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Planning a US Road Trip: The Northern Route

1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic (by 15 people)   Your rating: 1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic

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Beautiful Vistas, Washington to Maine

 

When planning a road trip in the United States, you can take 3 options: the northern route, the southern route, and the middle. We'll be analyzing the northern route here, covering the states from Maine to Washington state. If a road trip is in your future, you can easily cover two different routes on your trip.

This route will cover the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Idaho, Michigan, Wyoming, Oregon and Washington.

Open up that Atlas! 

The Northern Route


Or, open up that Google Map. Now, figure out where you live on the big old map of the United States. Your beginning point should be as far east or west as you can make it to cover the most ground and see the most area. Heading directly east or west is best.

Northern States Poll 

The northern states covered in this lens number at 21.

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The Bulk of this Route

will be covered by only two interstates-- I-90 and I-84, as well as parts of I-5, I-15, and some smaller interstates in Wyoming.

What can you Expect to See on this Route? 

This route will wind through the backroad areas New England has to offer, and shoot down to Manhattan and up New York state to see the Big Apple. From there, you'll head upstate to see the Catskills and Adirondack region. Once over those mountains, you'll proceed to Niagara Falls and across the cities of Erie, Pennsylvania, and over to Cleveland. This industrial area will lead to open prairie land until you reach the city of Chicago, which will turn back into prairie once leaving (very quickly, too!). Wisconsin and Minnesota landscape on the southern side will be flat farm land, but to the north lies some excellent parks and boreal forests. Once across Minnesota, you will enter the barren state of South Dakota. This will progressively become the Badlands region, culminating with Badlands National Park. This arid region transforms into the dry plains region of eastern Wyoming. Half-way across Wyoming, you will reach the Continental Divide, which abruptly seperates the state. As the interestate becomes less and less crowded, you'll visit the national parks of Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. A slow descent and over Hells Canyon in Idaho will bring you to Washington state. The high, mountainous region contains many national parks. This road will seemingly slant directly towards Seattle and the Washington shore. A trek down the Washington coast is an amazing journey, perfectly complimented with the high cliffs and waterfalls of Oregon.

Sunset behind Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park

Starting in Maine 

Maine and Washington are beautiful destinations to set your trip to. The rugged coastline of Maine is unlike the rest of the east coast, as you will quickly notice if you visit the rest of the eastern seaboard. Craggy shores lined with pines and firs make for dramatic New England scenery and a relaxing vacation spot.

Maine is famous for a number of old lighthouses...over 60 to be exact! These antique maritime navigational aids are easy to reach from Route 1. Just like the Pacific Coast Highway of California, Maine's Route 1 provides outstanding views and the most direct route to all of the shoreside destinations of Maine. A few lighthouses you may recognize in particular. The massive Portland Head Light is the oldest in the United States (1791). At the top of the state, right on the US-Canada border, is West Quoddy Head Light. This striped red and white lighthouse is on the easternmost point of the United States.

The weather in Maine is very cool, nearly all year long. Temperatures rarely crest over 80° due to the high latitude and closeness to the cool Atlantic air. Expect nighttime temperatures to take a drop. Bring sweatshirts with you everywhere towards the end of the day or on the open ocean.

Starting at Acadia National Park, you can take Route 1 south along the coast to see all of the small Maine towns like Bath, Boothbay Harbor, Kittery, the capital of Portland, Rockland, Freeport, Kennebunk and Wells. From Portland, I-302 will take you directly into the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

What's cool: The small beach communites, rocky shores, great food and unique seascapes.

Disputed Land

You would think that everything is completely settled and concrete in terms of boundaries between the United States and Canada.

Wrong!


Machias Seal Island off the coast of Maine and New Brunswick is still disputed as being part of either country.

Portland Head Lighthouse, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

New Hampshire 

The Tax Free State!

New Hampshire is just a short drive from Maine. It is a small state, but has plenty of sites to see. The White Mountains are its primary destination, which are located in the middle of the state. From Maine's I-302, you will be dropped right into the middle of the White Mountains and the town of North Conway. Nearby is New England's highest peak, and reportedly the windiest area of North America, Mt. Washington. From North Conway, be sure to visit Franconia Notch and the famed Kangamangus Highway. This road winds through the White Mountains National Forest and is of "National Park" proportions. For a real treat, see this area in the peak fall foliage times of late September-early October.

From the White Mountains area, hop onto I-302 again west until you reach I-91 south. Heading south on I-91 will hug the Vermont-New Hampshire border until you reach the town of White River Junction. At this point, head north on I-89 to visit some small Vermont towns.

What's cool: The unmatched foliage of the fall, the easily accessible mountains, and the clean pine air

Franconia Notch, New Hampshire 

Franconia Notch by Hexhead

Franconia Notch, Franconia, New Hampshire.

Franconia Notch by aggieterpkatie

Driving from Manchester, NH to Westfield, VT. This is Franconia Notch, which go...

Franconia Notch Landscape by rbglasson

Franconia Notch, NH. This is a digitized version of an original photo taken in 1...

Waterfall in Franconia Notch, NH by Kevin Bedell

A nice shot of a waterfall in Franconia Notch in northern new Hampshire

Franconia Notch by Pirates29

Franconia Notch heading South

Walking through Franconia Notch by CC Chapman

We hit the notch early and walked down to the Echo Lake. The kids were loving al...

Looking down on Franconia Notch from summit of Cannon Mt., NH by nana_cindy42

This is along the rim trail. On another occasion I brought my Girl Scout Troop u...

Vermont 

Vermont is best known for its stunning green mountains, rural towns, hilly backdrops and beautiful pastures. A trip down Interstate 4 will give you a good impression of what this state is all about. Starting from I-93 in White River Junction, you can find multiple exits for I-4 west to the Queechee Gorge. Past the Queechee Gorge, you'll find the small town of Woodstock--a great place to stop for lunch or stay for the day. Winding rivers criss-cross the road here, and many side roads will give just as impressive views. An excellent place to explore. Heading further west on I-4, you'll find the tall mountains of Killington and the city of Rutland. From here, enjoy the ride up I-7 north to Burlington and the views of the massive Lake Champlain, which is shared with Canada, or head south to the small towns and rolling hills of Massachusett's Berkshires.

What's cool: Quaint towns and babbling brooks surrounded by the lush Green Mountains

Vermont Farm by Surfingjoe

Things look brighter in Vermont by paul+photos=moody

Leaving sadness in Boston, I came to Vermont, grabbed my snowboard and tried to ...

vermont cows having fun by jody9

Green Mountains by simon_travelboy

Barn in Vermont's Green Mountains, Route 17.(Friday, September 27, 2007)

Green Mountains by simon_travelboy

Fall Foliage in Vermont's Green Mountains, Route 17, Appalachian Gap. (Friday, S...

state house, montpelier, vermont by *nomad*

Montpelier is a lovely little town in Vermont. Has such a nice almost 1950s feel...

Coburn Covered Bridge. East Montpelier, Vermont by svr_p_way

One of Vermont's Covered Bridges. Coburn Covered Bridge was built by Larned Cobu...

Massachusetts 

The scenery of Massachusetts will definitely not bore you, because it changes in a short drive. Starting on the Mass Pike I-90, visit the Berkshires of the western end of the state. Historic Lee, Lenox, Williamstown and North Adams are all gems worth the short trip.

A short drive east will bring you to the city of Boston, New England's largest city and economic center. Besides having an enormous of history, Boston boasts many activities like the Boston Harbor Islands, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium and many fine restaurants.

South of Boston are some of the most famous and enjoyed beaches in the country on Cape Cod. This large peninsula is a long 100+ mile drive from one end to the other, but very worth it. A stroll along the busy canal is memorable and a great way to start your Cape trip. The coastal towns of Falmouth, Chatham, Dennis, Truro and Provincetown are some of the better known areas with amazing beaches and sites. In Nauset, be sure to visit the sprawling dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore. If you're really adventurous, take a ferry ride to Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard, easily accessible from Hyannis, Harwichport and Wood's Hole.

What's cool: Sunny beaches and rolling dunescapes that aren't far from the city or from the mountains

Stage Harbor Dory - 6:48AM by Chris Seufert

Featured on the front page of Explore March 7, 2007.Chatham, Cape Cod- This is...

Winter at Chatham Lighthouse (Cape Cod) by Chris Seufert

Ranked #2 at Explore for February 27, 2007.One of the most over-photographed p...

City Flow by Pear Biter

The Tides, They Are A'Changing by StarrGazr

FRIENDSHIP FIREWORKS 03 by snowriderguy

Fireworks reflect off the waters of Pickering Wharf in Salem, MA while the &...

Whelk at Oyster River by Chris Seufert

In front of the Stage Harbor Lighthouse at Chatham, Cape Cod. This landing is h...

Race Point- Provincetown, Cape Cod by Chris Seufert

It's September but summer continues here on Cape Cod. Shooting more for my upco...

Wood End Light by jodice

Provincetown MA

Highland Lighthouse (Light Orton Technique) by blueblossomphoto

Highland Lighthouse with a very slight Orton Technique. This lighthouse is locat...

The Powder Point Bridge by Lady-bug

Happy Thanksgiving by GloriousFool

Mayflower II, Plymouth, MAWishing a Happy Thanksgiving to all my US of American...

Cape Cod Canal 3 by *Rhonda*

Two Bridges - 70/365 by JustABigGeek

Taken of the Train Bridge and the Bourne Bridge from the campus of the Massachus...

Great Point Lighthouse - Nantucket, MA by Chris Seufert

This 60 foot high tower was built after the Revolutionary War in 1784. The towe...

flickr explore: straight wharf nantucket by heatherparker

Sand Bar & Grille by Sunset Sailor

The Sand Bar & Grille, Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard. Notice the stern ...

Gay Head cliffs by Iseult

The western most point of the Island of Martha's Vineyard. The famous Gay Head ...

At Winter's End by The Promethean

glowing berkshires by dmalantic

Near-sunset on the top of Berry Mountain in the Berkshires, MAUsed on the Bost...

The Berkshires by m@percy

Izzy, Aimee, and Paul on our hike to Mt. Greylock. The Berkshires, MA

Lenox by vincebusam

In Lenox, MA

The Mayflower II in Plymouth Harbor, Massachusetts

Cape Cod Firework Display and Sunset 

Cape Sunset Time Lapse

Time lapse sunset. The fireworks were a surprise! Music: BSC "Stars..."

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New England Guide 

There are so many things to see in New England, it can be helpful even for a native to have a guide to see the best areas. This guide provides some of the best areas, well-known and hidden, to navigating the six states of New England. This will definitely enhance your trip.

New England (Eyewitness Travel Guides)

Amazon Price: $16.50 (as of 10/13/2008)

Cities, towns, parks, beaches, mountains, restaurants and hotels alike are all featured in this handy, easy to carry guide. The small size is perfect for travel. Simple to read maps and at-a-glance features spotlight local museums, travel tips and areas you may not otherwise have paid attention to.

Rhode Island 

Just a short drive from Massachusetts is Newport, Rhode Island--just a little over an hour away with no traffic. Clifftop mansions dot the rockly shoreline of this historic community that have been owned by families like the Vanderbildts and Rockefellers. To the north is the capital of Providence, a small city with prestigous schools and must-see walking trips.

What's cool: Visit the entire state in just one day! It's so small, yet so beautiful.

Wave by cruadinx

High surf and an offshore wind at sunrise -- (Alto surf e un vento in mare aper...

Bridge Sunset by cruadinx

After a gloomy, dark afternoon -- the sun flashed through a break in the cloud c...

The Departing Fleet by cruadinx

I wanted to try some sepia treatment on a couple of Tall Ship shots. This is the...

Castlehill by cruadinx

The lighthouse at Castlehill -- Newport, RI

Geese at Goat Island by cruadinx

A small group of Canada Geese in Newport Harbor, by the Goat Island Light, at s...

Weatherly by cruadinx

The 12 meter boat Weatherly crossing Narragansett Bay in a ...

Narcissus by cruadinx

Newport RI Sunset by JustABigGeek

Taken at Brenton Point State Park in Newport RI.

Providence, RI by Rick Berk

Providence, RI at dusk

Providence RI by ngl1145

Providence RI

The Breakers by slack12

Late afternoon sun behind

The Breakers Mansion at Newport, Rhode Island by Kirstie_Joy

This is the side entrance facing the gardens of this huge mansion.Not much flowe...

Rosecliff - Newport, Rhode Island by ..jolli......

This is one of the mansions in Newport, Rhode Island that hosts some of our wedd...

Newport Mansion by harringtola

Fant by uglyagnes

Green Animals topiary by medieval panda

Portsmouth, RI

RI - Newport: Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge by wallyg

The Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge is a suspension bridge operated by the Rhode I...

Magnificent Mt. Hope Bridge by Nimeariel

it was a foggy evening- it had just rained, and there was a rainbow off to the l...

Mt. Hope Bridge RI by 1 9 8 4

Great Egret by cruadinx

City Hall Pawtucket by filledtoovercapacity

City Hall and the High School, on the Blackstone River, Pawtucket.

Rosecliff, a Newport Mansion in Rhode Island

Connecticut 

The I-95 corridor of Connecticut carries the brunt of the well-known the state is known for. Cities like New Haven, Bridgeport, Greenwich, Old Lyme, Mystic and Old Saybrook provide gorgeous views of Long Island Sound. Further inland, you can find the capital of Hartford. A beautiful scenic ride up I-91 from New Haven will lead directly onto the Mass Pike.

What's cool: Beautiful marshes and tiny harbors make this a memorable seaside destination.

Fishing boat #2 by slack12

Fishing boat at the Clinton Marina, Connecticut

West River reflections by slack12

West River, Guilford, CT.

Connecticut River Fog/Sunset by tas246tom

Fog over the Connecticut River during sunset, taken from the shore in Glastonbur...

Five Mile Point Light in Connecticut - I by New  Yorkled

Otherwise known as the

Connecticut Seasons: Fall by Cam B.

New Haven, Connecticut.blogged:

Morning Along the Connecticut River by red321

Old Lyme, Connecticut. by Tom Kaszuba

Hartford Skyline Horizontal by ranzino

Hartford, CT

New State House (Hartford, CT) by casual.tourist

New State House (Hartford, CT)

Mystic Harbor by altopower

Morgan Point Lighthouse, CT by bobindrums

Morgan Point Lighthouse is located on the western side of the entrance to Mystic...

Mystic, CT by eggrollboy

Manhattan 

manhattan


Image by Daniel Schwen

The small communities of Connecticut slowly get bigger as you travel down I-95 towards New York City. Multiple routes can be taken to get into the city, or if you prefer to avoid it, pass quickly through it by staying on I-95 to New Jersey.

Manhattan is divided roughly into 3 regions: uptown, downtown and midtown. 5th Avenue cuts across the middle and acts as an east/west side divider. These sections are further divided into neighborhoods like Soho, Tribeca, Little Italy, Chinatown, Hell's Kitchen, Times Square, Greenwich Village, Lower Manhattan, and many more. The best way to get around Manhattan is by foot, subway or taxi. Parking here is expensive, and driving around town can be stressful if you are not experienced driving in NYC. Taking a cab or other means of transportation is highly recommended!

What's cool: Huge skyscrapers, foods from around the world, people from around the world, and famous sites like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center. Endless things to do and find in such a small space will never leave you bored.

I Love New York by CiaoChessa

New York CityHappy Fourth!

Daily Bugle aka Flatiron by orgutcayli

Manhattan, New Yorkphotography & retouch by Orgut Cayli

Navigando a Manhattan by Isco72

Stati uniti, New York, ManhattanGrazie a Caludio Mori per avermi consigliato i...

The Skyline of Lower Manhattan by New  Yorkled

Photo taken a few years ago....'just can't wait to get out there this week and r...

Golden Manhattan by jermaister

Sunset over Manhattan.OK, gotta give a tip - go LARGE! :D(thanks for the advi...

Manhattan View by Digital Agent

From my visit to New York last fall. This shot taken from the top of the Empire...

Manhattan Sunset Dream #3 by aturkus

The dream was different today. The helix spun me back into the dream, but when ...

Brooklyn Bridge at Dusk by James Neeley

HDR view of the Brooklyn Bridge looking toward Manhattan.View large -

New York City Soho Block by Professor Bop

A block of iron front buildings in New York City's Soho district, April 2, 2006....

Sidewalk in Tribeca by ben_prewitt

I love these things. These are on a raised platform in Tribeca. At night you c...

Central Park, New York City, from in-flight by ~ Kianoosh ~

you're looking at the heart of New York City, Central Park and midtown and Harle...

NYC - Central Park: Sheep Meadow by wallyg

Today the Sheep Meadow is a 15-acre, lush, green meadow for relaxing and admirin...

Central Park - NY by Nino H

Central Park is a large public, urban park (843 acres, 3.41 km?, 1.32 mi?; a r...

Statue of Liberty New York by mbell1975

Statue of Liberty New York

Current Weather in New York City 

New York State 

It should be no surprise that New York City is one of the most visited international destinations and the United States' biggest city. A sharp contrast to the fast-paced metropolis lies only a few miles from the city. Upon leaving the city, a beautiful riverscape is apparent, with high mountain banks and beautiful bridges. Side roads along the Hudson River such as I-9 and the nearby Taconic Parkway provide gorgeous views of the state. This region is also home to largest state park in the country, Adirondack Park. Further upstate, the Adirondack Mountains decorate the scenery of Lake Champlain. To the west, rolling farmlands span to the Finger Lakes region and famous Niagara Falls and the Great Lakes region.

What's cool: The famous Niagara Falls will not disappoint in wonder, but don't forget the Hudson River Valley's natural beauty as well.

Niagra Falls Canada by SublimeImage

This is the Canadian Side of the Falls. They are located in Niagra Falls, Canada...

Niagra Horse shoe  Falls and American Falls Full Coverage by sankarmurugesan

Niagra Horse shoe Falls and American Falls Full Coverage

Skylon Tower (Niagra Falls) by francisLM

Skylon Tower, Niagra Falls

Frozen Finger by Austie1

Canandaigua Lake, New York. One of the Five Finger Lakes.The third and final (...

Rochester, New York - 1 by Frall

no, it's not a HDR-picture!!!

Sun and Clouds Over Lake George in the Adirondacks by Old Shoe Woman

Our view as we look across the water from our dinner table on the outside deck o...

Lake George Sunrise by ~Prescott

Taken a few weeks ago while driving up to Sydney. We left before sunup, I was t...

the way home by lightpainter

Not Autumn but Spring on the Hudson River by New  Yorkled

Shot was taken several weeks ago right next to Bear Mountain Bridge. Everything ...

Tapanzee Bridge by joey_e

Tapanzee Bridge taken yesterday from Sleepy Hollow, NY. You can see the Manhatta...

i love it when she lifts her skirts by JKönig

(i have a thing for this brazen hussy of a

Hudson Valley at West Point- New York by ICKY T

Solitude by BritM

on High Exposure

Hudson River Revival by dshearer

Perfect end to day one.Please view

Hudson Valley by Thunder Bolt

Hudson river valley during fall

Olana by MemaNH

Olana is a mansion on the Hudson river in NY. It belonged to Frederic Church. It...

Lake Champlain by cruadinx

A view of Lake Champlain, taken from Battery Park in Burlington, VT -- looking t...

Array by Art-

A view to the east with Lake Champlain and Vermont on the horizon.

Array by iessi

"Bridge Heaven" - Bear Mountain, New York by bridgepix

WOW! Three bridges in one shot! Bridgepixing and Railfanning the Bear Mountain S...

My First HDR (Bear Mountains) Upstate NY by Subramanian Iyer

Bear Mountain Bridge in the Hudson River Valley of New York

Manhattan Video Tour 

Tour of Manhattan: very fast!

A "lightning" tour of Manhattan.

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New Jersey 

cape may lighthouse



According to Wikipedia, New Jersey is at the epicenter of the "BosWash" megalopolis--a term used for the large, continuous city environment that is prevalent from the Washington DC area to Boston. As a middle ground between the huge cities of Philadelphia and New York City, it is largely a suburban home for commuters to the cities.

The shores of Jersey provide beautiful sandy beaches, marshes and inlets. Many towns like Ocean City provide seaside boardwalks lined with restaurants and shops, while quieter communities like Cape May are a serene alternative. At the end of the peninsula lies the Delaware River and the state of Delaware only a quick ferry ride away.

What's cool: Outstanding beaches and boardwalk communities that you'll never forget.

Sea Power Glass Wall Wave by William  Dalton

...Sea oh sea, when will I see you again? Every time I saw your pictures, th...

Happy Halloween From Sunny New Jersey! by Sister72

After 8 days of rain, the pumpkin patch flooded.

Newark, NJ by nicoatridge

Newark, NJ. Car crime capital of the country, second poorest city after Clevelan...

Yes indeed, there is a Heaven by Michael/ capemayX

Just ask the dog!Tonight was crazy beautiful ... here in go...

... by Michael/ capemayX

Look at this sunset light drenching the sands and skies along the Cove beach. Al...

Beach at Sunrise: Ocean City, NJ by eastcoaster48

Array by Zach V

Power and Light by Art-

The east coasts first wind farm with its turbines set against the Atlantic City ...

Trenton Makes The World Takes by Nelo Esteves ~ As Seen Through Hazel Eyes

New Jersey's Capital City Skyline, while riding over the Delaware River.One of...

The Capital City of New Jersey (Trenton) by Guy Flâneur

The humble city of Trenton, NJ looks much better from 20,000 feet (6.600 meters)...

Jersey City skyline by BobbyCor

Jersey City skyline (HDR)

Jersey City Nights by =VTshep1=

This was taken from the rooftop of a building in downtown Jersey City at night. ...

Jersey City by JonCombe

Jersey City viewed from the Rockfeller Centre

Pennsylvania 

The social and ecological differences in Pennsylvania cover a large gamut. To the northwest lies the Ponoco Mountain region, a New York City retreat, the industrial Great Lakes region near Erie to the northeast, the classic Amish region to the south, the large city of Pittsburgh to the southwest, and the gigantic historical city of Philadelphia to the southeast. Philadelphia draws many tourists for its historic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, which are only a short drive from New Jersey. You can easily find Philadelphia off I-95.

What's cool: Stark contrast in regions and cool history in Philadelphia like the cracked Liberty Bell or nearby Gettysburg Battlefield.

It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia by Fen Branklin

Schuylkill River & Philadelphia skyline, as viewed from South Street Bri...

The Dude & Philly Skyline by Fen Branklin

The Dude, at least his silhouette, in the lower left, with Center City skyline i...

the red door by moocatmoocat

Manning Street, looking towards Quince St., in Center City, Philadelphia. Best ...

Peek-a-Boo by cindy47452

Mom and Dad didn't know these little ones were peeping at me. This is a b/w ver...

Country roads... by Luv 2 Flickr

Just down the road from my friend's house.Best viewed LARGE!I have had people ...

American Horsepower: A Cultural Diversity by Rick.52

Taken in

A Flower Opens in Intercourse by blueskydesert

I took this photo in Intercourse, PA (Amish country) and I feel the title fits i...

Pennsylvania & Joisey by joiseyshowaa

Fall colors ... the bright stripe across the middle is from the sun peaking thro...

Ohio 

Home to the cities of Cleveland, Toledo, Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton, as well as over 11 million people, Ohio is one of the most populous states in the country. Ohio lies right on Lake Erie, with hundreds of miles of recreational coastline.

Along I-90, Cleveland is easily accessible from the New York state region and will be right along the northern route of your road trip.

What's cool: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is an easy on-off stop for your trip.

Sunset on the Ohio River by Daniel Light

Project 365 #112 04-22-2007Last night (Saturday, April 21, 2007), there were a...

New Ohio River Bridge by dok1

I drove to Portsmouth, Ohio this afternoon and across the Ohio River into Kentu...

postcard from ohio by dbthayer

April 2006, Wood County, Ohio

Columbus Ohio by cBass10n

- Columbus Ohio - Yes - Ohio has tall buildings too !!!don't let that green g...

Cincinnati, Ohio by Mazda6 (Tor)

I've visited quite a few US cities recently. Here is a shot from each starting w...

Terminal Tower, Cleveland, Ohio by bridgepix

The Terminal Tower is a landmark skyscraper located on

Ohio Morning by SeekingFocus

I%u2019m on the road again%u2026Here%u2019s a shot from early morning sunrise, just aft...

Ohio Country Church by CountryDreaming

One Sunday afternoon last year found me taking a peaceful stroll even further ba...

Hocking Hills State Park - Logan, Ohio by Adam Grim

Additional photos on

The Sears Tower in Chicago

Busy Place!

Chicago's O'Hare International Airport was 2nd busiest airport in the world in 2005!

More Road Trip Lenses: 

Michigan 

A well-kept secret in Michigan is that it actually has fantastic scenery on its long shoreline. Michigan consists of two peninsulas, the upper and lower. The Mackinac Bridge, a 5 mile long suspension bridge, connects the two peninsulas across the narrows of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. High palisade cliffs, stumbling waves, pine covered coastline and high dunes cover the beautiful coasts here. For some peace and quiet, head to Isle Royale National Park, Sleeping Bear Dunes, or Pictured Rocks National Seashore.

What's cool: The "third coast" Great Lakes area of Michigan has 115 lighthouses! That's way more than most Atlantic states.

Lake Michigan Sunset by lake.sider

I love to walk down to the beach and watch the sun setting over Lake Michigan. T...

In the Michigan Immense Public Park by farlane

Lake Michigan Shoreline -                Dune Grass by the pentax hammer

Dune grass along the shore of Lake Michigan. Orchard Beach State Park.Orton eff...

lighthouse in michigan city by erin watson photography

i went home to michigan city this past weekend. look at all the ice and snow on ...

Michigan Postcard - Upper Peninsula Map by jackie121467

Map of Upper Peninsula, Michigan

Water fall Michigan Upper Peninsula by dmkcjk23kmk

Mackinac Bridge In Fog by DaddyNewt

The Bridge!!! by rossmat5msu

This photo was taken from in the straits of Mackinaw. I was Literally Swimming ...

Mackinac Bridge by michiganartisan

View of the Mackinac Bridge from the South Tower. I was working at a boys' summe...

Especially in Michigan by prakope

The Mackinac Bridge covered in fog while I drive across taking pictures and tryi...

Grand Rapids from the footbridge at Ah Nab Awen Park by the pentax hammer

3 Exposure RAW HDR photo. And sometimes the guys wonder why I bracket my exposur...

Rock of Ages Lighthouse, Isle Royale National Park by J. Michael Ducey

The Rock of Ages Lighthouse is located on a shallow dangerous reef in Lake Super...

Lorelei Lane, Isle Royale National Park by yooper1949

Round Is. sunset by yooper1949

Herring Bay, Isle Royale National Park

Sleeping Bear Dunes by noyesa

The large sandhills accross the bay are the lake end of Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Sleeping Bear Dunes_3382 by SNiedzwiecki

Sleeping Bear Dunes at Empire Beach

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore by mischiru

You are standing atop the dramatic sandstone cliffs that border Lake Superior fo...

Don't Push Me! by NaturalLight

This tree's living on the edge, that's for sure.

spring melt by Luminous Light Huntress

This is Bridal Veil Falls on Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, This one is most...

Detroit Michigan by paulhitz

Shot on a Sunday from a helicopter tour around Detroitduring the Detroit Intern...

Detroit dans le Bleu by Bobby Alcott

Detroit, Michigan. As viewed from Windsor, ON, Canada.All usage inquiries can ...

Distant Shore by Richard Thompson

Sunset over Anchor Bay, Lake St. Clair, Fair Haven, Michigan

Northern Midwest Videos 


Mackinac Bridge view from the top

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My Favorite Minnesota - Camping - Campsites

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Indiana 

Usually a bypass in getting to Chicago or to New York, Indiana does have its merits. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore along Lake Michigan is a surprisingly beautiful area that in some areas looks very similar to the east coast dunescapes of Massachusetts and the Outer Banks in North Carolina. A quick drive off of I-90 will bring you right to this area. At the epicenter of this mostly farmland state is the capital of Indianapolis. Dubbed the "Crossroads of America," you will certainly notice a huge amount of traffic coming through the state traveling back and forth from Chicago and New York.

What's cool: The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a quiet, remote place and a nice stopover and visual diffrentiation on the long trek across the midwestern states.

The Indiana State House by mattindy77

Indianapolis, IndianaThis is the State House looking west down Market Street f...

Bloomington, Indiana by jghphoto21

I captured a number of overviews of the Courthouse Square in Downtown Bloomingto...

Indiana Summertime by destabee

Taken at the pond on the PNC campus in Laporte County Indiana.

Michigan City, Indiana by PhotoDocGVSU

See you all on Monday folks ... Marie and I are going on a little weekend trip t...

DSC_0009  framed copy by Dune and Prairie Photo

Sunrise at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. A snowy scene with shelf ice, o...

Shifting Sands by lapstrake

The ever shifting sands of 125 foot tall Mt. Baldy are slowly taking over the wo...

Indianapolis Skyline by Damgaard (DamgaardPhotography.com)

Indianapolis, Indiana from the bridge over the canal walk. The Congressional Me...

Illinois 

Illinois is the cultural and economic epicenter of the Midwestern region. Endless prairies and farms surround the suburban area of Chicago, the 3rd largest city in the country. Chicago lies directly on Lake Michigan and the Chicago and Illinois rivers, providing unique water views all around the city. Some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world can be found in Chicago, such as the John Hancock Center and Sears Tower. In the city, you can find attractions such as Lincoln Park, which is similar to Central Park, the "Magnificent Mile" of shopping, Second City comedy troupe, and plenty of amazing local food.

What's cool: A trip to the top of the Hancock Center a the observatory provides an unmatched view of Lake Michigan, Chicago, and several different states.

Whitetail in Snow by Hard-Rain

First day off since it snowed. No clean shots of the big boys, but found these ...

Sunset over McLean Co., Illinois by Rascaille Rabbit

No photoshop except to crop. This may become the world's largest land-based win...

Early morning mist on the Illinois River by tguttilla

Photo taken from a high bluff over looking the Illinois River between Ottawa and...

Autumn scene in Wheaton Illinois 06/11/05 by bevcraigwhite

another autumn scene from a visit to cousins in Wheaton, Illinois, this time las...

Illinois Sky by HumanHead

I'm back from 10 days in Illinois for vacation. I had a great time visiting fam...

The Old Rusty Cadillac West of Rochelle, Illinois by Jim Frazier

When Sirchuckles and I discussed this road trip/meetup, we felt that a stop at t...

Stockton, Illinois by emace

My wife and I went on another cruise through northwestern Illinois looking for s...

Chicago 

Chicago's Moving Bridges over the Chicago River by spudart

The Chicago River cuts through downtown Chicago and is home to the most moveable...

The Great Lake of Chicago by Stuck in Customs

This was taken with nine exposures on a late summer evening in Chicago. The lig...

Chicago from Above by Stuck in Customs

I thank you for all the comments! Here, for you, are the

neon lights at chicago o'hare by IHP

Again a shot of the hallway at Chicago O'Hare, and again I am cowering behind my...

Chicago Lavaflow by zachwsu

From: www.zachanderson.com...

Chicago River II by tomalu

View of Chicago River from Michigan Ave.Interested in this photo? to see more ...

Chicago - Buckingham Fountain by GlobeTrotter 2000

Chicago - IlinoisBuckingham Fountain (Grant Park)

Wisconsin 

Wisconsin lies on two of the Great Lakes and houses the populous Milwaukee region. To the north lies the Lake Superior lowlands, while the middle of the state has the frequently vacationed Wisconsin Dells area. Farmland region quickly turns into coniferous forests dotted with thousands of lakes. A tranquil escape for the midwest, Wisconsin can be easily traversed by following I-90 all the way across the state, from Chicago to Minnesota.

Good Evening From Wisconsin! by WisDoc

The view of the Wisconsin State Capitol taken from the roof of the Monona Terrac...

Wisconsin Point Lighthouse by NorthLight

Established in 1913, this oval lighthouse is an active aid to navigation on Lake...

NORTH POINT IN MILWAUKEE WISCONSIN by hey_mando

? Photo by Armando Mendoza All rights reserved. ...

wisconsin by armeen

Hwy 19, Wisconsin (USA)

The Frozen Red Pierhead Lighthouse in Kenosha Wisconsin by hey_mando

The Frozen Red Pier head Lighthouse in Kenosha Wisconsinweather is extreme cold...

A Wisconsin Postcard by Johnny Blood

An early morning landscape of a quiet farm outside of Edgerton, Wiscons...

Apostle Islands - Lake Superior - Wisconsin by Luiz Castro

Do livro

Wisconsin Waterfalls by photo61guy

Time exposure of about 1 second

Sculptured Reflections by Leviathor

May 4, 2001, marked the initial unveiling of the Milwaukee Art Museum's...

Cold Milwaukee Night Color HDR by matthewblakepowers

This is the Color version of an HDR image of the Milwaukee Skyline... Cannot dec...

Wisconsin Dells by Tabbi Kat

Before Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin declared itself the "waterpark capito...

Treescape in the Wisconsin Dells by Just Add Light

I took this picture from a tower in the Wisconsin Dells. I believe that it is ty...

Wisconsin Dells 3 by AnirbanGhosh

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Just Weird: An upside down White House called "Top Secret" in the Wisconsin Dells

Minnesota 

Most of the state of Minnesota livs in the St. Paul-Minneapolis metro area, known as the twin cities. Not far away is the famous Mall of America in Bloomington. Northern boreal forests cover much of the upper state, while western prairies are present in much of the rest. The state is nicknamed "Land of 10,000 lakes" because of its huge number (11,482 to be exact) of large lakes. The beginning point of the Mississippi River can be found in Minnesota's Ithasca State Park. Beautiful lakes, forests and wildlife are around in this region. Not too far is Voyageurs National Park to the north, with beautiful foliage, abundant wildlife and water activities.

What's cool: Thousands of unspoiled lakes and untouched, remote forest make for a placid, relaxing addition to your road trip.

St Paul River View by !!WaynePhotoGuy

Right Hook by Jim's outside photos

Birches by HelenJr

I think autumn in Minnesota is a bit like Mardi Gras or Carnival. Such a blaze ...

Bombastic by y entonces

The conclusion of the very good fireworks show on the Mississippi River, part of...

Downtown Minneapolis by y entonces

reflected in Lake Calhoun.

Cathedral of Saint Paul by !!WaynePhotoGuy

Cathedral of Saint Paul Listening to

Northern forest by Rich pick

Great Gray In Flight by NorthLight

The Great Gray Owl is the largest owl in North America with an average length of...

Sojourn at Whale Rock by NorthLight

on a cold Lake Superior shore, taken last March.

flying clouds over minnesota river valley by lisa nolan

The highway to the left of the frame is called Flying Cloud Highway. It's easy ...

Evening Mist from Palisade Head, Minnesota by Arrested Light

Evening Mist from Palisade Head, Minnesota

palisade_head by tpepper

Worth getting up for by jaylarson

Left my house at 1:30 am to see the sunrise over Lake Superior from Palisade Hea...

Red River Valley Sunset in HDR by Orfield Photography

I saw this tree while driving along highway 94 and knew I had to come back and t...

Itasca by Jim's outside photos

Maiden voyage. Broke this boat in proper. Source of the Mississippi.

MIssissippi River Begins Here! by patbreana

This is the spot where the Mississippi River begins in Minnesota - Lake Itasca S...

Red Squirrel by Jim Frazier

Lake Itasca State Parknear Bimidji, MinnesotaJanuary 2006e060128c055a-wbCop...

Pine Sunset - Voyageurs National Park by The Roaming Ranger

Sun Dappled Fawn - Voyageurs National Park by The Roaming Ranger

This fawn and I studied each other on Blind Ash Bay Trail.

Voyageurs National Park by Voyageurs National Park Association

RKlass_VOYA_0719.jpg by klassphoto

Islands in the distance at sunrise through fog, Anderson Bay, Rainy Lake, Voyage...

South Dakota 

Badlands National Park


You may think that South Dakota has little to see, but there really are plenty of interesting sites to see. Upon entering the state, you will proceed through Sioux Falls. Gas up and get lunch here, there's not much else for quite a drive. Driving across the open plains will bring you to the Badlands on the western part of the state. At its most impressive is Badlands National Park. A large collection of fossils have been found in this region of twisted spires and sandy red buttes. If you visit Wind Cave National Park in the southwest of North Dakota, you may come across one of the nation's only free roaming bison herds. Wind Cave is the 4th longest cave in the world at 125 miles! Temperatures can shift seasonally in South Dakota from extremely cold winter temperatures to summertime highs often reaching or near 100°.

Further west on I-90, you will find the Black Hills region and famous Mt. Rushmore. This famous mountain sculpture is a huge attraction (2 million annual visitors!) and a beautiful National Memorial. Continuing west on I-90 will bring you directly into the state of Wyoming.

What's cool: A surprising number of National Parks in a small area like Badlands, Wind Cave and Mount Rushmore that are impressive and easy to get to.

...South Dakota Whitetail... by ...Random Images from The Heartland...

Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park, South Dakota by Yasha Hartberg

This was just one of those perfect days. The sky was clear and blue. The air w...

Badlands National Park by ribizlifozelek

Badlands National Park, SD

Badlands Night by bryanscott

Starburst by champy1013

A thunderstorm rolls through the Badlands in South Dakota

the front has passed - badlands by wizard of moz

columbus day weekend in the badlands 06. it was close to 90 degrees 3 days prior...

Pinnacles, Badlands National Park, South Dakota by LivingWilderness.com

The rising sun lights up hundreds of peaks, called the Pinnacles, in Badlands Na...

The Black Hills of South Dakota by ianehewitt

Driving the Black Hills, South Dakota.

Bridgepixing Buffaloes, Beaver Creek Bridge, Black Hills, South Dakota by bridgepix

Near Custer State Park, and within Wind Cave National Park, the Buffalo roam eve...

Mount Rushmore by Robby Edwards

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, September 2003Our last stop in the Black Hil...

chipmunk by Sabinche

chipmunks construct extensive burrow systems, often more than 3.5 m in length an...

Bison, Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota by sawdevcin

Took this shot right from the car driving through Wind Cave National Park in Sou...

Wind Cave National Park - 2 by MichaelTurk

Wind Cave National Park - 17 by MichaelTurk

Wind Cave National Park - 22 by MichaelTurk

Earth's Archway by Ashley | Bottle Bell

? Ashley | Bottle Bell Photography %u2122I'm on holiday in Sioux...

"Sioux Falls" christmas 2004 downtown night by Jerry7171

Another view of downtown Sioux Falls, around the corner of 9th and Phillips look...

Forever Sunflowers by danr_co

Near Pierre, SD

Vintage Road Atlases 

Don't bring this on your road trip! Unless you're hunted down old, extinct roads, this won't do you much good. But they look really cool!

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2008 Road Atlases 

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North Dakota 

While not on the direct route of I-90, North Dakota offers another quiet plains environment. Coal mines and oil help drive the economy of this northern state. The largest city in the state, Fargo, is located on the eastern border near Minnesota. Much of the southwest of the state is continuous badlands like South Dakota. In this region lies Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a badlands-filled area with numerous wildlife which can be easily viewed du