A Guide to the Best Road Trip Routes in the USA
One of the best countries in the world for road trips is the USA. From the beautiful landscapes to scenic highways and endless attractions, there is a road trip for everyone in the U.S. From seamless coastal drives to the mountains to desert journeys, our highways are packed with road trips for the taking — all completely worth the few bucks to throw in some gas.
In this article, we will dive into some of the best road trip route in the USA — from time-honored classics to some lesser-known gems. And head on out and find some scenic views, some hidden gems, and most importantly, some perfect new adventures.
1. Route 66 – The Mother Road
Overview
- Itinerery: Chicago, IL → Santa Monica, CA
- Distance: 2,448 miles
- Time It Takes: 2–3 weeks for a complete experience
Why Take This Road Trip?
Email – Route 66 has to be the most famous road trip in America. Known as "The Mother Road" this historic highway winds its way through eight states, combining the best of small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and incredible scenery.
Highlights Along the Way
- Chicago, IL – Kick off the trip in the Windy City, home to deep-dish pizza and museums.
- St. Louis, MO: Home of the Gateway Arch Is the Tallest Nationwide Monument
- Cadillac Ranch, TX — Witness a line of partly buried Cadillacs plastered with graffiti in Amarillo.
- Santa Fe, NM — Explore the adobe style architecture and arts culture.
- Grand Canyon, AZ – Go off the beaten path to one of the most stunning natural spectacles on earth.
- Santa Monica, CA – Wrap up your trip at the southern tip of the Pacific Coast Highway at Santa Monica Pier;
Best Time to Go
Fall(Sep-Oct) or Spring(Apr-June): Skip the scorching summer heat of the Southwest.
2. From the Pacific Coast Highway : California Longleaf Scenic Drive
Overview
- Itinerary: San Francisco, CA → San Diego, CA
- Distance: 655 miles
- Time Required: 5–7 days
Why Take This Road Trip?
Love the sea views, quaint coastal towns and rugged cliffs? Then the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is your road. Highway 1 — California As scenic drives go, this is one of the most breathtaking places in the world.
Highlights Along the Way
- San Francisco – Tour the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf
- Big Sur – See the iconic coastline, McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge.
- Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea – Experience the scenic 17-Mile Drive and the acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium.
- Santa Barbara — Unwind in this quintessential beach town with Spanish flair, home to vineyards and palm-tree-lined shores.
- Los Angeles– check out Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica.
- San Diego — Warm weather, beaches, and food.
Best Time to Go
- Avoid summer traffic and plan the trip Spring or Fall when the weather is pleasant.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway – A Drive Through the Appalanchian Mountains
Overview
- Routes: Virginia → North Carolina
- Distance: 469 miles
- Time Required: 3–7 days
Why Take This Road Trip?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is ideal for those seeking a scenic route through the mountains whilst being able to pull off and go for a hike or simply take in the natural beauty. The park is prominent for its picturesque vistas, cascading waterfalls and vibrant autumnal leaves.
Highlights Along the Way
- Shenandoah National Park, VA — Hike trails like Old Rag or Dark Hollow Falls.
- Mabry Mill, VA – See this darling historic water mill~
- Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina – Mile High Swinging Bridge
- Asheville, NC — Visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest home in America.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Baron safari on the trails
Best Time to Go
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): The colors are stunning.
4. The Great River Road – Tracing the Mighty Mississippi
Overview
- Route: Minnesota → Louisiana
- Distance: 3,000 miles
- Time Needed: Full trip – 2–4 weeks
Why Take This Road Trip?
Among them is the Great River Road, a scenic byway that traces the winding, lazy path of the Mississippi River through 10 states. An exploration of the nation and its river towns.
Highlights Along the Way
- Minneapolis, MN – Headwaters of the Mississippi River
- Dubuque, Iowa: Explore the picturesque riverboat town.
- Stop at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, MO
- Beale Street, Memphis, TN: Blues music and BBQ.
- New Orleans, LA — Cap off the trip with jazz, Creole food and the French Quarter.
Best Time to Go
- Well, Fall o Spring: mild weather with smaller crowds.
5. The Florida Keys – An Island Drive destination
Overview
- Route: Miami → Key West
- Distance: 113 miles
- Time Required: 1–3 days
Why Take This Road Trip?
The Florida Keys road trip is an island-hopping adventure full of warm waters, tropical breezes, and chill vibes.
Highlights Along the Way
- Miami — Begin your journey with some Cuban cuisine, and Art Deco architecture.
- Key Largo – Snorkel at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Seven Mile Bridge — Take a drive over all those turquoise waters.
- Key West – Catch sunsets at Mallory Square and visit Hemingway home.
Best Time to Go
- Winter (December–March): Embrace the warm weather and break away from the cold.
6. Traveling the Alaska Highway – To the Final Frontier
Overview
- From Dawson Creek, Canada to Fairbanks, Alaska
- Distance: 1,390 miles
- Time Required: 1–3 weeks
Why Take This Road Trip?
No trip rivals the Alaska Highway for wildlife, glaciers and pristine landscape. An off the beaten path expedition across wilderness regions.
Highlights Along the Way
- 1, Liard River Hot Springs, Canada – Natural hot springs
- Kluane National Park IN Canada– Canada Highest Peak
- Fairbanks, AK — Another good place for viewing the Northern Lights.
Best Time to Go
- Summer (June–August): Clear roads; wildlife in abundance.
Final Tips for Your Road Trip
- Navigate using apps—Google Maps, Roadtrippers etc.
- Weather Verification — certain routes only open and close seasonally
- Essentials To Pack: Snacks, water, emergency kits and a first-aid kit.
- Ship Bookings Fill Quickly: Well-liked routes fill up quick, particularly in summer season.
Tip: Please adhere to all traffic rules while driving safely and do not forget to take a break.
Conclusion
The United States road trip is, in a word, epic. From historic highways to coastal drives to mountain landscapes, there is a route for every traveler. Pick your road trip, pack your bags, and hit the road!