Road Tripping from Austin to Portland: A Guide to the Top Places to See
When it comes to embarking on a road trip, hitting the open road can be an exciting way to explore new places, soak up different cultures and take in breathtaking scenery along the way. One such journey that promises to be fun, is the road trip from Austin, Texas to Portland, Oregon. With so many different routes to take and landscapes to see, it can be difficult to know where to start. To help you make the most of your adventure, we've put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Austin to Portland.
Let's hit the road and discover some of America's most incredible sights along the way!
Wide Open Spaces
The first part of the journey will take you through the Western region of Texas. As you leave Austin, make sure you take the 290 West scenic route towards Fredericksburg. Here, you can stop and experience the beauty of Texas Hill Country, where you are treated to wide-open spaces, stunning vineyards, and rugged landscapes. The area is perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, and exploring the beautiful Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.
The Old West
As you continue your journey, make sure to include a stop at Amarillo, Texas, popularly known as the “Yellow City.” This Western style city offers many roadside attractions such as the Cadillac Ranch, a bizarre art installation of a series of many half-buried Cadillacs, all lined up in a row. Make a stop at The Big Texan Steak Ranch for a filling meal, and an opportunity to try and conquer their famous 72-ounce steak.
Rugged Beauty
The next part of the journey takes you into New Mexico, where you can explore the tallest mountain in the state, the Wheeler Peak, which rises 13,159 feet above sea level. The iconic White Sands National Monument, made up of gypsum sand dunes, and the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, where you can explore the largest caves in the region are the other natural treasures that you don't want to miss.
Unbelievable Vistas
As you enter Arizona, the first stop to make is at the Grand Canyon National Park. Known for its unbelievable vistas, its vastness and its sheer beauty. You can take a stroll or hike down its winding trails, or do a helicopter tour of the attraction that gives you an even grander perspective of the Canyon, which stretches over 277 miles.
The City of Lights
Las Vegas is not directly on the route to Portland but is just a few hours away from the Grand Canyon. Taking a detour to this wild city is worthwhile, even if just for one night. Known as the “City of Lights”, here, you can experience an array of exciting attractions, including gambling, live shows, world-class restaurants, and nightlife activities.
The Great Outdoors
As you enter northern California, it is necessary to stopover at Lassen Volcanic National Park. At the park, you will experience the unique effects of volcanic activity, with thermal vents, hot springs, and steaming vents, all on display. You can also explore the spectacular peaks and canyons in the Park before hitting the road again.
Stunning Coastlines
Continuing on from Lassen Volcanic National Park, the next iconic destination to visit is the Oregon Coast. The Oregon Coast boasts a stunning coastline that runs over 360 miles. Explore its numerous parks, including Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, where you can see the incredible Three Capes Scenic Route, and enjoy miles of sandy beaches, wildlife, and surf.
The City of Roses
Last but not least, we have finally arrived in Portland, a city buzzing with culture and creativity. You can visit its world-famous gardens, like the International Rose Test Garden, which houses 10,000 flowers of approximately 500 varieties. You can also visit the enormous Powell's City of Books, an independent book emporium spread over four floors, where you're sure to find something to read on your next road trip.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that your journey from Austin to Portland will be a memorable one, as there are an incredible number of things to explore and discover along the way. From the open spaces of West Texas to the jaw-dropping vistas of The Grand Canyon, and all of the incredible sights in between, this road trip offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, buckle up and hit the road to experience the adventure of a lifetime!