Life can get overwhelming sometimes. Between constant nine-to-five work, taking care of your kids and family, and trying to keep your head afloat, you’re left completely drained. The best way to escape this stressful routine is to take a good old road trip across the country and simply live in the moment.
Whether you’re enthralled by the mesmerizing views from atop a mountain, dipping your toes in crystal clear water, or enjoying a mouth-watering meal on the curbside of a sparsely populated village, road trips bring excitement and spontaneity and help you make memories that last forever.
However, there are just too many places to see and not enough time or money to visit each one. To help you plan the perfect trip, some routes offer exceptional views and adrenaline-packed adventures. You’ll have an epic adventure, time to destress, and a whiff of the old days.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
Get ready for a breathtaking drive along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway in California. This 656-mile stretch of highway offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, charming seaside towns, and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. If you’re a wildlife lover, then Morro Bay State Park is a must along the way. With hummingbirds, adorable sea otters, and monarch butterflies, the park is a brilliant hub of bustling life.
Take your time and soak in the beauty of Big Sur. Stop for some world-famous seafood at Bodega Bay, and end your trip with a drive through the bustling city of San Francisco.
Route 66, Illinois to California
No road trip list is complete without the legendary Route 66. From Chicago to Santa Monica, this historic route offers a glimpse into American history with its quirky roadside attractions, small towns, and stunning landscapes.
During the first stint of your adventure, you’ll find yourself in Sullivan. Once you’re here, head to the chilly Meramec Caverns, with gorgeous mineral formations that will leave you breathless. Take a detour to see the breathtaking natural wonders of the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, or stop in one of the many charming towns along the way for a taste of local culture.
Great River Road, Mississippi River
Experience the beauty and charm of America’s heartland on the Great River Road. This 3,000-mile route follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana, offering stunning views of the river and its surrounding landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming small towns, historic sites, and delicious southern cuisine that will make this trip a memorable one.
The riverside stretches for miles, so exploring it all in one go is virtually impossible. However, Nelson Dewey State Park is the perfect spot for a cute picnic, offering picture-perfect views.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
For those seeking a scenic drive through nature, look no further than the Blue Ridge Parkway. This 469-mile drive winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking views of colorful forests, wildflowers, and stunning waterfalls.
Stop to soak in the Natural Bridge, a 215-foot-tall limestone archway that will blow you away.
Take in the beauty of Shenandoah National Park, stop for a hike or a picnic, and end your trip with a visit to Asheville, known for its vibrant arts scene.
Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Lined with spectacular beaches, phenomenal skyscrapers, and pristine blue waters, Lake Shore Drive is an expressway along Lake Michigan in Chicago. Towards the road’s northern end is Lincoln Park, filled with museums, golf courses, picnic hotspots, and bird sanctuaries, while towards the south lies the Museum of Science and Industry.
On this route, it is essential to visit a beach, play volleyball, sip an exotic cocktail, and go for a swim to get those muscles moving. You can also stop by the Navy Pier to catch an IMAX movie or go on a romantic boat tour.
Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
For those looking for a tropical getaway, the Overseas Highway in the Florida Keys is the perfect road trip. This 113-mile drive will take you across 42 bridges over crystal blue waters and through picturesque islands.
The Big Pine and the Lower Keys are perfect if you want something more secluded. Their wild scenery and wildlife make the place especially attractive for animal lovers. Along the way, you can stop for some snorkeling or diving at one of the many coral reefs, grab a bite to eat at a local seafood shack, and end your trip with a stunning sunset at Key West.
Route 12, Utah
Route 12 is a 124-mile strip of land filled with a gradient red hue, small towns with rich culture and history, and sandstone canyons that make for a mind-boggling site. Starting at Panguitch and ending in Torrey, there are few entry and exit points, just miles of gorgeous natural sites.
Look out for the two red arches in Red Canyon, the distinct Grand Staircase Monument, lush pine groves at Boulder Mountain, and the enigmatic deserts near Capitol Reef.
The Pacific Northwest
Experience the best of the Pacific Northwest on this road trip through Oregon and Washington. The best time to plan a road trip here is between July and October. All the significant hotspots are accessible during this time, which might not be the case during some of the other months.
Drive along the rugged coastline, stop in charming seaside towns, and explore vibrant cities like Portland and Seattle. Take in the breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and visit iconic landmarks such as Multnomah Falls and Cannon Beach for an unforgettable journey.
Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s 34.5-mile Kancamagus Highway is a sight for sore eyes during autumn. You’ll pass through dwindling roads with orange and yellow leaves lining gigantic trees, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
From the Rocky Gorge and Lower Falls waterfalls to the panoramic views from the Franconia Notch State Park to the delicious boozy beverages from the Tuckerman Brewing Company, this scenic byway is a great way to get some much-needed rest.
The Grand Circle, Southwest USA
Get ready for an adventure through some of the most iconic national parks in the United States on the Grand Circle road trip. The journey takes about eleven to fifteen days, so plan your work leaves accordingly.
This 1,400-mile loop will take you through Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico, where you’ll see stunning landscapes such as the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and Monument Valley. This road trip is a must for nature lovers.
The Great Lakes Circle Tour
Embark on a scenic drive around the beautiful Great Lakes, passing through Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario in Canada. This 6,500-mile journey will take you to charming small towns, stunning state parks, and bustling cities like Chicago and Toronto.
Remember to stop and admire the breathtaking views of the Great Lakes, with their pristine water, rocky boulders, and views that transport you to another realm.
The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota
Take a trip through time on this road trip through South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands. Drive through winding roads surrounded by towering pine trees, see iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, and explore the rugged landscapes of Badlands National Park. And don’t forget to try some delicious buffalo burgers along the way.
The Texas Hill Country
Experience the true spirit of Texas on a road trip through the picturesque Hill Country region. This destination is perfect for people who love animals because you’ll find Reptile Gardens, Bear County, and many wildlife hotspots along the way.
Drive past rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming small towns with their own unique character. Stop for some authentic Texan BBQ, visit historical sites like the Alamo, and take a dip in the famous Hamilton Pool. This road trip will leave you with a newfound appreciation for Texas.
The Dalton Highway, Alaska
For the ultimate off-the-grid adventure, embark on a journey along the remote Dalton Highway in Alaska. Spanning over 400 miles from Fairbanks to Deadhorse, this road trip takes you through some of the world’s most remote and untouched landscapes. As you drive through the rugged terrain, look for wildlife such as grizzly bears and caribou.
While the route is gorgeous, remember to be fully prepared for the bumpy journey. The area is remote and has tough roads that can be difficult to navigate.
Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive
Explore all that the beautiful island of Hawaii has to offer on a scenic road trip around its perimeter. If you don’t pop by the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Volcano Art Center, you’ll miss some of the most exciting activities.
From stunning beaches to breathtaking waterfalls and active volcanoes to lush rainforests, this drive has it all. Don’t forget to stop and try some local Hawaiian cuisine along the way, such as poke bowls and shaved ice.
Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive
This road trip from Seattle to Fairbanks takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Visit Leavenworth, a Bavarian-style village located in the Cascade Mountains, and check out the historical architecture of Skagway on your way.
You will also drive through charming towns, see majestic mountains, and catch glimpses of wildlife like bald eagles and moose. And, of course, no trip to Alaska would be complete without a stop at Denali National Park.
Conclusion
While all the routes offer a riveting experience, the ultimate choice depends on what you’re looking for. Some are better for a relaxing getaway with magnificent sites and breathtaking scenery. In contrast, others are filled with activities and adrenaline-packed escapades ideal for people tired of the same old boring routine.
Plan your road trip properly and have a well-thought-out itinerary so you get plenty of rest, delicious food, and tons of fun. Be sure to pack water bottles for remote areas and save those Google Maps on your phone in case of network issues. If you’ve gotten all this down, no one can stop you from having a blast.
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