Two Awesome US Road Trips You Should Not Miss
American road trips are now more popular than ever, representing 22% of vacations by US travelers in 2015, and jumping to 39% in 2016. The appeal of going on a break using land transportation is increasing given the convenience of taking a car, lower costs, and avoiding cumbersome security checks at airports. Moreover, you can stop as little or as often as you want when going on a journey by land, allowing you to really get the most out of your trip.
Before Leaving For Your Road Trip
A reliable vehicle is essential for your road trip, whether you’re driving your own car or renting one. Car rentals are a practical idea, as the vehicles offered are dependable and you get professional assistance if something goes wrong, and it’s possible to rent your car in the region you’re planning your trip. In addition to a trustworthy vehicle, make sure you have an updated GPS, paper maps, first-aid kits, flashlights, food and water provisions. If you’re traveling in winter, pack some blankets, snow shovels, and ice scrapers in case of emergency.
Route 66: The Classic American Road Trip
One of the most amazing US road trips is Route 66, covering 2,278m or 3,665km and crossing 8 states and 3 time zones. It would take you about two weeks to complete it, although one month is an ideal length to enjoy the sights along the route. Start at the Windy City and enjoy Chicago’s Willis Tower and the famed Art Institute of Chicago. While passing through Kansas, check out the National Cemetery in Baxter Springs or take a break at Café on Route 66.
Don’t miss the Baringer Crater in Arizona, formed 50,000 years ago by a meteor crash. Along El Garces in Needles, which is the gateway to California, you’ll find plenty of motels, stores, landmarks, and gas stations that are part of the Route 66 culture. Missouri has the world’s second largest rocking chair in Fanning and in Sante Fe, New Mexico, visit the San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the US. Oklahoma boasts of the historic Round Barn in Arcadia while the Conoco Tower Station is the top landmark in Texas.
Las Vegas and the National Parks
Another superb trip that you can do is to visit Las Vegas, and from there, drive to the different national parks in Utah and Arizona. In Vegas, stop off at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation and pass at the Valley of Fire State Park, which is an hour away from the city.
At Zion National Park, hike up to Angels Landing or drive the scenic Zion-Mt Carmel highway. Savor the gorgeous ‘hoodoos’ or rock spires at Bryce Canyon before heading to the spectacular Grand Canyon National Park. Hike, camp, raft, or simply enjoy the stunning views of gorges and rock formations.
A road trip is a fun and relaxing way to go on a vacation. It allows you to see so many attractions and landmarks at a leisurely pace and reasonable cost.
