Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Anaheim, California to Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you're looking for a road trip that takes you through the heart of the American Southwest, look no further than the drive from Anaheim, California to Albuquerque, New Mexico. This route will take you through some of the most stunning and iconic landscapes in the United States, from the desolate beauty of the Mojave Desert to the towering mesas of northern New Mexico. The drive itself takes approximately 12 hours, but we recommend taking some time to stop and explore along the way. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey.

Seligman, AZ: The Halfway Point

Seligman, AZ is a small town that's big on character. Located just off of historic Route 66, Seligman has been a favorite stop for road trippers since the heyday of the Mother Road. The town is full of colorful buildings, quirky shops, and retro diners. Visitors can stroll down the town's main street to take in the vintage charm, or hop into one of the many antique cars parked along the road for a photo op. Seligman is also home to the Historic Route 66 Motel, which has hosted guests since 1937.

Favorite food to eat in Seligman: Pie from the Roadkill Cafe.

1. Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning desert landscape that straddles the border between Southern California and the Mojave Desert. The park is named for the iconic Joshua tree, a spiky plant that grows throughout the area. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by car, taking in the surreal rock formations, the rambling paths of the Cholla Cactus Garden, or the stunning vistas from Keys View.

Favorite food to eat in Joshua Tree: A breakfast burrito from Crossroads Cafe.

2. Hoover Dam, NV

The Hoover Dam is a true engineering marvel. Located on the border between Arizona and Nevada, this massive concrete structure towers over the Colorado River, creating a reservoir that provides hydroelectric power to millions of people in the Southwest. Visitors to the dam can take guided tours to explore the inner workings of the power plant or stand on the observation deck to get a breathtaking view of the surrounding desert landscape.

Favorite food to eat at the Hoover Dam: A classic cheeseburger from the Dam Snack Bar.

3. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ

Petrified Forest National Park is home to some of the most beautiful and rare geological formations on the planet. The park's signature attraction is its petrified wood, which has turned to stone over millions of years. The park also features ancient Native American ruins, colorful badlands, and the stunning Painted Desert. Visitors can explore by car or on foot, taking in the stark beauty of this unique area.

Favorite food to eat in Petrified Forest National Park: Baked goods from the Rainbow Forest Cafe.

4. Gallup, NM

Gallup, NM is a small city that's big on culture. Located on the eastern edge of the Navajo Nation, Gallup is a hub for the region's Native American art and crafts. Visitors can browse the many galleries and trading posts in town, or attend one of the many cultural events that take place throughout the year. Gallup is also home to several historic Route 66 landmarks, including the El Rancho Hotel and the Rex Museum.

Favorite food to eat in Gallup: Navajo tacos from Camille's Sidewalk Cafe.

5. Old Town Albuquerque, NM

Old Town Albuquerque is a beautiful and historic neighborhood located in the heart of the city. The area is home to stunning Spanish Colonial architecture, colorful adobe buildings, and charming courtyards. Visitors can explore the many shops and galleries that line the streets, or take a guided walking tour to learn more about the area's rich history. Old Town also features several museums and cultural attractions, including the Albuquerque Museum and the Turquoise Museum.

Favorite food to eat in Old Town Albuquerque: A breakfast burrito from Tia Betty Blue's.

Conclusion

The drive from Anaheim, California to Albuquerque, New Mexico is one of the most scenic and fascinating road trips in the country. By taking the time to stop along the way, travelers can experience some of the region's most unique and unexpected attractions, from retro diners to ancient petrified wood. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun and quirky adventure, this road trip is sure to satisfy. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for a journey you'll never forget.