Must-See Destinations in the U.S. from a Truck Driver

When you’re driving all over the country, you probably pass must-see destinations in the U.S.without even realizing it. There are hundreds of different destinations all over the country that hold very interesting pieces of history and information. Driving past these destinations and getting time to visit them is just one of the many perks of being a truck driver. 

When you’re an OTR (over-the-road) truck driver, you drive longer distances for a few weeks at a time. Driving these long distances gives you a greater opportunity to check out all the amazing sites along the way. While the list below is by no means comprehensive, these are a few of the must-see destinations in the U.S.

7 Must-See Destinations in the U.S. 

The U.S. has many popular attractions, the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Eiffel Tower in Nevada, and the Grand Canyon in Arizona are just a few of the places people claim you must see. While those places have a great appeal, they aren’t the only great destinations America has to offer. There are many great things to see that aren’t as recommended as the aforementioned destinations. While the places on this list may not be as well known they are still interesting and packed full of excitement and entertainment. 

Mount Rushmore

Located in South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is a historic monument that pays tribute to past presidents. The mountain features the 60-foot tall heads of former presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This sculpture is unlike any other in America. When you visit the monument, you can also enjoy the hiking trails, presentations from rangers and lighting ceremonies. The area is also home to the South Dakota Badlands and Black Hills. Stopping here is a great chance to see one of America’s greatest works of art and pay tribute to the history of America. Additionally, hiking is a great way to stretch your legs and get some exercise before you get back on the road. 

Memphis Pyramid

If you love the outdoors and fishing is your favorite hobby, you’ll want to visit the Bass Pro shop in the Memphis Pyramid. This is located in a reformed sports arena and holds around 600,000 gallons of water and 1,800 fish. Visiting this shop is truly an immersive experience. There is an adventure for everyone in the Bass Pro shop, from riding the 28 story elevator, the tallest free standing elevator in the country, to practicing sharp shooting at the archery range. Along with the various different engaging attractions, it also functions as a hotel. Though this hotel may not be covered by your trucking carrier, you can explore and come back and stay with your family or friends. 

Largest Ball of Twine

The largest ball of twine is not the most interactive experience; however, it is still a must-see destination in the U.S. Located in Cawker City, Kansas, the largest ball of twine weighs an astounding 20,000 pounds. The ball was started in 1953 by Frank Stoeber and has grown exponentially over the years. Just 4 years after it started the ball was estimated to be 5,000 pounds and was 8-feet high.  If you want to add to the ball you can call ahead and arrange a time or you can head to the gift shop and add to the ball on the day you arrive. This attraction is free to visit and there’s tons of space to park your truck!

Stax Museum

The Stax Museum is also located in Memphis, Tennessee and is the perfect place for music lovers to explore. The Stax found it’s origins in 1957 under the name Satellite Records. Jim Stewart originally founded Stax to be a recording studio and after making music for a while, he realized he needed better equipment and approached his sister Estelle Axton. In 1960 the name was changed to Stax, a combination of Stewart and Axton. Stax was a successful recording studio until a deal that went bad when Atlantic Records was sold to Warner Brothers. When you visit this museum, you’ll get to know the history of great musicians such as Otis Redding who was one of the most successful artist’s Stax produced. If you want to learn more about the Stax Museum’s history along with music history stop by on your way through Memphis!

National Motorcycle Museum 

If you drive trucks but love motorcycles you should definitely see the National Motorcycle Museum. Founded in 1989, this museum thrives off people who love motorcycles. The motorcycle industry has evolved a lot over the years and the National Motorcycle Museum puts it all on display. Located in Anamosa, Iowa this museum is also a nonprofit organization. If you have technical expertise, they welcome people to share their knowledge to help them keep motorcycles up and running. If you’re passing through Iowa make sure you visit this museum. 

Carhenge 

A play on the famous Stonehenge, Carhenge is located in Alliance, Nebraska. This is a free roadside attraction that you can stop by and see at any time of the day. Carhenge won one the “Top 10” WorldWide Attractions award from Trip Advisor in 2020. This is the most unique replica of England’s Stonehenge and is a great spot to quickly explore if you’re passing through Nebraska. 

Travel the Country with Truck Driver Institute 

If you want to drive all across the country and see the amazing must-see destinations in the U.S., become a truck driver with Truck Driver Institute. There are many benefits to being a truck driver and being able to travel the country while getting paid is at the top of the list. You can let the excitement of seeing a new destination reduce the stress of being a truck driver.  When you sign up for classes at TDI you’ll be in and out in just 3 weeks. When you pass your CDL exam and get your Class A license, you’ll be able to drive anywhere in the country. 

Find which one of our schools is closest to you or give us a call to chat more about being a truck driver. Get out to see these destinations today!