The Ultimate Cross-Country Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Annapolis, Maryland to Spokane, Washington

Embarking on a cross-country road trip is an adventure like no other. With the USA's vast landscape and endless possibilities, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a cross-country trip. From the east coast to the west coast, you'll encounter a variety of landscapes, cultures, and attractions. This blog post narrows down the top places to see when driving from Annapolis, Maryland to Spokane, Washington.

Start Your Journey: Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is a historic city on the Chesapeake Bay. It's a small town with a lot to offer, such as the city's colonial architecture, the United States Naval Academy, and a bustling historic downtown. Before beginning your adventure, be sure to visit these sites:

United States Naval Academy - Established in 1845, the United States Naval Academy is a prestigious institution that trains officers for the United States Navy and Marine Corps. Visitors can take guided tours of the campus and museum to learn about the institution's history, traditions, and commitment to serving the country.
Historic Downtown - Annapolis's historic district is a picturesque area that boasts over 400 buildings dating back to the 18th century. It's the perfect place to explore shops, restaurants, and galleries. You can also take a stroll along the harbor to take in the views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Maryland State House - The Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol still in continuous legislative use. It's a historic landmark that played a critical role in the state's formation. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building and the state's government.

Top Places to See When Driving from Annapolis, Maryland to Spokane, Washington

Now that you're ready to start your journey, let's dive into the top places to see when driving from Annapolis, Maryland to Spokane, Washington.

1. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh is a city that has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. The city was once known for its steel industry but has now transformed into a vibrant hub for technology, art, and culture. It's an excellent place to stop for the night and explore the city's attractions, such as:

The Andy Warhol Museum - The museum is dedicated to the life and artwork of Andy Warhol, a native of Pittsburgh. The museum has an extensive collection of Warhol's works, including paintings, sculptures, and films.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden - Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to relax and connect with nature. The conservatory features a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world and hosts events and workshops throughout the year.
Mount Washington - If you're looking for a stunning view of the city's skyline, visit Mount Washington. It's the perfect place to view the city lights and the three rivers that converge in Pittsburgh.

2. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville, the largest city in Kentucky, is famous as both the birthplace of the Kentucky Derby and home to some of the country's best bourbon. It's an excellent place to enjoy the city's southern charm and hospitality. Be sure to visit these sites:

Kentucky Derby Museum - The Kentucky Derby Museum is a must-visit attraction for horse racing enthusiasts. The museum features interactive exhibits that take visitors through the history of the Kentucky Derby.
Churchill Downs - After visiting the Kentucky Derby Museum, head to Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. The racetrack features guided tours that take visitors behind the scenes and give them a behind-the-scenes look at the horse racing industry.
Bourbon Distilleries - Louisville is a hub for bourbon distilleries, offering visitors an opportunity to taste some of the best bourbons in the world. You can take a guided tour of distilleries such as Maker's Mark and Woodford Reserve to learn about the process of making bourbon and sample the finished product.

3. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Badlands National Park covers over 240,000 acres of stunning natural beauty in South Dakota. The park's unique landscape is a result of years of erosion and formation, resulting in a rugged, rocky terrain that's unlike anything else in the world. Visitors can take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Don't miss out on seeing:

The Badlands Loop Road - The Badlands Loop Road is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the park's most beautiful scenery, including rock formations and prairies.
Hiking Trails - The park features hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the park on foot. The Notch Trail is a popular trail that takes hikers through stunning rock formations, canyons, and panoramic views.
Wildlife Viewing - Badlands National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can make use of the park's many observation points to see these animals in their natural habitat.

4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is one of the first national parks in the United States and is known for its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. The park covers over two million acres and attracts millions of visitors every year. Be sure to visit these sites:

Old Faithful - Old Faithful is a famous geyser that erupts every 90 minutes. Visitors can watch the eruption from observation points around the geyser.
Grand Prismatic Spring - The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States and is known for its vibrant colors. Visitors can take a boardwalk around the spring to get a closer look at the colorful water.
Wildlife - Yellowstone National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the park on foot to see these animals in their natural habitat.

5. Spokane, Washington

Your cross-country journey concludes in the vibrant city of Spokane, Washington, located in the heart of the Inland Northwest. It's a city that offers visitors a wide array of outdoor recreation, city life, and culture. Be sure to visit the following attractions:

Riverfront Park - Riverfront Park is a park located in the heart of the city with gorgeous views of the Spokane Falls. The park features an IMAX theater, a gondola ride that takes visitors above the falls, and a vintage carousel.
Manito Park - Manito Park is a 90-acre park that features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a conservatory. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture - The museum showcases the history and culture of the Inland Northwest, including exhibits on Native American culture, regional history, and contemporary art.

Conclusion

Your cross-country trip will take you through many beautiful destinations that offer a variety of experiences and attractions. From historic cities to beautiful natural landscapes, this journey will be an adventure of a lifetime. Remember to take plenty of pictures, try new foods, and enjoy the ride. Safe travels!