Introducing the Resties: These Are the Best Stop-Worthy Views Across the U.S. 

A road trip isn't about simply getting from point A to point B; it's about the in between—the unexpected discoveries and scenery. Case in point: on a recent road trip from Ohio to Virginia, I drove through New River Gorge National Park and, wow, were the views amazing. Not only did the park overlooks and roadside pullouts offer panoramic vistas of places I'd seen photos of, and thought were clearly edited and filtered, but my daughter and I actually made a couple unexpected stops (a frozen Cathedral Falls? A panorama of the snow-topped Allegheny Mountains? Yes and yes) that cemented the road trip as the most beautiful I'd ever taken.

Katelyn and Howard Newstate, the adventuring duo behind @newstatenomads, have been full-time RVers for 7 years and are always on the lookout for their next scenic stop (their pups, Piper, Ella, and Scout, enjoy a good view, too!). Today, the duo shares their favorite stop-worthy views across the U.S. for Only In Your State's first-ever Resties awards:

Northeast Winner: Kennebunkport Waterfront, Kennebunkport, Maine

If you’re road-tripping along U.S. Route 1 (or I-95) through Maine and looking for a quintessential coastal town, a stop in Kennebunkport is a must—and no visit is complete without hitting The Clam Shack. Located about 4 miles off Route 1 and less than 15 minutes from the interstate, you can stroll along the Kennebunk River, crossing the bridge to take in sweeping coastal views, working fishing boats and lighthouses.

If you have time while stretching your legs, grab a bite at the walk-up window of The Clam Shack. Perched right on the Kennebunk River, this no-frills seafood stand serves up some of the freshest lobster rolls and fried clams you’ll find anywhere in New England. We got a behind-the-scenes look at how they make their famous lobster rolls, and take it from us, it’s worth the stop. Our favorite way to order it: Cold, both ways (with mayo and butter).

Southeast Winner: Oasis Visitor Center, Ochopee, Florida

When road-tripping across Florida from coast to coast, one of the most iconic and scenic routes you can take is Highway 41, stretching from Naples on the Gulf Coast to Miami on the Atlantic. While it’s not the “official” Alligator Alley, this route offers a far more immersive and up-close experience with Florida’s famous wildlife—especially alligators.

If you're hoping to see these incredible creatures safely in their natural habitat, this is the road to take, and the Oasis Visitor Center at Biscayne National Park is a must-stop destination. We never miss it—it’s always an unforgettable experience! Conveniently located just off the highway, the site features a spacious parking area that can even accommodate RVs.

The main attraction here is the elevated boardwalk, which gives you a front-row view of the surrounding wetlands. You’ll spot birds, fish, and often dozens of alligators—basking on the banks, nestled in the brush, or gliding silently through the water. The small visitor center also offers insightful exhibits about the local ecosystem, making it both an educational and wildlife-filled stop.

Southwest Winner: Riverbend Hot Springs, Truth or Consequences, New Mexico

With a name like Truth or Consequences, you know there’s going to be some fun things in this town! If you’re looking for an incredibly beautiful place to stop and also #treatyourself… look no further than Riverbend Hot Springs in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. Just 3 miles off Interstate 25, you could stop for an hour (or even the night) and indulge in a quick soak in some of the most beautiful natural hot springs we’ve ever seen!

Offering geothermal soaking pools of varying temperatures with stunning views of the Rio Grande and surrounding mountains, it’s one of our all-time favorite places to stop. Riverbend Hot Springs also offers private soaking options, a hotel, and RV camping onsite—talk about a win, win!

West Winner: Big Tree Wayside, Orick, California

Traveling along “the 101” or the Pacific Coast Highway is a bucket list road trip for many adventurers! This highway runs through California, Oregon, and Washington, but the stretch in Northern California is known as the Redwood Highway for good reason. One of our favorite stops is the Big Tree Wayside. Just steps from the parking area, you’ll be at the base of some of the oldest and largest trees on Earth. It really is the quickest way to walk amongst these ancient giants.

The main attraction here is “Big Tree”, standing at nearly 300 feet tall and estimated to be 1,500 years old. There’s also a short loop trail that takes about 15 minutes to complete, and then you can hop right back on Highway 101.

Midwest Winner: Diana of the Dunes Dare (Dune Succession Trail, Indian Dunes National Park), Gary, Indiana

If you're cruising along I-94 or U.S. Highway 12 through northwest Indiana, the Diana of the Dunes Dare along Lake Michigan is the perfect place to pause, stretch your legs, and soak in some of the Midwest’s most beautiful lakefront scenery.

Located at West Beach—just minutes from the interstate—this 1-mile loop trail offers a moderate challenge with a big payoff: sweeping views of Lake Michigan, rolling sand dunes, and even the distant Chicago skyline on clear days! Just beware, you will be climbing over 200 steps on this dare (but we found it to be quite approachable and definitely worth it).

The trailhead features a very large parking area and seasonal amenities like a snack stand and restrooms. If you're short on time or traveling with kids, shorter, flatter trails nearby offer easier strolls through the dunes and along the beach—making this an ideal pit stop for travelers of all kinds.

Editor's Pick: New River Gorge Bridge Overlook, Lansing, West Virginia

West Virginia's New River Gorge National Park is one of America's most impressive—and underrated—national parks. Driving across this man-made architectural feat is an awesome experience for everyone in the car, but the bridge is best admired from the nearby Canyon Rim Visitor Center. Whether you opt for the viewpoint from the short, albeit step-filled, path outside the visitor center or simply take in the views from the center's floor-to-ceiling windows, this 3,030-foot-long bridge and its surrounding scenery are a showstopper.

The Resties celebrate the best of roadside America; you can view all of the winners here. Want to nominate your favorite pit stops? Fill out the nomination form.