Points of Interest between Bakersfield, California to Memphis, Tennessee

picture of Bakersfield, California

Top Five Places to Visit Between Bakersfield, California and Memphis, Tennessee

Are you planning a road trip between Bakersfield and Memphis? Here are our top five recommendations for must-visit places along the way.

The Route

Before we dive in, let's talk about the route. To get from Bakersfield to Memphis, you'll be driving east across the desert and through the heartland of America. The drive takes around 32 hours if you go straight through, so we recommend taking your time and breaking it up into a few days. Now, onto the list!

  1. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona: In Northern Arizona lies a forest made out of petrified wood, which is believed to have existed long over 225 million years ago. Visitors can explore the unique geological formations and take in breathtaking views of the painted desert.

  2. Sandia Peak Tramway, Albuquerque, New Mexico: One of the most popular tourist destinations in New Mexico, the Sandia Peak Tramway, offers a 2.7-mile scenic ride over the Sandia Mountains. Take in unmatched views of the Rio Grande Valley and of the New Mexico Sunsets, all while getting up close with the natural beauty of the Southwest.

  3. Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri: No trip to St. Louis is complete without seeing the Gateway Arch. Formally called the "Jefferson National Expansion Memorial," the arch symbolizes the "Gateway to the West" and is the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere.

  4. Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee: There is something magical about visiting Graceland- the home of Elvis Presley. It is a place where visuals, audio, and artifacts come together telling the story of the King and his home. Visitors can also tour Presley's private planes and cars, making it a trip well worth taking.

  5. National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, Tennessee: Last but not least, this museum should be on everyone's to-do list. Housed in the former Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, the museum is a powerful tribute to the movement and its martyrs. Visitors can see the hotel room where King stayed, and the civil rights exhibits showcase memorabilia and footage of historic moments.

Conclusion

From national parks and museums to exciting tram rides and historic landmarks, there is plenty to see and do on a road trip through the Southwest and Midwest. Be sure to take your time, explore these five attractions, and discover all the hidden gems that lie between Bakersfield and Memphis.