There’s nothing more exciting than a cross-country road trip. If you want to immerse yourself in adventure and pristine natural beauty, walk along the coast-to-coast route that connects these nine destinations. As you venture across the northern United States from the Pacific Northwest to the Northeast, we’ve mapped out the most typical places. The best part? There is no exact science, so feel free to start your journey from the coast you like and add your sites. Here are some places you should take advantage of.
Seattle
Before you leave Seattle, known for its iconic Space Needle, stop by Pike Place Market, grab a coffee at Storyville Coffee Company, and Pick up fresh pastries at Honest Biscuits or the Crumpet Shop. Located about 30 minutes from downtown Seattle, Snoqualmie Falls is an excellent place for a short hike, with unique views and a stunning 268-foot waterfall. If you’re traveling from the East Coast, Seattle will be your last stop, so we recommend staying one night at the Market Inn – if only to enjoy Pike Place and the tranquil waterfront. Save time for an all-day breakfast at Tobacco Cafe, one of the hotel’s three restaurants.
Coeur d ‘Alene, Idaho
A lakeside dining experience is a must for any Coeur d ‘Alene visit. Terraza Waterfront Cafe offers Latin American fusion cuisine, and its prime location will ensure you enjoy the views of Lake Coeur d ‘Alene. After thoroughly immersing yourself in the surroundings and visiting the local shops, you can see the Seven Star Alpaca Ranch, where, on a guided tour, you can take the friendly alpacas to their daytime pasture.
West Glacier, Montana
Known for its accommodations and white-water rafting, kayaking, and fly-fishing opportunities, the Great Northern Resort is an excellent base to visit Glacier National Park. The hotel offers cozy chalets with kitchens and fireplaces near the West Glacier entrance. It is a hotel for travelers seeking more traditional accommodations. As you head to the park from West Glacier, head to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Once inside, take some time to admire the picturesque MacDonald Lake.
Jackson, Wyoming
The natural beauty of America’s first national park needs no introduction – colorful hot springs, gushing geysers, and cascading waterfalls are synonymous with Yellowstone. Take time out to watch the eruption of the famous Old Faithful geyser and visit the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring (pictured above). As you stroll through the park, watch for roaming wildlife such as bison, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, deer, and black bears. After seeing Yellowstone’s natural wonders, spend the night at Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson.
Rapid City, South Dakota
Driving through the Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota will leave you in awe of the natural surroundings. Stay at the Bavarian Inn, about a 40-minute drive from Mount Rushmore National Memorial, one of the most iconic monuments in the United States. Once you’ve had enough shots of the four presidents’ impressive 60-foot faces, head over to Murphy’s Pub & Grill in Rapid City for a bite and a local beer. Continue the journey east through Badlands National Park, a surreal landscape with otherworldly rock formations and many scenic lookout points along a 39-mile loop.
Minneapolis
Stroll through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, where more than 60 sculptures are displayed, then venture across the Stone Arch Bridge, a railroad bridge crossing the Mississippi River. Experience Midwestern luxury with a stay at the Ivy Hotel in downtown Minneapolis. Grab dinner with a spoon and steady French-inspired cuisine at James Beard’s award-winning chef or Murray’s, a classic Minneapolis steakhouse. Afterward, enjoy cocktails and skyline views at the Union Rooftop.
Chicago
This vibrant city boasts awe-inspiring skyscrapers, urban beaches along Lake Michigan, and bustling cuisine. After taking time to admire the Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park, head to the Navy Pier for sightseeing and then board an architecture-themed river cruise that is arguably one of the best things to do in Chicago. Then, dine at Au Cheval, a restaurant famous for its classic burger cuisine. Or head to Cindy’s rooftop, an attraction at the Chicago Sports Association Hotel featuring a seasonal menu and creative cocktails. Enjoy views of the surrounding river and city at the London House Hotel.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Once you arrive in Steel City, pay homage to the area’s creative scene by checking into the Monaco Kimpton Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh. If time permits, plan to visit the Andy Warhol Museum to learn about the artist’s life and work. Point State Park – a National Historic Landmark located at the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers confluence is just a five-minute drive (or 15-minute walk) from the hotel. For dining, check out the Original Oyster House, Pittsburgh’s oldest bar and restaurant, which has been in business since 1870.
New York City
Congratulations, you did it! The celebratory drinks are ready, and what better place to drink them than the Daintree Rooftop and Lounge at Hotel Hendricks? After checking into your luxurious Midtown room, enjoy stunning views of the Empire State Building, then head to nearby Bryant Park for a midday stroll. Suppose you’re looking for a classic New York bagel, head to s-a-bagel, just around the corner on West 32nd Street. For dinner, enjoy a cozy Italian meal at Max in Tribeca or Via Carota in the West Village.
If you’re starting your cross-country trip from the East Coast, New York City will be your first stop, so be sure to do some classic Big Apple sightseeing. Go for a walk in Central Park, catch a Broadway show, or take the view from the top of the Empire State Building before heading west.
