Travel becomes thrilling when you embark on a road trip and feel the freedom of the open road unfold, before you! While flying can be convenient for journeys. Avoiding the stress of long drives nothing quite compares to the flexibility and spontaneity of hitting the highway for an adventure. Recently we mapped out a route, from New Jersey all the way to Houston. I must say it was quite an unforgettable journey. We settled on a route that offered a mix of scenery and opportunities to connect with nature while allowing us time to fully appreciate it all during the drive.If you’re considering taking a journey yourself options, on how we managed it and suggestions, for maximizing the experience are outlined on Coach America website.
The Route: New Jersey to Roanoke, VA to Atlanta to Houston
To start off with our journey plan was to steer clear of the traffic chaos, in Philadelphia,Baltimore and Washington DC.I can assure you it’s not worth the hassle especially when faced with a road trip like this.Instead we opted for I78 through Pennsylvania before linking up with I81.This path leads you through some rural areas and you’ll avoid being ensnared in bumper to bumper traffic jams.Our initial significant stop was, in Roanoke,Virginia which turned out to be a midpoint break.
Roanoke is a place, for an overnight stay; when we arrived there we were really looking forward to getting out and stretching our legs a bit! If you have some time to spare and aren’t in a rush to leave town away there’s a downtown area where you can enjoy a meal or take a leisurely stroll before hitting the road again towards Atlanta. The next destination, on our journey which is relatively straightforward but still requires about six to seven hours of driving time. A heads up ; if possible it’s better to pass through Atlanta during nighttime. “Traffic, during the day can be really frustrating.”
After leaving Atlanta behind you on your journey, to Houston is a ride a bit long and uneventful maybe but definitely easy going driving all the way there! Just turn up some music. Before you realize it you’ll already be, in Texas.
Nature Stops Along the Way
Driving offers the freedom to pull over at your leisure—a luxury we indulged in to admire the landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on our recent journey. Even if time is scarce, for a visitation period detouring briefly through the park can be an experience.The ethereal mist enveloping the hills creates an ambiance as though entering a realm. If you enjoy hiking adventures and exploring nature trails Cades Cove offers a setting, for a stroll.Remember that depending on the season it might be bustling with visitors. Its certainly a destination to visit.
When it comes to making stops during a journey, with a group. Like for a family gathering. It could be beneficial to consider renting a bus. While it may seem excessive at glance – believe me – for extended trips like this one; it can truly alleviate the strain of being behind the wheel. You can simply kick back. Unwind while taking in the scenery without having to fret about navigating the roads. I recently stumbled upon this website called Coach America which offers some choices, for traveling long distances.
The Smoothest Ride to Houston
After leaving Atlanta behind you’ll encounter an expanse of terrain spanning Alabama,Mississippi and Louisiana mostly consisting of flat highways.We opted for the Chattanooga and Birmingham route, for its efficiency. There are paths to consider based on your preferred sights to explore. This stretch of the journey might seem a bit repetitive at times. It also offers a chance to ponder or push through if you’re aiming to reach Houston quicker.
If you’re tired of driving yourself and need a ride, for a group outing to Houston in mind? Check out the bus services available for the trip, at https://coachamerica.com/destinations/houston. They offer choices that can take you there hassle free! Say goodbye to the stress of driving and save some money by splitting the cost among a buddies or family members. It’s an option to consider if you want to simplify your travel experience.
Driving Tips to Keep in Mind
Here are some lessons we picked up through trial and error on our journey;
- Make sure to bring some snacks with you on your trip! Once you’ve left the Smoky Mountains and driven past Atlantas hustle and bustle l there aren’t food choices available, along the way. Just the usual fast food joints lining the highway.If you’re looking for an option or simply want a snack without having to make frequent stops you might want to consider preparing a cooler ahead of time for your journey.
- Rest areas can be a lifesaver when you’re traveling with ones and feeling the need, for a break from the journey ahead of you that spans more, than a day – remember not to overexert yourself behind the wheel.
- Drive through cities at night. Consider the traffic situation carefully. Atlanta can be pretty hectic and rush hour, in Birmingham isn’t a smooth ride either! Plan your travel times strategically to avoid traffic in these areas.
Houston: Finally Arrived
After what seemed like a ending journey, through stretches of roads and plains,we eventually arrived in Houston. And let me tell you Houston has such a feel compared to the East Coast. The culinary scene here is impressive especially if you have a liking for BBQ and Tex Mex dishes. After a drive our first priority was to grab some food. Believe me, you’re in, for a treat.
The drive, from New Jersey to Houston covers 1,o00 miles. Usually takes over 24 hours of driving time excluding stops along the way.The journey is quite challenging when done solo. Becomes more enjoyable and feasible when traveling with a group of people.Making breaks for sightseeing and sharing the driving responsibilities can turn the trip into a fun and bonding experience, for all involved.
Ultimately whether you’re driving alone or with companions or possibly renting a bus it’s a journey that’s worth embarking on. Just ensure to map out your pack all the items and savor the experience of traveling. There’s a charm, in witnessing the landscape unfold before your eyes as you navigate through it.. If you opt for the convenient option of taking a coach bus well I can’t fault you for that.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.