The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Central City, KY and Ridgecrest, CA
Central City, Kentucky and Ridgecrest, California are separated by over 2,000 miles of stunning American landscape. Connecting these two points are some of the country's most iconic and beautiful cities, landmarks, and attractions, making it an ideal road trip destination. The journey takes travelers through the heart of America, from the rolling hills of Kentucky to the southern deserts of California. The route includes something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs, and food lovers, making it a must-do road trip for anyone looking to explore the United States.
The halfway point of the road trip is Glenrio, New Mexico, a ghost town near the Texas–New Mexico border, which preserves the history of Route 66. Glenrio's abandoned buildings and vintage fuel stations make it a must-stop destination for fans of the historic highway.
Top 5 Things to Do on the Road Trip
1. Visit the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN
Located in the heart of Music City, the Grand Ole Opry has been the home of country music for over 90 years. As the world's longest-running live radio show, the Opry continues to captivate audiences with its impressive lineup of legendary performers and rising stars. Visitors can take a guided backstage tour, explore the Opry's history in the museum, or enjoy a live performance.
Interesting fact: The Grand Ole Opry first aired on November 28, 1925, as the WSM Barn Dance and was renamed the Grand Ole Opry in 1927.
2. Hike the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg, TN
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting more than 12 million visitors each year. The park is famous for its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and hiking trails, including the beautiful Appalachian Trail. Visitors can spend their day exploring the park by car, bike, or on foot.
Interesting fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and stretches over 500,000 acres across Tennessee and North Carolina.
3. Enjoy a Bourbon Tasting in Louisville, KY
Louisville, Kentucky is known as the bourbon capital of the world, and for good reason. Home to the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which includes nine bourbon distilleries and a distillery museum, Louisville is a must-visit destination for anyone with a love for good whiskey. Visitors can take tours, enjoy tastings or master classes, and learn about the rich history of bourbon.
Interesting fact: Bourbon must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels.
4. Visit the Arch in St. Louis, MO
The Gateway Arch is the centerpiece of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in St. Louis, Missouri. Completed in 1965, the arch stands at 630 feet tall and is the tallest man-made monument in the United States. Visitors can ride to the top of the arch and take in amazing views of the city and surrounding areas.
Interesting fact: The Gateway Arch was designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen.
5. Explore the Natural Wonders of Joshua Tree National Park in Joshua Tree, CA
Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning desert landscape in southern California. Home to the iconic Joshua Tree, the park offers visitors breathtaking natural wonders, including unique rock formations, and miles of hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy stargazing, bird watching, and rock climbing.
Interesting fact: The Joshua Tree is not actually a tree, but a type of yucca.
Conclusion
Traveling from Central City, Kentucky, to Ridgecrest, California, is a journey that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes, iconic cities, and historic landmarks in the country. With so much to see and do, the trip can take up to two weeks, depending on how much time is spent at each destination. From the rolling hills of Kentucky to the southern deserts of California, this road trip is an adventure of a lifetime.