The Ultimate Road Trip: Driving from Bethesda, Maryland to Denver, Colorado

Are you looking for an epic road trip adventure? Look no further than a drive from Bethesda, Maryland to Denver, Colorado! This cross-country drive will take you through stunning landscapes, charming small towns, and some of the United States' top attractions.

Of course, with such a wide distance to cover, you'll want to plan accordingly to make the most of your journey. With that in mind, we've put together a list of the top places to see when driving from Bethesda to Denver. So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of a lifetime!

Historic Towns and Scenic Byways

Gettysburg National Military Park - After leaving Bethesda, you'll drive through Pennsylvania, which is home to the historic Gettysburg National Military Park. Here, you can take a guided tour to learn about the famous Civil War battle that took place here. Highlights of the park include the Gettysburg National Cemetery, the Cyclorama, and the Soldiers' National Monument.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia - Continuing on through Virginia and West Virginia, you'll come across the charming town of Harpers Ferry. This small town played a critical role in the abolitionist movement, and you can explore its history by visiting the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Don't miss the scenic views from Jefferson Rock or the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
Historic Route 66 - As you enter the Midwest, you can hit the famous Historic Route 66. This iconic highway runs from Chicago to Santa Monica and is known for its quirky roadside attractions and nostalgia. Some highlights along this route include the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, and the Wigwam Motel in Arizona.
Great River Road - Another scenic route to consider is the Great River Road, which runs alongside the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. Along this route, you can explore charming river towns like Hannibal (Mark Twain's hometown) and Natchez, Mississippi (known for its antebellum mansions).

National Parks and Natural Wonders

Rocky Mountain National Park - No road trip through Colorado is complete without a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park. This breathtaking park is home to towering peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a hike along the trails or take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, which sits at over 12,000 feet above sea level.
Badlands National Park - As you enter South Dakota, make sure to stop at Badlands National Park. Here, you'll find rugged rock formations, colorful canyons, and sweeping prairies. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep.
Mount Rushmore - While in South Dakota, you can also visit one of the country's most famous landmarks: Mount Rushmore. This impressive sculpture features the faces of four influential American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
Arches National Park - Just outside of Moab, Utah, you'll find Arches National Park. This park is famous for its impressive natural sandstone arches, as well as other geological formations. Don't miss the iconic Delicate Arch, which can be seen on the Utah license plate.

Cultural Attractions and Urban Cities

Smithsonian Museums - Before leaving Bethesda, make sure to visit the world-renowned Smithsonian museums. These museums offer free admission and are home to over 19 million artifacts and specimens. Highlights include the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Chicago, Illinois - If you're looking for a city stop along the way, consider visiting Chicago. This bustling city is known for its cultural landmarks, such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Willis Tower. You can also enjoy deep-dish pizza, a Chicago-style hot dog, and a stroll along the Lakefront Trail.
Cheyenne, Wyoming - Wyoming's capital city is a charming stopover with plenty of western charm. Don't miss the Cheyenne Depot Museum, which tells the story of the city's railroad history, or the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum, which showcases cowboy memorabilia.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve - Just outside of Alamosa, Colorado, you'll find the impressive Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Here, you can explore towering sand dunes, relax by Medano Creek, or take in panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Conclusion

These are just a handful of the top places to see when driving from Bethesda, Maryland, to Denver, Colorado. Whether you're looking for natural wonders or cultural attractions, this cross-country trip offers a little something for everyone. So fill up the gas tank, pack some snacks, and hit the open road for the adventure of a lifetime!