Top 10 Road Trips in the USA

Although flying may be quicker, embarking on a road trip across the US is a quintessentially American experience.

Experience the country’s stunning landscapes up close—lush eastern forests, sweeping plains, red rock canyons, and breathtaking Pacific coastlines—while visiting iconic cities along the way.

With a vast network of well-kept highways, traversing the US by car is quite convenient. While some distances can be lengthy, gas, food, and places to stay are generally accessible (except in remote areas), and having a vehicle allows for spontaneous detours.

Here’s our selection of favorite routes through America’s open spaces, along with tips to enhance your travel experience.

1. Pacific Coast Highway

Ideal road trip for coastal vistas San Diego to Seattle; 1600 miles; 8–12 days

The Pacific Coast Highway offers one of the most celebrated road trip adventures in the US, connecting the West Coast’s major cities, eclectic California beach towns, ancient redwood forests, and the stunning capes and coves of the Pacific Northwest. This scenic route comprises Hwy 1, Hwy 101, and I-5, beginning in San Diego and meandering through LA, Big Sur, San Francisco, and Redwood National & State Parks, before concluding in Seattle.

Tip for planning: Always verify road conditions, especially in the Big Sur region, where rockslides frequently occur along the cliffs.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Top Appalachian road trip Cherokee, NC to Waynesboro, VA; 469 miles; 2–5 days

This stunning route takes you through the heart of the United States' oldest mountain range, offering breathtaking views of rolling green hills filled with enchanting hiking trails, roaring waterfalls, ancient rock formations, and abundant wildlife. The Parkway, which is part of the NPS system, begins near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and traverses the beautiful Pisgah National Forest, several state parks, and Roanoke, VA, before concluding at the southern entrance of Shenandoah National Park.

Suggested detour: Besides the state and national parks, numerous unique hikes start along the parkway. Check trail maps to ensure you don’t miss some of Appalachia’s finest routes.

3. Route 66

Ultimate road trip for American kitsch Chicago to Los Angeles; 2250 miles; 1–2 weeks

Known as the Mother Road, Route 66 has left an indelible mark on the global imagination as the quintessential American road trip. Beginning in Chicago, it weaves through eight states, leading adventurers to national parks, quirky roadside attractions, and a treasure trove of vintage Americana.

Travel tip: The route can be tackled in segments or all at once, but we recommend allowing ample time for exploration—distances are considerable, and there’s a wealth of activities to enjoy.

4. Natchez Trace

Top road trip for Southern history Pasquo, TN to Natchez, MS; 444 miles; 2–3 days

The Natchez Trace was originally forged by buffalo roaming from middle Tennessee to Natchez, MS. Soon after, indigenous hunters and traders traversed the path, which later became a vital route for European settlers, soldiers, and dignitaries. Today, traveling along the Trace offers breathtaking views, historic towns, and the chance to experience one of America's most legendary roads.

5. Florida Highway 1

Ideal road trip for Gulf Coast culture Amelia Island to Key West; 475 miles; 6 days

Florida’s Hwy 1 stretches along the state’s Atlantic Coast before turning east at Miami and culminating in picturesque Key West. This remarkable journey spans multiple days and features many of Florida’s iconic attractions: historic St Augustine, the breezy Canaveral National Seashore, NASCAR hotspot Daytona, the relaxed vibe of Fort Lauderdale, and the luxury of Miami and South Beach.

Travel tip: The hurricane season spans from June to October, peaking in August and September, and can greatly impact Florida. If you're planning to visit during this time, stay alert to weather updates.

6. Badlands – Black Hills Loop

Top road trip to explore the Great Plains Badlands National Park to Badlands National Park; 330 miles; 2 days

To truly grasp the vastness of the Great Plains, visit South Dakota for an intriguing road trip through a region rich in ecological and cultural significance. Begin your journey at the stunning Badlands National Park, then loop over to the Black Hills, where you’ll find the Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt Rushmore, and Wind Cave National Park. Along the way, enjoy sights of thriving buffalo herds, remarkable rock formations, and gentle rolling hills.

7. San Juan Skyway

Ideal road trip for Rocky Mountain vistas Durango to Durango; 236 miles; 1–3 days

The San Juan Skyway showcases some of the most breathtaking views of the Rockies in stunning detail. This route, featuring the famous Million Dollar Highway, weaves through central Colorado’s mountainous heart, linking Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, and Mesa Verde National Park, renowned for its cliff dwellings created by the Ancestral Puebloans.

Whether you’re passionate about history, love skiing, enjoy landscape photography, or simply seek an exhilarating drive, the San Juan Skyway offers something for everyone.

Planning tip: True to its name, the San Juan Skyway traverses high-altitude landscapes, which can lead to unpredictable road conditions, especially during shoulder seasons. Always check for any closures or local advisories before you set out.

8. Richardson Highway

Ultimate road trip for Alaskan adventure Fairbanks to Valdez; 364 miles; 2–4 days

No road trip itinerary is complete without a journey through Alaska, the largest and northernmost state. The Richardson Highway, Alaska’s oldest road, links Fairbanks and Valdez, offering stunning views of towering mountains and glaciers, putting travelers in close contact with some of the nation’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Make sure to stop for hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting along the way.

9. Scenic Byway 12

Ultimate road trip through red rock terrain Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park; 122 miles; 1 day

Southern Utah feels like another world entirely, and this scenic backroads route showcases the stunning landscapes this geologically rich state offers. Begin your adventure in Panguitch, just outside Bryce Canyon, and follow the road through breathtaking red rock canyons, charming historic towns, and lush pine forests, ultimately arriving in Torrey, the gateway to Capitol Reef National Park, one of the West's hidden gems.

Detour: From Torrey, it’s just a quick 2.5-hour drive to Moab, Canyonlands, and Arches, making this route perfect for exploring Utah’s Big 5. The road itself offers stunning lunar-like vistas that contrast beautifully with the vibrant red rocks.

10. Coastal New England

Ultimate road trip for Atlantic coastal charm New York City to Portland, ME; 430 miles; 3–5 days

Get ready for delicious seafood chowder, scenic seaside towns, and endless lobster – this coastal New England adventure is sure to put you in a maritime mood. Begin in New York City and travel north along the coastline, pausing to soak in the beautiful beaches of Rhode Island, explore Massachusetts’ rich historical sites, and visit New Hampshire’s iconic lighthouses before reaching the culinary haven of Portland, ME.