Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burbank, California and Boulder, Colorado

Have you ever taken a long road trip and found yourself bored with the same old gas stations and rest stops? If you're driving from Burbank, California to Boulder, Colorado, there are some unique and unexpected places to stop along the way. This 1,200 mile journey takes roughly 19 hours without any traffic or detours, so why not make the most of it? Here are five places worth visiting during your road trip adventure.

Halfway Point: Elsinore, UT

Before diving into the top five unexpected places to stop on this road trip, let's first mention the midway point: Elsinore, UT. This small town has a population of less than 1,000 people and offers a unique glimpse into rural life in the United States. Take a stroll through the Elsinore town center, where you'll find a park, small shops, and restaurants.

If you're feeling adventurous, take a guided tour of the nearby Fishlake National Forest. This national forest features beautiful views of mountains, meadows, and lakes. Depending on the time of year, the forest offers various activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing.

1. Tinkertown Museum - Sandia Park, NM

Tucked away in the Sandia Mountains, the Tinkertown Museum is a must-see attraction for those who love quirky roadside exhibits. Creator Ross Ward spent over 40 years constructing the museum, which features hand-carved miniature figures, animated dioramas, and oddball collections. From a circus to a western town to a miniature bookstore, Tinkertown is like a walk through a whimsical and surreal world.

Make sure to fuel up while you're in the area at The Stagecoach Stop (Sandia Park's oldest restaurant), which offers classic American and New Mexican cuisine.

2. Four Corners Monument - Teec Nos Pos, AZ

Located in the Four Corners region where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet, the Four Corners Monument is a unique place where you can stand in four states at once. A popular tourist stop, the monument itself is nothing more than a brass plate located in the middle of a concrete circle, but it's worth the photo op.

When you're hungry, stop by Teec Nos Pos Trading Post for Navajo tacos and fry bread. While there, you can also pick up some authentic Native American jewelry and souvenirs.

3. Carhenge - Alliance, NE

The United States has its very own Stonehenge replica in Alliance, Nebraska. Instead of mysterious standing stones, this version features vintage cars arranged in a circle. Jim Reinders built Carhenge in 1987 as a tribute to his father who studied the original Stonehenge in England.

While you're in Alliance, make a pit stop at Newberry's Common Ground for coffee and homemade baked goods (try the scones!).

4. Toadstool Geological Park - Harrison, NE

Located just southeast of the town of Harrison, Toadstool Geological Park offers some of the most unusual rock formations you'll see on this road trip. The park's peculiar formations are a result of sandstone and volcanic ash weathering over time. If you're a fan of hiking, the park features a number of trails that weave among the formations and the nearby badlands.

Before or after your visit to the park, make sure to check out the local Elk Horn Brewery for some cold brews and pub food.

5. Garden of the Gods - Colorado Springs, CO

Before you reach your final destination of Boulder, Colorado, stop at the stunning Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. This public park features towering red rock formations, unique wildlife, and plenty of trails to explore. History buffs will appreciate the park's rich history and archaeological sites.

Once you've worked up an appetite, stop at BJ's Velvet Freez for some old-fashioned burgers and ice cream.

Conclusion

If you're planning a road trip from Burbank, California to Boulder, Colorado, don't settle for generic pit stops. Instead, take advantage of the unique sights and attractions along the way. Tinkertown Museum, Four Corners Monument, Carhenge, Toadstool Geological Park, and Garden of the Gods offer a diverse range of experiences that you won't find at a typical rest stop. So, hop in the car, turn up the music, and embark on a memorable adventure.