The Great American Hidden Gems Expedition: 14-Day Cross-Country Road Trip

Carved over millennia by flash floods, the narrow sandstone corridors produce a dramatic display of light and shadow. Book a guided tour ahead of time to capture optimal mid-day sunbeams.

Explore the legendary vortex sites throughout Sedona's striking red rock landscape, known for subtle spiritual energy and panoramic views.

A breathtaking natural swimming hole formed by an underground river collapse. Note that timed online reservations are required prior to entry.

Hike up this massive pink granite dome in the Hill Country. Popular for rock climbing and panoramic sunset views over the surrounding landscape.

Known as the Grand Canyon of Texas, this vast red rock gorge features iconic formations along the popular Lighthouse Trail.

Visit the official viewing station outside Marfa at dusk to spot mysterious, unexplained dancing light orbs on the horizon.

Tucked away in the historic Tremé neighborhood, this museum offers an authentic look into Mardi Gras Indian suits, jazz funerals, and local traditions.

An open-air night market filled with local artists, handmade crafts, and lit up by magical string lights near live music venues.

Marvel at the 23 haunting Corinthian columns—all that remains of an 1861 antebellum mansion destroyed by fire.

Located in B.B. King's hometown of Indianola, this comprehensive museum honors the blues legend and the history of Delta music.

Preserving the site of the critical 1863 Civil War battle, featuring historic monuments, battlefield drives, and the restored USS Cairo ironclad.

Drive along this historic 444-mile parkway passing through scenic forests, rolling hills, and historic wildflower trails.

Explore the stone castle ruins overlooking Lake of the Ozarks, complete with natural rock bridges and natural spring trails.

Climb among billion-year-old giant pink granite boulders that form a natural playground for scrambling and exploration.

An eccentric, multi-story interactive playground constructed entirely from repurposed architectural materials and industrial leftovers.

Hike through dramatic sandstone gorges, rugged ravines, and suspension bridges across Sugar Creek.

Discover spectacular natural rock formations including Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave nestled in dense forests.

Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, this park features over 125 miles of hiking trails leading to the picturesque Brandywine Falls.

A dramatic badlands landscape where President Theodore Roosevelt ranched. Great spot for spotting wild bison and prairie dog towns.

Drive along 32 miles of open highway adorned with massive metal scrap-art sculptures created by artist Gary Greff.

Marvel at layered rock formations and vast prairie overlooks that showcase South Dakota's rugged natural geology.

Drive the 18-mile scenic loop to view free-roaming bison herds, burros, and pronghorns up close.

Surrounded by granite spires and pine forests, this picturesque lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

Stop by this iconic world-famous roadside complex for free ice water, homemade donut treats, and western novelties.

Stroll cobblestone streets surrounded by 19th-century brick architecture, craft breweries, and seafood markets serving fresh lobster rolls.

Take a 17-minute ferry ride from downtown Portland, rent a bicycle, and circle the 4-mile island loop past coastal cottages and rocky coves.

Commissioned by George Washington in 1791, Maine's iconic beacon sits on a headland overlooking Casco Bay.

Climb or drive up Mount Battie for panoramic summit views overlooking Camden harbor and the islands of Penobscot Bay.

Admire the raw geological rock bands rushing to the ocean beneath this 1827 lighthouse and historic keeper's house.