Road trips are the quintessential American adventure, offering freedom, exploration, and a chance to witness some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. The United States is home to several iconic road trips, each showcasing a unique aspect of the nation’s diverse beauty and culture. From coastal drives to mountainous terrains, these routes offer unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking picturesque vistas, historical landmarks, or charming small towns, this comprehensive guide will take you through 7 of the best road trips in the U.S.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Overview: The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is renowned for its stunning coastal views and diverse attractions. Spanning approximately 655 miles from Santa Monica in Southern California to Leggett in Northern California, this road trip offers a mix of dramatic ocean vistas, picturesque towns, and major landmarks.
Detailed Highlights
Santa Monica: Start at the Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy the beach, visit the aquarium, or shop at the Third Street Promenade. The pier is also a great spot for sunset views.
Malibu: Known for its beautiful beaches like Zuma Beach and Malibu Lagoon State Beach. Malibu also offers excellent hiking opportunities, such as the Solstice Canyon Trail.
Santa Barbara: Explore the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse, known for its beautiful architecture and panoramic views from the clock tower. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art and nearby wine country are also worth visiting.
San Luis Obispo: Famous for the quirky Bubblegum Alley and the nearby Hearst Castle. Take a guided tour of the castle to see its opulent rooms and stunning gardens.
Big Sur: A highlight of the PCH, Big Sur features dramatic coastal cliffs and landmarks like McWay Falls, which cascades into the ocean. The Bixby Creek Bridge offers one of the most iconic photo ops along the route.
Monterey: Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is renowned for its marine exhibits and conservation efforts. Cannery Row offers shopping and dining in a historic setting.
San Francisco: Explore the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Alcatraz Island. Don’t miss a ride on the historic cable cars and a walk through Chinatown.
Travel Tips
Plan for frequent stops to take in the views and explore local attractions.
Be aware that some parts of the highway can be winding and narrow, so drive cautiously.
Reserve accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
2. Route 66
Overview: Route 66, often referred to as the “Main Street of America,” is one of the most famous highways in American history. It offers a nostalgic journey through historic towns, quirky attractions, and a cross-section of American culture.
Detailed Highlights
Chicago: Start your trip at the historic Route 66 sign in Chicago. Visit Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Willis Tower Skydeck for panoramic city views.
St. Louis: Explore the Gateway Arch, which offers a tram ride to the top for stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. The St. Louis Zoo and Forest Park are also worth a visit.
Tulsa: Check out the Art Deco architecture and visit the Philbrook Museum of Art, which is housed in a stunning Italian-style villa.
Amarillo: Experience the Cadillac Ranch, where you can see a row of old Cadillacs buried nose-down in a field, and enjoy a classic American meal at the Big Texan Steak Ranch.
Santa Fe: Known for its vibrant arts scene and adobe architecture. Visit the Santa Fe Plaza, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the Loretto Chapel.
Grand Canyon: Although not directly on Route 66, a detour to the Grand Canyon is highly recommended. Enjoy breathtaking views and hiking opportunities along the South Rim.
Santa Monica: Finish at the Santa Monica Pier, where Route 66 officially ends. Enjoy the beach, amusement park, and the lively atmosphere.
Travel Tips
Embrace the vintage roadside attractions and diners for an authentic experience.
Allow extra time for exploring small towns and off-the-beaten-path stops.
Prepare for diverse weather conditions across different regions.
See also: What Do You Need for Road Trip?
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia)
Overview: The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its scenic beauty and is often considered one of the most picturesque drives in the U.S. It offers a tranquil journey through the Appalachian Highlands, with numerous overlooks and hiking opportunities.
Detailed Highlights
Great Smoky Mountains: Start at the southern end of the parkway, where you can explore the rich biodiversity and historic homesteads within the park.
Mabry Mill: Located at Milepost 176.1, this historic gristmill and sawmill offer demonstrations and a glimpse into early American milling techniques.
Linville Gorge: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this area features rugged terrain and deep gorges. Hiking trails like the Linville Gorge Trail provide stunning views.
Mount Mitchell: The highest peak east of the Mississippi River, with an observation tower offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Shenandoah National Park: At the northern end of the parkway, explore scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and hiking trails like the popular Old Rag Mountain Trail.
Travel Tips
The parkway is a slow drive, with a speed limit of 45 mph or less, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery.
Check for road closures and weather conditions, especially in winter, as the parkway can be affected by snow and ice.
Plan for plenty of stops at overlooks and visitor centers for the best experience.
4. The Great River Road
Overview: The Great River Road follows the course of the Mississippi River, offering a journey through diverse landscapes and cultures. It stretches from the river’s source in Minnesota to its delta in Louisiana, encompassing over 3,000 miles.
Detailed Highlights
Minneapolis: Explore the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Walker Art Center, and the Chain of Lakes for outdoor activities.
St. Louis: Visit the Gateway Arch, the Old Courthouse, and the Missouri Botanical Garden. The historic Soulard neighborhood is great for dining and entertainment.
Memphis: Known for its rich musical history, visit Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, and Beale Street for live music.
New Orleans: Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans with its French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and historic sites like Jackson Square. Enjoy local cuisine, including beignets and gumbo.
Travel Tips
Allocate time to explore the unique cultures and histories of the river towns.
Be mindful of potential weather-related issues, such as flooding, especially in lower-lying areas.
Consider a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture.
5. The Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)
Overview: The Million Dollar Highway is a challenging and scenic drive through the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. Known for its stunning mountain views and high-altitude passes, it’s a favorite among adventurous drivers.
Detailed Highlights
Red Mountain Pass: One of the highest points on the highway, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The drive here can be steep and winding, so proceed with caution.
Animas River: Follow the river through rugged terrain and enjoy outdoor activities like rafting or fishing in the nearby areas.
San Juan Mountains: Explore the alpine scenery and historic mining towns like Silverton and Ouray, which offer charming architecture and local shops.
Travel Tips
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, as the drive includes steep climbs and sharp turns.
Check weather conditions before setting out, as snow and ice can affect driving safety.
Drive slowly and take breaks to fully enjoy the spectacular views and surroundings.
See also: 7 essential tips for safe and memorable road trips
6. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway
Overview: The Florida Keys Overseas Highway offers a unique drive through the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys. Spanning from Miami to Key West, this route features crystal-clear waters and a relaxed island vibe.
Detailed Highlights
Key Largo: Known for its diving and snorkeling opportunities, including the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which offers underwater exploration and scenic boat tours.
Marathon: Visit the Turtle Hospital, which provides rehabilitation for sea turtles and educational tours. The area also offers beautiful beaches like Sombrero Beach.
Seven Mile Bridge: One of the longest bridges in the U.S., offering stunning views of the ocean and the chance to take memorable photographs.
Key West: The southernmost point in the continental U.S., Key West is famous for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites like Ernest Hemingway’s home, and beautiful sunsets at Mallory Square.
Travel Tips
Be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Book accommodations and popular tours in advance to ensure availability.
Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and take time to explore each island along the route.
7. The Alaska Highway
Overview: The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, offers a remote and rugged journey through some of North America’s most pristine wilderness areas. It’s an adventure through untamed landscapes and small towns.
Detailed Highlights
Kluane National Park: Explore the park’s vast glaciers, including the impressive Kaskawulsh Glacier, and enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tok: A small town with access to several national parks and outdoor activities. It’s a popular stop for travelers heading to Denali National Park.
Denali National Park: Home to Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America. Enjoy guided tours, wildlife viewing, and hiking opportunities in this stunning park.
Anchorage: Alaska’s largest city offers cultural attractions like the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center, along with outdoor adventures in nearby areas.
Travel Tips
Prepare for remote conditions and ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and stocked with supplies.
Be aware of wildlife on the road and drive cautiously, especially in more remote sections.
Check for seasonal road closures and weather conditions, as some areas can be challenging to navigate.
Conclusion
Choosing the best road trip in the United States ultimately depends on your interests and travel style. Whether you’re drawn to coastal beauty, historic routes, scenic mountain drives, or remote wilderness, each of these road trips offers a unique and memorable experience. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to the adventurous Alaska Highway, these journeys provide a chance to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures that make the U.S. such a remarkable destination. Plan your trip according to your preferences, be prepared for the diverse conditions and experiences each route offers, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. Happy travels!