1. Interstate 90 (I-90)
Starting on the East Coast in Boston, I-90 takes you across the entire northern U.S. and ends in Seattle, Washington. At a staggering 3,099 miles, it’s the longest interstate highway in the country, Zoë Miller shares in Business Insider. Along the way, it passes through iconic cities like Chicago, Cleveland, and Buffalo. Whether you’re driving past the lakes of the Midwest or the vast plains of Montana, I-90 offers a scenic, cross-country experience.
What makes I-90 special is the variety of landscapes it covers, from the hustle and bustle of big cities to the tranquil beauty of national parks. It’s also an essential route for those seeking to explore America’s heartland, particularly through states like South Dakota, Wyoming, and Idaho. Travelers often use it for both business and pleasure, making it a key connector for long-distance travel. Plus, it’s a historic route, being one of the earliest transcontinental highways in the U.S.
2. Interstate 80 (I-80)
Spanning 2,899 miles from Teaneck, New Jersey, to San Francisco, California, I-80 is the second-longest interstate in the country, Benny Kirk shares in Autoevolution. It takes you through major cities such as Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Salt Lake City. Along the way, you’ll experience a vast range of terrain, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Great Plains, and all the way to the rugged West Coast. If you’re after a classic American road trip, I-80 offers a mix of urban exploration and natural wonders.
What sets I-80 apart is its historic importance as a part of the Lincoln Highway, America’s first transcontinental highway. It connects people across the country, linking the industrial East to the gold rush history of the West. In addition to its scenic beauty, I-80 is a major freight route, so it’s always a busy corridor for trucks and travelers alike. The highway’s consistent upgrades have kept it relevant for over a century, ensuring it remains a key route for generations of travelers.
3. Interstate 40 (I-40)
If you’re looking for a cross-country drive that’s packed with history, according to Laura Martone from Moon Travel Guide, I-40 is the route for you. Stretching from Wilmington, North Carolina, to Barstow, California, this 2,555-mile interstate has something for everyone. Whether you’re passing through the Great Smoky Mountains or cruising through the deserts of Arizona, the journey offers diverse landscapes that are as breathtaking as they are unique. Cities like Memphis and Oklahoma City also dot the route, giving you plenty of places to stop and explore.
I-40 is not just a highway but a symbol of America’s westward expansion. Originally part of the famous Route 66, this road traces a path rich in cultural and historical significance. From the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll in Tennessee to the iconic Grand Canyon in Arizona, I-40 is more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It’s a reminder of the country’s growth and the adventures waiting just around the bend.
4. Interstate 10 (I-10)
Stretching from Jacksonville, Florida, to Santa Monica, California, I-10 covers 2,460 miles of diverse landscapes, according to the National Museum of American History. It’s the southernmost coast-to-coast route in the U.S., taking you through vibrant cities like New Orleans, Houston, and Phoenix. Along the way, I-10 also cuts through some of the most arid and beautiful parts of the country, including the desert expanses of Texas and the sun-drenched southern California coast. For road trippers, this route is perfect for those who enjoy heat, culture, and scenic coastal views.
What makes I-10 memorable is its unique mix of cultural influences, from the jazz heart of New Orleans to the Mexican-American heritage in places like San Antonio. The route is also famous for its long stretches of open road, especially in states like Texas and Arizona, offering a sense of freedom and solitude that you won’t find on more crowded interstates. Whether you’re into history, food, or natural beauty, I-10 has something to offer travelers of all kinds. It’s an essential part of connecting the U.S. from coast to coast while embracing a distinct southern charm.
5. Interstate 70 (I-70)
I-70 is a crucial east-west route that stretches 2,153 miles from Baltimore, Maryland, to Cove Fort, Utah, according to Marc Peruzzi from Outside Magazine. This interstate is best known for traversing some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the country, including the Rocky Mountains. As you drive through cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Denver, the scenery changes dramatically, offering everything from metropolitan skylines to awe-inspiring natural wonders. This makes it a favorite for travelers looking to combine adventure with urban stops.
One of the highlights of I-70 is its access to outdoor activities, particularly in Colorado. The route is a gateway to numerous ski resorts and national parks, such as the famous Arches National Park in Utah. Driving through I-70 means you’re constantly surrounded by breathtaking views and endless opportunities for exploration. It’s also an important freight route, supporting the movement of goods from the heart of the country to the West Coast.
6. Interstate 95 (I-95)
From Miami to Houlton, Maine, I-95 spans 1,925 miles along the U.S. East Coast. This busy interstate is crucial for connecting major cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and Boston. It’s not just about big cities, though; you’ll also pass through historical sites, such as the battlegrounds of the American Revolution in Virginia. Along the way, I-95 is surrounded by coastal beauty, making it a must-drive for those craving ocean breezes and a rich cultural experience.
I-95 is unique because it’s not just a highway—it’s a lifeline for millions of people along the East Coast. As the primary interstate for much of the Eastern Seaboard, it serves as a vital artery for both travelers and commerce. It’s also a great route for those seeking to experience the eclectic mix of urban life, small-town charm, and scenic coastline. Whether it’s the hustle of big cities or the slower pace of coastal communities, I-95 truly has it all.
7. Interstate 75 (I-75)
I-75 stretches 1,786 miles from Miami, Florida, all the way up to the Canadian border near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Known for its connection to the heart of the Southeastern U.S., this route takes you through major cities like Atlanta, Detroit, and Tampa. As you drive, you’ll pass a mix of urban centers, Southern charm, and Midwestern landscapes. There’s something uniquely diverse about I-75, making it an exciting journey for those seeking a little bit of everything.
What makes I-75 stand out is the variety of experiences along its route. From the subtropical climate of Florida to the colder northern temperatures of Michigan, you’ll experience multiple ecosystems in one trip. Plus, it’s a popular route for road trippers heading toward Canada, offering easy access to international travel. The highway also takes you through significant cultural landmarks, like the automotive heart of Detroit and the famous sites in Atlanta, such as the Civil Rights Museum.
8. Interstate 35 (I-35)
Running 1,568 miles from Laredo, Texas, to Duluth, Minnesota, I-35 is a key corridor connecting the Midwest to the Mexican border. As it cuts through major cities like San Antonio, Austin, and Kansas City, it serves both local and long-distance travelers. I-35 is particularly important for trade, especially with its direct link to Mexico, making it a crucial route for commerce. Along the way, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes, from the plains of Texas to the rolling hills of the Midwest.
This interstate is a favorite among truckers, but it’s also great for road trippers who enjoy small-town charm and natural beauty. I-35’s connection to Mexico makes it a key trade route for goods flowing between the U.S. and its southern neighbor. It also offers easy access to some of the best attractions in the country, including San Antonio’s historic sites and the great shopping and food scenes in Austin. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, I-35 offers a smooth ride through some of America’s most interesting regions.
9. Interstate 15 (I-15)
I-15 spans 1,433 miles from San Diego, California, to Sweetgrass, Montana, right on the Canadian border. This interstate is best known for its route through the Western U.S., offering a direct line from the Pacific Coast to the northern border. Along the way, you’ll pass through cities like Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Helena. Whether you’re drawn to the entertainment capital of the world or the natural wonders of Utah, I-15 has a lot to offer.
I-15 is particularly popular for its proximity to some of the country’s most famous national parks, like Zion and Bryce Canyon in Utah. Its route through Nevada and California also makes it the perfect choice for anyone craving some desert adventures and a dose of Western charm. It’s an important route for travelers exploring the West Coast as well as those venturing into the Rockies and northern regions. I-15’s strategic importance for both tourism and commerce has kept it a vital part of America’s interstate network for decades.
10. Interstate 44 (I-44)
Stretching from St. Louis, Missouri, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, I-44 is 1,085 miles of classic Americana. This highway connects the Midwest to the Southwest, providing a major route for travelers heading west. Along the way, you’ll encounter small towns and larger cities like Tulsa, Missouri, and the state capital of Oklahoma. Driving through I-44 means you’ll get a taste of the heart of the country, with plenty of quirky stops to explore.
One of the reasons I-44 is so memorable is its role as part of the historic Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America.” As you travel down the interstate, you’re following in the footsteps of many who made the journey westward during the early 20th century. The route offers an exciting mixture of nostalgia and modernity, with classic diners and old gas stations alongside newer establishments. It’s a favorite for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and the classic road trip experience.
11. Interstate 5 (I-5)
From the Canadian border in Washington down to the Mexican border in San Diego, California, I-5 runs for 1,381 miles along the West Coast. This major corridor connects cities like Seattle, Portland, Sacramento, and Los Angeles. With a straight shot from the Pacific Northwest to Southern California, I-5 offers stunning coastal views, vibrant city life, and everything in between. If you’re looking for a quick and scenic drive through some of the West’s best landscapes, I-5 is your go-to route.
What makes I-5 stand out is its role as the primary route for those traveling between the major cities of the West Coast. It passes through agricultural regions in California’s Central Valley and urban centers like Portland, known for its quirky vibe. The highway also takes you near the Oregon Coast, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s not just for tourists; I-5 is a critical commercial route for goods traveling up and down the West Coast.
12. Interstate 64 (I-64)
I-64 is 957 miles of pure eastern U.S. history, connecting St. Louis, Missouri, to Chesapeake, Virginia. It’s a major route for travelers going from the Midwest to the East Coast, passing through cities like Louisville, Lexington, and Charleston. What makes I-64 especially notable is how it brings together both cultural landmarks and natural beauty. From the Appalachian Mountains to the Mississippi River, this route offers a little bit of everything.
Whether you’re exploring the historic homes in Virginia or taking in the beauty of Kentucky’s horse country, I-64 provides access to some of the most picturesque spots in the U.S. The highway also acts as a key route for commerce between the Midwest and the eastern seaboard, making it an essential artery for business. As you drive, you’ll experience a wide range of cultures and landscapes, making it an unforgettable road trip experience. I-64’s combination of urban and rural charm makes it a hidden gem in the interstate system.
