Points of Interest between Aurora, Colorado to Washington, District of Columbia

picture of Aurora, Colorado

Top Places to See When Driving from Aurora, Colorado to Washington, District of Columbia

If you're planning a road trip from Aurora, Colorado, to Washington, DC, congratulations - you're embarking on a journey across America that will take you through a diverse range of landscapes and cities. The distance between these two destinations is roughly 1,600 miles, making it an ideal opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This drive has many potential stops and detours, so you can customize your itinerary based on your interests and availability. Below are the top places to see when driving from Aurora, Colorado to Washington, District of Columbia.

Enjoying the Natural Beauty along the Way

After leaving Aurora, continue driving to the east until you reach the mountains. The road traverses beautiful mountain ranges in Colorado and Utah. A few stops along the way can turn your journey into a scenic tour.

  1. Rocky Mountain National Park - Drive through the park, witness wildlife in their natural habitat, and hike to waterfalls and scenic mountain lakes. A range of activities are available, including wildlife watching, hiking, biking, and fishing. Plan to spend a day or two exploring the park's trails and scenic drives.

  2. Utah's National Parks - From Arches to Zion, Utah is home to five national parks that offer some of the best scenery in the country. Each park has stunning geological formations, such as towering sandstone cliffs, natural rock arches, and deep canyons. Make sure to prioritize a visit to at least one national park while you're passing through Utah.

  3. Monument Valley - Located on the border between Utah and Arizona, Monument Valley is among the most iconic landscapes in the world. The red mesa, buttes, and spires that rise out of the desert floor will take your breath away. Visitors can take guided tours or drive around the 17-mile scenic loop to admire the views of the valley.

Experiencing the Southwest Culture

The Southwestern United States is famous for its unique blend of cultural traditions, including Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences. This region is a melting pot of art, cuisine, and history that you won't find anywhere else.

  1. Santa Fe, New Mexico - Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in America and is situated at the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. It features a diverse arts and culture scene, including Canyon Road, a street lined with over 100 art galleries, and the well-known Santa Fe Opera. The Pueblo-style architecture and colorful markets in the town square also make for great sightseeing.

  2. The Grand Canyon - One of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, the Grand Canyon cannot be missed. Located in Northern Arizona, it is a massive fissure in the Earth's surface that's over a mile deep and about 277 miles long. A visit here is like taking a journey through geological time, with unique rock formations and breathtaking vistas along the way.

Exploring the East Coast Highlights

Finally, as you drive through the eastern states, there are numerous sites you can stop by to learn about American history and culture before you arrive in Washington DC.

  1. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Philadelphia played a significant role in the founding of the United States, and as a result, it is loaded with historical sites. From Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed, to the iconic Liberty Bell, a fascinating history lesson awaits anyone who visits.

  2. Assateague Island National Seashore - The Assateague Island National Seashore spans over two states, Maryland and Virginia, and is a barrier island featuring undeveloped beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests. The island is well-known for its wild horses that roam the area freely, and visitors can even get up close to them as they graze the shoreline.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Aurora, Colorado, to Washington, DC, is a smart travel decision, offering some of our nation's most beautiful sights. This route provides an excellent opportunity to explore new cities and locations, from the mountains and valleys of the Southwest to historic areas in the East. While there will be hundreds of possibilities and pitstops along the way, the list highlighted above is a great starting point to create a beautiful and unforgettable road trip. Whether you prefer outdoor activities, sampling delicious cuisine, or discovering new and exciting cultures, this trip has something for every traveler. Be sure to take your time, soak in the stunning scenery, and make memories that'll last a lifetime.