epic american road trip

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Classic American Road Trips

Pacific Coast Highway

Starting at the northwest tip of the United States at Washington’s Olympic National Park and remaining within sight of the ocean all the way south to sunny San Diego, this 1,650-mile, mostly two-lane road trip takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.

Highlights along the Pacific Coast Route: Olympic National Park (WA), Three Capes Loop (OR), Redwood National Park (CA)

Historic Route 66

The romance of traveling along historic Route 66 from where it starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles continues to captivate people around the world. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”

Highlights along Route 66: Chicago (IL), Meramec Caverns (MO), Tucumcari (NM), Painted Desert (AZ), Santa Monica (CA)

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

Running coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, “The Loneliest Road in America” is a 3,200-mile odyssey from sea to shining sea. US-50 passes through a dozen different states, four state capitals, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Highlights along the Loneliest Road: South Lake Tahoe (CA), Moab (UT), The Million Dollar Highway (CO), Washington D.C.

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims and pioneers, US‑20 takes in a little of everything during its two-lane trek from Oregon’s rugged coast to the glorious sea and sand of Cape Cod.

Highlights along the Oregon Trail: Cannon Beach (OR), Fort Boise (ID), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Mt Rushmore & Carhenge (NE)

Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US‑2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.

Highlights along the Great Northern: Tumwater Canyon (WA), Glacier National Park (MT), Lake Michigan (MI), Acadia National Park (ME)

The Appalachian Trail

This driving route of the Appalachian Trail parallels the epic hike. From the top of New England to the heart of Dixie, it takes you through continuous natural beauty—without the sweat, bugs, or blisters.

Highlights along the Appalachian Trail: Mt. Washington (NH), The Poconos (PA), Shenandoah National Park (VA), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)

Old Man River, Father of Waters, “body of a nation,” Big Muddy: By any name, the mighty Mississippi River cuts a mythic figure across the American landscape. Tag along from its headwaters in Minnesota to where it meets the sea in Louisiana via the GRR.

Highlights along the Great River Road: Main Street USA (WI), St. Louis (MO), Natchez Trace Parkway (MS), New Orleans (LA)

Starting at the Statue of Liberty and ending with a drive across the Overseas Highway to free-wheeling Key West, these almost 2,000 miles of roadway run within earshot—if not sight—of the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlights along the Atlantic Coast: The Statue of Liberty (NJ), Assateague Island National Seashore (MD), Savannah (GA), Cocoa Beach (FL)

Starting at Canada’s Jasper National Park, and winding down in the Sonora Desert, this route traverses some of the wildest and most rugged lands imaginable: mighty mountains, glaciated valleys, raging rivers, and two very different deserts.

Highlights along the Border to Border Route: Columbia Icefield (AB), Bitterroot Mountains (MT), The Extraterrestrial Highway (NV), Joshua Forest Parkway (AZ)

Once the only entirely paved route from Canada to “Old Mexico,” US‑83 cuts across America’s heartland and remains a must-do long-distance byway—transnavigating this broad, odd nation without once grazing a conventional tourist destination.

Highlights along the Road to Nowhere: Sitting Bull Memorial (SD), Nebraska Sand Hills (NE), Monument Rocks (KS), Paint Rock Pictographs (TX)

Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. From deserts to bayou swamps and Tex-Mex to barbecue, this route offers a full-flavored taste of America.

Highlights along Southern Pacific: The Desert View Tower (CA), Tombstone (AZ), Roswell (NM), Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail (AL)

The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: December 28, 2022
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 23 Comments

Do you like roadtrips? They happen to be a very American tradition and we found the perfect itinerary to visit every state in the continental USA during 1 epic roadtrip. A great trip idea for those who have a lot of time but want to stay closer to home .

Personally, I love roadtrips and I hit the road as much as I can, despite also being an aviation geek: you can like both, right? What matters is traveling and seeing new places , no matter how.

So here are the maps and details of the 2 itineraries that allow you to see all the lower 48 states at once, depending on your travel preference.

Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries

The USA is a huge country, almost as big as Europe (it’s even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).

So the USA has a lot of variety in terms of landscapes, but even in terms of culture too (even if many who aren’t from the country don’t realize that).

If you aim to eventually visit every state, any 1 of these 2 itineraries is a great way to almost all of them at once. The only 2 states you’ll have left to visit after this roadtrip will be Hawaii and Alaska.

There’s a version for national parks and points of interest and a version for cities.

I’m on the quest to visit all 50 states myself (in addition to also visiting every country obviously), and I’m not doing too bad with 47 already.

But let’s just say it would’ve been much quicker to get to 48 at once with this roadtrip instead of having to do it over dozens of trips.

Here are the details.

48-state roadtrip – national parks/points of interest version

Here’s a map of the 1st itinerary.

It was conceived by American Ph.D. student Randy Olson, on  his blog , and it was done scientifically to optimize the routing: each stop represents a national park or a point of interest.

So you’re not just seeing every state, you’re seeing cool parts of every state (which sadly wasn’t our case in North Dakota during our very random 1200-miles-nonstop-in-2-days Flytrippers roadtrip across the Midwest just for fun).

Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.

Anyway, the itinerary has also been optimized to be as efficient a route as possible to see all 48 states, so you can rest assured you won’t be wasting any time.

If you only stop to sleep, you can complete this roadtrip in only 9 days, but we recommend taking at least a couple of weeks to explore all these places obviously.

And gas is significantly cheaper in the US in case you were wondering. You can start anywhere, it’s a continuous loop, and it passes through many spots near the Canadian border.

You can even take a shortcut from Michigan to Vermont through Canada, as the stop in Cleveland is only to keep Americans without a passport from crossing into the Great White North.

Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California):

1. Grand Canyon, AZ 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT 3. Craters of the Moon, ID 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY 5. Pikes Peak, CO 6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM 7. The Alamo, TX 8. The Platt Historic District, OK 9. Toltec Mounds, AR 10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, TN 11. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS 12. French Quarter, LA 13. USS Alabama, AL 14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL 15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, GA 16. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC 17. Lost World Caverns, WV 18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, NC 19. Mount Vernon, VA 20. White House, Washington, D.C. 21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, MD 22. New Castle Historic District, DE 23. Cape May Historic District, NJ 24. Liberty Bell, PA 25. Statue of Liberty, NY 26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, CT 27. The Breakers, RI 28. USS Constitution, MA 29. Acadia National Park, ME 30. Mount Washington Hotel, NH 31. Shelburne Farms, VT 32. Fox Theater, MI 33. Spring Grove Cemetery, OH 34. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 35. West Baden Springs Hotel, IN 36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, IL 37. Gateway Arch, MO 38. C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, KS 39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, IA 40. Taliesin, WI 41. Fort Snelling, MN 42. Ashfall Fossil Bed, NE 43. Mount Rushmore, SD 44. Fort Union Trading Post, ND 45. Glacier National Park, MT 46. Hanford Site, WA 47. Columbia River Highway, OR 48. San Francisco Cable Cars, CA 49. San Andreas Fault, CA 50. Hoover Dam, NV

These are all very enticing attractions, for the most part. It seems I’ve only seen 14 of those, so maybe I should hit the road again after all.

How about you? Tempted?

48-state roadtrip – city version

Here’s a map of the 2nd itinerary.

If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2nd version that routes you through amazing cities instead.

It is slightly shorter but quite as impressive: it makes you go through the “Best City to Visit” in each state, according to TripAdvisor .

But you won’t have all the lower 48 states, unlike the other itinerary. That’s because no city in Vermont, West Virginia, or North Dakota made the top 400 cities to visit ranking, unfortunately. So plan on making a few extra detours if you want to hit all states at once with this version of the itinerary.

Here is the complete list of all cities:

• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Wichita, Kansas
• Denver, Colorado
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Francisco, California
• Portland, Oregon
• Seattle, Washington
• Boise, Idaho
• Park City, Utah
• Jackson, Wyoming
• Billings, Montana
• Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Des Moines, Iowa
• Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Chicago, Illinois
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Columbus, Ohio
• Detroit, Michigan
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Manchester, New Hampshire
• Portland, Maine
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Providence, Rhode Island
• New Haven, Connecticut
• New York City, New York
• Ocean City, New Jersey
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Wilmington, Delaware
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Washington, D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Orlando, Florida
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Birmingham, Alabama
• Jackson, Mississippi
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Houston, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Branson, Missouri

I do a little better on this list, with 31 already visited. You can see I love cities. How about you?

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If you were looking for an excuse to go on a roadtrip, this is it. And since we always enjoy giving you more for your money, we think 48 states instead of only 1 or 2 is something you’ll enjoy!

What’s the coolest roadtrip you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments below.

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Explore awesome destinations : Travel inspiration

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Featured image: The itinerary (image credit: Randy Olson)

Original publication date: May 29, 2018

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Andrew D'Amours

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This post has 23 comments.

Hello Andrew, the PHD student suggests in the 1st Itinnerary that the one stop to make in Washington State is the Hanford Nuclear Reservation?! Flat out, that is a terrible idea. It is in the middle of nowhere, I am just shocked it’s mentioned. Out of all the beautiful and amazing places to see in such a diverse state as Washington, a Nuclear Site was chosen? Surely this student could have done so much better. Thank you for allowing comments.

Having been all around the Olympic Peninsula, I agree that’s there are better stops. But my understanding is that he really optimized for the quickest way to do all 48 and had to choose a point of interest that wasn’t too far off that optimal path, hence that choice (I think).

thanks for sharing this information with us.

I have taken a road trip from California to the the most northeastern part of theUS. west Quaby light house. it was my 1st trip across the us. .I seen so many amazing places.

Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.

Why do Americans always think the Statue of Liberty is in NY? it is in NJ. I’ve done road trips now that have taken in 39 states. Here’s a quiz to see how well you know the USA: Which state has only one syllable? Only one city has been name-checked on the moon. In which state is it? Which is the most Northerly of the contiguous states? In which state were Tennessee Williams and Elvis Presley born? Which was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted into the USA? Which four states all share a border with each other? Which state has the lowest population? Twelve cities are name-checked in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” but only three states. Which? Which state has the longest name? Which two states have the most borders with other states? In which state is the geographical centre of the USA – and which one if you exclude Hawaii and Alaska? Which of the states of the USA has respectively the most Northerly, Southerly, Easterly and Westerly points?

The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.

Wow, these comments are very rude for no reason. Thanks for the article, maybe when I graduate from college I’ll consider hitting part of one of these itineraries.

“it’s a huge country (even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).”

Canada – 3.855 million mi² USA – 3.532 million mi² Where does this math fail you?

Where did reading fail you :P? It explicitly says “ when considering LAND area alone ” The quote you copied literally has a link provided under “even larger than Canada” and if you read that, it explains how Canada is only larger than the US due to water area being counted 🙂

There is no stop in North Dakota on the city version. You should stop in Fargo after Billings and before Sioux Falls

I’m 46 years old .. I have been to all 50 states and I’m 17 away from all 50 twice .. I have driven to 47 .. flown to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington..

Wow! That’s impressive :O

This is awesome

This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

“this roadtrip in only 9 days“ is extremely false statement. It is only 9 days if you are driving non stop, no breaks to even get out of your car, get gas, or actually see these places. From start to finish drive time it is 225 hours, 16 minutes = 9 days. Wow. Take some time to enjoy the view.

Yes, that’s what we said too 😛

Thanks for the tip 😊

Do you know the total distance of this itinerary? At what moment of the year doing this trip would be the best? Thanks!

Hi! It is 13,699 miles (22,046 km) for the landmarks itinerary and 12,290 miles (19,780 km) for the city version. You can even have the Google Maps links on the creator’s original post (I’ve reposted the link below). As for the timing, I guess it depends on your preferences, but I’d want to avoid that top half of the country (so half the itinerary) in the winter for sure! http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/

Crappy itinerary! Does not even include Zion National Park… and so many stops in the North Eastern states?? Nobody cares about those places except maybe a couple of places.

As explained, the PhD student who built the itinerary wanted to have one stop per state, and there are many states in the North-East so that’s why there are many stops there. I agree that Zion is an iconic spot, but his goal was also to optimize a routing that was as short as possible so that’s why it’s billed as an itinerary to see all lower 48 states at once and not an itinerary to see *the best spots*. But those interested in doing this can definitely adapt it and add many interesting stops for sure 🙂

Curtis, you are crappy. Obviously this is meant as a guide that can be adapted to add spots. I think it’s awesome.

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29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love

Posted on Published: March 1, 2023  - Last updated: January 17, 2024

The US is filled with amazing sights, hikes and adventures from coast to coast. The absolute best way to experience everything it has to offer is by taking an amazing road trip! Here’s an epic list of the best road trips USA to find your next adventure.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

One of the best perks about US road trips is you can take your time, admire the views, stop at fun road-side attractions and design the route exactly how you like! Whether you have a long weekend, a week, or even longer, these road trips across the US are full of a variety of cities, wide open spaces and some underrated spots you’re going to love.

From coast to coast and even a few bonus routes, this guide will help you get started in planning the greatest American roadtrip that’s just perfect for you!

Must-see video: road trips USA

Best road trips in USA map

Whether you’re hoping to explore close to home or take a bucket list cross-country road trip, this USA road trips list has something for everyone! Check out the map below to find which one works best for you.

By the way, I haven’t been everywhere (yet), so I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list of the best American road trips.

Essentials to pack on the greatest road trips in America

Before we dive into the list of USA road trip routes, make sure you’ve packed the right gear to help make your road trip go smoothly. Here are some top recommendations…

• Food and water. Regardless of how long of an adventure you choose, you’ll want some food or at the very least some snacks to keep that energy up! Here are 101 road trip food ideas . Don’t forget to bring reusable water bottles to fill up at hotels, restaurants and national parks so you can avoid buying single-use plastic bottles.
• Collapsible cooler. Store your food and drinks in a handy cooler, then fold it down when it’s empty for storage or to easily pack it up.
• Layers for weather. Depending on which epic US road trip you choose and the time of year you take it, be prepared for anything! From a light jacket or medium coat for hiking, an umbrella , sun hat or even the perfect merino wool layers for any season, you’ll want to be prepared.

• Good hiking gear. If you’re stepping foot in a national park on this list, or any other outdoor space with trails, you’ll want the right hiking gear. That means hiking shoes , socks, trekking poles and hiking backpack . As someone who’s hiked with and without the proper gear, I can say with confidence hiking is a lot easier and more comfortable with the right gear.
• Emergency preparedness items like satellite communicator and first aid kit . Whether you’re in your vehicle or are renting a car , be prepared for anything. This satellite communicator allows for 2-way communication anywhere it can see the sky – regardless of if you have cell phone service or not. Call for help on a hiking trail or road out in the middle of nowhere.
• GoPro. This awesome camera is perfect for recording epic road trips! Hang this GoPro out the window or sunroof while another person is driving, go underwater with it or use it to capture amazing landscapes. Maybe not an ‘essential,’ but certainly fun if it’s in your budget! 🙂

By the way, if you need to rent a car for these epic road trips, try using Discover Cars . It’s a search engine for the major car carriers that finds the lowest price, and it’s free to use. I typically save 10-30% on car rentals with Discover Cars .

Best road trips USA

YAY! You’re ready to start planning your bucket list road trip! You’re going to love this amazing list of the best road trips in America!

1. Utah national parks road trip (one of the absolute best road trips in America)

Distance: 878 miles Recommended time: 6-10 days Best time of year: spring, summer or fall

For out-of-this world landscapes, you’ll love an Utah national parks road trip through the Mighty 5! From crazy rock spires known as hoodoos in Bryce Canyon to the vast, wide open spaces in Canyonlands National Park, there’s so much to see and do on this road trip!

For the most efficient use of your time, fly into Salt Lake City and start your adventure in Moab. Home to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, you’ll want to spend at least 2 days exploring this area – more if you have time!

Spend one day in Arches by hiking to Delicate Arch – the most famous rock arch in the world! See Landscape Arch and The Windows areas of the park, too. With the popularity of this park over the last 5 years, you’ll need a timed entry reservation , so be sure to plan in advance!

Discover the best hikes in Canyonlands National Park. From the short, 0.5 mile trail to Mesa Arch, to the breathtaking Grand View Point trail. Don’t forget to stop at the scenic overlooks – Green River and Grand View Point.

From there, head west to Capitol Reef National Park. Visit the Fruita orchards and do the Hickman Bridge Trail hike. Allow at least an hour for the scenic drive as well. It’s easy enough to see the park highlights in day, or take more time to explore more hiking trails.

Next is Bryce Canyon National Park. Home to the funky hoodoo rock formations, these views are incredible any time of year. Be sure to check out the views at Inspiration Point, and if you’re up for a hike, do the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop combination. So cool!

Lastly, head to Zion. One of the most visited national parks in the country, and for good reason! This massive canyon is so incredible from almost anywhere in the park. Popular hikes like The Narrows and Angels Landing (permit required) and Canyon Overlook Trail don’t disappoint !

The final part of this trip is just heading to Las Vegas to fly back home. This trip can be done year round, but some of the roads and hikes in the national parks will be closed during the winter months due to snow and ice, so it’s recommended during spring, summer and fall.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Ozark Mountains

Distance: 200 miles Recommended tim e: 2-3 days Best time of year: April-June or September-November

One of the best road trips in USA is a trip through the Ozark mountains in northern Arkansas. There is so much to see and do on this road trip and it’s perfect for a 2-3 day weekend.

This exciting road trip will start in Little Rock and end in Eureka Springs. The total mileage of this trip is 200 miles and driving straight through takes 3 hours and 25 minutes.

One of the best stops along the way is at the Natural Bridge just outside of Clinton . It spans 100 ft and was actually used as a bridge in the past. The next best stop on this road trip is at the Buffalo National River. You can go on an awesome  Buffalo River float trip , and stay in one of the adorable VRBO cabins the area has to offer.

After spending a day floating down the river, head to excursion train , one of Arkansas’ best towns. You can spend days checking out this charming town. Make sure that you check out the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway while you’re there! You can go on an excursion train, a lunch train, and a dinner train and see some of the gorgeous scenery in the area.

One of the best places to stay in Eureka Springs is at this incredible unique Hobbit Cave Hotel where you can actually stay in a cave for the night. The best time of the year to do this road trip is either in the spring or fall when the weather isn’t too hot and the Buffalo River is great for floating. 

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

3. Beartooth Highway (one of the greatest road trips in America)

Distance: 68.7 miles Recommended time: 1+ day Best time of year: June-September

Charles Kuralt called the Beartooth Highway “the most beautiful drive in America.” This scenic USA road trip route begins in Red Lodge, Montana, and ends in Cooke City and the northeastern entrance to Yellowstone National Park. At 68.7 miles, it’s a short drive, but you’ll want to allow several hours to take advantage of as many scenic views as possible.

While  Beartooth Highway  is a route where the drive is the destination, there are some must-stop places. A stop at Beartooth’s scenic overlook will give you a glimpse of the peak for which the mountain range and the highway is named after. During this US road trip, you should also stop at Rock Creek Vista Point where you’ll be met with majestic views at 9,190 feet . Don’t be surprised to see marmot and scampering chipmunks while you admire the views.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Top of the World Resort has vacation rentals. They also have camping for tents and RVs, and you can rent UTVs and Snowmobiles. Skiers will love Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area.

Because Beartooth Highway is the highest elevation road in the Northern Rockies, it’s closed most months of the year . It typically opens in late May or early June and closes around October. Summer squalls have been known to happen, so it’s always best to find out ahead of time if the road is open.

Recommended by Theresa of The Local Tourist

Looking for adventure a little further north? This guide will help you plan an amazing Canadian road trip !

4. Florida Springs

Distance: 165 miles Recommended time: 3-5 days Best time of year: November-February

Without a doubt, a Florida Springs road trip is one of the best US road trips of them all. In fact, Florida is actually home to more freshwater springs than any other state in the nation . So, make the most of this fact and enjoy a fantastic road trip to some of the best natural springs in Florida . 

Now, if you’re starting near Tampa then this road trip will take between three and five days to complete. After all, many of these spots are secluded in the wilderness and require that you have an RV or do a bit of camping. 

So, while this USA road trip really only covers a distance of 165 miles, each spot is truly awesome and could easily keep you busy for a day.

Once in Tampa go a bit north to see the Weeki Wachee Springs. Sure, this natural spring is amazing but the real highlight of your visit will be the mermaid show. In fact, it is held in an underwater theater and is one of the coolest things you will ever see. 

Continue to Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River Natural Wildlife Refuge. Rent a kayak and enjoying all that Manatee Springs has to offer. 

Just know that while this is a great place to see Manatees, there are typically only found in the water here during the winter months. Plan your visit for this time of year so that you can get up close and personal with these gentle giants. 

Whatever you do though, don’t forget to visit Ginnie Springs. There are some great camping spots here. It’s an epic place to relax, take in the scenery, and do a bit of tubing. 

Finally, head to Ichetucknee Springs and end your road trip here. Check out the famous blue hole which is a great place to go cave diving, snorkeling, tubing, hiking, swimming, and more. There’s also tons of cool fish in the water so be on the look out for them as they swim by.

Recommended by Victoria of Florida Trippers

5. Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada (out of this world USA Road Trip!)

Distance: 98 miles Recommended time: 1 day Best time of year: October-April

If you’re looking for a quirky USA road trip you won’t soon forget, consider  driving Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

This road trip spans 98 miles on State Route 375 between the towns of Crystal Springs and Warm Springs. Along the way, you are treated to arid desert landscapes, mostly desolate roads, and plenty of alien-themed attractions. 

There are lots of unique stops along this route. You have ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks. There’s the iconic Extraterrestrial Highway sign plastered in stickers left behind by pilgrims who’ve made the trek from far and wide. And don’t pass up the Alien Research Center where you can buy souvenirs and hear some UFO lore.

As you continue driving along the ET Highway you’ll see the Black Mailbox, where believers come to leave mail and other trinkets for otherworldly creatures. And lastly, there’s the Little A’le’inn, which is a motel, bar and restaurant which is hard to miss thanks to the UFO-towing pick-up truck out front!

This is a road trip that can be easily done in one day . However, you can tack it onto a bigger Nevada itinerary.

Also, while the Extraterrestrial Highway can be driven any time of year, it’s probably best to avoid the summer months when the desert temperatures are a scorcher. This road trip would be much more enjoyable if done in spring or autumn.

As far as accommodations go, you can stay in Las Vegas which is only 1 hour 37 minutes from the starting point of Crystal Springs. 

As a final tip, fuel up before you begin driving the ET Highway; this area is fairly remote with very little traffic, so you wouldn’t want to get stranded!

Recommended by Audrey of That Backpacker

6. Washington DC to Boston

Distance: 440 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: September – October

A road trip from Washington DC to Boston is the perfect way to take in the changing colors of fall. The journey will take at least 2 days and cover a total of 440 miles with stops in New York, Philadelphia and Providence.

Starting out from Washington DC, you’ll have a chance to explore the nation’s capital. It’s home to famous monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, The White House and the Smithsonian Museum .

If you’re taking a longer route towards New York City, you can even stop off at Gettysburg National Military Park along the way.

Once in New York, there’s plenty to keep travelers entertained! From iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square and Rockefeller Center to exciting attractions like Broadway shows, shopping boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

From there it’s just a short drive up to Philadelphia. Visit historic sites such as Independence Hall or experience some of its world class cultural institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art or Liberty Bell Center. You may also want to make sure that your itinerary includes stops at local favorites like Reading Terminal Market and South Street for an authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich! 

Continuing northward towards Providence, you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural scenery as you pass through Connecticut and Rhode Island. On this leg of your journey, you should make time for some outdoor activities. Think whale watching on Narragansett Bay, biking along Newport’s Cliff Walk or hiking in Lincoln Woods State Park.

Finally reaching Boston will be worth all 7 hours and 30 minutes of total drive time it takes to get there! Take some time to explore picturesque spots such as Harvard Yard or Fenway Park before enjoying a classic lobster roll dinner at one of the city’s seafood restaurant s. Don’t forget about all the shopping opportunities in downtown either – including everything from vintage bookstores to designer apparel stores.

If you’re looking for family-friendly adventures even further north, consider expanding your trip into Ontario, Canada. Silent Lake Provincial Park is outside of Bancroft, Ontario and offers excellent recreation, including some of the best campgrounds in Ontario .

Recommended by Victoria of Guide your Travel

7. Seward to Denali, Alaska (one of the best US road trips for wildlife)

Distance: 767 miles (from Anchorage airport) Recommended time: 7 days Best time of year: June-September

For adventurers looking to add to their road trips USA bucket lists, a 7 day Alaska road trip itinerary from Seward to Denali should be at the top of your list. 

Fly into Anchorage and rent a car before making the 2.5 hour drive on the Seward Highway to the start of your trip in Seward. Stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to break up the drive and stretch your legs while you check out the bears, moose, reindeer and more that they care for in their sanctuary.

Seward is a perfect base for a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park. Spend 2 days here doing an iceberg kayaking excursion at Bear Glacier lagoon . Or take a whale watching cruise where you’ll see tons of aquatic wildlife in addition to a glacier calving. The Exit Glacier hike is another interesting thing to do.

Then it’s time for a 2 hour drive north to the popular Alyeska Resort . They have plenty of summer activities including terrific hikes and stunning views from the top of the Gondola ride. Stay overnight.

Next stop is Talkeetna – the small town made famous for being the inspiration for TV show Northern Exposure. It’s also the starting point for climbers planning a Denali summit.

You can get a bird’s eye view by taking a flightseeing tour of Denali with a glacier landing before spending your last 2 days at Denali National Park exploring wildlife and nature. 

The total distance from Seward to Denali is 397 miles . Doing the trip in a loop from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is 767 miles. Not too bad for 7 days of non-stop fun!

The best time for this road trip is summertime but if you can brave cold autumn weather you’ll also have the chance to be rewarded with spectacular Northern Lights! Make sure to plan your trip well in advance to get the best rates.

Even though it’s not in the continental US, it’s still one of the very best road trips in America!

Recommended by Jenifer of The Evolista

8. Newfound Gap Road, Smoky Mountains USA road trip

Distance: 30 miles Recommended time: 1 day Best time of year: September-Early November

Smoky Mountains is one of the most visited national parks of the USA! It covers South Carolina and Tennessee in the southeastern region of the US. Many  scenic drives on the Smoky mountains road trip  are worth doing, but the most famous is Newfound Gap Road (US-441). 

This American roadtrip starts from Sugarlands Visitor Center and ends at the Mountain Farm Museum in North Carolina. It connects Cherokee and Gatlinburg and is an approximately 30 Mile one-way trip.

Many scenic stopovers are on Newfound gap road in Smoky Mountain National Park and can be done in one day trip. Chimney Tops, Campbell Overlook, Newfound Gap, Rockefeller Memorial, Morton’s Gap Overlook, Oconaluftee Valley Overlook, and Mingus Mill are the most famous stopovers. 

The whole road trip is scenic, passing through a forest of Smoky Mountains with a view of foggy, misty peaks overlooking valleys and tunnels. The best time to make this road trip is during fall. You can see a fantastic riot of fall colors throughout this drive. 

Book your stay in the mountainous town of Gatlinburg for this road trip in the Smoky mountains. There are many cozy cabins with amazing views to choose from.

It’s important to note that the whole area is foggy and misty throughout the year, so it’s worth it to check the fog conditions before driving as sometimes it can be very foggy, and driving becomes very difficult. 

This is one of the best USA road trip routes, and can be done in conjunction with a larger trip to the Smokies.

Recommended by Yukti of Travel with me 24 x 7 Blog

More of the best road trips USA

With so many good options all over the country, how do you ever choose? Let’s keep exploring more options before you choose your perfect adventure…

9. Route 66 (one of the classic US road trips!)

Distance: 2,448 miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: September-Early November

Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, is one of the most iconic road trip routes in the USA. Starting in Chicago, IL, and ending in Santa Monica, CA, the route goes through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. 

Covering a total of 2,448 miles, the route offers tons to see and do . Set aside a week to do justice to the trip, more if you can afford it!

Take in the many sights along Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, from Lincoln Park to Soldier Field, before heading out. Admire the State Capitol in Springfield and visit the Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site before crossing the Mississippi River.

In Missouri, admire Gateway Arch in St. Louis . Then snap a photo of Red’s Giant Hamburg, the world’s first known drive-through! Stay at the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch in downtown St. Louis. 

In Texas, possibly the most famous attraction along the route is Cadillac Ranch, in Amarillo, but Shamrock makes for a nice stop as well.

In New Mexico, the route passes through the major cities of Santa Fe and Albuquerque, both of which offer tons to do. Adventure-loving travelers should try hot air ballooning in Albuquerque!

Spend a night in Tucumcari, where you will find some iconic Route 66 motels such as the Blue Swallow Motel. 

In Arizona, the stretch between Kingman and Seligman is considered historic. Also be sure to check out the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook. In Seligman, stay at the Supai Motel , a vintage Route 66 motel. 

Route 66 in California  passes through the Mojave Desert and a string of small ghost towns and roadside attractions. Elmer’s Bottle Ranch is one of the more popular stops. 

Pasadena is home to several Route 66 sights, and also to The Huntington, a complex of beautiful Southern California gardens.

Although not where the original road ended, today you will find the End of the Trail sign on the Santa Monica Pier. Pose for a photo under the sign to celebrate the completion of your road trip!

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

10. Coastal Carolinas road trip

Distance: 600 miles Recommended time: 7 days Best time of year: June-October

If you’re a foodie, history buff, or family, you’re going to love a  Coastal Carolinas Road Trip . This approximately 600-mile route (one way) takes you from the Deep South starting in Charleston, SC, up the entire Carolinas’ coast, and ends in the small naval city of Norfolk, VA.

Budget about a week of travel to immerse yourself in this land of pirates, beaches, and the North Carolina marshes you might know from  Where the Crawdads Sing .

Plan to spend at least one full day in Charleston’s historic downtown. As you make your way north, consider a night or two in either Myrtle Beach, SC or checking out the Wilmington beaches in North Carolina.

Don’t miss a stop in New Bern to visit the birthplace of Pepsi Cola. Devote at least 2 days to exploring the beaches and lighthouses of the Outer Banks . Be sure to check out the hidden gem – Pea Island , particularly the wildlife refuge!

The Wrights Brother National Monument is another Outer Banks must-see. Also, if you’re not eating your weight in seafood on this road trip, you’re not doing it right! 

You can do this road trip any time of year, but you’ll find the most crowds over school vacations, especially summer vacation and spring break. Autumn is an ideal time to do a Coastal Carolinas road trip. Just keep in mind that many Outer Banks businesses – especially restaurants – operate seasonally, so plan accordingly.

It’s most convenient to do this road trip with a multi-city plane ticket and one-way car rental . Fly into Charleston, drive north in your rental car, and fly out of Norfolk.

For a cheaper, but more time-consuming option, fly in and out of either Charleston or Norfolk. If you opt for a round-trip plane ticket, you’ll need to make a 7-hour drive on Interstate 95 at either the start or end of your adventure.

Recommended by Ada of Beyond the Yellow Brick Road

11. LA to Joshua Tree National Park – (a desert oasis road trip in the USA)

Distance: 130 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: April-May or September-November

One of the best USA road trip routes is driving from LA to Joshua Tree National Park. It’s a relaxing way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and in only a few hours, you’ll be in a desert oasis. While it’s only 130 miles one way, traffic can take up more of your time than you want. That’s why I recommend taking 3 days to go from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and back so you can fully enjoy all the different sites there.

On the first day, start off by checking out the Cabazon Dinosaurs. They’re giant roadside dinosaurs you’ve probably seen on Instagram, and there’s even a museum to learn more about them. From there, continue until you get to Big Morongo Canyon Preserve for gorgeous views and hiking trails.

Finally, crash in Twentynine Palms for the night – they have affordable lodging and fun places to see, like the Twentynine Palms Historical Society and Adobe Museum.

On the second day, head out to explore  Joshua Tree National Park ! You could spend days exploring! If you’re short on time, Jumbo Rocks is a great spot to watch rock climbers in action, and Barker Dam offers a chance to find water in the desert and see some historic ruins. Lost Horse Mine is an abandoned gold mine you can explore, and the Cholla Cactus Garden is a great place to catch the sunrise.

For your last day, check out the Palm Springs area. Downtown has many options for amazing food, drinks, museums, and shopping. Who knows, you might even bump into a celeb!

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a fun ride with epic views of the desert landscape and access to Mount San Jacinto State Park’s hiking trails. Grab dinner up there and catch the last tram of the night for a memorable end one of the greatest road trips in America.

Recommended by Marissa of Postcards to Seattle

12. Talimena Scenic National Byway (a completely underrated route on this road trips USA list)

Distance: 54 miles Recommended time: 1-3 days Best time of year: October-November

The  Talimena Scenic National Byway  is a 54-mile scenic route that winds its way through the Ouachita Mountains in southeastern Oklahoma and southwestern Arkansas. It’s one of the best US road trips in the south!

Stretching between Talihina, Oklahoma, and Mena, Arkansas, the route’s name is a portmanteau of these two terminal cities. You can drive the route one way or as an out-and-back, depending on the remainder of your trip itinerary . For example, those on a cross-country road trip will typically do the route one-way. But those enjoying a vacation in nearby Broken Bow or Hochatown will do the route as an extension of their trip and usually drive both ways.

While you can accomplish the trip in one day, it’s best to spend a weekend of 2 to 3 days exploring. This way you can spend time in Talihina and Mena as well as explore the state parks and hiking trails along the route.

Talimena State Park in Oklahoma and Queen Wilhelmina State Park in Arkansas both offer camping sites and hiking trails . The US Forest Service maintains them.

Whether you choose to camp along the way or stay in one of the towns on either end of the route, you need to make your bookings in advance. This is a more rural part of the country. There are many times of the year when there won’t be any rooms available at the last minute.

The best time of year is to take the trip in the last week of October or the first 2 weeks of November when the fall foliage is peaking. However, the viewpoints and vistas along this national scenic byway are beautiful any time of year.

Recommended by Stephanie of History Fangirl

13. Pacific Coast Highway (a favorite on this list of road trips USA)

Distance: 615 miles Recommended time: 2 – 7 days Best time of year: anytime

Undoubtedly, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the greatest road trips in America. Incredible coastal views greet you from a mix of big cities and untouched land. This San Francisco to San Diego road trip is one you absolutely must do in your lifetime!

While you could *technically* do this road trip in 2 days, you’ll see and experience a lot more of this incredible drive if you give yourself more time. Fly into San Francisco and rent a car and head south towards San Diego!

While there are so many amazing stops along the way, you absolutely must stay for a moment in Carmel-by-the-Sea. A charming beach town with beautiful architecture, this is one of the last stops to eat and fuel up before heading deep into Big Sur.

Along the way, there are so many cool and amazing things to do in Big Sur . Highlights include the Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls and Sand Dollar Beach.

As you head further south in California, you’ll get to quaint beach towns than large Southern California cities. Go surfing or hiking near San Luis Obispo. Wine tastings in Lompoc, hang out on the beach in Malibu and visit the Santa Monica Pier.

The end this epic American roadtrip in a city that’s easy to love – San Diego. Visit the birthplace of California in Old Town San Diego and indulge in one of the many Mexican restaurants there. Check out the nightlife in the Gaslamp district or watch the sunset on the sparkling Coronado Beach.

This road trip can be done at any point in the year. The weather along Big Sur can be a bit moody with marine fog in the late spring/ early summer and wildfire season during early fall. Just pack layers for comfort and bring your camera for amazing landscapes!

14. Athens to Macon, Georgia

Distance: 93 miles Recommended time: 3-4 days Best time of year: anytime

Even though about 93 miles (less than two hours) separate Athens and Macon, Ga., the destinations share something in common besides just being college towns : both have played (and continue to play) a role in shaping American music culture. 

A three- or four-day getaway is suitable throughout the year, even in the winter, since the weather in Georgia tends to be mild-ish. Still, it is weather and can change ~ always have an umbrella available and except for summer, dress in layers.

It can be crowded in Athens during University of Georgia home football games in the fall. The best thing to do is to check the calendars and watch the weather reports. Accommodations in both places include vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, chain hotels and boutique hotels. Something suitable for all needs and budgets.

Begin this American roadtrip in Macon. It’s a little over an hour from Atlanta (for those who may be flying into Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson Airport) and a straight drive down I-75 South. 

Macon’s music history ranges from soul with Otis Redding, funk with Little Richard, Southern Rock with Allman Brothers and much more. Download Macon’s Macon Music Trail app for stories and locations of attractions like the Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House and The Little Richard House .

For true fans, a guided walking tour with Rock Candy Tours provides a detailed look at Macon’s music heritage. Finally, grab lunch at H&H Soul Food for the fried chicken and the connection to the Allman Brothers and end the evening at a music venue.

The drive from Macon to Athens is on highways. If you’re on good on time, take a break in Madison (about 35 minutes from Athens) to enjoy its quaint historic downtown.

Athens was at the forefront of the indie and rock alternative rock movement, introducing America and the world to R.E.M and B-52s, among others. A self-guided Athens Music History Tour highlights the many sites that played a role during these times . And don’t miss the Athens Music Walk of Fame, a two-square-block area downtown showcasing the people and places of the city’s rich music scene. 

Live music venues are plentiful in Athens, and festivals like Athfest, a three-day music event. This will surely be one of the best road trips in America for music-lovers!

Recommended by Apryl from   Southern Hospitality Magazine  

15. Road to Hana, Maui (a quintessential route on your road trips USA list)

Distance: 52 miles Recommended time: 1- 2 days Best time of year: any time of year

The  Road to Hana  is a scenic 52-mile highway on Maui’s northern coast. A bucket list road trip, it provides one of the most iconic experiences in Hawaii, and for a good reason. It’s truly one of the greatest road trips in America!

On the narrow road, you will encounter 620 curves and 59 bridges, with many sections only accommodating one vehicle.

Whether staying in Maui or visiting for the day by cruise ship, pick up a car rental at the Kahului Airport to begin your journey . Expect to spend at least 2-1/2 hours making the drive or longer if you intend to go beyond Hana to Haleakala National Park.

You can make the trip any time of year (thanks to Hawaii’s great weather). You’ll need to purchase a visitor’s pass to visit the national park.

What makes this drive so spectacular is the plethora of scenery you can observe along the way. Imagine roadside cascading waterfalls, rainbow eucalyptus trees, a lava tube, and colored beaches begging for exploration.

For one of the best opportunities to view Hawaiian sea turtles, stop at Ho’okipa Beach, where they often bask in the sun . Keanae Landing, another can’t-miss stop, allows you to taste Aunt Sandy’s Banana Bread, rated highly worldwide.

If you want to spend more than a day exploring the Hana area, the Hana-Maui Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Residence , offers a luxury stay with a restaurant and spa.

USA road trip tip : If you aren’t visiting Maui by cruise ship, plan to drive the Road to Hana when there are no ships in port. Then you’ll share the highway with fewer tourists.

Recommended by Karen of Forever Karen

16. Blue Ridge Parkway (vibrant fall colors American roadtrip)

Distance: 469 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: October

Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most iconic scenic drives in America. It passes through Virginia and North Carolina where the endpoints are two national parks – Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

It spans 469 miles so it’s recommended to spend 3 days driving Blue Ridge Parkway so you have plenty of time to stop at overlooks, go hiking to waterfalls and explore local museums along the way.

If driving from north to south, on day one, be sure to stop at Humpback Rocks Visitor Center to learn about mountain pioneers. Then head to Yankee Horse Ridge for an easy to get to multi-tiered waterfall, Kanawha Canal Lock to learn about this historic innovation, and Mabry Mill, one of the most beautiful and iconic stops along the parkway.

Stay at the Grassy Creek Cabooses your first night for a unique experience sleeping in a converted train car.

On your second day, visit Puckett Cabin, where a mountain midwife helped deliver over 1000 babies! Visit the Blue Ridge Music Center where you can catch bluegrass concerts, and Linn Cove Viaduct, arguably the most iconic curve of the parkway that’s a photography hotspot.

You’ll end day two in Asheville where there are a number of places to stay, especially downtown!

On the final day of this US road trip, explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park where the highlights include Laurel Falls , Cades Cove, and Clingman’s Dome.

If hoping to catch the most spectacular views, try to visit during autumn when the fall foliage is out in full swing – it’s one of the best fall drives in the country!

Important Note: When traveling on Blue Ridge Parkway, be sure to check the official notices by the National Park Service as some parts of the road may be closed due to construction or weather damage.

Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures

17. Oregon Coast (one of the absolute greatest road trips in America)

Distance: 730 miles Recommended time: 2-7 days Best time of year: June-August

If you’re looking for one of the most dramatic road trips in the United States, consider driving along the Oregon Coast. This awesome American roadtrip offers rugged beaches, jaw dropping seascapes, and dozens of charming towns to explore. 

Start the drive in Portland and head an hour and a half west to Cannon Beach, one of the most adorable towns along the coastline and known for its iconic sea stack, Haystack Rock. Here, you can peruse its quaint downtown, explore the beach’s tidepools, and hit any of the incredible hikes near Cannon Beach . For example, head to Ecola State Park for the Crescent Beach trail, where you’ll hike to a secluded beach.

Continue further south to the town of Newport. Here, you stop by the town’s docks to see dozens and dozens of sea lions. They happily bark the day away and stop at Seal Rock State Park, known for its wildlife sighting opportunities and unique sea stacks.

Finally, head further south to the southern section of the Oregon coast, Brookings. This is home to the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, with some of the most stunning views in the state.

There’s a variety of things to do in the park, from stopping at scenic overlooks to exploring its hidden beaches. Once you’re done taking in the breathtaking sights, head back to Portland, completing a 730 mile loop around the western portion of the state. 

While you could drive the coastline in a day or two, the small towns along the way are best savored slowly. If you can build in about a week to mosey your way down the coastline, that would be best.

If you can swing it, visiting in the summertime is the best . The temperature is warm, the skies are clear, and you’ll have the best chance of spotting wildlife, like gray whales and puffins.

Although, the Oregon Coast is also dreamy December – February when there’s far less people too. The Oregon Coast is also one of the best winter road trips , too!

Recommended by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

18. Savannah to Charleston

Distance: 107 miles Recommended time: 4 – 7 days Best time of year: April – June, September – November

If you’re interested in a coastal getaway and are a fan of majestic old oaks, Southern-style dining, and incredible architecture, then a road trip from Savannah to Charleston might be just the ticket! A week is an ideal amount of time to get a taste of these two pretty cities and the stunningly beautiful  South Carolina Lowcountry  that lies between them.

Begin your journey in Savannah, where you might feel as if you’ve stepped back in time a couple hundred years! The Historic District is filled with architecture from the mid-1800s . Cobblestone streets line the waterfront, and each square is shaded by old oaks covered in Spanish moss.

Stay in a historic property like  The Marshall House  or  Hamilton-Turner Inn .

While in Savannah, be sure to take a stroll down Jones Street, view the interior of the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, and dine at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants. (Common Thread, The Grey, and Brochu’s Family Tradition are three excellent options!)  

Savannah and Charleston are 107 miles apart, and the drive between them takes about 2 hours. HWY 17 to I-95 back to HWY 17 is the fastest route, but Okatie HWY is the most scenic way to go. Don’t miss a brief stop in Yemassee to see the Old Sheldon Church Ruins.

Beaufort is an ideal halfway stopping point along the route. It’s such a small city that you only need to stay one night to get a good overview (try the Cuthbert House Inn). Be sure to take a sunset stroll along the waterfront park and go on   a walking tour to see the beautiful historic homes in The Old Point area.

As you head into Charleston, the Angel Oak is a must-see on the outskirts of the city. It’s approximately 400 years old, with twisted branches that are a sight to behold!

Stay at  The Spectator Hotel , which is within easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, and landmarks. Charleston is known for award-winning restaurants like Husk, so a Charleston food tour  is always a good idea!

Spring is the best time of year to take this road trip, with fall running a close second. 

Recommended by Erin of Savannah First Timer’s Guide

Best road trips in USA – continued

Can you believe this list?! With some of the best American road trips yet to come, one of my favorites is up next!

19. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park

Distance: 50 miles Recommended time: 1 -3 days Best time of year: July – September

If you’re looking for one of the very best USA road trip routes, this is it! The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking experiences you’ll have.

In just 50 short miles, this road trip really packs a punch! The Going-to-the-Sun Road can obviously be done in one day, but taking 3 (or more) days to explore is ideal.

Located in northern Montana and at over 6600 feet in elevation, the Going-to-the-Sun road experiences heavy snowfall and isn’t cleared of snow until July. And because it typically starts snowing again by October, the season to do this incredible road trip is short.

Note: due to the high volume of visitors, a vehicle reservation is required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road (and most of the rest of the park as well).

These can be a pain to get, with strict deadlines and they go super fast. However, you can enter the park before 6am or after 3pm without a reservation and drive the road and explore all that it has to offer.

It truly is a stunning drive! Along the way, you’ll pass Lake McDonald, which hold’s nature’s skittles – brightly colored rocks that line the shores of the lake.

If you’re up for hiking, you’ll love Avalanche Lake Trail , Hidden Lake Trail, and Virginia Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Glacier National Park.

Pro tip: vehicle passes don’t ensure you’ll find a parking spot. Arrive at the park early and have a plan B if parking is full. Use this Glacier National Park itinerary to set up your plan for this incredible park!

20. Phoenix to Page Arizona (one of the BEST southwest US road trips)

Distance: 600 miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: March – May, September – November

The Phoenix to Page Arizona road trip itinerary  is one of the best road trips in America that offers a blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The journey starts and ends in Phoenix, covering approximately 600 miles in total, making it a perfect loop trip for travelers who want to explore the best of Arizona .

To fully appreciate the journey, it is recommended to take at least 7 days to complete the route.

Phoenix is the starting point of this road trip, and it is a city worth exploring. Visitors can experience fun hikes, mouthwatering restaurants, interesting museums, and beautiful shopping areas. The neighboring city of Scottsdale is also worth a visit. Known for its luxurious spas, resorts, and golf courses, there’s so many things to do in Scottsdale .

After exploring Phoenix, head to Sedona, famous for its red rock formations and stunning natural beaut y. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring their vortexes, or visiting wineries.

Next up is Flagstaff, which is famous for its beautiful mountain scenery and historic downtown. Here, visitors can explore the famous Route 66 and visit the Lowell Observatory, which was where Pluto was discovered .

From Flagstaff, the journey continues to Page, which is home to the famous Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

After Page, you’ll head to the majestic Grand Canyon, which is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Grand Canyon offers stunning views, and visitors can explore the park on foot or helicopter tour .

The best time to take this road trip is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable . During the summer, the temperatures can reach up to 100 degrees, making outdoor activities challenging.

It’s also important to note that some parts of the road trip itinerary may be closed during the winter due to snowfall.

Recommended by Destiny of Guided by Destiny

21. New England during the fall (one of the best road trips in USA)

Distance: 830 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: October

For a true bucket list experience, you have to do a road trip in New England during the fall. It’s truly one of the best road trips in America! Enjoy the stunning array of colorful foliage and classic, charming small towns in the region. 

If you’re flying in, plan to start and end at Boston Logan International Airport with a rental car . Otherwise, adapt this loop to your own starting point.

This road trip is a loop spanning about 830 miles. You can certainly add more destinations if you have more time! You can do this trip in 5 days but a week or more would be ideal to add even more stops into the mix.

Start in Boston and head just north of the city to the iconic fall town of Salem, Mass. Whether you’re into Hocus Pocus or history, visitors love Salem for its Halloween vibes and fun fall events. Just be sure to book accommodations early during this very busy season!

From Salem, head north to Bar Harbor, Maine. En route, stop in Portland for a foodie adventure. This is the longest drive at just over 200 miles, but there is ample opportunity to stop along the way for coastal views and foliage photo ops.

You could spend a week in Bar Harbor alone, but from there, your road trip will backtrack a bit before cutting west into New Hampshire. Spend the night in Conway so you can start your drive through the White Mountains early the next morning . This is a truly idyllic destination in the fall! 

From Conway, take a 15-minute detour up to Bartlett for a quick, easy morning hike to the very pretty Diana’s Baths. Then you’ll drive across NH along the incredibly scenic Kancamagus Highway; plan to stop several times for photo ops! After crossing the state, you’ll basically follow the border between NH and VT before cutting across Vermont to the pretty town of Manchester.

From Manchester, you can skirt Green Mountain National Forest and head southeast back toward Boston. If you do have more time, add more stops for a more robust 1-week New England fall road trip to maximize your adventure.

Recommended by Amanda of Hey! East Coast USA

22. Texas Hill Country (an underrated American roadtrip)

Distance: 300 miles Recommended time: 2 – 7 days Best time of year: March – April

A road trip through Texas Hill Country is one of the best road trips in the US due to the amazing things to do and sights to see along the way. This drive starts in Austin, ends in San Antonio, and has dozens of charming small towns along the way.

At just under 300 miles long, this road trip can be completed in one day. However, travelers can easily fill 7 days with all there is to experience.

There is plenty to explore year round. Beware of the Texas heat in summer months and plan plenty of swimming hole stops. Spring is the best time of year for this road trip. Hill country comes alive with  Texas bluebonnets  and other wildflowers making for a gorgeous scenic drive.

Starting in Austin, consider checking out the Capitol building, live music in the Red River District, and the beautiful metropolitan park, Zilker Park. If you happen to be doing this road trip during October, be sure to check out the best haunted houses in Austin , too.

Then, head out west toward the sweet towns of Burnet and Marble Falls. Explore Longhorn Caverns, discover Devil’s Watering Hole at Inks Lake, and pick up a slice of pie at the Bluebonnet Café.

Fredericksburg is the next highlight on your road trip and also a great spot for staying overnight.

The numerous wineries, beautiful German heritage woven throughout the town, and the beauty of a hike at Enchanted Rock can keep you busy for several days. In spring, head to Jenschke Orchards to pick strawberries or for fresh peaches in the summer. An overnight stay at the Behr House is sure to please!  

As you start heading south, check out the historic post office in Luckenbach, lavender fields in Blanco, cowboy boots tour and Blue Hole in Wimberley, and the Comal River in New Braunfels . Don’t miss brisket from Salt Lick in Driftwood.

End your road trip in historic San Antonio by visiting Riverwalk and the Alamo. Dinner at The Pearl Historic District and pastries from Mia Tienda will end your Hill Country road trip with delicious local fare.

Such a fun adventure, and one of the best USA road trip routes!

Recommended by Sierra from Very Truly Texas

23. Southern Colorado

Distance: 800 miles Recommended time: 7 – 14 days Best time of year: June – September

Colorado has some of the most beautiful places in the country, and nothing makes that more clear than a road trip around southern Colorado . While most people visit to explore the Rockies, there is so much more to Colorado than just the Rockies. This road trip will show you why southern Colorado is really where you want to be.

Assuming you start and end in Colorado Springs, the road trip will cover about 800 miles through some of the most scenic places in the country. If you’re flying into Denver International Airport, add about 180 miles total.

Start your trip off with a scenic drive through Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs before ascending up to Pikes Peak. It’s the second highest paved road in the United States, just outside of the city.

From the peak head straight across Highway 50 to southwest Colorado, stopping by Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. While far less known than the Grand Canyon in Arizona, Black Canyon is impressive in its own right with its sheer 2700 foot drop to the river below.

From Black Canyon, head south through the San Juan Mountains, stopping by Silverton to do one of the best hikes in Colorado, the Ice Lake Hike . When your legs are sufficiently exhausted, continue to Mesa Verde National Park. Mesa Verde protects the most impressive and well-preserved ancient Puebloan cliff cities in the US.

You’ll then head across southern Colorado on highway 160, a simply stunning drive with breathtaking scenery around every turn. Be sure to stop in for a craft beer in Durango before making your way to Great Sand Dunes National Park. There, you’ll find the tallest and most impressive sand dunes in North America. Do some dune hiking before heading back to Colorado Springs.

The best time of year to complete this road trip is summertime between June and September. It’s possible to visit all the places on the route year-round (except the Ice Lake hike). Summer will have the most pleasant weather and best hiking opportunities. 

This is certainly one of the best road trips in America, and one full of unexpected adventures.

Recommended by Chris of Around The World With Me

24. Florida Keys from Miami to Key West (another favorite on this list of road trips USA)

Distance: 165 miles Recommended time: 1- 3 days Best time of year: December – June

One of the very best road trips in America is driving the Florida Keys on Highway 1. From big party cities on either end to tropical vibes along the way, this is one fun road trip you’ll want to drive!

The Miami to Key West road trip can technically be done in a day, but it’s best done over 3 days, at minimum. That would give you one day in Miami, one day in Key West and one day to explore the islands between.

Although if you have a week or more, that’s even better! Just after leaving Miami, make a stop in Everglades National Park . From birdwatching to the short Anhinga Trail hike, you’ll love seeing nature in this park.

Another stop along the way is Key Largo. From a glass-bottom boat tour to snorkeling , this island offers a lot of water activities. Robbie’s in Islamorada is a popular spot to stop and feed the tarpons   – so fun!

The famous 7-mile bridge is an engineering feat as you drive down Highway 1. Finally making it to Key West, you’ll find shops, restaurants and historic hotels greet you with open arms. It’s quite the busy little island, welcoming passengers from cruise ships by the day and a live party scene at night.

Stay in the Kimpton Winslow’s Bungalows in the historic district, or on Smather’s Beach at Margaritaville Beach House Key West . You can fly back out of Key West, although it may just be more affordable to drive back to Miami.

This fun route from Miami to Key West down Highway 1 is truly one of the greatest road trips in America, and holds a deserving spot on this list!

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

25. Oahu Circle Island Tour (a tropical USA road trip route)

Distance: 60 miles Recommended time: 1-3 days Best time of year: year-round!

Dive into the depths of Hawaiian culture and explore the sights, sounds, scents, and flavors of Oahu on a classic circle island tour. It’s absolutely one of the best road trips in USA, even though it’s on an island thousands of miles offshore. 🙂

This route is an ideal way to get a better sense of all Oahu offers. From world-famous beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities to small towns with uniquely local flair.

Start and end the trip in Honolulu, driving 60 miles around the island’s perimeter. You can spend from 6 hours to 2-3 days on this route, based on where you want to stop and how much time you want to spend there.

No trip around Oahu is complete without a stop at the iconic Waikiki Beach. You can take in the crystal-clear waters and picturesque sunset views.

Other highlights include…

• Byodo-In Temple, located on the Windward Coast
• Chinaman’s Hat, a small islet off the shore of Kualoa Ranch
• Banzai Pipeline, a world-famous surfing spot on the North Shore
• Dole Plantation for its famous pineapple fields and ice cream
• Laie Point or Makapu’u Point Lookout for some of the most beautiful views in all of Hawaii

Be sure to also marvel at Waimanalo Waterfall, tucked away in the Ko’olau Mountains, and the breathtaking Ka’ena Point Natural Area Reserve.

Embarking on this journey during the summertime is ideal due to the longer days, yet it can still be a memorable experience year-round . Just keep in mind that you may encounter crowds at beaches on weekends and holidays and when the waves are high.

If you’re looking for a guided tour, there are many tours you can book to do the circle island tour of Oahu. If you’d rather have an adventure of your own, renting a car is the perfect option! With apps like Shaka and Gypsy to assist with planning and managing your itinerary, you can guarantee yourself an extraordinary experience.

Recommended by Melodie of Travel Must Do’s

26. Badlands to the Black Hills (an unexpected one on this list of best road trips in USA)

Distance: 60 miles Recommended time: 1 – 3 days Best time of year: May – September

In western South Dakota, visitors find a land of great contrasts and great beauty. The Black Hills got their name because the dense, dark pine trees make the hills appear almost black. The landscape is so starkly bare in Badlands National Park that it appears almost otherworldly.

Luckily for visitors, you can visit both within just a few hours–although you could easily spend weeks exploring all the beauty and fun in western South Dakota. This is one of the best, unexpected US road trips!

For the ultimate western South Dakota road trip, visitors can start at Badlands National Park in Interior, South Dakota.

Inside the park, visitors drive the 31-mile Badlands Scenic Loop Road to the Ben Reifel Visitors Center . There are so many things to do in Badlands National Park like hike the park’s beautiful trails and stop at scenic overlooks for spectacular views of the park’s colorful rock formations. Be sure to watch for bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs!

After exiting to Wall, South Dakota many visitors stop at Wall Drug for free ice water (and snacks and souvenirs.)

Then, it’s a short jaunt on interstate 90 to the South Dakota Air and Space Museum. This free aerospace museum on Ellsworth AFB is home to more than 30 aircraft and tons of other artifacts and exhibits.

A few minutes further and you’re in Rapid City and can check out all the town has to offer. Check out Storybook Island, Dinosaur park, Presidential statues downtown, and fossils at the Museum of Geology on the Campus of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. 

Then, it’s less than a half hour from downtown Rapid City to the Black Hills. Take the Peter Norbeck Scenic Highway to see attractions like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park.

The beauty of the rock formations in the Black Hills, the trees, the wildlife, and the view are absolutely breathtaking.

Recommend by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

27. Washington DC to Asheville

Distance: 471 miles Recommended time: 5 days Best time of year: March – May, September – October

A road trip from Washington, DC to Asheville, North Carolina can be driven in just eight hours but you’ll miss a lot of historic southern towns. Plan on a long five-day vacation and make frequent stops.

Your first stop on this American road trip is Front Royal via Route 66. This charming town offers the best apple donuts to pack for your all-day hiking in Shenandoah National Park . Rent an Airbnb or book a campsite inside the national park.

Wake up bright and early the next day to enjoy a big flapjack breakfast then head out on 1-81 South via I-66 W. Select a detour to Luray Caverns or antique shopping in Strasburg.

Plan to reach the 215-foot-tall Natural Bridge by noon . Carved out by Cedar Creek, the limestone bridge offers vistas of the forests and rolling meadows. Explore seven miles of hiking trails and the beautiful Lace Falls, a 30-foot waterfall cascade.

Then, spend time touring the Monacan Indian Village or participate in seasonal living history programs. Book your second night at Wyndham’s Natural Bridge Hotel surrounded by Blue Ridge Mountains.

On your next morning head into the hills of east Tennessee to explore Johnson City. Choose between hiking at Buffalo Mountain Park or boating at Winged Deer Park.

In the afternoon, explore Sycamore Shoals Historic Park, which is a former Cherokee site. Alternatively, visit Gray Fossil Site and Museum to see mastodon fossils. Schedule the hour drive to  Asheville  before nightfall where you can pplurge and book a room at the historic Omni Grove Park Inn .

On your last morning, book a morning walking tour to learn about the city’s Art Deco architecture. Then head to the Arts District to explore working artists’ studios. Leave time for a two-hour drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to admire the stunning scenery at road stops . Extend your USA road trip (if time permits) to tour the Biltmore Estate.

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

28. Southwest USA (one of the BEST road trips USA)

Distance: 950 miles Recommended time: 6 days Best time of year: March – May, September – November

Going from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon is only the beginning of an epic southwest USA road trip. It starts and ends in the City of Lights – Las Vegas. To complete the itinerary in a moderate way, you will need 6 days (not counting the days in Las Vegas ). The distance of the whole itinerary is around 950 miles. Along the way, you will get your ‘kicks on Route 66’, visit 3 US States, and the most Instagram-worthy national parks. From Grand Canyon to Page with Horseshoe Bend you’ll surely be in awe of America’s natural wonders.

In Page you will also visit the famous Antelope Canyon, but before that, make a stop at the the famous spot where Forrest Gump stopped running, Monument Valley.

The best place to stay in the Monument Valley in Goulding’s Lodge , where you get stunning sunset and sunrise views of Table Mountains and Monolites.

On your way back to visit Zion National park, and add Bryce Canyon as an optional stop. The last stop before returning to Vegas should be Valley of Fire, a popular wedding photoshoot location with amazing hikes. The great part about this road trip is that it can also be done in reverse. You can do this road trip at any time of the year, but winter would be the least favorable.

The best time would be spring or autumn, when temperatures are moderate and there is no snow on the roads. Summer, also a great time to follow this southwest itinerary, can be crowded and extremely hot.

Whichever time of year you choose, you won’t be disappointed. Just be careful if driving at night as the roads are full of wildlife that will be extremely hard to spot. This may just be one of the very best US road trips you will take! Recommended by Anja of Anja On Adventure

29. Milwaukee to Minneapolis

Distance: 336 miles Recommended time: 5-8 days Best time of year: June-October

If you’re looking for a great northern Midwest road trip, plan a road trip from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Minneapolis, Minnesota. You’ll be able to see some of the best of the upper Midwest, including important US cities and charming small towns.

Start with two days in Milwaukee. Explore the iconic Milwaukee Art Museum, eat a fabulous lunch at the Milwaukee Public Market, and spend time strolling through the historic Third Ward.

Leaving Milwaukee, you can spend a few days enjoying Wisconsin’s smaller but still important cities and towns. Three stops worthy of spending a night or two include Madison, Wisconsin Dells, and Eau Claire. If you make your road trip during the fall, look to see if there are any football or basketball games happening in Madison during your trip. This is truly one of the greatest college towns in America!

Continue on to Minneapolis. Devote 3 days to enjoying the best of the Twin Cities. There are tons of  great free things to do in Minneapolis  and St. Paul. See the Stone Arch Bridge from the Guthrie Theater, wander through the Minneapolis Institute of Art and tour the Cathedral of St. Paul. 

Other can’t-miss sites along this USA road trip include the Mall of America, the Museum of Russian Art, and Fort Snelling State Park.

Road trips USA

There you have it! 29 of the very best US road trips you’ll find . From driving through vibrant fall colors, to marveling at the sparkling blue water in Hawaii, to hopping in a helicopter over the Grand Canyon, the adventures are truly endless.

Let’s recap this amazing list one more time (in a slightly quicker fashion…)

Best US road trips

• Utah national parks
• Ozark Mountains
• Beartooth Highway
• Florida Springs
• Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada
• Washington DC to Boston
• Seward to Denali, Alaska
• Newfound Gap Road, Smoky Mountains National Park
• Coastal Carolinas
• LA to Joshua Tree National Park
• Talimena Scenic National Byway
• Pacific Coast Highway
• Athens to Macon, Georgia
• Road To Hana, Maui
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Oregon Coast
• Savannah to Charleston
• Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park
• Phoenix to Page, Arizona
• New England
• Texas Hill Country
• Southern Colorado
• Florida Keys from Miami to Key West
• Oahu Circle Island Tour
• Badlands to the Black Hills, South Dakota
• Washington DC to Asheville
• Southwest USA
• Milwaukee to Minneapolis

Related posts to read next: 30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe 26 Absolute Best (and Underrated) Fall Drives in the US You’ve Gotta See to Believe 17 Exciting Winter Road Trips USA: Scenic and Unexpected Routes You’ll Love 12 Epic Scenic Drives Colorado (Map + Tips + Photos)

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Saturday 4th of March 2023

We love road trips! I definitely need to take the Utah road trip and I would also love to drive Beartooth! We did a little bit of the ET Highway last spring and it was fun! Great post. Lots of exciting options!

Friday 10th of March 2023

Yess Yvonne! Sounds like you've got some good options coming up. So much to discover via a USA road trip ❤️

10 of the best road trips in the USA

Jan 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Take to the open road and discover a different side to the USA © monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images

While a plane may get you there faster, road-tripping across the US is one of the most iconically American things you can do.

Get up close and personal with the country’s most striking landscapes – dense eastern forests, windswept plains, red rock canyons, dramatic Pacific coastlines – and make pit stops at some of its most famous cities all in one go.

Crisscrossed with an extensive network of pretty well-maintained highway systems, the US is remarkably easy to traverse by car . Some distances may be long, but gas, food and accommodations are largely easy to come by (except in some of the most rural locales), and a set of wheels gives you the freedom to do extra side quests along the way.

Here’s a list of our favorite routes across America’s wide open spaces, along with some tips on how to make the most of your journey.

1. Pacific Coast Highway

Best road trip for Pacific views San Diego–Seattle; 1600 miles; 8–12 days

The Pacific Coast Highway delivers one of the US’ most iconic road trip experiences, linking together the West Coast’s most notable metropolises, quirky California beach towns, ancient redwood forests, and the dramatic capes and pools of the Pacific Northwest . The route includes Hwy 1, Hwy 101 and I-5, starting in San Diego ; it winds up the coast through LA , Big Sur , San Francisco and Redwood National & State Parks , eventually terminating in Seattle .

Planning tip: Always check for road closures, particularly in the Big Sur area, where rockslides are common along the sea cliffs.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Best Appalachian road trip Cherokee, NC–Waynesboro, VA; 469 miles; 2–5 days

This spectacular route takes you through the heart of the US’ oldest mountain range, delivering view after view of rolling green mountains chock full of enchanting hiking trails, thundering waterfalls, ancient rock formations and prolific wildlife. The Parkway – part of the NPS system – begins adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and passes through the spectacular Pisgah National Forest, a number of state parks and recreation areas, and Roanoke, VA, before ending at the southern entrance of Shenandoah National Park .

Detour: In addition to state and national parks , many one-off hikes originate along the parkway. Consult trail maps to avoid missing some of Appalachia’s top routes.

3. Route 66

Best road trip for American kitsch Chicago–Los Angeles; 2250 miles; 1–2 weeks

Nicknamed the Mother Road, Route 66 has permanently ingrained itself in the international psyche as the original US road trip. Starting in Chicago , it crosses eight different states and connects travelers to national parks, weird-but-wonderful roadside attractions and tons of vintage Americana.

Planning tip:  The route can be driven in pieces or all at once, but we suggest allotting plenty of time to explore – distances are long, and the activities are numerous.

4. Natchez Trace

Best road trip for Southern history Pasquo, TN–Natchez, MS; 444 miles; 2–3 days

The path for the Natchez Trace was originally carved not by humans, but by buffalo that wandered the region from middle Tennessee to Natchez, MS. Indigenous hunters and traders soon followed, and later the route became a full-fledged thoroughfare for European colonists, soldiers and dignitaries. Today, a trip down the Trace yields gorgeous scenery, historic towns and the experience of traveling one of the most storied roads in the country.

5. Florida Highway 1

Best road trip for Gulf Coast culture Amelia Island–Key West; 475 miles; 6 days

Florida’s Hwy 1 runs the length of the state’s Atlantic Coast before banking east at Miami  and ending in stunning Key West . This sublime multi-day journey takes you through tons of Florida ’s most iconic stops: historic St Augustine , windswept Canaveral National Seashore , Nascar-fueled Daytona, laid-back Fort Lauderdale and the glam and glitter of Miami and South Beach.

Planning tip: Hurricane season lasts from June through October – with the most active months being August and September – and has the potential to significantly affect Florida. If you’re visiting during this window, keep your eyes on the forecast.

6. Badlands – Black Hills Loop

Best road trip to experience the Great Plains Badlands National Park–Badlands National Park; 330 miles; 2 days

If you want to get a taste of how expansive the Great Plains really are, head to South Dakota for this fascinating road trip through a state of huge ecological and cultural importance. Start your trip at the mind-bendingly beautiful Badlands National Park before looping over to the Black Hills, home to the Crazy Horse Memorial , Mt Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park . Along the way, take in views of thriving buffalo herds, fascinating rock formations and plenty of rolling hills.

7. San Juan Skyway

Best road trip for Rocky Mountain peaks Durango–Durango; 236 miles; 1–3 days

The San Juan Skyway delivers some of the Rockies ’ biggest views in high definition. This route – which includes the renowned Million Dollar Highway – leapfrogs across central Colorado’s mountainous core connecting Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park , known for the cliff dwellings left behind by the Ancestral Puebloans.

Whether you’re a history buff, ski bum, landscape photographer or simply someone who enjoys a thrilling drive, San Juan Skyway has something for you.

Planning tip: A fact that can be deduced by its name, the San Juan Skyway runs through high-altitude terrain, and that makes road conditions somewhat unpredictable, particularly during shoulder season. Always check for closures or local warnings before heading out.

8. Richardson Highway

Best road trip for Alaska outdoors Fairbanks–Valdez; 364 miles; 2–4 days

No road trip list would be complete without a journey through the country’s largest, northernmost state. The Richardson Highway, Alaska’s oldest highway, connects Fairbanks with Valdez, winding past dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers and giving travelers a front seat to some of the country’s most jaw-dropping natural attractions. Be sure to make pit stops for hiking, fishing and whitewater rafting.

9. Scenic Byway 12

Best road trip through red rock country Bryce Canyon National Park–Capitol Reef National Park; 122 miles; 1 day

Southern Utah feels like an entirely different planet, and this backroads route takes you through the best scenery this geologically diverse state has to offer. Start your journey in the town of Panguitch – right outside of Bryce Canyon – and follow the road through red rock canyons, historic towns and pine forests until you finish your journey in Torrey, gateway to Capitol Reef National Park , one of the west’s best-kept secrets.

Detour: From Torrey, it’s an easy 2.5-hour drive to Moab , Canyonlands and Arches , making these routes the best way to see Utah’s Big 5 . And the road itself takes you through some amazing lunar-like scenery that contrasts sharply with the red rocks – wild.

10. Coastal New England

Best road trip for Atlantic maritime vibes New York City–Portland, ME; 430 miles; 3–5 days

Prep yourself for seafood chowder, picturesque oceanside towns and all the lobster you can handle – this coastal New England trip will definitely help you find your sea legs. Start in New York City and make your way north along the coast, stopping to enjoy the lovely beaches in Rhode Island , Massachusetts’  wealth of historical heavy hitters and New Hampshire’ s lighthouses before arriving in culinary-minded Portland, ME .

This article was first published May 2019 and updated January 2024

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25 Best Stops on an Epic Cross-Country America Road Trip

The Great American Road Trip is just as much a part of Americana as the stars and stripes. While in yonder years, Route 66 dominated as the iconic drive, today, the cross-country road trip reigns supreme. We mapped out a 10-day itinerary—including top city sights and national parks between Washington, D.C. to Washington State—so you can make the best of your journey west.

Chelsea is Brooklyn-based travel writer, editor, and photographer. When not home eating her way through NYC, she's gallivanting across the globe, sailing the coast of Croatia or hiking the peaks of Peru. Her superpowers include booking flight deals and sleeping in small plane seats.

See recent posts by Chelsea Bengier

Day 1: 263 miles from Washington D.C. to Pittsburgh

Once you’ve gotten your fill of America’s capital, it’s time to hit the road heading west. About three and half hours in, you’ll pass by Fallingwater , the renowned residence designed by Frank Lloyd Wright that sits cantilevered over a bucolic waterfall in rural Pennsylvania. The grounds are maintained year-round, with the original 1930s custom furniture and artwork still on display. From here, you’re just 75 minutes outside Pittsburgh. Upon arriving in Steel City, drop your bags at the Ace Hotel Pittsburgh —a refurbished century-old YMCA turned hip hotel in the up-and-coming East Liberty neighborhood—then follow the in-the-know crowd to Smallman Galley , a restaurant incubator with four rotating food concepts from a line-up of rising chefs. This season, there’s Detroit-style pizza, Vietnamese cuisine, Latin-fusion tapas, and innovative takes on American classics.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Pittsburgh, PA hotels

Day 2: 460 miles from Pittsburgh to Chicago

While the second half of this cross-country adventure focuses on the scenery, the eastern side is all about the cityscapes. Divide today’s day-long trek to Chicago with a pitstop in Cleveland, just two hours west of Pittsburgh. Here, grab a bite to eat at the West Side Market before wandering through the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to see guitars and paraphernalia from music legends like Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, and Mick Jagger.

You’re going to want to pick up some gift shop snacks, because it’ll be another five hours before you pull into the Windy City. In Chicago, bed down at the Viceroy Chicago on the glitzy Gold Coast, whose opulent interiors are done up in Art Deco elements that nod to the hotel’s past as the 1920s Cedar Hotel. The real showstopper is the 18th-floor rooftop overlooking the Magnificent Mile and Lake Michigan.

RELATED: 9 Ultimate Weekend Road Trips You Can Take from Major U.S. Cities

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Chicago, IL hotels

Day 3: 147 miles from Chicago to Madison, Wisconsin

A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Chicago brings you to Wisconsin’s charming college town of Madison. This untapped Midwest gem is home to locavore restaurants, indie boutiques, and contemporary art galleries. Follow the locals to Sophia’s Bakery & Café , where mouthwatering cottage cheese pancakes are served in a cozy dining room. The nearby Chazen Museum of Art and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art have impressive collections, but if you’d rather spend the day indulging in some retail therapy, check out Upshift for flirty vintage dresses or Anthology for quirky handmade crafts. There’s no better place to have dinner than the James Beard award-winning L’Etoile Restaurant , where chef Tory Miller—you may have seen him on Iron Chef Showdown —serves locally sourced dishes like Blue Valley Gardens duck breast with Swiss chard and soubise.

Day 4: 775 miles from Madison to Rapid City, South Dakota

Today is the longest stretch you’ll be on the road, so crank those tunes and prepare to cruise straight through Wisconsin, Minnesota, and South Dakota on I-90. Stretch your legs in Badlands National Park , an otherworldly expanse of jagged pink pinnacles, grass prairies, and ancient fossil beds. While rhinos, wild horses, and saber-toothed cats used to roam this wild terrain, today you’re more likely to spot bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. Backcountry camping is available for the truly adventurous; others can set up at Cedar Pass Campground (which offers running water, toilets, and covered picnic tables) or the park’s eco-friendly cabins , which come outfitted with pine-wood beds, flatscreen TVs, and mini-fridges and microwaves.

RELATED: 9 of the Most Underrated National Parks in America

Day 5: 533 miles from Rapid City to Jackson, Wyoming

It’s early to rise on day five if you want to beat the crowds for an early-morning visit to Mount Rushmore national monument, just 20 minutes away. After taking in the Presidents’ massive granite profiles, continue on through the gorges, canyons, and cliffs of the Black Hills National Forest . Once you’re out of South Dakota, you’ll cut through the heart of Wyoming, passing endless plains and the sprawling Wind River Reservation. Tucked between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountains, Jackson blends Wyoming’s rustic, rough-and-tumble side with a refined resort town vibe. The Anvil Hotel is a perfect example of this fusion: the redesigned 1950s motel reflects the region’s rugged past with a mountain-modern twist. Stylish interiors, courtesy of Brooklyn-based firm Studio Tack, are done up with brass fixtures, custom iron bed frames, and Woolrich blankets. After settling in, make a dinner reservation at Glorietta if you’re in the mood for Italian. The roasted acorn squash; ricotta cavatelli with spicy sausage, brown butter, and fried sage; and zeppole topped with mascarpone and strawberry compote come highly recommended.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Jackson, WY hotels

Days 6-8: 426 miles from Jackson to Missoula, Montana

Get your cameras ready: the next few days are all about epic Rocky Mountain scenery, from Wild West backcountry to lush, lakeside meadows. Before leaving Jackson Hole, fuel up with homemade pastries or bread pudding french toast at Persephone Bakery , then set your GPS for Grand Teton National Park . This 310,000-acre swath encompasses Jackson Lake, Snake River, and the entire Teton range, which is webbed together by more than 200 miles of hiking trails. Just 10 miles north on 191, you’ll enter Yellowstone —America’s first national park famous as much for its rainbow-colored hot springs, mud pots, and spewing geysers as it is for picture-perfect wildlife sightings (keep your eyes peeled for bison, moose, black bears, elk, and the rare wolf pack).

After Yellowstone, cross the border into Montana’s Big Sky country and continue north past dude ranches, whitewater rapids, and vast cerulean skies as far as the eye can see. Home for the night—the Resort at Paws Up , a 37,000-acre working cattle ranch and luxe retreat in the Blackfoot Valley—is just a half hour east of Missoula. Take your pick between a private log cabin or riverfront glamping tent, which comes with its own chandelier, copper soaking tub, and on-call butler and chef, who will happily cook up whole-roasted rainbow trout or chili-dusted Black Angus prime rib. Although there’s world-class fly fishing, ATVing, and rock climbing on offer, horseback riding is the resort’s beating heart. Embrace your inner cowboy (or girl!) at the Saddle Club, whose 29,000-square-foot arena and more than 100 miles of trails make it the largest private equestrian center in Montana. The on-site wranglers can also arrange rodeo lessons, cattle drives, and dinners aboard traditional chuckwagons.

RELATED: 8 Best Dude Ranches in Montana

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Greenough, MT hotels

Days 9-10: 685 miles from Missoula to Seattle

Before heading west to your final destination, it’s worth making one last detour to see Montana’s stunning Glacier National Park . You can take in the scenery—crystalline, glacier-fed lakes; sheer, snow-capped peaks; untouched alpine meadows—along the gorgeous Going-to-the-Sun Road , a 50-mile route that crosses the Continental Divide and winds through Logan Pass alongside Saint Mary Lake. Heads up: be prepared to pull over to make way for mountain goats!

After (reluctantly) leaving the mountains of Montana, hop back on I-90 to enter the northern tip of Idaho. This short sprint overlooks steep gorges and straddles the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene before entering Washington via Spokane. The final four-hour leg to Seattle is pretty barren, so make sure you have your road trip playlist queued up for some carpool karaoke. You know you’re getting close to the coast when you hit Snoqualmie Pass, just 55 miles outside the Seattle. The drive cuts through the Cascade Mountain Range, home to towering evergreen forests, misty mountaintops, and thundering waterfalls.

Once you reach the city, you deserve to put your feet up at The Nest , Thompson Seattle ‘s rooftop bar, for sundowners and sweeping views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle cityscape. Cheers!

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Seattle, WA hotels

What to Pack

Women’s cozy winter outfit to wear on the train, shop the look.

Wool Runners

Wireless Headphones

High Waist Leggings

Men’s cozy winter outfit to wear on the train.

Half-Zip Sweatshirt

Ascot Slippers

Water Bottle

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25 Best Road Trips in the USA for an Epic Adventure

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Travel in America is synonymous with the open road, with taking a road trip to see some of the nation’s most beautiful sites. But which routes make for the best road trips in the USA?

If you don’t have months to spend road tripping the whole of the US, what should you prioritize?

We haven’t been everywhere, but like the quote says, “it’s on our list!” To help us create this ultimate guide to the best American road trips, we asked some of the most well-traveled people we know: our fellow bloggers.

Together, we’ve come up with a collection of fantastic USA road trip routes, spanning all parts of the country. 

Craving a sunny Southern adventure? We’ve got it. Want to see the best fall foliage in New England? We know the perfect road trip. Whatever your desires (and however long you have) consider this article your essential USA road trip planner. 

So, where will you go first?

The Ultimate Guide to the Best USA Road Trips

We’ve divided these great American road trips by region. Some of that, like the famous Route 66 for instance, could fit in multiple categories since they cover more than one area of the country. 

For each road trip route, we’ve included the approximate distance you would travel from start to finish. Keep in mind that this does not account for stops, detours, or any additional mileage, but refers to the rough distance you would expect to cover along the entire route.

We’ve also included recommended time frames for when to take these terrific United States road trips (the slower you can go, the better), plus suggestions for the best time of year to travel. But no matter what, you’ll definitely be visiting some of the top destinations in the USA !

Western USA Road Trips

Some might argue that the best USA road trip is one taken through the American West. It would be hard to dispute this, given the spectacular scenery and vast, open roads in the Western states. Here are some of the best road trip routes to follow in the Western US.

California US-395: Joshua Tree –> Yosemite 

• Distance: 375 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 1 week
• Recommended for: mid-September to mid-October

US-395 is a beautiful back road that stretches from southern California all the way north to the Canadian border.  Though the route encompasses over 1300 miles, we’re going to focus on the most scenic and attraction-filled stretch between Joshua Tree and Yosemite National Parks.   

Joshua Tree National Park is a dynamic desert paradise in southern California.  Situated 150 miles south of Las Vegas and 100 miles east of Los Angeles, this under-appreciated park is a great place to start a California road trip.  After spending a day or two exploring everything Joshua Tree has to offer, head north on CA-247 to the junction with Historic Route 66 in Barstow.  

After a kitsch-filled pit stop in Barstow, head east on CA-58 to pick up US-395.  Traveling the length of California via 395 is a great way to experience the highly diverse natural scenery of the state.  From Joshua Tree, the vast lonely expanse of desert slowly morphs into the dry mountainous terrain of the Eastern Sierras.  

With Mojave National Preserve and Death Valley National Park to the east and Sequoia National Forest and National Park to the west, this first leg of 395 offers plenty of options for places to stop and explore, or even camp, if you’re feeling adventurous.  

Heading further north envelopes you in mountains on both sides – desert crags to the east and snow-capped shrubby peaks to the west.  You’ll pass Kings Canyon National Park, North Palisade Peak, the thick towering woods of Inyo National Forest, and the utterly breath-taking Mammoth Lakes ski region.

Hook a left onto CA-120 at Mono Lake, and carve your way up the switchbacks and over the mountains guarding the world-famous Yosemite Valley. And if you have a couple of days to spare, jump back on 395 and head another 110 miles north to Lake Tahoe !

(Submitted by Scott, Take Back Roads )

• Distance: 2400 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 1-2 weeks
• Recommended for: Spring and fall

Known as The Mother Road, Route 66 stretches from the Midwest to the Pacific Ocean. Beginning in downtown Chicago and ending at Santa Monica Pier, this epic road trip covers more than 2,400 miles through eight states. It’s one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System, and driving it is to travel America’s past.

Much of the original alignment has been replaced by interstates, but there are still many miles of two lanes where you can see some of the country’s quirkiest roadside attractions. You’ll want to allow at least one week, and preferably two, to make sure you can stop frequently.

And you will want to stop often.

There are giant Muffler Men in Illinois, the Wagon Wheel Motel in Missouri, a giant blue whale in Oklahoma, and Cadillac Ranch in Texas. There’s even a Singing Road in Albuquerque; drive exactly 45 MPH and that stretch of Route 66 plays America, the Beautiful. Other stops include an abandoned mountain lion zoo, a corner in Winslow, Arizona, and a mining town populated with roaming donkeys. It’s a string of ingenuity and Americana.

The best times of year to drive Route 66 are Spring and Fall. During the milder seasons, you’ll avoid snow in Northern Illinois and through Arizona’s and California’s mountain passages. You’ll also miss some of the blazing heat in the Mojave Desert.

Of course, the best part of driving Route 66 is the people you’ll meet along the way. When you drive through these small towns and historic landmarks, take a moment to meet those who are keeping this piece of America alive.

(submitted by Theresa, The Local Tourist )

San Francisco, California –> Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

• Distance: 524 miles
• Recommended for: Summer and early fall

A road trip from San Francisco to Crater Lake National Park is full of surprises. It goes along HW 101 (with small detours) and features a variety of volcanic activity en route that will capture your imagination.

You should allocate one week for this trip. The first stop on this trip is at the town of Redding which is a great place to explore attractions within 40 minutes’ drive radius from town, which includes Lassen Volcanic National Park and Mc Arthur Burney Falls State Park.

Lassen Peak at the center of the Lassen National Park is an active volcano which results in a variety of unique geological activity like steam vents and sputtering hot mud. There are a lot of beautiful hiking trails in the park featuring mountain streams, lakes and the aforesaid volcanic activity.

Mc Arthur Burney Falls State Park is centered around an amazing waterfall that is absolutely worth a side trip. Plan to spend a couple of nights in Redding.

The next stop of this road trip is Mt. Shasta, which is an active volcano as well. There are lots of hiking trails on the mountains at different elevations and the higher up you are the views are amazing. There are also a couple of lakes in the area that are worth exploring, including Lake Shasta and Lake Siskiyou. Plan to spend a couple of days here as well.

The final destination is Crater Lake National Park which was created by a volcano explosion over 7000 years ago. This trip is best for July- September because in other months there is a risk that a lot of trails on Mt. Shasta and in Lassen National Park may be closed because of snow.

(Submitted by Tatiana, Family Road Trip Guru )

Southwest Road Trip: Las Vegas, Nevada –> Page, Arizona

• Distance: 272 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 5-7 days
• Recommended for: All seasons (check for latest conditions)

Utah National Parks Road Trip

• Distance: 533 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 2 weeks
• Recommended for: Summer and fall

From Las Vegas, the first stop would be Zion National Park (2-3 days), followed by Bryce Canyon (1-2 days), Capitol Reef (2-3 days), Arches (1-2 days), and Canyonlands (1-3 days). 

There is so much to see at each park, but some of the best include Angels Landing, The Narrows, Hidden Canyon, and Canyon Overlook at Zion; Mossy Cave Trail and Navajo Loop/Queen Gardens Trail at Bryce Canyon; Hickman Bridge, Cohab Canyon, Cassidy Arch, Headquarters Canyon, and the overlooks at Capitol Reef; Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden, Fiery Furnace, and Park Avenue at Arches; and finally Mesa Arch, Upheaval Dome, Whale Rock, The Needles Overlook, and Newspaper Rock at Canyonlands.

Some awesome side trips if you have time, or trips for along the drive, include Snow Canyon, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Kodachrome Basin, Goblin Valley, Edge of the Cedars, and Deadhorse Point State Parks.  Lake Powell, Grand Staircase Escalante, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Natural Bridges are all great options, too.

(submitted by Megan, Red Around the World )

Southwest Texas Road Trip

• Distance: 720 miles
• Recommended for: Spring or fall, any time of year

When most people think of visiting Texas, it’s usually the big cities that come to mind: Austin, Dallas , Houston . But if you truly want to get off the beaten path on a U.S. road trip, then you need to head waaayyy west in Texas for an epic one-week road trip that will see you exploring quirky small towns, marveling at the expansive desert and skirting the Mexican border.

This is a road trip where you may go hundreds of miles without seeing another vehicle. You can do this trip at any time of the year, but the weather is more temperate during spring and fall.

Start this trip in El Paso, which sits right on the border of Texas and Mexico. Spend a day here, exploring museums and street art, or tackling one of the great hikes in the area. Alternatively, hit the road straight away, bound for Fort Davis. The outdoors rules here: there are plenty of hikes to choose from, or join a Star Party to explore the skies at the McDonald Observatory.

Your Instagram account will love Marfa, a small, arty town that’s high on the cool factor. Pose in front of the Prada Marfa art installation, visit unique galleries like Ballroom Marfa and see if you can spot the Marfa Lights – are they UFOs? You be the judge. Make sure you time your trip to spend a weekend in Marfa – much of the town shuts down during the week.

Next, you’re heading to one of the U.S.’s most underrated national parks: Big Bend. There are two ways to get there, but I recommend taking the far more scenic Texas River Road, a 120-mile route that begins west of the small town of Presidio. Along the way, you’ll have gorgeous views of the Rio Grande, splitting the U.S. and Mexico with its winding waters.

In Big Bend, there are plenty of hikes for all fitness levels. A must is the Santa Elena Canyon, an easy hike which ends with stunning views from inside the millions-of-years- old canyon.

To explore Big Bend, base yourself in Terlingua, a town of 60 people, most of whom you’ll find sitting on the porch of the Terlingua Trading Store, sipping beers, telling tales and strumming a guitar or two. Wander the Terlingua Ghost Town to see the cemetery, old jail and church and learn about the town’s mining history.

Stop in at Marathon for a peek inside the historic Gage Hotel. In Alpine, check out the tiny Target “store” (yep, yet another art installation) before heading back to El Paso, where this unique U.S. road trip ends.

(Submitted by Rebecca, Rebecca and the World )

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The Pacific Coast Highway: California Highway 1

• Distance: 650+ miles
• Suggested itinerary: one week, ideally 10-14 days
• Recommended for: late spring-early fall

California’s HWY 1 runs nearly the entire length of the state and is one of the best road trips in the county. This ribbon of road follows the dramatic coastline filled steep cliffs falling sharply into the sea. 

Some of the best bits of this 650+ mile-long stretch of pavement are along the central coast. One of our favorite sections of the drive starts in Pismo Beach in the south up through just after the Bixby Creek Bridge near Monterey in the north. 

If you plan to tackle just this section you should give yourself about three days to truly experience it. While physically driving this piece of pavement can be done in a little over a half a day – once you are there, you’ll realize quickly that there is a lot to pull over for. If you wanted to do the entire length of HWY 1, we’d suggest to allow for at least a week, but 10-14 days would be better. 

The are so many great stops along the central section of HWY 1 but a few you should not miss are: the Elephant seals of Piedras Blancas, the Hearst Castle, McWay Waterfall, Bixby Creek Bridge, Monterey Aquarium, and Morro Rock of Morro Bay. It would also be a sin not to linger in the Paso Robles Wine Region along the way and make sure to catch the sunset at Ragged Point. These are just a few highlights to add as waypoints, but there are countless vista and memories to be made with a  road trip along California’s Highway 1 .

(Submitted by Adam & Hannah, Getting Stamped )

Badlands to Yellowstone to Grand Tetons to Rocky Mountain National Park Tour

• Distance: 857 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 10 days
• Recommended for: July-September

Roughly 1,000 miles will take you through a diverse range of climates, 3 states, and four beautiful national parks. The best time to take this 10 day road trip depends on your comfort level with driving in the snow! July-September is the safest range; June and October will have less traffic but also a higher risk of snow road closures. 

Be prepared for minimal cell coverage while in the national parks. Making advance reservations ahead of time for lodging & dinner is highly recommended!

Day 1:  Badlands National Park,  take a hike and drive the main park road, look for bison, prairie dogs & bighorn sheep.

Day 2: Drive from Badlands National Park on 90W, stopping to gawk at the extremely touristy Wall Drug shopping plaza. Continue on for some nature at Devil’s Tower National Monument. 

Day 3: Drive into the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Explore Lake Yellowstone with a hike or a boat ride and walk along the eerie geysers of the Mud Volcano area.

Day 4: Drive towards the north side in YNP, stopping by to see the petrified tree, Yellowstone Falls, and then touring around Mammoth Hot Springs.

Day 5: Head south in YNP, looping to hike the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook (see more details in this list of top ten yellowstone hikes for families ), and then head over to see the Old Faithful area.

Day 6: Drive south into the Grand Tetons National Park; stopping by the small but engaging National Museum of Wildlife Art. Once you’re in the park, walk around Coulter Bay and drive the Teton Park Road.

Day 7: Take a boat ride across Jenny Lake and hike to the famous Hidden Falls. Drive over to Mormon Row, finishing in nearby Jackson Hole for shops & breweries.

Day 8: Drive on 26 S down to Rocky Mountain National Park. To break up the drive, stop by Wind River Hotel & Casino in Riverton, WY, where you can dig for fossils or visit wild horses.

Day 9: Enter through the Grand Lake side of Rocky Mountain National Park and take the famous Trail Ridge Road, stopping to visit the alpine visitor’s center and pick a hike to round out your day.

Day 10: Get up early and visit Bear Lake, taking an easy stroll around the picturesque water or extend your hike up to Emerald Lake. Add on an easy waterfall hike like Alberta Falls or Chasm Falls, and visit the Sheep Lakes area to spot wildlife.

(submitted by Stephanie, Explore More, Clean Less )

Northern Colorado Road Trip: Denver –> Boulder

• Distance: 236 miles
• Recommended for: early May-late September

A northern Colorado road trip packs in a little bit of everything from urban adventure and Rocky Mountain trails to small-town Americana and Dude Ranch fun. Head out to Colorado any time between early May to late September to get the best of the weather.

Your ten-day road trip starts in Denver , the mile-high city where you’ll spend two days exploring the city’s museums, craft beer scene, cool neighborhoods, and epic street art.  

Next head north to Loveland where the Devil’s Backbone makes for epic hiking. Loveland is the sculpture capital of the US so be sure to drop by one of the town’s three sculpture parks before checking in at Sweetheart Winery for a glass or two of Loveland wine. Before you leave, lock in your love by fixing an engraved padlock at the big red Loveland sign.

After your night in Loveland head north to Red Feather Lakes and saddle up at Sundance Trail Guest Ranch. Spend two days enjoying horseback rides in Roosevelt National Forest, campfires and s’mores and good home-cooked ranch food.

Small town Americana is next with a one-night stop at Fort Collins. Get stuck into Farm to table dining with some of the state’s freshest and best food. Take a bike ride around the town’s cycle path and check out the art trail. Stay at the gorgeous Armstrong Hotel.

The mountains are calling and it’s time to head to the Rocky Mountains and stay in a cabin at Estes Park for three nights. You’ll have easy access to the park’s trails and scenic walks around beautiful lakes and trails with stunning vistas. In the evenings explore the town’s lively restaurant and bar scene.

Boulder beckons for your final night. Check out the lively town and the bars, restaurants and shops. Buy some souvenirs,  and pop into the Museum of Contemporary Art before heading home.

(submitted by Suzanne, The Travel Bunny )

The Cascade Loop – Northwest Washington

• Distance: 440 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 4 days-one week+
• Recommended for: Spring-Fall 

The Cascade Loop Scenic Highway is a 440-mile scenic road trip through  northwestern Washington. The journey begins just north of Seattle in the town of Everett.

Highlights along this route include charming small  towns such as Snohomish, the antique capital of the Northwest and Wenatchee, the apple capital of the world!

Feel like you’ve been transported to Germany as you stop by the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, complete with beer gardens, alpine-style lodging, and plenty of festivities throughout the year like their annual Oktoberfest. 

Not too far from Leavenworth is Lake Chelan, the 3rd deepest lake in the US. The towns of Chelan and Manson are 2 gems along the 50+ miles of the lake’s shoreline.

Though the real highlight of this road trip is the unbelievably scenic drive through the North Cascades mountains. You’ll want to be sure to do this drive in a counter-clockwise direction, as the eastern approach on the North Cascades Highway is not nearly as impressive when driving west to east.

Also, it is important to note that the North Cascades National Park is one of the snowiest regions in the world, getting up to 600 inches in some parts of the park. As a result, the North Cascades Scenic Highway (a portion of the Cascade Loop) closes from mid-November/December to usually around April. So, if you want to do the Cascade Loop in its entirety, you’ll want to avoid these months.

The route closes out on Whidbey Island, which honestly is a destination in and of itself! From nature reserves to wineries to farm-to-table dining experiences, Whidbey has so much to do! One could easily spend more than a week on the Cascade Loop and not see it all. It is recommended to spend no less than 4 days driving the route for that reason.

The towns of Leavenworth, Manson, Mazama, and somewhere within the Methow Valley are great resting spots. There are way too many highlights to cover in this brief introduction, so be sure to check out Forget Someday’s detailed write-up about the Cascade Loop Scenic Loop and start planning your own epic road trip through Washington’s most stunning scenery.

(submitted by Toccara, Forget Someday )

Southern USA Road Trips

The American South is an enchanting place, and it is home to some of the best road trips the USA has to offer. From the coastal beaches to the Deep South up to Tennessee and Virginia, here’s where to embark on some of the Great American road trips. 

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

• Distance: 469 miles
• The BRP runs from Rockfish Gap, VA to Swain County, NC
• Suggested itinerary: 4 days
• Recommended for: Spring-Fall (Many sections closed in Winter)

Deep South Road Trip: Mobile, Alabama –> New Orleans, Louisiana

• Distance: 144 miles
• Suggested itinerary: one week
• Recommended for: Mardi Gras (February)

Historic Southern USA Road Trip

• Distance: 565 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 2 weeks (1 Day in Charlotte, 1 day in Myrtle Beach, 4 days in Charleston, 2 days in Savannah and 4 days in Atlanta.)
• Recommended for: Early spring or early fall

The South of the United States is full of hidden gems and rich history. Our favorite southern road trip is from Charlotte, NC to Atlanta, GA. To see the most beautiful spots along this route you need at least two weeks to fully immerse yourself in the welcoming southern culture.

The best time to do the Southern Historic Road Trip is either in early Spring or early Fall as the temperatures are not as warm as in the Summer and it is less crowded. During Saint Patricks Day week several of the destinations are packed as they are known for their epic celebrations.

It is important to reserve accommodations beforehand for Savannah and Charleston to avoid inflated prices.

Start your road trip in Charlotte as the airport has good flight deals. While you are in Charlotte make sure to visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and take a stroll along The Green or the Romare Bearden Park for the best skyline view of Charlotte.

The next day on your way to Charleston, stop at the beach to enjoy some relaxing time on the water. Our favorite beaches are in Myrtle, SC.

In Charleston, you will want to stay longer because it is a beautiful city, used as the backdrop for countless romantic movies. The city is so rich in history with many museums and plantations to explore. Our favorite things to do in Charleston are: Walk around the historic district and take photos at the Rainbow Row, visit the Magnolia Plantation and visit the Nathaniel Russell House.

After experiencing Charleston the next stop is only a 2-hour drive away; Savannah. Just like Charleston, Savannah is a magical city that will bring you back in time and make you feel special. It is a beautiful city known for its 22 squares around the city. The best things to do in Savannah are walk along the River, take a stroll at the Forsyth Park and enjoy a delicious ice cream at Leopold’s.

The best way to finish your historic road trip in the South is in Atlanta. Atlanta is a growing city that is becoming more popular among travelers, due to its airport connecting the whole world. Our favorite things to do in Atlanta are to visit The Coca Cola World, The Georgia Aquarium and of course a free tour of the Martin Luther King Jr house.

(Submitted by Steven + Jazmin, Travel to Blank )

Southern East Coast: Charleston, Savannah, Orlando

• Distance: 387 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 1 week+
• Recommended for: October-April

Charleston and Savannah are two popular road trip stops in the southeastern United States for good reasons. Both have a long history, rich culture, and amazing food. Driving from Central Florida, plan to spend at least a week, splitting it into about three days in each city. While you can visit in either order, we chose to go from Orlando to Charleston and then back to Savannah before returning to Orlando.

Since this road trip takes you along the east coast, the best weather falls between November and March with October and April only slightly warmer in Savannah. Avoid July and August if possible as the heat and humidity are at the highest. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to the end of October, but peak season is in August and September.

(Two Drifters note: Amy grew up in Ormond Beach, Florida which falls along this route. Stop there for some nice beaches and try to make a stop at St. Augustine too, the oldest city in America).

In Charleston, history fans won’t want to miss Fort Sumter. Take a ferry and explore the fort, learning the history behind it while you are there. Make sure to take a walk along the Battery in Charleston as well to enjoy the beautiful homes along the waterfront.

There are many plantations in the area, and Boone Hall is the best for photos with its oak-lined driveway. Several of the original slave cabins are still standing which is rare. Drayton Hall is another plantation in the area and still stands because of a yellow ribbon. The yellow ribbon during the Civil War warned of smallpox. Because of the yellow ribbon outside, the troops continued by instead of burning it to avoid catching the deadly disease.

As far as Savannah goes, come hungry and leave full. One of Savannah’s most popular restaurants is Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room. Make sure to arrive very early as the line can sometimes grow to be hours long and plan to make friends as the food fills the tables of 10. Originally built in the mid-1700s, The Pirate House is a unique dining experience thanks to the architecture of the historical building. Don’t forget dessert – stop by Savannah Sweets to finish off your meal with delicious chocolates and fudge.

Once you are full, make sure to walk around and enjoy the beautiful architecture. Several homes in the area offer tours if you want to see the inside and learn the history of the home. If you are too full to walk, take one of the trolley tours and enjoy seeing what the city has to offer that way.

For the perfect week-long southern road trip, put Savannah and Charleston on your list! 

(submitted by Christine, Live Love Run Travel )

Tail of the Dragon, Cherohala Skyway, and the Smoky Mountains 

• Distance: 226 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 3-5 days
• Recommended for: May

Deep in the heavily wooded mountains of the American southeast is an unexpected paradise for driving and riding enthusiasts.  Straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, the Smoky Mountains and Great Smoky Mountain National Park are home to some of America’s best and most challenging roads to drive.  

Motorcyclists and sports car collectors in particular flock to this region nearly year-round, and with good reason.  Sweeping curves and hairpin turns wind their way up and down all across the region, with interchanging mountain and lake vistas constantly threatening to pull your eyes off the road.  The twists are often sharp and the dropoffs often steep, so long glances at the passing landscapes are very dangerous indeed – at least for the driver!

When we traveled to the region, we started at our campsite near the Jack Daniels distillery in Lynchburg TN.  Spend a day exploring the distillery and adjacent historical village. I also recommend checking out the adorable town square in nearby Winchester TN .   Driving the loop around the Franklin County courthouse is to step back in time to the 1950s. 

After we took a swing south through Chattanooga, we headed back north and picked up the Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains, TN .  Similar to the more widely known Blue Ridge Parkway, the Cherohala Skyway winds its way through the peaks and valleys of the Smoky Mountains.  It offers incredible sweeping panoramas with pull-off parking areas for safe viewing. The road switches frequently between tight curves and long, arcing bends, making for a relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable drive.  

The Tail of the Dragon, conversely, is chock full of narrow, tight turns and switchbacks.  From the Skyway, take County Roads 1127 and 1134 around picturesque Santeetlah Lake to the intersection with US-129.  Turn left onto 129 and head north into Deal’s Gap, the proverbial start of the Tail.  

From Deal’s Gap, you will engage in one of America’s most challenging roads.  Home to 318 curves in an 11-mile stretch, the Tail of the Dragon will push all skill levels of motorists to new limits.  There isn’t much to see along the route, but it doesn’t matter – it’s unlike any road I’ve ever driven before. It twists and winds and rips in ways I’ve never experienced, and will challenge even the most experienced driver/rider.  It’s an absolute thrill to drive, and is one of many must-see experiences in the beautiful Smoky Mountain region!

(submitted by Scott, Take Back Roads )

Midwest Road Trips

Could it be that the best America road trips are found in the central part of the country? Perhaps! These travelers share some awesome road trip itineraries for road trips in the Midwest. 

Omaha, Nebraska –> Kansas City 

• Suggested itinerary: one day or more
• Recommended for: spring-fall

We recommend doing a day trip from Omaha, Nebraska to Kansas City, Missouri which will take you through four states, a detour to visit the Amish Country and plenty of cornfields to discover along the way. You can take this 3-hour road trip any time of the year except during winter might be a bit too cold.

Start the day right with an acai bowl at The Grove Juicers in Omaha before you head off on your road trip. As you cross over from Nebraska into Iowa, before coming back into Nebraska, you’ll pass by loads of cornfields. Stop by and explore the fields like you’re in the movie, Field Of Dreams.

About an hour and a half into the trip, you’ll come to Pawnee City, Nebraska which is home to around 15 Amish families. We recommend popping by the tourist center to learn more about them and if you’re lucky, one of their Kountry Shop s might be open so you could purchase some of their carpentry masterpieces.

Another two-hour drive away and you’ll come to the vibrant Kansas City. We recommend starting your trip at the Union Station which is a beautiful art deco building you’ll want to spend some time walking around. Make sure you go up to the balcony to see some amazing views of the building and learn all about the history of it.

Then head over the road to the World War 1 memorial and take in the views of Kansas City. There’s also a museum there that you’ll want to check out. We also recommend driving 15 minutes out of the city to the Community of Christ temple. It might sound a bit random but it’s an incredible temple that you probably won’t have seen anything like it before. It has Wizard Of Oz vibes going on which is spot on for considering you’re in Kansas.

End the day at Knuckleheads Bar which is on the outskirts of Kansas City. This famous bar is located in an industrial area which will make you wonder if you’ve arrived at the wrong place. Harley Davidson bikes will line up outside the bar and as you wonder whether it’s safe to go inside, you’ll embrace a biker and tourist bar that is like no other. With amazing bands playing throughout the day and night and if you’re lucky some Elvis impersonators might be performing. You’ll be dancing the night away with the bikers to finish off a memorable road trip.

(submitted by Annie, Londoner in Sydney )

Michigan Road Trip to the Upper Peninsula: Kalamazoo –> St.Ignace, Michigan

• Distance: 293 miles
• Recommended for: mid-May through September

From the southern cities in our Lower Peninsula, it can take 4-6 hours to the top of the state….before you enter the Upper Peninsula.  Allow a week for driving time and unexpected pleasures along the way.

From southwest Michigan, it’s a 4-hour drive up 131 to M88 to Bellaire…small-town America at its best! My granddaughter and I spent two nights in a cozy B & B to ensure plenty of beach time. Torch Lake has boat rentals, Barnes Beach on Lake Michigan in Eastport has a campground as well. Both places were within a 40-minute drive from the Inn. 

The third day we headed west to Sleeping Bear National Park…it took an hour and 1/2 driving through Traverse City’s festival traffic to Empire. Well worth car time to experience the Dune Climb with great views of Glenn Lake on one side and Lake Michigan on the other.  It took 30 minutes to get back to Traverse City where we boarded a tall ship for the night.  

Fourth day, the scenic drive up Hwy31 to I 75 took about two hours…and another fifteen minutes driving across the Mackinac Bridge. We took the ferry from St Ignace and spent three days on the island.

POINTS OF INTEREST: Shoe Tree north of Kalkaska on Hwy 131, Barnes Beach in Eastport, Dockside beach and restaurant on Torch Lake, Dune Climb near Empire, scenic drive on M 31 north along Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan, Island bike rentals, horseback riding, shopping.

HELPFUL TIPS: Book lodging and Tall Ship cruise and/or Bed and Breakfast package in advance. Check maps, GPS doesn’t work in some remote areas. Stop at the Visitor center in Empire …very helpful in finding your way around the massive park! Whether a day trip or a couple nights stay on the island… you can do it all! Bikes and horses priced by hour.

ITINERARY: Can be flexible…this worked for us: 2 days in Bellaire area, 1 day in Empire/Park, 1 day in Traverse City, 2 days/3nights on island before heading home.

(Submitted by Joan, Gramcracker Crumbs )

The Great River Road

• Distance: 3,000 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 4-10 days
• Recommended for: Any time of year, especially fall 

The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River through ten states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

The 3,000-mile journey takes around 36 hours and between four to ten days, depending on how many stops you make. You can start in Minnesota and work your way down, work your way up from Louisiana, or hop on anywhere to explore the road by section or state.  Just follow the green pilot wheel signs that mark the way.

On the road trip route, there are small towns, welcome centers, museums, breweries, wineries, locks, and roadside attractions to stop at, along with plenty of scenic overlooks to admire the “father of waters.”

You won’t want to miss seeing the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Illinois, the Mark Twain Boyhood Home in Missouri, Nelson Dewey State Park in Wisconsin, or the Delta Blues Museum in Mississippi.

The drive, marked by impressive greenery and panoramic river views, is beautiful any time of year, but especially so in autumn when the leaves change crisp shades of orange. Consider taking your road trip in September, known as Drive the Great River Road Month, to join the annual celebration of America’s oldest National Scenic Byway

(Submitted by Val, Silly America )

Southern Indiana Road Trip: Chicago –> Southern Indiana (Santa Claus, IN)

• Distance: 381 miles
• Suggested itinerary: at least one week
• Recommended for: late spring through the end of summer

For our latest fantastically fun road trip, we started out from our hometown of Chicago and meandered through the countryside to the rolling hills of Southern Indiana with stops at Santa Claus, French Lick, and Bloomington. What a great time!

We told Santa our wishlists for Christmas, visited a theme park (and ate all the food), visited the “8th wonder of the world” while playing a game of chess, gave the sweetest elephant a bath, learned about Tibetan culture, and so much more! We had such wonderful memories visiting the Hoosier State! .   

Christmas is celebrated year-round at Santa Claus, Indiana. Head to the Santa Claus Museum  to learn about the town’s interesting history as well as to write Santa a letter (he replies back!)

For thrills and chills, head to  Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari  where holidays are celebrated every day with coasters, rides, and visits with Santa. Cool off with a frozen hot chocolate at  Santa’s Candy Castle.  Although you find reindeer at  Santa’s Stables , you’ll find some of the friendliest horses that will take you around the private trail.

The resort community of French Lick  and  West Baden is steeped in history. You’ll never need to leave the French Lick Resort with two hotels, a free historic trolley between hotels, pools, a horse carriage, footgolf, bowling, and more!

While here, you’ll need to see the breathtaking 200-ft atrium at West Baden Springs Hotel which was once considered the 8th wonder of the world. If you do venture out you must make it your mission to visit  Wilstem Ranch  where they offer one on one special encounters with animals. How about giving an elephant a spa bath?

Bloomington, the home of the beautiful Indiana University, not only offers college cool, but also plenty of family fun. Learning is always fun at  WonderLab Museum.  Plus, they can lie down on a bed of nails! Really! 

Take a serene walk strolling through the grounds of the  Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center.  You can’t leave without walking through the iconic sample gates through Indiana University. Afterwards, grab an ice cream at  Hartzell’s, the neighborhood ice cream shop that dishes homemade ice cream with unique flavors.

(submitted by Cheryl, Oh the Places We Go )

The Ohio Art Corridor

• Distance: 230 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 1-2days
• Recommended for: Anytime, especially fall

The Ohio Art Corridor winds its way through the small, Appalachian communities of Southeastern Ohio. Launched in 2018, the art trail is designed to bring awareness to areas that are often overlooked while providing an affordable outing that families of all ages can enjoy together.

While Circleville, home of the annual Circleville Pumpkin Show, is the official gateway to the art trail, there is no one way to travel the corridor, but rather is best viewed by picking the attractions and small towns that interest you. 

It’s important to note that the trail does not follow one specific road so it may be hard to pinpoint a start and stop destination but I suggest that a stop at McConnellsville to see the “School of Fish” piece is somewhere on your list. The towering trio of fish can be viewed in a park along the Muskingum River and is the first art installation made specifically for The Ohio Art Corridor. The park provides plenty of parking with a nice pavilion where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.

The outdoor gallery spans over 230 miles across Ohio, making it impractical for most people as a one day trip but can ideally be broken up over a weekend or spread out over a week to allow plenty of time to explore the hidden gems in the small towns and communities it passes through.

The art pieces can be viewed at any time of the year but fall would provide amazing views with the changing leaves.

Other notable pieces include: The Flight of the Hawk in Lancaster ( a great spot for little ones to run around) The Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio and Gallery in Zanesville The Human Rights Garden in Portsmouth

(submitted by Tonya, Travel Inspired Living )

Amish Country Byway, Ohio

• Distance: 160 miles
• Suggested itinerary: 2 days or more
• Recommended for: April-October (best in May or early September)

One of my favorite Ohio road trips is a drive along the Amish Country Byway.  The 160-miles of Byway allow visitors to enjoy scenic vistas and cultural stops, as well as many dining options.  

The best time to visit Ohio’s Amish Country is during the warmer months of April through October, however, summer and fall foliage times are the busiest, so visiting in May or early September allows for a more leisurely visit. Allow at least 2 days for your visit, but don’t visit on a Sunday, as most attractions are closed.

Begin your journey near Berlin, Ohio at the Behalt! Amish and Mennonite Center.  This 30-minute tour gives visitors the history of the Amish and Mennonite movement through the interpretation of a large cyclorama.  Next, drive State Route 39 to Walnut Creek, Ohio and have lunch at Rebecca’s Bistro. This local cafe is known for fresh ingredients and daily specials!

Continue on SR 515 North and marvel across the many hills and valleys of farmland.  Watch for pony carts and buggies, as they frequent this area and can be hard to see while coming over a hilltop.

On your right is Yoder’s Amish Farm. Stop here for a tour of the farmhouse and one-room schoolhouse, and then take a buggy ride!  If you are ready for dinner, a drive back to Walnut Creek to dine at Der Dutchman will give you a taste of typical Amish fare.

On your second day, either enjoy shopping in downtown Berlin or head to historic downtown Millersburg to look for antiques!  A stop at the Victorian House Museum or Millersburg Glass Museum just north of town on SR 83 will give you a better understanding of this village’s roots.  Enjoy lunch in downtown Millerburg’s Olde World Bakery & Cafe, or grab a beer at Millersburg Brewing Company. 

(submitted by Leah, Yoder Toter Blog )

Kansas I-70

• Distance:  405 miles
• Suggested itinerary: a few days-a week
• Recommended for: June & July

Many people think that Kansas is a boring, flat state. I can tell you that it is not. One of the best road trips in the USA, is Kansas I-70. June and July are beautiful months to make the trek, as the wheat fields will be glowing and the Flint Hills will be gorgeous.

Start your road trip on the East side of Kansas. You will observe that the rolling hills on the East side of the state gradually give way to some of the most beautiful rock formations in America, as you travel West.

Kansas City, Kansas is a great starting point on the East side of the state, as you begin the 400+ mile road trip. After dining on BBQ in Kansas City, you will quickly want to embrace the rolling hills that this part of the state has to offer.

A stop in Manhattan warrants a ticket to zip through all 7 ziplines at Wildwood Adventure Park. As you continue West, be sure to stop in Abilene to experience the community pride that lives here. Hint: It’s all about America’s 34th President, Dwight D. Eisenhower.

As you continue West, swing through Lucas. Here you will experience the world-famous Garden of Eden. This is a work of art unlike anything you will find elsewhere. In fact, you can view the deceased body of the gentleman that created this masterpiece. Often referred to as the Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas, the town wears its name well.

Continue West where Oakley brings Monument Rocks. The rock formations are stunning, large and memorable. You can hike around them and take many pictures. Upon departing Monument Rocks, observe the wide-open skies and the cows that roam freely.

Exit 17 awaits you at Goodland, Kansas. Here you will want to take a photo of the Giant Van Gogh Painting and reflect on your fun road trip across Kansas I-70. You will quickly realize that Kansas is a state of wonder and majestic beauty.

(submitted by Sara, Travel With Sara )

Northeast Road Trips

We think that some of the best places to road trip in the US are in the Northeast! Particularly when the fall season arrives, the leaves change and the air is crisp and cool. It’s a great time to jump in the car and go for a drive. Here are some of the must-do Northeast USA road trips:

Route 6 in Pennsylvania

• Distance: 400 miles
• Suggested itinerary: several days – one week

Route 6 is a cross-country road that passes from Massachusetts to California, but one of the most beautiful stretches is the 400-mile drive through Pennsylvania. The road cuts across the primarily rural northern tier of the state passing near many of PA’s best outdoor gems. It enters the state from New York at Matamoras and runs into Ohio just west of Meadville.

While the trip can be done in just a few days, taking a week to complete the journey allows you to visit all the major stops including places like the Poconos, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, Cherry Springs State Park, and Kinzua Lake. Despite the trip being mostly rural, there’s also a lot of fascinating transportation and industrial history to explore in the city of Scranton.

The best time to complete this road trip is in either the summer or the fall. The summer has the advantage of all of the attractions, even those in the small towns, being open. On the other hand, while a few spots might be closed in the fall, the heavily forested hillsides are incredibly vibrant in the middle of October.

Having visited every corner of the state, I can say for sure that there is no better trip in PA than Route 6.

(Submitted by Jim, Uncovering PA )

The Adirondacks and Finger Lakes, New York

• Distance: 380 miles
• Recommended for: Fall

A road trip from Plattsburgh to Corning takes you through some of New York’s most beautiful scenery in the Adirondacks and the Finger Lakes. With an airport, car rental agencies, and lots of shops and services, the small city of Plattsburgh makes a good starting point.

About 50 miles southwest of Plattsburgh, Lake Placid is home to all sorts of Olympic sites. After spending at least a day there, reserve another half-day for The Wild Centre, a fascinating wildlife interpretation complex in Tupper Lake (30 miles west).

From Tupper Lake, drive roughly 170 miles southwest to Syracuse, where you can check out the Erie Canal Museum, the MOST science museum and the seriously good ribs at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.

Twenty-two miles west, you’ll find the cute lakefront town of Skaneateles (pronounced Skinny-Atlas). Browse in gift shops, enjoy a wine tasting or take a boat cruise around Skaneateles Lake.

Another 22-mile drive west brings you to Seneca Falls, the birthplace of the American women’s rights movement and (some believe) the model for Bedford Falls in the classic Christmas movie It’s a Wonderful Life .

Next, point your car south and drive 41 miles along the shore of Cayuga Lake to Ithaca. Perhaps best known as the home of Cornell University, it’s also surrounded by at least 150 waterfalls.

The next stop is Watkins Glen, 24 miles west at the southern tip of Seneca Lake. Its claims to fame are yet more waterfalls (head to Watkins Glen State Park) and the Watkins Glen International racetrack.

Your final destination is Corning, 21 miles from Watkins Glen and best known for the fascinating Corning Museum of Glass.

This 380-mile route is spectacular in early October, when you can enjoy both the fall colors and the harvest season. Allot at least a week.

(submitted by Laura, Ottawa Road Trips )

New England Road Trip: Boston –> Burlington, Vermont –> Portland, Maine via New Hampshire

• Recommended for: late spring through fall

(submitted by Two Drifters! )

New England is such a gorgeous part of the country, and it is perfect for a road trip. It is perhaps most prime for a fall road trip, when the foliage colors the landscape. 

There are six states in the New England region, and we absolutely recommend visiting them all, but if you want a great New England road trip that includes some of the highlights (especially in the Autumn) this is the route we recommend.

For a complete road trip of New England covering all six states, check out our full itinerary, which also includes options for Northern New England and Southern New England.

This great drive takes you from Boston, MA up to the hip city of Burlington, VT. From there, you travel east through some of the prettiest parts of Vermont and New Hampshire all the way to Portland, Maine. On this route, you’ll see three of New England’s best cities, plus drive through many lovely country spots. It’s a nice balance. 

On your way from Boston to Burlington, enjoy the Vermont scenery. The Green Mountains are gorgeous. Along the way, consider stops at Manchester, known for its great shopping or Woodstock , an absolutely classic small Vermont town.

Plan to spend a few days in Burlington , the state’s biggest city. Perched on the shores of Lake Champlain, this is a great area for outdoor adventures, plus lots of great dining and craft beer.

Portland is similar to Burlington, with more beer (yay!) and lots of great shops and attractions. On your way to the coast, you’ll pass through the striking White Mountains of New Hampshire. If you have time, stop in these areas for some excellent hiking, camping, and sightseeing. More details in our full New England road trip guide.

What is your favorite American road trip?

Before you go .

Whether you’re in the planning or packing stages, we recommend these resources and travel essentials:

• – Reliable Travel Insurance (don’t travel without it!)
• – Amy’s favorite suitcase – this shiny hard-side Samsonite
• – The backpack that everyone’s obsessed with
• – Our go-to sites for booking hotels and finding cheap flights
• – A backup battery pack for your phone (vital for us!) 
• – A trusty water bottle that will keep you hydrated 

Amy Hartle   is the author of Do You Love Me? How To Stop Seeking Reassurance in Relationships , a book on reassurance seeking and relationship anxiety. Both her book and this blog are born of personal experience; Amy shares expert relationship advice from the lessons learned during her own 10+ years with her husband, as well as couples travel tips and romantic getaway recommendations, all gleaned while traveling the world together.

25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. 🙂 We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. 🙂 We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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19 Best Road Trips in USA to Put on Your Bucket List

The United States boasts a vast and diverse landscape, offering an ideal setting for unforgettable road trips. Whether you prefer coastal drives, mountain vistas, or historical sites, there is no shortage of beautiful road trips in the USA to suit every taste.

Having been fortunate enough to embark on two cross-country road trips and numerous one-week excursions in the USA, I can attest to the country’s abundant offerings. Given its immense size and variety, driving presents an excellent means to explore numerous destinations within a short timeframe.

Below, I outline the 19 best road trips in the USA, categorized for your convenience.

Please note that I have personally undertaken many of these journeys within a week. While most of the itineraries below are tailored for one-week road trips, they can easily be combined based on your location within the United States or if you opt to fly between coasts. I have included regional information to simplify the planning process, should that be beneficial to you.

19 Best Road Trips in the USA to Put on Your Bucket List

Tips for Planning a Successful Road Trip in the USA

Conduct thorough research on attractions, accommodations, and potential stops along your route. Also, allow room for spontaneity and detours to uncover hidden gems.

My suggested approach involves selecting key locations to stay and outlining a few must-see activities in each area.

How to Rent a Car in the USA

Renting a car in the United States is generally a straightforward process, but it’s essential to be mindful of specific requirements and considerations.

Here are some useful tips to assist you in navigating the car rental procedure in the USA:

Ensure you possess a valid driver’s license from your home country. International visitors can utilize their home country’s driver’s license if it is in English. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be necessary.

Many companies provide a car with a full tank of gas and expect it to be returned with a full tank. While some offer a prepaid fuel option, it’s often more economical to refill the tank yourself.

The minimum age for car rentals varies by company and state, typically falling between 21 and 25 years. Drivers under 25 might face a “young driver” surcharge. Verify the policies of the car rental company you choose, as fees differ.

I recommend making reservations in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons. This ensures you secure the desired vehicle type at the most favorable rate.

While car rental firms do not mandate insurance purchase, damages from even minor accidents can exceed $1000. Rental car insurance options entail a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Liability Insurance.

If multiple individuals will be driving the rental car, additional drivers might need to be included in the rental agreement, typically incurring an extra fee for each driver.

Take note of mileage restrictions, return guidelines, and any supplementary charges. Most conventional rental car agencies offer unlimited mileage.

Before departing the rental location, conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle for any pre-existing damage. Make a detailed record of any scratches, dents, or issues and report them to the rental company to prevent liability.

Ensure the car is returned punctually to avoid additional fees. Refill the tank to the agreed-upon level and return the vehicle in the same condition as received.

Should you require it, you can request a GPS or other supplementary equipment. Keep in mind that these amenities may involve extra costs.

Coastal Drives

1. pacific coast highway (california).

• Route: California State Route 1 (CA-1)
• Highlights: San Francisco, Big Sur, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Hearst Castle, and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge
• Region: West Coast
• Distance: 650 miles
• Duration: 7 to 10 days
• Best Time to Go: Spring and Summer

I embarked on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip over five years ago, and it still holds a special place as one of my favorite road trips in the USA.

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as California State Route 1, stretches from north to south, spanning from Leggett to Dana Point.

Pacific Coast Highway road trip is typically undertaken as a point-to-point excursion and can be traveled in either direction.

The stretch between San Francisco and Los Angeles , winding through the picturesque coastal landscape of Big Sur, stands out as one of the most breathtaking drives in the country.

Although the drive covers approximately 8 to 10 hours, many travelers opt to break the journey into multiple days, with overnight stays in Santa Barbara, Solvang, Morro Bay, and/or Monterey.

Additionally, there are numerous captivating destinations nearby that can complement this road trip. Napa Valley, Pinnacles National Park, and San Diego are all excellent additions to a Pacific Coast Highway adventure.

For those with additional time, extending the trip northward to Northern California, spending more time in each city, or incorporating visits to Pinnacles or Yosemite National Parks can further enrich the experience.

Plan Your USA Road Trip

San Francisco: Best Things to Do in San Francisco

2. Great Lakes Seaway Trail (New York to Ohio)

• Route: Traces the shores of Lake Erie and the Niagara River
• Highlights: Niagara Falls, enchanting waterfront towns, lighthouses, and vineyards
• Region: Midwest

Niagara Falls stands out as one of the quintessential stops along this road trip, but the Great Lakes region offers a wealth of its own attractions.

The trail meanders past a multitude of historic lighthouses, idyllic harbors, and delightful waterfront communities. Sodus Point, Oswego, and Fair Haven are just a few of the coastal towns.

California Pacific Coast Highway: Planning a Pacific Coast Highway Road

3. New England Road Trip: Acadia to Boston

• Distance: 700 miles
• Duration: 10 days
• Best Time to Go: Late spring through fall; October offers the best fall colors
• Highlights: Acadia National Park, Kancamagus Highway, Franconia Notch State Park, Stowe, Lake Champlain, the Berkshires, Boston

New England road trip from Acadia National Park to Boston is high on my list of best road trips in USA. Having visited both Acadia National Park and Boston, the starting and ending points of this itinerary, I cherished those experiences.

The inhabitants of the New England region take immense pride in their identity. There are certain things you simply do not criticize in their presence.

Dunkin’ Donuts, lobster rolls, Tom Brady—any hint of negativity towards these can quickly irk a local.

However, one of the most cherished natural wonders that defines the New Englander essence is the vibrant fall foliage.

From late September to mid-October, the fervor around the changing colors of the trees often overshadows even discussions about the Patriots. Until they inevitably make it to the Super Bowl.

Among the most renowned fall foliage drives in New England is the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire.

During the optimal time in early October, a cold snap sweeps the hills, igniting them with a riot of colors.

The 56-mile expanse of the Kancamagus Highway is an endless panorama of foliage and ever-shifting hues. It feels like traveling through a kaleidoscope. Just a heads up: expect crowds—October can get quite bustling!

San Francisco: Best Day Trips From San Francisco

New England Road Trip Itinerary:

• Days 1-2: Acadia National Park
• Day 3: Portland, Maine
• Day 4: Drive to Conway, explore the scenic Kancamagus Highway, visit Franconia Notch State Park, and stay in or near Franconia
• Day 5: Stowe, Burlington, and Lake Champlain
• Day 6: Travel to Lenox, Massachusetts in the Berkshires
• Day 7: Journey to Boston
• Days 8-9: Boston
• Day 10: Fly home

Become a Frugal Traveler: Save Money On a USA Road Trip

4. Florida Keys Road Trip (Miami to Key West)

• Route: U.S. Route 1 from Miami to Key West
• Highlights: Coral reefs, turquoise waters, the Seven Mile Bridge, and the laid-back ambiance of the Florida Keys
• Region: Southeast Coast
• Distance: 200 miles
• Best Time to Go: Year-round, with November through March offering ideal weather conditions and low hurricane risks

Embark on Florida Keys road trip by flying into Miami and cruising through the Florida Keys.

Key West’s distinctive history, historic residences, stunning azure waters, and vibrant nightlife make it an ideal destination for a road trip.

This journey stands out as one of the most relaxing on my list. The drive spans roughly 4 hours, providing ample opportunities to explore Miami and discover captivating stops en route to Key West.

Imagine white sandy beaches, warm sunny skies, swaying palm trees, indulgent key lime pie…sounds idyllic, doesn’t it?

Traveling from Miami to Key West ranks among the best road trips in the USA.

The Florida Overseas Highway links mainland Florida with Key West, offering a delightful road trip through the Florida Keys.

Along the way, you can visit state parks, pristine beaches, wildlife conservation centers, breweries, and quaint boutiques. Indulge in al fresco dining, beachside meals, and relaxing under the shade of palm trees.

Despite criticisms for its boisterous spring break festivities and influx of retirees, Florida boasts some of the nation’s finest beaches.

As indicated in the subtitle of this particular USA road trip, most of these beaches are accessible via a single highway.

The Florida A1A spans the entire length of the Atlantic Floridian Coast and extends further into the Caribbean Sea.

The segment connecting the mainland to the Florida Keys (The Florida Key Scenic Byway) is revered as an engineering marvel, serving as a highlight of the journey.

Gliding over the Caribbean and reaching destinations like Ernest Hemingway’s abode in Key West is a truly rewarding experience.

Dedicate time to exploring Miami and Key West, and consider adding visits to three national parks: Biscayne, Everglades, and Dry Tortugas.

Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Miami/Ft. Lauderdale 2 Day: Everglades National Park Day 3: Biscayne National Park 4 Day: Florida Keys road trip Days 5-6: Key West 7 Day: Dry Tortugas National Park Day 8: Key West 9 Day: Florida Keys road trip back to Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Day 10: Departure

For a more condensed trip, this itinerary can easily be streamlined into a week-long adventure by traveling point-to-point through the Florida Keys.

5. Route 101 (California to Washington)

• Route: Route 101, transitioning into California State Route 1
• Highlights: Breathtaking coastlines, vineyards, national parks, and panoramic coastal vistas
• Region: Pacific Northwest

Seattle to San Francisco Highway 101 road trip seamlessly extends the previous Pacific Coast Highway journey. Route 101 offers a plethora of enticing stops along the way.

Commence your adventure in San Francisco, venture through Yosemite, Sonoma, or Napa for a taste of wine country, proceed to the Oregon Coast for additional vineyards, awe-inspiring coastlines, and continue towards national treasures like Olympia, culminating in the Seattle region.

Mountains and Outdoors

6. north arizona loop (arizona).

• Route: From Las Vegas or Phoenix through Grand Canyon, Page, and Grand Escalante
• Highlights: Majestic red rock formations, the world’s largest canyon, and culturally significant Native American sites
• Region: Southwest

While this road trip may not follow a single renowned highway, traversing North Arizona promises an exceptional journey through the American Southwest.

Arizona’s diverse and stunning landscapes set the stage for an unforgettable road trip experience.

Here’s a proposed itinerary for exploring Arizona, encompassing some of the state’s iconic natural marvels and cultural landmarks.

Embark on your adventure from Phoenix or Las Vegas, driving through Sedona, Flagstaff, and continuing to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

After immersing yourself in the beauty of the Grand Canyon, journey northward to Page and onward to the Wave or Coyote Buttes South. En route, you’ll encounter some of the most breathtaking destinations in the American Southwest!

7. Utah’s Mighty 5

• Route: Visit the five national parks of Utah one by one – Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Park
• Highlights: Breathtaking landscapes, unique rock formations, and diverse ecosystems
• Region: Mountain West
• Distance: 900 miles
• Best Time to Go: Spring and fall

Utah’s allure lies in its rugged desert landscapes, unmatched in beauty. For hiking enthusiasts, these parks offer an array of trails to explore, enough to keep you captivated for weeks. If you relish road trips, Utah presents the perfect setting to discover from the comfort of your car.

Embark on bucket list-worthy hikes at Zion. Venture into the fantastical realm of hoodoos in Bryce Canyon. Capture the beauty of arches and distinctive rock formations at Arches National Park. Delve into the waterpocket fold at Capitol Reef. Be awestruck by the landscapes at Canyonlands Island in the Sky. And finaly trek through the unique terrain in The Needles at Canyonlands.

This merely scratches the surface of activities awaiting you on a Mighty 5 road trip. You could spend weeks here and still uncover new adventures.

Below is a 7-day Utah Mighty Five National Park Itinerary:

Utah’s Mighty 5 Itinerary:

• Day 1: Arrival in Salt Lake City, drive to Moab
• Day 2: Arches National Park
• Day 3: Canyonlands National Park
• Day 4: Drive to Capitol Reef, explore Capitol Reef, overnight in Torrey or near Bryce Canyon
• Day 5: Bryce Canyon, drive to Zion, overnight in Springdale
• Day 6: Zion National Park
• Day 7: Drive to Las Vegas, departure

8. Washington DC to Asheville, North Carolina

• Best Time to Go: May through October
• Region: East Coast
• Highlights: Washington DC, Blue Ridge Parkway, Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, New River Gorge
• National Park, Asheville, Gatlinburg.

For a fall foliage USA road trip, this journey stands out as one of the finest on my list. In October, the three national parks come alive with vibrant fall colors, offering a breathtaking spectacle in this part of the USA.

Continue your journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway towards Natural Bridge. Consider a detour westward to immerse yourself in the beauty of one of the USA’s newest national parks, New River Gorge, for a few days.

Following your time at New River Gorge, resume your southbound drive, making your way to Asheville, North Carolina, before concluding your trip with visits to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Washington DC to Asheville Itinerary:

• Days 1-2: Washington DC
• Day 3: Shenandoah National Park
• Day 4: Natural Bridge, Blue Ridge Parkway, New River Gorge National Park
• Days 5-6: New River Gorge National Park
• Day 7: Drive to Asheville, North Carolina
• Day 8: Asheville
• Day 9: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Day 10: Gatlinburg, departure

To condense this itinerary into a 7-day road trip, skip visiting New River Gorge National Park and focus on the journey from Washington DC to Asheville, North Carolina.

9. Rocky Mountain National Park Loop (Colorado)

Route: A circular route through Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Springs, and Denver Highlights: Majestic mountain vistas, alpine lakes, wildlife sightings, and Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S. Region: Mountain West

Embarking on a Rocky Mountain National Park Loop unveils a spectacular road trip, immersing you in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Colorado stands out as a state I could revisit endlessly—it’s simply breathtaking.

Commence your adventure in Denver, allowing time to explore Boulder before venturing northwest towards Estes Park. This is a charming gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park.

After discovering Estes Park, dedicate a minimum of two to three days to explore various facets of Rocky Mountain National Park before descending to Colorado Springs.

Here, you’ll marvel at the Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon, rounding off your journey with unforgettable experiences.

10. Glacier and Yellowstone (Wyoming and Montana)

• Route: Traverse through the remarkable national parks Glacier, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone
• Highlights: Majestic mountain panoramas, alpine lakes, wildlife encounters, and Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the U.S.

Embarking on a road trip to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park is an experience not to be missed.

I firmly believe this region ranks among the top ten most picturesque places in the United States. This itinerary leads you through three national parks spread across Montana and Wyoming: Glacier, Grand Tetons, and Yellowstone.

Consider incorporating stops at enchanting locations in Idaho, such as Sun Valley and Stanley, to enhance your road trip experience.

11. San Juan Skyway Road Trip

• Region: the Rockies
• Route: Durango, Andrews Lake and Molas Pass, Silverton, The Million-Dollar Highway, Ouray, Ridgway, Telluride, Mesa Verde National Park
• Highlights: Animas Museum, Canyons of the Ancients National Monument Museum, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Durango Fish Hatchery, Galloping Goose Historical Society, Mancos Creative District

Nestled in the far southwestern corner of Colorado, the San Juan Skyway stands out as the ultimate road trip in USA. This route showcases some of the most exquisite Rocky Mountain vistas one could envision.

Winding through the valleys of the San Juan Mountains, the road meanders past historical towns and captivating viewpoints, offering a truly remarkable journey.

Commencing and culminating in the former mining town of Durango, San Juan Skyway road trip invites travelers to immerse themselves in the charm of the area.

While Durango may not boast a plethora of activities, a ride on the old gauge railroad proves to be a fascinating experience, particularly for enthusiasts of vintage trains.

Heading north from Durango towards Silverton, the landscape unfolds in all its grandeur. To the east, the rugged Weminuche Wilderness beckons climbers and hikers alike. For unparalleled views of the Weminuche and the neighboring Grenadiers, a stop at Molas Pass is a must.

Continuing beyond Silverton leads to the secluded resort town of Ouray and the stunning Sneffels Wilderness.

12. Alaska Road Trip

• Best Time to Go: May through September
• Highlights: Anchorage, Seward, Valdez, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell – St. Elias National Parks

Embark on a captivating Alaskan road trip that spans 700 miles over 10 days, offering a blend of natural wonders and cultural exploration.

Alaska road trip is best undertaken between May and September to make the most of Alaska’s beauty.

My recommended 10-day itinerary covers Anchorage, Seward, Valdez, Kenai Fjords, and Wrangell – St. Elias National Parks. It combines diverse landscapes and experiences that encapsulate the essence of Alaska.

One of the primary reasons I favor this route is the enchanting Wrangell – St. Elias National Park. It is often overlooked but truly mesmerizing with its vast mountain ranges, opportunities for glacier hiking, and awe-inspiring flightseeing adventures.

The following 10-day itinerary showcases the beauty of Wrangell – St. Elias and Kenai Fjords National Parks:

• Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage
• Day 2: Drive to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
• Day 3-4: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
• Day 5: Journey to Valdez
• Day 6: Discover Valdez
• Day 7: Cruise to the Kenai Peninsula
• Day 8: Experience Kenai Fjords National Park
• Day 9: Further exploration of Kenai Fjords National Park
• Day 10: Departure

For those with additional time, consider extending your trip to include Denali or include day trips to Lake Clark or Katmai National Parks.

Historical Places and Drives

13. route 66 road trip.

• Distance: 2,448 miles
• Route: Historic U.S. Route 66
• Highlights: Iconic Americana, quirky roadside attractions, the Grand Canyon, Cadillac Ranch, and the Santa Monica Pier
• Region: Midwest to West Coast
• Best Time to Go: All year

Route 66 stands out as one of the most famous roads in the United States, adorned with the monikers “Main Street of America” and “ Mother Road .” Passing through eight states and four distinct regions, it offers a condensed glimpse into American culture, showcasing roadside oddities, and vintage gas stations.

In the 1930s, it served as the pathway for those migrating west to escape the Dust Bowl, while in the 1950s, it became a favored route for vacationers bound for Los Angeles .

One of the most captivating aspects of Route 66 is witnessing the landscape transform from the Great Plains and Mississippi wetlands to the arid deserts and towering mountains of the West Coast.

When planning Route 66 road trip, you have the option to traverse the entire distance, a journey typically taking one to two weeks.

Alternatively, you can opt to explore a segment of Route 66 for a more condensed experience.

Having personally driven Route 66 in California and Illinois, I can attest to the charm of both sections.

While a week may not suffice to explore every nook and cranny of Route 66, you can certainly capture the essence of this iconic highway by visiting its major highlights:

• St. Louis Arch in Missouri
• Meramec Caverns in Missouri
• Route 66 Museum in Oklahoma City
• Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo
• Old Town in Albuquerque
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Painted Desert
• Grand Canyon
• Santa Monica

Immerse yourself in the allure of Route 66, where each stop promises a unique slice of American history and culture, culminating in the vibrant ambiance of the Santa Monica Pier on the West Coast.

14. Great River Road (Mississippi River)

• Route: Traces the path of the Mississippi River across several states
• Highlights: Charming river towns, historic antebellum plantations, breathtaking bluffs, and the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Mississippi Delta
• Region: Southeast

The Great River Road winds its way through ten states, encompassing Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Spanning over 3,000 miles from the Mississippi River’s source in Minnesota to its ultimate destination at the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana, this iconic route offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of America’s most storied river.

While exploring the entirety of this route could easily extend over multiple weeks, here are a few standout highlights:

• Itasca State Park in Minnesota
• National Eagle Center in Wabasha for a chance to witness majestic bald eagles
• National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium in Dubuque
• St. Louis with its iconic Gateway Arch
• Memphis, where you can immerse yourself in the legacy of Elvis Presley at Graceland
• Eureka Springs nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains
• Hot Springs National Park
• New Orleans and its vibrant French Quarter

Traversing the Great River Road is not just a road trip. It’s a passage through time, offering a glimpse into the history, culture, and natural beauty that have shaped the landscapes along the Mississippi River.

From serene river towns to opulent plantations and the lively charm of the Mississippi Delta, this route promises an unforgettable exploration of the Southeastern United States.

15. The Oregon Trail: A Historic Journey from Missouri to Oregon

• Route: Traces the path of the historic Oregon Trail from Oregon to Wyoming
• Highlights: Immersive historical landmarks, the majestic Columbia River Gorge, the unique landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the picturesque Grand Teton National Park

The Oregon Trail stands as a testament to the pivotal role it played in the westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century.

Embark on a road trip that retraces parts of this iconic trail, leading you through breathtaking landscapes, significant historical sites, and quaint towns that echo the spirit of yesteryears.

Traveling along the Oregon Trail road trip, you’ll have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of pioneers who ventured westward in pursuit of new beginnings in the American West.

Tailor your itinerary to align with your interests and the time at your disposal to ensure a fulfilling and enlightening adventure that captures the essence of the Oregon Trail’s rich historical legacy.

16. Historic Cities of the East Coast

• Route: Travel from Washington, DC to Boston along I-95
• Highlights: Immerse yourself in historical landmarks, colonial heritage, delectable cuisine, and the vibrant cities of DC, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston

Embark on a road trip that unravels the rich historical tapestry of the East Coast, spanning from Washington, DC to Massachusetts along the I-95 corridor. Delve into the origins of the United States as a nation while exploring some of its most prominent and iconic cities.

Commence your adventure with a few days in Washington, DC, the nation’s capital, before journeying to Philadelphia. It was the original capital where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Continue your exploration by immersing yourself in the bustling metropolis of New York City, and conclude your trip in Boston. A city steeped in the legacy of the founding fathers and colonial history.

East Coast road trip promises a captivating blend of historical insights, cultural exploration, and culinary delights. It offers a comprehensive glimpse into the heritage and significance of these pivotal cities along the East Coast of the United States.

17. Texas Hill Country Road Trip (Dallas to Houston)

• Route: Scenic loop through the picturesque Texas Hill Country
• Highlights: Vibrant wildflowers in spring, immersive cowboy experiences, charming German-influenced towns like Fredericksburg, renowned wineries, and captivating natural beauty
• Region: South

Texas stands out as a state brimming with diverse destinations waiting to be explored.

Begin Texas Hill Country road trip in either Dallas or Houston, setting off on a scenic drive along I-35 either north or south from your starting point.

In Houston, delve into the wonders of NASA and savor the vibrant culinary scene before venturing to San Antonio. There, uncover the historic Alamo and meander along the scenic riverwalk. Don’t miss the opportunity to pause and revel in the allure of the Texas Hill Country nestled between San Antonio and Austin, the state capital.

Continue your adventure by immersing yourself in the captivating blend of history and culture in Dallas–Fort Worth. Make a special detour to Waco, renowned as the birthplace of Dr Pepper and home to Magnolia Farms.

Uncover the rich cowboy heritage in Fort Worth and conclude your trip in the dynamic urban landscape of Dallas.

This Texas Hill Country road trip promises an array of experiences. From blooming wildflowers to cultural encounters and culinary delights, unveiling the unique charm and diversity that defines the southern state of the Lone Star.

18. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

• Distance: Ranges from 100 to 300 miles
• Duration: 1 to 7 days
• Best Time to Go: Year-round
• Route: Encompasses distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, with key stops in Louisville, Bardstown, and Lexington

Embark on a captivating road trip through the heart of America’s bourbon country along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. It offers an immersive exploration of distilleries, a glimpse into the bourbon-making process, and the opportunity to relish the rich flavors of this iconic American spirit.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail (KBT) features eighteen esteemed bourbon distilleries situated in and around Louisville.

To fully experience all eighteen distilleries, allocate a minimum of seven days. However, for a taste of the KBT, this region also serves as an ideal weekend escapade.

Beyond the bourbon distilleries, this region of Kentucky offers a myriad of experiences.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Louisville. Witness a thrilling horse race at Churchill Downs. Traverse the scenic bluegrass landscapes. Explore the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, or unwind in a historic tavern for a truly enriching experience.

Whether you opt for a weekend getaway or a week-long exploration, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail promises a tapestry of flavors, history, and culture that epitomizes the essence of bourbon country. Explore at your own pace, savoring each moment.

19. The Ultimate All-American Cross Country Road Trip

• Distance: Spanning 3,000 miles
• Duration: Recommended for 10+ days
• Best Time to Go: Spring, summer, and fall

Embark on the quintessential American adventure with a cross-country road trip that traverses the vast expanse of the United States.

This road trip entails exploring small towns, bustling cities, national parks, and a plethora of iconic landmarks, making it a must-do experience for any travel enthusiast. Undoubtedly, this road trip remains a coveted item on my travel bucket list.

Planning to road trip across USA offers a myriad of route options, with a direct drive typically taking around 5 days at an average of 8 hours per day.

However, once you factor in sightseeing opportunities and detours, the total distance covered and time spent on the road significantly increases.

For an ideal experience, plan to allocate a minimum of 10 days for this cross-country odyssey. Although, extending the duration is highly recommended for a more immersive exploration. Some travelers opt to dedicate an entire month or even the entire summer to fully savor the diverse landscapes and cultures encountered along the way.

Consider these cross-country road trip itineraries:

• Connect the major cities of New York and LA, passing through Las Vegas, Moab, Denver, Nashville, and Washington DC (covering 3,200 miles).
• Take a northern route starting in Boston, exploring Niagara Falls, Chicago, South Dakota, Yellowstone, and concluding in Seattle (spanning 3,300 miles).

For a winter adventure, journey across the southern US from San Diego through Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, New Orleans, the Florida panhandle, and possibly concluding in Savannah, Orlando, or Miami (covering 2,700 miles).

Embarking on an All-American cross-country road trip promises a tapestry of experiences, from breathtaking landscapes to vibrant cities, encapsulating the essence of the diverse United States.

Choosing Your Ideal Road Trip Experience

If you’re grappling with the decision of which road trip in USA to embark on, consider these suggestions to help guide your choice:

Overall Best USA Road Trips to Take

• American Southwest;
• Utah’s Mighty 5;

Four of the Best USA Road Trips for Families

• Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks;
• Yellowstone to Mount Rushmore.

Best Hiking USA Road Trips

• Washington road trip;
• Colorado road trip;
• Alaska road trip;
• California national park road trip;
• Northern California and Oregon loop.

Best Road Trips for Non-Hikers

• Florida Keys road trip;
• New England road trip;
• Kentucky Bourbon Trail;
• Pacific Coast Highway in California;

America’s Best Fall Foliage Road Trips

• Washington DC to Asheville.

Best Winter USA Road Trips

• Florida Keys;
• Arizona road trip;
• Las Vegas to San Diego.

Consider exploring Utah’s Mighty 5 or embarking on an American Southwest road trip, bearing in mind the colder weather and potential snowfall.

While the listed itineraries are diverse and captivating, there are numerous other ways to plan a memorable USA road trip.

Let the one-week road trip itinerary ideas provided here inspire you as you set out to discover the wonders that the United States has to offer.

If you have any questions or seek further insights on these road trip options, feel free to reach out in the comment section below. Safe travels and happy exploring!  

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13 comments.

Love this list! Numbers 3 and 7 are on my bucket list… I got to do part of Route 66 last March and it was fun. I’d love to just spend all my time road trippin’ around Canada and the USA!

MindTheTravel

Hi Gail! My pleasure, thanks for stopping by! Yup, Route 66 is amazing! While one week is far too short to actually discover Route 66, I wasn’t lucky enough to appreciate it to the fullest. Hopefully, I will drive the entire route this summer.

Some great trips here. There are so many possibilities for road trips around the US. I like doing road trips around a theme.

Stuart Forster

Reading this makes me want to get out on the road. I loved driving in upstate New York and think road trips bring wonderful insights into small town America.

I can relate! Yup, that’s true. I really enjoyed my trip through New England and I’d like to do some alternate routes!

Annie Ahlers

Thanks for all the tips! My son wants to visit all the states. This is super helpful!

I’ve done a lot of traveling up the eats coast but honestly never taken a trip out west. I’ve always wanted to do the pacific coast trip and to be able to do it one day. My favorite road trip has always been the east coast of Florida trip. I love and Florida and have take A1A from Jacksonville to key west many times. It’s a beautiful trip and there’s just something so cool about taking that drive over the bridge connecting the tip of Florida to the keys. Getting to see the Atlantic Ocean our of one side of the car and the Gulf of Mexico through the other.

Hey Magen! I love the Overseas Highway and I totally agree abour the keys – they are so charming!

I want to visit each and every one of these places! My cousin and I were talking about going to see the Redwood Forest, nature just amazes me.

Donna Meyer

I love road-tripping, either with my sister or alone. I have done the entire Arizona stretch of Route 66 and would love to the do the rest. And I have wanted to do that drive to the Keys forever. Maybe this year, in the fall. Thanks for the inspiration.

My husband and I love a good road trip and there is no better place than the United States to do one, the options and routes are endless! I was so excited to see California made the list because that is what we will be doing this summer!

Image Earth Travel

Loved this write-up and would love to do a road trip across the US!

Makeup Muddle

Oh wow I would so love to do a road trip across the USA, it sounds amazing xo

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The Best USA Road Trip Routes

An essential guide to epic american road trips.

Amy Balfour

Stuart Thornton

Sarah Bence

• In this guide
• Rocky Mountain road trip
• Utah's national parks
• Grand Canyon loop
• California road trips
• Skyline & Blue Ridge Parkway
• Western North Carolina
• West Virginia To Shenandoah NP

Great Smoky Mountains

• NC's Outer Banks
• White Mountains & Falls
• Coastal Maine's Route-1
• Fall foliage
• Lakes Michigan & Superior
• South Dakota
• Chicago to the Ozarks
• Renting an RV
• National park road trips
• Two week routes
• Best cross-country routes
• Family road trip routes
• Summer road trip routes
• History & culture road trip routes

That ribbon of highway, the endless skyway…. Woody Guthrie immortalised life on the road in 1940 and it’s been sung about, written about and filmed about ever since.

So it’s no surprise that the ‘Great American Road Trip’ has a grip on all our imaginations. Anywhere else, a long car journey is nothing but a mundane chore. But you know where to get your kicks, right? Out on…oh you-know-where.

Maybe it’s something to do with the frontier myth: echoes of intrepid settlers, covered wagons, and the search for the American Dream. Or maybe it’s just that the American landscape, in all its dramatic, epic scale, makes a great backdrop for romantic adventures on four—or two—wheels.

There aren’t many places you can get this much scenic diversity without passing a single passport control. Your only problem is deciding how much ground you want to cover.

With a little forethought you can devise your own journey and, if you squint a little, maybe catch a glimpse of the American fairytale.

Mount Washington Auto Road, in New Hampshire's White Mountains

Top US national park road trips

This country was made for epic road adventures. You could just set off and see where the road takes you, or you could use some of the following routes for inspiration.

A few tips: Don’t bite off more than you can chew! Accept you’re not going to discover America on a two-week road trip. Less is more—slow down, avoid the interstates, and steer clear of the A-list tourist hotspots. The national parks hog all the attention, but you’ll find just as much wildlife and adventure (without the crowds) in state parks, national forests, wilderness areas and national monuments.

And most importantly, plan ahead! There might be some romantic appeal to just following the open road, but in reality that can mean expensive motels, RVs camped in Walmart parking lots, and crowded roads snaking through the aforementioned over-popular national parks.

Yosemite National Park, California

The west coast in two weeks

Approx. distance: 1,700 miles

Duration: 14 days

Suggested route: Seattle, Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, Crater Lake National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Los Angeles.

Take in the magnificence of the western United States mountains, while also walking among some of the world’s biggest trees and get sprayed by a few of North America’s largest waterfalls on this route. This inland tour of the best mountainous parks in Washington, Oregon, and California includes crowd favourites Olympic National Park, Crater Lake National Park and Yosemite National Park.

Read more: West coast road trip

Arches National Park, in Utah

Utah's 'mighty five' road trip

Approx. distance: 1,200 miles

Duration: 10 days

Suggested route: Salt Lake City, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Salt Lake City

Fiery red rock formations dot the Southwest, lighting up the landscape at sunrise and sunset with a brilliant array of colours, from red to orange to deep purple. Created by erosion over millennia, and still changing today, these sandstone wonders are the photographic highlight of most road trips across southern Utah.

Read more: Utah's 'mighty five' road trip

Redwood National Park

Northern California road trip

Approx. distance : 600 miles

Duration : Seven to 10 days

Suggested route : Bodega Bay, Avenue of the Giants, Redwood National & State Parks, Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park.

North of San Francisco, California becomes less populated and wilder. Here nature dominates the landscape from the skyscraping redwood trees to the crashing waves on the rugged coast to the volcanic wonders bubbling inland. Northern California is also the place to see magnificent wild animals whether it’s the migrating gray whales off Bodega Bay or the majestic Roosevelt elk wandering around Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

Read more: Northern California road trip

Foothills Parkway in the northern Great Smoky Mountains

Approx. distance: 450 miles

Duration: Six days

Suggested route: Knoxville, Urban Wilderness, Gatlinburg, Cades Cove, Clingman's Dome, Ocoee Scenic Byway, Lookout Mountain, Knoxville.

Gorgeous scenery and outdoor adventure join forces on this Great Smokies loop, which swings past urban parks, waterfall trails and wildlife playgrounds.

Read more: Great Smoky Mountains road trip

Badlands National Park

South Dakota & Badlands

Approx. distance: 400 miles

Duration: 8 days

Suggested route: Rapid City, Spearfish Canyon, Deadwood, Black Hills National Forest, Hill City, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, Wall, Badlands National Park, Rapid City.

This figure-of-eight route takes you on an epic road trip through South Dakota’s national parks, forests, and monuments. The area is particularly rich in Native American history, including that of the past and present-day Lakota people. Although covering a smaller area than other Midwest road trips, it’s filled with plenty of arresting scenery, from the Badlands, to the Black Hills.

Read more: South Dakota & Badlands National Park Road Trip

Fall foliage in the White Mountains

New England's fall foliage

Approx. distance: 700 miles

Duration: One week

Suggested route: Boston, Berkshires, MA, Mohawk Trail Scenic Drive, Vermont Hwy 100, Littleton, NH, Franconia Notch State Park, Kancamagus Highway, Wolfeboro, Lake Winnipesaukee, Boston

When to go: Foliage season runs from mid-September through mid-October

Foliage across New England puts on a brilliant display of colour in fall, with yellow, orange and deep red leaves shimmering across forested hills.

This loop passes leaf-peeping hotspots across Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire. Foliage season runs from mid-September through mid-October.

Read more: New England's fall foliage road trip

Sunrise over Big Bend National Park, southwest Texas

Two week US road trip routes

Austin, san antonio & west texas.

Approx. distance: 1,000 miles

Duration : Two weeks

Suggested route: Austin, Hill Country, San Antonio, Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site, Big Bend National Park, Route 170 River Road, Marfa, Fort Davis, El Paso

South Congress Avenue encapsulates the best of Austin: live music at the Continental Club, tacos at Torchy’s and the quirky appeal of the I Love You So Much mural. Watching the flight of Mexican free-tailed bats from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge is a nightly tradition (Mar-Oct).

Wildflowers, wineries and dance halls abound in the Hill Country. The Salt Lick is a popular Hill Country BBQ joint. Tour the Alamo in San Antonio then dine beside the River Walk.

It’s a long haul west to the pictographs in Seminole Canyon and mountain trails in Big Bend National Park, an International Dark Sky Park.

Follow the Rio Grande west on Route 170 then continue to Marfa for minimalist art and mysterious lights. Sunsets glow with purple-and-orange intensity behind the Davis Mountains while murals brighten downtown El Paso, the westernmost city in Texas.

Four Corners loop: Ancestral Puebloan history

Approx. distance: 1,100 miles

Duration: Two weeks

Suggested route: Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Zuni Pueblo, Acoma Pueblo, Albuquerque

Comprising Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah, the Four Corners region is home to the longest-surviving communities in North America, including the mesa-top villages of the Hopi Tribe and the Acoma Nation.

It’s a landscape rich with beauty and tradition but still bearing the scars of historic cruelties inflicted by white explorers and settlers. Mesa Verde and other lofty cliff dwellings, built by Ancestral Puebloans, are the photogenic hallmarks of the region, but these remote ruins were inhabited for just a short segment of the centuries-old timeline.

Other Four Corners highlights include the ruins at Chaco Canyon, the red-rock spires and buttes of Monument Valley and Spider Rock in Canyon de Chelly.

New York City to Miami: Big cities, mountain towns & the coast

Suggested route: New York City, NY, Philadelphia, PA, Baltimore, MD, Floyd, VA, Asheville, NC, Greenville, SC, Charleston, Savannah, GA, Orlando, FL, Miami, the Everglades

From the Met to Chelsea Market, from MOMA to the latest pop-up, the Big Apple is a cultural and culinary powerhouse. A tip: Don’t try to do too much, just pick one or two neighborhoods and go deep.

For early US politics, head to Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Afterwards, compare Philly cheesesteaks from Pat’s and Geno’s.

In Baltimore, dive bars and seafood joints are packed tight in cobblestoned Fells Point. Mountain music catches the ear in Floyd, Virginia, part of the Crooked Road Music Trail.

Ashville is a mountain town with a sophisticated palate, for good food and drink try Burial Beer, C´urate and the Biltmore Estate.

With its tree-lined Main Street and downtown waterfall, Greenville is notably picturesque. Hit the coast for shrimp & grits, Fort Sumter and live oaks draped with Spanish moss. In Florida, sunbathe on pristine beaches, hurtle through Space Mountain at Disney World, party in South Beach and paddle the swampy Everglades.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Best US cross-country road trip route

Washington, d.c. to los angeles.

Approx. distance: 3,200 miles

Duration: At least three weeks

Suggested route: Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque & Santa Fe, Petrified Forest National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, NV, Los Angeles, CA

This cross-country trip introduces roadtrippers to America’s cultural and artistic diversity as well as its striking landscapes. Cultural highlights include the National Museum of African American History & Culture in D.C., the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque.

The art scene is varied too. Study the masters at the National Gallery of Art, step into the art at Meow Wolf and stroll the gardens at the Getty.

American-born music is another feature. Mountain music thrives at the Carter Family Fold in Virginia while country music legends perform at the Grand Ole Opry. B.B. King’s Blues Club in Memphis parties late into the night.

Natural beauty is prevalent too, from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Mississippi River to the multi-hued grandeur of the Grand Canyon and the golden beaches of Los Angeles.

Classic Arizonan scenery in Saguaro National Park

Best US road trips for families

Arizona: the wild west.

Approx. distance: 625 miles

Suggested route: Tucson, Fort Bowie National Historic Site, Chiricahua National Monument, Bisbee, Tombstone, Wickenburg, Prescott, Jerome, Sedona

With cacti and crusty mountains as your backdrop, this partial loop kicks off in Saguaro National Park in Tucson. From here, delve into the conflicts between the U.S. Army and the Apache at Fort Bowie and at Chiricahua National Monument, where towering volcanic rocks once doubled as a hideout for Apache warriors.

Next up are a string of mining towns where prospectors, cowboys and gunslingers once trod the dusty streets. Families can immerse in Wild West history at the Queen City Mine in Bisbee and the OK Corral in Tombstone.

Dude ranches near Wickenburg offer multi-day horseback-riding experiences. Several dozen multi-use trails crisscross the red rocks of Sedona, which may look familiar from classic western movies.

Southern California: Beaches, Disneyland & Hollywood

Approx. distance: 200 miles

Suggested route: San Diego, La Jolla, Carlsbad, Huntington Beach, Disneyland Resort, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles

Kick off with koalas at the San Diego Zoo & Safari Park in San Diego then follow Hwy 101 north along the Pacific Coast, passing sea lions, snorkelling hotspots and cliffside tidepools.

Surf culture reigns on Huntington Beach, where evening bonfires are allowed. Younger kids will love the Coastersaurus and other low-scare rides at Legoland in Carlsbad.

The 14-acre Star-Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the newest “land” at the iconic Disneyland Resort in nearby Anaheim. Street performers and an eye-catching skatepark keep Venice Beach abuzz while the Pacific Wheel on the Santa Monica Pier offers bird’s-eye views of the coast.

Tour movie sets on the backlot then scream at velociraptors on Jurassic World – The Ride at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Southern New Mexico: Caverns, aliens & white sands

Approx. distance: 350 miles

Duration: Five days

Suggested route: Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Roswell, Lincoln, Capitan, Valley of Fires State Park, Three Rivers Petroglyphs Site, Alamogordo, White Sands National Park

The Natural Entrance Trail is a 1.25-mile drop from the mouth of Carlsbad Caverns to the geologic wonders of the Big Room. After touring the cavern and its formations, high-speed elevators whisk families back to the earth’s surface in minutes. Tour the International UFO Museum in Roswell to learn more about the alleged crash of an alien spacecraft here in 1947.

Wild West history roams the streets in Lincoln, where outlaw Billy the Kid escaped the local jail. Fire-fighting legend Smokey Bear is buried in nearby Capitan. Budding geologists can explore a lava field in Valley of Fires State Park and look for rock art at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. Learn about space exploration at the New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo then watch the moonrise during a full moon hike at White Sands National Park. Sledding down the dunes is also recommended.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Best US summer road trips

Best of kentucky: bourbon, thoroughbreds and mammoth cave.

Approx. distance: 275 miles

Suggested route: Lexington, Keeneland, Versailles, Bardstown, Loretto, Mammoth Cave National Park, Louisville, Frankfort, Midway, Lexington

Anchoring the eastern edge of the Bourbon Trail, Lexington is a cosmopolitan base for visiting the horse farms, distilleries and small towns dotting the rolling hills that stretch west from the city. Pull over for horse races at Keeneland (Apr & Oct; tours year round) and learn about Kentucky’s limestone-filtered water on distillery tours at Woodford Reserve, Four Roses and Buffalo Trace.

Eleven distilleries cluster near Bardstown, where boutiques and historic buildings fill the small downtown. Seal your bourbon bottle with red wax at Maker’s Mark before driving to Mammoth Cave National Park, home of the longest known cave system in the world.

Museums in Louisville spotlight native son Muhammad Ali, Louisville Slugger baseball bats and the Kentucky Derby.

Exploring the Eastern Shore

Approx. distance: 375 miles

Suggested route: Virginia Beach, VA, Chincoteague Island, Assateague Island, MD, Berlin, Ocean City, Rehoboth, DE, Cambridge, MD, Easton, St Michaels, Annapolis

Beaches, fresh seafood and wildlife refuges are plentiful on the Eastern Shore, also known as the Delmarva (Delaware, Maryland, Virginia) Peninsula. This slow-paced region, tucked between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic, is an easy drive from Washington, D.C. and Virginia Beach.

In Virginia, Chincoteague Island hosts its wild pony swim every July, when the ponies that roam Assateague Island are brought to auction. Just north in Maryland, it’s easy to spot wild ponies while you explore Assateague Island National Seashore.

Crowds flock to Ocean City for the convivial beach-and-boardwalk scene. State parks stretch north from here along Hwy 1 to Rehoboth, known for art galleries and upscale eats.

On the western coast, immerse in centuries-old waterman culture in St Michaels and other coastal villages then crack open steamed blue crabs at Cantler’s in Annapolis.

Route 66: New Mexico & Arizona

Approx. distance: 675 miles

Duration: Five to seven days

Suggested route: Tucumcari, New Mexico, Santa Rosa, Albuquerque, Gallup, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona, the Wigwam Motel, Winslow, Meteor Crater, Flagstaff, Williams, Seligman, Kingman, Oatman

The completion of the interstate highway system spurred the decline of Route 66, which crossed eight states on its run between Chicago and Los Angeles. Today, the historic route draws road trippers seeking a slower and kitschier drive.

The kitsch hits its peak in the scrubby high-desert of New Mexico and Arizona. Unique lodging includes the neon-fronted motels of Tucumacari, concrete wigwams in Holbrook and a former bordello in Williams.

Quirky attractions run the gamut: a scuba friendly blue hole in Santa Rosa, fossilised logs in the Petrified Forest, the Standing on the Corner statue in Winslow and wandering burros in Oatman. In Flagstaff, taxidermied wildlife watches the roadhouse action inside the Museum Club, which opened on Route 66 in 1931.

Historic Beale Street, in Memphis Tennessee

Best US history & culture road trip routes

America's beginnings: jamestown to dc.

Approx. distance: 300 miles

Suggested route: Jamestown, Virginia, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown, James River Plantations, Richmond, Monticello, Charlottesville, Mount Vernon, Alexandria, Washington, DC.

This history-themed trip spotlights the colonial era and begins at the Jamestown settlement. Established in 1607, Jamestown was the first permanent English colony in the New World. Thriving towns like Williamsburg soon followed.

More than 150 years later colonists fought for independence in the Revolutionary War. Virginia’s Historic Triangle brings Colonial history to life with interactive museums, costumed reenactors and the surviving redoubts at the Yorktown battleground.

From here, the stomping grounds of the country’s Founding Fathers stretch from Berkeley Plantation on the James River to St. John’s Church, Monticello and Mount Vernon. The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights are displayed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

Tennessee & Mississippi music tour

Approx. distance: 500 miles

Suggested route: Memphis, Clarksdale, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, Tupelo, Natchez Trace, Muscle Shoals, AL, Nashville

Blues music spills from late-night clubs on Beale Street in Memphis while 1970s grooviness spills from every direction in the Jungle Room at Elvis Presley’s Graceland.

They say bluesman Robert Johnson made a deal with the devil at the crossroads of Hwys 49 and 61 in the Mississippi Delta, where the blues was born. Red’s is the place to hear it. Test your musical prowess at the hands-on GRAMMY Museum in Cleveland.

Elvis reappears in Tupelo, site of his childhood home. The leafy Natchez Trace Parkway ribbons north from here, passing Muscle Shoals and its historic rock-n-roll recording studios.

The enormous Country Music Hall of Fame anchors the South of Broadway (SoBro) scene in Nashville. Appreciate acoustic perfection at Ryman Auditorium then elbow into Tootsies Orchid Lounge for a raucous honky-tonk jam.

US civil rights tour: Memphis, Alabama & Mississippi

Duration: Eight to 10 days

Suggested route: Memphis, TN, Greenwood, MS, Jackson, Birmingham, AL, Selma, Montgomery

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis shares space with the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968.

Just south, the Mississippi Freedom Trail stops at Bryant’s Grocery near Greenwood. The historic marker here covers the murder of Emmett Till by two white men in 1955. His brutal death and the subsequent acquittal of his killers kick-started the Civil Rights movement.

At the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson, powerful displays explore the struggle for racial equality in Mississippi. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute spotlights the 16th Street Baptist Church, bombed in 1963. State troopers and their dogs attacked peaceful marchers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma two years later.

In Montgomery, learn about Rosa Parks and her refusal to give up her bus seat to white passengers.

New Orleans & Southern Louisiana

Suggested route: New Orleans, Barataria Preserve, Whitney Plantation, Breaux Bridge, Lafayette, Avery Island, New Orleans

French, Spanish, African and Caribbean cultures collide in New Orleans. The city shares this diversity through food, music and friendliness. Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street are calling cards, but full immersion includes oyster po’boys at Domilise's, live music on Frenchmen Street and a ride on the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar.

Beyond the Big Easy, trails at the Barataria Preserve bring the bayou up-close while the Whitney Plantation describes life on a sugar plantation through the lens of those it enslaved. Breaux Bridge and Lafayette are the heart of Cajun Country, where menu specialties include boudin sausage and boiled crawfish.

Zydeco and Cajun tunes keep everyone dancing at the Blue Moon Saloon. Popular regional tours include swamp tours on Lake Martin and a trip through the McIlhenny Tabasco Factory.

In this guide:

Western US National Park Road Trips

Combining the awe-inspiring national parks of the Western USA into a single road trip makes for a true Americana adventure…

The Best East Coast USA Road Trips

There are three national parks in the East Coast mid-Atlantic region: Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the newly created New River Gorge National Park…

The Best New England Road Trips

Acadia National Park in Maine is the only national park in New England, although the region is packed with other federally run recreation areas, including national monuments, seashores and forests…

The Best Midwest National Park Road Trips

The Midwest US is often unfairly labeled “flyover country” but those who fly over middle America don't know what they're missing…

Renting An RV For An Epic Road Trip

The joy of an RV national park road trip is its simplicity: your family, the open road and the great outdoors…

About the authors

Amy has authored or co-authored 26 books on the USA for Lonely Planet. Her articles and essays have appeared in Backpacker, Every Day with Rachael Ray, Houston Chronicle, Redbook, Southern Living, Women’s Health, Vegetarian Times, the Los Angeles Times and Washington Post.

Stuart is a California-based travel writer and guidebook author. His books include Moon California Road Trip , Moon Coastal California and the forthcoming Moon Northern California Road Trips . For more about Stuart and his books, visit his website.

Sarah Bence is a travel journalist based in her home state of Michigan, after living in the UK for three and a half years. She writes for Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Roadtrippers Magazine, Business Insider, and more.

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17 Legendary American Road Trips

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There’s nothing better than a badass American road trip.

Road tripping is my absolute favorite thing to do, and I have to admit, my home country provides an endless compilation of stunning vistas, incredible national parks, and adventures for dayyyys (actually, years!).

There’s only one issue—There are too many choices! Where does one begin?!

Table of Contents

1. Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana – 1-2 Day American Road Trip

2. west coast – california to washington american road trip – 17 days, 3. yellowstone and tetons – 5-day american road trip, 4. the deep south american road trip- 14 days, 5. blue ridge parkway american road trip – 5 days, 6. volcanic legacy scenic byway american road trip – 7 days, 7. anchorage to valdez american road trip – 2 days, 8. hana highway – 1-3 days american road trip, 9. overseas highway american road trip – miami to key west – 2 days, 10. las vegas loop – 14-day american road trip, 11. new york to new england – 7-day american road trip, 12. route 66 – 21-day american road trip, 13. black hills american road trip – 5 days, 14. great river road american road trip – 7 days, 15. atlantic coast – 7-day american road trip, 16. san francisco to las vegas american road trip – 7 days, 17. cross country american road trip – 21-day epic american road trip, resources for your trip:, your southwest road trip itinerary (1 week - 2 months), your adventurous arizona road trip, your adventurous utah road trip, seattle to san francisco west coast road trip adventures and waterfalls, your adventurous montana road trip, 17 amazing american road trips.

It’s hard to choose, but I wanted to share with you a pretty sweet list to start off with. Below are some of my favorite scenes from road tripping the USA along with some trips I’m dying to do, and of course, some mega classic USA road trips that almost have to be on your list.

It’s a lot, I know, BUT I hope this list inspires you road trip America, again and again. Because really, there’s no running out of options here. Before you head off, I have a few more posts that will be crazy helpful for your road trip, be sure to check them out:

• Your Road Trip Essentials Packing List and Tips (+Printable Checklist!)
• How to Plan a USA Road Trip & Choosing a Vehicle
• 19 Mistakes to Avoid When on a Road Trip in the USA

The USA road trip list below features some short and some long trips, some that can take just a day if you don’t have time and others that will take weeks! The days I’ve listed are simply an estimate. You can spend way more or way less time in each area, depending on what you’re after.

Looking for a few quick viewpoints while on a scenic ride? Sweet, we have that! Looking for a challenge where you can hike and camp for a few days? We have that too. Want to see everything on this list of national parks ? You’ll be driving through most of them on these road trips!

The timing I’ve displayed below is relative, and if you were to do ALL of the highlights I’ve listed for each USA road trip, you’d definitely need more time.

But I decided to give you more info as opposed to less so you had more choices and could pick and choose. Well, I guess we should get started, right? We have a LOT of adventures to uncover…

How to Get Around!?

It’s nearly impossible to get around the USA and check out the best adventures without a car! Here are our top recommendations…

Rent a car! I usually find great deals on cars and SUVs here:

Rent a home on wheels! For the more adventurous, rent a van or RV and forgo the hotel room.

Going the Sun Road is a world-renown highway in Montana that bisects Glacier National Park from east to west. It spans the whole width of the park, crossing the Continental Divide, passing through almost every sort of terrain within the park.

Expect to see vast stretches of alpine tundra, rich cedar forest when driving through the valleys and incredible blue glacial lakes. You will never get tired of the scenic pull-outs that line the road, each one offering something a little different.

No matter which direction you are traveling, the views are seriously impressive. It was the first road to be designated both a National Historic Landmark and a National Civil Engineering Landmark.

Although a relatively short USA road trip at 50 miles, be sure to give yourself a whole day to explore, with plenty of photos and hiking stops.

RELATED: Your Adventurous Montana Road Trip

Highlights on This American Road Trip

• Lake McDonald is a stunning 10-mile long body of water that runs alongside the road for a few miles. Rent a kayak from the shores of the lake to better take in this beautiful stretch of water.
• Avalanche Creek and the Trail of the Cedars is a short but sweet hike that takes you past some of the most impressive trees in the park, some of which have been there over 500 years and are more than 7 feet in diameter.
• One of the most significant parts of the road is the loop switchback, the main reason why large RVs are not allowed on the road. There are some great hikes that start here, such as the Loop Trail.
• In the spring and summer, the 500 foot Bird Woman Falls is worth stopping for, as this is when the cascading water is at its most impressive.
• Logan Pass is one of Glacier’s most famous spots, as the highest point on the road, it offers stunning 360 views with a couple of trails to explore.
• One of the most iconic sights on the road is of Wild Goose Island , in the middle of Saint Mary Lake . Stop here for a bite to each and to admire the views.
• Detour up to the Many Glacier area for access to some of the best hikes in the park and more stunning lakes and glaciers to discover.

RELATED: – Things to Do in Glacier National Park—Hikes, Camping, Tips & Itinerary (Montana) – Where to Stay in Glacier National Park—Lodging to Camping

A drive along America’s western coastline is one of the best road trips in the USA, and for good reason. Imagine rugged beaches, ancient forests, and some incredible coastal towns.

You’ll be driving on Hwy 1, which is better known as the Pacific Coast Highway , Hwy 101 and I-5. Along the way, you will pass some vibrant and exciting American cities including San Diego, LA, Monterey, and San Francisco. Around 1,500 miles of rugged coastline lies between Washington and Southern California, waiting for you to explore.

Start the trip at laid back San Diego before winding your way up the coast to the skyscrapers and walk of fame in LA. Take in the beaches and stunning coastlines as you follow the road through the Big Sur to hilly San Fran, stopping to admire the impressive Golden Gate bridge.

End your journey in California and pass through to the state of Oregon , where the landscape changes to windswept capes and rocky tide pools. Finish the trip by driving over the Columbia River and into Washington.

• Explore the laid back city of San Diego and enjoy the rugged coastline in this area of California.
• Take a trip to Griffith Park in LA , where you will be greeted with stunning views of the city and the iconic Hollywood sign . For those that want to hike up to the Hollywood Sign, there are four routes to choose from, such as the Brush Canyon Trail and Burbank Peak Trail.
• Cruise down to Monterey and visit the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium , and take in the famed Cannery Row .
• Stop to spot for seals off the piers in San Francisco or take a boat out into the bay for some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge .
• Indulge in some of the finest wines at Napa and Sonoma Valley areas, with vineyards stretching out before you for miles.
• Head to Redwood National Park to witness these magnificent towering trees in all their glory, some of which reach 100m high.
• A volcano topped with a crystal clear lake, sounds incredible right? Crater Lake is a must-stop on this road trip . A deep blue lake surrounded by cliffs reaching almost 2000 feet high, with two picturesque islands, is undoubtedly an impressive sight and offers an insight into the area’s volcanic past.
• Enjoy all that the city of Portland has to offer, such as the many waterfall hikes in the surrounding area. The Multnomah-Wahkeena Loop will take your breath away.
• Explore all the varied and wild ecosystems in Olympic National Park , a place of outstanding natural beauty. There are so many hikes to choose from, mountains to climb, and wildlife to spot.

RELATED: – 27 Incredible Waterfall Hikes on the West Coast, USA – Seattle to San Francisco West Coast Road Trip – 12 Marvelous Things To Do in Monterey, California

This is one of the best American road trips as it takes in the best of two of the most stunning National Parks in America. Start the adventure at Salt Lake City and drive the 5 hours to the town of Jackson WY.

This is a great place to rest up for the night before heading onto the Moose-Wilson Road in Grand Teton National Park.

The scenery here will take your breath away. After spending a few days exploring the park, begin the drive towards Yellowstone. Before entering the park, make a stop at West Thumb Geyser Area to get your first geothermal experience.

Once in Yellowstone , there is no end to things to do and see, so be sure to stay for at least a few days. Before heading back, take the short Firehole Drive before driving the 5 hours back to Salt Lake City.

• Stop off to take some incredible photos of Grand Teton , towering at 13,770 feet.
• Take the hike around Jenny Lake or take a shuttle boat across the lake to stand at the base of the powerful Hidden Falls .
• You can’t leave Yellowstone without seeing the most famous geyser in the park, Old Faithful . There are also hundreds of colorful hot springs and pools, such as the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring .
• Keep your eyes peeled for wild bears, wolves, eagles, and of course, the world’s largest bison herd in Yellowstone National Park. There are wildlife watching tours available, which will give you the best chance of spotting these creatures, such as Buffalo Roam Tours.
• Go on a hike around the Yellowstone white water rafting.
• Grand Canyon of Yellowstone , which features three incredible waterfalls— Upper, Crystal, and Lower Falls.
• If you have got the guts, you could take on the river on one of the many white water rafting trips that are offered in the area, such as Paradise Rafting.

RELATED: – Yellowstone National Park Itinerary + Yellowstone Country & Grand Tetons   – 14 Best Things To Do in Grand Teton National Park

This Deep South USA road trip will take you on a musically themed route through 6 different states, as well as the stunning Great Smoky Mountains .

Starting and finishing in Atlanta, this loop takes in the very best of the Deep South, including Asheville , Nashville , Memphis, Natchez, New Orleans, the Florida Panhandle, and more.

After two weeks, be an expert in blues, BBQ, bourbon, and so much more. Starting in Ashville, you’ll drive down to the Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina, over to the incredible Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The musical city of Nashville is the next stop, followed by its musical neighbor of Memphis, before following the Great River Road down to New Orleans.

• Explore the city of Atlanta , including Stone Mountain Park , a large park featuring a huge quartz monzonite dome.
• Hike and sightsee in America’s most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , where ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Whether you are taking a swim in the river at the Sinks, enjoying the view from Clingmans Dome , or taking a scenic drive around Cades Cove , you will soon see why this is one of America’s most popular national parks.
• Venture to the home of country music in Nashville , stopping at the Country Music Hall of Fame , and head to Broadway for a night you will remember. Elvis fans need to pay a visit to Graceland and Sun Studios to see where the great recorded some of his best songs.
• Make a stop at the Mammoth Cave National Park , deep below the fields and forests of Kentucky. It is the world’s most extensive system of caves, reaching for around 400 miles. Take a tour with the NPS rangers to truly see what this natural wonder offers.
• Take in the views at Rock City Gardens , which offers a scenic vista into seven states.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives on the East Coast and one of the best road trips in the USA, snaking its way through the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia, all the way down to South Carolina, ending at the Smoky Mountains National Park.

One of the best times of year to do this trip is in the fall, when the trees that line the road turn a rich golden color, and the scenery burns with all shades from yellow to red.

Although the drive itself is pretty spectacular, along the way, you can enjoy plenty of hiking trails, panoramic views, waterfalls, and more. Because this part of the country is a little away from some of the major cities, it is often missed out of a trip in the USA, but the beauty of the area definitely makes it worth the excursion.

The speed limit is 45mph, so you can enjoy the route at a leisurely pace, taking in the views outside the windows.

Highlights on This American Road Trip

• Be sure to check out the Natural Bridge , a vast, naturally occurring rock bridge. For the best views of the bridge, take the Cedar Creek Nature Trail . If you don’t want to walk, you can always take the shuttle bus.
• Grab a seat in the outdoor amphitheater for a concert at the Blue Ridge Music Center .
• Make a stop at the Blowing Rock , sitting on a cliff that hangs 3000 feet above Johns River Gorge , named for the incredibly strong winds that blow up the cliff.
• Waterfall lovers should stop at Linville Falls , a beautiful three-tiered waterfall that cascades into Linville Gorge.
• Take a step back in time and experience Cherokee history at the Oconaluftee Indian Village , where you can learn about their culture, dress, and lifestyle.

Spanning 500 miles, the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway takes you from Chemult in Oregon to Lassen Volcanic National Park in California. You could easily spend a week heading along this route, making time for the ample stops along the way. The byway runs along the Pacific Northwest’s Cascade Range, with incredible mountain vistas around every turn.

One of the best things about this route is the seamless merge of old and new. The landscape itself has been created from countless volcanic eruptions which span back millions of years, while the more modern town of Bend is a great place to kick off the trip.

From Bend, pick up the byway, and it won’t be long before you hit Crater Lake National Park, where the collapse of Mount Mazama formed the deepest lake in the US.

• Stop to see the incredible Newberry Caldera at the Newberry National Volcanic Monument , here; you will be able to learn more about how the area was shaped over the years. There are more than 110 miles of trails in the area, so take your pick! You could also explore the 1 mile long Lava River Cave , which can be explored on a self-guided tour.
• Crater Lake is a must-see stop along the route. This deep blue lake is surrounded by towering cliffs, with two islands helping to make it one of the most incredible sights in the area. You can take a boat tour to Wizard Island , the cinder cone located in the lake.
• Don’t miss out on stopping at Petroglyph Point , which is one of the country’s largest pieces of Native American Rock Art.
• Keep an eye out for some of the fascinating volcanic geology, such as the many chimney-like fumaroles as you drive.
• Make a stop at the stunning 30 miles long Upper Klamath Lake , which just begs to be explored by canoe or kayak. The Upper Klamath Canoe Trail is a great way to see the sights of the area.

RELATED: 17+ Badass Things to Do in Oregon: Portland and Bend  

The short but sweet 300 mile USA road trip from Anchorage to Valdez will allow you to witness some of the most stunning Alaskan landscapes. You’ll be driving on the Glenn and Richardson Highways, past huge towering mountain ranges filled with glaciers.

If you did the drive without stopping, it would take you around 6 hours, but there are so many incredible natural wonders along the way, it is worth spending at least a few days doing the drive, stopping for hikes and viewpoints along the way.

The town of Valdez itself is stunning, known as the Little Switzerland of Alaska its incredible surroundings never cease to amaze visitors. Although you’ll be traveling on highways rather than smaller roads, you’ll still get a great insight into the Alaskan wilderness on one of the best American road trips around.

• Take a hike along the Thunderbird Fall Trail , which leads to an impressive 200-foot waterfall. The trail is only a mile, making it perfect for anyone.
• Enjoy a scenic float along a glacial river, floating downstream takes around 2 hours, and you can enjoy some incredible scenery along the route. NOVA Alaska Guides run these trips around 90 minutes from Anchorage.
• Pay a visit to the colorful Spirit Houses in the Eklunta Village , which dates back to 1650.
• Make use of the roadside pull out to see the Matanuska Glacier stretching out into the distance. If you feel like getting a little closer, you can walk up and touch this towering wall of ice.
• The Eagle River Nature Center is the gateway to the Chugach State Park , home to some genuinely wild scenery. The 3 mile Albert Loop trail is a great place to stretch your legs.
• Check out Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls , accessible via a short hike and a roadside pullout.

Located on Maui’s east coast, the road to Hana from Kahului in Hawaii is one of the most spectacular American road trips in the world. With 59 narrow bridges and 620 curves, it is not for the faint of heart but is certainly a lot of fun.

There is a new, incredible vista around every one of those curves, with plenty of white, red, and black beaches along the route.

At 100 miles long, the journey is achievable in a day, but with such stunning views and lots to do, why not stretch it out over 2 or 3 days? It is an awe-inspiring drive filled with cliffs, beaches and waterfalls, tropical jungles, and panoramic views of the emerald Pacific Ocean.

The road begins at the central town of Kahului and ends at the rustic little village of Hana, part of Hawaii State Routes 36 and 360.

• Stop off at the Nahiku Village for some of the best views of the crenulated coastline.
• Take a hike and a swim at the Three Bears Falls , the perfect place to cool off.
• Twin Falls provides the perfect little spot for a swim. Hike along the Waikamoi Natural Trail while in the area soak in the expanse of the bamboo forest.
• Plant lovers should not miss a trip to the Garden of Eden Arboretum , full of brilliantly colored botanical flowers.
• Don’t miss the Hana Lava Tube , a massive cave that has been formed by lava flows. For those that would prefer to stay above ground, enjoy the black sands of Pailoa Beach .

RELATED: First Time in Hawaii: A Perfect One Week Hawaii Itinerary  

With over 42 bridges in 110 miles and almost more sea than land, this American road trip will feel as though you are driving over the ocean. Along the way, you will have some incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean on both sides of the road, an experience you won’t get anywhere else on earth, making it quite a unique trip.

You’ll travel from island to island, including Plantation Key, Tea Table Key, Sugarloaf Key, Ragged Key, and more before reaching the end of the Florida Keys, Key West, where you can enjoy great weather and beautiful beaches.

June to November is hurricane season, so you will have to keep an eye on the weather if traveling at this time of year.

• Dive into the beautiful ocean for a snorkeling adventure for a chance to spot some sea turtles, nurse sharks, and parrotfish around the shallow reefs in the area.
• Visit the house of Ernest Hemingway , who lived in Key West during the 1920s. Be aware that around 50 cats now call the house their home.
• You can’t make this road trip without stopping at the southernmost point of the continental United States. Get there early to avoid waiting in line for a photo.

There is a lot more to the Las Vegas Loop than just casinos and bright lights. Making this your starting and endpoint of this USA road trip, you can take in some of the most spectacular landscapes that America has to offer.

RELATED: – Your Adventurous Utah Road Trip – 15 Adventurous Things To Do in Moab, Utah

The red rock of the American West has some magnificent scenery and will allow you to take in several National Parks such as Bryce Canyon, Zion, Canyonlands, Arches, and the Grand Canyon.

Learn about the local Navajo culture as you go, driving through long stretches of wide, empty roads with nothing but red rock and desert on all sides.

• See the sunrise through Mesa Arch in Canyonlands , and watch the sunset over Delicate Arch in Arches National Park .
• Take a hike up in Zion National Park up to Angels Landing and be rewarded with some incredible views.
• Walk between the red rocks of Antelope Canyon , one of the most spectacular and photographed canyons in the world.
• Take in the sights at Grand Canyon National Park . There are many different hikes and viewpoints along the rim of the Grand Canyon, all of which offer different viewpoints. Bright Angel Point Trail is a short round trip on a paved path to a spectacular view, or if you are up for something a bit more challenging, the North Kaibab Trail will take you into the canyon. Be sure to read the advice before using this trail and do not go too far as it can be dangerous.
• You don’t have to be a gambler to enjoy Las Vegas . Walk the strip to see the water fountains, watch the volcano show, take a ride on a rollercoaster, and more.

RELATED: Antelope Canyon in Winter + Which Tour to Take (Hint: Not Upper or Lower!)

A great place to start an American road trip is the Big Apple. Spend the first few days exploring this busy, vibrant, crazy city before even thinking about picking up a car.

Get your beach hit by driving to Cape Cod, with miles of pristine beaches and plenty of quaint fishing villages to chill in. This is quite a contrast to the city you have left behind.

After hugging the coast for a while, visiting spots such as Nantucket Island and Provincetown, you will arrive at the city of Boston .

This city is filled with things to do and see, including a harbor full of islands and the well-known ‘Freedom Trail.’ From Boston, you can continue to hug the coast up to Acadia National Park, before returning to New York via the Adirondack Mountains, with a side trip to Niagra Falls.

• See the sights of Metropolitan New York City, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park ; there is no end to the things to do and see.
• Enjoy canoeing at the Finger Lakes , a beautiful and photogenic part of New York State!
• Hop on a boat for a spot of whale watching when you reach Provincetown . There is nothing more exciting than spotting one of these majestic creatures out in the wild. Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch offers these trips.
• See the most famous waterfall in the world, Niagara Falls . Take in the views of the falls or even take in the sights on a boat trip.
• Visit Acadia National Park in the state of Maine, home to the tallest mountain on the US Atlantic Coast. Take a hike or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
• If you are visiting Boston in Autumn, make time to fit in a harbor trip to the surrounding islands on one of the regularly departing boats.

A list of American road trips would not be complete without including the iconic Route 66, arguably the most well-known roads in America. The road spans 2,400 miles across eight states and three time zones.

From Chicago all the way to Los Angeles, this is a pretty long road trip. You will be passing many of the old fashion motels and truck shops that have made this road so famous over the years.

There are countless sights, museums, and places to eat along the way, many of which have now become an important part of American history. The towns along this route are places that you would unlikely to ever visit, so it is a good way of exploring some of the less popular areas of the country.

After leaving Chicago, you will venture through the wide, open plains of the Midwest, over the mountains of New Mexico, and barren desert before making it to the Pacific Coast.

Cities you’ll pass include St Louis, Tulsa, Stillwater , Oklahoma City, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, and finally, Los Angeles and the end of your journey.

RELATED: Your Southwest Road Trip Itinerary (1 Week – 2 Months)

• As you make your way into Arizona, you will come across the Petrified Forest National Park . This is a really cool place to explore, with many examples of fossilized wood.
• Take a little side trip to see the incredible Grand Canyon . There are plenty of hikes in the area, all of which offer incredible viewpoints of the deep canyon below.
• Just outside the town of Flagstaff is a massive meteor crater, a mile across, created when a meteor struck the earth 50,000 years ago. There is a hiking trail that will take you all around the edge of the crater.
• The kaleidoscope of colors and layers of rock are what has given the Painted Desert its name. Take a short detour off the route and enjoy watching the sunset over this stunning spot in Arizona.
• Hire a bike and enjoy riding through the beautiful Forest Park in the center of St Louis .
• Make a stop at the second largest canyon in the US, the Palo Duro Canyon , also home to some extraordinary rock formations. Take one of the many trails to see the landscape up close.
• Explore the Meramec Caverns , one of the most visited cave systems in Missouri, and for good reason. The 4.6-mile canyon system is a true natural wonder, with incredible rock formations and deep caverns.
• Ascend 2.7 miles up the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway in Albuquerque in the Sandia Foothills . Once at the summit, admire the vistas of the Rio Grande Valley , and go for a hike in the surrounding forest.
• Trek to the Cima Dome in the Mojave National Preserve , where the world’s most extensive collection of Joshua Trees are located.

RELATED: Your Adventurous Arizona Road Trip

Start this Black Hills trip with the Badlands Loop, in Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This area is made up of nearly 244,000 acres of buttes, pinnacles, and spires, all of which have been shaped by erosion.

From the Badlands, head to nearby Rapid City with its vibrant downtown. Keep heading south towards the city of Keystone, before taking Hwy 244 to Mt. Rushmore, one of America’s most iconic sights.

Your next stop will be Hill City, an area in the Black Hills which is full of some stunning scenery. There are lots of things to do in the city and the surrounding area. Take Hwy 16 south and travel to Hot Springs and visit the Mammoth site, where you can learn all about the Ice Age and the many animals that came with it.

Your next stop will be Wind Cave National Park, followed by Custer State Park. Although not the longest route, the Black Hills area has so much to see and do, making it one of the best road trips in the USA.

• Stop to admire the incredible rock formations in Badlands National Park . You can also pop into the visitor’s center to learn more and visit the Prairie Homestead , one of the few sod dwellings still standing.
• Stop at the Petrified Forest of the Black Hills to marvel at great trees that have now turned to stone.
• Animal lovers should pay a visit to Bear Country USA , a fun, drive-through park where you will be able to see plenty of North American Wildlife around your car.
• Take a guided walking tour of Mt. Rushmore , where you can learn more about its fascinating history.
• In Custer State Park , you have a good chance of seeing some of the wild buffalo that call the area home. The Sunday Gulch Trail is a 4-mile loop trail by Sylvan Lake taking you down into the valley.

RELATED: 13 Cool Things to Do Around Rapid City, South Dakota

The Mississippi River is likely one of the most famous rivers in the world, and The Great River Road follows it from head to toe. The road is specifically designed to show off the ten states that border this river, so expect to see a lot packed into this USA road trip.

Farms line the road, as well as upland meadows, Cyprus swamps, thick forest, wildlife refuges, and towering limestone cliffs; it is nothing if not scenic.

It crosses the river often and passes through long-forgotten towns, as well as some major cities. The 3000 mile National Scenic Byway will take you from Minnesota all the way down to Louisiana.

• Head to the Nelson Dewey State Park for breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River from the park’s 500-foot bluff. It is a great place to stop and camp, go hiking, or simply enjoy a picnic with an incredible vista stretching out before you.
• The Trail of Tears State Park can be found in Missouri, the perfect place for hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding.
• Make a stop at the Yellow River Forest State Recreation Area , an 8,000-acre forest that contains some of Iowa’s most incredible landscapes. There are many high, scenic bluffs to climb, while canoeing can be enjoyed on the streams.
• Pikes Peak State Park boasts one of Iowa’s most spectacular views of the Mississippi River, making it a very rewarding climb.

Many people think of the East Coast of the USA to be primarily urban sprawl, but hug the coastline, and you will be surprised about what you find.

Large stretches of rugged coastline are indispersed with picture-perfect beach resorts, so you can get your beach fix along the way.  The road runs for around 2000 miles, with views of the ocean the majority of the way making it one of the best American road trips.

You can start this trip in New York, spending a few days exploring this famous, busy city, before hitting the road and experiencing a very different part of America.

How far you travel on this road is up to you, and if you kept driving the full distance, you would end up at Key West; however, many people tend to curve inland and head to the city of Washington DC as a finishing point.

The route really does have something for everyone, urban city scenes and bright lights, quiet fishing towns, photogenic lighthouses on deserted cliff faces and low lying islands, connected via a series of bridges.

• Experience the grand Victorian charms of Cape May , before boarding the ferry with your car to cross over this stretch of ocean.
• Enjoy the miles and miles of picture-perfect beaches of Long Beach Island , a long thin island only half a mile wide at its widest point.
• Stop at some of the state parks along the coast, such as First Landing State Park, Carolina Beach State Park, and Huntington Beach State Park . Each of these parks offers a good range of hiking trails, fishing, and camping.

The drive from San Francisco to Las Vegas will take you through three incredible National Parks. After leaving the hilly city of San Fran, head north to Napa Valley, before driving across the state of California to the incredible Yosemite National Park.

From here, drive south through the foothills of the mountain to Sequoia National Park , home of some of the biggest and most impressive trees in the world.

You will continue heading south until you reach the desert landscape of Death Valley National Park. The final stop before reaching Las Vegas will be Hoover Dam, an incredible architectural wonder.

There is something for everyone on this route. Nature lovers will enjoy getting out and about in the mountains or experience the wonders of the desert.

City dwellers can experience all that two of the most famous cities in the state has to offer, and you can enjoy some of the finest California wines along the way.

RELATED: 15 Things To Do in Sequoia National Park

• Take in the hilly scenery of San Francisco . Take in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge , visit the most famous prison in the world and see the seals from the piers that line the waters.
• Sample some of the finest wines in the region in the many wineries that dot the Napa Valley region. The scenery here isn’t too bad, either.
• Waterfalls, towering cliffs, and plenty of wildlife, Yosemite National Park , will take your breath away. The Mist Trail skirts the 317 foot Vernal Fall and 594 foot Nevada Falls and heads into the Yosemite Valley. The Valley Loop Trail will allow you to see all of the Yosemite Valley highlights, including Yosemite Falls, Sentinel Rock, El Captan, and more, covering 11.5 miles.
• You can’t even contemplate the size of the trees in Sequoia National Park until you see them. Only found in a few places around the world, these great forests deserve a whole day of exploration.
• Take in the salt plains, desert landscapes, and miles of sand dunes in Death Valley National Park . If you stay the night, it is one of the best places for stargazing.
• Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel, and well worth a stop on the road trip.
• Take a walk down the sparkling strip of Las Vegas . Even if you are not a gambler, this is a fun place to explore, with plenty of entertainment all night long.

RELATED: Your Adventurous Nevada Road Trip

Starting in Boston and ending in Seattle, this cross-country American road trip is an excellent way of seeing some of the country’s many highlights. Spanning 3000 miles, there are plenty of places to stop along the way, from great cities to mountain wilderness, each day will bring something new.

The route runs along the northern part of the US. You will be taken through the incredible glacial landscapes of Montana, past wild west towns in South Dakota , and through the Amish Countryside in Pennsylvania.

• Spend some time in Boston exploring the streets of this picturesque city. A boat trip around the harbor is a great way to spend the day.
• Make a stop in Chicago , a city known for its many museums and urban art. From the pier, you can take in the views or take a cruise around Lake Michigan .
• Drive through Badlands National Park to see the iconic buttes and canyons in all shades of red, orange, and gold. Keep a lookout for the bison and bighorn sheep that call this part of the country their home.
• Head into South Dakota and explore the Black Hills region, such as the Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and Crazy Horse Memorial.
• Find the hidden beaches around the beautiful Flathead Lake , where you can enjoy a peaceful day in a picturesque setting.
• Venture into the Bavarian village of Leavenworth at the foothills of Washington’s Cascade Mountains , with 300 days of sunshine a year; it is a great place to explore.

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More USA Road Trips

I hope this post helped you plan some epic American road trips. Are there any other road trips that I didn’t mention in the post? Let me know in the comments below!

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Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She's been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer! Read more about Nina

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An Epic Cross-Country Road Trip Itinerary: 8 Weeks Coast to Coast

This epic cross-country road trip itinerary is for an all-American family road trip from coast to coast! This USA road trip itinerary includes 21 states, 9 National Parks, 3 National Monuments, and 1 National Memorial and takes approximately 8 weeks.

This route starts in New England (Connecticut specifically) and heads down to North Carolina, through Denver, across to Los Angeles, then up to San Francisco, with lots of fun family road trip stops along the way!

When possible, we’ll include alternate routes or additional road trip stops that may be of interest as you move coast to coast.

Pick and choose which stops sound like fun for your family to craft your own ideal cross-country family road trip.

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. All our recommendations are independent and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

At the bottom of the post, Download a free License Plate Game to play on your cross-country road trip!

Lodging: Booking.com Flight Deals: Skyscanner Rental Cars: Discover Cars Airport Transfers: Welcome Pickups

Digital SIM Cards: Airalo eSIM Travel Insurance: SafetyWing

Table of Contents

How Do You Plan a Cross-Country Road Trip for Families?

Summer road trips in the United States are a family right of passage- a lot of families can only tackle these long drives during the summer months, making it a busy time for driving cross-country!

We advise booking all hotel and motel rooms well in advance, with particular emphasis on the national parks, which have seen record crowds in the last few years. Many major attractions and museums require timed tickets for entry, yet another reason to plan ahead.

Don’t forget to buy an Annual Park Pass – it pays for itself in three parks! The pass is good for one year from purchase.

Buy Now: America the Beautiful National Parks Pass

Since we had a 4 and 6-year-old, we limited our time in the car to 4-5 hours a day. If you have older kids, you could do a similar route in a lot less time.

Planning a trip with kids? We put together our best advice for road trip tips specifically for families with kids and toddlers. We’ve covered everything from planning to bathroom breaks so you can learn from our hours on the road.

What is the Best Cross-Country Road Trip Route to Take?

There are many routes you can take cross-country from the all-American Route 66 to the northern route via rt 90, or the most southern route via Route 10. What route is best for you depends on what you’d like to see along the way and where you’d like to end your trip.

We traveled cross-country over a mix of the below routes. We started by mapping out where we have friends we’d like to stop and see, and then added in bucket list stops like the Grand Canyon.

Major Highways Crossing the US

These are the most famous highways crossing the US, many families use these as a start to their road trip planning.

Route 66 , also called the Will Rodgers Highway, runs from Chicago to Los Angeles. It is one of the original US highway routes and was used extensively during the 1930s during the Dust Bowl. This road trip route is now known for its kitsch roadside attractions and instagram-able photo opportunities.

Route 90 , the most northern route, starts in Boston as the Mass Pike, crosses to Chicago, then through Sioux Falls, to Billings and Missoula, then Spokane, and finally Seattle. This is the route you’d take to see Mt. Rushmore , the Badlands, and Yellowstone National Park .

Route 80 is a middle route that starts in New Jersey, also goes through Chicago, then runs through Omaha to Cheyenne, on to Salt Lake City, then to Reno, ending in San Francisco.

Route 70 starts in Baltimore, then Pittsburgh, on to Columbus, Indianapolis, then St. Louis, Kansas City, and over to Denver before heading through Utah with its famous National Parks of Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce, and Zion, then on to Los Angeles.

Route 40 is a mid-southern route starting in Wilmington, NC, heading through Nashville, to Oklahoma City, to Albuquerque, then Flagstaff, close to the Grand Canyon, and ending in Los Angeles.

Route 10 is the most southern route which starts in Jacksonville FL, heads to New Orleans, across to Houston, to Tuscon, and then on to Los Angeles.

Epic Cross-Country Road Trip Itinerary

This cross-country road trip is the first leg of our Family Year Out . From California, we headed overseas to continue our Gap Year journey in Mexico , Peru , Colombia , Brazil , Italy , Croatia , Morocco , and more. If you’ve got questions, start with what exactly is a Family Year Out ?

Since we were traveling with a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old, so all activities and stops are appropriate for families with young kids. Due to the health environment at the time, we mostly focused on outdoor activities, with a few exceptions.

Worried about keeping the kids entertained and happy during long rides in the back seat? We recommend a combination of fun kid’s car activities and lots of road trip snacks .

This is the map of our full cross-country road trip- since it’s hard to see the details in this full USA map, we’ve added screenshots below of sections of the trip.

Start: Connecticut

We started this family cross-country road trip in Connecticut, where we’d been living for the last few years. We sold our house, and all our things were packed up into either a Pod storage container or into our car.

What did we pack into our not-so-huge Subaru Outback? All the road trip essentials , a few books for the kids, and lots of food.

Don’t forget travel insurance! We use SafetyWing for our long-term travel needs.

Get a Quote: SafetyWing Travel Insurance

Crayola Experience, Easton PA

First stop, the Crayola Experience in Easton, PA. This colorful attraction covers 65,000 square feet, with 27 different experiences. We were able to see how crayons are made and name our own crayons among lots of other crafty activities. Some of the attractions, including the character appearances, and the playground, were closed due to restrictions, but should now be open again.

We had a great time at the Crayola Experience. As you can see in our review of the Crayola Experience , we highly recommend it for families. In fact, our kids still sometimes talk about it!

Additional Stop: Gettysburg, PA

Continue southwest to Gettysburg, PA to visit the Gettysburg National Military Park and learn about this famous battle in the Civil War. See where Abraham Lincoln stood to give the Gettysburg Address, and don’t forget to stop by the Cannonball Malt Shop!

Book Now: 2 Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Tour

Baltimore, MD- 2 nights

We spent our first two nights with friends in Baltimore. While we mostly hung out in their backyard catching up, there’s plenty for families to do in “Charm City”.

Take a hike through Lake Roland Nature Center and Park or explore the children’s fairy garden there. Take a Chessie dragon paddleboat out on the Chesapeake harbor, or upgrade to an electric pirate boat. Dress like a pirate and fire a water cannon on an Urban Pirates Family Adventure Cruise.

We loved exploring Fort McHenry – where the Star-Spangled Banner was written during the War of 1812. It was a very manageable size for the kids, with lots of bite-sized bits of information, and plenty of space to run around.

Washington, D.C.- 2 nights

We were in DC for a few days in 2019, so this visit was focused on a few places we didn’t get to on that trip. Washington DC is a very family-friendly city, with tons to do!

National Museum of Natural History

First on our list was the National Museum of Natural History ! S(6) was really excited to see the rocks and gems, and both girls will love dinosaurs.

We were able to see the Hope Diamond, and some really large crystals, so the kids loved it. We spent a little time in the Hall of Oceans, but the gems were really our highlight. With timed tickets, the museum felt empty, and we had lots of space to ourselves.

National Museum of the American Indian

We also went to the National Museum of the American Indian . I’ve heard great things about it, and was hoping it would set the stage for some other educational stops farther along the trip. Also, their cafe with native foods is supposed to be terrific.

However, I would not recommend this museum for kids. It was very cerebral and involved a lot of reading plaques. They were not at all entertained. We were there for the last day of an exhibit on the Inka Trail (leading to Macchu Pichu) which should have been riveting but was not accessible enough for the kids. The cafe was closed, so we weren’t able to try it.

National Archives

I’m was also hoping to visit the National Archives Museum to see the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. As part of S’s 2nd-grade curriculum, she will be learning about the Constitution, so this seemed like a great way to jumpstart that part of her education.

The timed tickets for the National Archives sold out fast- we were not able to get tickets on this visit. Plan way ahead if this is on your list!

The White House

Lastly, I emailed our representative to see if we can tour the White House. As of late June 2021, the White House was still closed. We tried to get a photo in front of the White House and found that we could barely get close enough to see it, due to a sudden security lockdown.

A lot of the monuments are lit up at night, this tour makes it really easy to see this other perspective of the National Mall.

Book Now: 3 Hour “Monuments By Night Tour”

Mount Vernon

We realized at the last minute that many of the main attractions in D.C. are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays- so we drove down to Virginia to explore George Washington’s family estate of Mount Vernon.

We highly recommend visiting Mount Vernon with kids !

Affordable Hotels close to the National Mall: Hotel Harrington (not luxury, but amazing location), or Hyatt Regency Washington (walking to Union Station).

Charlottesville, VA- 1 night

We are stopped for one day in Charlottesville to hang out with some friends at a local park.

Don’t Miss Cabins : Montfair Resort Farm . If you are passing by Crozet, VA, don’t miss a stay at the Montfair Resort Farm! Our kids loved staying in a rustic log cabin with bunk beds.

We didn’t have time to check out all the activities around the lake but would have loved a few quiet days to canoe and explore the area.

Check Availability: Montfair Resort Farm

Alternate Route: Natural Bridge State Park

From Washington DC, head south to Colonial Williamsburg before driving west to Charlottesville. From Charlottesville continue west to visit Natural Bridge State Park . Walk the Ceder Creek Trail to the natural bridge, then continue to the Monacan Village.

Colonial Williamsburg

We spent a day at Colonial Williamsburg . It was hot. The distances between buildings were long. We faded. Our favorite part with the maze behind the governor’s house. I think we may have made a mistake starting on the quieter end near the markets, rather than at the visitors center.

Overall it reinforced some of the things we learned at Mount Vernon but was just too much for us on a muggy 90+ degree day.

Depending on your timing you can also visit Historic Jamestowne – the first permanent English settlement in the Americas.

Outer Banks, NC- 2 nights

We wanted to dip our toes in the Atlantic Ocean before heading to the West Coast to dip our toes in the Pacific! We spent two nights exploring the beaches in Nags Head, North Carolina .

The Wright Brothers National Memorial is just down the beach- visit to see where the first powered flight took place! We were also looking forward to some time just relaxing and digging in the sand.

We almost skipped the Wright Brothers Memorial, but I’m so glad we went! Don’t miss visiting the Wright Brothers Memorial with kids – this small park is the perfect place to learn and explore.

Affordable Place to Stay: Sea Horse Inn & Cottages , Nags Head. These are simple rooms, but right across the street from the beach, with beach access at Jeanette’s Pier. Small grocery deli, burgers, and ice cream are all within an easy walk.

Check Availability: Sea Horse Inn & Cottages

Greensboro, NC- 1 night

Take a one-night stopover in Greensboro, North Carolina to break up a long drive.

Budget Hotel: Fairview Inn, Greensboro Airport . This hotel is nothing amazing, but they have an outdoor pool, and coin laundry, so it does the trick.

Alternate Route: Willmington, NC, and Charleston, SC

Instead of heading west to Greensboro, continue south to Wilmington, NC, and then to Charleston, SC. In Charleston visit the aircraft carrier U.S.S Yorktown . Head northwest to Cherokee, NC. Heading through Charlotte, NC? Check out all the things to do in Charlotte in winter !

Oconaluftee Indian Village

Next, we headed to Cherokee, NC to visit the Oconalutfee Indian Village . The visit starts with a guided tour introducing traditional Cherokee crafts, then you’ll move through a living history village from the 18th Century at your own pace.

This Cherokee village was so engaging! We highly recommend it if you are in the area.

You can read a full review of our Oconaluftee Village visit and why we so highly recommend it!

Additional Stop: Rock City and Ruby Falls

If you have a little more time in this area, head west to Chattanooga, TN to tour Ruby Falls – the tallest and deepest waterfall open to the public in the United States. Visit Rock City (technically in Georgia) where you’ll see the Fairyland Caverns, and walk the Enchanted Trail.

Cave City, KY- 2 nights

We based ourselves in Cave City, KY to visit two attractions- Mammoth Cave, and Dinosaur World.

Mammoth Cave National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest-known cave system with over 400 miles of mapped passageways. We took the Historic Modified Tour, which is the classic tour covering about 2 miles.

Visiting Mammoth Cave with kids was amazing! We decided to skip Dinosaur World and instead had a picnic and worked on our first Junior Ranger packets. The kids were thrilled to get their official badges!

Which tour of Mammoth is best for you? We’ve recommended the best cave tour of Mammoth for everyone from families with young kids to those looking for an adventure.

Next stop- Dinosaur World Kentucky ! This attraction normally includes a 15-minute Fossil Dig with every ticket, but in 2021, each child will be given a bag with three fossils when they enter. There are 150 life-size dinosaurs to see, a big dinosaur playground, and a museum of dinosaur bones and eggs. There is no food service, so bring a picnic.

Budget Hotel: Days Inn Wyndham Cave Cit y. This hotel happens to be very close to Dinosaur World, so we had an amazing view of their Fourth of July Fireworks from the parking lot! The kids enjoyed the pool here. A decent, no-frills, clean hotel.

Check Availability: Days Inn Wyndam Cave City

Nashville, TN- 3 nights

In Nashville, wander down Broadway (Honky Tonk Highway), check out the Nashville Farmers’ Market , and have some playground time at Cumberland Park.

You can also feed the lorikeets, pet the kangaroos, and play on the jungle gym at the Nashville Zoo .

We highly recommend dinner and a show at the Listening Room Cafe . The show started at 6 pm, which was very family-friendly. This venue showcases up-and-coming songwriters, singing their own songs. Tickets are just $5 per person, with a $15/person food and drink minimum.

Tickets to the Grand Ole Opry were sold out where we were there but we’ve heard amazing things about this backstage tour.

Book Now: Backstage Tour of Grand Ole Opry House

Don’t Miss This Hotel: In Nashville, we stayed at the SoBro Guest House run by Black Swan. We had a one-bedroom apartment, so we slept in the bedroom and the kids slept on the pull-out couch in the small, modern living area.

It was great to have a little more space and a full kitchen for a few days. The location was fantastic, an easy walk to almost everything we wanted to do in Nashville. We also loved that check-in was with door codes, so it was super simple and convenient.

Check Availability: SoBro Guest House Nashville

Memphis, TN- 3 nights

Memphis has so much to do! We celebrated E’s 4th birthday here, by taking a river cruise down the Mississippi River on a paddlewheel boat.

We also visited the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum which is in the Lorraine Motel where MLK Jr. was shot.

We also explored Beale Street, and visited the Big River Crossing where you can put one foot in Tennessee and one in Arkansas. Don’t miss the Stax Museum of American Soul Music where you can dance to some vintage Soul Train episodes.

I had hoped to visit Graceland , but we were put off by the high ticket prices.

Affordable Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown . This hotel is an easy walk to Beale Street and a lot of popular Memphis attractions. Also an easy walk to a trolley station. A mid-tier, clean hotel in a fantastic location.

Check Availability: Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown

Hot Springs, AR- 1 night

Hot Springs, Arkansas is the home of Hot Springs National Park , a unique national park that exists in the middle of town. There are ancient thermal springs, and 9 historic bathhouses you can visit.

You can fill a bottle at thermal spring fountains around town as well as two cold springs fountains. There are two places you can touch the thermal springs coming out of the ground. This town is adorable, but it was packed with people when we were there.

Affordable Hotel: You’ll want to stay within an easy walk of downtown Hot Springs. We recommend Hotel Hot Springs .

Ron Coleman Quartz Mining

In Jessieville, AR, just outside of Hot Springs, you can visit Ron Coleman’s Crystal Mines . Take a tour of the commercial mining operation, then start digging in the public area. You can dig as long as you like, and take home anything you find. This was one of our favorite experiences on the whole trip. Digging is hard work, bring gardening gloves to avoid blisters!

Alternate Stop: Crater of Diamonds State Park

You could visit Crater of Diamonds State Park , in Murfreesboro, AR where you can dig for diamonds and other precious gems in their original volcanic source. Keep anything you find! These gems tend to be quite small, and hard to find, so we opted for the crystal mines with the hope that it will be more rewarding for our little diggers.

Additional Stop: Cherokee Heritage Center

On your way to Springfield, head slightly west to stop at the Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, OK. Here you’ll find a replica 1710 Cherokee village and village stations that teach you about blowguns, dugout canoes, and more.

Springfield, MO- 1 night

Next on this cross-country trip, we started heading north, up through Missouri. We stopped in Springfield for a visit to Fantastic Caverns . This is the only cave in North America that you ride through- a jeep-drawn tram pulls you through the cave. Springfield is also home to the largest fork in the world!

Budget Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Springfield South . A simple room with an indoor pool and breakfast included.

Deanna Rose Homestead

This homestead in Overland, KS has a one-room schoolhouse from 1900, a barbershop, a blacksmith, a dairy barn, and more. Visit a Kanza Indian encampment, play on one of the playgrounds, or feed the baby goats. This is best for young kids- we found it to be more playground and petting zoo than particularly educational.

Kansas City, MO- 2 nights

We chose Kansas City as a stop on our cross-country road trip because 20 minutes to the east is Independence, Missouri. Independence was the starting point for the Oregon Trail. We recently read this Oregon Trail series and are excited to visit some of the original stops along the trail.

The National Frontier Trails Museum is dedicated to the history of the Oregon, Santa Fe, and California trails. Check out some original wagon ruts, and take a ride around town in a covered wagon!

Don’t Miss Tour: When we were planning this trip, the museum was open, but upon arrival in Independence, MO, it has been closed due to an uptick of cases here.

We ended up taking a fabulous covered wagon tour with Pioneer Trails Adventures , who were waiting outside the 1859 jail with their two mules, Frankie and Annie. Find them at 217 Main Street, Independence, MO.

We all learned a ton and got to drive through part of the original Oregon Trail. Book online to make sure they’ll be there!

Other things to do in Kansas City include the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art- both are free of charge. The sculpture park at the museum is a great place for little ones to stretch their legs. Affordable Hotel: The La Quinta Kansas City Beacon Hill has a good location, free parking, and a great breakfast.

Check Availability: La Quinta Kansas City Beacon Hill

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop

Visit a working 1860s farm at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm in Olathe, KS. This is the last public stagecoach stop on the Santa Fe Trail. Explore the grounds, see the old stagecoach stop dining room, and take a ride in a real stagecoach.

This place is fantastic- we tried writing with quill and ink pens, chatted with the (female) blacksmith, and learned about life in the 1850s. And of course, took a ride in a real stagecoach!

Alcove Spring Historic Park

Many travelers on the Oregon Trail camped in Alcove Spring, KS for a few days while waiting to cross the Big Blue River.

Check out the wagon swales (grooves in the earth from many wagons passing) and take a short hike to the waterfall of Alcove Spring . You’ll be on dirt roads on your way here, don’t worry, you’re on the right path!

Fort Cody Trading Post

Stretch your legs in North Platte, NE at this popular roadside attraction . It’s been open since 1963! See Buffalo Bill memorabilia, and explore the stockade out back with a jail, wagons, and more.

Ogallala, NE- 1 night

Stop over in Ogallala (say that ten times fast!) to break up the drive. Start out early, as you’ll have a long day ahead of you full of Oregon Trail stops, ending in Cheyenne.

Budget Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Ogallala offers simple, clean rooms with fun large-scale black-and-white photos of the surrounding landscape. We enjoyed sleeping under a photo of Courthouse Rock!

Check Availability: Super 8 Ogallala

Ash Hollow and Windlass Hill hill are famous pieces of the Oregon Trail. It was here that pioneers has to use ropes to lower their covered wagons down the steep hill.

Additional Stop #1: Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock

Before Chimney Rock, take Highway 88 two miles south of Bridgeport, NE to spot Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock – two landmarks on the Oregon Trail.

Additional Stop #2: Carhenge and Dobby’s Frontier Town

From Courthouse and Jail Rocks take Rt 385 an hour north to the pop culture icon of Carhenge , and stroll through Dobby’s Frontier Town .

Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is a distinctive landmark along the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails that signaled to travelers that they were on the right path! Many pioneers climbed the spire to carve their names. This rock even appears on the 2006 Nebraska quarter. Find it at 9822 County Road 75, Bayard, NE.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Scotts Bluff in Gering, NE is another landmark on the pioneer trail. Hike a trail or drive the Scotts Bluff Summit Road, the oldest paved road in Nebraska.

Walk the Oregon Trail Pathway to see replicas of covered wagons and walk through Mitchel’s Pass, which used to be called “Devil’s Gap”. When the trail changes to dirt, you are on the real Oregon Trail!

Don’t forget to ask for your Junior Ranger packet, if you don’t have time to complete it while you are there, you can mail it back.

Additional Stop: Fort Laramie

If you’d like to continue on the Oregon Trail, continue one more hour north on rt 26 to visit Fort Laramie in Wyoming. Fort Laramie was the largest and most well-known fort along the pioneer trail. Stagecoach lines, the Pony Express, and the transcontinental telegraph all passed through here. The fort was abandoned in 1890, you can now visit restored structures.

Cheyenne, WY- 1 night

There’s a lot to do in Cheyenne, especially if you are there in July for Frontier Days , the world’s largest outdoor rodeo! Visit Gunslinger Square (15th and Pioneer) Saturdays during the summer at high noon to see a performance by the Cheyenne Gunslingers- a non-profit group keeping the Old Western gunfight tradition alive.

Don’t Miss Lodging: Head straight to Terry’s Bison Ranch where you can stay in one of the cabins. Take the Bison Train Tour to hand feed the bison and then go on a pony ride.

The kids had the best time here- there were lots of RVs parked, so lots of kids to play with on the two playgrounds.

The Bison Train at Terry’s is very cool- go first thing in the morning so the animals are hungry. The pony ride is actually a horse on a lead, not a pony, which made it even more fun for our novice riders.

Estes Park, CO

Stop in Estes Park for lunch (or a cinnamon roll at Scratch or Notchtop Bakery) and take the aerial tram to the summit of Prospect Mountain. This is a great town to stretch your legs in and just window shop for a bit.

Additional Stop: Rocky Mountain National Park

From Estes Park, you can easily explore Rocky Mountain National Park . Take the Trail Ridge Road which has many overlooks and peaks at over 12,000 feet, or hike to Emerald Lake, a round trip hike of 3.5 miles.

Denver, CO- 3 nights

Next stop, the “Mile High City”! Check out the trolley that inspired the trolley in Mister Rogers Neighborhood, take a tour of the Denver Mint to see how coins are made (ages 7+), and watch a performance at Casa Bonita .

We were excited to visit Dinosaur Ridge in nearby Morrison, CO. This is where the first Stegosaurus was discovered. Take the Dinosaur Ridge Trail to see more than 15 fossils and sites along a two-mile track. There are more than 250 dinosaur tracks that can be seen here.

We took our kids to their first MLB game in Denver! As Red Sox fans, we planned to take them to Fenway, but that hasn’t happened. The Rockies played Seattle in an afternoon game- it was hot, but they have a play area for kids who need to get their wiggles out.

Affordable Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Denver Downtown . Good location, a good breakfast, and is within a five-minute drive or walking distance of a lot of the sights.

Check Availability: Holiday Inn Express Denver Downtown

Pre-book Parking: We parked in downtown Denver to check out Union Station, only to realize the parking garage one block down was $10 cheaper. Doh! Take the stress out of parking by booking ahead with SpotHero , where you can see a map of nearby prices. Perfect for cities where parking spots on the street are tight.

Check Prices: SpotHero Parking in Denver

Additional Stop: Colorado Springs, CO

An hour and a half south of Denver, Colorado Springs has a lot to offer. Explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings of the Anasazi people, drive up Pike’s Peak, or go floating or rafting down the Arkansas River.

Visit the Garden of the Gods – a free nature preserve and series of hiking trails. Hike among large sandstone formations with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Climb the 224 steps to the Broadmoor Seven Falls , some of the most impressive waterfalls in Colorado.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Time for sand sledding on the tallest sand dunes in North America in Great Sand Dunes National Park ! Older kids can go sandboarding (like snowboarding), but sleds are recommended for smaller kids, as it’s easier to get the hang of it. Sand sledding takes some figuring out, but with a few tips for sledding it’s a lot fun for the whole family.

There’s a lot of things to do at Great Sand Dunes including nearby hiking trails. We visited in the summer, which is one of the best times to visit Great Sand Dunes , but there are advantages to other seasons as well.

Head to the dunes early before the heat sets in, then cool off in Medano Creek or with a hike to Zapata Falls (where the water is freezing).

No reservations are needed to visit the park, there is only camping within the park, no hotels or lodges. We’ll recommend staying in nearby Alamosa, Colorado.

Don’t Miss Calvillos Mexican in Alamosa, we got take-out from here and Waker still talks about it!

Budget Hotel: Best Western Alamosa fits the bill. Clean, simple, and close to restaurants and shopping.

Check Availability: Best Western Alamosa

Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo , near Taos, New Mexico is the traditional adobe village of the Taos people- ancestors of the Taos lived in this area almost one thousand years ago. No electricity or running water is allowed in the pueblo, so most people live outside the village walls and use the pueblo for ceremonial purposes.

You can take a guided tour around the pueblo. Now Open Thursday to Monday!

Santa Fe, NM- 3 nights

Head south to Santa Fe! Stroll through Santa Fe Plaza and see the Palace of the Governors . While you’re there grab an ice cream from La Lecheria . Spend some time wandering through the Santa Fe Farmers Market .

We highly recommend a visit to Meow Wolf: House of Eternal Return – which has been described as a “surrealist funhouse” and “dreamlike”. It is an “explorable art experience” that gets rave reviews. This was So. Much. Fun.

Don’t miss El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (The Ranch of the Swallows), a living history museum just outside Santa Fe. Josephina , one of the American Girl Dolls, was inspired by the rancho here. The ranch worked with the company to create the doll and book series and ensure its accuracy.

Affordable Hotel: Best Western Plus Inn of Santa Fe is a great hotel outside of the city center, close to Meow Wolf, with a pool.

Check Availability: Best Western Plus Inn of Santa Fe

Downtown Hotel: Santa Fe Motel & Inn . I didn’t realize how much time we’d spend in downtown Santa Fe, and how tight the parking there is. For our next visit, I’d trade the pool for a convenient downtown location at this adorable hotel.

Check Availability: Santa Fe Motel & Inn

Mesa Verde National Park- 2 nights

Mesa Verde National Park protects the cultural heritage of 26 tribes who build their ancestral pueblos in this area. Most cliff dwellings can only be entered on a ranger-led tour.

Plan ahead to take the Cliff Palace Tour to see the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and hike the Soda Canyon Overlook Trail (1.2 miles roundtrip) for views of the Balcony House. Mesa Verde is a terrific park for families with layers of history told across the park.

Four Corners National Monument

This is the monument where you can stand in four states at once: Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah. This monument is on Navajo land and was closed during our trip.

Additional Stop: Monument Valley

Continue two hours west to Monument Valley. Take a guided tour through this land that is sacred to the Navajo. Most tours drive a 17-mile Valley Drive loop of the park, famous for appearing in many Western movies.

Moab, UT- 3 nights

Moab is the base for two National Parks- Arches, and Canyonlands. For a different perspective, take a riverboat cruise on the Colorado River.

Arches National Park is very family-friendly with a series of hikes that are two miles or less. Start with an easy walk to Sand Dune Arch, then take the 2-mile hike to Landscape Arch from the Devil’s Garden Trailhead.

The hiking trails in Arches are often short, making this a great place for families with different levels of hiking abilities. The best time to visit Arches is when it’s not stifling hot. If you do visit in the summer, get as early a start as you can to avoid the worst of the heat.

Canyonlands National Park is divided into sections each with its own entrance and visitor center. Coming from Moab, the Island in the Sky section of the park is the closest. If you have more time, venture farther south to the Needles section of the park.

Here are our two top picks for where to stay near Arches and Canyonlands but there are many options. Book early as the best places sell out well in advance.

Budget Hotel: Hotel Moab Downtown . Great location, you can walk all around downtown Moab, which is full of shopping and restaurants. Good outdoor pool as well.

Check Availability: Hotel Moab Downtown

Super Fun Family Hotel: Expedition Lodge . Our kids eyeballed this place every time we drove past. It has a pool with a tube waterslide, a game room, and even rooms with bunk beds.

Check Availability: Expedition Lodge

Additional Stop: Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry

150 miles north of Moab, this quarry has the densest concentration of Jurassic Dinosaur bones ever found. You can visit some of the excavation sites.

Bryce Canyon National Park- 2 nights

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its Hoodoos- tall irregular columns of rock. There are many hiking options- we started with watching the sunrise at Inspiration Point and then walked a bit of the Rim Trail.

We also hiked the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop- it’s 3 miles overall, which sounds fine, but ends with a steep uphill, which can be tough. There are Starry Night Telescope Viewings at the visitor center, and even full moon ranger-led night walks!

Watch for “I Hiked the Hoodoos” medallions throughout the park- kids who bring three rubbings or photos to the visitors center get a reward! There is a shuttle that runs through the park to reduce traffic. We stayed inside the park at Bryce Canyon Lodge. We spent two days in Bryce Canyon and it remains one of our favorite National Parks !

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

This National Monument covers almost one million acres. It has three areas- Grand Staircase, Kaiparowits, and Escalante Canyon. This area is less visited than its neighboring parks, so it should be less crowded. Some of the trailheads involve driving slowly over rutted roads.

The most popular hike here is the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch. The path through these slot canyons can get quite narrow and involves scrambling over rocks, and sometimes using knotted ropes to pull yourself up a rock. The loop created by combining these two trails is about 4 miles round trip. Accessed from Hole in the Rock Road from Escalante, with a turn-off at mile 30.

Peek-a-Boo Gulch sounds a bit too intense for our four-year-old, so instead, we planned to try Willis Creek. Willis Creek is a slot canyon hike accessed from Cannonville. This is a fairly flat, shaded hike leading to a waterfall. This hike is about 4 miles roundtrip- but you can turn around wherever you like. You’ll see the trailhead 6 miles down Skutumpah Road.

Unfortunately we ran out of time to hike Grand Staircase-Escalante, it’s on our list for next time!

Additional Stop: Zion National Park

Zion was the first National Park in Utah and is extremely popular. We skipped Zion on this trip because of the crowds, and because you can’t do everything! There are stories of long waits for shuttles (tickets in advance are now required). We’ll circle back to the park when the kids are old enough to tackle part of the Narrows.

One of the most popular hikes in Zion is the Narrows, which is currently closed due to a Toxic Cyanobacteria Bloom. This hike going “top-down” requires a permit and reservation. The “bottoms up” hike does not need a permit and can be up to 9 miles, though you can turn around wherever you like. Much of this hike involves walking or wading through cold water.

A more family-friendly version of this is the Riverside walk- a 2.2 mile round trip to the entrance of the Narrows.

Horseshoe Bend

This 270-degree bend in the Colorado River is stunning. Just south of Page, Arizona, look for mile marker 545. There is a 3/4 mile walk out to the lookout point. Sunrise and sunset are supposed to be amazing here if you can make it work- be wary of the midday sun, especially in summer.

It’s a beautiful site, however, we had to ask ourselves, is it worth it ?

Grand Canyon National Park- 2 nights

The Grand Canyon looms large in the canon of All American Family Road Trips! While I had stopped at the main lookout point, I’d never stayed in the park and explored further.

We stayed inside the South Rim of the Grand Canyon at the Yavapai Lodge so we could see sunrise along the rim at Mather Point.

You can explore the rim trail or take the Hermit Road shuttle bus to explore seven miles of the rim with nine overlook stops.

The Bright Angel Trail heads down into the canyon, with turnaround points at 1.5 and 3 miles.

This was not our favorite park. While it’s considered a National Treasure, we’d consider skipping the Grand Canyon on our next trip.

The Grand Canyon by Helicopter

After we left the park, we headed to the Grand Canyon Airport for a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon! We were excited for the thrill of the ride and to see the Grand Canyon from a different perspective.

We took the North Canyon Tour with Papillon. It’s 25-30 minutes in the air, and the views are spectacular! You can also book rides that involve landing at the bottom of the Grand Canyon or upgrade to an Ecostar helicopter which is quieter than a traditional one.

Additional Stop: Meteor Crater

South of the Grand Canyon, if you head east from Flagstaff, you’ll find Meteor Crater and Barringer Space Museum . See the meteor impact crater that is a mile wide and 500 feet deep. Visit the discovery center to learn about the science behind the crater.

The Hoover Dam is the next stop on the way to Las Vegas! The Hoover Dam was built on the border of Nevada and Arizona, in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. It was finished in 1935- it is 726 feet high, and 660 feet thick. It holds back Lake Mead, the largest man-made lake in the United States, and supplies water to cities as far away as Los Angeles.

While you can see a lot from the road, we were hoping to take the Guided Powerplant Tour- a half-hour of exploring the insides of the dam. However, the dam was closed on our date. If your group is 8+ you can take the longer Guided Dam Tour.

In the end, we totally missed the dam! Tours are not running currently, but we didn’t realize that the main highway now bypasses the Hoover Dam completely. Don’t be like us- set your GPS to stop at the Hoover Dam!

Additional Stop: El Dorado Gold Mine

Head south from the Hoover Dam about 45 minutes on route 95 to tour this real gold mine. The Techatticup Mine is the most famous mine in Nevada. It was accessed by steamboat along the Colorado River and was one of the most lawless places in the West in the 1880s. Take a tour to walk through the old tunnels, see the gold veins and hear stories of the mine’s history.

Las Vegas, NV- 2 nights

There is so much to see and do in Las Vegas that’s family-friendly!

Check out the latest floral art installation at the Bellagio Botanical Gardens, and watch the fountains perform out front. Explore the canals of the Venetian, and see live flamingos at the Flamingo Hotel. Stop by the Midway at Circus Circus to see various live circus acts.

Looking to escape the heat and chaos of the Vegas Strip? This Kayak trip to Emerald Cave on the Colorado River sounds amazing! Beginners welcome, tandem kayaks are available, which is perfect for families.

Book Now: Emerald Cave Kayak Trip- Half Day

We stayed off the strip at the Tahiti Village Resort and Spa – this family-friendly resort has a lazy river, lots of kids’ activities, and no casino. All of the rooms are suites with a kitchenette. They also run shuttles into The Strip to make getting around easy.

However, the lazy river was broken, so the pool was packed. We ended up spending a lot of time on shuttles, next time I’d stay on the strip, somewhere central.

Affordable Hotels on the Strip: Paris or Aria – both are in good shape, Paris is more centralized, with great views of the Bellagio fountains, but doesn’t have a pool. Aria has a nice central location and good pools.

Seven Magic Mountains

Stop on your way out of Las Vegas at this art installation of stacked, painted rocks, some up to 35 feet tall! Approx. 10 miles south of Las Vegas on Rt 15. This was originally a temporary art installation, but it has been extended indefinitely.

Los Angeles, CA- 7 nights

We visited Los Angeles primarily to see family (hello new cousins!) and friends but also to explore the city. Make sure to spot the famous Hollywood sign, and explore the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.

For kids 5+, this tour of Warner Brothers will be a big hit. Fans of DC Universe or Harry Potter will be especially thrilled.

Book Now: Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood

Favorite Hotel: Rodeway Inn Near Melrose Ave . We’ve now stayed several times. We love the Queen rooms with added balconies. The rooms face an inner courtyard so it’s quiet, and includes a small breakfast. You can walk to a grocery store and pharmacy.

Check Availability: Rodeway Inn

Pre-Book Parking: Parking in LA is the worst! We’ve circled parking garages for waaay too long looking for spots. Book ahead with SpotHero and take the stress out of finding parking.

Book Parking: SpotHero Parking in LA

Ojai, CA- 2 nights

Ojai makes a lovely stop on your way north. Exploring the town, grab an Ojai Ice Cream, and heading to Libbey Park and Playground.

Solvang, CA

The next stop on this cross country road trip, Solvang is known as “Little Denmark”, complete with four windmills, five Danish bakeries, and a Hans Cristian Andersen Park. We love the treats in this small town, it’s become a regular stop for us on our treks up and down the California coast.

You can take a tour with Solvang Trolley – see the highlights of the town while being pulled by Belgian draft horses, and listen to your guide dressed in traditional Danish garb.

Affordable Hotel: Atterdag Inn . Super modern decor, a great walkable downtown location. Some rooms have bunk beds for the kids.

Check Availabillity: Atterdag Inn

San Simeon, CA – 1 night

Head up the coast along Route 1 to San Simeon. Visit the historic Hearst Castle , then head out to see the Elephant Seals at Elephant Seal Vista Point .

Affordable Hotel: The Morgan Hotel San Simeon . Some rooms with ocean views, lovely landscaping. Limited restaurants in the area.

Salinas, CA – 1 night

Nearby Monterey or Carmel-By-The-Sea would also make great road trip stops along this area of the coastline.

Budget Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Salinas . Simple rooms just off the Highway.

Yosemite National Park- 3 nights

Our last National Park on this long cross-country family road trip is Yosemite ! We “camped” in Curry Village- in big canvas tents with beds. Remember to bring a combination lock for the bear boxes!

Yosemite is known for its waterfalls and the monoliths of El Capitan and Half Dome. Yosemite is great for kids – hike to Bridalveil Falls, the Mist Trail, and Lower Yosemite Falls. Aim to reach Glacier Point for sunset if you can.

Final Stop: San Francisco, CA

The City by the Bay! Visit the Ferry Building then take a cable car down to Fisherman’s Wharf and the sea lions at Pier 39.

Grab a treat from Ghirardelli and take in views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Stroll down Lombard Street with its famous hairpin turns, or take a boat out to Alcatraz.

Want to cut down on walking? Take a “Love Tour” of San Francisco in a colorful VW bus while learning about hippie culture in the city! This tour looks like so much fun.

If you’ll be checking out a lot of attractions, consider getting San Francisco CityPASS. It saves you 45% on attractions, including the California Academy of Sciences, a Bay Cruise, and 2 others that you choose from the list, including the Aquarium or the Zoo!

Book Now: San Francisco CityPASS

Affordable Hotel: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf . Great location in easy walking distance to Fisherman’s Wharf area. Rooms are comfy with extra sitting areas. Some room even have views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Check Availability: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf

Considering Christmas in California? You can see the best of Christmas in San Francisco in just one day.

We’ll end our epic cross-country road trip by staying with family in Santa Rosa, California just north of San Francisco.

After 60 nights on the road, we’ll be ready to put our feet up for a bit! Which stops are you most excited about? Did we miss anything?

Consider Renting a Car

If you are flying to the start of your cross-country road trip, you’ll need to rent a car. If you’d prefer to not add a ton of mileage to your current car, or need room for your family to comfortably hang out together, consider renting a larger vehicle.

We recommend Discover Cars – they show you a great selection of rental companies, are always upfront about what is included, and best of all, offer free cancellation if your plans change.

Check Prices: Car Rental at Discover Cars

How Much do US National Parks Cost?

Entrance fees vary at each park, but fees at larger parks are between $35 and $40. If you will be visiting a few National Parks, be sure to get an America the Beautiful Pass – this annual pass costs $80 and gets everyone in your car into unlimited National Parks for one year. This pass covers entrance fees, it does not cover tour fees or lodging fees.

Don’t forget 4th graders also get a free park pass for their whole family.

When visiting National Parks, look for Junior Ranger packets in the visitor centers. The kids complete the packets, and return them to be sworn in as Junior Rangers complete with a badge! You may also want to get a family National Park Passport Book to stamp at each park.

Don’t forget to download the National Park Service app , it allows you to download important information for any of the parks so you can access it when offline. From maps to parking and bathrooms, this app will come in handy.

How Much Money do you Need for a Cross-Country Road Trip?

How much money you will spend driving cross-country depends on your family and your comfort level.

Camping is one of the best ways to save money (make reservations early!). We are not comfortable camping, so we will be staying with friends when possible, and in hotels or motels the rest of the time.

The faster you move (the fewer days on the road), the less money you will spend on your cross-country road trip. Including staying with friends, we averaged $125/night during the summer high season of 2021.

Staying inside National Parks is more expensive, but allows you to see the park at sunrise, and without waiting in line to get in each morning. On average, we paid $200 per night to stay at lodges inside the parks.

Outside the parks, our hotels averaged $140/night . That includes 5 nights at an Airbnb in LA and two nights in Las Vegas over a weekend.

Packing breakfast foods and snacks will save you a lot of money. Don’t miss 40+ Easy Road Trip Snacks for Kids & Toddlers which includes breakfast and lunch suggestions.

A note about hotels – prices have increased over the last year or two. We found that even in more remote areas, hotels under $100 a night were often not as clean as we would like. We have included hotel recommendations- many of these are places we stayed. When we weren’t happy with our original choice, we edited the post to reflect where we would stay next time.

FAQ: Cross-Country Road Trips

The best time to drive for a cross-country road trip is in the fall or spring- you’ll have the mildest weather and avoid the summer crowds. Like a lot of families, we didn’t have that option- we are heading out into the summer crowds. We will start our epic road trip cross-country at the end of June 2021, ending in California in late August.

Yes, you can do a cross-country road trip in two weeks! From Washington, DC to Los Angeles, CA is approximately 40 hours of driving. Driving just 3 hours a day, you could complete the drive in two weeks. Many people prefer to drive more hours in one day, then spend a full day at their location.

The minimum for a cross-country road trip is one week- you’ll drive between 40 and 45 hours in total. How many hours per day you prefer to drive and how many stops you make is up to you!

There You Have it: Epic Cross Country Road Trip Itinerary

A long list of stops from our two-month-long cross-country family road trip, complete with big and small attractions. Pick and choose the stops to create the best cross-country itinerary for your family!

Need more family road trip ideas? We also road-tripped through the American Northwest with stops including Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park .

Thinking of driving across the Southern border? We road tripped into Baja, Mexico , and later spent six weeks in Mexico including stops in Puerto Vallarta , Oaxaca , and San Miguel de Allende .

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

Budget And Invest

15 Breathtaking American Highways for Epic Road Trips

Posted: April 10, 2024 | Last updated: April 10, 2024

Perhaps you’ve heard others talk about “The Great American Road Trip.” Maybe you even went on road trips with your family while growing up. But now that you’re all grown up, why do any more road trips? Simply put, there’s nothing quite like a leisurely road trip to really delve into the lands and people that make America a uniquely fantastic place.

Take a look at our picks for epic road trips, and you might find some inspiration to hit the open road and embark on your own fantastic journey. 

1. U.S. Route 66 – Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California

First established in 1926, the iconic Route 66 stretches around 2,448 miles across roughly two-thirds of the North American continent. This might not be the best route if you don’t think you can handle a long, multi-day road trip.

If you specifically want an extra long ride to enjoy a magnificent variety of scenery—from the grand Chicago urban skyline and the vast Great Plains to the colorful desert of Arizona and the California coastline at Santa Monica—this is the road for you. 

2. Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) – Los Angeles to San Francisco, California

When you begin to experience the wonders of California’s Pacific Coast Highway , you’ll quickly understand why it’s Highway 1. The Pacific Ocean views can be mesmerizing, and the dramatic scenery changes can feel downright magical.

Highlights include Santa Barbara County’s breathtaking coastline, Big Sur’s unrivaled majesty in Monterey County, and the rugged twists and turns in San Mateo County. Due to constant threats of wildfires, flash floods, and landslides, watch out for notices of road closures in extra sensitive areas. 

3. The Road to Hana (HI-36/HI-360) – Kahului to Hana, Hawaii

If you prefer tropical scenery and rugged adventure, you may love this one-lane road that navigates Maui’s northeastern coast’s captivating twists and turns. Since it is one lane and this region is particularly prone to flash floods and rock slides, you’ll need to be extra careful when driving here. But if you’re up to the task, you will be rewarded with a treasure trove of beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, and so much more. 

4. Blue Ridge Parkway – Ravensford, North Carolina to Rockfish Gap, Virginia

When you really want to take it slow, take Blue Ridge Parkway . Here, the speed limit is only 45 miles per hour, and this highway winds for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains to connect North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. It’s especially colorful during peak fall foliage season, but there’s no lousy time (except perhaps during a heavy snowstorm) to do this route. 

5. Trail Ridge Road/Beaver Meadow National Scenic Byway – Estes Park to Grand Lake, Colorado

Reaching a dazzling elevation of 12,183 feet above sea level, Trail Ridge Road is a great way to experience some of Colorado’s best views. This highway takes you to and through many of Rocky Mountain National Park’s most stunning corners. You’ll likely spot local wildlife like bighorn sheep, marmots, and elk. 

6. “The Loneliest Road” (U.S. Route 50) – Ely to Carson City, Nevada

When you’re seeking maximum solitude, you will likely find an abundance of peace and quiet along the highway that Life magazine famously declared The Loneliest Road in America in 1986. From the uniquely “Wild West” towns of Ely and Austin to Nevada’s state capital of Carson City and the majestic blue water of Lake Tahoe, this is a road trip for folks who like desert scenery and love American Western culture. 

7. Route 100 (VT-100) – Clarksburg, Massachusetts to Newport, Vermont

Stretching about 217 miles from the Massachusetts state line to a few miles south of the U.S.–Canada border, Route 100 is always a popular route for leaf-peepers to take when they’re out to spot some peak fall foliage. But even during other times of the year, this road is worth taking to reach the charming ski town of Stowe, the foodie heaven of Waterbury, and the tranquil beauty of Green Mountain National Forest. 

8. Natchez Trace Parkway – Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi

This 444-mile journey may not include tall mountains or rugged coastline, but it does cover a historic travel corridor of the American South that tells the stories of indigenous Native American communities, European settlers, Black Americans striving to escape slavery, soldiers at war, and American presidents. Clearly, this is the ideal road trip for history buffs. 

9. U.S. Route 101 – Tumwater, Washington to Los Angeles, California

When you’re ready for even more Pacific Coast adventures, try doing the whole historic Route 101 to Washington State. Farther north, you can reach the verdant rainforests of Olympic National Park, the home of Oregon’s famed Tillamook cheese, the iconic Haystack Rock, Redwood State, National Parks, and much of Northern California’s most beautiful wine country regions. 

10. Overseas Highway – Florida City to Key West, Florida

Maybe you’ve seen those video clips of people driving convertibles down a highway that seemingly hovers over a vast sea. Those videos were probably filmed on this highway connecting Florida’s mainland to the Florida Keys. It only stretches for 113 miles, but it’s an excellent way to spend a lazy day off, especially if you’d like to cap it off with a beach day or night out in Key West. 

11. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Glacier National Park, Montana

Going to the sun? OK, maybe that’s not actually possible, but you might feel like you’re doing just that during this 50-mile drive through Glacier National Park. Not only do you cross the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, but you also get jaw-dropping views of mighty mountains, grand glaciers, wondrous waterfalls, and maybe even a mountain goat or two. 

12. The High Road to Taos – Santa Fe to Taos, New Mexico

This is another road to take if you want epic mountain views, and this 105-mile journey through a stunning corner of New Mexico’s Rocky Mountains has long inspired artists like Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams to create memorable masterpieces. The San Francisco de Asis Church is a prime stop for photo ops, as is the view of Truchas Peak in the historic town of Truchas. 

13. Lincoln Highway – New York City, New York to San Francisco, California

Since 1928, this route has stretched for 3,389 miles through 14 states to take drivers from one coast to the other. This road trip is certainly not for the faint of heart (or, for that matter, for the easily antsy), but it’s definitely one for the most adventurous roadtrippers who want to see as much of America as possible.

Highlights include the eastern terminus in NYC’s Times Square, NORAD’s home base at Cheyenne Mountain near Colorado Springs, and the western terminus at San Francisco’s Lincoln Park.

14. John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway – Yellowstone National Park to Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

This highway connects Wyoming’s two stunningly beautiful national parks: Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Named for the legendary conservationist and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Jr., this highway may only span 27 miles, but it essentially lets you take your time exploring this marvelous corner of Wyoming, and it provides a great escape route when certain parts of Yellowstone get too crowded. 

15. Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway – Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota

Whoever said the Midwest was “too boring” and “lacked any landscapes” never traversed South Dakota’s Black Hills. Stretching some 70 miles, the Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway is a perfect way to explore this unique region. Something about this epic landscape and the verdant pine forests makes this drive one to remember. 

24 of Mother Nature’s Most Stunning Waterfalls

A bustling city can be a fun vacation spot, but often, the greatest wonders lie outside the city limits. If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, here are 24 gorgeous waterfalls around the world that are sure to awe you.

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The most epic American road trip

11,000 miles of roadside wonders and national park beauty.

• Featured Trip Guides
• Road Trips of a Lifetime

Created by Holiday Inn - August 18th 2016

T he best part of a road trip is making detours along the way. Pre-planned stops to see classic attractions and unexpected adventures are what make a road trip truly great. But taking the absolute most epic road trip across America? That's easier said than done. Luckily, we know our fans are a wanderlust-y sort, so with the help of Holiday Inn, we turned to them to show us their favorite places to go on a road trip.

Because we can't possibly fit EVERY single amazing place into one epic cross-country American road trip, we've singled out the best of the best, based on user submissions to our "America's Most Epic Road Trip" contest with Holiday Inn. These hidden gems and perennial favorites are user approved and Roadtrippers tested. Buckle up, roll down the windows, and turn up the radio, because we've got the definitive route for the most epic American road trip.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of the most jaw-dropping geological wonderlands in America, so it's no wonder that it was the second-most popular place users added to their trips in our contest. Plan to spend a day exploring the many arched rock formations. A few highlights are Balanced Rock and Tunnel Arch. If you take Exit 204 towards Cisco, it will take more time to get to the park but the drive way more scenic. The park can get pretty busy during the day, but it empties out just before sunset, when you can get some amazing photos.

1 Rocky Mountain National Park

From Arches, hit up Rocky Mountain National Park. With more than 300 miles of hiking trails, epic fields of wildflowers, alpine lakes, and wildlife around every corner, this is one of America's most beautiful woodlands. The Trail Ridge Road is a must-drive! It takes you to an impressive elevation of more than 11,0000 feet. Another great trip is the hike along Estes Cone Trail. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. It's a pretty lengthy hike at four to five hours, but it's definitely worth it.

2 Tucumcari, New Mexico, United States

Then it's on to Tucumcari, New Mexico! After all that national park adventuring, it's time to chill out in an authentic Route 66 town, just off of I-40. There are tons of great diners to eat at here, and loads of retro motels, such as the Blue Swallow and Motel Safari. And make sure to grab a bite at Del's: You'll recognize it 'cause it's got a massive cow on top of its sign. Take some time to walk around and snap loads of pictures of the vintage Route 66-era neon signs.

3 The Alamo

From New Mexico, hop the border into Texas and drive down o the Alamo. Every year, more than 2.5 million people visit this important piece of history. Back in 1836, a band of Texans held out for an impressive 13 days inside the Mission against the centralist army of General Antonio López de Santa Anna. Even though the Alamo ultimately fell to Santa Anna's forces, those brave men who defended the Mission have gone down in history as American heroes and defenders of liberty. The Alamo is located directly in the middle of San Antonio, right next to the Riverwalk (which is a bustling riverfront neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, and cafés).

4 The French Quarter

After San Antonio, head to the French Quarter in New Orleans, for a taste of some insane Louisiana nightlife. Here you can drink on the streets thanks to New Orleans's open container law. Be prepared if you visit during football season: The crowds can get pretty crazy after a Saints game. Bourbon Street is one of the wildest streets in America (in a good way), and the French Quarter itself is full of gorgeous architecture that will make you feel like you're walking back in time through an eighteenth century French tropical colony.

5 South Beach

As if New Orleans nightlife weren't enough, your next stop is Miami's South Beach. Developed back in the 1910s, South Beach became a boomtown, attracting loads of tourists to its beaches and Art Deco hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants. South Beach is perfect for people-watching and for immersing yourself in gorgeous retro architecture. The food on Ocean Drive is alright, but overpriced for tourists. Get off the strip to find some real gems, such as the iconic Cuban restaurant Versailles.

6 Savannah, Georgia, United States

Then drive up the coast and head toward Savannah, Georgia. Settled in 1733, Savannah boasts one of the country's largest historic districts. The riverside hamlet was spared by General Sherman's troops when the mayor of the city allowed Sherman's men to have the run of the city in exchange for leaving it intact (Sherman had a habit of torching every town he went through during the Civil War). Because of the mayor's bargain, Savannah has retained her antebellum charm. When you visit, absolutely go to Forsyth Park, an incredibly lush public park that you could easily spend the entire afternoon in. Savannah also has some great ghost tours, including one that's also a ghost tour/pub crawl.

7 Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hop back on the highway, and head north to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Although this park is beautiful to visit all year-round, the fall is a particularly amazing time to soak in the scenery. When you visit, plan to spend time exploring the abandoned resort town of Elkmont in the park. Also, Cades Cove is a perfect spot for a picnic and for viewing the park's wildlife. And don't leave before you have a chance to walk up Clingmans Dome. At an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the park. It's free to visit, and is the most visited national park in all of America.

8 National Mall

You can't take the most epic American road trip without visiting our nation's capital. Washington D.C. is home to incredible historical architecture and some truly mind-blowing museums, most of which are free! If you only have a day, hit up the National Mall, but be prepared for a long walk, and don't forget your sunscreen and some water. Here, you can enjoy a picnic surrounded by Washington's most iconic memorials, or visit a museum or two right off of the Mall. Also, between the Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History, there's a pretty great fountain where you can cool off. The best time of year to visit is either fall or spring: You'll still find crowds, but the changing colors of the foliage in fall is a can't-miss, as is cherry blossom season in spring.

9 Statue of Liberty

Get back on the highway, and drive north towards New York City, where you can grab a boat to Ellis Island and experience the journey so many immigrants have made over the years. If you only have time to do one thing in NYC, do yourself a favor and visit the Statue of Liberty. Plan to spend time wandering around the museum and enjoying the views of the harbor and Manhattan. Of course, if you have time to do more than just one thing in NYC, the city is renowned for its delicious restaurants. Go to Chinatown for dim sum or Little Italy for pasta, and save room for some Chocolate by The Bald Man.

10 Fenway Park

Next up is Boston. Again, there are just way too many awesome places to visit in this city, but if you have to go to one, Fenway Park is one of the city's most popular attractions. It's the oldest Major League Baseball stadium, having opened in 1912, and it's a hallmark of Boston. You can grab some beer on Yawkey Way, or sit up on the Green Monster... and don't forget your baseball glove to catch a ball! Even though the beer vendors close up shop during the seventh inning, "Who's on First" on Yawkey Way will continue to serve into extra innings. A couple other notable Boston attractions are Faneuil Hall, where you can eat everything from clam chowder to North End pizza, Chinese food, BBQ, and loads of desserts. Also, the Freedom Trail is a walkable tour of Boston's history. Oh, and the aquarium is one of the best in the world. If you have kids, also hit up the Science Museum. There's just so much fun to be had in Beantown!

11 Niagara Falls

Another can't-miss spot is upstate New York's Niagara Falls. The falls can be very misty in the morning, but that's when you can avoid the crowds. If you have the chance, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat, which takes you right up to the falls. If you need a place to spend the night, the Red Coach Inn is a lovely historic hotel with an excellent onsite restaurant. Also, head over to the Canadian side of the falls... there are more food options there. But, don't forget your passport!

Chicago, IL

From Niagara Falls head across to the Midwest and visit Cloud Gate in Chicago. This public sculpture has become a symbol for the city. It was designed by Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor, and is remarkable for how it was welded together. Comprised of 168 stainless-steel plates, there are no visible welding seams because of how much it was polished. You can take some pretty epic photos here at sunrise. The "Bean" (as it's called) is in the AT&T Plaza in Millennium Park, in the Loop area of Chicago, which is a great place to grab a drink or a bite to eat.

13 Gateway Arch

Speaking of iconic city symbols, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is one of the Midwest's most visited places. There's a museum beneath the park, and an observation deck with great views of the river. If you have time, pack some nibbles for a picnic under the arch, or take a tour of it.

14 Mount Rushmore

From St. Louis, head north towards Mount Rushmore in Keystone, South Dakota. Nothing says “America” more than Mount Rushmore. But, there’s also more to do here than just see the carved mountain memorial. There’s an adorable little tourist town nearby, where you can learn about the making of the monument. Plus, there’s good places to eat. Sometimes there’s a laser light show after dark at Rushmore, so check with the park to see if there’s one on the calendar when you visit. If you want a great spot for a picture, head to the Grand View Terrace. And be aware that there's going to be lots of tourists from June through August, so traffic might be an issue during this peak season.

Devils Tower National Monument

Devils Tower, WY

After Rushmore, it's straight on to Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. This was the first national monument, established in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt. You may remember it from the Steven Spielberg sci-fi film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." It's a pretty phenomenal geological wonder, and even more incredible in person. After you pay the entrance fee, you can visit the monument for seven days. There’s a lot to explore here, including learning about the cryptozoological mythology of the monument and surrounding area. If you take the scenic road on the north side of I-90, you’ll get a great view of the tower.

16 Grand Teton National Park

Next stop is Grand Teton National Park, home to one of America’s most beautiful lakes, Jenny Lake, as well as the majestic Teton mountains. If you visit in summer, it can get pretty hot during the day, but then cool down considerably at night, so be sure to pack accordingly. If you drive in from the South Entrance you’ll get a fantastic view of the Tetons as you approach the park. Another great tip is to hop on a boat and take it across Jenny Lake, and from there, hike a mile to Inspiration Point for one heck of a panoramic view.

17 Yellowstone National Park

Then it’s just a few-miles drive to Yellowstone National Park, and seriously, this park is no joke. It’s a geothermal playground of epic geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and deep boiling pools. The entire park is one big adventure. Also, be prepared to see wildlife everywhere, including roaming herds of buffalo, that will walk right past your car. Some can’t-miss Yellowstone wonders: Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Falls, and of course, Old Faithful. Definitely grab lunch at the Old Faithful Inn, one of the world’s oldest and largest log buildings. No wonder it was the third most-added stop on our fans' Most Epic Road Trips!

18 Glacier National Park

The next major national park on the most epic American road trip is Glacier National Park in Montana. The Kootenai and Blackfeet Native American tribes consider the land this park protects to be sacred, and when you visit, you’ll see why. The immense beauty of Mother Nature here is indescribable. There’s a great Red Bus tour that will take you along the Western Alpine, and a boat tour of Lake McDonald. Also check out Many Glacier, which offers incredible views of the remaining glaciers.

19 Olympic National Park

From Glacier, head west to Olympic National Park. This national park is home to coastline, beaches, rainforests, alpine lakes, glacier-capped peaks, forest valleys, and a primeval, ancient wilderness.There’s really something for everyone: from hiking and backpacking to walking along the beach and taking wildflower meadow picnics. If you have the opportunity, absolutely drive along Hurricane Ridge. This is the park’s most accessible mountain area, and the views are insane.

There you have it: The most epic American road trip as voted by road-trippers just like you during our Most Epic Road Trip contest, powered by our friends at Holiday Inn. Happy travels!

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One Epic National Park Road Trip Across the USA

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Have you ever dreamed about leaving everything behind and setting out on the ultimate National Park road trip across the entire United States? I know I have! While I’ve set off on a number of epic road trips, including a massive west coast National Park road trip (twice, actually), and another cross-country road trip, and yet I’ve only managed to visit a total of 32 of the 63 National Parks. That means I’ve still got a lot of ground to cover, especially those parks that lay east of the Rockies.

And don’t miss my top national park road trip planning resources at the bottom of this article!

In this article, we are going to be talking about how to link together the vast majority of those parks, including basically all of them within the Lower 48 (aka the Contiguous USA) as well as an option for including the newest national parks that were added to the system in the past couple years. Combining together a bunch of national parks is the very definition of a great American road trip , in my eyes.

Ready? Let’s get planning and hit the road!

Planning an Epic National Park Road Trip

Within the continental United States (aka Lower 48) there are a total of 51 National Parks — there are 2 in Hawaii , 8 in Alaska , and 2 in the territories, making a total of 63.

But of those 51 National Parks in the Continental USA, there are another four parks that are not accessible by vehicle due to the fact that they are maritime-based National Parks.

While driving the Pan American Highway , I started dreaming about once again returning to those incredible protected areas back in my homeland. So I started to imagine what a massive national park road trip in the USA would look like.

I jumped on Google Maps and connected the route in the most logical way I could, taking into account the many miles and many parks I have already visited as well.

This Epic National Park Road Trip covers terrain in at least 39 of the 50 states, across more than 16,950 miles (27,277 km), and visits 45 of the 51 National Parks located in the Continental USA, but does not specifically include the four island-based National Parks (although you get pretty close and could organize boat transport to reach them), nor the two Midwest national parks.

Back in 2019, three national parks were added to the system: Indiana Dunes National Park, Gateway Arch National Park, and White Sands National Park. I’ve added an option to the route which would include these new two Midwest parks, but the addition of Gateway Arch makes it difficult to make a nice, clean route…

Honestly, I’m not really sure why Gateway Arch is a National Park when it is more of a historical monument. That’s one park I would probably skip if your focus is on nature. Indiana Dunes, on the other hand, would be easy to include and is a nature area. White Sands National Park, on the other hand, is included on the main route and is definitely not to be missed! And at the end of 2020, the New River Gorge in West Virginia was designated as a National Park.

I’ve also deliberately tried to route the map to visit a number of incredible scenic areas that aren’t necessarily national parks, like Monument Valley or Grand-Staircase Escalante , for instance.

I also made the route go through a number of exciting cities or landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge, Las Vegas, or even places like New York City, since an epic American Road Trip would seem almost incomplete without at least passing through some of these places. Furthermore, in areas where there aren’t national parks, I tried to route the trip through areas of interest, like the Mississippi Delta for a Blues and Americana trip in order to connect parks or regions.

Interactive National Park Road Trip Map

Check out the Interactive Map on Felt .

Be sure to zoom in and explore the interactive road trip map above, you will find additional notes and details about the trip planning process to better help guide your decision-making process. The map also includes park hiking trails and campgrounds to help you plan!

National Park Road Trip Itinerary

At a minimum, you wouldn’t want to take less than three months, in my opinion, to do a trip of this magnitude, as you shouldn’t have to rush through something like this.

For this hypothetical, albeit still rushed timeline, I would consider starting this national park road trip in the Northeast (since that’s where the largest population centers are clustered) and visiting Acadia National Park in Maine as the first stop in mid-July.

This allows you to cover the northern half of the US National Parks during summer in places like Glacier National Park, Mount Rainier, etc.

Then you will head south into the national parks of California by the end of August, and spend the beginning of fall exploring the multitude of parks in the American Southwest before heading once again across the country to reach the chain of east coast national parks (hopefully) in time for the changing of the leaves and fall colors.

This is a rushed and not ideal trip, of course. I would consider more time to be crucial!

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An ideal road trip of this length and geographic range would last at least six months to a year… Considering the weather, it might be best to start in the American Southwest in late winter or early spring, then head clockwise, through the Pacific Northwest and northern half of the country in summer, down the East Coast (fall colors!) in Autumn, and across the southern half in the winter.

Read More: National Parks to Visit in Spring

But anyone who was the chance to undertake this journey will have a different starting point, starting time of year, and length of time to complete it. You will need to customize it as you see fit and most likely have to make compromises along the way (visiting out of season, for instance). Either way, you’ll be able to hit the highlights of the park system as well as the most underrated national parks that don’t get as much attention.

Here is the order of National Parks visited on this road trip itinerary. Those with an asterisk (*) are the island parks that aren’t accessible by car. Those with a tilde (~) are the two Midwest parks which could be included with a detour of the current route. I also included a checkmark (✓) next to those national parks that I’ve visited personally.

Acadia National Park Cuyahoga Valley National Park ~ Indiana Dunes National Park ~ Gateway Arch National Park * Isle Royale National Park Voyageurs National Park Theodore Roosevelt National Park ✓ Badlands National Park Wind Cave National Park ✓ Grand Teton National Park ✓ Yellowstone National Park ✓ Glacier National Park ✓ North Cascades National Park ✓ Olympic National Park ✓ Mount Rainier National Park ✓ Crater Lake National Park ✓ Redwood National Park Lassen Volcanic National Park Pinnacles National Park ✓ Sequoia National Park ✓ Kings Canyon National Park ✓ Yosemite National Park ✓ Death Valley National Park * Channel Islands National Park ✓ Joshua Tree National Park ✓ Saguaro National Park ✓ Petrified Forest National Park ✓ Grand Canyon National Park ✓ Zion National Park ✓ Great Basin National Park ✓ Bryce Canyon National Park ✓ Capitol Reef National Park ✓ Arches National Park ✓ Canyonlands National Park ✓ Mesa Verde National Park ✓ Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park ✓ Rocky Mountain National Park ✓ Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve ✓ White Sands National Park Carlsbad Caverns National Park Guadalupe Mountains National Park Big Bend National Park Hot Springs National Park Everglades National Park * Biscayne National Park * Dry Tortugas National Park ✓ Congaree National Park ✓ Great Smoky Mountains National Park Mammoth Cave National Park ✓ New River Gorge National Park ✓ Shenandoah National Park

Best National Parks Resources

• America the Beautiful Pass : The annual pass is a MUST purchase if you plan to visit approximately four or more national parks in one year and it will save you a ton of money! The annual past is just $80 (even cheaper for seniors) and will grant you unlimited access to all parks, even those that normally cost like $30 each!
• Ken Burns’ National Parks Documentary : If you haven’t seen it yet, this six-part documentary series is an incredible introduction to the history of America’s National Parks system and all the challenges and triumphs faced. MUST WATCH! It will give you a whole new appreciation.
• Moon USA National Parks Guide : This is the most complete resource you’ll find about virtually all the parks (doesn’t include the two newest ones) with itineraries, suggested things to see and do, road trip planning and so much more. 
• AAA Insurance : If you’re going to be doing a monster road trip like this, be sure to have AAA insurance which will protect you in the event of a roadside breakdown. I’d recommend the more complete package which includes up to a 200-mile tow (I had to use that distance once when I broke down outside of Bryce Canyon!). Hopefully, you don’t need it, but it is a lifesaver if you do.

Looking for more road trip inspiration? Don’t miss my post about the most scenic drives in the USA , the best road trip books , or all of these amazing places to visit on a West Coast road trip .

If you need more concrete stuff beyond inspiration, you may want to check out my 21 favorite apps for a road trip , or my favorite podcasts to listen to while on the road .

I hope this post has filled you up with National Park road trip ideas, I know it has for me! I’m itching to get back on the road as I write this.

Read Next: The Ultimate Guide to Road Trip Planning

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Comments 24

Love this! How many miles do you estimate this is as it stands, without modification? Were there parks that you just did the Griswalds and drove in, drove around and left? Just curious.

Thanks for all this work and sharing!

It is at least 17,000 miles or so as the trip stands. There were a few times where it was basically just a drive through and go type of situation, but I’ve also been able to visit some of these parks multiple times, so I almost always try to at least get in a day hike. Some that I just drove through that I recall at this moment were Saguaro NP and Petrified Forest. Hopefully I will get a chance to visit Arizona again soon and explore more.

Hey Ryan, My daughter and I are planning a trip like this, but could you tell me how many days your trip will take, roughly. What I have planned so far for our trip is about 60 days, but would like to do yours if it runs about the same amount of time. Thank you for putting it together and out there for us to follow/use. Chris

I can’t believe the route is so close to Pensacola FL and does not include a stop at the amazingly beautiful Gulf Islands National Seashore! You are truly missing out on a fantastic place – with camping at Ft Pickens – if you leave this off the list.

Hey Shawn, that’s only because the route is targeted toward designated national parks, but yes, there are countless amazing places that can and should be added to this route all across the country. There are tons of incredible Federal and state lands to check out.

For the families with a 4th grader they could get a free pass to all national parks. Check out https://everykidoutdoors.gov/pass.htm . We have 2 years, until our oldest is in 4th grade to plan and try to cram them all in!

I would add in a route that takes you to Mt. Hood in Oregon. Dense forests with a huge snow capped peak. Plenty of camping in the area. Summer at the Mt Hood Ski resort has many outdoor activities for all ages.

Definitely love Mt Hood and always try and head that way when I’m in the Columbia River Gorge.

Loved the road trip , and would like to plan one like it in the near future. Keep up the great work. You may e-mail me an update if you so desire. Thanks, Robert

Ahhhh this is so epic! I will have to do this at some point – I really hope I get the time! I’ve only ever done three weeks at a time before and that’s insanely fun, but something longer would be amazing to try. Thanks for the article!

Very nice article. I’m looking forward to doing this some day, when I’m finished with Hawaii. By the way, I don’t know when you wrote this, but there are more than two National Parks in Hawaii.

As far as I know, there are only two national parks (Haleakalā and Hawai’i Volcanoes), this article isn’t addressing national memorials, historic sites, historical parks, or historic trails… Doing so would definitely balloon the number of places (from 61 national parks to 419 different units administered by the NPS).

My husband and I went to Alaska a few years ago if you love nature Denali is the ultimate park to visit. We also took aside trip up to Barrow and was able to get the picture of a lifetime, Mt. Denali surrounded by clouds at 36,000 feet.

Have been to Mt. Rushmore, Assateague Island National Seashore, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is almost in my back yard so we visit it alot. Going to Everglades National Park next spring with my sister.I

Many more places to visit in the future. Happy travels!!!

Oh yeah, I couldn’t agree more! Been to Denali as well, but it was a bit beyond the scope of this article about a national park road trip in the Lower 48… You’d almost need a lifetime just to explore the parks up in Alaska.

Damn, you weren’t kidding when you called it an “epic” road trip! I love traveling and everything but I think a trip that long would be overly exhausting for me.

My husband and I have been to Dry Tortugas National Park. We took a day trip over from Key West a few years ago. It was incredible. The jellyfish were in earlier in the season than normal and they were beautiful. Some were the size of dinner platters and vibrant purple. There were so many different types of fish. I was unable to get in the water due to being allergic to jellyfish stings but I still enjoyed walking the perimeter of the fort and getting some fantastic pictures of all the sea life. I hope you make it there some day.

That sounds amazing! I’d definitely like to experience that at some point… Not sure about getting in the water and the prospect of jellyfish stings though, haha.

Make sure to stop at Meow Wolf in Santa Fe.

Looks like a pretty wild place!

I have one month from middle of Aug to middle of Sept. this summer Leaving northern Calif to New York what route do you suggest? Want to see as much as I can I will be in my Coach House Van

My family and I are thinking about taking a road trip from northeastern Illinois to Mount Rushmore. Is there anything we must see and do when planning this outing?

Stop at the nearby national parks, that’s my only rec. Enjoy!

I have been in the process of planning just this very road trip. I am so eager to see as many of the national parks as possible. Thank you, you have saved me hours of routing.

Toni, that’s awesome to hear! You’ll have to update us all on how it goes for you… Best of luck!

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Epic Road Trips of the Americas

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Buckle up for the next installment in our  Epic  series and the follow-up to  Epic Drives of the World . Showcasing 50 of the Americas’ greatest road trips across North and South America as well as the Caribbean, you’ll discover classic drives including the Pacific Coast Highway, Gaspesie Loop in Canada and the Hana Highway in Hawaii, plus lesser-known routes. We cover a huge variety of themes and experiences across drives that range from a few hours to a week or more.

Each of the featured drives include:

• First-person accounts from writers who have completed the drive
• Challenge level grading: easy / harder / epic
• Inspirational photography, maps and practical information to follow the writer’s journey
• Driving factbox: when is the best time to drive, vehicle hire information, how to get there, what to take
• Expert travel advice: where to stay, recommended detours, the best places to eat
• Suggestions for similar drives 

With a vibrant cover illustrated by Ross Murray, this beautiful hardback continues this collectible series. Whether you’re a regular road tripper or just want to explore your destination in a new way,  Epic Road Trips of the Americas  will inspire a lifetime of adventures out on the open road.

ISBN: 9781838695330

Edition: 1st

Publication Date: September 2022

Writers: Lonely Planet

320 pages | Dimensions: 200mm width × 260mm height

Next edition due: Not yet determined