Points of Interest between Austin, Texas to Washington, District of Columbia

picture of Austin, Texas

The Ultimate Guide: The Top Places to See When Driving From Austin, Texas to Washington, District of Columbia

Are you up for an epic road trip from the Lone Star State to the nation's capital? If yes, you're in for a journey filled with great scenery, incredible experiences, and unforgettable memories. From the vibrant music scene of Austin to the history-rich streets of DC, this trip has something for everyone.

To make sure you make the most out of your journey, we've compiled a list of the top attractions along the way. So, buckle up and get ready to hit the road!

Heading East: From Austin to Memphis

  1. Graceland – Memphis, TN – If you're a fan of Elvis Presley, Graceland is a must-visit destination. The home of the King of Rock n Roll is now a museum that showcases his life, music, and career. You can tour the mansion, see his amazing car collection, and even visit his final resting place.

  2. Beale Street – Memphis, TN – Beale Street is known as the Home of the Blues and is one of the most famous streets in America. Here you'll find live music, great food, and an exciting atmosphere. Soak up the soul of Memphis by visiting a local bar or restaurant or enjoying some live music.

  3. St. Louis Gateway Arch – St. Louis, MO – The Gateway Arch is an iconic landmark in St. Louis that stands at 630 feet tall. Ride an elevator to the top and savor the bird’s eye view of the city. If you're more of an adrenaline junkie, try a riverboat ride or a bike ride along the scenic Mississippi River.

  4. Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum – Hannibal, MO – The author of "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" Mark Twain, grew up in the town of Hannibal. You can visit his boyhood home and museum and take a stroll through the town that inspired much of his writing.

  5. Gateway Arch National Park – St. Louis, MO – If you have time, take a short ride to Gateway Arch National Park. This 91-acre park has a visitor center, museum, and reflects on the legacy of America's westward expansion. You'll find a wealth of information about the park, its history, and the story of the pioneers who helped shape the country.

Driving from Memphis towards Washington DC

  1. Mammoth Cave – Mammoth Cave National Park, KY – Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world, with over 400 miles of underground tunnels. There are tours of the cave throughout the day and you can explore the depths of the caves and see unique rock formations.

  2. Lincoln's Childhood Home – Hodgenville, KY – Visit the birthplace and childhood home of the 16th President of the United States Abraham Lincoln. You'll see the humble farm where he grew up and learn about his life and legacy.

  3. The National Quilt Museum – Paducah, KY – The National Quilt Museum is a unique destination for art lovers and history buffs alike. The museum has a collection of over 600 quilts dating back to the 19th century. The quilts tell a story of American history, culture, and art and are awe-inspiring.

  4. The National World War I Museum – Kansas City, MO – The National World War I Museum is an educational experience that takes you back in time to America's Great War. You'll immerse yourself in the people, places, and events that shaped the world. The museum also has an impressive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the era.

  5. The Gateway Arch - St. Louis, MO – You may have already seen the gateway arch when you were driving to Memphis. But, the Gateway Arch is an attraction you can never get tired of. The park on the riverfront is a serene place to relax, stretch your legs, or have a picnic lunch.

Arrival in Washington DC

Washington DC is an exciting city with a rich history and culture. Once you arrive, you'll understand why it's one of America's most visited cities. Here are some must-see attractions:

  1. National Museum of African American History and Culture – Washington DC – This museum is a often-overlooked gem of Washington DC. It tells the story of African American history, culture, and contributions to the country and the world. You'll learn about the struggle for civil rights, and how African Americans have influenced the country's politics, arts, sports, and more.

  2. The National Mall and Memorial Parks – Washington DC – The National Mall is an iconic stretch of green that showcases some of America's most celebrated monuments and memorials. Here, you can see the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial. Take a stroll in the park, or rent a bike to cover more ground.

  3. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum - Washington DC – The National Air and Space Museum has some of the coolest and most interesting exhibits on earth. You can see actual space capsules used by real astronauts, famous planes, and rockets. It's a great destination for families and space enthusiasts of all ages.

  4. The White House - Washington DC – No trip to Washington DC is complete without a visit to the White House – home to the President of the United States. Visitors to D.C. can take selfies outside, or schedule a tour via their congressional representative.

  5. United States Capitol – Washington DC – The United States Capitol is a stunning example of American architecture and history. Here, you can see the meeting place of the country's lawmakers and the building where the decisions that affect all Americans are made.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Austin, Texas, to Washington, D.C., is a guaranteed adventure that you'll never forget. There is so much to see and do along the way, so make sure to take your time and enjoy each stop. The trip can be done in around 20 hours, but we recommend taking at least a week if possible. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and start your epic journey today.