Kick off your engines and get ready for an epic adventure with the best road trips in the USA. From picturesque routes to historic drives, this guide will take you on a journey filled with beauty, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Get ready to explore the top road trip destinations, discover unique features of each route, and find out the best time of year to hit the road. Let’s dive into the ultimate American road trip experience!
Best Road Trips in the USA
Road trips are a quintessential American experience, offering the freedom to explore diverse landscapes and attractions across the country. Here are the top 5 road trip destinations in the USA, each offering unique features and experiences for travelers of all kinds.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean along California’s coastline. Travelers can enjoy scenic stops at Big Sur, Hearst Castle, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The best time to embark on this road trip is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina to Virginia)
The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning views of forests, valleys, and waterfalls. Travelers can explore charming mountain towns, hike on numerous trails, and enjoy the vibrant fall foliage. The best time to visit is during the fall for the colorful leaves or in the summer for pleasant weather.
3. Route 66 (Chicago to Los Angeles)
Route 66 is a historic highway that stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, passing through eight states and iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon and Santa Monica Pier. Travelers can experience classic Americana and nostalgia along the route. The best time to travel is in the spring or fall to avoid extreme temperatures.
4. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
The Great River Road follows the course of the Mississippi River, offering views of charming river towns, historic sites, and scenic landscapes. Travelers can enjoy riverboat cruises, visit antebellum plantations, and indulge in Southern cuisine. The best time to embark on this road trip is during the spring for blooming flowers and mild weather.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park offers stunning mountain views, alpine lakes, and opportunities for wildlife sightings. Travelers can hike on various trails, photograph the breathtaking scenery, and marvel at the glaciers. The best time to visit is during the summer when the road is fully open and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Scenic Routes
Embark on a journey through some of the most picturesque routes in the USA, where natural beauty takes center stage. These routes offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences for road trip enthusiasts.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
- Known as one of the most scenic drives in the country, the Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and rugged cliffs on the other.
- Drive through Big Sur, where towering redwoods meet the crashing waves, and make sure to stop at McWay Falls for a picture-perfect moment.
- Tip: Start your drive early in the morning to catch the sunrise over the ocean, creating a magical backdrop for your journey.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
- This iconic road in Glacier National Park takes you through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering sweeping views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes.
- Marvel at the beauty of Logan Pass and the towering peaks of the Continental Divide as you navigate this engineering marvel.
- Tip: Plan your trip in late spring or early fall to avoid crowds and witness the changing colors of the landscape.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina & Virginia
- Meandering through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is famous for its vibrant fall foliage, scenic overlooks, and charming mountain towns.
- Don’t miss out on stops like Linville Gorge, Mabry Mill, and Peaks of Otter for postcard-worthy views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature at one of the many picnic areas along the parkway.
Historic Road Trips
Road trips in the USA offer a unique opportunity to explore the country’s history and culture. One of the most iconic historic road trips is Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road.”
Route 66 was established in 1926 and originally ran from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It played a significant role in the migration west during the Dust Bowl era of the 1930s and later became a symbol of American freedom and adventure.
Route 66 Attractions and Landmarks
- Begin your journey in Chicago and visit the historic Route 66 starting point sign.
- Stop at the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, where you can see a unique art installation of painted Cadillacs buried nose-down in the ground.
- Explore the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, home to one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world.
- Visit the Santa Monica Pier in California, the official end of Route 66, and enjoy the iconic Ferris wheel and amusement park.
Coastal Drives
Embark on a journey along the picturesque coastal drives that showcase stunning ocean views in the USA. These road trips offer a perfect blend of scenic beauty and coastal charm, making them ideal for a memorable adventure.
California’s Pacific Coast Highway and the Overseas Highway in Florida are two iconic coastal road trips that stand out for their breathtaking views and unique experiences. While the Pacific Coast Highway winds along the rugged California coastline, offering panoramic ocean vistas and dramatic cliffs, the Overseas Highway takes you through the enchanting Florida Keys, with azure waters on either side of the road.
Must-Visit Stops and Hidden Gems
- Big Sur, California: A rugged stretch of coastline featuring towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge.
- Monterey Bay Aquarium: Explore the wonders of marine life and ocean conservation in this world-renowned aquarium.
- Key West, Florida: Experience the vibrant culture, colorful architecture, and lively atmosphere of this southernmost city in the continental USA.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this remote park boasts crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and the historic Fort Jefferson.