See America Like Never Before: 14 Must-Do Road Trips

The United States is a vast and diverse country, offering countless opportunities to hit the open road and explore its breathtaking landscapes, charming small towns, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re seeking coastal beauty, rugged mountains, or cultural experiences, a road trip is the perfect way to see the USA like never before. Here are 14 road trips that will change how you view America forever!

Pacific Coast Highway- California

One of the most iconic road trips in the U.S., the Pacific Coast Highway stretches along California’s stunning coastline. Starting in San Francisco and winding down to San Diego, this drive offers breathtaking ocean views, picturesque seaside towns, and must-see stops like Big Sur, Monterey, and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge. Whether driving along rugged cliffs or stopping at beaches, the Pacific Coast Highway will leave you in awe of California’s natural beauty.

Blue Ridge Parkway- Virginia to North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a relaxing drive through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Known for its rolling hills, vibrant fall foliage, and historic sites, this 469-mile road trip is a must for nature lovers. Along the way, you can stop at charming mountain towns, hike scenic trails, and take in panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Route 66- From Chicago to Santa Monica

Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America,” is a legendary road trip that captures the spirit of the American West. From Chicago to Santa Monica, this 2,448-mile route takes you through eight states and offers a journey through the heart of America’s history. Along the way, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions, historic motels, and iconic landmarks like Cadillac Ranch and the Wigwam Motel.

Great River Road- Mississippi River

Follow the mighty Mississippi River on the Great River Road, a scenic drive that stretches from Minnesota to Louisiana. This road trip takes you through 10 states, offering views of the river, historic river towns, and cultural experiences that highlight America’s past. Whether you’re exploring Memphis for its music scene or stopping in Natchez for its antebellum architecture, the Great River Road provides a fascinating glimpse into the heart of the U.S.

National Parks- Utah

If you’re looking for dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventure, a road trip through Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks is a must. This route takes you through Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks, each offering stunning rock formations, deep canyons, and unique desert landscapes. Whether you’re hiking through slot canyons or standing under natural arches, this road trip showcases the best of the American Southwest.

Seward Highway- Alaska

For a truly remote and wild experience, the Seward Highway in Alaska offers unparalleled natural beauty. Starting in Anchorage and ending in Seward, this 127-mile route takes you through towering mountains, glacial lakes, and dense forests. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife like bears and moose, visit glaciers, and take in the rugged, untouched beauty of Alaska’s wilderness.

Overseas Highway- Florida Key West

The Overseas Highway is easily one of the most unique road trips in the U.S., reaching 113 miles from Miami to Key West over a series of bridges and islands. This tropical drive offers stunning ocean views, crystal-clear waters, and the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys. Don’t miss stops like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling or the iconic Seven Mile Bridge for a picture-perfect moment.

New England Foliage- Vermont

If you’re traveling in the fall, there’s nothing quite like a road trip through New England to witness the region’s vibrant foliage. Start in Vermont and wind your way through New Hampshire and Maine, passing through charming villages, covered bridges, and scenic countryside. Highlights include the White Mountains, Acadia National Park, and the quaint town of Woodstock, where autumn leaves set the landscape ablaze with color.

Highway 101- From Los Angeles to Tumwater Washington

The Oregon Coast offers one of the most scenic road trips in the Pacific Northwest, with Highway 101 hugging the coastline for 363 miles. You’ll encounter dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and sandy beaches along this route. Stop at spots like Cannon Beach to see the famous Haystack Rock, explore the charming town of Newport, and hike through Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. The natural beauty of the Oregon Coast will leave you mesmerized.

Outer Banks Scenic Byway – North Carolina

The Outer Banks Scenic Byway is an unforgettable road trip full of coastal charm. This 138-mile route takes you along stunning beaches, through quaint fishing villages, and past historic lighthouses. Make sure to stop at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, visit the Wright Brothers Memorial, and take a ferry ride to Ocracoke Island. With its beautiful ocean views and laid-back vibe, this drive is perfect for anyone who loves the beach and a little history mixed in.

Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana

Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is a breathtaking drive that’s perfect for nature lovers. This 50-mile stretch offers incredible views of towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and colorful wildflower meadows. Key spots to check out include Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, and the Weeping Wall. It’s a road trip through Montana’s untouched wilderness that will leave you amazed at the beauty of the Rockies.

The Loneliest Road- Nevada

The Loneliest Road in America, otherwise known as U.S. Route 50, stretches across Nevada and offers a desolate yet striking landscape. This 300-mile journey from Ely to Fernley takes you through vast desert plains, mountain ranges, and historic mining towns. While it may be remote, the sense of solitude and the wide-open skies make this road trip a unique and unforgettable experience.

Texas Hill Country- Central and South Texas

A road trip through the Texas Hill Country offers a charming mix of rolling hills, wildflower fields, and small-town charm. Starting in Austin, this route takes you to Fredericksburg, known for its German heritage and wineries. Along the way, stop at Pedernales Falls State Park for hiking, visit the historic LBJ Ranch, and explore the small towns that make Hill Country unique.

Big Bend National Park- Texas

For a road trip that removes you from the beaten path, head to Big Bend National Park in West Texas. This isolated park is known for its rugged desert landscapes, deep canyons, and the winding Rio Grande River. Driving through Big Bend offers opportunities to hike, kayak, and stargaze under some of the clearest night skies in the country. The park’s raw beauty and isolation make it a true hidden gem in the American Southwest.

More For You

These road trips offer a unique perspective on the United States’ diverse landscapes, cultures, and history. Whether driving along the coast, through the mountains, or across deserts, these routes will forever change how you see America. Ready to plan your next adventure? Discover even more travel inspiration for your next journey.

This article was first published on the RB ITALIA Blog.