From Boulder to the Big Apple: Top Places to See on a Road Trip Across America

The road trip from Boulder, Colorado to New York, New York is an adventure of a lifetime. You’ll take in stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, bustling cities, and charming small towns. Whether you are embarking on this journey for the first time or revisiting your favorite spots, this blog post is for you. Here are the top places to see when driving from Boulder to New York.

The Great Plains

As soon as you leave Boulder and head east on I-76, you’ll enter the Great Plains, a vast expanse of grasslands that stretches from Canada to Mexico. The flat terrain seems endless, interrupted only by the occasional farmhouse or wind turbine. It’s a peaceful and meditative driving experience, with the sky stretching out above you like a giant canvas. Take a break at Sterling Rest Area, where you can stretch your legs, have a picnic, and admire the windmills.

Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri is a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural heritage. It’s known for its barbecue, jazz music, and fountains, among other things. If you’re a foodie, be sure to check out Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, which has won numerous awards and has been featured on national TV. For history buffs, the National World War I Museum and Memorial is a must-see. And if you’re in town on a Sunday evening, don’t miss the free jazz concerts at the Green Lady Lounge.

St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri is famous for its Gateway Arch, a 630-foot-tall structure that honors the city’s role as the “Gateway to the West.” You can take a tram to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. Other St. Louis attractions include the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, where you can take a tour and taste some beer, and the City Museum, an interactive art installation that’s fun for all ages.

Mammoth Cave National Park

If you’re looking for a natural wonder, Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is the place to go. The park boasts the world’s longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of tunnels and passages. You can take a ranger-led tour and explore different sections of the cave, from the Gothic Avenue to the Frozen Niagara. Above ground, the park offers hiking trails, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Gettysburg National Military Park

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is famous for the battle that took place there during the American Civil War. Gettysburg National Military Park commemorates this historic event and offers a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers who fought and died there. You can take a tour of the battlefield, visit the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center, and pay your respects at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. It’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices that were made for our country’s freedom.

New York City

Finally, you’ll reach the Big Apple, the city that never sleeps. New York City needs no introduction, but here are some highlights: the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Empire State Building. Take in a Broadway show, sample some street food, and people-watch to your heart’s content. New York City is a world unto itself, and you’ll never run out of things to do.

Conclusion

This road trip is a true cross-country adventure, spanning diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories. From the Great Plains to New York City, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey. Who knows what you’ll discover along the way?