Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Churchill, Pennsylvania to Fullerton, California

The journey from Churchill, Pennsylvania to Fullerton, California is a long and tiring one. It takes around 45 hours of non-stop driving, covering a distance of 2,719 miles. However, the long drive offers a chance to explore some of the lesser-known parts of America. Here are five unexpected places to stop on the way that offer wonderful experiences.

Halfway Point: Shamrock, TX (Bolded)

Located in the Texas Panhandle, Shamrock is the perfect place to get out of your car, stretch your legs and fill your tanks. The town has an intriguing history, with a past full of cowboys, oil, and the Mother Road. If you want to grasp the essence of the iconic Route 66, then Shamrock is a must-stop. Do not forget to visit the Conoco Station, a restored gas station, and souvenir shop that will take you back to the 1920s. The best thing to eat while in Shamrock is their famous steak sandwich. Made with locally-raised beef, it is a savory delight that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

1. Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo, TX (Bolded)

One of Americana's most recognizable landmarks, the Cadillac Ranch, is a curious art installation located in Amarillo, Texas. The installation features ten Cadillacs buried nose-first into the ground in a row. This strange piece of art is one of the most iconic stops on Route 66. Visitors find it fascinating to spray-paint the cars, leaving their marks on a piece of art. After taking some incredible shots and unleashing their creative side by tagging their names on the cars, visitors can head down to the Big Texan Steak Ranch, where they can try their world-famous 72 oz steak. If you can finish it all in one hour, it is free of charge!

2. Petrified Forest National Park, AZ (Bolded)

If you are a nature lover, then the Petrified Forest National Park should be on your bucket list. Located in Navajo County, Arizona, this unique national park features fossilized trees that date back over 200 million years. Visitors can hike through this otherworldly landscape, marveling at the petrified trees and the colorful Painted Desert beyond. The park's gift shop offers visitors a taste of real Arizona with its variety of prickly pear jams, jellies, and syrups.

3. The Grand Canyon, AZ (Bolded)

The Grand Canyon is the most famous natural landmark in the United States and is the perfect place to break up your road trip. Whether you are looking for a scenic drive along the rim, or a strenuous hike down to the bottom, the Grand Canyon offers an unparalleled experience. The best way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Canyon is to hike the Bright Angel Trail. The trail is well-maintained and offers multiple viewpoints to stop and take in the beauty of the Canyon. Foodies will enjoy the Arizona fry bread, Indian tacos, and freshly squeezed lemonade that is available at local eateries.

4. Salvation Mountain, CA (Bolded)

If you are looking for a destination that is sure to make your Instagram feed shine, then stop by Salvation Mountain. The colorful art installation cum shrine is the work of Leonard Knight, who spent over 30 years hand-painting the bright and colorful hill. The message of love and hope that Knight perpetuated is one that visitors take home with them, and the photographs that they snap make serious eye-candy. Local vendors offer delicious date shakes, homemade ice creams, and candy, which is the perfect refreshment under the hot Palm Springs sun.

In conclusion, traveling from Churchill, Pennsylvania to Fullerton, California is a long journey. However, with a little exploration, visitors can discover some hidden gems among the American countryside. So why not plan a road trip today and embark on an adventure that you will remember for a lifetime?