10 Best Road Trips in the USA You Need to Take

There’s nothing quite like an American road trip. Endless highways, small-town diners, jaw-dropping scenery, and the freedom to stop wherever you like make it a classic way to see the country.

Here are the top 10 best road trips in the USA every traveler should experience at least once.

Quick List: Our Top 10 Picks

Pacific Coast Highway, California
Route 66, Illinois to California
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
Overseas Highway, Florida
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Utah’s Mighty 5
Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
Hana Highway, Hawaii
Coastal Maine Route 1
Texas Hill Country

How We Chose This List

To build this best road trips in the USA list, we looked at what Americans are searching for right now, popularity, value for money, and real-world usefulness. Every pick below is something we’d confidently recommend to a friend or family member.

Why Road Trips Are So Popular

Road trips give you freedom that flying can’t match. You set the pace, choose the stops, and can change plans whenever something interesting appears along the way. America’s highway system connects coastlines, mountains, deserts, and small towns, so there’s a scenic route for every interest and season. Road trips can also be budget-friendly, especially for families and groups splitting gas and lodging. The routes below range from short weekend drives to cross-country adventures, so you can pick one that fits your time and travel style.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

California’s Highway 1 hugs dramatic cliffs and beaches between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Don’t miss Big Sur, Bixby Bridge, and charming Carmel-by-the-Sea.

2. Route 66, Illinois to California

The Mother Road stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, filled with neon signs, retro motels, and roadside attractions.

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

This 469-mile scenic road winds through the Appalachian Mountains, and is famous for its fall foliage and overlooks.

4. Overseas Highway, Florida

Drive from Miami to Key West over turquoise water on a highway that hops from island to island, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge.

5. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most breathtaking mountain drives in America. It’s typically fully open only in summer.

6. Utah’s Mighty 5

Connect Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands national parks for an unforgettable desert adventure.

7. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana

Follow the Mississippi River through 10 states, passing music cities, river towns, and Southern history.

8. Hana Highway, Hawaii

Maui’s Road to Hana features waterfalls, rainforests, and hundreds of curves. Take it slow and enjoy the stops.

9. Coastal Maine Route 1

Explore lighthouses, lobster shacks, and charming harbor towns along Maine’s rugged coastline.

10. Texas Hill Country

Drive through rolling hills, wineries, BBQ joints, and spring wildflowers around Austin and Fredericksburg.

Road Trip Planning Tips

Plan driving days of four to six hours to avoid fatigue.
Download offline maps for areas with poor cell service.
Book popular national park lodging months in advance.
Get your car serviced before any long trip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overpacking the itinerary and leaving no time to explore.
Driving mountain roads at night without knowing the route.
Forgetting to check seasonal road closures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most scenic road trip in the USA?

The Pacific Coast Highway and Going-to-the-Sun Road are often considered the most scenic drives in America.

How long should a road trip be?

Many classic routes can be done in 3 to 7 days, but longer trips like Route 66 deserve two weeks.

What should I pack for a road trip?

Bring snacks, water, a phone mount, chargers, a first-aid kit, offline maps, and a good playlist.

Final Thoughts

The best road trips in the USA are about the journey as much as the destination. Pick a route, plan a few key stops, and leave room for spontaneous detours. That’s where the best memories are made.

Top 10 Best Road Trips in the USA You Need to Take