Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Burlington, Vermont to Mitchell, South Dakota
The great open road, singing songs on the radio, and scenic views are just some of the joys of a road trip. There's nothing quite like leaving your daily routine behind, embarking on an adventure and discovering new places. If you're looking for an unforgettable road trip, check out the route from Burlington, Vermont to Mitchell, South Dakota. Covering a distance of around 1,450 miles, this route is ideal for travelers who want to experience exciting stops and breathtaking scenery. The halfway point of this trip is Granger, IN. Along the way, you'll come across stunning landscapes, beautiful national parks, and unique sights that offer an excellent break from long hours on the road. Here are five of the best things to do on this trip:
1. Visit Niagara Falls, New York
One of the most famous natural wonders in the world is Niagara Falls. This breathtaking waterfall is located in New York, right near the border with Canada. This famous sight is an impressive 170 feet high, and millions of visitors flock here each year to witness the stunning natural wonder. Visitors here can enjoy various activities, including boat tours, hiking, and viewing platforms. Niagara Falls is a must-see location on your road trip.
Interesting fact: Niagara Falls has eroded almost seven miles in the last 12,000 years.
2. Enjoy the Summer Festivals in Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland, Ohio, is known for its vibrant summer festivals, making it another not-to-be-missed destination on your road trip. The popular Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located here. Visitors can also attend the Cleveland International Film Festival, Pride in the CLE, and the tastebud-tantalizing Rib Fest.
Interesting fact: Cleveland is the birthplace of Superman.
3. Explore the Badlands National Park, South Dakota
One of the most colorful and breathtaking stops along the route from Burlington to Mitchell is the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This park is a unique mixture of various rock formations, colorful spires, and stunning landscapes. Visitors here can camp, hike, bike, stargaze, or explore the fantastic wildlife that thrives in the park.
Interesting fact: The Badlands National Park is one of the most abundant sites in the world for fossils of the rhinoceros-like mammal called titanotheres.
4. Visit the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, South Dakota
Hidden deep underground beneath South Dakota lies one of the most unusual historical sites in the US: the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. The site offers a unique opportunity to see deactivated missile launch sites up close and go beyond the boundaries of an ordinary museum. Visitors can learn about the Cold War and the role of nuclear weapons in American history.
Interesting fact: The Minuteman missile silos were some of the most powerful nuclear weapons in American history.
5. See Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota
Another world-renowned site that is located in South Dakota is Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This monument features the faces of US Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved into the sides of a mountain. This site receives almost three million visitors yearly, making it one of the most visited historic sites in the world.
Interesting fact: Each of the president’s heads is as tall as a six-story building.
After visiting these five unique sites, you should be ready to head back home, having experienced some unforgettable places. It is a good idea to plan at least a week for this itinerary. Heading back to Burlington and after passing Granger, IN, the route will take you through the great states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and South Dakota.
Overall, the road trip from Burlington, Vermont to Mitchell, South Dakota is the perfect way to explore the US and its many unique sights. Visitors can experience a little bit of everything, from historic monuments to colorful landscapes, and the itinerary is so well-designed that you will not want to miss any of the fantastic stops. So grab your ice chest, your road map, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.