisurely exploration.
Cost can also be a determining factor. Engineer a mix of accommodation types throughout your trip to balance the budget while still indulging in a few splurges.
Remember to consider safety and convenience. Having a confirmed place to stay removes the stress of searching for last-minute accommodations after a long day of driving.
The key to a successful and enjoyable road trip lies in the careful selection of where you'll rest each night. Explore a variety of accommodation options tailored to your itinerary and needs, making each night's stay a memorable part of your journey.
Budgeting and Expenses
Managing your budget is critical for a stress-free road trip. Start by calculating the primary costs such as fuel, accommodation, food, and entertainment. Break down your budget into these categories to get a clear understanding of your financial needs.
Fuel will likely be one of your biggest expenses. Use online tools to calculate the distance of your trip and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Websites like GasBuddy can help you find the best prices along your route.
Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on your choices. To save money, consider a mix of lodging options. Look for deals and discounts on travel websites like Booking.com or Expedia. Memberships in organizations like AAA or AARP can also provide discounted rates.1
Food expenses can add up quickly, especially if you dine out for every meal. To balance costs, plan to cook or pack your meals for part of the trip. Having a cooler stocked with essentials not only saves money but also gives you flexibility and convenience.
Entertainment and activities are another area to budget carefully. While some attractions may have entrance fees, many natural wonders and scenic spots are free to enjoy. Scout for coupons and discounts online or at visitor centers to get the best deals.
Always include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. A general rule of thumb is to set aside at least 10-15% of your total budget for these unforeseen costs.2 This buffer ensures that you're financially prepared and can continue enjoying your trip.
Being financially prepared doesn't mean you can't indulge occasionally. Plan for a few splurges, whether it's a night in a luxury hotel, a fancy dinner, or an adventurous activity. These moments can enhance your experience and provide lasting memories.
By creating a detailed budget and sticking to it, you can focus on the adventure and the experiences, rather than the expenses. With careful planning and smart choices, you'll make the most of every dollar and every mile.
- Norcross J. How Can I Get AAA Discounts on Hotels? USA Today. 2018.
- Mekinc J, Mawby R, Trnavčevič A. Security and Safety Issues in Tourism. Academica Turistica – Tourism and Innovation Journal. 2017;10(2):3-5.
