This Might Be the Ultimate U.S. Road Trip

Hey, America! Are you ready for the ultimate USA road trip across our incredible country? I know you've dreamed of traveling the country to see all the famous landmarks and cities. After all, freedom is the foundation of the United States, and what's more freeing than the open road and no obligations? From the Grand Canyon to the French Quarter, from Mount Rushmore to Mount Vernon, Randy Olson has compiled a geographically diverse road trip that perfectly captures just how awesomely varied America's landscape and culture are.

In fact, he used an advanced algorithm he created to determine the perfect route that would appeal to everyone. His only rules were 1) the road trip could not leave the US, 2) you had to be able to take the entire trip in your car, and 3) it would only stop at National Natural Landmarks, National Historic Sites, National Parks, or National Monuments. From there, his calculations were used to arrange them in the best order and at the best timing.

As you'll see below, the result is the ultimate USA road trip that will leave you with enough memories to last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for?

1. Grand Canyon, Arizona

You can start anywhere, but no American road trip is complete without arguably our greatest natural wonder. So, we'll start there. Here is a fun fact you may not have known: this 277-mile-long geographical wonder is recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. A perfect place to visit if you love geology. It has accessible paths to the floor, and there are breathtaking views, including sunset views, which you will find very hard to forget. You can explore it via helicopter tours, mule rides, or even whitewater rafting on the Colorado River.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Continue the Grand Canyon's majestic offerings by heading to southern Utah. Bryce Canyon is known for its rock formations and amazing overlooks. It has the world’s largest collection of hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. The hoodoos are found within the horseshoe-shaped, scenic amphitheaters. Another key highlight of this park is the one-way 18-mile scenic drive, offering visitors access to 12 main viewpoints, including the popular Bryce Amphitheater. Note that this park is open year-round, and conveniently,  Zion National Park is just a few hours away.

3. Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho 

The open rifts in the 3 massive lava fields at the preserve are a sight to behold. As the name of this attraction suggests, the landscape is surreal and somehow looks alien, like a lunar surface. Apart from the solidified lava flows, there are also cinder cones and underground lava tubes. If you like, you can hike through lava tube caves such as Indian Tunnel and Beauty Cave. Using the 7-mile loop road will allow you easy access to major sites, including the Devils Orchard and Big Cinder Butte. However, during the winter, this road may be closed to cars.

4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

Photo by Maarten Otto | Flickr

We've all heard of it, but have you been there? It's a must-stop on this road trip. This is America’s first national park and offers an unmatched 2.2-million-acre of wilderness. It comes with about half of the world's active geysers and even hot springs. You can find your way to sections like the Upper Geyser Basin and Norris Geyser Basin to catch a glimpse of these geothermal wonders. There’s also wildlife to view, including the free-ranging bison, grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and moose. However, expect huge crowds around July and August. 

5. Pikes Peak, Colorado

This 14,115-foot mountain peak is fillThis 14,115-foot mountain peak is filled with so much to do. Block off plenty of time for Pikes Peak. You have the option of accessing this attraction for road trippers via the Pikes Peak Highway, the historic Cog Railway, or hiking trails like the Barr Trail. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the world's highest cog railway, providing a scenic train ride to the top. Reservations are required for driving to the summit. But, since the summit is over 14,000 feet, it may cause altitude sickness for some visitors.ed with so much to do. Block off plenty of time for Pikes Peak.

6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

The cavern is the primary attraction here because water has created an unbelievable array of limestone decorations within. The underground experiences it provides are nothing short of spectacular. It has over 119 caves, including the massive "Big Room," which is an underground chamber you can explore using a 1.25-mile loop trail.  For your convenience, there is a 750-foot elevator ride from the visitor center directly to the cave trails, and you can also explore via guided tours, such as the Kings Palace Tour. It is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. 

7. The Alamo, Texas

Whether you're a history buff or not, The Alamo in San Antonio is worth a visit. The Alamo is near the San Antonio River Walk, allowing for relatively easy access to dining, shopping, and boat tours. The Alamo Church and its grounds, an iconic 1836 battlefield of about 4.2 acres, are a great place to interact with live historical demonstrations, including frontier life and an immersive view of the site's history. Now, although entering the church is free, you should make a reservation to secure entry.

8. The Platt Historic District, Oklahoma 

There are plenty of reasons this is on the ultimate road trip, but don't miss the waterfalls. This attraction forms part of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. It is known for its “park-like atmosphere, which helps preserve the natural and built environment of the 1930s. While here, you will also have access to natural, cold-water springs and a historic architecture featuring stone-walled springs, benches, and pavilions. The historic landscape also includes dams and rustic bridges.

9. Toltec Mounds, Arkansas

The state's tallest American Indian mounds are here. The mounds date back to the Plum Bayou culture (A.D. 650–1050). The planned earthen mounds are about 18 in total, with some reaching up to 50 feet in height. It is worth pointing out that the attraction was renamed the Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park, which, in a way, helps better reflect the indigenous culture that built the site. You can also visit the nearby museum containing artifacts found on this site.

10. Elvis Presley's Graceland, Tennessee

Curious and Suspicious Minds must stop here. This 13.8-acre estate will give you the chance of a lifetime to look into the King of Rock 'n' Roll's life. You can tour the Graceland mansion, which features spaces like the living room, parents' bedroom, kitchen, TV room, pool room, and the famous Polynesian-style Jungle Room. Also, find time to visit the final resting place of Elvis and his family. The Mansion is generally accessible, but some areas may be restricted, and it typically opens at 9:00 AM. Closing times depend on the season.

11. Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi

Stand where the famous Civil War battle once took place, lasting from May 18, 1863, to July 4, 1863. There is a 16-mile tour road, offering you the best opportunity to see major battlefield positions. The drive should take about 1-2 hours. The park also has over 1,300 historic monuments,144 cannons, reconstructed trenches, a museum, and a cemetery. The Vicksburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 17,000 Union soldiers. And from the USS Cairo Museum, you can sightsee the ironclad gunboat sunk in 1862 and recovered from the Yazoo River, along with related artifacts.

12. French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana

The oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, this area is full of history and culture. It is largely known due to its Creole architecture, Creole/Cajun cuisine, and jazz. You can swing by central, historic spots, such as Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral, to enjoy entertainment from artists and performers. There are also famous spots for dining, including Cafe Du Monde for beignets and coffee, besides historic restaurants offering Creole cuisine. For nightlife and music, Bourbon Street, with its neon-lit bars, can be an excellent choice.

13. USS Alabama, Alabama

Now a museum ship, it served our amazing country from 1942 to 1962. As you will find out, while here you can explore the decks of this WWII battleship that earned nine battle stars and tour the galley, crew quarters, and bridge. Please note that the ship forms part of the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Hence, you will be able to access other battle-related attractions, like the USS Drum submarine and historic planes, including the Marine One helicopter used by 5 U.S. Presidents.

14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida

Rockets have been launched from here. Need I say more? Because this is a historic, active military launch facility, as a visitor, you will feel grateful to have the chance to educate yourself about America's space history through guided tours of iconic sites. These iconic sites include Launch Complex 26 and the Air Force Space & Missile Museum. Still, you can watch launches from public locations like Jetty Park at Port Canaveral. Do not forget to pre-book a tour.

15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, Georgia

Photo by John Whitehill | Flickr

Time for something different in the form of a 438,000-acre, peat-filled wetland. Grab a canoe, as it offers a unique pathway to one of North America's largest blackwater wetlands. You can be part of a 45-minute guided boat tour along original waterways to see alligators and, occasionally, rare birds. You can also head to Pioneer Island, a historic homestead, offering you a window into early settler life. The park is open throughout the year, but spring and fall offer milder weather, suitable for exploring. 

16. Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina 

Famous (infamous?) for two Civil War battles, this seafort in Charleston is a historical must-see. This is where the Civil War began on April 12, 1861. A road trip to this side will allow you to walk through the fort’s ruins, examine Civil War-era cannons, and see the damage from the 34-hour bombardment that started the Civil War. Ensure you take a ferry ride for scenic views of Charleston harbor and the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point.

17. Lost World Caverns, West Virginia

Road trips are about getting a fresh perspective, and what better way than to go underground? This stunning underground cave, consisting of limestone, was discovered in 1942. It gives visitors the chance to see unique formations like the  "Snowy Chandelier", which is one of our nation's largest compound stalactites. However, the tour may be physically demanding since it includes approximately 350 steps and, therefore, may not be easily accessible to some.

18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, North Carolina 

"First In Flight" being NC's motto, this one is a no-brainer for the road trip. The location features a modern visitor center. The center provides museum exhibits showcasing the Wright brothers' early years, their experiments, and a collection of artifacts, including a reproduction of the 1903 flyer. You can also see ground markers indicating the takeoff and landing points for each of the four flights made on December 17, 1903. If you desire to have a better view of the surrounding areas, access the 60-foot granite monument on Big Kill Devil Hill.

19. Mount Vernon, Virginia

Why here? Because the plantation house of this country's first president, George Washington, is here. This preserved 500-acre estate will allow you to have a taste of 18th-century life. You can take a tour of the mansion where our nation’s president and his wife lived, along with over 20 structures, including the kitchen, stable, and greenhouse. Other things you can do include visiting their final resting place and paying respects at the Slave Memorial. It is open 365 days a year.

20. The White House, Washington, DC

Swing by the President's home during your unforgettable journey. You can tour the 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue residence, featuring the East Room, Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, and State Dining Room. Typically, these sites showcase portraits and historic furniture. Also, the White House Visitor Center is nearby, housing artifacts, a retail store, and interactive touchscreen tours. Public tours are usually open from Tuesday to Saturday. However, although tours are free, you must make at least a 21-day advance request through your Member of Congress if you are a US citizen or your embassy in Washington, DC, if you are a foreign national. 

21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, Maryland

There's so much to do in this part of the state's capital. Don't miss it. You will have the opportunity to deep dive into 18th-century American history. The district has streets that feature colonial, Georgian, and Federal-style homes. One of those key sites you should not miss is the Maryland State House. Another point of attraction is the U.S. Naval Academy, where you can tour the grounds, the chapel, and the crypt of John Paul Jones, often referred to as the "Father of the American Navy." For parking, you are encouraged to use garages like the Gotts Court.

22. New Castle Historic District, Delaware

Continue your historic exploration in Delaware. In this location, there are 17th-century Dutch colonial buildings, including the Amstel House and the Dutch House. The area served as William Penn's first landing place in 1682. Yeah, that is the same guy who oversaw the founding of Pennsylvania as a refuge for Quakers and other religious minorities of Europe. The district also hosts seasonal major events like "A Day in Old New Castle" in May and "Separation Day" in June.

23. Cape May Historic District, New Jersey.

Over 300 acres and 600 buildings await you here, with more things to discover than you can imagine. This district is recognized for having one of our nation's largest, most concentrated collections of late-19th-century Victorian architecture. You can tour Victorian homes such as the Emlen Physick Estate via walking or biking. The location may also be the heart of America's first seaside resort, with deep roots tracing back to the 17th century. If you love taking part in cultural or seasonal activities, you will enjoy lighthouse climbs, haunted house tours, and much more.

24. Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania

Photo by Daniel Mennerich | Flickr

Swing by Philly to see one of America's most iconic symbols. Never forget your freedom as you travel through the country. While here, you can learn about the transformation of the bell’s role throughout the years, from a symbol of American independence to an abolition symbol and finally to a civil rights symbol. The bell’s location is on Independence Mall, near Independence Hall. The center is wheelchair accessible and provides informational materials in various languages.

25. Statue of Liberty, New York

Another obvious one, but it would be criminal to leave it off the list. She is perhaps our nation's most incredible sculpture. When you access Liberty Island, you can walk around the base and enjoy some of the best views of the NYC skyline and harbor. Moreover, there is the Statue of Liberty Museum on the island, home to exhibits that engage visitors via technology, the original torch, and the history of the construction. The tickets for visitors usually include a ferry stop at the nearby Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which documents the stories of 12 million immigrants who passed through from 1892 to 1954.

26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, Connecticut 

After the crowds in NYC, check out the home of Samuel Clemens in Hartford. Literature fans especially. He lived there from 1874 to 1891 and wrote his masterpiece, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. While in this area, you can walk around the restored home, including the billiard room where Twain wrote his most famous books. Free parking is available in the museum lots, and the attraction is open daily, but may be closed on Tuesdays from January to March, and on major holidays.

27. The Breakers, Rhode Island

This Vanderbilt mansion is a historic landmark with a total area of 125,339 square feet and 62,482 square feet of living area across five floors. Wow. This grand summer cottage was built around 1895. It provides opulent Italian Renaissance architecture, stunning ocean views, and properly maintained gardens. The design consists of rare marbles, intricate mosaic tiles, and gilded detailing. Worth remembering, though, that the mansion is generally not considered suitable for young children, and tickets are for a specific date and time. 

28. USS Constitution, Massachusetts

Photo by Wangkun Jia | stock.adobe.com

Named by George Washington, this ship's history is unsurpassed. Listen to this unbelievable fact. This is the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat, after its launch in 1797. Known as "Old Ironsides," it offers free tours led by U.S. Navy sailors. You can explore the deck, interact with active-duty crew, and learn insights about its history in the War of 1812 against Great Britain. And it is free to visit the ship, although the boarding period is often between Wednesday and Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Still, because the ship is a functioning Navy vessel, schedules may change due to military ceremonies.

29. Acadia National Park, Maine

Get away from it all for a while and explore all that Acadia has to offer. And it offers a lot. The park is located on Maine's Mount Desert Island and covers about 50,000 acres, consisting of rocky coastline, granite peaks, and forests. A leading attraction is the 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain, which is popular as the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard. Due to its position and Earth's tilt, it is the first to see the sunrise from October 7 through March 6, and thus, a great location to view the sunrise. Other attractions include 5 miles of historic carriage roads, Jordan Pond, and Thunder Hole.

30. Mount Washington Hotel, New Hampshire

Why a hotel? Because it's centered around a 1902 Spanish Renaissance building. The hotel’s striking feature is the white façade and red roof, and it is near the White Mountain National Forest. You can go there for winter and skiing activities because it is home to the Bretton Woods ski area, which covers almost 464 acres. But, if you prefer to go there during the summer, activities you can participate in include golf, tennis, horseback riding, or a canopy zip-line tour.

31. Shelburne Farms, Vermont

Photo by Trevor Wilson | Flickr

Hiking, charm, and plenty of activities, a stop in Vermont is well worth it for some peace and serenity. The farm is about 1,400 acres and includes a children’s farmyard, which is a dedicated area that allows your kids to meet farm animals upclose. The available animals include sheep, cows, goats, rabbits, horses, pigs, and donkeys. You can try milking a cow, spinning wool from a sheep, or even feeding these animals. And as someone who loves good, fresh food myself, it was wonderful to experience farm-to-table dining at a lakefront inn. 

32. Fox Theater, Detroit, Michigan

After all the parks and historic homes, check out the Fox Theater in the Grand Circus Park District of Detroit. This is a breathtakingly restored 1928 "movie palace" and one of the world's premier performing arts venues, located on Woodward Avenue. For your live entertainment needs, options include comedy shows, music concerts, and holiday performances, including the annual "Fox Theatre Series."There is also the matter of its beautiful architecture since it was originally designed as a grand "Temple of Amusement." You will also know more about the operational history of the theater.

33. Spring Grove Cemetery, Ohio 

The 2nd largest cemetery (and garden) in the U.S. has a design that will blow you away. This National Historic Landmark was founded in 1845. It literally offers you a museum without walls. The accredited arboretum features state champion trees, lakes, winding paths, and stone bridges. On the other hand, in terms of its historic architecture, there are the 1869 Dexter Mausoleum and various elaborate Victorian-era grave monuments. Remember to respect funeral services, not walk on graves, and avoid using headphones.

34. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentuck

It's the longest cave system in the WORLD, and you won't forget your time there. The cave is over 400 miles and offers different underground tours, hiking, biking, and canoeing in a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can kayak or canoe on the scenic Green and Nolin Rivers. Usually, cave tours may last between 1.5 and 6 hours, and reservations are recommended for tours and camping.

35. West Baden Springs Hotel, Indiana

This "resort" has a history, some of it dark, that's too long to explain here. Stop there, and you'll learn all about it. For now, maybe, what you should know is that this is a restored 4-star National Historic Landmark featuring a massive 200-foot free-spanning dome atrium. The six-story building has about  243 luxury rooms, with 37 rooms offering direct balcony views of the iconic atrium. Parking and Tesla charging stations are available and check-in is at 4:00 PM, while check-out is at 11:00 AM.

36. Abraham Lincoln's Home, Illinois 

Widely considered the best President we've ever had, it's surreal to stand where Lincoln once lived. In fact, this is the only house he ever owned and lived in from 1844 to 1861. You will have a National Park Service ranger to lead you while on the tour of the home, with areas of interest including the parlor, bedrooms, and kitchen. This is also the best time to learn more about Lincoln’s life, including before he ascended to the presidency, such as when he was a lawyer. Typically open daily, and a visitor parking lot is located at the corner of 7th and Edwards Streets.

37. Gateway Arch, Missouri

At 630 feet, this is the tallest arch in the world. It is situated within the 91-acre Gateway Arch National Park along the Mississippi River. You will use a unique 1960s-era tram system to take you to the observation deck. While the Museum at the Gateway Arch is free, other attractions have fees. The museum showcases the story of westward expansion, Native American history, and the construction of the Arch. The park is open throughout the year, with a lot of traffic often observed during the summer. Tickets sell out quickly, and therefore, you should book online in advance.

38. C.W. Parker Carousel Museum, Kansas

A carousel museum? Yes, please. The museum offers you the chance to learn the history of C.W. Parker, an accomplished American manufacturer of carousels who moved his operation from Abilene to Leavenworth. Exhibits include band organs (Wurlitzer 153), a cylinder piano, and various carousel horses. However, the main attraction must be the 1913 carousel featuring 24 hand-carved horses, bunnies, and chariots. The other attraction is the "Liberty" carousel, which features aluminum horses from the post-WWII era.

39. Terrace Hill Governor's Mansion, Iowa 

This 1869 Victorian mansion has been the residence of the state's governors since 1971, and guided tours are available. I think they still don’t allow touring by yourself, and you must book a tour at least 48 hours in advance. Tours include a short introductory video in the Carriage House, followed by a guided walk-through of the main residence. It is often open for tours from March through December, and it hosts special events, including Holiday Teas in December and a Mother's Day Tea.

40. Taliesin, Wisconsin

This is the estate of Frank Lloyd Wright, perhaps the most famous and impressive architect who ever lived. This 800-acre estate, featuring his home, studio, and school, has a design that allows a well-thought-out blending with the natural Driftless Area landscape. The site features buildings from nearly every decade of Wright's career (1890s–1950s), often described as an autobiography in wood and stone. Tour experiences differ depending on your choice, including the 2.5-hour highlights tour and in-depth estate tours. But since seating is limited, expect a lot of walking.

41. Fort Snelling, Minnesota

Swing by this military fortification located at the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers to experience another part of American history. This fort was built in the early 1820s, and it was useful in housing fur traders and officers who brought their slaves there. As a National Historic Landmark, it serves as a site of both colonial expansion and deep cultural importance. Therefore, you can rest assured you will learn about its role in frontier life, the Civil War era, and the complex U.S.-Dakota War. There are also hands-on activities you can participate in, such as becoming part of a cannon crew.

42. Ashfall Fossill Bed, Nebraska

Bring out your paleontology side, where a Yellowstone eruption preserved an ecological snapshot. It's like going back millions of years. Volcanic ash from a supereruption that occurred around 12 million years ago during the late Miocene period led to significant deaths of over 15 species of animals here. And courtesy of the Hubbard Rhino Barn, you can watch paleontologists excavate fossils of hippo-like rhinos, three-toed horses, and more. There is also an area for kids where they can act as paleontologists and brush off replica bones. It is usually open for visitors from late May to early October.

43. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Touring the USA without seeing the heads of our founding fathers would just be a disgrace. In South Dakota’s Black Hills, you will have access to the iconic 60-foot granite carvings of four U.S. presidents: Washington, Jefferson, T. Roosevelt, and Lincoln. Also, you will always feel welcome at the Lincoln Borglum Museum, which offers a 14-minute film, interactive exhibits, and history on the monument's construction. What’s more, do not miss checking out the Carver’s Café on-site since it’s famous for its ice cream.

44. Fort Union Trading Post, North Dakota

Photo by Traveller70 | stock.adobe.com

This is actually one of the earliest declared national landmarks. As an American road tripper, this site is a must-visit if you want to know the history of the 1800s fur trade. From approximately 1828 to 1867, this location served as the most important fur trade post on the Upper Missouri River. Tribes used to exchange buffalo robes and smaller furs for goods from around the world, such as cloth, guns, blankets, and beads. And you can always buy Native American-made items and trade-era goods to go back with at home.

45. Glacier National Park, Montana

There's arguably no place more breathtaking than here. Your road trip would not be complete without it. You should experience Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is a 50-mile drive through the park's heart, with impressive views of waterfalls, valleys, and glaciers. Some of the key places for you to stop by include Logan Pass, the highest point at 6,600+ ft, and Lake McDonald, the largest lake in the park. Still, you can go hiking, boating, or take the historical Red Bus Tours. Boat rentals are available at Lake McDonald and Swiftcurrent Lake.

46. Hanford Site, Washington 

In 1943, this became a site of the Manhattan Project, which led to the first-ever nuclear weapons created by the United States. Typically, from May to September, you can go for guided tours of the world's first full-scale plutonium production reactor, including the control room, the reactor's front face, and the fuel storage basin. You will also be able to enquire more about Cold War history and pre-war farmsteads. Ensure you book a tour months in advance. Since tours are free, they often fill up quickly.

47. Colombia River Highway, Oregon

This part of the trip truly embodies "road trip" as you take in the most beautiful scenery not only in Oregon but in the country. It is approximately a 70-mile scenic route running from Troutdale to The Dalles. The highway has iconic waterfalls, including the 610-foot Multnomah Falls. Also, if you want to have an all-round view of the area, ensure you reach Crown Point Vista House or the Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint. Visit early or on weekdays to avoid a lot of crowds and even limited parking spaces.

48. San Francisco Cable Cars, California 

This should be on everyone's bucket list. There's nothing like the San Francisco cable cars. They offer you a chance to enjoy a ride with the world’s last manually operated cable car system as you go over steep hills and take in the wonderful scenery. The Powell-Hyde line offers the best views, while the Powell-Mason line offers great views of Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area. The cable cars operate roughly 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM, seven days a week.

49. San Andreas Fault, California

When you hear San Andreas Fault, you think of earthquakes. This 810-mile continental transform fault terrifies many people - it's extraordinary. You will be able to see firsthand the boundary between the Pacific and North American plates, featuring twisted rock, fault gouge, and sag ponds. In the Coachella Valley, palm trees often mark the fault line where water seeps to the surface. Another key location is Fort Ross in Northern California, which allows you to view visible fault lines and the epicenter of the 1906 quake.

50. Hoover Dam, Nevada

Taking inflation into account, this Dam cost nearly $ 1 billion. Its construction is truly incredible. It was constructed in the 1930s, and it is approximately 45 minutes from Las Vegas on the Nevada-Arizona border. You can take a tour and go deep inside the dam to view the massive generators, tunnels, and pipes. Still, you can walk or drive across the 726-foot-high structure or take a helicopter tour over the dam to get a better viewing experience of the structure and the surrounding landscape. Vehicle traffic is restricted on top of the dam, but parking is available on the Nevada side.