5 U.S. Bucket List Road Trips Not to Be Missed

Shutterstock

Hit the road and find your adventure.

Now you’ve got the time and freedom to make your travel dreams come true. So set your sights on these five must-see road trip destinations guaranteed to satisfy your appetite for fun and discovery.

Tip: Plan ahead. For this trip it is all about getting to the destination. Don’t let a roadside emergency spoil your trip. Think about upgrading to a premium plan for optimal benefits.

An open road of adventure lies ahead! Where will the road lead you?

Shutterstock

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

1. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico

Imagine hundreds of brightly colored hot air balloons sailing silently through the brilliant blue skies of New Mexico. From the glorious morning Mass Ascensions to the magical Balloon Glows at night, the largest balloon festival on earth thrills visitors with flight precision competitions, balloon rides, live entertainment and special-access clubs to make your visit unforgettable. Special Event hotel accommodations at discounted prices are available. Explore Albuquerque too – a vibrant city rich with world-class museums and traditional New Mexican cuisine and culture. 

Shutterstock

Toroweap point at sunrise, Grand Canyon National Park.

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders, this World Heritage Site is known for spectacular towering cliffs, colorful rock layers and the copper-colored Colorado River. Choose from a variety of lodging experiences from back-country camping to premier accommodations. Explore the park on foot, by bike or on the back of a mule. And be sure to catch a Park Ranger walk and talk to get an insiders look at the history and geology of this most majestic gorge. If you’re over 62, consider the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Lifetime Senior Pass. One fee provides entry to the Grand Canyon and most other national parks and forests – forever!

Shutterstock

Bison paradise in Yellowstone Park.

3. Yellowstone National Park, Montana

Watching the eruption of the Old Faithful Geyser is a breathtaking experience not to be missed! And there’s so much more to explore. Stop by a Visitors Center, download apps, brochures and guides so you’re prepared to navigate astounding natural beauty. This is literally where the deer and antelope play, along with bison, elk, bears and birds. Walk the boardwalk that winds around Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces. Fish, hike, bike and camp to take in the canyons, rivers, and lush forests of Yellowstone.

Shutterstock

Mardi Gras parades through the streets of New Orleans.

4. Mardi Gras, NOLA (a.k.a., New Orleans, Louisiana)

Up for wildlife of a whole different nature? NOLA’s calling! A few days before FAT TUESDAY each year – officially March 5 in 2019 - New Orleans hosts a Carnival featuring parties, parades, entertainment and activities throughout the streets of NOLA. You’ll marvel at the spectacular floats and bedazzling costumes, while you catch your own stash of traditional green, purple and gold treasures thrown from floats. A true foodie’s paradise, NOLA’s traditional cuisine and cocktails are a must. Beyond the party, fascinating history, culture, music and alligators abound!

Shutterstock

Mission Espada near San Antonio Texas.

5. San Antonio Missions, Texas.

This National Park is a history buff’s haven and home to four missions originally established at the time of Spanish colonization. The missions commemorate the culture and stories of their inhabitants in the 1700s. Each of the missions - Concepcion, San Jose, San Juan and Espada - are just a few minutes away from each other by car. There’s also a 10-mile Mission Riverwalk Hike and Bike Trail that follows the San Antonio River and connects you to all four missions. San Juan Mission features an historic grist mill still in use today as well as the San Juan Demonstration Farm. 

Life is all about the journey. You’ve worked hard, now is your time to travel and experience the beauty and diversity America has to offer. So when the rubber hits the road, make sure you and your car are protected with an emergency roadside assistance plan that’s reliable so you can get back on the road again quickly.

AARP® Roadside Assistance from Allstate is designed with you in mind. A product or service that carries the AARP brand has been carefully evaluated and selected as one that meets the high service and quality standards of AARP.  

No matter how many miles are in your day, have peace of mind when you're on the road. Click to see plans.

Also of Interest: Gain peace of mind behind the wheel, no matter where your road takes you

^{Allstate pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property.}