The Ultimate Road Trip: Bella Vista to Ithaca

Are you ready to embark on an epic road trip from the charming town of Bella Vista in Arkansas to the vibrant City of Ithaca in upstate New York? Buckle up, because we're about to explore the different routes, distances, and travel times to help you plan your adventure!

Route 1: The Scenic Trail

Get ready for a picturesque journey as you take Route 1, which covers a distance of approximately 1,150 miles. This route will take you through Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and finally, New York. The estimated travel time for this route is around 19 hours, depending on traffic and breaks.

We recommend making a stop in St. Louis, Missouri, where you can visit the iconic Gateway Arch or sample some mouthwatering barbecue. Another must-visit spot along Route 1 is Cincinnati, Ohio, where you can explore the vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, known for its unique architecture and delicious local eateries.

Route 2: The Southern Charm

For a slightly shorter drive with a touch of Southern charm, consider Route 2. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,100 miles and will take you through parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York. The estimated travel time for this route is around 18 hours.

A great pit stop along Route 2 is Nashville, Tennessee, where you can get your fill of live country music and indulge in some finger-licking Southern cuisine. As you continue on your journey, consider making a detour to Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, where you can explore stunning underground caverns and take a guided tour.

Route 3: The Eastern Expedition

If you prefer a route that takes you through the eastern states, Route 3 is the perfect choice. This route covers a distance of approximately 1,200 miles and will take you through Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York. The estimated travel time for this route is around 19 hours.

As you embark on Route 3, be sure to make a stop in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, nestled amidst the majestic Smoky Mountains. From there, continue your adventure to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where you can explore the historic battlefield and learn about the Civil War's significant events.

Recommendations Along the Way

No road trip is complete without exploring some hidden gems along the journey! Here are a few recommendations for places to stop, stretch your legs, and create lasting memories:

• Hot Springs, Arkansas: Take a dip in the soothing thermal waters of Hot Springs National Park and visit Bathhouse Row, a historic collection of bathhouses.
• Louisville, Kentucky: Delight your taste buds with a visit to the bourbon distilleries or immerse yourself in the world of horseracing at the famous Churchill Downs racetrack.
• Hershey, Pennsylvania: Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to Hershey's Chocolate World, where you can take a tour of a chocolate factory and even create your own candy bar.

Conclusion

So, whether you choose the scenic Route 1, the southern charm of Route 2, or the Eastern Expedition of Route 3, your road trip from Bella Vista to Ithaca promises to be an unforgettable adventure. Pack your bags, fill up that gas tank, and get ready to hit the open road for a journey filled with stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and plenty of memorable experiences along the way!