America Bound: A Road Trip from Boston to Bakersfield
Are you someone who loves the open road and enjoys long drives? If so, it's time to gear up and embark on an unforgettable journey from Boston to Bakersfield, a city located in California’s Central Valley. This article will guide you through the different routes and travel times, as well as suggest some must-see stops along the way.
Route Options
There are three popular routes to get from Boston to Bakersfield:
Route 1: The Southern Route: Starting in Boston, this route takes you down south all the way to New Orleans and then cuts across to Bakersfield. It’s a long, winding route that covers approximately 3272 miles and takes about 55 hours by car.
Route 2: The Northern Route: Beginning in Boston, travel westward to San Francisco, and then head down south along Highway 5 to Bakersfield. This route covers around 3114 miles and takes approximately 47 hours by car.
Route 3: The Mid-Route: This mid-point route starts in Boston and takes you through America's heartland, passing through major cities like Chicago, Denver, and Las Vegas, and ultimately ending in Bakersfield. This route covers approximately 3,321 miles and takes around 52 hours by car.
Route Comparisons and Recommendations
Each route offers its own unique experiences and highlights, depending on what you’re looking for in a road trip. Here are some recommendations for each route.
The Southern Route: Head south through New York City and Philadelphia for the best local cuisine. Stop in Nashville for some fantastic country music and check out the vibrant nightlife in New Orleans. Once in Bakersfield, be sure to visit the Kern County Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture.
The Northern Route: Visit Chicago for the iconic deep-dish pizza and the legendary blues scene. Continue westward and experience the picturesque beauty of Utah's Zion National Park. In San Francisco, take a ferry across to Alcatraz Island to learn about the history of the infamous prison. Finally, end your journey in Bakersfield, where you can treat yourself to some delicious Tex-Mex food at Jerry's Pizza & Pub.
The Mid-Route: Start off in Boston with some clam chowder and visit Chicago for some pizza and hotdogs. Head towards Denver and explore the stunning Rocky Mountains, and then continue further west to the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Las Vegas offers entertainment options galore, and then it’s on to Bakersfield for some fresh seafood and southern hospitality.
The Drive
Driving across America is not only an opportunity to revisit the history and culture of its cities, but it's also a chance to explore the natural beauty of the country. Keep in mind that the time it takes to complete a road trip depends on how you pace yourself, how many people are traveling with you, and how often you stop for breaks.
When it comes to the estimated driving time for the entire trip, we have used Google Maps to calculate an average time of around 52-55 hours. But, don't let this number deter you, as there are plenty of charming towns, beautiful landscapes, and hidden gems to discover along the way.
Conclusion
Embarking on this road trip is a perfect way to experience the beauty, history, and diversity of America and its cities. From the Northern Route to the Southern Route, or somewhere in between, the journey from Boston to Bakersfield is an exciting adventure that will undoubtedly create memories to last a lifetime. Be sure to plan your stops depending on your interests, time, and comfort, and enjoy soaking up the essence of America.