Rand Mcnally Road Trip Planner

Best of the Road U.S. Travel Planner & Atlas Winter Edition Rand

Introduction

Rand McNally Road Trip Planner is an ideal tool for planning a perfect road trip. It helps you create a customized route, find the best places to stay, and discover hidden treasures along the way. However, planning a road trip can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive travel guide to help you make the most of your journey.

Top Attractions

1. Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination on any road trip. It offers breathtaking views of the canyon, hiking trails, and adventure sports like white-water rafting and rock climbing.

2. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland with geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. It’s home to the famous Old Faithful geyser and the Yellowstone Caldera, one of the largest active volcanic systems in the world.

3. New Orleans

New Orleans is a city of music, art, and culture. It’s famous for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and historic architecture. A road trip to New Orleans is incomplete without a visit to the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and the Garden District.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions are a must-see, there are also hidden gems that are worth discovering. Here are some of our favorites:

1. Salvation Mountain

Salvation Mountain is an art installation in the California desert. It’s a colorful and whimsical tribute to God and love. It’s a great stop for anyone who loves art and wants to experience something unique.

2. Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a stunning landscape of red sandstone formations in the Navajo Nation. It’s a great spot for hiking, photography, and stargazing.

3. Marfa

Marfa is a small town in Texas that’s become a hub for artists and creatives. It’s home to the Chinati Foundation, a contemporary art museum, and the Marfa Lights, a mysterious phenomenon that’s been the subject of many legends.

Food Scene

One of the best things about a road trip is trying new foods. Here are some of our favorite food destinations:

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is famous for its hot chicken and barbecue. Visit Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B’s for some of the best hot chicken in the city.

2. New York City, New York

New York City is a food lover’s paradise. Visit Katz’s Delicatessen for a classic pastrami sandwich or Di Fara Pizza for the best pizza in the city.

3. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is known for its sourdough bread and seafood. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf for fresh seafood or Tartine Bakery for some of the best bread in the city.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Road trips can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Here are some budget-friendly tips for your trip:

1. Stay in hostels or campgrounds

Hostels and campgrounds are cheaper than hotels and offer a unique experience. Many campgrounds have amenities like showers and laundry facilities.

2. Cook your own meals

Bring a camping stove or use a kitchenette in your hostel to cook your own meals. This will save you money on eating out.

3. Look for free activities

Many cities have free activities like museums, parks, and concerts. Do some research before your trip to find out what’s available.

Outdoor Adventures

A road trip is the perfect opportunity to get outside and explore. Here are some outdoor adventures to add to your itinerary:

1. Hiking in Zion National Park

Zion National Park has some of the best hiking trails in the country. The Narrows and Angels Landing are two popular hikes.

2. Surfing in San Diego

San Diego has some of the best surfing beaches in the country. Check out La Jolla Cove or Pacific Beach for some waves.

3. Kayaking in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is a great spot for kayaking. You can paddle through scenic coves and see wildlife like seals and bald eagles.

Historical Landmarks

There are many historical landmarks to visit on your road trip. Here are some of our favorites:

1. Independence Hall

Independence Hall in Philadelphia is where the Declaration of Independence was signed. It’s a must-visit for history buffs.

2. Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore in South Dakota is a monument to some of America’s most famous presidents. It’s a great spot for photos.

3. Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay was once a notorious prison. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction with tours of the prison and island.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, there are many family-friendly activities to enjoy. Here are some ideas:

1. Disneyland

Disneyland in Anaheim, California, is the happiest place on earth. It’s a great spot for families with young kids.

2. Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., are free and offer something for everyone. The Natural History Museum and Air and Space Museum are popular with families.

3. Legoland

Legoland in Carlsbad, California, is a theme park dedicated to Lego. It’s a great spot for kids who love building with Lego bricks.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something unique, here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences to add to your itinerary:

1. Carhenge

Carhenge in Alliance, Nebraska, is a replica of Stonehenge made entirely of cars. It’s a quirky and fun stop.

2. The Wave

The Wave in Arizona is a stunning sandstone rock formation that looks like ocean waves. It’s a popular spot for hikers and photographers.

3. The Mystery Spot

The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz, California, is a strange and mysterious place where the laws of physics seem to be distorted. It’s a fun and interactive experience.