1. Route 66
Route 66, the Mother Road, stretches approximately 2,500 miles from downtown Chicago to the Santa Monica pier, crossing eight states. This classic American road trip delivers a hefty dose of nostalgia and Americana.
One highlight is Meramec Caverns in Missouri, these 400-million-year-old caves once provided a hideout for the outlaw Jesse James. Nearby lies the Jesse James Wax Museum, offering a glimpse into the infamous fugitive's life.
The route itself is a mosaic of contrasting environments. Rolling plains in the Midwest give way to the arid landscapes of the Southwest, keeping your eyes glued to the windshield.
Eating along Route 66 is a pleasure, with diners serving up classic American fare like milkshakes, burgers, and fries that make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
Small towns along the route offer unique stopovers, each with its own character representing the culture and history of the regions they inhabit, giving you a feel for America's heartland.
Driving the entire route can take about two weeks, depending on how thoroughly you want to explore. It's an adventure that combines the rich tapestry of American history with the wide-open beauty of its landscapes, offering memories that endure.
2. Highway 1 to Big Sur
Highway 1 to Big Sur takes you along the stunning California coastline, offering jaw-dropping views and unforgettable moments. Known for its dramatic coastline and rugged beauty, this drive is a must for any road trip enthusiast.
One quintessential stop is the iconic Bixby Bridge, standing 260 feet above steep cliffs. This architectural marvel deserves a pause for photographs, as its elegance against the dramatic backdrop of the Pacific Ocean creates a picture-perfect moment.
The charm doesn't end with coastal views. Quaint, small towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey offer art galleries, boutique shops, and exceptional dining experiences with fresh, local seafood.
Big Sur itself is a treasure trove of natural beauty with redwood forests, hidden waterfalls, and secluded beaches. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers hiking trails under ancient redwoods, while Andrew Molera State Park has well-maintained campgrounds where you can fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
The road to Big Sur isn't just about reaching a destination; it's about the journey itself. Whether driving a convertible or an RV, this road trip offers a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and experiences that epitomize the freedom and natural beauty of California.
3. Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH or Route 1) stretches from the Canadian border in Washington state, through the Oregon coast, and down to the Mexican border in California, offering an uninterrupted spectacle of ocean vistas, lush forests, and charming coastal towns.
In Olympic National Park, Washington, dense temperate rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged coastline create an adventurer's paradise. The charming town of Astoria features the famous Astoria Column with panoramic views.
Crossing into Oregon, breathtaking seascapes and rugged towns like Cannon Beach with its iconic Haystack Rock await. The lush Willamette Valley offers a delightful detour for wine enthusiasts.
Venturing into California, verdant redwood forests, rocky beaches, and the picturesque Victorian town of Mendocino provide a diverse experience. Napa Valley is synonymous with world-class wineries and gastronomic experiences.
San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge leads to the dramatic cliffs of the Big Sur coastline. Further south, Pismo Beach offers expansive dunes and serene ocean views, while Los Angeles awaits with its bustling beach towns and landmarks.
The journey concludes as you approach the sunny vibes of San Diego and the Mexican border town of Tijuana. Every stretch offers its unique flavor, from emerald forests to sun-drenched beaches, making this drive a continuous narrative of the West Coast's multifaceted beauty and cultural tapestry.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a quintessential American road trip route, capturing the essence of the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia to North Carolina. This 469-mile drive is legendary for its leisurely pace, breathtaking views, and calming atmosphere.
When fall arrives, the foliage transforms into a spectacular explosion of colors, making the Parkway an idyllic getaway for leaf peepers. Mount Pisgah in North Carolina, renowned for its hiking trails and rich history, offers cozy accommodations at the Pisgah Inn, with panoramic vistas of the vibrant autumn hues.
Driving the Parkway isn't about rushing; it's about savoring each moment at a comfortable 45 mph, with no commercial vehicles allowed, ensuring a serene experience. Charming, small towns like Asheville invite you to explore local culture and flavors.
For nature enthusiasts, numerous viewpoints provide access to trails winding through mountainous terrain, leading to hidden waterfalls, serene lakes, and dense forests. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers even more hiking, wildlife viewing, and dazzling scenery.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a passage through some of the United States' most beautiful and tranquil landscapes, inviting you to slow down, savor the journey, and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Appalachian Mountains.
5. Overseas Highway
The Overseas Highway seamlessly connects the Florida Keys, offering travelers an unparalleled driving experience through a paradise of turquoise waters, sun-drenched landscapes, and charming island towns. Stretching 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, this scenic drive along US-1 encapsulates the essence of a tropical escape, made even more significant by the iconic Seven Mile Bridge that soars over the sea.
One must-visit stop is Islamorada, often referred to as the "Sport Fishing Capital of the World." Swimming with dolphins at the Theater of the Sea, a renowned marine mammal park, creates unforgettable memories against the backdrop of the ocean's blue expanse.
Cruising further, you'll encounter the Seven Mile Bridge, a marvel spanning the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, offering unobstructed views that are particularly striking at sunrise or sunset.
The islands of Marathon and Big Pine Key each have their unique charm, with Marathon known for prime snorkeling spots and Big Pine Key home to the National Key Deer Refuge where you can encounter the diminutive Key deer.
Finally, your road trip culminates in Key West, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and unique confluence of cultures. Visit Ernest Hemingway's Home and Museum, stroll through the historic Old Town, or simply unwind on the picturesque beaches.
The Overseas Highway isn't just a route; it's a journey through the heart of the Florida Keys, each mile revealing new wonders and experiences, delivering an enchanting road trip that encapsulates the spirit of adventure and the allure of the open road.
6. Going-to-the-Sun Road
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana's Glacier National Park offers an unforgettable 50-mile drive through some of America's wildest and most stunning landscapes. The road, completed in 1932 to boost tourism, has since become a symbol of Glacier's rugged beauty. Travelers can experience it from late spring to early fall when the road is open, winding alongside crystal-clear Lake McDonald and offering dramatic vistas of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and glacial valleys.
One highlight is Logan Pass, the highest point at 6,646 feet, with expansive overlooks showcasing the park's vastness. In summer, wildflower meadows burst into color, and wildlife sightings are common. The Visitors Center offers access to hiking trails like the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail and the renowned Highline Trail, providing closer encounters with Glacier's diverse flora and fauna.
As the road descends towards St. Mary Lake, the scenery transforms, with the peaks of the Rockies mirrored in serene waters. To fully appreciate Going-to-the-Sun Road's grandeur, consider exploring other park attractions like the Many Glacier area or taking guided boat tours on the lakes. This route immerses travelers in an ancient, timeless landscape, inviting them to connect with nature in one of America's most pristine settings.
7. Santa Fe to Taos Loop
The 70-mile Santa Fe to Taos Loop winds through the Rio Grande valleys and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, introducing travelers to New Mexico's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Along the way, charming small towns like Ojo Caliente, famed for its mineral hot springs, offer a glimpse into the region's history.
As the terrain transitions from arid desert to the higher altitudes, the landscapes become increasingly varied and photogenic. Arriving in Taos, the town's adobe buildings showcase its rich heritage, with the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a rare look at an ancient culture still thriving.
The town also boasts attractions like the Taos Art Museum and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, which offers jaw-dropping views nearly 600 feet above the river below. Local galleries and boutiques display the vibrant arts scene, while the cuisine reflects Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the loop offers numerous hiking trails meandering through mesmerizing landscapes, from high desert plateaus to lush river valleys. The Santa Fe to Taos Loop is an immersion into New Mexico's heart and soul, blending history, culture, and nature into a distinct and profoundly beautiful experience.
8. Lincoln Highway
The 3,389-mile Lincoln Highway, conceived in 1912 as the first transcontinental road for automobiles in the United States, offers a coast-to-coast journey laden with historical significance and diverse landscapes. Starting in New York City, the route carries travelers through the rolling hills of Pennsylvania and Ohio, showcasing the rich historical tapestry of America's heartland.
Farther west, the expansive farm fields and iconic Midwestern hospitality of Indiana and Illinois give way to the vast prairies and open skies of Iowa and Nebraska, encapsulating the boundless spirit of adventure that defined early American road trips.
In Colorado, the Lincoln Highway passes by Cheyenne Mountain, home to NORAD and a site featured in movies and TV shows. Wyoming and Utah bring rugged terrain, including mountainous regions and desolate desertscapes, before the route enters Nevada and California, offering unforgettable drives through diverse environments like the stark beauty of the Nevada desert and the lush vineyards of California.
Reaching its end in San Francisco, the panoramic Pacific Ocean views serve as a fitting conclusion to a journey that captures America's expansive landscapes, rich history, and diverse cultures. Traversing the Lincoln Highway is more than a road trip; it's an opportunity to experience the nation's evolution, one mile at a time.
9. Scenic Byway 12
Utah's Scenic Byway 12, a 122-mile route from Panguitch to Torrey, offers an unforgettable journey through the Southwest's awe-inspiring red rock landscapes and legendary geological formations. The adventure begins in Dixie National Forest, where rich pine forests and alpine meadows contrast elegantly with the vibrant red rock formations that define this route.
Within Bryce Canyon National Park, surreal hoodoo formations – tall, thin spires of rock rising from the desert floor – offer a spectacle of natural architecture. Hiking trails like the Rim Trail and viewpoints like Sunrise Point provide jaw-dropping vistas.
Continuing on, the route weaves through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, presenting opportunities for backcountry exploration of arch-studded canyons, ancient petroglyphs, and slot canyons. The Hole-in-the-Rock Road offers hidden waterfalls and narrow slot canyons for the adventurous.
At Capitol Reef National Park, the Waterpocket Fold – a remarkable wrinkle in the Earth's crust – and the historic Fruita district with its orchards and petroglyphs await. Between these iconic landmarks, Scenic Byway 12 winds through lush valleys, along cliff edges, and past mind-bending geological formations, offering an immersive experience through some of the planet's most unique and visually striking landscapes.
10. Texas Hill Country
Sandwiched between San Antonio and Austin, Texas Hill Country offers the quintessential Lone Star State experience. This region is a road tripper's paradise, filled with natural beauty, historic landmarks, and some of the best BBQ joints around.
Start in Austin, then drive westward into serene landscapes dotted with oak trees and wildflowers. The hills and vistas are particularly enchanting in spring when bluebonnet blooms blanket the countryside.
Fredericksburg is a charming town renowned for its German heritage and vibrant community. Wander down Main Street for unique shops, galleries, and restaurants offering everything from traditional German sausages to local Tex-Mex cuisine. The National Museum of the Pacific War provides a comprehensive look at World War II's Pacific Theater.
Just outside Fredericksburg lies Enchanted Rock, a massive pink granite dome that's a striking visual feast and haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike to the summit for panoramic views or explore the surrounding trails and hidden caves.
The Texas Wine Trail invites visitors to sample award-winning wines from lush vineyards like Becker Vineyards or Grape Creek Vineyards. Stop by for tours, tastings, and picturesque photo opportunities.
No trip is complete without authentic Texas BBQ. Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que in Llano and The Salt Lick in Driftwood serve up mouth-watering brisket, ribs, and sausage, testaments to the state's rich culinary traditions.
The region's natural beauty provides opportunities for outdoor adventure like tubing down the Guadalupe River, exploring Longhorn Cavern State Park's underground wonders, or taking a scenic drive along the Willow City Loop.
Small towns like Kerrville, Bandera, and Marble Falls each offer unique charm and local flavor. From horseback riding in the "Cowboy Capital" to savoring a slice of pie at the Blue Bonnet Cafe, you're bound to find something that captures the essence of Texas Hill Country.
11. Hana Highway
The Hana Highway in Hawaii epitomizes the islands' tropical splendor. This 64-mile route from Kahului to Hana offers travelers a mesmerizing blend of lush landscapes, dramatic coastline, and vibrant Hawaiian culture.
Winding along Maui's northeastern coast, the road boasts 620 curves and 59 bridges, heightening the sense of adventure. Waiʻānapanapa State Park captures Hawaii's raw beauty with striking black basalt lava coastlines contrasting with lush greenery and vibrant blue ocean. Don't miss the famous black sand beach and intriguing caves, blowholes, and freshwater pools.
Countless waterfalls like Twin Falls invite you to stop and soak in their beauty. The Garden of Eden Arboretum showcases over 700 tropical and indigenous plant species, including the famous Keopuka Rock from "Jurassic Park."
As you approach Hana, visit Waianapanapa for freshwater cave swimming and the guided tours at the vast Hana Lava Tube. Hana itself is a slice of paradise, a laid-back town offering a glimpse into true Hawaiian life with local art galleries and delicious cuisine.
12. Route 6
Route 6 takes travelers from Providence, Rhode Island, to the tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown, Massachusetts. This journey offers charming coastal towns, scenic New England landscapes, and a distinctive blend of history and natural beauty.
Along the way, explore quaint villages like Bristol with well-preserved colonial architecture and a vibrant waterfront. Fall River and New Bedford celebrate their maritime history, with the New Bedford Whaling Museum showcasing the region's seafaring lore.
As you reach Cape Cod, enjoy breathtaking views of sandy dunes, salt marshes, and pristine beaches along the Cape Cod National Seashore. The Cape Cod Rail Trail provides a scenic bike path paralleling Route 6.
In Sandwich, visit the Sandwich Glass Museum to marvel at intricate glass creations and live glassblowing demonstrations. The town's Heritage Museums & Gardens offer lush gardens, nature trails, and historical exhibits.
Indulge in fresh seafood at coastal eateries along the way. As you approach Provincetown, the landscape becomes more dramatic, leading to the iconic Pilgrim Monument and the town's artistic vibe, LGBTQ+ friendly environment, and stunning natural beauty.
13. Anchorage to Valdez
The journey from Anchorage to Valdez offers an unrivaled Alaskan road trip experience through awe-inspiring natural wonders and a sense of rugged adventure. This 300-mile route connects the two iconic cities, guiding you through a panorama of glaciers, mountain passes, and some of the state's most captivating landscapes.
Early highlights include the Matanuska Glacier Scenic Turnout, where you can get an up-close look at the massive Matanuska Glacier and even go ice climbing. The Richardson Highway carves through dense forests, and towering peaks make way for the astonishingly beautiful Thompson Pass, a winter wonderland known for record-breaking snowfall.
Stop at the Thunderbird Falls Trail for a mile hike through lush boreal forests to a 200-foot waterfall. As you approach Valdez, the landscape transforms into something dramatic, with the town nestled at the head of a fjord on Prince William Sound, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and cascading waterfalls.
In Valdez, kayak among floating icebergs at Valdez Glacier Lake or take a boat tour to witness the massive Columbia Glacier calving into the water. Valdez is also a hub for fishing, with rich waters teeming with salmon and halibut.
This journey is an odyssey through some of Alaska's most stunning and diverse environments, from towering glaciers to serene waterfalls, making it an indelible part of any Alaskan adventure.
14. Great River Road
The Great River Road winds along the mighty Mississippi River, stretching approximately 3,000 miles from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. This route intersects ten states, taking travelers through culturally rich landscapes.
In Minnesota, the road showcases picturesque lakes, vibrant forests, and charming small towns capturing the Upper Midwest essence. The Itasca State Park, where the river starts, offers serene trails and views of the first trickles.
Heading south through Wisconsin and Iowa, breathtaking bluffs and sprawling farmlands unfold. In places like La Crosse, Wisconsin, you'll find enchanting riverfront parks and historic downtown areas filled with local breweries and quaint shops.
Crossing into Illinois, the route is flanked by towering bluffs and fertile farmland. Galena boasts well-preserved 19th-century buildings, and the Ulysses S. Grant Home offers insights into the region's rich past.
As you continue through Missouri, lush, rolling hills and vibrant cultural heritage greet you. Hannibal—Mark Twain's boyhood home—invites you to walk in the footsteps of one of America's greatest writers. River cruises allow you to experience the Mississippi as Twain did.
The drive through Mississippi and Arkansas brings you closer to the river's soul, where the delta region unfolds, rich in musical history. Clarksdale, Mississippi, is a blues mecca where you can immerse yourself in the soulful sounds defining the region.
In Louisiana, the road leads to the culturally vibrant New Orleans. From the French Quarter's lively streets and jazz clubs to the intricate ironwork balconies and historic Creole townhouses, New Orleans exemplifies the rich cultural mosaic lining the Great River Road.
Each segment has its unique flavor and character, from Minnesota's rustic charm to Mississippi's musical heartbeats or New Orleans' vibrant urban energy. This road trip promises discovery and delight every mile.
15. Olympic Peninsula Loop
The Olympic Peninsula Loop offers a 330-mile journey encircling Washington's Olympic National Park, serving up diverse landscapes, from dramatic coastal cliffs to lush temperate rainforests and towering glacial mountains.
Starting in Port Angeles, you'll get your first taste of the Pacific Northwest's breathtaking beauty, with snow-capped peaks and the emerald waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. A short drive takes you to Hurricane Ridge, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the park's rugged alpine scenery.
The route guides you into the Hoh Rainforest, one of the few temperate rainforests in the world. As you wander through moss-draped trees and listen to trickling streams, you'll feel transported into an ancient, otherworldly sanctuary. The Hall of Mosses Trail showcases the rainforest's ethereal beauty.
From the verdant Hoh Rainforest, the loop continues to Rialto Beach's rugged coastline, famous for striking sea stacks, tide pools teeming with marine life, and driftwood-strewn shores.
A highlight is the Sol Duc Hot Springs, nestled within the park. These natural springs offer a rejuvenating soak amid the lush Sol Duc Valley surroundings, providing a peaceful respite.
Forks offers a quirky stopover famous for its Twilight series association. The Quillayute Needles National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
Heading east, the loop brings you to Lake Crescent, a pristine glacially-carved lake, and the historic Lake Crescent Lodge offers charming lake views. The nearby Marymere Falls provides a lovely nature-filled detour.
As you circle back towards Port Angeles, a detour takes you to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge and the Dungeness Spit, one of the world's longest natural sand spits, offering fantastic opportunities for birdwatching and beachcombing.
The Olympic Peninsula Loop encapsulates the sublime beauty and diverse ecosystems defining Washington's Olympic Peninsula, offering distinct experiences from the serenity of rainforests to the rugged allure of the coastline.
16. Park Loop Road
Park Loop Road offers an enchanting drive capturing the dramatic beauty of New England's coastal wonders within Acadia National Park. This 27-mile route gracefully winds through some of the park's most iconic landscapes, providing an array of scenic vistas, trails, and memorable stops.
One sensational highlight is Thunder Hole, a natural rock inlet where the rhythmic pounding of the ocean creates its namesake thunderous sound. Time your visit during high tide for the most spectacular display.
Sand Beach offers a serene crescent of sand, framed by rocky cliffs and lush greenery. The beach's unique pink sand, due to crushed local marine organism shells, adds exoticism.
Another must-visit is the Great Head Trail, accessible from Sand Beach. This moderate hike leads along rugged coastal cliffs, offering panoramic ocean views and opportunities to spot seabirds and harbor seals.
Boulder Beach presents smooth, rounded boulders stretching out to meet the ocean, creating a unique shoreline inviting exploration and photography.
Otter Cliffs, one of the highest coastal headlands in North America, provides awe-inspiring views over the open ocean and is a favorite among rock climbers.
A leisurely drive up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point along the Eastern Seaboard, offers hairpin turns and sweeping views. Once at the top, you're treated to a 360-degree panorama where, on a clear day, you can glimpse the distant horizon and the scatter of islands dotting Frenchman Bay.
The Jordan Pond House is famous for its scenic views of Jordan Pond and the Bubble Mountains, an ideal place to relax and indulge in traditional tea and popovers.
Park Loop Road is an exploration of Acadia National Park's natural splendor, offering countless opportunities to connect with the beauty and tranquility of New England's iconic landscapes.
17. Beartooth Highway
The Beartooth Highway, a 68-mile journey from Red Lodge, Montana, to Cooke City, Wyoming, offers an unparalleled experience of rugged beauty, alpine splendor, and abundant wildlife. This All-American Road, only open during the summer months, is often touted as one of the most scenic drives in the United States.
The drive ascends to the Beartooth Pass, standing at an elevation of 10,947 feet. The panoramic vistas along this stretch present endless views of craggy peaks, pristine lakes, and sprawling alpine plateaus.
One remarkable feature is its diversity of ecosystems. Starting in dense forests, the road climbs to an alpine wonderland where meadows are dotted with vibrant wildflowers and shimmering snowfields, even in summer.
Wildlife enthusiasts will find the Beartooth Highway a veritable playground, with sightings of mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears common. Bird watchers will also be thrilled with the variety of avian species.
Numerous trails provide opportunities to explore the area on foot, like the Beartooth Loop Trail, offering stunning views of glacial lakes, wildflower meadows, and rugged peaks.
Descending the western side, the highway leads you into Wyoming, where the scenery transitions to lush valleys and dense forests, finally reaching Cooke City, a charming community serving as a gateway to further adventures.
Traveling the Beartooth Highway is an expedition through some of the most spectacular high-altitude terrains in North America. Every mile promises a new, unforgettable experience, elevating your appreciation for nature to towering new heights.
18. Volcanic Legacy Byway
The Volcanic Legacy Byway is a 500-mile journey through the volcanic heart of the Cascade Mountain Range, connecting Lassen Volcanic National Park in California and Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. This drive reveals surreal landscapes shaped by fiery geologic activity over eons, offering an intimate view of towering peaks, verdant forests, and shimmering lakes.
At Lassen Volcanic National Park, you're greeted by the park's namesake peak, Lassen Peak, an active volcano that last erupted in 1915. The park boasts bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and vividly colored hot springs. The Bumpass Hell trail immerses you in this geothermal activity, featuring boardwalks through an unstable, yet fascinating, volcanic landscape.
Northwards, Lassen's diverse ecosystems unfold, with subalpine forests giving way to pristine meadows and crystal-clear lakes reflecting the snow-capped peaks. The contrast between the serene lakes and dramatic volcanic remnants evokes a sense of nature's grand scale and history.
The route winds through the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, leading to the majestic Mount Shasta. This stratovolcano, rising over 14,000 feet, dominates the northern California skyline. Mount Shasta City offers trails and lookout points, with the Bunny Flat Trailhead providing a moderate hike with stunning views of the glaciated peak.
In Oregon, the landscape transforms as the road brings you to Crater Lake. Formed by a volcanic collapse nearly 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake's deep blue waters are some of the purest in the world. Rim Drive encircles the lake, offering numerous pullouts and viewing points where you can marvel at the caldera walls, vibrant blue water, and iconic Wizard Island.
The Volcanic Legacy Byway is a journey through diverse and dramatic landscapes forged by volcanic activity, from the geothermal spectacles of Lassen to the awe-inspiring Mount Shasta, and the tranquil waters of Crater Lake. Every mile promises an extraordinary encounter with nature's profound forces, telling the story of a changing planet and the powerful forces that shape it.
Photo by jeffhopper on Unsplash
