Interstate 70
After soaking up the sun in Hawaii and Southern California, it was time to head east—2,700 miles from Orange County to Richmond, Virginia. With Interstates 70 and 64 as our guide, we carved a path through six vibrant cities, each with its own personality, food scene, and sense of rhythm. From neon nights in Vegas to bourbon-soaked evenings in Louisville, this journey was part great American road trip, part research tour, and all adventure.
Stop 1: Las Vegas, NV – Neon, Nostalgia & Nightlife
It wouldn’t be a true cross-country tour without a night in Vegas. We kept it classy (for the most part)— with an impromptu round at the craps table, and plenty of people-watching under the city’s legendary lights. We kept it pretty brief.
Stop 2: Denver, CO – Mile High Vibes
Heading into the Rockies, Denver provided a refreshing change of pace. The city balances urban energy with mountain air. After a quick hike at Red Rocks and a stroll through RiNo’s art-filled streets, we hit up a few craft breweries (Denver doesn’t mess around with its beer game). Whether you’re a hop-head or just here for the mountain views, the Mile High City delivers.
Stop 3: Kansas City, MO – BBQ & Entertainment District Goals
You already know how I feel about Kansas City if you’ve followed my past travels. It was great to return and revisit the Power & Light District—still one of the best examples of what a well-executed entertainment district can look like. Live music, walkable streets, drinks in hand, and a rooftop pool that rivals any day club. Also, the burnt ends at Q39? Unreal.
Stop 4: St. Louis, MO – Arches and Avenues
From the Gateway Arch to the rooftop bars overlooking Busch Stadium, St. Louis has an effortless charm. I caught a Cardinals game crowd pouring into the streets and imagined what it would be like if Richmond had a downtown ballpark. The vibe is electric on game day. Riverfront views, city pride, and great architecture made this a solid stop on the journey east.
Stop 5: Louisville, KY – Bourbon, Beats & Boutique Hotels
Louisville brings serious flavor—literally and figuratively. The NuLu district is where it’s at: urban revival meets indie charm. Think cocktail bars inside old firehouses and speakeasies tucked behind bakery counters. And yes, there’s bourbon everywhere. I even made a detour to Churchill Downs to see the iconic Twin Spires. Horse racing, rooftop lounges, and Southern hospitality? Yes, please.
Stop 6: Charleston, WV – Scenic Serenity Before Home
By the time we reached Charleston, West Virginia, the Appalachian hills felt like a welcome homecoming. The Kanawha River runs right through the city, and the view from the riverwalk is a perfect backdrop for an early evening jog or golden hour drive. Not the most bustling of cities, but a peaceful final stop before heading home to RVA.
Final Stretch: Rolling into Richmond
There’s something about crossing the state line into Virginia after a long stretch of I-64 that just hits right. This journey wasn’t just about getting from Point A to Point B—it was about gathering stories, recharging creatively, and seeing how cities across the country embrace entertainment, culture, and community. Spoiler alert: Richmond is still my favorite.
But these road trips? They remind me why travel matters.