Everybody has their own version of a perfect weather day (mine is 72ºF and sunny, by the way), but professional climatologist Brian Brettschneider says 70ºF can sure make a lot of people happy; so happy, in fact, one may be inclined to drive across the country in pursuit of perpetual balmy temps. At least, that’s what Brettschneider had in mind when he created a 30-state, 9,125 mile road trip with an almanac as his guide. From Texas and Colorado to the Great Lakes and our nation’s capital, I must say this 12-month trek looks pretty darn nice. But don’t take my word for it, check it out for yourself:
In January, the normal high temperature hangs right around 70ºF in southern Texas, Brettschneider says, making it a great place to start the trip. By March, meander up to San Antonio (pictured here) where folks can enjoy a plethora of year-round outdoor offerings, such as a boat ride on the San Antonio Riverwalk.
Next, swing through northern Texas and into Oklahoma where you can spend a few weeks bobbing quietly along in Eufaula Lake with a friend (or not) before heading towards our country's bustling capital for a truly amazing natural spectacle.
Is there any place more beautiful than Washington D.C. during cherry blossom season? I'll go ahead and say no. Make sure to time this stop right to catch the flowers in peak bloom (usually around the first of April), then spend a month or so moseying around one of the most dynamic cities in the country.
Forget what you've heard about the rust belt; cities like Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Chicago are simply magical come May. Stretch your legs along Lake Michigan and dip your toes in the chilly water (if you dare!).
There's more than cheese in this Midwestern gem. Drive through in early summer and catch the first sunflower fields beginning to bloom. If you've got time, make a pit stop in Madison where you'll find eateries, cafes, and breweries galore.
Nothing beats a hike in Montana's Makoshika State Park in the summertime. Though it doesn't get as much hype as Glacier or Yellowstone national parks, the views are equally breathtaking.
Spending two months traversing through the Colorado landscape is easy with all the hiking, biking and boating there is to do. Make time to see both the big cities like Denver (pictured) and tiny towns like Durango. You won't be disappointed.
A place that needs no introduction, Wyoming's Yellowstone National Park is, of course, a must visit on this cross country trip. Brettschneider recommends a September visit for prime temperatures (and views!).
Swing through Kansas City in October for some barbecue and jazz before knocking out Tulsa and then making your way down to the Texas/New Mexico state line at the end of the month.
November in New Mexico? Yes, please. Start out in Las Cruces (pictured) which is said to have some 320 days of sunshine each year, then swing through Arizona, before departing for Las Vegas, Nevada, and braking near Los Angeles, California.
So what do you think? Are you packing your bags yet and telling your bosses you’ll, um, be ‘out’ for a while? What other destinations would you add to this trip?
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