Top 10 Scenic Road Trips in the USA for an Unforgettable Adventure

There’s nothing quite like an American road trip – cruising the open highway with stunning landscapes unfolding around you, freedom on four wheels, and new discoveries around every bend. From coastal highways to mountain passes, the USA is crisscrossed by scenic routes that rank among the world’s greatest driving adventures. In this guide, we’ve curated the top 10 scenic road trips in the United States, covering diverse regions and vistas. Whether you crave ocean views, red-rock canyons, lush forests, or rolling plains, there’s a dream drive on this list for you. Each road trip entry includes why it’s epic, highlights to see, suggested itineraries or stops, and tips to make the most of your journey. Start your engines – an unforgettable adventure awaits!

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California Highway 1) – California’s Iconic Coastal Drive

Overview

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California Highway 1, is arguably America’s most famous scenic drive. Winding along ~600 miles of California’s coastline, the most celebrated stretch is between San Francisco and Los Angeles, especially through Big Sur. Picture driving atop cliffs with the Pacific Ocean crashing below, passing stunning beaches, quaint coastal towns, and landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge (an engineering marvel often seen in postcards) and McWay Falls (a waterfall cascading onto a beach). This route offers a feast for the eyes at every turn – from the dramatic Santa Lucia Mountains meeting the sea in Big Sur to the serene beauty of Monterey Bay and the art community of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Highlights & Stops:

Start in San Francisco, heading south across the Golden Gate (though the PCH technically starts in Mendocino County north of SF, many begin in the city). Don’t miss the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach near Monterey (small toll but worth it for views). In Monterey, visit the historic Cannery Row or Monterey Bay Aquarium. As you drive through Big Sur, stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see McWay Falls, and pull over at various lookout points. Nepenthe café is a famous stop for a meal with a view. Further south, San Simeon offers the opulent Hearst Castle tour, and you can see elephant seals at Piedras Blancas. Continuing, enjoy the beaches of Pismo Beach or Santa Barbara (“the American Riviera”) as you approach the LA area.

Tips From The Daily Dive:

This road is best driven north to south so you’re on the ocean side for easier pull-offs to scenic viewpoints. Plan for a leisurely pace – the highway is winding and often slow. Fog can be common, especially in summer mornings; starting mid-day can help visibility. Make sure your brakes and car are in good shape for hairpin turns. Summer is popular, but spring (wildflowers on the hills) and fall (clearer skies) can be even better with slightly fewer tourists. If you have time, extend the trip north of San Francisco to see the Redwood forests along the northern PCH. This journey is about the drive as much as the destinations, so roll down the windows and savor that fresh ocean air. We cover the Pacific Coast Highway in our 10 Most Stunning Views in California article, highlighting must-see vistas like Big Sur – check it out for more detailed tips on viewpoints​

2. Route 66 – The Great American Road Trip

Overview:

No road trip list is complete without the historic Route 66. Known as “America’s Mother Road,” Route 66 is the classic cross-country drive stretching ~2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. While the old highway was decommissioned and replaced by interstates, you can still follow much of its path on drivable segments signed as “Historic Route 66.” This journey is less about natural scenery (though there’s plenty) and more about the quirky Americana and nostalgia: retro diners, vintage motels with neon signs, kitschy roadside attractions, and small towns that time forgot. It’s a drive through American 20th-century history and heartland culture.

Highlights & Stops:

Kick off in Chicago, Illinois, and head southwesterly. In Illinois, stop at the Gemini Giant statue in Wilmington (one of many fiberglass “Muffler Men” on 66). Cross the Mississippi into Missouri – perhaps visit St. Louis (get a photo of the Gateway Arch) or drive through the Route 66 State Park. In Oklahoma, pop into Tulsa or the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton for history. Texas offers the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo (graffiti-covered cars stuck nose-first in the ground) and a chance for a big steak at the Big Texan. New Mexico and Arizona feature stunning high desert scenery: Albuquerque’s old town, the sandstone bluffs of Petrified Forest National Park (which Historic 66 passes through) and Holbrook, AZ – home of the Wigwam Motel (sleep in a teepee-shaped room!). Don’t miss Williams, AZ, a gateway to the Grand Canyon, and the kitschy charm of Seligman, AZ, where Angel Delgadillo’s historic barber shop sparked the Route 66 preservation. Finally, cruise into California, through the Mojave Desert, past the ghost town of Calico, and end at the Santa Monica Pier with its sign “End of the Trail.”

Tips From The Daily Dive:

Route 66 is about the journey, so allow at least 2 weeks to truly enjoy it. Many original segments are off the interstate; use a Route 66-specific map or app to stay on course. Some stretches, especially out West, are remote – keep an eye on your fuel and carry water, especially in the desert. Embrace the roadside attractions; even the “cheesy” ones (like giant statues or Route 66 museums) tell the story of the highway. The best time is spring or fall – summer can be extremely hot in the Southwest, and winter might bring snow in Midwest/high elevations. Check out local events: some towns host Route 66 festivals or car shows. For enthusiasts, we have a dedicated piece on Route 66 Roadside Attractions to guide you on the must-see pit stops.

3. Blue Ridge Parkway – Appalachian Mountain Beauty

Overview:

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a serene, scenic drive through the Appalachian Highlands, stretching 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. It’s often called “America’s Favorite Drive.” Unlike highways built for speed, the Parkway is a leisurely route with a speed limit around 45 mph, designed purely for sightseeing. Travelers are treated to rolling mountain ridges draped in blue haze, lush valleys, and overlooks at every turn. In spring, wildflowers and blooming dogwoods line the road; in fall, it’s one of the best fall foliage drives in the country with fiery reds and golds blanketing the mountains.

Highlights & Stops:

In Virginia, you might begin near Skyline Drive in Shenandoah (Skyline Drive is essentially the Parkway’s northern continuation through Shenandoah NP). Must-stop points include Mabry Mill (an oft-photographed old grist mill, where you can also get pancakes at the restaurant), and Rocky Knob and Peaks of Otter for lovely hikes and views. Crossing into North Carolina, you’ll find the majestic Linville Gorge area – stop at Linville Falls (short hike to multiple viewpoints of a beautiful waterfall) and Linville Caverns if you have time. Further south, Grandfather Mountain (accessed via a short detour) offers a mile-high swinging bridge and nature preserve. The stretch around Asheville, NC is a highlight: here you can detour to visit the famous Biltmore Estate or stay on the parkway to see Mount Mitchell State Park, which boasts the highest peak in the Eastern U.S. (accessible by a short walk from the parking area – you can drive nearly to the top). Near the end, the Oconaluftee area leads into Great Smoky Mountains NP.

Tips From The Daily Dive:

The Blue Ridge Parkway has many overlooks – plan to stop frequently, and bring a picnic for lunch with a view. In fall, especially October weekends, the Parkway gets very busy with leaf-peepers; weekdays or slightly earlier in the season (late Sept) may be less congested. Weather can vary with elevation – a sunny day in the valley can be foggy on ridges. Portions of the Parkway close in winter for snow, and even in spring/fall, temporary closures can occur due to downed trees or maintenance, so check the National Park Service updates if traveling in shoulder seasons. Gas, food, and lodging are available in communities along the route (the parkway itself has limited services), so plan exits accordingly. This drive isn’t about making time; it’s about immersing yourself in Appalachia’s natural beauty and maybe catching some mountain music or culture in towns like Asheville or Boone along the way.

4. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys) – Island-Hopping on the Open Sea

Overview:

For a completely different vibe, the Overseas Highway (U.S. Hwy 1 through the Florida Keys) offers a sun-soaked tropical road trip “island hopping” from mainland Florida all the way to Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S. In this 113-mile journey from Miami area (Florida City) to Key West, you’ll drive across 42 bridges over turquoise water, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge. It’s a mix of stunning ocean panoramas, kitschy roadside stops (think tiki bars and shell shops), and the laid-back charm of the Keys. This drive is relatively short – you can do it in a few hours – but you’ll want to stretch it out over a full day or more to savor the unique atmosphere and attractions of each Key.

Highlights & Stops:

Starting from the mainland, you’ll enter Key Largo – known for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where you can go snorkeling or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the only living coral reef in the continental US. Further along in Islamorada, stop at Robbie’s Marina where you can feed tarpon fish (a classic Keys activity) and grab conch fritters at the Hungry Tarpon. As you continue, the sea views get better and better. The Seven Mile Bridge (around Marathon Key) is a highlight – pull off just before it at Veterans Memorial Park on Little Duck Key for a picnic and swim. On Big Pine Key, watch for the tiny endangered Key deer (especially around dawn/dusk). As you approach Key West, consider a stop at Bahia Honda State Park – it has one of the Keys’ best sandy beaches and remnants of the old Overseas Railroad bridge for a photo op. Finally, in Key West, enjoy the lively Duval Street, visit the Hemingway House (with its six-toed cats), and catch the famous Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. You’ve reached Mile Marker 0!

Tips From The Daily Dive:

The Overseas Highway can be driven year-round. Winter (Dec–Feb) offers perfect weather (warm, low humidity) but is high season for tourists escaping the cold – expect more traffic and higher prices. Summer is hot and humid, with an almost daily chance of thunderstorms, and it’s hurricane season (be aware of weather forecasts). That said, summer sees fewer tourists and you can enjoy uncrowded beaches. Keep in mind the drive is mostly single-lane each way; traffic can back up on weekends or holidays. Patience is key (pun intended) – embrace the slow pace. Book lodging in advance if you plan to stay overnight, especially in Key West. And fuel up before you’re on E; while there are gas stations throughout, some stretches are long over water. If you’re craving more adventure, plenty of side activities await – from kayaking mangrove tunnels to fishing charters. But even just cruising with the windows down and island music playing, you’ll understand why many call the Overseas Highway the road trip of a lifetime for ocean lovers.

5. Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks Road Trip – Red Rock Wonders

Overview:

Southern Utah is a road tripper’s dream, boasting five national parks in relatively close proximity, each with its own stunning red-rock landscapes. A loop through Utah’s “Mighty 5” – Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands – will leave you in awe of natural arches, hoodoos, canyons, and cliffs. This roughly 600-mile circuit (starting and ending in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, for instance) is one of the most scenic multi-park road trips in the country. It’s ideal for those who want to pack a lot of epic scenery into one trip.

Highlights & Stops:

A common route begins in Las Vegas, NV, from which Zion is ~2.5 hours. We covered Zion National Park in the earlier article section – after Zion, head to Bryce Canyon National Park (about 2 hours from Zion). Bryce’s unique hoodoo rock spires are best seen from viewpoints like Bryce Point or by hiking among them on the Navajo Loop trail. Next, drive Scenic Byway 12 (itself a gorgeous drive over Boulder Mountain and through Grand Staircase-Escalante) to Capitol Reef National Park. Capitol Reef is quieter but features the Waterpocket Fold (a giant wrinkle in the earth’s crust), orchards in historic Fruita where you can pick fruit in season, and striking white sandstone domes (like Capitol Dome). Continue to Moab, Utah, which is adventure-central and base for both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

In Arches, you’ll do the famous Delicate Arch hike and see other formations (we detailed Arches in the Parks article). Canyonlands has three districts; Island in the Sky (closest to Moab) offers easy access to grand overlooks (like Mesa Arch for sunrise, and Grand View Point). If you have time, also explore Dead Horse Point State Park nearby for a gooseneck bend of the Colorado River. Loop back toward your start or continue to Salt Lake to finish.

Tips:

This trip is best in spring (April-May) or fall (Sept-Oct), avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the potential snow of winter. Each park could easily be a multi-day visit, but for a loop trip, plan at least 7-10 days. Try to spend at least one night near or in each park to experience sunrise/sunset (the rocks light up brilliantly at those times). Purchase a National Parks Pass to cover all entries. Be prepared with water and snacks – some parks (Capitol Reef, Canyonlands) have limited services. And bring a good camera; you’ll encounter some of the darkest night skies in the country in these parks (especially Capitol Reef and Canyonlands), perfect for astrophotography.

6. Great River Road (Mississippi River Road Trip) – Following the Mississippi

Overview:

The Great River Road isn’t a single road but a designated route following the course of the Mississippi River for 2,000+ miles from its source at Lake Itasca in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. Marked by green pilot’s wheel signs in each state, the Great River Road takes you through 10 states along America’s mightiest river, showcasing the country’s heartland, history, and diverse landscapes. From the north woods and bluffs of the Upper Mississippi to the plantations and bayous of the Deep South, this is a road trip rich in scenery and Americana.

Highlights & Stops:

In the north, start at Lake Itasca State Park, MN, where you can walk across the headwaters of the Mississippi – a small stream you can practically jump over. As you drive south through Minnesota and Wisconsin, enjoy river towns like Minneapolis/St. Paul (visit the Mississippi National River & Recreation Area and St. Anthony Falls), La Crosse, WI, and Dubuque, IA – these areas have beautiful blufftop views (like Grandad Bluff in La Crosse) and lock-and-dam systems for riverboats. In Illinois/Missouri, don’t miss St. Louis with its Gateway Arch and riverfront park. Further south, Memphis, TN offers blues and barbecue by the river (plus Graceland a short drive away). In the Mississippi Delta region, you’ll drive past cotton fields and through historic towns like Vicksburg (Civil War sites) and Natchez (antebellum homes on bluffs overlooking the river). Finally, Louisiana beckons: Baton Rouge’s capitol and riverfront, and at the end of the road, New Orleans – where the Mississippi meets the Gulf, and the culture is vibrant. You can actually continue all the way to Venice, LA (often considered the end of the Great River Road) for a true “river’s end” experience in the coastal wetlands.

Tips:

This is a long journey – many do it in segments. Even if you can’t do the entire route, driving smaller portions (like Minnesota to St. Louis, or Memphis to New Orleans) is rewarding. Autumn brings stunning foliage to the upper Mississippi region; spring offers pleasant weather and high water levels with potential floodplain lakes. Summer is great for festivals (many river towns have festivals and riverboat cruises). Pack some Americana music playlists – blues, jazz, country – to set the mood as you roll through the musical heart of the country (from Memphis blues to New Orleans jazz). And definitely try local cuisine along the way: cheese curds and pie up north, barbecue in the mid-south, Cajun/Creole food in Louisiana. The Great River Road is well-marked, but have a good map as it sometimes merges with interstates or splits into east/west bank options. By the end, you’ll have a deep appreciation for the Mississippi’s influence on American geography and culture.

7. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Glacier National Park, MT) – Alpine Thrills in Big Sky Country

Overview:

Going-to-the-Sun Road is a spectacular 50-mile highway that cuts through the heart of Glacier National Park in Montana. It’s shorter than other drives on this list, but its impact is huge: this engineering marvel climbs over the Continental Divide at Logan Pass (6,646 ft), offering jaw-dropping views of glacier-carved valleys, turquoise lakes, and jagged mountain peaks. It’s often considered one of the most scenic mountain roads in the world. A road trip here means immersing yourself in the wild beauty of the northern Rockies – you might even spot mountain goats or bighorn sheep right by the roadside at Logan Pass.

Highlights & Stops:

Starting on the west side at West Glacier, you’ll drive along Lake McDonald’s shores (pull off to admire this long, clear lake reflecting mountains). As the road gains elevation, you’ll traverse the famed Garden Wall section – cliffs draped with waterfalls and wildflowers. At Logan Pass, stop at the visitor center and take a stroll on the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail or just revel in the alpine meadow views where wildlife often roams. Heading down the east side, you’ll pass Jackson Glacier Overlook (one of the few easily seen glaciers from the road) and then drive between the picturesque St. Mary Lake and Wild Goose Island (a great photo op). End at St. Mary on the park’s east side. If time permits, many travelers then explore Many Glacier or Two Medicine areas of the park by detouring north or south from St. Mary.

Tips:

Going-to-the-Sun Road is typically only fully open from late June/early July through early October, due to heavy snowfall in winter (in fact, snowplows take weeks to clear the road each spring). Check Glacier NP’s official updates for opening status. In peak summer, a ticketed entry system is now in place (much like other popular parks) – you may need a reservation to drive the road during daylight hours, so plan ahead. The road is winding and narrow in spots (vehicles over 21 feet long or 10 feet high are not allowed due to tight switchbacks), so RVs have to take alternative routes. If heights make you nervous, note you’ll be driving on the outside cliff edge when going east to west; consider west to east if that’s a concern, or use the park’s shuttle system. Bring layers – it can be 20°F cooler at Logan Pass than at lower elevations, and weather can change quickly. Lastly, start early in the morning to avoid traffic and secure parking at Logan Pass; plus, sunrise lighting on the peaks is phenomenal. This might be a single-road trip, but it encapsulates the grandeur of the Rockies in one unforgettable drive.

8. Anchorage to Seward (Alaska’s Seward Highway) – Alaskan Fjords and Mountains

Overview:

For something truly wild, the drive from Anchorage to Seward in Alaska via the Seward Highway (AK-1 to AK-9) offers 125 miles of epic Alaskan scenery. In just a few hours, this road trip packs in towering mountains, a beautiful coastal inlet, glaciers, and chances to see wildlife from the road. It’s a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park at the journey’s end in Seward. While shorter than continental US drives, the Seward Highway is designated an All-American Road for its outstanding scenic and recreational qualities. Think of it as a concentrated dose of Alaska’s grandeur accessible by car.

Highlights & Stops:

Heading south from Anchorage, the highway first skirts the edge of Turnagain Arm, a narrow fjord-like inlet. You’re flanked by water on one side and Chugach Mountains on the other. Keep an eye out for beluga whales in the inlet (especially in late summer when they chase salmon runs) and Dall sheep on the cliffs above. Stop at Beluga Point Lookout for a chance to spot these white whales or to see the impressive bore tide (a wave that occasionally rolls down the Arm). Further along, consider a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (near Portage) – it’s right off the highway and allows you to see bears, moose, musk oxen, and more up close in a natural setting (great if wildlife hasn’t cooperated in the wild!). Nearby, a side road takes you to Portage Glacier – you can view it across a lake or take a short boat tour to its face. Back on the main highway, you’ll climb through scenic passes; if it’s a clear day, stop at Tern Lake (junction with the road to Homer) for a tranquil mountain reflection. As you approach Seward, the road descends towards Resurrection Bay. In Seward, don’t miss Kenai Fjords National Park – either hike to Exit Glacier or take a boat tour to see marine wildlife and calving glaciers in the fjords. The small harbor town of Seward is charming, with the excellent Alaska SeaLife Center to visit as well.

Tips:

Summer is the prime time (May through early September) – long daylight hours and mostly snow-free roads. June and July wildflowers add color; August might have more rain. The road is well-maintained, but be prepared for possible rain or even fog near the coast. Take your time – even though it’s relatively short, you’ll want to stop often for photos. Fill up on gas in Anchorage or Girdwood (a ski resort town en route) as services are sparse in between. Note that this is bear country; if you venture on any trails (like at Exit Glacier or viewpoints), carry bear spray and make noise. Lastly, consider extending your road trip by continuing onto the Kenai Peninsula – the drive to Homer (from the Tern Lake junction) is another stunner, showcasing rivers and volcano views. Alaska road trips redefine majestic, and this one is a perfect sampler of coastal and mountain Alaska.

9. New England Fall Foliage Tour (Vermont’s Route 100 & Kancamagus Highway) – Autumn Colors in the Northeast

Overview:

While not a single road, a combined route through Vermont and New Hampshire during autumn creates a quintessential New England road trip renowned for brilliant fall foliage. Two prime segments are Vermont’s Route 100 (running north-south almost the length of the state, often called Vermont’s Main Street) and New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) through the White Mountains. By linking these, you’ll experience charming villages, covered bridges, farms, and mountain vistas under a canopy of reds, oranges, and golds. In fall, this region looks like a postcard at every turn.

Highlights & Stops:

In Vermont, Route 100 winds through the Green Mountains. If you start around Woodstock, VT (a beautiful village with a famous covered bridge and boutique shops), you can head north on 100. Pass through Killington (a ski town) and Stowe further north (another classic village overlooked by Mount Mansfield – Vermont’s highest peak, which can be reached via a toll road or gondola for a panoramic view). Along Route 100, look out for maple syrup farms, country stores selling local cheese and cider, and photo ops like mossy-covered bridges (e.g., Warren Covered Bridge near Waitsfield). Next, head east into New Hampshire’s White Mountains – the Kancamagus Highway (nicknamed “The Kanc”) between Lincoln and Conway, NH is a 34-mile scenic byway that cuts through the White Mountain National Forest with no services, just pure nature. Highlights on the Kanc include Sabbaday Falls (short hike to a pretty waterfall), Rocky Gorge, and numerous overlooks like C.L. Graham Wangan Ground (vistas of endless trees). At Conway, you could loop back toward Vermont or extend your tour to include a drive up Mount Washington Auto Road (if open – a steep drive up the Northeast’s tallest mountain) or visit Franconia Notch State Park (with sights like Flume Gorge and the aerial tram at Cannon Mountain).

Tips:

Timing is everything for fall colors. In northern New England, peak foliage typically occurs from late September to early October, starting in late Sept in the far north and higher elevations, and early to mid Oct in lower elevations/southern areas. Check foliage reports each year, since it varies. Expect crowds – leaf peeping season draws many visitors, so book accommodations well in advance and be prepared for slower traffic on scenic roads, especially on weekends. It’s worth it, though – the colors are that spectacular. Drive slowly and be cautious of people pulling over (or stopping) to take photos. Pack layers, as autumn days can be mild but nights chilly. And don’t forget to enjoy local seasonal treats: hot apple cider, cider donuts, pumpkin pie, and of course Vermont maple syrup. This road trip isn’t just about pretty leaves; it’s a full sensory experience of New England’s fall.

10. The Oregon Trail Road Trip (Wyoming to Oregon via I-80/ID-OR 20) – History and High Desert Landscapes

Overview:

For history buffs and lovers of wide-open spaces, following the general path of the Oregon Trail offers a meaningful road trip. The original Oregon Trail was the 19th-century wagon route from the Missouri River to Oregon’s Willamette Valley. In a modern car, one scenic and historic-rich portion to drive is from Wyoming through Idaho into Oregon, roughly paralleling the pioneers’ route. You’ll traverse the high deserts, plains, and river valleys that the pioneers did – but in far more comfort – and you can stop at numerous historic sites and natural wonders along the way.

Highlights & Stops:

Start at Fort Laramie, Wyoming (if coming from the east/Midwest), a key frontier outpost in Oregon Trail days, then head west to Independence Rock along Wyoming’s Route 220 – this large granite rock is where many pioneers carved their names (think of it as a pioneer register) and is still covered in graffiti from the 1800s. Continue to South Pass area (the easy saddle in the Rockies that wagons crossed – today near highway 28 in WY with interpretive signs). As you enter Idaho, you might roughly follow I-84. Stop at Fort Hall (near Pocatello) or the replica in town, another important trading post. The Snake River Plain in Idaho offers volcanic wonders – detour to Craters of the Moon National Monument off US-20, a surreal landscape of lava flows pioneers had to skirt. In Idaho’s Magic Valley, visit Shoshone Falls (often called the “Niagara of the West”) in Twin Falls. Crossing into Oregon, you could follow US-20 through Oregon’s eastern desert: stop at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center near Baker City, OR, which has excellent exhibits and even visible wagon ruts on the hills. Farther west, the landscape greens as you enter the Columbia River Gorge – the official’s trail end was the Willamette Valley, but many continued down the Columbia. In the Gorge area, the scenery changes to lush waterfalls and cliffs. End near Oregon City (south of Portland), historically the end of the Oregon Trail, where pioneers would file land claims. There’s an Oregon Trail’s End interpretive center there too.

Tips:

This journey is a mix of interstate (for speed) and scenic byways for specific sights. Summer is best for weather, as winters in Wyoming/Idaho can be harsh and some historic sites might be buried in snow or inaccessible. Distances in the West are vast – keep the gas tank topped up, especially on US-20 in Oregon which is very remote in stretches. Use this trip as a chance to reflect on history: many sites have preserved wagon ruts, grave markers, or forts – it’s quite moving to see these in person. If you have kids, involving them with an “Oregon Trail” checklist or game can make it fun (perhaps playing the classic Oregon Trail game before or during the trip!). And of course, take time to enjoy the natural scenery too – the rolling prairies, mountain backdrops, and sunsets over the plains that haven’t changed much since wagon days. This road trip gives a profound appreciation for the pioneer journey and the land they crossed.

Road Trip Planning Tips:

Whichever scenic drive you choose, a bit of planning goes a long way. Here are some general tips for a successful road trip:

• Plan Your Route but Allow Flexibility: Map out your main stops and overnight locations, but leave room for spontaneous detours. Sometimes a roadside fruit stand or a quirky museum in a small town becomes a cherished memory.
• Check Road Conditions: Especially for mountain or seasonal roads (like Going-to-the-Sun or Blue Ridge Parkway), look up current conditions or closures. Carry paper maps in case of spotty GPS.
• Pack Essentials for the Car: Water, snacks, a first aid kit, flashlight, and a car charger for your phone. If you’re in remote areas (Utah, Alaska, etc.), have extra food, water, and even a gas can. Our Best Budget Travel Hacks article has a checklist that, while aimed at saving money, includes smart packing tips for any traveler.

• Book Key Experiences Ahead: If you plan to do special activities (like a sunrise ticket for Cadillac Mountain or a ferry in Alaska, or a national park lodge stay), reserve in advance. Likewise, popular national park campgrounds or accommodations on scenic routes (like lodges along Blue Ridge Parkway) can fill up quickly.
• Safety: Take breaks if you’re tired – switch drivers or stretch at rest stops. In backcountry areas, let someone know your route and ETA. Keep your gas tank above quarter full in unfamiliar stretches.
• Enjoy the Journey: Remember, road tripping is as much about the journey as the destination. Play your favorite tunes or podcasts, engage with locals at little diners, and snap photos but also take time to unplug and soak in the views. Each of these scenic drives offers a unique slice of American landscape and culture, so relish it!

By focusing on these top 10 scenic road trips in the USA, you’re sure to find inspiration for your next highway adventure. Whether it’s cruising the California coast, winding through mountain passes, or following the path of pioneers, the open road is calling. Happy driving!

FAQ: Great American Road Trips