Top Places to See When Driving From Anaheim, California to Jacksonville, Florida

Are you planning your next big road trip from Anaheim, California to Jacksonville, Florida? If so, you're in for an exciting adventure. The journey will traverse you across many beautiful and diverse landscapes, offering amazing scenery and unique destinations. While the drive from the West Coast to the East Coast might seem long and arduous, it offers outstanding opportunities to visit myriad attractions that you might not have the chance to explore otherwise. So, buckle up, grab your snacks and playlist, and let's hit the road!

In this blog post, we've compiled a list of the top five places to see during your cross-country drive from California to Florida. From stunning national parks to vibrant cities, there's something for everyone on this list.

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Begin your journey by stopping at the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona. The park offers stunning vistas of the enormous, colorful canyon that's carved by the Colorado River. You can explore the sites of the park either through hiking, biking, or join one of the guided tours. We recommend taking the Bright Angel Trail down to the bottom of the canyon to witness the breathtaking views of the multiple rock layers that have formed over millions of years. If you're adventurous, you can also opt for a helicopter tour for a bird's eye view of the canyon.

2. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Next on our list is the charming city of Santa Fe, New Mexico. This city is among the most beautiful historic and cultural cities in America with so much to see, explore, and experience. With adobe architecture, vibrant art galleries, and unique museums, Santa Fe emanates a unique and inviting ambiance. Check out the Palace of the Governors for a glimpse of the authentic adobe architecture, and the Santa Fe Plaza for shopping and delectable food. If you're an art lover, then the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum is a must-visit. Before you leave, don't forget to take a stroll down Canyon Road to appreciate the awe-inspiring sculptures and art galleries.

3. Nashville, Tennessee

Your next stop should be in the Country Music Capital, Nashville, Tennessee. A trip to Nashville wouldn't be complete without visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the birthplace of country music. The museum features authentic artifacts, interactive exhibits, and video displays, making it unforgettable. You can also explore Nashville's honky-tonks and enjoy live performances by local musicians, especially at the infamous Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, which has been around since 1940. Do you want to experience the iconic downtown skyline view? Then head to ‘The John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge’ over the Cumberland River.

4. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, is a city rich in history, architecture, and elegance. The city is home to the largest national historic landmark district in the country, making it an excellent spot to explore America's past. Stroll down River Street and take in the cobblestone streets and amazing views of the Savannah River. You can also visit the Bonaventure Cemetery, featured in the popular 1994 book ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' The town also has many lush green parks perfect for unwinding and picnics.

5. St. Augustine, Florida

Your journey will wind down to an end in the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in North America, St. Augustine, Florida. This city possesses splendid Spanish colonial architecture, narrow alleyways, and fascinating museums. Discover the history of the city by exploring the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, where you can take a guided tour within the fort from the Spanish colonial era. If you're feeling adventurous, take a stroll down to St. Augustine Beach, where you can enjoy the ocean breeze and the Atlantic Ocean's crystal-clear water.

Conclusion

Driving from Anaheim, California, to Jacksonville, Florida, could seem challenging. But, the trip offers an amazing journey traversing several beautiful landscapes and diverse destinations. While the journey is long, taking the time to stop and admire the beauty of each destination on the list will leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences. Don't forget to take your camera to capture the breathtaking scenes of nature, the historic landmarks, and colorful streets. So, gear up, turn on your playlist, and hit the ‘road’ to begin your adventure!