Taking an all American vacation can produce a lifetime of happy memories when you plan it right. Ensuring that you stop at the most popular attractions, take time to traverse the small towns and travel by caravan can be the foundation for your trip. It’s also important to make sure you stay safe by obeying the rules of the road and avoiding DUI’s. However, your greatest tool for partaking in the All-American vacation is to keep an open mind and have wholesome fun.
1) Stop at the Big Attractions
Depending on where you’ll be going, and the length of time that you plan on staying, you’ll want to map out a course of action that takes you to some of the most famous attractions on your vacation.
Most individuals have only seen the greatest landmarks in America such as the Grand Canyon, Mt. Rushmore, Statue of Liberty, Niagara Falls, Yellowstone Park and the Golden Gate Bridge on T.V. or via the Internet. Taking a trip to witness these amazing top attractions can be exhilarating when you actually see them in person.
2) Observe the Rules of the Road
While driving from state to state, it’s important to be aware of the various rules of the road. Nothing can bring your road trip to a screeching halt faster than getting a ticket for speeding, or being over the legal limit for alcohol. Be sure to do some research on local sites, like Evan Levow for traveling in New Jersey for example, to familiarize yourself with the rules for the states you’ll be traveling through before you leave.
3) Get Off the Beaten Path
Because of its size and diversity, each part of America is unique. You should make a point of getting off the beaten path and traveling the back roads of some quaint and charming communities. For those traveling South, you’re sure to notice a different way of life than when making your way around the Northeast Coast. Whether it’s small town charm, big city life or a laid-back hippie approach, you’re sure to find something that stands out and lingers in your mind after your trip.
4) Caravan
Another great way to see America is in a caravan. This group of people can be a tour or group that is unknown to you, but they have similar interests in the things that you want to see and do. It can also be an adventure that you set up on your own with a group of family, friends and other loved ones. A group of travelers can be a fun way to explore the region, and there’s always safety in numbers. Make sure you carry the correct insurance and driver’s license requirements before you leave.
5) Go Camping
Getting back to nature is a great way to connect with the family and enjoy the outdoors. Camping is a communal way to ditch the electronics, build your own fire, set up camp and cook your own food. What better way to see America than by enjoying Mother Nature, and the beauty that surrounds her. You can do your research early and locate a camp dependent on your travel route.
6) Use GPS
To avoid arguments and having to ask for directions, you want to have a GPS tracking unit available. Even though you may be taking a more relaxed approach to your trip, you can still get lost. By inputting your exact location, the GPS unit will command you on the proper routes to get to your destination. It can even help if you get off track and are unsure of where to go next.
7) Combine Food and Fun
Traveling from state to state can be tantalizing to your palate when you skip the typical fast food restaurants. Most regions are well-known for certain foods. For instance, Chicago is famous for deep dish pizza. Make it a point to stop at places that are most popular in the area by asking the locals. This could be anything from a dive eatery at a local truck stop to a scenic restaurant on Fisherman’s Wharf. Remember to select a designated driver if you’re going to be drinking alcohol with your meal to avoid a possible DUI.
8) Everyone Gets Their Say
America is vast and has a host of things to see and do. When traversing the open roads with the family, you want to keep an open mind and let everyone choose something that they would like to do, even if this means laying witness to the world’s largest ball of string. You’ll find it a more enjoyable experience when you view things for the adventure that it truly is.
There’s so much to see and do when navigating across America that you may only make a small dent in your vacation plans. Be sure to drive safely and observe the laws of the road, including making sure you have a designated driver if you choose to imbibe. With the above tips and an adventurous attitude, you’ll be on the road to a memorable journey most people only dream about.
Author Bio:
When it comes to getting up and going, Kari Lloyd has traveled to nearly all 50 states and also around the globe. Be sure to use sites like Evan Levow to research DUI’s and legal limits before you leave on your trip. Kari enjoys writing about her travels, and has also been published extensively in many lifestyle and entertainment publications both on and offline.