Ah, the open road. There's nothing quite like taking to the highways and byways of America to get an up-close and personal view of some of the most interesting destinations. Now, consider doing this in the comfort of an RV and you've got the best of everything for enjoying your adventure at your fingertips. All you need to do is plan an itinerary to destinations that pop and along highways that provide the biggest bang for your travel bucks.
Keep in mind, some crowded destinations, congested highways, and steep inclines may not be the best selections for your vehicle when it comes to easy drive time. Never fear because there are plenty of places to go and things to see that are sure to elevate your road trip time to a level that will exceed your expectations.
From scenic highways and backcountry roads to bustling cities, miles of open road and the opportunity to do it "your way" turn the unknown of what's ahead into an adventure of a lifetime. Plan ahead, map out an itinerary, consider taking a few of the roads less traveled to fully enjoy an appreciate your freedom of touring what's up ahead in comfort and style.
Whether you're in a full-blown Class A, B, or C motorhome, a fifth-wheel, a travel trailer, a van or 4x4, the world is your oyster, so open it and enjoy every minute 'cruisin' the lanes.
Here is the top 10 list of cities to avoid:
10. New York, New York
Close your eyes and tune in to music and you can still hear Sinatra singing the lyrics to New York, New York, "Start spreading the news, I'm leaving today" is played each year at the Belmont Stakes horse race. New York City has so much going on it isn't funny and that includes wall-to-wall traffic. Cars, trucks, taxi, bicycles, skateboards, and anything else that moves people will be found on New York City streets, on the bridges, and in the tunnels.
If you're claustrophobic, this probably isn't a good environment as you can plan on sitting, sometimes, for hours. Park your vehicle in neighboring New Jersey then use alternate transportation to help you take a bite out of the Big Apple.
09. 100% Avoid: Chicago, Chicago that Toddlin' Town
Another beautiful city rich in history, architecture, scenic views, food, and music. One of those destinations you just gotta visit. Nope. Not in an RV.
It's a bustling city, like New York, with pedestrians, bikes, taxis, and motorists all vying for the fast lane; which doesn't exist, but people look for it anyway.
To get the maximum out of a visit to Chicago, it's best to park away from the city in one of several vehicle camping parks and use alternate transportation to cruise the Magnificent Mile, check out the nightlife, sample the many restaurants, or enjoy the scenic views from the 360 Chicago observation deck in the John Hancock Building.
08. 100% Avoid: Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
Sizzling heat for days on end can be expected when making your way across the parched landscape of Death Valley. The name is apt as you'll be pretty much on your own while traversing the open highway.
With soaring temperatures of well over 100 degrees and limited to no access to amenities, this is a sure-fire way to put undue stress on you and the vehicle. If you aren't experienced in dealing with harsh conditions on a grand scale, cross Death Valley National Park off your "to do" list.
07. 100% Avoid: James Dalton Highway, Alaska
Yes, the majestic beauty of the snow-capped mountains in the distance is like a beckoning beacon drawing you nearer and nearer. Reality check. Even though you may be pining to get off the beaten track and drive off into the wild blue yonder, the Dalton Highway is not the place to do it.
The 414-mile highway is desolate, not to mention isolated, plus it's not in the best condition. While you may enjoy a level of peace and quiet that is unmatched, it is so dangerous it must be monitored by helicopter patrols.
06. 100% Avoid: Los Angeles, California
Turn on the local news that has a traffic cam to get a reality check of what traffic like in LA. Morning, noon, or night makes no difference for heavy traffic that could have you cooling your jets as you inch along.
Tips for braving the LA traffic includes making sure you have a tankful of gas at all times, a supply of water to stay hydrated while sitting in traffic, a snack or two to stave off hunger pangs while sitting, and an assortment of tunes and other entertainment for passengers to pass the time while you're busy navigating through the congestion.
05. 100% Avoid: Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska
While the gates to the park lead to extraordinary and beautiful places, for RVers, the gates may seem like they are leading to the depths of Hades. Think long dark nights for months, bitter cold, minimal access, abundant predatory wildlife, and next to nothing in camping amenities.
For die-hard campers, hikers, and backpackers, Arctic National Park is a dream come true but for anyone planning a visit in an RV, unless this is the exact type of environment you're looking for and you have the knowledge and experience to survive these types of conditions, think again.
04. 100% Avoid: Everglades National Park, Florida
The adage, "a picture is worth a thousand words" is true. Just look at the picture above. This is a road inside the Everglades National Park. It is a road for vehicles not for the infamous airboats that traverse the 'Glades although, in this instance, one would be appreciated.
Add about a bazillion mosquitoes to the environment and, well, you'll understand why you might want to consider heading to the beach instead. The Everglades National Park is a treasure trove of wildlife and Florida's natural beauty but to visit via RV could dim the brightness you'll want when visiting the Sunshine State.
03. 100% Avoid: I'm Going to San Francisco with My RV - Not!
Think about it. The streets of San Francisco are like a roller coaster at a theme park. Up and down and all around. It's not a friendly place to attempt to take an RV. Not only are the streets crazy busy and crowded, but you also have twists and turns, streetcars named desire, the wear and tear on vehicles and RVs perched on inclined streets while waiting to navigate through the city.
Best to avoid problems and park your big road trip vehicle out of town and, if you don't have access to wheels after parking at the campground, consider calling an Uber to pick you up for a tour of the city.
02. 100% Avoid: St. Louis Here I Come!
Round and round she goes, where she stops, nobody knows is a good way to explain driving in St. Louis, home of the beautiful Gateway Arch - not McDonald's.
While the city has plenty to offer such as parks, tours, and museums, it also ranks high as one of the most dangerous cities for violence in the USA, according to a 2017 report by the FBI, which notes the city experienced 91.5 crimes per 10,000 residents.
On a list of 40 cities with 40 being the least violent, St. Louis ranked #3.
01. 100% Avoid: Pacific Coast Highway (State Route 1), California
Absolutely one of the most scenic roads in California is State Route 1. Bordered by the mountains on one side and steep cliffs down to the Pacific on the other, the highway offers panoramic views far into the horizon while seagulls fly over waves crashing far, far below.
Here's the deal; the road is narrow and winding and it is prone to random rocks, big and bigger, falling from above. So, while you're attempting to enjoy the view while tooling along, be prepared for slow going and dodging boulders.
While a beautiful drive, your eyes will be 100 percent on the road ahead to ensure you stay in your lane and avoid being a target for flying bombardiers.
