Points of Interest between Buffalo, New York to Nogales, Arizona

picture of Buffalo, New York

Roadtripping from Buffalo, New York to Nogales, Arizona

If you're embarking on a road trip from Buffalo, New York to Nogales, Arizona, you're in for a treat! Not only will you cross over 10 states and nearly 2,600 miles, but you'll also encounter some of the most breathtaking and historically significant landmarks and parks in the United States. Let's hit the road!

An interesting fact about this route is that you'll be traveling on a portion of the historic Route 66. This iconic highway, which was established in 1926, originally connected Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. Although it now covers only a portion of the original route, it remains a symbol of nomadic adventure and nostalgic Americana.

Halfway through our trip, we'll pass through the charming town of Sapulpa, Oklahoma. This small town is home to the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of classic cars and memorabilia from the historic highway.

The length of this road trip can vary depending on how many stops you make, but it typically takes about 5-7 days to complete with an average of 4-6 hours driving per day. Now, let's dive into the top 5 places to visit on this route!

  1. Niagara Falls State Park, NY

Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the United States and is home to the iconic Niagara Falls. The park has been a popular tourist destination since the mid-19th century and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and even a boat ride beneath the falls. The thunderous roar and mist of the falls are truly awe-inspiring and should be on everyone's bucket list.

*Point of Interest Recommendation: If you're a fan of craft beer, be sure to stop by the nearby brewery, Big Ditch Brewing Company, for a taste of their award-winning brews.

  1. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ

Petrified Forest National Park is a unique destination that is roughly halfway between our start and end points, making it the perfect place for a break. The park is home to the world's largest and most colorful concentration of petrified wood, which dates back over 200 million years. Visitors can hike through unique badlands, visit historic Route 66 structures, and even observe ancient petroglyphs left by Native Americans.

*Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Painted Desert, which boasts a stunning array of colors that change with the light of day.

  1. Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

No road trip in the southwestern United States is complete without a stop at the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, with over 6 million visitors annually. The canyon is over 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide, with a depth of over a mile. Visitors can take a scenic drive, hike, or even ride a mule to the bottom of the canyon for a truly unforgettable experience.

*Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the Desert View Watchtower, a beautiful historic structure designed by Mary Colter in the 1930s that offers stunning views of the Grand Canyon and surrounding areas.

  1. Zion National Park, UT

Zion National Park is a geological masterpiece located in southwestern Utah. This park is famous for its towering sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and breathtaking views. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, canyoneering, or even taking a scenic drive on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The park is also a popular destination for rock climbing and stargazing.

*Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the Weeping Rock trail, which offers a short hike to a stunning natural rock formation that appears to "weep" water droplets.

  1. Saguaro National Park, AZ

Our final destination is Saguaro National Park just outside Tucson, Arizona. This park is known for its iconic saguaro cactus, which can reach up to 40 feet tall and live for over 150 years. Visitors can take a scenic drive, hike, or even attend a ranger-led program to learn more about the unique flora and fauna of this desert landscape.

*Point of Interest Recommendation: Be sure to stop by the nearby Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, which is a combination zoo, botanical garden, art gallery and natural history museum.

In conclusion, this road trip from Buffalo, New York to Nogales, Arizona is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With stops at iconic landmarks like Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, as well as numerous other points of interest along the way, you're sure to make unforgettable memories. Depending on your stops, the trip can take anywhere from 5-7 days, but the sights and experiences will last a lifetime.