Road Tripping from Atoka, Tennessee to Ontario, California

If you're looking for an adventure, a road trip from Atoka, Tennessee to Ontario, California offers a unique opportunity to see some of the most iconic museums, parks, and landmarks our country has to offer.

Traveling along the famous Route 66, you'll be able to see some of America's most beloved roadside attractions, as well as some hidden gems.

Fun fact: Did you know that the famous Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road", spans a total of 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California?

At the halfway point of Santa Rosa, NM, you'll have already traveled approximately 900 miles and have plenty more sights to see along the way.

The journey from Atoka, Tennessee to Ontario, California spans approximately 2,200 miles, taking you through eight states – Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

Here are five must-see stops on your road trip:

1. National Civil Rights Museum - Memphis, Tennessee

Located in the old Lorraine Motel, the National Civil Rights Museum is an interactive experience that provides a powerful look into the Civil Rights Movement. From exhibits on Rosa Parks to the Montgomery Bus Boycott and sit-ins, visitors will learn about how ordinary people changed the course of history. This museum is a must-see for anyone interested in history or social justice issues.

Point of interest: Grab a bite to eat at Central BBQ, located just down the street from the museum.

2. Cadillac Ranch - Amarillo, Texas

One of the most iconic landmarks along Route 66, Cadillac Ranch features ten Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground. Visitors are encouraged to bring spray paint, and leave their mark on this pop art installation. If you're looking for a fun photo opportunity and a unique way to express yourself creatively, Cadillac Ranch is a must-visit stop.

Point of interest: Stop at The Big Texan Steak Ranch for a steak dinner and take on their famous 72-ounce steak challenge.

3. Petrified Forest National Park - Arizona

Petrified Forest National Park offers visitors the unique opportunity to walk through a prehistoric forest. Here, you can see logs that have been fossilized over millions of years, as well as petroglyphs left by indigenous people. Take in the stunning vistas, hike on one of the park's many trails, or learn about the area's history at the Rainbow Forest Museum.

Point of interest: Stop by the Wigwam Motel, a 1950s style motel where guests can sleep in a teepee.

4. Grand Canyon National Park - Arizona

No trip through the Southwest would be complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon. As one of the most visited national parks in the country, the Grand Canyon offers a variety of activities, from hiking and camping to helicopter tours and mule rides. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the canyon from multiple lookout locations, or take a guided tour to learn more about its geological history.

Point of interest: Stay at the El Tovar Hotel, a historic lodge located on the rim of the Grand Canyon.

5. Joshua Tree National Park - California

Finish your road trip with a visit to Joshua Tree National Park. Home to unique rock formations and the park's namesake Joshua trees, this park offers hiking trails, camping, rock climbing, and stargazing opportunities. Visitors can take in the unique beauty of the desert, and may even spot some of the park's resident wildlife, including bighorn sheep and coyotes.

Point of interest: Stop by Pappy & Harriet's Pioneertown Palace for live music and excellent BBQ.

Overall, the road trip from Atoka, Tennessee to Ontario, California takes approximately 36 hours of driving time, depending on traffic and how many stops you make along the way. But with so many amazing sights to see, you'll never want the adventure to end.