The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Atlanta, Georgia to Denver, Colorado

There’s nothing quite like a road trip. The freedom of the open road, the adventure, and the excitement of discovering new sights and experiences – it’s the ultimate escape from everyday life. And when it comes to a road trip, there’s no better route than from Atlanta, Georgia to Denver, Colorado.

This epic journey traverses the length of the United States, crossing through some of the country’s most beautiful and fascinating regions. From the rolling hills of Tennessee and the majestic landscapes of the Great Plains, to the soaring peaks of the Rocky Mountains, there are countless sights to see and experiences to be had along the way. So, pack your bags, load up the car, and hit the road – here are the top places to see when driving from Atlanta, Georgia to Denver, Colorado.

1. Chattanooga, Tennessee

The first stop on this epic road trip is the charming city of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Located just two hours from Atlanta, Chattanooga makes for the perfect first leg of the journey. There’s plenty to see and do in this southern city, from the dramatic Lookout Mountain and its iconic Incline Railway to the historic Riverfront District along the Tennessee River.

Be sure to check out the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the best aquariums in the country, and the serene Rock City Gardens, where you can wander through stunning landscapes and see the famous "See Seven States" panoramic view. And no visit to Chattanooga would be complete without sampling some classic southern eats, like chicken and waffles or barbecue ribs.

2. Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

As you make your way through the Great Plains and into Colorado, the stunning Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs should be a must-see on your list. Featuring towering sandstone formations, dramatic views of Pikes Peak, and plenty of hiking and biking trails, this natural wonder is an awe-inspiring sight to behold.

Take a drive through the park’s winding roads and see the stunning vistas from the comfort of your car, or get out and explore the trails. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at rock climbing or horseback riding.

3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Montrose

One of Colorado's hidden gems, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a stunning geological wonder that’s often overlooked by travelers. The canyon is over 2,000 feet deep and features sheer rock walls that drop straight down to the Gunnison River below.

Take a scenic drive along the park’s rim and be sure to stop at the numerous overlooks to see the canyon from different vantage points. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at hiking or fishing in the park. And keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, which includes bighorn sheep, black bears, and golden eagles.

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Alamosa

One of the most unique national parks in the country, the Great Sand Dunes National Park features towering dunes that rise up to 750 feet high. Located in the heart of the San Luis Valley, the park is an otherworldly landscape that’s worth a stop on any road trip.

Take a hike up to the top of one of the dunes and see the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Or, if you’re feeling daring, try sandboarding or sledding down the dunes. And be sure to stay after dark for a chance to see the stunning night sky, as the park is one of the best spots for stargazing in the country.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park

The final stop on this epic road trip is the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park. Located just an hour and a half from Denver, this national park features some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, including towering mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

Take a drive along the park’s famous Trail Ridge Road, which climbs to over 12,000 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try a hike on one of the park’s numerous trails, like the famous Bear Lake Trail. And be sure to keep an eye out for the park’s abundant wildlife, which includes elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.

Conclusion

There you have it – the top places to see when driving from Atlanta, Georgia to Denver, Colorado. This road trip offers an unforgettable adventure through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and fascinating regions. So, load up the car, hit the road, and get ready for the ultimate escape from everyday life.