Points of Interest between Bakersfield, California to Omaha, Nebraska

picture of Bakersfield, California

Best Road Trip: Top Places to See from Bakersfield, California to Omaha, Nebraska

Are you ready for an epic road trip? Starting from Bakersfield, California and ending in Omaha, Nebraska, this journey spans over 1,800 miles and takes approximately 27 hours of driving time! While some may opt for a quick flight, this drive is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the unique and diverse beauty of America's heartland.

To make the most out of your trip, we've compiled a list of top places to see along the way that will make your journey memorable. From natural wonders to historic sites, here are our top picks:

Natural Wonders

  1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: No road trip across America would be complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon National Park. Located in Arizona, the park spans over 277 miles of the Colorado River. The scenic drive through the park is an attraction on its own, with multiple viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the canyon. Take a stroll on the Skywalk, which extends 70 feet over the canyon, or opt to take a helicopter tour for a bird's-eye view of the canyon.

  2. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah: The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Stretching from northern Arizona to southern Utah, it boasts stunning scenery and recreational opportunities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir surrounded by towering rock formations that reflect in its turquoise waters.

  3. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota: A visit to Mount Rushmore is a must when road tripping to Nebraska. The monument features four of America's most prominent presidents - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln - carved into the side of a mountain. Take a walking tour and learn about the history and importance of this iconic landmark.

Historical Sites

  1. Route 66, Arizona/New Mexico/Texas/Oklahoma/Kansas: Drive a portion of the historic Route 66 and take a trip down memory lane. This iconic road spans over 2,400 miles and has been featured in countless movies and songs. Stop at various roadside attractions and diners for a classic American experience, or visit the Route 66 Museum in Oklahoma for some history and memorabilia.

  2. Cadillac Ranch, Texas: Just outside of Amarillo, Texas, you'll find Cadillac Ranch, an art installation featuring ten Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark on the cars, making it a constantly evolving art piece. It's a fun and unique photo opportunity that adds some quirkiness to your road trip.

  3. Carhenge, Nebraska: As the name implies, Carhenge is a replica of England's famous Stonehenge made entirely out of junk cars. Located in Alliance, Nebraska, this attraction is a quirky display of creativity and humor. Get your cameras ready for some fun and memorable photos.

Culinary Delights

  1. Tex-Mex Cuisine, New Mexico: As you drive through New Mexico, make sure to indulge in their famous Tex-Mex cuisine. The state's unique blend of Mexican and American flavors is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Try dishes like green chile cheeseburgers, enchiladas, and sopapillas.

  2. Nebraska Steaks, Nebraska: You can't visit Nebraska without trying their world-renowned steaks. The state produces some of the highest quality beef in America, and there are plenty of steakhouses to choose from. A popular spot is The Drover in Omaha, where you can sink your teeth into their famous whiskey-marinated steak.

  3. Barbecue, Kansas City: KC is known for their mouthwatering barbecue, and a trip to the city wouldn't be complete without trying it. Whether you prefer brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, there's something for everyone. Head to Arthur Bryant's, a local favorite since 1930, for some finger-licking BBQ.

Conclusion

The road trip from Bakersfield, California to Omaha, Nebraska may be long, but it's filled with attractions and experiences that are worth the journey. From the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon and Glen Canyon to the historical significance of Mount Rushmore and Route 66, and the quirky and fun displays of Carhenge and Cadillac Ranch, there's something for everyone. Not to mention the culinary delights of Tex-Mex, Nebraska steak, and Kansas City BBQ. Buckle up, enjoy the scenic drive, and create unforgettable memories along the way.