best scenic trips in usa

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.

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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)

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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 ❤️

25 Best Scenic Road Trips in the USA for Your Bucket List

Posted on December 26, 2020 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on March 22, 2023

One of the most epic ways of visiting the US is a road trip allowing you to see some amazing and diverse landscapes with all the freedom only a car or a camper can give! Discover this list of the most iconic and scenic road trips in the USA and choose your next adventure!

Related article – Best National Parks to visit this summer

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Travel tip: before any trip, make sure you get good travel insurance.

1 – Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Where: Washington, Oregon, and California

Start : Olympia (WA)

End: San Diego (CA)

Length: 2,695 Km – 1,650 miles

How long: min 4 max 8 days

Best period: late September-early October

Choose it if: you are searching for some Instagram-friendly places and you like natural landscapes

Unmissable stops:

• Lewis & Clark National and State Historical Park (OR): spend a full day discovering the stories of some famous American explorers;
• Redwood National and State Parks (CA): one of the best places to visit in California , you’ll need at least a weekend to fully enjoy the many trails among the giant trees;
• San Francisco (CA) : this vibrant city deserves 1 day of sightseeing;
• Point Sur State Historic Park (CA): save at least a couple of hours to take some pictures of the coast from the best viewpoints of the park;

2 – Route 66 – Mother Road

Where: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California

Start: Chicago (IL)

End: Los Angeles (CA)

Length: 3,940 Km – 2450 miles

How long: min 8 max 10 days

• Galena (IL): half a day to only visit downtown and 1 full day to also take a bike tour along the nice river trail;
• Meramec Caverns (MO): a 2h stop is what you need to visit them;
• Cadillac Ranch (TX): watch this famous art installation reminding of the hippie era and the 70s;
• Painted Desert (AZ): the scenic drive through the desert takes about 2h;

Best period: May or September

Choose it if: you’ve always dreamed about this iconic road trip on one of the first American highways and want to visit some of the best attractions along Route 66.

Related – How To Plan An RV Trip: Helpful Tips and Phone Apps

3 – Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

Where: Virginia and North Carolina

Start : Shenandoah National Park (VA)

End: Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)

Length: 754 Km – 468 miles

How long: 1 weekend

• The Natural Bridge: stop at this natural stone bridge above a steep gorge;
• The Blowing Rock: named after the strong winds that blow here every day, this high cliff is worth a stop and some pictures;
• Beacon Heights: these rocky platforms are a natural outlook;
• Oconaluftee (NC): visit the museum and its exhibitions to learn more about Cherokee culture;

Best period: summer

Choose it if: this Blue Ridge Parkway road trip is perfect if you are planning a relaxing summer weekend road trip in the mountains

4 – Great River Road

Where: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana

Start: Lake Itasca (MN)

End: Venice (LA)

Length: 3,330 Km – 2070 miles

How long: min 6 max 10 days

Best period: autumn

Choose it if: you want to see the many colors of the Mississippi River Valley

• Fort Snelling (MN): this visit deserves at least 2h;
• Cahokia Mounds (IL): another couple of hours shall be dedicated to this archeological site featuring an ancient native necropolis;
• Natchez (MS): the oldest settlement on the Mississippi River is worth a day of sightseeing thanks to its old-style architecture;
• New Orleans (LA): spend 2 or 3 days in this cosmopolitan city where American, French, and African cultural roots are mixed together;

5 – US Route 50

Where: California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, District of Columbia, Maryland

Start: Sacramento (CA)

End: Ocean City (MD)

Length: 4,946 Km – 3,070 miles

How long: min 10 max 15 days

• Placerville (CA): half a day is enough to visit this ancient gold rush town;
• Lake Tahoe (NV): a relaxing day by the lake or taking a boat tour;
• Colorado National Monument (CO): you can drive around all day long – you can also make a stop at nearby Garden of the Gods and go on a hike;
• Salisbury (MD): save at least a couple of hours to hike in the Pemberton Historical Park or rent a kayak for a day trip on the river;

Best period: spring

Choose it if: you’ve always wanted to do a “coast to coast” road trip and feel like a pioneer

Related article – Best Places to Visit in Utah: 100 Adventures for Your Family’s Bucket List

6 – US Highway 2 Road Trip

Where: Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine

Start: Everett (WA)

End: Houlton (ME)

Length: 3,404 Km – 2110 miles

How many days: min 8 max 15

The unmissable stops:

• Acadia National Park (ME): you should spend at least 3 days in Acadia to be able to fully enjoy the natural wonders of this national park at the heart of the New England Region ;
• Hiawatha National Forest (MI): an unmissable camping site to sleep under the stars;
• Lake Spokane (WA): save at least half a day for a boat tour;
• Seattle (WA): spend a weekend in the Emerald City to visit its museums and its many parks. Don’t forget to climb up to the top of the iconic Space Needle;

Best period: late spring (make sure to check out our complete Spring trip packing list !)

Choose it if: you want to spend several days into the wild.

7 – Oregon Trail

Where: Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon

Start: Independence (MO)

End: Oregon City (OR)

Length: 3,218 Km – 1,380 miles

How long: 1 week

• Chimney Rock (NE): one of the most iconic points of interest of the whole trail – if you have time and want to go for an easy hike, you can check out nearby Saddle Rock Trail ;
• Devil’s Gate (WY): stop to watch this landmark that was an important place for the first pioneers going westward;
• Three Islands Crossing State Park (ID): save 1 full day to go hiking in the park and visit its cultural center;
• Hat Rock Loop (OR): a great hike and a perfect place to stop for a picnic;

Best period: late spring

Choose it if: you are searching for a road trip mixing driving and hiking.

8 – Great Northern Road Trip

Where: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Québec, Ontario, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington

Start: Acadia National Park (ME)

End: Seattle (WA)

Length: 5,793 Km – 3,600 miles

How long: min 15 max 22 days

Choose it if: you want to go on road trip to escape the city and dive into some pristine nature

• City of Rocks National Reserve (ID): spend a weekend hiking the geological interpretative trail and try some rock climbing too;
• Glacier National Park (MT): save another weekend to hike among glaciers;
• Munising (MN): stop for a couple of hours to admire the lovely Munising Falls just outside the town;
• Mackinac Island (MI): a weekend there is what you need to explore the natural beauties of the island such as the Arch Rock or the Conservatory of Butterflies;

Related article – Best Spring Break destinations for families

9 – Appalachian Trail

Where: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia

Start: Baxter State Park (ME)

End: Springer Mountain (GA)

Length: 3,540 Km – 2,200 miles

Choose it if: you like hiking and nature

• Bash Bish Falls State Park (ME): the highest waterfall in Maine is worth a hike and a picnic;
• Crawford Notch State Park (NH): half a day is enough for a scenic and easy hike;
• Shenandoah National Park (VA): save 1 full day for some hikes in this unmissable national park;
• Tallulah Gorge State Park (GA): if you’re running out of time, save only a couple of hours for an easy hike;
• Atlanta (GA): spend a day visiting the city’s iconic sites and don’t miss Atlanta’s beautiful murals ;

10 – Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Where: Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida

Start: Kennebunkport (ME)

End: Key West (FL)

Length: 2,574 Km – 1,600 miles

How long: min 8 max 15 days

• Boston (MA): a full day is barely enough to get an overview of this city. Follow the Freedom Trail and relax in the Boston Public Garden before experiencing the American Revolution inside the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum;
• New York City: if New York City is on your bucket list don’t miss spending a day or two in the city that never sleeps discovering some of the best things to do in New York ;
• Hatteras Island (NC): spend a weekend surfing and swimming;
• Savannah (GA) : a weekend in this lovely Southern city is always a good idea. Don’t miss its perfectly preserved historic district;
• Miami: it deserves at least a weekend since Miami is full of things to see and do . Explore the colorful Wynwood Art District, do some shopping downtown and relax on the iconic South Beach;

Best period: early summer

Choose it if: you want a road trip that will take you through some beautiful coastal cities and to also enjoy some beach life now and then.

11 – Route 93 – Border to Border

Where: Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, Montana, Alberta Canada

Start: Nogales (Mexico)

End: Jasper National Park (Canada)

Length: 3,612 Km – 2245 miles

How long: min 5 max 10 days

• Great Basin National Park (NV): it requires at least a couple of days to visit Lehman caves and enjoy some scenic hikes;
• Crater of the Moon National Monument (ID): spend at least a couple of hours in the place where the first astronauts trained before landing on the moon. When you’ll see this weird landscape, you’ll understand why they chose it!
• Grand Canyon (AZ) : if you just want to take some pictures and enjoy the view, you can spend half a day driving around
• Jasper National Park (Canada): end your trip with a weekend in Canada to admire the famous Maligne Canyon and spot some local wildlife

Choose it if: you want to experience American wilderness in all its forms

Related – Best family-friendly destinations in Arizona

12 – Road to Nowhere

Where: Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Manitoba Canada

Start: Matamoros (Mexico)

End: Swan River (Canada)

Length: 3,300 Km – 2,050 miles

• Knife River Indian Villages (ND): spend a couple of hours learning more about native tribes and their everyday life;
• Sitting Bull Memorial (SD): pay tribute to this iconic historical character;
• Land of Oz (KS): don’t miss a short visit to the Dorothy’s House in Liberal;
• Utopia (TX): if you’re a biker, stop to visit the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum;

Best period: spring or autumn

Choose it if: you like the most “out-of-the-beaten-paths” itineraries

13 – US 80 – Southern Pacific Road Trip

Where: California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia

Start: San Diego (CA)

End: Savannah (GA)

Length: 5,632 Km – 3,500 miles

• Santa Monica (CA): enjoy a weekend by the sea in this fancy town;
• Tobstone (AZ): step back in time and experience the atmosphere of the Old Wild West;
• Roswell (NM): don’t miss a stop at the International UFO Museum and Research Center to commemorate the historical Roswell incident;
• Montgomery (AL): spend 1 day visiting all the most important places linked to the Civil Rights Movement (Legacy Museum, Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Martin Luther King Home etc.) and learn more about all the main characters of that period;
• Savannah (GA): spend your last few days exploring Savannah .

Choose it if: you want a varied road trip itinerary including beaches, entertainment, culture, and history.

14 – Hana Highway Road Trip

Where: Maui Island, Hawaii

Start: Kahului

Length: 103 Km – 63 miles

How long: min 5h max 2 days

Choose it if: you are on holiday on Maui island and you want to explore some of its natural beauties and go on a road trip.

• Maui Nui Botanical Gardens: spend at least 2h wandering through the different species of local plants and flowers;
• Twin Falls: take a break a have a swim in this tropical paradise;
• Haipua’ena Falls: this secret sport is often unknown by tourists, so you can spend a couple of hours in peace;
• Waianapanapa State Park: the shortest hike requires about 1h30;

15 – Chicago to Shawnee National Forest Road Trip

Where: Illinois

Start: Chicago

End: Shawnee National Forest

Length : 563 Km – 350 miles

Choose it if: you are a nature lover and you love camping and hiking

• The Garden of the Gods Trail: a 1h hike that’s quite easy and full of wild flowers;
• Trail of Tears: learn more about the story of the Cherokee tribes exiled to the government-designated lands;
• Inspiration Point Trail: a short trek by the river with some amazing views;
• Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area: the best camping area of the park;

16 – 17Mile Drive

Where: California

Start: Pacific Grove

End: Pebble Beach

Length: 27 Km – 17 miles

How long: 1h

Choose it if: you are searching for a romantic gateway.

• Spanish Bay Beach;
• Fanshell Beach Overlook;
• The Lone Cypress;
• Pebble Beach: spend a relaxing day off playing golf or sunbathing on the beach;

17 – US 1 Florida Keys Road Trip

Where: Florida

Start: Miami

End: Key West

Length: 181 Km – 112miles

How long: min 1 max 5 days

• Key Largo: spend an entire day snorkeling in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park;
• Seven Mile Bridge: everybody stops on this old bridge to take a picture on their way to Key West! That’s the symbol of this iconic highway running above the ocean;
• Bahia Honda State Park: for a relaxing day on the beach, choose this State park which is also a peaceful place in the low season;
• Key West: you can easily spend a whole weekend (or more) here among its beaches, souvenir shops, traditional wooden houses, and typical restaurants and bars;

Best period: winter

Choose it if: you want to experience driving above the ocean and swim in a tropical environment, spending some time at the beach.

18 – Route 12 Road Trip

Where: Washington, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan

Start: Aberdeen (WA)

End: Detroit (MI)

Length: 3,998 Km – 2500 miles

How long : min 8 max 15 days

• Minneapolis (MN): spend a weekend exploring the city and its many parks;
• Gary (IN): if you are a music fan, stop at the house where Michael Jackson and his siblings were born!
• Chicago (IL): it deserves at least a weekend of sightseeing thanks to its innovative architecture. Don’t miss the Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile;
• Detroit (MI): if you’re running out of time, save at least 1 full day to visit a couple of museums like the Detroit Institute of Arts or the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation;

Choose it if: you are interested in doing some sightseeing

19 – Bluebonnet Trail

Where: Texas

Start: Burnet

End: Johnson City

Length: 106 Km – 66 miles

How long: 2h or a whole weekend

• Burnet: the perfect place to stay overnight, since it’s nicknamed the “capital of bluebonnet”;
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area: spend at least a couple of hours in this idyllic landscape to take plenty of pictures;
• Fredericksburg: spend a couple of hours in one of its many wineries or stay overnight for some sightseeing;
• Johnson City: spend a couple of hours visiting the house where President Lindon Johnson spent his childhood;

Best period: late March – early April

Choose it if: you want to see the blooming of the bluebonnets in the Texan countryside

20 – North Shore Drive Road Trip

Where: Minnesota

Start: Duluth

End: Grand Portage State Park

Length: 239 Km – 148 miles

How long: min 3 max 6 days

Best period: September – October

Choose it if: you want to admire the Autumn foliage by the lake.

• Two Harbours: stop for a couple of pictures of the majestic Lake Superior;
• Gooseberry Falls State Park: reach the waterfalls with an easy hike that will take about half a day;
• Black Beach: also called “onyx beach” for its black color, it’s a perfect spot for a picnic;
• Lutsen: spend a weekend in the mountains and don’t miss a ride on the Mountain Tram!

21 – Trail Ridge Road

Where: Colorado

Start: Estes Park

End: Grand Lake

Length: 77 Km – 48 miles

How long: 2h

• Farview Curve Overlook: one of the best spots for your pictures;
• Gore Range Overlook: to admire the highest peaks of the range;
• Many Parks Curve Overlook: it’s often the busiest lookout but it’s worth a stop;
• Alpine Ridge Trail: it’s quite hard but the wonderful view from its top is really worth it!

Choose it if: you want to admire the majestic beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park , one of the best national parks in Colorado.

Alternative route: Denver to Aspen road trip for a longer route passing through many of Colorado’s highlights.

22 – Kancamagus Highway

Where: New Hampshire

Start: Lincoln

End: Conway

Length: 90 Km – 56 miles

How long: min 1h max 4h

Best period : late September – early October

Choose it if: you want to take some Autumn pictures in nature and see fall foilage.

• Albany Covered Bridge: stretch your legs walking across this ancient wooden covered bridge;
• Swift River: the most Instagram-friendly place along the road;
• Russel Colbath Homestead: you’ll need about 30 minutes to visit this old house telling you some ancient stories;
• Champney Falls: a 2h hike will lead you to these spectacular waterfalls that are worth a stop for some pictures;

23 – Going-to-the-Sun Road

Where: Montana

Start: West Glacier

End: Logan Pass

Length: 80 Km – 50 miles

How long: min 3h max 4 days

• Grinnell Glacier: a 2-day trek will lead you up to this glacier where you’ll be able to spot some icebergs on the lake!
• Weeping Wall: streams falling from a cliff and forming a thaw waterfall in spring and summer;
• Hidden Lake: spend at least 1h hiking up to this beautiful lookout;
• Logan Pass Visitor Center: visit its exhibitions and learn more about the history of Glacier National Park;

Best period: from late June to early August

Choose it if: you feel like admiring some alpine landscapes and some glaciers.

24 – Death Valley Scenic Drive Road Trip

Start: Olancha

End: Dante’s View

Length : 209 Km – 130 miles

How long: min 3h max 1 full day

• Badwater Basin: hike for a couple of hours in this iconic place located -86m below sea level;
• Zabriskie Point: spend some time taking pictures in one of the most scenic places of the Death Valley;
• Artist’s Palette: a weird rocky formation seeming colored by a painter that’s worth a quick stop;
• Dante’s View: end your trip with an easy hike leading you to the top of this rocky formation at almost 2,000 ft (1500m);

Choose it if: you like rocky and desertic landscapes.

25 – Olympic Peninsula Loop

Where: Washington

Start/End: loop in the Olympic Peninsula National Park

Length: 529 Km – 330 miles

Best period: late winter

Choose it if: you like snowy landscapes and wild forests.

• Brementon: stop for a couple of hours to visit the USS Turner Joy Museum Ship;
• Ruby Beach: the perfect place to watch the sunset;
• Cape Flattery: save at least 2h for this hike overlooking the ocean and passing through a pine forest;
• Sol Duc Falls: a 1h hike will lead you to these beautiful waterfalls;

Check out some of our other USA Travel Guides:

• Best California vacation spots for families
• Epic Spring Break destinations
• Best travel destinations on the East Coast
• USA epic winter bucket list

About the author

From Italy, Chiara is a travel designer, writer and freelance travel consultant. She works with travel professionals worldwide, helping them with content creation, research activities, and other travel-related tasks. When she’s not writing, she’s out and about visiting World Heritage Sites around the world.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

The 14 Most Scenic Drives In The U.S.

• Destinations
• Road Trips In The U.S.
• Scenic Byways
• Types of Travel
• United States

From the moment the first Model Ts rolled off the assembly line in Detroit, Michigan, Americans in big cities and small towns couldn’t get enough of the automobile. Over the past century, they’ve increasingly slid behind the wheel to explore both regional two-lane highways and wide interstates that stretch from coast to coast.

Today, Americans travel hundreds of miles by car to explore new places, and it’s easy to understand why. Not only are road trips affordable, but they give travelers maximum flexibility to explore. America is certainly full of breathtaking scenery, from majestic mountains capped with snow to miles of sandy beaches and everything in between.

These are the 14 most scenic drives in the United States, from sea to shining sea.

1. Coastal Highway 1

Beginning with America’s First Mile in Fort Kent, Maine, U.S. Route 1 stretches the length of the eastern United States for more than 2,400 miles from Maine to Key West.

Heading south, the highway bids adieu to the Canadian border in Calais, Maine, and begins hugging the rocky shore, delivering incredible views all the way to New Hampshire along the section of U.S. Route 1 known as Coastal Highway 1.

Take a slight detour in Ellsworth, Maine, and head south to spend a day in Acadia National Park . See how many of the state’s 65 historic lighthouses you can spot along your scenic drive, and never pass up a chance to enjoy a lobster roll .

2. Ocean Drive

Rhode island.

Compared with the 526 miles that Coastal Highway 1 extends through Maine, this next scenic drive is just 10 miles long, but it still delivers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. Winding around the southern coast of Aquidneck Island, this scenic drive begins near Fort Adams State Park and ends with the impressive seaside mansions of Newport .

During your drive, you can see the cream-and-tan Castle Hill Lighthouse and the colorful, kite-filled Brenton Point State Park. If you want to stretch your legs, take a stroll along the cliff walk that extends 3.5 miles along the island’s eastern shore.

3. Skyline Drive

About 100 miles west of the hustle and bustle of the Washington, D.C. metro area, Skyline Drive runs lengthwise through Shenandoah National Park . Enjoy more than 70 scenic overlooks as you wind through the azure- and emerald-tinted Blue Ridge Mountains veiled in a misty haze. It typically takes about three hours to complete this scenic drive, but be sure to allow additional time to hike to waterfalls, enjoy a picnic, and scout for wildlife if the weather and your itinerary allow.

4. Overseas Highway

More than 2,000 miles south of the mountains in Maine are the last 100 miles of U.S. Route 1. The Overseas Highway boasts more than 40 bridges and hovers just above the water through the Florida Keys. It takes about 4 hours to travel this scenic highway from Miami to Key West , but you’ll want to allow at least another 2 hours in each direction to admire the scenery, inhale the salty breezes, and enjoy conch fritters and a slice of Key lime pie.

5. Route 66

Traversing 2,400 miles from the Windy City of Chicago through the Rocky Mountain Divide to the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is famous for being one of the nation’s first interstate roads connecting two of America’s biggest cities.

While the Mother Road was largely circumvented by the four-lane federal interstates that began crisscrossing the nation during the Eisenhower administration and was officially decommissioned in 1985, it remains one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. for nostalgic history lovers drawn to its unique combination of decaying and restored landmarks.

6. Needles Highway

South dakota.

The majority of the 14 million tourists arriving in South Dakota each year visit Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial . After gazing up at the images of Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt, chiseled into the granite mountains, head west for the next portion of your journey. Just two-tenths of a mile south of the intersection of U.S. 385 and South Dakota Highway 244 you will find South Dakota Highway 87 and the entrance to Needles Highway.

Leave plenty of time to explore this gorgeous 14-mile-long drive past tall, narrow granite “needle” formations jutting up from the earth. Enjoy many switch backs and narrow tunnels along this meandering drive that takes you into the very heart of Custer State Park , a state park that rivals many of the most well-known national parks. Portions that run through the park itself do require you to pay the park fee, but this is a small price to pay for the natural beauty you will encounter.

Take a brief detour south of U.S. Route 16A to Wildlife Loop Road, where you’ll see bison herds and scenes that will remind you of Dances with Wolves . This is just the beginning of a 70-mile scenic drive through the Black Hills of South Dakota along South Dakota 87.

7. Flint Hills National Scenic Byway

While most travelers appreciate the grandeur of majestic mountains, rugged coastlines, and ocean views, the beauty of the last stretch of unmowed prairie in the Flint Hills may not be as universally appreciated. But when you leave Interstate 70 and travel this 47-mile national scenic byway along Kansas Highway 177 south to Cassoday, Kansas, you’ll be treated to views of rolling hills dotted with wildflowers and prairie grasses that change colors with the seasons. You won’t find that on America’s coasts!

8. El Camino Real

For hundreds of years, North American natives traveled a 1,600-mile trade route from Mexico City to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Known as El Camino Real (the Royal Highway), it was used to move crops, livestock, turquoise, and other goods between Mesoamerica and the Rocky Mountains.

While wagon caravans and conquistadors on horseback took months to travel this road, you can drive the 300 miles of desert landscape from the U.S.-Mexico border to north of Santa Fe in the air-conditioned comfort of your vehicle in about 5 hours. Allow more time to make stops in the cities along the way, like Las Cruces and Albuquerque.

9. Going-To-The-Sun Road

Without stopping to breathe in the crisp mountain air, observe the wildlife, or snap a picture by the sign on Logan Pass that marks the continental divide, it takes about 2 hours to travel the 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road . Since the highest point along the route exceeds 6,600 feet, this scenic drive is only open a few months of the year — typically not until at least June.

One unique way to see this scenic drive is from the comfortable bench seats of the park’s famous red buses . Why not experience Going-to-the-Sun Road by sitting back and letting a local drive and narrate your journey? While each guide takes a different approach, you’ll likely learn about the Native American tale tied to Wild Goose Island in the middle of Saint Mary Lake, the animals that make their home in this part of Northern Montana, and the latest facts and figures about the park’s shrinking glaciers.

10. Beartooth Highway

Winding through the mountains and past crystal-clear lakes, Beartooth Highway is a 70-mile section of U.S. Route 212 that connects the ski town of Red Lodge, Montana , to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park near Cooke City, Montana.

Because this scenic drive climbs to nearly 11,000 feet above sea level, it’s not uncommon to pass 8-foot-tall packed snowbanks, meadows filled with snow, and even skiers when driving through Beartooth Pass at the peak of summer. As with Going-to-the-Sun Road, you’ll need to plan ahead and check the road conditions to travel the entire length of this scenic drive, even in summer.

11. Scenic Byway 12

This scenic drive bisects the Escalante Mountains connecting Capitol Reef National Park with Bryce Canyon National Park . Starting in Torrey, Utah, the 120-mile journey begins with the arid rock formations of Bryce Canyon and transforms into the open meadows and aspen and pine forests of the Boulder Mountains. In the Dixie National Forest, you can enjoy the incredible views at Powell Point Vista and gaze at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument as you continue toward Henrieville, Utah. Scenic Byway 12 wraps up with the red arches in Red Canyon near Panguitch, Utah.

12. Pacific Coast Highway

Spanning nearly the entire West Coast of America, from Washington State to Southern California, Highway 101 is one of the most famous scenic drives in the U.S. However, about 200 miles south into California from the Oregon border, in the town of Leggett, California, Highway 1 breaks off from Highway 101 and heads directly for the coast. For the next 650 miles, Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway ) hugs the Golden State’s rocky coast, occasionally reconnecting with Highway 101.

Pro Tip: To treat yourself to the most spectacular views along this scenic drive, travel the Pacific Coast Highway from north to south.

13. 17-Mile Drive

Either as a detour from the Pacific Coast Highway or as a stand-alone experience, consider California’s 17-Mile Drive , which clings to the Monterey Peninsula.

Begin your scenic journey in Pacific Grove, California , just a short drive from the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium , and travel counterclockwise past Asilomar State Beach and several Instagram-worthy spots like Spanish Bay and China Rock.

As the road approaches the Pebble Beach Golf Links , don’t miss the Lone Cypress. Standing tall (and alone) at the end of a granite hillside overlooking Carmel Bay, this 250-year-old evergreen is one of the most photographed trees in the U.S.

14. Road To Hana

Across the Pacific on the Hawaiian island of Maui , the Road to Hana is a must-do experience in the Aloha State. While many of the drives described above feature hairpin turns or a large number of bridges, the Road to Hana has both. The speed limit on this highway tops out at 25 miles per hour, so be sure to allow a minimum of 3 hours to navigate its multiple blind spots, more than 600 hairpin curves, and nearly 60 one-lane bridges.

In addition to appreciating amazing tropical views of rainbows and waterfalls, you can enjoy fresh pineapple, purchase fragrant leis, and browse handmade crafts at a variety of roadside stands along this scenic drive.

Related Reading:

• 20 Road Trip Essentials I’ve Learned To Never Hit The Road Without
• 13 Scenic Road Trips To Experience In Canada In 2023
• 15 Scenic Road Trips To Experience In The U.S. In 2023

Bitten by the travel bug as a preschooler when her family moved abroad for the first time, Sage Scott is addicted to travel. From her nomadic upbringing in a military family to her personal and professional travels as an adult, Sage has visited all 50 states, lived abroad twice, and explored nearly 30 other countries.

Now settled in America’s Heartland, Sage writes with a midlife traveler’s perspective from Kansas City — the Midwestern cowtown affectionately called the Paris of the Plains and the undisputed Barbecue Capital of the World — and is always in search of new experiences whether in her hometown or halfway around the world.

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.

30 Best Road Trips In USA: Most Scenic Drives In America

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 24, 2022

UPDATED: April 12, 2024

The United States has hundreds of scenic road trip routes through national parks, mountains, deserts, coastlines and forests. You can drive iconic US road trips like Route 66 and the Pacific Coast Highway, but there’s also lesser known areas, shorter drives and unique routes you can create from scratch. We’ve racked up some serious milage driving around America, and we’re here to help you find a new adventure.

In this guide we show you 30 amazing USA road trips to add to your bucket list, based on our own experiences.

Our US Road Trip Experience

We’ve driven many of the great American road trips across more than 30 US states since we began traveling full time in 2018. Our trusty Ford Escape “Big Blue” has stickers from the likes of CA, WA, UT, AZ, WY, SD, VT, NH, NY, NC, VA and other popular US road trip destinations. Read more about us .

Over the last 6 years, we’ve driven every single one of the short US road trips and custom routes you’ll find listed in this guide. We’d love to drive one of those epic long distance USA road trips like the Atlantic Coast in the near future. Sticking to the coastline from Miami to Boston sounds awesome, right?

About This Guide

We’ve rounded up the most scenic, iconic and adventurous road trips in the US to help you create a bucket list filled with amazing routes covering as many American states as possible.

Road trips in this guide are based on legend and our own experiences. The list is in alphabetical order but stick around until the end to see our personal top 5 USA road trips ranked!

1. American Southwest

• Start : Las Vegas, NV
• End : Las Vegas, NV
• Distance : 1,700 miles
• Days : 10-14
• Season : Year round

The American Southwest road trip is a 1,700-mile loop through Utah and Arizona featuring some of the most famous natural attractions in the USA. Our longer and slower version of the classic US southwest route includes Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks, Kanab, Page, Grand Canyon National Park and Sedona.

We’ve driven around Utah and Arizona twice. They’re two of our favorite US road trip states because they’re overflowing with hikes, photo spots and dramatic formations. You can create shorter versions of this route, but allow for 14 days to tick off the top highlights.

Places to visit:

• Valley of Fire State Park
• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Arches National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Monument Valley
• Grand Canyon North Rim
• Grand Canyon South Rim

2. Anchorage To Valdez

• Start : Anchorage
• End : Valdez
• Distance : 300 miles
• Season : Summer

The Anchorage to Valdez road trip is a 300-mile point to point route in Alaska featuring striking mountains and glaciers. It takes around 6-7 hours without stops but you should plan for one full day with stops. Matanuska Glacier and Wrangell-St Elias National Park are the two places you shouldn’t miss.

With two days , we would add a side trip from Anchorage to Kenai Fjords National Park. Or for a truly unforgettable 14 day Alaskan adventure, we would road trip from Seward to Valdez via Fairbanks. This would include Kenai Fjords, Denali and Wrangell-St Elias National Parks. Wow!

• Eklutna Historical Park
• Reindeer farm
• Matanuska Glacier
• Wrangell St Elias National Park
• Worthington Glacier

3. Appalachian Trail

• Start : Monson, ME
• End : Suches, GA
• Distance : 1,350 miles
• Days : 5-10
• Season : Spring-fall

The Appalachian Trail is among the most famous hikes in the US . But what if you don’t have half a year spare to trek over 2,000 miles through 14 states from Georgia to Maine? Well, you drive it instead. This 1,350-mile route hits the major highlights of the hike but rather than walk, you drive between the popular national parks and mountain ranges.

Over the last decade we’ve driven or hiked many parts of the Appalachian Mountains. We think this route is a fantastic way to experience the most scenic natural wilderness areas on the US east coast. Start in Maine at the beginning of October to follow peak fall foliage colors south through New Hampshire, Vermont, Virginia and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Shenandoah National Park
• Green Mountains
• White Mountains
• Mount Washington

4. Atlantic Coast

• Start : Miami
• End : Boston
• Days : 14-21

The Atlantic Coast road trip is a 1,700-mile long distance US east coast route hugging the coastline between Miami and Boston . It stops at the major tourist destinations and cities along the eastern seaboard, and it can easily be adapted to suit your timeframe.

I-95 runs the full length of the Atlantic Coast but you should stick to coastline hugging roads as much as possible for the most scenic and enjoyable experience. There’s lots of additional stops you can make with more time, including Myrtle Beach, Wilmington, Virginia Beach and Philadelphia.

• Outer Banks
• Washington DC
• New York City

5. Black Hills South Dakota

• Start : Rapid City, SD
• End : Rapid City, SD
• Distance : 550 miles

The Black Hills of South Dakota road trip is a 550-mile loop featuring attractions like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Badlands National Park and Needles Highway. It’s great for couples and families, with scenic drives, excellent hikes and historic wild west towns to discover. There’s more fun things to do near Mount Rushmore than you might imagine.

We’ve driven through South Dakota twice, first in October 2019 and again in April 2021. We think the Black Hills are most beautiful in fall when golden and green leaves complement its granite rocks. It’s a hugely underrated region that deserves to be on every USA road trip bucket list.

• Badlands National Park
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial
• Custer State Park
• Needles Highway
• Iron Mountain Road
• Wind Cave National Park
• Crazy Horse Memorial
• Devils Tower National Monument

Further Reading : South Dakota road trip itinerary ideas

6. Blue Ridge Parkway

• Start : Waynesboro, VA
• End : Cherokee, NC
• Distance : 469 miles

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic 469-mile road trip route connecting Shenandoah National Park, VA with Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC . It’s the most visited National Park Service site in the US, receiving 15.7 million recreational visitors in 2022. Fall is the best time to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for vibrant foliage colors.

We’re moving to North Carolina in 2024 and the Blue Ridge Parkway is top of our own American road trip bucket list. We’ll begin in Waynesboro around October 20th and spend a week slowly driving down to Cherokee to follow the peak colors. Maybe we’ll see you along the way.

• Natural Bridge
• Grandfather Mountain State Park
• Mount Mitchell State Park
• Biltmore Estate

7. Border To Border

• Start : Jasper National Park, Canada
• End : Nogales, AZ
• Distance : 2,245 miles

The Border to Border road trip follows US-93 from Jasper, Canada to Nogales, Arizona on the Mexican border. US Highway 93 is a 2,245-mile route featuring a wide range of scenery, including striking mountains, alien landscapes and arid desert.

The best part of this route? You’ll see some of the most visually stunning national parks in North America but also have a few days to splurge in Vegas !

• Jasper National Park
• Banff National Park
• Glacier National Park
• Craters of the Moon
• Great Basin National Park
• Las Vegas attractions
• Saguaro National Park

8. Coastal New England

• Start : Cape Cod, MA
• End : Bar Harbor, ME
• Distance : 450 miles

The Coastal New England road trip is a 450-mile road trip following Routes 6, 3A and 1 from Cape Cod, MA to Acadia National Park, ME . It’s a hugely popular itinerary with stops in quaint coastal towns throughout Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine.

We drove the New England coastline from Acadia to Portland after the peak fall colors in October 2019. It was too late in the season to sunbathe on the beach or take a whale watching tour. But it was quiet, relaxing and affordable at hotels in towns like Boothbay Harbor and Portland.

• Plymouth Rock
• Salem at Halloween
• Kennebunkport
• Portland Head Lighthouse
• Boothbay Harbor
• Acadia National Park

9. Deep South

• Start : Charleston, SC
• End : New Orleans, LA
• Distance : 1,100 miles

The Deep South road trip is a 1,100-mile route featuring the highlights of South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana in the southern United States. You can learn about the civil rights movement, discover the birthplace of American music and eat some of the best barbecue food in the world.

The Southern Belle states offer an authentic, immersive and off the beaten path American road trip experience. You can easily adapt this route to include Memphis, Nashville, Asheville, the Smokies and Florida with more time.

• Fort Sumter National Monument
• Forsyth Park
• Tybee Island
• Georgia Aquarium
• MLK Jr Historic Site
• Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
• The Legacy Museum
• National WWII Museum
• French Quarter

10. Great Northern

• Start : Everett, WA
• End : Houlton, ME
• Distance : 3,400 miles
• Season : Summer-fall

The Great Northern is a 3,300-mile road trip following US-2 from Everett, WA to Houlton, ME . Part of the route passes through Canada’s Ontario and Quebec regions, bridging the gap between Michigan and New York.

US Highway 2 takes you through valleys, mountains, plains, lakes, logging towns and national parks. It’s one of the long distance routes we’d love to drive one day. And we’d definitely drive it in late September through early October for the best colors.

• Leavenworth
• Coeur d’Alene
• Grand Rapids
• Isle Royale National Park

11. Great River Road

• Start : Minneapolis, MN
• Distance : 2,000 miles
• Days : 7-14

The Great River Road is a 2,000-mile long road trip following the Mississippi River through 10 states from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico . Multiple local, state and federal roads were combined to create the GRR National Scenic Byway, which is signposted with a green pilot’s wheel and steamboat from the first mile to the last.

Are you a foodie or music lover? This could be the perfect route for you. It’s far from the busy tourist attractions and cities on the coasts. The Great River Road is about eating, drinking and singing your way from Minneapolis to New Orleans.

• Minneapolis
• New Orleans

12. Historic Columbia River Highway

• Start : Portland, OR
• End : Hood River, OR
• Distance : 60 miles

The Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway road trip is a 65-mile one way drive between Portland and Hood River in Oregon. It twists around cliffs with views of the gorge before descending into the Waterfall Corridor, which is a 12-mile stretch of the highway with various hiking trails leading to waterfalls.

We drove both the Oregon and Washington sides of the Columbia River Gorge in 2021, stopping to hike dozens of fantastic waterfall trails. It’s great if you’re traveling as a family or couple and you love to hike. We think the Columbia River Gorge is one of the best bang for your buck US road trips.

• Latourell Falls
• Bridal Veil Falls
• Wakheena Falls
• Multnomah Falls
• Mt Hood Scenic Byway

13. Kancamagus Highway

• Start : Lincoln, NH
• End : Conway, NH
• Distance : 35 miles

The Kancamagus Highway is a 35-mile long scenic byway through the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Also known as Route 112, the Kancamagus Highway runs from Lincoln to Conway and it’s regarded as one of the best places in the world to see fall foliage colors.

We’ve driven the Kancamagus Highway twice in peak fall foliage season and it’s nothing short of magical. It has dramatic and far reaching views over rolling hills, fun waterfall hikes and countless stunning photo spots. Add The Kanc to your USA road trip bucket list and drive it at the beginning of October .

• Hancock Overlook
• Pemigewasset Overlook
• Sabbaday Falls
• Champney Falls
• Rocky Gorge
• Albany Covered Bridge

Further Reading : Best stops on the Kancamagus Highway road trip

14. Los Angeles To Las Vegas

• Start : Los Angeles
• End : Las Vegas
• Distance : 1,050 miles

The most direct Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip is a 270-mile drive on I-15. But what if you took the scenic route instead? Our 1,050-mile long custom version of the LA to Vegas road trip features national parks, lakes, incredible hiking trails and countless areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Ditch the boring drive on I-15 and explore both sides of the Sierra Nevada Mountains instead. The route passes through Yosemite on the way to Lake Tahoe, before dropping back down through Death Valley on the way to Las Vegas. It’s a far more scenic way for you to drive between LA and Las Vegas!

• Los Angeles
• Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park
• Yosemite National Park
• Death Valley National Park
• Red Rock Canyon

15. Loneliest Road

• Start : Sacramento, CA
• End : Ocean City, MD
• Distance : 3,100 miles
• Days : 14 – 21

The Loneliest Road is a 3,100-mile long cross-country road trip following US Route 50 from Sacramento, CA to Ocean City, MD . US-50 is eerily remote from Lake Tahoe to Great Basin National Park, and in 1986 this desolate stretch of highway was dubbed as The Loneliest Road In America by Life magazine .

Also known as The Backbone of America , US Highway 50 will take you through 14 states, 4 state capitals and a wide range of landscapes, including mountains, deserts and flat plains.

• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Kansas City

16. Mount Rushmore To Yellowstone

• End : Jackson, WY
• Distance : 775 miles

The Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone road trip is a 775-mile route featuring the best of South Dakota’s Black Hills and the three most popular places to visit in Wyoming ; Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Jackson. It’s an easy route with just one long day of driving across the Bighorn Mountains.

We’ve driven from Mt Rushmore to Yellowstone twice. We think this route has to be classed as one of the best USA road trips because it has so many attractions, hikes, national parks and photo spots with very little wasted driving time. You should take Cloud Peak Skyway from Buffalo to Ten Sleep for the most scenic route across the Bighorn Mountains.

• Mount Rushmore
• Spearfish Canyon
• Devils Tower
• Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Teton National Park

Further Reading : Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone and Grand Teton road trip itinerary

17. Natchez Trace Parkway

• Start : Nashville, TN
• End : Natchez, MS
• Distance : 444 miles

The Natchez Trace Parkway road trip is a 444-mile scenic byway from Nashville, TN to Natchez, MS . It’s a relaxing route with 50mph speed limits and no stop lights. The byway connects the most popular parts of Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi.

This classic route following the Old Natchez Trace is all about music, civil war history and Americana. It’s free of commercialism and takes you into the heart of authentic American history. Looking for an easy going middle distance road trip on relaxing roads? This could be your best bet.

• Leiper’s Fork
• Muscle Shoals

18. New England In Fall

• Start : Lake Placid, NY
• End : Boston, MA
• Distance : 600 miles
• Season : Fall

The New England fall road trip is a 600-mile route through the most attractive towns, hiking areas, national forests, lakes and mountains in Vermont and New Hampshire during the peak fall foliage season. Parts of New York, Massachusetts and Maine can be included if you have more time.

We drove through New England during peak fall foliage season in both 2019 and 2023. It’s one of our favorite American road trips because every hike, photo spot, attraction and town is surrounded by radiant earthy colors. New England in fall should be somewhere near the top of your bucket list.

• Lake Placid NY
• Burlington VT
• Artists Bluff
• Flume Gorge
• Mt Washington
• Kancamagus Highway
• Lake Winnipesaukee
• Woodstock VT
• Manchester VT
• Mohawk Trail

Further Reading: New England fall foliage road trip itinerary

19. Olympic Peninsula Loop

• Start : Seattle, WA
• End : Seattle, WA
• Distance : 400 miles

The Olympic Peninsula Loop road trip is a 400-mile scenic drive around Olympic National Park, Washington . Spur roads filled with pot holes take you inside the loop to Olympic’s most picturesque mountains, hikes, rainforest and lakes.

We drove the Olympic Peninsula Loop road trip in October 2021. It’s a fun national park to explore because it has incredibly diverse scenery. Mount Storm King was our favorite hike and the unique Hoh Rainforest was our favorite photo spot.

• Port Townsend
• Hurricane Ridge
• Lake Crescent
• Hoh Rainforest
• Lake Quinault

20. Oregon Coast

• Start : Astoria, OR
• End : Brookings, OR
• Distance : 340 miles

The Oregon Coast road trip is a 340-mile coastal drive following Highway 101 from Astoria to Brookings . It features unique and photogenic rock formations, small coastal towns and epic sunsets. You can also include excellent side trips to Silver Falls State Park and Crater Lake National Park.

We drove the top half of the Oregon Coast road trip route in October 2021. After photographing Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach at sunset, we toured the Tillamook cheese factory and drove through Tillamook State Forest to Portland. We’ll definitely be back to complete the southern half sometime soon.

• Cannon Beach
• Pacific City
• Samuel H Boardman

21. Outer Banks Scenic Byway

• Start : Nags Head, NC
• End : Beaufort, NC
• Distance : 138 miles

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is a 138-mile long road trip following North Carolina Highway 12 between Nags Head and the intersection of US-70 and Merrimon Road near Beaufort . NC-12 is a narrow road flanked on both sides by the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound. It even includes two ferry rides.

We’ll be based in North Carolina in 2024 so we’ll definitely be driving the Outer Banks Scenic Byway as a priority once the weather is warmer. Our plan is to spend a few days lounging around on the beaches rather than rushing through it in a day.

• Wright Brothers National Memorial
• Jockey’s Ridge State Park
• Bodie Island Light Station
• Pea Island Wildlife Refuge
• Cape Hatteras
• Ocracoke Island

22. Overseas Highway

• Start : Monroe/Miami-Dade, FL
• End : Key West, FL
• Distance : 113 miles

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile long road trip with 44 islands and 43 bridges connecting Key Largo to Key West in the Florida Keys. There’s lots to see and do on the islands, including scuba diving, nightlife and beaches.

You can easily include potential side trips to Miami, Everglades National Park and maybe even The Bahamas?

• Biscayne National Park
• Seven Mile Bridge
• Dry Tortugas National Park

23. Pacific Coast Highway

• Start : Olympia, WA
• End : San Diego, CA
• Distance : 1,600 miles

The Pacific Coast Highway is a 1,600-mile road trip from Olympia, WA to San Diego, CA . Highway 101 and Highway 1 hug the US west coast for its full length through Washington, Oregon and California. The PCH has lots of fantastic stopping points, including national parks and major bucket list US cities.

We’ve driven most of the Pacific Coast Highway across various itineraries. It’s a diverse and incredibly scenic route with potential for a wide range of excellent side trips. The lower California coastline is by far the most popular part, but it’s nice and quiet to the north of San Francisco.

• Olympic National Park
• Redwood National Park
• San Francisco
• Santa Barbara

24. Road To Hana

• Start : Mile Marker Zero (Route 360), HI
• End : Hana, HI
• Distance : 34 miles

The Road To Hana is a famous 34-mile one way road trip route in Maui, Hawaii . It’s a popular route with heavy traffic because it passes through beautiful natural areas, waterfalls, hiking trails and viewpoints. The best way for you to see Maui is to drive beyond Hana and complete a full loop of the island.

• Garden of Eden
• Honomanu Bay
• Waianapanapa State Park

25. Route 66

• Start : Chicago, IL
• End : Santa Monica, CA
• Distance : 2,400 miles

US Highway 66, also known as Route 66, is an iconic 2,400-mile long distance US road trip from Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA . Once known as America’s Highway, Route 66 passes through 8 states and 3 time zones.

It’s not what it once was, but Route 66 remains the most famous great American road trip. We would choose other long distance routes before this one, but if you’re feeling nostalgic or want to drive an old legend, Route 66 still has life left in it yet.

• Gemini Giant
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Santa Monica

26. Salt Lake City To Yellowstone

• Start : Salt Lake City, UT
• End : Salt Lake City, UT
• Distance : 750 miles

The Salt Lake City to Yellowstone road trip is a 750-mile loop through Jackson , Grand Teton and Yellowstone . SLC has the closest major international airport to both national parks, so this is a popular driving route with lots of variations depending on how many days you have available.

We’re huge fans of Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Ideally, you’ll have one day in Salt Lake City, one day driving to Jackson, 1.5 days in Grand Teton and 3.5 days in Yellowstone for a total of 7 days . With less time you could skip SLC, or take a day each from the parks. But with more time, we recommend you add places around SLC like Park City, Bonneville Salt Flats or hiking in the Wasatch Mountains.

• Temple Square
• Wasatch Mountains
• Bonneville Salt Flats
• Grand Teton
• Yellowstone

Further Reading: Salt Lake City to Yellowstone road trip itinerary

27. San Francisco To San Diego

• Start : San Francisco, CA
• Distance : 630 miles

The San Francisco to San Diego road trip is a 630-mile route following the most popular section of the Pacific Coast Highway between San Francisco and San Diego in California. It features bucket list US cities, golden sandy beaches, spectacular coastal views and many more natural attractions.

We spent 12 days driving from San Francisco to San Diego in November 2021. You should plan for 3-5 days just for the coastal stops, plus the amount of time you want to spend in each of San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. Carmel, Big Sur and Santa Barbara were our favorite stops.

• Carmel-by-the-Sea

Further Reading : Best stops on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip

28. Southern Pacific

• Start : San Diego, CA
• End : Tybee Island, GA
• Distance : 2,671 miles

The Southern Pacific is a 2,900-mile long distance coast-to-coast road trip loosely following US Route 80 from San Diego, CA to Tybee Island, GA . It passes through 8 southern US states with stops at important historical and agricultural sites, national parks and major cities.

If you’re looking for a transcontinental route to drive in the winter months, this southern United States adventure could be perfect. It takes in some of the stops along the Deep South road trip but it also includes remote national parks in Texas and New Mexico.

• Guadalupe Mountain National Park
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park

29. US Route 20

• Start : Boston, MA
• End : Newport, OR
• Distance : 3,365 miles
• Days : 14-28

The US Route 20 road trip is a 3,365-mile long distance route following Highway 20 from Boston, MA to Newport, OR . It’s an attraction heavy cross-country route featuring national parks, major cities and various areas of outstanding beauty.

We’ve been to almost every major stopping point along Route 20 and we think it’s one of the best ways to travel east-west in America. There’s so much to see and it’s far more scenic than driving I-90. Trust us, we know!

• Watkins Glen
• Niagara Falls
• Indiana Dunes
• Silver Falls State Park

30. Zion To Bryce Canyon

• Start : Zion National Park, UT
• End : Bryce Canyon National Park, UT
• Distance : 87 miles

The Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip is a popular 87-mile loop from Las Vegas featuring two of the five Utah national parks. The major highlights in Zion and Bryce Canyon can be seen in just 2-4 days and there’s nothing to see in between so you won’t need any more time. Plan for more time in Zion if you’re a hiker and prioritize Bryce Canyon if you’re into photography.

We’ve spent 8 full days exploring Zion and 2 days in Bryce Canyon. We think they provide the perfect introduction to hiking and photography in Utah. Las Vegas airport gives you an easy, short and affordable loop route to both parks, so you can do it in a long weekend or midweek when it will be quieter.

• Angels Landing
• The Narrows
• Zion Canyon Overlook
• Kolob Canyons
• Bryce Canyon Amphitheater
• Queens Garden Navajo Loop

Further Reading : Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip itinerary

Our Top 5 USA Road Trips

It’s almost impossible for us to tell you what the best USA road trips are because it’s just too subjective . Our favorite might be your 5th favorite or 29th favorite. But for arguments sake, we’re going to show you our personal top 5 favorite USA road trips ranked in order.

• American Southwest
• New England fall foliage
• Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone
• San Francisco to San Diego
• Los Angeles to Las Vegas via Lake Tahoe

Don’t agree? Let us know your favorite American road trips in the comments below!

More From The US

• 50 best hikes in the USA
• 50 best places to visit in the USA
• 20 best national parks in the USA
• 20 best places to visit in Arizona
• 20 best places to visit in Utah
• 10 best places to visit in Vermont
• 10 best places to visit in Wyoming

More Road Trips

• Best road trip quotes
• Black Hills South Dakota
• Mt Rushmore to Yellowstone
• Salt Lake City to Yellowstone
• Utah road trip ideas
• Zion to Bryce Canyon

We hope this best USA road trips guide helps with planning your next American adventure!

Please let us know if you have any questions about this list in the comments box below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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20 Must-See Scenic Routes on a Trans-America Road Trip

• Last Updated: June 5, 2024
• 22 minutes read

You’re planning your next road trip using your RV road trip planner , and you want to know: What are the best scenic routes in America? As I’ve traveled around the United States some of my favorite moments have been driving scenic routes.

They’re better than interstates for many reasons, including: they’re quieter, less crowded, and they take you through the most beautiful landscapes on the planet.

There’s a lot of them though, and with so many options, we know how hard it can be to choose the best scenic drive.

So, we looked for scenic drives with the most breathtaking views, must-see sights, and unique scenery. Using these criteria, we found the top 20 scenic drives in North America. 

Along with the best scenic routes in the U.S., we also included the top three must-see sights for each scenic drive AND the best time of year to drive these most beautiful roads.

Since, these routes are sometimes isolated, and include clearance restrictions, hairpin turns, and steep inclines, we’ve also included some safety tips for driving scenic driving routes.

Let’s get started so you can get driving!

IN THIS ARTICLE

Safety on the Best Scenic Routes in America

Check fluids and tires.

Many of the best scenic routes are isolated. They lack the services that you’ll find along the bigger interstates such as mechanics, and sometimes even gas stations.

So, if you get a flat tire, you’re unlikely to find help nearby, and you might have limited or no cell-service. Uh-oh.

Getting caught in a situation like this can be stressful. Avoid it all together by consistently checking your fluids, tires, and gas levels while on the road. 

Check Road Restrictions

You’re driving one of the best road trips in the U.S. when your passenger starts shrieking.

The bright yellow sign above the tunnel ahead of you screams: CLEARANCE 11’ 3”.

You realize, in a fraction of a moment, that your RV stands at 12’ and you slam on the brakes. Fortunately, you stop in time, but now what?

Avoid this situation by planning ahead. Contact the Department of Transportation for the scenic route you plan on driving.

Ask them about it’s road restrictions, clearance levels, etc. It can save your RV, or even your life. 

Take it Slow

You feel like you’re on a rollercoaster. Another hairpin turn makes your stomach do a flip as you peer over at the driver.

Their white-knuckle grip on the steering wheel and wide-eyes do nothing to reassure you. Slow down. It’s the scenic route for a reason—you’re supposed to be enjoying the scenery. 

Many of the best roads in the U.S. are a little more perilous than their interstate counterparts.

Some travel along high cliffs, involve tight turns, or steep inclines. It’s best to take your time while driving on them so you avoid becoming a statistic. 

Use These Roadside Assistance Companies

When you’re traveling on one of the best scenic routes in the U.S. You want peace of mind.

These companies will help you when you get a flat tire, need to be towed, run out of gas, and more. Enlist in one of their plans so you don’t get caught in a bind. 

• Good Sam (Find a plan HERE)
• AAA (Find a plan HERE)
• Your Insurance Company

–Many major insurance companies offer roadside assistance , including: Allstate, Statefarm, Nationwide, Farmers, Progressive, etc.

America’s 20 Most Scenic Road-Trip Routes

1. pacific coast highway, california.

No other road in the state of California so thoroughly captures the Golden State’s spirit.

Along it’s 655-mile length you’ll find yourself driving past sun-drenched beaches near LA, over the Golden Gate Bridge near San Francisco, and below towering Redwood tress in Northern California.

It gets better! The entire highway winds along the Pacific Ocean, giving you breathtaking views the entire drive. It’s my favorite scenic road- trip route on this list. 

Where: California 1 and Highway 101 – California

What to See:

• Big Sur – 90 miles of the most beautiful coast in the world.
• San Francisco – Golden Gate Bridge, eclectic culture, Alcatraz, and more.
• Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park – Where Coastal Redwoods, the tallest trees in the world, meet the Pacific Ocean.

Best Time to Visit: Year-Round (Thank you beautiful, California beach weather)

2. Volcanic Scenic Byway, Northern California & Southern Oregon 

It’s sometimes easy to forget that the Northwestern U.S. hides a ring of volcanoes.

These slumbering behemoths molded the beautiful landscape into what it is today. 

Drive along it’s dark pine forests and among it’s towering mountain ranges.

It’s one of the best roads in the U.S. because it’s tall height seems to stand above the rest of the world. 

Where: Northern California & Southern Oregon 

What to See:  

• Crater Lake – Massive volcanic caldera filled with beautiful blue water, and featuring famous Wizard Island.
• Lassen Volcanic National Park – Golden Gate Bridge, eclectic culture, Alcatraz, and more.
• Mt. Shasta – Drive by it at sunset to see the definition of Purple Mountain Majesty

Best Time to Visit: Summer/Spring

3. The Overseas Highway, U.S. 1 – Florida Keys 

Florida is known for it’s year-round, sub-tropical climate. I mean come on, it’s pretty much a jungle paradise edged with sugar-white sand beaches.

Nowhere is this more apparent than along The Overseas Highway.

It’s basically one enormous bridge that connects the Florida Keys—a series of islands—with some of the best wildlife, natural features, and beaches in the world. You won’t find any other road like this in the United States. 

Where: U.S. 1 – Florida Keys 

• Florida Keys – The highway connects these islands, each one with a treasure of it’s own.
• Dry Tortugas National Park – Massive abandoned sea fort surrounded by flourishing coral reefs and picturesque blue water
• 7-Mile Bridge – One of the longest bridges in the world with beautiful Gulf waters on either side.

Best Time to Visit: Winter/Spring (Probably best to avoid hurricane season)

4. Route 66 – Missouri

Good ol’ Route 66. It’s the Mother of all Roads, giving birth to American road culture as we know it.

While the entire route, stretching from Illinois to California, is surely worth checking out, there’s a must-see section.

The Missouri segment passes through the Ozarks with it’s winding rivers, limestone caverns, and forested hills. 

Where: Route 66 – Missouri 

• The Lake of the Ozarks – Great place for water sports with more than 1100 miles of shoreline (more than California’s coast).
• 66 Drive-In – Recapture some of that road spirit. See a drive-in movie at the oldest drive-in along Route 66
• Gateway Arch – This 630-foot man-made arch in St. Louis welcomes visitors to the American West

Best Time to Visit: Late Spring/Summer

5. Monument Valley Scenic Route, Northern Arizona & Southern Utah

This must-see scenic route provides views you won’t find anywhere else on the planet.

The sandstone bluffs that made Monument Valley famous line this epic highway. 

You can immerse yourself in the Navajo culture that can be found here, or hike one of the Valley’s many trails. 

Where: US Route 163 – Northern Arizona & Southern Utah

• Tribal Park Loop – 17-mile loop featuring all that Monument Valley has to offer from the seat of your RV
• The Mittens and Merrick Butte – Take a picture with Monument Valleys most famous sandstone giants
• Forest Gump Point – Iconic view of Monument Valley from the 1994 hit Forrest Gump

Best Time to Visit: Fall/Spring

6. Beartooth Highway, Northern Wyoming & Southern Montana

You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world when driving this scenic route. It’s a 5,000-foot rise in elevation covers over 68 miles of beautiful highway.

Along the way you’ll see snow capped mountain ranges, endless seas of lodgepole pines, and teeming wildlife. 

Where: Beartooth Highway – Northern Wyoming & Southern Montana

• Yellowstone National Park – The first National Park in the U.S. and my personal favorite. It features wolves, grizzlies, bison, and other wildlife amid pristine, forested wilderness and steaming hot springs and gushing geysers.
• Bear’s Tooth – Marvel at the highway’s namesake—an unusual, pyramid-shaped mountain.
• Clay Butte Fire Lookout Tower – Offer 360-degree views of the region (USE CAUTION: Dirt Road).

7. The Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana 

What’s the United States’ great river? Every American school kid knows the answer—The Mississippi.

So, it only makes sense that the 3,000 miles of road following it, carry the name: The Great Road River. This scenic route passes through 10 states and hundreds of river towns.

Where: Minnesota to Louisiana 

• New Orleans, Louisiana  – Unique city that perfectly captures Mississippi river culture. Known for it’s Cajun food, excellent jazz, and French infused culture. 
• Trail of Tears State Park – learn about the tragic history behind the Trail of Tears, do some fishing in the Mississippi River, and observe unique wildlife
• Fort Snelling – This Minnesota Fort, built in 1820, offers lessons about human history in the area dating back 10,000 years

Best Time to Visit: Fall (The iconic Fall landscape)

8. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina

Lovingly referred to by many as ‘America’s Favorite Drive’, Blue Ridge Parkway weaves through 469 miles of Appalachian Highlands.

It’s 45 MPH speed limit and ban on semi-trucks makes for a relaxing drive through the surrounding wilderness with plenty of chances to spot it’s diverse wildlife. 

Where: Virginia to North Carolina 

• Mabry Mill – Snap a photo of this picturesque, old mill.
• Craggy Pinnacle – Two-mile hike through fairytale forests. It’s peak gives you a 360-degree view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 
• Cascade Falls – Beautiful hike with gushing waterfall.

Best Time to Visit: Summer/Fall (Autumn colors galore)

9. 12 Scenic Byway, Utah 

The best road trip in Utah involves Highway 12—the spiritual spine of the state.

This stretch of highway passes Bryce Canyon National Park and Grand Escalante National Monument, through Dixie National Forest, and into Capitol Reef National Park.

You’ll see pine forests, rusty red landscapes, and unique hoodoos. 

Where: Utah 

• Bryce Canyon National Park – Famous for it’s geological formations called hoodoos as well as it’s diverse wildlife
• Grand Escalante National Park – We don’t need Elon Musk to get to Mars. You can find it at Grand Escalante National Park in Utah 
• Capitol Reef National Park – Keep an eye out for it’s sandstone arches and Western movie landscape.

10. Highway 101, Oregon 

The twin sister of California’s Pacific Coast Highway. It’s practically a continuation of that highway, but it has so much to offer that it deserves it’s own mention.

Along it’s coastal route you’ll see dark green mountains meeting wind swept seas. The combination of the two gives the highway an otherworldly appearance. 

Where: Oregon 

• Cannon Beach – Oregon’s premiere beach. Get a picture of the famous Haystack Rock and relax on the cool sands. 
• Sea Lions Cave – Largest Sea Cave in America and home to hundreds of Steller sea lions
• Oregon National Dunes Recreation Area – Where epic sand dunes lie between the ocean and Oregon’s massive forests

Best Time to Visit: September through mid-October

11. The Cascade Loop, Washington

This 440-mile loop passes through the Northern Cascade Mountain Range and Puget Sound.

You can stop off in Seattle to enjoy the cities beautiful views and unique architecture, or immerse yourself in the diverse wildlife of the Cascades. 

Where: Washington

• Puget Sound – Take a picture of Seattle’s Space Needle, spot an Orca pod from the shore, or marvel at the distance snow-capped Mt. Rainier. 
• Leavenworth – Quaint Bavarian themed town with plenty of fun festivals. 
• Stevens Pass – Breathtaking mountain and forest scenery perfect for hiking and snow sports.

Best Time to Visit: Summer/Early Fall

12. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

We all have that stereotypical image of Fall impressed into our minds—multicolored forests, crisp air, and autumnal festivals galore.

If you want to see the real-life version of that mental image, drive The Kancamagus Highway. It’s one of the best roads in the U.S. to experience Fall. 

Where: New Hampshire 112 – Northern New Hampshire

• White Mountain National Forest – Hardwood forests and Alpine peaks make for a breathtaking landscape.
• Flume Gorge – Natural, granite gorge with a raised bridge that runs it’s length.
• Franconia Notch State Park – Scenic mountain pass with spectacular hiking and wildlife.

Best Time to Visit: Fall (Autumn colors galore)

13. Trail Ridge Road, Colorado

In terms of best roads to drive in the U.S., Trail Ridge Road is the highest, reaching 12,183 feet at it’s peak. It meanders through Rocky Mountain National Park.

You’ll be provided with some of Colorado’s most beautiful wildernesses including huge pine forests and soaring mountain peaks. 

Where: Colorado

• Rocky Mountain National Park – The longest mountain range in the U.S. Home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking views. 
• Emerald Lake – 4.1-mile trail loop to one of Colorado’s most pristine mountain lake. 
• Estes Park – Great town for shopping, action sports, winter sports, and enjoying Rocky Mountain views.

Best Time to Visit: Summer

14. Coast Connection Scenic Byway, Alabama

If you’ve ever wanted to get a taste for Southern living in the United States this is the best U.S. road trip for you.

Alabama’s Coast Connection Scenic Byway features cultural downtowns, relaxing beaches, wildlife preserves, history, and the freshest seafood you’ll find in the South. 

Where: Alabama

• Bon Secour National Refuge – Keep an eye out for the endangered Alabama Beach Mouse, and other wildlife unique to the Coast. 
• Gulf State Park – Bike, kayak, and relax along it’s sugary sand shores.  
• Fort Morgan State Park – Where history and nature meet Alabama’s coast.

Best Time to Visit: Spring/Fall

15. Lake Michigan Coastal Road, Michigan

Bordering the largest lake in the United States, M-22 has been reported by many to be one of the top five drives in the U.S.

That’s unsurprising when you consider the spectacular scenery, delicious restaurants, and quaint fishing towns. 

Where: Highway M-22 – Michigan 

• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Miles of sand bluff shores dotted with lush forests, pristine lakes, and unique plant and animal life.  
• Point Betsie Lighthouse – Check out this picturesque lighthouse at sunset.
• Leland – Get transported back in time among the wooden fishing shanties of this Michigan City. Practice the line while you’re here.

16. Richardson Highway, Alaska

Many refer to Alaska as ‘The Last Frontier’ of the United States. You can see why by driving one of the best scenic routes in the country.

Richardson Highway unfolds along glaciers, towering mountain ranges, and fertile Alaskan soil. It’s the best way to see Alaska, and all the nature it has to offer.  

Where: Alaska Route 4 – Alaska

• Mt. Denali – Tallest mountain in the United States, and one of the most breathtaking  
• Thompson Pass – Home to one of the few places in the world you can drive to a glacier.
• Keystone Canyon – Gorge with steep rock walls, dotted with waterfalls, and beautiful foliage.

17. Cherohala Skyway, Tennessee 

This scenic road trip snakes through the Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest.

You’ll find trout-filled lakes, secret waterfalls, and gorgeous wildflowers along the highway. In the Fall it becomes a place of unparalleled autumnal beauty. 

Where: Highway 143 – Tennessee 

• Cherokee National Forest – Provides solitude in a backcountry forest with whitewater river rafting, fishing, and birdwatching.  
• Bald River Falls – Take a 6-mile forest road to a picturesque waterfall
• Santeetlah Lake – A beautiful lake for a picnic

18. Park Loop Road, Maine 

This short, but amazing scenic route takes you through some of the best Maine Wilderness.

You can spend time looking for wildlife in it’s dense forests, or relax on it’s beaches. It’ll make you feel like you’re on the edge of the world. 

Where: Acadia National Park – Maine 

• Cadillac Mountain – The main attraction in Acadia National Park. This mountain offers great views of the coast and it’s nearby islands.   
• Thunder Hole – Yeah, we know your Uncle has the same nickname, but this might make more noise than even him. It’s a rocky section of shoreline that creates a thunderous boom when waves collide with it. 
• Sand Beach – A gorgeous beach with sea shell infused sands

Best Time to Visit: Late Spring – Fall (Autumn colors galore)

19. 10-Mile Road, New England

What this scenic route lacks in size it makes up for in beauty. This quaint stretch of road will put you at ease instantly.

It’s the best of what the United States East coast has to offer: Gentle deciduous trees, sandy shores, and gentle sunsets. 

Where: Oceanic Drive – Newport, Rhode Island

• The East Passage of Narragansett – Two main attractions for this area: The lighthouse on Castle Hill and Hammersmith Farm, the childhood home of John F. Kennedy. 
• Brenton Point State Park – Picnic, hike, and relax with spectacular views of the Eastern U.S.’s coast. 
• Mansions – Gawk at the houses of the country’s most wealthy families

20. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

Once you drive this beautiful road, you’ll understand why the state gave it the name: ‘Going-to-the-Sun-Road’.

It quite literally ascends thousands of miles into the peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

The entire drive is breathtaking. Make sure you’re the passenger so you can fully enjoy it. 

Where: Glacier National Park – Montana

• Lake McDonald – Clear, reflective glacial lake with multi-colored river rocks along it’s shorelines. Perfect for a picture! 
• Logan’s Pass – Stay in your car, and gaze around at the mountainous scenery, or hike the easy trail nearby to get a more intimate view of nature. 
• Glacier National Park – This national park contains one of the most beautiful glacial mountain ranges in the world. It’s protected lands shelter unique plant and animal life. 

There’s 20 of the best scenic routes in the U.S. Truth be told, the United States has over 4.8 million miles of road, more than any other country in the world.

More than likely we missed your best U.S. road trip. So, tell us about it in the comments below!

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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33 Beautiful Road Trips in the USA: Best Scenic Drives 2023

Discover the most beautiful road trips in the USA. From coastal drives to mountain passes, our guide will take you on an unforgettable journey.

At nearly 3.8 million square miles with about four million miles of paved roads, the United States is a road tripper’s fantasy land.

I’ve driven several thousand of those millions of miles and barely scratched the surface of this country’s scenic drives. From coast to coast, from mountain to desert, from plains to forests, road trips are the arteries that connect this incredibly diverse landscape.

I’ve collaborated with other road trip enthusiasts to bring you the most beautiful road trips in the USA.

Whether you want to explore our National Parks, take an epic cross-country adventure, or experience a shorter scenic drive, we’ve got the perfect road trip for you.

I’ve provided the contributions and photos unless otherwise indicated.

Before you go, download these free road trip packing lists. From paper maps to snacks, from batteries to blankets, these checklists will keep you from running around wondering what you forgot – because you won’t forget anything.

FREE Road Trip Packing Lists

There may be affiliate links in this post, which means we may get a small commission. It’s at no extra cost to you and helps keep TLT free. Everybody wins!

33 Most Beautiful Road Trips in the USA

Be sure to get your printable road trip planner to keep everything organized!

West Coast Beautiful Road Trips in the USA

Pacific coast road trip from san diego to seattle.

• Start: San Diego
• End: Seattle
• Number of miles: 1585 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 7-14 days

One of the most beautiful road trips in the USA is a drive up the Pacific Coast. It’s a bucket list experience, one filled with curving roads and basalt shores, with the might of the Pacific Ocean accompanying you the entire way.

You can begin in either San Diego or Seattle. I began my Pacific Coast road trip in San Diego, but if you choose to drive north to south, it’s easier to pull off at the overlooks (although I had no issues with it at all).

The drive includes such legendary spots as Big Sur, that rugged coastline between Carmel and San Simeon. That’s part of the officially designated Pacific Coast Highway, a twisting, breathtaking stretch that’s only 123 miles of California State Route 1.

You’ll drive through San Francisco and over the Golden Gate Bridge. You’ll pass lighthouses that have been guiding sailors for more than a century. You’ll see giant redwoods and lollygagging elephant seals.

Oregon alone is worth taking several days to explore. With iconic sights like Heceta Head Lighthouse and Haystack Rock, you’ll definitely want to allow plenty of time.

The beauty continues in Washington. As soon as you cross the Columbia River, you’re greeted with stories of Lewis and Clark; it’s worth a visit to Cape Disappointment to learn more.

As you drive north to Seattle, stop to see the World’s Record Sitka Spruce, Big Cedar, and the World’s Largest Red Cedar.

In Olympic National Forest, take a quick detour to hike in a rain forest, then before you end your trip, explore Olympic National Park.

Because this is a trip that will take you multiple days, it’s best to use a tool like Booking.com or VRBO to find accommodations along your route.

If you’re taking an epic road trip, make sure to check out these road trip planning tools before you go.

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway

• Start: Brookings, Oregon
• End: Astoria, Oregon
• Number of miles: 363 miles 
• Recommended length of road trip : 3-4 days

Not to be confused with the Pacific Coast Highway, which is in California, the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway is an Oregon coast road trip .

The Oregon segment of US-101 is one of the most stunning stretches of coastline in the USA. It pretty much defines scenic route, with dunes, cliffs, picturesque towns, historic bridges, and iconic lighthouses.

The reason you’ll want to allow plenty of time for this road trip is because of the sheer number of scenic overlooks. With colorful names like Thor’s Well, Devil’s Churn, Seal Rocks, and Cape Foulweather, it’s an entertaining string of gorgeous views.

There are lots of scenic towns along the way where you can stop for a bite to eat and to rest. If you’re a New England clam chowder fan, don’t miss Mo’s in Newport. It’s the original location of what is now a popular chain.

A stop in Cannon Beach is a must so you can see one of the most recognizable landmarks along the coast, Haystack Rock.

If you want some Pacific coast beauty but don’t have time to drive the entire stretch, this Oregon scenic drive will definitely fill your bucket.

Olympic Peninsula Scenic Drive

• Start: Seattle, Washington
• End: Seatlle, Washington
• Number of miles: 360 miles 
• Recommended length of road trip : 4-5 days

When people dream about the natural beauties of Washington State, they often envision evergreen trees covered in moss, trails bordered by rich green ferns, and freshwater lakes and waterfalls.

The Olympic Peninsula offers the opportunity for visitors to see it all, including being home to one of the best National Parks in the USA,  Olympic National Park .

You can plan to leave out of Seattle, Washington; I recommend taking a Washington State ferry across to Bainbridge Island to begin your road trip.

Make your way up to Port Angeles, WA, along the north coast of the peninsula. From Port Angeles you can visit some highlights of Olympic National Park such as Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc Falls, Lake Crescent, and Marymere Falls.

Then you’ll head west to Forks and visit the famous Hoh Rain Forest and some of the best sunset beaches in WA State.

Finally, make your way down the Pacific Ocean coast and consider a stop at Lake Quinault or Ocean Shores, Washington if you want a beach town experience.

You can then end your trip heading back east towards Olympia and make your way back north to Seattle.

Contributed by Kim Tate of Stuffed Suitcase

Alaska Road Trip to Denali and Seward: Two Perspectives

• Start: Anchorage
• End: Anchorage 
• Number of miles: 1000 miles 
• Recommended length of road trip : 7 days 

Alaska is a magical place with endless views, tons of wildlife and so many adventures. On a road trip between Denali and Seward, you will have no shortage of glacier, mountain and ocean views. 

Begin in Anchorage and drive to Denali on Route 3 with a stop in Talkeetna along the way.

In Denali, enjoy hiking, take a scenic bus ride and visit the dog sled kennels. As you travel back south, take a side trip out to Matanuska Glacier to trek out on one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers.

From there, make your way to Seward on Alaska Route 1. In Seward, be sure to visit Kenai Fjords National Park and explore it via boat. 

This  Alaska road trip  involves a lot of driving. It is best to spend at least 7 days in accommodations along the way.

Denali Bluffs Hotel is a beautiful, convenient place to stay right outside of Denali National Park, while Hotel Seward is a good budget option located in the heart of downtown Seward. This trip is best for the summer months. 

Whether you enjoy hiking or just want to take in all of the views, an Alaskan road trip on Route 1 and 3 is a must for your bucket list.

Contributed by Lydia Weigel of Lost with Lydia

This  Alaska road-trip itinerary  takes you to some of the state’s top attractions. First, explore the famous Denali National Park wilderness for a chance to see grizzlies and wolves and, weather permitting, a lucky sighting of Mount Denali, North America’s highest mountain at 20,310 feet!

Spend a day in Anchorage, the central travel hub in Alaska, and visit the Anchorage Native Heritage Center to learn about the different Alaska Native traditions and languages.

Head to Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park to admire Alaskan glaciers by hiking along the Glacier Overlook Trail or kayaking one of the numerous fjords.

A trip to Whittier would see you board a whale-watching cruise in Prince William Sound.

Camping is the perfect way to explore Denali, though cabins around Healy and Cantwell are available everywhere for more comfort. Anchorage offers plenty of nice and clean accommodations like the Anchorage Downtown Hotel.

The best time to travel to Alaska is in the summer, though June and September can be good alternatives, even though you might still have snow.

Contributed by Patricia Pagenel of Ze Wandering Frogs

San Francisco to Joshua Tree Road Trip

• Start: San Francisco
• End: Joshua Tree National Park
• Number of miles: 580
• Recommended length of road trip: 4 days

You’ll love going on a San Francisco to Joshua Tree drive to enjoy the best of California outside the bustling city. Before going on a  Joshua Tree road trip , you’ll explore charming seaside towns along the way.

Begin your trip in Monterey, where you can appreciate the scenic beauty of the 17-Mile Drive, visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, or take a stroll down Cannery Row.

Next, travel to Santa Barbara, another breathtaking oceanside city. There are plenty of activities here, such as surfing, sunbathing, or walking along the shoreline, in addition to dozens of restaurants to choose from.

While en route to Joshua Tree, take some time to unwind in Palm Springs, a luxurious desert resort city known for its hot springs, spas, and shopping. There are also plenty of museums when you need to escape the heat.

Finally, head to Joshua Tree National Park , where you can experience the unique Joshua trees and rock formations, hike through the breathtaking landscape, go on an adventurous rock climbing expedition, or gaze at the stars at night.

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Indio Coachella Valley  is a great base for the night.

Contributed by Marissa of Road Trip Wanderers

Washington State Cascade Loop Scenic Drive

• Start: Seattle
• Number of miles: 440 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: Anywhere from 2 days to 5 days, depending on how many stops you want to make.

Washington state is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the  Cascade Loop  is the perfect way to take it all in. This 440-mile route takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Pacific Northwest.

The Cascade Loop begins at Stevens Pass, located east of Seattle. From here, you’ll head north through mountain passes, dense forests, and rolling hills until you reach Leavenworth, an adorable Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascades.

Next, up is Chelan and its wineries,  followed by the historic town of Winthrop with its Western-themed main street.

After that comes North Cascades National Park where you can explore rugged peaks and glacier-fed lakes before heading south on Highway 20 toward Burlington and Anacortes.

Finally, your journey ends when you reach Seattle once again.

Visiting North Cascades National Park is high on everyone’s list as it offers breathtaking views and plentiful outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

However, if you don’t have time to explore this vast park then be sure to make a stop at Diablo Lake overlook for an unforgettable photo opportunity!

Another great spot to check out is Snoqualmie Falls which has an impressive 268-foot drop into a deep pool below – not to mention its stunning surroundings.

And lastly, no trip along this route would be complete without a visit to Leavenworth for some delicious German food and shopping in its charming alpine-style shops.

Related: Leavenworth is considered one of the best Christmas towns in the USA .

The best places to stay along this scenic trip are Leavenworth, Chelan, or Burlington.  You can also do this loop in reverse, or in bits and pieces!

Contributed by Chantelle, Flannels or FlipFlops

Beautiful Road Trips in the Western USA

Going-to-the-sun road in glacier national park.

• Start: West Glacier, Montana
• End: St. Mary, Montana
• Number of miles: 50 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 1 day

When you drive Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, you’re not only taking one of America’s most scenic drives, you’re also driving a National Historic Landmark.

It’s one of the few roads in the country to receive that designation and is an engineering marvel which took more than a decade and two million dollars to build.

The scenic drive is designed to blend into the scenery. The original plan had fifteen switchbacks, but Tom Vint proposed a route that would have only one.

That route is what we have today, and that one switchback is called the Loop.

Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers some of the most awe-inspiring views in the country and is one of many unique things to do in Montana . It’s easy to see why more than three million people a year make their way to this remote part of the country.

An Idaho Road Trip: Thousand Springs State Park

• Start: Twin Falls, Idaho
• End: Twin Falls, Idaho
• Number of miles: 100 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 2 days

While there are no national parks in Idaho, there are many beautiful state parks. And Thousand Springs State Park is one of them.

It’s close enough to Twin Falls that you could make it a day trip, but there are so many things to do in the five units of the state park, it’s better to make it a 2-day road trip.

On your first day, leave Twin Falls early in the morning. If you haven’t seen them yet, head to Shoshone Falls to admire the “Niagara of the West”.

Then, make your way to the Niagara Springs Unit where you can have a picnic by the waterfalls or visit the Fish Hatchery.

In the afternoon, drive to Banbury Hot Springs where you can stay for the night. Rent kayaks or paddleboards and paddle to Blue Heart Box. On the way back, you can enjoy the hot springs.

The next morning, drive to the Box Canyon Unit and hike down to the water.

Then, head to Ritter Island. On Ritter Island, you can take a self-guided tour of the barn and walk to Minnie Miller Springs.

It’s also a great spot to paddle board around the island and to see Lemon Falls. When you are ready, slowly make your way to Billingsley Creek Lodging where you’ll stay overnight.

Contributed by Emilié Brillon, Love Life Abroad

Beartooth Highway: America’s Most Beautiful Drive

• Start: Red Lodge, Montana
• End: Cooke City, Montana
• Number of miles: 68.7 miles

The late Charles Kuralt called Beartooth Highway “the most beautiful drive in America.” Once you’ve driven this scenic route, it’s easy to see why.

The drive begins in Red Lodge, Montana, a charming town at the base of the Beartooth Mountains. While you’re there, stock up on huckleberry caramels at Montana Candy Emporium.

This isn’t one of those scenic routes you can just hop onto. Because it winds through twenty peaks each exceeding 12,000 feet, this highway is only open a few months.

The best time of year to visit is July and August, although snow squalls have been known to kick up even then.

In fact, there’s even a place to stop and ski–in June.

There are several overlooks, and a great place to get out and stretch your legs is Rock Creek Vista Point.

The route ends in Cooke City, Montana, but keep going and you’ll enter Yellowstone National Park .

John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway

• Start: West Thumb, Yellowstone National Park
• End: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
• Number of miles: 27 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 1+ day

Talk about an embarrassment of riches. The John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway begins in Yellowstone National Park and ends in Grand Teton National Park, connecting two of the country’s most beautiful treasures.

Named for the philanthropist and conservationist who was responsible for preserving several public lands, the parkway is only 27 miles.

It packs a lot into that short drive. It’s a transitional landscape between the lava beds and thermal activity to the north, and the granite mountains to the south.

In between are meadows, forests, and waterfalls. There are hiking trails and campgrounds along the way. If you prefer a bed, there’s lodging in both neighboring parks.

Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

• Start: Springdale, Utah
• End: Mount Carmel Junction
• Number of miles: 25 miles

Some of Utah’s most wonderful scenery can be found in Zion National Park, and one of the best ways to see it is by driving the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which traverses the park!

Built in 1930, this highway has a tunnel that was a marvel of engineering at the time, and the highway also has amazing views of Zion on all sides, so you can enjoy some of the park’s best scenery without doing any hiking!

One of the many interesting sights on this road is the Checkerboard Mesa, an unusual rock formation with checkered sandstone patterns.

Along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, there are plenty of scenic viewpoints and pull-off spots as you go, as well as some trailheads if you want to do a bit of hiking.

The Canyon Overlook Trail, for example, is one of the  best hikes in Zion National Park  and it starts from this highway. All in all, it’s a scenic drive that you shouldn’t miss when traveling through Utah!

Contributed by David & Intan of The World Travel Guy

Zion National Park to Moab, Utah: Scenic Byway 12

• Start: Zion National Park
• End: Moab, Utah
• Number of miles: 375 miles
• Recommended length of trip: at least three days

Get ready to suspend your disbelief, because a road trip from Zion to Moab is filled with landscapes that can’t possibly be real–yet they are.

Start with David’s route through Zion National Park above.

You’ll exit the park on UT-9, and at the Mount Carmel Junction, turn north on US-89 until you get to UT-12. This official All-American Road takes you to Bryce Canyon National Park, and on the way you’ll drive through hoodoos and red rock tunnels.

Allow time in Bryce Canyon to hike through the towering formations created by millennia of erosion.

For another surprising landscape, stop in Capitol Reef National Park and then continue to Goblin Valley State Park . Although it’s not one of the official Big 5 Utah National Parks, it’s a destination worth visiting.

From there, you’ll hit a quick stretch of I-70 before turning south for Moab. Before you get to the town, plan to do some hiking in Arches National Park.

The area’s sparsely populated, so accommodations can be hard to come by. There are a few motels and hotels near Bryce Canyon, and Canyon Country Lodge in Escalante is highly rated.

Moab to Page: a Utah to Arizona Road Trip

• Start: Moab, Utah
• End: Page, Arizona
• Number of miles: 275 miles

A road trip from Moab, UT to Page, AZ will take you through some of the most iconic landscapes in the United States. The total distance is only about 275 miles but there is so much to see that you’ll want to give yourself a minimum of three days to complete it.

This part of southern Utah and northern Arizona is sparsely populated and magnificently beautiful. It is classified as a high desert ecosystem, meaning hot summers and surprising cold winters.

Assuming you’ve seen Arches National Park and the northern part of Canyonlands National Park, start the road trip with a stop at the far less-visited Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, about 2 hours southwest of Moab.

Here, funky, needle-like rocks dot the landscape and make for some awesome desert hikes. 

From the Needles District, continue south to Valley of the Gods, where a dirt road forms a scenic loop around some fascinating rock formations. From there it’s a short drive to Goosenecks State Park, one of Utah’s best kept secrets.

But the crown jewel of this road trip is the breathtaking landscape of Monument Valley . Made famous by old western movies, Monument Valley is essentially a flat red desert floor with massive sandstone rock buttes. 

Continue from there into Arizona where you’ll end in the town of Page. Page is known for being home to two famous landmarks: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

Antelope Canyon requires an organized tour while Horseshoe Bend is easy to see on your own in less than an hour. 

The road trip from Moab to Page will give you a taste of what the American Southwest has to offer and show you why people have been drawn to this barren, inhospitable desert for generations. 

Contributed by Chris Heckmann of Around the World With Me

Denver to Black Canyon Colorado Road Trip

• Start: Denver
• End: Telluride, Colorado
• Recommended length of road trip: 3 days

The Rocky Mountains stretch from western Canada all the way down to New Mexico, and their jagged peaks create picturesque backdrops for a beautiful USA road trip.

Driving through Colorado alongside the San Juan mountains section of the Rockies really showcases the steep cliffs and sheer drop-offs of mountains rising over 14,000 feet high.

Starting in Denver, travelers will pass through the breathtaking San Isabel, Gunnison, and Uncompahgre National Forests before reaching the first must-see stop on the road trip: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park .

This steep gorge contains the highest vertical cliff in Colorado, and visitors can  drive through the park  along the South Rim Road to admire the breathtaking views of the park.

After spending time in the Black Canyon, travel further south to the quaint mountain town of Telluride.

This former mining town is set inside a box canyon with amazing mountain views from downtown. Telluride is the perfect place to stay for a few nights, maybe hiking to Bridal Veil Falls or taking the Telluride Gondola to the neighboring Mountain Village.

The Hotel Telluride is a “mountain chic” resort right in the middle of downtown, within walking distance to shopping and local restaurants.

Contributed by Erin Moreland of Super Simple Salty Life

Rocky Mountain National Park Trail Ridge Road Scenic Drive

• Start: in Estes Park and winds through Rocky Mountain National Park
• End: Grand Lake, Colorado
• Number of miles: 48 miles
• Recommended length of trip: Around 2-3 hours but more if you want to do hikes in the park

If you’re searching for one of the most beautiful road trips in the USA then you can’t beat  Trail Ridge Road  through Rocky Mountain National Park.

After all, this road is the highest continuous paved road in the country.  Therefore, it’s been nicknamed the “Highway to the Sky” since it crosses the Continental Divide at an astounding 12,183 feet in the air.  However, because of intense winter weather, the road is usually closed from mid-October through the end of May. You’ll also have to pay $30 per vehicle for a day pass or $35 for a 7 consecutive day pass if you want to visit.  Otherwise, just enjoy the amazing scenery all around you at places like Deer Ridge Junction (perfect in the fall), Hidden Valley, Rainbow Curve Overlook, Ute Trailhead, Gore Range Overlook, and more.  You can also stop by the Alpine Visitor Center and pick up some grub along the way since this is the only place to get food along the route.

Contributed by Meg of Fox in the Forest

Midwest USA Beautiful Road Trips

• Start: Chicago, Illinois
• End: Santa Monica, California
• Number of miles: 2,488 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 2 weeks

While some stretches of Route 66 may not be the most picturesque, you simply cannot have an article about the most beautiful road trips in the USA and not include the Mother Road.

Since it was cobbled together back in 1926 from various routes between Chicago and Santa Monica, Route 66 has been the symbol of freedom and the open road.

Begin your adventure in Chicago, then follow Route 66 in Illinois to the Mississippi River and keep going, through Missouri and a quick 13-mile jaunt into Kansas.

The drive continues through Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before ending at the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you’ll see a UNESCO World Heritage Site , stand on a corner in Winslow, encounter a giant blue whale and paint buried Cadillacs.

There’s a reason that nearly a century later, this trip still captures the imaginations of millions of travelers around the world.

If you plan to drive Route 66, I highly recommend looking up Jim Hinkley . He’s written several books about the route and is an expert on its storied past.

Related: discover more amazing road trips from Chicago .

Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway

• Start: I-90, exit 131 in South Dakota
• End: Wall, South Dakota
• Number of miles: 38 miles

You’ll feel like you’re entering another world when you’re driving through Badlands National Park .

This South Dakota scenic drive is a glimpse into a world of eons gone by. Erosion has whittled the former sea bed into a striated landscape of spires and bluffs.

You can drive straight through in about an hour or so, but you’ll definitely want to take the time for hiking the many trails. It’s also good to start at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, which has interpretive displays and a well-stocked gift shop.

That’s also where you can get a bite to eat. The Cedar Pass Lodge is a sit-down restaurant and also offers snacks.

Be careful when you’re driving the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway. Bison roam free, as do bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and endangered black-footed ferrets.

Door County Coastal Byway

• Start: Sturgeon Bay
• End: Gills Rock
• Number of miles: 66 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: It is recommended to allow a full day to complete the route, but at least two to fully enjoy all of its attractions.

The Door County Coastal Byway is a stunning drive along the eastern coast of Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula. You’ll experience breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Green Bay, as well as charming coastal towns and villages.

The route takes you through scenic state parks, including Potawatomi and Newport, where you can hike, bike, or simply take in the natural beauty of the area.

Along the way, you’ll also find several lighthouses, including the iconic Cana Island Lighthouse, which is open for tours during the summer months. The towns of Egg Harbor, Sister Bay, and Fish Creek offer numerous shops, galleries, and restaurants for a taste of local culture.

The route ends in Gills Rock, where you can take a ferry to nearby Washington Island for a unique island experience.

What makes this road trip unique?

The Door County Coastal Byway is one of only a few designated scenic byways in Wisconsin, offering a truly special experience for those who appreciate natural beauty and historic charm.

The route is dotted with cultural and historical landmarks, including lighthouses, museums, and even an old-fashioned fish boil dinner experience.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to boating and fishing, making it a versatile destination for all types of travelers.

If you choose to make this a multi-day trip, there are several recommended accommodations along the route, including the Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor, which offers stunning views of Green Bay. Check out where to stay in Door County.

The Ashbrooke in downtown Egg Harbor is a charming boutique hotel within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

Contributed by Dannelle Gay of The Traveling Cheesehead

Want to experience a fictional Door County? Download Peril on the Peninsula , a fun cozy mystery featuring travel writer Alex Paige.

Flint Hills National Scenic Byway

• Start: Start at Council Grove in the north
• End: Cassoday in the south
• Number of miles: 47
• Recommended length of road trip: At least two days

Let peace soak into your soul along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway from Council Grove to Cassoday on Highway 177.

The region’s flint bedrock prevented widespread farming. Instead, the unrelenting rock preserved the last vestiges of unbroken tallgrass prairie.

In Council Grove, U.S. commissioners negotiated with the Great and Little Osage tribe to allow Santa Fe Trail wagons to pass.

The Allegawaho Heritage Memorial Park southeast of Council Grove surrounds the Unknown Indian Monument, a member of the Ka. ⁿ ze n.kashi ⁿ ga (Kanza) tribe. 

Experience early settlers’ interaction with the tallgrass prairie ecosystem at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Chase County north of Strong City. The tallgrass reaches its considerable height in the fall.

Under the right conditions, the grasses can measure 6 feet high. Ride the tour bus from the visitors center to see the bison herd.

Stay at the AAA Four Diamond Grand Central Hotel & Grand Grill in Cottonwood Falls and attend Emma Chase Friday Night Music down the street.

Contributed by Roxie Yonkey of Roxie on the Road

Flint Hills National Scenic Byway is one of the many scenic drives featured in Midwest Road Trip Adventures .

North Shore of Lake Superior Road Trip in Minnesota

• Start: Duluth, Minnesota
• End: Grand Portage, Minnesota
• Number of miles: 145 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 2-3 days

Running for nearly 150 miles along Lake Superior’s shoreline, a drive up Minnesota’s North Shore makes for one of the best road trips in the Midwest .

With hikes galore, views around every corner, and plenty of delicious places to eat, this is a must-do. You’ll also get to experience the world’s largest freshwater lake!

Starting in Duluth, wander around Canal Park for a bit before heading up the shore. See the Aerial Lift Bridge, swim at Park Point Beach, and eat your way through Duluth.

Then, start making your way up Highway 61, following Lake Superior for the entire drive. Stop at the must-see spots such as Gooseberry Falls, Tettegouche State Park, Palisade Head, Black Beach, and Grand Marais.

A few of the top hikes include Bean and Bear Lake Loop, Shovel Point, and Eagle Mountain. Each providing some of the best views of the lake and Sawtooth Mountains.

By the time you reach Grand Portage, you’ll have almost made it to the Canadian border! It’s best to take a few days for this trip so you can really take it all in.

When you need to rest for the night, make a stop at Cove Point Lodge in Beaver Bay.

Contributed by Kassidy Olson of Kassidy’s Journey

Ohio River Scenic Byway

• Start: East Liverpool, Ohio
• End: Cairo, Illinois
• Number of miles: 953 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 5-7 days

The Ohio River Scenic Byway is an historic route that’s also one of the most beautiful road trips in the USA.

The river itself was a main thoroughfare for early settlers, and that history is reflected in the towns and museums that line the route. You’ll traverse the southern borders of Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, from the river’s beginnings west of Pittsburgh until it ends at the Mississippi River in Cairo.

Because it follows a river that divided North from South, there are a lot of places that served as stops on the Underground Railroad. You can also visit Grant’s birthplace and Lincoln’s boyhood home.

Although Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery departed from St. Louis, they began to gather along the Ohio River. Before William Clark headed west, his older brother George Rogers was a hero of the Revolutionary War, and he’s honored in Illinois’ Fort Massac State Park.

This road trip can be done in a week, but if you really want to experience the history of this route, allow more time.

If you’re looking for a comfortable break, spend a couple days in Cincinnati with an overnight stay at the Residence Inn by Marriott .

West Michigan Pike (US 31)

• Start: New Buffalo near Michigan’s southern border
• End: Ludington, Michigan
• Number of miles: 184 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: While the total drive time is approximately four hours, you could easily spend a week exploring Michigan’s lakeshore towns.

West Michigan Pike is a beachy drive along the west coast of Michigan’s lower peninsula. The drive is full of charming small towns that are a draw for boating enthusiasts and nature lovers, art aficionados, and history buffs. 

Some highlights include South Haven, Saugatuck, Holland, Grand Haven, Muskegon, and  Ludington .

The area boasts various wineries, including those on the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, where you can experience award-winning wines. One example is the 12 Corners Tasting Room in South Haven.  

What makes this Midwest road trip unique?

The West Michigan Pike (US 31) meanders along the Lake Michigan shoreline, taking you through many “best of” designations. 

For example,  Forbes  called Holland, with its Dutch Heritage, one of the  Prettiest Towns in America . During the annual festival  Tulip Time , six million tulip blossoms explode in a riot of color.

You’ll find several unique accommodations along the byway if you want to make this more than a day trip. History enthusiasts will want to overnight on the USS Silversides Submarine in Muskegon.

Foodies will enjoy a luxurious stay in Saugatuck at the  Wickwood Inn , a bed and breakfast owned by Julee Rosso, author of the  Silver Palate Cookbook .

Contributed by Amy Piper of Follow the Piper

Hawaii Road Trips

Big island road trip.

• Start: Hilo
• End: Kona 
• Number of Miles: 123 miles 
• Recommended length of Road trip: At least 3 days. 

This epic Big Island Road Trip needs to be on everyone’s USA Bucket List. There are not many places in the United States where you can see lava one day, waterfalls the next, and then end the trip by relaxing on a sunny beach.

This Big Island road trip starts in Hilo, otherwise known as the rainiest city in the United States, so be sure to pack your rain jacket.

While in Hilo, you’ll check out Akaka Falls State Park, Rainbow Falls, Kaumana Caves, and of course downtown Hilo (shopping, farmer’s market, restaurants, and a beach across the street). 

The Grand Naniloa Hotel is a great option to catch some zzz’s on night one.

When you are ready to leave Hilo, you will drive 30 miles south to the amazing Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Here you can see more lava tubes, hike to the crater of a solidified lava lake (Kileau Iki Trail), and marvel at the glowing lava from the Kileau overlook. Find a cute B&B near the park’s entrance to stay tonight. 

Finally, on the last day (or days) of your road trip, head to Kona. Kona is known for having much better weather than the first two locations, so you can take your swimsuit back out of your suitcase.

After arriving in Kona, head to the beach for a relaxing day in the sun! There are many beaches to choose from, but some popular options include Alula Beach, Kua Bay, and Mahai’ula Beach. 

After your beach day, end this Big Island road trip with a bucket list activity by swimming with the giant manta rays.

From here, you can either fly out of Kona or head back to the airport in Hilo.

Contributed by Jordan Lindsay, The Homebody Tourist

Kauai Road Trip to Waimea Canyon

• Start: Lihue, Kauai
• End: Lihue, Kauai
• Number of miles: 200 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 3-4 days

Start your  Kauai road trip itinerary  by picking up your car at the Lihue airport and then start making your way to Waimea Canyon, nicknamed “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific” for its stunning, Southwestern-looking landscape and dramatic scale.

Keep going up Route 550 to see some more beautiful Kauai highlights. Head to both Kalalau Lookout and Pu’u O Kila Lookout at the very end of the road for some of the most beautiful sweeping views over Kauai’s Na Pali Coast.

Head back to Lihue, stopping at Red Dirt Waterfall on the way back. Lihue makes a great home base between Kauai’s sites.

The next day, visit the historic town of Hanapepe and visit its historic swinging bridge, then head to Poipu Beach and Koloa for the rest of the day.

Next, spend at least one day exploring Kauai’s more isolated North Shore. Make your way to Hanalei Bay first and explore the charming town to Hanalei, which is a great spot to have a meal.

From there, visit Hā’ena State Park (reservations required) and Lumaha’i Beach, before heading back and stopping at Kilauea Lighthouse, ‘Opaeka’a Falls, and the rainbow eucalyptus trees of Keahua Arboretum on the way back to Lihue.

Contributed by Allison Green of Eternal Arrival

The Road to Hana: One of the most beautiful road trips in the USA

• Start: Town of Paia
• End: Oheo Pools past the town of Hana.
• Length: around 55 miles
• Recommended length of road trip:  The Road to Hana drive without any stops takes around 3 hours due to the single-lane road, but the drive is about the stops and it can take a whole day to explore. 

The  Road to Hana  is a scenic highway that winds through the lush rainforests and beautiful coastal landscapes of Maui, Hawaii. It is considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the USA. 

The road is famous for its winding curves, narrow bridges, and stunning views of the ocean and coastline.

Along the way, visitors can stop at several scenic lookouts, rushing waterfalls, and gorgeous beaches.

Some of the most popular stops along the Road to Hana are Twin Falls, Garden of Eden, Ke’anae Pennisula, Wainapanapa State Park, and Oheo Gulch.

The Wainapanapa State Park is home to the famous black sand beach in Maui. The Town of Hana has some great food trucks for delicious meals after the long drive.

Road to Hana is mainly about the drive to Hana and not so much about the town Hana.

Road to Hana is mostly done as a road trip from the resort areas of West Maui, but there are accommodation options to stay overnight in Hana town.

Hana Maui Resort is one of the best accommodations in Hana with ocean views.

Contributed by Anu Agarwal of Destination Checkoff

New England Beautiful Road Trips

Connecticut and massachusetts road trip.

• Start: Mystic, CT
• End: Newburyport, MA
• Number of miles: 240 miles (one-way)
• Recommended length of trip: 7 days

For a gorgeous coastal road trip through New England, you’ll want to head straight to Connecticut and Massachusetts.

Filled with charming towns and quaint fishing villages, you’ll also get to experience some of the best cities on the East Coast, stunning beaches, and eat the freshest seafood.

Starting in Mystic, CT (yes,  that  famous Mystic!), the Mystic Seaport Museum and charming Main Street should be at the top of your list. And if you’re a fan of the movie, you can grab a slice of pizza from the iconic Mystic Pizza.

Making your way to Massachusetts, you’ll want to stop in Newport, RI, which is famous for the stunning Gilded Age mansions, before making your way to Cape Cod, MA.

This is where you’ll see the most beautiful beaches and have the best  lobster rolls  you’ll eat on your trip! 

The last leg of this road trip includes Boston, and the North Shore. Some great towns to visit along the way are Salem and Rockport, before ending in the charming city of Newburyport.

Boston is an exciting city that is perfect for a 2-night stay. A great hotel option while here is The Revere Hotel, which is walkable to the Public Gardens, shopping, dining and the scenic Charles River Esplanade. 

Contributed by Samantha Hamilton of New England Wanderlust

New England Fall Colors Road Trip

• Start: Boston
• End: Boston
• Number of Miles: 674
• Recommended Length of Road Trip: 3-5 days

A fall road trip through New England should definitely be on your bucket list, if it isn’t already!

You’ll start your road trip in Boston, the largest city in New England with an international airport convenient for flying in and out.

In Boston, be sure to walk Boston Common and the Boston Public Gardens, where you will see lots of fall color and fall blooms.

Next, head north to New Hampshire, where Lincoln makes a great base for many scenic drives.

Definitely do the Kancamagus Highway , considered one of the top fall foliage drives anywhere on the planet.

Franconia Notch State Park is also worth exploring, especially Flume Gorge. Drive up to the top of Mount Washington for epic views, or take the Cog Railway.

Then drive to Stowe, one of the most beautiful  places to visit in Vermont . The colors here are incredible at peak, and there is a white church in town that’s a super popular fall photo spot. Be sure to drive Route 100, a scenic byway.

Burlington on Lake Champlain is another beautiful city to visit in Vermont before heading south to the charming village of Woodstock and Brattleboro on your way back to Boston.

In Lincoln, New Hampshire, stay at the Riverwalk Resort. In Stowe, you have to stay at the Trapp Family Lodge, run by the von Trapp family of Sound of Music fame!

Contributed by Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

A Stunning Coastal Maine Road Trip

• Start: Portland, Maine
• End: Bar Harbor, Maine
• Number of miles: 177 miles

This coastal Maine road trip combines stunning coastal views with charming towns and villages. You can explore the rocky coast, visit quaint fishing villages, and experience the unique culture of Maine’s maritime communities.

Portland is a great starting point for any Maine road trip with its historic Old Port District, bustling food scene, and picturesque harbor.

Afterward, you’ll take Route 1 and head north towards Bar Harbor. Your first stop along the coast is Freeport, home to world-renowned outlet stores and the historic L.L. Bean factory store.

Then, you’ll stop in Bath, a beautiful town full of charming houses and a bustling waterfront. Make sure to explore the Maine Maritime Museum while you’re there to learn more about Maine’s nautical history.

The next stop on your road trip is Wiscasset, a small town with an abundance of antique shops, with Castle Tucker being a local favorite.

You’ll keep driving and reach Damariscotta, where you can grab a delicious lobster roll at The Lobster Haul and walk along the beautiful harbor.

Your next two stops are Rockland and Rockport. In Rockland, make sure to visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse before heading to Rockport to explore its charming downtown.

Your stopping point for the day is Camden in the Mid-Coast region of Maine, known for its sailing and boating. You’ll spend the night at Lord Camden Inn in the town’s historic district.

The next day, you’ll continue your road trip along Route 1 and head toward Bar Harbor. You can make a few stops along the way, such as Northport and Belfast, before arriving in Bar Harbor.

There are so many incredible things to do in Bar Harbor , such as hiking the Acadia National Park trails or taking a harbor cruise around Frenchman Bay.

You can also explore the downtown area for some great seafood restaurants and unique shops.

Contributed by Disha Smith of Disha Discovers

Beautiful South USA Road Trips

An historic road trip to shenandoah national park.

• Start: Annapolis, MD
• End: Shenandoah National Park
• Number of miles: 210 miles

A road trip from Annapolis, Maryland to Skyline Drive to the southern tip of Shenandoah National Park is a 210-mile drive but stretch it over three days.

Take strategic stops en route to tour Baltimore and Alexandria (two Revolutionary War cities) as well as the nation’s capital (Washington DC).

Visit Charm City’s Fells Point and Federal Hills neighborhoods in the morning. Order crab cakes for lunch at a café on Baltimore’s historic waterfront.

Then shoot down Baltimore Washington Parkway to spend the night in the nation’s capital.

Reserve a full day to take a  DC neighborhood walking tour , ramble in the National Gallery of Art sculpture garden, visit the Smithsonian Museum complex, and tour the Library of Congress. 

In the evening, rent an e-Bike and head for the Botanic Gardens.

Spend day two in Old Town Alexandria and tour Mount Vernon.

Eat lunch at a quaint café on the main shopping avenue (King Street Mile). Follow a self-guided architecture tour of historic homes.

In the morning, drive to Front Royal, Virginia to enter Shenandoah National Park. The final trip segment is the 105-mile Skyline Drive.

It follows the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It only takes three hours to drive it, but stop frequently to hike or watch for wildlife. 

Contributed by Terri Markle of Female Solo Trek

The Beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway

• Start: Shenandoah National Park
• End: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Number of miles: 469 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 2 nights+

When is a road more than just a road? When it’s the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the 469-mile rural route connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, extending from Waynesboro, Va., to Cherokee, N.C.

While it is said to take less than 13 hours to drive through, many exploring the Parkway choose to do so in two- to five-day getaways during three out of four seasons since winter weather can be unpredictable and can cause road closures.

For first-time visitors, the Blue Ridge Parkway is easy to navigate, with points of interest marked by mileposts, starting with 0 and ending with 469.

From the Natural Bridge (milepost 61.6), with George Washington’s initials carved into it, to Flat Top Manor at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park (milepost 294), home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild Shop, to Mount Mitchell State Park (milepost 355.4), the highest point east of the Mississippi, the scenic and historic varieties appeal to every type of traveler.

There are also many outdoor opportunities, such as hiking (all levels), mountain biking and fishing. 

The Parkway experience isn’t just limited to views. But, while those are spectacular, don’t miss out on the nearby towns and cities, such as Hot Springs and Roanoke, Virginia, and Asheville and Boone, North Carolina.

Each has its own personality and flavor and offers a range of attractions, local restaurants and accommodations for every budget.

Contributed by Apryl Chapman Thomas of Southern Hospitality Magazine

Destin to Clearwater Florida Road Trip

• Start: Destin, Florida
• End: Clearwater, Florida
• Number of miles: 415 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 5 days

One of the most beautiful road trips in the USA is from Destin to Clearwater. Both of these cities and the route between them have some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States, with great attractions and amazing views.

In Destin, you can visit the beach at Henderson Beach State Park and do some shopping along the Destin Harbor Boardwalk.

For overnight accommodations in Destin, be sure to check out the Sandestin Golf and Beach resort. It has a great location near the top attractions and fantastic views. 

The drive from Destin to Clearwater takes about 6 hours and 45 minutes. There are some fun places to stay overnight if you want to split up the drive or visit other parts of Florida along the way.

Cedar Key is a beautiful coastal town, or you could visit Weeki Wachee. If you want to take a bit of a detour, Silver Springs in Ocala has a great glass-bottom boat tour going through the Springs. 

Once you have made it to Clearwater, be sure to visit Pier 60 and the marina across the beach. This is a really fun area of town with lots of attractions and a beautiful beach.

You can also find lots of yummy  downtown Clearwater restaurants in this area.  There are lots of great dolphin and sunset cruises that depart out of Clearwater. 

The Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa is a great place to stay in Clearwater with close beach access and tons of great hotel amenities. 

Contributed by Candice of Exploring the Gulf

Florida Keys Road Trip

• Start: Miami, Florida
• End: Key West, Florida
• Number of miles: 160 miles (320 miles round trip)

In terms of road trips, a Florida Keys road trip is quite short. It is 160 miles and a straight through drive time of around 3hrs 30 between Miami and Key West.

There are a couple of options: either fly into Miami International Airport, pick up a rental car, drive to Key West and fly back out of Key West EYW airport at the end. Or drive back to Miami airport and do it as a round trip. 

What makes this road trip along US Route 1 unique, is that the last 112 miles is known as the ‘Overseas Highway’. It crossed 29 islands connected by 42 bridges, with the longest bridge being 7 miles in length!

There are plenty of things to see and do along the route, especially between  Marathon and Key West .

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon offers tours of their turtle rescue and rehabilitation facility and Big Pine Key is home to the smallest species of white-tailed deer in the USA.

It is worth spending at least 2 nights in Key West, the southernmost point of continental USA. The Ibis Bay Beachfront Resort has free parking, a shuttle to downtown and complimentary breakfast.

Contributed by Kylie of Between England and Everywhere

Talimena National Scenic Byway

• Start: Talihini, Oklahoma
• End: Mena, Arkansas
• Number of miles: 54 miles
• Recommended length of road trip: 1-3 days

The  Talimena National Scenic Byway  is a beautiful road trip from Talihina, Oklahoma to Mena, Arkansas. This route winds its way through the Ouachita Mountains.

The scenic drive includes 22 vistas and overlooks to pull over and enjoy the view, along with multiple historic sites and hiking trails. 

You can finish the route in 3-5 hours if you want to just drive and get out to enjoy the overlooks, making it a great day trip from Oklahoma City, Tulsa, or even Dallas. Round out your day trip by spending time in either Talihina or Mena.

If you have a full day, you can enjoy one of the day hikes along the route, stop at the Kerr Arboretum, and visit all of the historic sites along the route like the Pioneer Cemetery.

There are two state parks along the Talimena: Talimena State Park in Oklahoma and Queen Wilhelmina State Park in Arkansas.

If you have two or three days, you can camp at the state parks, spend time enjoying both towns, hike more than one hike, or camp overnight on the route itself. 

The drive is beautiful year-round; however, it’s even more popular in late October and early November as its one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage in Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Contributed by Stephanie Craig of History Fangirl

I hope you enjoyed discovering these beautiful road trips in the USA. It’s incredible how much there is to see in this country.

Before you hit the road, be sure to download your road trip packing lists, for free!

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The best train rides in the USA for seriously gorgeous views

From coastal routes to journeys through the mountains, these train rides spotlight all of America's most stunning scenery.

From redwood groves to sprawling desert landscapes to miles of picturesque countryside, America has no shortage of stunning scenery across its 50 states. One of the best ways to take in all the beauty is by hopping aboard a train. 

While a road trip through America is always a great choice to see the country's sights, we'd argue train travel is even better. Not only is riding  on a train a timeless experience with notes of romance and nostalgia, but there's no airport stress or need to be at attention behind the wheel. Instead,  you can sit back, relax and simply stare out the window as you take it all in. 

Below, you'll find the best and most scenic train rides across the country. On the West Coast, take in ocean views aboard the Coast Starlight (from Los Angeles to Seattle ) or the Surfliner, which hugs the California coast for miles. On the East Coast, the Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you through the Mount Washington area in New Hampshire. Looking for something even more adventurous? Head to Alaska  to catch the Denali Star’s 350-mile trek from Fairbanks to Anchorage.

Whether you're looking for a multi-day adventure or a route that only lasts a few hours, these train rides won't disappoint.

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Best train rides in the USA

1.  Rockies to the Red Rocks

Denver, co to moab, ut.

Trip length: Two days

The first U.S. offering from luxury Canadian company Rocky Mountaineer, the ' Rockies to the Red Rocks ' trip takes passengers on a two-day ride from Denver to Moab—passing through stunning Rocky Mountains and southwest scenery along the way. Best of all? Passengers will witness all that gorgeous nature from the train's glass-dome top! That's right, we're talking about unobstructed views of some of the most gorgeous scenery in the USA . The 2024 season runs from April 14 through October 9.

2.  Coast Starlight

Los angeles, ca to seattle, wa.

Trip length: 36 hours

Traveling by train instead puts a spin on the classic left-coast road trip. The advantages? There are zero wrong-turn fights and way more photo ops. The 1,377-mile Coast Starlight route hits the best of the West: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland, and more. On the 36-hour trip, bounce from your seat to the dining car and the 'sightseer lounge car,' where all the seats face the panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows. 

3.  Pacific Surfliner

San diego, ca to san luis obispo, ca.

Trip length: 8-9 hours

If you're looking for a train ride with ocean views, you can't beat Amrak's Pacific Surfliner , which travels along a 351-mile route, many of the trip is directly along the California coast. The route starts out in San Diego before meandering up through Anaheim, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and other stops before ending in San Luis Obispo in the central part of the state. 

4.  The Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, az to the grand canyon, az.

Trip length: 2 hours 15 minutes

Sure, you may have been to the Grand Canyon already, but have you ever admired Grand Canyon country by train? On The Grand Canyon Railway , you’ll depart from Williams, Arizona, and roll through pine forests and prairies, spotting pronghorn and bald eagles, before arriving two hours and 15 minutes later at the epic South Rim. All of the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway have fascinating former lives and some have glass-dome ceilings for unstoppable panoramas. 

5.  The Empire Builder

Chicago, il to portland, or.

Trip length: 45–46 hours

There is only one word to describe this journey: epic. The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, mirroring much of Lewis and Clark’s original expedition. It passes through a greatest-hits list of must-see sites, from the urban (St. Cloud and Minneapolis) to the great outdoors (big-sky country and Glacier National Park ). The trip totals 46 hours, which warrants booking at least a roomette with seats that convert to beds so you can fully stretch out once you’ve gotten your fill of landscapes under the moonlight. 

6.  The Alaska Denali Star

Anchorage, ak to fairbanks, ak.

Trip length: 12 hours

This 350-mile stretch through the heart of Alaska highlights the state's beautiful, rugged wilderness. Between the birch forests, rushing rivers, caribou- and bear-spotting, views of Mt. McKinley and a stint through Denali National Park, there’s a reason this is the Alaska Railroad ’s flagship sojourn. If you can swing it, splurge on a GoldStar upgrade and take in the spectacular scenery from an open-air viewing car, with absolutely nothing between you and the wild. 

7.  Skunk Train

Willits, ca.

Trip length: 2 hours

Hopping aboard  Skunk Train  is like traveling back in time—this historic train has been traversing Mendocino County in California since 1885. Today, you can choose from a variety of routes and experiences. The most popular journey is Wolf Tree Turn. This 16-mile route will take you through old-growth redwood groves within Noyo River Canyon, over trestle bridges, and under tunnels, ending with a stop in Crowley, where you can take in the majesty of one of the oldest trees in the area, the Wolf Tree. Enjoy snacks and beverages (including alcoholic ones) before heading back toward Willits.

8.  The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson city, nc.

Trip length: 3.5 hours

It may be pint-size, but Bryson City, the departure point for this rail-riding adventure, is rich with local gems like barbecue joints, a soda fountain and a brewery. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has various routes, but the four-and-a-half-hour Nantahala Gorge excursion is a scenery-serving star, snaking along the forested Nantahala River and crossing the Fontana Lake by bridge. Foliage lovers, take note: The leaves here are breathtaking during the fall.

9.  The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton woods, nh.

Trip length: 3 hours

Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington , depositing its passengers at the 6,288-foot peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working museum of sorts (the track dates to 1852), the Cog has the elevated feel of a gondola, only you’re in a sturdy little train. At the top, take in the sweeping views of Canada and the Atlantic on a clear day. 

10.  The Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa valley, ca.

Trip length: 3 to 6 hours on average

On this California Wine Country track, you can get intoxicated by the scenery alone: picture-perfect wineries and hills carpeted in lush rows of vines. But you’ll have a little help, what with all the vino you’ll be sipping alongside your onboard multicourse meal—both lunch and dinner are options. The roving restaurant aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train comprises a collection of vintage Pullman railcars complete with mahogany panels and brass hardware. So go ahead and soak it all up—you’re not behind the wheel, after all.

11.  California Zephyr

Emeryville, ca to reno, nv.

Trip length: 6 hours 45 minutes

At more than 2,400 miles long, the  California Zephyr —stretching from San Francisco to Chicago—is Amtrak's longest route. While we don't recommend you do the route in its entirety (unless that floats your boat), we highly recommend the route stretching from the Bay Area (hop on in San Francisco or Emeryville) to the Lake Tahoe area (get off in Reno or Truckee). This scenic journey is an ideal way to get to Tahoe, beat the traffic, and take in dreamy views.  

12.  The Hawaiian Railway Society

Trip length: 1.5 hours

Train travel takes a turn for the tropical on this 90-minute jaunt across Oahu in an old sugar-cane hauler traveling at the lickety-split speed of 15 miles an hour. The ride aboard the Hawaiian Railway Society shows you a rarely-seen version of Hawaii, filled with old sisal plantations and ghost towns. Time your trip for the second Sunday of the month and you can book a seat in the elegant 1900 parlor car that was the personal ride of Oahu Railway & Land Co. founder Mr. Dillingham. It's worth noting, however, that reservations are now required to ride the train. 

13.  Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, co to silverton, co.

Trip length: 3.5 hours

One of the most scenic ways to experience one of the most scenic states; a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad isn’t merely photo fodder, but a full immersion into the wild, wild west. The train has been rolling between Durango and Silverton since 1882, when it was tasked with transporting silver and gold out of the San Juan Mountains. The 45.4-mile route runs in both directions along the Animas River, crisscrossing it five times, and passing by old stagecoach trails and long-deserted mining camps as it winds between 14,000ft high peaks.

14.  The Ethan Allen Express

New york city, ny to burlington, vt.

Trip length: 7 hours 35 minutes

While the destination is a major draw, getting there is half the fun on this five-and-a-half-hour journey from New York City to Vermont. On the Ethan Allen Express , you’ll cruise through the postcard-perfect towns of New York’s Hudson Valley; hit Saratoga Springs, as famous for its horse races as its hot springs and snake around Vermont’s fittingly named Green Mountains, before landing in charming little-big city Rutland, with its historic downtown and one helluva farmers' market.

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10 of The Most Scenic Road Trips To Take in The US

Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely drive down the coast or embark on an epic cross-country journey, there are plenty of scenic routes to choose from in the United States. To help you plan your next road trip, we’ve rounded up ten of the most picturesque drives in the country.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Stretching for over 650 miles along the Californian coast, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous roadways in the world. The route takes you past some of the state’s most iconic landmarks, including Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Malibu. The drive can be done in its entirety or broken up into smaller sections, depending on your time and budget.

Route 66, Illinois to California

This legendary highway needs no introduction. Once the main route for westward migration in the US, Route 66 is now a popular road trip destination for travelers from all over the world. The 2,400-mile journey takes you through eight states, offering up plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. Highlights include the Cadillac Ranch in Texas and the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona.

Overseas Highway, Florida

For a taste of old-school Miami Vice glamor, hop on the Overseas Highway and take a drive down to Key West . The 113-mile route runs along Florida’s southern tip, offering up panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Be sure to stop at one of the many roadside stands for a refreshing key lime pie or freshly caught fish.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

This 469-mile scenic byway is the perfect place to enjoy some of the best fall foliage in the country. The route runs along the Appalachian Mountains , offering up plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking. In addition to its natural beauty, the parkway also takes you past historic sites like Mount Mitchell State Park.

Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, look no further than the Hana Highway on the Hawaiian island of Maui . This 64-mile route takes you through lush rainforests, past waterfalls, and along a winding coastline. Be sure to allow plenty of time to make stops along the way – there’s plenty to see and do, from swimming in freshwater pools to taking in views of the Haleakala crater.

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

This 52-mile stretch of highway takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in Glacier National Park . The route crosses the Continental Divide and offers up panoramic views of alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and towering mountains. Due to its high elevation, the road is typically only open from late June to early October – plan your trip accordingly!

Beartooth Highway, Montana and Wyoming

This 67-mile stretch of highway takes you to the top of the Beartooth Plateau, offering up incredible views of Yellowstone National Park . The route is open from late May to late September, weather permitting. Due to its high elevation, the road can be susceptible to snow and ice – come prepared with proper tires and plenty of warm clothing.

Copper Country Scenic Byway, Michigan

This 47-mile route takes you along Lake Superior’s northern shore, offering up some of the best views in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The drive takes you past waterfalls, forests, and rocky coastline, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. Be sure to bring your camera – the fall colors are simply stunning!

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Hawaii

This scenic drive will take you past some of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks, including Diamond Head State Monument. The route offers up stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as the opportunity to stop and enjoy some of the island’s best beaches. Be sure to allow plenty of time for stops – there’s plenty to see and do on this beautiful island!

Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

This 34.5-mile route takes you through the White Mountain National Forest , offering up some of the best fall foliage in New England. The drive is particularly stunning in October when the leaves are at their peak. Be sure to stop at one of the many scenic overlooks – the views are simply breathtaking!

So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip experience, be sure to check out at least one of these ten scenic routes. And don’t forget to share your photos and stories with us once you get back! Do you have any tips or tricks for making the most of a scenic drive? Let us know in the comments below.

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Plan the road trip of a lifetime with our hand-selected routes.

The Drive: The 17-Mile Drive

The Scene: Believe it or not, this stunning drive is less than 10 miles long. But it packs a punch: You'll see harbor seals, gorgeous sunsets, and rocky beaches aplenty.

The Pit-Stop: If you're traveling with kids, we suggest making a beeline for The Monterey Bay Aquarium . There, they can see sea turtles and even sharks.

The Drive: North Shore Drive

The Scene: The Minnesota shoreline is an underrated treasure. Start out in Duluth, and be prepared for showstopping views of Lake Superior along your 142-mile journey. Just watch out for deer.

The Pit-Stop: Stop in Grand Marais , Minnesota, for restaurants, lodging, fishing, and more.

The Drive: Lake Shore Drive in Chicago

The Scene: In Chicago, find some of America's most celebrated, storied architecture (including the Sears Tower and Willis Tower) and gaze out at unbelievable lakeside views.

The Pit-Stop: In the summer, you can stop at Millennium Park to take in a free concert. It's one of the city's most popular tourist destinations for a reason.

The Drive: Scenic Byway 12

The Scene: It's got the word "scenic" right in the name, and for good reason: This 122-mile route passes through the glorious Bryce Canyon as well as the Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument.

The Pit-Stop: We don't have to tell you to stop at Bryce Canyon's Inspiration Point —you naturally will on your own. Observe the stunning geological spires, take in the breathtaking views, or go on a short hike.

The Drive: Bluebonnet Trail

The Scene: If you manage to go at the right time—any time in March, April, or May should do—you'll drive past thousands of beautiful bluebonnet flowers. There are also several lakes to see here.

The Pit-Stop: Depending on whether you'd like to stay on land or explore the waters, w e recommend visiting Lake Buchanan or heading to the special Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Research Center .

The Drive: The Coastal Connection

The Scene: Take a cruise along the Gulf of Mexico on the Coastal Connection. Beginning at Grand Bay, Alabama's southern tip stretches for 130 miles where you'll pass by sandy beaches, wildlife refuges, and historic sites like Fort Gaines and Fort Morgan .

The Pit-Stop: Dauphin's Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary is set on 137 acres of maritime land; it's a prime spot for viewing spring migrations in North America.

The Drive: Richardson Highway

The Scene: You may want to break this seven-hour, 360-mile journey up over the course of a couple days to ensure you can see everything along the way. On route from Fairbanks to Valdez, Alaska you’ll see Keystone Canyon , Worthing Glacier, Gulkana Glacier, the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park , and more.

The Pit-Stop: Be sure to stop at North Pole, Alaska to see the "Santa Claus House" and the Antler Academy.

The Drive : Seward Highway

The Scene: Catch a glimpse of Alaska's best views along the 127-mile long Seward Highway. T he iconic drive follows the Turnagain Arm from Anchorage to Seward . Hit the road between the months of May and September to witness the Aleutian Range and Alaska Range in all their glory, while keeping an eye out for Dall sheep perched on the cliffside.

The Pit-Stop: Watch beluga whales roll in the surf at Beluga Point along the Turnagain Arm.

The Drive: Highway 89A

The Scene: This scenic drive doesn't have an official name, but some locals call it Oak Creek Scenic Route. From Flagstaff to Sedona , travel nearly 30 miles to take in the natural beauty of pine trees, red rocks, canyons, and more.

The Pit-Stop: Cool off with your family at Slide Rock State Park by riding on the creek's thrilling natural waterslide.

The Drive: Pig Trail Scenic Byway

The Scene: Clocking in at 19 miles long, the Pig Trail Scenic Byway lies within the Boston Mountains region of the Arkansas Ozark Mountains . Some say the drive got its name because the winding road looks like the corkscrew tail of a pig. Crossing over the Mulberry River and through the Ozark Highlands Trail, this route showcases a riot of colorful foliage during the spring, summer, and fall.

The Pit-Stop: Looking for your next camping trip? Stop at the White Rock Mountain Recreation Area and spend the day climbing the 2,260-foot peak to get a closer look of the surrounding views of the Ozarks.

The Drive: Pacific Coast Highway

The Scene: If you're pressed for time, but still want to behold California's beauty, take this cliff-side drive from Monterey to Morro Bay. Coast along the 139-mile route and you’ll see Big Sur’s Bixby Bridge, picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea , the Hearst Castle , and much more on the way.

The Pit-Stop: Stop at Pfeiffer State Beach for photo-ops with the Pacific Ocean.

The Drive: Route 395

The Scene: Start your drive near beautiful Lake Tahoe to take in the area's pristine wilderness. At approximately 375 miles, Route 395 is filled with history, passing through old mining towns and present-day tourist attractions like Yosemite National Park and Mono Lake until you reach Death Valley National Park .

The Pit-Stop: Snap a quick photo of Mount Whitney , the tallest mountain in the 48 contiguous states standing at 14,494 feet tall.

The Drive: San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway

The Scene: Make your way through canyons and valleys on a road that was once used by miners over a hundred years ago. From historical mining towns to hot springs, this drive features some of the best views in the country.

The Pit-Stop: Between Silverton and Ouray , ride along on "The Million Dollar Highway," a route built in the late 1880s—with its endless curves and turns, you'll be in for a fun ride (as long as you're cautious)!

Connecticut

The Drive: Litchfield Hills Loop

The Scene: Jump on Route 7 to take in this stunning 100-mile loop that's best experienced in the fall. (Hint: Peak foliage usually occurs between September 26 and October 15!)

The Pit-Stop: Step back into the 19th century by visiting Falls Village . Your family can spend the entire day exploring this charming town, which includes gorgeous churches, railroad depots, streets, and historic houses.

The Drive: Delaware Bayshore Byway

The Scene: It's just 50 miles long, but this route allows you to witness spectacular scenes as you drive along endless acres of water marshes near the Delaware Bay . In the fall, pull over to watch the Atlantic Flyway, when thousands of birds pass through the area as they migrate south for the winter.

The Pit-Stop: Tour the Historic Homes of Odessa to marvel over the finest examples of the 18th and 19th-century architecture in the state.

The Drive: A1A Florida State Road

The Scene: Though the full highway extends over 338 miles, we recommend making the journey from Jacksonville down to Miami on highway A1A’s 67-mile stretch. The entire drive provides gorgeous seaside views as you drive through Daytona Beach , West Palm Beach , and Fort Lauderdale .

The Pit-Stop: With so many popular destinations and small towns on this route, you’ll have plenty to choose from, though we recommend checking out Kingsley Plantation , which is situated in Timucuan Historic Preserve . It’s the oldest plantation in the state.

The Drive: Overseas Highway

The Scene: Driving over the blue-green waters of the Atlantic between the cities of Miami and Key West , the Overseas Highway provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Pick an off-season time to avoid a traffic jam, and it'll be smooth sailing for 113 miles.

The Pit-Stop: Visit Jules' Undersea Lodge (or stay the night!), the world's only underwater hotel.

The Drive: Woodpecker Trail-Highway 121

The Scene: Founded almost a century ago, the Woodpecker Trail got its name from the woodpeckers living within the surrounding pine forests. Travel down the 204-mile drive along Georgia State Route 121 and pass through quaint Southern towns like Augusta , Folkston , Metter , and Waynesboro .

The Pit-Stop: See the birds at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge , an endangered home for woodpeckers, cranes, robins, owls, and more species.

The Drive: Hana Highway

The Scene: Journey around Kauai, Hawaii from Kahului to Hana on this 2.5 hour, 52-mile trip while you take in the gorgeous tropics and ocean views.

The Pit-Stop: You'll want to take a quick break from your travels to take a closer look at Wailua Falls , one of several waterfalls featured on the route.

The Drive: Hamakua Coastal Drive

The Scene: On the Big Island , this drive has it all: sea cliffs, lush valleys, and tropical rainforests. From Hilo to Waipio Valley Lookout , the scenic detour will be a trip to remember.

The Pit-Stop: Take in 2,000 species of tropical plants from around the world in the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden .

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11 Scenic American Road Trips to Take This Spring

From coastal drives to national parks, these U.S. road trip ideas are perfect for a spring vacation.

When the weather warms up and the late winter rains turn trees green and fields into wildflower wonderlands, it’s the perfect time to take a drive.

Whether your preferred landscape is mountains, deserts, forests, plains, or coastal views, there’s a spring road trip in the U.S. for you. Explore historic sites, regional food, wineries, or nature, all from the front seat.

We’ve put together a few suggestions, starting in exciting locales and ending in beautiful destinations, with hundreds of scenic miles in between. We cover national parks, where spring presents the ideal time between summer crowds and winter cold, as well as jaunts through marshes, mountains, and springtime blooms.  

There’s flexibility built into these suggested itineraries, with possible extensions if your schedule allows. It’s always a good idea to download your route from Google Maps to use offline or pack a paper map just in case you find yourself out of range.

Pack up the car, and away we go. These are the best American road trips to take this spring.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Nothing beats a U.S. national park in the springtime, and that's doubly true on the West Coast. A scenic drive through Joshua Tree National Park could span 50-plus miles if you drive straight through. Plan on spending at least four hours traversing the park, as you’ll want to take detours to enjoy panoramic views, climb massive rock formations, stroll through the cactus garden, marvel at an oasis, and find the perfect Joshua Tree landscape for your souvenir photos.

There are several ways to enter the park, but let’s say you’re starting in Palm Springs. Drive East on I-10 for about an hour to Cottonwood Springs Road (exit 168) and the park’s south entrance. Your first stop will be the visitor center for a map, and then on through the Colorado Desert environment, around sea level. You’ll see ocotillo, with their tall branches tipped by bright red blossoms. Stop at the Cholla Cactus Garden and walk along its paths, but don't get too close to the prickly plants.

Soon you’ll see the “tree” that gave the park its name. Legend has it that early Mormon settlers likened its branches to arms outstretched in prayer, so named it after the biblical figure, Joshua. Take a side trip to the Keys View overlook — with an elevation of around 5,000 feet, it provides a striking panorama of the Coachella Valley. As you wind through the park on its well-paved roads, you’ll notice campsites, picnic tables, wildlife, and an increase in elevation to the cooler Mojave Desert environment as you head toward the west entrance off Highway 62 in Joshua Tree Village. The highway meets I-10 — from here, head west toward Los Angeles or east toward the Coachella Valley.

Miami to Key West, Florida

With its abundance of wildlife and beaches, the Florida Keys is one of the best spring break destinations for families and can easily be explored by car. This drive covers about 150 miles, but the timing depends on your stops along the way. Take US-1 south, heading through historic Coconut Grove, past the University of Miami, and along either South Dixie Highway (US-1) or Ronald Reagan Turnpike (toll road). After passing the farms between Homestead and Florida City, continue on US-1 South, which turns into the Overseas Highway . Look for mile marker 126 to help you count down the distance to Key West.

Key Largo will be the northernmost town of the Keys and possibly your first stop. Spend some time at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , the first undersea park in the country, which offers snorkeling, scuba diving, glass-bottom boat tours, and more.

Islamorada is part of the Middle Keys, a favorite of fishing fans, and a great place to shop for souvenirs. Then, it's onto Marathon Key , a city set on 13 islands, known for loggerhead turtles and its Dolphin Research Center . South of Marathon, US-1 crosses the Seven Mile Bridge which links Marathon with the Lower Keys.

Enjoy the view of the surrounding waters as you drive across the bridge, and look over at the original railroad bridge, severely damaged in 1935’s hurricane season, commemorated in the Hurricane Memorial in Islamorada. On the other side of the bridge, you'll see the palm-fringed beaches of Bahia Honda State Park . You may want to stop and explore the wildlife at the National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key before reaching your destination of Key West. Enjoy the laid-back ambience of this unique town, stroll along Duval Street, or visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum .

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The wildflowers in Shenandoah National Park are spectacular, making Virginia a worthy spring road trip destination. Skyline Drive takes you 105 miles through the park along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. About an hour and a half drive from Washington, D.C., this route through nature is the perfect contrast to the capital’s museums and monuments (though the D.C. cherry blossoms are worth a peek, too). Waterfalls, spring flora, hiking trails, wildlife, picnic areas, and 75 scenic overlooks will add hours of enjoyment to your park visit, so take your time on this popular road trip.

Starting at Front Royal on US-340, one of the park’s four entrances , the road climbs to Dickey Ridge (mile 4.6), where the visitor center provides exhibits, maps, and an orientation film. Mileposts on the west side of the road beginning with 0.0 at Front Royal help locate points of interest along the way. They continue to 105 at the southern end of the park at Rockfish Gap. Take your time and stop at the well-marked scenic overlooks, starting with the Shenandoah Valley Overlook at mile 2.8, where you can see the Shenandoah River as it winds through the valley. The Hogback Overlook at mile 20.8 is the longest viewpoint in the park and offers vistas of the Allegheny Mountains on a clear day.

Continue enjoying the panoramic views from the various overlooks, stop for a short hike, or learn more about the park at the Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center. It's located at milepost 51 across from Big Meadows, an open area with campgrounds and spring wildflowers. At the Bearfence Mountain parking lot at mile 56.4, hikers can take a trail to the summit for a 360-degree view. Where Skyline Drive ends at Rockfish Gap, the Blue Ridge Parkway , a trip of nearly 500 scenic miles, begins.

Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana

Although parts of these two national parks are 100 miles apart, it’s possible to visit them both in one trip. You may want to stretch it over a few days, though, to really take your time sightseeing. Grand Teton National Park , at nearly 310,000 acres, is near the Wyoming town of Jackson, with Jackson Hole Airport located within the park at the base of the Teton Mountains. Just north, Yellowstone National Park covers over two million acres, with its famous geysers, mud pots, and hot springs.

Spring in Grand Teton sees the annual wildlife migration, with elk, bison, deer, and moose heading for their summer homes. The park’s mountains, valleys, forests, and rivers come alive after the winter thaw, and wildflowers usually begin to dot the landscape in May. Be sure to stop at one of the visitor centers in the park to learn about its history, wildlife, and environment. You may want to spend a night before setting out on the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway toward Yellowstone.

Heading north, you’ll be entering Yellowstone at the southernmost of its five entrances. You’ll pass Lewis Lake and waterfalls on your way to the Grant Visitor Center . Be sure to check the park’s website or convenient app regarding road conditions, especially in early spring. Head west to the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to learn about the famous geyser and see it erupt. Watch for the park’s abundant wildlife, which includes bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, deer, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions. If time allows, you can continue your national parks road trip by heading farther north to Glacier National Park in Montana.

Seattle to Newport, Oregon

You may find Seattle a bit rainy in the spring, but you'll likely see fewer crowds and lower prices. After dining on seafood, strolling through Pike Place Market, and seeing the sights over Puget Sound, head southwest towards the Oregon coast and the lovely town of Astoria. The trip begins on I-5 and is about 180 miles, passing enormous pine trees, green forests, and charming towns. It takes about three and a half hours until you cross the four-mile Astoria-Megler Bridge spanning the Columbia River and enter Astoria. There, you should spend the night and take some time exploring in the morning.

Astoria is located at the mouth of the Columbia River, close to the Pacific Ocean, and the Maritime Museum’s displays show the challenges of ships navigating the area. Once a center of fur trading and canneries, Astoria’s historic homes still stand, and the town almost seems lost in time. Don’t miss the view from Coxcomb Hill and the Astoria Column , dedicated in 1926 to honor Astoria’s early settlers.

Set out from Astoria along US-101, heading south along Oregon’s coast, and plan for many stops along the way at observation points, towns, state parks, beaches, or simply to enjoy breathtaking views of rugged coastline and crashing waves. Ecola State Park , with its sandy beach, tide pools, picnic areas, and hiking trails would be an appealing place to stop. Other beaches, wildlife preserves, and fishing villages will beckon you along the way, turning the 133-mile trip from Astoria into a full day. Relax in Newport, visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium , and dine on fresh seafood at sunset as you decide on your next stop. Willamette Valley wineries? Portland? More coastal towns? State Route 20 heads inland and US-101 continues south for your next adventure.

Rapid City to Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Rapid City is not only a great destination in itself, with art galleries, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s also the gateway to Mount Rushmore, the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site , and Badlands National Park , where this road trip will take you. Fossil beds, rugged mountains, wildlife, and striking rock formations create a unique environment.

The park is about 60 miles east of Rapid City, and South Dakota Route 44 is a scenic road through open prairie, farms, small towns, and ranches along Rapid Creek, a tributary of the Cheyenne River. You’ll drive through the Buffalo Gap National Grassland before reaching the entrance to Badlands National Park, two miles north of the town of Interior on Highway 377. From there, the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway (SD-240) takes you through the park along 31 miles of stunning scenery that includes buttes, cliffs, spires, and overlooks where you’ll be amazed by the stretch of landscape before you.

Plan to spend several hours among the varied terrain and scenic beauty. Hike one of the many trails, and stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn more about the park's history, wildlife, and geology. Don’t leave without a stop at Pinnacles Overlook , especially striking at sunset. To return to Rapid City, take SD-240 west to the town of Wall and then head west on I-90 for a quicker route.

New York City to Cape May, New Jersey

There’s always something to do in New York City, and after you’ve seen the shows, walked through the museums, and had your fill of the best bagels, get behind the wheel and head south along the Jersey Shore. You’ll probably leave the city via the Holland Tunnel to cross under the Hudson River to New Jersey. Stay on Route 78, and then take I-95 after you cross Newark Bay. After Perth Amboy, take the Garden State Parkway for a more scenic drive closer to the coast. Whew! You're out of the city.

The entire route is around 160 miles, and you’ll pass through some well-known beach towns worth a jaunt off the Parkway, so allow plenty of time. Asbury Park is where Bruce Springsteen got his start, and other beach towns, long popular as summer getaways, include Belmar, Spring Lake, Point Pleasant, and towns on Long Beach Island, a narrow barrier island that parallels the coast. Take Route 9 when it branches off around Toms River for a more scenic route closer to the ocean. Atlantic City, home to hotels, restaurants, casinos, beaches, and its historic boardwalk is next along your route. Stop at Steel Pier , a 1,000-foot amusement park offering rides, games, and food.

Nearing the southernmost end of New Jersey, you’ll reach Wildwood , a resort city with Adventure Amusement Pier , 1950s-style motels, diners, and retro entertainment. Just a bit further, but seemingly a world away, Cape May offers Victorian-style homes, quaint cottages, boutiques, galleries, and history dating back to the 1600s. Walk among its historic buildings and spend a night in one of its inns or bed and breakfasts before returning to New York or continuing south on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry , which can accommodate cars.

New Orleans to Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Once you’ve had your fill of beignets and oysters Rockefeller in New Orleans, consider a springtime getaway up the road to Louisiana’s capital. This southern road trip is only about 100 miles, but with so much history and beauty along the way, you should plan on making it a full-day trip. 

Take I-10 west out of town and I-310 south to LA-18, a scenic road that hugs the Mississippi. Stop at cemeteries, churches, and any picturesque places along the way that catch your eye. Then, merge onto LA-3213 N, cross the river, and make a slight left onto US-61 N to pass through Gonzales, also known as the “Jambalaya Capital of the World.” The town has a festival dedicated to the dish every May and several Cajun restaurants like The Jambalaya Shoppe .

Get on I-10 W in Prairieville from US-61 N and follow it for about 25 minutes to Baton Rouge. Enjoy some time in the city, and perhaps spend the night after your long day of driving. You might consider touring the LSU Rural Life Museum , which documents the cultures of 18th- and 19th-century rural Louisianans. For a faster return, take I-10 east, or continue west on I-10 to Lafayette, Lake Charles, and beyond.

San Antonio to Austin, Texas

If you happen to be in San Antonio in April, don’t miss Fiesta , a celebration dating back to 1891 that honors the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto with parades, flowers, food, and entertainment. Enjoy the River Walk and restaurants while you plan your Texas-style road trip to the state capital of Austin. Wildflowers and the spring landscape make this meandering drive one of the most beautiful routes to Austin (just don't expect it to be the quickest). Head west on I-10 out of the city, and then west on I-410 to TX-16 north (Bandera Road) for a scenic drive through Hill Country.

The town of Bandera , home to dude ranches and farms, was once a center for cattle drives, hence its nickname, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” From there, head north on TX-173 and TX-16 to Fredericksburg , a Texas city with a German heritage dating back to its first settlers in the mid-1800s. Wineries and authentic German cuisine make this an attractive stopping point. If you have time, stop in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area to see its pink granite dome and striking rock formations.

Austin is about 80 miles east on US-290, but if there’s time for one more detour, you might want to visit Pedernales Falls State Park , just six miles north of US-290 about halfway to Austin. Known for entertainment, food, and nightlife, Austin is called the “Live Music Capital of the World.” You may want to spend a night to see what it’s all about. When it’s time to leave, you can take a direct route back to San Antonio on I-35 south, making the trip in under an hour and a half.

Phoenix to Flagstaff, Arizona

Spring is lovely in Phoenix, with April temperatures around the mid-80s. Flagstaff, at 7,000 feet of elevation, sees cooler average temperatures in the 60s and 70s during spring. The drive begins on I-17 north through the Sonoran Preserve and continues through the desert landscape for an hour before reaching our first suggested stop, Arcosanti . The experimental community is considered one of the best small towns in Arizona due to its futuristic and eco-conscious architecture, so set aside an hour or two to explore.

Then, continue up I-17 to the Montezuma Castle National Monument . These well-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings were the homes of the Sinagua people for more than 400 years.

Continue northeast on I-17, then take AZ-179 north to Sedona along the Red Rock Scenic Byway , with about eight miles of stunning scenery that includes rugged sandstone rock formations tinted red by the presence of iron. Spend some time in the small town, explore the shops and restaurants, or hike among the rocks to feel the energy some refer to as vortexes.

Take AZ-89A north toward Flagstaff, but don’t miss Slide Rock State Park , especially during wildflower season. In just over 30 minutes, you’ll arrive in Flagstaff, home to the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest. Explore the historic downtown on a walking tour and rest there for the night before heading back to Phoenix or on to Grand Canyon National Park , Wupatki National Monument , Petrified Forest National Park , or one of the other national or state parks accessible from the gateway of Flagstaff.

Los Angeles to Big Bear Lake, California

Ron and Patty Thomas/Getty Images

No list of spring road trips would be complete without one of the most beloved — the Rim of the World Scenic Byway . The 110-mile trip takes drivers along the cliffs of the San Bernardino Mountains from one breathtaking view to the next.

Begin at Cajon Pass off Interstate 15, about an hour east of Los Angeles on Interstate 10. This drive takes you through some of the most scenic spots in California’s Inland Empire area, with plenty of photo opportunities at lookouts like Lake Silverwood Scenic Overlook  off State Highway 138.  

If there’s time to spend in Lake Arrowhead, off State Route 173, we highly recommend a tour on the  Lake Arrowhead Queen paddle-wheel boat  to get a good look at the lake and its scenic shores. Stay overnight at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa for a relaxing evening of waterfront dining and alpine views from its private beach.

Join State Route 18 for your drive east toward Big Bear. Embrace your mountainous surroundings and stay at one of the chic cabins at Noble + Proper . Go for a hike on the  Castle Rock Trail  to catch unparalleled views of Big Bear Lake. Before you head back to L.A., grab a poke bowl and orange-guava smoothie at Tropicali , Big Bear’s popular restaurant on the Rim of the World with Hawaiian-style trappings. 

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These 16 Iconic Scenic Drives In The USA Will Fuel Your Wanderlust

Sarah McCosham

I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books. I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.

More by this Author

America is a country of explorers. This spirit of adventure runs deep here in the U.S., a place comprised of 50 wholly unique states and an amazing melting pot of cultures. This drive to explore is quite literally a drive to explore , too, with the country connected by a series of the most scenic highways and byways, iconic bridges , and backcountry roads. Route 66 is obviously the epitome of the Great American Drive, but it’s by no means the only route worth traveling. Buckle up and get ready to explore; these bucket list road trips that are some of the best scenic drives in the USA and are sure to fuel your wanderlust — no matter how insatiable it might be.

Cross-Country Scenic Drives In America

Northeastern usa scenic drives, southern usa scenic drives, midwestern usa scenic drives, northwestern usa scenic drives, southwestern usa scenic drives, non-continental usa scenic drives.

Scenic drives are a metaphor for life. There’s Point A and Point B, and all the time in between. It’s obviously great to look ahead at what’s to come, but it’s just as important to, as they say, enjoy the ride. And the following cross-country scenic drives in America will undoubtedly have you enjoying the ride. Depending on which route you take, you’re looking at anywhere between 2,500 to 3,500 miles. So make a massive playlist and grab your favorite traveling BFFs — and be prepared to be totally dazzled by America the Beautiful.

1. Route 66

• Location : Route 66 spans 2,400 miles and crosses eight states.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Attractions abound along the Mother Road, from the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum in Illinois to the Trail of Tears Memorial in Jerome to the Acoma Pueblo in New Mexico.
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations abound along the Mother Road, and we suggest stopping for the night in Oklahoma at this quaint bungalow cottage .

2. The Great River Road

• Location : The Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the course of the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Where to begin? Attractions along Great River Road include Chain of Rocks Bridge, Buffalo Bill Museum, Fort Snelling, and quirky roadside attractions such as the World's Largest Six Pack and Field of Dreams Movie site!
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations abound along The Great River Road, and this cozy Mississippi cabin would make a wonderful place to rest after a day of driving.

The Northeast is such a treasure. In addition to being undeniably beautiful, there are lots of states packed into a relatively small region, making it possible to pack a whole lot of scenic punch in a short amount of time. Whether you choose to take a leaf-peeping trip in the fall or admire covered bridges come spring and summer, the following scenic drives in the Northeastern USA are sure to capture your heart.

3. Kancamagus Highway - New Hampshire

• Location : Rt. 112 in Northern New Hampshire
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Two words: fall foliage.
• Where to Stay En-Route : Stay in a gorgeous mountain home in the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountains.

4. Mohawk Trail - Massachusetts

• Location : Western Massachusetts
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : The (in)famous Hairpin Turn!
• Where to Stay En-Route : We can't think of a more charming place to stay than this historic cottage .

5. Ocean Drive - Rhode Island

• Location : Ocean Drive is a 10-mile stretch along the southern coastline of Rhode Island's Aquidneck Island.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Brenton Point State Park
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations are plentiful in this area, with rentals like this oceanfront home letting folks sit back and soak up the scenery.

The American South is truly beautiful. Marshes and swamps, shorelines and canyons, mountains and rivers, and history — there’s a lot to see in the South. The following scenic drives in the South boast all of the above — and more — and we promise you’ll emerge with a newfound appreciation for all this region has to offer.

6. Blue Ridge Parkway - Virginia and North Carolina

• Location : The parkway, which is America's longest linear park, runs for 469 miles through 29 Virginia and North Carolina counties, linking Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : The Linn Cove Viaduct is a Blue Ridge icon!
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations abound along the Blue Ridge Parkway and this rustic cabin is the coziest place to break for the night!

7. U.S. Highway 1 - Florida

• Location : The Florida portion of U.S. Highway 1 spans 574 and runs from Key West all the way to its crossing of the St. Marys River into Georgia.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations abound along U.S. Highway 1 in Florida, such as this Luxurious Newly Renovated Amelia Island Plantation .

There’s a saying that the Midwest is Best , yet many dismiss this part of the country as “flyover” territory. Don’t make that mistake. The Midwest might be the most underrated region of the USA, and on the following scenic drives, you’ll see some truly extraordinary landscapes sure to leave you speechless.

8. North Shore Scenic Drive - Minnesota

• Location : North Shore Scenic Drive is a 154-mile stretch between Duluth and the Canadian border along Lake Superior.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche State Park, Temperance River State Park, Silver Bay, and Grand Marais.
• Where to Stay En-Route : Stay right on the water in the ridiculously charming Superior's Edge cottage.

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The Northwest and Pacific Northwest part of the USA is a wonderland filled with old-growth forests, shockingly blue alpine lakes, majestic mountains, and even high deserts and temperate rainforests. Revel in the resplendence of this region with the following scenic drives through the Northwestern USA:

9. Olympic Peninsula Loop - Washington

• Location : Olympic National Park in Washington
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Hoh Rain Forest, La Push, Ruby Beach, Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent... this 329-mile route cruises past some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the USA.
• Where to Stay En-Route : Hoh Valley Hideaway is a postcard-perfect little green rental located near Hoh Rain Forest.

10. Highway 101 - Oregon

• Location : Highway 101 runs all 363 miles of the Oregon Coast.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : There are so many lighthouses and natural wonders along this trip, so we're switching it up and directing you to Pronto Pup, home of the original corn dog!
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations abound along Highway 101 in Oregon, but this Luxury House on Cannon Beach is hard to pass up.

11. Pacific Coast Highway - California, Oregon, and Washington

• Location : California, Oregon, and Washington.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : The California stretch of this highway is a case study in American icons: Golden Gate Park, Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Morro Bay, Hollywood...buckle up and enjoy the ride!
• Where to Stay En-Route : Channel Old Hollywood glam when you book a night at this SoCal cottage with views of Griffith Observatory .

12. Going-to-the-Sun Road - Montana

• Location : This 50-mile route in Montana traverses through the heart of the Rockies.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : This drive truly is about the dashboard views: impressive glaciers, beautiful valleys, cascading waterfalls, towering mountains, colorful wildflowers, and loads of wildlife make this road a total sensory experience.
• Where to Stay En-Route : If your manta is "go big or go home," then you really can't get any more luxurious and bucket-list-worthy than this Glacier Park Mountain Home .

Over in the Southwest, hoodoos, sand dunes, and rock formations come together to create some of the most otherworldly landscapes in the USA. Immerse yourself in these wholly wondrous worlds on the following scenic drives through the Southwestern USA:

13. 17 Mile Drive - California

• Location : 17 Mile Drive is a scenic road through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula in California.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : The Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach, and Spanish Bay.
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations abound in this cozy corner of California, and this classic SoCal home is just one block from 17 Mile Drive.

14. San Juan Scenic Byway - Colorado

• Location : The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway covers 236 miles of terrain across southwestern Colorado, passing through towns such as Durango, Mancos, Dolores, Stoner, and Rico.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Embrace mountain town living when you visit places like Durango, Silverton, Telluride, and Ouray.
• Where to Stay En-Route : Accommodations abound along this part of Colorado, and this Luxury Condo in Telluride would make a great "home base" for your adventures!

The Lower 48 tends to get the attention when it comes to bucket lists, especially with scenic drives, as exploring the non-continental USA requires multiple forms of transportation. While you can’t just “pack up and go” to Alaska or Hawaii, you can — and should — add the following non-continental scenic drives to your bucket list, because they traverse some truly exceptional and exceptional parts of the USA… and the world!

15. Dalton Highway - Alaska

• Location : The Dalton Highway runs for 414 miles from Livengood, a small community 80 miles north of Fairbanks, to Deadhorse on the shores of the Arctic Ocean.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : Where to even begin? Denali National Park, the Arctic National Wildlife Reserve, the Northern Lights... there's no shortage of spectacular dashboard views on this Alaska highway.
• Where to Stay En-Route : Gaze at the elusive Northern Lights when you book a night at the charming and cozy Aurora Cabin A .

16. Hana Highway - Hawaii

• Location : Hana Highway is a 64.4-mile-long stretch of Hawaii Routes 36 and 360 which connects Kahului to the town of Hana in east Maui.
• Can't Miss Pit Stop : If you're into bridges and jaw-dropping scenery, Hana Highway has both in spades: there are over 50 bridges and some of the most vibrant and jaw-droppingly gorgeous landscapes along this stretch of road.
• Where to Stay En-Route : There's no shortage of amazing accommodations along Hana Highway, and Areca Suite is as adorable as it is affordable!

From coast to coast (and everything in between), America is one big map of road trip adventures. The only question is: which one of these bucket list road trips and best scenic drives in the USA will you tackle first?

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More to Explore

Best scenic drives in the usa.

How long does it take to drive across America?

Looking for the Great American Road Trip? Get ready for some serious car time. It takes about 45 hours (or six days) if you're averaging eight hours a day, to drive coast-to-coast across America. 

What are the must-see places on a USA road trip?

Looking for iconic places to see on your next USA road trip? In addition to the sites and points of interest listed above, the American Discovery Trail is an epic  tour de force of some of the country's most marvelous places and natural wonders, including:

• Cape Henlopen State Park - Delaware
• Harpers Ferry - West Virginia
• Hocking Hills State Park - Ohio
• Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial - Indiana
• Garden of the Gods Wilderness - Illinois
• The Gateway Arch - St. Louis, Missouri
• Arches National Park - Utah
• Virginia City - Nevada
• Muir Woods National Monument - California
• Golden Gate Bridge - California

What are the best states in America for scenic drives?

Here at OnlyInYourState, we have big love for ALL 50 states, and, as you can see in the above list of scenic adventures. However, in terms of states that pack a major punch in the scenic drives department, we recommend Oregon. Why? Well, the Beaver State's scenery is unrivaled, taking road trippers from coast to high desert, canyons to valleys. Some scenic drives in Oregon you'll want to check out include:

• Three Capes Scenic Loop
• Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
• Historic Columbia River Highway
• Painted Hills Scenic Byway

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Best u.s. national parks for 2024.

For more than 100 years, the National Park Service has managed millions of acres solely for the "enjoyment, education and inspiration of this and future generations." Today, 63 designated national parks in the United States draw millions of visitors a year to witness jaw-dropping natural wonders and unforgettable terrains. To determine the best U.S. national parks, U.S. News considered scenic beauty, range of activities and the opinions of both travel experts and recent park visitors. Do you have a favorite park? Cast your vote below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: Some of the below destinations require reservations for timed entry. Plan ahead to ensure you can visit on your preferred date.)

Glacier National Park

Yellowstone national park, yosemite national park, grand canyon national park, grand teton national park, zion national park, denali national park and preserve, kenai fjords national park, bryce canyon national park, redwood national and state parks, arches national park, sequoia national park, olympic national park, hawai'i volcanoes national park, mount rainier national park, rocky mountain national park.

Considered one of the world's best places to visit , Glacier National Park spans two mountain ranges and includes more than 700 lakes across Montana. Take advantage of the park's expansive hiking trails, and be sure to hit traveler favorites like the Trail of the Cedars and Iceberg Lake Trail. Other activities include a ride along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road and a trip to the unique Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Canadian border. What's more, Glacier National Park hosts plenty of free ranger-led activities like guided hikes and stargazing events ideal for visitors of all ages.

Even if Yellowstone didn't hold the incredible distinction of being the world's first national park, the 2.2 million-acre park, which stretches across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, could easily stand on its own for its unique natural attractions and magnificent landscapes . Here, travelers can get lost in the splendor of Yellowstone's many lakes, mountains, bison-filled valleys and, of course, its unmatched hot springs and active geysers (of which the park boasts more than half of the world's supply). To avoid the crowds that often plague Yellowstone while also ensuring excellent weather, plan to visit in April, May or October.

One of California's most-visited national parks, Yosemite National Park stands out for its bevy of impressive waterfalls, such as Vernal Fall and Bridalveil Fall, as well as its unique granite rock formations like Half Dome and El Capitan. There are also ample scenic hiking and camping opportunities; just keep in mind that campsites sell out quickly after becoming available for booking, so make your reservations in advance. Whatever your itinerary may be, make sure to stop by the Tunnel View overlook, which offers showstopping panoramas of Yosemite Valley. What's more, the picturesque lookout spot is relatively easy to access (no hiking is required).

The Grand Canyon is so magnificent that even the highest quality photos don't do the Arizona park's vast beauty justice – you just have to see it in person. The 18-by-277-mile UNESCO World Heritage Site offers endless hiking opportunities with trails of various lengths and degrees of difficulty, as well as the chance to raft the Colorado River. For a slight break from the tourist crowds, head to the less-congested North Rim. And if you're looking for a different vantage point, consider a helicopter tour to learn more about Grand Canyon National Park and see it in all its glory from above.

Jackson Hole's backcountry is a wild wonderland begging to be explored. Once home to ranchers and fur trappers, this Wyoming park now offers more than 250 miles of trails that weave past forests, lakes and the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Grand Teton mountain range. The Cascade Canyon Trail – which takes travelers past waterfalls, glacier-carved canyons and more – shows off the best of Grand Teton National Park's stunning topography. Don't forget to stop by the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center to stock up on maps, check out its informational exhibits and watch the interesting documentary film about the park.

Utah's Zion National Park is a paradise for thrill-seekers. Hike Angels Landing, which brings you up through a nearly 1,500-foot natural staircase (permits are required to hike this popular trail and are awarded through an online lottery system). You can also trek The Narrows, a roughly 10-mile hike through the thinnest section of Zion Canyon, which requires hikers to travel upstream through the Virgin River. For a less strenuous exploration of the park, join a shuttle bus tour to traverse the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which takes you past many of the park's most famous landmarks.

Spanning six million acres of unspoiled Alaskan wilderness, Denali National Park and Preserve is as vast as it is fascinating. One-sixth of the park is covered in glaciers, and the tallest mountain in North America, Denali, stands within its bounds, towering at 20,310 feet high. The park appeals to true explorers as there isn't an abundance of marked trails. However, free ranger-led trail hikes are available seasonally. Visitors can also watch a sled dog demonstration, go snowmobiling or take a narrated bus tour of the 92-mile Denali Park Road to see scenic landmarks like Savage River and Wonder Lake.

Comprised of glaciers, coastal fjords and icefields, Kenai Fjords National Park transports guests to an age where ice covered large parts of the earth. The Harding Icefield – which was created more than 23,000 years ago – is one of this Alaska park's main features, extending for 700 square miles and viewable via the 8.2-mile Harding Icefield Trail. Visitors can also embark on the Glacier Overlook Trail and Glacier View Loop Trail to catch vistas of Exit Glacier, which flows from the famed icefield. Or, take a kayak or a boat tour to experience the awe-inspiring landscapes from the water.

Hoodoos are odd-shaped pillars of rock left standing from forces of erosion, and Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the most extensive collection of hoodoos in the world. Located in southern Utah, the nearly 36,000-acre park offers an array of hiking opportunities. All trails offer a glimpse of the impressive red rock formations; visitors can also sign up for guided horseback riding tours. While Bryce Canyon is most popular in summer, the park's stark white snow-covered landscape juxtaposed with the orange-red rocks is an unforgettable sight. Winter is also a prime time for activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

As the name suggests, Redwood National and State Parks are best known for their sky-high redwood trees, which typically soar more than 300 feet tall. Along with exploring the old-growth redwood groves, travelers can hike past rivers, through prairies and along 40 miles of Pacific Coast shoreline, spotting wildlife like elk, sea lions and various species of birds as they go. If you can't stay long, scenic drives like Howland Hill Road and Enderts Beach Road showcase park highlights. But for those wanting to sleep under the stars and rise with the sun, there are four developed campgrounds.

Established in 1929 and awarded national park status in 1971, Arches National Park covers nearly 77,000 acres in eastern Utah. Oddly shaped sandstone monuments occupy every view, and the formations make the park an excellent place for backpackers, rock climbers and hikers, not to mention photographers. Visitors will find a whopping 2,000-plus arches in the park – the world's densest concentration of these natural structures. The most popular to see are Landscape Arch, Delicate Arch and Double Arch. Plus, travelers will want to check out the visitor center, which features a wealth of information and exhibits outlining Arches National Park's history, geology and more.

Sequoia National Park is defined by its beautiful, towering sequoia trees – the largest trees in the world. Travelers can hike through this unique California national park to admire its trees, rivers, meadows and wildlife. A visit here is not complete without seeing the Giant Forest's General Sherman Tree, which measures nearly 275 feet tall and more than 36 feet in diameter, making it the world's largest tree by volume. After you ogle the truly impressive evergreens, try some other adventurous activities like rock climbing, horseback riding or fishing.

Among the nearly 1 million acres that make up Olympic National Park, visitors can wander through the enchanting Hoh Rainforest, trek to stunning overlooks and relax on more than 70 miles of Pacific Northwest coastline. One of North America's top hiking destinations , this Washington state gem features top trails like Mount Storm King and the Hall of Mosses. However, you will also want to save time for trying out one of Olympic National Park's other popular activities, which range from canoeing on Lake Crescent to birdwatching on Kalaloch and Ruby Beach.

Visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park for a chance to get up close and personal with two of the world's most active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. The latter almost continually erupts, which visitors can witness from multiple points in the park, including Crater Rim Drive and the famous Chain of Craters Road (although eruption sightings are never guaranteed). While driving along Chain of Craters Road, set aside time to stop at the Kealakomo Overlook. The scenic lookout offers expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and the ancient village of Kealakomo.

At 14,410 feet tall, Mount Rainer is the highest peak in the Cascade Range and the tallest volcano in the contiguous United States. Though thousands of travelers tackle the ambitious hike to the mountain's summit each year, it's far more popular to drive to Sunrise, the highest point accessible by vehicle, to soak in 360-degree views of the Cascade Range and Emmons Glacier. Numerous shorter hikes are also available at Mount Rainier National Park, so visitors can explore the temperate rainforests of Carbon River, admire the picturesque wildflower meadows at Paradise or search for the waterfalls in the old-growth forests at Ohanapecosh.

The Rockies earn plenty of points for their convenience. Sitting about 70 miles northwest of Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park makes for an easy daytrip. However, you could also spend days exploring this Colorado park. The Rockies' magnificent landscape is one for the books, featuring more than 350 miles of scenic trails, plenty of lakes and numerous mountain peaks taller than 10,000 feet. If you're short on time, Emerald Lake Trail is a popular trek that's less than 5 miles round trip and promises spectacular alpine views. If you'd rather skip the hiking, opt instead for an auto tour of Trail Ridge Road.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Acadia National Park

Crater Lake National Park

Voyageurs National Park

Shenandoah National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

Haleakala National Park

Canyonlands National Park

You may be interested in.

Best National Parks in the World for 2024

Best Adventure Vacations in the U.S.

Best Places to Hike in the USA

Best national parks in canada.

Best Places to Visit in Utah

Best Places to Visit in California for 2024

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5 of the best road trips in and around Yosemite National Park

Apr 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Find the perfect scenic route for your road trip in and around Yosemite National Park © Adam Hester / Getty Images

The roads around Yosemite National Park are a driving utopia – these routes carve through expansive backcountry, sublime valleys and pretty meadows, and loop by deep gorges dotted with emerald-green forests, shimmering lakes and ancient sequoias.

It’s unfathomably easy to access untamed wildlife and dazzling High Sierras scenery on a number of superbly maintained routes – all you need is a vehicle and a sense of adventure. 

Alas, the world is fully aware of this driving wonderland and it can become frustratingly clogged up at peak times. Read on for tips on how to avoid the crowds and enjoy an epic drive to yourself with our five best drives in and around Yosemite.

1. Tioga Road

Best route through Yosemite Crane Flat to Mono Lake; 60 miles (96km); 2–4 hours

Easily one of California’s best drives , this is the highest highway pass in California , reaching a dizzying 9945ft (3031m) at its apex and bisecting Yosemite National Park between its eastern and western borders. It cruises through the Sierra Nevada mountains, first winding past the giant sequoias of Tuolumne Grove and then climbing up to evergreen forests and viewpoints, with Tenaya Canyon and the back side of Half Dome in the distance. 

Further on the route, the shimmering Tenaya Lake begs drivers to stop and dive in. Stretch the legs at nearby Cloud’s Rest trail, which ends on a palm-sweatingly narrow ridge with 360-degree views. Tuolumne Meadows teems with wildflowers in spring, and the Lembert Dome hike is a short but mighty challenge up a granite dome rock. 

At the road’s highest point, Mt Dana looms to the east as you exit the park. Pass the twinkling high-altitude lakes of Tioga and Ellery, before the final descent to the hauntingly beautiful Mono Lake with its outdoor gallery of otherworldly tufa towers. Chances are you’ll immediately want to U-turn and ride this road all over again. Head's up: Tioga is closed in winter due to snowfall, reopening for summer and fall.

2. Yosemite Valley Loop

Best road trip for less-confident drivers El Capitan Meadow to El Capitan Meadow; 14 miles (22km); around 40 minutes

One of the shortest drives in the area, but no less enthralling, is this nature cruise through the beating heart of Yosemite National Park, with roads bookended by geological masterpieces. The atmospheric one-way loop can be conquered by both private vehicle and shuttle bus if you don’t feel like driving at all. As you snake east along the Merced River, clearings in the dense trees reveal astonishing views of the towering Yosemite Falls , plus the iconic El Capitan and Half Dome formations.

It’s a humbling experience, as cars look like tiny bugs among the gargantuan granite behemoths and boulder-strewn landscape. Cypress, pine, hemlock and fir trees line the roads – keep the windows down to breathe in fragrant forest aromas. At dusk, scenes turn to moody shadows and silhouettes in the big blue sky. Sleep under a carpet of stars at the North and Upper Pines Campgrounds , at the most easterly point of the route.

3. Glacier Point Road

Best scenic drive with expansive views Tunnel View to Big Tree Lodge; 52 miles (83km); 2 hours

The drive begins at Tunnel View scenic viewpoint with sweeping views of Yosemite Valley’s big attractions. Half Dome sits front and center with the all-encompassing 3000ft-high (914m) El Capitan to the left – often with climbers dangling like spiders – and opposite from  Bridalveil Fall , which plunges 620ft (188m) over a glacially-carved granite cliff. At the end of Wawona Tunnel – the longest highway tunnel in California at 4200ft (1290m) – the Turtleback Dome (5300ft/1615m) appears in view. 

At the Chinquapin junction, the ascent up Glacier Point Rd begins. This 16-mile winding road is flanked by green forests and towering views of Merced Canyon below. In winter, you'll only be able to go as far as the Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area . The route re-opens when the snow melts in May or June, continuing to the crowd-pleasing  Sentinel Dome (8122ft/2476m) hike. 

The best views from your vehicle are at  Washburn Point , which offers  views of nature’s "giant staircase" Nevada and Vernal waterfalls. Further ahead is the road’s namesake – Glacier Point , with commanding views of Yosemite's high country, Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Double back for 12 miles to cross the Merced River and finish at the historic Victorian-era Wawona Hotel.

4. Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway

Best for adventure Topaz Lake to Yosemite Valley; 175 miles (281km) one way; 3–4 hours

To the north of Yosemite’s boundaries in the Stanislaus National Forest is a monumental road trip through High Sierras country, with glacier-carved valleys, giant sequoias, pristine lakes, little hamlets and the occasional bald eagle swooping overhead. Named after pioneer John Ebbetts, this road was earmarked as a "route of great promise" for the Transcontinental Railway. The railroad never happened, but a stage road was constructed to serve Silver City, and the miners working here were frequently treated to stellar views as they passed. 

The drive starts in the east on the California – Nevada border at Topaz Lake before turning onto the boulder-flanked Route 89, where it cruises through arid desert-scapes and winds to greener pastures when meeting State Route 4. The crossing point for hikers on the legendary  Pacific Crest Trail , a hiking trail spanning 2650 miles (4270km) from Mexico to Canada, is up ahead. On the north side of the road at the entrance to the PCT, climb the boulder for 360-degree views of mountains, deep green forests and the piercing blue Kinney Reservoir below. Views continue as clearings in the trees reveal snippets of classic mountain scenes, likely snow-tipped at this altitude even in summer. 

Despite its name, Mosquito Lake is an oasis of calm with shimmering waters, trout fishing opportunities and three campgrounds nearby. Intoxicating views of the Dardanelle formation from the Cape Horn Vista Point await three miles west (spot the "sleeping lion" and "elephant" formations in the distance). Giant sequoias dapple the Calaveras Big Trees State Park , and at Lake Alpine and Spicer Snow Park road trippers can stop to play in the snow, with cross-country skiing, dog sledding and snowmobiling  all possible here (book a trip with Bear Valley Adventure ). Continue on to the little mountain town of Arnold before snaking 70 miles along the east side of Yosemite National Park (on the CA-49 and CA-120) through farmlands and green pastures and into Yosemite Valley.

5. Sonora Pass

Best for crowd-free alpine cruising Tenaya Lake to Sonora; 84 miles (135km) one-way; 2 – 3 hours

Just north of Yosemite National Park is California's second-highest road (after Tioga Road), Highway 108/Sonora Pass (9642ft/2939m), which travels between the town of Sonora in the west and Bridgeport to the east. This means it's often overlooked, despite the scenery being just as stunning. The big bonus? Far fewer people on the road. Come here to test your driving skills on the race-track-worthy corners and narrow, steep inclines, while enjoying pinch-yourself scenes. 

The road sweeps through the Kennedy and Leavitt Meadows, pleated mountain vistas, granite rocks and meandering rivers. Start in Yosemite at the glistening Tenaya Lake, heading towards the town of Lee Vining (where you can stock up on supplies and gas for the drive). Pass the otherworldly limestone oddities at Mono Lake , before heading north on Scenic Highway 395. When you reach the Inyo National Forest , swing a left onto Highway 108 and this alpine dream drive begins.

Tips for driving in Yosemite National Park

• Drive at nonpeak times to avoid traffic. Avoid weekends and holidays, and opt for midweek early mornings inside the park. The park has instituted a reservation system for anyone driving through during its busiest times – reserve your spot ahead of your trip. 
• Where possible, take the shuttle around Yosemite Valley. Prepare for delays of an hour or more at park entrance stations. Parking spaces can be scarce.
• Check the status of the roads before you set off – many high-altitude roads are shut in the winter due to snowfall and are not plowed until spring. There is ongoing maintenance, so check at the visitors center or online for alerts before you set off.
• Be bear aware. Avoid leaving food in your car where possible in the daytime (if you must leave it in your car – keep it hidden from sight), and leave no food in your car overnight. Bears have been known to break into cars to find food, causing all kinds of damage to vehicles. Leave food in the bear lockers in parking areas and campsites.
• Fill up with gas before you enter the park. There are two gas stations in Yosemite National Park, but none in Yosemite Valley.

This article was first published Feb 6, 2023 and updated Apr 2, 2024.

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Why you should visit this scenic Vermont town

A snow-sports haven in the winter, the picturesque town of Stowe in the northeastern US state of Vermont flexes its artistic flair year-round. With an array of diverse attractions, activities and events, discover Stowe in all seasons.

Under a blanket of powdery snow, Stowe is a natural playground for skiers, snowboarders and snowshoers — affectionately known as the ‘ski capital of the east’. Just a 30-minute drive north of Vermont’s state capital, Montpelier, Stowe is favoured by winter sports enthusiasts, but when the season changes, the historic town undergoes a dramatic mood change. Its rugged hillsides transform from a quilt of ivory to shades of emerald in the spring and summer, before bursting into brilliant hues of yellow, gold, orange and red in autumn. From craft brewery tours and hiking to farmers’ markets and festivals, here are some of the best things to do in Stowe in all seasons.

Creative craft beers and ciders

With more craft breweries per capita than any other state, Vermont is a place of pilgrimage for beer connoisseurs. Head over to the rustic-chic, farmhouse-style bar at Idletyme Tap & Tavern , where award-winning brewmaster Will Gilson melds classic European brewing traditions with Vermont hop culture. Sample the smooth, Munich-style Helles Brook lager or try a beer flight featuring six different draft beers. In the summer, grab a table by the Treehouse Bar on the outdoor patio and pair the sudsy brews with a giant Bavarian pretzel.

If you prefer beer with a side of art, check out The Alchemist , a family-owned brewery that’s as creative with its craft beers as it is with its aesthetics. Vibrant, eclectic murals cover the walls, ceilings and silo of the brewery, while the ‘beer cafe’ serves the flagship hand-pulled Heady Topper double IPA and bottled sour beers. Food is dished up from Warren’s Kitchen & Catering , a funky food truck parked outside the brewery. Try crowd favourites like the fried avocado tacos, or mac and cheese with pulled jerk pork.

Apples may be synonymous with the ‘fall’ season, but visitors can take a self-guided tour of Cold Hollow Cider Mill year-round. One of New England’s top cider producers, the mill continues to make pure apple cider the old-fashioned way — watch a traditional 1920s rack-and-cloth press squeeze juicy McIntosh apples into fresh (non-alcoholic) cider and sample the authentic beverage afterwards. Taste Cold Hollow’s seasonal ‘hard ciders’ (alcoholic ciders), too, before picking up a popular cider doughnut, made with an old-school doughnut machine.

Village strolls and scenic hikes

Take a stroll through Stowe’s enchanting downtown village, lined with whimsical boutiques, jewellery stores and sweet shops, and marked by the quaint Stowe Community Church with its striking white steeple. To keep you fuelled as you wander, try the homemade oatmeal drizzled with Vermont maple syrup at Café on Main , a cosy spot inside the historic Old Depot building. Just a short walk away, contemporary art centre The Current hosts a variety of exhibitions, lectures, film screenings and workshops throughout the year.

Beginning in downtown Stowe, the Stowe Recreation Path is a scenic 5.3-mile trail that connects the village to the green foothills of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. Flanked by serene woods and lush foliage, the path makes for an easy hike — meandering through several parks, across bridges over the trickling West Branch River, and past a swimming hole, a corn maze, farms and restaurants. Further up Mount Mansfield, Smuggler’s Notch State Park is the starting point for several hiking trails, such as the challenging Hellbrook Trail.

Upbeat events and festivals

Throughout the year, Stowe plays host to a diverse range of exciting events. Every Sunday from May to October, the Stowe Farmers Market bustles with local and regional vendors selling fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and cheese, bread and pastries, pickles and preserves, as well as flowers, crafts and more. A jubilant Fourth of July parade, along with festivities and entertainment, marks the national day each year. In August, music enthusiasts gather for the Stowe Jazz Festival , a free, three-day event celebrating the diverse genre and all its sub-genres — including swing, bebop, Brazilian and Afro-Cuban jazz. Then, in October, the town holds its three-day Stowe Foliage Arts Festival , featuring more than 150 artists and artisans displaying their artwork and crafts.

Stowe’s events list doesn’t stop there — the Trapp Family Lodge also hosts a series of festivals and events that are open to the public, including Oktoberfest celebrations, outdoor summer concerts, trail running races, holiday brunches and fondue nights. The musically gifted von Trapp family (the inspiration for the film The Sound of Music ) settled in Stowe in the 1940s, where the mountain vistas reminded them of their home in Austria. Amid 2,600 acres of rolling hills, the family have welcomed visitors to their grand alpine estate since 1950. Trapp Family Lodge also has an on-site brewery specialising in Austrian-style beer — tour the facility before settling down at the adjacent von Trapp Brewing Bierhall restaurant for a hearty meal of chicken schnitzel or bratwurst.

Related Topics

• TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE

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