Across the Heartland to Nebraska
A cross-country journey from the coast of Maine through the industrial heartland to the plains of Nebraska.
Bangor → Portsmouth → Williamstown → Geneva → Cleveland → Dayton → St. Charles → David City
Through the Pine Tree State
Start your trip after a hearty Maine breakfast. The goal today is to clear the Maine/New Hampshire border and settle into the edge of the mountains.
Bangor
Pick up your snacks and coffee at a local spot before hitting the I-95 south.
Portland Head Light
It’s the most photographed lighthouse in the US for a reason. Stretch your legs on the rocks and maybe grab a lobster roll from the food truck usually parked nearby.
Portsmouth
Wander the brick sidewalks of Market Square. It’s a great spot to feel the transition from Maine’s ruggedness to New Hampshire’s colonial charm.
The Mohawk Trail & Green Peaks
Today is about avoiding the Mass Pike and enjoying the rolling hills of the Berkshires.
Brattleboro
A quirky river town. Pop into the local bookstores or grab a coffee by the Connecticut River.
Shelburne Falls
Walk across the Bridge of Flowers. It’s an old trolley bridge turned into a botanical garden, and the glacial "potholes" in the river below are wild to see.
Williamstown
Home to Williams College and the Clark Art Institute. The campus is beautiful for a late afternoon stroll.
Across the Empire State
We’re heading west through New York today. It’s a lot of driving, so we’ll break it up with a stop at one of the state's prettiest lakes.
Cooperstown
Even if you aren't a huge baseball fan, the town itself is picture-perfect. The Otesaga Resort Hotel porch is a great place for a view of Lake Otsego.
Skaneateles
One of the cleanest lakes in the country. The downtown sits right on the water; grab a "Dinosaur BBQ" sandwich if you see the local shop.
Geneva
Located at the northern tip of Seneca Lake. It's the gateway to wine country and has a very relaxed evening atmosphere.
The Shores of Lake Erie
We’re crossing into the Rust Belt today, but staying close to the water for the best views.
Presque Isle State Park
A sandy peninsula that juts into Lake Erie. It feels more like the ocean than a lake. Drive the loop and stop at Beach 11.
Cleveland Museum of Art
It’s world-class and, best of all, the permanent collection is free. The atrium is a stunning place to rest your eyes from the road.
Edgewater Park
Get that iconic photo with the Cleveland script sign and watch the sunset over the lake.
The Crossroads of America
Leaving the lakes behind and heading into the heart of the Midwest.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Just south of Cleveland. Stop at Brandywine Falls for a quick boardwalk hike to see the 60-foot waterfall.
German Village
A historic neighborhood in Columbus with cobblestone streets. You have to visit "The Book Loft," a massive 32-room bookstore.
National Museum of the US Air Force
Even if you just see the outside or the first hangar, the scale of the planes here is incredible.
The Big River Crossing
Big sky country starts to reveal itself as we cross the Mississippi.
Indianapolis City Market
A great spot to grab local snacks for the long haul across Illinois.
Gateway Arch National Park
You can't drive this way and not stop. Stretch your legs in the park beneath the Arch; if you want to go to the top, book your tram tickets weeks in advance.
Saint Charles
A historic river town just west of St. Louis. It was the first capitol of Missouri and the brick Main Street is perfect for dinner.
The Final Stretch to David City
Today is the longest haul, but the scenery shifts into the beautiful rolling hills of the Missouri River valley.
Pony Express Museum
A quick, cool stop to learn about how mail used to move across the very ground you're driving on.
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
Located right off I-80. It’s a massive collection of Cold War-era planes that will blow your mind.
David City
You’ve made it. Pull into the town square and enjoy the quiet pace of Butler County.
- Watch your tolls in NY and MA (EZ-Pass is a lifesaver).
- Once you hit Nebraska, keep an eye on your gas tank; towns get further apart!
- Day 3: 5h 1m driving — plan rest stops
- Day 4: 5h 6m driving — plan rest stops
- Day 6: 6h 18m driving — plan rest stops
- Day 7: 7h 31m driving — plan rest stops