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25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)
If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.
From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.
We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).
To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.
They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!
Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?
This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next!
Table of Contents
Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip
Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.
![usa road trip tipps Kate Storm in a black dress walking away from the camera along Jones Steet in Savannah GA, with several American flags hanging from homes on the right side of the photo](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/USA_Savannah-32-1024x683.jpg)
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Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!
If you’re renting a car, shop around.
The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.
Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.
Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.
The best way to find your rental car is to search through Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.
Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!
![usa road trip tipps white hyundai accent parked on the million dollar highway in colorado](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/USA_Colorado_MillionDollarHighway-39-1024x683.jpg)
Read the rental requirements carefully.
Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.
On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.
Book travel insurance.
We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.
Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!
![usa road trip tipps kate storm jeremy storm and ranger storm at craggy pinnacle on blue ridge parkway during 3 days in asheville nc](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/NorthCarolina_Asheville-49-1024x683.jpg)
Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.
If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.
Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!
![usa road trip tipps Kate Storm and Jeremy Storm taking a selfie in Spooky Canyon Utah](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/IMG_3690-1024x748.jpg)
Make sure you pack the right gear.
From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.
We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!
![usa road trip tipps kate storm in front of emerald lake, one of the best hikes in rocky mountain national park colorado](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Colorado_RockyMountainNationalPark-295-683x1024.jpg)
Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.
It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!
And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .
Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!
![usa road trip tipps Pacific Coast Highway California shot from above, one of the best romantic vacations for couples in the United States](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/shutterstock_787893667-1024x576.jpg)
If possible, stop in at least one national park!
Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.
Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.
Marvel at glaciers? Check.
Hike across mountains? Take your pick.
Go scuba diving? Definitely.
Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.
Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !
![usa road trip tipps Things to Do in Acadia National Park](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/20170715-DSC_0262-1024x683.jpg)
From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders
Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.
Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.
Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.
You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.
If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.
![usa road trip tipps jeremy storm sitting on top of a car at cadillac ranch in amarillo](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Texas_CadillacRanch-15-683x1024-1.jpg)
The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.
There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!
Recommended Road Trip Length
Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.
![usa road trip tipps Route 66 in California with Joshua trees on either side. Route 66 is one of the absolute best road trips in USA](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_64601848-1024x768.jpg)
New York to Los Angeles
Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.
… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!
With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!
However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
![usa road trip tipps view of an rv driving through valley of fire state park, one of the best day trips during 3 days in las vegas nevada](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/shutterstock_1294874179-819x1024.jpg)
If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!
If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!
![usa road trip tipps Kate Storm standing on the beach next to Santa Monica Pier is Los Angeles, California, the final destination of some of the most classic USA road trip itinerary ideas](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_0509-1-1024x683.jpg)
Blue Ridge Parkway
From Carl of NC Tripping
If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.
It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.
At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !
Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.”
Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).
Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.
![usa road trip tipps Blue Ridge Parkway USA shot from above during the fall, with fall foliage on either side of the road--one of the best weekend trips in the United States](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/shutterstock_1223787058-1024x768.jpg)
Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.
That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete.
Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .
While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.
![usa road trip tipps kate storm and ranger storm at looking glass falls, one of the best stops on a 3 days in asheville itinerary](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/NorthCarolina_Asheville-433-683x1024.jpg)
Kentucky Bourbon Trail
From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins
Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?
On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State.
While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).
Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.
Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).
If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!
You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.
On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit.
In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
![usa road trip tipps Flight of Bourbon--you'll see plenty of these if you take one of the best us road trips in the south, the kentucky bourbon trail](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1149289721-1024x684.jpg)
Southeast Coastal Road Trip
The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.
We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!
Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.
Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.
From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.
![usa road trip tipps Kate Storm sitting in front of the pineapple fountain in Charleston SC--choosing whether to visit Savannah or Charleston is no easy task, but we wrote this guide to help!](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/USA_Charleston-40-755x1024.jpg)
As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.
Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.
And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!
![usa road trip tipps ranger storm standing on the sand at atlantic beach nc at sunset](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/IMG-9349-852x1024.jpg)
Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?
Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.
We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.
![usa road trip tipps Cape Lookout Lighthouse NC as seen from behind sand dunes](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/shutterstock_12001372-1024x681.jpg)
Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip
From Christine of Live Love Run Travel
Driving from Orlando to New Orleans gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.
From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.
Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.
However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.
On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.
Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.
Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!
![usa road trip tipps clear waters of three sisters springs in florida with sup board, one of the best places to visit in summer in the united states](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/shutterstock_766623979-1024x683.jpg)
Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.
Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.
From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.
The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.
The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.
![usa road trip tipps close up shot of wrought iron balconies in the french quater of New Orleans--you'll see plenty of beautiful corners like this throughout your 3 days in New Orleans itinerary!](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/shutterstock_581593006-1024x683.jpg)
Washington State
From Katie of Two Wandering Soles
With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.
Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States.
Start by exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .
With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .
![usa road trip tipps Rocky Beach in Olympic National Park washington at sunset, a fantastic view along a west coast usa road trip destination](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/shutterstock_136852172-1024x683.jpg)
Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.
If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.
Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.
Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.
From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows.
If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.
![usa road trip tipps Lake Diablo in Washington State as seen from above--an excellent stop on a west coast road trip USA](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/BestThingstoDoinWashingtonStateLakeDiablo-1024x680.jpg)
Southwest Colorado Road Trip
From Tanya of Rad Family Travel
Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.
Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.
From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.
Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.
![usa road trip tipps Gondola in southwest Colorado with mountains visible in the background](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/free-gondola-telluride-colorado.jpg)
In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.
A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.
Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.
Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.
If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns .
![usa road trip tipps great sand dunes national park colorado as seen from a distance](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_164180519-1024x683.jpg)
Utah’s Mighty Five
From Ali of Travel Made Simple
Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .
These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.
This also works well as part of a bigger southwestern US road trip .
If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.
Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.
For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.
You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.
![usa road trip tipps kate storm holding ranger storm at dead horse point state park](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Utah_Moab-144-1024x683.jpg)
Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.
Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!
From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.
If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!
Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.
![usa road trip tipps View from Sunrise Point, which is one of the best places to visit in Bryce Canyon Utah](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Utah_BryceCanyon-107-1024x683.jpg)
South Dakota
If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!
Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.
Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.
![usa road trip tipps landscape of badlands national park in south dakota, one of the best things to do usa](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/shutterstock_380427055-1024x682.jpg)
Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!
Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.
Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!
Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.
South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!
![usa road trip tipps 3 praire dogs in badlands national park, a great stop on a south dakota midwest road trip](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/shutterstock_528883867-1024x754.jpg)
Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone
From Catherine of Passports and Adventures
Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.
This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.
As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!
Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.
![usa road trip tipps Multnomah Falls near Portland OR in the early fall](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_474991357-1024x683.jpg)
This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.
Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.
A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.
After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.
This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your Yellowstone vacation .
As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.
![usa road trip tipps herd of buffalo in yellowstone national park with geysers visible in the background. yellowstone is an unforgettable piece of some of the best road trips in usa](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1259862745-1024x683.jpg)
Northern New Mexico
From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours
Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.
The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!
Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.
Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show Breaking Bad was filmed here, but those who are not Breaking Bad fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.
If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!
![usa road trip tipps kate storm and jeremy storm smiling at the camera at the albuquerque international balloon fiesta](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/DSC_4726-1024x683.jpg)
After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.
You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors.
Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!
I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.
![usa road trip tipps Chimayo Pueblo Church in northern New Mexico, a popular pilgrimage site and a stop on one of the best road trips in America](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_329714669-1024x684.jpg)
Denver to Yellowstone Loop
Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.
USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.
For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.
From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.
![usa road trip tipps geothermal pool in yellowstone np, an amazing feature on a road trip plan usa](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Wyoming_YellowstoneNationalPark-196-1024x683.jpg)
On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.
Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!
We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.
![usa road trip tipps kate storm standing in front of a barn at mormon row in grand teton national park, a feature on many of the best usa road trip itineraries](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Colorado_GrandTetonNationalPark-88-1024x683.jpg)
San Francisco to Yosemite Loop
From Julie of More Than Main Street
Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!
This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.
You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!
After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.
![usa road trip tipps Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco CA shot from above on a clear day](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/shutterstock_114083809-1024x683.jpg)
Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.
Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.
This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!
You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.
![usa road trip tipps Vineyard in Napa Valley CA with a wood barn visible in the background, one of the best honeymoon destinations in usa](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_274003382-1024x683.jpg)
The American Southwest from Las Vegas
Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!
With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.
From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.
![usa road trip tipps Kate Storm wearing a blue tank top walking between two formations in Goblin Valley State Park Utah](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Utah_GoblinValley-7-1024x683.jpg)
With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.
Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!
![usa road trip tipps South Kaibab trail into the Grand Canyon, one of the most famous national parks in USA](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Arizona_GrandCanyon-36-1024x683.jpg)
New York State Road Trip
From Melissa of Navigation Junkie
The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!
To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.
See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.
After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.
Continue on to Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.
The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.
![usa road trip tipps rainbow falls in watkins glen new york, a fantastic usa road trip itinerary destination](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_361141436-1024x683.jpg)
From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.
After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.
Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!
We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.
![usa road trip tipps kate storm standing at a magnifying glass on liberty island overlooking financial district manhattan](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/NewYork_StatueOfLibertyEllisIsland-87-1024x683.jpg)
Miami to Key West Road Trip
From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped
If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .
On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”
It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!
While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.
![usa road trip tipps Highway over the Caribbean Sea leading the to Floriday Keys as shot with a drone. The Florida Keys are one of the best places to visit in USA](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/shutterstock_589942997-1024x568.jpg)
For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo.
There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.
Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock.
This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).
![usa road trip tipps Palm-tree lined path leading to Caribbean Sea beach in Key West Florida, one of the best southern weekend getaways](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/shutterstock_153029399-1024x681.jpg)
New England
Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.
Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.
Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.
From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.
![usa road trip tipps Things to Do in Acadia National Park](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/20170714-DSC_0348-1024x683.jpg)
On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.
If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.
To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best.
However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!
![usa road trip tipps 2 Days in Boston Itinerary: Beacon Hill](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/AcornStreet-683x1024.jpg)
Texas Hill Country
Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.
Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.
Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.
![usa road trip tipps kate storm in a blue dress in front of the luckenbach post office](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Texas_Fredericksburg-72-1024x683-1.jpg)
Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!
In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).
The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!
Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.
While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!
![usa road trip tipps cypress creek blue hole in wimberley texas, one of the best american small towns to visit](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Austin_Wimberley-35-1024x683.jpg)
Northwest Arkansas
Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.
Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.
Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
You can still soak in two of them today!
![usa road trip tipps small waterfall in hot springs national park arkansas](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/shutterstock_295450106-1-1024x680.jpg)
From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.
Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.
Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.
This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.
![usa road trip tipps hiker standing on hawksbill crag in northwest arkansas ozark mountains](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_102440464-1024x682.jpg)
From Carole of Travels With Carole
For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast.
West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.
Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.
This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart.
![usa road trip tipps kate storm in front of prada marfa in west texas, one of the best road trips in america](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Texas_Marfa-96-1024x683-1.jpg)
The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.”
In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.
And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.”
This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area.
Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.
![usa road trip tipps fort davis drugstore hotel in west texas with a pink truck parked in front of it, part of one of the best road trips in us southwest](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Texas_FortDavis-11-1024x683-1.jpg)
Northern Michigan
When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.
And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!
![usa road trip tipps view of fall foliage with lake in the foreground on michigan upper peninsula](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/shutterstock_1070952947-1024x683.jpg)
Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.
Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!
Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.
![usa road trip tipps arch rock formation on mackinac island michigan](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1659214783-1024x681.jpg)
From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road
Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.
However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.
In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!
To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.
The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.
The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!
![usa road trip tipps Na Pali Coast of Kauai Hawaii. Kauai is one of the best road trips in USA.](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_650585767-1.jpg)
From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.
As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.
Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.
Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.
The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.
Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.
This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.
Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.
We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.
![usa road trip tipps twin waterfalls in forest in kauai hawaii](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/shutterstock_237599338-1024x681.jpg)
Road to Hana, Maui
From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling
When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.
When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!
The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana.
The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.
This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.
![usa road trip tipps black sand beach in Waianapanapa state park on road to hana maui, one of the best things to do in usa](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/shutterstock_383924662-1024x683.jpg)
The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.
Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.
Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.
Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.
You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.
![usa road trip tipps Bright blue water as seen along the Road to Hana in Maui, one of the best USA road trip itinerary ideas](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_655631365-1024x683.jpg)
Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)
From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement
Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.
Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.
Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.
Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.
Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.
On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.
Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes.
Continue on this road to loop back to town.
![usa road trip tipps Matanuska Glacier near Valdez Alaska. Alaska is home to some of the best road trips in USA](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/shutterstock_1402017338-1024x683.jpg)
From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier.
After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.
Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.
If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.
While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.
This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day.
![usa road trip tipps 3 photos of usa travel destinations: alaska glacier, havasu falls, portland maine. black and red text on a white background reads "25 bucket list usa road trips"](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/25-bucket-list-683x1024.png)
About Kate Storm
![usa road trip tipps Image of the author, Kate Storm](https://www.ourescapeclause.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/France_Provence_Lacoste-57-300x208.jpg)
In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.
6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”
Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!
Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.
So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!
We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. :-) We’d love to get back out west this year!
Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.
It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. :-) We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!
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Road Trip Tips: 21 Mistakes to Avoid When on a USA Road Trip
Taking a road trip around the USA , or anywhere, will be one of the most epic and memorable trips you’ll take—no doubt.
So don’t F it up…
JK—No pressure. I got your back with all the road trip tips and everything you should NOT do on your trip. This way, you can have more time for fun, snapping pics, chasing waterfalls, hiking to viewpoints, and so many other amazing activities!
Make this a trip to remember with these road trip tips. Learn now, and have fun later. It’s easy! I’ve done a ton of road trips in the USA and around the world, and these are some of my best road trip tips and mistakes to avoid for you to keep in mind.
Don’t lose this! Click to pin it now.
![usa road trip tipps 19 Road Trip Tips](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/19-Road-Trip-Tips-400x600.png)
Table of Contents
1. DON’T Wait for Gas
Resources for your trip:, 2. don’t underestimate the cost of gas, 3. don’t forget to carry cash, 4. don’t forget about music, 5. don’t be unrealistic with your time, 6. don’t sleep in, 7. don’t buy water and don’t forget to fill up often, 8. don’t forget to download maps (one of the easy road trip tips to forget), 9. don’t assume all roads are paved, 10. don’t get fancy with your meals, 11. don’t be disorganized, 12. don’t plan too much… or too little…, 13. don’t assume all roads will be open, 14. don’t drive at night (a road trip tip for safety), 15. don’t choose the wrong person to go with, 16. don’t underestimate the size of the usa, 17. don’t forget to roll with the punches, 18. don’t forget to check on the season (and not just for what to pack), 19. don’t be a jackass and have fun, 20. don’t forget to insure yourself (and your car), 21. don’t rent the wrong vehicle for your trip (perhaps the most important road trip tip), 17 legendary american road trips, your southwest road trip itinerary (1 week - 2 months), your adventurous arizona road trip, your adventurous utah road trip, seattle to san francisco west coast road trip adventures and waterfalls, your adventurous montana road trip, road trip tips—what not to do on your road trip.
Fill up here, fill up there, fill up ev-ry-where!
The next gas station could be lightyears away in many states around the US.
![usa road trip tipps Small gas station road trip tips](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/gas-station-road-trip-tips-800x533.jpg)
If you’re the adventurous type who wants to wander down random roads and who will detour in a split second, fill up when you can.
If you don’t, guess who needs to say goodbye to adventurous detours? YOU.
Make sure to fill up at the half tank every time if you can. I often pretend the last half doesn’t count. What did using this road trip tip result in? Never having to worry about running out of gas. That’s a win!
RELATED: 17 Legendary American Road Trips
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Going on from my last thought, unfortunately, this may mean you are stuck paying higher prices for gas because you’re in the middle of nowhere-land, and they are charging the same prices as the bigger towns PLUS your firstborn child.
Sorry little Billy, I sold you for gas money…
![usa road trip tipps Gas station in Fields Oregon road trip tips](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/tiny-gas-station-fields-oregon-800x533.jpg)
Seriously though, small towns are pricier, you may have to pay the price, but you could also top up for just a few bucks to make it safely to the next big town/city.
Either way, inflate the budget here so you don’t get any surprises, and make sure you are definitely topping up in the big cities as often as possible.
Pro road trip tip —Peek at the GasBuddy app often to see where the next cheapest gas station is. This app is a lifesaver!
Those small town gas stations may have a charge for using credit cards, or worse, they only accept cash! So make sure you have some on you.
Also, some state and national parks require cash payments for parking and using facilities.
![usa road trip tipps Mt Rainer Park with cloudy sky](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/moody-mt-rainier-park-800x533.jpg)
There isn’t always someone on-site, and you’ll be required to place your cash in an envelope. You’ll need an exact change too. I’m all about using my card, but having some cash stashed away is necessary. It is smart to have a mix of bigger and smaller bills.
Another cash tip to keep in mind is having quarters on you for any parking meters or using laundry facilities.
I know you’re thinking, DUH, Nina. But seriously, don’t forget the music! Radio is almost a non-option unless you enjoy the sweet sounds of static and want to give your index finger a major workout by scanning the channels.
![usa road trip tipps Woman driving](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/woman-driving-800x533.jpg)
Cell service will also be in and out, so while you may be one smart cookie and have Spotify or the like on your phone, don’t forget to download all those cool playlists to enjoy it offline.
Don’t forget an aux cord if needed unless everything can be connected via Bluetooth. You may also want a portable speaker so you can listen to music outside the car and on the go.
It’s not essential, but this is one of the road trip tips that’ll just make the journey more enjoyable.
READ MORE: My badass road trip packing list , don’t forget a thing!
Did you actually think you would be able to fit those two hikes in AND drive five hours? Ekk!
You really do need to be realistic with your time.
If you get all excited about a bunch of places and you only make it to half, you may be pretty bummed.
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/lucy-vw-van-forest-800x534.jpg)
But instead, if you get excited about the POSSIBILITY of going to about half of the places on your list, you will ultimately be satisfied with what you got done.
Don’t get your hopes up and try cramming in too much, so you’re rushing, speeding, driving too late at night, not sleeping enough…etc.
It’s OK to pass on a few places; trust this road trip tip when I say your list will only get longer, not shorter. So don’t get flustered when you need to pass things up to gain more time.
READ MORE: Here’s a realistic itinerary for a West Coast road trip !
I would TOTALLY be the annoying friend that pushes you out of the car, shoves a bagel and coffee down your throat, and makes you put clothes on so you’re ready to get on the road no later than 9 am.
Don’t worry, I’m not talking about getting your day started at 6 am.
![usa road trip tipps Woman at lake below Mt Hood](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/me-mt-hood-800x533.jpg)
While I think it can be ideal, probably makes for great sunrise pictures, and you check more things off the list, let’s not get crazy. 6 am is rough.
However, being on the road by 8:30-9ish is totally doable.
Luckily, I refuse to road trip with people who aren’t on the same page as me because I’m a stickler on this one. Also, I’m a terrible sleeper, so I am awake this early anyway!
There are far too many things to see and do—go to bed earlier and get up and go. You’ll thank yourself when the trip is done. (You can sleep when you’re dead, right?)
Fill up water bottles and jugs instead. It would be SO wasteful to buy 100 jugs of water on your trip.
Instead, I buy a few one-gallon jugs and reuse them for my entire trip. I also never travel without my reusable water bottle . At the end of a trip, I recycle the jugs. Most recently I also got this water jug which fits nicely in the corner of my car and I don’t even need other water jugs now!
![usa road trip tipps Woman drinking Grayl water bottle road trip tips](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/me-drinking-grayl-water-bottle-800x533.jpg)
It’s very easy to prioritize convenience but try your best on your road trip to not be wasteful.
Filling up water is actually very easy. Many of the parks have drinkable water fountains where you can fill up, and Walmarts have water fountains you can use.
A few jugs or one big reusable jug is just what you need. They don’t take up too much room, and they will last you a couple of days, giving you plenty of time to find the next water fill-up area.
Fill up every time you can; it goes without saying that water is NOT something you want to be without at any point and time.
Don’t forget to factor in using water to boil pasta, make coffee, etc.
RELATED: Your Southwest Road Trip Itinerary (1 Week – 2 Months)
Bringing paper maps is not really my thing, but I knew I couldn’t always rely on my phone to have service. I can’t stress how clutch it was to have maps downloaded.
I always have Google Maps AND Maps.Me both downloaded on my phone. And if you’re riding with someone else, make sure they do the same just in case someone loses their phone, forgets to charge, etc.
Oops. I’d venture to say that most of us forget this road trip tip. I know I did.
If I saw the road on the map, I generally thought it was a legit road with something more than loose rocks to follow. Uh, no. Not so much!
Don’t assume you won’t come across many gravel roads, particularly if you want to get a bit adventurous or take some of the less busy roads.
![usa road trip tipps Road trip campervan below rainbow](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/road-trip-campervan-800x533.jpg)
Driving on gravel roads when they weren’t expected can be a bit stressful, not to mention it will cut into your time since you’ll be driving much slower than you thought.
What are you trying to do on your trip? Spend your time cooking or doing and seeing things?
Yeah, that’s what I thought… So why would someone voluntarily choose to make a borderline 5-star meal for lunch is beyond me but let me tell you, you’ll be much happier with an easier meal than a fancy-schmancy one or one that is labor-intensive.
![usa road trip tipps Road trip essential - good food!](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/new-zealand-campervan-cooking-2-800x533.jpg)
Here’s what I usually eat while road tripping:
Breakfast is 1-2 of the following items:
- Boiled eggs (boil all of them at once and keep them in the fridge)
- Bread /bagels (usually untoasted because ain’t nobody got time for that…nor a toaster)
- Oatmeal with fruit and granola
Lunch is usually a sandwich and or a snack such as:
- Cheese and crackers
- Sandwiches are usually cheese, spinach, a hardboiled egg or some tuna, pickles, and maybe avocado. And then mustard and mayo for condiments.
- A favorite is my “camping charcuterie board,” which is usually a mix of cheese, crackers, fruit, nuts, and “rough hummus” (smashed chickpeas with spices and EVOO)
![usa road trip tipps Healthy food is a road trip essentials](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/new-zealand-campervan-snack-800x533.jpg)
Dinner is one of the following:
- Lentils and rice (I found these amazing, tasty, and easy to make packets to make lentils and rice , it literally takes 2 minutes, and it’s healthy)
- Pasta and sauce
- Frozen vegetables which we would add to both of the items above.
- Beer and or wine 🙂
On a similar note, eating out costs a lot, and if you’re trying to be quick, it’s often pretty unhealthy.
I often try to eat out only when it’s mega worth it or when I’m deep into my trip and need a break from eating out of my car! Making it a treat rather than something expected saves a bunch of cash AND time.
RELATED: Your Adventurous Utah Road Trip
Your vehicle has everything you need BUT, it’s still just a vehicle, which means space is precious and limited.
Get everything in its “home” on day 1 and make sure that item lives in that spot forever and always.
I always have a system down from day 1, and I keep it that way! It keeps everything SO clean and organized the entire time. I usually have zero casualties of items flying out a window, falling out of the car, or going mysteriously missing.
Get your car in order and keep it there! My mantra is “everything has a home” and I don’t put it down, I put it in its home.
I’m not toying with you. Hear me out!
Road trips are supposed to be fun, and a bit spontaneous, so planning too much and keeping yourself to a rigid schedule doesn’t allow for fun, adventure, and random detours.
Plan too little? And you’ll be wasting a large chunk of the day figuring out what you want to do (if you even have internet).
I usually have a few “rules” in place…
On this West Coast road trip , I wanted to drive on a certain route (the inland route, not the coastal route). I wanted to be outdoors and in nature (so no stops in big cities and walking around buildings), and I wanted to do pretty hikes with waterfalls and great views.
I made a rough route with plenty of places to stop that matched my criteria, but nothing was set in stone.
![usa road trip tipps lake house](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/lake-house-800x533.jpg)
If I didn’t have the time, the spot was too out of the way, or if the road was closed (wait for it…), there was no disappointment and plenty of other things just a few miles away to explore.
Keep your options open and have a few options on the table. Find a balance, don’t set expectations too high, and don’t pigeonhole yourself to an exact itinerary. It will be nothing short of miserable.
This is one of my best road trip tips because it’s really one of the most important to keep in mind for the trip—for your own sanity!
READ MORE: How to Plan a Road Trip
Yeah, revolutionary information, right? Luckily the USA is pretty good at announcing when a road will be closed. There will likely be signs and even info on a state’s website.
This happened to me on a few road trips, and it threw a wrench into my plans… for a whole two seconds.
![usa road trip tipps This is one of the many beautiful views you'll see on your Montana road trip.](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/mountain-highway-montana-road-trip-800x520.jpg)
Since I’m always loose with my plans (hello, road trip tip #12!), it wasn’t the end of the world, but it did cause me to end up in a few places I didn’t expect a couple of times.
It’s usually not a big deal but just something to watch, particularly if you’re taking the smaller roads like I sometimes do or are driving during fall and winter when road closures are more common.
It wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world, but I’m mentioning this because depending on where you are, you’re increasing your chance of putting yourself (or adorable animals) in danger.
![usa road trip tipps Night driving road trip tips](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/driving-night-road-trip-tips-800x533.jpg)
Cute woodsy animals like to come out at night and graze and hop around. Sometimes they wander in traffic. If it’s a little guy, poor thing but at least your car will be fine. If it’s a big boy, you’re totally screwed.
Overall, night driving can be a bit more challenging and you also need to be a bit more careful with choosing your sleeping spot for the evening in the dark.
I always make it a goal to find a place by sunset, and if I go a bit later, it’s not too big of a deal, but I don’t like to push it.
RELATED: Your Adventurous Arizona Road Trip!
Seriously though, don’t underestimate the amount of time and closeness with the other person. Make sure they are cool, and make sure you’re cool too…
![usa road trip tipps Women looking over the mountains on Yosemite road trip](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/yosemite-road-trip-tips-800x600.jpg)
This trip will be a disaster if you both don’t jive with each other and work as a team. Luckily I’ve only had one miserable road trip, and funny enough, it was with a very close friend. So even if you’re friends now, make sure you can stand each other for the entire trip.
Seriously, this country is f-ing huge. We literally have 48 small to medium-sized countries on the enormous landmass of the contiguous USA.
Make no mistake, no amount of time is the “perfect” amount to see this place.
Vancouver to San Francisco is only a measly 15-hour drive if you JUST DRIVE. One person could technically do this drive in two long days.
![usa road trip tipps Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/san-fran-bridge-800x533.jpg)
When I road-tripped it, it took 17 days to drive a bit more leisurely, and see things along the way. I could have doubled that and still not had enough time. There’s an insurmountable amount of things to do and see, don’t cut yourself short and try squeezing your trip into a few days; you’ll spend the entire time just driving.
My PNW road trips are anywhere from 1 to 2 months, and I’m just scratching the surface of what I want to do! So one of the best road trip tips you can take in is, don’t overwhelm yourself with things to do and know that driving times will eat up a LOT of your time.
It might be smart to target just certain parks, or perhaps focus on just one state. Whatever it is, don’t underestimate drive times.
I have to tell you something. And it’s going to happen on your road trip! It’s a guarantee… Ready for it?
Things won’t always go as planned.
Shocking, right? If this road trip tip seems so obvious to you, just remember while on the trip, that’s how you felt when reading this.
![usa road trip tipps Camper van in the Mojave Desert on a California road trip](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/camping-mojave-desert-ca-800x600.jpg)
Sometimes we get caught up in the moment, want things to be perfect, and when one string frays, we break apart. You’ll run into a delay, a park is closed, a flat tire… Something.
It’s a guarantee that SOMETHING will go wrong, so just accept it when it does. You’ll only make it worse by having a meltdown.
RELATED: Your Adventurous Montana Road Trip!
You’ll need to check the specification of the states you’ll be rolling through to be sure that you pack accordingly. Do you need more scarves or more swimsuits? Both?!
You’ll have to research to make sure, but aside from clothing, you’ll need to know what else happens in certain states.
Being from Florida, I can tell you that road tripping around August and September could mean potential hurricane weather.
I spend a lot of time in Oregon and the entire West Coast. The past two summers have been LIT. And not in a good way; forest fires during July and August can get really bad and make the air quality terrible, obstruct views, and even close down roads.
![usa road trip tipps Me looking on the side of the road](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/road-trip-stop-800x533.jpg)
While on a West Coast road trip a few years back, a bunch of forest fires had just died down. However, there were still tons of signage warning of potential dangers from the loose ground from the fires and a fire ban in most places.
There were even trails and campsites that were closed because of this.
Remember, there are people from all around the world, the USA, and Canada on the road!
The USA is eclectic; avoid getting road rage, don’t be the ass who doesn’t let someone merge, don’t stop in the middle of the road for pictures, don’t litter, recycle when you can, and just be a good person. There are so many different people on the road; try to be accommodating and understanding.
Oh, and have fun! 🙂
No matter where you’re traveling—you want everything and everyone covered! For road trips anywhere in the world, you can look into using World Nomads (they cover Americans in the US if you’re over 100 miles from home!), Safety Wing (for Americans abroad), or check out my travel insurance post for more options, don’t get caught without it!
![usa road trip tipps RV in front of rocks on a California road trip](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/rv-for-california-road-trip-777x600.jpg)
For your vehicle, it’s always smart to have your vehicle insured, and more often than not, it’s required! There are many ways to go about this.
If you’re in the US, your car will be insured but getting AAA can prove to be a lifesaver too – they will tow you, help change a tire, and get you back in your vehicle if you locked yourself out!
Sometimes your credit card can cover car rentals (but be careful, many don’t cover vans and RVs!) check this article on the best travel cards to see which credit cards can help lessen your costs on your trip and can cover your car rental.
It’s going to vary widely how insurance will work for you and your vehicle depending on where you are but the bottom line is – just don’t forget about it!
RELATED: A Guide to Finding The Best Long Term Travel Insurance
So which vehicle are you going with? Your own car? A rental? An RV? A rented campervan? There are tons of options but which is right for you and your trip?
Choosing the right vehicle, especially if you’re renting is probably the most important road trip tip to keep in mind. If you’re renting, here are some options to consider:
- Outdoorsy – One of the best RV and campervan rental sites in the USA
- Northbound – Find your car or campervan in Iceland
- Car Rentals – You can check here for current car rental deals anywhere in the world.
- Indie Campers – Rent a campervan and road trip across Europe!
There’s Wicked Campers for South America, Britz and JUCY for Australia and New Zealand, and tons more options!
I hope these road trip tips were helpful! Have fun on your next road trip!
More USA Road Trips
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://whereintheworldisnina.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/american-road-trip-720x405.jpg)
>>> Even More About USA Road Trips <<<
How to Plan a USA Road Trip & Choosing a Vehicle
Your Road Trip Essentials Packing List and Tips (+ Printable Checklist!)
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15 Comments
Love this list! With covid we have been road tripping more and things like this are super useful. Thank you!
Yay! So happy to hear 🙂 Thank you!
This was the best road trip blog poay on road trips I have seen. I agree with many of your ideas.
I particularly agree on no nighttime driving. Many road trip bloggers mention yhay driving at night is ideal.with kids. While I agree it is easier to drive when the kids are sleeping, it is not as safe as driving during daylight hours. Your vision is decreased and you are driving in unfamiliar areas. Unless you work at night you are not ised to being awake at night either. Safety is paramount
I like that you said that while on a road trip it’s a guarantee that something will go wrong, so just accept it when it does. My husband and I are thinking about going on a road trip because we think it would be a great way to spend more time together while also getting to see some beautiful scenery.
Driving home now from a twenty- eight day road trip with my hubby, 9 yr old and two yellow labs. Drove from Florida to Seattle and visited over twenty-five national parks. 80 dollar annual pass for the parks was the best investment .
YES! Those passes are a great idea!
I like to do a bit of research first before going on a trip. This was so useful.
So happy to hear! 🙂 Have fun.
Next time, invest in Sirius SATELLITE radio and a rent a sat phone. You will NEVER be out of contact, or music, again.
Keep enjoying those road trips.
Another important thing: every state drives differently. Californians speed like crazy and a lot of slower drivers sit in the passing lane. Oregonians appear to have no clue where their going and you’ll get a ticket for going 1mph over the speed limit, and Washingtonians pace each other for miles so no one can pass and their traffic is starting to compete with LA.
So true!!! Cross the state border and you could be in a new world of drivers for sure.
Thank you for this list, it will come in handy this summer when my boyfriend and I roadtrip from Kentucky to Galveston, TX
Yay, glad to hear this was helpful, Tara 🙂 Have fun!
Loved your tips! Most we (my son and I) live by when we road trip around the US. Only 7 states left to visit but so many to go back and visit again!
Thanks, Shyla!
The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)
![usa road trip tipps You are currently viewing The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)](https://img.flytrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/22143949/USA-roadtrip.png)
- Post author: Andrew D'Amours
- Post published: December 28, 2022
- Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
- Post comments: 24 Comments
Do you like roadtrips? They happen to be a very American tradition and we found the perfect itinerary to visit every state in the continental USA during 1 epic roadtrip. A great trip idea for those who have a lot of time but want to stay closer to home .
Personally, I love roadtrips and I hit the road as much as I can, despite also being an aviation geek: you can like both, right? What matters is traveling and seeing new places , no matter how.
So here are the maps and details of the 2 itineraries that allow you to see all the lower 48 states at once, depending on your travel preference.
Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries
The USA is a huge country, almost as big as Europe (it’s even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).
So the USA has a lot of variety in terms of landscapes, but even in terms of culture too (even if many who aren’t from the country don’t realize that).
If you aim to eventually visit every state, any 1 of these 2 itineraries is a great way to almost all of them at once. The only 2 states you’ll have left to visit after this roadtrip will be Hawaii and Alaska.
There’s a version for national parks and points of interest and a version for cities.
![usa road trip tipps](https://img.flytrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/28144731/48-states-at-once_eng.png)
I’m on the quest to visit all 50 states myself (in addition to also visiting every country obviously), and I’m not doing too bad with 47 already.
But let’s just say it would’ve been much quicker to get to 48 at once with this roadtrip instead of having to do it over dozens of trips.
Here are the details.
48-state roadtrip – national parks/points of interest version
Here’s a map of the 1 st itinerary.
![usa road trip tipps](https://img.flytrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/06053327/best-road-trip-major-landmarks-900x482.png)
It was conceived by American Ph.D. student Randy Olson, on his blog , and it was done scientifically to optimize the routing: each stop represents a national park or a point of interest.
So you’re not just seeing every state, you’re seeing cool parts of every state (which sadly wasn’t our case in North Dakota during our very random 1200-miles-nonstop-in-2-days Flytrippers roadtrip across the Midwest just for fun).
Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.
Anyway, the itinerary has also been optimized to be as efficient a route as possible to see all 48 states, so you can rest assured you won’t be wasting any time.
If you only stop to sleep, you can complete this roadtrip in only 9 days, but we recommend taking at least a couple of weeks to explore all these places obviously.
And gas is significantly cheaper in the US in case you were wondering. You can start anywhere, it’s a continuous loop, and it passes through many spots near the Canadian border.
You can even take a shortcut from Michigan to Vermont through Canada, as the stop in Cleveland is only to keep Americans without a passport from crossing into the Great White North.
Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California):
1. Grand Canyon, AZ 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT 3. Craters of the Moon, ID 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY 5. Pikes Peak, CO 6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM 7. The Alamo, TX 8. The Platt Historic District, OK 9. Toltec Mounds, AR 10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, TN 11. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS 12. French Quarter, LA 13. USS Alabama, AL 14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL 15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, GA 16. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC 17. Lost World Caverns, WV 18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, NC 19. Mount Vernon, VA 20. White House, Washington, D.C. 21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, MD 22. New Castle Historic District, DE 23. Cape May Historic District, NJ 24. Liberty Bell, PA 25. Statue of Liberty, NY 26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, CT 27. The Breakers, RI 28. USS Constitution, MA 29. Acadia National Park, ME 30. Mount Washington Hotel, NH 31. Shelburne Farms, VT 32. Fox Theater, MI 33. Spring Grove Cemetery, OH 34. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 35. West Baden Springs Hotel, IN 36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, IL 37. Gateway Arch, MO 38. C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, KS 39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, IA 40. Taliesin, WI 41. Fort Snelling, MN 42. Ashfall Fossil Bed, NE 43. Mount Rushmore, SD 44. Fort Union Trading Post, ND 45. Glacier National Park, MT 46. Hanford Site, WA 47. Columbia River Highway, OR 48. San Francisco Cable Cars, CA 49. San Andreas Fault, CA 50. Hoover Dam, NV
These are all very enticing attractions, for the most part. It seems I’ve only seen 14 of those, so maybe I should hit the road again after all.
How about you? Tempted?
48-state roadtrip – city version
Here’s a map of the 2 nd itinerary.
![usa road trip tipps](https://img.flytrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/06053331/cityroadtrip.png)
If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2 nd version that routes you through amazing cities instead.
It is slightly shorter but quite as impressive: it makes you go through the “Best City to Visit” in each state, according to TripAdvisor .
But you won’t have all the lower 48 states, unlike the other itinerary. That’s because no city in Vermont, West Virginia, or North Dakota made the top 400 cities to visit ranking, unfortunately. So plan on making a few extra detours if you want to hit all states at once with this version of the itinerary.
Here is the complete list of all cities:
- Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
- Wichita, Kansas
- Denver, Colorado
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- San Francisco, California
- Portland, Oregon
- Seattle, Washington
- Boise, Idaho
- Park City, Utah
- Jackson, Wyoming
- Billings, Montana
- Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Omaha, Nebraska
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Chicago, Illinois
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Columbus, Ohio
- Detroit, Michigan
- Cleveland, Ohio
- Manchester, New Hampshire
- Portland, Maine
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Providence, Rhode Island
- New Haven, Connecticut
- New York City, New York
- Ocean City, New Jersey
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Wilmington, Delaware
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Washington, D.C.
- Virginia Beach, Virginia
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Orlando, Florida
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Birmingham, Alabama
- Jackson, Mississippi
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Houston, Texas
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Branson, Missouri
I do a little better on this list, with 31 already visited. You can see I love cities. How about you?
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If you were looking for an excuse to go on a roadtrip, this is it. And since we always enjoy giving you more for your money, we think 48 states instead of only 1 or 2 is something you’ll enjoy!
What’s the coolest roadtrip you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments below.
See the deals we spot: Cheap flights
Explore awesome destinations : Travel inspiration
Learn pro tricks : Travel tips
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Featured image: The itinerary (image credit: Randy Olson)
Original publication date: May 29, 2018
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Andrew D'Amours
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This post has 24 comments.
Very informative and well-articulated, It’s always refreshing to see such useful content. Thank you and keep up the excellent work!
Hello Andrew, the PHD student suggests in the 1st Itinnerary that the one stop to make in Washington State is the Hanford Nuclear Reservation?! Flat out, that is a terrible idea. It is in the middle of nowhere, I am just shocked it’s mentioned. Out of all the beautiful and amazing places to see in such a diverse state as Washington, a Nuclear Site was chosen? Surely this student could have done so much better. Thank you for allowing comments.
Having been all around the Olympic Peninsula, I agree that’s there are better stops. But my understanding is that he really optimized for the quickest way to do all 48 and had to choose a point of interest that wasn’t too far off that optimal path, hence that choice (I think).
thanks for sharing this information with us.
I have taken a road trip from California to the the most northeastern part of theUS. west Quaby light house. it was my 1st trip across the us. .I seen so many amazing places.
Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.
Why do Americans always think the Statue of Liberty is in NY? it is in NJ. I’ve done road trips now that have taken in 39 states. Here’s a quiz to see how well you know the USA: Which state has only one syllable? Only one city has been name-checked on the moon. In which state is it? Which is the most Northerly of the contiguous states? In which state were Tennessee Williams and Elvis Presley born? Which was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted into the USA? Which four states all share a border with each other? Which state has the lowest population? Twelve cities are name-checked in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” but only three states. Which? Which state has the longest name? Which two states have the most borders with other states? In which state is the geographical centre of the USA – and which one if you exclude Hawaii and Alaska? Which of the states of the USA has respectively the most Northerly, Southerly, Easterly and Westerly points?
The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.
Wow, these comments are very rude for no reason. Thanks for the article, maybe when I graduate from college I’ll consider hitting part of one of these itineraries.
“it’s a huge country (even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).”
Canada – 3.855 million mi² USA – 3.532 million mi² Where does this math fail you?
Where did reading fail you :P? It explicitly says “ when considering LAND area alone ” The quote you copied literally has a link provided under “even larger than Canada” and if you read that, it explains how Canada is only larger than the US due to water area being counted 🙂
There is no stop in North Dakota on the city version. You should stop in Fargo after Billings and before Sioux Falls
I’m 46 years old .. I have been to all 50 states and I’m 17 away from all 50 twice .. I have driven to 47 .. flown to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington..
Wow! That’s impressive :O
This is awesome
This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!
“this roadtrip in only 9 days“ is extremely false statement. It is only 9 days if you are driving non stop, no breaks to even get out of your car, get gas, or actually see these places. From start to finish drive time it is 225 hours, 16 minutes = 9 days. Wow. Take some time to enjoy the view.
Yes, that’s what we said too 😛
Thanks for the tip 😊
Do you know the total distance of this itinerary? At what moment of the year doing this trip would be the best? Thanks!
Hi! It is 13,699 miles (22,046 km) for the landmarks itinerary and 12,290 miles (19,780 km) for the city version. You can even have the Google Maps links on the creator’s original post (I’ve reposted the link below). As for the timing, I guess it depends on your preferences, but I’d want to avoid that top half of the country (so half the itinerary) in the winter for sure! http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/
Crappy itinerary! Does not even include Zion National Park… and so many stops in the North Eastern states?? Nobody cares about those places except maybe a couple of places.
As explained, the PhD student who built the itinerary wanted to have one stop per state, and there are many states in the North-East so that’s why there are many stops there. I agree that Zion is an iconic spot, but his goal was also to optimize a routing that was as short as possible so that’s why it’s billed as an itinerary to see all lower 48 states at once and not an itinerary to see *the best spots*. But those interested in doing this can definitely adapt it and add many interesting stops for sure 🙂
Curtis, you are crappy. Obviously this is meant as a guide that can be adapted to add spots. I think it’s awesome.
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20 Tips for taking a road trip in the USA for the first time by an American
July 31, 2019 by Dawn Allcott 1 Comment
The car is packed and you’re headed on a long-awaited road trip. Whether you’re taking your own vehicle coast-to-coast, or you’re renting a car to make a U.S. road trip part of your international adventure, a little planning goes a long way.
With 20 years of traveling up and down the Eastern seaboard, plus car trips to Chicago, Oklahoma, and Tennessee, I’ve picked up a few handy tips to share for taking a road trip in the United States. I hope that these helpful tips help you plan your US road trip!
- 1 Plan Ahead
- 2 Connect with Locals for the Best Tips
- 3 Search Groupon for Deals – and Ideas
- 4 Leave Room for Spontaneity
- 5 Purchase Toll Passes for Areas Where You’ll Be Traveling
- 6 Understand U.S. Rental Car Rules
- 7 Educate Yourself About Rental Car Insurance
- 8 Join AAA if traveling on your own
- 9 Know the Difference Between a Rest Stop and a Truck Stop
- 10.1 Eat Even Healthier by Stopping at Farm Stands
- 11 Find the Best Hotel Prices Online
- 12 Call the Hotel for Discounts
- 13 Account for Security Deposits
- 14.1 Useful items for your overnight bag:
- 15 Take Advantage of Local WiFi
- 16.1 Use Waze to Avoid Traffic Snarls
- 17 Time Your Travel to Save Travel Time
- 18 Keep a Stash of Paper Maps
- 19 Let Your Bank Know You’re Traveling
- 20 Any other US road trip tips that you’d recommend? Any questions about taking a road trip in the United States?
Having a broad idea of your major stops, must-see tourist attractions, and areas where you want to spend several days or even a week helps give your vacation structure. It ensures you’ll experience what matters the most to you in each state, whether that’s theme parks, shopping, or the best gourmet restaurants.
Each summer, my family takes a three-week road trip from New York to Florida. We plan two major stops along the way, spending two or three days in spots like Washington, D.C., or Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I save money by booking hotel rooms and attractions for these places in advance.
On a related note, do not go too crazy planning your trip and underestimate how large the United States is. Many first-time road trippers in the United States assume that you can go coast-to-coast in a short time and often cram in too much. Although the driving may not take as long as you might expect, you’ll probably want to explore cities, national parks, and major tourist attractions along the way. Give yourself enough time to stop off beyond a quick pit-stop!
![usa road trip tipps Friends enjoying a fun ride in a car during their first time road tripping in the United States](https://www.wanderlustingk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Depositphotos_219742698_l-2015-1.jpg)
Connect with Locals for the Best Tips
Talk to locals, join Facebook groups for people traveling to given areas, and visit the tourist and visitor’s bureau website for each city you plan to visit. Also pay attention to insider travel guides like the ones on WanderlustingK to discover the secret hotspots only the locals know about.
Click for Karen’s recommendations on the best ways to meet locals while traveling with real stories!
Search Groupon for Deals – and Ideas
You can find some great attractions (at a low price) by browsing Groupon for things to do in the places you want to visit. Sometimes, you’ll discover an activity you hadn’t planned, like a local escape room or a helicopter ride across a city.
Leave Room for Spontaneity
While we keep a broad idea of our journey and major stops in mind, we also take time to explore interesting restaurants, fun stores like that we don’t have near us (like Cabela’s), or even just a hotel with a pool off I-95 if we’re getting tired.
Some of our greatest road trip memories happened by accident. Our kids still talk about the time we decided to stop and visit the world-famous South of the Border between the Carolinas. It was incredibly kitschy (like all of SOTB), overpriced, hilarious, yet terrifying at the same time. We won’t do it again, but we’re glad we did it once.
Purchase Toll Passes for Areas Where You’ll Be Traveling
Pre-paid toll booth transponders make it easy for U.S. travelers to skip the toll booth lines and avoid carrying cash for tolls. The problem? Not all passes are accepted in all states.
But there’s good news for East Coast travelers. In August 2018, Florida began accepting E-Z Pass. That’s the transponder used across the Northeast, as far south as North Carolina, and in some Midwestern states. If your trip includes Georgia, you’ll need to purchase a Peach Pass, also good in North Carolina and Florida. South Carolina only has two tolls roads, but a Palmetto Pass makes it easier to cross them.
You can buy your E-Z Pass within any state that offers it, either online or through AAA . To save the most money, purchase the pass from the state where you plan to spend the most time because you’ll get some discounts on those tolls.
If your travels will take you all the way to California, it’s wise to invest in a FasTrak, too. If you’re renting a car for your trip, ask if you can get a toll pass directly from the rental car company.
![usa road trip tipps 20 Essential tips for taking a road trip in the United States for the first time, including money-saving hacks!](https://www.wanderlustingk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/roadtrip1.jpg)
Understand U.S. Rental Car Rules
Car rental tips, rules, and regulations could fill a whole blog post. Some rental companies require customers to be 25 or older. Other companies, including Alamo and Enterprise, rent cars to drivers 21+, but additional surcharges and requirements may apply. Hertz rents to drivers as young as 20, with an additional fee. The minimum age to rent a car in New York and Michigan is 18.
Some companies require you to have a valid credit card, while others accept a debit card for the rental. In either case, expect a hold to be placed on your account until you return the car. You generally are expected to bring a car rental back to the same location where the car was rented. Not doing so will result in extra fees, so one-way trips may be more expensive than you realize!
Inspect the car carefully and take photos with your phone before you drive away so you won’t be held responsible for pre-existing damage.
Educate Yourself About Rental Car Insurance
![usa road trip tipps Beautiful open road with stunning American national park along Route 66, one of the most iconic road trip routes in the United States](https://www.wanderlustingk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Depositphotos_170092924_l-2015.jpg)
Rental car insurance can add another $10 to $30 per day to your bill. Do you need it? The answer is: It depends.
If you don’t have your own car insurance, you’ll want to pay for liability insurance, at a minimum. This protects you against having to pay out-of-pocket if you cause an accident and hurt someone else or damage their vehicle.
If you’re paying with a credit card, you might be able to skip Collison Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance, which covers theft or damage to the rental car. Read the fine print on your credit card statement, because most credit cards offer this perk.
Join AAA if traveling on your own
AAA stands for the American Automobile Association. This organization which advocates for travelers has offices where you can often pick up maps and other handy essentials.
Karen’s husband Jacob swears by the premium membership at AAA, which is a yearly cost. However, the roadside assistance has been a lifesaver in many rural places of the US during breakdowns after numerous breakdowns in rural West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and numerous other states.
Depending on your membership tier, you can get a certain number of tows up to a specific number of miles. Their services include delivering fuel to you if you run of gas, roadside assistance with a tow, vehicle lockout service, flat tire service, and battery starting assistance. It’s less than $150 to join for the year with the premium tier of membership (2019), so consider stopping by your local AAA office (or checking online!) to join.
Know the Difference Between a Rest Stop and a Truck Stop
Once you’re on the road, you’re going to have to stop at some point. You check the GPS and notice there’s a rest stop up ahead. Now, you’re looking forward to that Starbucks Cloud Macchiato.
If you began your journey in the Northeast, you might be used to the “rest stops” dotting the New Jersey Turnpike every 10 miles or so. Big box-style buildings, each with a giant food court, convenience store, and a gas station. You can buy everything from sunglasses to phone chargers. But I wouldn’t recommend it because you’ll pay less at Wal-mart or Target.
Maryland, Virginia, and Connecticut also have robust, state-funded rest stops worth visiting. However, rest stops across most of the country are not like that. You’ll find a few vending machines, bathrooms, and a place to walk dogs. But you won’t find shopping, a gas station, or much of anything else.
To find some unique pit stops to break up the route, Karen loves buying (and reading out loud in the car!) the Weird America books for inspiring and wacky rest stops! You can also get state-focused guides for road trips within only one state.
When you’re craving a latte and you need to fill up, you need a truck stop. Truck stops combine gas stations, restaurants, and convenience stores, plus amenities like showers for truckers and free WiFi. We like Flying J and Pilot because they’re clean and always have a variety of merchandise in the stores to browse as you stretch your legs. Fun fact: Iowa 80 in Walcott, Iowa, even has a movie theater.
Buy Your Snacks at Walmart or Local Grocery Stores to Save Money
![usa road trip tipps Woman eating snacks by car after purchasing snacks, one of the best tips for saving money on a USA road trip!](https://www.wanderlustingk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Depositphotos_25234111_l-2015.jpg)
While truck stops are great for that spur-of-the-moment fast food craving, you can save tons of money on your trip by stocking up at snacks from Wal-mart or a local grocery store in the area you’re visiting.
Bring your own reusable grocery bags as some states charge for plastic bags (and it’s greener!) Pack a cooler for drinks and refill it as supplies get low. (A pro tip: bring a bag for the trash!)
Eat Even Healthier by Stopping at Farm Stands
Pack a second cooler and stop at local farm stands or food co-ops for fresh produce for the trip. A few pints of strawberries and a bag of string beans keep me and the kids satisfied until we reach the next Cracker Barrel – a must-stop meal for us on every family road trip.
Find the Best Hotel Prices Online
Ready to stop for the night but haven’t reached your first pre-planned destination? Tap into free WiFi at the next truck stop to find the best prices for hotels on sites like Expedia, Travelocity, Booking, and Hotels.com. It’s smart to stick with one service, as prices don’t vary much, and you’ll earn rewards each time you book to save more money. (Karen usually uses the Booking.com app for last-minute bookings!)
Book your hotel about 20 minutes before you plan to arrive to be sure your reservation made it into the system. You can book a hotel from the parking lot of the hotel, but it might take a bit more time for the front desk to find your reservation.
Call the Hotel for Discounts
![usa road trip tipps Typical Motel Sign along American highway during a road trip through the United States](https://www.wanderlustingk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Depositphotos_8135966_l-2015.jpg)
In my experience, I find the best hotel prices booking online. But it always pays to call the hotel and see if they will match that price. When you’re negotiating a rate, make sure you’re accounting for any added taxes and fees. A rate that looks lower online before you book might actually be higher than the hotel’s rate once you get the final price with taxes and fees. Also, be sure to check whether you will need to pay in cash or can pay in person by card.
Be sure to ask about AARP or AAA discounts, if you’re a member of either organization. You can’t use these discounts online, but the discount might just beat the online price.
Likewise, if you’re visiting a local or major regional tourist attraction, the hotel might offer a discount to the attraction or a discounted hotel room if you show your attraction ticket.
Account for Security Deposits
When you book a hotel or rental car, the company is likely to bill a security deposit on your credit card. The deposit covers incidentals – such as room charges – or damage to the room.
After some unfortunate incidents, editor Karen swears by paying extra to bring the deducible of your rental car down to zero in case of something happening. The longer your trip, the more likely you’ll be happy that you paid for it!
Make sure you leave enough room on your card to cover this charge, with the knowledge that it may not be returned until seven to 10 days after your stay. Check your statement to make sure the hotel refunded the charge.
Keep a Smaller Bag Handy for Overnight Stays
No doubt, your trunk or overhead carrier is piled high with suitcases for your journey. If you’re planning multiple overnight pit stops, keep a separate bag with just the necessities. A larger backpack should work well enough although an inexpensive overnight bag will work too!
Useful items for your overnight bag:
- Bathing Suit
- Towel (hotel pools never have enough!)
- One change of clothes
- Wall charger for your phone plus USB cord
- Your adult beverage of choice for relaxing in the hotel room at night* (Note: some states require stopping off at a state-run liquor or wine/liquor store to purchase said beverages while others sell adult beverages in the gas station.)
When you’re ready for an overnight stop, you’ll have just one small bag to carry, which also means less chance of leaving anything in the hotel room.
When you leave, put your dirty clothes in a reusable plastic bag – or do a load of laundry in the hotel room – and re-pack the overnight bag for your next stop. (Karen uses a cute yet light foldable world map laundry bag that she’s had for years.)
Take Advantage of Local WiFi
Tap into free WiFi at hotels, truck stops, fast food restaurants, and coffee houses to conserve your data for when you really need it. If you have Verizon FIOS or Cablevision service at home, you might be able to use HotSpots for WiFi.
Make Sure You Have Plenty of Data
Of course, you can’t tap into a WiFi network doing 70 mph down the highway. (At least, not yet.) Consider increasing your phone’s data plan before you start your journey. Even if you don’t have passengers streaming Netflix throughout the trip (I’m looking directly into the backseat at my kids!) – you’ll need it for the GPS. (If you’re looking for some entertaining games that work offline, click for 15+ fun travel-friendly apps perfect for a road trip !)
Use Waze to Avoid Traffic Snarls
Apple Maps or Google Maps? The answer, for us, is neither. Waze not only has the most up-to-date traffic information, but you can find out why traffic slowed to a halt on the Belt Parkway. Oh wait, it’s the Belt. Of course , traffic stopped.
An insider New Yorker tip : Avoid the Belt Parkway, a series of three parkways that go from Brooklyn to Queens, if at all possible. (Also avoid the Cross Bronx Parkway, which is terrible most of the time!) It’s often faster to get into New York City via Staten Island or the Lincoln Tunnel via New Jersey.)
Time Your Travel to Save Travel Time
Google Maps usually generates the time to a destination at the moment that you check on your app. If you’re checking when it’s not rush hour, be sure to add extra time into your time calculations if you’re traveling close to or during rush hour.
Native New Yorkers traveling through the Tri-state area know that you want to get through the city before rush hour. For us, this means leaving between 10 AM and 2 PM.
Wherever you travel, it’s best to time the trip so you’re navigating big cities (think: D.C., Boston, Nashville, Chicago, Jacksonville, etc.) either late at night or early in the morning. If you’re not stopping in the city, you can also look for ways to loop around it.
If you do happen to get stuck in a big city at rush hour, don’t fight it. Stop for dinner and do some shopping until 7 PM when traffic should be clear.
Keep a Stash of Paper Maps
![usa road trip tipps Person planning a first time road trip through the United States using an old school atlas with map of the United States open.](https://www.wanderlustingk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Depositphotos_8829706_l-2015.jpg)
Sometimes, there’s just no avoiding traffic. Or a cell phone dead zone. That’s when paper maps help. You can usually pick up maps at rest stops and at AAA offices although well-prepared travelers can purchase regional maps online. (Karen recommends Rand McNally for US maps , which is the gold standard for US road maps.)
We traveled to Anderson, South Carolina to see the solar eclipse of 2017. On the way back home, we got caught in eclipse traffic (who imagined that would be a thing!?) in North Carolina.
While hundreds of travelers followed their GPS, which took us through a residential neighborhood with traffic at a standstill, my husband pulled out a paper map and circumvented the crowd. We took a scenic route in the pouring rain through Batcave, North Carolina – which is just as creepy and cool as it sounds. It’s a travel moment we won’t forget.
Let Your Bank Know You’re Traveling
Right before our trip, my son fell in love with a pair of sneakers while we were school clothes shopping, but they didn’t have his size and I couldn’t find them online. Browsing the outlet stores in Asheville, North Carolina, he spotted them – at a shoe store chain that we don’t have on Long Island.
He was bouncing with excitement as I pulled out my Chase debit card – only to have it declined. I checked my balance online and saw I had plenty of money in the account.
Why was my card declined? The bank’s fraud protection department flagged several transactions outside my home state as “unusual activity.” I called the bank and within five minutes, had my account reactivated to buy the sneakers.
As a veteran traveler, I should know better. Learn from my mistake and call your bank and credit card companies to let them know your trip itinerary. Then you can rest easy knowing you have access to all your funds during your road trip adventure – plus all these handy tips in mind to ensure a smooth journey.
Any other US road trip tips that you’d recommend? Any questions about taking a road trip in the United States?
- Tips for traveling in the United States WITHOUT a car
- Tips for tipping in the United States
- First-time tips for visiting New York City by a New Yorker
- How to travel in the United States on a budget
![usa road trip tipps Taking your first road trip through the United States? 20+ Essential tips to know before you road trip in the US by an American!](https://www.wanderlustingk.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/roadtrip2.jpg)
About Dawn Allcott
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July 27, 2021 at 5:25 pm
thank you helpful!!!
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22 U.S. Road trips to take before you die
Take these bucket list road trips before you kick the bucket
By Roadtrippers
Road trips in the USA offer limitless possibilities, be they mountain-winding roads snaking through majestic peaks, sea-kissed highways hugging shimmering coastlines, or national park routes crisscrossing breathtaking landscapes.
To help get your wheels rolling, here are the bucket list road trips in the USA to take before you kick the bucket.
Planning app for a US road trip
Road trips are the name of our game. In fact, it is our name — Roadtrippers is the go-to app for all things car trip planning. Our recently released Autopilot™ tool makes this even easier by using info from 38 million real-life trips to plan your ideal road trip itinerary for you. Simply answer a few questions about the type of trip you want and Autpilot™ does the rest. Try Autopilot™ for free .
Jump to US road trips by region:
Road trip usa: the midwest, road trip usa: west/southwest, road trip usa: pacific northwest, road trip usa: eastern us, road trip usa: alaska and hawaii.
Route 66 (Illinois to California)
The Mother Road weaves a path through the psyche of Americana. Starting in the Midwest, this route kisses against many of the most iconic moments in our history as it meanders to the West Coast. It’s also one of the most popular road trips in the USA for folks from around the world who make the pilgrimage just to run this road.
This legendary highway is dotted with quirky roadside attractions, vintage motels, and classic diners. Explore the art deco architecture of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and the ghost towns of the Mojave Desert. Whether you’re fascinated by history or just love a good road trip, Route 66 offers a unique glimpse into America’s past.
You can even electrify your journey because Route 66 is now EV-friendly .
Related The ultimate guide to riding Route 66 on a motorcycle
Minnesota’s North Shore
Discover the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore on a road trip along Highway 61, stretching from Duluth to Grand Portage. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior, towering cliffs, and lush forests.
Highlights include the picturesque Split Rock Lighthouse , the cascading waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park , and the serene beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area .
This road trip in the USA offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring charming lakeside towns like Two Harbors and Grand Marais.
Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trip
Michiganders are uber-proud of their picturesque Upper Peninsula, and with good reason. The “ U.P. ” is known for its pristine wilderness, dramatic shorelines, and historic landmarks. Drive along US Highway 2 and M-28 to explore stunning spots like the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore , with its colorful cliffs and waterfalls, and the serene beaches of Lake Superior. Visit the historic town of Marquette , the breathtaking Tahquamenon Falls , and the secluded beauty of Isle Royale National Park .
The Upper Peninsula splits between Lakes Superior and Michigan, and kisses Lake Huron at the end. A road trip here offers views of these Great Lakes, plenty of hiking stops, and all the boating breaks you could want along the journey.
Related 5 must-see stops on a road trip through Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula
Texas Hill Country
This road trip takes you along the rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns of Texas Hill Country, a region known for its scenic beauty and cultural richness.
![usa road trip tipps Texas Hill Country road trip USA](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/j-amill-santiago-XbobcKvGWEQ-unsplash-1-1024x768.jpg)
Visit charming towns like Fredericksburg , with its German heritage, and Bandera, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” Enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards, wildflower viewing in the spring, and the unique limestone formations of the Hill Country State Natural Area .
The roads here offer a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and picturesque landscapes.
Great River Road (Mississippi River)
The Great River Road along the Mississippi River is a scenic byway that passes through ten states and offers a rich tapestry of American history and culture.
From the headwaters in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll encounter charming river towns, historic sites, and stunning river vistas. Highlights include the vibrant music scene in Memphis, the historic homes in Louisiana, and the scenic bluffs in Iowa.
The Mississippi River is part of the fabric of America, and that’s why this is a part of a top road trip in the USA
The Great Lakes Circle Tour
This road trip captures the stunning shorelines of Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. You’ll see bustling cities like Chicago and Toronto, as well as serene natural areas like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Sleeping Bear Dunes .
Boating, fishing, and diverse cultural and natural attractions also dot this itinerary. This is one road trip in the USA that takes time to do it right and rewards those who do it with the experience of a lifetime.
Related Sand dunes and dark skies: Can’t-miss stops on a road trip around Lake Michigan
Pacific Coast Highway (California)
This route is on virtually every US road trip list because it’s simply spectacular .
Stretching from San Francisco to Los Angeles, it offers breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara.
A road trip itinerary on the PCH offers iconic stops such as Big Sur’s dramatic coastline, the quaint Danish village of Solvang , and the glamorous beaches of Malibu. With plenty of opportunities for whale watching, hiking, and exploring coastal state parks, this road trip is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
This scenic (and slightly scary) loop offers dramatic mountain passes, historic mining towns, and breathtaking vistas.
Key stops include the skiing and summer mecca of Telluride , the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad , and the picturesque alpine village of Ouray .
![usa road trip tipps Million Dollar Highway](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_1363311005-1024x546.jpg)
This US road trip also encompasses the Million Dollar Highway , a famed road not for the faint of heart. The highway cuts through the heart of majestic mountains, etching a path along sheer cliffs, towering peaks, mountain forests, and raging waterfalls.
Related The ultimate guide to Colorado’s San Juan Skyway
The Loneliest Road (Nevada)
Venture through Nevada’s remote landscapes on the Loneliest Road in America , also known as U.S. Route 50. This historic route takes you through vast desert expanses, rugged mountains, and ghost towns that echo the state’s mining past.
![usa road trip tipps Loneliest road in America road trip](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_31881604-1024x683.jpg)
Visit the eccentric town of Austin , the beautiful Great Basin National Park , and the intriguing dunes of Sand Mountain . This drive’s solitude and stark beauty make it an iconic choice.
Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Discover the otherworldly landscapes of Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 , which traverses red rock canyons, high desert, and ancient Native American sites. This 124-mile route passes through two national parks, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef , and features stunning natural wonders like the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument .
Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the region’s unique geology and vibrant colors. This drive is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to experience Utah’s extraordinary beauty.
Related Why you should visit Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and how to do it the right way
Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (New Mexico)
Circle the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains on this road trip in New Mexico. This 84-mile loop takes you through diverse landscapes, including alpine forests, high deserts, and picturesque valleys.
![usa road trip tipps Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_587486741-1024x683.jpg)
Stroll through the historic town of Taos , the artist community of Arroyo Seco , and the ski resort of Red River . Explore the natural beauty of the Rio Grande Gorge and the serene waters of Eagle Nest Lake .
The Enchanted Circle is a US road trip that blends cultural heritage, outdoor recreation, and scenic beauty.
Related In Taos, a community of ‘voluntary anarchists’ is taking off-the-grid living to the next level
Route 89A (Arizona)
This American road trip meanders through the epically awesome landscapes of Northern Arizona. Along the way, you’ll see the red rocks of Sedona , roll through the Oak Creek Canyon , and cap your trip in the hip mountain town of Flagstaff .
![usa road trip tipps US road trip in Arizona](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_691961752-1024x678.jpg)
The 89A offers dramatic canyon views, vibrant rock formations, and lush forests. Be sure to take a pit stop in Sedona, known for its towering red rocks and spiritual vortexes. The drive through the Oak Creek Canyon offers several trailheads to park and take a hike.
Highway 101 (Oregon Coast)
Discover the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast along Highway 101, a scenic drive that offers dramatic coastal views, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns.
Visit the iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, explore the historic lighthouses at Cape Meares , and enjoy fresh seafood in Newport . The route also features lush forests, tide pools teeming with marine life, and scenic overlooks like the one at Heceta Head Lighthouse . Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or relaxing by the ocean, Oregon’s stretch of Highway 101 has it going on.
Columbia River Gorge (Oregon)
A scenic drive through the Columbia River Gorge offers waterfalls, lush forests, and breathtaking views of the Columbia River. Highlights include the iconic Multnomah Falls , the historic Vista House at Crown Point , and the picturesque Hood River Valley.
![usa road trip tipps](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_2302057805-1024x683.jpg)
This route is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous opportunities for hiking, windsurfing, and exploring the region’s diverse flora and fauna. The Columbia River Gorge is an iconic testament to Oregon’s natural beauty.
Related From snow to sea: The perfect Northwest Oregon road trip
Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
This road trip in the USA takes you through Glacier National Park . Going-to-the-Sun Road in the heart of Montana’s prized park is an engineering marvel that spans 50 miles. This mountain road offers spectacular views of glacial valleys, towering mountains, and pristine lakes.
![usa road trip tipps Going to the Sun Road in Glacier should top any road trip USA list](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_1679855632-1024x683.jpg)
Highlights include the Logan Pass, where you might spot mountain goats and bighorn sheep, and the breathtaking views of Lake McDonald. This route is a paradise for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the park’s rugged beauty.
Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)
The Beartooth Highway showcases some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the U.S. Built in The Thirties, it’s been called “the most beautiful drive in America.”
The road winds from Montana to Wyoming near Yellowstone National Park . This high-altitude route passes through dramatic switchbacks, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks.
Key stops include Beartooth Pass, which offers panoramic views, and the scenic vistas of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness . This highway is built for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and even camping.
Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic US road trip winding through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia to North Carolina.
Known for its stunning vistas, especially during the fall foliage season, the parkway offers numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic spots. Visit the historic Mabry Mill , the Linville Falls , and the Blue Ridge Music Center to experience the region’s cultural heritage.
Related Planning a Blue Ridge Parkway road trip
Florida Keys Scenic Highway
This USA road trip is built right into the ocean via a network of highways connecting a beloved Florida archipelago. It stretches from Miami to Key West over several islands connected by 42 bridges.
![usa road trip tipps Florida Keys Scenic Highway US Road Trip](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_708960466-1024x575.jpg)
See stunning ocean views, vibrant coral reefs, and charming seaside communities. Key highlights include the Seven Mile Bridge, the historic town of Key West, and the Bahia Honda State Park with its beautiful beaches. This tropical drive offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a taste of the Caribbean in the continental U.S.
Outer Banks Scenic Byway (North Carolina)
Road trip along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, a coastal route with lighthouses, sandy beaches, and charming seaside villages.
![usa road trip tipps](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_2356612887-1024x683.jpg)
Check out historic sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial , the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse , and the picturesque town of Ocracoke . This drive offers a mix of natural beauty, maritime history, and relaxed beach town vibes, making it perfect for those seeking the ideal coastal road trip in the U.S.
Acadia All-American Road (Maine)
Discover the rugged coastal beauty of Acadia National Park on this All-American Road in Maine. This scenic drive offers rocky shorelines and lush forests.
Highlights include the picturesque Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse , the scenic loop road around Mount Desert Island , and the summit of Cadillac Mountain , the highest point on the East Coast.
This drive is ideal for nature lovers and photographers. Take pit stops along this US road trip to find spectacular hiking opportunities, snap pics, and enjoy quaint New England towns.
Hana Highway (Hawaii)
Moving on to non-continental US road trips, the winding Hana Highway on Maui offers a journey through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
![usa road trip tipps](https://roadtrippers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/shutterstock_1637523418-1024x768.jpg)
Stunning views can be had at every turn on the Hana Highway as you trek over 600 curves and 50 bridges in just 64 miles of road-tripping. Highlights include the serene Hana town, the beautiful Waianapanapa State Park , and the majestic Oheo Gulch with its series of cascading pools.
Alaska’s Seward Highway Road Trip
Alaska’s Seward Highway stretches from Anchorage to Seward and offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the Last Frontier.
This US road trip takes you through the dramatic Turnagain Arm , with its breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and the rugged coastline.
Fun pit stops include the picturesque town of Girdwood, the stunning Kenai Peninsula , and the majestic Exit Glacier Area . A Seward Highway road trip offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, hiking, and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Alaska’s indigenous peoples.
This road trip through the 49th state is a must on a road trip USA bucket list.
Road trips in the USA pack in a plethora of sights. Few other countries feature car-bound adventures where you can see so much from your windshield. Check off this bucket list of road trips before you kick the bucket to soak in the special mojo that is the US of A.
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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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![usa road trip tipps A highway leading toward mountains](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/20eef41/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2160x1080+0+164/resize/1440x720!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fcd%2F82%2Fe5821197681c4d25c932a2ae069b%2Foriginal-road-trip.jpg)
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.
![usa road trip tipps Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/11ff0ca/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5315x2325+0+0/resize/1440x630!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F59%2F4d%2F3b6de83013cc04f508c867834856%2Foriginal-route-2066-20sign-20oklahoma.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps People biking on a busy street](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7d7bf92/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x955+0+0/resize/1440x917!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F23%2F0f%2Ffdb122e6ab7a4b5d82cd7038880d%2Foriginal-shutterstock-599741930.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Wooden pier with shops on top juts out into the ocean](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/21e27f0/2147483647/strip/true/crop/6500x4338+0+0/resize/1440x961!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fc7%2F04%2F365294877a306eed5c6d2c0c8928%2Foriginal-lede-cannery-20row-denise-20lett-shutterstock-241542529.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Wide shot of a red canyon with a river running through it](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/819af22/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1333+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fe4%2Ffe%2Fe3a23c5dcd15d774671b1de412e8%2Foriginal-grand-20canyon.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah's Arches National Park](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/3e369cd/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2969x1971+0+0/resize/1440x956!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fe0%2Ff6%2F7a1b6f7231e828111faad4532270%2Foriginal-shutterstock-127063136.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Couple sitting in front of a curving road](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9a7a2bb/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x2001+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F27%2F98%2Fc42b60cb4f6e93a172dcded4d2d4%2Fcolorado-roadtrips-sanjuan-skyway-anhluu-shutterstock.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/d27dfda/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1400x933+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbb%2F52%2Fa2c32481e49d38f206dd6d07af3c%2Foriginal-surfhotelbuenavistaco-chaffee-county-visitors-bureau-5-photo-courtesy-of-surf-hotel.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Woman walking by a mural of a river and bridge](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/367b077/2147483647/strip/true/crop/800x500+0+0/resize/1440x900!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fb2%2F57%2Fbb6d5779b5b5211de01bd00252da%2Foriginal-art-downtownpdx002-travelportlandjpg-copy-copy.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6d7f59f/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1954+0+0/resize/1440x938!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F11%2F11%2F09ef7ef5397360e450cf94567128%2Foriginal-shutterstock-451907320.jpg)
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.
![usa road trip tipps A long shot of a mountain-backed city, framed by flowers and trees](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/8099075/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1280x853+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fe1%2F19%2F6b635fa219c942ca71a6ac0e2561%2Foriginal-untitled-3992-medium.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/8868dc5/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2048x1365+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fe4%2Fcb%2F921a8c3360a2150cf2359585cb02%2Foriginal-iccp.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Green tree near brown house during daytime](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/d71ae2d/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2400x1600+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F72%2F48%2Fabd82d1546379a22119e07da629a%2Fmark-konig-umrlcqchrtm-unsplash.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/2c501e6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x2003+0+0/resize/1440x961!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fd9%2Fda%2F918eb21de7b04ef609b9b46740e3%2Foriginal-shutterstock-268563452.jpg)
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?
![usa road trip tipps More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/676dcf1/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1333+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F39%2F3d%2F99674569588a66fa9a27ac35dade%2Foriginal-kirkhamhotsprings-2048px.jpeg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/e453164/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2707x1763+0+0/resize/1440x938!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fbe%2Ffb%2Ffb391a370c712757a95b8c40d8ba%2Foriginal-minnesota-qz-1717946530.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Overhead view of curvy Kancamagus Highway through fall forest](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/b7f1af5/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1200x800+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F27%2Fbb%2Ff17cb083535731846f28864eb8da%2Foriginal-fall-kancamagus-highway-shutterstock-1679051230.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Red boat beside a wooden dock in a cove](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/63f7443/2147483647/strip/true/crop/900x600+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F89%2F48%2F4825862139c1c4f2dda2dfe5d2ef%2Foriginal-perkins-cove-ogunquit-maine.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Interior of Leah & Louise restaurant in Charlotte](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/cb47b0c/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1000x667+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F1e%2Fb6%2F0ef34f42163bff5f86b9012541ff%2Foriginal-piedmont-nc-leahlouise-interior3.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4b59bf4/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x2002+0+0/resize/1440x961!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fc7%2F16%2Fb8fcb623eb92cd1d418ff80a1d50%2Foriginal-shutterstock-1104261128.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps Two stand-up paddleboarders on the water at sunset](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ffe7fd8/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2000x1333+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F8e%2F6b%2F43da4b139a88c77d1b9325c7eb7e%2Foriginal-mc-i-couple-paddleboard-dog-h-sml.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps A brick building with an oversized guitar hanging off the side and a sign that says "Sun Studio"](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/04501c6/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3500x2335+0+0/resize/1440x961!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fa0%2Fc8%2F1a7c994d4873b330cb1b985219e8%2Fshutterstock-519193045.jpg)
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
![usa road trip tipps The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a93865c/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x2000+0+0/resize/1440x960!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F22%2Fad%2F328f911247acb42097a18fff771e%2Fpuertorico-taino-cueva-del-indio-alexsf-gr-shutterstock.jpg)
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.
![usa road trip tipps A view of Bar Harbor, Maine with sailboats in the water, green rolling hills and colorful clouds](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/6c08479/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x1684+0+69/resize/490x275!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fk3-prod-afar-media.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5b%2F2d%2F4c6a313646079885440de31c303f%2Fbar-island-view.jpg)
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North America , Travel , USA
The 25 best road trips in the usa.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Defender-Feature.jpg)
If you’re looking for the best road trips in the USA, look no further! These great road trips will have you driving for the rest of your life.
This post was written in partnership and paid for by Hum by Verizon . All opinions are my own.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Defender.jpg)
There’s probably nothing more American than packing up your car and hitting the open road with family or friends, some good snacks, and great tunes… and for good reason. With more than 3.7 million square miles to discover and 4,071,000 miles of road , the United States has so many hidden gems accessible by car.
Although I’ve got about 194 countries on my bucket list right now, I’m grateful to live in the great US of A and think it’s one of the most amazing countries to explore from the road. There are so many fun road trips that you can take all over the country!
Here's a Short Cut
The Best USA Road Trip Safety Tips
Get ready for the best road trips in the usa, 1. pacific coast highway, 2. park loop acadia national park, 3. washington-oregon coast, 4. great river road, 5. big island loop road, 6. musical road usa trip, 7. northern national parks road trip, 8. southwest national parks road trip, 9. hana highway road trip, 10. new york city to finger lakes, 11. williamsburg, va to charlottesville, va to washington d.c., 12. miami to the overseas highway to key west, fl: 160 miles from miami, 13. the grand canyon to las vegas, 14. black hills of south dakota, 15. maine lobster trail, 16. blue ridge parkway, 17. grand teton national park to glacier national park, 18. outer banks scenic byway, 19. olympic peninsula, 20. route 66, 21. alaska highway, 22. ultimate florida road trip, 23. the great american road trip – cross country on the i-90, 24. anchorage to seward, 25. canada to mexico.
If you’re planning to take a road trip this year, I’ve compiled the best American road trip routes in the country. These are 25 of the best road trips in the USA that everyone should take in their lifetime. We’ve been lucky enough to drive almost every inch of this country and there is some beautiful land to see out there.
Before you leave on any road trip, be sure your car is road trip ready. If you’re traveling the US by car, it’s important to know how to prepare.
Prepare Your Car for the Best Road Trips in the USA
Before heading out on your USA road trip, be sure your car has been serviced, and everything is working properly. When you road trip around the US, anything could go wrong! It’s best to be prepared.
Use Hum by Verizon to Prepare for Road Trip Vacations I’ve talked about my love of Hum by Verizon before, but it’s because I love my HumX and think anyone taking a road trip should have one!
Hum by Verizon is campaigning to make the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 Safer Days of Summer.” During these 100 Days, you can find helpful tips for safer driving on their Facebook page.
According to a study from Hum by Verizon and Wakefield Research that surveyed 1,000 U.S. adult drivers ages 20 and older, 80% of participants think that drivers are more likely to speed during the summer months. The survey also found that 61% of millennial drivers struggle to focus while driving during the summer, and one in five drivers have received at least one speeding ticket within the past five years.
Hum by Verizon wants to change that, by helping us practice important road safety with “100 Safer Days of Summer.”
With so many great summer road trip destinations around the country, and so many more Americans traveling these days, safety has never been more important! The best summer trips are safe summer trips!
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/West-Coast-Road-Trip-Hum-1.jpg)
We use HumX in our car. HumX is a little device that is easily installed in your car and takes the guesswork out of driving by using connected car technology. It allows you to have quick access to emergency services and loved ones while on a road trip, or any time on the road.
If you have an accident or emergency, HumX can send assistance to help you get back on the road.
Hum X car also runs diagnostics on your vehicle to make sure that things are running smoothly so you can take these cool road trips worry-free.
I love that HumX helps you keep track of general maintenance like oil changes and tire rotation, and you can set up alerts to remind you when it’s time for service.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/West-Coast-Road-Trip-Hum.jpg)
All the Hum by Verizon services can be accessed on your smartphone from the Hum App which you can find in the App Store or Google Play . HumX also comes with a Bluetooth speaker that clips to your visor. This will give you access to roadside assistance with the touch of a button and can also be used as a speaker for your phone and be connected to your contacts.
I’m also really excited to have this service when my kids start driving, which is only in 3 more years (HELP)! It provides a safety score, boundary alerts, and records speed, so you can monitor your teen’s driving.
You can also track your fuel and mileage using HumX, which is great if you’re taking road trips that are for work and need to track mileage for expenses or tax purposes.
To prepare for your American road trip of choice, be sure to follow these tips that I’ve shared in How to Plan a Road Trip . If you don’t know what to do on a road trip, these tips will help you prepare and also help you have the best time! Learn a lot and have fun along the way while you road trip USA style!
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Road-Trip-Pin-2.jpg)
25 Best Road Trips in the USA
● Begin: San Francisco, California ● End: San Diego, California ● Distance: 655 miles ● Drive Time: 12 Hours
California is one of the best places to road trip in the USA! Its size and diversity provide so many options and the Pacific Coast Highway is just one. This iconic highway along the California coast covers 655 miles of awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, stretching from San Francisco to San Diego. See classic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Bixby Creek Bridge along the way. The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best summer road trips in the world!
Read more about our detailed West Coast Road Trip.
● Begin: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● End: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● Distance: 27 miles ● Drive Time: 2 hours This is one of the best east coast road trips I’ve ever taken. This is a quick road trip but packed full of stunning views as you drive along the Park Loop in Acadia National Park. Forests, mountains, and rocky shores greet you on your drive along with plenty of wildlife. Be sure to spend some time in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine , the town where you can base your Acadia trip from. All good road trips include some amazing scenery, and this one is no exception!
If you’re looking for a great guide to the park, check out this Acadia National Park Guide.
● Start: San Juan Islands ● End: Brookings, Oregon ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 15 hours
The Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to go on a road trip due to its geographical diversity and stunning scenery. One of the most dramatic coastlines in the world, the Pacific Northwest offers rocky beaches, turbulent waters, thick forests, and great food. Begin in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington and continue down to the southern tip of Oregon for one of the best road trips in the USA.
● Starting point: Minnesota ● Ending point: Louisiana ● Distance: 3,000 miles ● Drive Time: 20 hours Follow along the mighty Mississippi River from its beginning in Minnesota, all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. This route is called the Great River Road and it cuts 3,000 miles down the center of our great nation, passing through 10 states, where you’ll see St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, and everything in between. This United States road trip is one of my all-time favorites as it explores some lesser-known destinations in the “fly over” states!
● Starting point: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii ● Ending point: Mauna Kea, Hawaii ● Distance: 300 miles ● Drive Time: 7 hours The Island Loop Road of the Big Island of Hawaii offers scenic views of beaches, mountains, lava fields, active volcanos, black sand beaches, and heated swimming pools. This may be the most diversity in landscape you’ll ever see in one day.
● Begin: Nashville, Tennessee ● End: New Orleans, Louisiana ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 9 hours If you’re a music fan, then Route 61 (also known as the Blues Highway) will be a perfect road trip for you, giving you the chance to hear live music, visit Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, and see famous recording studios. Finish in New Orleans, where you’ll hear live jazz on the streets nightly!
If you want to continue on farther, you can do this amazing gulf coast road trip !
● Begin: Jackson, Wyoming ● End: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming ● Distance: 70 miles ● Drive Time: 1.5 hours National Parks make for the best road trip destinations. Explore both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park with this road trip full of stunning mountainous scenery! It’s the perfect summer road trip.
● Begin: Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim), Arizona ● End: Moab, Utah (one of the most amazing things to do in Utah !) ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 11 hours This nature-packed road trip will allow you to see five stunning Utah national parks including the Grand Canyon, Zions’, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, and Arches. This is a great Utah road trip itinerary if you’re interested in exploring even more of this beautiful state.
Check out this Utah Road Trip Itinerary
● Begin: Kahului, Hawaii ● End: Hana, Hawaii ● Distance: 52 miles ● Drive Time: 2.5 hours This is possibly the most popular road trip in all of the Hawaiian Islands. The 60-mile Road to Hana takes you along the eastern coast of Maui where you will be sandwiched by beautiful ocean views and jungles filled with waterfalls. The Hana highway will wind you around approximately 600 curves, crossing 59 bridges, but the ride is worth it!
● Begin: New York, New York ● End: Corning, New York ● Distance: 250 miles ● Drive Time: 4.5 hours I love this New York road trip! After enjoying the busy city life, escape into the Fingerlakes region of upper state New York. Enjoy culture, scenery, great food and wineries along the way. New York City with kids is so much fun, but it’s great to mix it with a more relaxing and nature-filled vacation.
- Begin: Williamsburg, Virginia
- End: Washington, D.C
- Distance: 240 miles
- Drive Time: 4.5 hours
Brush up on your colonial history and visit the homes of some of our founding fathers while reliving the past. Begin your journey in southern Virginia where you can visit Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement, where you’ll witness historical reenactments and join in on living history.
Next, head to Charlottesville and visit the homes of former presidents Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) and James Monroe (Highland). Head to Mount Vernon, just outside Washington DC to visit George Washington’s home (Mount Vernon) and finish off your trip in our nation’s capital. The distance from Williamsburg VA to Washington DC isn’t much, but the history that can be found on the side of the road is amazing!
You can also do this trip in reverse. It’s one of the best road trips from DC I’ve ever taken.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-key-west.jpg)
Begin: Miami, Florida End: Key West, Florida Distance: 170 miles Drive Time: 3.5 hours Take the 150-mile drive on Route 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, from Miami to the Florida Keys, crossing 42 bridges. These sandy islands are full of history, sun, and relaxation. This southern USA Florida road trip is sure to be one of the most sun-filled, fun-filled drives ever!
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Las-Vegas.jpg)
Begin: Grand Canyon National Park End: Las Vegas, Nevada Distance: 250 miles Drive Time: 4.5 hours Start out with nature, and end in Sin City. This desert drive will take you through the majestic Grand Canyon, with a stop in St. George, Utah and end with some fun in Las Vegas.
Check out this awesome Utah road trip.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Mount-Rushmore.jpg)
Begin: Deadwood, South Dakota End: Hot Springs, South Dakota Distance: 100 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours The Black Hills of South Dakota offer more than just Mount Rushmore. Drive along the Badlands Scenic Byway, making stops at Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park and the infamous Wall Drug. National parks are some of the places to stop on a road trip. Stunning sunsets and sunrises in the Badlands will take your breath away. Keep an eye out for bison on the road. Check out this South Dakota road trip planner for more information.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Maine.jpg)
Begin: Milbridge, Maine End: Eastport, Maine Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 6 hours Explore the southeastern corner of Maine, also known as “Downeast Maine” as you drive along the Lobster Trail on Coastal Route 1. This colorful and delicious journey will take you through beautiful coastlines and forests while providing tasty and adventurous stops where you can find lobster and all kinds of local seafood. Try your hand at some local activities like clam digging or goat milking. There are so many more incredible east coast road trips .
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Blue-Ridge-Parkway.jpg)
Begin: Shenandoah National Park End: Asheville, North Carolina Distance: 469 miles Drive Time: 6 hours The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular road trips in the US. Connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, this 469-mile stretch of scenic road is the most visited road controlled by the U.S. National Parks system. Stops along the way include Skyline Drive (particularly beautiful in the fall), Luray Caverns, Natural Bridge, and Asheville.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Glacier-National-Park.jpg)
Begin: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming End: Glacier National Park, Montana Distance: 500 miles Drive Time: 9 hours Explore two national parks in one road trip by driving from Grand Teton National Park to Glacier National Park . The drive along the way will provide some of the most diverse landscapes in the U.S.
Begin: Carova, North Carolina End: Ocracoke, North Carolina Distance: 138 miles Drive Time: 5 hours North Carolina’s Route 12, otherwise known as the Outer Banks Scenic Byway spans 21 coastal villages and 138 miles of paved road and 25 ferry-traveling miles along the coast of North Carolina. Dotted with lighthouses, museums, houses and hotels, the Outer Banks is a great beach road trip.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/West-Cost-Road-Trip-San-Juans.jpg)
Begin: Seattle, Washington End: Seattle, Washington Distance: 300 miles Drive Time: 10 hours Explore Washington’s Olympic Peninsula on this scenic road trip which takes you through the Olympic National Park and Forest and the lush Hoh Rainforest. There are great spots along the way for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Best-Road-Trips-USA-Route-66.jpg)
Begin: Santa Monica Pier, California End: Chicago, Illinois Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: Several days Follow in the path of your grandparents by taking a quintessential cross-country road trip along one of the original highways in the U.S., Route 66. This road is not traveled very often now that the Interstate Highway system is established, but you can still visit many old towns that once thrived in the middle of the last century along The Mother Road. Route 66 crosses 8 states and dozens of historic sites along the way. It’s the ultimate US road trip, but with so many good road trip places around the country, this classic can be overlooked for bigger cities and National Parks. Don’t skip Route 66!
Begin: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada End: Anchorage, Alaska Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: 27 hours Stretching nearly 1,500 miles between Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada and ending in Anchorage, Alaska, the historic Alaska Highway (also known as the ALCAN) is not for the faint of heart. Though most of the road is paved, many sections are constantly under construction and parts of the road are only gravel.
It’s a road that should only be attempted in the best of weather, usually during the summer months, but the views and wildlife along the way are worth the adventure. An Alaska highway road trip should be well planned out in advance, with stops and accommodations mapped out at least six months in advance! But it is worth the planning. Alaska is one of the most amazing places to take a road trip! Learn more about planning a trip to Alaska.
Begin: St. Augustine, Florida End: Destin, Florida Distance: 1,400 miles Drive Time: 24 hours See the majority of Florida by circling the entire state, starting in St. Augustine(America’s oldest town) then bring out your inner-child in Orlando, eat your way through Miami, and relax on the beach in Clearwater, then explore the panhandle in Destin. This route is long, but the stops and scenery are breathtaking. Learn more about the best things to do in Destin, Florida .
![usa road trip tipps Best Road Trips USA](https://wanderlustcrew.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/1897383.jpg)
Begin : Boston, Massachusetts End : Seattle, Washington Distance : 3,000 miles Drive Time: 45 hours This is the best cross country road trip! We’ve done this road trip across America many times out of necessity. It’s more exciting to do it when it’s just for fun. The I-90 spans 3,000 miles across the entire country from Boston to Seattle or vice versa, running along the northern part of the U.S. This route makes some incredible stops like Niagara Falls, Chicago, Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, and Yellowstone. This is one of the best American road trips you will ever take! A US cross country road trip can seem a little daunting. Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time and map out your stops ahead of time, breaking up the long drive.
Begin: Anchorage, Alaska End: Seward, Alaska Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours This quick 125-mile drive along the Seward Highway takes you from Anchorage to Seward. While small, this strikingly beautiful route offers incredible stops like seeing the Bore Tide at the Turnagain Arm, glacier hiking, berry picking, fishing, rafting, kayaking and more. Once in Seward you can finish off your trip with a fishing excursion or a wildlife cruise in the Kenai Fjords National Park where you’ll sail among whales, puffins, seals and more.
Begin: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada End: Tijuana, Mexico Distance: 2,300 miles Drive Time: 24 hours Hit three countries in one epic road trip by starting in British Columbia, Canada and using this itinerary all the way down to the border of U.S. and Mexico into Tijuana.
Whatever road trip you choose this summer, be sure to prepare your car for an epic road trip and install a HumX in your vehicle to take the worry out of your journey and to get you on the road!
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Wanderlust Crew
6 thoughts on “ the 25 best road trips in the usa ”.
thanks for all the info and pictures! would love to do some of these one day I’ve done a lot of road trips in Europe but none in the US yet! route 66 and the grand canyon is definitely on the bucket list!
America certainly has some awesome road trips! I’ve done a lot in Europe, but would definitely love to do more!!
I love that some of these road trip destinations are kid friendly. The kids and us could really use some time off from the house after all that’s happening. But we ‘d like to go once things get better. or rather, safer.
Cross country trips and most of the iconic rides like Route 66 are the best! Gotta love having the countries (and even the continents) so close to us that we can travel by land all we want.
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Home » North America » USA » Best Road Trip
20 Best USA Road Trips • Famous Driving Destinations in 2024
Many will say that going on an epic road trip is the best and really the only way to experience America. This is the land of the open road, the roadside attraction, the roadside diner. If all roads lead to Rome, they must eventually make a detour in the United States, I say.
There is a lot that goes into planning a road trip in the USA. What to pack, what kind of car to rent, and, most importantly, where to go. There are a million routes out there and they all have their own merits and, in some cases, oddities.
I’ve assembled a list of some of the best and most classic road trips in the country. From East Coast to West Coast and Sea to Shining Sea, the finest stretches of good ol American-made asphalt are all found in this article. Through the desert, over the mountains, into the past, doesn’t matter; we’ve got them all covered right here.
So which Great American road trip will you take?
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20 Greatest Road Trips in the USA
Renting a car in the usa.
Let’s get down to brass tacks and start talking about the top American road trips there are! Here are twenty for you to choose from!
Don’t have a car yet? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out! Use rentalcars.com to find the best deals on the web and save heaps of cash!
1. California Route 1 – Pacific Coast Highway
The road trip in the usa to take before you die.
- States : California
- Start: San Diego
- End : Mendocino
- Total Distance: 656 miles
- Best Part: Camping in Big Sur
![usa road trip tipps mcway falls viewpoint in day big sur california coast](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/McWay_Falls2.jpg)
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What’s a trip to California without visiting the coast or the beach? The beach is one of the most important aspects of California livin’, after all. It is talked about during just about every other conversation in the state. Who could blame the natives for loving their coastline so much when you have superlative stops like Malibu, San Luis Obispo, and Point Reyes all there?
For the ultimate road trip in California , consider driving the entire stretch of the Pacific Route 1. This epic route, which should take at least a week (two for maximum enjoyment), seriously pulls out all the stops. Gorgeous coastline, bustling metropolises – like San Francisco and Los Angeles – and more than enough In n’ Out Burger joints all combine to make the perfect road trip itinerary. This is some of the best California has to offer.
Since you’ll be starting in San Diego, why not book a nice place to stay and soak up the city before departing?
2. Route 66
The classic road trip across america.
- States: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California
- Start: Chicago, Illinois
- End : Santa Monica, California
- Total Distance: 2448 miles
- Best Part: The Americana
![usa road trip tipps route 66 sign with rusted cars - the quintessential american road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/route-66-392753_1280.jpg)
Route 66 is probably the first thing that springs to people’s minds when they think “Great American road trip.” Over the years, Route 66 has been practically immortalized – by Hollywood films, musicians, novels, etc – so much so that it is practically synonymous with the very idea of going on a road trip around the USA.
Since it passes through eight different states and four different regions, Route 66 offers a somewhat abridged version of American culture. You’ll get to see roadside attractions, antique gas stations, and eccentric diners; all staples of American weirdness.
One of the best parts of Route 66? Watching the landscape shift from the Great Plains and Mississippi wetlands to the deserts and mountains of the West Coast’s roadside landscapes . Entering Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona is a particularly surreal experience, as there is nowhere else quite like the American Southwest. If you have time, be sure to stop by Monument Valley for an iconic American backdrop.
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/fly-images/437447/usa-national-parks-pass-plug-short-1-800x800.jpg)
The USA is blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.
Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99, and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!
You do the math. 😉
3. Skyline Drive
The most scenic mountain road trip on the east coast.
- States : Virginia
- Start: Front Royal
- End : Rockfish Gap
- Total Distance: 105 miles
- Best Part: Parking the car and going for a quick hike
![usa road trip tipps road driving through the blue ridge mountains, virgina](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/blue-ridge-mountains-2681572_1280.jpg)
It’s a favorite day trip for those visiting Washington DC for a simple reason: the Skyline Drive is one of the most accessible mountain drives in the USA. In just over an hour, one could easily escape from the politics and actions of the nation’s capital and be in the heart of Appalachian Country. For those who like long-winding mountain roads, this will be one of the best road trips in the USA.
The Skyline Drive traverses the entirety of Shenandoah National Park. This means that, besides offering breathtaking views, the route also affords access to many local trails. The epic and grueling AT (Appalachian Trail) runs parallel to Skyline Drive. Those who’ve dreamed of hiking (a section of) the thru-hike can do so at many points of the road.
For those looking for a more docile couple of days in Shenandoah, there are lots of campsites and little towns around worth visiting. Winchester has a rich Civil War history while sleepy Staunton is generally considered the prettiest town in the region.
Stay in Washington DC a few days before heading out and be sure to check out all the spectacular museums.
4. Going-to-the-Sun Road
The best way to see one of the best american national parks.
- States: Montana
- Start: West Glacier
- End : Saint Mary
- Total Distance: 50 miles
- Best Part: Seeing Saint Mary Lake for the first time
![usa road trip tipps Shot on the Canon EOS 5d](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/canon-eos-5d-mark-iii-sample-1-1024x524.jpg)
Glacier is one of the best national parks in the USA . It’s the kind of place that, once you’ve visited, makes you want to pack up your bags and move to Montana. I’ve dreamt of doing this before and I’m sure a lot of people share this dream with me.
The main road that traverses Glacier is called the Going-to-the-Sun Road and it is, without question, one of the most beautiful roads in the US. Firstly, it passes right next to the stunning Saint Mary Lake, which is one of the highlights of the park. It also provides quick access to some very good trails in the park, like Hidden Lake Lookout. This 3-mile round-trip hike starts at Logan’s Pass and offers views of the uniquely-shaped Bearhat Mountain.
It should be noted that the Going-to-the-Sun Road opens late in the season and closes early due to heavy snow. The road is closed for 7-8 months and crazy busy the rest of the year. There are quite a few hair point turns as well so remember to keep your cool out there when driving.
5. Olympic Peninsula Loop
Rainforests, glaciers, and beaches (oh my).
- States: Washington
- Start : Port Angeles
- End : Port Angeles
- Total Distance: 330 miles
- Best Part: Feeling the carpet in the Hoh Rainforest
![usa road trip tipps Hurricane Ridge - amazing northwestern USA road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Hurricane-Ridge.jpg)
Very few places to see in the USA are as geographically unique as the Olympic Peninsula. Here, you’ll find a huge diversity of landscapes, from glaciers to rainforest to rugged coastline. This is a paradise for outdoorsy types or, at least, those who can’t quite decide what kind of outdoor adventure they want to go on during their road trip in the USA.
There are too many cool spots on the Olympic Peninsula to talk about. Hurricane Ridge offers the most spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and also offers solid skiing in the winter. Rialto Beach is famous for its sea stacks that resemble those found commonly in Iceland. The Enchanted Valley is a very remote portion that requires an overnight hike but rewards visitors with, supposedly, 10,000 falls.
The best part about the Olympic Peninsula is exploring the Hoh Rainforest. Thanks to constant rain, the woods of the peninsula are overgrown, towering, and constantly lush. Go for walk here and you’ll see more shades of green then you previously thought possible.
If you’re passing through, then take a couple of nights booking a stay in Seattle before visiting the Olympic Peninsula!
6. Kancamagus Highway
For fall foliage fanatics.
- States: New Hampshire
- Start : North Woodstock
- End : Conway
- Total Distance: 56 miles
- Best Part: Being there in autumn
![usa road trip tipps fall foliage drive in new england on a road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/fall-in-new-england-1529668871Ubd.jpg)
New Englanders are very proud people and there are certain things that you don’t talk shit about with them. Dunkin’ Donuts, lobster rolls, Tom Brady; even a whisper of ill will about any of these things is a sure way to piss of a local. Just as important to the New Englander identity as any of these though is it’s most noticeable natural phenomenon: the fall foliage.
From late-September to middle-October, the Patriots become slightly less talked about (until they eventually go to the Super Bowl) in lieu of the changing colors of the trees. New Englanders go crazy for the reds, oranges, and golds of the season; some plan whole weekend excursions in search of the best colors. Admittedly, it is pretty damn cool when you travel outside after staying in Boston and are hit by all those hues.
One of the most famous fall foliage road trips in New England is the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. When the time is right (early-October), a cold fire hits the hills and they explode with color. The 56-mile stretch of the Kanc is never-ending foliage and shifting colors; it’s like driving through the barrel of a kaleidoscope. Just be warned: you and everyone else will be there – it gets busy in October!
Want to save money on accommodation?
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7. San Juan Skyway
Colorful colorado at it’s best.
- States: Colorado
- Start : Durango
- End : Durango
- Total Distance: 233 miles
- Best Part: Dallas Divide Viewpoint
![usa road trip tipps dallas divide in colorado - famous drives in the usa](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_145798232.jpg)
The San Juan Skyway is the best road trip in Colorado ! Nestled in the far southwestern corner of the state, this route offers some of the finest Rocky Mountain views you could hope for. The road twists and turns through the valleys of the San Juan Mountains, arguably the prettiest part of the Colorado Rockies, and visits many historical towns and viewpoints along the way.
This itinerary begins and ends in the former mining town of Durango. There’s not much to do here besides ride the old gauge railroad, which is admittedly pretty damn cool if you like old-school trains.
As you head north from Durango to Silverton, the scenery really starts to unfold. To the east, the rugged Weminuche goads avid climbers and hikers. To get the best views of the Weminuche and the nearby Grenadiers, be sure to stop at Molas Pass for a break.
Beyond Silverton is the remote resort town of Ouray and the Sneffels Wilderness. The Dallas Divide, which overlooks the Sneffels, is very popular with photographers, especially in autumn when the leaves change color.
After the Dallas Divide, it’s straight onto one of the most famous mountain towns in Colorado: Telluride. If you’re staying in Telluride during the summer, be sure to check for local festivals. During this time, there’s one almost every weekend.
Just got off the plane at Denver and need somewhere to crash? Check out our comprehensive accommodation guide for Denver and find something you like!
8. The Cascade Loop
The best of the “american alps”.
- States : Washington
- Start: Everett
- End : Everett
- Total Distance: 440 miles
- Best Part: The North Cascades to the San Juan Islands
![usa road trip tipps washington pass cascade loop - amazing places to visit in the usa](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1144904606.jpg)
This is THE ULTIMATE Pacific Northwest road trip! Seriously, there are few itineraries that offer such a huge array of activities. Alpine hiking, whale watching, breweries; these are just a few of an adventurer’s favorite things!
The Cascade Loop begins in Everett, which is just north of Seattle. Everett is a pretty little town although you will not want to miss out on visiting Seattle. From Everett, you’ll head east over Stevens Pass before turning north along the Columbia Basin until looping back west across the Washington Pass and the astounding North Cascades. You should end your road trip through Washington by spending a few days relaxing in the idyllic San Juan Islands.
If the previous paragraph felt like an oversimplification, I’m sorry; but the Cascade Loop is too grand to fit in this section. To learn more about the route, be sure to visit the official Cascade Loop website for heaps of more information!
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We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
9. Florida A1A – Overseas Highway
340 miles, almost all beaches.
- States : Florida
- Start: Amelia Island
- End : Florida Keys
- Total Distance : 340 miles
- Best Part: Driving across the Caribbean Sea
![usa road trip tipps florida coast road trip usa](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/florida-1768741_1280.jpg)
Knock it all you like for its douchey spring break parties and invasive retirees, but Florida still has some of the best beaches in all of the USA. As you may have gleaned from the subtitle of this particular USA road trip, almost all of them are accessible via a single highway.
The Florida A1A runs the entire length of the Atlantic Floridian Coast AND even further into the Caribbean Sea. The portion that connects the mainland to the Florida Keys (The Florida Key Scenic Byway) is considered an engineering marvel and this is one of the highlights of the trip. Gliding across the Caribbean and into the likes of Ernest Hemingway’s home on Key West is just too good.
But there is more to this Florida road trip than just the Keys. Fort Lauderdale is shedding its MTV beach party reputation (for a more laid back vibe). Cocoa Beach and Vero Beach still surf central. Plus, there’s always hedonistic and culturally rich Miami to demand your attention (probably too much).
Use our Miami travel guide to learn more about the city!
10. Lassen Scenic Byway
A “lasser-known” road trip in california.
- States : California, Oregon
- Start : Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
- End : Chemult, Oregon
- Total Distance: 500 miles
- Best Part: Ending at Crater Lake aka Heaven on Earth
![usa road trip tipps lassen volcanic national park on a caliornia road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_1171657858.jpg)
The Lassen Scenic Byway is one of the most unknown and underrated road trips in America. The route can’t be faulted either – it’s located in the relative unknown of Northern California, which, unfortunately, only enters the news when there’s a forest fire or a rebellious splinter-nation about to spring up. Yet, Northern California and Lassen are just as beautiful as anywhere else in the state.
The Lassen Scenic Byway, which takes its name from the National Park where it starts, gives a grand overview of the region. Dormant volcanoes, bubbling springs, and waterfalls are just a few of the sights you’ll see along the way. Mt Shasta, which marks the beginning of the Cascade Range, is the most prominent landmark in the area. The Park boasts some of California’s best camping spots ; enjoy the breathtaking views at Heart Lake, or kayak around Manzanita’s calm waters.
The Lassen Scenic Byway also extends across the state border into Oregon. This means you can visit one of my all-time favorite places in the USA: Crater Lake. It is an enormous body of water, perfectly serene and close to fathomless. Every time I see it, Crater Lake reminds of Thoreau and what he said about lakes in general: “(they are) the Earth’s eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.”
11. The Oregon Coast – USA Route 101
For those who like to wear sandals and sweaters (at the same time).
- States : Oregon
- Start: Brookings
- End : Astoria
- Total Distance: 363 miles
- Best Part: Southern Oregon Coast
![usa road trip tipps oregon coast sunset at indian beach oregon coast road trip roaming ralph photography](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Oregon-coast-front-2.jpg)
Having spent much of my life in Portland, I’ve been on more than a few road trips in Oregon and there’s a special place in my heart for the Oregon Coast.
When I needed to get away from the city and work, I would run away to the coast. When my girlfriend and I wanted a romantic dinner, we’d skip the restaurants and instead buy fresh oysters from the local fishermen in Netarts. To me, the coast was my playground, my church, and my home away from home.
I’m not the only person who loves the Oregon Coast though – lots of people go on vacation here to get away from the madness of their lives (including everyone’s favorite Midwestern melodist, Sufjan Stevens). Apparently, the charm of old coastal towns and the particular moodiness of a cool, cloudy day is not lost on the others.
Mine romanticizing aside, the Oregon Coast is just a beautiful place to visit. The Southern portion, around Bandon, Langlois, and Samuel H. Boardman, is particularly notable as the scenery around here – rocky towers, jagged promontories, and enormous cliffs – are quintessential.
Given how sheer flippin’ magnificent the Oregon Coast is, make sure you know what areas to stay in as you drive through!
12. The High Road to Taos
The magical highway to everyone’s favorite hippy town.
- State: New Mexico
- Start : Sante Fe
- Best Part: The old Spanish architecture
![usa road trip tipps high road to taos and the San Francisco de Asís Mission Church in Chimayó](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/santuario-de-chimayo-865384_1280.jpg)
New Mexico is like the weird aunt that always drives up to the family gatherings in her converted VW bus and talks about gemstones all night long. Not that this is a bad thing: we all love them for doing this and hope they never change. After all, these conversations are far more interesting than the ones we have with that one overly conservative uncle (I’m alluding to you, North Dakota).
New Mexico loves art, culture, and the surrounding nature that, in turn, inspires art and culture. People from all over the country, whether native or tourist, are inspired by landscapes and old Indian pueblos of the state (even the esteemed George R.R. Martin has drawn inspiration from this landscape).
One of the best ways to experience the magic of New Mexico is via the High Road to Tao scenic byway. Starting from the city of Santa Fe and ending in Taos, this road trip not only connects two of the most artistic cities in the state, but it also features a lot of interesting stuff in between.
Chimayó makes for a very interesting stop thanks to its namesake church, which promises to heal the sick. The San Francisco de Asís Mission Church is one of the most iconic buildings in the American Southwest and could easily serve as a prop for Tarantino or Sergio Leone western.
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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!
13. Texas Hill Country
The “green” part of texas.
- States: Texas
- Start : Austin
- End : Austin
- Total Distance: Depends
- Best Part : The natural pools
![usa road trip tipps hamilton pool - highlight of austin, texas](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/hamilton-pool.jpg)
Texas isn’t just desert and oil fields; there is plenty of greenery around if you know where to look. In fact, there are heaps of waterfalls and grottos to be found! Texas Hill Country is full of hidden wonders that most would’ve never thought could be found arid ol’ Texas. If you’re looking for some top-notch hiking in the States and want to try some of the tastiest BBQ in the state, then consider going on a trip here.
Texas Hill Country roughly refers to the elevated areas west of Austin. Many roads that go through this area; to visit a decent chunk of it will require you to take many different routes.
Generally speaking, the best parts of Texas Hill Country are around Highway 290. Locally beloved waterholes like Hamilton Pool, Pedernales Falls, and Jacobs Well are all within about 30 minutes detour.
There are many BBQ joints and spirit distilleries spread throughout Hill Country as well. If you want some of the most legendary BBQ in Texas, be sure to drop by Cooper’s Old Time Pit in Llano.
Austin is a bit of an underrated gem, so check out our insider travel guide and make sure you experience it fully.
14. Beartooth Highway
One of the most beautiful highways in america.
- States: Wyoming, Montana
- Start : Red Lodge, Montana
- End : Wyoming/Montana border via US 212
- Total Distance: 69 miles
- Best Part : Arriving at Beartooth Pass
![usa road trip tipps motorcycle on the beartooth highway montana wyoming](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/4887096980_6059274e8d_k.jpg)
For being one of the prettiest roads in America, it’s amazing how few people have probably heard about the Beartooth. When talking about what to do in Wyoming, most people talk about staying in Yellowstone or the Tetons more than anything. (Rightfully so! Those places are spectacular in their own right!)
Yet, just 2 hours away from the center of Yellowstone lies this stunner of a road trip, so stunning some say that it could easily compete with the aforementioned national park. Not to be taken lightly, this road starts at 5000 ft and climbs to a maximum height of nearly 11,000 ft. By the time you reach Beartooth Pass, you’ll be driving through high-alpine plateau; barren, humbling, and, most of all, awe-inspiring.
The drive is the show-stealer here but there’s still lots to do outside of the car on the Beartooth Highway. Lakes for fishing, trails for hiking, and kitschy shops for souvenirs all abound. Though the drive itself only takes 2-3 hours, one could easily spend several days here. Don’t just look at this as a way to connect Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks; think of this route as a park to be explored onto itself.
![usa road trip tipps packable travel medical kit](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/fly-images/302960/8P645TqW-min-800x800.jpg)
Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.
Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!
15. The Hana Highway
A must-do on your hawaiian vacation.
- State: Hawaii
- Start : Kahului
- End : Haiku-Pauwela
- Total Distance: 64 miles
- Best Part: Playing “Spot the Waterfall”
![usa road trip tipps hana highway, hawaii - most beautiful roads in america](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_650603731.jpg)
Some people find the word “highway” in Hana Highway to be a gross exaggeration. “This isn’t a highway!” they might say; “this is a crooked alley in the middle of the jungle!” Fair enough fictional angry tourist I say.
The Hana Highway is not a typical highway: it’s narrow, winding, and sometimes scary to drive on. What would normally take an hour to drive will take more like two or three. The road is so small that parking on the side of the road is very difficult; sometimes it even turns into a single lane of traffic.
But the Hana Highway is worth the extra effort, of course. Waterfalls are everywhere along this road trip; during heavy rain, falls may spring up out of nowhere (be careful in this case actually). That quintessential Hawaiin lushness will be omnipresent as you coast through different areas of Maui , and you’ll even the opportunity to visit the beach! Pullover at Waianapanapa State Park just before Hana to see one of the better beaches on the island.
If you end up doing this Hawaiin road trip, just be sure to leave Kahului with a full tank of gas and snacks. There isn’t a whole lot in the way of food and gas stations along the way.
To be honest, Hawaii is yummy, expensive, and worthy of a proper adventure. Check out our budget travel guide for Hawaii and extend your trip a bit longer !
16. Charleston to Savannah
Southern comfort at its finest.
- States: South Carolina, Georgia
- Start : Charleston, NC
- End : Savannah, GA
- Total Distance : 108 miles
- Best Part : Comparing the two cities
![usa road trip tipps City Market, Savannah - Southern USA road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/City-Market-Savannah.jpg)
It’s a well-known fact that there’s a long-standing rivalry between the cities of Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. Both are competing against each other for the title of “most charming cities in the South” and the competition is fierce. Thanks to their close proximity, one could easily visit one on a weekend road trip!
Charleston is the smaller city; not so hectic and pretty down-to-Earth by many standards. It’s mostly known for its old plantations and Southern hospitality. A lot of people – especially the locals – like to say that Charleston is much more laidback than Savannah and consequently much more hospitable. You can find plenty of great Airbnbs in Charleston too, so it’s definitely a place to stop over for a bit longer.
Savannah, on the other hand, is the larger of the two cities. It was formerly and economic center of the region and, as such, expanded quite fast. The original Southern architecture is very well preserved, the best examples being the cobblestone streets themselves, the old-school neighborhoods of Savannah , and the nearby plantations. Fun fact: public drinking is also legal in Savannah, which does lead to the occasional, spontaneous block party 🙂
17. The Best of the American Southwest
Take a trip through one of the most beautiful parts of the usa.
- States : Nevada, Utah, Arizona
- Start: Las Vegas
- End : Las Vegas
- Total Distance: 1200 miles
- Best Part: Doing acid somewhere you love
![usa road trip tipps havasupai grand canyon day trip driving from las vegas, nevada](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/havasupai.jpg)
This isn’t an established route; there is no single road that you’ll stay on over the course of this trip. What this is a collection of highways that together form without question one of the most phenomenal road trips around the USA.
The American Southwest is one of the most beautiful regions in the world; a dreamscape filled with surreal arches, bottomless canyons, and rocks painted by the passage of time. Hiking through the arid landscapes of Arizona or Utah is more fantasy than reality sometimes and, to me at least, a more appropriate place for Gods to inhabit than humans.
My mind reels when I think about how many wonders there are on this Southwestern road trip. The Grand Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs, Antelope Canyon, Havasupai; all of these could be considered amongst the most beautiful places in the world. Yet, I haven’t even talked about the national parks of Utah either! Zion, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, my god – it’s all too much to think about at once.
Love it or hate it, you’ll be visiting Las Vegas for this road trip, so you may as well make the most of it!
18. Route 61 – The Blues Highway
Visit some of the most significant musical sites in america.
- States: Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa , Wisconsin, Minnesota
- Start : New Orleans
- End : Wyoming (Minnesota)
- Total Distance: 1,400 miles
- Best Part: Finding out where Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil
![usa road trip tipps blues hall in memphis starting the great american musical road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/beale-street-4236474_1280.jpg)
A good American road trip doesn’t ALWAYS have to be about pleasant scenery or heritage sites. Sometimes, all a good road trip takes is an appreciation for our musical forefathers and a really good playlist to go with it.
Route 61 is called the Blues Highway because it has been a part of so many American musicians’ lives. Bastions of classic American music, like Memphis, Des Moines , St. Louis, and the classic southern destination New Orleans are all connected by this road.
That means the greatest blues singers, rockers, country wailers, and more have all, at one point in their lives, driven on this road. It goes without saying that a lot of shit has probably happened here then.
Route 61 is full of interesting and sometimes strange attractions. The BB King Museum, Heartbreak Hotel, and some of the most hallowed music venues and concert halls in the country are all along this route.
The coolest place to visit on this USA road trip? The infamous “crossroads” where Robert Johnson supposedly sold his soul to the devil for fame (at the intersection of Highway 1 and 8).
For a shorter version, road trippers can instead drive from New Orleans to Memphis and experience many of the same attractions.
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/fly-images/578763/new-leadmag-image-534x145.jpg)
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19. Seward Highway
A wild road trip in the usa’s most wild state.
- States: Alaska
- Start : Anchorage
- End : Seward
- Total Distance: 125 miles
- Best Part: The Kenai Fjords
![usa road trip tipps alaskan road trip seward highway and ice road](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/shutterstock_107195834.jpg)
Choosing between this and the George Parks Highway is a tough call. The option of seeing the monstrous Denali is possible with the latter, and that alone should be enough to entice people. But overall, the Seward Highway is probably the best road trip in Alaska .
Why is the Seward Highway great? Well, it’s not too long, not too far away from civilization, and it offers a little bit of everything. The drive itself is remarkable as you’ll be afforded views of both the Chugach Mountains and the rugged Alaskan coastline at the same time, plus a bear or two (or more) as well.
For those very adventurous folk, the Kenai Peninsula offers more than just road thrills. Kayaking in the fjords among the glaciers is available as is hiking in the Kenai Mountains. Just remember: if you do decide to go off into the wilderness, don’t forget to exhibit the usual bear safety.
Now things are getting wild! You’ll be starting with a stay in Anchorage so make sure you book an awesome place in an awesome spot… it’s cold up there!
20. Park Loop (Acadia National Park)
Rugged new england coastline.
- States: Maine
- Start : Hulls Cove Visitor Center
- End : Hulls Cove Visitor Center
- Total Distance: 27 miles
- Best Part : Sunset beers at Cadillac Mountain
![usa road trip tipps acadia national park maine beach](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/acadia-beach.jpg)
Maine is one of the most popular road trip destinations on the East Coast during the summer. People travel here over the weekend from as far as New York City or Philadelphia in search of some far more positive vibes. The Maine coastline, long beloved for its lighthouses and sandy beaches, for one reason or another, has long been therapeutic to these city slickers.
When it comes to coastal routes, few can compare to the Park Loop at Acadia National Park. Towering conifers, fine beaches, and that rough coastline that defines New England are all featured here; all are accessible from your car. There are several hikes around that will take you to some pretty solid viewpoints as well. The sunset at Cadillac Mountain is particularly good with friends and brews.
Because everyone wants to travel to Maine these days, it can get pretty crowded during the summer. Traffic will be bad and accommodation will either be limited or expensive. Autumn, though only slightly less busy, is a nice time to visit because of foliage. Spring is a great time though you should definitely have a coat with you. Visiting in winter should only be for the mad or photographically-inclined.
BONUS: The Ultimate USA Road Trip (According to Science)
For niiieerrrdddsss (kidding).
- States : All 48 lower states
- Start: New York
- End : New York
- Total Distance: 13,700 miles
- Best Part: The end.
![usa road trip tipps new york city skyline from brooklyn](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/DSCF6087.jpg)
Does anyone remember when that viral image of the GREATEST ROAD TRIP ACROSS AMERICA EVER was making rounds on the web? How many people made plans to do the damn thing?
Admittedly, this road trip was more notable for its use of data, specifically using a genetic algorithm, which already sounds super cool. In lamens, this genetic algorithm allowed the whizzes behind this to see the greatest amount of American destinations with as little backtracking as possible.
So are you ready to tackle this bad boy? Are you really in the mood for the most epic USA road trip imaginable? Then put in that vacation time and pack the car up as much as you can. Don’t skimp on the Red Bull either – there are going to be a lot of long drives here folks.
With all of those competing companies and exorbitant deposits, renting a car in the USA can seem scary. Frankly, I don’t blame people if they ever felt intimidated in this country while trying to rent a car – there’s a real learning curve.
But booking a rental car can be much more manageable if you know a few things beforehand. Here’s what you need to know:
- You need a credit card to rent a car in America – They rental company will use it to take a deposit for the car.
- You have to be 18 – Even then, you’ll get charged more if you’re under 28. Younger drivers are seen as liabilities.
- Don’t book rental insurance with the rental company – Use a third party because they’re cheaper and have better protection. Rentalcover is a great choice.
- Do your research – Use search engines, like Rentalcars.com , to find the best prices. Sedans are usually the cheapest options. SUVs will cost much more.
- Gas prices are different in every state – Use ViaMichelin to chart gas prices in each state. As a rule of thumb, gas is cheaper the closer you get to Texas and the South.
- Some credit cards offer rental insurance – Be sure to check if your credit card company will cover you in the case of an accident. If they do cover you, you’ll save heaps of money. You’ll need to book the car with THAT card to qualify, of course.
- Almost all American cars have automatic transmissions – I honestly think it might actually cost more to rent a manual…
- Check to see if there is a cleaning fee – If you made a small mess, most companies won’t charge you anything. Some shady ones will charge you a fortune for a gum wrapper though.
What to Pack for a Road Trip in the USA
First off: your road trip packing list is going to vary wildly depending on how long the itinerary is. If you’re just going for a weekend, then your list is going to be much trimmer and less demanding. But some road trips can last weeks or even months. If you’re like my friends, Kevin and Liz, you’ll eventually end up living out of your car at which point it may be time to consider investing in the vanlife .
When packing for a shorter road trip, go minimal . Take the essentials, like a roadside safety kit and some form of navigation for example, and then add more as needed. If you’re camping, take the appropriate gear. If you have a toddler, take a doona car seat stroller (it’s a seriously cool piece of engineering). If you want to save money, take lots of snacks and pre-made meals to avoid stopping at diners. Easy peasy.
![usa road trip tipps lounging in the alvord desert with an umbrella eastern oregon road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/alvord-desert.jpg)
On the other hand, if you’re planning a truly epic American road trip route, the likes of which would make Jack Kerouac or Alexander Supertramp jealous, then you’ll need much, much more stuff. I cannot cover everything in this single section of the article but I can suggest that you check out our road trip packing checklist for more ideas and suggestions.
Aside from knowing what to pack on your road trip in the USA, you’ll also need to know how to pack . If you have a lot of stuff, you will need to be conscious of how you organize everything, especially if you have a smaller, passenger-style vehicle. Get a system in place – use packing cubes and plastic bins to keep everything separated; bungee cables will be your best friends.
For more information on how to pack a car, check out this informative article at USA Today .
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/fly-images/487201/exploding-suitcase-packing-cube-sack-plug-800x800.jpg)
Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….
These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.
Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…
What to do in Case of Trouble while Road Tripping in the USA
It should go without saying that you need to be prepared for your road trip in the USA. I would like to make a friendly reminder here to do so. Prepare thyself before embarking on your asphalt odysseys by having the following, at a minimum: a roadside emergency kit and some form travel insurance for the USA .
A lot can go wrong on a road trip: tires can pop, accidents can happen, engines can stutter and stop. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere because someone forgot to do something essential like change the oil could ruin your trip real fast.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
![usa road trip tipps](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/broke-backpackers-need-insurance.jpeg)
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
A roadside assistance kit will contain everything that you could need to fix small problems on the road. They can’t fix everything (you’ll need a mechanic for that) but at least you’ll be able to recharge a dead battery and arrest a bumper on the fly.
If the shit really hits the fan and your vehicle is really in trouble, that’s when the insurance comes in handy. If there’s a fatal problem with the car, trust me, it will be expensive, and having insurance means that you’ll have a bit of financial help.
![usa road trip tipps road eastern sierra nevada california road trip](https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/snow-capped-339188_1280.jpg)
Now you could invest in two types of insurance: regular travel insurance or special rental car insurance.
Some travel insurance providers provide basic vehicular coverage and will cover you in certain circumstances. World Nomads insurance is a good example. Granted, there is at times some fine print regarding who qualifies. For example, drivers from some US states cannot qualify for vehicular assistance with World Nomads. Always be sure to double-check.
If you want total protection, go with an independent rental insurance company like Rental Cover. Most offer excellent coverage at very reasonable rates, more so than the rental car company will give you.
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Beartooth highway tops out at just shy of 11,000 feet…. not 8000.
Thanks for pointing this out. I’ve changed the detail now.
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The Great American Road Trip: A 4-Month Itinerary Around the USA
![usa road trip tipps Nomadic Matt posing for a photo in front of the Grand Canyon](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/mattgrandcanyon.jpg)
The Great American Road Trip. It’s the kind of multi-month adventure most dream about, but few actually do.
While many of us have bucket-list goals of exploring this vast and diverse landscape, more often than not, we end up heading abroad instead. International travel just seems more alluring, exotic, and exciting.
But this country has more than enough eclectic cities, small towns, regional culinary traditions, historic sites, fascinating museums, and natural wonders to keep any intrepid traveler busy.
I’ve done five big US road trips (two that completely crisscrossed the country and three in various regions) that cumulatively add up to a year on the road (and that doesn’t count all the “regular” trips, vacations, and weekend getaways). I’ve seen a lot of the United States.
When COVID-19 caused us to consider our backyard more and more, many Americans turned to domestic travel. We finally got to explore all the wonders our own country has to offer.
So, because of that, I’ve created an epic four-month itinerary for traveling around the States. I think it balances time in cities with relaxing in nature.
It may seem like a lot, but four months just scratches the surface. And, since I don’t expect most of you to have four months, you can easily break this trip into smaller portions. It’s much better to concentrate your focus rather than try to see a lot in a short amount of time.
One note before we begin: There are so many routes you could take that it’s impossible to have one “best” route. The US is just too big. The route below is just one of my favorites. Use it as a starting point for creating your own itinerary that mixes realistic drive times, national parks, and fabulous cities.
Table of Contents
Month 1: East Coast, Southern US
Month 2: south, southwestern us, west coast, month 3: pacific northwest, western us, month 4: midwest, northeast us, days 1-3: boston, ma.
![usa road trip tipps The towering skyline of Boston, MA as seen from near the water with a blue sky above](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/bostonitinerary.jpeg)
- Walk the Freedom Trail – This 2.5-mile (4 kilometer) route links many historic sites, including the Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, the State House, and Bunker Hill. To get the most out of your experience, take a guided tour . You’ll be able to ask questions to an expert local guide for a more in-depth experience.
- Relax in Boston Common – This is one of America’s oldest parks and was once used as communal pasture land by Puritan settlers. Today, it’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and picnic.
- See the Bunker Hill Monument – The Battle of Bunker Hill (1775) was one of the first major battles of the Revolutionary War. While the British won, the Americans wore British forces down more than was expected. The monument stands 221 feet (67 meters) tall; you can climb to the top to enjoy the best view of Boston.
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts – This museum has over 450,000 pieces of fine art, covering everything from the pre-Columbian era to Italian Impressionists. It’s one of the biggest collections in the country. It’s free after 4pm on Wednesdays.
For more things to do, check out my free guide to Boston . And, for places to stay, here are my hostel recommendations.
Days 4-8: New York City, NY
![usa road trip tipps New York City viewed from the Manhattan bridge, with tenement buildings in the foreground and modern skyscrapers in the background](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/nycitineraryfeature.jpg)
- Take a walking tour – To get a feel for the city, take a walking tour. There are myriad free and paid tours on a variety of subjects. Nothing is too obscure. Here’s a list of suggested walking tour companies in NYC .
- Wander Central Park – This massive, 51-block-long, 843-acre park is the best free attraction in town. There are plenty of places to bike, walk, jog, read, picnic, and people-watch. During the summer, there are free concerts and theater productions too. Free tours are run by the parks service. The “Iconic Views of Central Park” tour is offered daily at 10am from the spring to the fall.
- See the Statue of Liberty – You can pay to visit Ellis Island if you want to see the statue up close . However, you can also take a free ferry to Staten Island instead if you just want to see it while passing by.
- Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum – At the base of the Freedom Tower is a park commemorating the victims of 9/11. Inside the museum, there are over 14,000 artifacts from that day, as well as 3,500 recordings from survivors, first responders, and family members of those killed. It’s a sobering, eye-opening exhibit. A timed-entry ticket is $19.40 USD.
- Walk the High Line – The High Line is an elevated urban walking park on the west side of NYC. Made from a converted train track, it runs for 22 blocks and is lined with overlooks, gardens, public art, food stalls, and greenery.
- Cross the Brooklyn Bridge – For a view of the Manhattan skyline, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a long walk (around 40 minutes if you stop for photos), but the view is worth it — especially at night. It’s free too!
- Explore the Met – The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the foremost fine art collections in the world. You can easily spend an entire day here if you wanted to see it all.
If you want more ideas for things to see and do in NYC, here’s a detailed suggested itinerary that can come.
For accommodation suggestions, here is my comprehensive list of hostels in NYC , my recommended hotels , as well as a neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to the city .
Days 9-11: Philadelphia, PA
![usa road trip tipps View down Benjamin Franklin Parkway lined with trees with orange leaves in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/phillyroadtrip.jpg)
- See the Liberty Bell – This bell, which dates to 1752, is an iconic symbol of American freedom. It’s said to have been rung when the Declaration of Independence was read in July 1776. Today, the bell is located in Independence National Historical Park, which you can visit for free.
- Wander around Independence Hall – Learn about the founding of the United States at Independence Hall, and wander around the area’s historic colonial buildings.
- Explore Franklin Court – This is where Benjamin Franklin lived while serving in the Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention. While his house was torn down after his death in 1790, a hollow structure stands where it was located, and there’s a museum nearby with information about his life and works.
- Climb the Rocky stairs – The stairs from Rocky , the classic boxing film, are located at the Museum of Art. You can’t visit Philadelphia without running up them and doing your best Stallone impression.
- Visit the Magic Gardens – This quirky art gallery is one of the most unique attractions in town: a collection of indoor and outdoor art and mosaics made from broken tiles, glass, and all kinds of odds and ends. Indoors, there’s a more conventional art gallery and space for events and concerts.
Days 12-14: Washington, DC
![usa road trip tipps Aerial view of Washington DC with Thomas Jefferson Memorial building and the Tidal Basin in the foreground](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/freewashingtondc.jpg)
- Visit the Holocaust Museum – The Holocaust Museum is informative and heart-wrenching. Its permanent exhibit takes up three entire levels and tells the story of the Holocaust through films, photos, artifacts, and first-person stories. Admission is free.
- Tour the Smithsonian – The Smithsonian Institution is a group of world-class museums and research centers. All of them are free to enter. Some of the best museums are: the Air and Space Museum, the African American Museum, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum.
- See the Lincoln Memorial – This iconic 19-foot statue is located on the National Mall and pays tribute to America’s 16th president. Built in 1914, it’s surrounded by 36 columns, each of which represents a state in the union at the time of his death in 1865.
For tons more ideas on what to see, here’s my free detailed guide to DC!
Days 15-16: Shenandoah National Park, VA
![usa road trip tipps The rolling hills and mountains of Shenandoah National Park in Virginia](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/shenandoahnatparkmk.jpg)
Days 17-19: Asheville, NC
![usa road trip tipps The winding Blue Ridge Parkway surrounded by forests and mountains, near Asheville, North Carolina](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/blueridgemountains.jpg)
- The Biltmore Estate – This is America’s largest house. It’s a whopping 178,926-square-foot mansion surrounded by 8,000 acres of land. The massive estate has over 250 rooms (including 33 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms). I love it!
- Enjoying craft beer – Asheville has over 25 breweries (and there are another 50+ outside town too). Take a brewery tour, or just hop around and sample some local offerings. My two favorites are Bhramari and Wicked Weed.
- Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains – Parts of the Appalachian Trail can be found here, and there are lots of day or multiday hikes. You can also climb Mount Mitchell, the highest summit east of the Mississippi River.
Days 20-22: Atlanta, GA
![usa road trip tipps The skyline of Atlanta, GA from Piedmont Park](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/atlantaskyline.jpg)
- See the Center for Civil and Human Rights – Opened in 2014, this museum highlights the struggles and accomplishments of the civil rights movement as well as human rights around the globe. (To learn more about civil rights history in Atlanta, take this city walking tour with Unexpected Atlanta. )
- Wander the Atlanta Botanical Garden – Escape the urban hustle and bustle with a getaway to this 30-acre oasis in the heart of the city. In addition to its orchids and tropical plants, there’s a 600-foot canopy walk that lets you enjoy the gardens from 40 feet in the air.
- Take a street art tour – Atlanta is one of the best destinations for street art. There are tons of murals along the Krog Street Tunnel and the Belt Line. Take a guided tour or use the website streetartmap.org for self-guided suggestions.
Days 23-27: Nashville, TN
![usa road trip tipps A view overlooking Nashville, TN at night with the downtown all lit up](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/nashvillestay.jpeg)
- Attend the Grand Ole Opry – Opened in 1925, this is one of the most famous country music venues in the world. Today, the Opry hosts regular live performances, TV broadcasts, and radio shows. You can buy tickets here or book a guided tour of the venue here .
- See the Parthenon – This full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, was built in 1897. It was created to celebrate Nashville’s 100th anniversary and chosen because Nashville is called “the Athens of the South” (due to its historic focus on higher education).
- Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – This museum has one of the largest music collections in the entire world. There are over 200,000 recordings here, including 98% of music released before World War II. Tickets are $29.95 USD.
- Visit Franklin – Located just 25 minutes outside of Nashville, most people assume Franklin is just another suburb. However, it has a lot going for it: it’s bursting with small-town charm, has stellar food and drink (it’s where I discovered my favorite Bourbon, H Clark), is full of history ( there was a major Civil War battle here ), and has one of the best-preserved historic main streets in the country. I’d spend two nights here.
Days 28-30: Memphis, TN
![usa road trip tipps The retro exterior and sign of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, TN, USA](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/lorrainemotelmemphismk.jpg)
- Visit the National Civil Rights Museum – This museum traces the history of civil rights from the 17th century to today. It’s housed in the former motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It’s powerful and poignant. Don’t miss it. Admission is $20 USD.
- See the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – This museum highlights the musical pioneers of blues, rock, and soul music from the 1930s to the 1970s. There are costumes and recordings, interactive media, and exhibitions on famous musicians from Memphis. A joint ticket that also includes the Music Hall of Fame is $17 USD.
- Stroll down Beale Street – Known as “America’s most iconic street,” Beale Street features many bars where you’ll find Memphis’s best live music. There are also numerous street buskers. If you’re going out at night, start here. ( Backbeat Tours offers guided tours if you’d like to learn more about the street’s history.)
- Day-trip to Graceland – The home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is located a few miles south of town. Even if you’re not a huge Elvis fan, it’s worth a visit to see just how impactful his life and music have been. You’ll see loads of lookalikes and die-hard fans making the pilgrimage to see the King.
Days 31-32: Natchez, MS
![usa road trip tipps A pathway leading up to the historic Rosalie mansion, with white pillars and a brick façade with black wooden shutters, surrounded by lush trees in Natchez, Mississippi, USA](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/natchezthings.jpg)
- Visit antebellum homes – Built in the early to mid-19th century, these historic homes are Natchez’s main draw. Longwood, Rosalie Mansion, and Stanton Hall were my favorites. Admission is $20-25 USD at each or there is a joint ticket that includes all three for $65 USD.
- Attend the Natchez Pilgrimage – During the Natchez Pilgrimage in the spring, all of the private historical homes open up to the public. The costumed guides explain the history of the home, their owners, and the region. It’s the city’s biggest annual event, and there are some 20 homes on display.
- See the Emerald Mount – Constructed sometime between the 13th and 17th centuries, this was an elevated place of worship for the Plaquemine Native Americans. All kinds of animal bones have been found nearby, leading researchers to believe it was the site of religious or sacred activity.
Days 33-36: New Orleans, LA
![usa road trip tipps One of the many old, colorful buildings in bustling New Orleans](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/nolathings.jpeg)
- Visit the National World War II Museum – This is the largest World War II museum in America. It’s also one of the best museums in the world. You can listen to firsthand accounts of the war, which make it all feel that much more intimate and impactful. You can get your tickets here .
- Listen to music on Frenchmen Street – Live music is available every night of the week, and there are innumerable venues to listen to blues and jazz. My personal favorite is the Spotted Cat.
- Wander the French Quarter and Garden District – These are two of NOLA’s most iconic and historic districts, full of old French-influenced buildings and grand mansions. You can either do a self-guided tour or go with Tour Orleans to learn more about this beautiful area.
- Take a ghost or voodoo tour – “The Big Easy” has a creepy past. The best way to learn about it is to take a voodoo or ghost tour . You’ll get to see cemeteries, explore haunted buildings, and hear all sorts of unsettling anecdotes and ghostly tales.
For more things to see and do in NOLA, check out this detailed itinerary .
Days 37-39: Houston, TX
![usa road trip tipps A huge Boeing 747 with a replica space shuttle atop it at the Space Center Houston, Texas, USA](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/houstonspacecenter.jpg)
Houston is home to the Space Center and NASA’s astronaut training complex, as well as countless breweries and museums and a killer food scene (definitely go out for Viet BBQ).
These are some things you can do while you’re in town:
- Visit Space Center Houston – This is Houston’s top attraction, bringing in over a million visitors each year. There are over 400 items in the collection, including moon rocks and three spacecraft that were used during missions. Get your timed-entry ticket here .
- Explore the Museum of Natural Science – Opened in 1909, this museum has four floors of exhibitions (as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theatre). There are displays on wildlife, ancient Egypt, dinosaurs, minerals, and much more! Tickets are $25 USD.
- Wander Buffalo Bayou Park – This 124-acre park has all kinds of walking trails and is a nice spot for a picnic, to relax with a book, or to people-watch. There are also lots of concerts and events here too, so check the local tourism office to see what’s coming up.
Days 40-44: Austin, TX
![usa road trip tipps A bright and sunny day overlooking the towering skyline of Austin, Texas](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/austinhotels.jpg)
- Relax at Barton Springs – Barton Springs is a pool/creek that locals flock to in warm weather. It’s fed by a natural cold-water spring in Zilker Park and has manicured lawns that are great for lounging on and relaxing when it’s too hot to do much else. You can also rent kayaks and paddle around.
- Go two-stepping – Two-stepping is a popular country dance — and country dancing is one of Austin’s favorite pastimes. To see it in action (and try it yourself), head to the White Horse, where there are free lessons so you can then dance your way around town.
- Enjoy world-class barbecue — Some of the best BBQ joints in the US are here in Austin. If you’re looking to treat your taste buds (and don’t mind waiting, usually a couple of hours), head to Franklin’s or La Barbecue. For something faster, check out Micklethwait Craft Meats.
For way more activities, check out my free guide to Austin ! Since I lived here for so long, I have a lot of suggestions on how to spend your time.
Days 45-47: Truth or Consequences, NM
Originally named Hot Springs, “T or C,” as it’s known, got its name from a radio contest in 1950. After winning, the town kept the name. Located 10 hours from Austin, T or C is known for its wellness tourism. The entire town was built over a hot mineral spring, so it’s the perfect place to relax at a spa.
Try to explore some of the nearby ghost towns. Winston and Chloride, located north of T and C, are two mining towns that were abandoned in the early 1900s; some of the original buildings still remain.
Days 48-49: Phoenix, AZ
![usa road trip tipps The view overlooking Phoenix from rocky Camelback mountain above the city](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/mtcamelbackphoenix.jpg)
- See the Desert Botanical Garden – This 140-acre garden is home to over 50,000 plants, including over 14,000 cacti. It’s super interesting!
- Visit the Heard Museum – This museum focuses on Native American art. There are permanent and rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, as well as cultural artifacts that highlight the history and traditions of the region’s native cultures.
- Hike Camelback Mountain – With an elevation of 2,700 feet, this 2-3-hour hike is a fun way to see Arizona’s stunning and arid landscapes. There are two trails, both of which are challenging but rewarding.
Days 50-51: Joshua Tree National Park, CA
![usa road trip tipps The open road cutting through Joshua Tree Park in the rugged desert of California during a road trip](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/calisevendays.jpeg)
A seven-day vehicle pass is $30 USD. It allows multiple entries in case you stay in one of the nearby towns.
Days 52-54: San Diego, CA
![usa road trip tipps A sunny day along the beautiful coast of San Diego, California](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/sandiegohostel.jpeg)
- See the USS Midway Museum – This aircraft carrier was commissioned after World War II and was the largest ship in the world until 1955. It saw action in numerous conflicts, including Vietnam. After it was decommissioned, it became a museum open to the public. Skip-the-line tickets are $32 USD.
- Visit wildlife at the San Diego Zoo – Located in Balboa Park, this zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and 700,000 plant species. It’s a massive 1,800-acre park, and you could easily spend an entire day here. It’s a fun place to visit with kids (there’s even a Children’s Zoo). A skip-the-line ticket is $72 USD.
- Go whale watching – California gray whales migrate from Alaska to Mexico between December and April. They are spectacular to see up close, as they grow up to 49 feet long and live for over 70 years. Tours range from around $60-75 USD depending on length and tour company. A 4-hour tour with City Cruises California is $73 USD.
Days 55-58: Los Angeles, CA
![usa road trip tipps Streetscape in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, with palm trees and expensive shops](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/losangelesmk.jpg)
- Wander Hollywood Boulevard – Play tourist and visit the Walk of Fame (where stars have their names engraved in the sidewalk) and Grauman’s (now TCL) Chinese Theatre (featuring celebrities’ handprints and footprints).
- Relax on the beach – At iconic Venice Beach, you’ll find all kinds of street performers, surfers, roller-skaters, and locals and tourists alike soaking up the sun. Some other beaches worth checking out are Carbon Beach, Santa Monica State Beach, Huntington City Beach, and El Matador.
- Visit to the Hollywood sign – Don’t just settle for a photo of the sign — go see it up close. The three trails that you can take (from easiest to hardest) are the Mt. Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail. Bring water and sunscreen, as the hike will take a few hours. If you don’t want to go solo, guided hikes to the Hollywood sign cost $25 USD.
- Go hiking – LA is an active city, and locals love escaping the hustle and bustle as often as they can. Some trails worth checking out are the Charlie Turner Trail (90 minutes), Runyon Canyon (45 minutes), Portuguese Bend Reserve (3 hours), and Echo Mountain (3–3.5 hours).
For an even more detailed list of what else you can see and do while in LA, check out my Los Angeles travel guide . For accommodation suggestions, here are my favorite hostels in Los Angeles .
Days 59-61: Las Vegas, NV
![usa road trip tipps the iconic Vegas sign lit up at night in Las Vegas, USA](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/vegasthings1.jpeg)
- Explore Fremont Street – Old Vegas is full of sketchy bars, vintage casinos, and a Bourbon Street vibe. It makes for an interesting contrast to the sleek and polished Strip. There are lots of cover bands, buskers, and celeb lookalikes pandering for paid photos, as well as people-watching, cheap slots, and cheap drinks. There’s also an hourly light show on the ceiling above the street. Las Vegas Walking Tours offers a 3-hour tour of Fremont Street if you’d like a bit of a deeper dive.
- Hike Red Rock – Just 30 minutes outside town, Red Rock Canyon offers plenty of hiking and biking trails. Just make sure to arrive early in the morning before it gets too hot. Red Rock Discovery Tours also offers guided hikes starting at $95 USD (includes round-trip transportation from Vegas).
- Visit the Neon Museum – This is essentially an eclectic graveyard for the huge lights and signs that once beckoned to tourists from casinos like the Silver Slipper, Stardust, and El Cortez. It spans three acres and gives you a glimpse into the city’s shining and sinful past. Admission is $20 USD.
- See the Grand Canyon – Rent a car and drive the four hours to the South or North Rim of the Grand Canyon . It’s one of the most epic, iconic sights in the country and absolutely worth the drive. If you can, hike down to the bottom and stay the night. It’s an amazing experience! And if you want to dive deeper into this beautiful area, check out HoneyTrek’s Grand Circle Road Trip .
For more activities (and there’s plenty to choose from that don’t involve gambling), here is my comprehensive guide to Las Vegas .
Days 62-64: Yosemite National Park, CA
![usa road trip tipps A rugged mountain with a streaming running in front in Yosemite National Park, California](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/caliroadtripday16mk.jpg)
Days 65-67: San Francisco, CA
![usa road trip tipps The famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA at sunset](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/sfthings.jpg)
- Walk the Golden Gate Bridge – When it opened in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was the world’s longest and tallest suspension bridge. Spend some time walking across to enjoy the view of the bay and the ships coming and going.
- Tour Alcatraz – One of the most infamous prisons in the country, Alcatraz housed some of the nation’s worst criminals (renowned gangster Al “Scarface” Capone spent four years here). Today, it’s a national landmark where you can take tours, step foot in the cells, and learn about its grim history. Tickets are $53.25 USD. There are also many joint ticket options, such as this one that includes a cruise around San Francisco Bay .
- Relax at Golden Gate Park – This gigantic park features a Japanese garden, museums, an arboretum, a carousel, and many hiking and walking trails. It’s a whopping 20% bigger than New York City’s Central Park, so you easily could spend an entire day here relaxing, walking, and lounging.
Again, for even ways to spend your time in SF, here’s my guide to the city . And, for suggested places to stay, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in San Francisco .
Days 68-69: Redwood National Park, CA
![usa road trip tipps Looking upwards into the canopy of the massive Redwood trees in Redwood National Park, California](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/redwoodnatlparkmk.jpg)
Given the drive time from SF, spend two nights here to make sure you get some good hiking in.
Days 70-73: The Oregon Coast
![usa road trip tipps The rugged coast of Oregon, USA](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/oregoncoastmk.jpg)
- Binge on oysters – I’ve grown to love oysters in recent years and some of the best in the country can be found in Oregon. Some of my favorite places I stopped at were from Shucker’s Oyster Bar (Lincoln City), Oregon Oyster Farm and Mo’s Seafood & Chowder (both in Newport), and Clausen Oysters (North Bend).
- See Thor’s Well – This coastal sinkhole near Cape Perpetua is known as the Drainpipe of the Pacific. While it can be dangerous to get too close (it’s very easy to get swept away into the water or rocks), you’ll nevertheless see tons of tourists posing for pictures near the well. It’s worth a stop to snap some quick pics.
- Relax at Cannon Beach – This iconic beach is long and sandy and is best known for its photogenic Haystack Rock, a giant rock jutting out of the ocean just offshore. There are plenty of tide pools and places to picnic here, and the town itself (also called Cannon Beach) is full of all kinds of cafés and artisanal shops.
Here’s a list of my favorite things to see and do along the Oregon coast to help you make the most of your drive.
Days 74-76: Portland
![usa road trip tipps A colorful pink sunset over Portland, Oregon, USA, with Mount Hood in the background](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/pdxthings.jpg)
- See Pittock Mansion – Built in 1914, this 46-room French Renaissance-style mansion was originally owned by a wealthy couple from England. Today, it’s part of the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, you’ll find beautiful artwork and furniture collected by the original owners. Admission is $16.50 USD.
- Devour some donuts – Portland is known for its donuts. Voodoo Doughnuts put Portland on the map with its weird and wonderful combinations, such as Cap’n Crunch and maple bacon. Some argue that Voodoo is for tourists and that actually Blue Star makes better donuts. Try both and see for yourself! You can also take a donut food tour with Underground Donut Tours for $70 USD.
- Hike the Columbia River Gorge – Located east of town, here you’ll find waterfalls (including Oregon’s tallest, Multnomah Falls), scenic vistas, and hiking trails. Some suggested hikes are Dry Creek Falls (easy, 2 hours), Wahkeena Falls Loop (moderate, 3 hours), and Starvation Ridge and Warren Lake (hard, 8 hours). Guided hikes with Wildwood Tours cost around $80 USD (transportation included).
For more suggestions on how to spend your time in Portland, here’s a list of the best things to see and do in the city!
Days 77-79: Seattle, WA
![usa road trip tipps The skyline of Seattle from the water, with the Space Needle featuring prominently](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/seattlemk.jpg)
- Explore the Seattle Center – Seattle Center is home to the Space Needle as well as a complex of entertainment venues: the Museum of Pop Culture (formerly the Experience Music Project), the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, the Pacific Science Center, and the outdoor Mural Amphitheater, as well as the International Fountain and the Armory food court. Don’t miss the views from the top of the Space Needle!
- Wander Pike Place Market – Pike Place Market is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the US. It’s a nine-acre, four-floor sprawl of shops, stalls, galleries, and cafés (including the original Starbucks location) selling everything from crafts to flowers to fresh produce. Wander, eat, shop, and enjoy the ambiance. Show Me Seattle offers food tours of the market for a more guided experience.
- See the Boeing Museum of Flight – This museum highlights planes and spacecraft through the ages, offering insight into how flight has evolved over the decades. You’ll also get a chance to see the original Boeing “factory.” The original Air Force One is here too. Admission is $26.
For more things to see and do, here’s my in-depth guide to Seattle . And here are some budget-friendly accommodation suggestions for your visit.
Days 80-82: Missoula, MT
![usa road trip tipps The view overlooking Missoula, Montana during the summer](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2021/missoulanew1.jpg)
- Tour the breweries – For such a small city, there are breweries and bars everywhere (Montana has the third-highest number of craft breweries per capita in the country). Don’t miss Bayern Brewery (the state’s first craft brewery), Draught Works Brewery (which has live music three nights a week), and Imagine Nation (which is also a community center). If you visit in April, you can attend the Missoula Craft Beer Week.
- Hike the M – Mount Sentinel is a small mountain nearby that offers some stunning views. The trail is just 1.2 miles, so it’s not particularly challenging, though you can extend the route for an all-day hike by continuing along the Crazy Canyon Trail at the summit.
- Ski Snowball Mountain – In the winter you’ll find upwards of a thousand acres of skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, the area is open for zip-lining, hiking, and mountain biking. It’s just twenty minutes from downtown,
NOTE: While not here, if you have time, you can drive north to spend a few days in Glacier National Park.
Days 83-86: Yellowstone National Park, WY
![usa road trip tipps Bison roaming around the stunning fields of Yellowstone National Park, USA](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/yellowstonemk.jpg)
Yellowstone is home to the largest volcanic system in North America, which is why geysers like Old Faithful (and the largest active geyser in the world, Steamboat) can be found here. Wolves, bears, lynx, cougars, and bison all call the park home as well. Spend some time here hiking, camping, and basking in the park’s magnificent landscapes.
Days 87-90: Denver, CO
![usa road trip tipps Shops and restaurants line the historic preservation district of Larimer Square in downtown Denver.](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/denverco.jpg)
- Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum – This museum is housed on an old air base and has a collection of over 50 aircraft on display. Some of the highlights include a supersonic Rockwell Lancer and the massive B-52 Stratofortress. Admission is $19.95.
- Hike Mount Evans – This 14,265-foot peak can actually be summited in under 30 minutes (though there are longer trails too). You’ll see sweeping panoramic views of the region without having to hike for hours. Be sure to visit Like Echo and Mount Goliath on the way here.
- Catch a show at Red Rocks – The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a 9,000-seat outdoor venue that regularly hosts concerts and other events. It’s one of the most beautiful concert venues in the US. Try to catch a show here if you can.
Days 91-93: Kansas City, MO
![usa road trip tipps A colorful streetcar passes in front of a historic market in Kansas City](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/kansascity.jpg)
- Indulge in BBQ – KC is one of America’s best hubs for delicious barbecue. You can find pretty much any kind of meat barbecued here, from brisket to turkey to fish. Kansas City’s barbecue dates back to the 1920s, and the city takes this tradition seriously. Harp Barbecue and Fiorella’s Jack Stack are two of the best in town.
- Wander the Jazz District – The historic 18th and Vine area is known as the Jazz District, owing to the popularity of jazz music from the 1920s to the ’40s and performances here by the likes of Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louie Armstrong. Wander the district and bar-hop to catch some stellar live music.
- See the World War I Museum – The award-winning National World War I Museum and Memorial of the United States sheds light on the history and horrors of the Great War.
Days 94-97: Chicago, IL
![usa road trip tipps A busy downtown Chicago, USA divided by the river on a quiet, sunny day with a bridge in the distance](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2023/chicagohostels.jpeg)
- Relax in Grant & Millennium Parks – Located downtown, these two parks provide a relaxing place to hang out, have a picnic, or go for a run. You’ll find people playing chess, and during the summer, there are a lot of free concerts. The famous “Chicago Bean” sculpture is located in Millennium Park.
- Try the pizza – Deep-dish pizza and stuffed-crust pizza were developed in Chicago, and no trip is complete without trying at least one. Deep-dish pizza was invented by Pizzeria Uno, which is now a national restaurant chain. But for something more local, Chicagoans swear by Lou Malnati’s.
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago – Founded in 1879, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country. It has everything from photography to architecture to textiles, and its permanent collection includes works by Eva Hesse, David Hockney, and Ellsworth Kelly. A skip-the-line ticket is $40 USD.
If you want additional things to see and do (as well as some money-saving tips), consult my comprehensive guide to Chicago!
And here is my list of the best hostels in Chicago for budget-friendly accommodation .
Days 98-100: Detroit, MI
![usa road trip tipps The towering downtown skyline of Detroit, Michigan lit up during the evening](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/detroitthings1.jpeg)
- Explore the Detroit Institute of Art – This 130-year-old museum is located in the heart of Midtown and has something to offer every visitor. There are more than 65,000 works of art here, ranging from classic to more modern and contemporary pieces, spread out over 100 different galleries. It’s one of the best art museums in the country. Admission is $18 USD.
- Walk the Dequindre Cut – The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a two-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront, the Eastern Market, and several residential neighborhoods in between. Along the path, you’ll find all kinds of street art, as well as buskers in the summer. It’s a nice place to walk or jog and take in the city.
- Shop at the Eastern Market – The Eastern Market is a huge marketplace with local foods, art, jewelry, artisan crafts, and more. It covers 43 acres and is the largest historic public market district in the United States, dating back over 150 years. It is particularly busy on Saturdays, when farmers bring in their fresh produce.
Days 101-103: Cleveland, OH
![usa road trip tipps Giant red letters that say 'long live rock' in front of the huge glass pyramid of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/rockhallcleveland.jpg)
- See the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – This is one of the largest collections of musical memorabilia in the entire world. John Lennon’s guitar, Elvis Presley’s military uniform, and David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust outfits are just some of the items in the massive collection.
- Tour the Museum of Natural History – Founded in 1920, this massive museum is home to over four million specimens. There are exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, primates, animals, and more. It’s super educational, and there are lots of interactive exhibits too.
- Hike the Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Located on the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron, this is the only national park in Ohio. Encompassing 32,000 acres, the park has all kinds of hiking and biking trails (camping is no longer permitted).
Days 104-106: Pittsburgh, PA
![usa road trip tipps A red funicular car going up the mountain in the foreground with the skyline of Pittsburgh, PA with its many bridges spanning the river in the background](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2024/pittsburghpa.jpg)
- Ride the Duquesne Incline – This 140-year-old funicular used to transport workers up Pittsburgh’s steep hills before cars became commonplace. Hop on, ride to the top, and enjoy the view! Tickets are $2.50 USD one way.
- Visit the Warhol Museum – Dedicated to Andy Warhol, Pittsburgh’s best-known artist, this is the largest museum in the country dedicated to a single person. While much of his art is unusual, it’s still worth a visit, as Warhol has had a profound and lasting impact on modern art. Admission is $25.
- See Randyland – Created by a local artist, here you’ll find a section of the north end completely painted in all kinds of bright colors and murals. Buildings, fences, driveways — it’s a massive, bright, and fun spot to visit and unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere! Admission is free but donations are encouraged.
- Tour Carrie Furnace – Built in 1884, these former blast furnaces were part of the Homestead Steel Works and produced over 1,000 tons of iron per day. It’s one of the only pre–World War II blast furnaces in existence. Tours are $25 USD.
Days 107-110: Finger Lakes, NY
![usa road trip tipps The picturesque Finger Lakes region of New York, USA](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2021/usaroadtrip1a.jpg)
- Visit the wineries – There are tons of wineries all around the Finger Lakes, most of which offer tours and tastings (some also have live music and serve food). To guide your way, follow the Seneca Wine Trail or the Keuka Wine Trail, which link some of the best wineries in the region.
- See Watkins Glen State Park – Watkins Glen State Park gorge trail is home to 19 picturesque waterfalls spread out over a two-hour hike. It’s not particularly strenuous, and there are lots of spots to relax and snap photos.
- Visit Ithaca – This photogenic small town has over 150 waterfalls within 10 miles of the town. There’s also a charming downtown, the beautiful Cornell campus (one of the prettiest in the country), and Cayuga Lake.
Days 111-113: Albany, NY
![usa road trip tipps The view of Albany, NY as seen from the water](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2021/usaroadtrip1b.jpg)
- Hike in John Boyd Thacher State Park – Located 30 minutes outside of town, this state park has over 25 miles of trails, as well as panoramic views from the Helderberg Escarpment. It’s a beautiful place for a day hike.
- Visit New York State Museum – This museum has a wide range of interesting exhibitions, including on local birds and wildlife, colonial history, and the ice age, among other topics. Admission is free (though a $5 USD donation is suggested).
- Tour the Capitol – The NY State Capitol building offers free daily tours. They’re the perfect way to learn more about the state, the city, and the building (including some ghost stories about the capitol’s haunting). Tours last one hour.
Days 114-120: Buffer Days
![usa road trip tipps Nomadic Matt posing for a photo in Acadia National Park, Maine](https://media.nomadicmatt.com/2020/maine5.jpg)
Having some padding in your itinerary will let you explore, have serendipitous travel experiences, and dig a little deeper into the regions and cultures you’ll be passing through.
While this is a solid itinerary, please mix it up. Skip some cities and spend more time in nature — or vice versa!
At the end of the day, the United States is an amazing and diverse country. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it. Delicious food, adventure activities, hiking, museums, history — we’ve got it all. You just need to hit the road and see it for yourself.
Need a rental car for your epic adventure? use the widget below to find the best deals!
Book Your Trip to the United States: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
- Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
- Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
- Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)
Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money — and I think they will help you too!
Want more information on the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on the USA for even more planning tips!
Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.
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10 of the best road trips in the USA
![usa road trip tipps Bailey Freeman](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2022-06/bailey.freeman%20-%20Bailey%20Freeman.jpg?w=64&h=64&fit=crop&crop=faces&auto=format&q=75)
Jan 5, 2024 • 6 min read
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-01/GettyImages-1030408008-16.9.jpg?w=1440&h=810&fit=crop&auto=format&q=75)
Take to the open road and discover a different side to the USA © monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images
While a plane may get you there faster, road-tripping across the US is one of the most iconically American things you can do.
Get up close and personal with the country’s most striking landscapes – dense eastern forests, windswept plains, red rock canyons, dramatic Pacific coastlines – and make pit stops at some of its most famous cities all in one go.
Crisscrossed with an extensive network of pretty well-maintained highway systems, the US is remarkably easy to traverse by car . Some distances may be long, but gas, food and accommodations are largely easy to come by (except in some of the most rural locales), and a set of wheels gives you the freedom to do extra side quests along the way.
Here’s a list of our favorite routes across America’s wide open spaces, along with some tips on how to make the most of your journey.
1. Pacific Coast Highway
Best road trip for Pacific views San Diego–Seattle; 1600 miles; 8–12 days
The Pacific Coast Highway delivers one of the US’ most iconic road trip experiences, linking together the West Coast’s most notable metropolises, quirky California beach towns, ancient redwood forests, and the dramatic capes and pools of the Pacific Northwest . The route includes Hwy 1, Hwy 101 and I-5, starting in San Diego ; it winds up the coast through LA , Big Sur , San Francisco and Redwood National & State Parks , eventually terminating in Seattle .
Planning tip: Always check for road closures, particularly in the Big Sur area, where rockslides are common along the sea cliffs.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway
Best Appalachian road trip Cherokee, NC–Waynesboro, VA; 469 miles; 2–5 days
This spectacular route takes you through the heart of the US’ oldest mountain range, delivering view after view of rolling green mountains chock full of enchanting hiking trails, thundering waterfalls, ancient rock formations and prolific wildlife. The Parkway – part of the NPS system – begins adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and passes through the spectacular Pisgah National Forest, a number of state parks and recreation areas, and Roanoke, VA, before ending at the southern entrance of Shenandoah National Park .
Detour: In addition to state and national parks , many one-off hikes originate along the parkway. Consult trail maps to avoid missing some of Appalachia’s top routes.
![usa road trip tipps Roadside attraction along historic Route 66 in Kingman Arizona](https://lp-cms-production.s3.amazonaws.com/public/2023-03/shutterstock_editorial_203833849.jpg?w=1920&auto=format&q=75)
3. Route 66
Best road trip for American kitsch Chicago–Los Angeles; 2250 miles; 1–2 weeks
Nicknamed the Mother Road, Route 66 has permanently ingrained itself in the international psyche as the original US road trip. Starting in Chicago , it crosses eight different states and connects travelers to national parks, weird-but-wonderful roadside attractions and tons of vintage Americana.
Planning tip: The route can be driven in pieces or all at once, but we suggest allotting plenty of time to explore – distances are long, and the activities are numerous.
4. Natchez Trace
Best road trip for Southern history Pasquo, TN–Natchez, MS; 444 miles; 2–3 days
The path for the Natchez Trace was originally carved not by humans, but by buffalo that wandered the region from middle Tennessee to Natchez, MS. Indigenous hunters and traders soon followed, and later the route became a full-fledged thoroughfare for European colonists, soldiers and dignitaries. Today, a trip down the Trace yields gorgeous scenery, historic towns and the experience of traveling one of the most storied roads in the country.
5. Florida Highway 1
Best road trip for Gulf Coast culture Amelia Island–Key West; 475 miles; 6 days
Florida’s Hwy 1 runs the length of the state’s Atlantic Coast before banking east at Miami and ending in stunning Key West . This sublime multi-day journey takes you through tons of Florida ’s most iconic stops: historic St Augustine , windswept Canaveral National Seashore , Nascar-fueled Daytona, laid-back Fort Lauderdale and the glam and glitter of Miami and South Beach.
Planning tip: Hurricane season lasts from June through October – with the most active months being August and September – and has the potential to significantly affect Florida. If you’re visiting during this window, keep your eyes on the forecast.
![usa road trip tipps Cowboys herd American buffalo across an auburn plain](https://lp-cms-production.s3.amazonaws.com/public/features/2019/05/GettyImages-665473315_reduced-1b77b56e9ec7.jpg?w=1920&auto=format&q=75)
6. Badlands – Black Hills Loop
Best road trip to experience the Great Plains Badlands National Park–Badlands National Park; 330 miles; 2 days
If you want to get a taste of how expansive the Great Plains really are, head to South Dakota for this fascinating road trip through a state of huge ecological and cultural importance. Start your trip at the mind-bendingly beautiful Badlands National Park before looping over to the Black Hills, home to the Crazy Horse Memorial , Mt Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park . Along the way, take in views of thriving buffalo herds, fascinating rock formations and plenty of rolling hills.
7. San Juan Skyway
Best road trip for Rocky Mountain peaks Durango–Durango; 236 miles; 1–3 days
The San Juan Skyway delivers some of the Rockies ’ biggest views in high definition. This route – which includes the renowned Million Dollar Highway – leapfrogs across central Colorado’s mountainous core connecting Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park , known for the cliff dwellings left behind by the Ancestral Puebloans.
Whether you’re a history buff, ski bum, landscape photographer or simply someone who enjoys a thrilling drive, San Juan Skyway has something for you.
Planning tip: A fact that can be deduced by its name, the San Juan Skyway runs through high-altitude terrain, and that makes road conditions somewhat unpredictable, particularly during shoulder season. Always check for closures or local warnings before heading out.
8. Richardson Highway
Best road trip for Alaska outdoors Fairbanks–Valdez; 364 miles; 2–4 days
No road trip list would be complete without a journey through the country’s largest, northernmost state. The Richardson Highway, Alaska’s oldest highway, connects Fairbanks with Valdez, winding past dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers and giving travelers a front seat to some of the country’s most jaw-dropping natural attractions. Be sure to make pit stops for hiking, fishing and whitewater rafting.
![usa road trip tipps An older couple take a break from hiking to enjoy the view at Utah outlook overlooking a canyon. They are sitting on the cliff's edge and soaking in the scenery. The mountains and canyon are in front of them.](https://lp-cms-production.s3.amazonaws.com/public/2023-08/GettyImages-907875764.jpg?w=1920&auto=format&q=75)
9. Scenic Byway 12
Best road trip through red rock country Bryce Canyon National Park–Capitol Reef National Park; 122 miles; 1 day
Southern Utah feels like an entirely different planet, and this backroads route takes you through the best scenery this geologically diverse state has to offer. Start your journey in the town of Panguitch – right outside of Bryce Canyon – and follow the road through red rock canyons, historic towns and pine forests until you finish your journey in Torrey, gateway to Capitol Reef National Park , one of the west’s best-kept secrets.
Detour: From Torrey, it’s an easy 2.5-hour drive to Moab , Canyonlands and Arches , making these routes the best way to see Utah’s Big 5 . And the road itself takes you through some amazing lunar-like scenery that contrasts sharply with the red rocks – wild.
10. Coastal New England
Best road trip for Atlantic maritime vibes New York City–Portland, ME; 430 miles; 3–5 days
Prep yourself for seafood chowder, picturesque oceanside towns and all the lobster you can handle – this coastal New England trip will definitely help you find your sea legs. Start in New York City and make your way north along the coast, stopping to enjoy the lovely beaches in Rhode Island , Massachusetts’ wealth of historical heavy hitters and New Hampshire’ s lighthouses before arriving in culinary-minded Portland, ME .
This article was first published May 22, 2019 and updated Jan 5, 2024.
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21 Best Road Trips in USA to Put on Your Bucket List
- In the City / North America / Outdoors / USA
Don’t miss out on these amazing road trips!
Since we got married, we’ve done five cross-country road trips and dozens of shorter ones. In our opinion, road-tripping is the best way to see the beauty of the United States. There is so much this country has to offer. Here is a list of 21 American Road Trips that we think everyone needs to put on their bucket lists.
![usa road trip tipps 21 Best Road Trips in USA](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/best-road-trips-in-usa.jpg)
This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.
Last Updated: March 5, 2024
− − Content Menu
- 21 Best Road Trips in USA
- Map of Best Road Trips in USA
- More Scenic Road Trips to Check Out
- Essential Tips for First Timers
Planning Checklist
- More Resources
Whether you love the mountains, want to drive above the clouds, or cruise over the ocean, there’s a road trip for you. Here are 21 of the best road trips in the United States. Let us know in the comments below if there are more we should add to the list.
1. Pacific Coast Highway →
Location: California | Distance: 123 Miles
Enjoy the endless views of the ocean and drive through some of the best beach towns on California’s Route 1. Don’t forget to stop at Hearst Castle, spend some time in Big Sur (one of our favorite places in the US), and Glass Beach in Fort Bragg.
Local Tip: Check the news to see if there are any big events occurring. We’ve done this road trip a handful of times with no issues, but the last time we went, there was a bike race, and we were stuck in traffic for hours.
See More: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/mcway-falls-big-sur-ca.jpg)
2. Historic Route 66
Location: Illinois to California | Distance: 2,451 Miles
Route 66 is one of the most iconic drives in America. The best stretch of this highway runs from the Grand Canyon to the Colorado River. To dive into the history, visit the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, Illinois.
Local Tip: Unfortunately they’ve painted over most of the Route 66 signs on the road because it was dangerous for people to try to take photos with it. Apparently, some still exist, but we haven’t found them yet.
See More: Your Ultimate Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Road Trip
![usa road trip tipps](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/route-66-santa-monica.jpg)
3. Overseas Highway
Location: Florida | Distance: 120 Miles
We just came back from a trip to the Keys and ended up driving the Overseas Highway. It was unbelievably beautiful.
Unlike any other drive in the country, this route takes you on bridges right over the ocean. It gives you the sensation of floating over the water. Plus, the Florida Keys ain’t a bad destination either.
See More: 7+ Remarkable Things to Do in Key West Florida
![usa road trip tipps florida overseas highway](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/florida-overseas-highway.jpg)
4. Million Dollar Highway (San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway)
L ocation: Colorado | Distance: 305 Miles
Twist and turn through the winding roads between two historic gold-mining towns. Take in the amazing views and don’t forget to take deep breaths as you’ll be over two miles above sea level.
![usa road trip tipps million dollar highway colorado / San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/million-dollar-highway-colorado.jpg)
5. Columbia River Scenic Highway →
L ocation: Oregon | Distance: 75 Miles
See the amazing Columbia Gorge on a highway built purely for scenery. This drive gives you views of waterfalls and mountains, and there are plenty of pull-offs. Here are 21 best hikes in the Columbia River Gorge from short and easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips .
Local Tip: Part of the charm of this area is the rainy weather. Come prepared with solid waterproof boots and a raincoat ; the hikes are magical.
See More: 21 Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge Oregon
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/rowena-crest-oregon.jpg)
6. Skyline Drive
L ocation: Virginia | Distance: 105 Miles
This scenic drive takes you along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park. Drive through the Appalachians and stop to enjoy any of the 75 overlooks.
![usa road trip tipps skyline drive fall foliage](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/skyline-drive-fall-foliage.jpg)
7. Hana Highway (Road to Hana) →
L ocation: Maui, Hawaii | Distance: 51.1 Miles
Explore the coastlines of Maui along the Hana Highway. You’ll find black sand beaches, waterfalls, jungles, and roadside stands. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit!
See More: 19 Incredible Road to Hana Stops You Shouldn’t Miss
![usa road trip tipps 19 Incredible Road to Hana Stops You Shouldn't Miss // Local Adventurer #hana #hawaii #maui #island #hanahwy #roadtrip #tropical #usa #travel](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/road-to-hana-stops.jpg)
8. Black RIver Scenic Byway
L ocation: Michigan | Distance: 11 Miles
Tucked away in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Black River Scenic Byway has much to offer in a short distance. Pass by waterfalls and dense forests as you follow the river to the lakeshore.
![usa road trip tipps](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/black-river-scenic-byway.jpg)
9. The Loneliest Road in America (HWY 50) →
L ocation: Nevada | Distance: 408 Miles
Named for the largely uninhabited region that you drive through, explore mining camps, cross mountain ranges, and stop in small cafes. Don’t forget to look up at the stars at night for some of the most spectacular views.
See More: Ultimate Nevada Road Trip – Best Places to Visit in NV
![usa road trip tipps The Loneliest Road in America - Although route 50 runs coast to coast, only this part of the highway in Nevada is called the Loneliest Road by travellers. With Alkaline Salt flats to each side and mountains in the distance, you truly feel all alone // localadventurer.com](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/highway-50-loneliest-road.jpg)
10. Route 12
L ocation: Utah | Distance: 124 Miles
Drive through some of the most breathtaking views and explore Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park . You can even stop in Boulder Mountain for a night’s stay and a great meal.
See More: 15 Amazing Things To Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
![usa road trip tipps Capitol Reef Utah National Parks](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/capitol-reef-utah-national-parks.jpg)
11. Kancamagus Highway
L ocation: New Hampshire | Distance: 34.5 Miles
Make a trip down this highway in the fall to get some of the best fall foliage views. Enjoy the crisp breeze with your windows down and take in all the colors of the leaves.
The first time we did this drive, we missed the peak of the fall foliage by one day. The rain and wind the day before we arrived took out most of the leaves.
![usa road trip tipps Kancamagus Highway White Mountains New Hampshire + 15 Beautiful Short Day Trips from Boston](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/short-day-trips-from-boston.jpg)
12. THe High Road to Taos
L ocation: New Mexico | Distance: 56 Miles
This scenic, winding road takes you through deserts, mountains, forests, and ancient Indian pueblos. You’ll find beautiful wildflower meadows and there are art galleries scattered throughout the drive. You can also take the Low Road through the valleys on the way back.
![usa road trip tipps high road from santa fe to taos](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/high-road-from-santa-fe-to-taos.jpg)
13. Beartooth Highway
L ocation: Montana and Wyoming | Distance: 68 Miles
Drive through southwest Montana and northwest Wyoming with breathtaking views of the Absoroka and Beartooth Mountains. You’ll drive by glacial lakes, forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. To top it off, you end at the entrance to Yellowstone National Park .
See More: Best Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park + Essential Tips For Your Visit
![usa road trip tipps Beartooth Scenic Highway + 21 Best Road Trips in USA](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/beartooth-scenic-highway.jpg)
14. Highway 2
L ocation: Nebraska | Distance: 200 Miles
See the Great Plains of Nebraska and the rolling sandhills that makeup nearly one-fourth of the state. You’ll also see huge farmlands, marshes, and winding rivers. Certain times of the year will bring huge numbers of migrating birds too.
![usa road trip tipps nebraska bird migration](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nebraska-bird-migration.jpg)
15. ROute 6
L ocation: Massachusetts | Distance: 117 Miles
Explore the Cape Cod area on this scenic drive. Drive through forests, colonial villages, and tidal pools, and explore the harbor.
![usa road trip tipps route 6 cape cod](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/route-6-cape-cod.jpg)
16. Park Loop Road →
L ocation: Maine | Distance: 27 Miles
This coastal drive gives you views of Acadia National Park and is one of the best places for spotting bald eagles and peregrine. You’ll get amazing views from above but also from the harbor below.
See More: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Acadia National Park
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/park-loop-road-acadia.jpg)
17. Going to the Sun Road →
L ocation: Montana | Distance: 50 Miles
This drive through Glacier National Park gives you views of mountain peaks and alpine lakes while having the least negative impact on the delicate environment.
Local Tip: It closes every winter because of snow, which can reach up to 80 feet in depth. When we went in late June, they had just opened the road the week before.
See More: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Glacier National Park
![usa road trip tipps Glacier National Park + 101 Breathtaking Things to Do in Montana for Anyone Who Craves Adventure // Local Adventurer #montana #adventure](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/A1_glacier-national-park-montana-adventures.jpg)
18. Tail of the Dragon
L ocation: Tennessee and North Carolina | Distance: 11 Miles
This drive is more about the drive and less about the scenery. Known for its degree of difficulty and sheer excitement when driving, the Tail of the Dragon is full of sharp curves, twists, and turns that demand your full attention.
19. Route 100
L ocation: Vermont | Distance: 216 Miles
Route 100 runs through almost the entirety of Vermont and takes you right through the center. See the fall foliage, stop for ice cream, and enjoy the views of the lush mountains.
![usa road trip tipps route 100 vermont fall foliage](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/route-100-vermont-fall-foliage.jpg)
20. Cascade Loop →
L ocation: Washington | Distance: 400 Miles
See rainforests, apple orchards, beautiful lakes, small towns, and more on this 400-mile loop that takes you through some of the best of what Washington has to offer.
See More: 7 Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park
![usa road trip tipps usa road trip tipps](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/north-cascades-scenic-highway.jpg)
21. Mount Washington Auto Road
Location: New Hampshire | Distance: 8 Miles
This short drive climbs nearly 5,000 feet allowing you to stop at viewpoints, see waterfalls, and gaze out at sprawling meadows. The end offers a spectacular view from above.
![usa road trip tipps mt washington auto road](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/mt-washington-auto-road.jpg)
Bonus: Cross Country Road Trip
There’s no better way to see the country than to drive across it. There are many different routes to take, but if you’re ambitious, check out this road trip plan that was computed to be the most optimal way across the United States.
Map of Great American Road Trips
More US Road Trip Ideas for Your Bucket List
- 17-Mile Drive, CA
- Alaska Highway, AK
- Big Island Loop Road, HI
- Black Hills, SD
- Bluebonnet Trail, TX
- Blues Highway (Route 61), TN
- Blue Ridge Parkway, NC
- Great River Road, LA
- Highway 143, TN
- Historic National Road, MD
- Lake Shore Drive, IL
- Maine Lobster Trail, ME
- North Shore Drive, MN
- Ocean Drive, RI
- Olympic Peninsula, WA
- Oregon Coast, OR
- Outer Banks Scenic Byway, NC
- Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, MI
- Silverado Trail, CA
- Trail Ridge Road, CO
- Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, CA
Essential Tips
- Take your time! These trips are all about the journey so enjoy the views and pullouts. Don’t try to cover too much ground each day.
- Avoid getting stranded in the middle of nowhere, have a car emergency kit ready to go.
- Stay safe on the road by picking up a dash cam .
- Stay hydrated by bringing enough water and beverages with you. These insulated water bottles will keep your drinks cool (or hot). These are the best water bottles for travel we tested on the road.
- Bring a few extra bags to collect garbage in the car.
- We love having this cooler with us on our road trips. Helps us keep anything we need cold.
- It’s always good to have a physical road map with you just in case you lose service.
- Worried about bathroom stops, we always have these handy in our car in case we just can’t hold it anymore. Wet wipes are always handy too.
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps .
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Get airport lounge access .
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
More RESOURCES
- Rand McNally Road Atlas
- The Open Road: 50 Best Road Trips in the USA
- USA Travel Guide
Can you think of any other road trips in the US to be added to this list? What’s the best road trip you’ve been on?
Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later
![usa road trip tipps 21 Best American Road Trips You Should Add to Your Bucket List](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/best-american-road-trips.jpg)
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust
![usa road trip tipps Esther and Jacob](https://localadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/EJ01.png)
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.
This Post Has 6 Comments
Amazing link – thank you! But you missed one of the top 5 – Rocky Mountain National Park – the Great Divide. That is breathtaking! I’ve been to many of the above listed destinations and believe Colorado’s Eastern as well as the Western (the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray and Silverton) slopes have much to offer.
We have been fortunate to have driven on half of these. Route 12 in Utah and Beartooth stand out. And the Tail of the Dragon was sheer fun. But the Going to the Sun Road was in my opinion, the most scenic, plus fun to drive and in the middle of my favorite National Park. Hope to get back there some day
That’s one of our faves too!
All of these sound amazing! Glad Acadia made your list – there are lots of other scenic drives in Maine as well (the western part of the state is gorgeous!). And I’ve only done parts of Skyline Drive but I can attest that it is absolutely incredible. I would love to do a cross country road trip one day though! Life goals. :)
I’ve been n a few. And the ones I have been on I want to do again!!!
What a great post! We need more like this. There are hundreds of posts on must visit places but not enough on must do road trips! These certainly look like some awesome places.
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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy
- Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
- Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
- The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)
There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .
UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY
Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States
The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.
Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)
Pacific Coast Highway, California
Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.
Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.
- Length: 655 miles
- When To Go: September through October
- Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls
Route 66, Illinois to California
Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.
Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.
Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.
- Length: 2,448 miles
- When To Go: May and September
- Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip
Great River Road, Mississippi River
This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.
The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.
Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.
- Length: 3,000 miles
- When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
- Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience
Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.
- Length: 469 miles
- When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
- Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains
Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.
Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.
The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.
Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.
- Length: 113 miles
- When To Go: Between January and April
- Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals
The Pacific Northwest
In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.
The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.
The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.
- Length: 440 miles
- When To Go: During the spring or summer months
- Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list
Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.
The Grand Circle, Southwest USA
This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.
The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.
The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.
- Length: 1,400 miles
- When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
- Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations
The Great Lakes Circle Tour
Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.
The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.
Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.
- Length: 6,500 miles
- When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
- Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have
The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota
Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.
The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.
Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.
- Length: 150 miles
- Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history
Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas
The Texas Hill Country
Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.
The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.
One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.
- Length: 200 miles
- When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
- Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers
The Dalton Highway, Alaska
With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".
The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).
The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).
- Length: 414 miles
- When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
- Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks
Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive
While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.
The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.
- Length: 300 miles
- When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
- Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo
Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive
It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.
This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.
- Length: 2,150 miles
- When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
- Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip
![usa road trip tipps Yellow marker icon.](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/themes/roadtripusa/dist/images/yellow-marker.png)
Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!
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Pacific Coast
![usa road trip tipps border to border road trip badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/b2b-badge.jpg)
Border to Border
![usa road trip tipps road to nowhere road trip badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/RtNowhere-badge.jpg)
The Road to Nowhere
![usa road trip tipps](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/grr-badge-400x284.jpg)
The Great River Road
![usa road trip tipps appalachian trail road trip route badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/app-badge.jpg)
Appalachian Trail
![usa road trip tipps](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ac-badge.jpg)
Atlantic Coast
![usa road trip tipps great river road trip badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/gnorth-badge.jpg)
The Great Northern
![usa road trip tipps oregon trail road trip badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/oregonT-badge.jpg)
The Oregon Trail
![usa road trip tipps loneliest road trip route badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/lonerd-badge.jpg)
The Loneliest Road
![usa road trip tipps southern pacific road trip badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/southpac-badge.jpg)
Southern Pacific
![usa road trip tipps route 66 road trip badge](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/r66-badge.jpg)
Classic American Road Trips
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Pacific Coast Highway
Starting at the northwest tip of the United States at Washington’s Olympic National Park and remaining within sight of the ocean all the way south to sunny San Diego, this 1,650-mile, mostly two-lane road trip takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.
Highlights along the Pacific Coast Route: Olympic National Park (WA), Three Capes Loop (OR), Redwood National Park (CA)
![usa road trip tipps mountain landscape with overlaid text reading Route 66 Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/r66-badge.jpg)
Historic Route 66
The romance of traveling along historic Route 66 from where it starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles continues to captivate people around the world. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”
Highlights along Route 66: Chicago (IL), Meramec Caverns (MO), Tucumcari (NM), Painted Desert (AZ), Santa Monica (CA)
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- Barnes & Noble
- Books-A-Million
- Indigo (Canada)
- Powell's Books
- Apple Books
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Running coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, “The Loneliest Road in America” is a 3,200-mile odyssey from sea to shining sea. US-50 passes through a dozen different states, four state capitals, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.
Highlights along the Loneliest Road: South Lake Tahoe (CA), Moab (UT), The Million Dollar Highway (CO), Washington D.C.
![usa road trip tipps suspension bridge backed by forest with overlaid text reading The Oregon Trail Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/oregonT-badge.jpg)
Following in the footsteps of pilgrims and pioneers, US‑20 takes in a little of everything during its two-lane trek from Oregon’s rugged coast to the glorious sea and sand of Cape Cod.
Highlights along the Oregon Trail: Cannon Beach (OR), Fort Boise (ID), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Mt Rushmore & Carhenge (NE)
![usa road trip tipps trees with vivid fall color with overlaid text reading The Great Northern US-2 Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/gnorth-badge.jpg)
Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US‑2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.
Highlights along the Great Northern: Tumwater Canyon (WA), Glacier National Park (MT), Lake Michigan (MI), Acadia National Park (ME)
![usa road trip tipps The Open Road](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/TheOpenRoad2e_Final-192x300.jpg)
The Appalachian Trail
This driving route of the Appalachian Trail parallels the epic hike. From the top of New England to the heart of Dixie, it takes you through continuous natural beauty—without the sweat, bugs, or blisters.
Highlights along the Appalachian Trail: Mt. Washington (NH), The Poconos (PA), Shenandoah National Park (VA), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)
![usa road trip tipps lakes and green landscape with overlaid text reading the Great River Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/grr-badge.jpg)
Old Man River, Father of Waters, “body of a nation,” Big Muddy: By any name, the mighty Mississippi River cuts a mythic figure across the American landscape. Tag along from its headwaters in Minnesota to where it meets the sea in Louisiana via the GRR.
Highlights along the Great River Road: Main Street USA (WI), St. Louis (MO), Natchez Trace Parkway (MS), New Orleans (LA)
![usa road trip tipps dense city on a peninsula with overlaid text reading the Atlantic Coast Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ac-badge.jpg)
Starting at the Statue of Liberty and ending with a drive across the Overseas Highway to free-wheeling Key West, these almost 2,000 miles of roadway run within earshot—if not sight—of the Atlantic Ocean.
Highlights along the Atlantic Coast: The Statue of Liberty (NJ), Assateague Island National Seashore (MD), Savannah (GA), Cocoa Beach (FL)
![usa road trip tipps old Spanish-style church with overlaid text reading the Border to Border Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/b2b-badge.jpg)
Starting at Canada’s Jasper National Park, and winding down in the Sonora Desert, this route traverses some of the wildest and most rugged lands imaginable: mighty mountains, glaciated valleys, raging rivers, and two very different deserts.
Highlights along the Border to Border Route: Columbia Icefield (AB), Bitterroot Mountains (MT), The Extraterrestrial Highway (NV), Joshua Forest Parkway (AZ)
![usa road trip tipps dunes with overlaid text reading tThe Road to Nowhere US-83 Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/RtNowhere-badge.jpg)
Once the only entirely paved route from Canada to “Old Mexico,” US‑83 cuts across America’s heartland and remains a must-do long-distance byway—transnavigating this broad, odd nation without once grazing a conventional tourist destination.
Highlights along the Road to Nowhere: Sitting Bull Memorial (SD), Nebraska Sand Hills (NE), Monument Rocks (KS), Paint Rock Pictographs (TX)
![usa road trip tipps trees draped with moss with overlaid text reading the Southern Pacific US-80 Road Trip](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/southpac-badge.jpg)
Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. From deserts to bayou swamps and Tex-Mex to barbecue, this route offers a full-flavored taste of America.
Highlights along Southern Pacific: The Desert View Tower (CA), Tombstone (AZ), Roswell (NM), Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail (AL)
![usa road trip tipps US map showing the 11 cross-country road trips on roadtripusa.com](https://www.roadtripusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/RoadTripUSA-11-Cross-Country-Road-Trip-Routes.png)
Buckle up: 11 tips for taking a safe winter road trip
![usa road trip tipps Melissa Klurman](https://thepointsguy.com/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fthepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net%2Fus%2Foriginals%2F2022%2F05%2FIMG-7333-3.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Snow, ice, sleet, slush — unless you're planning a winter road trip specifically to avoid snow , you need to know how to deal with the season's inclement weather, preferably before you turn the key in the ignition.
Not all winter road trips will involve extreme weather conditions. However, you don't need to be driving in Alaska to run into snow-covered roads, as witnessed by the quick-moving snowstorm near the nation's capital that stranded thousands of passengers on a 40-mile stretch of road for more than 24 hours at the beginning of the year.
"Many drivers don't know what to do when the weather gets cold," says Benjamin Leuchter, a test and development driver for Volkswagen. That doesn't mean you shouldn't plan winter driving adventures — in fact, we're big fans of ski trips . It just means you'll want to prepare to drive in snowy conditions to avoid getting stuck, according to Leuchter.
Before hitting the road this winter, follow these tips from Leuchter and other car safety experts for staying safe during a cold-weather road trip.
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Bring winter safety essentials
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"Having some essential items in your vehicle before hitting the road is key to not only give you peace of mind, but to ensure you're prepared in case of bad weather," says Suzanne Johansson, a safety engineer at Chevrolet.
In addition to a snow brush and an ice scraper, Johansson recommends keeping a snow shovel and abrasive material such as sand or cat litter in your car. You'll also want to have jumper cables, a flashlight and emergency flares in case you encounter unexpected problems.
While you may not want to wear your heaviest coat, boots and gloves when you get behind the wheel (it can be hard to drive when you're overly bundled), Johansson recommends stowing cold-weather clothing in your car. She also suggests keeping a blanket or sleeping bag in your emergency winter car kit should you find yourself in need of extra layers to stay warm while stuck or stranded.
Pack a DIY car emergency kit
On top of winter-specific car items, the experts at AAA strongly recommend packing a well-stocked emergency kit before venturing out in your vehicle. Create a bag that includes a cellphone charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, drinking water and extra snacks and food for travelers and pets to keep in your car.
Prepare your car for winter
Prior to starting your trip, you'll want to set aside time for getting your car checked by an expert. "Have your dealer or a trusted mechanic do any scheduled service on your vehicle [before you embark on a trip in wintry conditions]," Johannson says. During this service visit, make sure your battery, tires, headlights and brake lights, wiper blades and other critical parts are tested and ready for winter, she adds.
Check your tires
Since your tires are the only part of your car that actually touch the road, it's especially important to make sure they're ready to roll before your winter road trip begins. Start by checking the tread depth, which you can do by inserting a quarter (head first) into the tread, advises AAA. If you can see the top of Washington's head, it's time for new tires.
Also, check the tire pressure on all four tires, especially in winter when they tend to drop with the temperature, Leuchter says. Routinely check and adjust your tire pressures to the recommended levels for your vehicle, which are listed inside the driver's side door jamb.
Hit the car wash
Having a clean car may not be top of mind when you're preparing for a winter road trip, but it's a commonly missed tip that our experts say should be prioritized. This is especially true for cars with advanced safety features that rely on sensors and cameras. In the front, keep the windshield, front grill, front bumper area and headlamps clean. In the rear, make sure the rear camera lens and rear bumper are clean.
Download the right apps
Another way to prepare for a winter road trip is to load your phone with helpful apps. Here are a few options:
- Weather Underground, Weather, Weather Bug: Any weather app that provides both long-range forecasts and emergency weather alerts based on your current GPS (like these) will ensure you receive up-to-date information about driving conditions throughout your journey.
- GasBuddy: This app is designed to help you find the cheapest gas as you drive to your destination, but it also doubles as a way to locate the closest service station in an emergency.
- ChargePoint or ChargeHub: Travelers with electric vehicles will want to use one of these apps to find nearby charging locations.
- Waze: Use this directions app to get real-time, crowd-sourced road conditions and hazards.
- Google Maps: Through this app, you can download directions for offline use so you can always know how to get to your destination, even if you lose your phone signal.
- TripWhistle: One of our favorite travel apps , TripWhistle maps your location and allows you to easily text or send your GPS coordinates.
- Hotel Tonight: Another TPG go-to app , this last-minute booking app can locate the closest available hotel room and find you the lowest price, should you find yourself needing to get off the road and take a break.
Read the manual
When was the last time you read your car's safety manual? It's another overlooked prep step, says Johansson. Before you set out, take some time to review the sections of your owner's manual that cover anti-lock brakes, traction control and four- or all-wheel drive (if equipped) so you're aware of your vehicle's features and how to use them prior to needing them.
Skip cruise control
While you may be tempted to use car features like speed-maintaining cruise control, Leuchter recommends avoiding cruise control systems since the frequency of stops may increase in wintry conditions. Instead, manually control your car's position so that there's more distance — at least three car lengths — between your vehicle and the car in front of you. Also avoid quick acceleration, aggressive steering and sudden braking, Leuchter says.
Fill up the gas tank and other car essentials
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It's important to stay fueled and charged since bad weather can cause unexpected delays, Johansson says. She recommends keeping your gas tank at least half full and your cellphone charged whenever you head out in your car in winter. Additionally, you'll want to check that your windshield washer fluid is filled with an antifreeze solution to protect your visibility on the road.
Know what to do if you start to skid
If you've ever driven in icy weather, you've probably experienced the stomach churning that accompanies the sensation of your tires connecting with an icy road. While hitting a patch of ice and consequently skidding can cause nerves, it's important to stay calm and resist the urge to slam on the brakes, according to AAA. Instead, decide where you want the car to go and steer in that direction.
Dig out and stay warm while you wait for help
Should you find yourself stuck in snow or ice and waiting for help, clear the snow from the base of your vehicle, especially around the exhaust pipe, Johansson says. Then, intermittently run the vehicle to keep the interior warm. Don't forget to open a window about two inches to bring in fresh air.
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COMMENTS
From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders. Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels. Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California. READ NEXT.
DON'T Buy Water and Don't Forget to Fill up Often. Fill up water bottles and jugs instead. It would be SO wasteful to buy 100 jugs of water on your trip. Instead, I buy a few one-gallon jugs and reuse them for my entire trip. I also never travel without my reusable water bottle.
Lizard's Mouth. Route: Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip At a glance: San Francisco - Yosemite National Park - Santa Barbara - LA - San Diego Distance: 731 miles Duration: 12 days When to go: June-August; summer is the perfect time for this road trip since the water will be warm enough for a quick dip along the way! The Route. Begin your road trip in San Francisco.
Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California): 1. Grand Canyon, AZ. 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT. 3. Craters of the Moon, ID. 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY.
1 Plan Ahead. 2 Connect with Locals for the Best Tips. 3 Search Groupon for Deals - and Ideas. 4 Leave Room for Spontaneity. 5 Purchase Toll Passes for Areas Where You'll Be Traveling. 6 Understand U.S. Rental Car Rules. 7 Educate Yourself About Rental Car Insurance. 8 Join AAA if traveling on your own.
This road trip in the USA takes you through Glacier National Park. Going-to-the-Sun Road in the heart of Montana's prized park is an engineering marvel that spans 50 miles. This mountain road offers spectacular views of glacial valleys, towering mountains, and pristine lakes. Photo credit: Beach Creatives via Shutterstock.
1. California's Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) - One of the most famous USA road trips. Location: California. Distance: 480 miles. When it comes to spectacular California road trips, it's pretty hard to beat Highway 1, also known as Pacific Coast Highway and Route 1.
Top 15 Best Road Trips in America. 1. Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip. Location: Utah, USA. Distance: Approximately 1200 miles (1931 km) Suggested Time: 7 days. Minimum Time: 3 days. Best Time of Year: March - October. Inspiration Point at Sunrise in Bryce Canyon National Park | Best Road Trips USA.
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.
The Best USA Road Trips. 1. The Ultimate California Road Trip. Sonoma - San Francisco - Santa Cruz - Monterey - Big Sur - Paso Robles - Santa Barbara - Malibu - LA - Laguna Beach - San Diego - Palm Springs - Joshua Tree - Death Valley - Yosemite - Lake Tahoe - Sacramento - Yolo - Shasta Cascade - Mendocino.
Tips for planning a USA road trip. The average road trip dream probably consists of just throwing a few things into the trunk of a car and hitting the road. But the reality is that a good deal of planning is necessary if you want to have a successful, stress-free journey. 1. DO have a rough itinerary
23. The Great American Road Trip - Cross Country on the I-90. 24. Anchorage to Seward. 25. Canada to Mexico. If you're planning to take a road trip this year, I've compiled the best American road trip routes in the country. These are 25 of the best road trips in the USA that everyone should take in their lifetime.
For more road trip guides and packing tips, visit these resources: Road Trip Essentials: What to Pack on a Road Trip. The Perfect Texas Road Trip Itinerary: Must-See Stops + Where To Stay! The Ultimate Budget-Friendly California Road Trip Guide. Colorado Road Trip Itinerary: Must-See Stops + Where To Stay. The Best Central Oregon Road Trip ...
End: Rockfish Gap. Total Distance: 105 miles. Best Part: Parking the car and going for a quick hike. One of the best mountain drives in the United States. It's a favorite day trip for those visiting Washington DC for a simple reason: the Skyline Drive is one of the most accessible mountain drives in the USA.
It's a sobering, eye-opening exhibit. A timed-entry ticket is $19.40 USD. Walk the High Line - The High Line is an elevated urban walking park on the west side of NYC. Made from a converted train track, it runs for 22 blocks and is lined with overlooks, gardens, public art, food stalls, and greenery.
Time Needed: 3000 Miles, Can be done in two weeks, but three weeks is ideal (one way). Highlights: Great Basin National Park, Colorado National Monument, Washington D.C, Lake Tahoe, Moab, Arches National Park. TIP: Make sure your car is in GREAT condition for this road trip.
3. Route 66. Best road trip for American kitsch. Chicago-Los Angeles; 2250 miles; 1-2 weeks. Nicknamed the Mother Road, Route 66 has permanently ingrained itself in the international psyche as the original US road trip. Starting in Chicago, it crosses eight different states and connects travelers to national parks, weird-but-wonderful ...
Once you're in the park, walk around Coulter Bay and drive the Teton Park Road. Day 7: Take a boat ride across Jenny Lake and hike to the famous Hidden Falls. Drive over to Mormon Row, finishing in nearby Jackson Hole for shops & breweries. Day 8: Drive on 26 S down to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The whole country is at your fingertips, you just need to choose. Step 2: Plan your route. A great road trip is more than just the destination, the journey itself is a large part of what makes it ...
Here are 21 of the best road trips in the United States. Let us know in the comments below if there are more we should add to the list. 1. Pacific Coast Highway →. Location: California | Distance: 123 Miles. Enjoy the endless views of the ocean and drive through some of the best beach towns on California's Route 1.
16. Learn to love picnics. Picnics can be super cheap and will allow you to enjoy your lunch with a view. Insider Tip: Picnics will be so much better if you're prepared and pack a blanket, a small cooler, utensils, plates and perhaps even a bottle opener (for all that wine!).
The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48).
Plan an epic American road trip with 11 classic routes, including Route 66, the Pacific Coast Highway, US-2, and more cross-country drives. ... Get the fully updated 25th Anniversary Edition of Road Trip USA for the glovebox or as a gift for your favorite armchair adventurer. Author Jamie Jensen's full-color guide includes over 125 driving ...
Not all winter road trips will involve extreme weather conditions. However, you don't need to be driving in Alaska to run into snow-covered roads, as witnessed by the quick-moving snowstorm near the nation's capital that stranded thousands of passengers on a 40-mile stretch of road for more than 24 hours at the beginning of the year.