Scenic Road Trip from Baltimore, MD to Taos, NM with Key Stops

Day 1: Drive to Columbus, OH

Baltimore, MD to Columbus, OH on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Miss Shirley's Cafe

Start your trip with a flavorful Southern-inspired breakfast at this popular Baltimore spot known for its crab cake benedict and vibrant atmosphere.
USD25, 1h

9:30am

Drive from Baltimore to Columbus, Ohio

Begin the westward journey covering approximately 475 miles and around 7.5 hours of driving, with a few planned rest stops along the way to stretch and refuel.
USD60 (fuel approx.), 7h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Pearl

Enjoy an upscale dinner in Columbus featuring New American cuisine with seasonal ingredients, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Columbus to Kansas City

Columbus, OH to Kansas City, MO on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Northstar Cafe

A trendy spot in Columbus offering fresh, local dishes with vegan and vegetarian options to start your day light and energized.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Kansas City, Missouri

A 9.5-hour drive covering roughly 650 miles westward through Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. Break stops recommended in Indianapolis and St. Louis.
USD70 (fuel approx.), 9h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Sample legendary Kansas City barbecue at this famed casual eatery known for its ribs and pulled pork sandwiches.
USD25, 1h
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Day 3: Kansas City to Taos

Kansas City, MO to Taos, NM on May 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Classic Cookie Co.

Grab a coffee and fresh pastries to go for an early start before the long drive toward New Mexico.
USD15, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Taos, New Mexico

Longest leg of the trip at approx. 12 hours driving (790 miles). Recommended to start early and plan stops in Colorado Springs and Pueblo for rest and meals.
USD100 (fuel approx.), 12h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Love Apple

Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at this intimate Taos restaurant known for its organic and southwestern-inspired dishes, perfect to relax after the day's drive.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 4: Explore Taos

Taos, NM on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Taos Mesa Brewing

Start your day with hearty breakfast options and local craft beer in a lively spot that supports local artists and musicians.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

Visit Taos Pueblo

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient adobe buildings inhabited by the Taos people for over 1000 years. Open 9:00am-5:00pm; $16 entry.
USD16, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Lambert's of Taos

Enjoy southwestern cuisine in a cozy, award-winning bistro known for wood-fired dishes and friendly vibe.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Rio Grande Gorge Bridge

Drive 10 minutes to see one of the highest bridges in the U.S., offering spectacular views of the Rio Grande River below. Open all day, free entrance.
USD0, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Taos Plaza and local shops

Stroll the historic plaza to experience local art galleries, shops, and cafes. Great for picking up unique Taos souvenirs.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at El Meze

Dine on authentic Northern New Mexico cuisine featuring blue corn enchiladas and green chile dishes in an intimate setting.
USD35, 1h30m
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