July 24th 2024.
Picture this: It's a warm summer day, and you and your closest friends are hitting the road with the windows down and the radio blasting. In the backseat, you have a cooler full of snacks, and in the passenger seats beside you, your best friends are ready for an unforgettable road trip. You're not just driving down the highways, though. You have something more exciting in mind. You're determined to discover some of the best-hidden hot spots across the United States.
If you're planning a summer adventure, here are four itineraries that you should definitely consider:
First up, we have Tennessee. Make your way to Chattanooga for a taste of Southern charm and cool vibes. Check out the trendy Bluff View Art District, with its charming cafes, historic buildings, and galleries. And for some shopping and dining, head to Warehouse Row, which has become a popular destination lately.
To get there, you'll need to travel about 130 miles southeast from Nashville. The easiest route is to take I-24, but if you're feeling adventurous and have a boat, you can enter Chattanooga via the Tennessee River. And when it comes to accommodations, consider staying at the beautiful Bluff View Inn. Not only do they have beautifully appointed rooms, but they also offer a free shuttle service to help you get around the district.
Next, let's head to Arizona. Specifically, Holbrook, for a journey through time and some extreme landscapes with a touch of kitsch. Take a tour of Route 66, the longest remaining stretch of the historic highway that has not been interrupted by a major interstate. And for a unique lodging experience, check out the Wigwam Motel, which is just an hour away from the Petrified Forest and the Painted Desert.
But be warned, the desert is home to sneaky javelinas, so keep an eye out for them as you explore. Now, if you're looking for a more luxurious and relaxing getaway, consider heading to Paradise Valley, just half an hour from Phoenix. You'll be treated to endless views of the desert and a divine spa experience at Sanctuary at Camelback Mountain.
And if you really want to splurge, book one of their seven mountainside casitas, complete with games rooms, private pools, and guest houses. Indulge in Asian-inspired treatments, join fitness classes surrounded by breathtaking red-rock landscapes, and dine on delicious cuisine at their restaurant, Elements.
For a taste of Southern hospitality and some mouth-watering cuisine, make your way to Charleston, South Carolina. Drop off your bags at one of the historic inns, such as Planters Inn or John Rutledge House, and then hit the town. But don't forget to take a scenic one-hour drive to Kiawah Island, a stunning nature preserve.
And when it comes to dining, Charleston is a culinary hotbed. Make reservations at popular restaurants like Husk, F.I.G., The Macintosh, and Butcher & Bee. Finally, let's head to Florida and the charming town of St. Augustine. It's the perfect blend of history, relaxation, and a laid-back beach vibe with an artists' colony twist. Take I-95 to the Jacksonville Beaches, and then cruise down the coast on scenic A1A.
While you're there, don't miss out on lunch at the famous Columbia Restaurant, and make sure to stop by Market to Market for some unique ceramics on historic St. George Street. And for a central location, consider staying at the Casa Monica Hotel. If you're feeling adventurous, hop on one of the trolley tours for a fun and informative way to explore the town.
So, there you have it, four amazing summer road trip itineraries that will take you to some of the best-hidden gems in the United States. Happy travels, and don't forget to check out our other travel destination recommendations for foodies around the world.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
