Road Tripping from Billings, Montana to Louisa, Virginia
Are you looking for an adventure on the road? A trip from Billings, Montana to Louisa, Virginia might be just what you need! Here are some of the top museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way.
Did you know that the distance between Billings, Montana and Louisa, Virginia is over 2,000 miles? This road trip will take you through a wide variety of terrain, from the mountains of Montana and Wyoming to the wide-open plains of Nebraska and Kansas, and all the way to the rolling hills of Virginia.
If you find yourself about halfway through your trip, make sure to stop in Mauston, Wisconsin. This quaint town is a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat before continuing on your journey.
The total length of this trip is about 38 hours of driving time, but of course, you'll want to take some time to explore along the way. Here are five must-visit stops on your road trip from Billings to Louisa:
- Mount Rushmore (Keystone, South Dakota) - You can't visit the Black Hills of South Dakota without seeing Mount Rushmore! This iconic landmark features the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved into the rock. While you're there, make sure to take a ranger-led tour and learn more about the history and creation of this incredible monument.
Point of Interest: Crazy Horse Memorial - If you're already in the Mount Rushmore area, you should also make a stop at the Crazy Horse Memorial. This massive sculpture is still a work in progress, but it's already an impressive sight to see.
- Badlands National Park (Interior, South Dakota) - The Badlands are a striking landscape of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires. You can hike, camp, and even go fossil hunting in this unique park. Don't miss the opportunity to watch the sunrise or sunset over the Badlands - the colors of the rock formations are truly breathtaking.
Point of Interest: Wall Drug - This famous tourist stop in Wall, South Dakota has been around since 1931 and is worth a visit for its 5-cent coffee and quirky Western-themed decor.
- Gateway Arch (St. Louis, Missouri) - Take a break from driving and stretch your legs in St. Louis at the Gateway Arch. This towering monument is a symbol of the westward expansion of the United States and offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River.
Point of Interest: City Museum - If you're traveling with kids (or just love to climb around), the City Museum in St. Louis is a must-visit. This interactive, hands-on museum is made entirely out of recycled materials and features an indoor circus, a rooftop playground, and much more.
- Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia) - The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that runs through the Appalachian Mountains for 469 miles. You'll find plenty of opportunities to hike, take in stunning views, and see wildlife along the way. Make sure to stop at the Linn Cove Viaduct, an engineering marvel that preserves the natural beauty of the area.
Point of Interest: Biltmore Estate - Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate is a massive, 250-room mansion that was once the home of the Vanderbilt family. Take a tour of the house, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy a wine tasting at the estate's winery.
- Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) - Finally, end your road trip with a visit to Shenandoah National Park. This park boasts over 500 miles of hiking trails, stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and abundant wildlife. Don't miss the opportunity to drive along Skyline Drive, a scenic route through the park that offers spectacular panoramic views.
Point of Interest: Monticello - Just a short drive from Shenandoah National Park, Monticello was the home of Thomas Jefferson and is now a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.
In the end, this road trip from Billings to Louisa is a journey through some of the most incredible and diverse landscapes that America has to offer. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoors enthusiast, or just in need of a change of scenery, this trip won't disappoint. Safe travels!