Walking tour of Castle Hill (Old Town -- Buda)

Stroll across Szechenyi lanchid (Chain Bridge) to Clark Adam Square and board the funicular railway (Siklo) to the summit of Castle Hill. See the Castle first. After the visit, keeping the Castle on your left, walk past an impressive yellow building marked Varszinhaz -- the National Theater which began as a Carmelite Monastery. A left turn takes you into Disz ter. From the cobbled Disz ter (square), enter Tarnok utea (#18 houses the fascinating Pharmaceutical museum). Walk toward Szentharomsag ter. At #7 is the famed Ruszwurm Coffee House (try something here). Pass to the right of St Matthias Church. The Church is visited frequently because of its reflection in the mirror-glass of the hotel next door (take a picture). Visit the church and proceed into courtyards with the Halaszabastya (Fisherman’s Bastion) in front of you. Climb the towers for a spectacular view of the Danube and Pest.

Return via the north side of St Matthias Church with the Hilton on your right. Back on the Szentharaomsag ter, turn right onto Hess Andras ter, then bear left and walk down Fortuna utea (perhaps the most pictuesque street on Castle Hill). Pass the Cafe Pierrot and enter Becsikapa ter, dominated by the Gothic edifice of the National Archives. Walk up Petermann Bira utea to the tower and ruins of the medieval Mary Magdalene Church.

Return to Szentharomsag ter. Turn left by the statue of Hadik Andras to Toth Arpad setany for distant views of the Buda hills. Turn back, then right onto Uri utea. At #9 is the entrance to the Catacombs or Labyrinth (worth a visit if time permits). Walk down into Disz ter. Return via funicular to the Chain Bridge.

       Walking Tour of Pest

Before crossing the Chain Bridge into Pest, stroll left along the Buda side of the Danube to get a good view of the Parliament complex from across the river. Retrace back to the bridge.

Cross the Bridge and turn right from Roosevelt ter onto Apaczai Csere to Vorosmarty ter. After checking out the buildings on the square, walk down Vaci utca being sure to stop at #9 (Pest Theater -- check out the striking Art Nouveau interior. #11

(Thonet House) is recognizable by its facade of decorative Zsolnay tiles. Check out the Hermes Fountain with its elegant statue. Turn right onto Barnabas utca where the Szazeves (the oldest restaurant in Pest) serves good game dishes and wines. Back on Vaci utca, take a left onto Haris koz. You may enter the Parizsi Udvar (Paris shopping arcade). Back on Haris koz, it becomes Pilvax koz and emerges into Kamermayer Karoly (square). Turn left and enter Varoshaz utca which is dominated by the massive Town Hall.

      

           Altstadt (Old Town)

Begin at the Frauenkirche -- this cathedral was begun in 1468 and completed in 20 years. The twin towers have become a symbol of Munich. Walk southeast along any of the pedestrian alleyways radiating from the rear of the church which lead to the most famous medieval square in Munich -- the Marienplatz. In the center of the square, a golden statue of the Virgin Mary (Mariensaule) rises above pavement first laid in the 1300’s. On the northern edge of the square is the richly ornamental neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus (New City Hall), built between 1867 and 1908. On its facade is the famous Glockenspiel, the mechanical clock that performs a miniature tournament several times a day (11 AM, 12 PM, 5 PM). Climb the tower or take the elevator for a view of the city center. At the eastern border of the square is the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall).

From the square walk south along Rindermarkt, encircling the masonry bulk of the Peterskirche. The church’s interior is a sun-flodded fantasy of baroque stucco and gilt. It was completed in 1180 and is the oldest parish church in Munich. Walk around the outside of the church to the back, where you’ll find the sprawling premises of one of the best-stocked food emporiums in Europe, the Victualienmarkt, known as “Munich’s stomach”, where you can snack, have a beer, or just people watch. At the northern end of the corner where streets Rosen Tal and Im Tal meet rises the richly ornate baroque walls of the Heiliggeist (Holy Ghost Church), which originally belonged to the 14th century Hospice of the Holy Ghost.

From here, cross the busy boulevard identified as Im Tal (detour east along Im Tal to Isartorplatz to see the Isar Gate, the only remaining tower from Munich’s medieval walls). Walk north along Mederbraustrasse (within a block it will change its name to Orlanostrasse and then to Am Platzl). Here, look for the entrance to the most famous beer hall in Europe, the state-owned Hofbrauhaus. Walk northwest along Pfisterstrasse. To your left are the walls of the Alter Hof -- the palace was originally built in 1355 and once served as the palace of the Wittelbachs. On the opposite (northern) edge of Pfisterstrasse rise the walls of Munzhof -- it once housed the imperial stables. If it’s open, the double tiers and massive stone columns of the building’s Bavarian Renaissance courtyard are worth a visit. Pfisterstrasse funnels into a broader street (Hofgraben). Walk west for one block, then turn north along Residenzstrasse. The first building on your right will be the city’s main post office and a few paces farther and you’ll reach Max-Joseph-Platz. At the north edge of the square is one of Munich’s finest museums, the Residenz. Constructed in different stages and styles from 1500 to 1850, the Residenz served as the official home of the rulers of Bavaria until 1918. Enter and tour the Treasury, with its statue of St George Slaying the Dragon, the Cuvillies Theater, and the Hofgarten.

Walk from Max-Joesph-Platz north along Residenzstrasse. Make the first left and walk along Salvatorstrasse, then turn right (north) along Theatinerstrasse. On your right you’ll notice an important Munich landmark, the Feldherrnhalle, an open-air loggia designed by Friedrick von Gartner between 1841 and 1844 as a tribute to the Bavarian Army. On the western (opposite) side of the same street is the Theatinerkirche (Church of St Kajetan), completed in 1690. Its crypt contains the tombs of many of the Wittelbachs. The church’s interior is a fine example of Italian Baroque.

Now, continue walking north, passing through Odeonsplatz. On the northeastern side of this square lies the flowers, fountains, and cafes of one of Munich’s most pleasant small parks, the Hofgarten. (Perhaps stop at Cafe Luipold for a beverage).

Walk westward along Briennerstrasse, through a neighborhood lined with impressiive buildings. On your right, notice the heroic statue of Maximillian I, rising from the center of Wittelsbacher-Platz, one of the most famous squares in Munich. It is enveloped in palaces. The equestrian statue at its center is much photographed and the Wittelbacher Fountain is the most celebrated in the city. Continue along Briennerstrasse until you see a gentle fork to your left, Sonnenstrasse. This leads to the verdant and stylish perimeter of Maximillian Platz, at the heart of one of Germany’s most prestigious shopping streets (Maximillianstrasse).

Return to Briennerstrasse, turn left (west) and head toward the 85 foot obelisk (erected in 1833) that soars above Karolinenplatz. This was the city’s first star-shaped open space. The obelisk at its center commemorates the 30,000 Bavarian soldiers who were lost in the ill-fated Russian campaign of 1812. Karolinenplatz, in the east, is linked to Konigsplatz in the west by a wide boulevard (Briennerstrasse). Proceed northwest to Konigsplatz. Its neoclassic design was selected by Ludwig I in the early 19th century. Its perimeter is ringed with some of Germany’s most impressive museum buildings.

       

      Walking tour of Innerstadt

Walk north up the pedestrian-only Karntner Strasse, a walkway of plush shops, trees, cafes tables and street entertainers. Detour left down the short Donnergasse to look at the Donnerbrunnen (1739) in Neuer Markt. The four naked figures on this fountain represent the four main tributaries of the Danube. Across the square is Kapuzinerkirche (Church of the Capucin Friars) and the Kaisergreft (burial vault). Back on Karntner Strasse, detour left again down Karntner Durchgang. Here you’ll find the American Bar, designed in 1908 by Adolf Loos (Art Nouveau).

From Karntner Strasse the street opens out into Stock im Eisen Platz. On the left-side corner of Karntner Strasse, flush against the building, is a nail-studded stump (nails courtesy of blacksmiths in the 16th century banging in a nail for luck when they left the city). On the right across the square is Stephensplatz and Vienna’s prime landmark, Stephansdom (St Stephen’s Cathedral). Be sure to spend some time here. Facing it is the unashamedly modern Haas Haus, built by Hans Hollein and opened in 1990 (Viennese were unhappy when it was built).

Leading northwest from Stock im Eisen Platz is the broad thoroughfare of Graben, another push shopping street. Graben is dominated by the knobbly outline of the Pest Sanle (Plague Column), completed in 1693 to commemorate the 75,000 victims of the Black Death who perished in Vienna some 20 years earlier.

Turn left inot Kohlmarkt, so named because charcoal was once sold here. At #14 is one of the most famous of the Konditorei-style cafes (Demel). Just beyond is Michaelerplatz with the some of St Michael’s, the gateway to the Hofburg (the Imperial Palace), towering above.

The so-called Loos Haus (Golman & Salatsch Bldg) on Michaelerplatz is a typical example of the clean lines of Loos’ work. However, Franz Josef hated it and described the windows as “windows without eyebrows”. The excavations in the middle of the square are of Roman origin. Michaelerkirche, on the square, portrays five centuries of architecture styles, from 1327 (Romanesque chancel) to 1792 (Baroque doorway angels).

Pass through St Michael’s Gate and the courtyard to find yourself in Heldenplatz, with the vast curve of the Neue Hofburg, built between 1881-1908, on your left. Walk past the line of fiacres, noting the Gothic spire of the Rathaus (1873-1883) rising above the trees to your right. Ahead, on the far side of the Ring, stand the rival identical twins, the Naturshistorischers Museum (1872-1881) and the Kunsthistorischers Museum (Fine Arts) (1872-1881). Don’t miss visiting the latter. Between the museums is a large statue of Maria Theresa, surrounded by key figures of her reign.

Emperor Franz Josef was largely responsible for the architecture round the Ringstrasse. Tour the Ringstrasse, especially the section from the university to the Staatsoper (State Opera). Break up your walk by relaxing enroute in the Volksgarten (with its many roses) or in Rathauspark, featuring statues and fountains. The Burggarten contains statues of Mozart (1896) and Franz Josef, as well as the Schmetterlinghaus (Butterfly House). From the Hofburg, walk counter-clockwise round the Ring, passing a vast statue of Goethe, until you reach the Staatsoper, built between 1861 and 1869. The opulent interior is best explored during the interval of a performance, or you can take a guided tour.

At the northwestern corner of the Staatsoper is Albertinaplatz which adjoins the southeastern extremity of the Hofburg. This wing contains the famous Albertina collection of graphic arts. On the square is a troubling work by sculptor and graphic artist, Alfred Hrdlicka, created in 1988. This series of pale block-like sculptures commemorates Jews and other victims of war and fascism.

Turn into Philharmonikerstrasse, passing between the Opera and the Hotel Sacher, purveyor of a famous cake, the Sacher torte. Another few steps will bring you back to Karntner Strasse.

     

     Walking tour of Old Town

Cross the river on Staatsbrucke into Old Town and turn left along Rudolfskai. Take the first right and right again onto Getreidegasse (the main shopping street in the Old Town). On the right is the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) and at #9 is the house (Geburthaus) where Mozart was born and lived until age 17. Take the first left and left again toward Kollegienkirche (the University Church) on the right. Check out the interior, especially the High Altar by Johann Bernhard Fischer, then left onto S. Haffner-gasse which winds around to the left. The Franziskanerkirche (Franciscan CHurch) is on your right. Check out the baroque altarpiece by Fischer. At the first major intersection, take a right to head for the large square (Residenzplatz). The Residenz (the most opulent building in the city) is on your right. The Glockenspiel is directly ahead atop the Neuhaus Palace (it plays classical music, usually be Mozart at 7 AM, 11 AM, and 6 PM). Turn right around the Dom (St Rupert and St Virgil Cathedral). Check out the interior as well as the St Peter’s Cemetery. Beyond the Dom is Kapitelplatz (a bustling market square with an attractive fountain). Continue around the Dom , then left, passing the Stift St Peter (see Church and Statue) on your right.

Then walk up the hill to Festunggasse to take the funicular up to the Fortress (Hohensalzburg). Visit the Fortress, perhaps look for the Nonnberg Convent (just below south side of fortress, where Maria became a nun and then hid from the Nazis)then walk back down the hill, continuing thru kapitelplatz and Residenzplatz again and on to Mozartplatz, with its imposing statue of Mozart. Then continue toward the river and take the footpath (Mozartsteg) to the New Town.

Take a left along the river to the next footpath, then right into Marktplatz where you will find the Mozart Wohnhaus, where he lived later. Straight beyond the square, take a left onto Dreifaltigkeisgasse which continues into Rainerstrasse. Continue to the entrance to Mirabell Gardens, on the left. Head first for Rosenhugel (Rosebush Hill) which was the location in the Sound of Music for the children leaning to sing (there is also a great view of the city from the top of the hill). Stroll through the gardens, especially noting the Zwerglgarten (Dwarfs’ Garden). Visit the Mirabell Palace, if possible, and try to get tickets for the Marionette Theater for this evening.

Note: The gazebo in Sound of Music (setting for “16 going on 17”, and the waltz and kiss between Maria and the Baron) is found at Schloss Hellbrunn, 4 miles south of the city on Route 159!

      This northern route cuts across the midwest from Detroit, MI to Billings, MT. There are several highlights of this route as it passes through Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota.

 

     Michigan

        Detroit - Motor City is not one of the nation's top destinations by any means, but it has a few sights for the tourist who is passing through. Its skyline is dramatic and it contains several quality museums.

 

     Indiana

        Notre Dame University - A short detour to South Bend brings the visitor to the storied campus of Notre Dame, one of America's most respected universities.

 

     Illinois

        Chicago - This beautiful city on the banks of Lake Michigan sports perhaps the most beautiful skyline in the US, great city parks, and some of the best museums in the world.

 

     Wisconsin

        Milwaukee - This city is known particularly for its beer and for the presence of Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers professional football team.

        Wisconsin Dells - This well-known family vacation area is very much overdone, but there is no ignoring its popularity. Check out the nice scenery on the Wisconsin River with a boat ride.

 

      Minnesota

         Minneapolis-St Paul - The Twin Cities have a number of attractions to entice the tourist. St Paul has more charm while Minneapolis has a big city feel with a midwestern down-home, friendly manner.

         Mall of America - Just south of Minneapolis, in the suburb of Bloomington, is probably the premier shopping venue in the United States. It has become a travel destination because of all the activities offered in addition to shopping.

 

      North Dakota

         Bismarck - Check out the Art Deco State Capitol building while passing through the area.

         Theodore Roosevelt National Park - A memorial to the president who championed the environment and who started the national park system, this park features colorful badlands and stark Western landscapes.

 

      Montana

         Pompey's Pillar National Monument - This sandstone formation contains the carved name of Captain William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame), the lone physical reminder of the famous expedition that opened up the entire West to settlers.

 

                 Forbidden City, Beijing, China

 

The most important site for any visitor to China's capital, Beijing, is certainly the Forbidden City (Gugon Bowuguan), a vast complex of palaces, halls, courtyards and gardens to the north of Tiananmen Square, through the famous Gate of Heavenly Peace, a Chinese icon. Must sees within the complex are the Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihedian), Ningshou Gong Huayuan, Leshoutang, Nei Ting, the inner palace, and the Imperial Gardens.

    

The complex was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) and was the imperial residence until the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912 AD). It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1987 and is referred to by UNESCO as the world's largest collection of ancient wooden buildings (980 still remain). It is completely surrounded by a wall (approximately 25 feet high) and a moat.

 

The Outer Court, the southern section, was used for ceremonial purposes, while the Inner Court, to the north, was the living area of the Emperor. There is much symbolism in the design of each structure, from the colors of the roof tiles to the types of creatures depicted on the roof edges.

 

The Imperial Gardens are further to the north of the complex and consist of many paths and pavilions designed to encourage serenity and solitude while contemplating the glory of nature.

     

             Great Wall of China

1. The Great Wall of China (Changcheng) is one of the world’s most enduring testaments to man’s presence on the planet, Earth, and it is also a brooding testament to man’s penchant for violence and aggression, since the wall was built to frustrate and resist incursions from beyond China’s borders. The wall extends some 6400 kilometers (almost 4000 miles) across northern China to the sea.

The most accessible and most popular part of the wall, the section at Badaling, is only about 70 km (43 miles) northwest of Beijing. Because of its proximity to the Ming Tombs, it is frequented by numerous tour groups and busloads of visitors. Because of this, some may want to consider visiting other sections of the wall, if only to avoid the hordes. Probably the best alternative is the Mutianyu section, about 90 km (56 miles) northeast of Beijing. Here, access to the wall is via a strenuous one-hour climb, but there is also a cable car. Another alternative is the section at Jinshanling, about 130 km (80 miles) northeast of Beijing, where the wall is younger (about 1600 A.D.) and features circular towers and a more elaborate structure.

The wall is a model of engineering as it winds its way across the hilly, forbidding landscape. It is over 8 meters (25 feet) high and over 7 meters (20 feet) wide in sections. Some of the wall is not restored, but hikers can still traverse long sections.

The history of this mega-structure dates back to the 6th century BC. Sections were built, rebuilt and restored up to the present day. The most famous builder of the wall was the Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who ruled and unified China around 220 BC. However, much of the current wall was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368 -1644 AD).

One of the things that amazed me when our tour group visited in May was how steep and difficult it was to walk. I walked approximately one (1) mile of the Wall, then a mile back and I thought it was one of the most strenuous activities I have ever done. Granted, I am in my sixties, but even the younger people in the group remarked about its difficulty.

Check out the photo album of my visit to the Wall tomorrow.

 

     Oahu is the main island of the Hawaiian Islands. It contains the capital, Honolulu, and many of the most important tourist attractions in these incredibly beautiful islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Here are my choices as the best of this fantastic vacation spot.

 

     1. Waikiki Beach - Probably the most recognized beach in the world, Waikiki curves beautifully toward the ominous presence of Diamond Head in the east. It is popular with surfers and families and is probably the best place to people-watch in the entire chain.

 

     2. USS Arizona Memorial - This sobering remembrance of the many sailors and other soldiers who lost their lives on December 7, 1941, has become a symbol of the perseverence and resilience of the American people, who recovered from this devastating attack to humble both Japan and Germany over the remaining years of World War II.

 

     3. Hanauma Bay - This beach allows beginning and veteran snorklers an opportunity to experience the beauty of the coral reef without having to venture into deep water. A large variety of colorful fish can be seen within a few yards of shore.

 

     4. Diamond Head State Park - Visitors can scale this extinct volcano on a winding path and are rewarded with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and Waikiki Beach.

 

     5. Pali Lookout - Just outside Honolulu is the site of the most famous battle in Hawaiian history, where King Kamehameha's victory allowed the unification of the islands and the establishment of a monarchy which persisted into the 20th century.

 

     6. North Shore Beaches - Surfers come here to test their mettle against some of the biggest waves in the world. Others come here to watch the best surfers in the world. In any case, the beaches are legendary -- Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay.

 

     7. Iolani Palace - The only royal residence in the United States, this palatial mansion was home of the Hawaiian monarchs. Across the street is a statue of King Kamehameha, who united the various tribes of the island.

 

     8. Polynesian Cultural Center - This extensive open-air museum takes visitors on a journey throughout the South Pacific, examining cultures such as, Tahiti, the Maori of New Zealand, Tonga, and, of course, Hawai'i. There are craft displays and even hands-on activities like hula dancing.

 

     9. Byodo-In Temple - This Buddhist temple is a sanctuary of silence and contemplation at the foot of lovely mountains. The temple itself is a replica of one in Japan and services the numerous Japanese immigrants who populated Hawaii.

 

     10. Take in the View of Waikiki and Diamond Head from the Honahona Room - At the top of the Sheraton Royal Hawaiian, the Honahona Room has a spectacular view from its bar. The room has huge windows which look out over Waikiki and onward to Diamond Head.

     Xi'an, the ancient capital of China, has become one of the must-see destinations within China because of the discovery, in the 1970's of a Terra Cotta Army of life-size soldiers which were buries near the tomb of the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty. Archaeologicalists consider this wealth of ancient treasure to be the major discovery of the century and some have listed the terra cotta warriors as one of the "seven wonders of the world." Visitors to the city, however, are pleased to find that this tomb is not the only attraction here. Below is my list of the major places to see and things to do in this fascinating city.

 

     1. Terra Cotta Warriors - Without doubt, this is the major attraction of the city. The soldiers may be viewed from an elevated walkway. More than 6,000 have been excavated already and there are more to be found. A guide is helpful to distinguish among the types and ranks of soldiers.

 

     2. Bell Tower - Once the center of activity within the city, this tower stands tall, in a traffic circle and is still a focal point for visitors. 

    

     3. Small Wild Goose Pagoda - Out of the city center, this Buddhist pagoda has been damaged over the years but is still a place that locals come to relax. For the visitor, there are the ubiquitous shops and even a local crafts display.

 

      4. City Walls - This ancient walled city has preserved its heritage well. The almost nine (9) miles of walls can still be walked.

 

      5. Tang Dynasty Show - Once able to be seen only by the Emperor and his guests, this vividly colorful and spectacular show is a favorite evening activity for tourists to the city.

 

      6. Drum Tower - Another beautiful feature of the old city, this colorful tower is now surrounded by shops, restaurants and park fountains.

 

      7. Dumpling Lunch or Dinner - Dumplings are a common feature in China's restaurants. However, nowhere else is the traditional seventeen or eighteen course dumpling meal done more beautifully than here in Xi'an. The dumplings are all carefully shaped to match the ingredient inside, for example, a shrimp dumpling is shaped like a shrimp, a pigeon dumpling looks like a pigeon.

 

      8. Great Wild Goose Pagoda - Also outside the city wallls this Buddhist pagoda can be climbed for excellent views.

 

      9. Muslim Quarter - Any walking tour of the city center should include a stroll down the narrow alleys of the Muslim Quarter. There are more Muslims here than in any other Chinese city, and the culture is well-established. Check out the shops and restaurants, and be sure to try some of the street food.

 

      10. Shaanxi Provincial Museum - This excellent museum allows visitors a much closer look at the terra cotta warriors than at the tomb itself. There are also many other artifacts from the early days of Chinese unification since Xi'an was the home of the emperors of the time.

    This highway begins in the Hampton Roads section of Virginia and travels westward all the way to St Louis. Thus there is ocean, mountains (a number of ranges of the Appalachians) and great rivers (particularly the Mississippi) in its path. The are also some major destinations along the route, so it provides an interesting excursion.

 

     Virginia

        Virginia Beach - This popular destination provides a great variety of summer opportunities, especially for children. Walk the boardwalk or see a major shipyard at nearby Norfolk.

       Williamsburg - America's premier open-air museum is alive with activities throughout the year. While in the vicinity, check out Jamestown and Yorktown, two other historic locations.

       Richmond - Virginia's state capital was once the capital of the Confederacy. Take a guided tour of the capitol building and get a lesson in American history, since so many of Virginia's sons were pivotal in US history.

       Charlottesville - Jefferson's estate gives visitors an opportunity to understand this complex and intelligent man and to appreciate his many other interests. Here was a true "renaissance man." Also be sure to visit the campus of the University of Virginia, which Jefferson founded.

       Blue Ridge Parkway - Just west of Charlottesville is the northern terminus of this extremely scenic drive along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, all the way to the Tennessee border. If time does not permit such a long detour, get a flavor by driving south to Natural Bridge, Virginia and then westward onto I-64 again.

 

     West Virginia

         New River Gorge - In Beckley, be sure to check out the bridge over the New River Gorge, a favorite place for bungy-jumpers and kayakers.

 

     Kentucky

        Kentucky Horse Park

            Lexington is the home of this combination show and museum which is a tribute to the horse, one of the most important domesticated animals in the history of man. The Parade of Breeds illustrates the differences between the types of horses.

            Kentucky Horse Farms - Take a detour southeast of Lexington to see the premier thoroughbred horse farms in the country. Many of them allow visitors to see their operation.

            Louisville - While passing through the city, stop briefly to see the Churchill Downs, the most famous thoroughbred race track in the country and the home of the Kentucky Derby.

 

      Missouri

          St Louis - This important city on the banks of the Mississippi River is home to the Gateway Arch, symbol of the Westward Expansion which more than doubled the size of the United States in the mid-eighteenth century.

     Not one of the true cross country routes, such as, Interstate 90 or 95, I-81 nevertheless traverses a large part of the country from Knoxville, Tennessee to the Canadian border near Watertown, NY. Because of its journey along and through the Appalachian Mountains, it is particularly scenic, for an interstate. There are also some interesting locations along the route which are mentioned below.

 

     Tennessee

         Pigeon Forge - One of the major entry points into Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this typical access piont has loads of attractions to entice visitors. Dolly Parton's Dollywood is perhaps the best example.

        Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Explore this forested paradise on foot or by car to see wildlife, relive the history of the region, or just admire the incredible scenery.

 

      Virginia

         Skyline Drive - This beautiful scenic route runs parallel to I-81 for miles. Hop on at Waynesboro, VA and take this limited-access highway through Shenandoah National Park to Front Royal, where you can return to I-81.

 

      West Virginia

         Harper's Ferry National Historic Park - This place is famous for John Brown's raid on the Armory here in 1859, one of the precipitating events prior to the Civil War.

 

      Pennsylvania

         Gettysburg National Historical Battlefield - The fame of this pivotal battle of the Civil War is legendary. Not only did it mark a change in fortune for the South and overwhelm people with the number of dead and wounded, but it was also the scene of President Abraham Lincoln famous Gettysburg Address, a speech which defined him as president and also defined this horrible war which pitted brother against brother, neighbor against neighbor.

         Hershey - The Chocolate Town of Hershey is true to its theme -- there are chocolate-reminders everywhere. In addition, Hershey Park is of interest to families.

 

     This highway runs parallel with the Pacific Coast from San Diego, California to the Canadian border just south of Vancouver, British Columbia. A significant part of its length in California traverses the fertile valleys of the central part of the state where much of the nation's food supply originates.

 

     California

        San Diego - This popular vacation spot has a splendid climate and many attractions. The Mexican border town of Tijuana is just a few miles south of the city while the pleasant community of La Jolla is only minutes north.

        Disneyland - The flagship of the Walt Disney empire is still extremely popular even though much smaller than its other American venue, near Orlando, Florida.

        Los Angeles - The "city of angels" has many excellent museums as well as numerous attractions related to the film industry. Check out the height of up-scale shopping on Rodeo Drive or pre-historic creatures at the La Brea tarpits.

        Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park - Take a detour onto Rte 99 just south of Bakersfield to make the excursion to this dramatic location where the largest living things, the Giant Sequoia trees, live. Drive along the General's Highway for a close-up look at these grand specimens, then cut back to I-5 just north of Fresno.

        Yosemite National Park - Instead of cutting back to I-5 immediately, take State Route 41 north to this gem of a park, where the incredible sculpting of the landscape by glaciers can be witnessed. Half-dome, El Capitan, and numerous waterfalls will take your breath away.

        San Francisco - Detour westward to the "city by the bay" and plan to spend several nights because there are so many things to do and see here. From Alcatraz Island to Lombard Street to the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is a tourist paradise.

        Lassen Volcanic National Park - This park preserves the area around an active volcano which erupted as recently as 1921.  

 

     Oregon

       Crater Lake National Park - The incredible blue color of America's deepest lake has drawn visitors for centuries. The park is an easy detour from I-5 along State Route 62. The crater of a volcano is the unusual setting for the lake. Meander along Crater Rim Drive for spectacular views.

       Oregon Coast - Another worthwhile detour takes visitors west to US Route 101 which skirts the coastline and provides great views and access the beaches and dunes. Oregon's beautiful coastline is dotted with numerous sea stacks.

       Portland - Oregon's largest city contains a large population of Americans who participated in the "Hippie" culture of the 1960's. The city itself is attractively "retro" and many examples of this interesting culture can still be seen. Be sure to visit Washington Park, the city's gem which offers fantastic views of the skyline and snow-capped Mount Hood in the distance.

       Columbia River Gorge - While in Portland, venture eastward along the Columbia River for a wonderfully scenic drive and access to other attractions such as Multnomah Falls, Oregon's tallest.

 

     Washington

       Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument - The dramatic 1980 eruption of this very active volcano has been seen by many on the news and in documentaries, however, nothing compares to witnessing the devastation which can still be seen in the area surrounding the peak.

       Mount Rainier National Park - Another volcano which potentially could erupt at any time, the beautiful glacier-covered peak is a short distance from Seattle and can be seen, on clear days, hovering over the city. Visitors have an opportunity to engage in a multitude of activities within the park.

       Olympic National Park - Take a detour near the state capital, Olympia, to sample one of the United States' most diverse national parks. Visitors will see beautiful, pristine beaches, temperate rain forests, and high mountain peaks, all in the space of a few miles.

       Seattle - This All-American city has much to offer the tourist, from vestiges of its past at Pioneer Square to visions of the future at the Space Needle to good-natured fun at the Pike Place Market. 

   

     This interesting highway runs is another lengthy one, running from the Mexican border, at San Diego, to the Canadian border, in northern Montana. There are some extremely interesting cities and other sights along the way, including everyone's favorite gambling and entertainment destination, Las Vegas, Nevada, as well as Salt Lake City, Utah.

 

     California

         San Diego - This delightful city, known for its ideal climate, has a multitude of must-see tourist attractions. It's zoo is famous around the world as one of the best, and its major city park, Balboa Park, is also considered one of the best, at least in America.

        Death Valley National Park - Just before reaching Nevada, take a detour on Rte 127 north to visit one of America's most interesting national parks. Here visitors will find the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere, the hottest temperatures and some of the most unusual landscapes in the world.

 

     Nevada

         Las Vegas - Very little needs to be said about this popular tourist location. Spend a few days even if you are not a gambler -- there are fantastic shows, and many other activities in and just outside of the city. Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon are just a few.

 

     Utah

        Zion National Park - This upside-down version of the Grand Canyon (visitors here are at the bottom of the canyon looking up at the walls and othere features. There are many trails available in this superb national park.

        Bryce Canyon National Park - Not far from Zion but a little more of a detour from the highway is this incredibly picturesque landscape, basically a bowl of sandstone which has been carved into odd and colorful shapes, known as hoodoos. The scene is truly other-worldly!

        Salt Lake City - The major attraction here is Temple Square, headquarters of the Mormon religion where a worthwhile guided tour features the Seagull Monument, the Tabernacle, and the Temple itself.

 

     Idaho

        Craters of the Moon National Monument - This attraction, a lunar-like landscape which features numerous volcanic cinder cones and other similar geological phenomena, is worth the detour off the highway, especially for those who find volcanoes fascinating.

      This highway extends from El Paso, Texas, on the border with Mexico, to northern Wyoming. In its transit, it passes through such important tourist locations as Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico, Colorado Springs and Denver, Colorado, and Cheyenne, Wyoming. Much of its length skirts the front range of the Rocky Mountains, making this route particularly scenic.

 

      New Mexico

         White Sands National Monument - This stark landscape is visually stunning and so unusual that most visitors are truly amazed. Imagine miles and miles of sugar-white sand with only an occasional tuft of grass.

         Albuquerque - This sprawling southwestern city has preserved its quaint and pleasant-to-walk Old Town. The classic American road, Route 66, passes through the city and there are numerous Art Deco reminders of its past. Nearby is Sandia Peak which offers great views of the city and its surroundings.

         Santa Fe - This picturesque capital city has numerous examples of southwestern architecture, and, with its many artists, great opportunities for visitors with an interest in the Arts. Be sure to stroll along the main square and see the native crafts on display in front of the Palace of the Governors.

         Taos - About an hour or so north of Santa Fe is the town of Taos, a worthwhile excursion for those in the area. The biggest attraction here is Taos Pueblo, a World Heritage Site which preserves the communal living style of the Pueblo Indians. The HIgh Road to Taos (State Route 68) is an interesting and scenic drive.

 

      Colorado

          Royal Gorge - This "Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River" can be visited in Canon City, just west of Pueblo, Colorado. The bridge over the gorge is the highest suspension bridge over water in the world.

          Pike's Peak - This famous 14,000 foot mountain is named for the American explorer, Zebulon Pike, and was the inspiration for the "purple mountain's majesty" line of America the Beautiful. The auto road to the top is both breath-taking and scary, but worth the time and effort. Be aware that breathing is much more difficult at the peak because of the altitude.

          Garden of the Gods State Park - Near the base of Pike's Peak, on the outskirts of Colorado Springs, this interesting state park has many unusual examples of the forces of erosion on the local sandstone. It is also popular with mountain-climbers.

          US Air Force Academy - The spectacular setting in the foothills of the Rockies is enhanced by the presence of military cadets parading in uniform around the campus and by the glorious chapel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

          Rocky Mountain National Park - Just west of Loveland, Colorado, this incredibly scenic mountain landscape can be easily accessed by car or on foot via the many hiking trails within the park. Wildlife-spotting is another favorite activity for visitors.

          White-water Rafting - Available in many locations around the country now, this exhilarating activity is particularly popular on the Poudre River, just west of Fort Collins, Colorado.

 

       Wyominig

          Cheyenne - This typical city of the Old West  has grown considerably since its frontier days, but still charms visitors with many reminders of these simpler, and often more dangerous days. It's a great place to see a rodeo.

          Fort Laramie National Historic Site - Just northeast of Wheatland, Wyoming is another preservation of the Old West worth visiting. Many buildings of this former trading post and military outpost have been preserved for visitors to explore.

          Buffalo - The road (Route 16) from Buffalo to Ten Sleep, Wyoming is particularly scenic and worth several hours if time permits.

      This lengthy road which runs north-south through the central part of the US begins at the Mexico border (the town of Laredo) and ends near the Canadian border, in Duluth, Minnesota. Numerous significant tourist locations can be accessed along the route, since it passes through cities, such as, San Antonio and Dallas, Texas, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Kansas City, Missouri, and Minneapolis-St Paul, Minnesota.

 

     Texas

         San Antonio - Here, visitors will find the Alamo, symbol of the "heart" of Texas and an inspiring reminder of the difficulties faced by Americans in the pursuit of independence. Be sure to see the IMAX presentation prior to visiting the mission, to fully understand the layout and events of this "last stand" for American pioneer heroes, Jim Bowie, Davy Crockett, and others.

         Dallas - The "last stand" for President John F Kennedy took place here during a motorcade through the city, when Lee Harvey Oswald shot him from a window in the Book Depository. The critical locations of this assassination are popular with visitors to the city.

 

      Oklahoma

        Oklahoma City - Another infamous event took place here in 1995 when the Federal Building was bombed, killing 168 people. A memorial was erected on the site and is a moving reminder for Americans of the dangers of terrorism. On a cheerier note, spend some time at the Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Museum to relive the early days of the Oklahoma territory.

 

       Missouri

         Kansas City - This is great place to sample Ribs or Barbeque. There aren't too many sights for the tourist, but the food is worth a stop.

 

       Minnesota

         Bloomington - The only attraction here is the Mall of America, an extravaganza which is world famous as America's largest retail center. It also has an amusement park, and aquarium and many other options, especially for children.

         Minneapolis-St Paul - The twin cities combine to attract a variety of visitors.  Minneapolis has a big city feel, while St Paul is smaller and a bit more homey with its older architecture.

      This road traverses the center of the US from New Orleans, Louisiana to Chicago, Illinois. Important stops along the way include Memphis, Tennessee and St Louis, Missouri.

 

      Louisiana

         New Orleans - This great travel destination blends an interesting culture, a mix of creole, cajun, French, and American, with incredible music, especially the smoothest jazz in the world. The French Quarter is where most tourists spend the bulk of their time, carousing on Bourbon Street until all hours of the morning and simply walking the quaint streets admiring the wrought iron balconies and flower and garden displays. However, also include a Mississippi River cruise and a ride on the St Charles Avenue Streetcar.

 

      Mississippi

        Natchez Trace Parkway - There is an opportunity, for those interested, to access this scenic and historic roadway, a combination of buffalo trails used by traders and Indian trails. It can be picked up near Jackson, Mississippi, and runs more-or-less parallel with I-55 for a while (when you reach Eupora, go west on Rte 82). To drive a bit more of the Trace, stay on until Tupelo (the birthplace of Elvis), then take Route 78 northeast to Memphis where I-55 can be accessed again.

 

      Tennessee

         Memphis - The home of the "Blues" is a great place to spend a day or two. From Elvis' Graceland to a stroll through Mud Island Park to a Mississippi Cruise to some of the best barbeque in the country, there is much to do here.

 

      Missouri

         St Louis - The Gateway Arch is the big draw here, a tall, gleaming steel parabola symbolizing the Westward Expansion, a historic time featuring rugged pioneers venturing into a section of the country teeming with danger and uncertainty. Take a pod to the top for great views.

 

       Illinois

         Cahokia Mounds State Park - Just east of St Louis are the remains of a thriving trade center used by the Missisippians, a pre-Columbian civilization.

         Chicago - One of America's premier cities, Chicago has it all. From beaches on Lake Michigan to its second-to-none skyline to its rich ethnic neighborhoods to beautiful city parks to world-class museums, there is a dizzying variety of things to do for people of all ages.  

     This north-south highway travels all the way from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It joins cities such as Atlanta, Georgia and Tampa, Florida with places such as Knoxville, Tennessee, Lexington, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio and Detroit, Michigan. There are a number of stops along the way for the inveterate traveler.

 

      Florida

          Gulfstream Park - For those who appreciate the "Sport of Kings," one of the premier venues for thoroughbred horse racing is just south of Fort Lauderdale, in Hallandale, FL. The park is beautiful and gamblers will find a quality card during the racing season.

          Sanibel Island - Just west of Fort Myers, FL is this gem of a spot on the Gulf of Mexico. The beaches here and in neighboring Captiva Island and great and are well known as a shell-hunter's paradise.

          Disney World - Walt Disney's fabulous theme park is only a short distance east of I-75 and well worth several days. It is one of the most popular tourist locations in the entire world and offers a huge variety of activities throughout the area.

 

       Georgia

          Atlanta - One of the largest cities in the deep South, Atlanta has a wealth of attractions, including Centennial Park, location of the 1996 Summer Olympics, CNN Studios, which offers a fascinating look at the television media industry, and Coca-Cola World where visitors are informed about the history of the world's favorite soft drink and even given samples.

         Stone Mountain Park - Just outside of Atlanta, this park features a huge stone carving of the leaders of the Confederacy during the Civil War, Robert E Lee, Stonewall Jackson, and the president of the Confederacy, Jefferson Davis.

 

       Tennessee

           Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Just southeast of Knoxville is America's most-visited national park, a kaleidoscope of nature trails, historical farms, and abundant wildlife.

 

        Kentucky

           Lexington - This area of the state is known for horses. Take a scenic drive along state route 30 and see many of these picturesque working farms. Another great activity is to visit the Kentucky Horse Park. Visitors can see a show which highlights the many breeds of horses, visit the fantastic museum which describes the history of horse racing, and also see the statue of Man-o-War, one of the greatest thoroughbreds of all time.

 

       Ohio

           Cincinnati - Although not a major tourist destination, this All-American city has several good museums for those so-inclined, and its zoo is recognized as one of the best in the country.

 

       Michigan

            Detroit - "Motor City" is the automobile industry center in the United States. Not seen as a much of a tourist destination, the city is trying to revitalize its run-down neighborhoods. The Art Institute is worth a few hours.

            Upper Peninsula - This part of Michigan is an entirely different world from the rest of the state. It's worth it, if in the vicinity, to visit a city like Sault-Ste-Marie just to get a flavor of the life here. For a longer stay, be sure to visit Pictured Rocks National Seashore on the coast of Lake Superior, west of Sault-Ste-Marie.