From the Pacific to the Atlantic, if you're crossing the country through the southern part of the US, you'll probably spend some time on Interstate 10. Good thing, too, since I-10 takes you through some pretty awesome landscapes-- the deserts of Southern California, Texas's Hill Country, and the Florida Panhandle are all highlighted along the way. Whether you're just hopping on for a little bit, or you're seeing this bad boy all the way through, there's tons to see and do just off the route.
1734 East 6th Avenue, Mesa, Arizona
You'll also pass by the epic Titan Missile Museum. The only remaining Titan II ICBM (there were once 54 across the country), this is the only place where you can get up-close and personal with a missile that could launch a 9-megaton nuclear warhead. If that's not totally epic, then I don't know what is!
Spend the night soaking up some New Mexico culture at the Lundeens Inn of The Arts; each room in this B&B (located in a historic, 100-year-old building) is named for an artist and decorated with Southwestern flair.
Stretching your legs on a road trip is super important, so get out of the car and head underground to the cool Caverns of Sonora for a change of scenery. This stunning show cave offers tours of the tunnels, loaded with stunning rock formations, as well as hikes above ground, the chance to pan for gold, and homemade fudge at the ranch-style gift shop.
I-10 passes through the city of San Antonio, and it's worth it to take a day or so to explore this Lone Star City. Home to The Alamo, the Tower of the Americas, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, The Institute of Texan Cultures, the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, tons of museums, incredible Mexican food, and more, it's a prime example of Texas at its finest!
Oh, and stay the night at the Menger Hotel, the Hotel Havana the Omni La Mansion del Rio, or one of the other great hotels in San Antonio!
One of the coolest parts of San Antonio is the city's River Walk. Lining the banks of the San Antonio River, you'll find restaurants, shops, museums, bars, parks, and tons more. Tour the river from a boat, or spend an evening strolling along the River Walk taking in the views. Stop by The Esquire Tavern for a drink, Luke Restaurant for modern Cajun-inspired cuisine, Little Rhine Steakhouse for old-school eats, and the Pearl Brewery to explore even more shops and restaurants.
The Mission San Antonio de Valero, better known as The Alamo, is a fort where Spanish missionaries and Native Americans lived. It's most famous for being the site where a band of Texans held out against the army of General Santa Anna. Even though the Alamo fell, "Remember the Alamo" became a rallying cry for the Texan Army, who eventually won independence. Today, The Alamo is a look into the past, and is an interest spot to visit.
Driving through the swampy wetlands of Louisiana is an experience, but actually getting to explore out on the water is another thing entirely! On the two hour adventure at Champagnes Swamp Tour, you'll get to see all kinds of wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystem of the swamp, right in the heart of it all. It doesn't get any more Cajun than that!
14604 Parker Road, Biloxi, Mississippi
From the Pacific Coast to the Atlantic Ocean, a trip along the entirety of I-10 means crossing through America's deserts, hill country, swamplands, small towns, and big cities. One simple interstate can show you all different sides to America: landscapes, cultures, cuisines and attractions that are all distinct, yet distinctly American!