Directions To Interstate 40
Discover the Best Attractions, Food, and Adventures
Interstate 40 is one of the longest highways in the United States, stretching from California to North Carolina. Along the way, it passes through some of the most fascinating and diverse regions of the country, offering travelers a wide range of experiences. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just passing through, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports along the way.
Top Attractions
One of the most iconic stops along Interstate 40 is the Grand Canyon in Arizona. This natural wonder is a must-see for any traveler, with its breathtaking views, hiking trails, and scenic drives. Other top attractions include the Oklahoma City National Memorial, the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and the Route 66 Museum in New Mexico.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, where you can see ancient fossils and colorful rock formations. Another hidden gem is the Blue Hole in New Mexico, a crystal-clear swimming hole in the middle of the desert.
Food Scene
The food scene along Interstate 40 is diverse and delicious. In Texas, be sure to try the famous barbecue, while in New Mexico, you can sample the local cuisine, which includes green chile stew and enchiladas. In Tennessee, you can indulge in some Southern comfort food, such as fried chicken and biscuits.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling along Interstate 40 doesn’t have to break the bank. To save money on lodging, consider camping at one of the many state parks along the way. You can also save money on food by packing a cooler and cooking your own meals.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to do along Interstate 40. In California, you can hike through the Mojave Desert or explore Joshua Tree National Park. In Tennessee, you can go whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River or hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Historical Landmarks
Interstate 40 passes through many important historical landmarks, including the Alamo in Texas, the Oklahoma City National Memorial, and the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site in Arkansas.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities along Interstate 40. In Arizona, you can visit the Lowell Observatory or take a tour of the Meteor Crater. In Tennessee, you can visit Dollywood or explore the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For a truly unique experience, check out the VLA (Very Large Array) in New Mexico, a collection of 27 radio telescopes that are used to study the universe. You can also explore the abandoned ghost town of Two Guns in Arizona.
Natural Wonders
Interstate 40 passes through some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country, including the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest National Park, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out, head to Nashville, Tennessee, where you can enjoy live music and honky-tonk bars. In Albuquerque, New Mexico, you can explore the local brewery scene, while in Texas, you can dance the night away in Austin.
Local Markets
Along Interstate 40, you’ll find plenty of local markets where you can sample fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local specialties. In Arizona, check out the Flagstaff Farmers Market, while in Tennessee, you can visit the Nashville Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Interstate 40 passes through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country, including the beaches of California and North Carolina, and the mountains of Tennessee and New Mexico.
Cultural Immersion
To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, check out the pueblos in New Mexico, where you can learn about the Native American way of life. In Texas, you can visit the San Antonio Missions, a series of historic Catholic churches and sites.
Art and Music Scene
Interstate 40 is home to some of the most vibrant art and music scenes in the country. In Tennessee, you can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame or explore the galleries in Nashville. In New Mexico, you can check out the art scene in Santa Fe or visit the Meow Wolf art collective in Albuquerque.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking for a way to explore a new city on foot, check out the walking tours available in many of the towns and cities along Interstate 40. In Albuquerque, you can take a ghost tour of Old Town, while in Memphis, you can explore the historic Beale Street.
Architectural Marvels
From the Spanish missions in Texas to the Art Deco buildings in Oklahoma City, Interstate 40 is home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in the country.
Historical Sites
Interstate 40 passes through many important historical sites, including the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail in Oklahoma and the Civil War battlefields in Tennessee.
Biking Routes
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, there are plenty of biking routes along Interstate 40, including the Arkansas River Trail in Little Rock and the Santa Fe Rail Trail in New Mexico.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a way to unwind and relax, there are plenty of wellness retreats along Interstate 40. In Arizona, you can visit the Sedona Wellness Retreat, while in Tennessee, you can check out the Blackberry Farm wellness retreat.
Adventure Sports
For adrenaline junkies, there are plenty of adventure sports along Interstate 40, including rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park, skiing in the mountains of New Mexico, and whitewater rafting in Tennessee.
With so much to see and do along Interstate 40, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for an adventure, this comprehensive travel guide has something for everyone.