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51 Unforgettable Places to See on an American Roadtrip

Published on August 27th, 2019 by Camper Report
This post was updated on March 5th, 2024

Taking a road trip with your family is a great way to explore the country and to spend time together. However, trying to find perfect places throughout all of America can be more difficult than it seems.

Luckily for you, I have put together my favorite 50 places to visit while taking an American road trip. On this road trip, you will visit must-see destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and Washington DC!

1. The Grand Canyon

When passing through Arizona, it’s a must to stop and see the wonder that is the Grand Canyon.

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The Grand Canyon is 277 miles in length and in some places can be as wide as 18 miles.

Taking up more space than the entire state of Rhode Island, the Grand Canyon is sure to be a big hit on your American Road trip with sites to stun every member of your family!

While visiting the Grand Canyon be sure to make a stop at either the North or South Rim Visitor centers and learn about the Hopi tribe, and the extensive amount of history contained inside the Grand Canyon.

In the Grand Canyon, there have been over 300 caves cataloged. However, only one of these caves is open to the public.

Visit the Grand Canyon Caverns which are the largest dry caverns throughout the entire United States.

Wherever you stop while at the Grand Canyon you are sure to have a “grand” adventure!

2. The Great Salt Lake

While a lake may not be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of unforgettable places, but the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding areas are sites that any road-tripper would enjoy.

West of the Mississippi River, the Great Salt Lake is the largest natural lake.

Another large site to see on your road trip, the Great Salt Lake is 75 miles long and 35 miles wide.

Looking to get a view of the lake from a high point? Buffalo Point can show you beautiful views of the Great Salt Lake and the once large Lake Bonneville.

Unfortunately, due to the large quantities of salt in the lake’s waters, fishing is not possible.

The only things that live in the Great Salt Lake are algae, shrimp, and flies.

Stop by Bridger Bay to experience one of the nicest beaches along the entire lake.

Located on Antelope Island at the Bridger Bay beach you are able to test the floating theory.

Due to the large amounts of salt, you can float easily on the water’s surface!

Whether you spend the day at the Great Salt Lake or touring the city streets of Salt Lake City, you are sure to never forget this part of your journey.

3. Jackson Hole

Located close to both Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole is one of the most unforgettable stops you can take on your road trip.

In Jackson Hole, you get the chance to experience where the deer and the buffalo still roam and an antelope can be seen playing at almost any point throughout the day.

While in Jackson Hole you can enter the Grand Teton National Park to see the beauty of the mountains or spend a day skiing at the Mountain Resort!

Throughout the town of Jackson Hole, you can find 4 arches made completely out of antlers. Be sure to stop at one of these arches to take the iconic vacation photo.

Another thing Jackson Hole is famous for is whitewater rafting. Thought to have been invented along the Snake River, while in Jackson you can still find whitewater rafting tours to this day.

In Jackson Hole you are sure to find something for everyone in your family to enjoy, making this an unforgettable place to stop on your American road trip.

4. Mammoth Hot Springs

People from all over the world come every summer to see the untouched beauty located within Yellowstone National Park.

One of the many sites available to see while traveling through the National Park is the Mammoth Hot Springs.

Located in the North end of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs and the Albright Visitor Center welcome guests to explore what the National Park has to offer.

The Mammoth Hot Springs has boardwalks for everyone to easily see the many unique features located there.

While visiting the Mammoth Hot Springs, you are sure to get an up-close glimpse of wildlife.

Elk, bison, and snakes often frequent the area and roam throughout the hot springs.

Be sure to practice safety and caution when viewing the hot springs near any wild animals.

While you are visiting Mammoth Hot Springs, be sure to take a slight detour to the Boiling River where you can soak in the warm runoff waters from the springs.

5. Going to the Sun Road

Hidden in Northwestern Montana, Glacier National Park claims the title of “the Crown of the Continent” for its beautiful mountain views all year long.

One of the best ways to experience a great expanse of the National Park is by driving the Going to the Sun Road from the Apgar Visitor Center to the St. Mary Visitor Center.

The road stretches over 50 miles and is only two lanes the whole way up.

Along the way be sure to see sites like the Weeping Wall, several waterfalls, and the beautiful blue water of the creeks that flow along the road.

Hoping to see wildlife? Bighorn sheep and Mountain Goats are frequent travelers of the Going to the Sun Road as well!

When driving the Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park, you are sure to always experience breathtaking sites.

Want to stop along the way for a picnic or to take a hike? Throughout Glacier National Park over 700 miles of hiking trails can be used offering you a variety of places to see something truly unforgettable.

6. Sandpoint

A small town hidden Northern Idaho holds many sites for you to see along your road trip.

In Sandpoint, you are able to see where the east and westbound railways for the northern states all converge.

Any train enthusiast is sure to be amazed by the 50 or more trains that pass through the town and over Lake Pend Oreille daily.

Take some time to walk one of the many scenic hiking trails located within Bonner County and be sure watch out for Moose since they are frequent residents in the area!

At the Bonner County Historical Museum, you are able to learn about ice age floods, the fur trade, and stump ranches!

In the museum is cataloged the early beginnings of both the Kalispell and Kootenai people.

Truly a gem hidden within the mountains, Sandpoint is sure to amaze all who stop there!

7. Pike Place Market

On the western side of Washington state, Seattle is a popular road trip destination for many.

At the Pike Place Fish Market, you are sure to have a truly unforgettable experience.

Established in 1907 as the first open-air market in Seattle, the Pike Place Market contains plenty of history within its many shops.

Here you can learn how the buildings were meant to be demolished but the city of Seattle worked to preserve the history located there.

At this market you are able to see street performers, purchase fresh produce, fish, meat, crafts and so much more!

What makes this site such an unforgettable place is the tradition of fish throwing in the fish markets on site.

Find some exotic foods and tasty treats all while watching fish fly over your head!

The Pike Place Market in Seattle has many extraordinary sites for you to see on your road trip!

8. Crater Lake

In Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park, you can visit the once active volcano that is now known as Crater Lake.

Created over 7,700 years in a violent eruption, Crater Lake has been amazing those who come to see it.

The lake is completely fed by rain and snow-melt and is known for the pure, deep blue colored water.

Known as the deepest lake throughout the entire United States of America, this is a stop you must make on your road trip.

At the Science and Learning Center, you can learn more about the lake’s creation and its current ecosystem.

Rainbow trout and kokanee salmon were introduced in 1888 and are allowed to be fished from the shoreline or from Wizard Island.

Stop to marvel at the lake’s mystical beauty, hike the rim, or to test your luck fishing!

9. Lake Tahoe

Taking claim on the title of the United States’ largest alpine lake and lying on the state boundaries of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe can make for a relaxing stop on your road trip.

Located in the Sierra Mountains, Lake Tahoe helps you to escape all the Las Vegas City lights.

While at Lake Tahoe enjoy your day swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or just relaxing on the shore!

Surrounding Lake Tahoe there are many hikes and ski resorts to visit, offering a truly unique experience.

Looking for some astounding photos to spice up your vacation album? Take Lake Tahoe’s “Most Beautiful Drive” and capture all the breathtaking views along the way!

The “Most Beautiful Drive” is 75 miles long and takes you around the entire perimeter of Lake Tahoe.

The tap water in the area around Lake Tahoe has been named the best-tasting drinking water in the United States. So be sure to stay hydrated while visiting Lake Tahoe!

Ever wanted to go searching for the Loch Ness Monster? Well, there have been rumored sightings of a similar creature lurking in Lake Tahoe’s waters too.

Become a monster hunter and go searching for the Lake Tahoe Monster!

Only 2 hours from Sacramento and 45 minutes from Reno, you can explore the lake and then head into the city for more adventures!

10. Golden Gate Bridge

Featured in many movies over the years, the Golden Gate Bridge is a well-known attraction across the country.

While the Golden Gate Bridge may seem like a cliche stop to make on your road trip, the view is sure to make you glad you took the time to stop.

To learn more about the history of the bridge and its creation, take the time to explore the Welcome Center.

Enjoy one of the free walking tours offered twice a week by a San Francisco City Guide or take a hike through the Golden Gate Nation Recreation Area.

While in San Francisco, some other stop-worthy destinations include Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the iconic Chinatown.

11. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park has a little bit of everything for all to do.

Some of the most common activities found in the park are fishing, hiking, gold panning, shopping, or even visiting a spa.

Whenever you visit Yosemite, you are sure to find several events for you and your family to enjoy.

In April you can attend the national park’s Civil War Days or visit the park in July to attend the annual Yosemite Music Festival.

While in Yosemite National Park many stop to see El Capitan.

El Capitan is a granite cliff-face that climbers come from across the world to conquer.

Towering over you at 3,000 feet, El Capitan is sure to make your trip to Yosemite unforgettable.

On the side of El Capitan is the Horsetail Fall known for their terrific sunsets in the month of February.

As the sun sets, the light hits the water at the perfect angle to make the water seem as if it is on fire.

12. Camelback Mountain

In Phoenix Arizona, Camelback Mountain’s “hump” attracts hikers every day of the year.

Camelback Mountain is best hiked during the cool mornings to avoid the scorching desert heats.

Experience one of a kind views of the one and a half million people in the city of Phoenix from the summit of this hike for a truly unforgettable experience.

After climbing Camelback Mountain, be sure to visit Papago Park.

Papago Park is home to a desert botanical garden and the Phoenix Zoo.

All of your family is sure to enjoy seeing all the exotic plants, visiting the Hole-in-the-Rock, and spending time with animals at the largest non-profit zoo in the nation.

Phoenix offers many attractions and sights for you to see on your road trip, and Camelback Mountain is one of the most unforgettable places you can take your family!

13. White Sands National Monument

In the Chihuahua Desert in New Mexico, you can find the rare white gypsum sand dunes.

These rare white sand dunes cover over 275 square miles, claiming the title of the world’s largest gypsum dunes field.

Spend a day playing in the sands by walking along one of the trails through the monument or taking the nature path to learn more about the animals and plants that reside in the area.

Occasionally there are road closures in the area due to missile testing in the area. So be sure to check for road closures prior to entering the dunes.

Some of the most common activities that take place in the dunes are horseback riding, camping, hiking, and sledding down the dunes!

Other activities include scenic drives, biking, visiting the Native Plant Garden, or learning more about the White Sands National Monument in the visitor center.

The memories made at the White Sands National Monument are one of a kind and are sure to make for an unforgettable stop!

14. Dripping Springs

In the small town of Dripping Springs lies a natural wonder.

In the Hamilton Pool Preserve, below a 50-foot waterfall resides a natural swimming hole full of sights for everyone to enjoy.

The Hamilton Pool Preserve is well-trafficked and in the months of May through October require a previous reservation.

Once at the Preserve, you take a short (but steep) walk to the mouth of the pool.

The views and fun sure to be had at the Hamilton Pool Preserve are only one of the many unforgettable places that Dripping Springs offers you on your road trip.

Visit the local wineries surround the town, or visit the Dripping Springs Ranch Park.

After enjoying the low profile of the small town Dripping Springs, you are only a half-hour from Austin and 3 hours from Houston (where you can spend time at the Gulf of Mexico).

15. New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its lively jazz clubs and Mardi Gras parties.

Experience the birthplace of jazz music by visiting some of the local clubs or by strolling down Bourbon Street.

While visiting the Garden District you can see large mansions mixed in with small cottages surrounded by grand oak trees.

Interested in learning more about the history of New Orleans and the United States? Visit one of the many local museums such as the National WWII Museum, the Preservation Hall, the New Orleans Museum of Art, or the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum.

Whether walking down Royal Street, Frenchmen Street, or Magazine Street no matter which way you turn, you are always sure to find something amazing!

16. Beau Rivage Resort

Take a stop to rest in style at the Beau Rivage Resort.

Here you can be treated like a king (or queen) with one of their deluxe offer packages.

Here you are, guests, to live concerts and performances from inside the hotel!

Some of the Beau Rivage Resort Theater’s headliners include comedian Billy Gardell, Kool & the Gang, and KANSAS.

No matter when you stay at the Beau Rivage you are sure to find a performance to enjoy.

If you want to explore outside the resort, the town of Biloxi is on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico offering plenty of beach space!

Located within walking distance of the Beau Rivage Resort is the Gulf Islands National Seashore for you to spend your day sunbathing.

The views from this beachside resort are unforgettable and are sure to be one of the best stops on your road trip.

17. Mesa Verde National Park

Explore the archaeological remains of Pueblo cliff dwellings at the Mesa Verde National Park.

These cave dwellings were built in 600 BC and occupied for over 700 years.

In the Mesa Verde National Park, there are 600 cliff dwellings that have been well preserved to show you how and where the Ancestral Pueblo people lived.

For a small fee, you can get a tour guide to show you some of the more remote dwellings that are still standing.

Be sure to see this amazing Colorado sight to learn a little more about the history of the Americas and to be able to see some stunning views while you are traveling on your road trip!

18. Dry Tortugas National Park

This exclusive Florida destination is sure to not only be a relaxing but an exciting stop on your road trip.

Made up of seven small islands only accessible by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park is an adventure all on its own.

Take some time to swim in the crystal clear waters or to explore the vibrantly colored coral snorkeling and boating!

Test your hand fishing off one of the national park’s island shores! Head to the island of Garden Key to visit the historic Fort Jefferson.

The construction of Fort Jefferson became a strategical advantage in protecting the coast of the Gulf of Mexico from any enemy ships.

Walking through this base that was used in both world wars is sure to bring a sense of awe and beauty to your family’s road trip.

19. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

An American road trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop depicting the true American spirit.

At the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art that is just their goal. Here they unite both art and nature to intrigue viewers.

Not only is the art depicted in the museum and throughout the grounds awe-inspiring, but so is the architecture of the buildings and the beauty of nature.

Established in 2005 the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art has works dating back from the Colonial era to modern artists of today.

See how American art has changed over the years by visiting the Crystal Bridges Museum of Art on your road trip.

20. Angel Oak Tree

While visiting a tree on your road trip may not seem like the adventure you had in mind, the Angel Oak Tree is sure to leave you speechless.

This tree is thought to be anywhere from 500 to 1,500 years old!

Standing over 65 feet tall, with branches stretching out over 187 feet, the Angel Oak Tree gives onlookers not only rest in the shade, but a moment of peace to enjoy the beauty of nature.

This park is free to the public is located only 25 minutes from the center of Charleston South Carolina.

Whether stopping at the Angel Oak Tree to stretch your legs or to have a picnic in its shade, you will not be disappointed.

21. Mystic Village

While not really a village of its own, Mystic Village has much to offer visitors as they pass through Connecticut.

Take a trip to the Mystic Aquarium to see animals such as a beluga whale or penguins!

Here you can learn more about the ocean and its wildlife up close and personal.

After visiting the Mystic Aquarium be sure to spend some time at the Mystic Seaport Museum.

At the Mystic Seaport Museum, you can experience both how the Pirates and Vikings lived at sea. This interactive museum experience is sure to keep every member of your family engaged and excited!

22. Niagara Falls

Another item on everyone’s bucket list ins Niagara Falls.

The three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls are individually called American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls.

Every second over 750,000 gallons of water spill over the waterfall’s edge.

Take a boat tour to see the action of the falls as close up as possible, or visit the falls at night to see the water illuminated in different colors!

Niagara Falls resides both in the United States and Canada.

However, the only part of Niagara that resides in Canada is the Horseshoe Falls.

Horseshoe falls accounts for over 600,000 gallons of the water spilled every second at Niagara Falls.

Be sure to bring a raincoat on this adventure since avoiding getting wet at this road trip stop will be nearly impossible.

23. Winterthur Museum

Delaware is known as the first state and therefore contains plenty of this nation’s history, making it a perfect stop for an American road trip.

The Winterthur Museum was founded by Henry Francis du Pont and is known as one of the most beautiful historic homes.

The Winterthur has 175 fully furnished rooms and a 60-acre garden for guests to explore.

The Winterthur Museum is only one of the many historically significant places you can visit while in Delaware.

Nearby to the Winterthur Museum is the Hagley Museum.

The grounds of the Hagley museum are over 235 acres including sites such as Brandywine Creek and the first home to the du Pont family.

Wherever you are in Delaware visiting one of the du Pont’s former homes is sure to bring you closer to the history of the beginnings of this nation.

24. Portland Head Lighthouse

Built in 1787 by the order of George Washington, the Portland Head Lighthouse is known as the oldest lighthouse in the state of Maine.

Take a tour of the estate or pause for a peaceful picnic by the water’s edge.

Located in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth Maine, a stop at the Portland Head Lighthouse gives you a view unlike anything else in the country.

Tour a nearby historical structure or take a hike throughout the property.

Wherever you are in Cape Elizabeth, it will be an unforgettable experience!

25. Rock City Gardens

The state of Tennessee holds many sights for visitors to see.

One of the most memorable places to visit is the Rock City Gardens.

The Rock City Gardens are located at the top of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga.

Walk along the “Enchanted Trail” and see over 400 different native plants.

The views from the Rock City Gardens are sure to take your breath away and allow you to see 7 states!

No matter what time of year you visit the Rock City Gardens on top of Lookout Mountain, you are sure to find beautiful views waiting for you!

26. The National Mall

An American road trip is incomplete without visiting the nation’s capital of Washington D.C.

Some of the most notable places to visit in the National Mall include the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the United States Capitol Building, and the White House.

Stroll through the Constitution Gardens or take a visit at Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site (where President Lincoln was assassinated).

Other sights of the National Mall include the Korean War Veteran’s Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and so much more!

No matter where you stop while visiting the National Mall history lies around each corner for you to discover.

27. Casey, Illinois

While the town of Casey may be small, it has big things in store.

Casey is home of the world’s largest collection of the world’s largest things!

Throughout the streets of the town, you can discover the many oversized items.

Some of the many items include a 60-foot tall pitchfork, a 30-foot tall golf tee, a giant birdcage (with a swingable perch), huge wind chimes, and a 56-foot tall rocking chair.

While a stop in Casey may be short it is sure to be a largely unforgettable part of your American road trip.

28. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Bring out your inner child by playing at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis!

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the world’s largest children’s museum and has exhibits to keep everyone entertained.

Slide down a river of “chocolate,” learn about the American pop culture, visit the Dinosphere, or the Beyond Spaceship Earth exhibit.

You can see the Star Trek artifact exhibit, ride a carousel, and learn about children who have shaped history all from inside the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

No matter your age or interests there is an exhibit for you to explore.

29. Effigy Mounds

Considered to be sacred grounds by 20 different American Indian tribes, the Effigy Mounds offers a peaceful escape from the city.

At the Effigy Mounds, you will find over 200 mounds shaped to resemble many different animals in the beautiful Upper Mississippi River Valley.

Some of the mounds are shaped to resemble birds, bears, deer, bison, lynx, turtles, panthers, and some spirits.

Take time to ponder what these sites were used for with the others who visit the park.

The Effigy Mound Region covers 4 different states: Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota

Relax as you explore these sacred grounds on your road trip.

30. The Geographic Center of the U.S.

How amazing would it be to say that you have been to the center of the United States?

Well, when you stop at U.S. Center Chapel just outside of Lebanon Kansas you can say that you have!

While there is not many buildings or extravagant things to see at the Geographic Center of the United States, you can sign the guest register read previous visitor notes and contribute to the geocache located there.

While the original U.S. Center Chapel was destroyed by a car, the replica still stands today welcoming visitors.

After visiting the Geographic Center of the United States, you can take a small detour into Cawker City to see the World’s Largest Ball of Twine.

31. Niagara of the South

After seeing the Niagara Falls in New York, be sure to visit the Niagara of the South.

While not as large as the real Niagara Falls, the Niagara of the South offers a rare and unique experience.

When a full moon hits the water’s surface a phenomenon known as the Cumberland Falls’ Moonbow occurs.

The river reflects the moonlight into a rainbow two days before a full moon until two days after.

The Niagara of the South is a photographer’s dream when attempting to capture the beauty and magic.

If visiting during the day, the area around Cumberland Falls is still breathtaking!

32. The National Aquarium in Baltimore

Located in the Capital of Maryland, the National Aquarium is run by a non-profit for the public to visit.

Experience ocean life of all kinds while visiting the aquarium and learn about conservation programs taking place in oceans all around the world.

With 20,000 animals to view at the National Aquarium some of the creatures you will see are amphibians, puffins, macaws, electric eels, sharks, dolphins, tamarins, and several reptiles.

With over 45 different kinds of fish, 13 reptiles, 4 mammals, 18 invertebrates, 13 birds, and 3 amphibians you can see animals from all over the world.

33. The Freedom Trail

Located in Boston Massachusetts, the Freedom Trail is 2.5 miles long and follows several museums, churches, parks, or other markers that help to tell the American Revolution’s story.

Take a tour led by a guide dressed in 18-century clothing to experience the Freedom Trail in full.

11 of the 16 stops you will take while walking the Freedom Trail are places where history took place during the American Revolution.

If you want to learn more about the American Revolution than the Freedom Trail is the perfect place to do so in a fun environment!

34. Mackinac Island

Spend a day of your road trips where there are no cars around.

Mackinac Island in Michigan offers many activities to participate in and all with no cars!

Ride in a carriage, take a bike tour, participate in water sports, visit the many historical sites and museums, or play a round of golf!

No matter what you do on Mackinac Island, be sure to visit the Fudge factory located on the island and to see the views from Fort Mackinac!

This car free adventure is another unforgettable stop on your road trip!

35. Niagara Cave

Visit the remains of an underground stream at the Niagara Cave!

The cave system received the name “Niagara” for the 60-foot tall waterfall that still runs inside!

At the Niagara Cave, you can visit the echo room, search for fossils, or just enjoy the waterfall (all underground!).

Aboveground the Niagara Cave company offers panning for gemstones and fossils and an 18-hole mini-golf course!

After seeing the natural beauty of the caves, be sure to play around with the family!

36. Gateway Arch Park

On the border of Missouri and Illinois stands the St. Louis Arch.

The Park surrounding the monument is 90 acres and has 5 miles of walking trails available to the public.

While at the Gateway Arch Park, there are plenty of attractions to see.

Stop by the Gateway Arch Museum to learn more about its history and creation.

Spend some time on the riverfront, grab lunch in Kiener Plaza, or take a tour of the Old Courthouse!

Gateway Arch Park has plenty of activities happening year-round for you and your family to enjoy!

37. The Carhenge

Ever wanted to take a trip to the famous Stonehenge in England?

Well, on your American road trip you can visit the next best thing, the Carhenge!

The Carhenge is built to be an exact replica of the Stonehenge only with one twist, the Carhenge is built completely out of car parts.

Next, to the Carhenge visit the cart art Preserve, where are all of the artwork is made from car parts!

While the Carhenge may not be over 5,000 years old and made for a mysterious purpose, it does offer a day of unique art appreciation mixed with a little bit of humor.

The Carhenge is sure to be an unforgettable stop on your road trip.

38. Story Land

Take a step into a storybook at New Hampshire’s own, Story Land!

Story Land is an amusement park with a fairytale theme.

Perfect for children, Story Land has rollercoasters, water-themed rides, and several games to keep your kids entertained.

Attend one of the character dinners or have a tea party as they do in Alice in Wonderland!

You and your family are sure to find the perfect fairytale rides to spend your day exploring.

Make Story Land a stop on your road trip for lots of fun and memories to be made!

39. Thomas Edison’s Laboratory

New Jersey is known for many things such as the Jersey Shore, the George Washington Bridge, and Liberty State Park.

However, another sight just as worth seeing is Thomas Edison’s Laboratory.

Thomas Edison is credited with sparking our nation’s desire to improve technology.

In his Home and Laboratory, you can see his inventions where he worked to create the modern America that we know today.

The estate has libraries and other exhibits to explore, or you can take a guided tour to learn the most about the life of America’s greatest inventor.

40. Sliding Rock

While visiting a water park can lead to lots of fun, visiting a natural water slide leads to an appreciation for nature and plenty of fun!

In the Pisgah National Forest, you can find the Sliding Rock where a natural waterfall allows visitors to use the “water slide” to enter an 8-foot deep pool.

After playing at the Sliding Rock, visit the Cradle of Forestry Cafe for lunch!

Some attractions near the Sliding Rock are the Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls, and several hikes through the Pisgah National Forest.

Have a blast playing in all the local water features at this stop on your road trip!

41. The Enchanted Highway

Enjoy all the roadside attractions as you follow the Enchanted Highway from Gladstone North Dakota to Regent.

The Enchanted Highway is a 32-mile drive with 7 large metal sculptures lining the way.

Stop to view each of the different sculptures or just drive through admiring their artistry and craftsmanship!

The Enchanted Highway is great for people of all ages as children will be amazed by the unique designs and others can enjoy the hard work and thought put into each sculpture.

42. Lake Erie

While Lake Erie is one of the smaller of the Great Lakes, the size is likely to impress all who see!

Spend a day camping, swimming, boating, or fishing from one of the shores of Lake Erie.

Nearby there are lighthouses, water parks, bird watching, and fine dining all within a short distance of the shoreline.

Make visiting Lake Erie and the Great Lakes an unforgettable part of your road trip!

43. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Take a step into the history of the American cowboy and learn about the heritage of the west while driving through Oklahoma.

Located in Oklahoma City the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum captures the Spirit of the West and has some of the largest collections of cowboy artifacts and over 28,000 western and American Indian artworks.

Learn about the origins of the United States from the western perspective.

Visit the Bison Exhibit to learn more about the Native American’s use for the bison and how bison were nearly driven to extinction by trappers.

Wherever you turn in the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum there is something for you to learn or see!

44. Gettysburg

The towns of Pennsylvania are littered with history from the American Revolution and the Civil War.

The town of Gettysburg is known as the turning point of the Civil War.

In Gettysburg, visit the National Military Park, Gettysburg Battlefield, or the Gettysburg National Cemetery.

Visit the Gettysburg Museum to learn more about the Civil War and how the Battle at Gettysburg played a crucial part in the fight.

What you learn while visiting Gettysburg will leave an unforgettable impression on your road trip.

45. Cliff Walk

While Rhode Island may be the smallest state on your itinerary, there plenty of big places to see!

The Cliff Walk located in Newport Rhode Island is world-famous for the sights shown along the way.

Enjoy the Newport shoreline and unique architecture from the gilded age.

The trail walks you along the cliffs of the Newport shore through the National Historic District.

Making Cliff Walk a unique mix of nature and history.

The trail is 3.5 miles with easy walking conditions for everyone to explore on!

46. Mount Rushmore

Another iconic stop on an American road trip is Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.

Carved into the Black Hills is four of the Founding Fathers: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

Explore the surrounding nature or learn more about the National Monument in the Visitors’ Center.

After visiting Mount Rushmore take a small detour to see the Crazy Horse Memorial only 20 minutes away!

47. Killington Ski Area

If you are an avid skier than the Killington Ski Area is sure to be an unforgettable part of your road trip.

Killington Mountain Resort & Ski Area is the largest ski area in the eastern United States.

Located in the Killington Ski Area is the largest vertical drop in New England. Nicknamed the “Beast of the East,” the drop falls 3,050 feet.

Whether enjoying the Mountain Resort or hitting the slopes, the Killington Ski Area will be a big hit with everyone on your road trip.

48. Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is known for covering 14 states.

Completed in 1937, the Appalachian Trail stretched from Maine to Georgia and totaled 2,190 miles.

The start of this hike is located in Markham Virginia and while you don’t have to walk the entire trail, even a short walk along the trail is sure to bring you many breathtaking views.

Get a view of the east like none other from the Appalachian Trail!

49. Green Bank Science Center

Located in the countryside of West Virginia is the Green Bank Science Center.

What makes this place so unforgettable is that the Green Bank Science Center is located within the National Radio Quiet Zone.

The Green Bank Science Center focuses on listening for sounds from space by avoiding all the energy emitted from radio and cell towers.

Take a tour of the labs and telescopes used by scientists in order to listen to outer space!

50. Milwaukee Art Museum

The Milwaukee Art Museum focuses on teaching and inspiring the community through artwork.

The Museum also includes a War Memorial Center covering 341,000-Square feet.

With over 30,000 pieces in their collections, you are sure to feel inspired and educated as you are walking through the many floors of the gallery.

Be sure to make the Milwaukee Art Museum an unforgettable stop on your road trip!

51. The Smithsonian

Appearing last on the list is the mother of all museums. In reality, the Smithsonian is itself an institution of museums that are mainly located in Washington DC.

Check out each of the museums including: the African American Museum, African Art Museum, Air and Space Museum, American Art Museum, American History Museum, American Indian Museum, Anacostia Community Museum, the Archives of American Art, the Arts and Industries building, Freer Gallery of Art, Hirshhorn, National Zoo, National History Museum, Portrait Gallery, Postal Museum, S. Dillon Ripley Center, Sackler Gallery, the Smithsonian Castle, and the Smithsonian Gardens.

With all of those branches of the Smithsonian Institution, there is bound to be something for everyone in the area.

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