18 Activity Ideas for Road-Tripping America
When road tripping America, travelers encounter a broad variety of communities, natural and manmade attractions that provide countless options for things to do and see. Besides being popular with U.S. citizens, many locations continue drawing visitors from various world countries.
Hundreds of books have been written about road trips, coffeehouses and pancake tours across the States, but there's nothing like getting out on the open road and doing it yourself. If you're interested in road tripping America, here are some things you'll want to do.
1) Times Square-New York City, New York
New York City is a hub of activity, and you could easily spend a lifetime roaming the streets and checking out attractions like the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty. The one thing you simply can't miss, however, is Times Square and all its chaos.
Spanning the length of five city blocks, the pedestrianized plaza is renowned for hosting the gala annual New Year's Eve countdown. The location also attracts visitors daily for the array of eateries, brand name stores, Broadway theaters and elaborate signage.
2) Faneuil Hall Marketplace-Boston, Massachusetts
The cobblestone promenades of the historic square attract 20 million annually who enjoy road tripping America. Visitors take in the sights, explore the famous stores and restaurants while enjoying the world-class street performers.
3) See the Smithsonian or the National Mall and Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.
The Smithsonian is one of the most popular museums in the world for a reason. If your trip takes you anywhere near D.C., make sure to stop by and view the exhibits, artifacts and general greatness.
Open 24-hours every day, the 1,000 acre National Mall and Memorial Parks site features historic sites, presidential and war memorials, gardens and parklands that are ripe for exploring the history and culture of the country.
4) Buy Mouse Ears at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom-Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Kids of all ages cannot help but experience the charm and wonder of the magical land inspired by Walt Disney. Attractions, rides, kingdoms and live entertainment continue thrilling more than 17 million guests every year.
One of the great classics of road tripping America, you can't travel the States without visiting Disney World.
5) Eat A Hot Dog on Navy Pier, Chicago
No city makes hot dogs like Chicago. In fact, they're officially known as "Chicago-style hot dogs," and you can't get them anywhere else in the country.
Navy Pier extends for nearly a mile onto Lake Michigan, the landmark site has everything from exhibits and museums to rides, street performers and entertainment venues.
6) San Antonio River Walk-San Antonio, Texas
A network of paved walkways lines both sides of the San Antonio River and meanders for 2.5 miles beneath the downtown streets of the city. Beautifully landscaped, the area hosts numerous eateries, shops, hotels, museums and other family attractions.
7) Gawp at the Grand Canyon, Arizona
The amazing natural wonder spans 277 miles in length, up to 18 miles in width and more than a mile in depth. Created by the flow of the Colorado River, the canyon remains one of the most famous destinations for anyone road tripping America.
8) Splash Out on the Strip, Las Vegas
Magnificent light displays illuminate the location that spans 4.2 miles in length and attracts more than 30 million visitors every year. Fifteen of the largest hotel/casino facilities feature unique outdoor attractions.
9) Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
The iconic wharf is probably best known for Pier 39, which boasts the Cannery Shopping Center, Ghirardelli Square and a variety of museums and seafood restaurants. Other attractions include a sea lion colony, a WWII submarine and a Victorian era cargo ship.
10) Universal Studios-Hollywood, California
Millions visit the location for the joy of exploring famous sets, see special effects and numerous other attractions associated with the shows and films created in Hollywood.
11) Eat Some Barbeque, Memphis
Memphis is famous for its all-you-can-eat barbeque. Grab a sandwich and explore Beale Street for a night of food, fun and live music.
12) Take A Swamp Tour, New Orleans
Many tourists swear by the French Quarter, but if you're headed to New Orleans, a swamp tour will be more exciting. Alligators come right up to your boat!
13) Maneuver the Slopes, Vail
Traveling during the winter? There's still plenty of fun to be had from a road trip. For example, you can stop by Vail, Colorado and partake in everything from skiing to snowboarding for a day of exhilaration.
14) Watch The Falls, New York State
If you've never seen 3,000 tons of water dropping off a 167ft cliff every second you'll definitely want to visit Niagara Falls and its unbridled power. Nature is beautiful and terrifying.
15) Touch the Twine, Cawker City
It isn't a road trip without a strange roadside attraction. Stop by Cawker City, Kansas to see the world's biggest ball of twine.
16) Hit the Beach!
After long, dusty miles on the road, it'll be a relief to shed your sweaty t-shirt and jump into the water. The good news is that you can find cool waves and clean sand everywhere from Miami, Florida to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
These are just a few attractions and activities to consider while road tripping America. The world is your oyster! Don’t forget to grab a great rate on your Dollars from ACE-FX before your road trip and more importantly - have an excellent time!
