Located in the southeastern state of Georgia, the elegant city of Atlanta sits pretty under the trees. It is at the center of a sprawling cosmopolitan area with its thick and continuous awning of greenery. The graceful city is a major tourist attraction in addition to being a spirited center of innovation and investment. The city is dotted with examples of fine architecture and is famous for its musical heritage, sports teams, and one of the world’s busiest international airports. It is known as the birthplace of the civil rights movement in America. Atlanta is where the childhood home of the inspiring Martin Luther King Jr is maintained as a historic site. While the city itself is a well-known tourist destination all year round, it is also perfect for road trips to numerous famous cities. Check out some of the best road trips from Atlanta.
1. Chicago, IL
One of the largest cities in the US, Chicago is set on the banks of Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois. An international center of finance, culture, commerce, industry, education, and technology, there’s plenty to see and do here as well. A prominent transportation hub, it is home to world-class museums, bustling shopping districts, and a vibrant nightlife. The windy city is famous for its striking architecture and beautiful skyline punctuated by skyscrapers such as the iconic John Hancock Centre, Willis Tower, and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower. There is a large number of hotels in the city for you to choose from. The Langham, The Peninsula Chicago, Four Seasons Chicago are just some of the hotels that have drawn accolades for their reputation. Unbeatable location, plenty of amenities, wonderful restaurants, state-of-the-art technology, warm and elegant decor, and unforgettable hospitality are some things that distinguish these hotels. While in the city, be sure to try out its iconic dishes such as deep-dish pizza, popcorn, Italian beef sandwich, donuts, and Chicago-style hotdogs. A road trip from Atlanta to Chicago is 715 miles (1150 kilometers) and can be covered in approximately 11 hours of driving.
2. Cincinnati, OH
Located in Hamilton County, along the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati is an economic and cultural center. Famous attractions in the sprawling metropolis include Carew Tower, Scripps Center, Ingalls Building, Cincinnati Union Terminal, Queen City Square, a world-class zoo, and a botanical garden. With a great mix of nature and parks, theaters, food and wine, nightlife, shopping, and museums, there is something for everyone here. Accommodation options in the city range from deluxe choices to moderate budget options. Cincinnati is known for delicacies such as the German dish Cincinnati Caviar, Graeter’s ice cream, and Greek gyro milkshakes. On a road trip to Cincinnati from Atlanta, you will have to drive about 460 miles (742 kilometers) each way and it will take you approximately 7 hours.
3. Kansas City, KS
Discover the charm of Kansas City that sits at Kaw Point, the intersection of Missouri and Kansas rivers. Famed for its barbecue, jazz, heritage, and fountains, the city is also home to Hanover Heights Historic District, Sauer Castle, and Schlitterbahn Vacation Village. From luxurious hotels to small inns, there’s no dearth of accommodation choices in this city. While here, don’t forget to try out the brown sugar chicken, donuts, and cocktails. It will take you about 12 hours to drive the distance of 800 miles (1287 kilometers) from Atlanta to Kansas City.
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4. Cedar Rapids, IA
A beautiful city in eastern Iowa, Cedar Rapids is a year-round tourist destination. The Fire and Ice Festival is unique and opens the holiday season. The highlights are the decorated floats parading downtown, melodious caroling, and pretty ice sculptures. The top attractions of the city include Museum of Art, Bever Park, Brucemore, National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library, Indian Creek Nature Center, fishing, outdoor recreation, and yoga facilities. Most popular hotel chains have a presence here and offer you a choice of lodging facilities. Do not miss out on the creative cuisines available such as Italian, Irish, and Mexican. A road trip from Atlanta to Cedar Rapids will need you to drive 693 miles (1115 kilometers) and will take about 13 hours each way.
5. Detroit, MI
The “Automotive Capital of the World”, Detroit is Michigan’s largest and most densely populated city. An important port on Detroit River, it is a treasure trove of architectural monuments and historic landmarks. It was named “City of Design” by UNESCO and is known for its contributions to the field of music. A storehouse of art, architecture, and design, it is home to popular attractions such as Institute of Arts, Henry Ford Museum, Belle Isle, and Comerica Park. Take your pick of accommodations from popular brands as well as lesser-known establishments. While here, don’t forget to sample the Detroit-style pizza, Coney dogs, and double-baked rye bread. A road trip to Detroit from Atlanta is approximately 722 miles (1161 kilometers) and likely to take you 11 hours.
6. Pittsburgh, PA
Explore the Gilded Age sites in this marvelous city that is also home to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, The Andy Warhol Museum, Zoo and PPG Aquarium, and Point State Park. Top name hotel chains offer ample accommodation choices for budget travelers. It is popularly known as the home of reputed sports franchises such as Pittsburgh Pirates and Pittsburgh Steelers. The city is also famous for its salad, french fries, and burnt almond torte. A drive from Atlanta to Pittsburgh is approximately 684 miles (1100 kilometers) and can take you a little over 10 hours.
7. Tulsa, OK
The city is known for its Art Deco architecture and arts institutions. A tour of the city must include Philbrook Museum of Art, Gilcrease Museum, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma Aquarium, and The Cave House. Enjoy your stay at the many exclusive yet affordable hotels in the city. While here, be sure to relish the delicious chicken fried steak that is unique to the city. Tulsa International Mayfest and Tulsa Octoberfest see an influx of visitors from around the world. The distance of 792 miles (1275 kilometers) from Atlanta to Tulsa can be covered with a 12-hour drive.
8. Baltimore, MD
A vital city and major seaport in Maryland, Baltimore is ideal for a road trip from Atlanta. The must-see attractions include National Aquarium, Inner Harbor, Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, Oriole Park, and The Walters Art Museum. Enjoy a warm and comfortable stay at one of the historic hotels or at a contemporary establishment. The city is famed for its seafood specialties, so check out the steamed blue crabs, crab cakes, and oysters. Baltimore, at 676 miles (1087 kilometers) long, is an 11-hour drive from Atlanta.
9. Cleveland, OH
Enjoy the splendid attractions of this sprawling city such as The Cleveland Museum of Art, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Westside Market, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Great Lakes Science Center, and the local theater scene. There is a multitude of accommodation facilities here ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy rentals. Nurture the gourmand within as you feast on corned beef sandwiches, donuts, and delicious frozen custard. The scenic road trip from Atlanta to Cleveland will have you drive about 710 miles (1142 kilometers) in about 11 hours.
10. Dallas, TX
The commercial and cultural pivot of Texas, Dallas offers plenty of sights and experiences. The Arboretum and Botanical Garden, The Sixth Floor Museum, Museum of Art, Reunion Tower, and World Aquarium are just some of the attractions. Enjoy excellent service at the finest hotels in Dallas or experience local hospitality at one of the many rentals available. Mouthwatering dishes such as chicken fried steak, pecan pie, pecan pralines, and frozen margaritas are a must-try during your trip to this city. Atlanta is about 781 miles (1256 kilometers) from Dallas and you will have to drive for about 12 hours.
11. Tampa, FL
An important business center along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa is famous for its museums and culture. Experience the thrill of strolling around the historic Ybor City neighborhood and get an adrenaline rush at the famous Busch Gardens. Stop by The Florida Aquarium, Adventure Island, and Museum of Science and Industry. Feel at home with your pick of accommodations from a wide spectrum of choices ranging from simply extravagant to plain homely. Go on a food tour and indulge in some of the popular meals or snacks here such as Cuban sandwiches, deviled crab, smoked mullet, blue crabs, and clams. It takes about 6 hours to cover the 456 miles (734 kilometers) from Atlanta to Tampa.
12. Grand Rapids, MI
This city in Michigan along Grand River has amazing attractions such as Colorful Frederik Meijer Gardens known for its tropical butterflies, John Ball Zoo with an aquarium, Reeds Lake, and a smattering of museums. Take your pick of spacious, classy hotels with ritzy interiors or smaller, cozy places that are conveniently located near popular attractions. Treat yourself to countless culinary delights such as tacos, charred octopus, dry-rub ribs, shrimp, and grits. It takes around 12 hours to travel the 796 miles (1281 kilometers) from Atlanta to Grand Rapids.
13. Austin, TX
Home to The University of Texas and famous for its music and nightlife, this graceful city has numerous parks and lakes too. It is a favorite spot for hiking, biking, swimming, and boating enthusiasts. Zilker Park, Lady Bird Lake, and Barton Springs Municipal Pool are some tourist magnets in the city. Enjoy cozy and comfortable lodging at one of the numerous hotels, resorts, and rentals available. Some of the special must-try food here include tacos, pizza, a cookie with peanut butter frosting, and craft beers. Driving for about 956 miles (1538 kilometers) from Atlanta to Austin is likely to take you around 14 hours.
14. Miami, FL
This fabulous city is a cultural, economic, and financial hub of the Sunshine State. The popular attractions are Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Bayside Marketplace, Seaquarium, Jungle Island, and South Point Pier. Accommodations are easily available at luxurious establishments as well as economic chain motels and lodges. Pub crawls and club-hopping are a must-do when it comes to exploring the nightlife in Miami. Also, do not miss lip-smacking signature dishes such as key lime pie, alligator bites, stone crab claws, fritas, and ice creams. The drive of 663 miles (1065 kilometers) from Atlanta to Miami is likely to take you about 10 hours
15. Houston, TX
This bustling city’s claim to fame is its longstanding association with space exploration. The dense urban area comprises Theater District and Historic District. Its 19th-century architecture makes for a charming contrast to the many glitzy restaurants and hotspots around. The places of interest are Space Center, Zoo, Hermann Park, Museum of Fine Arts, and Museum of Natural Science. The city houses a good number of deluxe restaurants for you to try out local specialties. Take your pick of chicken fried steak, seafood, pasta, special cocktails, colache, tacos, and crawfish. The driving time from Atlanta to Houston is approximately 11 hours for a distance of about 793 miles (1276 kilometers).
16. Philadelphia, PA
Explore the historical highlights of Pennsylvania’s largest city that is well-known for its American revolutionary sites. The top landmarks include Museum of Art, Liberty Bell, Eastern State Penitentiary, Independence National Historic Park, and Reading Terminal Market. Soak in the history as you stop by other more contemporary attractions like King of Prussia. Feast on classic Philadelphia favorites such as cheesesteak, roast pork sandwich, water ice, scrapple, and tomato pie. The time taken to cover the distance of about 777 miles (1250 kilometers) from Atlanta to Philadelphia is approximately 12 hours.
17. Washington DC
Washington, D.C. is home to some of the most popular attractions in the United States including Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Washington Monument, and Smithsonian Institution Offices. Once you are done getting your dose of history and art for the day, head to your choice of accommodations for a night of rest and rejuvenation. There are numerous hotels, rentals, and resorts in the vicinity. Try out a wide range of international cuisine including greasy burgers, seafood, and fried chicken to tingle your tastebuds. A road trip from Atlanta to Washington, D.C. will mean traveling about 639 miles (1028 kilometers) and driving for nearly 10 hours.
18. New Orleans, LA
New Orleans, also known as the Big Easy, is famed for its enthusiastic nightlife, energetic live music, and spicy hot cuisine. A visitor’s list is sure to include trips to French Quarter, Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, Saint Louis Cathedral, and Aquarium. Make it a memorable vacation by staying in one of the historic accommodations or cozy bed and breakfast-style establishments. Creole cuisine is a must-try while you are in this charming city. Atlanta and New Orleans are separated by a distance of 471 miles (758 kilometers), less than a 7-hour drive.
The perfect way to holiday
With easy access to so many exciting cities and attractions from Atlanta, road trips are a great way of exploring. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and drive off!
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