The 10 Best Road Trips in the USA You Must Take beckons with promises of exciting journeys and unforgettable memories. From iconic highways to breathtaking landscapes, this list is a roadmap to adventure like no other.
Embark on a virtual tour through the most scenic routes and hidden gems across the country, discovering the allure of road trips that offer freedom, flexibility, and a taste of Americana unlike any other travel experience.
Overview of Road Trips in the USA
Road trips have a long history in the United States, dating back to the early 20th century when the automobile industry began to flourish. With the construction of the iconic Route 66 in the 1920s, road trips became a popular way for Americans to explore the vast landscapes and diverse cultures of their country.
The appeal of road trips lies in the sense of freedom and flexibility they offer. Unlike other forms of travel, road trips allow travelers to set their own pace, stop wherever they please, and truly immerse themselves in the journey. Whether it’s cruising along the coastal highways, winding through scenic mountain roads, or driving through charming small towns, road trips provide a unique way to experience the beauty and diversity of the United States.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway in California offers one of the most breathtaking road trip experiences in the USA, with stunning ocean views and picturesque coastal landscapes along the way.
Scenic Route and Must-See Stops
Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway, travelers will be treated to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and rugged cliffs on the other. Must-see stops along the route include:
- Big Sur: Known for its dramatic cliffs and redwood forests, Big Sur is a highlight of the Pacific Coast Highway.
- Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Charming coastal towns with beautiful beaches, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.
- Hearst Castle: A historic mansion perched on a hill overlooking the ocean, offering guided tours of its opulent rooms and gardens.
- Santa Barbara: A Spanish colonial-style city with palm-lined streets, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant arts scene.
Best Time to Embark on the Road Trip
The best time to embark on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be busy with tourists, and winter may bring rain and fog along the coast, affecting visibility. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and clear skies, perfect for enjoying the scenic beauty of the California coastline.
Route 66, Illinois to California
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is an iconic highway stretching from Illinois to California, covering over 2,400 miles of road. This historic route played a crucial role in the migration west during the Dust Bowl era and the economic boom after World War II. Today, it stands as a symbol of American freedom and the open road.
Key Landmarks and Quirky Attractions
- Start your journey in Chicago, Illinois, where you can visit the Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park before hitting the road.
- As you travel west, make a stop in St. Louis, Missouri, to see the iconic Gateway Arch and explore the city’s vibrant culture.
- Don’t miss the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, where you can see an art installation of buried Cadillacs sticking out of the ground.
- Visit the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, known for its fossilized trees and stunning desert landscapes.
- End your trip in Santa Monica, California, where you can dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean at the famous Santa Monica Pier.
Tips for Planning Your Journey
- Plan your route in advance and make sure to research the best time of year to travel, as some sections of Route 66 can be impassable during certain seasons.
- Take your time to explore off-the-beaten-path attractions and small towns along the way to truly experience the nostalgia of Route 66.
- Be prepared for long stretches of road with limited services, so make sure to pack essentials like water, snacks, and emergency supplies.
- Embrace the journey and don’t be afraid to veer off course to discover hidden gems and unique experiences that make Route 66 a one-of-a-kind road trip.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that stretches from North Carolina to Virginia, offering breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains and showcasing the natural beauty of the region. This iconic road trip is known for its winding roads, lush forests, and stunning vistas, making it a must-do for any road trip enthusiast.
Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty
- The Blue Ridge Parkway offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with plenty of opportunities to pull over and take in the scenery.
- Travelers can experience a variety of landscapes, from rolling hills to dense forests, and even cascading waterfalls along the way.
- The changing seasons bring a kaleidoscope of colors, with vibrant foliage in the fall and blooming wildflowers in the spring and summer.
Points of Interest and Scenic Overlooks
- Explore the historic Mabry Mill, a picturesque gristmill and sawmill that offers a glimpse into Appalachian life in the early 20th century.
- Visit the Linn Cove Viaduct, an engineering marvel that hugs the side of Grandfather Mountain, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Stop by the Peaks of Otter, a popular recreation area with hiking trails, picnic spots, and a scenic lake.
Cultural Heritage and Local Cuisine
- Discover the rich cultural heritage of the region through attractions like the Folk Art Center and the Museum of North Carolina Minerals.
- Indulge in local cuisine at charming restaurants and roadside diners, where you can savor Southern classics like fried chicken, biscuits, and sweet tea.
- Experience mountain music and traditional crafts at local festivals and events that celebrate the unique heritage of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
The Great River Road follows the winding path of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in Minnesota all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. This iconic route spans over 2,000 miles and offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes of the Mississippi River region.
Route Along the Mississippi River
The Great River Road takes travelers through a diverse array of landscapes, from the lush forests and sparkling lakes of Minnesota to the rolling hills and farmland of Wisconsin and Iowa. As the road continues south, it passes through the rugged bluffs of Illinois and the iconic river towns of Missouri before reaching the vibrant city of New Orleans in Louisiana.
Unique Towns, Festivals, and Historical Sites
Along the Great River Road, travelers will encounter charming river towns like Galena, Illinois, known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. They can also explore unique festivals such as the Natchez Balloon Festival in Mississippi and the French Quarter Festival in New Orleans. Historical sites like Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi and the Laura Plantation in Louisiana offer insights into the region’s rich past.
Scenic Beauty of Different States
Each state covered by the Great River Road offers its own distinct scenic beauty. From the serene lakes of Minnesota to the dramatic bluffs of Wisconsin and the picturesque vineyards of Missouri, travelers will be treated to a wide variety of landscapes along the way. The lush bayous of Louisiana and the vibrant streets of New Orleans provide a perfect ending to this unforgettable road trip.
Overseas Highway, Florida
The Overseas Highway in Florida offers a stunning drive through the Florida Keys, connecting the mainland to Key West with breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean.
Activities along the Route
- Snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters along the route provide excellent opportunities for snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs.
- Fishing: Anglers can enjoy world-class fishing experiences in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys, with a variety of fish species to catch.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a wide array of bird species that call the Florida Keys home.
Impact of Hurricanes and Climate Change
The Overseas Highway is vulnerable to the impacts of hurricanes due to its location along the coast. Climate change has resulted in rising sea levels, threatening the road with increased flooding and erosion. Efforts are being made to strengthen and protect the highway from these environmental challenges in order to ensure its longevity and accessibility for future road trippers.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Embark on a breathtaking journey through Glacier National Park on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana. This scenic drive offers unparalleled views of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests, making it a must-do road trip for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Challenges and Engineering Marvels
Going-to-the-Sun Road presents a unique set of challenges due to its mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. Built in the 1930s, the road is a remarkable engineering feat, featuring hairpin turns, steep cliffs, and narrow passages carved into the rocky landscape. Travelers will be in awe of the sheer ingenuity and craftsmanship that went into constructing this iconic roadway.
Wildlife Viewing and Outdoor Recreation
- Keep an eye out for native wildlife such as grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep as you traverse Going-to-the-Sun Road. The park is teeming with opportunities for wildlife viewing, providing a glimpse into the natural beauty and diversity of Glacier National Park.
- Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do along the route, including hiking, camping, and photography. With numerous pull-off points and scenic overlooks, visitors can immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness and capture unforgettable moments amidst the stunning backdrop of the park.
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 offers a breathtaking journey through diverse landscapes and geological wonders, making it a must-visit road trip destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Diverse Landscapes and Geological Wonders
- Traveling along Scenic Byway 12, you will encounter a variety of landscapes ranging from red rock canyons and towering cliffs to lush forests and high alpine meadows.
- The road also passes through several geological wonders, including the famous Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, known for its unique rock formations and stunning vistas.
- Be sure to stop at Hell’s Backbone Bridge for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and the impressive structure of the bridge itself.
National Parks Side Trips
- While exploring Scenic Byway 12, consider taking side trips to nearby national parks such as Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park.
- Bryce Canyon offers a surreal landscape of hoodoos and natural amphitheaters, perfect for hiking and photography opportunities.
- Capitol Reef showcases stunning rock formations, colorful canyons, and ancient petroglyphs, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich geological and cultural history.
Tips for Photography Enthusiasts
- For photography enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of Utah’s Scenic Byway 12, make sure to plan your stops around sunrise or sunset for optimal lighting conditions.
- Experiment with different angles and perspectives to showcase the unique textures and colors of the landscape, especially during the golden hour.
- Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the contrast and saturation of the red rocks and blue skies, creating striking visual compositions.
The Loneliest Road, Nevada
The Loneliest Road in America, also known as Highway 50 in Nevada, offers a truly remote and desolate driving experience unlike any other. Stretching across vast desert landscapes and rugged mountains, this road trip is perfect for those seeking solitude and raw natural beauty.
Driving along The Loneliest Road, travelers will encounter hidden gems such as the historic mining town of Austin, with its charming Main Street and fascinating stories of the past. Ghost towns like Belmont and Eureka add an eerie yet captivating element to the journey, showcasing the remnants of a bygone era.
One of the unique attractions along this route is the Sand Mountain Recreation Area, where visitors can witness a massive sand dune rising out of the desert floor. This surreal sight is a must-see stop for those exploring the Loneliest Road.
Challenges and Rewards
- Challenge: The lack of services and amenities along the way can make it essential to be well-prepared with food, water, and fuel.
- Reward: The vast open spaces and stunning vistas offer a sense of freedom and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere.
- Challenge: The long stretches of road with minimal human presence can be both intimidating and awe-inspiring.
- Reward: The opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse oneself in the quiet beauty of the Nevada wilderness.
- Challenge: The extreme temperatures and harsh conditions of the desert environment require careful planning and awareness.
- Reward: The chance to witness breathtaking sunsets, stargazing opportunities, and a true sense of adventure off the beaten path.
Historic Columbia River Highway, Oregon
The Historic Columbia River Highway in Oregon offers a breathtaking scenic drive through the Columbia River Gorge, showcasing stunning natural landscapes and historic sites along the way.
Exploring Waterfalls and Hiking Trails
- One of the highlights of this road trip is the opportunity to visit iconic waterfalls such as Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Wahkeena Falls.
- Hiking trails like the Angel’s Rest Trail and the Horsetail Falls Loop Trail provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the lush greenery and cascading waters of the gorge.
Must-Visit Viewpoints
- Make sure to stop at the Vista House at Crown Point for panoramic views of the Columbia River and the surrounding mountains.
- Rowena Crest offers a stunning vista of the rolling hills and the river below, perfect for capturing unforgettable photographs.
Historical Significance
The Historic Columbia River Highway holds a significant place in history as one of the first scenic highways in the United States, designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest while providing access to the region’s wonders. The road trip played a crucial role in the preservation of the Columbia River Gorge and its unique ecosystems, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in maintaining these precious landscapes for future generations to enjoy.
Last Word
As we conclude this exploration of the 10 Best Road Trips in the USA You Must Take, remember that the open road is calling, inviting you to create your own stories and cherish the moments that unfold with every mile. Pack your bags, fuel up, and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime!
