National Geographic Road Atlas 2020
Introduction
The National Geographic Road Atlas 2020 is a must-have for anyone planning a road trip in the United States. This comprehensive guide offers detailed maps, driving directions, and travel advice for every state in the country. However, a road trip is not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s an opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create lasting memories. That’s why we’ve created this travel guide to help you make the most of your journey.
Top Attractions
The United States is home to some of the most iconic attractions in the world, such as the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, and the Statue of Liberty. However, there are also plenty of lesser-known but equally impressive destinations to discover, like the Badlands National Park in South Dakota, the Redwood Forest in California, and the Outer Banks in North Carolina.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider visiting some of the country’s hidden gems. For example, the Oregon Vortex in Gold Hill is a mysterious attraction where the laws of physics seem to be defied. The abandoned town of Centralia in Pennsylvania is a haunting reminder of the dangers of coal mining. And the Wave in Arizona is a surreal sandstone formation that looks like a painting come to life.
Food Scene
No road trip is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. From deep-dish pizza in Chicago to lobster rolls in Maine, there’s no shortage of delicious food to try. But why stop there? Go beyond the classics and sample some of the country’s more unique dishes, such as jambalaya in Louisiana, poutine in Canada, and Navajo fry bread in Arizona.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of ways to save money on your road trip, such as camping instead of staying in hotels, cooking your own meals instead of eating out, and taking advantage of free attractions like museums and parks. You can also save on gas by driving a fuel-efficient car or using a gas rewards credit card.
Outdoor Adventures
The United States is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. Some of the best places to explore include Yellowstone National Park, the Appalachian Trail, and the Colorado River. But even if you’re not an experienced outdoorsman, there are plenty of beginner-friendly activities to try, such as nature walks, scenic drives, and easy bike rides.
Family-Friendly Activities
A road trip is a great way to bond with your family and make memories that will last a lifetime. There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy, such as visiting amusement parks, exploring children’s museums, and going on wildlife tours. You can also plan a scavenger hunt or a game of car bingo to keep the kids entertained during long drives.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider seeking out some of the country’s more unusual attractions. For example, the House on the Rock in Wisconsin is a bizarre museum filled with oddities like a giant squid and a room full of automated musical instruments. The International UFO Museum and Research Center in New Mexico is a fascinating look at the history of extraterrestrial encounters. And the Museum of Bad Art in Massachusetts is a hilarious collection of terrible artwork.
Natural Wonders
The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, from the towering cliffs of Yosemite National Park to the colorful hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. Other must-see destinations include the Grand Tetons in Wyoming, the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, and the Niagara Falls in New York.
Vibrant Nightlife
Just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. There are plenty of cities in the United States that come alive at night, with a thriving bar and club scene. Some of the best places to party include Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Miami. But even if you’re not into nightlife, there are plenty of other evening activities to enjoy, such as stargazing, night hikes, and drive-in movies.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting a farmers’ market or a flea market. Not only can you find unique souvenirs and gifts, but you can also sample local foods and meet local artisans. Some of the best markets to explore include Pike Place Market in Seattle, the French Market in New Orleans, and the Brooklyn Flea in New York.
Beaches and Mountains
The United States offers a diverse range of landscapes, from sun-drenched beaches to snow-capped mountains. Some of the best beaches to visit include Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, and Santa Monica Beach in California. And for mountain lovers, there’s no shortage of options, such as the Rocky Mountains, the Appalachian Mountains, and the Sierra Nevada.
Cultural Immersion
Traveling is not just about seeing new things, but also about learning about different cultures. There are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions, such as attending a powwow in New Mexico, visiting a Mardi Gras parade in Louisiana, or taking a salsa lesson in Miami.
Art and Music Scene
The United States has a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant art and music scene. Some of the best places to experience this include New York City, Nashville, and New Orleans. From jazz clubs to art museums, there’s something for every taste and interest.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot. Walking tours are a great way to learn about the history and architecture of a place, as well as discover hidden gems that you might miss otherwise. Some of the best walking tours to try include the Freedom Trail in Boston, the French Quarter in New Orleans, and the High Line in New York.
Architectural Marvels
The United States is home to some of the most impressive architectural feats in the world, from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the Empire State Building in New York. But there are also plenty of lesser-known but equally impressive structures to discover, such as the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, the Hearst Castle in California, and the Farnsworth House in Illinois.
Historical Sites
The United States has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore, such as the Alamo in Texas, Independence Hall in Pennsylvania, and the USS Arizona Memorial in Hawaii. You can also visit some of the country’s lesser-known but equally fascinating historical sites, such as the Salem Witch Museum in Massachusetts, the Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, and the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument in Montana.
Biking Routes
For the adventurous traveler, biking is a great way to explore new places and get some exercise at the same time. Some of the best biking routes in the United States include the Pacific Coast Highway in California, the Katy Trail in Missouri, and the Great Allegheny Passage in Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Wellness Retreats
Traveling can be stressful, but there are plenty of wellness retreats to help you relax and recharge. Whether you’re looking for yoga classes, spa treatments, or meditation sessions, there’s a retreat for every need and budget. Some of the best wellness retreats to consider include the Esalen Institute in California, the Kripalu Center in Massachusetts, and the Miraval Resort in Arizona.
Adventure Sports
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, there are plenty of adventure sports to try in the United States. From whitewater rafting to skydiving, there’s something for every thrill-seeker. Some of the best places to indulge in adventure sports include Moab in Utah, Jackson Hole in Wyoming, and Lake Placid in New York.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or just a weekend getaway, the United States offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to discover new places, try new things, and create lasting memories on your journey.