Discover some of the most fascinating ghost towns in the American landscape, where history meets mystery and adventure.
If you’re looking for a truly eerie and abandoned place to visit in the United States, you don’t have to go far. Many ghost towns dot the American landscape, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re interested in exploring a forgotten mining town or an abandoned village, there’s sure to be a ghost town that will pique your interest. Keep reading to find out the top 10 ghost towns in America that are definitely worth a visit.
Calico, California Key Features:
Calico Ghost Town Museum
Hiking and camping spots
Shops and restaurants Example: Spend a day exploring the museum to learn about the history of Calico, then enjoy a hike in the desert and finish with a meal at one of the local restaurants.
Bodie, California Key Features:
Well-preserved buildings
Spacious, empty streets Example: Wander through the town imagining the hustle and bustle that once filled the air, perhaps hearing echoes of laughter and music from long ago.
St. Elmo, Colorado Key Features:
Well-preserved buildings
Eerie atmosphere Example: Visit the town to explore its rich history and see if you can spot any paranormal activity. Who knows, maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of something supernatural!
Belmont, Nevada Key Features:
Old buildings and mining equipment
Camping in the desert Example: Explore the remains of Belmont’s architecture and get a feel for what life was like over a century ago. Spend the night camping in the desert for an added sense of adventure.
Jerome, Arizona Key Features:
Haunted history
Abandoned buildings
Restaurants and cafes Example: Explore the ghost town during the day and grab a meal at one of the local eateries, but be prepared for a spine-chilling experience filled with paranormal activity.
Rhyolite, Nevada Key Features:
Stone buildings and ruins
Local museum documenting the town’s history Example: Visit the museum to understand Rhyolite’s brief but booming history, then roam through the ruins to feel the ghostly echoes of its past.
Kennecott, Alaska Key Features:
Abandoned buildings
Hiking trails Example: Take a guided tour to learn about the history of Kennecott, then hit the hiking trails to explore the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
Terlingua, Texas Key Features:
Abandoned mines
Old cemetery
Ghost Town Railway Example: Ride the Ghost Town Railway and then visit the old cemetery to soak in the haunted history and Wild West vibes.
Goldfield, Arizona Key Features:
Vintage narrow gauge railroad
Local museum
Well-preserved buildings Example: Explore the museum and take a ride on the narrow gauge railroad for a nostalgic trip back to the era of the gold rush.
St. Deroin, Nebraska Key Features:
Boarding up buildings
Empty, silent streets Example: Walk the deserted streets and hear the wind blow through the town, pondering the spooky legend of the curse that doomed St. Deroin.
So pack your bags and get ready for some spooky fun! If you’re looking for a ghost town to explore, these are some of the best in the country. Have you visited any of them? If not, be sure to add one (or all!) of them to your bucket list – you won’t regret it!
Get ready for a journey across America unlike any other. Randy Olson’s special road trip takes you to 50 must-see places. You will see everything from the amazing Grand Canyon to the famous Hoover Dam. Don’t miss out on spots like Yellowstone Park, New Orleans’ French Quarter, and Mount Rushmore. It’s a trip full of memories waiting to be made.
This adventure covers 29 states and showcases America’s wonders. Everywhere you go is a chance to learn about history, culture, and see nature at its best. Thanks to Randy Olson’s plan, your trip will be smooth and full of fun surprises.
Take on famous routes like the Pacific Coast or Route 66. Enjoy incredible views like The Loneliest Road in America. This is the ultimate road trip to really feel the American spirit. Don’t miss your chance to see the best of the USA.
Are you excited to start your USA adventure? Learn about all the amazing stops ahead and get ready for an unforgettable trip.
Key Takeaways
The road trip spans 50 iconic destinations across the United States.
Highlights include National Natural Landmarks, National Historic Sites, National Parks, and National Monuments.
The trip covers a diverse range of 29 states, revealing America’s geographical and cultural diversity.
The route optimally designed by Randy Olson’s algorithm ensures a memorable experience.
Major stops include the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Bryce Canyon, the French Quarter, and Mount Rushmore.
Embarking on the US Road Trip Adventure
Starting a road trip across the USA is very thrilling but needs good planning. Recently, 53% of American families went on their own Great American Road Trip. This means you’re about to join a long tradition of exploring and having fun.
Planning Your Route
Planning your trip starts with making the right itinerary. If you love natural beauty or busy cities, make sure your trip has both. Consider visiting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia or Utah’s Mighty Five Parks, which take 7 to 10 days. For longer trips, you might enjoy Historic Route 93 or the famous Route 66.
For a shorter adventure, Alaska’s beautiful places or Oregon’s Hood River might interest you. You can adjust any trip to fit your likes, making it a journey you’ll never forget.
Selecting the Right Vehicle
Choosing the right vehicle is very important. Make sure it’s reliable and fits your needs, whether it’s for a few people or a lot. A good vehicle lets you enjoy places like the Blue Ridge Parkway or Great Northern Road Trip without worries.
Essential Road Trip Gear
The right gear is key to a fun trip. Don’t forget your GPS and maps, a first aid kit, and maybe camping stuff. Bringing fun like audiobooks or playlists is a great idea for the road. The ‘Moon Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip’ and ‘Moon Route 66 Road Trip’ guides can also help.
Destination
Duration
Utah’s Mighty Five
7-10 days
Alaska Adventure
1 week
Route 66
2 weeks
Historic Route 93
10 days
Blue Ridge Parkway
2 days
With these tips, your US road trip adventure is set to be amazing. Get ready to enjoy the open road and the beautiful sights along the way.
East Coast and Southern Highlights
Your adventure starts in Boston and New York. See the Freedom Trail in Boston. It’s a 2.5-mile path with big historic places like Bunker Hill Monument. Then, head to New York City. Enjoy Central Park’s 843 acres and visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum for a quiet moment.
Next, go to Philadelphia. It’s full of history like the Liberty Bell and the fun Magic Gardens. From there, visit Washington, D.C. Here, the Lincoln Memorial and Smithsonian museums are waiting. Try the tasty food in Adams Morgan or The Shaw to start your Southern adventure.
Enjoy the lovely scenes at the Shenandoah National Park. It’s famous for its beautiful roads. Then, visit Asheville, North Carolina. It’s known for its great beer, food, and cool cafes. Asheville will give you a rich cultural experience.
Let’s talk about cost tips for your trip:
Expense
Estimated Cost
Rental Car
$30 – $100/day
RV Rental
$100 – $300/day
Gallon of Gas
$3.50+
Cheap Airbnb
$80 – $100
Hotel Room
$130 – $150
Hostel
$15 – $35
Campground
$0 – $50
Sandwich
$4 – $9
Beer at a Bar
$4 – $8
Coffee
$2 – $5
Attractions
$0 – $20
Dinner for Two
$25 – $75
Looking for a place to stay? Consider Bear Ridge Lodge in New Hampshire or a cute cottage by the ocean in Pass a Grille beach. You have different trip choices:
Boston to Washington D.C. – 7 days
East Coast Historical Road Trip – 14 days
Ultimate East Coast Road Trip – 21 days
Have fun at events like the Governor’s Ball in New York or the Philly Beer Festival. Join the By the People Art Festival for cool art. Make memories with scenic drives, good food, and historic cities along the East Coast and the Southern USA.
Exploring the Heartland of America
The Heartland of America is a special place with amazing National Parks, culture spots, and history. It’s a place rich in nature’s beauty and stories from the past.
Must-Visit National Parks
Yellowstone National Park is a must-see, spread across three states. It’s known for its hot springs and wild animals. Grand Teton National Park offers stunning views and calm waters in Wyoming.
The Southwest has unique parks like Arches and Bryce Canyon, showing off rock formations. Badlands Park in South Dakota has vast grasslands. It’s home to a special mix of animals and plants.
Historic Sites and Landmarks
The Heartland has historic sites and icons. The Alamo in Texas and Mount Vernon show America’s early days. Visiting these places feels like seeing history up close.
The Great River Road by the Mississippi River mixes nature and history. It visits places like Memphis and St. Louis known for food and music. This road is full of American tales.
‘The Loneliest Road’ from San Francisco to Maryland is for adventurers. It takes you through amazing lands and sites from the past. This journey celebrates America’s brave beginnings.
Travel through Illinois and Missouri in the Midwest
Rocky Mountain Majesty with Yellowstone and Grand Teton
Southwest exploration including Arches, Canyonlands, and Bryce Canyon
Route
Distance (km)
Driving Time
Great Lakes Adventure Road Trip
2,123 km
20-25 hours
Tour of the Mississippi River Valley
1,287 km
12 hours
North-to-South Adventure from Alaska
N/A (Major Proportion of Journey)
N/A
Missouri Bourbon Trail
483 km
7 hours
Exploring the Heartland shows us amazing National Parks, historic sites, and culture. From the Rockies to the Mississippi, there’s endless beauty and stories to discover.
West Coast Wonders and Scenic Routes
A journey along the West Coast USA is full of stunning views and rich culture. People are amazed by beautiful scenery, unique spots, and local traditions. It’s a mix of everything that makes it unforgettable.
Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is known for its stunning beauty. It starts at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge and ends at Big Sur’s wild coast. You can’t miss places like Point Lobos and Monterey Bay. Make sure to stop in towns like Carmel-By-The-Sea for a break. The trip ends in exciting Los Angeles, full of fun experiences.
Route 66 Adventure
Route 66 is a road that takes you back in time. It goes through the Arizona deserts and quirky towns. Places like the Seven Magic Mountains near Las Vegas show Route 66’s special spirit. It’s a must-see in any West Coast road trip.
From San Francisco to Los Angeles
Traveling from San Francisco to Los Angeles shows you many famous places. San Francisco has cable cars and lots of culture. Then, there’s wine country in Napa Valley. After, see Yosemite and Santa Barbara’s beach beauty. Each stop offers new sights and memories to keep.
Conclusion
As your epic USA road trip ends, take time to look back. You’ve seen the big New York City buildings and sunny California cliffs. This journey showed you America’s beauty and many different cultures. You might have traveled a little or a lot, but the memories will stay with you.
Road trips are a big part of American life, especially now. During the pandemic, more than half of Americans got out on the road. And now, many plan to do even more. Road trips are great for families and for couples. They help people grow closer and have fun together.
As your trip comes to a close, let it inspire you for more adventures. Remember the roads, the places, and the fun together. With so many Americans ready to travel again soon, the love for the road is strong. Keep these memories close. They might just lead you to more road trip fun one day.
FAQ
How do I start planning the ultimate USA road trip?
First, make a plan with famous cities and beautiful nature. Use tools like Randy Olson’s algorithm. Look at books like ‘Moon Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip’ for tips.
What type of vehicle is best for a cross-country road trip?
Pick a car that’s comfy, runs well, saves gas, has room, and can handle all roads. Many people choose SUVs and minivans. They are good for space and different terrains.
What essential gear should I pack for the trip?
Bring maps, a big first aid kit, camping stuff if you’ll camp, and things to do in the car. Pick your gear based on what you plan to do. This way, you’ll be ready for anything, whether in the city or the wild.
What are some must-visit historic cities on the East Coast?
Visit Boston for the Freedom Trail, New York City for Central Park, and Philadelphia to see the Liberty Bell. Each place has its own history and culture.
Which National Parks should I visit in the Heartland of America?
Don’t miss Yellowstone, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. These parks have amazing sights, different plants and animals, and famous landmarks.
What historic sites and landmarks are a must-see on a USA road trip?
Important stops are The Alamo in Texas, George Washington’s Mount Vernon in Virginia, and the Great River Road next to the Mississippi. Each offers a special American story.
What are the highlights of a West Coast road trip?
Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to see stunning nature. Discover famous places like Route 66. Visit cities from San Francisco to Los Angeles for culture and beauty.
Can you suggest some scenic drives on the West Coast?
A must-see is the Pacific Coast Highway for amazing views. Route 66 is great for a look back at the past. And, the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles mixes city and natural beauty.
What should I look out for on a route from San Francisco to Los Angeles?
On this trip, enjoy San Francisco’s cable cars, Los Angeles’s diverse offerings, and beautiful spots along the coast. You’ll see busy cities and calm ocean views on this route.
How can I ensure the road trip is memorable and stress-free?
Plan well by mixing natural beauty with city life. Stay open to changing plans. Make sure your car and stuff are all set. Enjoy meeting new people and making great memories.
America’s scenic wonders are waiting for you. It’s key to be ready before you start your trip to the best national parks in North America. With 418 public lands and 63 amazing national parks, planning is like exploring the parks themselves.
Park Ranger Riley has visited almost 200 national parks. He shares tips to enhance your adventure. You’ll learn about the National Park Travelers Club and how to plan your trip. This includes info on passes, places to stay, and what to pack.
Key Takeaways
There are currently 418 public lands protected by the National Park Service.
63 national parks in America offer diverse landscapes and experiences.
Consider an Annual Pass for cost-effective visits to multiple parks.
Plan your visit time considering seasonal weather variations.
Collaborate with the National Park Travelers Club for tips and experiences.
Plan Your Visit in Advance
Visiting national parks lets you see amazing nature and beautiful views. But, these places are popular. So, you need to plan well. Here’s how to make your visit great.
Research Best Times to Visit
Choosing the best time to go is key. Yellowstone, in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, is best in winter and early spring. But, places like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon get very busy. You need to book early for these spots.
Places like Acadia and Great Smoky Mountains get a lot of visitors. Try to go when it’s not so busy. This way, you’ll have a better time.
Check for Necessary Permits
Some parks need permits to keep things under control and protect nature. For example, you need timed entry permits for Arches, Glacier, and Zion National Parks. Always check the park’s website for permit info and how to get them.
Some parks, like Great Smoky Mountains, need parking permits. These can be daily or yearly. Make sure to plan for these when you visit.
Park
Required Permits
Peak Season
Yellowstone
N/A
Summer
Yosemite
Timed Entry
Spring to Fall
Acadia
Vehicle Reservation
Late Spring to Fall
Zion
Hiking Permits
Spring to Fall
Great Smoky Mountains
Parking Permits
Year-Round
Getting ready ahead of time makes visiting national parks easier. You can enjoy your trip more. Whether you’re in Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon, planning helps make it better.
Choose the Right Accommodation
Planning your trip to one of the 63 national parks in the U.S. means picking the right place to stay. You can choose between camping or staying in a hotel. Think about your budget, how close you want to be to park sights, and what kind of experience you want.
Camping vs. Lodging
Camping lets you really connect with nature. There are over 130 campgrounds in the national parks. You can book these spots through Recreation.gov to make sure you get one.
Camping is usually cheaper but you need to bring your own gear. Hotels or cabins inside the park offer more comfort. Places like the Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone and El Tovar Hotel in the Grand Canyon have lots of amenities. But, they book up fast.
Booking Inside vs. Outside the Park
Staying inside the park means you’re close to the main sights. Places like Xanterra Travel Collection® offer this convenience. But, you might need to book 13 months ahead.
Some people book outside the park for more space and maybe cheaper prices. But, you’ll have to travel more each day.
It’s smart to book your stay early, whether you camp or stay in a hotel. This way, you’ll have the best time and enjoy the stunning views of these national parks.
Pack Wisely
Getting ready for a trip to North American national parks means making a good packing list. This list helps you pack what you need and leave out the rest. September is a great month to visit because it’s quieter. It’s perfect for packing the right gear.
National Park Essentials
Having a complete national park packing list is key. Here are some must-haves for your trip:
America the Beautiful park passes
Comfortable, non-slip footwear like hiking boots, especially for trails in parks such as Glacier National Park
Water bottles or hydration packs to stay hydrated
Sunscreen and bug spray for sun and bug protection
A good camera to take pictures, with sunglasses and earrings
A first-aid kit with basic supplies like antibiotic ointment and bandages
Technological devices and maps, useful apps like Gaia GPS and the Weather Channel
What Not To Pack
It’s also key to know what not to bring. Overpacking can make your trip harder. Here’s what to skip:
Too many nice clothes or jeans, choose comfy, useful clothes instead
Too many gadgets that take up space and weight
Items not allowed in the park, like drones in some places
Items Based On Destination
What you pack should match the place you’re going and what you’ll do there:
Destination
Item
Bear Country
Bear bag for safety
Backcountry
Water filter and camping permits
Fall/Winter Visits
Synthetic thermal underwear and warm clothes
Follow these travel tips and know what to bring for a great national park trip. Packing smart means a more comfy and fun adventure.
Optimize Your Travel Route
Starting a road trip to national parks covers 16,847 miles across 48 states. It takes about two months if you drive fast. Using a national park route planner is key for a smooth trip. These tools help plan your trip and make it better.
The U.S. has 423 sites in the National Parks System, with 63 major parks. You should visit places like Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite. A good plan lets you see different places, from Arizona’s deserts to Florida’s coasts.
Some parks like Yosemite, Zion, and the Grand Canyon get very crowded. Traveling in the off-season can help avoid the crowds. Since four new national parks have been added since 2016, update your planner to include them.
Google Flights or Skyscanner can help find cheap flights to far-off parks. But, not all parks have public transport. So, driving is usually the best way to get around.
National Park
State
Recommended Visit Time
Grand Canyon
Arizona
Spring
Yellowstone
Wyoming
Summer
Everglades
Florida
Winter
Limit driving to 4-6 hours a day to avoid getting tired. Plan each stop well. Spend 2-3 days in big parks like Yellowstone. Book your stay 6 months early. This way, you’ll enjoy America’s national parks more.
National Parks Tips for Activities
Visiting over 400 national parks in North America is exciting. But, planning your activities well is key to having a great trip.
Book Tours and Activities in Advance
It’s smart to book tours and activities before you go. Use www.recreation.gov to make reservations for tours and campsites easily. This way, you won’t miss out on popular programs and events.
Download Maps and Tickets Ahead of Time
Downloading maps and tickets early saves time and avoids problems. Having everything ready is important. About 60% of visitors use maps to find their way.
Stay Informed with Park Rangers
Talk to park rangers when you arrive. They can tell you about the park’s conditions, weather, and safety tips. Ranger-led programs are fun and informative, enjoyed by about 60% of visitors.
Prepare for the Unexpected
When you go to national parks, planning ahead is key. You might face sudden weather changes or trail closures. Being ready for these surprises is key to a safe and fun trip. A good plan can help you avoid risks and make your trip memorable.
Every year, over 300 million people visit national parks. This shows how important it is to have a backup plan. Let’s look at the must-haves for every visitor:
1. Carry the 10 Essentials: These are tools for navigation, sun protection, and more. They are a must-have for any hike.
2. Contingency Plans: Pack extra gear based on where you’re hiking, how long, and the season. Always have a plan for emergencies like closed trails or bad weather.
3. Emergency Communication: Make sure your phone is charged and think about bringing a personal locator beacon. Being able to call for help can save lives.
4. Acclimate to Altitudes: If you’re going to high places, get used to the altitude first. This helps avoid getting sick from the high altitude.
5. Proper Footwear: Choose strong, rubber-soled shoes or boots for hiking. This helps prevent injuries on different trails.
Here’s a table to help you understand what you need and why:
Item
Importance
Bug Spray
Keeps insects away, very important in wooded areas.
Extra Socks
Thick socks help prevent blisters and keep your feet dry.
Moleskin
Great for covering blisters to keep you comfortable on long hikes.
Emergency Shelter
Things like tents or blankets are key for unexpected overnight stays.
First Aid Kit
Has what you need for emergencies and check to make sure items don’t expire.
Being prepared is the key to a great national park visit. Always check for park alerts and trail closures. Stick together, let the slowest one set the pace, and have a plan to turn back if needed. Being ready for surprises means your trip won’t be ruined by unexpected problems.
Conclusion
Planning is key for a great trip to national parks. These parks get over 330 million visitors every year. Knowing how to visit them can make your trip better.
Start by getting the right permits and picking good places to stay. Pack smart and plan your activities ahead. This way, you’ll enjoy the beauty and help protect the parks.
Keep an eye on the weather and know about wildlife and trail rules. This keeps you and the park safe. Joining educational programs can also make your visit more meaningful.
Being a good visitor is very important. Follow the park rules and keep your food safe. Stick to the trails to protect nature. By doing this, you help keep the parks beautiful for others.
Your actions can inspire others. Every visit to a national park is a chance to help protect nature. It’s a way to make a difference together.
FAQ
What are some tips for visiting national parks?
Before you go to national parks, do some research on the best times to visit. Make sure you have the right permits. Choose where to stay wisely and pack what you need.Plan your travel route well. Book tours and activities early. Download maps and tickets before you go. And be ready for surprises.
Why should I plan my national park visit in advance?
Planning ahead helps you get permits and pick the best times to visit. It also lets you book places to stay and activities. Use groups like the National Park Travelers Club and the National Park Service website to help plan.
How do I choose between camping and lodging in a national park?
Choosing between camping and staying in a lodge depends on what you want. Camping lets you be close to nature. Lodging offers more comforts.
What should I pack for a national park visit?
Don’t forget to bring the America the Beautiful park pass, the right clothes, and tools to navigate. Bring food, water, and any permits you need. Pack smart for your trip.
How do I plan an optimal travel route through multiple national parks?
Use tools like the National Park Travelers Club’s Route Planner or the National Park Service’s website to plan your trip. These help you find parks along your way. This makes your trip better.
Why is it important to book tours and activities in advance?
Booking tours and activities early helps you get into popular events. It also keeps you updated on park changes or special events. This makes your trip better.
How important is it to stay informed with park rangers?
Talking to park rangers can make your visit better. They give you expert advice, safety tips, and updates. Ranger programs offer tours and talks that add to your experience.
How should I prepare for unexpected events during my national park visit?
Stay flexible with your plans and have backup ideas. Things can change, like new park rules or natural events. Being ready and flexible can improve your visit.