1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
If there’s one road trip that feels straight out of a postcard, it’s California’s Pacific Coast Highway. Stretching from Orange County up to Mendocino County, this iconic route offers jaw-dropping ocean views, cliffside drives, and charming towns along the way. Stop in Big Sur to take in the dramatic coastline, grab clam chowder in Monterey, or relax on the pristine beaches of Santa Barbara. Don’t forget to drive across the Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed spots on the West Coast. Whether you have a week or just a few days, this route is pure magic for ocean lovers.
2. Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)
The Mother Road, Route 66, is pure Americana on wheels. Spanning from Chicago to Santa Monica, this legendary highway takes you on a nostalgic journey through quirky roadside attractions, retro diners, and historic small towns. Along the way, visit Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, and the iconic Wigwam Motel in Arizona. Each state offers its own piece of Route 66 charm, from the sprawling plains to dusty desert landscapes. It’s a perfect mix of kitsch, history, and adventure.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina & Virginia)
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway is a stunning road trip for nature lovers. Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, this route offers sweeping vistas, hiking trails, and vibrant fall foliage that will leave you breathless. Stop at overlooks like Linville Gorge or Mabry Mill for postcard-perfect views. In spring and summer, wildflowers bloom along the roadsides, creating an incredible drive through natural beauty. Take it slow—this trip is all about soaking in the scenery.
4. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
Follow the mighty Mississippi River from its headwaters in Minnesota all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico. The Great River Road spans 10 states and offers an unforgettable journey through historic river towns, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes. Explore the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans, visit Mark Twain’s hometown in Missouri, and stop for fresh Midwest produce along the way. It’s a slower-paced road trip, perfect for travelers who love a mix of culture, food, and history.
5. The Loneliest Road (Nevada, Highway 50)
If you want wide-open skies and endless solitude, Highway 50 through Nevada lives up to its nickname as “The Loneliest Road.” This desolate yet beautiful drive cuts through stunning desert landscapes, ghost towns, and rugged mountain ranges. Along the way, you’ll find charming small towns like Ely and Eureka, perfect for a quick stop and a history lesson. It’s a road trip that feels like stepping back in time—ideal for those who crave quiet and wide-open spaces.
6. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
Ever dreamed of driving over the ocean? The Overseas Highway in Florida is the ultimate tropical road trip. Connecting mainland Florida to Key West, this 113-mile route features dozens of bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge. The turquoise water surrounding you feels surreal, and there’s no shortage of stops for snorkeling, seafood, or a sunset cocktail. By the time you reach the laid-back paradise of Key West, you’ll understand why this drive is so iconic.
7. New England Fall Foliage Tour (Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts)
New England in the fall is like driving through a painting. From late September to October, the region explodes with red, orange, and yellow hues that make every turn in the road a masterpiece. Start in Vermont for covered bridges and charming maple farms, cruise through New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and finish with a coastal drive in Massachusetts. Don’t forget to stop for apple cider donuts or a classic fall picnic. It’s the quintessential autumn road trip.
8. Alaska’s Seward Highway (Anchorage to Seward)
For a drive that feels like an adventure movie come to life, the Seward Highway in Alaska is unmatched. Starting in Anchorage, the 127-mile route to Seward takes you through dramatic fjords, snow-capped mountains, and pristine wilderness. Stop at Beluga Point to spot whales, hike to Exit Glacier, or take a boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park. The wild, untouched beauty of Alaska will make you want to pull over every five minutes to take it all in.
9. Beartooth Highway (Montana & Wyoming)
Considered one of the most scenic drives in America, the Beartooth Highway is a mountain lover’s dream. This 68-mile stretch of road climbs to over 10,000 feet, offering panoramic views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks. Start in Red Lodge, Montana, and make your way toward Yellowstone National Park. The drive itself is unforgettable, but it’s also a gateway to endless outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
10. Texas Hill Country Trail (Texas)
Texas Hill Country is the perfect blend of southern charm and natural beauty. This road trip will take you through rolling hills, colorful wildflowers, and quirky small towns. Stop in Fredericksburg for wine tasting, dive into natural swimming holes like Hamilton Pool, or explore the limestone caves at Longhorn Cavern State Park. The best time to go is spring when the bluebonnets bloom, covering the hills in a sea of blue. It’s Texas at its most beautiful.
11. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park feels like entering another world. This 50-mile route winds through towering peaks, glacier-carved valleys, and lush meadows teeming with wildlife. Stop at Logan Pass for breathtaking views, and keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats and grizzlies. The road is only open in summer due to heavy snow, so plan accordingly. It’s a bucket list drive for anyone who loves epic mountain scenery.
12. Oregon’s Scenic Byways (Oregon)
Oregon’s network of scenic byways is perfect for an epic road trip full of variety. From the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway to the Historic Columbia River Highway, each route showcases Oregon’s diverse beauty. You’ll drive through waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and lush forests, with endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Don’t miss the Oregon Coast, where dramatic sea stacks and rugged cliffs meet the crashing Pacific waves.
13. Black Hills and Badlands (South Dakota)
South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands offer a unique and unforgettable road trip. Start in Rapid City and explore iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Drive through the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park, where eroded rock formations create an alien-like setting. This route is packed with history, stunning scenery, and a sense of rugged adventure you won’t find anywhere else.
14. The Natchez Trace Parkway (Tennessee to Mississippi)
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive that follows an ancient Native American trail. Stretching from Tennessee to Mississippi, this peaceful route winds through lush forests, rolling farmland, and historical landmarks. Stop at Civil War sites, walk along preserved sections of the old trail, and explore charming Southern towns like Tupelo and Natchez. With a slower pace and stunning natural beauty, it’s the perfect road trip for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
