Top Five Popular Attractions from Calgary, Alberta to Atlanta, Georgia
If you're planning a road trip from Calgary, Alberta to Atlanta, Georgia, there are plenty of exciting attractions dotted along the route. From natural wonders to man-made masterpieces, there's something for everyone. Here are the top five places you must visit, in order.
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
Nestled between the Canadian and US Rockies, Glacier National Park is a scenic mountain range in Montana. When passing through the state, make sure to drive through Glacier National Park, where you'll see breathtaking views of wildflower meadows, pristine forests, and gleaming glaciers. Be sure to take the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a must-see engineering marvel that spans the park and provides stunning views at every turn.
2. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
As you near the halfway point of your journey, you'll find yourself in St. Anthony, MN, where you can take a break from driving to relax and have some fun. Once you're ready to continue your trip, head to South Dakota to marvel at Mount Rushmore. This American national monument features the faces of four former presidents of the United States—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln—etched onto a granite mountain peak. Be sure to stick around for the night lighting ceremony, which paints an awe-inspiring picture against the dark night sky.
3. Memphis, Tennessee
As you head south towards Atlanta, plan to spend a couple of days in Memphis, Tennessee. The city is known for its blues-music history, with Beale Street being an absolute must-visit. The street is lined with blues clubs, restaurants, and shops that harken back to the early 1900s. While in Memphis, don't forget to stop by Graceland, the home of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
No road trip to the southern United States is complete without a stop in New Orleans. The city is a melting pot of cultures, and is known for its spicy Cajun food, jazz music, and famous Mardi Gras festival. You can take a walking tour through the French Quarter and Frenchmen Street, or board a paddlewheeler to explore the Mississippi River. Whatever you do, don't forget to try some jambalaya and gumbo!
5. Savannah, Georgia
When stopping in Savannah, be sure to take a romantic stroll through the city's charming squares and moss-draped trees. Savannah is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and for good reason. The town is filled with history, and there are plenty of walking tours that explore its antebellum mansions, cemeteries, and historic cobblestone streets. You can't leave Savannah without stopping by Forsyth Park, which boasts stunning fountains and a picturesque gazebo.
Conclusion
While there are other attractions worth stopping for along the Calgary-Atlanta route, these five landmarks are not to be missed. They offer a little bit of everything and are sure to make your trip unforgettable. If you're looking for the most scenic route, try taking the 1-90 through Montana's Missoula Valley towards South Dakota, and then head southeast towards Memphis, New Orleans, and finally Savannah. There's nothing like a good old fashioned American road trip to reconnect with nature, history, and culture. Happy travels!