God I love solo road trips, have done a few in my time. Not cross country but Michigan to Oklahoma and Georgia many times, as well to certain other destinations. Crank up some Bob Seger Live albums and smash the gas, wait till your in the zone with no one around and have some fun. I am a car guy.
Hell yea there is some good food out there. I am a foodie too. If you happen to find yourself around Southern Michigan let me know I would be happy to host you, my passion is cooking. Add garages after Dives, in mine I got my grill, smoker, flat top, 3 basket deep fryer, even got a pizza oven, and I can hold my own in the kitchen.