Essential road trip planner: Best places to stop, go, and stay 🚗

Plus, the best small towns in each region of the US Having trouble viewing this email? [Click Here]( [10best logo]( [forward this email]( An adventure on the open road can be equal parts exciting and daunting. To jumpstart your planning, we tapped a community of experts for their top road trip recommendations. From the best places to stop for gas and refreshments to must-see roadside attractions and motels, we’ve compiled all the essentials. Over the next few weeks, we invite you to review their picks and weigh in with your vote. Readers’ Choice Award winners will be announced May 15. Wondering where to go? 10Best contributor Jean Chen Smith suggests skipping the national parks in favor of national monuments, which offer amazing views of the American landscape and are often less crowded --------------------------------------------------------------- [Skip the parks! 10 best national monuments for spectacular views]( [Skip the parks! 10 best national monuments for spectacular views]( Although national parks are considered America’s jewels, national monuments also have much to offer. In the U.S., a national monument is a protected area of land or water owned or controlled by the federal government. These include archeological sites, historic landmarks and structures, and other objects and spaces of significance — including national parks! The primary difference between a national park and a national monument is that only presidents can declare a national monument, whereas a national park requires an act of Congress. President Theodore Roosevelt initiated the program: He deemed Devils Tower, located in eastern Wyoming, the first national monument through the Antiquities Act of 1906. Today, there are 133 national monuments spread across the United States, with the most in Arizona (19), followed by California (18), then New Mexico (13). They encompass natural wonders, famous statues, hikes and stairs, and often fantastic views of good, old-fashioned American scenery. With so many options, we gathered our 10 favorite national monuments with scenic views, plus offer tips on things you can do while visiting. Entry fees are typically $10 per person on foot or $20 per vehicle, but it's best to check in advance. [Read the Story]( [share on facebook]( [share on twitter]( [share on pinterest]( [From roadside attractions to gas stations, where are the best road trip stops?]( [From roadside attractions to gas stations, where are the best road trip stops?]( Summer is just around the corner and we're starting to make our road trip plans with a search for the best rental car companies, gas stations, campgrounds, roadside attractions, motels, and more. To help decide the best of the best, vote for your favorites across 10 categories once per day until voting closes on Monday, May 6 at noon ET. [Read the Story]( [share on facebook]( [share on twitter]( [share on pinterest]( [Charming getaways: 10 best small towns in the South]( [Charming getaways: 10 best small towns in the South]( The South is known for its charm, hospitality, and rich history. But it also has some of the most beautiful and diverse small towns in the... [Read More]( [Escape the city: 10 enchanting small towns in the Northeast]( [Escape the city: 10 enchanting small towns in the Northeast]( The Northeast is a region of diverse landscapes, rich history, and charming towns. From coastal getaways to mountain retreats and cultural... [Read More]( [Western wonders: 10 best small towns in the West]( [Western wonders: 10 best small towns in the West]( The West is home to some of the most charming and scenic small towns in the country, hosting amazing art communities, tons of outdoor... [Read More]( [Exploring the heartland: 10 best small towns in the Midwest]( [Exploring the heartland: 10 best small towns in the Midwest]( Friendly faces and down-to-earth folks are just some of the reasons people love the Midwest. The area also happens to be home to some... [Read More]( [10best logo]( Trusted Travel + Lifestyle Advice [visit us on facebook]( [visit us on twitter]( [visit us on pinterest]( [visit us on pinterest]( --------------------------------------------------------------- 32 E Broad St, Greenville, SC 29601 Need to unsubscribe? [Click Here](