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

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

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

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

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

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

Must-see video: road trips USA

Best road trips in USA map

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

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

Essentials to pack on the greatest road trips in America

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

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

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

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

Best road trips USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Ozark Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Theresa of The Local Tourist

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

4. Florida Springs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Victoria of Florida Trippers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Audrey of That Backpacker

6. Washington DC to Boston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Victoria of Guide your Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Jenifer of The Evolista

8. Newfound Gap Road, Smoky Mountains USA road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Yukti of Travel with me 24 x 7 Blog

More of the best road trips USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

10. Coastal Carolinas road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Ada of Beyond the Yellow Brick Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Marissa of Postcards to Seattle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Stephanie of History Fangirl

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Athens to Macon, Georgia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Apryl from   Southern Hospitality Magazine  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Karen of Forever Karen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

18. Savannah to Charleston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Erin of Savannah First Timer’s Guide

Best road trips in USA – continued

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Destiny of Guided by Destiny

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Amanda of Hey! East Coast USA

22. Texas Hill Country (an underrated American roadtrip)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Sierra from Very Truly Texas

23. Southern Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Chris of Around The World With Me

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other highlights include…

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Melodie of Travel Must Do’s

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommend by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

27. Washington DC to Asheville

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

29. Milwaukee to Minneapolis

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

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

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

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

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

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

Road trips USA

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

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

Best US road trips

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

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

Find this guide helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

Saturday 4th of March 2023

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

Friday 10th of March 2023

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

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76 Attractions to See While Driving Across the Country

Artur Debat/Getty Images

Route Awakening

Cross-country road trips are as much a summer tradition as barbecues, fireworks, and clambakes. Packing up the car and heading off for adventures unknown  makes for some of the fondest travel memories, especially if the trip involves stopping to explore attractions  along America's iconic roadways. In honor of the great American road trip, here's a guide to some top cross-country road trip stops along Interstates 10, 40, 70, 80, 90, and 95, as well as the legendary former Route 66, much of which was later replaced by Interstates 40, 44, and 55. Most are cheap or free; the others may be worth a splurge.

Related:   30 Under-the-Radar Road Trips You Can Take in a Day

I-40 | Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Where:  Nashville, Tennessee Miles from highway:  1.5 

Having celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2017, the 350,000-square-foot Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum  showcases rare music artifacts and memorabilia from legends including Charlie Daniels, Alabama, the Zac Brown Band, Brad Paisley, and more. 

Related: Bucket-List Destinations for Music Lovers

I-40 | Ryman Auditorium

Where:  Nashville, Tennessee Miles from highway:  1 

Known as "the Mother Church of Country Music," Ryman Auditorium  celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2022. Visitors get to peek at costumes, memorabilia, and dressing rooms used by celebrities. 

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I-40 | Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

Where:  Oklahoma City Miles from highway:  2.8

Before 9/11, there was April 19, 1995 — the day Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols attacked the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building with a truck full of explosives, leaving hundreds dead or injured. Today, the site hosts the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum  dedicated to the victims, survivors, and responders.

I-40 | The Big Texan Steak Ranch

Where:  Amarillo, Texas Miles from highway:  1

The Big Texan Steak Ranch , legendary along Route 66, has hosted a 72-ounce steak challenge  since the 1960s. Even vegetarians might enjoy the gift shop, or at least stay at the motel at this historic property.

I-40 | Meteor Crater

Where:  Near Winslow, Arizona Miles from highway:  5

Measuring about 4,000 feet across, Meteor Crater  is one of the best-preserved meteor impact sites on Earth. The crater was formed about 50,000 years ago by an asteroid traveling about 26,000 miles an hour. There's an interactive discovery center at the site and a walkway that allows visitors to explore the crater rim.

I-40 | Petrified Forest National Park

Where:  Arizona Miles from highway:  1.1

Visually stunning, Petrified Forest National Park  is most famous for having large deposits of petrified wood dating back to the late Triassic period (225 million years ago). Activities at this 230-square-mile park include hiking, horseback riding, guided tours, and geocaching.

Related:   Explore the Best National Parks in Every State

I-40 | Lowell Observatory

Where:  Flagstaff, Arizona Miles from highway:  9.1

Founded in 1894 by Percival Lowell, a descendent of one of the wealthiest families in Boston, Lowell Observatory  is where Pluto was discovered in 1930. It sits atop a mesa overlooking downtown Flagstaff and offers guided tours, films, and the opportunity to view the sun and other stars through a specially equipped telescope.

I-70 | Summer Tubing Hill

Where:  Granby, Colorado Miles from highway:  About 38

Take Interstate 70 west out of Denver, then hop on the U.S. 40 exit near Idaho Springs and head north. You'll see some eye-popping mountain scenery as you drive along the switchbacks and pass through Winter Park. The Snowflex summer slope  in Granby offers a refreshing break from the long drive. The first of its kind in Colorado, the hill has a snow-like surface and misters to keep riders cool. Operated by the YMCA of the Rockies, the hill is open to all.

I-70 | National World War I Museum & Memorial

Where:  Kansas City, Missouri Miles from highway:  1

Designated by Congress as the nation's official World War I Museum  in 2014, this attraction holds the world's most diverse collection of objects and documents related to the war. Exhibits include life-size trenches, recovered tanks, photo exhibits, and films.

I-70 | James Whitcomb Riley House

Where:  Indianapolis Miles from highway: < 1

A veritable rock star in his day, “Hoosier Poet” James Whitcomb Riley gave the world a taste of Indiana life and its dialect through his volumes of poetry and his performances that drew thousands. His home  in the historic Lockerbie Square district of Indianapolis is a showcase of his life and era with artifacts such as his writing desk and his top hat and cane. Admission is $10 for adults and $1 for kids 7 to 17.

I-70 | Fort Necessity National Battlefield

Where:  Farmington, Pennsylvania Miles from highway:  45 

There are several cross-country road trip stops worth seeing in Pennsylvania, all a bit off the beaten path. Exit I-70 at State Highway 51, the head south to the town of Oliver, picking up U.S. 40 for the rest of the drive. The 900-acre site of young George Washington's first military engagement and the battle that marked the beginning of the French and Indian War, Fort Necessity  is home to an interpretive education center with interactive exhibits, a playground, museum bookstore, and more than 5 miles of hiking trails. There's a recreated fort where the original once stood. You can also reach the battlefield from Interstate 68, which cuts through Maryland to the south.

I-70 | Frank Lloyd Wright's House on Kentuck Knob

Where:  Fayette County, Pennsylvania Miles from highway:  About 50

One of the most famous homes by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright and one of the last properties he built, Kentuck Knob  is said to be a work of genius. Set atop a bluff overlooking the Youghiogheny River Gorge, the home blends architecture, nature, and sculpture seamlessly in an illustration of Wright's iconic "Usonian" architecture. The property's woodlands and grounds display a collection of sculptures. It's also not far from Wright's more famous home, Fallingwater . For a scenic drive, pick up U.S. 40 outside of Washington, Pennsylvania, and head southeast, or take I-70 a little farther east to New Stanton and head south on State Route 119 until it hits U.S. 40 near Uniontown.

I-70 | Laurel Caverns Park

Where:  Fayette County, Pennsylvania Miles from highway:  40 

Laurel Caverns Park  is the largest cave in Pennsylvania. There's a 3-mile labyrinth of sandstone passages to explore, as well as guided tours, panning for gemstones for the kids, and even cave rappelling for beginners. Come winter, the caverns are the state's largest natural shelter for bats. You can reach the park by exiting I-70 and heading south on State Route 43 to Uniontown, then picking up U.S. 40, which meanders southeast to the cavern's entry off Skyline Drive.

I-95 | Nemours Mansion & Gardens

Where:  Wilmington, Delaware Miles from highway:  3.3

Road trippers can explore the legacy of the du Ponts, one of America's wealthiest and most legendary families, at this opulent 77-room mansion  built in 18th-century French style. The property is home to the largest formal French gardens in North America, and the chauffeur's garage houses a collection of vintage cars.

Related:   21 Great Car Museums and Car Shows Worth The Drive

I-95 | Mount Cuba Center

Where:  Hockessin, Delaware Miles from highway:  7.8

The du Ponts were nothing if not prolific when it came to building jaw-dropping estates. Another example of the family's immense wealth open to the public, 500-acre Mount Cuba Center  is the former home of Lammot du Pont Copeland and Pamela Cunningham Copeland. It's known for its gardens, native plantings, meadows, and wood canopies.

I-95 | Winterthur

Where:  New Castle County, Delaware Miles from highway:  5.6

Another legendary du Pont property, Winterthur (pronounced "winter-tour") is the childhood home of collector and horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont, who lived from 1880 until 1969, and is open to the public as a museum of American and decorative arts. Nearly 90,000 objects that were made or used between 1640 and 1860 are on display throughout the 175-room house.

I-95 | Washington Crossing Historic Park

Where:  Bucks County, Pennsylvania Miles from highway:  3.5

Visit the place where George Washington and his men crossed the Delaware River in 1776 to help win the Revolutionary War, and climb to the top of Bowman's Tower for panoramic countryside views. Washington Crossing Historic Park  is an ideal place for an impromptu picnic on a road trip.

I-95 | Sesame Place

Where:  Langhorne, Pennsylvania Miles from highway:  2.4

For those with kids in tow, Sesame Place  is a must. The nation's only theme park based entirely on Sesame Street offers water rides, shows, parades, and character photos. Single-day prices can be as low as $40 for select events. Prices may vary by season ranging from $45 to $70 with discounts for buying online.

I-95 | College Park Aviation Museum

Where:  College Park, Maryland Miles from highway:  7.3

This 27,000-square-foot museum , on the site of the world's oldest continually operating airport, displays unique and historic aircrafts and tells the stories of its aviation innovations — including being the first airport dispatching U.S. airmail flights. There are hands-on activities and interpretive areas for children.

I-95 | Ava Gardner Museum

Where:  Smithfield, North Carolina Miles from highway:  1.9

Dedicated to the glamorous actor, who lived from 1922 until 1990, the Ava Gardner Museum  showcases original scripts, photos, costumes, and personal effects in her hometown. The star's grave is two miles from the museum, at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

I-95 | Venetian Pool

Where:  Coral Gables, Florida Miles from highway:  5

What better way to break up a road trip then a dip in a spring-fed pool? This 820,000-gallon public pool , created in 1923, gets its water from an underground aquifer. Stop in early to ensure admission.

I-95 | Butterfly World

Where:  Coconut Creek, Florida Miles from highway:  4.1

Walk amid butterflies at this three-acre park  with aviaries, botanical gardens, and a working butterfly farm. It's the largest such attraction in the Western Hemisphere, and charges like it: $32.50 for adults and $22.50 for children 3 to 11.

I-95 | South of the Border

Where:  Hamer, South Carolina Miles from highway: < 1

One of the most iconic sights off I-95, this attraction  is famous for its giant roadside statue of a man wearing a sombrero. Operating for more than 50 years, the kitschy rest stop includes restaurants, a motel, a video arcade, and mini golf.

I-95 | Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Where:  Richmond, Virginia Miles from highway:  2.3

Named one of the top five botanical gardens in North America by USA Today, this 50-acre attraction  includes more than a dozen themed gardens, including a Children's Garden, Rose Garden, Edible Display Garden, and Asian Valley. There's also a 63-foot classical domed conservatory.

Related:   Gorgeous Botanical Gardens in All 50 States

I-80 | American Philatelic Center

Where:  Bellefonte, Pennsylvania Miles from highway:  7.3

Stamp collectors will be in heaven at the home of the American Philatelic Research Library . The center contains one of the world's largest collections of philatelic literature — three miles of shelving with more than 23,000 books and 5,700 journals about stamps and postal history. The building itself, a restored match factory from the 1800s, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

I-80 | Bellefonte Historic District

Where:  Bellefonte, Pennsylvania Miles from highway:  6.5

Established in 1795 and on the National Register of Historic Places, this historic district has nearly 300 original Victorian buildings. They include the Colonel James Dunlap House , dating back to 1795, and the Crider Exchange, from 1889.

I-80 | Studebaker National Museum

Where:  South Bend, Indiana Miles from highway:  4

Roadtrippers traveling across the Hoosier State can soak up a dose of transportation history at the Studebaker National Museum . The museum is housed in a 55,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility and has permanent exhibits of presidential carriages dating back to the 1800s, stylish cars from the company’s glory years, and a look at Studebaker’s wartime vehicles. Admission is $11 for adults, $7 for kids 6 to 17.

Related:   Dead Car Brands That American Drivers Miss (and a Few They Don't)

I-80 | Iowa 80, The World's Largest Truckstop

Where:  Walcott, Iowa Miles from highway: < 1

Iowa 80  has served more than 18.2 million eggs and three million cups of coffee since opening more than 50 years ago. There's a movie theater, a dentist, a barber, a chiropractor, multiple places to eat, a laundromat, a library, exercise facilities, and even a "Dogomat." Don't miss the super truck showroom.

I-80 | John Deere Pavilion

Where:  Moline, Illinois Miles from highway:  7

The John Deere Pavilion  is about more than getting close with shiny farm equipment, although kids are encouraged to climb around. State-of-the-art simulators let visitors experience what it's like to operate an excavator or dozer — and admission is free.

I-80 | Squirrel Cage Jail Museum

Where:  Council Bluffs, Iowa Miles from highway:  4.4

One of three remaining examples of what's known as a rotary cell jail, this three-story brick building — built in 1885, used as a jail until 1969, and now on the National Register of Historic Places — has three floors of revolving cells inside a cage.

I-80 | Danish Windmill

Where:  Elk Horn, Iowa Miles from highway:  6.4

This windmill  was built in 1848 in Denmark and moved to Iowa in 1975 for rebuilding. The mill grinds wheat and rye, and its museum has information about Denmark and its customs. A neighboring gift shop sells Danish items such as dishware and collectibles.

I-80 | Living History Farms

Where:  Urbandale, Iowa Miles from highway:  1.6

An open-air museum spread over 500 acres, Living History Farms  illustrates how Native Americans grew crops in the 1700s, as well as how farmers began using oxen in the 1850s and horses in the 1900s to revolutionize agriculture. There are three distinct farms on the property, representing each era, and a town with blacksmith, general store, and more.

Related:   The 40 Best Places in America to Travel Back in Time

I-80 | Herbert Hoover National Historic Site

Where:  West Branch, Iowa Miles from highway: < 1

Explore the humble early life and remarkable career of Herbert Hoover at this national historic site , home to Hoover's presidential library and museum as well as his two-room birthplace cottage and gravesite. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the historic buildings.

I-80 | Figge Art Museum

Where:  Davenport, Iowa Miles from highway:  5.8

One of the Midwest's most extensive and varied collections, the Figge  showcases American, Spanish, and Haitian art and hosts world-class traveling exhibitions. The building, on the banks of the Mississippi, is a striking glass structure by British architect David Chipperfield.

I-80 | Mississippi River Distilling Co.

Where:  Le Claire, Iowa Miles from highway:  2

Learn how vodka, gin, and whiskey are handcrafted from local ingredients harvested just up the hill from this distillery . There are samples included at the end of the tour; tickets to the tour, which sell quickly, are $5.

I-10 | Falling Waters State Park

Where:  Chipley, Florida Miles from highway:  3

A unique 73-foot waterfall  flows deep out of sight to an underground labyrinth of rivers and lakes from a cylindrical pit, following a path no one has been able to definitively trace. Viewing the waterfall  requires walking along a boardwalk known as Sink Hole Trail — a reference to fern-covered sinkholes surrounding it.

I-10 | Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Where:  Los Angeles Miles from highway:  2.9

A world-class museum of art, LACMA  can hardly be bypassed when headed through Los Angeles. Opened in 1965, it is the largest art museum in the western United States. Its collection includes more than 135,000 objects, ranging from antiquity to the present — some still on view while the museum prepares for reconstruction. The iconic “Urban Light” display and “Levitated Mass” public art are still there too.

I-10 | Getty Center

Where:  Los Angeles Miles from highway:  5.8

Another must-see museum in Los Angeles, the Getty Center  displays its collection — from pre-20th-century European paintings, drawings, and sculpture to 19th- and 20th-century American, European, and Asian photographs — in pavilions around a central garden. The entire campus is on a bluff overlooking the city.

I-10 | Cabazon Dinosaurs

Where:  near Palm Springs, California Miles from highway:  3.3

This roadside stop  and 50-dinosaur display will be familiar to many visitors from films such as "Pee-wee's Big Adventure." There's also a dinosaur dig and fossil panning.

I-10 | Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Where:  Palm Springs, California Miles from highway:  9.7

Ride along the cliffs of Chino Canyon in the world's largest rotating tram car. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ($31 for adults, $19 for kids 3 to 10) rises about 2.5 miles in 10 minutes, depositing riders at Mount San Jacinto State Park, where there are restaurants, a natural history museum, two theaters, and miles of hiking trails.

I-10 | Pima Air & Space Museum

Where:  Outside Tucson, Arizona Miles from highway:  1.5

There are more than 300 historical aircraft spread over 80 acres at this museum . It includes individual hangars dedicated to World War II aircraft, space travel, and more. In addition, there are tram tours of the boneyard, which includes more than 150 aircraft.

I-10 | Desert Botanical Garden

Where:  Phoenix Miles from highway:  5.3

The 140-acre Desert Botanical Garden  is home to a sprawling collection of more than 50,000 plants, including hundreds of rare, threatened, and endangered succulents from throughout the Southwest. Admission is $25 to $30 for adults and $15 to $17 for kids 3 to 17.

I-10 | San Antonio River Walk

Where:  San Antonio Miles from highway:  1.8

There's so much to do along the tree-lined San Antonio River Walk  that it's hard to know where to begin. Some of the larger attractions include the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center and Tower of the Americas, a 750-foot landmark with an observation deck, revolving restaurant, and adventure ride.

I-10 | Balmorhea State Park

Where:  Toyahvale, Texas Miles from highway:  7.4

A highlight of this park (particularly on a long, hot drive through the desert) is its 1.75-acre, 25-foot-deep swimming pool. The spring-fed water is 72 to 76 degrees year-round. Other activities at this historic park include camping, bird watching, and picnicking.

I-10 | Fort Lancaster State Historic Site

Where:  Crockett County, Texas Miles from highway:  9.4

The site of what was once a bustling 25-building settlement, Fort Lancaster  was built in the 1850s to provide guides for people on the San Antonio-El Paso Road trail to California. Visitors can see ruins of some of the original blacksmith's shop, hospital, and general store.

I-10 | Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Where:  San Antonio Miles from highway: < 1

For road trippers who can make time and room in the budget for an amusement park, Six Flags Fiesta Texas  offers roller coasters, a water park, live music, and kids rides. Tickets start at $45.

Related:   How Six Flags and Other Popular Amusement Parks Have Changed Over Time

I-10 | The Alamo

Where:  San Antonio Miles from highway:  1.1 The site of a pivotal siege and battle in the Texas Revolution in 1836, this 300-year-old landmark  is now the site of history demonstrations and talks.

I-10 | Mardi Gras Museum

Where:  Lake Charles, Louisiana Miles from highway: < 1 Traditions, history, and artifacts tied to Louisiana's famous annual Mardi Gras celebration are showcased at this museum . The six-room exhibit houses the largest collection of costumes in the South — which you can see in April 2022 after its latest round of renovations.

I-90 | New England Aquarium

Where:  Boston Miles from highway:  2.2 There are thousands of animals at the New England Aquarium , including sea lions, penguins, and harbor seals. Don't miss the shark and ray touch tank, or a feeding in the four-story Giant Ocean Tank. There's also an IMAX theater. Admission is $34 for adults and $25 for kids 3 to 11.

I-90 | Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Where:  Boston Miles from highway:  2.2 One of the most famous sites in Boston, Faneuil Hall Marketplace  was built in 1742 by one of the city's wealthiest merchants. Today it includes four structures — Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market — for shopping and dining enlivened by street entertainers.

I-90 | A Christmas Story House and Museum

Where:  Cleveland Miles from highway: < 1 Fans of the movie "A Christmas Story" can tour Ralphie's home and a museum  across the street filled with the props, costumes, movie memorabilia, and hundreds of rare behind-the-scenes photos.

I-90 | Olde Avon Village

Where:  Avon, Ohio Miles from highway:  1.2 Get a little escape from 2021 at Olde Avon Village , a community of restored homes from the 1850s. Visitors can walk to unique shops; lunch at the Tree House Tea Room Restaurant, in a historic farmhouse filled with antiques; or visit the Avon Train Depot, which dates back to 1882.

Related:   America's Most Beautiful and Historic Train Stations

I-90 | Birthplace of Michael Jackson

Where:  Gary, Indiana Miles from highway:  4.7 For those who grew up listening to "Thriller" and "Beat It," Michael Jackson's first home is a chance to glimpse the humble beginnings of a pop god. The tiny home is a far cry from the fabulous mansions the icon later inhabited. August typically brings events celebrating Jackson.

I-90 | Circus World Museum

Where:  Baraboo, Wisconsin Miles from highway:  9.7 Everything you've ever wanted to know about circus history is on display at this 64-acre, 30-structure museum — once home to the Ringling Brothers. There are artifacts, exhibits, and daily live performances in the summer, when ticket prices double to $20 for adults but cost $14 for kids 5 to 11.

I-90 | Witches Gulch

Where:  Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin Miles from highway:  6.1 This attraction (which has nothing to do with the sort of witches celebrated on Halloween) is a natural geological wonder — a slot canyon like those found in Zion National Park. It's accessible by boat tours.

I-90 | Fast Fiberglass Mold Graveyard

Where:  Sparta, Wisconsin Miles from highway:  4.9 File this one under quirky roadside attractions  that make fun photographs. This company is famous for crafting everything from giant apples to cows, elephants, and fish. The molds used for the many roadside signs and attractions the company has made over the years are part of sprawling graveyard visitors can explore.

I-90 | SPAM Museum

Where:  Austin, Minnesota Miles from highway:  1.1 The SPAM Museum  looks at the history of the processed meat and displays a comprehensive collection of spiced pork artifacts. Visit the gift shop to stock up on goodies for the road.

Related:   Circus World and Other Weird Museums Across America and Beyond

I-90 | The World's Only Corn Palace

Where:  Mitchell, South Dakota Miles from highway:  2.2 Built in 1892 to prove the state had a healthy agricultural climate, this "palace"  looks like a cross between a circus tent and an exotic temple and houses corn murals, drawing 500,000 people a year.

I-90 | Chapel in the Hills

Where:  Rapid City, South Dakota Miles from highway:  7.1 Built in 1969, this attraction  reproduces a chapel in Norway known as the Borgund Stavkirke. The surrounding grounds provide a peaceful place to stretch your legs and explore. There's a meditation trail, gift shop, and museum onsite as well.

I-90 | Custer's Last Stand: Little Bighorn

Where:  Crow Agency, Montana Miles from highway: < 1 A solemn site from a tragic chapter in history, this battlefield  is where the Sioux and Cheyenne mounted one of their final armed efforts to defend and preserve their way of life from encroaching settlers, killing Lt. Col. George A. Custer and 262 other soldiers June 25-26, 1876. There's a museum with historic photos and an audio tour visitors can take while driving the site, retracing the battle.

I-90 | Our Lady of the Rockies

Where:  Butte, Montana Miles from highway:  2.5 This 90-foot statue atop the Continental Divide is filled with messages visitors have left for loved ones. The statue, built in the likeness of the Virgin Mary, overlooks Butte and is visible from nearly anywhere in the city. (A gift shop is a few miles off the highway.)

I-90 | Old Prison Museum

Where:  Deer Lodge, Montana Miles from highway:  1.3 Visitors can tour the cell house and even the "black box" once used for maximum-security prisoners at this prison , which operated from 1871 until the 1970s. See guns, shackles, and restraints used within, as well as the work of the inmates: their art and lethal weapons made from forks.

Route 66 | Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum

Where:  Pontiac, Illinois Miles from highway: < 1 Immerse yourself in all things Route 66 at this museum  showcasing thousands of relics and memorabilia. Opened in 2004, the exhibit includes photos, license plates, and more. It's about 100 miles southwest of Chicago on Interstate 55.

Related: Route 66, Then and Now

Route 66 | Route 66 Arcade Museum

Where:  McLean, Illinois Miles from highway: < 1 For anyone who grew up in the 1980s, this is an essential trip down memory lane. Bring a pocket full of quarters to this tiny museum, home to a collection of vintage but still playable games. It's just blocks west of Interstate 55.

Route 66 | Route 66 Drive-in Theater

Where:  Springfield, Illinois Miles from highway: < 1 The historic Route 66 Drive-In Theater  is still open for business and a great place to pass a few hours. The theater shows double features every night starting in April and continuing through Labor Day weekend. 

Related:   The Best Drive-In Movie Theaters in America

Route 66 | Henry's Rabbit Ranch

Where:  Staunton, Illinois Miles from highway: < 1 A classic Route 66 stop, this ranch  with both hopping rabbits and VW Rabbits is home to a vintage gas station, a collection of memorabilia from America's "Mother Road," trucking memorabilia, and more. Historic Route 66 is just west of Interstate 55.

Route 66 | Laumeier Sculpture Park

Where:  St. Louis Miles from highway:  1.5 In St. Louis, Interstate 44 follows much of the same path as Route 66. This 105-acre, open-air museum  includes a giant eyeball among its quirky art displays. It's one of the first and largest sculpture parks in the country, and it's free.

Route 66 | Route 66 State Park

Where:  Outside Eureka, Missouri Miles from highway:  6.7 Park displays and memorabilia detail Route 66 history in a roadhouse built in 1935. Route 66 State Park  also offers walking, biking, and equestrian trails.

Related:   The State Park You Don't Want to Miss in Every State

Route 66 | Missouri S&T Stonehenge

Where:  Rolla, Missouri Miles from highway:  1.2 If you can't see the real Stonehenge, visit this partial replica on the campus of the Missouri University of Science and Technology — the largest monument ever to be cut with waterjet. About 160 tons of granite were used, with each rock cut to match the exact dimensions of the original structure.

Route 66 | Fantastic Caverns

Where:  Springfield, Missouri Miles from highway:  4.1 Discovered in 1862 by an Ozarks farmer when his dog crawled through an entrance, Fantastic Caverns  can now be toured via tram. On the hourlong tour ($30 for adults, $17 for kids 6 to 12), participants get to see a wild variety of cave formations including stalactites and stalagmites, as well as unusual "soda straws" and "cave pearls."

Route 66 | Route 66 Car Museum

Where:  Springfield, Missouri Miles from highway:  4.5 Nearly 70 American and European cars are on display at the Route 66 Car Museum , some dating back to the early 1900s. The privately owned collection includes seven Jaguars, two Rolls-Royces, the truck from the movie "The Grapes of Wrath," and a 1963 Morgan owned by Desert Storm Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf.

Route 66 | Pops Soda Ranch

Where:  Arcadia, Oklahoma Miles from highway: < 1 Consider Pops Soda Ranch  an American tribute to soda. The classic diner serves 700 kinds. There's a 66-foot-tall soda bottle out front to add to a photo collection. The ranch is just a few miles north of Interstate 44 or east of I-35 and about 20 miles northeast of Oklahoma City.

Route 66 | Lucille's Service Station

Where:  Hydro, Oklahoma Miles from highway: < 1 Don't tour Route 66 without stopping at one of its classic service stations. There's not a ton to see at Lucille's, which opened in 1929 — it's simply a great photo opportunity of a vintage piece of Americana.

Related:   How Gas Stations Have Totally Transformed Over the Past Century

Route 66 | Cadillac Ranch

Where:  Amarillo, Texas Miles from highway: < 1 Yet another quirky, roadside art installation, this display of Cadillacs — half-buried, nose first, in the ground — was created in 1974. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark by spray-painting the vehicles.

Route 66 | Tee Pee Curios

Where:  Tucumcari, New Mexico Miles from highway:  1.9 Tee Pee Curios , which began as a gas station and grocery store in the 1940s, is one of the few remaining classic tourist tchotchke shops along Route 66 in New Mexico since I-40 offered travelers a bypass. The shop sells pottery, T-shirts, jewelry, and more.

Route 66 | Santa Monica Pier

Where:  Santa Monica, California Miles from highway: < 1 Famous in its own right, the Santa Monica Pier  is a great place to end a Route 66 trip (or start one). The pier has restaurants, shops, an old-fashioned soda fountain, and rides including a historic carousel from 1922. 

Related: 40 Iconic and Beautiful Boardwalks in the Country

23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

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

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Classic American Road Trips

Pacific Coast Highway

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

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

Historic Route 66

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Appalachian Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: 460 miles from Pittsburgh to Chicago

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

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

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

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

Day 3: 147 miles from Chicago to Madison, Wisconsin

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

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

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

RELATED: 9 of the Most Underrated National Parks in America

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

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

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

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

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

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

RELATED: 8 Best Dude Ranches in Montana

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

Days 9-10: 685 miles from Missoula to Seattle

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

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

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

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What to Pack

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

Wool Runners

Wireless Headphones

High Waist Leggings

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

Half-Zip Sweatshirt

Ascot Slippers

Water Bottle

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Best Tools to Find Attractions Along Your Road Trip Route

This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I (The Winding Road Tripper) earn from qualifying purchases.  Read more . 

When planning a road trip, one of the biggest tasks we face is figuring out how to find attractions along a route.

Not only do you have to worry about finding a place to stay and eat, but you also want to make sure that there are plenty of fun things to do along the way. 

The beauty of a road trip is finding those hidden gems along your route and this post is here to help you do just that. 

We’ll give you the tools you need to find attractions both ahead of time and while on your road trip. 

Let’s dive in!

Roadtrippers

I’m going to start with what we feel is the best tool for finding attractions and things to do along your road trip route, Roadtrippers.

Roadtrippers is likely the most popular website/app for helping you plan and execute your road trip. And for good reason.

It has a large database of attractions, activities, campgrounds, restaurants, etc. And all in an easy-to-use website and phone app. You can filter results so you can find the exact type of activity you are looking for along your route. 

It’s an extremely powerful tool that all road trippers should check out.

There is a free version where you’ll have limited waypoints to add to your trip if you are using it to plan your route. The paid version gives you more options and removes ads. But if you are simply looking for things to do along your road trip route, the free version is more than adequate.

But if you plan a lot of road trips or have a big trip coming up, you may want to look at the Plus (paid) Version. Get $5 off by using promocode: BTR5QTP

For a full tutorial on how to use Roadtrippers , check out The Stoke Fam’s detailed blog post. 

Google Maps

Google Maps holds a wealth of knowledge and is useful for both planning your road trip and providing you with turn-by-turn directions during your road trip. But in our opinion, it isn’t the best for finding attractions along your route. It simply seems to miss a lot unless you zoom in on your route.

But it is still a decent option if you don’t want to learn a new app or website.

Google Maps is best used for planning your trip on your computer and not when you are already on the road. And if you really want to use the power of Google, it’s a great way to create a custom road trip map to help you plan your trip.

You can search on the Google Maps app on your phone as well. It’s just not as user-friendly and doesn’t give the best results.

Follow these steps to use Google Maps to find attractions along your route:

• Enter a destination and starting point. Click Directions.
• Click the magnifying glass on the top
• On the left, click “things to do.”

Protip: Google Maps tends to find more attractions when you zoom in on an area and click “search this area”.

iExit Interstate Exit Guide

iExit is a helpful app that you can use to find attractions along the interstates you are traveling. 

It tells you what types of stores, restaurants, and services are at each exit. But it also allows you to filter results, so you only see the ones that interest you. For example, if you are craving fast food, you can filter the results only to show fast-food options at your upcoming exits. 

It’s helpful when planning your route ahead of time and also on the road when you want to quickly lookup where the nearest restaurant or gas station is. iExit also helps you locate the cheapest gas prices around you.

Facebook Groups

Another helpful tool for finding attractions along your road trip route is Facebook groups. There are a variety of different groups that you can join to find attractions and activities in the areas you’ll be driving through.

So whether you’re looking for hiking trails, historic sites, or amusement parks, there’s most likely a Facebook group out there that can help.

The great thing about Facebook groups is that they are often run by locals who know the area well and can recommend something that other online reviews might not always pick up on. So be sure to check out some Facebook groups next time you’re planning a road trip.

Our favorite group for USA road trips is USA Road Trips Share Your Adventures . But before we head out on a road trip, we always join a bunch of groups specific to the area we are traveling. It’s amazing the tips you’ll get in these knowledgeable groups. 

More Road Trip Planning Tips: How to Budget For a Road Trip 15 Long Distance Driving Tips Money-Saving Tips for Your Next Road Trip

Billboards along Your Route

One of the simplest ways to find interesting places along your road trip route is simply by looking for billboards. You’ll see a lot of them as you’re driving and they can be helpful in finding things to do along your route.

We would have never stopped at the world’s largest candle if we didn’t see 10 billboards enticing us to stop. Attractions like these are a fun place to stop for a quick bathroom break and a stretch of the legs. And they are typically right off the interstate so they don’t add a ton of time onto your trip.

Just be sure to take note of the exit number so you can easily find it when you’re ready to exit.

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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

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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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The top things to do on an I-95 road trip

Running almost parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, you're never far from the beach on this drive between Florida and Maine

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Created by Roadtrippers - December 30th 2020

I-95 is the main highway that runs along the East Coast of the U.S. Since it is almost parallel to the Atlantic Ocean, you're never too far away from the beach on an I-95 road trip. Some of the major cities you'll pass through include Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Richmond, Savannah, Jacksonville, and Miami. Here's some of the top attractions to see along I-95, from Florida to Maine.

28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL, US

Coral Castle

Starting in southern Florida, just outside Miami, you'll stumble upon Coral Castle in Homestead. Built entirely by hand by an eccentric, heartbroken man, Coral Castle is a unique structure carved from oolite limestone. Marvel at the wonder and the sad story at this roadside attraction.

2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL, US

Venetian Pool

If you want the relaxation of a day at the beach minus the crowds, then hit the Venetian Pool. The Venetian Pool was originally built for Coral Gables, one of the country's first planned communities in the 1920s. The pool is filled with fresh water each day, straight from artesian wells. It's drained every night and refilled every morning, so you know that you're swimming in exceptionally clean water. If you're worried about water conservation, fear not. The water is drained back into the aquifer.

Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL, US

South Beach

From there, hop back in the car and cruise to South Beach, one of the swankiest beaches along the East Coast. But, South Beach is way more than than playing in the waves and chilling in cabanas. The people-watching is second-to-none, and walking around the Art Deco district will transport you back in time to a vibrant era.

3600 W Sample Rd, Coconut Creek, FL, US

Butterfly World

Once you've had your fill of the city, head to Butterfly World in nearby Coconut Creek. It's one of the largest butterfly parks in the world, offering displays of butterflies, bugs, and birds, as well as beautiful flowers.

Loxahatchee River District, Jupiter, FL, US

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary

At the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, you can wander along trails featuring various natural habitats and displays of native animals, including eagles, panthers, crocodiles, snakes, and more. Plus, admission is free.

1322 US Hwy 1, Sebastian, FL, US

Mel Fisher's Treasure Museum

Mel Fisher's Treasure Museum exhibits archaeological maritime artifacts from 18th century shipwrecks. Mel Fisher is a real-life Indiana Jones who has spent more than 20 years recovering lost treasures from the bottom of the sea. You can see gold, gem-studded jewelry, old coins, and more.

Kennedy Space Center, SR 405, Titusville, FL, US

Kennedy Space Center

Head over to Titusville to get a bus tour of NASA's Kennedy Space Center, but come early—the tours are popular and fill up fast. Other sites at the complex include the United States Astronaut Hall Of Fame, the Rocket Garden, and the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

4931 S Peninsula Dr, Ponce Inlet, FL, US

Ponce Deleon Inlet Lighthouse

The Ponce Deleon Inlet Lighthouse is the perfect place to get off I-95 to stretch your legs, especially if you decide to tackle the 200-step stairway to the top. The view is absolutely worth it. Tour the a small museum to learn more.

8635 A1A South, FL, US

Fort Matanzas National Monument

From Titusville, it's just a short drive to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., founded in 1565. You'll find one of the best preserved historic districts in the nation, not to mention great restaurants and bars. From Castillo De San Marcos—which is a stunning fortress that's believed to be haunted—to Fort Matanzas National Monument and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, history comes to life here.

100 Red Cox Rd, FL, US

St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum

If you're feeling up for a bit more climbing, stop at St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum, and ascend to the top of this 165-foot tall tower. The views of downtown St. Augustine and the oldest port in the U.S. are amazing. There are also exhibits here covering the country's maritime history and a gift shop.

If you're looking for a hotel in St. Augustine, the St. George Inn, the Carriage House Bed and Breakfast, and Casa Monica are exceptional options.

1368 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville Beach, FL, US

Jacksonville Beach

Before leaving the Sunshine State, hit up Jacksonville Beach to soak up the sun while walking the boardwalk. Parking is usually easy to find if you get there early. Plus, many restaurants and bars offer exquisite views.

1860 Starratt Rd, Jacksonville, FL, US

The Catty Shack Ranch

The Catty Shack Ranch offers up-close views of lions, tigers, and other big cats. Run mostly by volunteers, this non-profit provides a sanctuary for rescued cats that might not otherwise have a home.

113 Saint Marys St, GA, US

Cumberland Island National Seashore

For a fun side trip off I-95, head to Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore is to catch the ferry at St. Marys. You'll find campsites, hiking trails, and wild horses roaming around. There's nowhere to buy food or supplies on the island, so pack accordingly.

US Hwy. 17 South, Darien, GA, US

Smallest Church in America

While in the Peach State, visit the Smallest Church in America—or so it claims—in South Newport. Built in 1949, this roadside stop offers a charming photo backdrop.

102 W Hall St, Savannah, GA, US

Forsyth Park

Savannah is one of the U.S.'s most picturesque cities. It seems like it's covered in Spanish moss as far as the eye can see. With one of the largest historic downtowns in the nation, Savannah has a bounty of charming shops and spots to visit, and the food scene is renowned.

If you're just driving through, but want to get a quick taste of Savannah, stop at Forsyth Park for a walk. This beautiful public park is an iconic oasis in the city.

If you are spending the night, consider the Hamilton-Turner Inn, Ballastone Inn, or The Gastonian.

30 Meddin Drive, Tybee Island, GA, US

Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum

A quick detour from Savannah to the Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum is worthwhile. The barrier island is vacation destination, known for its iconic lighthouse, historic sites, and endless beaches.

330 Bonaventure Rd, Savannah, GA, US

Bonaventure Cemetery

There are a few famous people buried at Savannah's Bonaventure Cemetery, but the real appeal is the beauty of the Southern Gothic cemetery itself. Graceful old trees covered in Spanish moss create a canopy, and many of the gravestones are works of art. Just remember that this is still a functioning cemetery and some of the visitors are there to grieve.

301 Gervais St., Columbia, SC, US

South Carolina State Museum

Make your first stop in the Palmetto State the South Carolina State Museum in Columbia. This amazing museum is housed in a massive former textile mill and features four floors with over 70,000 exhibits. You'll find many nice hotels in Columbia, as well. Victorian Elegance Inn and the Hilton Columbia Center are among the many places to book a room.

4004 Homestead Rd, Bowman, SC, US

UFO Welcome Center

For something completely different, detour off of I-95 to visit the UFO Welcome Center in Bowman. Built in 1994, this structure quickly became a popular tourist attraction. The 42-foot-wide flying saucer is built out of wood, fiberglass, and plastic. For a small fee, you can meet the owner and peek inside.

251 State Park Rd, Santee, SC, US

Santee State Park

Stretch your legs at Santee State Park, which has an abundance of catfish in the waters of Lake Marion. In addition to fishing, hiking and camping are popular activities. You can also drive a little longer to the Woods Bay State Park to soak in the natural beauty of one of the last Carolina Bays found along the Atlantic Coast.

I-95 officially ends at the Houlton–Woodstock Border Crossing. The route continues into Canada, where you can cross the border into New Brunswick. If you want to have an international journey after this epic tour of the East Coast, just keep driving.

Banner Photo Credit: Shutterstock

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Take a bike ride on the nationally recognized Virginia Creeper Trail, check out local artists, or see a show at the historic Barter Theater downtown. Abingdon is home to more restaurants per capita than New York City – with a great meal for just about any taste and plenty of cool places to stay including the Martha Washington Inn & Spa. You’re also a short drive from Bristol – the birthplace of country music.

2. Adventures On The Gorge – Lansing, WV

The New River Gorge Bridge is one of the most impressive architectural feats in American history. One of the many daring activities offered through  Adventures On The Gorge  in Lansing, West Virginia is called “Bridge Walk”. You can literally walk along the catwalk beneath the third highest bridge in the U.S. It’s not for everyone, but an unforgettable experience for thrill seekers! During your stay at the adventure resort, you can zip line, climb trees, enjoy incredible sunsets, and of course – some of the best whitewater rafting in the world.

3. Put-In-Bay, OH

Clocking in at just over three hours from Columbus, Put-in-Bay is a tropical getaway in the middle of Lake Erie just off the shore of northern Ohio. You’ll take a ferry to the island and find live music, nightlife, great shopping and food, as well as plenty of things to keep you busy! Rent a golf cart to tour the island in style! If the party atmosphere isn’t your style, take the ferry over to nearby Kelleys Island for a more peaceful, secluded atmosphere.

4. Pittsburgh, PA

Famous for having more bridges than any other U.S. city, Pittsburgh is a terrific destination for a weekend or extended getaway. You can take in a baseball game with beautiful views of the Sixth Street Bridge, take a ride on the historic Duquesne Incline, or visit the city’s quirky bicycle museum. If you grew up watching Mr. Rogers, Pittsburgh was his home town and you can spend a day exploring all things Mr. Rogers – including seeing the very sets from the iconic television show and his puppets!

Check out my story:  Finding Mr. Rogers in Pittsburgh .

5. Parke County, Indiana

Parke County, Indiana is best known as the “covered bridge capitol of the world”! Located less than than two hours from downtown Indy, you’ll find a great relaxing destination with some much needed peace and quiet. You can grab an old fashioned map (remember those?) at the local visitors center and then set out to find as many of the historic covered bridges as you can, making it a perfect romantic getaway. Consider booking a room or campsite at Turkey Run State Park, Indiana’s most popular state park, for your home base. They offer brand new, minimalist cabins as well. The park has plenty of great hiking trails for all skill levels.

You can check out my post on visiting Parke County for other tips and suggestions:  This is the Covered Bridge Capitol of the World

6. Detroit, MI

Everything you think you know about Detroit – might very well be totally wrong. Despite the bad reputation it often seems to get, Detroit has got a lot of cool things to see and experience. Several years ago, I spent a few days downtown and walked around after dark by myself – never once feeling uneasy. If you love sports – they’ve got hockey, football, baseball, and basketball. They have a terrific restaurant scene and some really terrific hotels. Be sure to check out the incredible music history of Detroit with a tour of Motown and and a visit to the nearby Henry Ford Museum in the town of Dearborn – one of the coolest museums in America!

7. Fort Wayne, IN

Fort Wayne is probably not a spot that’s been on your radar but Indiana’s second largest city has a lot going on.  Its minor league baseball stadium is award winning and its local library is known as the best genealogy research center in the country.  The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is one of the best designed kid-friendly zoos around and a brand new, beautiful  riverfront project  has injected new energy into the town.  You’ll also find lots of opportunity for outdoor recreation.

Bill’s Advice:  For something unique, visit the headquarters for Sweetwater – one of the largest music and instrument stores in the world.  Vera Bradley is also headquartered in Fort Wayne and has events during the year.  

8. Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis was one of the first cities I explored when I started this website back in 2013.  Obviously, it’s famous for hosting the Indy 500 and a tour of the famous speedway is a must when you visit.  But Indy is great for more than just race cars.  Start with a look at the famous Monument Circle downtown and work your way to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – hands down the greatest museum for families in the country. It’s amazing!  Check out the beautiful  canal  walk that runs through White River State Park, or go for some  Duck Pin  bowling in Fountain Square.  History buffs can check out Benjamin Harrison’s house, and if you’re a foodie – Indy is loaded with great restaurants!

9. Babcock State Park – Clifftop, WV

If you’re looking for a low-key adventure in the great outdoors – this is an amazing state park in West Virginia. Check out my article on visiting Babcock State Park – where you can rent a small cabin and have a front row seat to beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and other outdoor recreation. The old mill and waterfall in the park is awesome for pictures and you never know what kind of wildlife you’ll get to see!

10. Holland, MI

If you thought Holland was in Europe – you are correct!  But, America’s Holland is located in Michigan and it’s a cool town worth exploring.  Pick up a pair of wooden shoes and walk along the streets of downtown for great shopping and lots of dining options.  (Fun fact:  the streets of downtown Holland are heated so they don’t have to plow snow in the winter. Genius!)  Holland is also home to the only authentic Dutch wind mill that is still operational in the U.S.  If tulips are your thing – visit during the annual  festival  each spring.  The Holland Bowl Mill is also very cool – ask them for a quick tour of the production and find a one of a kind wooden bowl to take home!

Bill’s Advice:  I eat a lot of pizza when I’m on the road and Holland has one of the best pizza places I’ve ever been to.  It’s called  Fricano’s Pizza  and sometimes, I have dreams about it. 

11. Pigeon Forge, TN

Pigeon Forge clocks in at right about six hours from Columbus making it the longest road trip idea on our list. However, it’s worth every minute if you love the beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains. Pigeon Forge is loaded with family friendly activities and shows – from comedy to magic and country music. Take the kids on go-carts or mini-golf and enjoy some adult fun while you chill around the fountains at The Island at Pigeon Forge. It goes without saying to make time to explore Smoky Mountain National Park.

12. Nashville, TN

Nashville is just under six hours from Columbus and an awesome destination for an extended road trip! Even if you are not a fan of country music – there is a lot to love about Music City. Broadway is rockin all night with fun bars and take your pic of exciting museums dedicated to great performers: Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Glen Campbell, and others. Don’t miss an exact replica of the Parthenon not far from downtown and some incredible southern restaurants!

13. Owensboro, KY

Just south of Evansville is the bluegrass music capitol of the world – Owensboro, Kentucky. If you like the idea of watching local bands in a barn, taste testing bourbon, eating good barbecue, or catching catfish – you’ll love this place. Owensboro is also home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and music legend Bill Monroe. You can even  tour his childhood home .

14. Springfield, IL

If you’re a history buff – a visit to Springfield, Illinois will be a memorable road trip experience. Illinois’ capital city was the where Abraham Lincoln lived before he became president and where his tomb is located. You can see the law office where he worked in his younger days and where he served as a state legislator. Springfield also the incredible Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library as well as some really great Route 66 history!

15. Dayton, OH

Dayton is best known as the place that gave birth to modern aviation. The Wright Brothers called Dayton home and the city is full of historic places that will give you a front row seat to the history of the “flying machine” which is how the first airplane was trademarked. One of the original Wright Brothers bicycle shops is still in tact, and you can see an original Wright Flyer at the Carillon Historical Park. Take a ride over to Huffman Prairie Field where the brothers tested out there invention or tour the mansion where they lived. Best of all – Dayton is home to the Museum of The United States Air Force – an unbelievable airplane museum that consists of four different hangars and impossible to see in a single day. See rare military aircraft and even go on board a retired Air Force One plane. And it’s free!

16. Cambridge, OH

The sweet treats at Kennedy’s Bakery is alone worth the road trip to small town Cambridge. Only a 90 minute drive from Columbus – enjoy a nice weekend getaway with small town shopping, some outdoor recreation at Salt Fork State Park, or a trip to The Wild’s animal experience a short drive from town. The holidays are best as this little town really dazzles with lights and charm!

17. Louisville, KY

Of course most people know Louisville as the place where the famous Louisville Slugger baseball bats are made, but that’s just the start!  Downtown Louisville offers a wide variety of attractions from the Muhammad Ali Center to Churchill Downs where the Kentucky Derby takes place.  For an adventure – try out the world’s only underground zip line at Louisville Mega Cavern or a cruise on the historic Belle of Louisville.  Lots of great restaurants for all tastes and cool places to stay including 21c and The Galt House Hotel.

Bill’s Advice:  Louisville is a great weekend trip!  If you love Kentucky Fried Chicken, pay your respects to Col. Sanders himself.  His grave site is a short drive from downtown.  Just follow the yellow line at Cave Hill Cemetery and you’ll find it.  Don’t be surprised if you see a bucket of chicken sitting on the tombstone.  No, seriously. 

18. Cincinnati, OH

There’s a lot to see and do in Cincinnati! One of my favorite museums –  The American Sign Museum  is alone worth the road trip. Downtown you’ll find some fun places to eat, catch a game at Great American Ballpark, or take a stroll along the Ohio river on the beautiful hiking and biking trails. If you take a short drive (or walk) across the bridge downtown you’ll wind up in Covinginton, Kentucky. This historic town that was once notorious for gangsters is now a lovely area with dining and shopping, plus great views looking back at the Cincinnati skyline. Speaking of “skyline” – Cincy’s famous chili is available all over town. (I’m not personally a fan – but a lot of people like it!)

19. Maumee Bay Lodge

Maumee Bay Lodge offers 120 guest rooms, each with private balcony overlooking the Maumee Bay of Lake Erie. Guests can enjoy the full-service dining room, cocktail lounge and snack bar. The lodge also offers free WiFi, racquetball courts, indoor racquetball/wallyball courts, game room, fitness center, saunas, hot tubs, whirlpools, indoor and outdoor pools and kids’ splash garden. Rent a bike and enjoy the trails or other outdoor recreational activities.

20. Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is full of world class museums and fine dining. Take in the views from the Willis Tower – formerly the tallest building in America, take a river cruise to learn about Chicago history and architecture, or book a Chicago Pizza Tour to enjoy the many delicious styles of Chicago pizza including its best known style – deep dish!

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BILL ON THE ROAD | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2024

10 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Western New York On A Road Trip

• Western New York is full of beautiful natural and cultural attractions, making it ideal for a road trip exploration.
• Niagara Falls State Park is a must-visit, offering stunning views of the famous waterfalls and free entrance.
• Other beautiful Western New York destinations include the Roycroft Campus, Whirlpool State Park, Devil's Hole State Park, Old Fort Niagara, and Letchworth State Park, each offering unique experiences and natural beauty.

Road trips are perhaps the most classic way to explore a lot of places in a short amount of time. Road trips can span thousands of miles, like the I-80 road trip, crossing the entire United States , or cover a relatively small area that happens to be full of awe-inspiring attractions.

Western New York is full of unique natural and cultural attractions, and a road trip is the perfect way to explore them all. While the route itself is less than 900 miles, a simple 15-hour drive end-to-end, New York's beautiful places and natural landscapes demand as much time as travelers have to spare.

In particular, Western New York is home to multiple state parks and bustling urban cities, making it the perfect landscape for an old-fashioned road trip. Visitors ready to hit the road can see one potential Google Maps route, starting at Niagara Falls and ending at the Finger Lakes here. Still, whether exploring on wheels or simply looking for towns, cities, and attractions for a quick getaway, there are many beautiful Western New York destinations to visit. Out of them all, these pretty places in West New York are worthy of people's attention for their beauty and wealth of attractions.

UPDATE: 2023/11/29 18:42 EST BY REENA JAIN

More Places To Visit In Western New York

Western New York is rich in breathtaking sights, from state parks to historical sites to the world-famous Niagara Falls. We've updated this list with four more beautiful places in Western New York to see on a road trip.

Related: 10 Natural Wonders That Are Solely Unique To New York State

Niagara Falls

Witness the most famous waterfalls in the us in america's oldest state park.

There is no better way to start a Western New York Road trip than at a waterfall so massive it spans two countries. Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the US, hosts the state-side portion of Niagara Falls.

There are a number of ways to view Niagara Falls within the park , including the Maid of the Mist boats and multiple viewing points set up to allow guests to see, hear, and feel the majesty of the Falls. Even better, entrance to the park is always free, so road trippers trying to make their dollar stretch can start on a spectacular and budget-friendly note.

• Entrance Fee: FREE
• Ideal Time Spent: ½ day

Roycroft Campus

This scenic campus in east aurora is a national historic landmark.

Another beautiful place to visit in Western New York is the Roycroft Campus in East Aurora, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. This complex is well known for having the best-preserved late-nineteenth-century architecture still surviving in the United States.

The Inn, Print Shop, Chapel, Copper Shop, and Furniture Shop are among the nine original fourteen structures that still survive on the campus. Although there is no admission fee, guided tours are available at an extra cost to help people understand the significance of these structures.

• Entrance Fee: Free
• Ideal Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Whirlpool State Park

See spectacular whirlpools and rapids on the niagara river.

Whirlpool State Park is certainly one of the best places to visit in New York and its western region for its scenic beauty, refreshing ambiance, and nature trails. This park is situated immediately above a hairpin bend in the Niagara River that forms a massive vortex. Its street level has many scenic viewpoints offering panoramas of the whirlpool and the rapids, while steps descend 300 feet from river level to the gorge below.

Hikers can access the rapids beyond the whirlpool via the Whirlpool Rapids Trail. They can continue down the Devil's Hole Trail and climb to the gorge's peak at Devil's Hole State Park. They can then return to Whirlpool State Park by taking the rim route.

• Entrance Fee: $10/vehicle
• Ideal Time Spent: 1/2 day

Devil's Hole State Park

Discover scenic hikes and the iconic devil’s hole gorge.

Devil’s Hole State Park is yet another one of the best places to visit in western New York New York because it gives visitors the chance to discover a variety of habitats and take in breathtaking geological formations. The park is home to a secret cave, the well-known Devil’s Hole Gorge, and scenic trails along the gorge rim.

There are many recreational activities in the park, such as fishing, birding, and picnicking, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in western NY for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

Old Fort Niagara

Explore this beautiful historic castle built by the french in 1726.

Visiting Old Fort Niagara is certainly one of the best things to do in Western New York for anyone interested in history and architecture. This stunning castle was originally built by the French in 1726 and renovated in the 1930s, and now it features interesting exhibits of clothes, furniture, small arms, and Native American items.

There are beautiful hiking routes in the neighboring Fort Niagara State Park, and the views from its ramparts are breathtaking. During the summer, guided excursions are also offered, giving visitors a glimpse into the bygone era of this place.

• Entrance Fee: Adults: $20; Children (6 to 12 years): $12; Children 5 and under: Free
• Ideal Time Spent: 2 hours

Related: 10 Tourist Attractions In Niagara Falls Recommended By Visitors

Niagara Gorge

Continue the niagara falls adventure on the scenic niagara gorge trail.

After taking in the roaring Niagara Falls, the road trip continues within the state park at Niagara Gorge. Given that the park is free to walk through any day of the year, it only makes sense to take as much time as possible to enjoy all the natural beauty.

The Niagara Gorge Trail is a fairly level 6.2-mile hike that offers overlook views of the Niagara River Gorge’s most famous and beautiful features. Natural wonders like the Devil’s Hole Rapids and Niagara Gorge Whirlpool are both visible from this hike, as are man-made feats like Sir Adam Beck and Robert Moses Power Plants.

Explore one of the most beautiful cities in Western New York

There is no doubt that Western New York is full of natural beauty, but the displays within the city limits of the region are equally worthy of a stop. East of Lake Erie and settled along the Niagara River, Buffalo’s scenery is matched only by its unique museums, galleries, and gardens.

Buffalo offers plenty to do and see , but it is particularly famous for attractions like Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House Complex, Niagara Square, and the Buffalo Botanical Garden.

• Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House Complex Tour: $25/person
• Niagara Square: FREE
• Buffalo Botanical Gardens: $15.50/person
• Ideal Time Spent: 2 days

Lake Ontario

Enjoy wildlife and sandy beaches in hamlin beach state park and ontario beach park.

One of two Great Lakes that touch down in New York, Lake Ontario brings with it beautiful views and perfect beaches. Hamlin Beach State Park and Ontario Beach Park both have sandy beaches for lounging, beautiful clear waters for swimming and fishing, and numerous hiking trails and camping sites.

The lake is also a great place for wildlife viewing, with Bald Eagles, Osprey, sturgeon, moose, otter, and more calling the lake and surrounding area home. For those driving through the sites of Western New York, Lake Ontario is the perfect stop to unwind and enjoy the outdoors before heading towards the urban sites more eastward.

The most neighborly city in America !

The other large city in Western New York, Rochester, is well-known for its beautiful art galleries and world-class museums, as well as its scenic nature parks. While Rochester is near Lake Ontario, the city has the least amount of water of the stops on this road trip. Thankfully, that has left more space in the city for attractions highlighting both the history and beauty of the city.

The George Eastman Museum , which highlights the history of photography, and the National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House , which highlights the legacy of the famous women's rights activist, both offer a different type of beauty. For a more traditional outdoor outing, Highland Park and the Seneca Park Zoo ensure that even time in the city is time spent in beauty in Western New York.

• George Eastman Museum: $20/person
• National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House: $15/person
• Highland Park: FREE
• Seneca Park Zoo: $12/person

Related: 10 Whimsical Winter Activities In Rochester, New York

Letchworth State Park

Soak in the beauty of the "grand canyon of the east".

A successful road trip through Western New York has to make the most of the wide variety of natural beauties in the region. After the sheer size of Niagara Falls, Letchworth State Park offers a different kind of extreme natural wonder and is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Western New York (or New York State as a whole, for that matter).

Known as “The Grand Canyon of the East,” the Genesee River has cut a gorge through the park with cliffs nearly 600 feet deep in some areas. Visitors can explore the park along over 66 miles of hiking trails by whitewater rafting along the river itself or even riding a hot air balloon over the green forests of Letchworth.

• Ideal Time Spent: 1 day

Alexandria Bay

Explore the treasures of the thousand islands, including boldt castle and singer castle.

How about checking out some of the slightly more secret places in New York and its western region? With less than 1,500 residents calling this area home, the tiny islands of Alexandria Bay may seem unassuming after the array of giants along the trip so far. While Alexandria Bay itself may not be oversized, it acts as the gateway to the Thousand Islands region, a group of 1,864 islands along the US-Canada border.

Enjoying the beauty of Alexandria Bay can be done both on the water via a boat tour or under it with a guided diving tour. Historic man-made wonders like the storied and historic Boldt Castle and Singer Castle add to the beauty of the area. Finished with downtime at the sandy beaches of Scenic View Park or at one of the vineyards or wineries, Alexandria Bay is a gorgeous day trip for anyone driving through New York.

• Boldt Castle : $7/person
• Singer Castle: $14.75/person

The Catskill Mountains

Peaks, lakes, foothills, and historic sites make this perhaps the most beautiful place in western new york.

The Catskill Mountains truly represent all that is beautiful about Western Upstate New York , with rolling foothills, striking peaks, clear lakes, and historical landmarks. Trails crisscross the mountains, with starting points in each of the unique towns settled at the foot of the mountain range.

The Catskills are famous for their summer and winter outdoor activities; besides walking along the exceptional hiking trails in the Catskills , visitors can go rock climbing or mountain biking in the summer or enjoy some of New York's best skiing slopes in the winter. Lakes, rivers, and ponds provide beautiful backdrops for swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing (following all local guidelines).

Visitors can also explore the area around the Catskill Mountains by taking a tour down the Hudson River, driving along the Catskill Mountains scenic byway , or stopping in hidden gems like Bethel Woods, home to unique museums and a popular amphitheater.

• Entrance Fee: Varies by Area and Town
• Ideal Time Spent: 3–4 days

Related: The Catskill Mountain Railroad Is One Of The Most Scenic Winter Rides

Watkins Glen State Park

Visit one of the most beautiful state parks in western new york, with scenic hikes and 19 waterfalls.

Widely considered the most beautiful of the incredible state parks around the Finger Lakes , Watkins Glen is so unique it has earned its own place on the road trip map. The 2-mile-long namesake glen is home to 19 waterfalls, with hiking trails crossing over and under some of these beautiful features.

Those following the main hiking trail will get a bird's eye view of the park's beauty as they cross the 85-foot-high suspension bridge overlooking the stream Gorge. The park is so popular for its scenic views that it has its own app that provides updates and park information, including trails and highlights, so those in the middle of their road trip can easily plan ahead to make the most of their day in Watkins Glen State Park.

The Finger Lakes

Discover the natural beauty of this scenic region with 11 narrow lakes south of lake ontario.

The adventure in Western New York ends as it began, with a magnificent body of water. Unlike the roaring Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes of New York are a group of 11 narrow lakes south of Lake Ontario.

The attractions around Finger Lakes could be a road trip all their own, with multiple state parks and outdoor adventures to be found, as well as plenty of Finger Lakes wineries and breweries , along with vineyards. Plus, foodies can rejoice; there are tons of excellent food stops on the Finger Lakes , too.

With so many scenic outdoor activities and one-of-a-kind cultural highlights, the Finger Lakes are the perfect final stop for this epic New York Road trip in the western area of the state.

• Ideal Time Spent: 3–5 days

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.

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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Road Trip! Go See These Endangered Species Murals

‘Tis the season for long drives to visit extended family and long-time friends. Inevitably, you’ll have to make a pitstop. You could stop at the roadside gas station or you could stretch your legs while taking in some beautiful artwork. Across California, artists have painted murals featuring endangered species. Join us as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act by visiting one of these murals – some make a great selfie spot! Tag your pic #ESA50. Here’s a few to add to your road trip route.   

Marbled murrelet

Backside of 280 E Street (Intersection of US 101 South and Samoa Boulevard), Arcata, CA 

Stretching more than 250 feet, a mural in the California coastal town of Arcata painted by artist Lucas Thornton features the  marbled murrelet, a seabird listed as threatened under the ESA. About the size of a chubby robin, the marbled murrelet can be found from Canada to California. Its numbers are dwindling due to low reproductive rates and loss of nesting habitat. The Service is working with partners to monitor populations of the bird and look for ways to help its populations recover.

Western snowy plover 

830 S Street, Sacramento, CA

The tall buildings in downtown Sacramento don’t exactly conjure up images of shorebirds, but the Western snowy plover is the star of a wall on the corner of The Nature Conservancy’s office. The shorebird is only about 6 inches long, and its thin dark bill, pale brown to gray back and white belly help it blend in with the coastal sand dunes it calls home. Invasive grasses and ice plant have taken over many of the sand dunes along the California coast, giving coverage to predators that prey on the birds, including coyotes, foxes, and domestic cats and dogs. Several dedicated organizations and volunteer groups are working to improve nesting habitat for the bird by restoring the dunes and removing the invasive plants. These efforts also help build the resilience of the sand dunes as rising sea levels threaten shorelines and habitat. This mural is part of the Audubon Mural Project, which aims to bring visibility to birds that are impacted by climate change climate change Climate change includes both global warming driven by human-induced emissions of greenhouse gases and the resulting large-scale shifts in weather patterns. Though there have been previous periods of climatic change, since the mid-20th century humans have had an unprecedented impact on Earth's climate system and caused change on a global scale. Learn more about climate change . The mural was painted by Jonathan Martinez in collaboration with Audubon California and Wide Open Walls.

San Francisco garter snake

5400 Hollis Street, Emeryville, CA

Slithering down one of Emeryville’s main streets, an incredibly realistic looking San Francisco garter snake pops from a building wall. Painted by artist Sonny Sundancer, the San Francisco garter snake mural captures the snake’s rich colors of red, bright greenish-blue, black and cream. Due to its beautiful coloring, one of the biggest threats to the species is illegal trapping and sale in the pet trade. The snake is listed as endangered.

Western monarch butterfly

455 Hyde Street, San Francisco, CA

Have you ever seen a 50-foot-tall monarch butterfly? Now you can! The monarch, which is currently a candidate species for listing, is seen softly landing on a California poppy on the side of a building in San Francisco. Each year, Western monarch butterflies travel from the Rocky Mountains to the California coast. It takes four generations of butterflies to complete its entire life cycle, which includes this 1,000-mile journey – quite a feat for any creature, let alone a butterfly! This mural, known as “Le Papillon,” is part of the Migrating Mural series that showcases species in the places where their migration routes intersect with the human world. The mural was designed and developed by artists Jane Kim and Thayer Walker as part of a collaboration Veritas, Bay Area art studio Ink Dwell and the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. This building also contains a smaller mural and artwork on the entryway to the building and garage featuring some of the 34 species of butterflies found around San Francisco.    

Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep

Multiple locations on the Highway 395 Corridor in California (Lone Pine Airport in Lone Pine, Mount Williamson Hotel in Independence, and Sage to Summit in Bishop)

Heading to the eastern part of California? Highway 395 provides breathtaking views of the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada range where endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep roam. The historical range of this subspecies of bighorn sheep stretches from Olancha Peak in the south to Sonora Pass in the north. These bighorn sheep live at elevations ranging from 4,000-14,000 feet and have adapted to live in harsh mountain conditions. Predation, environmental factors and concern of disease transmission from domestic sheep pose challenges to the species' recovery. Catching a glimpse of these alpine dwellers is quite rare, but luckily, there are a few murals of the sheep painted by artist Jane Kim along the 395 corridor to enjoy: Lone Pine Airport in Lone Pine, The Mount Williamson Hotel in Independence and Sage to Summit in Bishop. The artwork is also part of the Migrating Mural project and was funded by the Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep Foundation.   

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EZRA centers on comedian Max co-parenting autistic son Ezra with ex-wife Jenna. Faced with crucial decisions about Ezra's future, Max and Ezra go on a life-changing cross-country road trip. EZRA centers on comedian Max co-parenting autistic son Ezra with ex-wife Jenna. Faced with crucial decisions about Ezra's future, Max and Ezra go on a life-changing cross-country road trip. EZRA centers on comedian Max co-parenting autistic son Ezra with ex-wife Jenna. Faced with crucial decisions about Ezra's future, Max and Ezra go on a life-changing cross-country road trip.

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President Biden to visit Tampa on Tuesday

TAMPA, Fla. — President Joe Biden will make a stop in Tampa Tuesday, the White House has announced.

The president will be in the area on Tuesday. Additional details are expected be made available late Monday. 

The Biden campaign is investing more time in Florida, though a Democrat has not won Florida since 2012.

Donald Trump won the state in 2016 and 2020.

Biden's visit will come just weeks after the state Supreme Court energized abortion rights proponents with two rulings : one that paves the way for a six-week abortion ban and another that will give voters the opportunity to repeal the ban as they also cast their vote for president.

Democrats have new hope that a ballot question seeking to preserve abortion rights will put the state back in play as the nation’s largest presidential election swing state.