Touring - Trans-Am-what to see besides the tarmac

In may i've decided to do my first trans am cross. I know that by following the maps i might miss a lot of good spots by just focusing on the road ahead.i would like to hear from anyone who could recomend some interesting spots around the main route. Like good geological formations, interesting day trips, good swim spots ect.

Im not really trying to take the adventure out of my "adventure", but i know from cycling oregon that i happen upon these "one of a kind" spots on rare occasions, and would just like to extend that on the rest of the states. Thanks for you time.

Tough question for me since the one time I rode the transamerica(bikecentennial) route was 1977. I was just out of High School and everything was interesting then! Now I make it point to talk to people along the way and especially check out the local museums and historical societies. They are always eager to tell you where the interesting and odd sights are. I often contact them prior to beginning the tour via email informing them of my intentions so I can adjust my route accordingly.

There is a once a mo. motor cycle brakefast in Casady Kansas, I felt like a one leged man at a a-- kicking contest. Every one was nice, and great food, after about 40 mi. that is.

Don't know if your route has been choosen yet, but should you make it to western Wisconsin there are quite a few miles of rail trails there several with tunnels. Sparta, WI would be the town to do a search on as they even have a small bicycle museum, been there, it's kinda cool.

if your riding thru missouri on the trans am route, stop and camp at emminance mo.the current river passes by and you really should take a day off and do a float trip in a canoe.the water is crystal clear and spring fed.i go there canoeing every year at least twice.theres plenty of places to rent a canoe so dont sweat it.its beautiful to float down the river and watch the trout swim under your canoe.ozark mountains at its best.trips are easy so you dont have to be an expert either just plain fun.out of all the travel logs i read it seems nobody has ever stopped and tried it out for a day . just stuff like missouri is nothing but up and down, up and down, which is true might i add.

Go to the travel books section any Barnes and Noble or Borders bookstore

I use Frommers USA or Fodor's Guide to the National Parks, over seas travel I always
check out Lonely Planet Guides, not sure about their USA guides but if they are available they are always first rate and accurate.

Another idea would be to after you have your route planned get back on here and ask any locals along the way for info and even places to camp for the nite, rather think you might be surprised at the invites you receive.