My husband and two kids (teens by then) will be hitting the road in the summer of 2011 to drive across a bit of America. Though we'd love to hit most every state, we're trying to be realistic. We've got no actual plans but are up for your suggestions.
I guess it's inevitable, but every time I see a segment on television, whether it be about natural wonders, eclectic museums, water parks, or other possible interesting stops, I make a mental note to myself that it's someplace we need to stop on our tour. So far, I'm considering a medieval castle somewhere in Tennessee, the Schlitterbahn water parks of Texas, and an alligator bayou swamp in Louisiana.
Though such things sound interesting, I'm also considering a tour via our bellies. We very much enjoy the TV series, Man vs. Food. Not an episode goes by without one of us saying, "Oh, we have GOT to try THAT!" As recently as this morning, we sat and watched the San Antonio episode. Okay, I was a bit grossed out by Lulu's 3 lb. cinnamon roll and Big Lou's 42" pizza, but my husband and I also decided that if we were going to travel the many states, we had to try as many local flavors as possible. So, although the cinnamon roll won't make the list, we do know we're going to have to try chicken fried steak somewhere along our journey and perhaps a bite of burger at Chunky's.
What I'm looking for are suggestions on places to stop between New York (state, not city) and Arizona/New Mexico. We'll be traveling the southern route on our way out and then attempt to drive the northern route on our way back. It'll be hot, but we're up for a challenge. We won't mind getting off the highway for a while as we don't plan on necessarily driving every day. If we get to one place and find that there's a lot to do, we'll stay and enjoy it.
I'll take suggestions on restaurants, local swimming places, great places to camp (tent NOT RV), cheap places to stay, scenic drives, hidden gems (I'm relying on you), and really unusual places that are must-sees.
