Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Columbus, Ohio to Seattle, Washington
Are you planning a road trip from Columbus, Ohio to Seattle, Washington? This trip is a great way to explore the beauty and cultural richness of the United States. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit several museums, parks, and landmarks that will make your journey even more memorable.
An interesting fact about the road trip is that you will be traveling over 2,000 miles and passing through 10 states, including Illinois, Iowa, South Dakota, Montana, and Idaho, before reaching your final destination of Seattle, Washington.
Halfway through the trip, you'll reach Hebron, ND, a small town known for its charming main street and friendly locals.
The road trip from Columbus to Seattle covers a distance of approximately 2,500 miles, which can take around 35-40 hours of driving time, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route offers breathtaking views of the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and the Pacific Northwest, making it a scenic and memorable journey.
5 Places to Visit on Your Road Trip
1. Field Museum of Natural History - Chicago, Illinois The Field Museum of Natural History is one of the largest and most impressive natural history museums in the world. It features a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of life on Earth, from the dinosaurs to ancient civilizations. Visitors can also explore the museum's interactive displays and special exhibitions.
Point of Interest: Millennium Park - Chicago, Illinois Stop by Millennium Park for a fun and relaxing break. The park is known for its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, beautiful gardens, and outdoor art installations. It's a great place to stretch your legs and take in the city's skyline.
2. Wall Drug Store - Wall, South Dakota A quirky and fun roadside attraction, Wall Drug Store is a renowned landmark that has been attracting tourists for decades. The store offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of gifts, souvenirs, and delicious homemade donuts. Visitors can also explore the museum and marvel at the store's Western-themed displays.
Point of Interest: Badlands National Park - Interior, South Dakota Make a detour to Badlands National Park to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of rugged landscapes, rock formations, and diverse wildlife. The park offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for photography.
3. Yellowstone National Park - Wyoming, Montana, Idaho Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination on your road trip. As the first and oldest national park in the world, it boasts geothermal wonders, such as geysers and hot springs, as well as abundant wildlife, including bears, wolves, and bison. Visitors can explore the park's natural beauty through hiking, camping, and guided tours.
Point of Interest: Old Faithful Geyser - Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming Don't miss the chance to witness the iconic Old Faithful geyser erupt approximately every 90 minutes. It's a mesmerizing natural spectacle that never fails to impress visitors.
4. Space Needle - Seattle, Washington Your road trip concludes in Seattle, where you can visit the famous Space Needle. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, the Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can dine at the rotating SkyCity restaurant or take in the sights from the observation deck.
Point of Interest: Pike Place Market - Seattle, Washington Pike Place Market is a bustling and lively public market that offers an array of fresh produce, artisan crafts, and specialty foods. It's a great place to explore the local culture, enjoy street performers, and sample delicious seafood.
5. Mount Rainier National Park - Ashford, Washington Before leaving Seattle, take a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park to marvel at the stunning beauty of the Cascade Range and the majestic Mount Rainier. The park features subalpine meadows, pristine forests, and diverse wildlife, as well as hiking trails and scenic drives to explore the natural wonders.
Point of Interest: Narada Falls - Mount Rainier National Park, Washington Make sure to visit Narada Falls, a spectacular 188-foot waterfall that offers a picturesque setting for photography and relaxation. The viewing area provides stunning views of the cascading waters and the surrounding landscape.
In conclusion, the road trip from Columbus, Ohio to Seattle, Washington offers an unforgettable journey filled with diverse attractions and natural wonders, taking approximately 35-40 hours to complete. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, this route has something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an amazing exploration of the United States.