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We went on a road-trip out west during June and July 2019. Montana was our first stop, and we visited West Yellowstone, Bozeman, and Missoula. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Montana is a fantastic destination with a variety of experiences to offer! Here are some top recommendations:

National Parks

Glacier National Park: Known for its stunning landscapes, over 700 miles of hiking trails, and beautiful lakes like Lake McDonald.

Yellowstone National Park: Famous for its geothermal features, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.

Outdoor Adventures

Big Sky: Ideal for skiing in the winter and hiking or mountain biking in the summer.

Flathead Lake: Perfect for boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenic beauty.

Cities and Towns

Bozeman: A great basecamp for various activities, with a vibrant downtown and access to outdoor adventures.

Missoula: Known for its arts scene, fly-fishing, and beautiful riverfront.

Unique Experiences

Butte: Rich in Western history and offers a glimpse into Montana’s mining past.

Whitefish: A charming mountain town with great dining, shopping, and outdoor activities.

Travel Tips

Plan Your Route: Consider a road trip to explore multiple destinations. A well-planned itinerary can help you make the most of your visit.

Seasonal Activities: Montana offers different experiences depending on the season, from winter sports to summer hiking and fishing.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Nebraska

Nebraska offers a variety of unique and exciting travel experiences! Here are some recommendations to consider:

1. Sandhill Crane Migration

Every spring, nearly a million sandhill cranes stop in Nebraska along their migratory path. Viewing this natural spectacle up close is a must-see experience.

2. Chimney Rock National Historic Site

This iconic landmark was a significant guidepost for pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail. It’s a great spot for history buffs and offers stunning views.

3. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium

One of the world’s best zoos, it features the largest indoor desert and rainforest. It’s perfect for a family outing.

4. Scotts Bluff National Monument

Explore the trails and learn about the history of westward expansion. The views from the top are breathtaking.

5. Carhenge

A quirky replica of England’s Stonehenge, made entirely out of vintage cars. It’s a fun and unique roadside attraction.

6. Niobrara National Scenic River

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this river offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. The surrounding scenery is beautiful and serene.

7. Lincoln

Nebraska’s capital city is home to the University of Nebraska, the State Capitol, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Don’t miss the historic Haymarket District.

8. Toadstool Geologic Park

Known for its unusual rock formations and fossil beds, this park is a great destination for hiking and photography.

9. Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Located near Ashland, this museum showcases historic aircraft and space artifacts. It’s a fascinating visit for aviation enthusiasts.

10. Platte River State Park

A great spot for camping, hiking, and fishing. The park also offers cabins and a scenic waterfall.

Nevada

We visited Nevada during a February 2017 road-trip, which included the four-corner states, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah.

Nevada offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from the vibrant nightlife of Las Vegas to the serene beauty of Lake Tahoe. Here are some recommendations to consider:

Las Vegas

Entertainment and Nightlife: Known for its casinos, shows, and nightlife, Las Vegas is a must-visit. Don’t miss the Bellagio Fountains, Cirque du Soleil shows, and the vibrant Fremont Street Experience.

Dining: Enjoy world-class dining with restaurants from celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Giada De Laurentiis.

Lake Tahoe

Outdoor Activities: Perfect for skiing in the winter and hiking, boating, and swimming in the summer. The scenic beauty of the lake is breathtaking year-round.

Relaxation: Enjoy the tranquil environment and consider staying in a lakeside cabin or resort.

Reno

Arts and Culture: Visit the Nevada Museum of Art and the National Automobile Museum. Reno also hosts the annual Great Reno Balloon Race.

Gaming and Entertainment: Similar to Las Vegas but on a smaller scale, with casinos and live entertainment.

Great Basin National Park

Stargazing: Known for its dark skies, it’s an excellent spot for stargazing.

Lehman Caves: Explore the stunning limestone caves with guided tours.

Extraterrestrial Highway

Unique Experience: Drive along this highway near Area 51 for a quirky and unique road trip. Stop by the Alien Research Center and the Little A’Le’Inn.

Ghost Towns

Historical Exploration: Visit ghost towns like Rhyolite and Goldfield to get a glimpse of Nevada’s mining history.

New Hampshire

We went on a road-trip in New England during June 2023. Portsmouth, NH was our fifth stop. Here is a video of some of our time there.

New Hampshire is a beautiful state with a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. Here are some recommendations for your trip:

1. White Mountains

Hiking and Scenic Drives: Explore the White Mountain National Forest, which offers stunning views, hiking trails, and scenic drives like the Kancamagus Highway.

Mount Washington: Take a drive or a cog railway ride to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.

2. Lakes Region

Lake Winnipesaukee: Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in New Hampshire’s largest lake. The surrounding towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro offer charming shops and restaurants.

Squam Lake: Known for its natural beauty and wildlife, it’s a great spot for kayaking and nature tours.

3. Seacoast

Portsmouth: This historic town offers a vibrant arts scene, excellent dining, and beautiful waterfront views. Don’t miss the Strawbery Banke Museum and Prescott Park.

Hampton Beach: A popular destination for its sandy beaches, boardwalk, and summer concerts.

4. Monadnock Region

Mount Monadnock: A popular hiking destination with panoramic views from the summit.

Keene: A charming town with a lively downtown area, perfect for shopping and dining.

5. Fall Foliage

Leaf Peeping: Visit in the fall to experience the stunning autumn colors. The White Mountains and Lakes Region are particularly beautiful during this season.

6. Winter Activities

Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy winter sports at resorts like Loon Mountain, Cannon Mountain, and Bretton Woods.

Snowmobiling and Ice Fishing: Plenty of opportunities for winter adventures across the state.

New Jersey

We went on a road-trip in New England during June 2023. Atlantic City, NJ was our second stop. Here is a video of some of our time there.

New Jersey offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for all types of travelers. Here are some recommendations:

Top Attractions

Atlantic City Boardwalk: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, eclectic shops, restaurants, and historic Steel Pier’s illuminated amusements.

Grounds For Sculpture: Explore this 42-acre sculpture park and museum in Hamilton, featuring contemporary sculptures and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Outdoor Activities

High Point State Park: Visit the highest point in New Jersey for stunning views and hiking trails.

Cape May: Relax on the beautiful beaches, visit the historic lighthouse, and enjoy the charming Victorian architecture.

Cultural Experiences

New Jersey Performing Arts Center: Catch a show or concert in Newark, a hub for arts and culture.

Liberty Science Center: Located in Jersey City, this interactive science museum is great for families and curious minds.

Events

Atlantic City Beer & Music Festival: Held in late March, this festival features craft beers and live music.

Monmouth Battlefield Special Battle Reenactment: Experience history come to life with reenactments of the Revolutionary War battle in mid-March.

Dining and Entertainment

Diners: New Jersey is famous for its diners. Try some classic American comfort food at one of the many diners across the state.

Casinos in Atlantic City: Test your luck at one of the many casinos along the boardwalk.

No matter what your interests are, New Jersey has something to offer.

New Mexico

We quickly visited New Mexico during a February 2017 road-trip, which included the four-corner states, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah as well as Nevada.

New Mexico is a fantastic destination with a rich blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some top recommendations for places to visit:

Santa Fe: Known as “The City Different,” Santa Fe is famous for its vibrant arts scene, with over 250 art galleries and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Don’t miss the historic Santa Fe Plaza and the delicious local cuisine featuring red and green chiles.

Taos: This town offers a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor activities. Visit the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy skiing in the winter or hiking and rock climbing in the summer.

Albuquerque: Known for the annual International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque also offers great hiking trails like the La Luz Trail and cultural sites such as the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

White Sands National Park: Explore the stunning white gypsum sand dunes, perfect for hiking, sledding, and photography.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park: Discover the incredible underground limestone caves, with guided tours available to explore the impressive formations.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument: Visit these ancient cliff dwellings to learn about the Mogollon culture and enjoy the surrounding wilderness.

Las Cruces: This city offers a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, including the historic Old Mesilla village and the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument.

Petroglyph National Monument: Located near Albuquerque, this site features thousands of ancient rock carvings and offers several hiking trails.

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences, from art and history to outdoor adventures.

New York

When we lived in Pittsburgh, we would find our way to NYC often for a long weekend or football game road-trip. We also made an effort to see the ball drop in December 2016 and 2017. Our best recommendation for that involves booking a hotel at Times Square so you do not have to wait outside all day.

We went on a road-trip in New England during June 2023. Before we hit the road, we flew into New York. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Don’t forget that you can visit Niagara from the New York side too, which is still pretty impressive; but, definitely make time to hop over to Canada too while you’re there.

New York state offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences beyond New York City, so here are some recommendations for exploring the state:

Natural Wonders

Niagara Falls: One of the most famous waterfalls in the world, offering boat tours and stunning views.

Adirondack Mountains: Perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Finger Lakes: Known for its beautiful lakes, wineries, and charming small towns.

Historic Sites

The Hudson Valley: Explore historic estates like the Vanderbilt Mansion and Franklin D. Roosevelt’s home.

Saratoga Springs: Famous for its horse racing, mineral springs, and vibrant arts scene.

Fort Ticonderoga: A historic fort offering reenactments and beautiful views of Lake Champlain.

Cultural Experiences

The Catskills: Enjoy outdoor activities, arts festivals, and farm-to-table dining.

Buffalo: Visit the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and enjoy the city’s revitalized waterfront.

Rochester: Home to the Strong National Museum of Play and the George Eastman Museum.

Unique Attractions

The Corning Museum of Glass: Discover the art, history, and science of glassmaking.

Howe Caverns: Explore underground caves and take a boat ride on an underground river.

Lake Placid: A former Winter Olympics site, great for skiing and winter sports.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and scenic beauty.

Getting Around: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the state’s diverse regions.

Accommodations: Consider staying in charming bed-and-breakfasts or historic inns for a unique experience.

Special Events

New York State Fair: Held annually in Syracuse, featuring concerts, exhibits, and delicious food.

Fall Foliage: Enjoy the stunning fall colors in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Hudson Valley.

Winter Festivals: Experience winter carnivals and ice festivals in various towns across the state.

And since we know that New York City is a highlight, we’ve added some specific recommendations for that location:

Must-See Attractions

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Iconic landmarks that offer a glimpse into America’s history.

Central Park: A beautiful oasis in the middle of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Empire State Building: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck.

Times Square: The vibrant heart of NYC, known for its bright lights and bustling atmosphere.

Broadway: Catch a world-class show in the famous theater district.

Unique Experiences

Rooftop Bars: Enjoy a drink with a view at one of NYC’s many rooftop bars.

Museums: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the American Museum of Natural History.

Food Tours: Explore the diverse culinary scene with a food tour in neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Williamsburg.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Getting Around: The subway is the most efficient way to travel. Consider getting a MetroCard for unlimited rides.

Budget-Friendly Options: Take advantage of free attractions like the Staten Island Ferry, which offers great views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

Special Events

Parades and Festivals: Check out events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the New York Film Festival, and the Tribeca Film Festival.

Holiday Season: Experience the magic of NYC during the holidays with ice skating at Rockefeller Center and the festive decorations throughout the city.

North Carolina

North Carolina is a fantastic destination with a variety of attractions to suit different interests. Here are some recommendations:

Mountains and Outdoor Adventures

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Blue Ridge Parkway: Known for its stunning views, especially during the fall foliage season.

Asheville: A vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and the famous Biltmore Estate.

Beaches and Coastal Areas

Outer Banks: A series of barrier islands with beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial.

Wilmington: Offers a charming riverfront, historic downtown, and nearby beaches like Wrightsville Beach.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill: Known for their universities, museums, and cultural events.

Charlotte: A bustling city with attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

Unique Experiences

Biltmore Estate: America’s largest privately-owned home, located in Asheville, offers tours, gardens, and a winery.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: Enjoy scenic train rides through the mountains, especially beautiful during the fall.

North Dakota

North Dakota offers a variety of unique experiences and beautiful landscapes. Here are some top recommendations:

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Explore the stunning Badlands, scenic vistas, and wildlife like bison and wild horses.

Maah Daah Hey Trail: Perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the Badlands.

Scandinavian Heritage Park: Celebrate Scandinavian culture with replicas of traditional buildings and artifacts.

Lake Sakakawea: Enjoy water activities on North Dakota’s largest lake.

Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site: Learn about Native American history and culture.

Also, Fargo has some interesting attractions, including the Fargo-Moorhead Visitors Center, which is home to the Best for Last Club. This club is for travelers who have visited all 50 states and saved North Dakota for last. When you join, you get a commemorative t-shirt, an official certificate, and sometimes even a round of applause from the staff.

Here are some other highlights in Fargo:

Fargo Air Museum: Explore a variety of historic aircraft and aviation exhibits.

Red River Zoo: Home to many rare and endangered species, perfect for a family outing.

Plains Art Museum: Features contemporary art and traditional folk art from the region.

Bonanzaville, USA: A pioneer village and museum showcasing the history of the Red River Valley.

Ohio

Ohio offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from vibrant cities to serene natural landscapes. Here are some top recommendations:

Cities

Cleveland: Home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Enjoy local brews at Market Garden Brewery or Southern Tier Brewery.

Cincinnati: Explore the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the Cincinnati Art Museum, and take a stroll along the scenic Ohio River.

Columbus: Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the lively Short North Arts District.

Nature & Outdoor Activities

Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Offers over 125 miles of hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and scenic train rides.

Hocking Hills State Park: Known for its stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Lake Erie Shores & Islands: Perfect for beach activities, boating, and visiting amusement parks like Cedar Point.

Unique Experiences

Amish Country: Experience a slower pace of life with charming shops, homemade goods, and scenic countryside.

Dayton: Visit the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force and the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park.

Whether you’re into urban adventures or outdoor escapades, Ohio has something for everyone.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma has a lot to offer! Here are some travel recommendations to help you plan your trip:

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Located in southwest Oklahoma, this refuge is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. You can see bison, elk, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Turner Falls Park: Home to Oklahoma’s tallest waterfall at 77 feet, this park offers swimming, hiking, and camping opportunities.

Gloss Mountain State Park: Known for its shiny selenite crystals, this park is great for hiking and enjoying beautiful landscapes.

Cultural and Historical Sites

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: Located in Oklahoma City, this museum showcases Western art, artifacts, and exhibits on cowboy culture.

Philbrook Museum of Art: In Tulsa, this museum features a diverse collection of art and beautiful gardens.

Cherokee Heritage Center: Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee Nation in Tahlequah.

Unique Attractions

Route 66: Drive along this historic highway and explore quirky roadside attractions like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and the Round Barn in Arcadia.

Pops 66 Soda Ranch: Located in Arcadia, this diner and gas station offers over 700 types of soda and a giant soda bottle sculpture.

State Parks

Roman Nose State Park: Named after a Cheyenne chief, this park offers hiking, golf, and beautiful canyon views.

Beavers Bend State Park: Located in southeastern Oklahoma, this park is great for fishing, boating, and hiking.

Events and Festivals

Tulsa State Fair: Held annually in late September to early October, this fair features rides, food, and entertainment.

Red Earth Festival: Celebrating Native American culture, this festival in Oklahoma City includes art, dance, and music.

Oregon

We went on a road-trip out west during June and July 2019. Oregon was our ninth stop, and we visited Cannon Beach and Portland. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Oregon is a fantastic destination with a wide range of attractions and activities. Here are some recommendations for your trip:

1. Portland

Food and Drink: Portland is known for its vibrant food scene, including food trucks, craft breweries, and coffee shops.

Parks and Gardens: Visit the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden for beautiful landscapes.

2. Oregon Coast

Scenic Drives: The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway offers stunning ocean views and charming coastal towns.

Beaches and Parks: Cannon Beach, with its iconic Haystack Rock, and Ecola State Park are must-sees.

3. Willamette Valley

Wine Country: This region is famous for its wineries and vineyards, particularly known for Pinot Noir.

Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, biking, and river activities in this picturesque valley.

4. Central Oregon

Bend: A hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, mountain biking, and skiing at Mount Bachelor.

Smith Rock State Park: A world-renowned rock climbing destination with breathtaking views.

5. Southern Oregon

Crater Lake National Park: Home to the deepest lake in the U.S., formed by a collapsed volcano.

Ashland: Known for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and its charming downtown area.

6. Eastern Oregon

Wallowa Mountains: Often called the “Alps of Oregon,” perfect for hiking and exploring.

Painted Hills: Part of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, offering unique and colorful landscapes.

7. Columbia River Gorge

Waterfalls: Multnomah Falls is the most famous, but there are many others to explore.

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, windsurfing, and kiteboarding are popular activities in this area.