Finding the Little Treasures on Your American Road Trip: 4 of the Best Methods
Whether you are making a long trip for the first time or you are incredibly seasoned at traversing the highways and byways, the magic of a simple road trip is not about the massive destinations. Leave those to the tourists! The treasure of a trip is always in those little gems that make each stop unforgettable. Arguably a cliché, going off the beaten path is the key to a road trip that nourishes your soul, but discovering those little treasures on the way shouldn't be something we necessarily seek out, or should it? If you are hitting the road across America, here's some ways to discover those little treasures:
Focus on Food
Food, for many people, is part and parcel of who they are. If you want to dive into local culture, what better way to do it than through the culinary components? Instead of sticking to the chain restaurant, which can certainly be invaluable at 2 a.m., take some advice from the locals and go to those beloved stops in the area. For example, if you're passing through Georgia, The Mill Kitchen & Bar is often hailed as the best restaurant for brunch in Roswell, approximately 20 miles away from Atlanta. You can get southern flavors with a modern twist, and of course, it's the perfect way to fuel up before you get back on the road.
Seek Out Charm
Every state has towns that seem to be frozen in time. Historic buildings will line the main street, and if you're lucky, people will still wave as you walk by. Check out these places as they're often home to antique shops, local museums, and diners that you will miss if you stay exclusively on the interstates. A simple detour into these quieter places will find you among quirky stories and amazing architecture that's always worth exploring.
Let Nature Guide Your Detours
Some natural wonders are tucked off the main road. Look out for those signs that point towards state parks, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails. The latter can be invaluable if you're looking to get away from your vehicle for a short while. A short walk beside a lake at sunset is simple, but can certainly become a highlight of your trip; places like a secluded waterfall in Tennessee, a sunflower field in Kansas, or a desert canyon in Arizona also provide perfect, picturesque pieces.
Talk to the Locals
We all spend time on travel apps these days, but this is not going to replace the recommendations of the people who actually live there! When you're paying for gas, have a chat with someone there, or go to a barista at the coffee shop, or when you're sat down at a diner, ask a fellow diner, "What should I see or do if I only have a couple of hours here?" More often than not, you'll be pointed towards hidden murals, family-owned restaurants, or something tucked away that never makes it into an official guide.
Part of the joy of a road trip is also about leaving room for surprises. When you road trip across America, it's as much about the journey as it is the destinations, so keep your curiosity alive and you will collect the little curios that make your adventure amazing.
