7 road trips inspired by influential women that are perfect for Women’s History Month

Looking for some destination inspiration? Influential women inspired road trips could be the perfect way to honor Women’s History Month.

This Women’s History Month, we’d like to suggest a unique way to celebrate strong, powerful women who have made a historical impact. Instead of just learning more about them or sharing their stories, why not plan a vacation based on them? Truthfully, with so many impactful women in today’s pop culture influenced society, many popular destinations can have a powerful female connection.

As women make a conscious decision to raise their voices and get their opinions heard, a moment to reflect on the past can be important. Today’s trailblazers have benefited from the determination, fortitude and perseverance of the women before them. While today’s struggles are still apparent, each step forward is a positive.

During Women’s History Month, it can be important to celebrate strong, mindful women who chose to make a difference. While their impacts may vary, the marks that they have left on future generations will be revisited for years to come.

With themed trips, the whole travel experience doesn’t necessarily have to be centered on one particular item. Since many of these destinations top popular travel locals, a conscious decision to pay homage to these impactful women is easy. Who knows, maybe exploring one of these destinations could bring an unexpected experience that could change your future path?

June 1961: Audrey Hepburn (1929 – 1993) stops for lunch on Fifth Avenue in New York during location filming for ‘Breakfast At Tiffany’s’, directed by Blake Edwards in which she stars as Holly Golightly. (Photo by Keystone Features/Getty Images)

Audrey Hepburn – New York City, New York

One of the world’s style icons, Audrey Hepburn will forever be connected to Tiffany & Co. Yes, you can even get “breakfast” at Tiffany’s at the Blue Box Café. Just a walk through the store can have a connection to the style icon.

Also, Audrey Hepburn devoted much of her life to UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador. While not a direct connection, a stop that the United Nations Visitor Center could be a good way to learn more about helping communities throughout the world.

LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 26: Oprah Winfrey attends the premiere of Disney’s ‘A Wrinkle In Time’ at the El Capitan Theatre on February 26, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images)

Oprah Winfrey – Chicago, Illinois

Even though Oprah isn’t necessarily from Chicago, she will be forever connected to the Windy City. From her HARPO Studios, Oprah championed numerous causes. From educational endeavors to women’s rights, Oprah continues to stand tall for her beliefs.

While HARPO Studios has since closed, Chicago is a great city to celebrate women pioneers. From visiting Maggie Daley park (wife of Mayor Daley and cancer advocate) to Whitney Young High School (Michelle Obama’s high school), many, many women have hailed from this powerful Midwestern city.

F364262 02: A skull hangs on the wall of an adobe structure at Ghost Ranch, New Mexico. February 9, 2000. The ranch, summer home of preeminent American Painter Georgia O”Keeffe. Ghost Ranch is where O”Keeffe would explore the beautiful and mysterious New Mexico landscape later transform her discoveries into masterpeices of American Art. (Photo by Joe Raedle)

Georgia O’Keeffe – Santa Fe, New Mexico

While many people know her paintings of flowers or animal skulls, Georgia O’Keeffe was a trailblazer in the art world. She is considered one of the first American artists to embrace the true abstract form. With her husband, photographer Alfred Stieglitz by her side, she became one of the most influential American artists.

O’Keefe was inspired by New Mexico and the area was her home after her husband’s death. The stark landscape, local influences and bold colors influenced her art. Today, Santa Fe is home to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.

While a visit to the area and the museum might not make you an internationally famous artist, the breathtaking landscapes could inspire a little more creativity and imagination in your life.

INDIO, CA – APRIL 14: Beyonce Knowles performs onstage during 2018 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival Weekend 1 at the Empire Polo Field on April 14, 2018 in Indio, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Coachella)

Beyoncé – Houston, Texas

Who doesn’t love the Queen? Beyoncé and her influence is felt across demographics. While the Grammy-winning artist uses her platform to educate, fundraise and promote good acts, she is and will always be connected to her hometown, Houston.

In previous interviews, Beyoncé mentioned some of her favorite places growing up. From shopping at The Galleria to cooling off at Wet N’ Wild SplashTown, there are tons of favorite Beyoncé locales to visit in Houston.

1954: American film star Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962). (Photo by Baron/Getty Images)

Marilyn Monroe – Los Angeles, California

One of the most recognizable movie stars is the legendary Marilyn Monroe. While her tragic death still haunts people, her ability to captivate yet not reveal too much intrigued many people. The American icon can still be felt all around Los Angeles.

A quick drive around the Los Angeles area can be filled with Marilyn connections. From the TCL Chinese Theatre (maybe you are the same shoe size) to the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel where she had stayed, there are many places that embody this movie star’s continued influence.

Mary Kay Ash at event. Image courtesy of MaryKay.com.

Mary Kay Ash – Dallas, Texas

Even if you have never worn Mary Kay Cosmetics, everyone seems to know that iconic pink color cosmetics brand. Mary Kay Ash was the founder of the brand. She was a pioneer in the business world and created a brand that empowered women.

Mary Kay had strong ties to Dallas. While her infamous pink house has disappeared, her charitable endeavors have lived on. From the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation to a local cancer center in her honor, the business woman had a huge impact on Big D.

Dallas is a wonderful city to explore. From arts and culture to sports, there is an event or activity that will appeal to everyone. And, don’t forget that smart, powerful women who encouraged others to achieve and made her mark on the Texas city.

WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 09: Maya Angelou speaks during the AARP Magazine’s 2011 Inspire Awards at Ronald Reagan Building on December 9, 2010 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kris Connor/Getty Images)

Maya Angelou – San Francisco, California

For many people, the book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings was a required read during school. Maya Angelou took that iconic book and grew into one of the world’s most respected authors, poets and civil rights activists. But, did you know that she had ties to San Francisco?

Angelou was the first female and African-American Cable Car conductor’s in San Francisco. Starting the job at just 16, it was just her first foray into breaking barriers. A trip on those iconic cable cars can be part enjoyment and part history lesson.

Could an influential women inspired road trip be in your future? Which woman and city should be added to this list?