The Ultimate I-40 Cross-Country Road Trip (CA, AZ, NM, TX, OK, AR, TN, NC)

We live in Dallas and frequently take long-distance road trips. Coming from the South, we often connect to Interstate 40 if we go east or west. It’s a great highway through the heart of America and has some of my favorite cities along its route (Santa Fe and Memphis, I’m talking to you!).

The first time we took it west towards Albuquerque, I was surprised to find that it aligned with a large portion of the original and historic Route 66. In fact, I-40 largely replaced the iconic Route 66 as a primary cross-country route.

You may take I-40 from California to North Carolina or just a segment. Along the way, you will find a pleasing mix of cities, rural America, history, National Parks and fun attractions.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them at no extra cost to you.

Key Facts about Interstate 40

Interstate 40 is 2,559 miles long and begins in Barstow, California, on the west, and extends to Wilmington, North Carolina, on the east. It goes through eight states:

• California
• Arizona
• New Mexico
• Texas
• Oklahoma
• Arkansas
• Tennessee
• North Carolina

It’s one of the largest interstates in the country, after I-80 and I-90. If you wanted to drive the whole thing, it would take between 35-40 hours depending on how many stops you made

Major Cities along I-40

STATE	CITY	INTERESTING STOPS ALONG I-40
Arizona	Flagstaff	Meteor Crater (near Winslow) – Walnut Canyon National Monument – Route 66 sights
New Mexico	Albuquerque	– Petroglyph National Monument – Old Town Albuquerque – Sandia Peak Tramway
Texas	Amarillo	– Cadillac Ranch – The Big Texan Steak Ranch (72 oz. challenge)
Oklahoma	Oklahoma City	– Oklahoma City National Memorial – Bricktown – Route 66 Museum (El Reno/Clinton)
Arkansas	Little Rock	– Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site – River Market District Crater of Diamonds State Park (AR)
Tennessee	Memphis	– Beale Street – National Civil Rights Museum – Graceland
	Nashville	– Broadway live music scene – Ryman Auditorium – The Parthenon
	Knoxville	– Market Square – World’s Fair Park – Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains
North Carolina	Winston-Salem	– Old Salem Museums & Gardens – Reynolda House Museum of American Art
	Greensboro	– International Civil Rights Center & Museum – Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
	Durham	– Duke University & Gardens – American Tobacco Historic District
	Raleigh	– North Carolina Museum of Art – Historic Oakwood – State Capitol Building

Attractions Along I-40 in California

• Lavic Lake Volcanic Field: off of a small road, you can see the remains of a volcanic eruption. This volcanic field is a hidden gem for geology enthusiasts. The extinct cinder cones and volcanic features provide a glimpse into the area’s ancient volcanic activity. Exploring the terrain offers a sense of being transported to a different geological era, making it an exciting stop for those interested in Earth’s history.
• Mojave National Preserve: This expansive desert landscape is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, including Joshua Tree forests, sand dunes, and unique geological formations. Visitors can enjoy hiking, stargazing, and exploring the vast expanse of the desert. The preserve’s solitude and untouched beauty are a draw for nature enthusiasts.
• Route 66 Mother Road Museum: Located in Barstow, this museum is a treasure trove of Route 66 history. It provides insights into the cultural and historical significance of the iconic highway and the area’s mining heritage. Visitors can better appreciate the road that was crucial to American travel and culture.

Attractions Along I-40 in Arizona

• Lake Havasu: Located in Arizona on the Colorado River, Lake Havasu is renowned for its stunning desert landscape and the iconic London Bridge, relocated here in the 1960s. This picturesque lake offers a haven for water enthusiasts, with boating, fishing, and water sports, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
• Grand Canyon National Park: Most people spend less than 4 hours here, and it’s a shame. I highly recommend staying nearby, either in the Grand Canyon Village or in Flagstaff or Williams and taking the Grand Canyon train. There is so much to do. We went along the Rim which has a lot of great information about the striated rocks and the ages of each type of rock. You can also start to do one of the trails like Bright Angel or South Kaibab although I wouldn’t go too far down if you aren’t prepared for the hike with a lot of water and the proper attire
• Walnut Canyon National Monument
• Petrified Forest National Park: Home to ancient petrified trees and fascinating geological formations. This is a really cool park if you take your time along the drive and read the signs and the NPS map. I couldn’t get over seeing so many pieces of petrified wood. By the time that we got here, my kids (and Bill) were over sightseeing, so I had to do this park on my own. I drove around it myself and was able to see many of the highlights over a couple of hours.
• Meteor Crater: A colossal impact crater that provides insights into the Earth’s history. This one you have to pay attention to the signs or you could miss this one off the interstate.

Attractions Along I-40 in New Mexico

Albuquerque

• Albuquerque Old Town: A historic district filled with adobe buildings, shops, and cultural attractions.
• Sandia Peak Tramway: We all really enjoyed this. You get on a mountainside tram and and take it up to Sandia Peak. Once at the top, there’s a restaurant or you can hike or ski along several trails. If you have young children like us, you can even do a Junior Ranger challenge like you can do at National Parks.
• Explora Science Center and Museum: Highlights include a giant bubble exhibit, a planetarium, outdoor exhibits, and interactive displays on topics like physics, biology, and renewable energy.
• Petroglyph National Monument: This park contains one of the largest petroglyph concentrations in North America, with thousands of ancient rock carvings created by Native American and Spanish settlers. Visitors can hike along designated trails to see these petroglyphs, which depict various symbols, animals, and human figures. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and the artistry of its early inhabitants.
• The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History: This museum explores the history and science of nuclear energy and its impact on society. Visitors can learn about the development of nuclear weapons, nuclear power, and the peaceful applications of nuclear technology. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts, interactive displays, and a collection of Cold War-era aircraft and missiles. It offers a comprehensive look at the role of nuclear science in the modern world.
• Turquoise Museum: The Turquoise Museum, also known as the “Tiffany of the Southwest,” is a hidden gem in Albuquerque that focuses on the history, geology, and cultural significance of turquoise. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the formation of turquoise, its mining history, and its use in Native American jewelry and art.

Other New Mexico I-40 Highlights

• Acoma Pueblo: Visit the “Sky City” atop a mesa to experience the oldest continuously inhabited community in the U.S.
• Tucumcari: Tucumcari, located in eastern New Mexico along historic Route 66, is a charming town known for its nostalgic Americana vibes. It boasts a collection of colorful vintage neon signs, classic motels, and diners, making it a popular stop for travelers retracing the iconic highway. Tucumcari also offers a glimpse into the past with its historic architecture and ties to Route 66’s heyday, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of retro America. For us, it makes a great overnight from Dallas when we are traveling west or returning home.

Attractions Along I-40 in Texas

Amarillo

• Cadillac Ranch: An art installation featuring buried Cadillacs, perfect for adding your own spray-painted mark.
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park: Often called the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” this park offers hiking, camping, and stunning views.
• Big Texan Steak Ranch: The Big Texan is totally kitschy, but I love it. They have their famous 72 oz challenge where you have an hour to eat it and it’s comp’d and your name goes on a wall. They also make their own beer and have entertainers both inside the restaurant and outside on their big back patio. It’s a really fun place to take your kids. The kid’s meal is even served in a cowboy hat!

Need a fun, quirky motel to stay at? Read my review on The Big Texan Motel.

Attractions Along I-40 in Oklahoma

Oklahoma City

• Oklahoma City National Memorial: Pay tribute to the victims of the 1995 bombing at this moving memorial.
• Bricktown: Explore this entertainment district with restaurants, shops, and a canal.
• National Cowboy & Western Heritage: Discover the history and art of the American West.

Other Attractions in Oklahoma

• Route 66 Museum: Located in Clinton, it provides a nostalgic journey through the history of the Mother Road.

Attractions Along I-40 in Arkansas

Things to Do in Little Rock, AR:

• Central High School National Historic Site: Learn about the Civil Rights Movement and the Little Rock Nine.
• Clinton Presidential Library: Explore exhibits about the life and presidency of Bill Clinton. If you are someone that likes to visit Presidential libraries, check out my article on what I call 101 Super Travel Bucket List Ideas.

Attractions Along I-40 in Tennessee

Memphis Attractions

Not gonna lie…Memphis is easily one of my favorite cities in the U.S. And people admittedly either love it or hate it. For me, it’s all about the confluence of music, food and good people. I’ve never had a bad time in Memphis.

• Graceland: Visit the iconic home of Elvis Presley. I have been lucky enough to be here on the anniversary of his death when Elvi (I guess that’s the plural?) come from all over the world to honor him. It’s quite a spectacle. It’s fun to see the house, kept in its 70s period decor and the famous Jungle Room.
• Beale Street: Experience the lively music scene, bars, and restaurants. I guarantee you’ll hear a musician singing, “Walking in Memphis.”
• Stax Museum of American Soul Music: Explore the history of soul music and its legends.
• Sun Studio: Discover the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. I love this small studio tour so much that I’ve done the tour 3 times. Come see the actual room where Elvis Presley walked in to record a song for his mom. You can also see the recording studio where Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis recorded their music as well as took the impromptu picture of “The Million Dollar Quartet.” Seriously, don’t miss this place!

Nashville

• Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Dive into the history of country music and its stars.
• Grand Ole Opry: Attend a live show at this legendary country music venue.
• The Parthenon: Admire a full-scale replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon.
• Honky Tonk Highway: Enjoy live music and entertainment on Lower Broadway.

Knoxville

• University of Tennessee: Explore the campus, Neyland Stadium, and the University of Tennessee Gardens.
• Market Square: Stroll through a lively downtown square with shops and dining.

Attractions Along I-40 in North Carolina

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The North Carolina side of the park also offers stunning landscapes and hiking trails
• Biltmore Estate: I’m sure you’ve heard of the Biltmore estate in Asheville, NC. A tour of the house and garden does not disappoint. Asheville is still recovering from the hurricane devastation so show them some love and go tour this beautiful town.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: A scenic drive offering panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains.

Winston-Salem, NC

• Old Salem Museums & Gardens: Step back in time to explore Moravian history and architecture.
• Reynolda House Museum of American Art: View an impressive collection of American art.
• Tanglewood Park: Enjoy outdoor activities, gardens, and a golf course.

Greensboro, NC

• Greensboro Science Center: Visit the zoo, aquarium, and science museum all in one place.
• International Civil Rights Center & Museum: Learn about the Greensboro sit-ins and civil rights history.
• Bicentennial Garden: Relax in a beautiful botanical garden.

Durham, NC

• Duke University: Tour the stunning Gothic-style campus and Duke Chapel.
• Sarah P. Duke Gardens: Enjoy the serene beauty of these landscaped gardens.
• American Tobacco Campus: Explore shops, restaurants, and entertainment in a historic setting.

Raleigh, NC

• North Carolina Museum of Art: Admire a diverse collection of art, including works by famous artists.
• Pullen Park: Have fun at one of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S.
• North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Learn about the natural world and dinosaurs.

National Parks Along the Way

As you journey along I-40, you’ll find several national parks within reach, including:

• Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee
• Appalachian Trail in North Carolina