The 10 Best Road Trips in the USA You Must Take sets the stage for an unforgettable journey filled with scenic wonders, cultural gems, and thrilling adventures. Buckle up as we explore the top road trip destinations across the country, offering a perfect blend of freedom, flexibility, and exploration.
Introduction to Road Trips in the USA
A road trip is a journey taken by car, often across long distances, with stops at various destinations along the way. It allows travelers to explore multiple locations, landscapes, and attractions in a single trip.
Road trips are popular for their appeal of freedom and flexibility. Unlike other forms of travel that may be constrained by schedules or set itineraries, road trips offer the opportunity to go at your own pace, make spontaneous detours, and immerse yourself in the local culture of the places you visit.
Freedom and Flexibility
One of the biggest draws of road trips is the sense of freedom they provide. You have the flexibility to choose your route, make unplanned stops, and stay longer in places that capture your interest. This level of control over your journey allows for a more personalized and memorable travel experience.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway in California is one of the most iconic road trips in the USA, offering stunning coastal views and a plethora of attractions along the way. Driving along this route allows travelers to experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the rugged cliffs and lush forests on the other.
Route and Key Stops
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, stretches along the California coast from Orange County in the south to Mendocino County in the north. Key stops along the way include popular destinations such as Malibu, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Monterey, and the charming town of Mendocino. Each of these stops offers unique attractions, from beautiful beaches to quaint coastal towns.
Scenic Beauty and Attractions
The Pacific Coast Highway is renowned for its breathtaking coastal views, with winding roads that hug the cliffs and offer panoramic vistas of the ocean below. Travelers can stop at numerous lookout points to take in the scenery, visit state parks like Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur, or explore the famous Hearst Castle in San Simeon. The route also passes through charming seaside villages, allowing for leisurely strolls and visits to local shops and eateries.
Comparison to Other Road Trips
Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway offers a unique experience compared to other road trips in the USA. While routes like Route 66 may focus on historical landmarks and Americana, the Pacific Coast Highway showcases the natural beauty of the California coastline. The diversity of landscapes, from sandy beaches to towering redwoods, makes this road trip a must-do for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Route 66
Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, holds a special place in American history as one of the country’s original highways. Established in 1926, Route 66 stretched from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, covering a total of 2,448 miles. While it was officially removed from the U.S. Highway System in 1985, portions of the route still remain and attract travelers seeking a taste of nostalgia.
Iconic Landmarks and Quirky Attractions
- Grand Canyon: Just a slight detour from Route 66, the Grand Canyon is a must-see natural wonder that offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
- Cadillac Ranch: Located in Amarillo, Texas, this unique art installation features a row of graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground.
- Route 66 Museum: Situated in Oklahoma, this museum showcases the history and cultural impact of the iconic highway, providing insights into the past.
Tips for Planning a Memorable Route 66 Road Trip
- Research and Plan Ahead: Take the time to map out your route, highlighting key stops and attractions along the way to make the most of your journey.
- Embrace the Quirkiness: Route 66 is known for its offbeat attractions and roadside oddities, so be sure to embrace the unique charm of these stops.
- Immerse Yourself in History: Explore the historic motels, diners, and gas stations along the route to get a glimpse of what life was like during the heyday of Route 66.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway, spanning across North Carolina and Virginia, is renowned for its breathtaking views and natural beauty. This iconic route offers travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains.
Picturesque Views and Natural Beauty
- The Blue Ridge Parkway is lined with lush forests, rolling hills, and vibrant wildflowers, providing a scenic backdrop for your road trip.
- Visitors can marvel at panoramic views of valleys, rivers, and waterfalls as they drive along the winding roads of the parkway.
- The diverse flora and fauna of the region add to the charm of the journey, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Outdoor Activities and Recreational Opportunities
- Hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas dot the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
- Fishing, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting are popular activities along the route, allowing travelers to connect with nature.
- The parkway is also a hub for cycling and motorcycling enthusiasts, who can enjoy the winding roads and scenic vistas.
Driving Experience in Different Seasons
- In the spring, the Blue Ridge Parkway comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape.
- Summer brings warm weather and clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty of the mountains.
- Fall is a spectacular time to visit, as the foliage transforms into a palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, offering a picturesque backdrop for your road trip.
- Winter may bring snow-covered vistas and a peaceful atmosphere, creating a serene and tranquil setting for travelers seeking a quiet escape.
Historic Columbia River Highway, Oregon
The Historic Columbia River Highway in Oregon offers a picturesque journey through waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning scenic overlooks. This road trip is not only a feast for the eyes but also rich in cultural and historical significance.
Must-See Attractions
- Visit Multnomah Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in Oregon, cascading down 620 feet in two tiers.
- Explore the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center Museum to learn about the history and geology of the area.
- Stop by Vista House at Crown Point for panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Hidden Gems
- Don’t miss Wahclella Falls, a lesser-known waterfall with a tranquil and serene setting perfect for a peaceful break.
- Take a detour to the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail for a hike or bike ride along the old highway route.
- Visit the Bonneville Lock and Dam to witness the impressive engineering feats along the Columbia River.
Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
Driving on the Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys offers a truly unique experience that combines breathtaking views, tropical landscapes, and encounters with diverse wildlife and marine life.
Tropical Landscapes and Wildlife
The Overseas Highway stretches for 113 miles connecting the islands of the Florida Keys, offering stunning views of turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and white sandy beaches. As you drive along this scenic route, you’ll have the opportunity to spot colorful birds, playful dolphins, and even the occasional manatee in the crystal-clear waters.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to embark on a road trip along the Overseas Highway is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with lower chances of rain, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the Florida Keys without the risk of inclement weather interrupting your journey.
Great River Road, Mississippi River
The Great River Road is a scenic drive that follows the course of the Mississippi River, stretching for over 3,000 miles from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. This iconic route passes through 10 states and offers a unique opportunity to explore the history, culture, and natural beauty of the region.
Route and States
The Great River Road passes through the following states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Each state offers its own distinct attractions and landscapes, making the road trip a diverse and enriching experience.
Historical Significance
The Mississippi River has played a crucial role in the development of the United States, serving as a major transportation route for trade and commerce. As you travel along the Great River Road, you will encounter numerous historic sites that highlight the river’s importance, including Civil War battlefields, Native American heritage sites, and charming river towns that have preserved their past.
Scenic Overlooks and Recommendations
– Grandad Bluff in La Crosse, Wisconsin: Offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River and surrounding bluffs.
– Mark Twain’s Boyhood Home in Hannibal, Missouri: Explore the hometown of the famous author and learn about life on the river.
– Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi: Drive along this scenic byway for stunning views of the river and historic sites.
– Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee: Enjoy live music, delicious barbecue, and vibrant nightlife in this iconic entertainment district.
– Oak Alley Plantation in Louisiana: Visit this historic plantation with a stunning oak-lined avenue leading to the Mississippi River.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Driving along Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a thrilling experience that offers both challenges and rewards. This iconic road takes travelers through some of the most stunning alpine scenery in Montana, providing ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and outdoor adventures.
Alpine Scenery and Wildlife
- The road winds through towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and even grizzly bears that call the park home.
Hiking Opportunities
- There are numerous hiking trails accessible from the road, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks that lead to panoramic viewpoints.
- Popular hikes include the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail and the Highline Trail, which offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Tips for Navigating Safely
- Due to the road’s narrow and winding nature, it’s essential to drive cautiously and be prepared for steep drop-offs and sharp curves.
- Check road conditions before embarking on your journey, as the road is often closed during winter due to snowfall.
- Make sure to take plenty of breaks at the designated pullouts to admire the scenery and take photographs safely.
- Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serenity of the park.
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 offers a breathtaking journey through diverse landscapes and geological wonders, making it a must-do road trip in the USA.
Stretching for 123 miles, Scenic Byway 12 takes you through some of Utah’s most stunning scenery, including red rock canyons, lush forests, and high mountain peaks. The highway passes through several national parks, monuments, and attractions, making it a perfect route for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
National Parks and Monuments
- One of the highlights along Scenic Byway 12 is Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its unique rock formations called hoodoos.
- Capitol Reef National Park is another gem along the route, with its colorful cliffs and petroglyphs left behind by ancient civilizations.
- Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers rugged wilderness and hidden slot canyons to explore.
Attractions
- Stop by Kodachrome Basin State Park to see unique sandstone spires and enjoy hiking and camping opportunities.
- Visit the town of Escalante for a taste of small-town charm and access to numerous outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.
Comparison to Other Scenic Drives
Driving on Scenic Byway 12 is a unique experience that stands out from other scenic drives in the USA. While routes like the Pacific Coast Highway offer coastal views and Route 66 takes you through historic Americana, Scenic Byway 12 immerses you in the rugged beauty of Utah’s natural landscapes.
Alaska’s Seward Highway
The Seward Highway in Alaska offers a breathtaking road trip experience through rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife encounters.
The route is renowned for its stunning glaciers, majestic fjords, and a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. Travelers can witness the raw beauty of Alaska as they drive along this highway, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as bears, moose, and eagles.
Rugged Beauty and Wildlife Encounters
- Marvel at the towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests that line the Seward Highway.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife sightings, including bears, moose, sea otters, and various bird species.
Glaciers, Fjords, and Outdoor Activities
- Visit the stunning Portage Glacier and take a cruise on the glacier-filled waters of Prince William Sound.
- Embark on hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing adventures along the route.
Recommendations for Accommodations, Dining, and Side Trips
- Stay at cozy lodges or campgrounds nestled in the wilderness for a true Alaskan experience.
- Sample fresh seafood and local delicacies at charming eateries along the Seward Highway.
- Take side trips to Kenai Fjords National Park, Denali National Park, and the charming town of Seward for additional exploration.
Wrap-Up
From the stunning Pacific Coast Highway to the rugged beauty of Alaska’s Seward Highway, these road trips promise unforgettable memories and experiences that will last a lifetime. Get ready to hit the road and discover the beauty of the USA one mile at a time.
