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Home » North America » USA » Best Road Trip

20 Best USA Road Trips • Famous Driving Destinations in 2024

Many will say that going on an epic road trip is the best and really the only way to experience America. This is the land of the open road, the roadside attraction, the roadside diner. If all roads lead to Rome, they must eventually make a detour in the United States, I say.

There is a lot that goes into planning a road trip in the USA. What to pack, what kind of car to rent, and, most importantly, where to go. There are a million routes out there and they all have their own merits and, in some cases, oddities.

I’ve assembled a list of some of the best and most classic road trips in the country. From East Coast to West Coast and Sea to Shining Sea, the finest stretches of good ol American-made asphalt are all found in this article. Through the desert, over the mountains, into the past, doesn’t matter; we’ve got them all covered right here.

So which Great American road trip will you take?

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20 Greatest Road Trips in the USA

Renting a car in the usa.

Let’s get down to brass tacks and start talking about the top American road trips there are! Here are twenty for you to choose from!

Don’t have a car yet? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!

1. California Route 1 – Pacific Coast Highway

The road trip in the usa to take before you die.

• States : California
• Start: San Diego
• End : Mendocino
• Total Distance: 656 miles
• Best Part: Camping in Big Sur

What’s a trip to California without visiting the coast or the beach? The beach is one of the most important aspects of California livin’, after all. It is talked about during just about every other conversation in the state. Who could blame the natives for loving their coastline so much when you have superlative stops like Malibu, San Luis Obispo, and Point Reyes all there?

For the ultimate road trip in California , consider driving the entire stretch of the Pacific Route 1. This epic route, which should take at least a week (two for maximum enjoyment), seriously pulls out all the stops. Gorgeous coastline, bustling metropolises – like San Francisco and Los Angeles – and more than enough In n’ Out Burger joints all combine to make the perfect road trip itinerary. This is some of the best California has to offer.

Since you’ll be starting in San Diego, why not book a nice place to stay and soak up the city before departing?

2. Route 66

The classic road trip across america.

• States: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California
• Start: Chicago, Illinois
• End : Santa Monica, California
• Total Distance:  2448 miles
• Best Part: The Americana

Route 66 is probably the first thing that springs to people’s minds when they think “Great American road trip.” Over the years, Route 66 has been practically immortalized – by Hollywood films, musicians, novels, etc – so much so that it is practically synonymous with the very idea of going on a road trip around the USA.

Since it passes through eight different states and four different regions, Route 66 offers a somewhat abridged version of American culture. You’ll get to see roadside attractions, antique gas stations, and eccentric diners; all staples of American weirdness.

One of the best parts of Route 66? Watching the landscape shift from the Great Plains and Mississippi wetlands to the deserts and mountains of the West Coast’s roadside landscapes . Entering Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona is a particularly surreal experience, as there is nowhere else quite like the American Southwest. If you have time, be sure to stop by Monument Valley for an iconic American backdrop.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

3. Skyline Drive

The most scenic mountain road trip on the east coast.

• States : Virginia
• Start: Front Royal
• End : Rockfish Gap
• Total Distance: 105 miles
• Best Part: Parking the car and going for a quick hike

It’s a favorite day trip for those visiting Washington DC for a simple reason: the Skyline Drive is one of the most accessible mountain drives in the USA. In just over an hour, one could easily escape from the politics and actions of the nation’s capital and be in the heart of Appalachian Country. For those who like long-winding mountain roads, this will be one of the best road trips in the USA.

The Skyline Drive traverses the entirety of Shenandoah National Park. This means that, besides offering breathtaking views, the route also affords access to many local trails. The epic and grueling AT (Appalachian Trail) runs parallel to Skyline Drive. Those who’ve dreamed of hiking (a section of) the thru-hike can do so at many points of the road.

For those looking for a more docile couple of days in Shenandoah, there are lots of campsites and little towns around worth visiting. Winchester has a rich Civil War history while sleepy Staunton is generally considered the prettiest town in the region.

Stay in Washington DC a few days before heading out and be sure to check out all the spectacular museums.

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road

The best way to see one of the best american national parks.

• States: Montana
• Start: West Glacier
• End : Saint Mary
• Total Distance: 50 miles
• Best Part: Seeing Saint Mary Lake for the first time

Glacier is one of the best national parks in the USA . It’s the kind of place that, once you’ve visited, makes you want to pack up your bags and move to Montana. I’ve dreamt of doing this before and I’m sure a lot of people share this dream with me.

The main road that traverses Glacier is called the Going-to-the-Sun Road and it is, without question, one of the most beautiful roads in the US. Firstly, it passes right next to the stunning Saint Mary Lake, which is one of the highlights of the park. It also provides quick access to some very good trails in the park, like Hidden Lake Lookout. This 3-mile round-trip hike starts at Logan’s Pass and offers views of the uniquely-shaped Bearhat Mountain.

It should be noted that the Going-to-the-Sun Road opens late in the season and closes early due to heavy snow. The road is closed for 7-8 months and crazy busy the rest of the year. There are quite a few hair point turns as well so remember to keep your cool out there when driving.

5. Olympic Peninsula Loop

Rainforests, glaciers, and beaches (oh my).

• States: Washington
• Start : Port Angeles
• End : Port Angeles
• Total Distance: 330 miles
• Best Part: Feeling the carpet in the Hoh Rainforest

Very few places to see in the USA are as geographically unique as the Olympic Peninsula. Here, you’ll find a huge diversity of landscapes, from glaciers to rainforest to rugged coastline. This is a paradise for outdoorsy types or, at least, those who can’t quite decide what kind of outdoor adventure they want to go on during their road trip in the USA.

There are too many cool spots on the Olympic Peninsula to talk about. Hurricane Ridge offers the most spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and also offers solid skiing in the winter. Rialto Beach is famous for its sea stacks that resemble those found commonly in Iceland. The Enchanted Valley is a very remote portion that requires an overnight hike but rewards visitors with, supposedly, 10,000 falls.

The best part about the Olympic Peninsula is exploring the Hoh Rainforest. Thanks to constant rain, the woods of the peninsula are overgrown, towering, and constantly lush. Go for walk here and you’ll see more shades of green then you previously thought possible.

If you’re passing through, then take a couple of nights booking a stay in Seattle before visiting the Olympic Peninsula!

6. Kancamagus Highway

For fall foliage fanatics.

• States: New Hampshire
• Start : North Woodstock
• End : Conway
• Total Distance: 56 miles
• Best Part: Being there in autumn

New Englanders are very proud people and there are certain things that you don’t talk shit about with them. Dunkin’ Donuts, lobster rolls, Tom Brady; even a whisper of ill will about any of these things is a sure way to piss of a local. Just as important to the New Englander identity as any of these though is it’s most noticeable natural phenomenon: the fall foliage.

From late-September to middle-October, the Patriots become slightly less talked about (until they eventually go to the Super Bowl) in lieu of the changing colors of the trees. New Englanders go crazy for the reds, oranges, and golds of the season; some plan whole weekend excursions in search of the best colors. Admittedly, it is pretty damn cool when you travel outside Boston and are hit by all those hues.

One of the most famous fall foliage road trips in New England is the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. When the time is right (early-October), a cold fire hits the hills and they explode with color. The 56-mile stretch of the Kanc is never-ending foliage and shifting colors; it’s like driving through the barrel of a kaleidoscope. Just be warned: you and everyone else will be there – it gets busy in October!

7. San Juan Skyway

Colorful colorado at it’s best.

• States: Colorado
• Start : Durango
• End : Durango
• Total Distance: 233 miles
• Best Part: Dallas Divide Viewpoint

The San Juan Skyway is the best road trip in Colorado ! Nestled in the far southwestern corner of the state, this route offers some of the finest Rocky Mountain views you could hope for. The road twists and turns through the valleys of the San Juan Mountains, arguably the prettiest part of the Colorado Rockies, and visits many historical towns and viewpoints along the way.

This itinerary begins and ends in the former mining town of Durango. There’s not much to do here besides ride the old gauge railroad, which is admittedly pretty damn cool if you like old-school trains.

As you head north from Durango to Silverton, the scenery really starts to unfold. To the east, the rugged Weminuche goads avid climbers and hikers. To get the best views of the Weminuche and the nearby Grenadiers, be sure to stop at Molas Pass for a break.

Beyond Silverton is the remote resort town of Ouray and the Sneffels Wilderness. The Dallas Divide, which overlooks the Sneffels, is very popular with photographers, especially in autumn when the leaves change color.

After the Dallas Divide, it’s straight onto one of the most famous mountain towns in Colorado: Telluride. If you’re staying in Telluride during the summer, be sure to check for local festivals. During this time, there’s one almost every weekend.

Just got off the plane at Denver and need somewhere to crash? Check out our comprehensive accommodation guide for Denver and find something you like!

8. The Cascade Loop

The best of the “american alps”.

• States : Washington
• Start: Everett
• End : Everett
• Total Distance: 440 miles
• Best Part: The North Cascades to the San Juan Islands

This is THE ULTIMATE Pacific Northwest road trip! Seriously, there are few itineraries that offer such a huge array of activities. Alpine hiking, whale watching, breweries; these are just a few of an adventurer’s favorite things!

The Cascade Loop begins in Everett, which is just north of Seattle. Everett is a pretty little town although you will not want to miss out on visiting Seattle. From Everett, you’ll head east over Stevens Pass before turning north along the Columbia Basin until looping back west across the Washington Pass and the astounding North Cascades. You should end your road trip through Washington by spending a few days relaxing in the idyllic San Juan Islands.

If the previous paragraph felt like an oversimplification, I’m sorry; but the Cascade Loop is too grand to fit in this section. To learn more about the route, be sure to visit the official Cascade Loop website for heaps of more information!

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9. Florida A1A – Overseas Highway

340 miles, almost all beaches.

• States : Florida
• Start: Amelia Island
• End : Florida Keys
• Total Distance : 340 miles
• Best Part: Driving across the Caribbean Sea

Knock it all you like for its douchey spring break parties and invasive retirees, but Florida still has some of the best beaches in all of the USA. As you may have gleaned from the subtitle of this particular USA road trip, almost all of them are accessible via a single highway.

The Florida A1A runs the entire length of the Atlantic Floridian Coast AND even further into the Caribbean Sea. The portion that connects the mainland to the Florida Keys (The Florida Key Scenic Byway) is considered an engineering marvel and this is one of the highlights of the trip. Gliding across the Caribbean and into the likes of Ernest Hemingway’s home on Key West is just too good.

But there is more to this Florida road trip than just the Keys. Fort Lauderdale is shedding its MTV beach party reputation (for a more laid back vibe). Cocoa Beach and Vero Beach still surf central. Plus, there’s always hedonistic and culturally rich Miami to demand your attention (probably too much).

Use our Miami travel guide to learn more about the city!

10. Lassen Scenic Byway

A “lasser-known” road trip in california.

• States : California, Oregon
• Start : Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• End : Chemult, Oregon
• Total Distance: 500 miles
• Best Part: Ending at Crater Lake aka Heaven on Earth

The Lassen Scenic Byway is one of the most unknown and underrated road trips in America. The route can’t be faulted either – it’s located in the relative unknown of Northern California, which, unfortunately, only enters the news when there’s a forest fire or a rebellious splinter-nation about to spring up. Yet, Northern California and Lassen are just as beautiful as anywhere else in the state.

The Lassen Scenic Byway, which takes its name from the National Park where it starts, gives a grand overview of the region. Dormant volcanoes, bubbling springs, and waterfalls are just a few of the sights you’ll see along the way. Mt Shasta, which marks the beginning of the Cascade Range, is the most prominent landmark in the area. The Park boasts some of California’s best camping spots ; enjoy the breathtaking views at Heart Lake, or kayak around Manzanita’s calm waters.

The Lassen Scenic Byway also extends across the state border into Oregon. This means you can visit one of my all-time favorite places in the USA: Crater Lake. It is an enormous body of water, perfectly serene and close to fathomless. Every time I see it, Crater Lake reminds of Thoreau and what he said about lakes in general: “(they are) the Earth’s eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.”

11. The Oregon Coast – USA Route 101

For those who like to wear sandals and sweaters (at the same time).

• States : Oregon
• Start: Brookings
• End : Astoria
• Total Distance: 363 miles
• Best Part: Southern Oregon Coast

Having spent much of my life in Portland, I’ve been on more than a few road trips in Oregon and there’s a special place in my heart for the Oregon Coast.

When I needed to get away from the city and work, I would run away to the coast. When my girlfriend and I wanted a romantic dinner, we’d skip the restaurants and instead buy fresh oysters from the local fishermen in Netarts. To me, the coast was my playground, my church, and my home away from home.

I’m not the only person who loves the Oregon Coast though – lots of people go on vacation here to get away from the madness of their lives (including everyone’s favorite Midwestern melodist, Sufjan Stevens). Apparently, the charm of old coastal towns and the particular moodiness of a cool, cloudy day is not lost on the others.

Mine romanticizing aside, the Oregon Coast is just a beautiful place to visit. The Southern portion, around Bandon, Langlois, and Samuel H. Boardman, is particularly notable as the scenery around here – rocky towers, jagged promontories, and enormous cliffs – are quintessential.

Given how sheer flippin’ magnificent the Oregon Coast is, make sure you know what areas to stay in as you drive through!

12. The High Road to Taos

The magical highway to everyone’s favorite hippy town.

• State: New Mexico
• Start : Sante Fe
• Best Part: The old Spanish architecture

New Mexico is like the weird aunt that always drives up to the family gatherings in her converted VW bus and talks about gemstones all night long. Not that this is a bad thing: we all love them for doing this and hope they never change. After all, these conversations are far more interesting than the ones we have with that one overly conservative uncle (I’m alluding to you, North Dakota).

New Mexico loves art, culture, and the surrounding nature that, in turn, inspires art and culture. People from all over the country, whether native or tourist, are inspired by landscapes and old Indian pueblos of the state (even the esteemed George R.R. Martin has drawn inspiration from this landscape).

One of the best ways to experience the magic of New Mexico is via the High Road to Tao scenic byway. Starting from the city of Santa Fe and ending in Taos, this road trip not only connects two of the most artistic cities in the state, but it also features a lot of interesting stuff in between.

Chimayó makes for a very interesting stop thanks to its namesake church, which promises to heal the sick. The San Francisco de Asís Mission Church is one of the most iconic buildings in the American Southwest and could easily serve as a prop for Tarantino or Sergio Leone western.

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13. Texas Hill Country

The “green” part of texas.

• States: Texas
• Start : Austin
• End : Austin
• Total Distance: Depends
• Best Part : The natural pools

Texas isn’t just desert and oil fields; there is plenty of greenery around if you know where to look. In fact, there are heaps of waterfalls and grottos to be found! Texas Hill Country is full of hidden wonders that most would’ve never thought could be found arid ol’ Texas. If you’re looking for some top-notch hiking in the States and want to try some of the tastiest BBQ in the state, then consider going on a trip here.

Texas Hill Country roughly refers to the elevated areas west of Austin. Many roads that go through this area; to visit a decent chunk of it will require you to take many different routes.

Generally speaking, the best parts of Texas Hill Country are around Highway 290. Locally beloved waterholes like Hamilton Pool, Pedernales Falls, and Jacobs Well are all within about 30 minutes detour.

There are many BBQ joints and spirit distilleries spread throughout Hill Country as well. If you want some of the most legendary BBQ in Texas, be sure to drop by Cooper’s Old Time Pit in Llano.

Austin is a bit of an underrated gem, so check out our insider travel guide and make sure you experience it fully.

14. Beartooth Highway

One of the most beautiful highways in america.

• States: Wyoming, Montana
• Start : Red Lodge, Montana
• End : Wyoming/Montana border via US 212
• Total Distance: 69 miles
• Best Part : Arriving at Beartooth Pass

For being one of the prettiest roads in America, it’s amazing how few people have probably heard about the Beartooth. When talking about what to do in Wyoming, most people talk about staying in Yellowstone or the Tetons more than anything. (Rightfully so! Those places are spectacular in their own right!)

Yet, just 2 hours away from the center of Yellowstone lies this stunner of a road trip, so stunning some say that it could easily compete with the aforementioned national park. Not to be taken lightly, this road starts at 5000 ft and climbs to a maximum height of nearly 11,000 ft. By the time you reach Beartooth Pass, you’ll be driving through high-alpine plateau; barren, humbling, and, most of all, awe-inspiring.

The drive is the show-stealer here but there’s still lots to do outside of the car on the Beartooth Highway. Lakes for fishing, trails for hiking, and kitschy shops for souvenirs all abound. Though the drive itself only takes 2-3 hours, one could easily spend several days here. Don’t just look at this as a way to connect Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks; think of this route as a park to be explored onto itself.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

15. The Hana Highway

A must-do on your hawaiian vacation.

• State: Hawaii
• Start : Kahului
• End : Haiku-Pauwela
• Total Distance: 64 miles
• Best Part: Playing “Spot the Waterfall”

Some people find the word “highway” in Hana Highway to be a gross exaggeration. “This isn’t a highway!” they might say; “this is a crooked alley in the middle of the jungle!” Fair enough fictional angry tourist I say.

The Hana Highway is not a typical highway: it’s narrow, winding, and sometimes scary to drive on. What would normally take an hour to drive will take more like two or three. The road is so small that parking on the side of the road is very difficult; sometimes it even turns into a single lane of traffic.

But the Hana Highway is worth the extra effort, of course. Waterfalls are everywhere along this road trip; during heavy rain, falls may spring up out of nowhere (be careful in this case actually). That quintessential Hawaiin lushness will be omnipresent as you coast through different areas of Maui , and you’ll even the opportunity to visit the beach! Pullover at Waianapanapa State Park just before Hana to see one of the better beaches on the island.

If you end up doing this Hawaiin road trip, just be sure to leave Kahului with a full tank of gas and snacks. There isn’t a whole lot in the way of food and gas stations along the way.

To be honest, Hawaii is yummy, expensive, and worthy of a proper adventure. Check out our budget travel guide for Hawaii and extend your trip a bit longer !

16. Charleston to Savannah

Southern comfort at its finest.

• States: South Carolina, Georgia
• Start : Charleston, NC
• End : Savannah, GA
• Total Distance : 108 miles
• Best Part : Comparing the two cities

It’s a well-known fact that there’s a long-standing rivalry between the cities of Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. Both are competing against each other for the title of “most charming cities in the South” and the competition is fierce. Thanks to their close proximity, one could easily visit one on a weekend road trip!

Charleston is the smaller city; not so hectic and pretty down-to-Earth by many standards. It’s mostly known for its old plantations and Southern hospitality. A lot of people – especially the locals – like to say that Charleston is much more laidback than Savannah and consequently much more hospitable. You can find plenty of great Airbnbs in Charleston too, so it’s definitely a place to stop over for a bit longer.

Savannah, on the other hand, is the larger of the two cities. It was formerly and economic center of the region and, as such, expanded quite fast. The original Southern architecture is very well preserved, the best examples being the cobblestone streets themselves, the old-school neighborhoods of Savannah , and the nearby plantations. Fun fact: public drinking is also legal in Savannah, which does lead to the occasional, spontaneous block party 🙂

17. The Best of the American Southwest

Take a trip through one of the most beautiful parts of the usa.

• States : Nevada, Utah, Arizona
• Start: Las Vegas
• End : Las Vegas
• Total Distance: 1200 miles
• Best Part: Doing acid somewhere you love

This isn’t an established route; there is no single road that you’ll stay on over the course of this trip. What this is a collection of highways that together form without question one of the most phenomenal road trips around the USA.

The American Southwest is one of the most beautiful regions in the world; a dreamscape filled with surreal arches, bottomless canyons, and rocks painted by the passage of time. Hiking through the arid landscapes of Arizona or Utah is more fantasy than reality sometimes and, to me at least, a more appropriate place for Gods to inhabit than humans.

My mind reels when I think about how many wonders there are on this Southwestern road trip. The Grand Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs, Antelope Canyon, Havasupai; all of these could be considered amongst the most beautiful places in the world. Yet, I haven’t even talked about the national parks of Utah either! Zion, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, my god – it’s all too much to think about at once.

Love it or hate it, you’ll be visiting Las Vegas for this road trip, so you may as well make the most of it!

18. Route 61 – The Blues Highway

Visit some of the most significant musical sites in america.

• States: Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa , Wisconsin, Minnesota
• Start : New Orleans
• End : Wyoming (Minnesota)
• Total Distance: 1,400 miles
• Best Part: Finding out where Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil

A good American road trip doesn’t ALWAYS have to be about pleasant scenery or heritage sites. Sometimes, all a good road trip takes is an appreciation for our musical forefathers and a really good playlist to go with it.

Route 61 is called the Blues Highway because it has been a part of so many American musicians’ lives. Bastions of classic American music, like Memphis, Des Moines , St. Louis, and the classic southern destination New Orleans are all connected by this road.

That means the greatest blues singers, rockers, country wailers, and more have all, at one point in their lives, driven on this road. It goes without saying that a lot of shit has probably happened here then.

Route 61 is full of interesting and sometimes strange attractions. The BB King Museum, Heartbreak Hotel, and some of the most hallowed music venues and concert halls in the country are all along this route.

The coolest place to visit on this USA road trip? The infamous “crossroads” where Robert Johnson supposedly sold his soul to the devil for fame (at the intersection of Highway 1 and 8).

For a shorter version, road trippers can instead drive from New Orleans to Memphis and experience many of the same attractions.

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19. Seward Highway

A wild road trip in the usa’s most wild state.

• States: Alaska
• Start : Anchorage
• End : Seward
• Total Distance: 125 miles
• Best Part: The Kenai Fjords

Choosing between this and the George Parks Highway is a tough call. The option of seeing the monstrous Denali is possible with the latter, and that alone should be enough to entice people. But overall, the Seward Highway is probably the best road trip in Alaska .

Why is the Seward Highway great? Well, it’s not too long, not too far away from civilization, and it offers a little bit of everything. The drive itself is remarkable as you’ll be afforded views of both the Chugach Mountains and the rugged Alaskan coastline at the same time, plus a bear or two (or more) as well.

For those very adventurous folk, the Kenai Peninsula offers more than just road thrills. Kayaking in the fjords among the glaciers is available as is hiking in the Kenai Mountains. Just remember: if you do decide to go off into the wilderness, don’t forget to exhibit the usual bear safety.

Now things are getting wild! You’ll be starting with a stay in Anchorage so make sure you book an awesome place in an awesome spot… it’s cold up there!

20. Park Loop (Acadia National Park)

Rugged new england coastline.

• States: Maine
• Start : Hulls Cove Visitor Center
• End : Hulls Cove Visitor Center
• Total Distance: 27 miles
• Best Part : Sunset beers at Cadillac Mountain

Maine is one of the most popular road trip destinations on the East Coast during the summer. People travel here over the weekend from as far as New York City or Philadelphia in search of some far more positive vibes. The Maine coastline, long beloved for its lighthouses and sandy beaches, for one reason or another, has long been therapeutic to these city slickers.

When it comes to coastal routes, few can compare to the Park Loop at Acadia National Park. Towering conifers, fine beaches, and that rough coastline that defines New England are all featured here; all are accessible from your car. There are several hikes around that will take you to some pretty solid viewpoints as well. The sunset at Cadillac Mountain is particularly good with friends and brews.

Because everyone wants to travel to Maine these days, it can get pretty crowded during the summer. Traffic will be bad and accommodation will either be limited or expensive. Autumn, though only slightly less busy, is a nice time to visit because of foliage. Spring is a great time though you should definitely have a coat with you. Visiting in winter should only be for the mad or photographically-inclined.

BONUS: The Ultimate USA Road Trip (According to Science)

For niiieerrrdddsss (kidding).

• States : All 48 lower states
• Start: New York
• End : New York
• Total Distance: 13,700 miles
• Best Part: The end.

Does anyone remember when that viral image of the GREATEST ROAD TRIP ACROSS AMERICA EVER was making rounds on the web? How many people made plans to do the damn thing?

Admittedly, this road trip was more notable for its use of data, specifically using a genetic algorithm, which already sounds super cool. In lamens, this genetic algorithm allowed the whizzes behind this to see the greatest amount of American destinations with as little backtracking as possible.

So are you ready to tackle this bad boy? Are you really in the mood for the most epic USA road trip imaginable? Then put in that vacation time and pack the car up as much as you can. Don’t skimp on the Red Bull either – there are going to be a lot of long drives here folks.

With all of those competing companies and exorbitant deposits, renting a car in the USA can seem scary. Frankly, I don’t blame people if they ever felt intimidated in this country while trying to rent a car – there’s a real learning curve.

But booking a rental car can be much more manageable if you know a few things beforehand. Here’s what you need to know:

• You need a credit card to rent a car in America – They rental company will use it to take a deposit for the car.
• You have to be 18 – Even then, you’ll get charged more if you’re under 28. Younger drivers are seen as liabilities.
• Don’t book rental insurance with the rental company – Use a third party because they’re cheaper and have better protection. Rentalcover is a great choice.
• Do your research – Use search engines, like Rentalcars.com , to find the best prices. Sedans are usually the cheapest options. SUVs will cost much more.
• Gas prices are different in every state – Use ViaMichelin  to chart gas prices in each state. As a rule of thumb, gas is cheaper the closer you get to Texas and the South.
• Some credit cards offer rental insurance – Be sure to check if your credit card company will cover you in the case of an accident. If they do cover you, you’ll save heaps of money. You’ll need to book the car with THAT card to qualify, of course.
• Almost all American cars have automatic transmissions – I honestly think it might actually cost more to rent a manual…
• Check to see if there is a cleaning fee – If you made a small mess, most companies won’t charge you anything. Some shady ones will charge you a fortune for a gum wrapper though.

What to Pack for a Road Trip in the USA

First off: your road trip packing list is going to vary wildly depending on how long the itinerary is. If you’re just going for a weekend, then your list is going to be much trimmer and less demanding. But some road trips can last weeks or even months. If you’re like my friends, Kevin and Liz, you’ll eventually end up living out of your car at which point it may be time to consider investing in the vanlife .

When packing for a shorter road trip, go minimal . Take the essentials, like a roadside safety kit and some form of navigation for example, and then add more as needed. If you’re camping, take the appropriate gear. If you have a toddler, take a doona car seat stroller (it’s a seriously cool piece of engineering). If you want to save money, take lots of snacks and pre-made meals to avoid stopping at diners. Easy peasy.

On the other hand, if you’re planning a truly epic American road trip route, the likes of which would make Jack Kerouac or Alexander Supertramp jealous, then you’ll need much, much more stuff. I cannot cover everything in this single section of the article but I can suggest that you check out our road trip packing checklist for more ideas and suggestions.

Aside from knowing what to pack on your road trip in the USA, you’ll also need to know how to pack . If you have a lot of stuff, you will need to be conscious of how you organize everything, especially if you have a smaller, passenger-style vehicle. Get a system in place – use packing cubes and plastic bins to keep everything separated; bungee cables will be your best friends.

For more information on how to pack a car, check out this informative article at USA Today .

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

What to do in Case of Trouble while Road Tripping in the USA

It should go without saying that you need to be prepared for your road trip in the USA. I would like to make a friendly reminder here to do so. Prepare thyself before embarking on your asphalt odysseys by having the following, at a minimum: a roadside emergency kit and some form travel insurance for the USA . 

A lot can go wrong on a road trip: tires can pop, accidents can happen, engines can stutter and stop. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere because someone forgot to do something essential like change the oil could ruin your trip real fast.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

A roadside assistance kit will contain everything that you could need to fix small problems on the road. They can’t fix everything (you’ll need a mechanic for that) but at least you’ll be able to recharge a dead battery and arrest a bumper on the fly.

If the shit really hits the fan and your vehicle is really in trouble, that’s when the insurance comes in handy. If there’s a fatal problem with the car, trust me, it will be expensive, and having insurance means that you’ll have a bit of financial help.

Now you could invest in two types of insurance: regular travel insurance or special rental car insurance.

Some travel insurance providers provide basic vehicular coverage and will cover you in certain circumstances. World Nomads insurance is a good example. Granted, there is at times some fine print regarding who qualifies. For example, drivers from some US states cannot qualify for vehicular assistance with World Nomads. Always be sure to double-check.

If you want total protection, go with an independent rental insurance company like Rental Cover. Most offer excellent coverage at very reasonable rates, more so than the rental car company will give you.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Beartooth highway tops out at just shy of 11,000 feet…. not 8000.

Thanks for pointing this out. I’ve changed the detail now.

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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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The Scenic Route: A Guide to the World’s Best Road Trips

The 10 best road trips around the world, a mix of classic and unexpected, coastal and countryside..

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There’s something about seeing a country or a region on four wheels that lets you feel immersed in a place. The roadside restaurants, the freedom to pause and linger, the exhilaration and pain of getting lost in an age of constant Google Mapping... Isn’t half the fun of travel the detours, anyway? In this package, we pick the 10 best road trips around the world, a mix of classic and unexpected, coastal and countryside. You’d be remiss not to drive California’s Highway 1 at least once in your life—but what about South Africa’s Garden Route?

For a road trip in South Africa, drive the Garden Route.

Photo by Andrea Willmore/Shutterstock

Garden Route, South Africa

Hugging the eastern coastline of South Africa , the Garden Route takes you through the nation’s hits. There are farm stalls brimming with local produce, reserves with wildlife like elephants, ostriches, and monkeys, and memorable scenery throughout. Hiking, swimming, and surfing are all on offer, and you can finish days with a local glass of wine from one of the many wine farms along the way.

Ready to hit the road? Read more here.

North America

Road trip through Alaska.

Michael Rosebrock/Shutterstock and Justin Kaneps

A Loop out of Anchorage, Alaska

This seven-day journey that starts and ends in Anchorage is an outdoorsy road-tripper’s dream. You’ll be awestruck by Denali National Park , as well as the less-trafficked and equally beautiful Wrangell—St. Elias. You’ll meet sled dogs and sample Alaska ’s bountiful produce at organic farms along the way. If you’re really adventurous, take a detour on a bush flight and enjoy Alaska’s small-town delights—and its famous salmon. You’ll want to make time for a glacier trek, so don’t forget your fleece and hiking boots.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Perhaps the most iconic of road trips, California ’s Pacific Coast Highway takes you all along the state’s picturesque coastline. Winding through beach towns, big cities, and miles of untouched coast, PCH is the perfect way to see the Golden State. There are aquariums, a castle, and, of course, jaw-dropping scenery on this route. Be sure you plan enough time to take it slow, watch for whales, and, when you’re at the car rental, spring for the convertible.

San Juan Skyway, Colorado

This quick jaunt among the 14,000-foot peaks of southwestern Colorado has no shortage of dramatic vistas. The roads are not for the faint of heart—10,000-foot passes beckon. Stomach-churning heights give way to sprawling pastures and waterfall-flecked canyons. Hot springs and tiny mountain towns also make this road trip an irresistible stunner.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

A five-day journey along the Parkway from Charlottesville, Virginia , to Asheville, North Carolina, showcases the wonders of Appalachia. You’ll sample local cheeses, seasonal, farm-to-table cooking, and barbecue. Down-home bluegrass music plus local crafts make for a truly authentic trip into this scenic, mountainous region. There’s no shortage of hikes, ranging from easy to difficult, including an opportunity to set foot on the storied Appalachian Trail.

South America

Go fishing on a road trip in Patagonia, which is known for some of the best fly-fishing in the world.

Photo by Peter Bohler

Patagonia Lake District, Argentina and Chile

Outdoor adventures await throughout the Lake District in northern Patagonia in Argentina and Chile . From white-water rafting to heli-skiing to hiking, there’s something for everyone no matter the season, all amid charming, European-style towns. National parks, volcanoes, and the eponymous lakes dot the route, offering arresting views and more places to stop and explore than you’ll have time for. Locally sourced steak and trout will keep you fueled up on this weeklong journey.

Epic waterfalls are just one of the things you will see on an Iceland road trip.

Photo by Smit/Shutterstock

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

A drive along Ireland ’s windswept coastline brings endless opportunities for nature walks and hunkering down in cozy pubs. You’ll encounter live traditional music and plenty of chances to get on the water, from boat tours to kayaking. Dolphin and whale-watching tours, too, are on your route. Castles and colorful villages also take center stage on this trip. Although our itinerary covers five days, you could easily take two weeks to discover this massive, 1,600-mile route.

North Coast 500, Scotland

This 516-mile loop out of Inverness showcases the rugged beauty of northernmost Scotland. Cathedrals, historic sites, and distilleries abound here, and you’ll need at least five days to wind your way around the scenic drive. Accommodations range from rustic to country luxury to castle estates, so there’s something for every type of traveler. Fill your plate with loads of seafood and game, then burn it all off with hikes, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

Ready to hit the road? Read more here .

Diamond Circle, Iceland

This less-traveled circuit in northern Iceland showcases the highlights. Waterfalls and colonies of puffins await alongside opportunities for whale-watching. Days filled with delectable seafood, ancient rock formations, and soaring views create the kind of trip that will have you stopping every few miles for a photo op. No trip through Iceland would be complete without geothermal baths, so a good soak is on your agenda as well.

Drive the Great Ocean Road in Australia.

Photo by Robert Blackburn/Visit Victoria

Great Ocean Road

Spend at least three days on a leisurely tour of Australia ’s Great Ocean Road, a spectacular coastal route that runs south out of Melbourne . There are pristine beaches, yes, but also a stunning national park with waterfall hikes and zipline adventures. Add beachfront hotels and restaurants and you’ve got the makings of a truly special road trip, particularly if you take the time for a beach day or two as you explore. On this drive, you’ll want to remain beach-ready. Pack plenty of sunscreen.

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The best road trips in the U.S. for epic drives

Set off on America's best road trips, from winding waterfront drives to expansive countrysides and picturesque deserts

The great American road trip is a tradition celebrated across books, movies and popular culture—nothing feels quite as freeing as setting off on the open road (windows or top down for the full, thrilling cliché). Seeing this expansive country by automobile is a true privilege that takes you through all types of terrains, delivering landscapes and waterfront views that will take your breath away and make you wonder—is this real life? You’d be amazed at how different one country can be as you explore coast by coast, traveling north, south, east and west. The question at hand then becomes, where are you going? There are some obvious choices, like the iconic Route 66 and the scenic Pacific Coast Highway , both incredible in their own right. But you’ll also find lesser-known favorites in our guide to the best road trips in the U.S., including mountainside parkways and tunneled highways. These road trips will cover plenty of ground, checking off boxes on your bucket list of adventures.

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Best U.S. road trips

1.  Route 66 | CA to IL

It would be blasphemous not to include Route 66 at the top of any road trip roundup. The iconic Mother Road is one of the U.S. Highway System’s original routes, starting in downtown Chicago and winding its way across the country to the Santa Monica pier. Covering eight states and approximately 2,500 miles, the historic highway is punctuated with pops of kitsch and classic Americana from a bygone era. 

Can’t-miss pit stop: Join a guided tour of the 400-million-year-old Meramec Caverns in Missouri. Jesse James famously used it as a hideout, and the Jesse James Wax Museum is just minutes away.

2.  Highway 1 to Big Sur | CA

This show-stealing drive may have shot to fame after its cameo in the Big Little Lies opening credits montage, but it’s been a beloved route for in-the-know motorists for years. This California coastal classic is chock-full of stomach drops and treacherous turns, but it’s all worth it for the world-class panoramas along the way. Be prepared: Some stretches can last 40 miles without a single bathroom break or gas station.

Can’t-miss pit stop: Sure, you’ve seen it in a million car commercials, but did you even drive along Highway 1 if you don’t have a picture of Bixby Bridge to prove it? Big Sur ’s answer to the Golden Gate in San Francisco , this impressive open-spandrel arch bridge soars 260ft above cliffs and a steep canyon.

3.  Route 101 | CA to WA

Like many classic road trip routes across the U.S., this one comprises sections of road that form a continuous experience. By following Route 101 —which becomes California State Route 1, better known as the Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, which then briefly returns to Route 101 once again—you can, to all intents and purposes, drive from the American/Canadian border, just north of Seattle... all the way down the entire West Coast of the US all the way to the American/Mexican border, just south of San Diego. And that my friends, is the mother of all road trips. 

Can’t-miss pit stop:  This road trip incorporates arguably some of the very best views the country has to offer. From the amazing coastline of Astoria to the Redwood Forest National Park, plus Napa, and Sonoma...the list goes on.

4.  Blue Ridge Parkway | VA to NC

In the mood for a leisurely,  legendary drive? If so, head for the Blue Ridge Parkway, where the speed limit sits at a comfortable 45mph and commercial vehicles are strictly prohibited. Snaking through the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina, the 469-mile route connects the Shenandoah and the Great Smoky Mountains national parks. For prime leaf-peeping, visit in autumn when foliage explodes in a brilliant display of crimson, auburn and golden leaves.  

Can’t-miss pit stop: Spend some time at Mount Pisgah in North Carolina, famous for its extensive network of hiking trails and the storied Pisgah Inn , which dates back to 1919.

5.  Overseas Highway | FL

For a tropical escape, blast some Jimmy Buffett and hit the Overseas Highway. The route follows US-1, connecting the Florida Keys during a 113-mile, sun-drenched drive. Originally constructed in 1928 and rebuilt in the 1980s, the continuous road connects Key Largo down to laid-back Key West . Cruise over Seven Mile Bridge (one of the longest in the world) while soaking in towering lighthouses, colorful coral reef parks and strips of white-sand beaches. Can’t-miss pit stop:  At Islamorada, which encompasses six of the Florida Keys, visitors can swim with dolphins at the Theater of the Sea  and explore  ruins from the 1800s in  Indian Key Historic State Park .

6.  Going-to-the-Sun Road | MT

Originally constructed to promote tourism and encourage people to visit America’s national parks, this remarkable road has achieved its purpose since its completion in 1932. The 50-mile artery carves through Montana’s Glacier National Park, shooting through the Rockies up and over the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Be sure to watch out for blind curves and dramatic drop-offs, and avoid this one in the winter months, when snowbanks can reach 80ft in depth.

Can’t-miss pit stop: In the summertime, plan to pause at Logan Pass. Soaring to an elevation of 6,646ft, it has expansive overlooks, grazing mountain goats and blankets of rainbow-hued wildflower meadows.

7.  Santa Fe to Taos Loop | NM

Pack a pair of cowboy boots and set course for the Santa Fe Loop, woven between the valleys of the Rio Grande and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in New Mexico. This all-American road trip adventure looks straight out of a classic Western movie, tumbleweeds and all. Rambling desertscapes and the pueblo communities of Ojo Caliente make this drive a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Can’t-miss pit stop:  Take a breather in the town of Taos , located in northern New Mexico’s high desert. Known for its historic adobe architecture, the spot has numerous museums (like the Taos Art Museum ) and racecourse rafting along the Rio Grande and the Wild Rivers Recreation Area.

8.  Lincoln Highway | NY to CA

The little-known Lincoln Highway was the first road for automobiles across the whole of the U.S. It was conceived in 1912 by Indiana entrepreneur Carl G. Fisher and formally opened a year later. It runs coast-to-coast from Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco, originally traveling through 13 states. However, in 1928, a realignment relocated the Highway through the northern tip of West Virginia, thus bringing the total to 14 states, 128 counties, and more than 700 cities, towns and villages, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and California. Since then, the Highway has been gradually replaced with numbered designations after establishing the Numbered Highway System, with most of the route becoming U.S. Route 30 from Pennsylvania to Wyoming. But, like other classic cross-country road trips, with just a little research, you can easily navigate along the entire length of the original route.

Can’t-miss pit stop: The Lincoln Highway passes very close to Cheyanne Mountain, the home of North American Aerospace Defense Command, otherwise known as NORAD . While public tours are not available, this location has appeared in several movies and TV shows, including War Games and, of course, Stargate SG1 .

9.  Texas Hill Country | TX

The best way to witness the Lone Star State’s boundless beauty is by car. Hill Country is sandwiched between San Antonio and Austin and is known for its undulating hills and postcard-worthy bluebonnet blooms. The spellbinding expanse is dotted with charming farmland roads, award-winning wineries and orchards that churn out bushels of mouth-watering apples, peaches and pomegranates every year. For meat lovers, Hill Country is also bursting at the seams with mom-and-pop barbecue joints.  

Can’t-miss pit stop: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has long attracted history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. Located just outside of Fredericksburg, the climbable pink granite mountain shows signs of human settlement that date back more than 10,000 years.

10.  Hana Highway | HI

Hawaii is best known for its lush landscapes and aquatic adventures, but America’s 50th state is also home to one of the top road trips in the U.S. This drive through paradise links Kahului to Hana during 60 miles of jaw-dropping turns. Most can complete the journey in about three hours, but midday bumper-to-bumper traffic can seriously inflate travel time. Along the way, look out for swaying mango trees, dramatic sea cliffs and colonies of monk seals soaking in the sun.  

Can’t-miss pit stop: Exit at mile marker 32 to explore Waiʻānapanapa State Park , where undulating emerald jungles meet the rugged, black basalt lava coastlines.

11.  Anchorage to Valdez | AK

Witness firsthand the stunning sites of Alaska on this short but sweet drive. The 300-mile route connects the Glenn and Richardson highways, allowing you to cruise past gleaming glaciers and mountain ranges that boast so many sky-high peaks, many of them yet to be named. The seven-hour trek can easily be drawn out to appreciate the natural wonders of the Last Frontier, including the colorful Spirit Houses of Eklutna Village and the Matanuska Glacier Scenic Turnout.

Can’t-miss pit stop: The easy hike along Thunderbird Falls Trail is a popular excursion that leads to an impressive 200ft waterfall. More intrepid explorers should consider ice climbing on the Matanuska Glacier, about 100 miles northeast of Anchorage.

12.  Great River Road | MN to MS

One of the longest scenic byways in America, the Great River Road traverses roughly 3,000 miles along the mighty Mississippi River. Stretching from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, the breathtaking drive intersects 10 states and takes about 10 days to complete. The well-marked route is easily identifiable, thanks to its iconic green pilot’s wheel road signs. It’s also celebrated for its diverse array of natural, cultural, historical and recreational sites along the way. Can’t-miss pit stop: If the Great River Road was a meal, then New Orleans would be its dessert course. The last stop on the epic route, the Big Easy, has incredible culinary, jazz and cultural scenes. 

13.  Olympic Peninsula Loop | WA

The Olympic Peninsula Loop is another West Coast wonder, encircling Washington’s Olympic National Park. Swerving, dipping and diving, this 330-mile drive stands out because of the striking diversity of its terrain. Boulder-speckled Pacific coastlines, verdant temperate rainforests and the snow-capped Cascade Range can all be witnessed during a single-day trip. Be sure to sample local oysters and fresh clams, another regional specialty. Can’t-miss pit stop: Swing by Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, tucked away in Port Angeles, for a restorative soak in the natural mineral springs. No swimsuit? No worries: The springs welcome bathers in the buff.

14.  Beartooth Highway | MT to WY

This 68-mile route is a National Scenic Byways All-American Road and brings drivers from southwest Montana through northwest Wyoming right into Yellowstone National Park. First opened in 1937, this eclectic drive has been called one of the most beautiful America has to offer. Highlights along the route include incredible alpine plateaus, forested valleys, sparkling glacial lakes and unforgettable wildlife. Open exclusively in the summer, the route also climbs Beartooth Pass, a scenic stretch between Cooke City and Red Lodge, Montana.

Can’t-miss pit stop: Check out Beartooth Corridor, where visitors can hike through the highlands and spot moose, elk, black bears, wolves and more.

15.  Volcanic Legacy Byway | CA to OR

For truly unusual and spectacular views, pack up the car and head for the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, connecting California’s Lassen National Park with Crater Lake in Oregon. The north-to-south route covers about 500 miles, tracing along geological formations created by volcanic activity of the Cascade Mountain Range. The drive ventures through the majestic Shasta Valley and offers unobstructed vistas of Mount Shasta, the second-tallest volcano in the country.  

Can’t-miss pit stop: There are countless things to see and do during a visit, but don’t miss Petroglyph Point , one of the country’s largest and most accessible panels of Native American rock art.

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

• Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
• Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
• The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

• Length: 655 miles
• When To Go: September through October
• Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

• Length: 2,448 miles
• When To Go: May and September
• Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

• Length: 3,000 miles
• When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
• Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

• Length: 469 miles
• When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
• Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

• Length: 113 miles
• When To Go: Between January and April
• Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 440 miles
• When To Go: During the spring or summer months
• Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

• Length: 1,400 miles
• When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
• Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

• Length: 6,500 miles
• When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
• Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Length: 150 miles
• Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

• Length: 200 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

• Length: 414 miles
• When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
• Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

• Length: 300 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

• Length: 2,150 miles
• When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
• Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

The 18 Best Road Trips in the U.S. in 2024

Updated : January 10, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, Katie Broome

Table of contents.

• Southern New England
• Northern Arizona Canyons
• Natchez Trace Parkway
• Hershey, Pa., Dutch Country
• Southern Arizona
• Southern California
• Northern CA & Southern OR Coast
• Vegas to National Parks to Vegas
• Smoky Mountains
• Grand Pacific Northwest
• Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina
• Route 66 - Eastern New Mexico
• Black Hills
• Utah's National Parks
• Big Sky Country
• South Florida
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe to Reno

Plan Your Next Road Trip with AAA Travel

Road trips let travelers see the world from a new perspective and explore distant locations. Recent studies indicate that more than 100 million Americans plan for road trips in the summer. Each state offers a unique experience for travelers, so it can be hard to limit your options. Whether you are dreaming up road trip ideas or simply curious about the most popular ones, here we’ll explore 18 of the best road trips in the U.S. and share some of the ways AAA Travel can make planning a breeze.

1. Southern New England

Starting and ending in Boston, this southern New England road trip covers quite a bit of history and scenery in one route. One of the best road trips in the U.S., you’ll see sites from the American Revolution along Boston’s Freedom Trail , quaint shops housed in Colonial-era buildings on the streets of Mystic, Connecticut and lavish mansions from the Gilded Age in Newport, Rhode Island. This trip also offers prime leaf-peeping opportunities in late October and early November. (To explore nearby Martha’s Vineyard, check out the Cape Cod Road Trip .)

• Length: 229.4 miles
• Time: 5+ hours
• Great for: Couples, history buffs and families

2. Northern Arizona Canyons

Southwest desert scenery is on full display on this northern Arizona canyons road trip. From the red rock formations of Sedona to the majesty of the Grand Canyon , this loop journey from Flagstaff hits all the highlights. It includes stops at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, the ancient pueblos of Wupatki National Monument and the lava fields of Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument.

• Length: 274.3 miles
• Time: 6+ hours
• Great for: Solo and adventure travelers

3. Natchez Trace Parkway

To see the American South in all its glory, the Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the best places to go on a road trip. Stretching from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi (by way of Tupelo, Mississippi, the birthplace of Elvis Presley), this rural route makes it easy to visit archeological sites, prehistoric ceremonial mounds, Civil War battlefields and the original Native American trail.

• Length: 494.6 miles
• Time: 10+ hours
• Great for: Music lovers and history buffs

4. Hershey, Pa., Dutch Country

Expect to see horse-drawn carriages and historic covered bridges on a drive through Hershey, Pennsylvania, Dutch Country. Named after the German (Deutsch) immigrants who settled there in the 18th century, Pennsylvania Dutch Country offers the unique chance to see people of the Amish, Mennonite and Brethren faiths practicing their simple, modest lifestyle. The road trip also includes a stop in Gettysburg . (For more nearby things to do, see Best Historical Places to Visit on a Pennsylvania Road Trip ).

• Length: 197.0 miles
• Great for: Families and history buffs

5. Southern Arizona

From the towering cacti of the Sonoran Desert to the Wild West saloons of Tombstone, photo-worthy sights are aplenty on a drive through southern Arizona. You’ll pass through the vibrant cities of Tucson and Scottsdale on this trip, with art galleries, authentic Mexican restaurants and splurge-worthy resorts along the way. (For more things to do near Scottsdale, see Best Places to Hike and Eat in Scottsdale, Arizona, on a Weekend Getaway .)

• Length: 547.1 miles
• Great for: Couples and adventure travelers

6. Southern California

It’s sunny skies ahead on this Southern California cruise, which includes a seven-hour journey from Los Angeles to Temecula wine country that features palm tree-dotted beaches, coastal cliffs, rugged desert canyons and a stop in San Diego . Travel editors recommend you plan this trip for spring or fall , as temperatures at some points along the drive can top 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. (For more escapes from L.A., check out the Los Angeles to Death Valley Road Trip or the California Desert Road Trip .)

• Length: 307.4 miles
• Great for: Couples and solo travelers

7. Northern CA & Southern OR Coast

Definitely not short on scenery, this Northern California and Southern Oregon Coast drive can easily be split up over a few days so you have plenty of time for exploration. You’ll start in California’s Central Valley, then wind your way up the Pacific Coast to see towering redwoods, quaint beach towns, shifting sand dunes and breathtaking ocean views on Oregon’s U.S. 101. (If you drive an electric vehicle, also check out Where to Stop and Recharge on an EV Road Trip Down Oregon’s Coast .)

• Length: 380.1 miles
• Time: 8+ hours
• Great for: Families, couples and campers

8. Vegas to National Parks to Vegas

A multiday road trip from Las Vegas is a great way to explore the Southwest and check off a few bucket list items. AAA’s Vegas road trip covers 860 miles in Nevada, Arizona and Utah, and includes stops at man-made landmarks like the Hoover Dam and Route 66 and at natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and the hoodoos (rock formations) of Bryce Canyon. (For more inspiration, see Ditch the Glitz for Adventure in Vegas .)

• Length: 857.4 miles
• Time: 16 hours
• Great for: Solo and adventure travelers and campers

9. Smoky Mountains

See the signature haze of the Great Smoky Mountains on this 500-mile loop that provides plenty of ooh- and aah-worthy views of America’s most-visited national park. One of the best road trips in the USA, AAA’s route begins and ends in Knoxville , Tennessee, and includes stops in fun mountain towns like Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Asheville, North Carolina.

• Length: 497.8 miles

10. Grand Pacific Northwest

Soak up views of iconic Northwest landmarks on this Pacific Northwest drive, which covers 550 miles in Oregon and Washington. From the waterfalls along the Historic Columbia River Highway to the summer wildflowers of Mount Rainier National Park, this road trip is sure to please nature lovers. (For even more adventures in the “upper left” of the U.S., see Best Pacific Northwest Road Trips (and When to Take Them) .)

• Length: 551.1 miles
• Great for: Families and campers

11. Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina

America’s longest linear park is also one of its most scenic, which makes the Blue Ridge Parkway a clear winner in AAA’s list of the most popular road trips in the U.S. The portion of the parkway that runs through North Carolina follows curvy mountain roads from Cherokee to the North Carolina-Virginia state line, with plenty of spectacular views and hiking opportunities along the way. You could easily stretch this drive into a multiday trip.

• Length: 303.8 miles

12. Route 66 - Eastern New Mexico

Route 66 is a staple of “Americana” culture and the subject of a particularly catchy tune from the 1940s. This massive highway stretches across two-thirds of the United States, so it’s not uncommon for folks to explore Route 66 bit by bit. The Eastern New Mexico stretch of Route 66 will take you from Albuquerque , New Mexico, the primary setting of AMC’s “Breaking Bad,” to Adrian, Texas — the “Midpoint of Route 66.” 

• Length: 118.7 miles
• Time: 2+ hours
• Great for: Americana fans, families and couples

13. Black Hills

Mount Rushmore , a scenic memorial that features four of the United States’ most famous presidents, is the center point of this Black Hills road trip. However, there are plenty more historic landmarks along the way, including the legendary gold rush town of Deadwood, South Dakota, and the Jewel Cave National Monument.

• Length: 209 miles
• Time: 5 hours
• Great for: History buffs, families and campers

14. Utah's National Parks

Utah is adored for its delicious food scene and gorgeous natural landscapes. This scenic road trip will let you get up close and personal with some of Utah’s national parks. Throughout the 1,050-mile voyage, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Utah’s world-famous natural scenery. You’ll also be able to sample local delicacies from venues like the Sunset Grill in Moab, Utah .

• Length: 1,049.3 miles
• Time: 19+ hours
• Great for: Outdoor adventurers and naturalists

15. Cape Cod

This 174-mile road trip through Cape Cod highlights Boston’s natural beauty and historic significance. During this drive, you’ll encounter a touching monument to John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States. You may also get a chance to admire humpback whales if you visit during whale-watching season, which normally runs from mid-April to October.

• Length: 173.7 miles
• Great for: Fishing fans, beachgoers, and whale watchers

16. Big Sky Country

The term “Big Sky Country” refers to the parts of the U.S. that still largely consist of untouched natural land. This 425-mile scenic road trip will take you through portions of Montana and Wyoming. Highlights include visits to the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

• Length: 425.4 miles
• Great for: Campers, astronomy fans, and naturalists

17. South Florida

Folks have called Florida the Sunshine State since before the 1970s — and for good reason. This popular vacation destination is brimming with sandy beaches and tropical weather. AAA’s 421-mile route through South Florida hits major destinations like Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach . Along the way, you might even see herds of deer or congregations of alligators.

• Length: 421.1 miles
• Great for: Wildlife watchers, beachgoers, couples and families

18. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe to Reno

California and Nevada feature a bevy of breathtaking sights and sounds. AAA’s 486-mile route from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe to Reno provides plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in natural experiences near Lake Tahoe — and enjoy some of Reno ’s most impressive resorts, like the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino.

• Length: 486.3 miles
• Time: 9+ hours
• Great for: Museum fans, kayakers and hikers

AAA Travel can help you streamline your next cross-country cruise with our wide selection of pre-planned road trips. Travelers with AAA memberships can also capitalize on big savings and exclusive offers while sightseeing. 

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The 25 best road trips in the usa.

 If you’re looking for the best road trips in the USA, look no further! These great road trips will have you driving for the rest of your life.

This post was written in partnership and paid for by Hum by Verizon . All opinions are my own.

There’s probably nothing more American than packing up your car and hitting the open road with family or friends, some good snacks, and great tunes… and for good reason. With more than 3.7 million square miles to discover and 4,071,000 miles of road , the United States has so many hidden gems accessible by car.

Although I’ve got about 194 countries on my bucket list right now, I’m grateful to live in the great US of A and think it’s one of the most amazing countries to explore from the road. There are so many fun road trips that you can take all over the country!

Here's a Short Cut

The Best USA Road Trip Safety Tips

Get ready for the best road trips in the usa, 1. pacific coast highway, 2. park loop acadia national park, 3. washington-oregon coast, 4. great river road, 5. big island loop road, 6. musical road usa trip, 7. northern national parks road trip, 8. southwest national parks road trip, 9. hana highway road trip, 10. new york city to finger lakes, 11. williamsburg, va to charlottesville, va to washington d.c., 12. miami to the overseas highway to key west, fl: 160 miles from miami, 13. the grand canyon to las vegas, 14. black hills of south dakota, 15. maine lobster trail, 16. blue ridge parkway, 17. grand teton national park to glacier national park, 18. outer banks scenic byway, 19. olympic peninsula, 20. route 66, 21. alaska highway, 22. ultimate florida road trip, 23. the great american road trip – cross country on the i-90, 24. anchorage to seward, 25. canada to mexico.

If you’re planning to take a road trip this year, I’ve compiled the best American road trip routes in the country.  These are 25 of the best road trips in the USA that everyone should take in their lifetime. We’ve been lucky enough to drive almost every inch of this country and there is some beautiful land to see out there.

Before you leave on any road trip, be sure your car is road trip ready.  If you’re traveling the US by car, it’s important to know how to prepare.

Prepare Your Car for the Best Road Trips in the USA

Before heading out on your USA road trip, be sure your car has been serviced, and everything is working properly. When you road trip around the US, anything could go wrong! It’s best to be prepared.

Use Hum by Verizon  to Prepare for Road Trip Vacations I’ve talked about my love of Hum by Verizon before, but it’s because I love my HumX and think anyone taking a road trip should have one!

Hum by Verizon is campaigning to make the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 Safer Days of Summer.” During these 100 Days, you can find helpful tips for safer driving on their Facebook page.

According to a study from Hum by Verizon and Wakefield Research that surveyed 1,000 U.S. adult drivers ages 20 and older, 80% of participants think that drivers are more likely to speed during the summer months. The survey also found that 61% of millennial drivers struggle to focus while driving during the summer, and one in five drivers have received at least one speeding ticket within the past five years.

Hum by Verizon wants to change that, by helping us practice important road safety with “100 Safer Days of Summer.”

With so many great summer road trip destinations around the country, and so many more Americans traveling these days, safety has never been more important! The best summer trips are safe summer trips!

We use HumX in our car. HumX is a little device that is easily installed in your car and takes the guesswork out of driving by using connected car technology. It allows you to have quick access to emergency services and loved ones while on a road trip, or any time on the road.

If you have an accident or emergency, HumX can send assistance to help you get back on the road.

Hum X car also runs diagnostics on your vehicle to make sure that things are running smoothly so you can take these cool road trips worry-free.

I love that HumX helps you keep track of general maintenance like oil changes and tire rotation, and you can set up alerts to remind you when it’s time for service.

All the Hum by Verizon services can be accessed on your smartphone from the Hum App which you can find in the App Store or Google Play . HumX also comes with a Bluetooth speaker that clips to your visor. This will give you access to roadside assistance with the touch of a button and can also be used as a speaker for your phone and be connected to your contacts.

I’m also really excited to have this service when my kids start driving, which is only in 3 more years (HELP)! It provides a safety score, boundary alerts, and records speed, so you can monitor your teen’s driving.

You can also track your fuel and mileage using HumX, which is great if you’re taking road trips that are for work and need to track mileage for expenses or tax purposes.

To prepare for your American road trip of choice, be sure to follow these tips that I’ve shared in How to Plan a Road Trip . If you don’t know what to do on a road trip, these tips will help you prepare and also help you have the best time! Learn a lot and have fun along the way while you road trip USA style!

25 Best Road Trips in the USA

● Begin: San Francisco, California ● End: San Diego, California ● Distance: 655 miles ● Drive Time: 12 Hours

California is one of the best places to road trip in the USA! Its size and diversity provide so many options and the Pacific Coast Highway is just one. This iconic highway along the California coast covers 655 miles of awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, stretching from San Francisco to San Diego. See classic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Bixby Creek Bridge along the way. The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best summer road trips in the world!

Read more about our detailed West Coast Road Trip.

● Begin: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● End: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● Distance: 27 miles ● Drive Time: 2 hours This is one of the best east coast road trips I’ve ever taken. This is a quick road trip but packed full of stunning views as you drive along the Park Loop in Acadia National Park. Forests, mountains, and rocky shores greet you on your drive along with plenty of wildlife. Be sure to spend some time in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine , the town where you can base your Acadia trip from. All good road trips include some amazing scenery, and this one is no exception!

If you’re looking for a great guide to the park, check out this Acadia National Park Guide.

● Start: San Juan Islands ● End: Brookings, Oregon ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 15 hours

The Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to go on a road trip due to its geographical diversity and stunning scenery. One of the most dramatic coastlines in the world, the Pacific Northwest offers rocky beaches, turbulent waters, thick forests, and great food. Begin in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington and continue down to the southern tip of Oregon for one of the best road trips in the USA.

● Starting point: Minnesota ● Ending point: Louisiana ● Distance: 3,000 miles ● Drive Time: 20 hours Follow along the mighty Mississippi River from its beginning in Minnesota, all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. This route is called the Great River Road and it cuts 3,000 miles down the center of our great nation, passing through 10 states, where you’ll see St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, and everything in between. This United States road trip is one of my all-time favorites as it explores some lesser-known destinations in the “fly over” states!

● Starting point: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii ● Ending point: Mauna Kea, Hawaii ● Distance: 300 miles ● Drive Time: 7 hours The Island Loop Road of the Big Island of Hawaii offers scenic views of beaches, mountains, lava fields, active volcanos, black sand beaches, and heated swimming pools. This may be the most diversity in landscape you’ll ever see in one day.

● Begin: Nashville, Tennessee ● End: New Orleans, Louisiana ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 9 hours If you’re a music fan, then Route 61 (also known as the Blues Highway) will be a perfect road trip for you, giving you the chance to hear live music, visit Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, and see famous recording studios. Finish in New Orleans, where you’ll hear live jazz on the streets nightly!

If you want to continue on farther, you can do this amazing gulf coast road trip !

● Begin: Jackson, Wyoming ● End: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming ● Distance: 70 miles ● Drive Time: 1.5 hours National Parks make for the best road trip destinations. Explore both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park with this road trip full of stunning mountainous scenery! It’s the perfect summer road trip.

● Begin: Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim), Arizona ● End: Moab, Utah (one of the most amazing things to do in Utah !) ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 11 hours This nature-packed road trip will allow you to see five stunning Utah national parks including the Grand Canyon, Zions’, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, and Arches. This is a great Utah road trip itinerary if you’re interested in exploring even more of this beautiful state.

Check out this Utah Road Trip Itinerary

● Begin: Kahului, Hawaii ● End: Hana, Hawaii ● Distance: 52 miles ● Drive Time: 2.5 hours This is possibly the most popular road trip in all of the Hawaiian Islands. The 60-mile Road to Hana takes you along the eastern coast of Maui where you will be sandwiched by beautiful ocean views and jungles filled with waterfalls. The Hana highway will wind you around approximately 600 curves, crossing 59 bridges, but the ride is worth it!

● Begin: New York, New York ● End: Corning, New York ● Distance: 250 miles ● Drive Time: 4.5 hours I love this New York road trip! After enjoying the busy city life, escape into the Fingerlakes region of upper state New York. Enjoy culture, scenery, great food and wineries along the way. New York City with kids is so much fun, but it’s great to mix it with a more relaxing and nature-filled vacation.

• Begin: Williamsburg, Virginia
• End: Washington, D.C
• Distance: 240 miles
• Drive Time: 4.5 hours

Brush up on your colonial history and visit the homes of some of our founding fathers while reliving the past. Begin your journey in southern Virginia where you can visit Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement, where you’ll witness historical reenactments and join in on living history.

Next, head to Charlottesville and visit the homes of former presidents Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) and James Monroe (Highland). Head to Mount Vernon, just outside Washington DC to visit George Washington’s home (Mount Vernon) and finish off your trip in our nation’s capital. The distance from Williamsburg VA to Washington DC isn’t much, but the history that can be found on the side of the road is amazing!

You can also do this trip in reverse. It’s one of the best road trips from DC I’ve ever taken.

Begin: Miami, Florida End: Key West, Florida Distance: 170 miles Drive Time: 3.5 hours Take the 150-mile drive on Route 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, from Miami to the Florida Keys, crossing 42 bridges. These sandy islands are full of history, sun, and relaxation. This southern USA Florida road trip is sure to be one of the most sun-filled, fun-filled drives ever!

Begin: Grand Canyon National Park End: Las Vegas, Nevada Distance: 250 miles Drive Time: 4.5 hours Start out with nature, and end in Sin City. This desert drive will take you through the majestic Grand Canyon, with a stop in St. George, Utah and end with some fun in Las Vegas.

Check out this awesome Utah road trip.

Begin: Deadwood, South Dakota End: Hot Springs, South Dakota Distance: 100 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours The Black Hills of South Dakota offer more than just Mount Rushmore. Drive along the Badlands Scenic Byway, making stops at Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park and the infamous Wall Drug. National parks are some of the places to stop on a road trip. Stunning sunsets and sunrises in the Badlands will take your breath away. Keep an eye out for bison on the road. Check out this South Dakota road trip planner for more information.

Begin: Milbridge, Maine End: Eastport, Maine Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 6 hours Explore the southeastern corner of Maine, also known as “Downeast Maine” as you drive along the Lobster Trail on Coastal Route 1. This colorful and delicious journey will take you through beautiful coastlines and forests while providing tasty and adventurous stops where you can find lobster and all kinds of local seafood. Try your hand at some local activities like clam digging or goat milking. There are so many more incredible east coast road trips .

Begin: Shenandoah National Park End: Asheville, North Carolina Distance: 469 miles Drive Time: 6 hours The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular road trips in the US. Connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, this 469-mile stretch of scenic road is the most visited road controlled by the U.S. National Parks system. Stops along the way include Skyline Drive (particularly beautiful in the fall), Luray Caverns, Natural Bridge, and Asheville.

Begin: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming End: Glacier National Park, Montana Distance: 500 miles Drive Time: 9 hours Explore two national parks in one road trip by driving from Grand Teton National Park to Glacier National Park . The drive along the way will provide some of the most diverse landscapes in the U.S.

Begin: Carova, North Carolina End: Ocracoke, North Carolina Distance: 138 miles Drive Time: 5 hours North Carolina’s Route 12, otherwise known as the Outer Banks Scenic Byway spans 21 coastal villages and 138 miles of paved road and 25 ferry-traveling miles along the coast of North Carolina. Dotted with lighthouses, museums, houses and hotels, the Outer Banks is a great beach road trip.

Begin: Seattle, Washington End: Seattle, Washington Distance: 300 miles Drive Time: 10 hours Explore Washington’s Olympic Peninsula on this scenic road trip which takes you through the Olympic National Park and Forest and the lush Hoh Rainforest. There are great spots along the way for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

Begin: Santa Monica Pier, California End: Chicago, Illinois Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: Several days Follow in the path of your grandparents by taking a quintessential cross-country road trip along one of the original highways in the U.S., Route 66. This road is not traveled very often now that the Interstate Highway system is established, but you can still visit many old towns that once thrived in the middle of the last century along The Mother Road. Route 66 crosses 8 states and dozens of historic sites along the way. It’s the ultimate US road trip, but with so many good road trip places around the country, this classic can be overlooked for bigger cities and National Parks. Don’t skip Route 66!

Begin: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada End: Anchorage, Alaska Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: 27 hours Stretching nearly 1,500 miles between Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada and ending in Anchorage, Alaska, the historic Alaska Highway (also known as the ALCAN) is not for the faint of heart. Though most of the road is paved, many sections are constantly under construction and parts of the road are only gravel.

It’s a road that should only be attempted in the best of weather, usually during the summer months, but the views and wildlife along the way are worth the adventure. An Alaska highway road trip should be well planned out in advance, with stops and accommodations mapped out at least six months in advance!  But it is worth the planning. Alaska is one of the most amazing places to take a road trip! Learn more about planning a trip to Alaska.

Begin: St. Augustine, Florida End: Destin, Florida Distance: 1,400 miles Drive Time: 24 hours See the majority of Florida by circling the entire state, starting in St. Augustine(America’s oldest town) then bring out your inner-child in Orlando, eat your way through Miami, and relax on the beach in Clearwater, then explore the panhandle in Destin. This route is long, but the stops and scenery are breathtaking. Learn more about the best things to do in Destin, Florida .

Begin : Boston, Massachusetts End : Seattle, Washington Distance : 3,000 miles Drive Time: 45 hours This is the best cross country road trip! We’ve done this road trip across America many times out of necessity. It’s more exciting to do it when it’s just for fun. The I-90 spans 3,000 miles across the entire country from Boston to Seattle or vice versa, running along the northern part of the U.S. This route makes some incredible stops like Niagara Falls, Chicago, Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, and Yellowstone. This is one of the best American road trips you will ever take! A US cross country road trip can seem a little daunting. Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time and map out your stops ahead of time, breaking up the long drive.

Begin: Anchorage, Alaska End: Seward, Alaska Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours This quick 125-mile drive along the Seward Highway takes you from Anchorage to Seward. While small, this strikingly beautiful route offers incredible stops like seeing the Bore Tide at the Turnagain Arm, glacier hiking, berry picking, fishing, rafting, kayaking and more. Once in Seward you can finish off your trip with a fishing excursion or a wildlife cruise in the Kenai Fjords National Park where you’ll sail among whales, puffins, seals and more.

Begin: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada End: Tijuana, Mexico Distance: 2,300 miles Drive Time: 24 hours Hit three countries in one epic road trip by starting in British Columbia, Canada and using this itinerary all the way down to the border of U.S. and Mexico into Tijuana.

Whatever road trip you choose this summer, be sure to prepare your car for an epic road trip and install a HumX in your vehicle to take the worry out of your journey and to get you on the road!

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Wanderlust Crew

6 thoughts on “ the 25 best road trips in the usa ”.

thanks for all the info and pictures! would love to do some of these one day I’ve done a lot of road trips in Europe but none in the US yet! route 66 and the grand canyon is definitely on the bucket list!

America certainly has some awesome road trips! I’ve done a lot in Europe, but would definitely love to do more!!

I love that some of these road trip destinations are kid friendly. The kids and us could really use some time off from the house after all that’s happening. But we ‘d like to go once things get better. or rather, safer.

Cross country trips and most of the iconic rides like Route 66 are the best! Gotta love having the countries (and even the continents) so close to us that we can travel by land all we want.

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25 Best Road Trips in the World – That We’ve Taken

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 11, 2024

We’ve taken a lot of the best road trips in the world during our travels. We’ve done everything from epic road trips lasting 6 weeks to one-day scenic drives that cover spectacular scenery. We’ve done them all and here are the best road trips Dave and I have done around the world.

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips in the World

Thanks  Johnny Jet  and  Chris McGinnis  for giving us the idea to make this list. It was during their Twitter chat about road trips that we realized, “wow, we’ve driven most of the ultimate road trip destinations on earth!” So without further adieu, let’s take a look at road trips around the world that we have done by country or continent.

Road Trips in the USA

There’s no doubt about it, the United States is one of the best road trip destinations in the world. Many of the best road trips in the world are located right in the United States. We’ve been lucky enough to drive along most of the East and West Coasts of the country and here are a few of our favorite routes.

1. Route 66 – Arizona

Route 66 is the road trip of dreams. We have all listened to that beautiful song by Nat King Cole and fantasized about driving Route 66 one day. And we had the chance. It lives up to the hype. Albeit, only portions of it are worth driving.

Much of the 3,940km route is abandoned and decrepit as it was forgotten when the highway system was put in place, but there are parts that have been turned into national scenic byways in Illinois, Missouri, New Mexico, and Arizona . We have driven many different portions of  Route 66 , but you can drive this entire route from Chicago to California.

For more another great US Road trip not on this list check out:  The Ulitmate 10 Day Arizona Road Trip ,

• Duration: 1 Day for portions to 2-3 weeks
• Highlights of Route 66: Best portions are in Arizona , New Mexico, Missouri and Illinois.
• Read more at:  Route 66 Road Trip – Cruising The Main Street of America

2. Pacific Coast Highway – California

It’s the most epic drive in the United States. The drive starts in Monterrey and weaves down Highway 1 to Los Angeles . Make sure to stay the night in Monterrey or Carmel by the Sea . There is great kayaking in the marine reserve of Monterrey and Surfing in Carmel. Read more: Big Sur Road Trip – The Best Viewpoints

It’s a beautiful coastal highway with long stretches of beaches, impressive sea cliffs, and legendary stops where movie stars and billionaires have hung out for decades to escape the hustle and bustle of California cities. And definitely take time to stay at one of the best places to stay in California (Mark Zuckerberg stayed here) the Ventana

• Duration: 2-4 Days
• Highlights of Pacific Coast Highway – The Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Carmel by the Sea, Big Sur, Hearst Castle, Santa Barbara, and Pfeiffer Beach.
• Read more at  California Road Trip and Where to Camp in Big Sur

3. San Francisco to LA –  National Parks Route

This is the epic American route. Don’t just drive in a straight line from San Francisco to Los Angeles, go everywhere in between. This road trip takes you through four different states and showcases the best of America’s National Parks and cities.

It takes you through the most rugged and beautiful landscapes of America and you visit the most exciting cities in the country. Read more: Things to do in Yosemite National Park

• Duration: 2 Weeks
• Highlights of San Francisco to Los Angeles – Grand Canyon , Vegas, Antelope Canyon, Zion National Park, Yosemite National Park
• Read More:  Make the Most of Antelope Canyon Photography Tour

4. Hana Highway – Maui Hawaii

It’s just a short drive, but everyone who goes to Maui raves about the Hana Highway. This (mostly) single lane road is a day trip that spans the North Coast of the Island from Paia to Hana.

It twists and turns and you cross 59 bridges during the 2-3 hour drive (one way) there are many scenic stops along the way, but the real beauty begins after Hana when you reach  Haleakala National Park . This is one of the top things to do in Maui , so if you plan a trip, make sure to rent a car and drive the road to hana.

• Duration: 1 Day
• Highlights of the Hana Highway : Bamboo Forest, Painted Eucalyptus Trees, 7 Sacred Pools, Waterfalls, Scenic Views
• Read More: Road Trip to Hana and Beyond

5. 17 Mile Drive – California

It may be a short road trip, but it is a goodie. You can take an entire day exploring 17-Mile Drive at Carmel By the Sea. If you are looking for a different way of road tripping, try e-biking instead of going in a car. A road trip doesn’t have to be always in a car, we’ve included cycling Africa as one of our best road trips we’ve ever done! Read more: Photography Guide to Big Sur Coastal Drive, California

• Duration: a few hours to 1 day
• Highlights of 17 Mile Drive: Ghost Tree, Bird Rock,  the Lone Cypress, Spanish Bay, John Denver Memorial, Beaches, Links at Spanish Bay, Pebble Cove.
• Read More : The Ultimate Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary and The Best Viewpoints
• Best California Road Trip

6. Miami to Key West

It took Dave and me a few tries to finally make it to Key West. We have driven from Canada to Central Florida many times, but only ever made it as far as Daytona and Orlando .

We had flown into Miami before but never did a road trip to the Florida Keys. When we finally rented a car and made our way to the famous ocean highway to the southern tip of the United States. We felt like we entered a different world. Key West is like being in the Caribbean without having to stamp your passport. Check out these Facts about Florida

It’s only a day trip from Miami to Key West, but we suggest taking your time to explore the Keys on the way down.

• Duration: 1-day return trip to 1 week for exploring.
• Highlights of Key West Road Trip – Marathon Key, Hemingway’s House, Key Largo , Dry Tortugas National Park, snorkeling, underwater museum, Seven Mile Bridge, Southernmost Point , Islamorada Florida Keys , & Where to Stay in The Florida Keys
• Read More: Miami to Key West Road Trip – Best Florida Keys Itinerary

7. Lake Superior Circle Tour – USA and Canada

Road trips can take many forms and we circumnavigated the world’s largest freshwater lake by motorcycle. The Lake Superior Circle Tour is one of the epic motorcycle routes in North America, but it’s also fabulous in a car and makes for an amazing road trip.

From the sandy shores of the southern shore to the rocky high sea cliffs of the wild north, this is an unexpected route through Ontario, Michigan, Wisconson, and Minnesota. Travel through small-town USA, historic treasures and the wild abandoned North of Ontario, this road trip is magnificent.

• Duration: 4 days to 2 weeks.
• Highlights of Lake Superior Circle Tour – Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Terri Fox Memorial, Beautiful coast, three different states and one province in Canada
• Read More:  The Best of the Lake Superior Circle Tour
• See all of the best places to visit in Michigan for your next road trip.

Canadian Road Trips

Canada is our favourite country for road tripping and in our humble opinion, the best road trips in the world are located in our home country. From both coasts to the far north, through high altitude of the Rocky Mountains and along the shore, you will see it all in Canada.

8. Icefields Parkway – Alberta

Alberta’s Icefields Parkway is often considered one of the top road trips in the world! And with good reason. There are so many things to see along the way. There is one spectacular scene after another.

Starting in Banff, the road trip takes you north along Highway 1 through the Rocky Mountains. It spans two of Canada’s most beautiful National Parks. Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. See our full drive here.

There are scenic lookouts galore where you can go hiking or to simply take in the view of mirror lakes reflecting jagged snow-capped mountains. A highlight is stopping at the Athabasca Glacier for a snowcat tour of this gigantic piece of ice and to take a walk on the Icefields Sky Walk. Continue on to Jasper where you can explore more of Alberta’s rugged and remote areas. Suggested hotel Fairmont Jasper and Fairmont Lake Louise

• Duration:  1-3 Days
• Highlights of the Icefields Parkway: Bow Lake, Columbia Icefields Skywalk, Athabasca Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise
• Read more about Banff:  The Rocky Mountaineer,   Where to Stay in Banff

9. Dempster Highway – Yukon

For the ultimate road trip adventure, there’s not a lot that compares to the Dempster Highway. You can drive to the Arctic on the Dempster Highway and that is exactly what we did.

This 736 km road stretches from the far Arctic in Inuvik in the Northwest Territories, to Dawson City in the  Yukon. It crosses the equator through the most beautiful landscape in the world. You’ll see caribou, grizzley bears and other wildlife on along the way and it is simply spectacular.

• Duration:  2-6 days
• Highlights of the Dempster Highway:  Crossing the Arctic Circle, Innuvik, Dawson City, Eagle Plains, Tombstone Mountains
• Read More:   Drive to the Arctic, Yes you Can

10. Fundy Trail – New Brunswick

The province of New Brunswick houses one of the most beautiful coastal drives in Canada. Famous for the Hopewell Rocks, we drove along the Bay of Fundy Parkway and witnessed giant sea cliffs plunging into the sea.

There are secluded and isolated beaches, it crosses through the Fundy National Park where you can hike to waterfalls and lookouts and it drives along one of the longest undeveloped coastlines in North America.

It is home to the world’s highest tides where you can walk out for miles on the ocean floor. Take your time to drive along this stretch of road that houses some of the most spectacular scenery on earth.

• Duration:  3 – 4 Days
• Highlights of the Fundy Trail : Hopewell Rocks, Saint Stephen’s Sea Caves, Fundy National Park, Cape Enrage, Town of Alma, Covered Bridges. 
• Read More:  Things to do in Saint John, New Brunswick

11. Cowboy Trail – Alberta

If you love getting away from it all and having a rip-roaring adventure, the Cowboy Trail is for you. This is one of our favourite road trips we’ve ever done. Following the route through Southern Alberta is easy, well marked and filled with activities and beauty. There is something to see every single day and this trip will surprise you.

From the lunar landscape of the badlands to where the great plains meet the Rocky Mountains, you’ll be driving through the varied landscapes that will take your breath away.

• Highlights of the Cowboy Trail: Dinosaur Provincial Park, Crows Nest Pass, Bar U Ranch, Waterton Lakes National Park, Hoodoos of Drumheller
• Read more:  Full Itinerary – Alberta Road Trip, Where to Stay in Banff

12. Cabot Trail – Nova Scotia

The Cabot Trail is one of Canada’s Ultimate Scenic Highways. Located on  Nova Scotia’s  Cape Breton Island, it is filled with sea cliffs, coastal hikes, beaches, and untamed wilderness. You’ll see moose on the Skyline walk, whales on kayaking and scenic boat trips and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of St. Lawrence explore the best scenic stops in the country.

• Duration: 2-5 Days
• Highlights of the Cabot Trail: Skyline Trail, Alexander Graham Bell’s house, Uisge Ban Waterfall Hike, North River Kayaking, Ingonish Beach, Middle Head Trail, Boat Tours, whale watching and wildlife.
• Read More:  11 Not to be Missed Stops on the Cabot Trail

13. Sea to Sky Highway – British Columbia

Canada is known for its multiday road trips since the country is so massive, but the Sea to Sky Highway is an excellent short road trip from Vancouver. The Sea to Sky drive is only about 90 minutes from Vancouver to Whistler, but there are many sights to see along the way this mountain road.

We suggest taking at least two days and spend the night in Squamish. Squamish has some of the best rock climbing in the world at Big Chief, there are world-class kite surfing and backcountry hiking. It also has fantastic dining options.

On the way to Whistler (home to the 2010 Olympics), there are scenic lookouts, waterfalls, hiking trails and adrenaline sports like bungy jumping, skydiving and scenic flights) Read more at Sea to Sky Highway Stops – What to See From Vancouver to Whistler

14. Sunshine Coast – British Columbia

A 90-minute ferry ride from Vancouver takes you to the start of the Sunshine Coast drive at Gibsons Landing. The beloved Canadian TV Series, The Beachcombers was filmed here for 20 years! You may also like These Best Places to Visit in British Columbia

The Sunshine Coast takes you through a gorgeous coastal drive, historic towns, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It has some of the best mountain biking and hiking in the country with well marked trails and few crowds.

It’s a wonderful road trip taking you on several ferries, over bridges and along the coast. The entire loop goes through the towns on the Sunshine Coast to Vancouver Island.

• Duration: 1 week Highlights of the Sunshine Coast: Gibson’s Landing, Smuggler’s Cove, Historic Powell River, Rockwater Resort, Secret Cove, Lund, Desolation Sound
• Watch our video of our Sunshine Coast Road Trip

The Best European Road Trips

5. wild atlantic way – ireland.

It’s the longest Coastal Route in the World and Ireland has done an incredible job at marketing it as the best road trips on earth. During our many trips around Ireland, The Wild Atlantic Way is a standout. Starting in Dublin , we made a b-line for the west coast of Southwest coast of Ireland from Cork to the  Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal .

The Wild Atlantic Way runs 2500 km up the Western Coast of Ireland. There are so many things to see and do on this route. Every day offers spectacular views of enormous sea cliffs, incredible beaches, and unique culture . This is a road trip that packs a huge punch with a road that goes along the entire west coast of Ireland. Read more: 23 of The Very Best Things to do in Ireland

• Duration: 2-4 weeks
• Highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way: Cliffs of Moher, Skellig Michael, Mizen Head, Poulnabrone Dolmen, Slea Head Drive, Aran Islands
• Read more about this Road Trip :  Tips for Driving the Wild Atlantic Way 

16. North Coast 500 – Scotland

The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s answer to America’s Route 66. With legendary castles, extraordinary coastal scenery, and famous whisky distilleries lining the winding single track lanes, the North Coast 500 is the ultimate drive for travel lovers.

At 500 miles long it is a touring route around Scotland’s northern coast, starting in Inverness. A Highlithg was most certainly Duncansby Head’s Seastacks

• Duration: 5 Days to 2 Weeks
• Highlights of the North Coast 500:  Inverness, Duncansby Head, Loch Ness, Distilleries, Dornoch Castle, Smoo Caves, Ullapool, Klinlochewe Viewpoint, Applecross, Baelnabach. Eilean Donan Castle
• Read More:  The Essential Guide to the North Coast 500

17. Amalfi Coast – Italy

I think the best road trip in Europe is the Amalfi Coast . We fell in love with that drive from Sorrento to Ravello. There is a reason this drive along the most stunning sea cliffs on earth has been used in so many movies.

The towns and lookouts along the coast are something out of a fairytale. They are just gorgeous. We pulled off to the side of the road to look at the luxurious island of Capri. We saw yachts sailing along the coast, and we were ein awe at the height of the seacliffs. It is truly spectacular.

• Duration:  2 days to a week
• Highlights of the Amalfi Coast  – Positano , Amalfi Town, Ravello, Sorrento, Beaches, Grottos, Capri, Hiking and Waterfalls. 
• Watch it:  Watch our video of our Amalfi Road Trip
• Check out our post :  The Best Things to do on the Amalfi Coast

18. Causeway Coast – Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is so amazing for driving and its star attraction is the Causeway Coast. The Causeway Coastal Route is filled with stop after stop of amazing sights and scenery.

It’s a much shorter route than the Wild Atlantic Way and it can be done in just a couple of days, but we recommend giving at least 4 days to explore this coast because there is so much to see.

We actually took 9 days to drive around Northern Ireland and it was perfect. Highlights include the Giant’s Causeway, Carick a Rede Bridge, The Dark Hedges and Belfast

• Duration: About a Week
• Highlights of the Causeway Coast – Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, Belfast, Game of Thrones. 
• Read more:  Best things to do in Northern Ireland

19. Bavaria – Germany

Driving through the Bavarian Alps will take your breath away. Our road trip through the Alps started in Munich where we made our way to some of Germany’s most iconic sites.

Take a trip through fairytale castles and the highest peaks of Germany for one of the most memorable drives on earth. Go to the Olympic town of Garmish-Partenkirken, tour the world’s oldest monastery and brewery and hike through the picturesque landscape filled with rivers, valleys, lakes, and mountains.

• Duration: 2  Weeks
• Highlights of Bavaria : Neuschwanstein Castle, Berchtesgaden ,  Weltenburg Abbey, Danube Gorge, Munich , Nuremberg, Volkach wine region, Alpspix
•   The Best of Bavaria  
• Things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen
• Things to do in Munich

20. Ring Road – Iceland

The Ring Road Route 1 of Iceland circles the entire country offering drivers the chance to explore every nook and cranny. People normally drive the route in 10 days to 2 weeks, but to really explore Iceland properly you should take longer. We drove around the island in a counterclockwise directly from Reyjavik Vik and then turning north to see the rest of Iceland.

You can camp or stay at hotels along the way. We drove counterclockwise around the 1,322 km (821 miles). With magnificent glaciers, mountains, hot springs, an untamed coastline, and fascinating culture, The Iceland Ring Road is definitely one of the best road trips in the world.

• Duration: 2 Weeks
• Highlights of the Ring Road:  Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Skogafoss waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, Vik, Horseback Riding Skagafjörður Region, Myvatn Geothermal Area, Kirkjufellsfoss
• Read more:  18 Photos of Iceland’s Mind-Blowing Beauty and 30 of the Best Places To Visit In Iceland

The Best International Road Trips

21. south island – new zealand.

The best way to get around New Zealand is by driving independently. We traveled the South Island two ways, on a bus with the Flying Kiwi which was affordable and a great way to see the highlights, but once we took more time to explore with our own camper van, that’s when the true road trip in New Zealand began.

Just follow the roads in a circle around the South Island island to explore all there is to see and do. New Zealand has a diverse landscape in a very little area. You’ll be mesmerized by the changing landscape before your eyes at each and every turn. Be sure to drive the Milford Road to see the incredible Milford Sound.

There are glaciers, mountains, lakes, and amazing adventures to be had. Read all about it on 46 Top Things to do in New Zealand

• Duration: 4 Weeks
• Highlights : Queenstown, Milford Sound, Abel Tasman, Lake Tekapo, Kaikoura, Pancake Rocks
• Read more about New Zealand:  33 Reasons to Visit New Zealand

22. Great Ocean Road – Australia

Australia is an amazing country to take a driving tour. The Great Ocean Road is probably the most scenic road trip in the country. The route is more than 600km (400 miles) and drives along sea cliffs, jungles, and out to amazing beaches. Some of the top beaches for surfing are located along this route.

If you can, get out and hike because that is where you really get to witness the spectacular coast. We did the Great Ocean Walk – A Beautiful Way to Experience the Twelve Apostles and it was truly a memorable experience.

• Duration:  1 – 3 days
• Highlights  – Twelve Apostles, Bells Beach, Koalas of Kennet River, Otway National Park,
• Read more:   Great Ocean Walk to the 12 Apostles

Overland Europe to Asia

23. mongol rally – 12 countries/2 continents.

It’s the mother of all road trips and the most epic road trip we have ever taken. We hit the open road for six weeks traveling overland from England to Mongolia. iI you are up for the adventure of a lifetime, this is a must.

The Mongol Rally is on many a bucket list and it lives up to the hype! The Mongol Rally is a charity rally starting in London, England and ending in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Read more: 38 Best Things to do in London, England In 2023

You choose your route and take as long as you want to get there. Take your time to get to know the people, and to experience some of the most remote regions on earth.

You just have to raise a certain amount of money for charity and buy a car that used to be donated to the country, but now must be shipped back when you finished.

Or if you have loads of time, return in back around in a different route!

• Duration – 3-8 weeks
• Highlights – 15 countries, 2 continents, endless possibilities – Siberia, The Mongolian Steppe, Prague, Brussels , Kyiv, Kazakhstan, it all really depends on the route you choose to take.
• Countries include England , France, Belgium, Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Tip of Austria, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Mongolia.

Africa Road Trips

24.  garden route – south africa.

I always thought the Garden Route of South Africa sounded a little tame, the name sounds like we’d be driving through Botanical gardens. I had visions of sipping tea in manicured gardens as we overlooked the ocean, but this road trip is filled with amazing adventure, striking coastlines, wild animals, incredible nature, and world class wine and dining.

The Garden Route is the southern half of the Durban to Cape Town road trip that we took, and we highly recommend doing the entire thing. South Africa has it all in one of the most exotic and beautiful places on earth. From Gorgeous coastal views, whale watching, jungles and caves. There is so much to see. This is a year round route so hop in your car and go any time.

• Highlights – Great White Shark Diving, Cango Caves, Big 5 Safari, Ostrich Farm, Microlight over Durban, Cape Town
• Read More:  Awesome Things to do in South Africa

25. Cairo to Cape Town –  Entire Coast of Africa

We said early that road trips take many forms, so we wanted to include this one as well. This is more than a cross country road trip, it’s a cross-continent road trip!

Even though we did it by bicycle, you can drive an SUV or motorcycle down the Eastern side of Africa. 12,000 km takes you through some of the most fascinating countries on earth.

Landscapes and cultures vary drastically as you start in the desert landscape of Egypt’s Middle East and the Islamic culture of Sudan. It’s then into the great plains, jungles, and wildlife of Eastern and Southern Africa that takes you all the way down to the Southern point of the continent. Wow!

You can drive this epic route down Africa going through 9 countries: Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Botswana, Zambia, South Africa.

• Duration: 3 – 4 months
• Highlights : 10 countries, 3- 6 months, the possibilities are once again endless…Pyramids of Egypt, Blue Nile, Victoria Falls, Safaris, Chobe National Park, Addis Ababa, Nubian Desert of Sudan, Cape Town South Africa
• Read more:  We cycled the Continent of Africa

Road Trip Planner Apps

• Road Tripping Apps – Going on a Road Trip Check out these driving route planners and travel apps to make the most of your trip.
• Apple Maps:  We used Apple Maps recently from Florida to Toronto and found it to be better than Google Maps. It offered more options for avoiding traffic than Google.
• Road Trippers:  Road Trippers is a popular one that is free for shorter road trips offering 7 waypoints. If you upgrade to the paid subscription you get 150 points to pin on your route.
• Waze:  Dave os a huge fan of Waze, even for daily commutes. It’s a social-riven app that lets you know of collisions, traffic, police radar and gas prices.
• Spotify:  Okay, this isn’t a route planning app, but it is a must for road tripping. We have our tunes for each part of the day sectioned on playlists.
• To get started we use our  Ultimate Road Trip playlist  and then as the day goes on we end with our mellow mix.

Travel Tips for Road Trip Planning

We have taken a lot of road trips, and the best times we have had were when we were prepared.

We aren’t saying that you can’t stray from your route, but have what you need ready in case of an emergency or any unplanned hiccups.

I know a lot of this is common sense, but if you go through the checklist, it will make for fewer headaches when you are on the road.

Route Planning and Maps

Plan the route on your road trip planner,  but have a hard copy map with you as well. In many places, you are going to drop cellular coverage and will have to rely on good old fashioned map reading.

Have car chargers for your electronics . Most cars have a USB charger, but we find we need more than one. We love the dual USB charger, we have even charged our drone in our car while on a road trip.

Car Insurance

Insurance : If you are renting a car, check with your insurance company to see if it covers rentals, if not make sure you get insurance.

Our American Express Platinum Card also covers all insurance if we rent our car through our credit card in the same name that the rental is in. Check with your credit card company to see if you are covered for everything.

We nearly always get the extra coverage because we don’t want the hassle of having to go through our insurance should something happen.

If there is a fender bender, we just hand over the keys and don’t worry about a thing. but it is more money, so be prepared.

If you enjoyed this post, save it to Pinterest for future travel planning. 

So there you have it. The best road trips ever! (that we have taken) There are other road trips on our list. Like Let us know if you have a suggestion, we are always adding to our list.

Read other road trip itineraries destinations around the world

• Tasmania Road Trip
• Ultimate Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
• Bosnia and Herzegovina Road Trip
• Tips for Driving from England to Mongolia
• Mongol Rally Gear Guide

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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72 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the World – That We’ve Taken”

I was very excited after reading about Road Trip. I like this part “It’s the longest Coastal Route in the World and Ireland has done an incredible job at marketing it as the best road trips on earth” very much because I have never here about it. Thanks for writing about road trip. I also write a blog on it but it is nothing in front of your Article.

I would have never thought about the Mongol Rally until I saw this. That is an awesome trip out of so many I honestly don’t know how to pick a favorite. Thanks so much for all this good information to have.

I loved reading about your road trip experience around the world. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

Arizona is my one of the favorite places. hope, i’ll go there in future. thanks for sharing this amazing post with us.

So many fantastic road trips – so much to be discovered! We have done a lot in the USA, and especially loved our California road trip that included 5 national parks and we REALLY LOVE Colorado – you two would love a southwest Colorado road trip !

The view of the Arizone road 66 is awesome.It stars attracting me,haha

OMG! These places are really so amazing. I always love to travel whenever I’ve chance to visit. Also, I want to say that these roads are beautiful to see. You’ve counted the most beautiful place from all over the world. In this article all pictures are mindblowing. Thanks

When i “grow up” i want to to atleast half of this 🙂 🙂 Thanks for sharing.

Really a great list of road trips. Love to do one of these road trips. Thanks for sharing.

Amazing post! I’ve only been to a few of these road trips in past four years. Now it looks like I have many more to add to my bucket list. Pictures are gorgeous! Thanks for the list.

Wow, what a great list of the trips. It is nice and informative.

Can any one give me a perfect travel plan to visit Amalfi Coast – Italy. May i know the monsoon time of Amalfi Coast.

You can check out our blog here. We are planning on updating it with more information, but it gives you the highlights here. https://theplanetd.com/things-to-do-in-amalfi-coast-italy/

Thanks for sharing a great post!

Great post, we have to go back to Canada for a while next year and planning a few road trips out west. We’ve seen much of the world the last 5 years but really haven’t seen much of Canada.

We did our own version of the Garden Route a few years back, crossing the mountains into the Karoo and then across the Swartberg pass to Prince Albert. The best road trip we’ve done.

Fantastic list of imagination I love road trips very much. I feel more close to nature Maybe in my next trip I’ll think about one of them and over time I’ll try it all Thank you I’m constantly following up on your advice

Looks like you have not traversed the entire Route 66 so let’s do it. When do you want to go?

Thank you all for your responses. Greatly appreciated.

I’ve done the road 66 with my best friends and laugh a lot, I really need to make much more road trips it was so a good experience, loved it! I’ve written an article also about Road trips

I’d add the Corniche, the drive along the French Riviera coastline from St Tropez to Cannes, past and then on to Juan Les Pins, Antibes and Nice, a really brilliant drive.

Awesome article and inspiration, thanks Dave and Deb! I agree with you on the South African Garden Route (also the trans-Karoo is spectacular…and many more in our beautiful country). One more to try out if you haven’t is Namibia – that country was MADE for gravel travel roadtripping! From south to north, the desert scenery turns to bush and lush riverine country in the north – and NEVER gets ugly, boring or repetitive. An outstandingly beautiful and safe country to travel. PS our names are also Dave and Deb 🙂

hey Dave and Deb, In search of freedom and liberty, I quit my job and started my business. Hope this venture of mine goes successful. If that happens, the first thing that I am gonna do is spend a nice and a long vacation with my family. you guys are amazing. keep travelling and keep sharing.

regards, Dhruv K. Mangukia

Amazing photos, great list of Road trips. You guys done a great job. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

Thabks sharing the awesome travel Skills

I think Ireland will be one for us soon ? Headed to the US soon but no roadtrip one this trip!

Another nice but short road-trip is from Lisbon to Faro at the west-coast of Portugal. I did this last year with a friend and it was awesome! Although the weather wasn’t that good we saw a lot of beautiful bay areas. forests and hidden cliffs!

Wow these are all epic, I would love to do some of these road trips – fantastic post!

really a very good list.. thanx for sharing

Great list! I’d love to take one of these road trips one day. Thanks for sharing..

Love your site!!! We me and my wife are getting ready for a European roadtrip in a mobile home do you have any expirience or tips of that? All our best Annika & Daniel Majak

We haven’t done a European mobile home trip, but we did have a campervan in New Zealand. just have a great time, be flexible and enjoy the campgrounds. We’ve stayed at a few campgrounds in Europe and they are excellent! They’re often close to cities and some even have shuttles.

I have almost finished 2500km walk around Ireland, doing both the Coastal walk, and the Wild Atlantic way, the published distance is a bit missleading, you would have to go back and forth on every sign poated road for the WAW to be 2500. That said , it is spectacular.

That is great that you have walked nearly all around Ireland. The official Website for the WAW also says 2500 km. That’s their claim to fame, the longest coast driving route int he world. Pretty awesome. I didn’t measure the exact km we did from bottom to top, but it was pretty much 2500 km as well. We definitely did a lot of back and forth and around different bays and lochs, so that probably explains. If you go in a direct line, it definitely cuts km off:)

Awesome and interesting post.

Massive list!! You guys have done on a lot! Currently doing a massive road trip to Mongolia, inspired by the mongol rally. But i like to take some more time then 3-8 weeks 😉

One good roadtrip that you guys ‘should’ do is the Transfagarasan in Romania. 90 km both ways and very scenic!

Love your website!!! Arnoud

That’s a good idea. We’d like to do it again but take a few months. There’s so much to see and so many different routes. The Mongol Rally was a blast, but longer would be better. Thanks for the suggestion about Romania. We drove through Romania during the Mongol Rally, but I’m not sure if we went that route. Cheers!

Would do any of these at the drop of a hat. Road trips are such a fun, classic way to see the world 🙂

They are a great way to see the world aren’t they?

Some incredibly beautiful places…… all the pics in this post are worthy of becoming wallpaper on my laptop……. I will make at least a couple of these my laptop wallpapers!!

Some of these are still on the bucket list, and while the LA to SF is one of the shortest it is one of my favorite! So many people think California is just LA and don’t take the time to spend the extra couple days to enjoy the AMAZING drive up the coast. Carmel might just be one of my favorite little towns on Earth!

Great list! I’d love to take one of these road trips one day. Thanks for sharing!

Thank you Sanjana. You would love any one of these road trips. We definitely did.

Amazing photos, great list of Road trips. Though I’m a hiking lover but you did succeed in encouraging me to try road trips. I don’t know how to drive and my parents never taught me. Maybe I can ask my parents to drive for me and explore all of this area.

Glad we could entice you to give road trips a try. We love hiking too. The great thing about a road trip, is you can take time off to go for a hike. The car gives you freedom to do whatever you like. I think your parents would love a road trip too!

Taking note, as a few of these are in the works. And guys, Norway has fabulous road trips, especially along the long coast. Just sayin’. 🙂

Thanks Sophie! Have a great time road tripping! I would love to go to Norway, hopefully one day soon, that is one long coas.t We’ll be sure to rent a car!

The Cairo to Cape town trip looks exciting. Is the route generally safe?

Dave & Deb, having just made the legendary road-trip along California’s Highway One, I’m eager to do more, and like the look of the drives that you included here. Another one of our favorites has been exploring the Dalmatian coastline in Croatia, and then crossing into Montenegro and Albania too. Love your captures, particularly those from Hawaii and Dark Hedges,.

They sound like awesome road trips, thanks for sharing! WE havne’t been to Montenegro or Albania, I smell another road trip on the horizon! Thanks for the compliment regarding the photographs. It’s pretty easy to be inspired by such beautiful destinations.

Some great exciting road trips, im from New Zealand and have yet done a South Island road trip, although many of my friends have and say it is amazing!

Thank you! You’ll definitely have to get that South Island road trip in, it’s amazing!

I have done a few of these road trips that you mentioned, but nothing to the level that you guys have done. The pictures are fabulous. Your mention of the Route 66 road trip brought back memories to me. I made a cross country road trip of the USA where most of it was on Route 66 when they were still building the interstate highway system, so most the the route was still there. I am so glad that I did because a lot of that is gone now and I have memories that cannot be duplicated today. I am intrigued with Canada and would love to take a trip across the southern portion. I would also enjoy such a trip by train and leave the driving to them. I heard there is such a great trip available.

Hey Bob, that would have been amazing. We only gave it an honorable mention because we haven’t done the entire thing. We felt that we couldn’t properly say we’ve done Route 66 when we’ve only done portions. Now to do the whole thing, that would be amazing. I’d love to do it on a motorcycle. You would love visiting Canada, In the summer, it’s beautiful. A road trip through the Rockies is outstanding.

Loved doing road trips in South Africa and in South Island New Zealand where the blues are the most gorgeous hues we have ever seen! Next time, do try the Route 62 from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth in South Africa – the towering cliffs just come at you! Also you two will love the east coastal drive in Sri Lanka – although hugging the east coast, the route also takes you inland through some rugged terrain with elephants. Lovely images – thanks for inspiring us.

Sounds fantastic! Thanks for the recommendations. You could spend a lifetime doing road trips around the world and barely scratch the surface. We didn’t get to explore much of the Eastern Sri Lankan Coast, another reason to go back!

South Island, New Zealand is very beautiful place in world. Really I like this place very much. Anyone can be more delighted to come here.

These all look amazing. I was on the Hana Highway many years ago, and would love to go back. Having lived in Alberta in the 70’s (and dating a couple of cowboys!), I’d love to go back and do the Cowboy Trail

thanks for this compilation. It will now be on my bucket list before I turn 60. 10 years to go. Keep exploring guys !

Fantastic photos guys. Very sharp! I’ve done a road trip from LA through to Arizona, Utah and Nevada. It was our first time in America and I did this with my husband and young son. Also, we drove from Berlin to London. I’m not sure that you would call it a road trip per se, but I think driving through 5 independent countries and then crossing the British Channel should surely count LOL! Nice post guys. 🙂

Hi Victoria, Thanks for the compliment. Sounds like you’ve done some awesome road trips. I call Berlin to London a road trip for sure. Anytime you drive and travel, it’s a road trip to me! Love it!

Wow, what a great list of road trips! Some wonderful photos too. Really like the bamboo forest. I’ve only done a couple road trips that you have listed…Page to Antelope Canyon being one of them. I actually did a little video if your readers are interested: http://www.mikesroadtrip.com/antelope-canyon

Thanks Mike, that bamboo forest is pretty incredible eh? I’ll definitely check out the video, thanks for sharing.

Would love to do every single one of the road trips you mentioned above. Especially the Mongol Rally would be something I´d love to do. My aunt and uncle did it a couple of years ago and they fell in love with the landscape in Mongolia. If you have a chance you should do a road trip in Southern France. The Lavender Route is a great route where you will drive along one of the largest canyons in Europe and you will drive past the famous lavender fields.

Your Aunt and Uncle are right. The landscape of Mongolia is so beautiful, we both really want to go back. We’ve actually done Southern France, I should have included that one! We went from Paris through the South of France, into Spain and then over to the Cinque Terre in Italy. You’ve reminded me that I will have to add it to this list when I get a chance.

Great list!! We are currently driving the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland! Also headed to the Causeway Coast. Love the Lake Superior Circle Tour (Duluth/Superior is our home town!!!) and loved the Road to Hana. Nothing like a great road trip.

Have an amazing time on the Wild Atlantic Way! It’s incredible isn’t it? And enjoy the Causeway Coast,try to stay over night at the Giant’s Causeway to see it in the morning or at sunset without all the tour buses there. Totally worth it.

Great post with amazing photos!

Thanks Johnny! And thanks for the inspiration it was #TravelSkills that got me thinking about putting all the road trips together!

I’ve only been to a few of these road trips, looks like quite a few more I would need to add to my bucket list – gorgeous pics!

Thanks Noel, I’m glad we could inspire you with a few ideas:)

Fantastic list of imagination I love road trips very much. I feel more close to nature Maybe in my next trip I’ll think about one of them and over time I’ll try it all Thank you I’m constantly following up on your advice

Thanks Noel even I am glad to know this Thank You very much

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.

21 Best Road Trips in USA to Put on Your Bucket List

• In the City / North America / Outdoors / USA

Don’t miss out on these amazing road trips!

Since we got married, we’ve done five cross-country road trips and dozens of shorter ones. In our opinion, road-tripping is the best way to see the beauty of the United States. There is so much this country has to offer. Here is a list of 21 American Road Trips that we think everyone needs to put on their bucket lists.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 5, 2024

− − Content Menu

• 21 Best Road Trips in USA
• Map of Best Road Trips in USA
• More Scenic Road Trips to Check Out
• Essential Tips for First Timers

Planning Checklist

• More Resources

Whether you love the mountains, want to drive above the clouds, or cruise over the ocean, there’s a road trip for you. Here are 21 of the best road trips in the United States. Let us know in the comments below if there are more we should add to the list.

1. Pacific Coast Highway →

Location:  California    |    Distance:  123 Miles

Enjoy the endless views of the ocean and drive through some of the best beach towns on California’s Route 1. Don’t forget to stop at Hearst Castle, spend some time in  Big Sur   (one of our favorite places in the US), and Glass Beach in Fort Bragg.

Local Tip: Check the news to see if there are any big events occurring. We’ve done this road trip a handful of times with no issues, but the last time we went, there was a bike race, and we were stuck in traffic for hours.

See More: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip

2. Historic Route 66

Location:  Illinois to  California    |    Distance:  2,451 Miles

Route 66 is one of the most iconic drives in America. The best stretch of this highway runs from the  Grand Canyon  to the Colorado River. To dive into the history, visit the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, Illinois.

Local Tip: Unfortunately they’ve painted over most of the Route 66 signs on the road because it was dangerous for people to try to take photos with it. Apparently, some still exist, but we haven’t found them yet.

See More: Your Ultimate Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Road Trip

3. Overseas Highway

Location:   Florida    |    Distance:  120 Miles

We just came back from a trip to the Keys and ended up driving the Overseas Highway. It was unbelievably beautiful.

Unlike any other drive in the country, this route takes you on bridges right over the ocean. It gives you the sensation of floating over the water. Plus, the  Florida Keys  ain’t a bad destination either.

See More: 7+ Remarkable Things to Do in Key West Florida

4. Million Dollar Highway (San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway)

L ocation:  Colorado    |    Distance:  305 Miles

Twist and turn through the winding roads between two historic gold-mining towns. Take in the amazing views and don’t forget to take deep breaths as you’ll be over two miles above sea level.

5. Columbia River Scenic Highway →

L ocation:  Oregon    |    Distance:  75 Miles

See the amazing Columbia Gorge on a highway built purely for scenery. This drive gives you views of waterfalls and mountains, and there are plenty of pull-offs. Here are  21 best hikes in the Columbia River Gorge from short and easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips .

Local Tip: Part of the charm of this area is the rainy weather. Come prepared with  solid waterproof boots  and a  raincoat  ; the hikes are magical.

See More: 21 Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge Oregon

6. Skyline Drive

L ocation:  Virginia    |    Distance:  105 Miles

This scenic drive takes you along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park. Drive through the Appalachians and stop to enjoy any of the 75 overlooks.

7. Hana Highway (Road to Hana) →

L ocation:  Maui, Hawaii   |    Distance:  51.1 Miles

Explore the coastlines of Maui along the Hana Highway. You’ll find black sand beaches, waterfalls, jungles, and roadside stands. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit!

See More: 19 Incredible Road to Hana Stops You Shouldn’t Miss

8. Black RIver Scenic Byway

L ocation:  Michigan    |    Distance:  11 Miles

Tucked away in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Black River Scenic Byway has much to offer in a short distance. Pass by waterfalls and dense forests as you follow the river to the lakeshore.

9. The Loneliest Road in America (HWY 50) →

L ocation:  Nevada    |    Distance:  408 Miles

Named for the largely uninhabited region that you drive through, explore mining camps, cross mountain ranges, and stop in small cafes. Don’t forget to look up at the stars at night for some of the most spectacular views.

See More: Ultimate Nevada Road Trip – Best Places to Visit in NV

10. Route 12

L ocation:  Utah    |    Distance:  124 Miles

Drive through some of the most breathtaking views and explore Capitol Reef National Park and  Bryce Canyon National Park . You can even stop in  Boulder Mountain for a night’s stay  and a great meal.

See More: 15 Amazing Things To Do in Bryce Canyon National Park

11. Kancamagus Highway

L ocation:  New Hampshire    |    Distance:  34.5 Miles

Make a trip down this highway in the fall to get some of the best fall foliage views. Enjoy the crisp breeze with your windows down and take in all the colors of the leaves.

The first time we did this drive, we missed the peak of the fall foliage by one day. The rain and wind the day before we arrived took out most of the leaves.

12. THe High Road to Taos

L ocation:  New Mexico    |    Distance:  56 Miles

This scenic, winding road takes you through deserts, mountains, forests, and ancient Indian pueblos. You’ll find beautiful wildflower meadows and there are art galleries scattered throughout the drive. You can also take the Low Road through the valleys on the way back.

13. Beartooth Highway

L ocation:  Montana and Wyoming    |    Distance:  68 Miles

Drive through southwest Montana and northwest Wyoming with breathtaking views of the Absoroka and Beartooth Mountains. You’ll drive by glacial lakes, forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. To top it off, you end at the entrance to  Yellowstone National Park .

See More: Best Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park + Essential Tips For Your Visit

14. Highway 2

L ocation:  Nebraska    |    Distance:  200 Miles

See the Great Plains of Nebraska and the rolling sandhills that makeup nearly one-fourth of the state. You’ll also see huge farmlands, marshes, and winding rivers. Certain times of the year will bring huge numbers of migrating birds too.

15. ROute 6

L ocation:  Massachusetts    |    Distance:  117 Miles

Explore the Cape Cod area on this scenic drive. Drive through forests, colonial villages, and tidal pools, and explore the harbor.

16. Park Loop Road →

L ocation:  Maine    |    Distance:  27 Miles

This coastal drive gives you views of Acadia National Park and is one of the best places for spotting bald eagles and peregrine. You’ll get amazing views from above but also from the harbor below.

See More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Acadia National Park

17. Going to the Sun Road →

L ocation:  Montana    |    Distance:  50 Miles

This drive through Glacier National Park gives you views of mountain peaks and alpine lakes while having the least negative impact on the delicate environment.

Local Tip: It closes every winter because of snow, which can reach up to 80 feet in depth. When we went in late June, they had just opened the road the week before.

See More: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Glacier National Park

18. Tail of the Dragon

L ocation:  Tennessee and North Carolina    |    Distance:  11 Miles

This drive is more about the drive and less about the scenery. Known for its degree of difficulty and sheer excitement when driving, the Tail of the Dragon is full of sharp curves, twists, and turns that demand your full attention.

19. Route 100

L ocation:  Vermont    |    Distance:  216 Miles

Route 100 runs through almost the entirety of Vermont and takes you right through the center. See the fall foliage, stop for ice cream, and enjoy the views of the lush mountains.

20. Cascade Loop →

L ocation:  Washington    |    Distance:  400 Miles

See rainforests, apple orchards, beautiful lakes, small towns, and more on this 400-mile loop that takes you through some of the best of what Washington has to offer.

See More: 7 Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park

21. Mount Washington Auto Road

Location:  New Hampshire   |    Distance:  8 Miles

This short drive climbs nearly 5,000 feet allowing you to stop at viewpoints, see waterfalls, and gaze out at sprawling meadows. The end offers a spectacular view from above.

Bonus: Cross Country Road Trip

There’s no better way to see the country than to drive across it. There are many different routes to take, but if you’re ambitious, check out  this road trip plan  that was computed to be the most optimal way across the United States.

Map of Great American Road Trips

More US Road Trip Ideas for Your Bucket List

• 17-Mile Drive, CA
• Alaska Highway, AK
• Big Island Loop Road, HI
• Black Hills, SD
• Bluebonnet Trail, TX
• Blues Highway (Route 61), TN
• Blue Ridge Parkway, NC
• Great River Road, LA
• Highway 143, TN
• Historic National Road, MD
• Lake Shore Drive, IL
• Maine Lobster Trail, ME
• North Shore Drive, MN
• Ocean Drive, RI
• Olympic Peninsula, WA
• Oregon Coast, OR
• Outer Banks Scenic Byway, NC
• Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, MI
• Silverado Trail, CA
• Trail Ridge Road, CO
• Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, CA

Essential Tips

• Take your time! These trips are all about the journey so enjoy the views and pullouts. Don’t try to cover too much ground each day.
• Avoid getting stranded in the middle of nowhere, have a  car emergency kit  ready to go.
• Stay safe on the road by picking up a  dash cam .
• Stay hydrated by bringing enough water and beverages with you. These  insulated water bottles  will keep your drinks cool (or hot). These are the best water bottles for travel we tested on the road.
• Bring a few extra bags to collect garbage in the car.
• We love having  this cooler  with us on our road trips. Helps us keep anything we need cold.
• It’s always good to have a  physical road map  with you just in case you lose service.
• Worried about bathroom stops, we always have  these handy  in our car in case we just can’t hold it anymore.  Wet wipes  are always handy too.
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

More RESOURCES

• Rand McNally Road Atlas
• The Open Road: 50 Best Road Trips in the USA
• USA Travel Guide

Can you think of any other road trips in the US to be added to this list? What’s the best road trip you’ve been on?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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This Post Has 6 Comments

Amazing link – thank you! But you missed one of the top 5 – Rocky Mountain National Park – the Great Divide. That is breathtaking! I’ve been to many of the above listed destinations and believe Colorado’s Eastern as well as the Western (the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton) slopes have much to offer.

We have been fortunate to have driven on half of these. Route 12 in Utah and Beartooth stand out. And the Tail of the Dragon was sheer fun. But the Going to the Sun Road was in my opinion, the most scenic, plus fun to drive and in the middle of my favorite National Park. Hope to get back there some day

That’s one of our faves too!

All of these sound amazing! Glad Acadia made your list – there are lots of other scenic drives in Maine as well (the western part of the state is gorgeous!). And I’ve only done parts of Skyline Drive but I can attest that it is absolutely incredible. I would love to do a cross country road trip one day though! Life goals. :)

I’ve been n a few. And the ones I have been on I want to do again!!!

What a great post! We need more like this. There are hundreds of posts on must visit places but not enough on must do road trips! These certainly look like some awesome places.

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10 Best East Coast Road Trips for History, Beaches, and Seafood

Whether you're a foodie or history buff, prefer hiking or relaxing on the beach, these East Coast road trips will truly deliver.

Unlike the West Coast, where only three states border the Pacific, a total of 14 states lie along the Atlantic shores. Road trips on the East Coast offer plenty of variety, taking in mountains, beaches, rugged seashores, large cities, small towns, and Intracoastal waterways. To top it off, seafood — from Maine's lobsters and Maryland's oysters to Florida's stone crabs — is abundant. Nearly every East Coast state has a culinary specialty as well, making food a memorable part of any East Coast road trip.

We've put together 10 of the best East Coast road trips, and while these have been broken up into easy weekend itineraries you can do from major cities, you could certainly tweak them, connect the dots, and build the ultimate multiday road trip all the way from Maine to Florida. Whatever you decide, there's plenty of adventure and lots of beautiful sights to see, from the incomparable colors of Vermont in the fall to the wild horses on the beaches of Virginia and, of course, grand cities like Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Miami.

Boston, Massachusetts to Burlington, Vermont

If you're on the East Coast when the trees begin to change color, a road trip through Vermont and New Hampshire will deliver some of the greatest autumn backdrops you could imagine. Starting in Boston, head north to Lake Winnipesaukee, where you'll find one of the country's best lake towns . Dubbed "America's oldest summer resort town," Wolfeboro is a place worth spending a night to soak up the Americana aesthetic in this town that many have called "Rockwellesque."

From the lake, drive an hour north on NH-16 to get to North Conway where you can get on the Kancamagus Highway, a top-tier National Scenic Byway for fall foliage lovers that offers scenic stopping points like waterfalls and gorges. The highway travels for 34.5 miles through the White Mountain National Forest . Once you've come out the other side in Lincoln, New Hampshire, you can continue on your way west and cross over into Vermont.

Set your sights next on Stowe, Vermont's most picturesque ski resort town , and the location of the Trapp Family Lodge , the historic home of the real von Trapp family that inspired Rodgers and Hammerstein to write "The Sound of Music." If there's no snow on the ground, the area offers plenty of trails for biking and hiking, or you can enjoy a scenic gondola ride and the charming downtown area. You'll finish the trip when you arrive in the state capital of Burlington, a small city with a youthful personality as the home of the University of Vermont. You can stock up on farm-fresh groceries at the celebrated Saturday farmers market and go barhopping among the city's many craft breweries.

Boston, Massachusetts to Acadia National Park, Maine

There's no shortage of ways to explore Boston — self-guided walking tours, museum visits, and strolls through Little Italy (in the North End) and historic spots like Faneuil Hall and Boston Common are all great options for soaking in the city. Visitors can also take a harbor cruise or ride a seasonal Swan Boat in the Public Garden lagoon. Don't leave town without sampling the city's famous clam chowder and Boston cream pie.

The fastest route on this 285-mile trip takes nearly five hours and passes through Salem, Massachusetts ; Portsmouth, New Hampshire; Portland, Maine; and Augusta, Maine's capital, before reaching Bar Harbor. You'll experience New England's scenery and history if you take U.S. Route 1 with a few detours along the way.

Traveling north on U.S. Route 1 from Boston, you'll pass over the Mystic River. If time allows, watch for the Yankee Division Highway heading east toward Gloucester — a worthwhile detour if you're interested in seeing lighthouses, fishermen's memorial statues, and historic buildings. Back on the highway, you'll drive north, just a mile or so from the sea most of the time, briefly passing through New Hampshire until you reach Portsmouth and enter Maine. Continue through beach towns and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge , and take State Route 9 for a detour to Kennebunkport. Spend the night, dine on Maine lobster, and check out the stunning mansions in this nearly 400-year-old town.

Take Route 9 around the shore, then head back to U.S. Route 1 on Route 208. Continue on U.S. Route 1 to Portland, another great option for an overnight stay. From Portland, three hours on the shore-hugging scenic route will get you to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park .

New York, New York to Newport, Rhode Island

Spending a few days in Manhattan is the ideal lead-in to a relaxing road trip to a quieter town like Newport. After noshing on bagels or pizza, shopping, visiting museums, and strolling through Central Park, it could be time for a change. Don't leave without walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, meandering along The High Line , and experiencing The National September 11 Memorial Museum .

When it's time to leave, head north on Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive (FDR Drive) along the East River to the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, which spans the Harlem River. Interstate 278 then takes you through the Bronx and onto Interstate 95 through Westchester County. The highway runs northeast, close to the shore of the Long Island Sound into Connecticut. You'll pass through New Haven, home of Yale University, and have an opportunity to explore the campus.

Shortly after the town of Guilford, exit onto State Route 1, which will take you closer to the sea and add about 30 minutes to the four-hour, 185-mile trip — but it's well worth it for the views and beach access. You'll join Interstate 95 again to get back on your way to Newport, eventually exiting onto State Route 102 and then Route 138.

In Newport, park your vehicle and spend a few car-free days along the shore, strolling the three-and-a-half-mile Cliff Walk , exploring vintage mansions, and enjoying fresh seafood. Take a bike ride along one of many trails or relax on a sunset cruise.

New York, New York to Washington, D.C.

Greg Pease / Getty Images

This 226-mile trip takes approximately four hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. From lower Manhattan, take the Holland Tunnel that passes under the Hudson River to New Jersey. You'll be on Interstate 78 in Jersey City, with views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty . The interstate highway crosses Newark Bay on the Vincent R. Casciano Memorial Bridge, then meets Interstate 95 heading south.

Driving south on Interstate 95 (New Jersey Turnpike), Staten Island, one of New York City's boroughs, will be on your left across a narrow body of water called Arthur Kill — the word "kill" is derived from the Dutch, influential in settling this part of the northeast. Continue south on Interstate 95 through New Jersey — maybe taking a detour to the beaches of the Jersey Shore — until you cross the Delaware River into the state of Delaware. You'll soon enter Maryland, where Interstate 95 is named John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway, cross the Susquehanna River, and go on to Baltimore.

Continue south on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (295) into Washington, D.C., where there's plenty to see and do, from museums, memorials, and monuments to outdoor activities on the waterfront. The Smithsonian museums alone could fill several days, plus there's hiking, biking, and boating for those who want to spend some time outdoors.

Baltimore, Maryland to Virginia Beach, Virginia

Starting in Baltimore, this East Coast road trip will take you on a long detour from I-95 that passes through a rare coastal landscape populated by wild horses. From Baltimore, it's a 118-mile drive across the Chesapeake Bay to Delaware's Bethany Beach, a lovely first beach to set the tone for this coastal adventure. From here, travel south along the water until you reach Ocean City, Maryland, a classic American beach town to base your adventures in Assateague State Park. Open to beach campers, this 48,000-acre stretch of grass and sand is considered one of the country's most scenic camping destinations.

You'll find wild horses roaming the landscape on Assateague and further south on Virginia's Chincoteague Island, which is your next stop. There's no main road connecting the two islands (although there are many back-country campsites) so you will have to briefly go back inland to get to Chincoteague, where you'll find even more beautiful scenery, horses, and the famous Pony Swim , which takes place every summer. During the event, spectators can watch as the horses are herded across the bay by the "Saltwater Cowboys" in an impressive display of the animals' swimming chops.

From Chincoteague Island, it's a beautiful 105-mile drive with the Atlantic on one side and the Chesapeake Bay on the other. Make sure to stop for lunch in one of the small towns along the way for fresh seafood. When you reach the end of the island, you'll travel across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and arrive at your final destination in Virginia Beach, another classic American beach town, where you'll have your pick of chic hotels and a large boardwalk with plenty of restaurants and attractions for all ages.

Washington, D.C. to Nags Head, North Carolina

After taking in the sights, restaurants, and history of our nation's capital, you may be ready to head to the beach — this trip takes you about 280 miles south to the Outer Banks of North Carolina . As with most of these road trips, there's the faster way and the more scenic route. In this case, the scenic drive adds nearly an hour to the approximately five-and-a-half-hour trip, but if you're on vacation, it's worth the additional time.

Head south out of Washington, D.C. on Interstate 395 (which turns to Interstate 95). You'll pass the Thomas Jefferson Memorial , then cross the Potomac River into Virginia. Continue south until you reach State Route 3 around Fredericksburg — head east on Route 3, then south on Route 17. Called Tidewater Trail, Route 17 meanders along next to the Rappahannock River, a spot known for outdoor fun and delicious oysters.

You'll cross the York River and the James River, which empty into the Chesapeake Bay. In the city of Newport News, take Interstate 64 southeast, and in Chesapeake, take Route 168 into North Carolina. The highway meets up with Route 158, takes you along a narrow peninsula to the Wright Memorial Bridge, and south to the Outer Banks town of Nags Head. Relax on the beach, climb to the top of the still-active Bodie Island Lighthouse , or watch the hang gliders at Jockey's Ridge State Park among massive sand dunes.

Charlotte, North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee

For this scenic East Coast road trip, you'll travel to the heart of Appalachia, starting in Charlotte, North Carolina where you can pay a visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame . From here, you'll head west to Asheville, another city with a lot of character and a unique history. Consider this your gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . While in town, you should stop by The Biltmore Estate, the impressive mansion of the famously rich Vanderbilt family, and plan to spend sunset at the Omni Grove Park Inn , a historic hotel that once hosted American authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald and also has the best sunset views in town.

From Asheville, get yourself to the Blue Ridge Parkway, a road that provides 469 miles to explore the poetic Appalachian Mountain landscape from the comfort of your car — with plenty of stopping points to enjoy a cozy cabin lodge or gentle hike. The road goes northwest through Virginia, but we recommend traveling southwest to finish in the Smoky Mountains and then crossing the national park until you reach Gatlinburg. For a trip this grand, why not plan a big finale and book a night in one of the region's luxury tree houses? The Sanctuary Tree House Resort in nearby Pigeon Forge is home to beautiful feats of architecture with real tree houses boasting trip-making amenities like outdoor hot tubs and swinging day beds.

Wilmington, North Carolina to Savannah, Georgia

Daniela Duncan / Getty Images

Start or end this road trip by spending a few days in the riverfront city of Wilmington, strolling Cape Fear's 1.75-mile Riverwalk , browsing the shops, or dining at one of the waterfront cafes or restaurants. Tour the Battleship North Carolina , just across the river from downtown, to catch a glimpse of its role in World War II's Pacific Theater. Spend a day at the beach or ride in a horse-drawn carriage among Wilmington's historic mansions.

When it's time to begin your drive south to Savannah, you have a few options. The fastest route is inland on Interstate 95, a little less than five hours for 300 miles. But take your time and drive near the coast on U.S. Route 17. While this will add around an hour, you'll pass through small towns and be able to stop for lunch on a nearby beach. If time allows, you could happily take three days or more to enjoy this scenic and historic section of the coast.

Head west across the Cape Fear River, then U.S. Route 17 takes you inland for a few miles south before you get close to the Atlantic shore for most of the drive. You'll pass Shallotte, its river of the same name, and the Brunswick Islands , five barrier islands with beaches, seafood, and a historic atmosphere. North Carolina's Outer Banks region, which comprises 100 miles of shoreline, is a popular summer destination, and you might decide to spend some time (or even a night) in one of the beachside towns.

Myrtle Beach in South Carolina might be your next stop, or you can continue your scenic drive along the shore and spend the night in Charleston. Continue on U.S. Route 17, driving near the Sea Islands — hundreds of barrier islands along the shores of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida — for about two hours, before arriving in Savannah.

Savannah, Georgia to Orlando, Florida

It may not be easy to leave Savannah's squares, parks, riverfront, and restaurants, but if you're planning a visit to Orlando's theme parks and many attractions, it's time to get on the road. Most of the 300-mile trip will be on Interstate 95, which runs fairly close to the coast, but there's a short detour that takes you to Sea Island , Little St. Simons Island , and Jekyll Island that's well worth an extra hour or more.

Take Interstate 16 West out of Savannah to meet up with Interstate 95 South — you'll drive mostly inland, but pass over creeks and streams along the way. Shortly after the Altamaha River, watch for a turnoff onto State Route 99, then take Route 17 south. Take a road to whichever island you want to visit. Then, continue on Route 17, which meets up with Interstate 95 again. Continue south, passing Amelia Island, and on toward Jacksonville, where you'll cross the St. Johns River.

You'll drive near the coast as you pass St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city, and a variety of beach towns. At Daytona Beach, home of the Daytona International Speedway , head southwest on Interstate 4, passing Lake Monroe and on to Orlando, where hotels, Disney World, Epcot, Universal Studios, and entertainment of all kinds await. Explore the natural surroundings at Shingle Creek Regional Park , where you can paddle a canoe or kayak, or enjoy a quiet picnic.

Miami, Florida to Key West, Florida

Artur Debat/Getty Images

This classic road trip takes you to the furthest reaches of Highway 1 and the southernmost point of the continental U.S. From Miami, it's a 164-mile drive to Key West, but it's a trip that should be broken up along the way to enjoy the diversity of the many islands that make up the Florida Keys — and maybe even a detour to Everglades National Park if you've always wanted to see gators in person. Before you set out, make sure you take the proper time to enjoy the scene of South Beach, have a cafecito on Calle Ocho in Little Havana, and take a few shots for the 'gram at Wynwood Walls .

From Miami, embrace the laid-back style of the Keys by traveling slowly, first stopping at Key Largo for a slice of Key Lime Pie at Mrs. Mac's Kitchen . As you roll down Highway 1 past Islamorada and Marathon, you'll see fabulous resorts and cozy bed-and-breakfasts but for an experience that's a little different, park the car and hop on a boat to the celebrated Little Palm Island , a private island resort where you can have your own luxury bungalow. You can spend the entire trip exploring the many wildlife-rich snorkeling and diving spots, especially if you take an excursion to Dry Tortugas National Park , a protected marine reserve.

For literature fans and animal lovers, a visit to the Hemingway Home and Museum is a must, where you can meet the unique six-toed cats descended from the great American author's precious pet Snowball who lived there with him in the 1930s. Of course, with only one way to go from Key West, the drive back is just as scenic as the drive there, so keep track of your favorite spots and make sure you never miss the sunset, which is magnificent from just about every angle.

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27 best road trips to take this summer.

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It’s summertime, which means it’s road trip season. Time to hit the open road and see the sights. And despite inflation and gas price hikes, travelers are booking those vacations in record numbers this summer. Outdoorsy , the peer-to-peer marketplace connecting RV owners with RV renters, recently published its 2022 trend report to get a sense of who is booking road trips this year and where they’re going. The results were surprising: Outdoorsy hasn’t seen any slowdowns this year despite inflation. In fact, bookings are up year over year for the summer season—more than double last year’s record demand.

It makes sense: An RV rental trip can be a great alternative for folks who are looking for an approachable—and less crowded—getaway this summer. It’s also an ideal solution for any last-minute changes in plans due to ever-increasing canceled flights, rental car shortages or expensive hotels. Plus, it’s affordable, since you don’t need to fly anywhere, your hotel comes with you. Gas is also less expensive than most people think. According to Outdoorsy, the average gas cost for a seven-day trip is about $275, which is less than one night at Animal Kingdom Lodge in Disney World.

A recent report from Outdoorsy revealed this year's top summer road trips.

The report revealed a few other noteworthy trends: “Nearcations” are the new normal. Two-thirds of renters aren’t traveling more than 100 miles from their home. Outdoorsy also discovered that the most affordable destinations are in the midwest and the southeast. And the two most popular search filters? Pet-friendly and air-conditioning. Can’t argue with that.

Outdoorsy’s report also rounded up the top 10 cities for road trips this summer, places growing in popularity and affordable destinations. It’s a helpful list, whether you’re planning to take an RV trip or just want to pile the kids into your own car and hit the road this summer. Read on to see which places made the cut and what we love about them.

Denver offers easy access to Rocky Mountain National Park.

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Want to go on a road trip this summer? These are the places topping Outdoorsy’s summer trends report.

Denver, Colorado: The “Mile-High City” has endless opportunities for adventure, numerous gastropubs and a vibrant craft beer scene. It’s also a jumping-off spot for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Rocky Mountain National Park, with some of America’s highest peaks. There’s also plenty of nature within the city itself, from City Park (Denver’s top urban green space) to whitewater kayaking in Confluence Park.

Seattle, Washington: This stunning seaport city is the heartbeat of the Pacific Northwest. Sample fresh seafood and shop from local artists at Pike Place Market or discover the city’s interesting history as a hub for jazz and rock music at a lively club. Art museums, sporting events and museums abound, while Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks are just a short drive away.

Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: The Land of 10,000 Lakes is mostly rural, though there are some bustling urban areas to explore. Minneapolis neighbors the capital of St. Paul and, together, the Twin Cities—set on the banks of the Mississippi River—are rich in history, art and vibrant culture.

An iconic sign in Portland, Oregon's Old Town.

Portland, Oregon: This progressive Pacific-Northwest city is filled with microbreweries, coffeehouses, dynamic restaurants, galleries and music venues you won’t want to miss. For outdoor enthusiasts, head to the Columbia River for kite surfing or a charter boat. Venture west to the Pacific coast along Cannon Beach or take a day trip to Mount Hood, catching sweeping views of the river along the way.

Anchorage, Alaska: Anchorage (a.k.a. “The City of Lights and Flowers”) kicks off summer by adorning its streets with wildflowers and perennials—celebrating an end to the dark winter months. The city offers numerous only-in-Alaska experiences like dog mushing and panning for gold. Plus, it’s easy to get out in nature and explore.

Road tripping in San Diego with Outdoorsy.

San Diego, California: Take advantage of near-perfect weather in this sunny city with 70 miles of stunning coastline. Be sure to try your hand at surfing or take a marine wildlife tour—you’ll likely catch a glimpse of dolphins, humpback whales and even blue whales in the summer months.

Dallas, Texas: This modern Texas city is home to world-class museums, a top-notch culinary scene, chic boutiques and plenty of outdoor recreation. Pair your city exploring with some natural attractions. Within two hours’ drive from downtown, you’ll find stunning state parks, fishing spots and biking trails. Don’t miss Arbor Hills Nature Preserve, Eisenhower State Park and the Joppa Preserve for prime birdwatching.

Los Angeles, California: The City of Angels is far more than the glitz and glam of Hollywood. The sprawling coastal city has bustling farmer’s markets, hiking trails, wine bars, theaters and so much more. From the movie-making hub of Culver City to artsy Venice, each neighborhood has its own flair—and appeal. L.A. is also the perfect home base for day trips to lush Topanga State Park, seaside Santa Barbara or rugged Joshua Tree National Park.

Summer adventures in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Salt Lake City, Utah: With the Oquirrh and the Wasatch mountain ranges as a stunning backdrop, you’ll want to get outdoors in Salt Lake City. Head to places like nearby Snowbird, which transforms from a ski resort into a summer wonderland with mountain biking, thrill rides, climbing, mining, camping and more.

San Antonio, Texas: With a history spanning over 300 years, San Antonio is full of charm, character and culture. History buffs will enjoy sites like the Alamo and the San Antonio missions, while foodies flock to the River Walk for local culinary treats. You don’t have to venture far for outdoor recreation. The Government Canyon State Natural Area sits on the north side of the city and spans over 12,000 acres of rugged hills and canyons.

Sunset over Flagstaff, Arizona with Mount Humphreys in the distance.

11 Places Growing Fastest in Popularity

Get there now: These road trip destinations are seeing a huge growth in popularity this summer.

Flagstaff, Arizona: This northern Arizona city is surrounded by some of the country’s most beautiful natural areas, including the Grand Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon, Walnut Canyon, Wupatki National Monument, Sunset Crater National Monument, Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks . Make this lovely city your home base as you take in its small-town charm and explore the surrounding wonders.

Vallejo, California: On the shores of San Pablo Bay about an hour northeast of San Francisco, Vallejo lures history buffs. Explore historic districts lined with Victorian houses or stop at the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum and the U.S. naval base at Mare Island to dive into the local maritime tradition. Depending on what kind of thrills you’re seeking, you’ll find beaches and trails, plus Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Myrtle Beach has no shortage of amenities, from miniature golf to amusement parks to Nascar races to Broadway at the Beach (a vast entertainment complex). For a quiet outing, head to nearby Murrells Inlet, an historic fishing village along a saltwater estuary.

Salem, Oregon: This capital city is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Filled with creative sculptures, the Riverfront Park spans 23 acres along the Willamette River. The Oregon State Capitol State Park is also a stunner with its cherry blossom trees, monuments and flags that give a sense of the city’s history.

Traverse City is known for its cherries.

Traverse City, Michigan: Summer in Traverse City—set next to the alluring blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay—is all about getting active outdoors. Visitors are in for a treat with all the lighthouses, coastal villages, vineyards, orchards and championship golf courses dotting the miles of white-sand shorelines.

Omaha, Nebraska: Visitors will be delighted to discover that Omaha sits at the confluence of the Missouri and Platte Rivers. Plus, it’s an ideal summer destination for baseball enthusiasts: It’s home to the College World Series, which takes place in mid- to late-June each year.

Knoxville, Tennessee: Knoxville boasts finger-lickin’ Southern fare and bourbon outposts. But what truly sets this city apart is its location in the Smoky Mountains—perfect for summer adventures. Also appealing: Big Ridge State Park and Norris Dam State Park, with loads of options for biking, hiking, boating and camping.

Oshkosh, Wisconsin: Known for its picturesque waterfront, Oshkosh is nestled between two large lakes: Lake Butte des Morts and Lake Winnebago. The downtown is vibrant and walkable, with good dining and shopping housed in old brick buildings. Plus, you can’t beat the mild summertime weather.

The epic scenery near Kalispell, Montana.

Kalispell, Montana: If it’s charm you’re after, head to Kalispell. The enchanting mountain town attracts visitors with its microbreweries, boutiques and art galleries. It’s also a gateway to a host of jaw-dropping wilderness, including Glacier National Park, Lone Pine State Park and Flathead Lake—the largest body of fresh water in the western United States.

New Braunfels, Texas: Between San Antonio and Austin, New Braunfels is a great place to enjoy outsized Texas adventures. Head to Fischer Park Nature Education Center for excellent family programming, hit the dance floor at the historic Gruene Hall or make a splash at Schlitterbahn water park for rides, slides and a wave pool. To the west is Natural Bridge Caverns, where you can tour underground limestone caves.

Boise, Idaho: Bustling Boise has it all: excellent dining, art, shopping and adventures, with the snow-capped Rocky Mountains as a spectacular backdrop. The Boise River Greenbelt, a scenic riverside trail dotted with trees and parks, snakes through the heart of the city. And on the southeast side of Boise are remnants of the Oregon Trail, which traders and settlers used to journey westward. Visitors can follow in the pioneers’ footsteps along the Oregon Trail Reserve’s walking paths.

A bird's-eye view of Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

6 Affordable Summer Road Trips

Want to save this summer? Point your compass toward these six U.S. locations on Outdoorsy’s affordable list.

Jacksonville, Florida: With 22 miles of white sand, there’s a beach for everyone in Jacksonville. Neptune Beach is popular with surfers, Jacksonville Beach attracts kitesurfers and Atlantic Beach draws anglers. Drive over to Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve to visit one of the country’s last untouched coastal wetlands. There, you can also see the Fort Caroline National Memorial, which shares the stories of the explorers, territorial battles and religious struggles from 16th-century Florida.

Charleston, South Carolina: The “Holy City”—a moniker for its abundance of churches—is steeped in history and tradition, along with gorgeous architecture and a serious dining scene. Right outside downtown, you’ll encounter stunning forests and low-country coastal areas. Visit Poinsettia State Park (popular for its scenic horseback riding trails) or Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge (a birdwatching Mecca).

Columbus, Ohio: Ohio’s capital city is dotted with natural areas, including Scioto Mile’s string of parks along both sides of the Scioto River. Science lovers will enjoy the COSI science center’s planetarium and hands-on exhibits, while the Columbus Museum of Art features American and European paintings and a sculpture garden. Put on your walking shoes to meander through German Village, lined with 1800s brick homes built by the original settlers.

The Sunset On Route 66 in Bakersfield, California,

Bakersfield, California: Historic Route 66 runs through this California town, which has a high-spirited country music scene, complete with bands and line dancing. Check out Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace or the historic Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame. Adventure nuts are attracted to local state parks like Castaic Lake State Park and Red Rock Canyon State Park.

Midland, Michigan: What was once a small, Native American village is now known for its industrial innovation—which is why it’s called the City of Science and Culture. Midland also prides itself on its 72 beautiful city parks. Explore 110 acres of lush flora and fauna—and America’s longest canopy walk—all during a visit to Dow Gardens.

Charlotte, North Carolina: Get a feel for the Queen City at the Levine Museum of the New South, which explores post–Civil War history in the South or take the family to the hands-on science exhibitions at Discovery Place. Looking for outdoor adventure? Don’t miss the U.S. National Whitewater Center; it boasts the largest man-made whitewater river in the world. Olympic competitors train there, but the rapids are open to the public. The center also features outdoor rock climbing, zip-lining, live music and yoga classes.

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10 Best Road Trips in the United States

Across the United States of America, roads and highways crisscross the country, tying and connecting people and places featuring some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural wonders. Some of the best examples include the sunny Pacific Coast Highway and the legendary Route 66, part of a big web of roads running through cities, towns, and all the natural wonders in between. These roads and highways are more than about getting from place to place; they are part of the destination and experience in and of themselves. They are also a reflection of what makes America such a special place! So, let us dive in and explore some of the best road trips in the United States.

The Road to Hana

Set off from Kahului on Hawaii , cruise toward Hana along Maui's east coast, and there you have it: the winding Hana Highway. As you zip along a road, it is not a super long journey, but it is like going on a mini adventure with all its sharp turns and narrow bridges. This path is famous for how it zigzags, with many twists and curves, and all its one-way bridges. There is definitely some skill involved with this drive! The best part is driving through the lush green forests with waterfalls popping up here and there as you go, including the famous Twin Falls and Wailua Falls.

These spots are great for taking photos and sometimes even going for a swim. Near the end of your trip, make sure to check out Ohe’o Gulch. The stop is intensely pretty, with sights of pools and waterfalls tumbling right into the Pacific Ocean .

Grand Teton, Yellowstone, & Glacier National Parks Road Trip

How does 900 miles through some of the nicest mountain valleys in the country sound? Well, this trip weaves through America’s stunning national parks. You can see wildlife as there are many spots to get out for hikes and, of course, some of the region’s famous geysers. The dramatic Teton Mountain Range, with its jagged peaks, lay on one end, while the countless lakes and mountains of Glacier Mountain Park lie on the other. This road trip is truly breathtaking.

Right between those two points lies Yellowstone, famed for the iconic Old Faithful Geyser , the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring , and numerous other geysers and hot springs. This does not even include the bison, elk, and wolves that roam inside its borders! The best time to tackle this trip is between the end of June and the start of September when most roads and services are available.

Is there a road in the U.S. as well-known as Route 66? It has appeared in songs and films and is deeply woven into what it means to be American. The road has a deeper meaning, too, standing for freedom, new chances, and the thrill of exploring. Running from Chicago to Santa Monica , the road was a key path for folks heading west in the 1930s, searching for a brighter future. Altogether, Route 66 is just under 2500 miles, going through natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest National Park. It also goes past towns like Tulsa, St. Louis, and many others. So, if you want to see the outdoors or take in some of the sights of a city, Route 66 truly has it all!

Olympic Peninsula Loop

Olympic Peninsula Loop circles through the state of Washington , passing through rainforests, past glaciers, and beside beaches. You have found your match if you want a road where you can stop to explore the outdoors. At just over 300 miles, it is not as long as some trips on this list. It is the kind of road where you can take it slowly, stopping at landmarks as you circle the loop. Look out for places like Mount Ellinor, known for its easy-to-reach peak, and Lena Lake, perfect for day trips beside clear, blue waters. Looking for a chill day out? Swing by Port Townsend. It has vintage Victorian-style buildings and a laid-back city center that is perfectly inviting.

The Great River Road

This is no ordinary drive. This long, winding passage goes through 10 states, following the twists and turns of the Mississippi River . Altogether the drive spans over 2000 miles, through peaks, valleys, towns, and cities. When you are driving through this many states, it is more than just a drive. It is a lesson in the cultural essence of America. Some people will put aside weeks to tackle the entire length. Get lost easily? You will know you are on the right road by the green and white pilot’s wheel logo, making it simple for travelers to follow the route. Some of the best places to see along the way include the Itasca State Park in Minnesota or the cultural treasure of the French Quarter down in New Orleans .

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Quality, not quality. That is the simple rule of this trip, found in Montana's Glacier National Park. This trip is only 50 miles long but full of great scenery, like spring-time wildflowers, icy lakes, and top-notch mountain scenery. Passing through Logan Pass over the Continental Divide opens up an array of the park's diverse ecosystems. Some of the best spots to look for include Avalanche Creek, a beautiful spot featuring the Trail of the Cedars and the Avalanche Lake trailhead. The Weeping Wall is also a section of the road where water cascades down from the garden wall, often drenching cars in the early summer.

Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic way to see some of the best views available on the California coast. It has everything you would look for in a drive by the ocean. Also known as Highway 1, the drive is one of the most famous routes around the world. It covers just over 600 miles, passing cliffsides, thick forests, and the Pacific Ocean by your side. You can take this journey slow, with countless places to stop and explore, making for an amazing long adventure, or you can visit different towns one after another for a quick hop. Must-see spot choices include Carmel-by-the-Sea , the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, Santa Monica, and even the Golden Gate Bridge .

Blue Ridge Parkway

This path is called "America's Favorite Drive" and cuts through the Appalachian Highlands. Its name means it passes through rolling mountains topped with lush forests. The best time to see it is in fall when the foliage turns all sorts of vibrant colors. The road links Virginia with North Carolina , providing a one-of-a-kind journey through the natural wonders and cultural history of the American South. Speed demons beware: the National Park Service looks after the road and is made for relaxed driving, and the speed limit usually does not exceed 45 mph. This way, travelers can go at a nice, slow pace and really soak in the surroundings.

Las Vegas to San Diego

This path goes from a cool, breezy beach to a hot, dry desert. It mixes the fun energy of Las Vegas with the relaxed beach vibe of San Diego . It's the kind of drive that's great for the person who wants to explore all sorts of fun. It is that interesting combination of cities and nature that makes it so unique! The quality and variety of biomes you can see are unbeatable, such as the Cleveland National Forest or the Mojave Desert. The best time to head out on this trip is during the fall, winter, or spring as summer can be a tad hot. You should definitely check out places like Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Death Valley National Park while driving past.

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

This byway stretches over 70 miles and showcases the beautiful Black Hills in South Dakota. People love it for its views, with its rugged rock shapes, pine woods, and lots of animals to see as you drive by. But it can be more than just pretty sights; many say there is something special and spiritual about this place, almost like it touches your soul, making the Black Hills truly one-of-a-kind.

The drive is short but filled with iconic places. Custer State Park and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial are the two endpoints, with stops like the ongoing Crazy Horse Memorial construction on the way. One of the most popular segments of the drive is Iron Mountain Road, which forms a portion of the byway. It offers stunning views and unique features like its famous pigtail bridges and tunnels.

Driving through the United States, there is something new to see or experience on every new road. From Maui's rainforests to the famous Route 66, these trips let us deeply experience what makes this country's nature and culture special. Whether looking at the views on the Blue Ridge Parkway or experiencing the wild beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, the drive is all about exploring and finding new things, showing us why traveling by road is so appealing. So jump into the car, grab a map and just drive.

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The World’s Best Road Trips: What Places Do People Want to Visit?

Where are the most popular road trips in the world?

Once you pass your driving test , you are free to travel the open road and really get the best out of your new found freedom. Whether you’re a new driver or have decades of experience, these road trips are some of the best adventure ideas you can experience. The possible journeys are endless.

Using Google search data we have been able to establish which road trips are the most popular across the globe, and which ones interest residents of different nations the most. We have listed the best road trips across the world, the best in the UK, and the best in the US.

Updated for 2023, this report details the most popular road trips across the world, UK, and US, and how our road trip preferences have changed over the last year. 

The World’s Most Popular Road Trips 2022

1 – Route 66 – 6 ,523,000 Global Annual Searches

Moving from second place last year to the top spot this year is Route 66. Bobby Troup cemented the legacy of the world-famous Route 66 with the lyrics “Get your kicks on Route 66” . Route 66, located in the US, stretches almost 4,000 kilometres from Santa Monica to Chicago. The road was once the main route across the country, however, it has more recently become a quieter, more scenic way to cross America due to the development of other main roads.

2 – Big Sur – 4,625,000 Global Annual Searches

With over 4.6 million searches, the second most popular road trip right now was 2021’s most popular. Big Sur Coast Highway, California, USA, is a section of road on California’s ‘State Route 1’ and is breathtakingly stunning. Expect to experience a windy coastal cliff edge flanked by the bright blue Pacific Ocean on one side and the towering Californian mountains on the other.

3 – Dolomites – 3,337,000 Global Annual Searches

In northern Italy, we find some of the greatest driving roads in the world, and the Dolomite mountains are no exception. The Great Dolomites Road is a road trip between Bolzano and Cortina d’Ampezzo that travels right across the mountain range and allows road trippers to take in some spectacular Italian views along the way.

4 – Salar de Uyuni – 2,575,000 Global Annual Searches

Salar de Uyuni is one of the most striking and spectacular landscapes on the planet. Home to the largest salt flats in the world, the Salar de Uyuni sits amongst the Andes mountains in Bolivia. In total over two and a half million people searched for the Salar de Uyuni in the past year, making it one of the world’s most searched for road trips.

5 – Blue Ridge Parkway – 2,046,000 Global Annual Searches

Blue Ridge Parkway finishes our top five most popular global road trips with just over two million annual searches. The parkway is America’s longest linear park, running for 469 miles, and has been the most-visited part of the National Park System every year since 1946, except for four. Blue Ridge Parkway is a new entry to the top five most popular road trips in the world.

Every Country’s Favourite Road Trip

Route 66 is the road trip location that is the most searched in most countries with 46 nations having it as their most popular road trip. The second and third routes which came top in the most countries are the Dolomites and Big Sur, being the most popular in 21 and 19 countries respectively.

The Most Popular British and Irish Road Trips

1 – NC500 – 739,700 National Annual Searches

Maintaining its number one spot as the most searched domestic road trip by British citizens is the North Circuit 500 (NC500) in Northern Scotland, achieving over 150,000 additional annual searches compared to last year. This beautiful and majestic road trip has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it is no surprise as to why, with beautiful driving roads flowing through spectacular mountains and coastline.

2 – Ring of Kerry – 57,300 National Annual Searches

As the name suggests, the Ring of Kerry is a circular route around the southwestern Irish county. Kerry is one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland and this road trip takes you out to the coast from Killarney, where visitors will find fantastic views of the breathtaking Skellig Islands. Movie fans should note these islands were featured in the Star Wars movies. The Ring of Kerry was third place last year.

3 – Glasgow to Inverness – 32,400 National Annual Searches

Knocking the Wild Atlantic Way (last years second place) out of the top three is Glasgow to Inverness. From Scotland to Ireland and back again, our third most-searched-for UK road trip is located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, spanning incredible roads from Glasgow over to Inverness. This trip takes you past Loch Lomond, the Trossachs, Ben Nevis, and many other must-see Scottish landmarks.

The Most Popular US Road Trips

1 – Big Sur 2,729,000 National Annual Searches

Big Sur is the most searched US road trip by Americans with over 2.7 million annual searches. While still the most searched, Route 66 saw over 500,000 less searches this year compared to 2021. One of the more spectacular aspects of this route is the exquisitely engineered bridges that span rivers and gorges where they meet the ocean, with the Bixby Creek Bridge being one of the finest examples.

2 – Route 66 – 2,277,000 National Annual Searches

With over 2 million annual searches in America, Route 66 comes in second for the US’ most searched for road trips. Although it is no longer possible to drive the original Route 66 uninterrupted, due to decommission all the way from Chicago to Los Angeles, much of the original route and alternate alignments are still drivable; some original stretches are quite well preserved.

3 – Blue Ridge Parkway – 1,925,000 National Annual Searches

National Parkway and All-American Road, the Blue Ridge Parkway rounds off our American top three road trips. This trip covers part of the Appalachian mountains and the road through them has spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The US top three is unchanged from last year, cementing these road trips as America’s favourites.

Methodology

• We looked at multiple online articles listing popular routes to create lists of global, US, and UK road trips to reveal 80 global road trips, 25 UK trips, and 25 US trips.
• By using Google Ads Keyword Planner we were able to find out the number of annual searches globally and domestically for each road trip, taken on 01/04/2022.

The 2021 World’s Best Road Trips Report

If you want to read our previous report you can download it here:

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Enjoy Illinois recommends things to do, best places to visit for summer road trip season

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) -The kids are counting down the days until summer break which may have some of you planning ahead for fun road trips for the family.

Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director at Enjoy Illinois , offers many recommendations for attractions and destinations only a car ride away including getaways in and around Chicago , the Springfield area (the state capitol), outdoor adventures in the Southeastern part of the state , and outstanding l ocal resources and amenities right here in the Quad Cities.

Travel recommendations featured are Millennium Park (celebration of 20th anniversary), Chicago Architecture Cruise, Morton Arboretum, Six Flags Great America, The Forge: Lemont Quarries, Route 66 Legends Neon Sign Park, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library , Cozy Drive-in, Shawnee Hills Glamping, Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour, Shawnee Hills Lavender, Rendleman Orchard, Celebration Belle, John Deere Pavilion, Lagomarcino’s, Great River Road & Nauvoo, and Quincy.

Also notable is that the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), has announced the release of its spring/summer 2024 issue of Enjoy Illinois--now available in digital and print --as the state’s free travel magazine the best attractions, outdoor activities, events and stays in the state.

To learn more about summer travel, recommended itineraries and road trips, visit EnjoyIllinois.com .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Enjoy Illinois (@enjoyillinois)

Copyright 2024 KWQC. All rights reserved.

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Moscow to Kostroma via Elektrostal

Moscow to kostroma road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Moscow to Kostroma. If you're planning a road trip to Kostroma, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Moscow drive for about 1 hour

11:07 am   Elektrostal stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:07 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

1:50 pm   Vladimir stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:50 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

4:25 pm   Ivanovo stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:25 pm drive for about 1 hour

6:31 pm  arrive in Kostroma

driving ≈ 5.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Elektrostal Vladimir   (2 answers) Ivanovo

What are some things to do in Kostroma?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Kostroma.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Kostroma to Moscow drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Moscow to Kostroma . Or get a full Moscow to Kostroma flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Moscow well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Moscow!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Moscow to Kostroma

places to eat

alternate routes

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Sunflowers, roses and wildflowers: A guide to New Jersey's most colorful gardens

From world-class flower farms to unknown gardens and trails, the Garden State has all the flowers to entice any plant lover looking for color.

Here are 8 great places to see the best flowers in New Jersey:

Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit

Nestled in Union County, the Reeves-Reed Arboretum is a floral oasis. Its vibrant landscape is filled with colors and scents, showcasing a rich variety of native and exotic blooms. From the delicate petals of springtime tulips to the bold splashes of summer roses, every season brings a new spectacle of floral beauty to delight visitors of all ages.

Greenway Meadows Park, Princeton

This expansive park offers a picturesque landscape of rolling meadows, shady groves, and flowery spots, providing a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Among its many charms are the many flowers that live there. From the cheerful daisies and sunflowers to the delicate blooms of wildflowers, the park got a lot to delights visitors throughout the seasons.

With its ample green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas, this park is perfect for relaxed yet playful moments.

Durr's Bluebox Produce and Flowers, Wrightstown

This charming gem for flower enthusiasts has a bounty of fresh flowers on sale. You can pick up your own flowers from the ground and create a fresh bouquet. Edible produce is also available on this acclaimed farm market.

Five Ponds Loop, Ringwood

Looking for a retreat away from the crowds? If so, this trail got you covered.

Through this secluded, 5.7-mile hike you can enjoy wildflower beds scattered throughout the trail. The hike has many small ponds and is suitable for bikes too.

Dalton Farms, Swedesboro

Renowned for its vibrant fields of flowers, the farm offers visitors a breathtaking spectacle of color and fragrance. At this farm you can see fields covered with sunflowers, zinnias, lavender, dahlias and tulips. Dalton Farms is an unforgettable floral experience for many. Admission to this farm cost $14 online, or $20 at the entrance. Tulips and daffodils can be picked for $2 per stem or ten for $10.

Rutgers Gardens, North Brunswick

This 180-acre botanic garden features dozens of gardens filled with azaleas, irises, allium blooms and many other species. Every garden is different from one another containing a specific collection of flora, such as the Donald B. Lacey Garden, a photographers attraction known for its extensive beds of irises, herbs and vegetables.

Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridge

One of the biggest tulip farms in the country, this magical place is filled with flowers as far as the eye can see. When you visit, you'll find yourself surrounded by rows of colorful blooms of tulips and fragrant hyacinths.

This 300-acre farm has over 8 million tulips on display. Visitors can roam around, pick up some tulips and maybe take some photos.

A ticket is required to enter the farm. The are selling online for $15 and $17, depending on the day.

Brookdale Park Rose Garden, Montclair

Everywhere you look, there are roses in all shades and sizes, filling the air with their sweet scent. It's a peaceful place where you can stroll among the over 500 rose bushes in close to 150 varieties. While the garden is open year round, peak blooming times are in June and September.