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Say hello to go go.drive. is a fun magazine that educates you on automotive maintenance and repair, as well as what you should know when you’re ready to buy a new car. There’s nothing more that we at go.drive. love more than summer. We wanted to share our love with all of you, so we created an eBook of our best summer road trips! You’ll find cool diners, awesome scenic views, baseball parks, plus tips on safety in this book. We hope you enjoy our compilation of road trips and get ready to take a few of your own this summer!
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6 IN THIS ISSUE
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7 Awesome Road Trips
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America’s Top Picnic Spots
6 8 12
Not Your Average Greasy Spoon
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One With Nature
The Cleanest Drives in America
Stave Off Sleepiness
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PENNZOIL® SYNTHETICS KEEP PISTONS CLEANER
THAN ANY LEADING SYNTHETIC OIL.* PENNZOIL ULTRA™
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• Keeps pistons up to 25% cleaner than Mobil 1
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• Up to 40% cleaner than Castrol® EDGE® with SYNTEC ®
• Up to 20% cleaner than Castrol® EDGE® with SYNTEC®
MAKE IT A PENNZOIL CHANGE.™ *Actual advantage over competitive products is greater than visually shown. Based on ASTM Sequence IIIG piston deposit test using SAE 5W-30. Does not apply to Pennzoil Ultra™ Euro, Pennzoil Ultra™ 0W-40, or Pennzoil Platinum® 0W-20 products. Superior versus our conventional and synthetic blend oils. ©2013 SOPUS Products. All rights reserved.
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7 Awesome Road Trips Part of being young is about planning epic adventures. After all, a road trip with your buddies is a collegiate rite of passage. That’s why we’ve gathered together the best road trips to take this fall. There are destinations that will bring out the rocker, German or Spring Breaker in everyone. If it’s been a few moons since you last stepped into a lecture hall, don’t worry. These road trips are just as fun whether you’re a full-time student or just a co-ed at heart!
Bring Out Your Inner Rocker
If you’re road tripping to Bethel, there’s probably only one reason — music. That’s right; Bethel Woods Center for the Arts is at the site of the original Woodstock festival that was held in 1969. Sure, there might never be another Woodstock, but the legacy of awesome music still lives on. The center now has a 15,000-seat outdoor performing arts venue that will host several concerts this fall. Time your trip right and you can see artists ranging from Kid Rock to Elton John to the New York Pops. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the museum and explore the experience of Woodstock for yourself.
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by Tammy Neal
n
Staff Writer
Be Proud You’re German (Even if You’re Not)
If there are 80,500 bratwurst, 3,600 pounds of sauerkraut and 1.6 million ounces of beer at your road trip destination, you must be headed to Oktoberfest. There are dozens of Oktoberfest celebrations around the nation, and one of the largest is in Cincy. The event, which has been held since 1976, invades downtown with more than 500,000 people attending each year. In addition to plenty of food and drink, there’s plenty of entertainment to go around. You can take in one of the many German bands, participate in the world’s largest chicken dance or cheer on your favorite contestant at the Pepto Bismol World Brat Eating Championship or Sam Adams Stein Hoisting Championship.
Get Your “Spring Break” On This Fall
We know, classes just started, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start thinking about taking a break. Lake Havasu is known as one of the ultimate spring break destinations, but late fall is also an excellent time to visit. That’s when the average high temperature finally dips back below 100º F. There’s plenty to do in Havasu like boating, para-sailing,
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jet-skiing, fishing, kayaking and, of course, just soaking up the sun. Plus, if you’d like to “Spring Break” without the “Spring Breakers,” now is a perfect time to do just that.
Escape to Cape Cod Without Leaving the Midwest
Situated on a peninsula in eastern Wisconsin, Door County has been called the Cape Cod of the Midwest. There are more than 250 miles of shoreline, lined with lighthouses, golf courses, boutiques and bistros.
you go ghost hunting in Savannah, be ready for Halloween, no matter what month it is.
Be Surrounded by Natural Beauty
Any given winter the rich and famous will invade their snowy playground of Aspen. Aspen is known for it’s snowcapped peaks and world-class skiing, but autumn is gorgeous as well. You’re sure to fall in love with its natural beauty. During the fall you can drive Independence Pass (which is closed in the winter) to the top of the Continental Divide. Once at the top, take a moment for a photo op of the forest’s colorful leaves or take a hike in the Rocky Mountains. If you’re lucky enough to visit Aspen from September 21 through 25 this year, you’ll be there for Aspen Filmfest 2011. The five-day festival of film is an intimate celebrity event with an emphasis on independent productions.
Act Like a Kid Again
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County is a favorite hangout of Chicagoans and can be rather crowded in the summer, but the crowds taper off in the early fall. Like the Cape, the Door is made for bicycling, and this time of year the weather is wonderful for a bicycle tour. If you’re looking for excellent food in Door County, try one of the area’s unique fish boils; with flavorful fish and vegetables, your stomach will thank you! If you prefer your veggies uncooked and of the jack-o-lantern variety, visit one of the area’s markets that are overflowing with pumpkins this time of year.
Make Any Day Halloween
Savannah hosts millions of tourists each year. They flock to Savannah because it has been voted one of the nation’s prettiest cities, one of the best places to retire and one of the coolest cities in North America—as well as one of the most haunted cities in the country. If you’ve read or seen “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” you are probably aware of the city’s paranormal allure. The non-fiction read details some of Savannah’s most colorful characters. The Mercer Williams house, where one of the book’s murders takes place, stands today in Savannah as a museum, and there are a handful of other haunted houses in the city. Nearly half of the tours in Savannah are ghost tours. If you’re up for one you can go by foot, by horse and carriage or—if you dare—in a hearse! When
For 24 days in late September and October, the State Fair of Texas takes over Dallas. This year it’s celebrating its 125th anniversary. You can find everything you’d find at your county fair and more at the State Fair of Texas. While you’re there, say hello to the fair’s mascot, Big Tex — and yes he’s big at 52 feet tall. You might also want to check out the pig races. Three times an evening visitors can “wager” on some wiggly piglets as they race down the stretch. If you’re still looking for more to do, catch a livestock demonstration, listen to one of the many concerts or head on over to the auto show. As any great fair should, the Midway features more than 70 attractions including a 212-foot Ferris wheel, called the Texas Star, and a 1914 carousel. Texas State Fair Since the corn dog was invented at the State Fair of Texas in 1942, you’re sure to find plenty of them as you’re strolling the Midway, too. Whether you’re 18 or 88, there are plenty of road trips you could embark on this fall. Now all you have to do is go drive! gd
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Ready for some good eatin’? There’s something about travelling that always instigates hunger. The most exciting parts of trips, most times, are when you can finally pull over and indulge in tasty food—if you’re like me, the greasier the better. If you’re looking for a place where you can get the absolute best cuisine for your buck, check out this list of roadside deliciousness. The Roadside Diner Wall, New Jersey Located on the northbound side of State Route 33 and 34, the Roadside Diner is known for its tasty fare. Add to the great food an authentic old-style diner that was delivered to its Wall spot in the 1940s and is filled with original stools, booths and even a sliding train door—plus, an A.M. radio that plays “oldies”. Signature dish? Their breakfast egg rolls with your choice of ham, sausage or bacon mixed in. Skyview Country Restaurant Krumsville, Pennsylvania Conveniently located a stone’s throw from I-78 (exit 40), this restaurant is sure to delight the taste buds. If you’re starving and need a filling meal, try their chicken pot pie. (And their apple pie is only $1.40!)
Not Your Average
Greasy Spoon A Dozen Diners You Don't Want to Miss While Traveling by Kara Bishop n Staff Writer
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I-84 Diner—Fishkill, NY Literally right off the interstate, this diner’s neon pulls you off the road into their establishment. The bakery section is truly unique with fresh pastries and loaves of bread to take with you on the road. Try the eggs benedict—served hot with a tasty hollandaise sauce and thick slices of ham. Goody Goody Diner St. Louis, Missouri On the street—US-115—for over 60 years, this place knows how to execute good food. “It doesn’t have to be fancy, just good,” is their motto. If you’re not in the mood for a hamburger, that’s okay too, because their menu is as diverse as the St. Louis community! Speaking of diverse, you’ll want to try their famous special: chicken and waffles! Located approximately two miles off I-70.
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66 Diner—Albuquerque, New Mexico What diner list would be complete without a step on historic Route 66? Unfortunately, most of the diners that populated Route 66 have gone the way of the route itself—cut up and relegated to a backwater alternative. However, with its “eggsadilla”—grilled breakfast quesadilla with scrambled eggs—this diner looks like it will be able to stand the test of time. Located right off I-25 (exit 224B), the 66 Diner is seeking to bring back some of that old Route 66 nostalgia, and they’ve got the neon to prove it.
ry and show no signs of slowing down. Take exit 15 off I-805 and in less than half a mile, you’ll be there. Try their best-selling lunch special: tamales and chili.
Avalon Diner—Houston,Texas Consistently voted one of the best diners in the country in major publications, the Avalon Diner matches their food to their fame. Some dishes you’ll
Photo Courtesy of 66 Diner
just have to try include their chicken and dumplings, chicken fried steak, and fried pickle chips. (Take exit 8C off I-10.) Becky’s Diner—Portland, Maine Just off the coast, this diner even has a gift shop! It’s further off I-295 than most roadside diners, but you’ll be headed in its direction for the beach anyway. You’ll be glad you stopped by when you order Becky’s famous Haddock Chowdah—you’re in a fishing town after all. Summerton Diner - Summerton, South Carolina A quaint diner right off I-95 (take exit 115 and merge onto US-301), you’ll be glad you stopped at the Summerton Diner. They are known for their vegetables, and if you order the lunch special you get to choose three out of their eight options—and choosing can be difficult. Their sweet potato soufflé, with its chunks of pineapple and pecans, tastes more like a dessert than a vegetable side. Rudford’s Restaurant - San Diego, California This diner deviates from the standard diner flair in that it serves Tex-Mex dishes at inflation-proof prices. They’ve been serving customers for the better part of a centu-
Rosie’s Diner— Aurora, Colorado A replica of the famous Rosie’s Diner in Rockport, Michigan that closed in 2011, this gem offers the same vintage atmosphere and great food as the original. Rosie’s is known for their delicious breakfast menu that you can order from all day and their milkshakes. The atmosphere is pure 50’s diner bliss and if you are stopping by on a Wedsnesday night from May through October you’ll be treated to a “Crusin Night” complete with a classic car show. Just take the E. Iliff exit off I-225 and you’ll be just 5 minutes away. Mickey’s Dining Car - St. Paul, Minnesota Mickey’s has been featured in several movies, including “The Mighty Ducks”. There’s nothing more heartwarming than seeing a place not let fame go to its head—in other words, they serve great food, like their famous bean soup. It’s cramped, it’s old and it’s downright perfect. It’s also not hard to find, being a half-mile off I-94. Varsity Diner—Atlanta, Georgia The Varsity is the world’s largest drive-in—with the best fried pies around—encompassing more than two acres and able to accommodate 600 cars and over 800 people inside. One thing you won’t have to worry about with this place is whether they have enough room for you! You won’t have to worry about finding it, either. The place is so famous that there’s a sign pointing to it on I-85. Now that fall is here and the weather is cooling off, isn’t it time for a road trip—and some good eating? Just be sure and tell the maître d’ we sent you. gd
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The Cleanest Drives in
AMERICA E
ver just feel like taking a road trip? Work is stressful, the kids are loud and you just need to get out of town? A road trip is a great way to relax and enjoy yourself, but you want to make sure that the road you decide to travel down is a “clean” one, with scenic vistas and little traffic. (Because there’s nothing like a traffic jam to jolt you from a pleasant trip!) If you’re unsure where to go, you’re in luck, because we’ve come up with the best traffic-free drives in America for you to peruse.
St. John River, Florida
Big Bend Scenic Byway
Turquoise Trail
This 220-mile byway features both the Forest Trail— which with its pine forests, streams and rivers transports you back to a simpler time—and the Coastal Trail, with its miles of beautiful beaches. Along the way, you might run into Fort Braden, a military outpost that was used during the Second Seminole War. Or check out the Dwarf Cypress Dome, which encompasses 300-year-old trees that are only six to 15 feet tall.
Travelling 62 miles between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, this ancient route—named for the blue-green turquoise mineral first mined by the early Pueblo people that inhabited the area—offers travelers a chance to journey into yesteryear. Plus, the region has become a haven for artists of all kinds, giving you a great opportunity to do some unique shopping, as well.
Florida
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New Mexico
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Blue Ridge Parkway
North Carolina/West Virginia/Virginia The epitome of leisurely motoring— the speed limit is 45 miles per hour— this 469-mile stretch of blacktop is famous for its beautiful mountain scenery. Plan your visit for the spring, when this most visited byway in the National Park System is less busy than in the summer.
providing drivers and passengers with fantastic mountain views and a chance to see interesting wildlife like bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, red tail foxes and pica, to name a few.
Death Valley Scenic Byway California
Beartooth Scenic Byway Wyoming
Surrounded by the spectacular Shoshone Forest, this byway stretches nearly 39 miles and gives travelers their money’s worth with dramatic views, unparalleled wildlife watching and a chance to experience what many call the “wild side” of Yellowstone National Park. The byway crests at 10,974 feet with the well-coined “Top of the World” viewpoint, where you can stop and take some amazing photos.
Top of the Rockies Scenic and Historic Byway Colorado
This 75-mile stretch of road seldom drops below 9,000 feet in altitude,
to the magnificent foliage adorning the road during each of these seasons. Starting out just north of New York City, this route offers weary urbanites a great escape, perfect for a springtime getaway.
Not only that, but you’ll cross the continental divide twice as you follow the twists and turns of the Arkansas River on this beautiful drive.
Merritt Parkway Connecticut
The bridges along this 37-mile, limited-access route are excellent examples of 1920’s architecture. Fall and spring are prime travel times, owing
The name may sound a bit intimidating, but visiting the lowest point—as well as the hottest place—in North America can have its rewards. A gateway to more than 3.3 million acres of spectacular scenery, expansive vistas, rare desert wildlife and historical sites, this 82-mile drive is so magnificent, you’ll forget all about the name—although you will want to travel in a reliable car, as help can be dozens of miles away.
North Shore Scenic Drive Minnesota
Great for touring the land of lakes, this 154-mile stretch of road follows the majestic shoreline of Lake Superior—the world’s largest freshwater lake.
Death Valley, California
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Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
ROAD TRIP snacks When travelling takes place—whether it’s a vacation to the mountains or just a quick trip to visit family—something that should always be a top consideration are the snacks. A person can be quite overwhelmed at all the possibilities out there. To aid you in your search for possible road snacks, consider this list.
Beef Jerky
Tasty, filling and chock full of protein, this yummy snack will keep everyone in good spirits.
Dr ie d Fr uit
If you’re on a “let’s be healthy” kick, then try some dried fruit. Crunchy, yet chewy at the same time, this snack is sure to please.
Trail Mix
With picturesque communities offering great stopping points along the way, this is the perfect weekend getaway. The Superior National Forest is conveniently nestled along this drive, as well.
stretch of blacktop. The surrounding countryside offers histories of the native Cherokee Indian nation; Civil War battles; and early settlers whose farmhouses, built in the 1800s, still stand.
One of the best foods ever invented. Period. Whoever thought to combine different types of cereals with pretzels, cheesy morsels, chocolate and peanuts should be given a very prestigious award.
Mountains to Sound Greenway
Perhaps it’s the warmer temperatures or the flowers poking their way out of the ground, but there’s something about springtime that just makes you want to get out of the house and back on the road. So, map out a route through one of these great destinations and get going. Because it’s time to go drive. gd
Don’t knock ’m till you’ve tried ’em! Stick a baggy of grapes in the freezer the night before you leave and you will be surprised at how delicious they are!
Washington
This drive offers 100 miles of pastoral valleys, lush forests, historic towns and scenic spots for photo opportunities as travelers twist and turn their way through the gorgeous Cascade Mountains.
Ridge and Valley Scenic Byway Georgia
Experience the varied terrain of northwest Georgia in this 50-mile
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Fro zen Grape s
Do g B o n e s
Not for you (hopefully you don’t snack on rawhide). If your puppy is coming along, then he or she will need a snack, too. Bring a bag of bones to make their trip just as enjoyable as yours! gd
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Destinations BASEBALL by Jessica Ramirez
W
hat better way to celebrate America’s favorite pastime than to visit some of the Major Baseball League’s top-rated ballparks. To aid you in this quest, we’ve put together a list of some of the best ballparks in the league.
FENWAY PARK BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS Home of the Red Sox
Fenway Park offers one of the most timeless experiences in baseball. It’s the oldest ballpark still in operation, and if you’re looking for the old-timey, historical feel, then Fenway is the place to visit. The signature feature of this park is the “Green Monster.” It is the highest wall in the MLB and contains one of two manually operated scoreboards in the league. Also, there is a single red seat in the right field bleachers that signifies the longest homerun to hit the Fenway seats (occurred in 1946). During the middle of the eighth inning, you can join the crowd and truly become a part of the stadium when Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline” is sung. The Yawkey Way Store, located right outside the stadium, opens early on game days, giving fans a chance to
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hang out while enjoying live music and food—once again experiencing and enjoying the culture of this ballpark. If you don’t have a ticket or just want to see Fenway, the Bleacher Bar—located behind the centerfield wall— gives fans the opportunity to watch the game through a garage-door sized window. Another plus? The men’s bathroom has a window that overlooks the bar, so you won’t have to miss a pitch!
WRIGLEY FIELD CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Home of the Cubs
Offering a similar historical feel as Fenway is Wrigley Field. Nicknamed the “Friendly Confines,” Wrigley has a distinctive, ivy-covered outfield wall and is the second of the nation’s ballparks with a manually operated scoreboard. A time-honored tradition you will want to experience is the seventh inning stretch. At this time, fans are encouraged to stretch out their arms, legs and backs while being led in the traditional, “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” mantra—usually sung by a celebrity. The seventh-inning stretch is a tradition that most teams in the league honor. The Friendly Confines also holds fast
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to the tradition of throwing back the opposing team’s homerun balls. One of the most well-known treats at the park is the North Side Twist. This two-pound pretzel is described as the perfect combination of crispy and soft served with your choice of cheese, mustard or dessert sauce.
AT&T PARK SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA Home of the Giants
This ballpark opened in the 2000 season with a modern style and a beautiful view of the San Francisco Bay. If you don’t mind getting wet, you can kayak the waters of McCovey, which is adjacent to the ballpark and, if you’re lucky, maybe catch a homerun souvenir in the bay. The must-try delicacy at a Giant’s game is an order of Gilroy garlic fries. This renowned treat is uniquely seasoned and always a hit with fans. AT&T Park is also known for its family-friendly atmosphere. If your children are getting restless, you can take them to the Coca-Cola Fan Lot in left field. This giant soft drink bottle hosts four slides—two of which are 58 feet in length. There are also viewing platforms where parents can watch the game while their children play.
look at the limestone exterior of the park. PNC offers gorgeous views of the Allegheny River and Pittsburgh skyline. Every seat gives you a great view of the game in this ballpark, whether you’re at the top or seated at the ground level. The most talked about dish at the stadium is a Primanti Brothers sandwich that features roast beef and cheese plus coleslaw and French fries, right in the middle—the sides are in the sandwich! PNC Park also has a playground for restless children, and an entertaining highlight of a Pirates game is the Pierogi Race between innings, where four mascots dressed as dumplings race around the stadium. This lighthearted intermission always gets big laughs from the fans.
ORIOLE PARK AT CAMDEN YARDS BALTIMORE, MARYLAND Home of the Orioles
You can also find a small replica of the ballpark in the Fan Lot, giving children a chance to run the bases or hit softballs thrown by a machine.
PNC PARK PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA Home of the Pirates
Although the Pirates are one of the lower ranking teams in the Major League, they had the highest attendance ranking of the 2011 season. Why is that? For starters, PNC Park is described as the most beautiful stadium in baseball. The scenic walk on the beautiful Roberto Clemente Bridge gives you a breath-taking
Oriole Park is also described as a classy, scenic stadium and a great place to see a game. An example of the classy atmosphere is the office building for the team adjacent to the stadium. This building was formerly the B&O warehouse, which was completed in 1905 and offers gorgeous exterior architecture. Boog’s Barbeque, a restaurant opened by former player Boog Powell in Camden Yards, is said to have the most mouth-watering barbecue sandwiches and homemade baked beans in all of Pennsylvania. Another big hit at this ballpark is the delicious Bird Dog, topped with seasoned ketchup, taters and fried onions. Who wouldn’t enjoy a ballgame with that kind of food? The park also offers a Kids’ Corner where children can jump on the moon bounce, hit in the batting cage and play in the climb area. The baseball stadiums of the Major League are rich with history, excitement, time-honored traditions and food. However, one of the most exciting elements of this sport is its patriotism. Celebrate being an American this summer at one of these fantastic ballparks. gd
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s ’ a c i r Ame
Top PicnicSpots By Allison Wood
I
t is a great time of year to pack up the car, kids, some lunch and drive somewhere for a picnic! Ah, but where to go? These are our suggestions for the best places in America to find a scenic backdrop for your family outing.
Grand Canyon, Arizona – Travel along 14 | Road Trip’n
the North Rim and stop at Vista Encontado. At any rock you might sit on or picnic table you select there will be an amazing view of one of America’s greatest treasures!
Big Sur, California – A terrific place
for sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean are in Big Sur. There are so many beaches and great spots to stop along Highway 1, especially if you’re driving a convertible, but consider Rocky Point for breathtaking scenery. Sitting high atop the cliffs
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at Rocky Point gives a view of the tide rolling in and the waves crashing against the shore.
Navy Pier Chicago, Illinois
Noted as Chicago’s lakefront playground, Navy Pier is a bustling center of cultural and entertainment activities that also offers waterfront scenery and a great view of the Windy City’s majestic skyline. Lots of outdoor seating is available, and if you catch this destination on a Wednesday or Saturday between Memorial Day and Labor Day, stay until dark for a fabulous fireworks show!
Destin, Florida
Miles of beautiful white sand beaches grace the coastline off Highway 98 in the panhandle of Florida. Henderson Beach State Park on the Emerald Coast Highway offers a day of water activities in the warm waCades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains Nationa Park ters of the Gulf of Mexico. This particular picnic spot also offers a hiking trail and even a playground for the kids.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
Gaze upon the beauty of these ancient mountains as you spread out your picnic blanket. Cool mountain air
PicnicTIPS
n Freeze water bottles (slightly less than full) in advance, and place in picnic storage next to perishables. When you arrive at your destination, cold items will have stayed cold, and you will have extra drinking water as the ice thaws. n Avoid making sandwiches and salads with condiments ahead of time, as it can make bread or lettuce soggy. Bring along individual sized packets of salad dressing, mayonnaise, mustard, etc. to dress sandwiches and salads right before you dine!
Central Park, New York City
and wildlife viewing opportunities will provide an exciting afternoon in this National Park.
Central Park, New York City
Made famous in lyrics by The Beatles, Strawberry Fields is located near Central Park West between 71st and 74th streets. Dining on a blanket in Central Park offers a relaxing atmosphere in the heart of the city that never sleeps.
Road to Hana, Hawaii
The ultimate picnic destination can be found anywhere along this 50-mile stretch of roadway that features 600 hairpin turns and 54 one-lane bridges. From the famed black sand beaches to rainforests to waterfalls to cliffside dining, the sites are astounding in this land that time has seemingly forgotten. Whether your destination is north, south, east or west, going on a picnic in the United States is a great family getaway. gd
clean hands, and you can use the wipes to clean the picnic table before eating. n Recycle plastic bags from the grocery store to use as trash bags at the picnic destination. n Bring an inexpensive plastic tablecloth to put on the ground before you put down your favorite blanket from home. It will protect against any moisture on the ground and keep the blanket clean for the trip home! gd
n Remember hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes. Everyone will have
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One With Nature
Road Trips to Enliven Your Spirit
Do you ever feel like just taking a drive? When the hustle and bustle of life with jam-packed schedules, numerous
responsibilities and no time for four hours of sleep, much less eight, becomes the only thing you know, do you ever just want to “get away,” as Southwest Airlines would say? If you’re anything like me—can’t live without your smart phone, stress out when everything isn’t crossed off the list and don’t have time to eat—then you need a road trip. This summer, I plan on hitting the road, leaving all of my troubles, and smart phone, behind me. If you want to come, take a look at some of the road trips I am considering this summer. Any one of these options is sure to renew and refresh your spirit for when you come back to reality.
Hana, Hawaii
Where: Santa Barbara, California, to Monterey, California Estimated Length: 240 miles on California 1 Estimated time: 4 hours and 15 minutes Enjoy driving down the beautiful coastline and hiking the magical trails of Big Sur. If you plan your trip to
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by Kara Bishop • Staff Writer
encompass the first Friday of the month, then head to nearby Salinas, via Route 68, where local artists are set up for the First Friday Art Walk. Since you’re already in the area, you can take I-5 N another five hours and you’ll end up in the Sequoia National Forest, which is well worth the extra time.
Detours: n Pinnacles National Park | www.nps.gov n Ventana Wilderness of the Los Padres National Forest | www.ventanawild.org n Santa Barbara Yacht Club | www.sbyc.org n Sequoia National Forest | www.fs.usda.gov
Hearst Castle | www.hearstcastle.org
n
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Newport Aquarium, Newport, Kentucky
tickets to the Biltmore Estate, known as the nation’s largest home.
Detours: n Lake Hartwell | www.lake-hartwell.com n Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area | www.hikingthecarolinas.com n Chimney Rock Park | www.chimneyrockpark.com Where: Miami, Florida, to Key West, Florida Estimated Length: 161 miles down scenic US-1 Estimated time: 3 hours 11 Minutes
Where: Cincinnati, Ohio, to Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky Estimated Length: 193 miles on I-71 S and I-65 S Estimated Time: 3 hours and 7 minutes Mammoth Cave is the largest-known cave system in the world, with nearly 400 miles of explored underground passages. Some tours cost as little as $5. Once you’re done exploring the underground, enjoy the 70 miles of trails on land above the caves. Of course, this doesn’t count the awesome parks and forests that you’ll encounter on your way to Mammoth Cave.
Detours: n Newport Aquarium | www.newportaquarium.com n
Where: Atlanta, Georgia, to Asheville, North Carolina Estimated Length: 208 miles on I-85 N Estimated time: 3 hours and 22 minutes This scenic route will instantly put your mind at ease with mountainous views and lush green valleys. Once you get to Asheville, stop at the visitors center, where you can pick up maps and recommendations of what to do in the town, including discounted
Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge | www.fws.gov
Jefferson National Forest |
Detours: n Biltmore Golf Course | www.golflink.com n Coral Reef Park | www.pennekamppark.com n Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park | www.floridastateparks.org n Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve | www.dep.state.fl.us
Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge | www.fws.gov n
Where: Detroit, Michigan, to Mackinac Island, Michigan Estimated Length: 255 miles on I-75 S Estimated Time: 6 hours This trip takes you through beautiful forests, plus the iconic Mackinac
Red Rock Canyon National Park, Nevada
Photo By : Fred Morledge: Wikimedia Commons
n
Detours: n Mt. Wilson Wilderness Area | www.blm.gov n Lake Mead National Recreation Area | www.nps.gov n Humphrey’s Peak | www.arizona-leisure.com
This scenic drive is sure to be therapeutic with amazing views and awesome detours. The Key West Botanical Gardens are legendary, admission is only $5 and nothing beats a Florida Key’s sunset.
www.fs.usda.gov
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada, to Sedona, Arizona Estimated Length: 280 miles on US-93 S and I-40 E Estimated time: 4 hours and 45 minutes The breathtaking scenery in Red Rock Country is an adventurer’s paradise that will leave you in awe throughout the drive. Hike or bike through the trails and navigate your way along the gorgeous Oak Canyon Creek along the way.
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www.godrivemag.com
Photo By : Stan Shebs, Wikimedia Commons
VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver, Canada
Island Bridge, which connects Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, is definitely a site to see. Of course, there’s so much to see and do in Detroit alone, you may have to put your trip on hold a couple of days to enjoy the attractions of the birthplace of Motown music.
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Photo By : MJCdetriot, Wikimedia Commons
Detroit Zoo, Detriot, Michigan
Detours: n The Henry Ford Museum | www.thehenryford.org n The Detroit Zoo | www.detroitzoo.org n Huron-Manistee National Forest | www.fs.usda.gov n Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary | www.thunderbay.noaa.gov
Where: Victoria, British Columbia, Canada to Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Estimated Length: 112 kilometers on HWY/BC-17A (includes a ferry trip) Estimated Time: 2 hours and 59 minutes Before you head out, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Victoria, which includes a tour of Butchart Gardens. When you do start the first leg of your journey, you’ll be amazed at the beautiful scenery. The ferry helps reinforce your appreciation for Canada as you cross the Strait of Georgia—you might even see a whale! When you land on Vancouver soil, be sure and check out the Jimmy Hendrix shrine.
Detours: n Oak Bay Islands Ecological Reserve | www.gov.bc.ca/env n Gulf Islands National Park Reserve | www.metrovancouver.org n Boundary Bay Regional Park | www.metrovancouver.org n VanDusen Botanical Garden | www.vancouver.ca gd
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STAVE OFFSLEEPINESS Tips for When You Are Tired
By Kara Bishop n Staff Writer
All too often, we find ourselves being sleepy at the wheel. According to the National Sleep Foundation, fatigued drivers cause more than 100,000 crashes each year. Not only that, but 18 hours of being awake is equal to a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.08, which is legally drunk—making you an extreme hazard on the road. To help combat these alarming statistics, here are some tips on how to overcome drowsy driving. 1. No Sleep Debt Before a long or nighttime drive, be sure that you have had several nights (in a row) of seven to nine hours of sleep. 2. Take Breaks Taking a break during your drive will help you to stretch, move and wake up. Plan for breaks and even a quick 20-minute nap every 100 miles or two hours during a long trip. 3. Arrive by Midnight The time between midnight and early morning is when the body most wants to be sleeping. This is the most dangerous time to be driving with respect to feeling sleepy. 4. Know the Warning Signs If you are yawning constantly, can’t remember the last few moments of driving or cannot keep your eyes focused, pull over
to take a quick nap or let your travelling companion take over.
sure you plan for rest before your drive because the consequences could be fatal.
5. Avoid Driving Alone Having a partner to keep you awake and accountable will help you stay safe on the road. Your traveling companion and you can also take turns driving; that way, you both will be rested when it’s your turn to drive.
What NOT to Do Many people think that opening the window, playing loud music or talking on the phone will help them stay awake. These techniques are actually dangerous because:
6. Direct Intervention Without enough sleep, the body suffers from a “sleep deficit,” which can only be overcome by sleep! Recognize this fact and don’t ignore the symptoms. According to the National Road Safety Foundation, after drinking two cups of coffee it takes 30 minutes for the caffeine to enter your bloodstream, and even then it only provides short-term alertness. Therefore, the only cure for drowsiness is actual sleep—make
• They distract you from driving at a time when you need to concentrate. • They give you a false sense of security and keep you on the road when you should stop. So, when you’re starting out on that road trip, remember that rest is among your highest priorities. The consequences of drowsy driving are too great too ignore. Sleep is important for several reasons, and staying alive on the road is foremost among them. gd
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