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Ultimate Road Trip from Tucson, AZ to Maryland — Early 5:00 AM Departure

Viewed by 52 travelers

Day 1: Drive to Little Rock

Tucson, AZ on March 8, 2025

5:00 AM

Hit the Road

Start early from Tucson to maximize daylight and reduce traffic; this early departure helps you cover more miles comfortably on day one.
USD0, 6h0m

11:00 AM

Arrive in El Paso

Stretch your legs after the first leg and take a quick walk near the river or a nearby park to refresh before lunch.
USD0, 0h30m

11:30 AM

Lunch at L&J Cafe

Enjoy authentic Texas-style Mexican dishes—L&J is known for its enchiladas and queso and is a solid spot for a filling midday meal.
USD20, 1h0m

12:30 PM

Visit El Paso Museum of Art

Browse American, Mexican, and contemporary art in a compact museum with a pleasant collection; admission is typically free but check hours.
USD0, 2h0m

2:30 PM

Continue to Little Rock

Depart El Paso for the long overnight drive toward Little Rock; plan fuel and restroom stops along I-10/I-20 for comfort.
USD0, 7h0m

9:30 PM

Check-in at Hotel in Little Rock

Arrive and rest at your hotel to recharge after a long driving day—book a hotel with easy parking and late check-in if possible.
USD100, 0h30m
Find Hotels in Tucson

Day 2: Little Rock to Nashville

Little Rock, AR on March 9, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Clover Grill

Start your day with classic Southern breakfast staples like biscuits and gravy at this local favorite diner.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00 AM

Little Rock Central High School NHS

Visit this important civil rights landmark to learn about the 1957 integration crisis and its historical significance.
USD0, 1h0m

10:00 AM

Depart for Memphis, TN

A relatively short drive east to Memphis—use this leg to relax and enjoy changing scenery.
USD0, 2h0m

12:00 PM

Lunch at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Dig into spicy, crispy fried chicken and classic Southern sides at a well-known regional chain.
USD15, 1h0m

1:00 PM

National Civil Rights Museum

Located at the Lorraine Motel, this museum provides a comprehensive and moving look at the civil rights movement.
USD15, 2h0m

3:00 PM

Continue to Nashville, TN

Drive northeast to Nashville; the roughly 3-hour drive sets you up for an evening in Music City.
USD0, 3h0m

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Loveless Cafe

Famous for biscuits and hearty Southern dishes, this is a great stop for a comforting dinner experience.
USD30, 1h30m

7:30 PM

Check-in at Hotel in Nashville

Rest at your hotel and, if you have energy, explore nearby live-music venues in downtown Nashville.
USD120, 0h30m
Find Hotels in Little Rock

Day 3: Nashville to D.C.

Nashville, TN on March 10, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love

Fuel up with famous homemade biscuits and a range of toppings—perfect for an energizing start before sightseeing.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00 AM

Country Music Hall of Fame

Explore country music history through exhibits and memorabilia featuring legendary artists and instruments.
USD25, 2h0m

11:00 AM

Depart for Knoxville, TN

A mid-day drive to Knoxville provides a good break; plan a short stop en route if needed.
USD0, 3h0m

2:00 PM

Lunch at The Tomato Head

Casual, fresh fare with locally sourced ingredients—great for a relaxed midday meal in Knoxville.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00 PM

Ijams Nature Center

Stretch your legs on scenic trails and enjoy outdoor views; the center is a pleasant natural stop before the long drive.
USD0, 1h30m

4:30 PM

Continue to Washington, D.C.

This longer drive (roughly 6 hours) takes you toward the capital—consider rotating drivers and scheduling breaks.
USD0, 6h0m

10:30 PM

Check-in at Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Arrive in the D.C. area and rest after a full travel day; choose a hotel with secure parking if needed.
USD150, 0h30m
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 4: Explore D.C. & Maryland

Washington, D.C. on March 11, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Enjoy farm-to-table breakfast dishes known for generous portions and quality ingredients.
USD25, 1h0m

9:00 AM

National Mall

Stroll the Mall to see iconic monuments and memorials; mornings are less crowded and pleasant for walking.
USD0, 2h0m

11:00 AM

Smithsonian Museums

Choose 1–2 Smithsonian museums (e.g., Air & Space or American History) for world-class free exhibits; check museum hours online (many open 10:00 AM).
USD0, 3h0m

2:00 PM

Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill

Historic D.C. staple known for oysters and classic American fare—reserve if possible as it gets busy.
USD30, 1h30m

3:30 PM

U.S. Capitol Visit

Take a guided tour of the Capitol or visit the grounds; book tours in advance for guaranteed entry.
USD0, 1h30m

5:00 PM

Drive to Maryland

Short drives from D.C. to many Maryland destinations typically take 20–45 minutes depending on traffic.
USD0, 0h30m

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Crab Cake Cafe

Savor Maryland’s famous crab cakes—an essential regional taste and a great way to celebrate arrival in the state.
USD40, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Washington
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