These Photographers Show Us What The Great American Road Trip Can Look Like At Night

Come on in. We’re going on a road trip... a road trip across the US.

And, we’ve added a little spice to the equation: We’re going at night. Because let’s be real — photos, food, and vibes are just better after the sun sets. Something about nighttime just makes the air more exciting.

Ok, ok. We can’t come to scoop you up. But we did put together a list of some of the most iconic places in the US — just in time to give you some inspiration for your own summer road trip. Read on to discover new spots and gain a renewed perspective of the US through the lens of local and visiting photographers.

Get your gas money ready!

Ride The Ferris Wheel At Fairplex

Every spring, California fairs welcome hundreds of thousands of guests from around the country. The sky's the limit on these grounds — literally. At the highest point of the Ferris Wheel, it feels like you can touch the stars. That’s how you know it's photo time.

Camp Out Under Stars In Southwest New Mexico

About two and half hours from El Paso on the Texas border and three hours east of Tucson, Arizona, you’ll find the high desert of Southwestern New Mexico. Beyond the area's motifs of mining towns, gold rush stops, and Wild West paraphernalia, road trippers can expect to find breathtaking wonders of the natural world. Start off by taking in some trails at the Gila National Forest, which boasts 3.3 million acres of forested hills and desert mountains. For those who like to cruise more, take in some jaw-dropping views along The Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway. Or for a majestic desert camping experience, consider Aguirre Springs Campground. Set in the Chihuahuan Desert, Aguirre Springs includes 55 individual campsites overlooking the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Park.

Sample Global Eats In Austin

Austin’s legacy as a culinary capital goes far beyond its state’s staples of brisket and Tex-Mex. Anyone who has stepped foot in the city over the last decade or two will notice the global food explosion that has turned the famously countercultural hub into a must-see (and must-eat) fine dining destination. From Thai to Ethiopian, Nepalese to Moroccan, there is so much to explore when dining in “Hippie Heaven.” For late night eats, may we recommend sampling one of the city’s many food trucks, a pocket of which you’ll find nestled in East Austin by the city’s namesake university.

Jam Out In New Jersey

Are you a music lover? If the answer is yes, make sure that one of your stops is in New Jersey. In the Garden State, there’s never a shortage of entertaining artists and acts that perform in Jersey’s arenas and stadiums year-round. If concerts aren’t your thing but you still want to experience that packed stadium feel, don’t worry. Jersey is home field to three professional football teams, so you can probably get your hands on some sports tickets.

Cinematic Vibes In Central Park

With a total of 352 movies being shot on its grounds, Central Park wins the prize of being the most filmed location in America. It's no surprise that the culture-filled and photogenic area constantly attracts everyone from directors shooting their latest prestige films to families posing behind the Gapstow Bridge. While it might not have a reputation as a road trip destination, the Upper West Side areas around Central Park tends to be particularly driver-friendly, with some of the most available street parking in all of NYC. Now how 'bout them apples?

While you’re in there, make time to score some grammable photos — especially at night. For a tranquil photoshoot, head to a footpath that leads to the Lake. To capture this evening vista, lower the shutter speed for enhanced clarity, and you’ll have the perfect shot of the skyscrapers reflecting off the water.

All photos captured with Samsung Galaxy smartphones. Click here to see how others capture their favorite cities at night #withGalaxy. Explore the latest Galaxy technology designed to transform your Nightography.