Map Of Us Route 40

US Route 40 is one of the most scenic and historic routes in America, stretching from Atlantic City, New Jersey to San Francisco, California. This iconic route passes through 12 states and covers a distance of 3,200 miles. If you’re planning a road trip along Route 40, here’s a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything you need to know.

Top Attractions

There are plenty of attractions along Route 40 that are worth exploring. Some of the top attractions include the Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountains, Gateway Arch, Hoover Dam, and Niagara Falls. You can also visit historic sites like Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Gettysburg National Military Park, and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Route 40 has plenty of hidden gems. You can explore the abandoned mining town of Centralia, Pennsylvania, visit the world’s largest cuckoo clock in Sugarcreek, Ohio, or hike to the hidden waterfall in El Malpais National Monument, New Mexico.

Food Scene

Route 40 is known for its diverse food scene, from traditional diners to fine dining restaurants. Some of the must-try dishes include Philly cheesesteak, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, Kansas City barbecue, and New Mexico green chili. You can also explore local farmers’ markets and try fresh produce and artisanal products.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling along Route 40 doesn’t have to break the bank. You can save money by camping in national parks, staying in budget-friendly motels, and cooking your own meals. You can also take advantage of free attractions like hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and historical sites.

Outdoor Adventures

Route 40 offers plenty of outdoor adventures, from hiking and biking to fishing and skiing. You can explore national parks like Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, and Grand Teton, or go on a rafting trip in the Colorado River. You can also go skiing in the Rocky Mountains or hiking in the Appalachian Trail.

Historical Landmarks

Route 40 is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks that reflect the country’s past. Some of the must-visit historical landmarks include Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Fort McHenry in Baltimore, and the Golden Spike National Historic Site in Utah.

Family-Friendly Activities

Route 40 is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. You can visit amusement parks like Hersheypark in Pennsylvania or Six Flags St. Louis in Missouri, or explore interactive museums like the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis or the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for unique experiences, Route 40 has plenty of options. You can visit the birthplace of the Pony Express in St. Joseph, Missouri, or explore the ghost town of Bodie, California. You can also go on a hot air balloon ride in Albuquerque, New Mexico, or visit the UFO Museum in Roswell.

Natural Wonders

Route 40 is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in America. You can visit the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and the Rocky Mountains, or explore the sandstone formations in Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. You can also go on a scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway or the Pacific Coast Highway.

Vibrant Nightlife

Route 40 has plenty of options for nightlife, from bars and clubs to live music venues. Some of the must-visit nightlife spots include Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Beale Street in Memphis, and the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles.

Local Markets

If you’re looking for fresh produce and unique artisanal products, Route 40 has plenty of local markets to explore. You can visit the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia, Pike Place Market in Seattle, and the Santa Fe Farmers Market in New Mexico.

Beaches and Mountains

Route 40 offers a diverse landscape, from sandy beaches to towering mountains. You can visit the beaches in Ocean City, Maryland or Santa Monica, California, or go skiing in Vail or Aspen, Colorado.

Cultural Immersion

Route 40 is home to many different cultures and traditions, and there are plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. You can explore the rich history of African Americans in the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., or learn about the traditions of Native Americans at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque.

Art and Music Scene

Route 40 has a vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of museums and galleries to explore. You can visit the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, or the Getty Center in Los Angeles. You can also attend music festivals like Lollapalooza in Chicago or the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California.

Walking Tours

Route 40 offers plenty of opportunities for walking tours, whether you want to explore historic neighborhoods or natural landmarks. You can take a walking tour of the Freedom Trail in Boston, or explore the historic district of Old Town Albuquerque.

Architectural Marvels

Route 40 is home to many architectural marvels, from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers. You can visit the Empire State Building in New York, the Willis Tower in Chicago, or the Space Needle in Seattle. You can also explore historic buildings like the Ohio Statehouse or the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina.

Historical Sites

Route 40 is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. You can visit the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, the Alamo in San Antonio, or the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Biking Routes

Route 40 offers plenty of opportunities for biking, whether you want to explore scenic routes or challenging trails. You can bike on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath in Maryland, or explore the Mountain Bike Trail in Vail.

Wellness Retreats

Route 40 offers many opportunities for wellness retreats, whether you want to relax in a spa or practice yoga in nature. You can visit the famous hot springs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, or explore the wellness retreats in Sedona, Arizona.

Adventure Sports

Route 40 is a great destination for adventure sports, from rock climbing to white-water rafting. You can go on a hot air balloon ride in Napa Valley, or go bungee jumping in Colorado.