Indianapolis to Phoenix

[Stormer328]

I'm taking a road trip from Indianapolis, IN to Phoenix, AZ beginning the end of July. I have no real time limitations for reaching my destination though I'd like for the trip to take approximately 4-6 days total. My primary goal is not necessarily making it to Phoenix as quickly as possible, but rather seeing parts of the US that I will be passing along my journey. My route is yet to be determined. I am a fan of historical landmarks, literature, and art as well as taking in nature's beauty.

1) Can you suggest some places that might be of interest based on the above?
2) Due to weather conditions (I've heard of some flooding down south) are there certain routes I should steer clear of?
3) Any suggestions for dining? I'm a fan of the little "hidden gems" rather than restaurant chains.
4) Any website or book suggestions would also prove helpful to planning my itinerary.

Thanks, in advance, for any help you offer!

[Mass Tim]

I'm taking a road trip from Indianapolis, IN to Phoenix, AZ beginning the end of July. I have no real time limitations for reaching my destination though I'd like for the trip to take approximately 4-6 days total. My primary goal is not necessarily making it to Phoenix as quickly as possible, but rather seeing parts of the US that I will be passing along my journey.

Welcome to the RoadTrip America Forum!

You definitely have the right idea.

My route is yet to be determined. I am a fan of historical landmarks, literature, and art as well as taking in nature's beauty.

1) Can you suggest some places that might be of interest based on the above?

I would vote for a Northern route through Colorado and the South through Utah, visiting the Rocky Mountains and Canyonlands National Park. With this route (essentially I-70 to US-191 then on to I-17) being around 2,000 miles - you can do this in 6 days at a comfortable pace.

2) Due to weather conditions (I've heard of some flooding down south) are there certain routes I should steer clear of?

Hopefully by the time you head out, this will have cleared up - but weather is unpredictable that far ahead.

Keep your eyes and ears open for news updates from the areas you plan on driving through and have an alternate route (or two) available to you, seeing as how you pretty much have to cross the Mississippi River.

Here is some more information regarding the situation.

4) Any website or book suggestions would also prove helpful to planning my itinerary.

Thanks, in advance, for any help you offer!

You've come to the right place for help with planning. We have several members that are intimately familiar with the route you are planning and they will be able to help you.