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We’ve all had those moments when we just need a break from all our responsibilities and tasks. A road trip is the best remedy to stress! Not only is it healthy to get your eyes off of a screen for a bit, but you can also grab your friends and take time to jam to oldies, have deep conversations, or even just enjoy the silence together as you drive on the open road.

Davey Crocket said it best: “You may all go to Hell, and I will go to Texas.” Not only is Texas one of the biggest states in the United States, but it also has some of the biggest state pride around. Texas is not just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. Texans will brag about their bluebonnets, their Blue Bell, and most especially, their barbecue. People will wait in line for hours if it means they will leave 100% satisfied. Closing times on signs are hardly enforced because these barbecue joints are normally sold out of food before it’s even time to lock up for the night. The barbecue business is booming right before our eyes (and stomachs).Because there are too many barbecue establishments in Texas to count, we rallied up some of the top favorites in one area: Dallas. We highly recommend entering these places with your stretchy pants on, because you won’t want to stop eating until you’ve been induced into a meat coma. But don’t take our word for it—get out there and try them for yourself. If you gain a pound or sixteen, we understand. It’s happened to the best of us. Enjoy, and yeehaw! Cattleack Barbeque Texas Monthly ranks Cattleack Barbeque as the third best joint in Texas. In the renowned magazine’s own words, “Prepare to feel the earth move.” They typically complete an order every fifty-one seconds, so there’s no time to dillydally. They move fast because everyone wants a bite.Hutchins BBQHutchins BBQ is not only one of the best in the state, but it has also been voted one of the best in the world. This father-and-son duo definitely knows how to stand out in the crowd. It’s a must-have if you’re in town. Also, don’t forget to grab a “Texas Twinkie” (a brisket- stuffed jalapeño wrapped in bacon). You’ll thank us later.Pecan LodgePecan Lodge is one of the finest in the state. This barbecue is from passed-down, secret family recipes. Between wood and pas- sion, this place runs 24/7 to give their customers the best meat possible. What started as a little stand at a farmer’s market has turned into a food sensation. If you don’t stop by, you will most definitely regret it.Feedstore This family-owned barbecue joint is exactly what your taste buds have been craving, whether you knew it or not. What was once a feed store has turned into the Feedstore that many know and love today. If there’s one thing you absolutely need to order here, it’s their fried okra. It will be some of the best you’ll ever have. Photo by The Rocketeer

Abraham Hicks said, “If you’re not excited about it, it’s not the right path.” Well, here’s a path everyone should be excited about: the Ohio Donut Trail. Otherwise known as the Butler County Donut Trail, this eighty-mile tour—complete with a passport and free T-shirt—features tempting donut shops around the Cincinnati, Ohio, area. Even if you’ve made the trip before, you should consider making another pilgrimage: as of 2018, Butler County has added three more bakeries to the existing list of nine.

North of everywhere in Europe lies a winding, wet road that has been considered the best road trip in the entire world. The road stretches across churning waters, whose waves crash over the asphalt and smash into passing cars. The drive inspires awe in all who face it. This exciting drive is known simply as the Atlantic Ocean Road.

US Route 1 winds 2,450 miles along the US East Coast through major cities like Miami, D.C., Boston, and New York City. But in the autumn, especially around early or mid-October, the stretch of highway along the coast of Maine is particularly striking when the landscape turns into a foliage sunset. While the drive itself will expose you to a myriad of colors, stopping and stepping out into this autumn scene will enrich your experience.

Interstate-90 is the longest interstate highway in the United States. Stretching from Seattle to Boston, it’s 3,099.07 miles long and crosses 14 states. Whether you’re going the entire distance or just partway, here is a selection of some of the popular sites along I-90.

There is no better way to celebrate your independence than by casting off the shackles of responsibility and hitting the open road with your best friend.