The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Baltimore, Maryland to Santa Ana, California
Are you planning a road trip from Baltimore, Maryland to Santa Ana, California? If yes, you're in for a treat! The journey from the East Coast to the West Coast is a long one, but it's filled with fantastic scenery, vibrant cities and charming small towns. There are countless reasons why a road trip across the United States should be on everyone's bucket list. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Baltimore, Maryland to Santa Ana, California. Don't forget to pack your camera, and let the adventure begin!
A Visit to the Nation's Capital: Washington, D.C.
Before you hit the road and start your journey, you might want to spend a couple of days in the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. There are so many iconic landmarks and historical sites to visit, making DC the perfect destination to kick off your cross-country adventure. Be sure to pay a visit to the National Mall, which is home to some of the most important landmarks in the country, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the United States Capitol. You can take a guided tour of the Capitol and explore the building's stunning architecture. If you have the time, visit some of the Smithsonian museums, which are free to enter and great for both adults and kids.
Experience the Beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains: Gatlinburg, Tennessee
From Washington, D.C., head south to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This charming mountain town is a popular tourist destination, and it's easy to see why. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most beautiful and scenic destinations in the country. Take a hike on one of the many trails, and marvel at the stunning waterfalls, wildlife and lush forests. If you're feeling adventurous, try white-water rafting or ziplining. The town itself is also worth exploring, with quaint shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
The Gateway to the West: St. Louis, Missouri
As you continue westward, make a stop in St. Louis, Missouri. This vibrant city is a must-see, with its iconic Gateway Arch welcoming visitors to the city. Take a ride to the top of the arch in a tram, and enjoy the stunning views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. St. Louis is also home to the historic Anheuser-Busch brewery, where you can take a tour and see how one of America's most popular beers is made. Don't forget to visit the beautiful Forest Park, which houses the St. Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Science Center, and the Missouri History Museum.
The Majesty of the Rocky Mountains: Estes Park, Colorado
From St. Louis, continue westward towards the Rocky Mountains and make a stop in Estes Park, Colorado. This picturesque town is located at the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, which boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. Take a hike on one of the many trails, and enjoy the stunning views of the towering mountains, vibrant wildflowers, and serene lakes. The town itself is also worth a visit, with its charming shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
The City of Angels: Los Angeles, California
Your road trip across the United States will finally come to an end in Santa Ana, California. Before you reach your destination, make a stop in Los Angeles, the city of angels, located just a few hours away from Santa Ana. LA is a sprawling metropolis, with endless entertainment options and iconic landmarks. Take a stroll on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, visit the famous TCL Chinese Theatre, and check out the stunning views from the Griffith Observatory. Don't forget to visit the Santa Monica Pier, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southern California.
Conclusion
A road trip across the United States is an adventure you'll never forget. From the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., to the stunning Rocky Mountains and the bustling cities of St. Louis and Los Angeles, there are countless amazing destinations to explore. We hope our list of top places to see when driving from Baltimore, Maryland to Santa Ana, California has inspired you to hit the road and embark on this fantastic journey. Be sure to take your time and enjoy every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Safe travels!