It's still summer, you know what that means? Road trips!
Road Trips are one of America's favorite past times during summer vacation! With a new and better car, the possibilities are endless. Here are five recommendations for road trips across America:
Overseas Highway, Miami to Key West, Fla.
Driving this 120-mile route connecting the Florida Keys with bridges and
causeways is like piloting a hovercraft across the ocean, Jensen says.
Originally developed for the Florida East Coast Railway, the route was wiped
out by a hurricane in 1935 and converted to a highway. "It's you and the
water half the time. You feel like you're floating. It's a wonderful sensory
experience." Although it can be driven in just a few hours, take your time
to stop at seafood dives and tourist traps along the way. "There are fish
and chips and cold beer and that's always a pleasure."
Road trip tip: Take a driving break and swim with dolphins at the
Theater of the Sea in Islamorada, a nearly 70-year-old roadside attraction
located in a former quarry.
Million Dollar Highway, Silverton to Ouray, Colo.
This section of U.S. Highway 550 climbs more than two miles above sea level
as it twists its way between two historic gold-mining towns. Some say the
route's nickname comes from the road's fill dirt, which came from mine waste
later discovered to contain gold ore. , while others insist it cost a million
dollars a mile to build. "It's literally breath-taking because of the
attitude, but it's a beautiful part of the world, an amazing drive with a great
name and it deserves it," Jensen says. The road is part of the San Juan
Skyway Scenic Byway, offering the chance for more exploration.
Road trip tip: You can get another view of the scenery from the
Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which passes along the Animas
River Gorge, far above rushing waters and feels like an old west adventure.
Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
This Appalachian beautyfest starts just two hours west of Washington, D.C.,
and slowly winds its way along ridge lines and near historic towns as it traces
the mountain range. With low speed limits, you have time to soak in the scenery
along the 105-mile drive in Shenandoah National Park. Then connect with the
parkway, which continues for another 469 miles on the way to Great Smoky
Mountains National Park. The highlight for many is the famed Linn Cove Viaduct,
an engineering marvel that winds through the treetops along the road's highest
section.
Road trip tip: Time your drive to spend time in Charlottesville, site
of Thomas Jefferson's home, Monticello, and the University of Virginia. It will
be a sure hit with lovers of history, shopping, food and college towns, Jensen
says.
Black River Scenic Byway, Mich.
Often overlooked by road trippers, Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers road
trip magic, with thick forests and waterfalls, and expansive Lake Superior
vistas. "People who know ocean coasts think that's the only way to go, but
lake views can be just as beautiful," Jensen says. While State Highway 513
is labeled a scenic byway, drivers should venture off the route. "There
are old roads that don't really go anywhere but get you deep in the woods.
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Road trip tip: Wrap up your automobile adventure with a visit to
auto-free Mackinac Island's Grand Hotel. "It has the world's largest front
porch and they have rocking chairs."
The Loneliest Road, Nevada
The section of U.S. Highway 50 earned its name because it passes through a
largely barren uninhabited region. However, the road offers plenty of
distractions as it follows the Pony Express route, skirting mining camps and
crossing mountain ranges covered with juniper and pine forests. "The
actual driving surface is excellent. And there are gas stations and cafes along
the way." Jensen says.
Road trip tip: Stop at Great Basin National Park, which Jensen calls
an under appreciated gem with forests of bristlecone pines, the oldest living
thing on Earth. "The stars at night are phenomenal. "Lying on your
back watching the shooting stars is something you'll never forget."