15 of the Best Road Trips in the USA

Before you reach Sin City, the Las Vegas Loop leads you through some of the best national parks on the Colorado Plateau. Starting at the Grand Canyon in Arizona, schedule a 7–10 day excursion. The soaring rock formations and steep-sided chasms are a breathtaking sight here. From that point on, vivid red sands and striking shapes envelop the Oljato-Monument Valley. See the sun set over Arches National Park, which is close to Moab. During magic hour, the nearly 2,000 naturally occurring arches and the smooth red sandstone provide for stunning photos. The miles-long assemblage of vibrant rock spires that make up Bryce Canyon National Park is unique. Before making your way to the dazzling lights of the Las Vegas Strip, take advantage of the clear skies and take part in some late-night stargazing.

Experience the ancient charm of Charleston, South Carolina, and wind through Savannah, Georgia, with its beautiful lanes covered in Spanish moss, as you set off on a 700-mile adventure through the American South. Spend about a week delving into the region’s rich past and vibrant culture. In Atlanta, allocate two days to explore key sites of the civil rights movement and the city's dynamic urban core. This road trip not only traverses beautiful landscapes but also offers a profound exploration of the American spirit and its deep-rooted history.

Florida's coastal road trip stretches approximately 500 miles from the lively streets of Miami to the relaxed atmosphere of the Florida Keys, with a crucial stop at the Everglades National Park. This route can be comfortably driven in 7-10 days, allowing ample time for beach activities, urban exploration, and nature encounters. Experience the urban excitement of Miami, the serene beaches of the Keys, and the unique ecosystem of the Everglades, which covers over 1.5 million acres of tropical and subtropical habitat.

Covering about 1,000 miles, the Lone Star Loop is a comprehensive tour of Texas' major cities and attractions. Starting in Houston, dedicate a couple of days to exploring the Space Center and vibrant city life. In Austin, immerse yourself in the live music scene and culinary delights for at least two days before heading to San Antonio to visit the historic Alamo and stroll along the River Walk. Finish in Dallas, where a vibrant arts district and dynamic downtown area await. Plan for a road trip lasting around two weeks to fully experience the diverse cultures and rich history of Texas.

This 800-mile circuit takes you through the heartland of the Midwest, starting in the architectural marvel that is Chicago, Illinois. Spend a few days enjoying the city's museums, parks, and lakefront attractions. Continue through Wisconsin’s rolling hills, ideal for a day or two of tasting local cheeses and enjoying craft beers. In Minnesota, allocate a day to explore the expansive Mall of America. This road trip offers a week-long immersion into the Midwest's agricultural roots, community spirit, and simple pleasures, providing a genuine slice of American life.

Travelling through the Colorado Plateau is similar to going back in time. This area offers a special fusion of history and scenic beauty and is rich in archaeological sites. Spend a week exploring ancient Native American architecture at places like Chaco Canyon and Canyons of the Ancients. Don't miss the extensive rock art in 9 Mile Canyon, often referred to as the World's Longest Art Gallery. Drive down the scenic Highway 12 to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Park for stunning geological formations. Wrap up your trip with visits to the photogenic Antelope Canyon and the impactful Meteor Crater. This route is a goldmine for anyone keen on history or nature.

The Pacific Coast Highway stretches from the sunny beaches of San Diego to the misty forests of Washington's Olympic Peninsula. This iconic route is a patchwork of stunning seascapes, lush forests, and vibrant cities. Highlights include the pristine wilderness of Olympic National Park and the quirky cheese factories in Tillamook, Oregon. Enjoy the varied beauties of California as you travel through it, from the lively cityscapes of Los Angeles to the charming seaside communities. A must-see on this beach excursion is Big Sur, so make sure to photograph its breathtaking views.

Route 66, once dubbed the Main Street of America, offers a quintessential American road trip experience from Chicago to Los Angeles. This historic route covers over 2,000 miles of American heartland and culture. If time is limited, focus on memorable segments like the stretch through Oklahoma, where you can explore the Great Plains and discover unique roadside attractions. Highlights include the vibrant murals in Tucumcari and the classic Americana of vintage diners and gas stations still in operation today.

Experience the magic of fall along Highway 100 in Vermont, known for its breathtaking mountain views. The route offers numerous stops for tasting local specialties like craft beers and maple syrup. Extend your trip through Massachusetts via Highway 8 to explore contemporary art and follow the historic Mohawk Trail. Timing your visit in autumn allows for stunning photography opportunities, with landscapes painted in vibrant hues of gold, orange, and red. This scenic drive encapsulates the charm of New England.

Follow the course of the Mississippi River from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico on the Great River Road. This ten-state journey showcases the best of the American landscape and culture. Start with the great outdoors in Minnesota, known for excellent fishing and local shopping. As you head south, enjoy picturesque views and vibrant river towns. A stop in Memphis is a must for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Conclude your adventure in New Orleans, immersing yourself in its rich history and distinctive cuisine. This route offers a slice of America's heart and soul.

Take a breathtaking 1,200-mile journey through the Northern Rockies, starting in the rugged terrains of Idaho and stretching across Montana to Wyoming. Give yourself roughly ten days to experience the breathtaking landscape and charming cities to the fullest. Explore the expansive wilderness areas of Idaho, including the Sawtooth National Forest, before heading into Montana to visit the awe-inspiring Glacier National Park. Conclude your adventure in Wyoming with a visit to the iconic Yellowstone National Park, covering over 2.2 million acres of volcanic hotspots and rich wildlife habitats.

Spend a relaxing week touring 400 miles across the world-famous wine regions of California. Start your journey in the Napa Valley by touring its vineyards and tasting top-notch wines. Travel through Sonoma County, where you can compare its offerings to those of Napa and enjoy the local gourmet food scene. Extend your journey to the less travelled but equally charming vineyards of the Central Coast. This route is not just about wine tasting—it's also a culinary adventure, pairing exquisite meals with perfectly aged wines.

Drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching over 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands of Virginia and North Carolina. Plan for about 7 days to take in the breathtaking vistas and rich history of the region. The parkway is famous for its stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains, especially during the fall foliage season. Stop at various overlooks and historic sites, and take time to hike some of the trailheads that branch off from the parkway, offering a closer look at the natural beauty.

Explore the Southern charm and warm hospitality of the Gulf Coast on this 600-mile road trip from New Orleans, Louisiana, to the sandy beaches of Clearwater, Florida. Spend approximately 10 days enjoying the distinct flavours of the region—from the vibrant music scenes in New Orleans and the historic sites of Mobile, Alabama, to the relaxed beach towns along Florida's coast. This journey offers a blend of cultural experiences and leisurely beach days, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to soak up the sun and southern culture.

Set out on an 800-mile journey that begins and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, across the centre of the American Southwest.This 10-day adventure takes you through some of the most iconic desert landscapes, including Death Valley National Park, the Mojave Desert, and the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Experience the stark beauty of these landscapes, discover the unique flora and fauna, and explore the rich Native American heritage of the region. This loop is ideal for those fascinated by rugged landscapes and ancient cultures.