The 10 Best Road Trips in the USA You Must Take sets the stage for an epic journey through some of the most picturesque landscapes and iconic landmarks in the country. Get ready to hit the road and discover the beauty of America like never before.
From the stunning coastal drives to the breathtaking mountain routes, each road trip promises a unique experience filled with adventure and exploration.
Top 10 Road Trips in the USA
Embark on these top 10 road trips in the USA to experience the beauty and diversity of the country from coast to coast.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Starting in the north at Leggett and ending in Dana Point in the south, this iconic route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal cliffs, and charming seaside towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara.
2. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
From Chicago to Santa Monica, Route 66 is the classic American road trip, passing through historic towns, quirky roadside attractions, and stunning landscapes like the Grand Canyon.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
Stretching through the Appalachian Mountains, this scenic drive features tunnels, viaducts, and panoramic views of rolling hills and vibrant forests, starting in Shenandoah National Park and ending in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
4. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
Connecting Miami to Key West, this road trip takes you over 100 miles of bridges and causeways surrounded by turquoise waters, with opportunities for snorkeling, fishing, and enjoying the laid-back island lifestyle.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Located in Glacier National Park, this winding mountain road offers stunning views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and wildlife as it crosses the Continental Divide from west to east.
6. Historic Columbia River Highway (Oregon)
Meandering through the Columbia River Gorge, this scenic drive features waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning vistas of the river, starting in Troutdale and ending in The Dalles.
7. Great River Road (Mississippi River)
Following the course of the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana, this road trip showcases charming river towns, historic plantations, and scenic overlooks, offering a glimpse into the heart of America.
8. The Loneliest Road (Nevada)
Stretching across Nevada on Highway 50, this remote route passes through vast desert landscapes, ghost towns, and unique rock formations, providing a true sense of isolation and adventure.
9. The Black Hills (South Dakota)
This road trip through the Black Hills region features iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, as well as scenic drives through Custer State Park and the Badlands National Park.
10. The Outer Banks (North Carolina)
Explore the barrier islands of the Outer Banks, with its historic lighthouses, sandy beaches, and charming coastal villages, starting in Kitty Hawk and ending in Cape Hatteras.
Scenic Routes and Landmarks
When embarking on road trips in the USA, the scenic routes and iconic landmarks along the way are often the highlights of the journey. Let’s explore some of the most breathtaking routes and fascinating landmarks you can encounter on these top 10 road trips.
Pacific Coast Highway – California
The Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and picturesque coastal towns on the other. Along this route, you can witness the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, Hearst Castle, and the beautiful Big Sur coastline. The highway also passes through quaint villages like Carmel-by-the-Sea and offers opportunities to spot whales and sea otters.
Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana
In Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. Along the way, you can marvel at landmarks such as Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, and the Garden Wall. This historic road is an engineering marvel and provides access to some of the most scenic spots in the park.
Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia to North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway spans over 400 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, showcasing stunning vistas of rolling hills, forests, and valleys. Along this route, you can visit landmarks like Mabry Mill, Linville Gorge, and Peaks of Otter. The parkway is renowned for its fall foliage, making it a popular destination for leaf-peepers during autumn.
Route 66 – Illinois to California
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is a historic highway that stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica. Along this iconic route, you can see landmarks like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, and the Santa Monica Pier. Route 66 is steeped in Americana and offers a glimpse into the country’s history and culture.
Historic Columbia River Highway – Oregon
The Historic Columbia River Highway winds through the Columbia River Gorge, offering panoramic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and lush forests. Along this scenic route, you can visit landmarks such as Multnomah Falls, Vista House, and the Bridge of the Gods. The highway is a testament to early 20th-century engineering and provides access to some of Oregon’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Best Time to Take Each Road Trip
When planning a road trip, the timing can significantly impact your overall experience. Consider the following factors when deciding on the best time to embark on each road trip: weather conditions, seasonal attractions, and crowd levels. Here are some tips for planning a road trip during the recommended times:
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The best time to drive along the Pacific Coast Highway is during the spring or fall months. This allows you to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy mild weather with clear skies. Be sure to check for road closures and construction before your trip.
2. Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)
For a classic Route 66 road trip, consider traveling during the spring or fall. The weather is pleasant, and you can avoid extreme temperatures. Keep in mind that certain attractions along the route may have limited hours during the off-peak seasons.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
To experience the stunning fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway, plan your road trip during the autumn months. The vibrant colors of the leaves create a picturesque drive. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and plan for accommodations in advance.
4. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
The best time to drive the Overseas Highway is during the winter months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Avoid hurricane season in the late summer and early fall to ensure a smooth journey. Take advantage of the various water activities available along the route.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana to Glacier National Park)
For a scenic drive through Glacier National Park, the best time to visit is during the summer months when the road is fully open. Be prepared for crowds during this peak season and make campground reservations well in advance.
6. The Loneliest Road (Nevada)
To experience the solitude and unique landscape of the Loneliest Road, plan your trip during the spring or fall. Avoid extreme summer temperatures and winter snowstorms that can make driving conditions challenging. Carry extra water and supplies due to the remote nature of the route.
7. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
For a road trip along the Mississippi River, consider traveling during the spring or fall to enjoy pleasant weather and avoid the summer humidity. Be prepared for varying road conditions and plan for stops in charming river towns along the way.
8. Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Oregon)
To enjoy the stunning coastal views along the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, plan your trip during the summer months when the weather is clear and the days are long. Be prepared for coastal fog and check for road closures due to landslides during the rainy season.
9. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
For a scenic drive through Utah’s red rock country, the best time to visit Scenic Byway 12 is during the spring or fall. Avoid the extreme temperatures of summer and winter, and be prepared for changing weather conditions in the high desert landscape.
10. Historic Columbia River Highway (Oregon)
To explore the waterfalls and lush forests of the Columbia River Gorge, plan your road trip during the spring or early summer. Avoid the tourist crowds of the peak summer season and enjoy the blooming wildflowers along the historic highway.
Accommodation and Dining Options
When embarking on a road trip, finding the right accommodation and dining options can greatly enhance the overall experience. Here are some suggestions to make your journey more enjoyable.
Route 66
- Budget: Motel 6, Super 8
- Mid-range: Best Western, Holiday Inn
- Luxury: The Wigwam Motel, Hotel Chateau Chateau
For dining along Route 66, make sure to stop at iconic diners like Delgadillo’s Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman, Arizona, or Midpoint Cafe in Adrian, Texas for a taste of classic American cuisine.
Pacific Coast Highway
- Budget: Campgrounds along the coast, Airbnb rentals
- Mid-range: Coastal inns and motels
- Luxury: Resorts such as Post Ranch Inn, Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay
When it comes to dining, don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh seafood at places like Neptune’s Net in Malibu or Scoma’s in San Francisco.
Blue Ridge Parkway
- Budget: Cabins and cottages in the Blue Ridge Mountains
- Mid-range: Bed and breakfasts in quaint mountain towns
- Luxury: The Omni Grove Park Inn, Primland Resort
For authentic Southern cuisine, stop by local favorites like The Mast Farm Inn in North Carolina or The Homeplace Restaurant in Virginia.
Great River Road
- Budget: Campgrounds along the Mississippi River
- Mid-range: Riverside lodges and guesthouses
- Luxury: Riverfront hotels like The American Club in Wisconsin
Indulge in regional specialties along the Great River Road, such as Cajun cuisine in Louisiana or Wisconsin cheese in Prairie du Chien.
Must-See Attractions and Activities
When embarking on these road trips across the USA, there are several must-see attractions and activities that you shouldn’t miss. These iconic landmarks and hidden gems will enhance your road trip experience and create lasting memories.
Route 66
- Visit the Cadillac Ranch in Texas and leave your mark by spray painting one of the classic cars buried nose-down in the ground.
- Explore the Grand Canyon Caverns in Arizona, a unique underground cave system with guided tours showcasing stunning rock formations.
- Stop by the quirky town of Seligman in Arizona, known as the birthplace of historic Route 66 and filled with vintage Americana charm.
Pacific Coast Highway
- Marvel at the majestic redwoods in California’s Avenue of the Giants, a scenic drive through towering old-growth forests.
- Take a detour to McWay Falls in Big Sur for a breathtaking view of a waterfall cascading onto a pristine beach.
- Explore the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its fairy-tale cottages, art galleries, and white sandy beaches.
Blue Ridge Parkway
- Admire the stunning views from Waterrock Knob in North Carolina, one of the highest peaks along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Discover the Linn Cove Viaduct in North Carolina, a marvel of engineering that hugs the contours of Grandfather Mountain.
- Embark on a hike to Linville Falls in North Carolina, a series of picturesque waterfalls surrounded by lush forests.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Stop at Logan Pass in Glacier National Park, a popular trailhead for hikers with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.
- Marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park, perfect for kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty.
- Explore the charming town of Whitefish in Montana, a gateway to outdoor adventures with a vibrant arts and culture scene.
Closing Summary
Embark on these road trips to create lasting memories, explore hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the diverse tapestry of American culture and nature. The 10 Best Road Trips in the USA await your discovery.
