West to Rapid City
National Parks and Roadside Attractions: A Westward Road Trip
In the spring of 2025, I embarked on an unforgettable road trip out West, exploring stunning National Parks and adding a few more states to my goal of visiting all 50. This journey was packed with breathtaking landscapes, iconic landmarks, and quirky roadside attractions that made every mile an adventure.
About Me
Hi, I'm Pat Moriarty! Based in Chicago, I work as a web developer, but my passion for travel takes me across the U.S. and beyond. While I’ve flown to the West Coast nearly 30 times, this trip was special - it was my first time driving west past Iowa. Hitting the open road brought a whole new perspective, allowing me to experience the vastness and beauty of the country in a way that air travel simply can’t match.
Want to check out more of my travel adventures? Explore my journeys across the United States and Europe at www.PatMoriarty.com.
Hitting the Road
Join me as we drive west from Chicago, traversing Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, and North Dakota. Along the way, I explored some of America’s most iconic National and State Parks:
- Mount Rushmore National Monument - A patriotic landmark carved into the Black Hills.
- Custer State Park - The beautiful Needles Highway and our first introduction to the animals of the West.
- Grand Teton National Park - Towering peaks and frozen lakes.
- Yellowstone National Park - Geysers, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park - A hidden gem of rugged beauty.
Beyond the National and State Parks, I made it a mission to stop at as many quirky roadside attractions as possible, uncovering the charm and oddities of small-town America.
Follow the Adventure
If you love road trips, National Parks, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, follow along as I share stories, tips, and highlights from this incredible journey. Let’s hit the road together!
Discover more of my travels at www.PatMoriarty.com.
