With fourth of July still fresh in the air, there’s no better time to hop in the family wagon and drive across this sublime country and experience all it has to offer. Here is a list of my top ten locations across throughout America that are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face during your cross country road trip.
One of America’s largest and oldest museums, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-see in the middle leg of any cross-country road trip. Continuously voted one of the nation’s best museums, the Art Institute boasts over 300,00 pieces in its collection and features iconic work from the likes of Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dali.
Fan of the King or not, no American road-trip would be complete without a visit to Elvis Presley’s famous estate: Graceland. Ipad guided tours are available.
With the 48th anniversary of the moon landing (July 20th) right around the corner, what better time to visit the place that made it all possible. NASA’s Space Center offers a great view into all things space and is sure to inspire the Starman within each family member!
For your camping and hiking fix, check out Hocking Hills in Ohio. This beautiful slice of American nature has something for everyone: from ziplines to kayaking to bulldozing (seriously). You even find yourself staying longer than planned once you arrive!
If you’re following a more camping and nature based trip then this is the lake you need to see to believe. Flathead features crystal clear water that you can swim in and enjoy amidst the beautiful Montana mountain ranges.
Sitting within some of Colorado’s beautiful canyons sits the Dinosaur National Monument, a live paleontological site for history buffs and dinosaur lovers alike. The park also features the “Wall of Bones”: a massive wall filled with excavated dinosaur fossils.
Whether you’re starting or ending your trip on the west coast, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park is a must. The park has many great hidden gems including the Shakespeare Garden and Flower Conservatory. Mom will love this one.
Top 10 Places To Visit On A Cross Country Road Trip Click To TweetThe Biosphere2 is straight out of your favorite sci-fi film. Biosphere 2’s goal is to “serve as a center for research, outreach, teaching, and life-long learning about Earth.” Besides being the most unique building in the state, it is open to the public for tours. Learn more at http://biosphere2.org/
A historic landmark, New Orlean’s French Quarter is considered by most to be the heart and soul of the city. Complete with fantastic food, beautiful buildings, and an eclectic busking atmosphere, it’s a must-see for any road trip.
Now you don’t have to be a mom to be in four places at once! This point is the intersection of four states: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, and is a fun spot to stop by…especially if you don’t have time to explore all four.
If you’ve been to any of these locales, I hope you agree that these are must-sees on any cross country road trip. If you haven’t been to any, then happy trucking!