From stepping inside tipis to throwing tomahawks, the hands-on experiences offered in Bartlesville will help demystify themes most of us have only heard about through pop culture.
Illinois is a state where every road and river tells a story. In Chicago, world-class museums and innovative cuisine reflect a city that has shaped global culture, while the winding path of Route 66 invites travelers to retrace America’s past, from historic prisons to quirky roadside landmarks. But venture south, and the rhythm slows: Shawnee National Forest’s towering rock formations and the Cache River’s whispering wetlands reveal a wild, untamed side of the Midwest. Here, the Land of Lincoln unfolds as a journey through human ingenuity and nature’s quiet beauty.
Winter in southern Utah often surprises travelers. While the region is best known for red rock deserts and iconic national parks, Cedar City, Utah, offers a winter experience that blends snow-covered mountains, accessible outdoor recreation, and uncrowded landscapes – all framed by those classic Utah red rock views.
Calico Ghost Town is without a doubt the most bustling ghost town in the American West. With a heaping roster of family-friendly festivals and entertainment and a genuine tie to California’s mining past, it’s a destination where old west history comes to life, year-round.
Follow Maine’s wild edge from coastal paddles and mountain hikes to northern waterways and small-town stops. This adventure-forward itinerary highlights the state’s best outdoor experiences without skipping the food, culture, and scenic drives that make the journey unforgettable.
Maine is a destination where days are shaped by salt air, forest trails, and open water and evenings are spent wandering small towns, sharing good food, and slowing down. From iconic national parks to quiet, stunning state parks and friendly lakeside communities, Maine offers a rhythm that blends adventure with comfort in a way few places can.
The variety of landscapes throughout Cowboy Country had my jaw dropping what felt like every few minutes. There are multiple hot springs and geothermal features in the area, rolling sand dunes, and wide expanses of desert that feature some of the most quiet places in the US (aside from the occasional coyote howl).
Route 66 isn’t just asphalt and neon, it threads across the ancestral and living homelands of many Indigenous nations. From Potawatomi lands at the Chicago start, through Osage and Kickapoo land in the Midwest, across dozens of Tribal Nations in Oklahoma, to Pueblo communities in New Mexico and Navajo and Hualapai lands in Arizona, more than half of Route 66 runs through Indian Country. For travelers looking to go beyond the kitsch, the most authentic experiences are those led and offered by tribal people themselves. These experiences vary from guided canyon walks and pueblo tours to trading-post galleries, and tribally owned lodgings. Spending your money at these establishments directs tourism dollars to local economies and cultural programs. You can create a positive experience for both yourself and these communities by visiting with gratitude and respect – prepared to learn about the local cultures and histories.
Grapevine, Texas, is a unique destination that beautifully marries small-town charm with big-city amenities. Nestled in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, it serves as a serene escape from the urban sprawl, a place where history, heritage, and modern fun are always within reach. Whether you’re a family looking for a magical holiday getaway or a couple seeking a relaxing weekend of wine and music, this welcoming city offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Discover one of America’s most underrated road trip regions on this Great Lakes highlights itinerary. Along the way you’ll find pristine beaches, picturesque lakeshore communities, plenty of outdoor activities on land and water, delicious regional cuisine, a strong winery and brewery culture, deeply-rooted Indigenous heritage, and a year-round loving embrace of these stunning landscapes. Pack the car and hit the road. This is your ultimate Great Lakes region road trip, the highlights edition.