In a country as vast as the United States, there is an abundance of destinations and routes to explore. Whether you envision an extensive cross-country journey or a shorter excursion through select regions, the options are as diverse as the nation itself.
Even if a coast-to-coast drive is not feasible, numerous road trip itineraries cater to various durations, from three-day excursions to week-long adventures. These routes include classic drives that showcase the fall season’s beauty, thrilling escapades, and enticing paths for those residing further from the coasts.
Regardless of your choice of travel, whether it be a van, RV, motorcycle, or sedan, here are 21 top road trips across the country to contemplate.
1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66
Embark on a quintessentially American 2,000-mile journey along Route 66, starting in Chicago and culminating in Los Angeles. Explore renowned craft distilleries like Few Spirits in Chicago, StilL 630 in St. Louis, and Tulsa’s American Solera. Along the way, savor whiskey tastings, visit natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, and encounter quirky attractions like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas.
2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2
Traverse the U.S.-Canada border on a cross-country expedition along U.S. Route 2, spanning from Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington. This route showcases diverse landscapes, including Acadia National Park, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and Glacier National Park. Explore charming towns, experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and delve into Canadian gems like Montreal and Ottawa.
3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway
Indulge in the breathtaking vistas of California’s Pacific Coast Highway, stretching from Dana Point to San Francisco. Admire the coastal splendor, from Santa Cruz’s surfing waves to Big Sur’s rugged beauty. Immerse yourself in seasonal cuisine in Malibu, enjoy Santa Monica’s boardwalk, and relish the tranquility of Big Sur’s coastal haven.
4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California
Embark on a literary odyssey through Northern California, retracing the footsteps of iconic writers like Jack Kerouac and Maya Angelou. Visit literary landmarks such as Caffe Trieste, a hub for bohemian writers, and delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the region. This 12-stop itinerary promises a journey through the realms of literary giants, offering a unique blend of inspiration and history.
5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip
Embark on a 240-mile road trip through Arizona, exploring iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Camelback Mountain, and Sedona’s red rocks. Delight in scenic drives, hiking adventures, and culinary delights as you traverse the Grand Canyon State. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Arizona, from majestic canyons to vibrant desert landscapes.
6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest
Unleash your wanderlust on a southwestern adventure through Utah and Arizona, visiting national treasures like Zion National Park, Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of these natural wonders, from the towering cliffs of Zion to the majestic arches of Arches National Park. Experience the Southwest’s rugged charm and outdoor splendor on this unforgettable journey.
7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado
Embark on a 232-mile loop through the San Juan Scenic Skyway in Colorado, traversing alpine forests, mining towns, and rugged peaks. Discover the beauty of southwestern Colorado as you meander through picturesque landscapes and charming communities. Indulge in scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences on this captivating road trip.
8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado
Embark on a weeklong road trip through Colorado, from Denver to Montrose, exploring hidden gems like Paonia, Crawford, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Immerse yourself in the state’s vibrant art scenes, picturesque landscapes, and outdoor activities. Delight in the Centennial State’s diverse offerings, from thriving art communities to pristine natural wonders.
9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers
Embark on an outdoor enthusiast’s dream road trip along Oregon’s dramatic coastline, from Portland to Astoria. Discover the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast, with its evergreen forests, sandy dunes, and charming seaside towns. Indulge in outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, and exploring quaint coastal communities. Immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest’s natural splendor on this scenic journey.
10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement
Trace the historic route of the women’s suffrage movement from Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee. Visit significant landmarks like the Women’s Rights National Historical Park and Union Square in New York City, commemorating the fight for women’s rights. Immerse yourself in the legacy of trailblazing suffragists and celebrate the progress of gender equality on this empowering road trip.
11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina
Embark on a scenic drive through Virginia and North Carolina, starting in Charlottesville and winding through the Blue Ridge Parkway to Asheville. Discover the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, from rolling meadows to verdant plateaus. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and breathtaking vistas on this leisurely five-day journey.
12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip
Embark on a three-day road trip through New Mexico, exploring Pueblo history, Indigenous sites, and natural wonders. Visit cultural landmarks like the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, Hatch’s famous pepper farms, and White Sands National Park. Immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage of New Mexico and uncover the state’s diverse cultural tapestry on this enriching journey.
13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country
Embark on a scenic road trip through Texas Hill Country, starting and ending in Austin, with stops in Bandera, Boerne, and other charming towns. Explore the region’s natural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. Indulge in outdoor adventures, riverside relaxation, and the vibrant arts scene of Texas Hill Country on this delightful five-day itinerary.
14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights
Embark on a weeklong road trip through Alaska, starting and ending in Anchorage, to explore the state’s majestic landscapes and hidden gems. Traverse scenic byways, venture into wilderness areas, and behold the towering peaks of Denali National Park. Immerse yourself in Alaska’s natural wonders, from pristine national parks to charming frontier towns, on this unforgettable journey.
15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways
Embark on a scenic road trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, discovering adventure, good food, and breathtaking scenery. Explore natural wonders, charming towns, and hidden gems along the route. Experience the beauty of Idaho’s landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to picturesque mountain vistas, on this enriching journey.
16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler
Embark on a scenic road trip from Duluth to Grand Portage State Park in Minnesota, exploring Lake Superior’s stunning coastline and charming towns. Discover the beauty of Grand Marais, Grand Portage State Park, and the Ojibwe community. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich history, natural splendor, and cultural heritage on this captivating three-hour circuit.
17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive
Experience the vibrant fall foliage of New England on a picturesque road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway. Marvel at the changing colors of the trees, picturesque ponds, and scenic overlooks as you traverse this iconic 34.5-mile route. Join fellow leaf-peepers on this popular autumn drive through New Hampshire’s stunning landscapes.
18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast
Embark on a culinary journey along Maine’s “Lobster Trail,” traveling Route 1 along the state’s rugged coastline. Indulge in a seafood extravaganza, sampling lobster dishes in various forms amidst picturesque coastal settings. Explore quaint coastal towns, historic landmarks, and scenic vistas on this delectable road trip through Maine’s lobster-rich shores.
19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core
Discover North Carolina’s Piedmont region on a four-day road trip from Raleigh to Charlotte, exploring art, food, and cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene, culinary delights, and historical landmarks of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte. Experience the region’s innovative spirit and rich heritage on this enriching journey through North Carolina’s reinvented core.
20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida
Embark on a leisurely drive along Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton, Florida, exploring picturesque seaside towns and stunning coastal vistas. Discover the beauty of Gulf-front communities like Seaside and Rosemary Beach, basking in the emerald-hued views of the Gulf Coast. Dive into the region’s New Urbanism architecture, pristine beaches, and charming coastal communities on this idyllic road trip through South Walton.
21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway
Embark on an island-hopping adventure through the Florida Keys, from Key Largo to Key West, along the scenic Florida Keys Scenic Highway. Traverse the Overseas Highway, admire art in Islamorada, and soak up the vibrant culture of Key West. Indulge in historic sites, delectable cuisine, and sun-kissed beaches on this sun-soaked road trip through the enchanting Florida Keys.
22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure
Embark on a music-filled road trip from Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee, celebrating the diverse musical heritage of the state. Explore iconic music landmarks, from Sun Studio in Memphis to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol. Immerse yourself in the rhythms of rock, blues, and country music, experiencing Tennessee’s rich musical tapestry on this melodious journey.
23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island
Discover the lesser-known side of Puerto Rico on a road trip from Arecibo to Condado, exploring Indigenous sites, petroglyphs, and breathtaking natural spots. Immerse yourself in the island’s Taino heritage, visiting historic sites and cultural landmarks along the route. Uncover the hidden gems of Puerto Rico, from ancient petroglyphs to stunning natural landscapes, on this enriching journey through the heart of the island.
For additional road trip planning resources, including snack ideas and podcast recommendations, consult the original article for a comprehensive guide to preparing for your next adventure.