Google Maps Avoid Highways Option

Introduction

Google Maps is a powerful tool that can help travelers navigate their way around unfamiliar territory. One useful feature that Google Maps offers is the option to avoid highways. This can be particularly helpful for those who prefer to take scenic routes and avoid heavy traffic. In this travel guide, we will explore some of the top attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures that can be found along these roads.

Top Attractions

Whether you’re traveling for the first time or are a seasoned explorer, there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained along the way. Some of the top attractions to check out include: – The Grand Canyon: This natural wonder is a must-see for anyone traveling through the southwest. The winding roads leading to the Grand Canyon offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. – Yellowstone National Park: This is another natural wonder that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. The park is home to geysers, hot springs, and an abundance of wildlife. – Niagara Falls: These majestic falls are a popular tourist destination for a reason. The surrounding area is also home to wineries, casinos, and other attractions.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover along the back roads. Some hidden gems to add to your itinerary include: – The Okefenokee Swamp: This unique ecosystem is home to alligators, snakes, and a variety of bird species. The swamp is also a great place to go kayaking or canoeing. – The Painted Hills: These colorful hills in Oregon offer a unique and otherworldly landscape that is sure to leave a lasting impression. – The Salton Sea: This inland sea in California is a strange and fascinating place to visit. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and exploring abandoned buildings.

Food Scene

One of the best things about traveling is experiencing new cuisines. Along the back roads, you can discover some of the best hidden culinary gems. Some must-try foods include: – Barbecue: If you’re traveling through the south, you can’t miss out on trying some authentic barbecue. Some of the best spots can be found in small towns along the back roads. – Seafood: If you’re traveling along the coast, you’ll find plenty of delicious seafood options. From fresh oysters to lobster rolls, there’s something for everyone. – Farm-to-Table: Many small towns along the back roads are home to farm-to-table restaurants that serve up fresh, locally sourced ingredients. These restaurants are a great way to support local businesses while enjoying a delicious meal.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money along the back roads. Some budget-friendly tips include: – Camping: Instead of staying in hotels, consider camping along the way. This can be a great way to save money and experience the great outdoors. – Picnics: Instead of eating out for every meal, pack a picnic to enjoy along the way. This can be a great way to enjoy the scenery while also saving money. – Free Attractions: Many of the top attractions along the back roads are free to visit. Be sure to do some research ahead of time to find out which attractions are worth checking out.

Outdoor Adventures

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the back roads offer plenty of opportunities for adventure. Some outdoor activities to try include: – Hiking: Many of the national parks and natural attractions along the back roads offer hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. – Biking: If you prefer biking to hiking, there are plenty of biking routes along the back roads that offer stunning views. – Water Sports: Whether you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding, there are plenty of opportunities for water sports along the back roads.

Historical Landmarks

The back roads are also home to many important historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the past. Some must-visit historical sites include: – Gettysburg National Military Park: This park in Pennsylvania is home to the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. – Alamo Mission: This iconic mission in San Antonio, Texas played a pivotal role in the fight for Texas independence. – Mount Rushmore: This iconic landmark in South Dakota features the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the side of a mountain.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids can be challenging, but there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained along the back roads. Some family-friendly activities to add to your itinerary include: – National Parks: Many of the national parks along the back roads offer programs and activities specifically designed for kids. – Amusement Parks: There are plenty of amusement parks along the back roads that offer rides and attractions for the whole family. – Museums: Whether your kids are interested in history, science, or art, there are plenty of museums along the back roads that are sure to spark their curiosity.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for a truly unique travel experience, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover along the back roads. Some off-the-beaten-path experiences to consider include: – Ghost Towns: Many small towns along the back roads are home to abandoned ghost towns that offer a glimpse into the past. – Roadside Attractions: From giant balls of yarn to the world’s largest rubber band ball, there are plenty of quirky roadside attractions to discover along the back roads. – Hot Springs: If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, consider visiting one of the many hot springs along the back roads.

Natural Wonders

The back roads are home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Some natural wonders to add to your itinerary include: – The Redwoods: These towering trees in California are some of the tallest in the world and offer a truly awe-inspiring sight. – Bryce Canyon: This national park in Utah is home to unique and colorful rock formations that are unlike anything else on earth. – The Badlands: This national park in South Dakota features a unique landscape of eroded rock formations and canyons.

Vibrant Nightlife

Just because you’re traveling along the back roads doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a vibrant nightlife. Some cities along the back roads that offer a lively nightlife scene include: – Austin, Texas: This city is home to a thriving music scene and plenty of bars and clubs. – Nashville, Tennessee: Known as Music City, Nashville is a great place to enjoy live music and a night out on the town. – New Orleans, Louisiana: This iconic city is famous for its jazz music, food scene, and nightlife.

Local Markets

One of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting local markets. Some markets to check out along the back roads include: – Pike Place Market: This iconic market in Seattle, Washington is a great place to sample fresh seafood and locally made crafts. – The French Market: This market in New Orleans, Louisiana offers a variety of local food and crafts. – The Farmers Market at the Grove: This market in Los Angeles, California is a great place to sample locally grown produce and artisanal goods.

Beaches and Mountains

Whether you prefer the beach or the mountains, there are plenty of options along the back roads. Some beaches and mountains to add to your itinerary include: – The Outer Banks: This chain of islands off the coast of North Carolina offers miles of pristine beaches and charming towns. – The Rocky Mountains: This iconic mountain range spans several states and offers some of the most stunning scenery in the country. – The Florida Keys: This chain of islands off the southern coast of Florida offers crystal-clear waters and a laid-back vibe.

Cultural Immersion

If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, there are plenty of opportunities to do so along the back roads. Some cultural experiences to consider include: – Native American Reservations: Many Native American reservations along the back roads offer tours and cultural experiences that offer a glimpse into their rich history and traditions. – Festivals: From Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg, Texas to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico, there are plenty of festivals along the back roads that offer a unique cultural experience. – Art and Music Scene: Many small towns along the back roads are home to thriving art and music scenes. Be sure to check out local galleries and live music venues to experience the local culture.

Walking Tours

If you prefer to explore on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available along the back roads. Some walking tours to consider include: – Historical Walking Tours: Many small towns along the back roads offer historical walking tours that offer a glimpse into the town’s past. – Food Tours: If you’re a foodie, consider taking a food tour to sample some of the local cuisine. – Ghost Tours: Many small towns along the back roads are rumored to be haunted. Ghost tours offer a spooky and entertaining way to learn about the town’s history.

Architectural Marvels

The back roads are home to some of the most impressive architectural marvels in the country. Some architectural marvels to add to your itinerary include: – The Biltmore Estate: This historic mansion in Asheville, North Carolina is the largest privately owned home in the country. – The Golden Gate Bridge: This iconic bridge in San Francisco, California is a marvel of engineering and offers stunning views of the bay. – The Gateway Arch: This iconic arch in St. Louis