Embarking on a classic American road trip holds an enchanting attractiveness like nothing else. The never-ending open road and the sheer independence to venture as much as we please at our ease is the essence of the American spirit. From one coast to the other, the USA has countless road journeys to offer. These trips are a collection of landscapes, cultures, the best things to do, and beautiful places to visit. Whether you are a history buff, a nature appreciator, or simply a thrill seeker, here are some American road trips you absolutely can’t miss.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
1600 miles; 8–12 days duration
The Pacific Coast Highway, which is also known as the PCH, is California’s most recognized route. It is almost 1600 miles and is one of the most famous road trips in the world. The route starts in Monterey and goes to Los Angeles. It leads us through ocean vistas, cute little coastal towns, and places like Big Sur and the Golden Gate Bridge.
You can check out several charming hamlets on this journey and even explore the Spanish-influenced architecture of Santa Barbara. Don’t forget to stop at Point Dume State Beach for a breathtaking view of dolphins and migrating whales in the ocean water. Eat seafood in Monterey, cheeses in Point Reyes, and gourmet food in Santa Barbara.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia
469 miles; 2–5 days duration
The Blue Ridge Parkway from North Carolina to Virginia spans 469 miles and takes 2–5 days. On this drive, you will be surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and there will be many charming stopping points, including viewpoints, forests, and meadows of flowers on the mountaintops.
One way to reach the start of the parkway in Cherokee, North Carolina, where you can experience Native American culture, is by visiting the Museum of the Cherokee People.
There are numerous activities to enjoy along the parkway, including wildlife watching, exploring the surrounding areas, and hiking the many trails. Consider planning an open-air picnic at one of the scenic spots to fully experience the beauty of the mountains.
Route 66
2250 miles; 1-2 weeks duration
Route 66 is a nostalgic American road, also known as “Mother Road,” running 2250 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. Unique and beautiful regions and towns like Arizona, Seligman, Amarillo, Texas, and many other historical places to look at.
In Santa Monica, you can also get to see famous roadside attractions that line old Route 66, like Cadillac Ranch or Wigwam Motel. You’ll also encounter historic gas stations and restaurants along the way, offering a chance to experience authentic American dining styles.
Also Read: Planning for The Greatest Road Trip with These Simple Hacks
Highway 2, Nebraska
52 Miles; 2 Days
Highway 2 in Nebraska, often referred to as the “Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway,” offers a unique road trip experience through the heart of the state. The highway maintains a vast variety of attractions and provides the only opportunity for tourists to explore the sandhills, grasslands, and other dunes. In each of the areas along the highway, a visitor gets to experience abundant natural beauty by visiting lakes, and noting wildlife from geese to deer, and much more.
The stretch of highway enables those looking for adventure and tranquility to occasionally stumble across beautiful towns such as Broken Bow, and Grand Island on what would otherwise be a road trip of awe-inspiring isolation.
Also Read: 15 Incredible National Parks to Visit
U.S. 1, Florida Keys
113 miles, 1 day
U.S. 1 in the Florida Keys is a splendidly scenic drive, also called the Overseas Highway. The road is lined with beaches and small man-made bridges, each taking you through what looks like paradise.
To initiate your journey, start with Key Largo, called the “Diving Capital of the World ” and known for its vivid coral reefs for exploration. Take a road trip through the Seven Mile Bridge, the Pinnacle of Engineering, and enjoy tasty seafood in Marathon.
Go touring in Bahia Honda State Park, and then go towards Key West, where you can walk through Duval Street and visit the famous house of Ernest Hemingway.
The Loneliest Road, Nevada
408 miles; 1 day duration
Drive through ”The Loneliest Road” in Nevada, U.S. Route 50, which holds a prominent place in the tradition of road trips. This harmless road drives through the desert landscapes and ancient valleys of Nevada and offers a peek into the rugged charm of the Silver Country.
Visit Elysium mining and explore the magic of the Great Basin National Park. Enjoy the serenity of Austin and travel back in time to Berlin Ichthyosaur State Park.
Wrap up your journey in Carson City, where Nevada’s vibrant history awaits at the State Museum. “The Loneliest Road” guarantees an expedition through the Nevada wilderness.
Trail Ridge Road, Colorado
48 Miles; 1 Day
The Trail Ridge Road in Colorado is an excellent road trip escape that takes you on a vertical jaunt across wild environments. This 48-mile drive takes you through the Rocky Mountain National Park, navigating towering peaks, thick forests, and alpine meadows. Each view is more spectacular than the last.
Along this 12,000 ft climb, you come across the alpine tundra covered in hardy wildflowers and grazers. Be it on foot or wheels, stop to take into sight the Rockies and learn about its natural and cultural history through interactive exhibits.
Besides being a fantastic drive, the journey is teaming with wildlife that is not visible at the lower levels. On this road trip, you might get lucky enough to spot bighorn sheep, marmots, and incredibly rare mountain goats.
Richardson Highway
364 miles; 2-4 days duration
You can’t talk about road trips without mentioning Alaska’s Richardson Highway. This beautiful road trip goes from Fairbanks to Valdez, through the remote Alaskan wilderness.
The road is over 366 miles long and has rolling mountains, glaciers of ice falling through the terrace trees, and fog. With the stunning scenery, you will also have the chance to get out and take a hike, have a few lunches, and go for white-water rafting.
You cannot leave the Richardson Highway without stopping at the Worthington Glacier and the Keystone Canyon. All of the waterfalls are quite spectacular, and the snow and vegetation are unbelievable. Furthermore, it is rare and beautiful to encounter towns with outstanding hospitality and good vibes.
Check Out: Road Trip: How to Beat Boredom in Six Fun Ways
Scenic Byway 12
122 miles, 1 day
By traveling on this highway, you will see towering rock cliffs, vast plateaus, narrow canyons, water pocket folds, hanging valleys, and numerous perennial streams. Other head-turning attractions include forests of pine and the beauty of the National Parks.
The massive rock cliffs, flat, stretched-out plateaus, and lush green forests are welcomed by the traveler. There is no better way to spend your time on holiday than driving through some of Utah’s most astounding vistas and landmarks.
The road also provides access to the towns of Boulder and Escalante, where tourists can explore shops, and galleries, and dine at fine restaurants. Some propitious activities to do are traveling off-road, hiking, and other biking trails.
North Shore Drive, Minnesota
150 miles, 2 hours, and 45 minutes
The 150-mile-long North Shore Drive is along the shores of Lake Superior, which is the largest freshwater lake on the planet. The water body, across half of Minnesota, is a site to behold. The road is freshly reconstructed, and the shores of Lake Superior are a haven for waterfall viewing.
Never miss the opportunity to visit popular attractions, including the Split Rock Lighthouse, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and Grand Maris. While enjoying the drive along the route, you can also partake in activities such as fishing, hiking, kayaking, and more.
