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Road trips are a quintessential American experience, offering a unique way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Whether you’re looking to hit the open road with friends or family, or embark on a solo adventure, the United States has no shortage of scenic routes and destinations to choose from. From the rugged coastline of California’s Pacific Coast Highway to the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Parkway, you will find the best USA road trips for every taste and budget.
Before setting out on your road trip, it’s important to do some essential planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. This includes mapping out your route, budgeting for gas and accommodations, packing appropriately, and familiarizing yourself with local laws and regulations. With proper preparation, you can make the most of your road trip and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Key Takeaways
- Road trips are a great way to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of the United States.
- Essential planning is key to a successful road trip, including mapping out your route and budgeting for expenses.
- From the Pacific Coast Highway to the Blue Ridge Parkway, there are countless scenic routes and destinations to choose from across the country.
Essential Road Trip Planning for the Best USA Road Trips
Planning a road trip can be a daunting task, but with a little preparation, it can be an enjoyable and memorable experience. Here are some essential tips to help you plan your next road trip:
1. Choose your route
The first step in planning a road trip is to decide on your route. Consider your interests, the time you have available, and the distance you are willing to travel. You can use online tools like Google Maps or Roadtrippers to map out your route and estimate driving times.
2. Plan your stops
Once you have your route planned out, it’s time to decide on your stops. Research the attractions and activities along your route, and decide which ones you want to see. Make sure to include time for rest stops, meals, and overnight stays.
3. Pack smart
Packing for a road trip can be tricky, but it’s important to pack smart. Make a list of the essentials, such as clothing, toiletries, and snacks. Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit and any necessary medications. Consider packing a cooler with drinks and snacks to save money on the road.
4. Check your vehicle
Before hitting the road, it’s important to check your vehicle. Make sure your oil and other fluids are topped off, your tires are properly inflated, and your brakes are in good condition. It’s also a good idea to have your vehicle serviced before a long road trip.
5. Stay flexible
Finally, it’s important to stay flexible on a road trip. Unexpected delays and detours can happen, so it’s important to be prepared for changes in your plans. Stay open to new experiences and be willing to adjust your itinerary as needed.
By following these essential road trip planning tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Best Road Trips in the East Coast
If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip experience, the East Coast of the United States has plenty of options to choose from. Here are three of the best road trips to take in the East Coast:
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that stretches 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina. The road winds through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views of forests, waterfalls, and wildlife. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and picnicking.
One of the highlights of the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Linn Cove Viaduct, a 1,243-foot-long bridge that hugs the side of Grandfather Mountain. The viaduct offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for photography.
Acadia National Park Loop
Acadia National Park in Maine offers a 27-mile scenic loop that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Northeast. The loop winds along the coast, offering views of rocky beaches, lighthouses, and quaint fishing villages.
Along the way, you can stop at the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, for panoramic views of the park and the surrounding area. You can also take a hike on one of the many trails in the park, including the popular Precipice Trail.
Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is a 105-mile drive through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The road offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.
One of the highlights of Skyline Drive is the many overlooks that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also take a hike on one of the many trails in the park, including the popular Old Rag Mountain Trail.
Overall, these three road trips offer some of the best scenery and outdoor activities on the East Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-timer, these drives are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Best Road Trips in the West Coast
The West Coast of the United States is home to some of the most scenic and iconic road trips in the world. Here are three of the best road trips in the West Coast that you should consider for your next adventure.
Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is a 655-mile stretch of road that runs along the California coast from Dana Point in Orange County to Leggett in Mendocino County. The route takes you through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world, including the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, the sandy beaches of Malibu, and the charming towns of Monterey and Santa Barbara.
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway is a bucket-list experience that should not be missed. Along the way, you can stop at numerous scenic lookout points, hike in state parks, and visit charming coastal towns. Some highlights of the route include the Bixby Bridge in Big Sur, Hearst Castle near San Simeon, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
Route 66
Route 66 is a legendary road trip that stretches 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. The route was once the main highway connecting the Midwest to the West Coast, and it has been immortalized in movies, songs, and literature.
Driving Route 66 is a journey through American history. Along the way, you will pass through small towns, big cities, and vast open spaces. Some highlights of the route include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, and the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
Big Sur Coastline
The Big Sur Coastline is a 90-mile stretch of California’s Highway 1 that runs from Carmel to San Simeon. The route takes you through some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the world, including towering redwood forests, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches.
Driving the Big Sur Coastline is a peaceful and scenic journey that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of California. Along the way, you can stop at state parks, hike in the mountains, and visit charming coastal towns. Some highlights of the route include Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
These three road trips are just a few examples of the many incredible journeys you can take on the West Coast. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there is a road trip for everyone on the West Coast of the United States.
Best Road Trips in the Midwest
If you’re looking for an adventure on the road, the Midwest has plenty of options to choose from. Here are two of the best road trips in the region:
Great River Road
The Great River Road is a 3,000-mile route that follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. In the Midwest, the route covers 10 states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
One of the highlights of the Great River Road is the scenic drive along the bluffs of the Mississippi River. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit historic towns, museums, and parks along the way. Some of the must-see attractions include the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, Iowa, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, and the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi.
Lake Superior Circle Tour
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is a 1,300-mile route that takes you around the largest freshwater lake in the world. The route starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, and covers parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario, Canada.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness. You can also stop at charming towns and attractions like Split Rock Lighthouse in Two Harbors, Minnesota, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising, Michigan.
Keep in mind that the Lake Superior Circle Tour can take up to a week to complete, so plan accordingly. Also, be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially if you’re traveling in the fall or winter.
Whether you choose the Great River Road or the Lake Superior Circle Tour, you’re sure to have an unforgettable road trip in the Midwest.
Best Road Trips in the South
If you’re looking for a scenic drive through the southern United States, you have plenty of options to choose from. Here are two of the best road trips in the South:
Overseas Highway
The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile road that connects the Florida Keys to the mainland. This road offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands. Some of the highlights of this road trip include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and Key West.
One of the unique features of this road trip is that you’ll be driving on a series of bridges and causeways that connect the islands. The longest of these is the Seven Mile Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile road that runs from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. This road follows the path of an ancient Native American trail and offers a glimpse into the history of the region.
Some of the highlights of this road trip include the Cypress Swamp, the Meriwether Lewis Monument, and the historic town of Natchez. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including deer and wild turkeys.
One of the unique features of this road trip is that there are no commercial vehicles allowed on the parkway. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy a peaceful and scenic drive without the distraction of big trucks and buses.
Both of these road trips offer stunning views and a chance to experience the beauty and history of the southern United States. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a scenic drive, these road trips are sure to impress.
Best Road Trips in the Mountain Region
If you’re looking for scenic drives and breathtaking views, the mountain region of the United States has plenty to offer. Here are two of the best road trips to take in this region:
Going-to-the-Sun Road
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile long road that runs through Glacier National Park in Montana. The road is narrow and winding, and it takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the park. The road is only open from late June to mid-September due to heavy snowfall in the winter months.
Some of the highlights of this road trip include:
- Lake McDonald: This is the largest lake in the park, and it’s a great spot for fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
- Logan Pass: This is the highest point on the road, and it offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
- St. Mary Lake: This is another beautiful lake in the park, and it’s a popular spot for swimming and boating.
Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road is a 48-mile long road that runs through Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. The road reaches an elevation of over 12,000 feet, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Some of the highlights of this road trip include:
- Alpine Visitor Center: This is a great spot to stop and learn about the park’s ecology and geology.
- Many Parks Curve: This is a scenic overlook that offers panoramic views of the park.
- Forest Canyon Overlook: This is another scenic overlook that offers views of the park’s valleys and mountains.
Both of these road trips are popular with tourists, so be prepared for crowds during peak season. However, the stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences make these road trips well worth the trip.
Seasonal Road Trips
If you’re planning a road trip in the USA, consider timing your trip to coincide with seasonal attractions. Two popular seasonal road trips are Fall Foliage in New England and Spring Wildflowers in Texas.
Fall Foliage in New England
New England is known for its stunning fall foliage, which typically peaks in late September through mid-October. The best way to experience the colors of fall is by taking a scenic drive through Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Here are some popular routes to consider:
- The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire: This 34-mile stretch of road is one of the most scenic drives in New England, with views of the White Mountains and colorful foliage.
- The Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts: This 63-mile drive takes you through the Berkshires and past historic towns and scenic vistas.
- The Coastal Route in Maine: This 167-mile drive takes you along the coast of Maine, with views of lighthouses, fishing villages, and colorful foliage.
Spring Wildflowers in Texas
Texas is known for its wildflowers, which typically bloom in March and April. The best way to see the wildflowers is by taking a road trip through the Texas Hill Country. Here are some popular routes to consider:
- The Bluebonnet Trail in Ennis: This 40-mile drive takes you through fields of bluebonnets, the state flower of Texas.
- The Willow City Loop: This 13-mile drive takes you through fields of wildflowers, including bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and more.
- The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin: This botanical garden showcases native Texas plants and wildflowers, and is a great place to learn about the state’s natural beauty.
No matter what season you choose to take your road trip, there’s always something beautiful to see in the USA.
Final Thoughts on Best USA Road Trips
In conclusion, the United States is a vast country with a diverse range of landscapes and attractions that make it an ideal destination for road trips. From the iconic Route 66 to the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, there are numerous routes to choose from that offer breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you prefer the great outdoors or the bright lights of the city, there is a road trip for everyone in the USA. Some of the best road trips include the Great Northern Route, the Blues Highway, and the Grand Circle Tour, which takes you through some of the country’s most spectacular national parks.
When planning your road trip, be sure to take into account the time of year, as some routes may be closed during the winter months. You should also consider your budget and the length of time you have available, as some trips can take several weeks to complete.
Overall, a road trip in the USA is a fantastic way to explore the country and create memories that will last a lifetime. With so many routes to choose from, there is no shortage of adventure to be had on the open road.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best USA Road Trips
What are some must-see national parks on a road trip in the USA?
There are several national parks worth visiting on a road trip in the USA. Some of the must-see national parks include Yellowstone National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Zion National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Each park offers unique landscapes, wildlife, and activities for visitors to enjoy.
What are the best road trips to take from Texas?
If you’re starting your road trip in Texas, there are several great options to choose from. Some of the best road trips to take from Texas include the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana; the Pacific Coast Highway, which runs along the California coast; and Route 66, which stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica.
What are the essential items to pack for a road trip?
When packing for a road trip, it’s important to bring essential items such as a first aid kit, snacks, water, a map or GPS system, a phone charger, and comfortable clothing and shoes. Other useful items include a cooler, blankets, pillows, and a camera to capture memories.
What is a recommended 2-month itinerary for a cross-country road trip in the USA?
A recommended 2-month itinerary for a cross-country road trip in the USA could include starting in New York City and traveling west towards California. Some must-see destinations along the way include Niagara Falls, Chicago, Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon, and San Francisco. It’s important to plan your route ahead of time and make reservations for accommodations and activities.
What are some popular road trip destinations in the USA?
Some popular road trip destinations in the USA include the Pacific Coast Highway in California, Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, the Great River Road along the Mississippi River, and the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina. Each destination offers unique scenery and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
What are some scenic drives to take in the USA?
There are countless scenic drives to take in the USA, but some of the most popular include the Pacific Coast Highway in California, the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, the Great River Road along the Mississippi River, and the Overseas Highway in Florida. Each drive offers stunning views and opportunities to explore the local culture and attractions.
