When driving cross country, the most precious part of every single day spent in the car is the moment you get out of it to stretch your legs and explore before being on your way again. Here are a few destinations across the country worth stopping at:
1. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – Photo Credit
Very few parts of the United States still boast the plethora of majestic wildlife that the Tetons of Wyoming do. If you are lucky, you will be able to spot elk, bison, grizzly bears, wolves and moose from the side of the road. If you see another vehicle stopped, get out and ask what they’re all looking at!
2. Hot Sulphur Springs, near Granby, Colorado
Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado – Photo Credit
The Native Americans believe that the natural hot springs scattered throughout the Rocky Mountains possess magical healing properties. The sulphur-infused waters will leave your skin uniquely soft. The outdoor springs get as hot as 112 degrees Fahrenheit even when it’s below freezing.
3. Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is a city for dog lovers, featuring miles of great hiking and a dog-friendly specialty store on almost every corner selling high-end, ethically produced, organic products for Fido.
4. Dog Beach at San Diego, California
Dog beach in Del Mar – Photo Credit
While many beaches in the U.S. ban dogs, the dog beach in San Diego stretches for several miles. Sign up for a surfing lesson for yourself and for your dog! Dogs are literally hanging ten these days:
5. South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island, Texas – Photo Credit
If you can’t get to Cancun this Spring Break, South Padre Island is a great substitute. Who knew that Texas had palm trees and tropical beaches?
6. Carlsbad Caverns, in Carlsbad, New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico – Photo Credit
This is a giant, wondrous underground cave that has been developed to the point where it’s completely handicapped accessible. You will never guess some of the hidden treasures that lay underground. Your hint is that it’s not just rocks.
7. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona, Arizona – Photo Credit
Sedona is home to some of the world’s powerful energetic vortexes. This is a very metaphysical, quirky community. If you are curious about palmistry, tarot, clairvoyance, and other New Age elements, this is the place to be.
8. Earth Ships in Taos, New Mexico
Earth Ships in Taos, New Mexico
Earth Ships in Taos, New Mexico – Photo Credit
An earth ship is a structure that takes green building and sustainability to a whole new level. These radical, beautiful homes built of old tires, glass and plastic bottles harvest their own energy and more:
9. Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey
Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey – Photo Credit
This is the first beach in New Jersey that is really worth stopping at when driving north to south. There’s something nostalgic about boardwalk amusement parks and funnel cake.
10. Sierra Trading Post, Cheyenne Wyoming
Sierra Trading Post, Cheyenne Wyoming – Photo Credit
Everyone knows and loves the online shopping website for its insanely low prices on great outdoor gear. The flagship store takes discount shopping for high-end gear to a whole new level.
May you have exhilarating, unforgettable travels!