Top Five Popular Attractions Between Charlotte, NC and Oakland, CA
If you're planning a road trip between Charlotte, North Carolina and Oakland, California, you're in for a treat! This cross-country adventure offers stunning scenery, cultural landmarks, and natural wonders that will take your breath away. To help you plan your journey, we've compiled a list of the top five attractions you don't want to miss.
Halfway Point: Midpoint Cafe and Gift Shop
Before we dive into the top five attractions along this route, let's take a moment to acknowledge the mid-point of this journey. Between Charlotte and Oakland lies Adrian, TX, and it just so happens to be the home of the Midpoint Cafe and Gift Shop. This iconic roadside stop offers a taste of Route 66 nostalgia, mouth-watering comfort food, and unique gifts. You can't miss it, as it's located right on the I-40 Service Rd.
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly one of the most incredible natural wonders on earth and should be on everyone's bucket list. It's located in Arizona and stretches nearly 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep. This awe-inspiring sight never fails to amaze, no matter how many times you've seen it. You can explore the park on foot, hike trails, or take a sightseeing helicopter or plane ride for a bird's eye view.
2. Las Vegas Strip, Nevada
If you want to mix natural wonder with man-made extravagance, Las Vegas is the perfect stop for you. The Las Vegas Strip is a 4.2-mile boulevard of glittering lights, world-class entertainment, and fascinating architecture. You can try your luck at the casinos, see a show, dine in top-notch restaurants, or shop 'till you drop. There's something for everyone in this buzzing city.
3. Golden Gate Bridge, California
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most internationally recognized symbols of San Francisco and the United States. This suspension bridge spans 1.7 miles and offers an incredible view of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline. Whether you drive, bike, or walk across, you'll experience a breathtaking moment.
4. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is a nature lover's paradise and is one of the most beautiful places in the world. This world-famous park sits in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and boasts granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and pristine forests. The park is open year-round and offers visitors a chance to hike, bike, swim, and fish while taking in some of the most magnificent views on the planet.
5. Santa Monica Pier, California
After all the natural beauty, it's only fitting that we end our journey with some fun in the sun. Santa Monica Pier offers a carnival atmosphere with a historic amusement park, aquarium, and fantastic dining options. You can stroll along the beach, get some shopping done, or take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel. This stop is the perfect way to end a fantastic road trip.
Conclusion
The best route for this unforgettable road trip is to take I-40 W to Kingman, AZ, then merge onto I-93 N to Las Vegas, NV. Once in Las Vegas, hop on to I-15 N and follow it to San Francisco, then take US-101 S to Santa Monica, CA. Enjoy the stunning scenery and unique experiences that this road trip offers, and make sure to hit up the top five attractions along the way!