Top 10 Best Road Trips in the USA You Must Take in Your Lifetime (Guide 2025)

Why Road Trips Are the Best Way to See the USA

There’s something magical about hitting the open road in the United States. Unlike a quick flight from city to city, a road trip lets you savor the journey as much as the destination. The USA is massive, diverse, and rich in landscapes—from deserts to snowy peaks, bustling cities to sleepy small towns.

Road trips give you the freedom to explore hidden gems, quirky roadside attractions, and national parks that don’t always make it onto typical tourist itineraries. Whether you’re driving the iconic Route 66 or cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll see slices of America that can only be experienced by car.

Pacific Coast Highway (California Dream Road Trip)

One of the most famous drives in the USA is California’s Highway 1, also called the Pacific Coast Highway. Stretching between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this road hugs dramatic cliffs, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

Best Time to Go

Late spring to early fall is ideal, when the weather is sunny and coastal fog is less likely to hide the views.

Must-See Stops

• Big Sur: A stunning stretch of rugged coastline.
• Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea: Perfect for whale watching and charming small-town vibes.
• Santa Barbara: Known as the “American Riviera” with its beaches and wineries.

Route 66 (The Classic American Drive)

Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 runs from Chicago to Santa Monica. This historic drive covers 2,448 miles across 8 states and is filled with retro diners, neon signs, and quirky attractions.

Historic Highlights

• Cadillac Ranch in Texas – Spray-painted classic cars buried nose-first in the ground.
• Wigwam Motels – Stay in a quirky teepee-shaped motel room.

Fun Roadside Attractions

Giant statues, old gas stations, and plenty of mom-and-pop diners where you can enjoy pie and coffee just like travelers did in the 1950s.

Blue Ridge Parkway (East Coast Beauty)

The Blue Ridge Parkway is often called “America’s Favorite Drive”—and for good reason. Spanning 469 miles through North Carolina and Virginia, this road trip is a paradise for nature lovers.

Fall Foliage Drives

If you’re planning a fall road trip, this is the place to be. The entire route transforms into a canvas of fiery reds, oranges, and golden yellows. Early October to early November is the best time to catch peak colors.

Scenic Overlooks

• Linn Cove Viaduct – An engineering marvel that curves around the side of a mountain.
• Mabry Mill – One of the most photographed spots, especially in autumn.
• Craggy Gardens – Famous for blooming rhododendrons in late spring.

Florida Keys (Overseas Highway Adventure)

Imagine driving across turquoise waters with the ocean stretching endlessly on both sides. That’s the magic of the Overseas Highway (U.S. 1), which connects mainland Florida to Key West.

Key Largo to Key West Highlights

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – Perfect for snorkeling and diving.
• Seven Mile Bridge – A jaw-dropping stretch of highway surrounded by water.
• Duval Street in Key West – Vibrant nightlife, shopping, and local eats.

Best time to visit is December to April, when the weather is sunny but not too humid.

Great River Road (Follow the Mississippi)

Stretching along the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles through 10 states, the Great River Road is a deep dive into American culture, food, and history.

Southern Food & Culture Along the Way

• Memphis, Tennessee – Home of Elvis Presley’s Graceland and legendary BBQ.
• New Orleans, Louisiana – Jazz, Creole cuisine, and Mardi Gras vibes year-round.
• St. Louis, Missouri – The famous Gateway Arch and delicious toasted ravioli.

This road trip is perfect if you want to mix music, history, and mouthwatering food.

Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks Road Trip

Utah is a dream destination for adventurers. The Mighty Five—Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion—can all be visited on a single loop road trip.

Arches, Zion, Bryce & More

• Arches National Park – Iconic rock formations like Delicate Arch.
• Zion National Park – Famous for Angel’s Landing and The Narrows hikes.
• Bryce Canyon – Known for its otherworldly hoodoos.

Plan at least 7–10 days for this trip to fully enjoy hikes, stargazing, and scenic drives.

Alaska’s Seward Highway

For something completely different, head north to Alaska. The Seward Highway stretches from Anchorage to Seward, offering some of the most breathtaking views in the country.

Wildlife and Glacier Views

• Turnagain Arm – Spot beluga whales during high tide.
• Kenai Fjords National Park – Glacier cruises and icebergs.
• Moose Pass – A charming stop surrounded by mountains.

Summer is the best season to go, with long daylight hours and mild temperatures.

Northern New England Road Trip

New England is perfect for a cozy, charming road trip, especially in autumn. A classic loop covers Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Coastal Drives in Maine

• Portland – Famous for its lighthouses and lobster rolls.
• Acadia National Park – Stunning sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain.
• White Mountains, New Hampshire – Drive the Kancamagus Highway for foliage.

The Loneliest Road (Highway 50, Nevada)

Highway 50 cuts across Nevada and has been nicknamed the Loneliest Road in America because of its long, empty stretches. But that’s exactly what makes it an adventure.

Ghost Town Adventures

• Eureka – A well-preserved mining town.
• Austin – Known for hot springs and historic churches.
• Great Basin National Park – Stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the U.S.

Cross-Country USA Road Trip Itinerary

If you’ve got several weeks, nothing beats a coast-to-coast road trip. Whether you go east-to-west or the other way around, you’ll experience the full variety of America.

Coast-to-Coast Highlights

• Start in New York City – Urban energy and landmarks like Times Square.
• Chicago & The Great Lakes – Deep-dish pizza and city skylines.
• Rocky Mountains – Scenic drives through Colorado.
• Grand Canyon – A must-see natural wonder.
• Finish in California – From desert landscapes to sunny beaches.

Tips for Planning the Best USA Road Trips

Budgeting & Packing Essentials

• Plan for $100–150 per day (gas, food, lodging).
• Pack a cooler, first aid kit, maps, and camping gear if needed.
• Always have snacks, water, and power banks handy.

Safety and Roadside Apps

• Use Google Maps & Waze for navigation.
• GasBuddy helps find the cheapest gas.
• Roadtrippers is perfect for discovering unique stops.

FAQs About USA Road Trips

1. What is the best road trip in the USA for first-timers?
The Pacific Coast Highway is perfect—beautiful, manageable, and full of attractions.

2. How many days should a USA road trip take?
Short trips can be 3–5 days, but epic ones like Route 66 can take 2–3 weeks.

3. What is the cheapest way to road trip in the USA?
Camping, cooking your own meals, and using budget motels can keep costs down.

4. Is it safe to take a solo road trip?
Yes, as long as you plan well, share your itinerary, and avoid unsafe areas.

5. What’s the best season for a road trip?
Spring and fall are ideal—great weather, fewer crowds, and cheaper prices.

6. Do I need travel insurance for a USA road trip?
It’s smart to have it, especially if you’re traveling long distances.

Conclusion: Choose Your Next Adventure

The USA is built for road trips. From coastal highways to desert landscapes, historic routes to national parks, every road tells a story. Whether you crave adventure, history, food, or natural beauty, there’s a perfect route waiting for you.

So, gas up the car, roll down the windows, and hit the road—the best road trips in the USA are calling.