7 Famous Driving Destinations to Put on Your Bucket List

A road trip is an exciting adventure but it’s even better when you have a stellar destination. With natural wonders, historically rich experiences, and breathtaking locations there is something for everyone to enjoy. Pack a bag, grab a camera, and maybe some company for the road and head out to find your next great adventure.

There is so much to explore and there are plenty of must see driving destinations to enjoy. Having trouble planning your next road trip? Here are our favorite seven places to see at the end of your drive.

1. Yellowstone, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming

On March 1st 1872 Yellowstone became America’s first national park and it is widely believed to be the first national park in the world. Yellowstone can be found in the northwest corner of Wyoming and extends into Montana and Idaho. It is 2.2 million acres of wilderness and the ideal driving destination for any nature enthusiast.

Yellowstone sits atop a volcanic hot spot which explains the unique hydrothermal features such as hot springs and gushing geysers. Here you will find about half of the world’s active geysers and the most famous by far is Old Faithful. Yellowstone features breathtaking canyons, alpine rivers, and endless forests which you can enjoy on a hike, guided tour, or explore the park on horseback.

There is no need for fancy accommodations as Yellowstone has ample campgrounds where you can stay immersed in nature. It will give you more opportunity to observe some of the wildlife of this unique ecosystem. Yellowstone is home to bears, wolves, bison, elk, antelope, and many other animal species.

2. Death Valley, California

Located in the northern Mojave Desert of eastern California, Death Valley is a land of extremes. On July 10th 1913 Death Valley reached a temperature of 134.1 degrees fahrenheit setting the record for the hottest air temperature on earth. The average summer temperatures are around 113 degrees so bring plenty of water and come prepared.

Death Valley is not the barren wasteland you may expect and you may be surprised by the abundant wildlife and the way the landscape becomes blanketed with wildflowers after a rainstorm. You can find a variety of campgrounds here to spend the night but be sure to keep your vehicle on the road at all times. Driving off designated roads is illegal as it has a negative impact on the ecosystem at this unique location.

3. Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario

Niagara Falls consists of three waterfalls spanning the border between Ontario in Canada and the state of New York. The largest is the Horseshoe Falls which sits right on the border. It is best to view the falls from both countries to soak in the full grandeour of it.

This driving destination has plenty to keep you busy for a while. Packed full of photo opportunities and several options for getting up close and personal with the falls. Both sides of the border offer attractions, excursions, lodgings, and unbeatable restaurants.

4. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Since 1941 U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln have been gazing out from the Black Hills of South Dakota. This 60 foot sculpture is credited to Gutzon and Lincoln Borglum and it is carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore.

This driving destination is an iconic American landmark. Don’t forget your camera to pose with the presidents. Tour the on site interactive museum and discover more of this nation’s history. Explore some of the 1.2 million acres of the Black Hills National Forest while you’re there.

5. The Grand Canyon, Arizona

If you’re looking for breathtaking views this driving destination is for you. For around 6 million years the Colorado River has been carving the Grand Canyon into layers of rock. Year by year the canyon has grown to be 277 miles long and over 6,000 feet deep in some sections.

Here you can view nearly 2 billion years of the Earth’s geological history and it is a spectacular sight. Bring your camera and plenty of water if you plan on going for a hike. There are several lodging facilities to choose from and campgrounds are available too.

6. Crater Lake, Oregon

Drive to America’s deepest lake and marvel at its rich blue color and clear water. Crater Lake is the caldera that was formed when the volcano Mount Mazama collapsed some 7,700 years ago. Since there are no rivers that flow into or out of Crater Lake, it gets all of its water from precipitation.

There are stunning views all around the crater and many activities to partake in. Go for a hike or enjoy biking, snowshoeing, fishing, or cross-country skiing. In the summer you can go for a swim and spend the night at one of the campgrounds.

7. Assateague Island, Maryland and Virginia

Assateague Island is a 37 mile long barrier island. The northern two thirds are in Maryland and the southern third is part of Virginia. Although there are no vehicles allowed here there is good road access and plenty of places to leave your vehicle and explore what this driving destination has to offer.

You will not find many modern conveniences on this undeveloped island. What you will find are the wild ponies that call Assateague Island home. There is a refuge for wildlife here and you can spot a lot of species by hiking or from a kayak or canoe. There are plenty of campgrounds to spend the night and unbelievable beaches to enjoy.

A successful road trip requires an enjoyable journey and a worthwhile destination. It’s tough to hit the mark on either point when you’re driving the wrong vehicle. Find out if it’s your time to upgrade with a quick visit to myAutoloan. We can help make your next vehicle purchase more affordable so you can focus on making memories.