The Ultimate Guide to a Cross-Country Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Alabama to Oregon
A cross-country road trip is an adventure of a lifetime. There's nothing quite like hitting the open road, seeing the country, and experiencing all sorts of new things. The journey from Alabama to Oregon is a long one, spanning over 2,500 miles, but it's worth it for all the sights and experiences along the way.
To help you plan your journey and make the most of your time, we've put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Alabama to Oregon. These are some of the most beautiful, unique, and exciting destinations in America, and they should definitely be on your must-visit list.
Beautiful Scenery
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous landmarks in America, and for good reason. It's an awe-inspiring natural wonder that's impossible to fully capture in photos. This park boasts some of the best scenery in the world—views that will take your breath away.
Zion National Park, Utah Zion National Park has a different kind of beauty than the Grand Canyon. You'll be surrounded by towering canyons, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests. The park has a network of hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural landscape up close.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon Located in southern Oregon, Crater Lake is one of America's most beautiful national parks. The lake is strikingly blue and incredibly deep, and it sits in the middle of miles of unspoiled forests. It's a serene environment that just has to be seen to be believed.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Tombstone, Arizona If you're a fan of Western movies, you'll love Tombstone. This small town is a blast from the past, taking visitors back to the days of cowboys, saloons, and shootouts. You can visit the OK Corral, see the reenactment of the famous gunfight, and even take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town.
Santa Fe, New Mexico Santa Fe is one of America's oldest cities, and it's steeped in history and culture. You can wander the city's narrow streets, admire the adobe architecture, and visit the many art galleries and museums. During the summer months, the city hosts a range of festivals and events that showcase the local music, food, and traditions.
Portland, Oregon Portland is a city with a distinct personality. It's known for its liberal views, food carts, craft beer scene, and unique culture. While you're in town, be sure to visit Powell's City of Books, one of the largest and most famous bookstores in the world, and explore the many neighborhoods that make up this eclectic city.
Fun Attractions
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico For an underground adventure that's out of this world, head to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The park has over 100 caves, but the most famous is the Big Room—the largest single cave chamber in North America. You can take a self-guided tour through the cave system, exploring the fascinating rock formations and otherworldly landscape.
Las Vegas, Nevada Las Vegas might not be everybody's cup of tea, but there's no denying the city's energy and excitement. From the neon lights of the Strip to the kitschy wedding chapels to the endless entertainment options, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this city.
The Oregon Vortex, Gold Hill, Oregon The Oregon Vortex is a fascinating natural phenomenon that's been baffling visitors for over 80 years. Located in Gold Hill, Oregon, the site is famous for its strange gravitational effects, optical illusions, and other bizarre phenomena. Take a guided tour and see the weirdness for yourself.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of amazing places to visit on a road trip from Alabama to Oregon. Whether you're interested in natural beauty, history and culture, or just good old-fashioned fun, there's something for everyone along the way. So pack your bags, hit the open road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.