The Best Road Trips in the USA
Exploring the vast landscapes of the United States by road offers an unparalleled adventure. The country's diverse geography means that each road trip presents a unique experience, from coastal drives and mountain passes to desert highways and historic routes.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1, is one of the most famous road trips in the USA. Stretching over 600 miles from Orange County to Mendocino County, this scenic route offers breathtaking ocean views, charming coastal towns, and numerous attractions along the way. A must-see stop is the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge near Big Sur, where you can capture stunning photographs of the rugged coastline. Another highlight is Hearst Castle in San Simeon, an opulent mansion with guided tours that showcase its history and grandeur.
For a taste of local culture, stop by Santa Barbara's waterfront for fresh seafood or explore Monterey Bay Aquarium to learn about marine life. The PCH is not just about the destination but also the journey, with numerous vista points and parks perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
- Bixby Creek Bridge
- Hearst Castle
- Santa Barbara Waterfront
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
Route 66: The Mother Road
Route 66, often referred to as "The Mother Road," is a legendary highway that originally spanned from Chicago to Santa Monica. Though much of the original route has been replaced by modern highways, many segments remain accessible and offer a nostalgic glimpse into America's past. This historic route takes travelers through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Key attractions include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, and Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona.
Route 66 is dotted with quirky roadside diners and motels that have preserved their mid-20th-century charm. Be sure to visit the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma for an immersive history lesson on this iconic highway.
| State | Key Attraction |
|---|---|
| Illinois | Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum |
| Missouri | Gateway Arch |
| Kansas | Galena Mining & Historical Museum |
| Oklahoma | Route 66 Museum |
| Texas | Cadillac Ranch |
| New Mexico | Petrified Forest National Park |
| Arizona | Grand Canyon Caverns |
| California | Santa Monica Pier |
The Great River Road: Following the Mississippi River
The Great River Road traces the course of the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route spans over 2,000 miles and passes through ten states. It offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. Commencing at Lake Itasca in Minnesota where you can walk across the river’s headwaters. As you travel southwards, you’ll encounter numerous highlights such as Mark Twain's hometown of Hannibal in Missouri and Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee.
In Louisiana, explore New Orleans’ vibrant French Quarter or take a swamp tour to see local wildlife. Along the way, enjoy regional cuisines like Wisconsin’s cheese curds or Southern barbecue.
- Lake Itasca Headwaters (Minnesota)
- Mark Twain's Boyhood Home (Missouri)
- Graceland (Tennessee)
- French Quarter (Louisiana)
- Cajun Swamp Tours (Louisiana)
The Blue Ridge Parkway: Appalachian Beauty
The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. Known for its stunning mountain vistas and vibrant fall foliage, this drive connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Milepost markers along the parkway guide travelers to various attractions. Highlights include hiking trails like Humpback Rocks near Milepost 5.8 or visiting the Blue Ridge Music Center at Milepost 213 for live Appalachian music performances. The picturesque town of Asheville offers local arts and crafts while nearby Mount Mitchell State Park provides panoramic views from the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
- Milepost Markers Guide Attractions
- Milepost 5.8: Humpback Rocks Trails
- Milepost 213: Blue Ridge Music Center
The Loneliest Road in America: U.S. Route 50 in Nevada
U.S. Route 50 in Nevada earned its nickname “The Loneliest Road in America” due to its remote stretches through desolate landscapes. However; this drive offers a unique sense of solitude combined with historical intrigue.This route runs between Carson City near Lake Tahoe across central Nevada ending at Ely near Utah border. You’ll pass through ghost towns like Austin where time seems frozen; visit Great Basin National Park home to ancient bristlecone pines; stargaze under some darkest skies found anywhere or simply enjoy solitude amidst vast open spaces.
- Austin Ghost Town
- Great Basin National Park
- Bristlecone Pine Groves
A few practical tips:
- Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained before embarking on these long drives especially when traversing isolated areas like U.S Route-50.
- Pack essentials including water snacks maps GPS device first aid kit emergency supplies etc.
- Savor regional foods explore local cultures interact with residents gain deeper appreciation places visited during these memorable journeys
The USA boasts diverse stunning landscapes best explored via road trips. Whether it’s winding along Pacific Coast Highway, reminiscing Route-66 history, tracing Mississippi River, navigating Appalachian beauty or experiencing solitude ‘loneliest’ U.S Route-50, each journey promises unique unforgettable adventure.