Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from California to Connecticut
Have you ever wanted to embark on a cross-country road trip? Driving across the United States can be a beautiful and enlightening experience, offering views of diverse landscapes and cultures. One particularly interesting route to consider is the drive from California to Connecticut. This journey covers over 3,000 miles, and showcases stunning scenery, historical landmarks, and delicious regional cuisine.
To kick off the adventure, the journey begins in San Francisco, with the final destination being the charming city of Stamford, Connecticut. The total length of this drive is approximately 44 hours of total driving time, with pit stops and sightseeing taking up an additional days of exploration.
Halfway between the two coasts, the crossroads of the United States, is York, Nebraska. Here, one can find a range of interesting attractions and delicious cuisine and consider it your midway point before continuing the journey onwards.
Stop 1: The Neon Museum, Las Vegas, Nevada
The first unexpected stop is the Neon Museum in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Neon Museum is an outdoor collection of neon signs that were once part of the famous Las Vegas strip. You can take a guided tour of the sprawling museum, where you’ll be immersed in the history of the city and its iconic signage. Some of the most impressive signs come from the classic casinos of the 1950s and 60s. It’s a must-visit for any lover of retro Americana.
Favorite food stop: Head to Carson Kitchen in downtown Las Vegas for a delicious twist on traditional American fare. Try the bacon jam, which is a unique starter dish, and the crispy chicken skins for an excellent appetizer.
Stop 2: Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park is another unexpected stop for your cross country trip. It’s a beautiful spot in the middle of the desert where visitors can experience the beauty of a 200 million-year-old forest. The park is home to a variety of petrified wood, as well as colorful sandstone formations and ancient Native American petroglyphs. The park is a great place to stretch your legs and take a hike, but be sure to stay on designated paths to keep the park pristine.
Favorite food stop: Journey north to the Route 66 Roadhouse and Tavern in Santa Rosa. A must-try dish is the green chile cheeseburger, which is cooked to perfection and served with a side of crispy sweet potato fries.
Stop 3: Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, Texas
The Cadillac Ranch is an iconic public art installation located west of Amarillo, Texas. Planted in a field, these classic cars were planted tail-first into the ground and painted in a graffiti style ranging from simple tags to intricate works of art. This unique stop is a must-visit for art lovers and people interested in classic automobiles.
Favorite food stop: Texas is known for its BBQ, and iconic restaurant The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo does not disappoint. Enjoy a juicy steak along with a variety of traditional Southern sides.
Stop 4: The National Mustard Museum, Middleton, Wisconsin
Located just west of Madison in Middleton, Wisconsin is the National Mustard Museum. Unlike anything else in the area, the museum houses over 5,000 varieties of mustard from all over the world. You can learn about the history of mustard, sample different varieties, and even buy some unique jars to take home with you.
Favorite food stop: Capital Brewery and Biergarten in Middleton is a great spot to enjoy Wisconsin's signature brats and beer. Pair a classic brat with a cold beer, and enjoy the cool breeze of Wisconsin's outdoors.
Stop 5: Mystic, Connecticut
The final, unexpected stop on the cross-country road trip is Mystic, Connecticut. This charming seaport town is filled with history, beautiful architecture, and plenty of New England charm. The town is home to the Mystic Seaport Museum, where visitors can learn about the rich maritime history of the region. Stroll around town and stop by the many galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that line the streets and harbor.
Favorite food stop: Enjoy some New England seafood at the famous Sea Swirl in Mystic. It's known for its decadent lobster rolls, which can be enjoyed on the harbor’s shore.
In conclusion, taking a cross-country drive from California to Connecticut is more than an epic adventure: it’s an opportunity to discover some of the most unexpected and fascinating gems of the country. Whether exploring public art installations, national parks, or sampling regional cuisine along the way, there is no shortage of unique experiences to be had. So why not embark on this exciting journey and discover some of the beauty and history that America has to offer?