Us Route 50 Map
Us Route 50 Map
US Route 50 is a historic highway that stretches over 3000 miles, from Ocean City, Maryland to West Sacramento, California. It passes through 12 states, offering a diverse range of attractions, landscapes, and experiences. This travel guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the top things to see and do along this iconic route.
Top Attractions
One of the most popular attractions along US Route 50 is the Great Basin National Park in Nevada. This park is home to unique geological formations, scenic drives, and hiking trails. Other popular attractions include the Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana, the Gateway Arch in Missouri, and the Golden Gate Bridge in California.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider visiting the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Maryland. This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and ospreys. Another hidden gem is the Sand Mountain Recreation Area in Nevada, where you can go sandboarding and off-roading.
Food Scene
US Route 50 passes through many cities and towns that are known for their food scenes. In Ohio, you can find the famous Cincinnati-style chili, while in Kansas, you can try some authentic Kansas City barbecue. Other notable food destinations include St. Louis, Missouri for toasted ravioli, and San Francisco, California for sourdough bread and seafood.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling along US Route 50 doesn’t have to break the bank. Consider camping at one of the many national parks along the route, or staying in budget-friendly motels or Airbnb rentals. You can also save money by cooking your own meals or packing a picnic lunch.
Outdoor Adventures
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer outdoor adventures, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. In Colorado, you can explore the Rocky Mountains, while in Nevada, you can hike in the Ruby Mountains or go kayaking in Lake Tahoe.
Historical Landmarks
US Route 50 is rich in history, and there are many historical landmarks to visit along the way. In Maryland, you can visit the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park, while in Missouri, you can visit the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. Other notable landmarks include the Pony Express National Historic Trail in Nevada and the California State Capitol Museum in California.
Family-Friendly Activities
US Route 50 offers many family-friendly activities, such as amusement parks, zoos, and museums. In Ohio, you can visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, while in Missouri, you can visit the City Museum in St. Louis. Other family-friendly destinations include the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose in California and the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Ohio.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, consider visiting the Extraterrestrial Highway in Nevada, which is known for its UFO sightings. In Indiana, you can visit the world’s largest ball of paint, while in California, you can visit the world’s largest thermometer. Other off-the-beaten-path experiences include visiting the Haunted House in Missouri and the Foamhenge in Virginia.
Natural Wonders
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer stunning natural landscapes. In Maryland, you can visit the Chesapeake Bay, while in Utah, you can visit the Arches National Park. Other notable natural wonders include the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California and the Great Salt Lake in Utah.
Vibrant Nightlife
US Route 50 passes through many cities and towns that offer a vibrant nightlife scene. In Nevada, you can visit the Las Vegas Strip, while in California, you can visit the bars and nightclubs in San Francisco. Other notable nightlife destinations include Kansas City, Missouri and Cincinnati, Ohio.
Local Markets
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer local markets, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. In Indiana, you can visit the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market, while in California, you can visit the Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco. Other notable markets include the Findlay Market in Cincinnati, Ohio and the City Market in Kansas City, Missouri.
Beaches and Mountains
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer both beaches and mountains. In California, you can visit Lake Tahoe, which offers both scenic mountain views and a beach. In Maryland, you can visit Assateague Island, which offers a beach and wild ponies. Other notable destinations include the Ozark Mountains in Missouri and the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California.
Cultural Immersion
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer a rich cultural experience. In Ohio, you can visit the National Museum of the Tuskegee Airmen, while in California, you can visit the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. Other notable cultural destinations include the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Missouri and the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
Art and Music Scene
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer an art and music scene. In Missouri, you can visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, while in California, you can visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Other notable art and music destinations include the Taft Museum of Art in Ohio and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri.
Walking Tours
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer walking tours, where you can explore the history and culture of a city or town. In Maryland, you can take a walking tour of Annapolis, while in Missouri, you can take a walking tour of the historic River Market in Kansas City. Other notable walking tours include the walking tour of the Underground City in Cincinnati, Ohio and the walking tour of the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood in San Francisco, California.
Architectural Marvels
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer architectural marvels. In Missouri, you can visit the Gateway Arch, while in California, you can visit the Golden Gate Bridge. Other notable architectural marvels include the Ohio Statehouse in Ohio and the Old State Capitol in Louisiana.
Historical Sites
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer historical sites, where you can learn about the history of a city or town. In Virginia, you can visit the Historic Jamestowne, while in Missouri, you can visit the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. Other notable historical sites include the California State Railroad Museum in California and the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Ohio.
Biking Routes
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer biking routes, where you can explore the scenic landscapes by bike. In Colorado, you can bike the Copper Triangle, while in Nevada, you can bike the Flume Trail. Other notable biking routes include the Katy Trail State Park in Missouri and the Little Miami Scenic Trail in Ohio.
Wellness Retreats
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer wellness retreats, where you can relax and rejuvenate. In California, you can visit the Esalen Institute, which offers workshops and classes on yoga, meditation, and other wellness practices. Other notable wellness retreats include the Sunrise Springs Spa Resort in New Mexico and the Omega Institute in New York.
Adventure Sports
US Route 50 passes through many areas that offer adventure sports, such as rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and skiing. In Colorado, you can go skiing in Breckenridge, while in West Virginia, you can go whitewater rafting on the New River. Other notable adventure sports destinations include the Red River Gorge in Kentucky and the Lake Tahoe area in California and Nevada.