The perfect US road trip, down to a science! Expert uses AI to develop route with 50 landmarks

Millions of people have dreamed of driving across the US, but now science has taken the guesswork out of planning the epic journey.

An Orgeon data scientist used a sophisticated algorithm to generate the perfect trip, taking into account things like traffic logistics and the best itineraries for a three-month vacation.

Each stop is a National Natural Landmark, National Historic Site, National Park or National Monument, all in the lower 48 states. In total, the route offers 50 iconic sights.

The 13,699-mile route stops at Mount Rushmore, the San Francisco Cable Cars, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and other landmarks. And the glory of the trail is that it can be started at any point.

Randy Olsen, who is also an AI researcher and has more than a decade of experience as a data scientist, created the map in 2015, but has since resurfaced online as summer approaches and many Americans plan to visit the country.

Olsen used an algorithm he designed to crack every Where’s Waldo puzzle when Discovery News challenged him to map out the best route across continental America.

He was asked to follow several rules when making the ultimate trip, including at least one stopover in all 48 states and must not travel to Canada or Mexico.

The list of landmarks was suggested by Discovery News’ Tracy Staedter, who gave Olsen specific spots from her own bucket list.

“I also added Washington, D.C. and added two stops in California to bring us to a total of 50 stops,” Staedter wrote in 2015.

Olsen harnessed the power of Google Maps and wrote code to calculate the distance and time it would take to drive between all 50 landmarks. This resulted in 2,450 different routes.

“Instead of looking exhaustively at every possible solution, genetic algorithms start with a handful of random solutions and continually tinker with these solutions – always trying something different from the current solutions and keeping the best – until they can’t find a better solution.” more,” Olsen wrote in the blog post.

“After less than a minute, the genetic algorithm achieved a near-perfect solution that makes a full journey across the US in just 21,699 miles of driving.”

Genetic algorithms start with just a few random solutions.

It then manipulates these solutions while trying something different each time until it finds one it can’t improve upon.

He explained that the route would take nine days and 33 hours if you drive non-stop, but stopping to enjoy each landmark extends the time to no more than three months.

“You’ll be visiting every major area in the U.S. on this trip, and as an added bonus, you won’t have to drive too long through the endless cornfields of Nebraska,” Olsen wrote on his blog.

If this map still doesn’t spark adventure, MailOnline Travel asked two chatbots — ChatGPT, made by California AI company OpenAI, and Google’s Bard — to plan several trips.

A CHEAP HOLIDAY SOMEWHERE SUNNY

For a cheap getaway in the sun, Bard recommended flying to Bulgaria, where you can find a week-long all-inclusive vacation “for just $250.”

Meanwhile, ChatGPT suggested going to Bali in Indonesia for “affordable accommodation, food and activities.”

Other ‘affordable’ destinations included the Moroccan city of Marrakech and Phuket in Thailand.

AN ADVENTUROUS HOLIDAY

For those craving adventure, Bard suggested tackling the Inca Trail in Peru.

It said, “It is a four-day trek that takes you through the Andes Mountains to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The trek is challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. You will see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.’

ChatGPT suggested going to Costa Rica in Central America, saying, “Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and abundant wildlife, and it offers a variety of activities for adrenaline seekers.” Whitewater rafting, ziplining and surfing were among the activities recommended on a trip.

A FAMILY HOLIDAY

Bard’s top recommendation for a family getaway was the Greek island of Crete. “It is home to a variety of family-friendly activities, including swimming, sunbathing, hiking and exploring ancient ruins,” the chatbot said of the island, adding: “If you are looking for a family vacation that is both relaxing and exciting is , Crete is the perfect choice.’

ChatGPT said, “I would like to suggest a trip to the Grand Canyon National Park in the United States.

This iconic natural wonder is a breathtaking sight for all the family to enjoy.

A variety of activities are available, including hiking, camping and guided tours, and the park offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife and fascinating geological formations.’