While planning your next holiday, a road trip across the United States would surely qualify as an option by this time. The traditional good of a road trip is freedom: no crowded airports, tight schedules, just you, the open road, and beautiful sights. The country is home to innumerable highways showcasing everything from coastlines to alpine scenery. A road trip or highway follows a series of landscapes, charms, and other attractions, a journey with several adventures. Here are the top 5 scenic American road trips you ought to put on your bucket list.
1. The Pacific Coast Highway, California
If there were ever one road trip photo representing the American dream, it certainly would be California’s Pacific Coast Highway. Stretching between San Francisco and Los Angeles, this historic route cruises the Pacific Ocean, delivering sweeping panoramas of coastal scenery that is difficult to match.
Pacific Coast Highway Highlights
- Big Sur has dramatic cliffs toppling into the ocean in all directions
- Bixby Creek Bridge, possibly amongst the most photographed spots in California
- Beaches and Spanish-style architecture in Santa Barbara
- Charming towns, such as Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea
It is such a combination of nature and culture, food and beach ends that it makes this driving tour one of the most popular tools in the US for breathtaking viewing.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina
“America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway twists through the highlands of the Appalachians. It’s an amalgamation of history, culture, and scenery, and it doesn’t get better than this in a single journey.
Blue Ridge Parkway Offers
- Endless mountain views, especially in the fall, thrill when the foliage catches fire
- Waterfalls and overlooks
- Trails, hiking, Great Smoky Mountains, Shenandoah National Park
- Tiny towns that come with all the richness of music, food, and culture in Appalachia
It has open-sky adventure and rich culture, so best for every family. Therefore, it’s in the top 5 scenic road trips in the US
3. Route 66, from Chicago to Santa Monica
The so-called Main Street of America, Route 66, is indeed one of the most memorable road trips in history, running across eight states to combine everything characteristic of Americana through countless timeless roadside amenities.
Route 66 Highlights
- Neon-lit diners and retro motels
- The art installation known as Cadillac Ranch in Texas
- The Grand Canyon detour in Arizona
- Ends up at Santa Monica Pier as the western terminus for this route
For nostalgia, culture, and adventure-seeking travelers, Route 66 is still one of the best road trips in the USA.
4. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
For those dreaming of turquoise waters and tropical sunshine, the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West is their ultimate road trip. This 113-mile-long drive hops over numerous bridges connecting little islands, with stunning views of the ocean the whole way. Therefore, it’s one of the top scenic road trips in the US.
Overseas Highway Attractions
- The Seven Mile Bridge is one of the longest in the world
- Snorkeling and diving in Key Largo
- Duval Street and the Ernest Hemingway House in Key West
- Sunset celebrations at Mallory Square
This journey is a blend of relaxation and adventure, good for couples or solo travelers seeking a road paradise.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is an engineering marvel and a masterpiece of nature in Glacier National Park. This 50-mile road takes travelers through some of the stunning alpine vistas in the country.
Going-to-the-Sun Road Highlights
- Lakes formed from glacial waters reflect the scenery of snow-capped peaks
- Logan Pass, the highest point on the road
- Wildlife ranging from mountain goats to grizzly bears
- Hikes that lead to secret waterfalls
Though it’s a shorter drive than many others, this is probably the most memorable scenic road trips in America.
Conclusion
In the United States, these are road trips—the best of all that remind us that travel is not only a destination, but a journey as well. From the coastal cliffs of California to the mountain passes of Montana, all these roads are laden with adventure and culture, and stunning views. Whether along legendary Route 66 or climbing the tropics with the Overseas Highway, every one is memory-rich.