5 Epic Road Trips to Follow the Grateful Dead’s Footsteps
If you’re a fan of the iconic band, the Grateful Dead, and love traveling, then you’ll want to plan a road trip that follows in their footsteps. The band’s influence extends far beyond the world of music, and their travels across the country have left a significant mark on America’s cultural landscape. In this article, we’ll explore five epic road trips that will take you on a journey through history and music, following the Grateful Dead’s route across the country.
1. West Coast Loop
Begin your road trip adventure on the West Coast, following the Grateful Dead’s first tour of California in 1966. From the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco, head north towards Mendocino County, where you can visit the home of legendary sound engineer, Owsley Stanley, who was also the band’s LSD provider. From there, continue north along the coast towards Humboldt County, where the band played several shows during the ’70s and ’80s.
Next, head inland to Eugene, Oregon, where the band played their first stadium show in 1978. Take a pit stop at the McMenamins Old St. Francis School, where the band played a legendary show in 1972. From there, head south along the coast to San Francisco, ending the loop where it all began.
2. Midwest Trail
The Midwest was an essential part of the Grateful Dead’s touring history, playing shows in cities like Chicago, Cleveland, and Indianapolis. Start in Chicago, where the band played several memorable concerts at the Aragon Ballroom, and visit the nearby suburb of Skokie, where Jerry Garcia’s famous Wolf guitar was made.
Next, head to Cleveland, Ohio, where the band played at the legendary Music Hall in 1971. From there, travel south to Cincinnati and visit the Palace Theater, where the band played to a sold-out crowd in 1978. End your trip in Indianapolis, where the band played their last concert in 1995.
3. Southwestern Swing
The Grateful Dead often played in the southwestern United States, and this road trip will take you to some of their most memorable shows. Start in Austin, Texas, where the band played several shows, including one at the Armadillo World Headquarters in 1972.
From there, head to New Mexico, where the band played shows in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Take in the stunning scenery of the region, which served as inspiration for the band’s music. Finally, head to Las Vegas, where the band played several shows at the Aladdin Theater in the ’80s.
4. East Coast Run
The East Coast was another essential part of the Grateful Dead’s tour history, playing shows in iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and Nassau Coliseum. Start in Boston, where the band played their first East Coast show in 1968.
From there, head to New York City, where the band played many memorable shows at Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall. Next, travel to Philadelphia, where the band played several shows at the Spectrum and JFK Stadium. Finally, end your trip in Washington D.C., where the band played a concert at the RFK Stadium in 1995.
5. Pacific Northwest Expedition
The Pacific Northwest was a favorite destination of the Grateful Dead, and this road trip will take you to some of their most iconic shows in the region. Start in Seattle, where the band played several unforgettable shows at the Seattle Center Coliseum.
From there, head to Portland, Oregon, where the band played several shows at the Memorial Coliseum. Continue south to Eugene, Oregon, where the band played several shows at Autzen Stadium. Finally, end your trip in Ashland, Oregon, where the band played a concert at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in 1983.
In Conclusion
The Grateful Dead’s influence on American music and culture is undeniable, and following in their footsteps on a road trip is a unique way to explore the country’s history and musical heritage. Whether you choose to explore the East Coast, Midwest, Southwestern, or Pacific Northwest regions, these five road trips will take you on a journey through time and music that you’ll never forget. Pack your bags and hit the road – your Grateful Dead adventure awaits!
