The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Arizona to Wisconsin

Are you planning a road trip from Arizona to Wisconsin? This cross-country journey covers over 1500 miles and takes about 23 hours of driving time. But the experience of driving through several states and seeing all the beautiful sceneries is worth every mile and hour spent. This road trip offers scenic landscapes, delicious foods, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top places to see when driving from Arizona to Wisconsin.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder that you cannot miss if you are driving through Arizona. Located in the northern part of the state, the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The park is open all year round and offers activities such as hiking, camping, and helicopter rides. You can take one of the several trails that lead to the bottom of the canyon, such as the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail, or simply enjoy the stunning views from the rim.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Located in northeastern Arizona, the Petrified Forest National Park is a spectacular natural museum of ancient tree fossils and geological wonders. The park is home to the rare and colorful petrified wood, which is 225 million years old and has a beautiful rainbow of colors resulting from the mineral transformation. You can take a hike to the Painted Desert Visitor Center or do a self-guided tour to see the prairies, badlands, and the historic Route 66. The park also has several archaeological sites, such as the Agate House and the Puerco Pueblo, where you can learn about the ancient cultures that lived in the area.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a charming town in New Mexico that is worth stopping by when driving from Arizona to Wisconsin. Santa Fe is known for its diverse art scene and adobe architecture that has been preserved for centuries. You can visit the historic downtown and see the San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the United States, or explore the art museums, such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum or the Museum of International Folk Art. Santa Fe is also famous for its New Mexican cuisine, such as chile rellenos, enchiladas, and sopapillas. You can take a food tour to taste the local flavors and learn about the rich history of the dishes.

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves and celebrates the ancient Puebloan culture. The park is home to over 5,000 archeological sites and 600 cliff dwellings that were built between 600 and 1300 AD. You can take a guided tour or do a self-guided tour to see the ancient structures and learn about their history and customs. You can also hike the trails into the canyons and see the stunning views of the desert landscapes. Make sure to visit the Far View Visitor Center to learn more about the park’s history and get a glimpse of the artifacts and pottery.

Mt. Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

When driving through South Dakota, Mt. Rushmore National Memorial is a must-see landmark. This iconic monument features the faces of four American presidents carved into the granite rock face of the Black Hills. The presidents represented are George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. You can take a guided tour or do a self-guided walking tour to learn about the history of the monument and its significance to American history. The park also offers hiking trails, ranger programs, and a gift shop with memorabilia.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Dells is a city in southern Wisconsin that is known for its water parks and outdoor adventures. The city is located on the Wisconsin River and has several water parks, such as Noah's Ark Waterpark and Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park. You can also do a boat tour on the river and see the stunning rock formations and sandstone cliffs. Wisconsin Dells also offers activities such as zip-lining, kayaking, and horseback riding. In the winter, you can go skiing and snowboarding at the local ski resorts.

Conclusion

A road trip from Arizona to Wisconsin is an adventure that offers a diverse range of experiences and attractions. Whether you are interested in nature, history, or culture, there is something for everyone along the way. From the Grand Canyon to Wisconsin Dells, each destination offers a unique and memorable experience that will make your road trip unforgettable. Make sure to plan ahead and take time to enjoy the journey. Happy travels!