Top Places to See When Driving From Alexandria, Virginia to Kirkland, Washington

Road trips are one of the best ways to explore new places and create lasting memories. The drive from Alexandria, Virginia to Kirkland, Washington is a long one, but with so many breathtaking sights to see along the way, you won't get bored. From majestic mountain ranges to stunning national parks and everything in between, here are the top places you need to see when driving from Alexandria to Kirkland.

Majestic National Parks

There's no shortage of natural beauty on this journey and the best way to experience it all is with a visit to one of the many national parks along the way. Here are the top three:

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

Located in Colorado, the Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see destination for any nature lover. The park boasts stunning mountain scenery, impressive wildlife, and miles of hiking trails that are perfect for exploring. Don't miss Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, which winds through the park and offers breathtaking views at every turn.

2. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic national parks in the United States, and for good reason. With its geothermal features, such as Old Faithful, and incredible wildlife, like grizzly bears and wolves, Yellowstone is an unforgettable destination. Make sure to visit Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States and one of the most photographed spots in the park.

3. Olympic National Park

Located in Washington, Olympic National Park is known for its stunning rainforests, beautiful beaches, and rugged coastline. With miles of hiking trails, including the famous Hoh Rainforest Trail, there's something for every type of adventurer. Don't forget to check out Rialto Beach, which offers stunning views of sea stacks and tide pools.

Iconic Cities

No road trip is complete without a visit to at least one iconic city. Here are two must-see destinations along the way:

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Known as the music capital of the world, Nashville is a must-see destination for any music lover. Take a stroll down Broadway and pop into one of the many honky-tonks for live music, or visit the Country Music Hall of Fame for a deeper look into the history of music in the United States.

2. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a vibrant city that boasts a thriving culinary scene, stunning views of the Puget Sound, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle. Don't miss a visit to Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously-operating public farmers' markets in the United States, or a stroll through the city's many parks and gardens.

Quirky Roadside Attractions

No road trip is complete without a visit to at least one quirky roadside attraction. Here are two must-sees:

1. Cadillac Ranch

Located just outside of Amarillo, Texas, Cadillac Ranch is a unique art installation that features a row of ten Cadillac cars half-buried nose-first in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint and leave their mark on the cars, making for a colorful and interactive experience.

2. Leaning Tower of Niles

Located in Niles, Illinois, the Leaning Tower of Niles is a miniature version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Built in 1934 to honor the 600th anniversary of the birth of Leonardo da Vinci, the tower leans at an angle of about 7.4 degrees, making for a fascinating sight.

Beautiful Scenic Drives

Finally, don't forget to take in the breathtaking scenery along the way by taking the scenic routes. Here are two must-take drives:

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. With its winding roads and impressive vistas, this drive is a must-see for any road trip enthusiast.

2. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive

Located in Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive is a beautiful stretch of road that offers stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. With its winding roads, towering waterfalls, and impressive rock formations, this drive is not to be missed.

Conclusion

From national parks to quirky roadside attractions and everything in between, the drive from Alexandria, Virginia to Kirkland, Washington is full of unforgettable sights and experiences. Whether you're an adventure-seeker or a culture-fiend, there's something for everyone along this epic road trip. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories.