Road trip advice

I had a great day today. I got my ass handed to me for being a bitch, but thank God I did, because if I hadn't I would still be acting that way, and it's still hard for me to wrap my mind around how much of a jerk I was being yesterday. Heck it's always a good day enless you start going backwards. I'm learning to play the guitar, and my fingers are hurting like crazy, does anyone know if there are somekind of finger pads you can buy to keep the strings from digging into you? I know a whole 3 chords: E, D, and A minor, and I'm practicing my progression skills. Ohhh huh? My best friend and I are planning this cross country road trip for in two years when we graduate from college. We're planning to go from Austin to Pheonix to Sandiego to the Olympic Penninsula and Seatle then home again. I think we're gonna fly if we can because that be one hell of a drive. It's gonna be crazy. Any advice on things to do? Locals of those towns, can you fill me in on the great non touristy things to do there?