“Discover the best road trips in the USA! Explore scenic routes, breathtaking landscapes, and must-visit destinations for an unforgettable adventure. Plan your trip now!”
Road trips offer the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and hidden gems of the United States. From scenic coastal highways to breathtaking mountain routes, the USA is home to some of the most iconic road trips in the world. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or thrill-seeker, there’s a perfect journey waiting for you. In this guide, we’ll explore the best road trips in the USA and everything you need to know to make your adventure unforgettable.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Route Overview
- Start: San Francisco, California
- End: San Diego, California
- Distance: 655 miles
- For milder weather and fewer crowds, spring or fall are the best seasons to visit.
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 1, offers some of the most stunning ocean views in the country. As you drive along the California coastline, you’ll pass through charming beach towns, towering cliffs, and scenic landscapes.
Best Road Trips in the USA Must-See Attractions
- Big Sur: One of the most picturesque stretches of the route, featuring the iconic Bixby Bridge.
- Monterey & Carmel by the Sea: Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium and enjoy the artistic vibe of Carmel.
- Santa Barbara: A beautiful city with stunning beaches, wineries, and Spanish-style architecture.
- Los Angeles: Explore Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach.
2. Route 66: The Mother Road
Route Overview
- Start: Chicago, Illinois
- End: Santa Monica, California
- Distance: ~2,448 miles
- Late spring or early fall is the ideal time to visit.
Route 66 is one of the most legendary road trips in the USA. This historic highway takes you through a variety of landscapes, from the Great Plains to the deserts of the Southwest.
Must-See Attractions
- Chicago’s Route 66 Sign: Start your journey at this iconic landmark.
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas): A quirky roadside attraction with buried cars.
- Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona): Explore ancient fossils and colorful badlands.
- Santa Monica Pier: The official end of Route 66 with stunning ocean views.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia & North Carolina)
Route Overview
- Start: Shepherd National Park, Virginia
- End: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina
- Distance: 469 miles
- Best Time to Go: Fall for breathtaking foliage
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic road trip through the Appalachian Mountains. This route is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Must-See Attractions
- Shenandoah National Park: Home to waterfalls and beautiful hiking trails.
- Linville Gorge: The “Grand Canyon of the East.”
- Great Smoky Mountains: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse wildlife.
4. The Great River Road (Mississippi River)
Route Overview
- Start: Minnesota
- End: Louisiana
- Distance: ~3,000 miles
- Best Time to Go: Spring or fall
Following the course of the Mississippi River, the Great River Road takes travelers through 10 states and countless historical sites.
Must-See Attractions
- Minneapolis & St. Paul: The twin cities offer cultural and culinary delights.
- St. Louis Gateway Arch: A symbol of westward expansion.
- Memphis: Explore Beale Street, Sun Studio, and Graceland.
- New Orleans: End your journey with jazz, Creole cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.
5. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway
Route Overview
- Start: Miami, Florida
- End: Key West, Florida
- Distance: ~113 miles
- Best Time to Go: Winter for pleasant temperatures
The Overseas Highway is a one-of-a-kind road trip that takes you across the ocean on a series of bridges and islands.
Must-See Attractions
- Everglades National Park: Spot alligators and tropical birds.
- Seven Mile Bridge: One of the longest and most scenic bridges in the world.
- Key West: Visit Ernest Hemingway’s house and enjoy breathtaking sunsets at Mallory Square.
6. The Alaska Highway
Route Overview
- Start: Dawson Creek, British Columbia (Canada)
- End: Delta Junction, Alaska
- Distance: ~1,390 miles
- Best Time to Go: Summer (May–September)
For an adventurous and rugged journey, take the Alaska Highway, which offers breathtaking mountain views and remote wilderness.
Must-See Attractions
- Liard River Hot Springs (Canada): Relax in natural thermal pools.
- Kluane National Park (Canada): A stunning park with glaciers and wildlife.
- Fairbanks, Alaska: A great spot to see the Northern Lights.
7. The Badlands and Black Hills Loop (South Dakota)
Route Overview
- Start & End: Rapid City, South Dakota
- Distance: ~300 miles
- Best Time to Go: Summer or early fall
This road trip combines scenic beauty, history, and wildlife.
Must-See Attractions
- Badlands National Park: dramatic rock formations and canyons.
- Mount Rushmore: The famous presidential carvings.
- Custer State Park: Home to bison and scenic drives.
8. The Loneliest Road in America (US Route 50)
Route Overview
- Start: Ocean City, Maryland
- End: Sacramento, California
- Distance: ~3,073 miles
- Best Time to Go: Spring or fall
US Route 50 is one of the most desolate and scenic highways in the country, passing through vast deserts and mountain ranges.
Must-See Attractions
- Great Basin National Park (Nevada): Home to stunning landscapes and ancient bristlecone pine trees.
- Ely, Nevada: A historic mining town with a ghostly charm.
- Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada): A beautiful alpine lake with crystal-clear waters.
Final Tips for Your USA Road Trip
- Plan Your Route: Research and map out stops ahead of time.
- Check Road Conditions: Some highways are seasonal and may be closed in winter.
- Pack Essentials: Bring extra food, water, emergency kits, and a good playlist!
- Respect Nature and Local Laws: Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the environment pristine.
Conclusion
The USA is home to some of the best road trips in the world, offering a mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway, exploring the history of Route 66, or venturing into the wild on the Alaska Highway, there’s a road trip for everyone. So fasten your seatbelt, get on the road, and make lifelong memories!
FAQ
1. What is the best time of year for a road trip in the USA?
The best time depends on the route. Spring and fall are ideal for most trips due to pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is great for national parks but can be crowded, while winter is best for southern routes like the Florida Keys or Route 66.
2. How can I prepare for a long road trip?
Plan your route, check weather conditions, pack emergency supplies (food, water, first aid kit), ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and download offline maps in case of limited cell service.
3. Which road trip is best for beginners?
The Pacific Coast Highway (California) or the Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina) are great choices for beginners. They offer well-maintained roads, scenic views, and plenty of attractions along the way.
4. Are there tolls on popular USA road trips?
Yes, some routes, like parts of Route 66, the Florida Turnpike, and certain bridges and tunnels on the East Coast, may have tolls. It’s best to check toll road information beforehand and carry cash or a toll pass (like an EZ-Pass) if needed.
5. What are the best apps for a USA road trip?
Some useful apps include Google Maps (navigation), Roadtrippers (trip planning), GasBuddy (cheapest fuel prices), iOverlander (camping spots), and AllTrails (hiking recommendations).