Here, envision driving through the core of America down roads that slice through deserts, wind through mountains, and hug coastlines. The catch? Maps don’t even include some of the most stunning spots in the U.S. Curious? Well, let’s find out!
1. The Pacific Coast Highway – California’s Coastal Crown Jewel
The PCH is more than a highway; it’s a visual experience. Start your day in San Francisco, heading south; the Pacific Ocean will begin to take your breath away against unseen cliffs, making an almost magical seeming or appearance.
Photo credit:learncalifornia.org
Must-see stops include: Big Sur, where the road hugs cliffs that drop right into the ocean; and Hearst Castle—an estate so big it’s got a private zoo.
2. The Blue Ridge Parkway – A Journey Through America’s Heartland
Dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive,” this 469-mile route begins in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, and ambles its way through steep forests, stunning mountain vistas, and historic sites until it reaches the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina.
Photo credit:www.travelchannel.com
Box on places to see: Included are Grandfather Mountain with its mile-high swinging bridge and Linville Gorge, with mist rising like a fairytale.
3. Route 66 – The Mother Road
It’s not just a road, but a slice of American history that quivers from Chicago to Santa Monica, cutting through quaint small towns, vintage diners, and some of the most bizarre roadside attractions in the world.
Photo credit:www.lonestartravelguide.com
Iconic attractions: Cadillac Ranch is an avant-garde installation of cars buried nose-first to the ground in Texas and The Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma.
4. The Great River Road – Following the Mighty Mississippi
This road, which follows the Mississippi River for over 2,000 miles, offers up volatile stories and vivid scenes of America’s longest river—from its beginning in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
Main stops: Marvel at the iconic Arch and the charming riverfront of St. Louis, then head to New Orleans for its lively jazz and Creole flavors.
5. Overseas Highway – The Path to Paradise
This highway is 113 miles long, joining Miami with Key West, a highway on the water. Consider miles of open views showing the ocean with a blue sky above and crystal-clear waters at the bottom.
Photo credit:floridatrippers.com
Not to be missed: Stop at Islamorada to go swimming with the dolphins and end the tour in Key West to see the celebration of sunset at Mallory Square.
6. The Loneliest Road in America – Nevada’s Route 50
For those that want solitude and pretty views, the “Loneliest Road,” otherwise known as Route 50 in Nevada, is full of large desert expanses and a sky seemingly to last forever.
Must-see stops: See historic mining town Eureka and stargaze at Great Basin National Park—there’s no light pollution, just pure star-filled skies.
7. The Alaska Highway – Into the Wild
This 1,500-mile route from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska, was carved out during World War II. This is, in fact, a big dream for the ultimate adventurer—towering mountains, sightings of wildlife, and lots of open space.
Photo credit:commons.wikimedia.org
Must-see stops: Liard River Hot Springs The stop for perfect rests in natural hot springs, whereas in Kluane National Park you are able to find breathtaking glaciers.
8. Historic Columbia River Highway – Oregon’s Waterfall Wonderland
This highway winds its way through the Columbia River Gorge, affording access to over 90 waterfalls along the route. Only a short drive from Portland, it’s virtually a natural wonderland.
Don’t miss: Take in the stunning sight of Multnomah Falls, then continue on via secret trails to find lesser-known falls like Latourell Falls.
9. The Million Dollar Highway – Rocky Mountain Majesty
This part of U.S. Route 550 between Silverton and Ouray, Colorado, is fearless and replete with beauty. Its narrow, winding road clasps the side of the cliffs, presenting unparalleled views of the Rockies.
Photo credit:www.durango.org
Don’t miss stops: Pull over at Red Mountain Pass for epic views and get Box Canyon Falls near Ouray, where waterfalls dive through a narrow canyon.
10. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana’s Glacier Wonderland
Coming in at 50 miles long, this Glacier National Park road is packed full of alpine meadows, glaciers, and tons of wildlife—it’s short but full of unforgettable views.
Must-see stops include the Weeping Wall, a seasonal waterfall that douses the road, and Logan Pass, the highest point with views.
Each of these road trip routes has wonders and stories of their own, but the best part is that it is only just the beginning. What will you find on your next trip?
