The Ultimate Road Trip: From Bloomington, Illinois to Scottsdale, Arizona

Are you feeling the itch to hit the road and explore America's scenic beauty? Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure from Bloomington, Illinois, to Scottsdale, Arizona. This epic road trip encompasses over 1500 miles of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and breathtaking national parks.

Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or family, this journey offers something for everyone. From the grandeur of the Grand Canyon to the glitz and glamour of Sin City, the route is packed with top-notch attractions that will leave you captivated and awestruck. In this blog post, we've compiled the ultimate list of must-see places along the way. So buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

1. St. Louis, Missouri

Kickstart your road trip by visiting the Gateway to the West, St. Louis, Missouri. The city boasts a perfect blend of legendary landmarks, historic neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. Visit the iconic Gateway Arch, the epitome of the American spirit and our country's expansion to the west, standing at 630 feet high. Admire the panoramic city view from the top of the arch.

Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of The Hill and Soulard, where you can savor delicious food and admire stunning architecture. Make your way to Forest Park, a sprawling urban park that offers a plethora of activities, such as paddle boating, picnicking, and biking. Enjoy a free concert at the city's Central Library, or marvel at contemporary art at the Pulitzer Arts Foundation. St. Louis is the perfect launch pad for your cross-country adventure.

2. Kansas City, Missouri

As you head west, make your way to Kansas City. This charming city is known for its jazz music, barbeque, and art museums. Start your visit at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, where you can admire over 35,000 works of art from all over the world, including a notable collection of Asian art and contemporary sculptures.

Take a stroll in the Country Club Plaza, an outdoor shopping district inspired by Spain's Seville. Enjoy upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Catch a live performance at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, one of the most stunning architectural landmarks in the city. Satisfy your barbeque cravings at Arthur Bryants, Gates, or Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, the city's renowned barbeque joints.

3. Santa Fe, New Mexico

As you approach the Southwest, make sure to stop in Santa Fe, New Mexico, a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and exquisite cuisine. Visit the historic Plaza, a central gathering point for locals and tourists, surrounded by museums, galleries, and boutique shops.

Explore the Museum Hill, where you can visit the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture and the Museum of International Folk Art. Admire the world's largest collection of folk art and the intricate works of Native American artists.

Take a trip to the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can witness the ancient village preserved for over 1000 years. Savor the local cuisine, such as green chili stew, biscochitos, and sopapillas, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

4. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

No cross-country road trip is complete without a visit to one of America's most iconic national parks, the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the vastness of the canyon, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Take a scenic drive along the South Rim, where you can stop at numerous scenic viewpoints, such as Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View.

Go hiking, rafting, or camping, and immerse yourself in the natural wonderland. Book a helicopter tour to get a bird's-eye view of the canyon. The Grand Canyon offers endless possibilities for adventure and exploration, and it's a must-see destination on your road trip.

5. Las Vegas, Nevada

As you approach the end of your road trip, make a stop in the city that never sleeps, Las Vegas, the Entertainment Capital of the World. Indulge in the glitz and glamour of the city, where you can gamble, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, watch world-class shows, or explore the neon-lit streets.

Visit the iconic landmarks, such as the Bellagio Fountains, the Eiffel Tower, the Venetian canals, or the Hoover Dam. Take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon or hike in the nearby Red Rock Canyon. Las Vegas is a city of endless possibilities, and you'll never run out of things to do.

Conclusion

From the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, this cross-country road trip has it all. You'll witness stunning landscapes, charming towns, and world-famous attractions along the way. Whether you're a history lover, art aficionado, or nature enthusiast, there's something for everyone on this epic journey. So fuel up your car, pack your bags, and hit the road for the adventure of a lifetime.