American Road Trip Talk

In this special solo edition of American Road Trip Talk , guest host New York Vinnie shares some of his favorite road trip adventures and reflects on why America’s backroads, small towns, and hidden attractions remain the best way to experience the country. From a quirky roadside collection of vintage cars between Seattle and Portland to the scenic farming communities of Washington’s Highway 99, l...

This episode follows an inspiring Route 66 road trip that combines classic American car culture with a meaningful mission. Guest host NY Vinnie talks to our guest Monty Belsham about his plans to lead a caravan of 14 vintage vehicles, including his beloved 1953 Hudson Hornet, on a 2,400-mile journey from Kingman, Arizona to Chicago, Illinois along the Mother Road. Along the way, the travelers will...

In this episode, guest host NY Vinnie turns the spotlight on America’s scenic byways and the unforgettable road trip experiences waiting beyond the interstate. Our guest, Sharon Strouse, executive director of the National Scenic Byway Association , shares how more than a thousand designated byways across the country connect travelers with historic towns, breathtaking landscapes, local culture, and...

In this episode, listeners are invited to explore Colorado’s Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway, a 131-mile road trip through some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes and fascinating historic communities. From the gold rush towns of Cripple Creek and Victor to the charming main streets of Florence and Cañon City, the route offers a blend of mining heritage, mountain scenery, and outd...

This episode takes listeners to Amarillo, Texas, one of the most iconic stops along historic Route 66 and the largest city on the highway’s Texas stretch. Through a conversation with Visit Amarillo’s marketing director, Hope Hoeffner the podcast explores why Amarillo is more than just a roadside stop, highlighting famous attractions such as the Big Texan Steak Ranch and its legendary 72-ounce stea...

This episode explores the first 100 miles of historic Route 66 in Illinois, guiding travelers from Chicago through a collection of charming small towns, iconic roadside attractions, and unforgettable stops along America’s most famous highway. Bob Navarro from Heritage Corridor Destinations, IL joins Gary Mantz to highlight must-see destinations including the Gemini Giant in Wilmington, the histori...

This episode of American Road Trip Talk takes us to Santee Cooper Country, South Carolina, where legendary lakes, outdoor adventure, and authentic Southern hospitality come together. Join us for a conversation with Jane Powell, Executive Director of the Santee Cooper Counties Promotion Commission, as she shares what makes this region a must-visit destination. From world-class fishing and waterfron...

Want to get far away from the noise and haste of daily life on your next vacation? Isle Royale National Park is a great destination for those seeking unspoiled beauty and unhurried adventure in the wild. Our guest is Jim DuFresne, a Michigan travel and outdoor expert who has been writing on where to go and what to do in the Great Lakes State for over 30 years. Originally recorded July 19, 2024. Se...

This episode of American Road Trip Talk brings us another conversation with Amy Beadle with Visit Springfield, Illinois, Springfield, Illinois is one of the most popular destinations along historic Route 66 and the conversation highlights why it deserves a place on any Midwest Road trip itinerary. From the high-speed excitement of the Springfield Mile motorcycle races and the return of the Oyster...

This episode explores a unique road trip destination in the heart of Wyoming, highlighting Cheyenne’s beautifully restored State Capitol and the rich stories that bring the city to life. Beyond the state’s famous national parks and scenic byways, listeners are introduced to a landmark that celebrates Wyoming’s pioneering spirit, including its role as the first government in the world to grant wome...

On This episode of Trip Talk Gary Mantz welcomes Chief Enthusiasm Officer of The Stargazer Inn and Bristlecone General Store Liz Woolsey the conversation takes listeners on a remote and unforgettable road trip through eastern Nevada, spotlighting Great Basin National Park and the rugged journey along Highway 50—famously known as the “Loneliest Road in America.” The conversation highlights the...

Fallon, Nevada is known as the "Oasis of Nevada" due to its fertile agricultural land and vibrant community, despite being located in a desert environment. It's also famous for Naval Air Station Fallon, which plays a significant role in the city's identity and economy. Additionally, Fallon is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. Civic leaders Jane Moon and Pam Yost are our guests. See P...

Chris Perkins Vice President of Programs at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable joins Gary Mantz on today's American Road Trip Talk, the conversation highlights Great Outdoors Month as the perfect time to plan travel centered on hiking, biking, camping, and scenic exploration across the country. Listeners are encouraged to think beyond major destinations and embrace accessible stops along the way—co...

Don’t you wish you could dine where legends of Hollywood’s Golden Age loved to meet, greet, drink and eat? Good news: you still can! In this episode, Geoffrey Mark, a “walking encyclopedia” of show business history, shares classic stories from Tinseltown and insights about what to expect if you make a pilgrimage to extant eateries where fine food and drink plus classy ambience have traditionally a...

Twenty-eight federally recognized tribes stretch across Nevada. These tribes are all unique, with traditions that span many generations. But like the intricate strands that form a beautiful basket, these tribes are one, and their culture is strong and tightly woven together. Ben Rupert, representing Nevada’s Indian Territory leadership team, joins us to share his expertise and experiences in servi...

On this edition of American Road Trip Talk we're joined by the Marketing Manager at the Running Y Resort; Amanda Rich. The conversation takes listeners on a scenic road trip through southern Oregon, spotlighting Crater Lake National Park and the surrounding destinations that make the region a must-visit for travelers. From the breathtaking 33-mile rim drive and panoramic lake viewpoints to adventu...

In this episode, host Gary Mantz talks to Alyson M. Ramsey, CFRE, President & CEO of Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest in Lynchburg, Virginia—a fascinating destination tied to Thomas Jefferson. Find out what makes this historic retreat a rewarding stop on a road trip, from its scenic 2.2-mile parkway and looping walking trails to immersive self-guided tours and cultural exhibits. Travelers lear...

Tony Clemente aka Tony from Jersey has worked on all manner of cars for decades. His word is his bond and his skill is legendary. Ask the legions of drivers who trust him with their classics. To them, he is family. Everyone should have a Tony to count on but how many do? As you plan your 2025 summer road trip, remember the advice you hear in this episode and you will collect fond memories instead...

In this episode, we dive into the romance of the open road through a once-in-a-lifetime road trip celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66. Guests Markku Jaakkola and Jacob Gilbert share plans for an epic journey that begins in Detroit, winds through Chicago, follows the full length of historic Route 66 to Santa Monica, and continues on to Monterey Car Week. Along the way, they highlight icon...

This episode of American Road Trip Talk; host Gary Mantz puts the spotlight on guest Dan Sullivan as he shares insights from his career with Winnebago Industries. Dan and Gary talk about making memories in RVs whether planning a first long‑distance drive or your 100th—and how iconic travel brands have shaped the modern road‑trip experience. The episode also highlights how Winnebago has become syno...

In this episode of American Road Trip Talk , host Gary Mantz welcomes back Route 66 expert Amy Beadle for an immersive journey into Springfield, Illinois—one of the most compelling stops along America’s legendary Mother Road. The conversation explores how road trippers can experience Route 66 through historic alignments, neon sign parks, classic diners, larger‑than‑life roadside giants, and unique...

In this episode of American Road Trip Talk, host Gary Mantz speaks with Ian Wallis, the Sales and Marketing Manager for Louisiana's Cajun Bayou, to highlight Lafourche Parish as a must-visit springtime road trip destination. Located just an hour south of New Orleans, this region offers travelers an immersive dose of authentic Cajun culture and renowned hospitality. Road trippers can pull off the h...

Planning a vacation? Don’t get ripped off! Adam K. Levin is a consumer advocate with more than 40 years of experience and is a nationally recognized expert on security, privacy, phishing schemes and identity theft. He is the founder of CyberScout and author of the book “Swiped: How to Protect Yourself in a World Full of Scammers, Phishers, and Identity Thieves.” Before you venture out, listen to t...

Mark Greene of Cars Yeah says, “For me an adventure drive is when you go off the freeway and onto the back roads, or no roads, out into the wilderness. Away from cities and on roads in unique locations where tourists rarely venture.” Mark is our guest and he has stories of remarkable men and women who have done it. Encore presentation from March 8, 2024 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/priv...

Gary Mantz sits down with Adam Ducharme, the tourism director for Colorado's Lake County, to explore the breathtaking Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. Road trippers are invited to journey through Leadville and Twin Lakes, discovering a route rich with both historic artifacts and pristine natural beauty. Ducharme highlights a variety of must-see destinations along the drive, including the WWII trai...