RoadTrip2010: Boston->Austin

[EricVanWyk]

JHersh and I are embarking on what CAN only be described as a fantastically epic road trip from Boston to Austin, chosen by virtue of rhyme scheme. Its only going to be a few days, because we can't leave before build season ends (obviously) and I have stuff to do the following Monday.

With short timing in mind, CAN anyone recommend some good stops along the way?

If so, I promise to stop capitalizing CAN like that everywhere. Thanks!

[Cynette]

Have you selected a route, or will the places you want to see be the decider?

With what Mapquest thinks is the most direct route, you miss many of the big cities until you hit Nashville, Memphis, Little Rock and Dallas.

A northern extension could include Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Louisville before hitting Nashville. You can also go through Indy, but will miss Nashville that way.

[DonRotolo]

How much time is allocated? I ask because I've driven from NYC to Houston, that was 2.5 days. Boston and Austin adds 0.5 days I estimate. And, if you want to stop and see anything (other than the inside of a hotel room), add that time.

Next, decide on a route. Northern (I70-I44-I35) carries the risk of weather; South (I85-I65) is further but hits New Orleans (a night on Bourbon St is well worth it, but beware Mardi Gras), mid is a decent compromise (I81-I40).

On the way:
Ever seen Luray Caverns? You can stop & see Foamhenge, too.
How about the Mercedes factory in Tuscaloosa? Cool engineering destination.
Elvis still lives in Memphis. Lost of great food & music there, too.


Drive carefully, check the car before you start.

.

[JaneYoung]

Austin?