What a terrific summary and sure fire remedy for cabin fever! Congratulations on the effort to put this project together.
I start my planning for long distance road trips with a look at National Parks, and other similar outdoor oriented attractions, near an intended route. That then becomes, along with other attractions, the itinerary. Something like you've prepared is a good start to any trip planning, even picking out just one place to visit. As one who has been to over half the list ... another post 100 Highest list ... let me offer these suggestions.
Some of the characterizations are very subjective, others are seasonal. I think a little more explanation as to how you arrive at Wow Factor, Top ***** lists, etc. could be added without cluttering up the tables, though the first table could benefit from a little additional embellishment, maybe make it landscape format instead of portrait.
PLACES WORTHY OF BECOMING A NATIONAL PARK is a misnomer. Some are equal, or better, than some national parks but why obscure their real significance with such a contoversial categorization. Missouri Breaks in Montana, and the Allagash in Maine, both national recreational waterways are worthy of inclusion from both scenic and historical perspectives.
A little more explanation of the Accomodations would be helpful and could fit easily. Price ($, $$, $$$ etc.), rating (Triple A or other recognized rating method), seasonality and other architectural or historical significance are helpful. Most are drive in but some require a hike (LeConte Lodge).
The seasonal nature of these places can vary. For example, we were warned by an AT through hiker from Terlingua, TX that Big Bend is mobbed in March and April so we went in February when the weather was nearly the same (but flowers not as lush) and it was less than moderate crowds. Not sure how to incorporate this. Maybe Top ***** list for flowers, foliage, winter??? What about another table showing which table(s) each park qualified for, or adding those columns to the first table.
Hope you don't mind if I copy your list and tuck it in my National Geographic Guide. I'll keep an eye out for updates! If you haven't researched 1000 Places to visit Before You Die, then I suggest that as a resouce, too. BTW, you know that National Geographic has similarly good guides to State Parks and Canadian Parks ...
