If you have ever considered the great good old US of A, plane hopping just will not cut it! Sure, it will take you less time to see every nook and cranny (because the USA is the equivalent of a continent), but you might miss a lot by just flying over it. The best way to experience America is to hit the road and explore it through epic road trips. America has plenty to love,from stunning landscapes and arid deserts to breathtaking coastal highways perfect for an unforgettable drive. If you’re road-tripping, you’ll need tips and a guide to catch the best spots! Let’s talk all things USA road trips!
Pacific Coast Highway: A journey along California’s coastline
You want to start your great American road trek on the right foot – or wheel in this case! The perfect route? The Pacific Coast Highway – stretching from San Francisco’s stunning streets to the beautiful beaches of San Diego! This USA road trip offers epic cliffs to climb, refreshing ocean air, and charming coastal towns with the freshest seafood! Let’s get into the road trip USA West Coast weeds!
Key Stops Along the Way
Big Sur: You can’t drive the Pacific Coast Highway without stopping at Big Sur. Known for its great cliffs and incredible viewpoints, this one cannot be missed. Don’t forget the drive through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and a photo at the famous Bixby Creek Bridge.
Monterey: he next stop on your Pacific Coast road trip is Monterey, a vibrant hub of marine life and arts. Discover amazing sea life at Monterey Bay Aquarium or stroll along Cannery Row, soaking in the charm while burning off those road trip indulgences!
Santa Barbara: No California road trip is complete without taking a gander at the little town of Santa Barbara. It is tiny but it packs quite the Mediterranean-style buildings, beaches and a nice vibe punch! Stroll through stunning scenery and live your wine mom/dad dream in Santa Ynez.
With the ocean as your backdrop and endless sights, a Pacific Coast road trip is unforgettable. California’s landscapes make it a must for any great road trip!
From the Pacific Coast Highway to Route 66, USA road trips promise endless adventure, freedom, and unforgettable discoveries.
Route 66: America’s mother road
Turn your American adventure into a two-week road trip by tackling the legendary 2,400-mile Route 66, known as “America’s Mother Road.” This iconic route spans four states and offers an incredible journey through some of the country’s most unique landscapes. The best part? You can seamlessly combine a North USA road trip with a West Coast journey for an unforgettable experience!
Iconic Stops Along the Way
Chicago: Savor the city’s famous deep-dish pizza, then dive into its vibrant art scene, from world-class museums to striking street murals.
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo: Whether you’re a fan of classic Cadillacs or just quirky roadside attractions, this unique “Cadillac burial ground” is a must-see!
Grand Canyon: No epic USA road trip would be complete without a visit to the Grand Canyon. It’s as essential to your journey as the Shire is to The Lord of the Rings. Beyond its breathtaking views, the Grand Canyon offers a sense of awe that will elevate your adventure.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Scenic drives through the Appalachians
If you’re longing for a peaceful escape into nature, an East Coast USA road trip is perfect—especially the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, a must for your bucket list.
Highlights of the Parkway
From moody forests to towering peaks, the Blue Ridge Parkway showcases the Appalachian’s vibrant fall colors. Stop at Craggy Gardens and Linville Gorge for breathtaking overlook views.
Outdoor Attractions: You can hike and camp along the Blue Ridge Parkway as much as your heart desires. There are plenty of hikes throughout the area to choose from, ranging from an easy walk to the steep mountainside.
Sightseeing: On your drive down the mountain, you’ll pass through several cute towns with much to see. In Asheville, peruse the local arts and crafts or take in the gorgeous historic architecture. If you’re a history buff, take a trip to the infamous Biltmore Estate.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is ideal for a peaceful road trip, offering stunning mountain views. USA road trips showcase diverse landscapes, from towering peaks to sprawling deserts and lively cities.
The Great River Road: Following the Mississippi
The best road trips in USA blend history, art and breathtaking sights — exactly what the Great River Road offers! Mississippi specifically accessing it through the Great River Road is a must if you are on an exploring Southern States USA road trip.
Notable Stops Along the River
What to See: New Orleans is the perfect stop for anyone making their way along the Great River Road. Don’t miss the fun in the French Quarter or those hot beignets from Café du Monde. And, of course, there’s live jazz around nearly every corner.
Not-to-miss Attractions: As you travel along the Great River Road, don’t forget to hop off and explore. There are a ton of historic little towns to check out, including Hannibal, Missouri — and Natchez, Mississippi. These charming river towns are full of antebellum homes and literary history.
Outdoor Activities: With the river just a stone’s throw away, the Great River Road is the perfect place for fishing, hiking and even a picnic. Scenic views are a dime a dozen and there is more than enough of the great outdoors to explore.
The Great River Road is a wonderful way to explore the quaint river towns and all the great sights and sounds of the southern states on this US road trip.
Whether you crave coastal drives, national park adventures, or historic highways, USA road trips guarantee unforgettable experiences.
The Utah National Parks road trip: A journey through red rock country
For the adventure types that live and breathe nature, hiking and maybe even some camping, Utah’s National Parks road trip is one of the bestUSA road trip routes. From striking red rock formations to odd geological formations, dramatic landscapes and outdoor activities, Utah has something for everyone.
Must-See Parks
Zion National Park: Our favourite national park in Utah is Zion. Hike to Angel’s Landing for the best view or go for a walk in the river by the Virgin River. The park is great to explore on foot. The dramatic cliffs and impressive canyons are a photographer’s paradise.
Bryce Canyon National Park: Bryce Canyon is known for its unique hoodoo rock formations, offering some of the most scenic viewpoints and trails in the state. Wake up early for sunrise/sunset over the natural amphitheatre.
Arches National Park: Finish your road trip with a road trip through Arches National Park, home of 1000s of natural stone arches. The unique landscape makes it great for short hikes and photography.
A USA road trip through the Utah National Parks will make you appreciate the beauty of the natural wonders in this state.
Alaska’s Seward Highway: A drive through the wilderness
Good road trips in the USA are not quite the same without a trip to Alaska! If your heart beats for the wild and exploration of the quiet and hidden beauty of Alaska —this highway will do well!
What You Can Look Forward To
Breathtaking Views: When you start your journey, have a camera nearby because there is so much to take in you just might miss something.
Kenai Fjords National Park: This beautiful park is filled with enormous glaciers that dip into the crystal-clear waters that provide the most unbelievable sights and sounds. You will not want to go too far before stopping to take a look at one of these massive glaciers, but you can also get even closer to these wonders. Thanks to the many kayaking companies in the area, the entire family can enjoy a half day on the water. Glide silently by the seals popping their heads above the glassy water, while the birds fly overhead.
A Small Fishing Experience: If you enjoy fishing, you will not want to leave the area without stopping by the rivers and the beaches for some nice fishing. The lower 48 are envious of Alaskans and this is your chance to bring some halibut or salmon home from your own catch. On the way to Seward or near Hope, stop by some of the popular halibut fishing originations for your own nice catch!
Florida Keys Overseas Highway: Tropical vibes and ocean views
Driving through this paradise-like pathway, you’ll notice the glistening and clear turquoise waters under the Florida sun and will want to stop right away to enjoy the view. The Overseas Highway connects mainland Florida to Key West, passing through multiple bridges and small islands, surrounded by beautiful waterfronts, on either side. This drive is almost magical, as the blue waters continue forever and you can feel the cool breezes and just drive with your windows down and embrace the path to Keys.
Some Must-Stops Along The Florida Keys Overseas Highway
Visit Islands: Make sure to check out the small island stops as well. Each island has its distinct nature — be it the enjoyable nightlife of Key Largo or the quiet and serene waters of Islamorada, famous for its world-class fishing and beautiful coral reefs.
Key West: This place is all aboutthe culture, cool and bright houses and gorgeous sunsets which can be enjoyed from Mallory Square! You’ll have buskers entertaining you, artists displaying their colours, fellow wanderlusters sipping drinks with you and against all of this, the most beautiful backdrop — the sinking sun.
Planning your next getaway? USA road trips let you travel at your own pace, uncover hidden gems, and embrace the open road.
Essential tips for a successful USA road trip
Choose the Right Vehicle. Your choice of vehicle is crucial for a comfortable and successful road trip. Whether you’re traveling solo or with others, pick a ride that suits your needs and can handle the terrain. An SUV or camper van is ideal for comfort, storage, and rugged driving conditions, especially if you’re navigating mountainous areas like the Seward Highway or coastal routes.
Plan Your Route. Don’t just rely on a quick “road trip suggestions USA” search. Take time to map out your route, prioritizing “big ticket” destinations while leaving room for spontaneous detours and smaller stops. Often, the most memorable moments come from unplanned adventures and discovering hidden gems along the way.
Set a Budget. Road trips can get expensive quickly, so establish a ballpark budget before you start. Consider costs for gas, lodging, food, and activities. Having a rough idea of how much you can spend will help you enjoy the trip without unnecessary stress.
Book Lodging in Advance. Depending on your style, you can camp, stay in motels, or even splurge on hotels. If you’re traveling during the busy season or holidays, book accommodations in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. If you’re camping, especially in areas like Alaska, remember to take precautions against wildlife (like bears).
Prioritize Safety. Always carry an emergency kit in your car, including water, snacks, a first aid kit, flashlight, and other essentials in case you get stranded. Familiarize yourself with the areas you’ll be traveling through and stay prepared for unexpected situations.
Mind the Timing. Holidays and peak travel seasons can mean crowded roads and fully booked accommodations. Plan your trip well in advance to secure hotels, activities, and other reservations.
Embrace the Journey. The magic of a road trip lies in the journey itself. Be open to unplanned stops and detours—they often lead to the most unforgettable experiences. Take time to enjoy the discovery and spontaneity that makes a road trip so special.
A USA roadtrip like no other
When it comes to planning the ultimate USA road trip, a little preparation goes a long way! However, if planning is not your thing, don’t worry—this handy guide has got your back! From taking on places like California through a road trip USA Pacific coast highway epic adventure to a Southern USA road trip, there is quite a lot to see, do and taste across the United States. No two places are ever the same, making each stop unique and unforgettable. Here’s the best part: if tackling Route 66 or any other road trip solo feels overwhelming, you can always join an organized group trip along Route 66 for the ultimate road-tripping experience. With this guide in hand and a craving for all the incredible sights, flavors, and experiences America has to offer, you’ll be ready to embark on the USA road trip of a lifetime!
