Hitting the open road is exhilarating, especially when surrounded by America’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a city person looking for a quick escape or an adventurer seeking a more rugged adventure, Best Road Trips in USA offer a sense of freedom and discovery that few other types of travel can. This guide of best road trips in USA will show you the best road trips in America, each with its mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and surprise. You’ll find your road trip style from mountain getaways to coastal highways here.
Best Road Trips in USA
Get lost in the Appalachians on the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Carolina’s and Virginia.
Distance: 469 miles
Time: 3-5 days
Best Time: Fall for foliage or spring for wildflowers
Cost: $500-$800 (gas, food, lodging)
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most beautiful drives in the best road trips in USA . It runs through the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia to North Carolina and is for those who want to escape it all. The road has miles of unbroken views of hills, forests, and meadows, with plenty of opportunities to hike and picnic.
You can take in the views, hike the trails at Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, and walk the famous mile-high swinging bridge at Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. This trip is best done slowly and quickly, with plenty of time to stop and look and stop at one of the many scenic overlooks.
Try the best of the Windy City on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago.
Distance: 15.5 miles
Time: 1 day
Best Time: Summer and early fall
Cost: $100-$200 (parking, food, sightseeing)
A quick and famous road trip, Lake Shore Drive takes you through the heart of Chicago along the shores of Lake Michigan. From the Museum Campus, you can head north and see some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Millennium Park, home of the famous Cloud Gate (The Bean) sculpture, and the Chicago Riverwalk.
Stop at Navy Pier for some fun and food before continuing on the drive, which offers views of the lake on one side and the Chicago skyline on the other. While the drive is short, the number of activities, restaurants, and cultural sights makes this trip a jam-packed adventure through one of America’s greatest cities.
Pet Six-Toed Cats (Yes, Really) on U.S. 1 in the Florida Keys
Distance: 113 miles
Time: 1-2 days
Best Time to Visit: Winter and early spring
Cost: $300-$600 (lodging, food, activities)
The Overseas Highway (U.S. 1) runs along the Florida Keys with a string of bridges that span the Atlantic Ocean. One of the best road trips in USA and most unusual and fun stops along the way is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, where you can meet the famous six-toed cats that roam the property. These cats are the descendants of Hemingway’s cats and are a tourist attraction.
The drive contains postcard views of turquoise water, tropical foliage, and sunsets. At John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, you can explore the underwater world by snorkeling or diving or relax at the peaceful Bahia Honda State Park, with its beautiful beaches and calm water.
Road Trip Through Time on Route 12 in Utah
Distance: 124 miles
Time: 2-3 days
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
Cost: $400-$700 (lodging, gas, food, park fees)
If you want to see unique landscapes and have an adventure, Utah’s Route 12 is a must. This scenic byway goes through Bryce Canyon National Park and Capitol Reef National Park, which have dramatic views of red rock formations, slot canyons, and desert vistas.
Stops like the Escalante Grand Staircase and Calf Creek Falls offer excellent hiking opportunities. The route is a geological wonder, with millions of years old rock formations. If you’re lucky, you might even find a fossil or two along the way. Camping is plentiful along this route, so it’s a best road trips in USA for those who want to get off the grid.
Post Bluebonnets on Your TikTok on the Bluebonnet Trail in Texas
Distance: 40 miles
Time: 1 day
Best Time to Visit: Spring
Cost: $50-$100 (gas, food)
Spring in Texas is best road trips in USA, brings out one of the state’s most beautiful natural wonders: the bluebonnets. The Bluebonnet Trail near Ennis, Texas, goes through fields of these wildflowers and is the perfect spot to post pics that will flood your social media.
This easy day trip is best done with a camera to capture the endless blue. If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, the Ennis Bluebonnet Festival in April has live music, local crafts, and traditional Texan food.
Drive North Shore in Minnesota
Distance: 154 miles
Time: 2-3 days
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Cost: $300-$500 (lodging, gas, food, park fees)
Drive along the edge of the world’s largest freshwater lake on North Shore Drive in Minnesota. This road trip takes you from Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, with the best views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forest.
Along the way, stop at Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse. Both have hiking trails and views. This trip is for water sports, fishing, and exploring remote and peaceful places. End your drive at Grand Portage State Park, where the High Falls will greet you with a waterfall.
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Be a Friend to Farmers on the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire
Distance: 56 miles
Time: 1 day
Best Time to Visit: Fall for foliage, summer for outdoor activities
Cost: $100-$200 (gas, food, parking)
The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is a best road trips in USA, winding road through the White Mountains. Known for its fall foliage views, this scenic byway offers views of rolling hills, rivers, and forests, making it a must-see during peak foliage season.
Adventure seekers will find plenty of hiking, fishing, and swimming along the Swift River. For a cultural experience, stop by one of the local farms and meet the friendly farmers in this area. Pick up some local honey, maple syrup, or handmade crafts as a memento of your trip.
Go Wild on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana
Distance: 50 miles
Time: 1 day
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Cost: $100-$200 (gas, park entrance fees, food)
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana’s Glacier National Park is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. This 50-mile trip takes you through mountains, meadows, and lakes. It’s an adventurer’s paradise where you can hike, view wildlife, and photograph.
Stop at Logan Pass, the highest point on the road, for views and to see mountain goats or bighorn sheep. This trip is adventurous and serene, with some of the most beautiful views in the best road trips in USA.
Go Retro on Highway 101 in Oregon
Distance: 338 miles
Time: 4-5 days
Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall
Cost: $500-$800 (lodging, food, gas, park fees)
Highway 101 in Oregon is a retro road trip with retro motels, quirky roadside attractions, and coastal views. Starting in Astoria, where The Goonies was filmed, this route takes you through charming seaside towns, dunes, and forests.
Along the way, you can explore the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, visit the Sea Lion Caves, or enjoy the rugged beauty of the Pacific Ocean. With camping, hiking, and photography opportunities, this trip is for adventure seekers who love retro charm.
Tribal Land on the Olympic Peninsula Loop in Washington
Distance: 329 miles
Time: 3-4 days
Best Time: Summer
Cost: $400-$600 (lodging, gas, food, park fees)
The Olympic Peninsula Loop is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the USA. From temperate rainforests to rugged coastline, it passes Olympic National Park alongside tribal lands, including Quinault and Hoh.
Adventure seekers can hike the Hoh Rain Forest, take in the views at Hurricane Ridge, or walk along Rialto Beach. History buffs can learn about the region’s native cultures at the Makah Museum in Neah Bay. This road trip has it all: adventure, culture, and nature.
LGBTQ+ History and Culture on Route 6 in Massachusetts
117 miles
2-3 days
Summer and early fall
$200-$400 (lodging, gas, food, museum fees)
Route 6 in Massachusetts, especially the stretch into Provincetown, is not just a pretty coastal drive; it’s a doorway into the history of LGBTQ+ in America. Provincetown, or “P-town” as it’s known, has been a haven for the LGBTQ+ community for decades with an arts scene, historical significance, and a welcoming vibe for all.
Highlights:
- Provincetown: This town’s arts community and LGBTQ+ heritage are legendary. Visit local galleries, theaters, and drag shows.
- Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum: Learn about the town’s LGBTQ+ history and cultural significance.
- Cape Cod National Seashore: Beautiful ocean views, hiking trails, and a peaceful environment to enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Cod.
Route 6 is a scenic and cultural experience. It takes you through charming coastal towns like Wellfleet and Truro, where you can eat seafood, visit the beach, and learn about local history.
Drive through Old Spain on The High Road to Taos in New Mexico
56 miles
1-2 days
Spring and fall
$150-$300 (gas, food, lodging, entry fees)
The High Road to Taos is a scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of New Mexico that dips into the cultural heritage of Spanish colonial history. This drive from Santa Fe to Taos goes through mountains, ancient pueblos, and villages that date back to the 17th century.
Highlights:
- Chimayó: Visit the famous Santuario de Chimayó, a pilgrimage site famous for its holy dirt, which is believed to have healing powers. Local arts and crafts shops that specialize in traditional weaving.
- Pueblo of Taos: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, a living Native American community thriving for centuries.
- Río Grande Gorge Bridge: One of the highest bridges in the U.S., with stunning views of the Río Grande Gorge.
This is history, spirituality, and art. It is a must for anyone interested in New Mexico’s cultural landscape.
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One of the Last Unexplored Frontiers on Highway 2 in Nebraska
Distance: 272
Time: 2 days
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Cost: $150-$300 (gas, food, lodging)
Highway 2 in Nebraska is the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway, one of the last unexplored frontiers in the U.S. The Nebraska Sandhills are a vast expanse of grassy dunes that go on for miles. Driving through them is peaceful and almost alien.
Highlights:
- Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is home to wildlife, bison, prairie dogs, and migratory birds. It is excellent for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
- Carhenge: Near Alliance. It’s a replica of Stonehenge but made of old cars.
- Sandhills: The Sandhills themselves are beautiful and peaceful. Untouched by modern civilization. Great for stargazing and photography.
Highway 2 is for those who want to get away from it all and explore the un-Midwest.
Sun on the Pacific Coast Highway
Distance: 655
Time: 5-7 days
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall
Cost: $500-$1,200 (lodging, gas, food, activities)
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), or California State Route 1, is one of the most famous road trips in the U.S.: Ocean views, coastal towns, and landmarks. It starts in San Diego and goes all the way to San Francisco. For sun, sand and sea.
Highlights:
- Big Sur: Rugged coastline with cliffs and views. Don’t miss Bixby Creek Bridge for a photo op.
- Hearst Castle: Tour this luxurious estate in San Simeon, where art and architecture meet views.
- Santa Monica Pier: A fun stop for families and thrill seekers. Amusement park rides, food, beach views.
The PCH is the California experience: natural beauty and cultural and historical stops.
Route 66
Distance: 2,448
Time: 2-3 weeks
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
Cost: $1,000-$3,000 (gas, food, lodging, attractions)
Route 66 is the Mother Road of the U.S. From Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. The main highway across America. A nostalgic trip through small towns, roadside attractions, and landmarks.
Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas): Spray paint and leave your mark on the famous Cadillacs buried nose first in the desert.
- Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona): See ancient petrified trees and the Painted Desert.
- Oklahoma Route 66 Museum: Learn about the history of this iconic road, vintage cars, memorabilia, and Route 66’s place in American pop culture.
Whether you’re a history nerd, an Americana fan, or just looking for an epic adventure, Route 66 is the road trip of the open road.
Skirt Along the Top of the U.S. on The Great Northern
Distance: 1,660 miles
Duration: 2-3 weeks
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Estimated Cost: $1,200-$3,000 (gas, food, lodging, activities)
The Great Northern is a road trip that follows U.S. Highway 2 from Seattle, Washington, to St. Paul, Minnesota, skirting along the northern U.S. border. It’s one of the most beautiful roads in the country, taking you through national parks, forests and rolling plains.
Highlights:
- Glacier National Park (Montana): Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road for some of North America’s most incredible mountain views.
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota): See the rugged Badlands and wild bison, elk, and prairie dogs.
- Lake Superior: This drive also takes you along the shores of Lake Superior, with views of one of the Great Lakes.
The Great Northern region offers wilderness and small towns, so it’s perfect for the outdoorsy type.
Look Back on Our Past on the Great River Road Along the Mississippi River
Distance: 2,348 miles
Duration: 10-14 days
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
Estimated Cost: $800-$2,000 (lodging, gas, food, park fees)
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana, offering history, culture, and natural beauty. This drive takes you through ten states, with historic river towns, cultural landmarks, and wetlands.
Highlights:
- Vicksburg National Military Park (Mississippi): Learn about the Civil War battle along the Mississippi River.
- Memphis (Tennessee): Stop in Memphis to visit Graceland and eat some of the world’s best barbecues.
- St. Louis Gateway Arch (Missouri): See the Mississippi River and the city from the top of this iconic landmark.
This drive is a history lesson and a chance to see one of America’s most important rivers.
Drive the Coast
Distance: 500-700 miles (depending on route)
Duration: 5-7 days
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall
Estimated Cost: $600-$1,200 (lodging, gas, food, activities)
Drive from Maine to Florida and see rocky coastlines, quaint coastal towns, and beaches.
You can go as far or as little on this trip as you want, but it always offers ocean views and fresh seafood.
Highlights:
- Acadia National Park (Maine): Hike the coast and summit Cadillac Mountain for sunrise.
- Cape Cod (Massachusetts): Beaches or Provincetown art galleries.
- Outer Banks (North Carolina): Wright Brothers Memorial and lighthouses.
Quiet seaside towns or beachy cities, this Atlantic road trip has something for everyone.
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Border Jump on the Road to Nowhere
Distance: 30 miles
Time: 1-2 hours
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Cost: Minimal, mainly gas and food
The Road to Nowhere near Bryson City, North Carolina, is a short but weird drive that ends at an incomplete bridge in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The road was built in the 1940s but was never finished, so it’s an abandoned project that attracts curious travelers.
Highlights:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: While the road is dead, the park has plenty of hiking trails and views.
- Tunnel to Nowhere: Walk through the creepy tunnel and explore the area.
It’s short but weird and a great addition to any Great Smoky Mountains trip.
Sample the Shores on the Great Lakes Circle Tour
Distance: 6,500 miles (all 5 Great Lakes)
Time: 3-4 weeks
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall
Cost: $1,500-$3,500 (gas, food, lodging, park fees)
The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a road trip around all five Great Lakes, including freshwater coastlines, cities, and nature reserves. The route is over 6,500 miles, but you can break it into smaller sections to focus on specific areas.
Highlights:
- Mackinac Island (Michigan): Historic forts, horse-drawn carriages and fudge.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes (Michigan): Hike the dunes for views of Lake Michigan.
- Niagara Falls (New York): You can’t go on a Great Lakes road trip without seeing the falls.
The Great Lakes Circle Tour is for adventurers who want to see the city and nature. It includes boating, fishing, and hiking along the way.
Mine for Golden Photo Ops on the San Juan Skyway, Colorado
233 miles
2-3 days
Best Time: Late spring to fall
Cost: $300-$600 (lodging, food, gas, park fees)
The San Juan Skyway is one of the most beautiful drives in Colorado and takes you through some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the San Juan Mountains. Nicknamed the “Million Dollar Highway” for the views, this loop will take you through historic mining towns, national forests, and rugged mountain passes. Durango, Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride are connected on this route, so you get a mix of outdoor adventure, history, and photo ops.
Highlights:
- Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Start your trip in Durango and take a train ride through the mountains to Silverton, a historic mining town.
- Ouray Hot Springs: Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is surrounded by towering peaks. After a long day of exploring, soak in the natural hot springs.
- Telluride: This cute town has excellent hiking and mountain biking trails and a gondola ride with views of the mountains.
The San Juan Skyway is known for its photo ops, especially in the fall, when the aspen trees turn gold.
Get Your Cowboy on Route 89 in Arizona
95 miles
1-2 days
Best Time: Spring and fall
Cost: $150-$300 (gas, food, lodging, park fees)
Route 89 in Arizona is a classic slice of the American West: cowboy country, desert, and red rock formations. This is your route if you want to get rough and wild in the Southwest. Starting in Flagstaff, you’ll head north through Sedona and Prescott, each with their flavor of Arizona.
Highlights:
- Sedona: Red rocks, hiking, and off-road tours. Sedona is also a spiritual destination and has vortexes.
- Montezuma Castle: A short side trip off the main road takes you to this ancient cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people over 1,000 years ago.
- Wupatki National Monument: North of Flagstaff, this site examines the ancient pueblos and Indigenous cultures before the settlers arrived.
Have you covered whether you want to experience Sedona’s energy vortexes or a piece of Old West Route 89?
Go Big on the Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)
68 miles
1 day
Best Time: Late spring to early fall
Cost: $100-$200 (gas, food, park fees)
The Beartooth Highway is one of the most scenic drives in North America and takes you from Red Lodge, Montana, to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This 68-mile stretch of road climbs 10,947 feet at its highest point and offers views of alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and big valleys.
Highlights:
- Beartooth Pass: The highway’s highest point, Beartooth Pass, is a must-stop for photos.
- Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River: There are many hiking trails and backcountry camping opportunities for the adventurous.
- Yellowstone National Park: End your drive at the park’s northeast entrance and continue to explore the geysers and wildlife.
The Beartooth Highway is a challenging drive with steep grades and switchbacks, but the views are some of the best in the country.
Drive the Outer Banks Scenic Byway in North Carolina
138 miles
1-2 days
Spring and fall
$200-$400 (gas, ferry rides, food, lodging)
The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a one-of-a-kind road trip along the barrier islands of North Carolina. Ocean views, historic lighthouses, and small coastal towns. This route takes you along Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where you can take multiple ferry rides between the islands and have opportunities to see dolphins and sea turtles.
Highlights:
- Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Climb this lighthouse to view the Outer Banks and learn about its history of saving sailors from the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.”
- Ocracoke Island: Take the ferry to this island for secluded beaches, local seafood, and a relaxed vibe.
- Wright Brothers National Memorial: At the start of the route in Kill Devil Hills, visit the site where the Wright Brothers made their first powered flight.
This drive is for those who love coastal drives, beach activities, and a little history. Remember your camera to capture the lighthouses and dunes.
Drive the Sunrise on the Acadia All-American Road in Maine
40 miles
1 day
Summer and fall
$50-$150 (gas, park fees, food)
The Acadia All-American Road in Maine is a short but sweet drive through Acadia National Park, which has some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in the Northeast. This road is famous for being the first to see the sunrise in the U.S. as it hugs the coast and goes through rugged forests.
Highlights:
- Cadillac Mountain: Highest point on the East Coast. Hike or drive to the top to see the first light of day.
- Jordan Pond: A peaceful lake surrounded by mountains. Perfect for a walk or picnic.
- Thunder Hole: A popular stop where the waves crash into a rock and make thunder and spray.
Acadia is famous for fall foliage, so this is the perfect drive for a fall morning. If you’re an early riser, these will be some of the best sunrises in the U.S.
The Loneliest Road (Nevada to Colorado)
Distance: 408 miles
Duration: 3-4 days
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall
Estimated Cost: $300-$600 (lodging, food, gas, park fees)
The Loneliest Road, or U.S. Route 50, runs off the beaten path through the Nevada deserts and mountains. It passes through some of the most remote but beautiful landscapes in the U.S., with small ghost towns and wilderness.
Highlights:
- Great Basin National Park: Stop to see Lehman Caves or hike up Wheeler Peak, Nevada’s second-highest peak.
- Eureka: This historic mining town, known as the “Friendliest Town on the Loneliest Road,” gives you a glimpse into Nevada’s mining history.
- Austin: Another old mining town, Austin has excellent hiking and biking trails in the nearby Toiyabe Range.
This is a trip for those who want solitude and adventure. Bring plenty of water and supplies as services are scarce.
Alaska Highway (Canada to Alaska)
Distance: 1,390 miles
Duration: 7-10 days
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Estimated Cost: $1,000-$2,000 (lodging, food, gas, park fees)
The Alaska Highway, known as the Alcan Highway, runs from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. This is one of North America’s most remote and rugged road trips. Built during World War II, the highway takes you through mountain ranges, dense forests, and wide rivers.
Highlights:
- Liard River Hot Springs: Soak in these natural hot springs surrounded by forest. This is an excellent stop after a long day of driving.
- Kluane National Park: Glaciers and mountains, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
- Whitehorse: The capital of the Yukon Territory, with its history, culture, and outdoor adventure.
The Alaska Highway is for those who want to experience the wild north, including camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Overseas Highway (Florida)
Distance: 113 miles
Duration: 1-2 days
Best Time to Visit: Winter and spring
Cost: $300-$600 (lodging, food, gas, activities)
The Overseas Highway is a one-of-a-kind road trip that takes you from Miami to Key West across 42 bridges. It is perfect for ocean lovers and sun worshippers, with turquoise waters, coral reefs, and tropical islands.
Highlights:
- Seven Mile Bridge: The longest bridge in the world, with ocean views for days.
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Stop to snorkel or dive to see the coral reefs and marine life.
- Key West: Southernmost point in the continental U.S., laid-back vibe, historic homes, and nightlife.
The Overseas Highway covers you whether you want to beach it, snorkel the coral reefs, or eat fresh seafood.
Hana Highway (Hawaii)
64 miles
1 day
Year-round
$100-$300 (gas, food, park fees)
The Hana Highway on the island of Maui is a coastal drive through rainforests, past waterfalls, and along cliffs. It is 64 miles long and has over 600 curves and 59 bridges. It is a challenge and a reward.
Highlights:
- Waianapanapa State Park: Black sand beach, sea caves, and coastal hiking trails.
- Wailua Falls: One of many waterfalls along the way, perfect for a quick stop and photo.
- Haleakalā National Park: Further down the road from Hana, this national park has views and hiking trails in a volcanic landscape.
The Hana Highway is for those who want adventure and beauty. It offers plenty of opportunities to see Maui’s lush tropical landscape.
Natchez Trace Parkway (Tennessee to Mississippi)
444 miles
3-4 days
Spring and fall
$300-$600 (lodging, food, gas)
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic drive along a historic trail used by Native Americans, early settlers, and traders. From Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi, the road winds through rolling hills, forests, and historic sites.
Highlights:
- Mount Locust: Oldest structure on the Trace, historic inn, and insight into early settlers’ lives.
- Sunken Trace: Walk along a preserved section of the old Natchez Trace where travelers once walked through the wilderness.
- Cypress Swamp: This is a peaceful stop where you can walk along a boardwalk and observe the cypress trees and wildlife.
This road trip is ideal for history buffs and nature lovers alike. It offers a peaceful and scenic journey through the American South.
Conclusion
Going on one of the many best road trips in USA is more than just getting from A to B—it’s an experience where adventure, history, and nature collide. Every route has its vibe, whether you’re cruising the California coast, digging into the deep cultural roots of the Southwest, or driving through the wilds of Alaska. From the red rock monoliths of Arizona to the rugged coast of Maine, these trips offer endless opportunities to see different landscapes, get outside, and connect with the country’s heritage and culture.
Photographer’s Paradise.
The San Juan Skyway in Colorado,best road trips in USA with its golden aspen trees and historic mining towns, is a photographer’s paradise. The Beartooth Highway in Montana and Wyoming offers towering mountain peaks, and hairpin turns for the brave of heart. If the ocean is your thing, the Overseas Highway in Florida and the Hana Highway in Hawaii provide ocean views and tropical landscapes that feel like heaven.
History Buffs
For history buffs, roads like the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee and Mississippi and Route 66, the “Mother Road,” offer a chance to go back in time and follow in the footsteps of settlers, Native Americans, and 20th-century road trippers who shaped the country’s travel history. Every stop on these routes tells a story—whether it’s a Civil War battle site, quirky roadside attraction, or ancient pueblo.
The Great River Road along the Mississippi River takes you to the heart of America, where river towns and Southern charm will make you feel at home. Meanwhile, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway in North Carolina offers dramatic coastal scenery, historic lighthouses, and endless beaches.
Every trip is an adventure, and the beauty of these trips is that they cater to every kind of traveller. You could be a solo wanderer seeking solitude on Nevada’s Loneliest Road or a family looking to make memories on the Great Lakes Circle Tour. If you’re a sunrise or sunset chaser, the Acadia All-American Road in Maine will reward the early riser with the first light hitting the East Coast. At the same time, the Pacific Coast Highway will make every sunset as good as the last with its cliffs and endless horizon.
But beyond the scenery, these trips are about the freedom and fun of the open road. It’s about stopping in towns you never knew existed, meeting people with stories to tell, and finding the hidden gems that turn a regular trip into an epic adventure. Whether it’s the stunning Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park or the cultural richness of The High Road to Taos, these trips are about more than the destination—they’re about what you collect along the way.
FAQ: Best Road Trips in USA for Adventure Seekers
When is the best time to take these road trips?
It depends on the destination:
- Spring and Fall: Blue Ridge Parkway, Natchez Trace Parkway, Route 66 – mild temps and beautiful scenery.
- Summer: Pacific Coast Highway, Outer Banks Scenic Byway, Beartooth Highway – many national parks and coastal roads are open.
- Winter: Overseas Highway in Florida, Hana Highway in Hawaii – tropical warmth year round.
How much will it cost?
Budget varies by duration and destination:
- Short trips (1-3 days): $150-$600 – gas, food, lodging, and park fees.
- Longer trips (7-10 days): $1,000-$3,000 – depending on accommodations and activities.
- Remote trips (e.g., Alaska Highway, Loneliest Road): prices may be higher due to fuel and limited services.
Are these road trips family-friendly?
Most of these trips are family-friendly, with hiking, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing. Pacific Coast Highway and Great River Road have many family-friendly stops.
Is there camping along these road trips?
Many of these routes go through national parks and forest areas where camping is available, such as Beartooth Highway, San Juan Skyway, and Acadia All-American Road.
What kind of vehicle do I need?
- Sedan or small SUV: Most paved routes – Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, Outer Banks Scenic Byway.
- High clearance or 4WD: Rugged or remote routes – Beartooth Highway, Alaska Highway, High Road to Taos.
Are these routes open year-round?
Some are the Overseas Highway and Hana Highway. Others—Beartooth Highway and Going-to-the-Sun Road—close in winter and are open from late spring to early fall.
What are the must-see stops?
Each trip has its own:
- Pacific Coast Highway: Big Sur, Hearst Castle, Santa Monica Pier.
- Route 66: Cadillac Ranch, Petrified Forest National Park, Oklahoma Route 66 Museum.
- San Juan Skyway: Durango & Silverton Railroad, Ouray Hot Springs, Telluride.
Do I need to reserve accommodations?
Book in advance for popular trips like the Pacific Coast Highway and Outer Banks Scenic Byway – especially in peak season. Plan stops and book ahead for remote trips like Loneliest Road, which has limited options.
Are there gas stations and rest stops along these routes?
Most routes, like Route 66 and the Great River Road, have gas stations and rest stops galore. But for remote drives like the Alaska Highway and Loneliest Road, gas stations can be few and far between, so fill up whenever possible.
Can I make these road trips on an R.V.?
Many of these RV-friendly routes include the Natchez Trace Parkway, Great River Road, and Great Lakes Circle Tour. However, check road conditions for routes like the Beartooth Highway, which may have narrow winding sections unsuitable for large R.V.s.