Summer Roadside Attraction Series: Cadillac Ranch
Do you like to stop at the crazy roadside attractions along your summer roadtrip? If you find yourself near Amarillo, TX you should check out Cadillac Ranch! In 1974, an Amarillo billionaire funded its creation because he wanted a piece of public art that would baffle locals. Visitors are welcome to add their own graffiti to the classic cars, so don’t forget your spray paint!
Speed Limits: The Fastest and Slowest States in America
If you are planning a road trip soon, keep a close eye on your speedometer. Each state can set its own speed limits, so they vary widely across the country! While many states have a 55-mph limit on urban routes, seven states allow a head-spinning 75 mph on urban roadways, and on certain stretches of rural highways, it soars to 80+ MPH!
Here are the fastest and slowest states across the US:
Slowest States: Alaska, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia
Fastest States: Idaho, Kansas, Maine, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas
Why is gas more expensive in the summer?
Have you noticed that gas prices always seem to rise during the summer months? Well you’re right, they do get more expensive in the summer, but it’s not just for the oil companies to make more money. Gas prices rise in the summer because gas stations carry a different - and better - grade of gasoline!
The reason for the seasonal shift in fuel is to protect the environment, and benefit our health. Studies show that more cars are on the road during the summer, and it was causing much higher levels of smog and pollution during the same months that more people are outside trying to enjoy the fresh air.
So in 1995, the Reformulated Gasoline Program (RFG) was started. This program requires gas stations to carry summer-grade fuel in the summer to reduce pollution and smog output. While summer-grade gas is better for the environment, it is also more expensive to produce, and this is where the price increase comes from. It’s never fun to pay more at the pump, but at least in this instance there’s a good reason!
