The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Asheville, North Carolina to Chandler, Arizona

Are you planning a road trip from Asheville, North Carolina to Chandler, Arizona? If so, you're in for a treat! This scenic drive takes you through some of America's most beautiful landscapes, from rolling hills and charming small towns to vast deserts and towering mesas. Along the way, there are countless places to stop and explore, ranging from national parks to quirky roadside attractions. To help you plan your journey, we've put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Asheville to Chandler. So fasten your seatbelt, grab some snacks, and let's hit the road!

The Best Places to Stop on Your Road Trip

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Start your journey with a visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a scenic wonderland that covers over 500,000 acres of North Carolina and Tennessee. The park boasts miles of hiking trails, dense forests, and breathtaking vistas. Be sure to check out Cades Cove, a scenic valley that includes historic buildings, hiking trails, and plenty of wildlife-viewing opportunities. You can also drive the Newfound Gap Road, which takes you to the highest point in the park at 6,593 feet.

Nashville, Tennessee

If you're a music lover, you won't want to miss a stop in Nashville, home to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and countless other music venues. You can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Ryman Auditorium, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, or catch a live show at the honky-tonks on Broadway. Nashville also has plenty of delicious food options, from hot chicken to sweet tea.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

One of the most popular stops along this route is Hot Springs, Arkansas, known for its natural hot springs and historic bathhouses. You can take a dip in the thermal waters at one of the downtown bathhouses, or hike the trails in the nearby Ouachita National Forest. The town's historic downtown district is also worth a visit, with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is one of America's most historic and artistic cities, with a rich Native American and Spanish colonial heritage. The city is known for its adobe architecture, vibrant arts scene, and delicious Southwestern cuisine. You can explore the museums and galleries on Canyon Road, visit the historic San Miguel Mission, or take a guided tour of the ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument.

Petrified Forest National Park

Located in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park is an otherworldly landscape of colorful badlands, expansive mesas, and of course, petrified wood. The park includes over 200 million-year-old fossils, as well as ancient rock art and historic Route 66 landmarks. Be sure to hike the Blue Mesa Trail, which takes you through a slot canyon, or visit the Painted Desert overlook for a panoramic view of the park.

Grand Canyon National Park

No road trip through the Southwest would be complete without a stop at the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. You can hike the Bright Angel Trail to the Colorado River, take a mule ride along the canyon rim, or simply enjoy the sunset over the canyon's vast expanse.

Conclusion

From the Great Smoky Mountains to the Grand Canyon, this road trip offers a diverse array of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a good meal, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.