Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cabot, Arkansas to Tucumcari, New Mexico

Are you planning a road trip from Cabot, Arkansas to Tucumcari, New Mexico? This journey will take you through stunning landscapes and hidden gems that you don't want to miss. The trip covers 905 miles and takes approximately 13 and a half hours of driving time. The highlight of your journey will be the halfway point, El Reno, OK, where you can explore the charm of The Sooner State. We've put together a list of five unexpected places to stop on your journey so you can break up your drive and make the most of your trip.

1. Rattlesnake Ridge Scenic Drive (Clinton, AR)

Rattlesnake Ridge Scenic Drive is a must-see attraction in Clinton, Arkansas. The winding roads take you through the mountains, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. This drive will take your breath away with stunning sights of the forests and rock formations. The scenery is serene and will enable you to relax during your journey. You will also find Picnic areas and hiking trails on the drive. You can grab food for your picnic basket in town, and there's a range of options from the local grocers. We recommend trying the smoked brisket at the Country Store, a favored spot by locals.

2. National Route 66 Museum (Elk City, OK)

Located in Elk City, Oklahoma, the National Route 66 Museum is an engaging and informative stop for all ages. The museum traces the history of Route 66, one of America's most famous landmarks, as well as Oklahoma's rich history. You will learn about the pioneers who traveled the road, what life was like on Route 66, see historical artifacts and memorabilia. The museum holds an impressive collection that celebrates the legacy of the road, from vintage cars and motorcycles to gas station pumps and neon signs. Don't leave Eagle City without trying a couple of its famous dishes, such as chicken-fried steak, which is deliriously delicious at Del's restaurant nearby.

3. Bug Ranch (Conway, TX)

Bug Ranch located outside Amarillo, Texas, is a fun roadside attraction that is sure to amuse all who see it. This quirky stop consists of a row of Volkswagen Beetles half-buried head-on into the ground. While it is an offbeat sight, it has become an amusing tradition for passersby to graffiti the bugs with their names and creative designs. There's no restaurant nearby; however, you can buy snacks or refill your gas in nearby Amarillo.

4. Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX)

Another unusual roadside attraction in Texas is Cadillac Ranch, located in Amarillo. This installation consists of ten Cadillacs nose-down, buried in the sand. The art installation encourages visitors to leave their marks using spray paint to create a continually evolving piece of graffiti art. If you're feeling peckish, the locally favored spot to eat is Youngbloods Cafe, famous for its chicken fried steak.

5. Tucumcari Historical Museum (Tucumcari, NM)

The Tucumcari Historical Museum is a delightful treasure trove of artifacts, perfect for history buffs. The museum highlights Route 66 and the railroad artifacts, also showcasing the various cultural influences that have shaped Tucumcari. You'll see antique cars, farming equipment, household items, and photographs that explain Tucumcari's background and its development into what it is today. If you're feeling, try the homemade salsa at Del's Restaurant, locally famous for its delicious Mexican cuisine.

The delights above are only exiled a few places that remind us travel is about the journey, not the destination. Make the most of the adventure by stopping at some of these amazing attractions, tasting the unique foods, and taking in the local culture. By the end of your journey, you'll have discovered the heart and soul of the land between Cabot, Arkansas, and Tucumcari, New Mexico.