Pacific Coast Highway: California The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most iconic road trips in the US. Stretching from Mendocino in Northern California to San Diego in the south, the Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking views of the ocean, majestic redwood forests, and historical coastal towns. Highlights include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Pacific Coast Highway itself, and the stunning Big Sur coastline. On this trip, you can also explore the historic mission towns of Carmel and Santa Barbara, and enjoy the world-famous wine country in Sonoma and Napa Valley.
2. Great Smoky Mountains: Tennessee and North Carolina The Great Smoky Mountains are not only one of the most beautiful national parks in the US, they also offer some of the best road trip opportunities. Starting in Knoxville, Tennessee, the route takes you through the picturesque Smoky Mountains, passing through the quaint towns of Cherokee and Gatlinburg. Enjoy the unique history and culture of the area, and don’t forget to stop by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to explore its stunning natural beauty.
3. Route 66: California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri and Illinois The legendary Route 66 is an iconic American road trip experience. Starting in California and ending in Illinois, Route 66 takes you through eight states, offering countless opportunities to explore the history and culture of each state. Highlights include the Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon, and the city of St. Louis. Enjoy classic Americana diner food, admire the beauty of the desert, and take in the spectacular scenery of the Midwest.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway: Virginia and North Carolina The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile stretch of scenic highway that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina. On this trip, you will have the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of the Appalachian Mountains, such as the quaint mountain towns of Asheville and Waynesboro. Other highlights include Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern US, and the Blue Ridge Music Center, which celebrates the traditional music of the region.
5. Florida Keys: Florida The Florida Keys are a unique road trip destination, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. On this trip, you can explore the tropical islands in the Keys, such as Key West and Islamorada, and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. Don’t forget to stop by the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, where you can admire the beauty of the ocean from a bird’s eye view.
If you’re looking for an exciting new experience, a road trip around the United States is an unforgettable adventure. With its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cities and wide variety of culture, the US has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a city slicker, or a nomad following the open roads, a road trip in the US offers a great way to explore the country.
For a classic American road trip, the Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip is the perfect start. Spanning more than 600 miles, you can make your way up the western coast, starting in Los Angeles and stretching through the Northwestern forests to Seattle. On the way, you can explore famous cities like San Francisco and Portland, experience stunning coastal drives and venture into the majestic Redwood forests.
The ultimate road trip for music and culture lovers takes visitors to Nashville and Memphis. In Nashville, take part in the city’s vibrant music scene, with ticketed shows, live venues and jam sessions. From there, make your way to Memphis, the home of the blues, and explore the thriving local scene and attractions like the famous Beale Street. To finish, don’t miss the stunning lookout near Chattanooga.
For a good mix of the best nature and cityscapes, the Texas Hill Country is an excellent destination. Texas is home to some of the most striking and varied scenery in the US, including open plains, cactus gardens, rolling hills and limestone cliffs. Meander through endless Hill Country towns, enjoy a ton of outdoor activities, then top it off with a visit to some of the state’s great cities, like Austin and San Antonio.
Finally, if you’re looking for a majestic and unique road trip, consider the Yellowstone Grand Loop Road. This marvelous road trip takes about two weeks and circles around Wyoming, visiting some of the most spectacular places in the region. Among the highlights are awe-inspiring views of Yellowstone National Park and its wildlife, not to mention amazing geological features like mud cauldrons, geysers and hot springs.
To make the most of your road trip, the key is taking time and planning the little details carefully. No matter where your route takes you, these four great itineraries are a fantastic place to start.
