us road trip tips

25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

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Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. 🙂 We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. 🙂 We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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Road Trip Tips: 21 Mistakes to Avoid When on a USA Road Trip

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Taking a road trip around the USA , or anywhere, will be one of the most epic and memorable trips you’ll take—no doubt.

So don’t F it up…

JK—No pressure. I got your back with all the road trip tips and everything you should NOT do on your trip. This way, you can have more time for fun, snapping pics, chasing waterfalls, hiking to viewpoints, and so many other amazing activities!

Make this a trip to remember with these road trip tips. Learn now, and have fun later. It’s easy! I’ve done a ton of road trips in the USA and around the world, and these are some of my best road trip tips and mistakes to avoid for you to keep in mind.

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Table of Contents

1. DON’T Wait for Gas

Resources for your trip:, 2. don’t underestimate the cost of gas, 3. don’t forget to carry cash, 4. don’t forget about music, 5. don’t be unrealistic with your time, 6. don’t sleep in, 7. don’t buy water and don’t forget to fill up often, 8. don’t forget to download maps (one of the easy road trip tips to forget), 9. don’t assume all roads are paved, 10. don’t get fancy with your meals, 11. don’t be disorganized, 12. don’t plan too much… or too little…, 13. don’t assume all roads will be open, 14. don’t drive at night (a road trip tip for safety), 15. don’t choose the wrong person to go with, 16. don’t underestimate the size of the usa, 17. don’t forget to roll with the punches, 18. don’t forget to check on the season (and not just for what to pack), 19. don’t be a jackass and have fun, 20. don’t forget to insure yourself (and your car), 21. don’t rent the wrong vehicle for your trip (perhaps the most important road trip tip), 17 legendary american road trips, your southwest road trip itinerary (1 week - 2 months), your adventurous arizona road trip, your adventurous utah road trip, seattle to san francisco west coast road trip adventures and waterfalls, your adventurous montana road trip, road trip tips—what not to do on your road trip.

Fill up here, fill up there, fill up ev-ry-where!

The next gas station could be lightyears away in many states around the US.

If you’re the adventurous type who wants to wander down random roads and who will detour in a split second, fill up when you can.

If you don’t, guess who needs to say goodbye to adventurous detours? YOU.

Make sure to fill up at the half tank every time if you can. I often pretend the last half doesn’t count. What did using this road trip tip result in? Never having to worry about running out of gas. That’s a win!

RELATED: 17 Legendary American Road Trips

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Going on from my last thought, unfortunately, this may mean you are stuck paying higher prices for gas because you’re in the middle of nowhere-land, and they are charging the same prices as the bigger towns PLUS your firstborn child.

Sorry little Billy, I sold you for gas money…

Seriously though, small towns are pricier, you may have to pay the price, but you could also top up for just a few bucks to make it safely to the next big town/city.

Either way, inflate the budget here so you don’t get any surprises, and make sure you are definitely topping up in the big cities as often as possible.

Pro road trip tip —Peek at the GasBuddy app often to see where the next cheapest gas station is. This app is a lifesaver!

Those small town gas stations may have a charge for using credit cards, or worse, they only accept cash! So make sure you have some on you.

Also, some state and national parks require cash payments for parking and using facilities.

There isn’t always someone on-site, and you’ll be required to place your cash in an envelope. You’ll need an exact change too. I’m all about using my card, but having some cash stashed away is necessary. It is smart to have a mix of bigger and smaller bills.

Another cash tip to keep in mind is having quarters on you for any parking meters or using laundry facilities.

I know you’re thinking, DUH, Nina. But seriously, don’t forget the music! Radio is almost a non-option unless you enjoy the sweet sounds of static and want to give your index finger a major workout by scanning the channels.

Cell service will also be in and out, so while you may be one smart cookie and have Spotify or the like on your phone, don’t forget to download all those cool playlists to enjoy it offline.

Don’t forget an aux cord if needed unless everything can be connected via Bluetooth. You may also want a portable speaker so you can listen to music outside the car and on the go.

It’s not essential, but this is one of the road trip tips that’ll just make the journey more enjoyable.

READ MORE: My badass road trip packing list , don’t forget a thing!

Did you actually think you would be able to fit those two hikes in AND drive five hours? Ekk!

You really do need to be realistic with your time.

If you get all excited about a bunch of places and you only make it to half, you may be pretty bummed.

But instead, if you get excited about the POSSIBILITY of going to about half of the places on your list, you will ultimately be satisfied with what you got done.

Don’t get your hopes up and try cramming in too much, so you’re rushing, speeding, driving too late at night, not sleeping enough…etc.

It’s OK to pass on a few places; trust this road trip tip when I say your list will only get longer, not shorter. So don’t get flustered when you need to pass things up to gain more time.

READ MORE: Here’s a realistic itinerary for a West Coast road trip !

I would TOTALLY be the annoying friend that pushes you out of the car, shoves a bagel and coffee down your throat, and makes you put clothes on so you’re ready to get on the road no later than 9 am.

Don’t worry, I’m not talking about getting your day started at 6 am.

While I think it can be ideal, probably makes for great sunrise pictures, and you check more things off the list, let’s not get crazy. 6 am is rough.

However, being on the road by 8:30-9ish is totally doable.

Luckily, I refuse to road trip with people who aren’t on the same page as me because I’m a stickler on this one. Also, I’m a terrible sleeper, so I am awake this early anyway!

There are far too many things to see and do—go to bed earlier and get up and go. You’ll thank yourself when the trip is done. (You can sleep when you’re dead, right?)

Fill up water bottles and jugs instead. It would be SO wasteful to buy 100 jugs of water on your trip.

Instead, I buy a few one-gallon jugs and reuse them for my entire trip. I also never travel without my reusable water bottle . At the end of a trip, I recycle the jugs. Most recently I also got this water jug which fits nicely in the corner of my car and I don’t even need other water jugs now!

It’s very easy to prioritize convenience but try your best on your road trip to not be wasteful.

Filling up water is actually very easy. Many of the parks have drinkable water fountains where you can fill up, and Walmarts have water fountains you can use.

A few jugs or one big reusable jug is just what you need. They don’t take up too much room, and they will last you a couple of days, giving you plenty of time to find the next water fill-up area.

Fill up every time you can; it goes without saying that water is NOT something you want to be without at any point and time.

Don’t forget to factor in using water to boil pasta, make coffee, etc.

RELATED: Your Southwest Road Trip Itinerary (1 Week – 2 Months)

Bringing paper maps is not really my thing, but I knew I couldn’t always rely on my phone to have service. I can’t stress how clutch it was to have maps downloaded.

I always have Google Maps AND Maps.Me both downloaded on my phone. And if you’re riding with someone else, make sure they do the same just in case someone loses their phone, forgets to charge, etc.

Oops. I’d venture to say that most of us forget this road trip tip. I know I did.

If I saw the road on the map, I generally thought it was a legit road with something more than loose rocks to follow. Uh, no. Not so much!

Don’t assume you won’t come across many gravel roads, particularly if you want to get a bit adventurous or take some of the less busy roads.

Driving on gravel roads when they weren’t expected can be a bit stressful, not to mention it will cut into your time since you’ll be driving much slower than you thought.

What are you trying to do on your trip? Spend your time cooking or doing and seeing things?

Yeah, that’s what I thought… So why would someone voluntarily choose to make a borderline 5-star meal for lunch is beyond me but let me tell you, you’ll be much happier with an easier meal than a fancy-schmancy one or one that is labor-intensive.

Here’s what I usually eat while road tripping:

Breakfast is 1-2 of the following items:

• Boiled eggs (boil all of them at once and keep them in the fridge)
• Bread /bagels (usually untoasted because ain’t nobody got time for that…nor a toaster)
• Oatmeal with fruit and granola

Lunch is usually a sandwich and or a snack such as:

• Cheese and crackers
• Sandwiches are usually cheese, spinach, a hardboiled egg or some tuna, pickles, and maybe avocado. And then mustard and mayo for condiments.
• A favorite is my “camping charcuterie board,” which is usually a mix of cheese, crackers, fruit, nuts, and “rough hummus” (smashed chickpeas with spices and EVOO)

Dinner is one of the following:

• Lentils and rice (I found these amazing, tasty, and easy to make packets to make lentils and rice , it literally takes 2 minutes, and it’s healthy)
• Pasta and sauce
• Frozen vegetables which we would add to both of the items above.
• Beer and or wine 🙂

On a similar note, eating out costs a lot, and if you’re trying to be quick, it’s often pretty unhealthy.

I often try to eat out only when it’s mega worth it or when I’m deep into my trip and need a break from eating out of my car! Making it a treat rather than something expected saves a bunch of cash AND time.

RELATED: Your Adventurous Utah Road Trip

Your vehicle has everything you need BUT, it’s still just a vehicle, which means space is precious and limited.

Get everything in its “home” on day 1 and make sure that item lives in that spot forever and always.

I always have a system down from day 1, and I keep it that way! It keeps everything SO clean and organized the entire time. I usually have zero casualties of items flying out a window, falling out of the car, or going mysteriously missing.

Get your car in order and keep it there! My mantra is “everything has a home” and I don’t put it down, I put it in its home.

I’m not toying with you. Hear me out!

Road trips are supposed to be fun, and a bit spontaneous, so planning too much and keeping yourself to a rigid schedule doesn’t allow for fun, adventure, and random detours.

Plan too little? And you’ll be wasting a large chunk of the day figuring out what you want to do (if you even have internet).

I usually have a few “rules” in place…

On this West Coast road trip , I wanted to drive on a certain route (the inland route, not the coastal route). I wanted to be outdoors and in nature (so no stops in big cities and walking around buildings), and I wanted to do pretty hikes with waterfalls and great views.

I made a rough route with plenty of places to stop that matched my criteria, but nothing was set in stone.

If I didn’t have the time, the spot was too out of the way, or if the road was closed (wait for it…), there was no disappointment and plenty of other things just a few miles away to explore.

Keep your options open and have a few options on the table. Find a balance, don’t set expectations too high, and don’t pigeonhole yourself to an exact itinerary. It will be nothing short of miserable.

This is one of my best road trip tips because it’s really one of the most important to keep in mind for the trip—for your own sanity!

READ MORE:  How to Plan a Road Trip

Yeah, revolutionary information, right? Luckily the USA is pretty good at announcing when a road will be closed. There will likely be signs and even info on a state’s website.

This happened to me on a few road trips, and it threw a wrench into my plans… for a whole two seconds.

Since I’m always loose with my plans (hello, road trip tip #12!), it wasn’t the end of the world, but it did cause me to end up in a few places I didn’t expect a couple of times.

It’s usually not a big deal but just something to watch, particularly if you’re taking the smaller roads like I sometimes do or are driving during fall and winter when road closures are more common.

It wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world, but I’m mentioning this because depending on where you are, you’re increasing your chance of putting yourself (or adorable animals) in danger.

Cute woodsy animals like to come out at night and graze and hop around. Sometimes they wander in traffic. If it’s a little guy, poor thing but at least your car will be fine. If it’s a big boy, you’re totally screwed.

Overall, night driving can be a bit more challenging and you also need to be a bit more careful with choosing your sleeping spot for the evening in the dark.

I always make it a goal to find a place by sunset, and if I go a bit later, it’s not too big of a deal, but I don’t like to push it.

RELATED: Your Adventurous Arizona Road Trip!

Seriously though, don’t underestimate the amount of time and closeness with the other person. Make sure they are cool, and make sure you’re cool too…

This trip will be a disaster if you both don’t jive with each other and work as a team. Luckily I’ve only had one miserable road trip, and funny enough, it was with a very close friend. So even if you’re friends now, make sure you can stand each other for the entire trip.

Seriously, this country is f-ing huge. We literally have 48 small to medium-sized countries on the enormous landmass of the contiguous USA.

Make no mistake, no amount of time is the “perfect” amount to see this place.

Vancouver to San Francisco is only a measly 15-hour drive if you JUST DRIVE. One person could technically do this drive in two long days.

When I road-tripped it, it took 17 days to drive a bit more leisurely, and see things along the way. I could have doubled that and still not had enough time. There’s an insurmountable amount of things to do and see, don’t cut yourself short and try squeezing your trip into a few days; you’ll spend the entire time just driving.

My PNW road trips are anywhere from 1 to 2 months, and I’m just scratching the surface of what I want to do! So one of the best road trip tips you can take in is, don’t overwhelm yourself with things to do and know that driving times will eat up a LOT of your time.

It might be smart to target just certain parks, or perhaps focus on just one state. Whatever it is, don’t underestimate drive times.

I have to tell you something. And it’s going to happen on your road trip! It’s a guarantee… Ready for it?

Things won’t always go as planned.

Shocking, right? If this road trip tip seems so obvious to you, just remember while on the trip, that’s how you felt when reading this.

Sometimes we get caught up in the moment, want things to be perfect, and when one string frays, we break apart. You’ll run into a delay, a park is closed, a flat tire… Something.

It’s a guarantee that SOMETHING will go wrong, so just accept it when it does. You’ll only make it worse by having a meltdown.

RELATED: Your Adventurous Montana Road Trip!

You’ll need to check the specification of the states you’ll be rolling through to be sure that you pack accordingly. Do you need more scarves or more swimsuits? Both?!

You’ll have to research to make sure, but aside from clothing, you’ll need to know what else happens in certain states.

Being from Florida, I can tell you that road tripping around August and September could mean potential hurricane weather.

I spend a lot of time in Oregon and the entire West Coast. The past two summers have been LIT. And not in a good way; forest fires during July and August can get really bad and make the air quality terrible, obstruct views, and even close down roads.

While on a West Coast road trip a few years back, a bunch of forest fires had just died down. However, there were still tons of signage warning of potential dangers from the loose ground from the fires and a fire ban in most places.

There were even trails and campsites that were closed because of this.

Remember, there are people from all around the world, the USA, and Canada on the road!

The USA is eclectic; avoid getting road rage, don’t be the ass who doesn’t let someone merge, don’t stop in the middle of the road for pictures, don’t litter, recycle when you can, and just be a good person. There are so many different people on the road; try to be accommodating and understanding.

Oh, and have fun! 🙂

No matter where you’re traveling—you want everything and everyone covered! For road trips anywhere in the world, you can look into using World Nomads (they cover Americans in the US if you’re over 100 miles from home!), Safety Wing (for Americans abroad), or check out my travel insurance post for more options, don’t get caught without it!

For your vehicle, it’s always smart to have your vehicle insured, and more often than not, it’s required! There are many ways to go about this.

If you’re in the US, your car will be insured but getting AAA can prove to be a lifesaver too – they will tow you, help change a tire, and get you back in your vehicle if you locked yourself out!

Sometimes your credit card can cover car rentals (but be careful, many don’t cover vans and RVs!) check this article on the best travel cards to see which credit cards can help lessen your costs on your trip and can cover your car rental.

It’s going to vary widely how insurance will work for you and your vehicle depending on where you are but the bottom line is – just don’t forget about it!

RELATED: A Guide to Finding The Best Long Term Travel Insurance

So which vehicle are you going with? Your own car? A rental? An RV? A rented campervan? There are tons of options but which is right for you and your trip?

Choosing the right vehicle, especially if you’re renting is probably the most important road trip tip to keep in mind. If you’re renting, here are some options to consider:

• Outdoorsy – One of the best RV and campervan rental sites in the USA
• Northbound – Find your car or campervan in Iceland
• Car Rentals – You can check here for current car rental deals anywhere in the world.
• Indie Campers – Rent a campervan and road trip across Europe!

There’s Wicked Campers for South America, Britz and JUCY for Australia and New Zealand, and tons more options!

I hope these road trip tips were helpful! Have fun on your next road trip!

More USA Road Trips

>>> Even More About USA Road Trips <<<

How to Plan a USA Road Trip & Choosing a Vehicle

Your Road Trip Essentials Packing List and Tips (+ Printable Checklist!)

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15 Comments

Love this list! With covid we have been road tripping more and things like this are super useful. Thank you!

Yay! So happy to hear 🙂 Thank you!

This was the best road trip blog poay on road trips I have seen. I agree with many of your ideas.

I particularly agree on no nighttime driving. Many road trip bloggers mention yhay driving at night is ideal.with kids. While I agree it is easier to drive when the kids are sleeping, it is not as safe as driving during daylight hours. Your vision is decreased and you are driving in unfamiliar areas. Unless you work at night you are not ised to being awake at night either. Safety is paramount

I like that you said that while on a road trip it’s a guarantee that something will go wrong, so just accept it when it does. My husband and I are thinking about going on a road trip because we think it would be a great way to spend more time together while also getting to see some beautiful scenery.

Driving home now from a twenty- eight day road trip with my hubby, 9 yr old and two yellow labs. Drove from Florida to Seattle and visited over twenty-five national parks. 80 dollar annual pass for the parks was the best investment .

YES! Those passes are a great idea!

I like to do a bit of research first before going on a trip. This was so useful.

So happy to hear! 🙂 Have fun.

Next time, invest in Sirius SATELLITE radio and a rent a sat phone. You will NEVER be out of contact, or music, again.

Keep enjoying those road trips.

Another important thing: every state drives differently. Californians speed like crazy and a lot of slower drivers sit in the passing lane. Oregonians appear to have no clue where their going and you’ll get a ticket for going 1mph over the speed limit, and Washingtonians pace each other for miles so no one can pass and their traffic is starting to compete with LA.

So true!!! Cross the state border and you could be in a new world of drivers for sure.

Thank you for this list, it will come in handy this summer when my boyfriend and I roadtrip from Kentucky to Galveston, TX

Yay, glad to hear this was helpful, Tara 🙂 Have fun!

Loved your tips! Most we (my son and I) live by when we road trip around the US. Only 7 states left to visit but so many to go back and visit again!

Thanks, Shyla!

23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: December 28, 2022
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 23 Comments

Do you like roadtrips? They happen to be a very American tradition and we found the perfect itinerary to visit every state in the continental USA during 1 epic roadtrip. A great trip idea for those who have a lot of time but want to stay closer to home .

Personally, I love roadtrips and I hit the road as much as I can, despite also being an aviation geek: you can like both, right? What matters is traveling and seeing new places , no matter how.

So here are the maps and details of the 2 itineraries that allow you to see all the lower 48 states at once, depending on your travel preference.

Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries

The USA is a huge country, almost as big as Europe (it’s even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).

So the USA has a lot of variety in terms of landscapes, but even in terms of culture too (even if many who aren’t from the country don’t realize that).

If you aim to eventually visit every state, any 1 of these 2 itineraries is a great way to almost all of them at once. The only 2 states you’ll have left to visit after this roadtrip will be Hawaii and Alaska.

There’s a version for national parks and points of interest and a version for cities.

I’m on the quest to visit all 50 states myself (in addition to also visiting every country obviously), and I’m not doing too bad with 47 already.

But let’s just say it would’ve been much quicker to get to 48 at once with this roadtrip instead of having to do it over dozens of trips.

Here are the details.

48-state roadtrip – national parks/points of interest version

Here’s a map of the 1st itinerary.

It was conceived by American Ph.D. student Randy Olson, on  his blog , and it was done scientifically to optimize the routing: each stop represents a national park or a point of interest.

So you’re not just seeing every state, you’re seeing cool parts of every state (which sadly wasn’t our case in North Dakota during our very random 1200-miles-nonstop-in-2-days Flytrippers roadtrip across the Midwest just for fun).

Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.

Anyway, the itinerary has also been optimized to be as efficient a route as possible to see all 48 states, so you can rest assured you won’t be wasting any time.

If you only stop to sleep, you can complete this roadtrip in only 9 days, but we recommend taking at least a couple of weeks to explore all these places obviously.

And gas is significantly cheaper in the US in case you were wondering. You can start anywhere, it’s a continuous loop, and it passes through many spots near the Canadian border.

You can even take a shortcut from Michigan to Vermont through Canada, as the stop in Cleveland is only to keep Americans without a passport from crossing into the Great White North.

Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California):

1. Grand Canyon, AZ 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT 3. Craters of the Moon, ID 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY 5. Pikes Peak, CO 6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM 7. The Alamo, TX 8. The Platt Historic District, OK 9. Toltec Mounds, AR 10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, TN 11. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS 12. French Quarter, LA 13. USS Alabama, AL 14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL 15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, GA 16. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC 17. Lost World Caverns, WV 18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, NC 19. Mount Vernon, VA 20. White House, Washington, D.C. 21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, MD 22. New Castle Historic District, DE 23. Cape May Historic District, NJ 24. Liberty Bell, PA 25. Statue of Liberty, NY 26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, CT 27. The Breakers, RI 28. USS Constitution, MA 29. Acadia National Park, ME 30. Mount Washington Hotel, NH 31. Shelburne Farms, VT 32. Fox Theater, MI 33. Spring Grove Cemetery, OH 34. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 35. West Baden Springs Hotel, IN 36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, IL 37. Gateway Arch, MO 38. C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, KS 39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, IA 40. Taliesin, WI 41. Fort Snelling, MN 42. Ashfall Fossil Bed, NE 43. Mount Rushmore, SD 44. Fort Union Trading Post, ND 45. Glacier National Park, MT 46. Hanford Site, WA 47. Columbia River Highway, OR 48. San Francisco Cable Cars, CA 49. San Andreas Fault, CA 50. Hoover Dam, NV

These are all very enticing attractions, for the most part. It seems I’ve only seen 14 of those, so maybe I should hit the road again after all.

How about you? Tempted?

48-state roadtrip – city version

Here’s a map of the 2nd itinerary.

If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2nd version that routes you through amazing cities instead.

It is slightly shorter but quite as impressive: it makes you go through the “Best City to Visit” in each state, according to TripAdvisor .

But you won’t have all the lower 48 states, unlike the other itinerary. That’s because no city in Vermont, West Virginia, or North Dakota made the top 400 cities to visit ranking, unfortunately. So plan on making a few extra detours if you want to hit all states at once with this version of the itinerary.

Here is the complete list of all cities:

• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Wichita, Kansas
• Denver, Colorado
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Francisco, California
• Portland, Oregon
• Seattle, Washington
• Boise, Idaho
• Park City, Utah
• Jackson, Wyoming
• Billings, Montana
• Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Des Moines, Iowa
• Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Chicago, Illinois
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Columbus, Ohio
• Detroit, Michigan
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Manchester, New Hampshire
• Portland, Maine
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Providence, Rhode Island
• New Haven, Connecticut
• New York City, New York
• Ocean City, New Jersey
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Wilmington, Delaware
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Washington, D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Orlando, Florida
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Birmingham, Alabama
• Jackson, Mississippi
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Houston, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Branson, Missouri

I do a little better on this list, with 31 already visited. You can see I love cities. How about you?

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If you were looking for an excuse to go on a roadtrip, this is it. And since we always enjoy giving you more for your money, we think 48 states instead of only 1 or 2 is something you’ll enjoy!

What’s the coolest roadtrip you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments below.

See the deals we spot: Cheap flights

Explore awesome destinations : Travel inspiration

Learn pro tricks : Travel tips

Discover free travel: Travel rewards

Featured image: The itinerary (image credit: Randy Olson)

Original publication date: May 29, 2018

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Andrew D'Amours

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This post has 23 comments.

Hello Andrew, the PHD student suggests in the 1st Itinnerary that the one stop to make in Washington State is the Hanford Nuclear Reservation?! Flat out, that is a terrible idea. It is in the middle of nowhere, I am just shocked it’s mentioned. Out of all the beautiful and amazing places to see in such a diverse state as Washington, a Nuclear Site was chosen? Surely this student could have done so much better. Thank you for allowing comments.

Having been all around the Olympic Peninsula, I agree that’s there are better stops. But my understanding is that he really optimized for the quickest way to do all 48 and had to choose a point of interest that wasn’t too far off that optimal path, hence that choice (I think).

thanks for sharing this information with us.

I have taken a road trip from California to the the most northeastern part of theUS. west Quaby light house. it was my 1st trip across the us. .I seen so many amazing places.

Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.

Why do Americans always think the Statue of Liberty is in NY? it is in NJ. I’ve done road trips now that have taken in 39 states. Here’s a quiz to see how well you know the USA: Which state has only one syllable? Only one city has been name-checked on the moon. In which state is it? Which is the most Northerly of the contiguous states? In which state were Tennessee Williams and Elvis Presley born? Which was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted into the USA? Which four states all share a border with each other? Which state has the lowest population? Twelve cities are name-checked in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” but only three states. Which? Which state has the longest name? Which two states have the most borders with other states? In which state is the geographical centre of the USA – and which one if you exclude Hawaii and Alaska? Which of the states of the USA has respectively the most Northerly, Southerly, Easterly and Westerly points?

The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.

Wow, these comments are very rude for no reason. Thanks for the article, maybe when I graduate from college I’ll consider hitting part of one of these itineraries.

“it’s a huge country (even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).”

Canada – 3.855 million mi² USA – 3.532 million mi² Where does this math fail you?

Where did reading fail you :P? It explicitly says “ when considering LAND area alone ” The quote you copied literally has a link provided under “even larger than Canada” and if you read that, it explains how Canada is only larger than the US due to water area being counted 🙂

There is no stop in North Dakota on the city version. You should stop in Fargo after Billings and before Sioux Falls

I’m 46 years old .. I have been to all 50 states and I’m 17 away from all 50 twice .. I have driven to 47 .. flown to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington..

Wow! That’s impressive :O

This is awesome

This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

“this roadtrip in only 9 days“ is extremely false statement. It is only 9 days if you are driving non stop, no breaks to even get out of your car, get gas, or actually see these places. From start to finish drive time it is 225 hours, 16 minutes = 9 days. Wow. Take some time to enjoy the view.

Yes, that’s what we said too 😛

Thanks for the tip 😊

Do you know the total distance of this itinerary? At what moment of the year doing this trip would be the best? Thanks!

Hi! It is 13,699 miles (22,046 km) for the landmarks itinerary and 12,290 miles (19,780 km) for the city version. You can even have the Google Maps links on the creator’s original post (I’ve reposted the link below). As for the timing, I guess it depends on your preferences, but I’d want to avoid that top half of the country (so half the itinerary) in the winter for sure! http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/

Crappy itinerary! Does not even include Zion National Park… and so many stops in the North Eastern states?? Nobody cares about those places except maybe a couple of places.

As explained, the PhD student who built the itinerary wanted to have one stop per state, and there are many states in the North-East so that’s why there are many stops there. I agree that Zion is an iconic spot, but his goal was also to optimize a routing that was as short as possible so that’s why it’s billed as an itinerary to see all lower 48 states at once and not an itinerary to see *the best spots*. But those interested in doing this can definitely adapt it and add many interesting stops for sure 🙂

Curtis, you are crappy. Obviously this is meant as a guide that can be adapted to add spots. I think it’s awesome.

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20 Tips for taking a road trip in the USA for the first time by an American

July 31, 2019 by Dawn Allcott 1 Comment

The car is packed and you’re headed on a long-awaited road trip. Whether you’re taking your own vehicle coast-to-coast, or you’re renting a car to make a U.S. road trip part of your international adventure, a little planning goes a long way. 

With 20 years of traveling up and down the Eastern seaboard, plus car trips to Chicago, Oklahoma, and Tennessee, I’ve picked up a few handy tips to share for taking a road trip in the United States. I hope that these helpful tips help you plan your US road trip!

• 1 Plan Ahead
• 2 Connect with Locals for the Best Tips
• 3 Search Groupon for Deals – and Ideas
• 4 Leave Room for Spontaneity
• 5 Purchase Toll Passes for Areas Where You’ll Be Traveling
• 6 Understand U.S. Rental Car Rules
• 7 Educate Yourself About Rental Car Insurance
• 8 Join AAA if traveling on your own
• 9 Know the Difference Between a Rest Stop and a Truck Stop
• 10.1 Eat Even Healthier by Stopping at Farm Stands
• 11 Find the Best Hotel Prices Online
• 12 Call the Hotel for Discounts
• 13 Account for Security Deposits
• 14.1 Useful items for your overnight bag:
• 15 Take Advantage of Local WiFi
• 16.1 Use Waze to Avoid Traffic Snarls
• 17 Time Your Travel to Save Travel Time
• 18 Keep a Stash of Paper Maps
• 19 Let Your Bank Know You’re Traveling
• 20 Any other US road trip tips that you’d recommend? Any questions about taking a road trip in the United States?

Having a broad idea of your major stops, must-see tourist attractions, and areas where you want to spend several days or even a week helps give your vacation structure. It ensures you’ll experience what matters the most to you in each state, whether that’s theme parks, shopping, or the best gourmet restaurants.

Each summer, my family takes a three-week road trip from New York to Florida. We plan two major stops along the way, spending two or three days in spots like Washington, D.C., or Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I save money by booking hotel rooms and attractions for these places in advance.

On a related note, do not go too crazy planning your trip and underestimate how large the United States is. Many first-time road trippers in the United States assume that you can go coast-to-coast in a short time and often cram in too much. Although the driving may not take as long as you might expect, you’ll probably want to explore cities, national parks, and major tourist attractions along the way. Give yourself enough time to stop off beyond a quick pit-stop!

Connect with Locals for the Best Tips

Talk to locals, join Facebook groups for people traveling to given areas, and visit the tourist and visitor’s bureau website for each city you plan to visit. Also pay attention to insider travel guides like the ones on WanderlustingK to discover the secret hotspots only the locals know about.

Click for Karen’s recommendations on the best ways to meet locals while traveling with real stories!

Search Groupon for Deals – and Ideas

You can find some great attractions (at a low price) by browsing Groupon for things to do in the places you want to visit. Sometimes, you’ll discover an activity you hadn’t planned, like a local escape room or a helicopter ride across a city. 

Leave Room for Spontaneity

While we keep a broad idea of our journey and major stops in mind, we also take time to explore interesting restaurants, fun stores like that we don’t have near us (like Cabela’s), or even just a hotel with a pool off I-95 if we’re getting tired.

Some of our greatest road trip memories happened by accident. Our kids still talk about the time we decided to stop and visit the world-famous South of the Border between the Carolinas.  It was incredibly kitschy (like all of SOTB), overpriced, hilarious, yet terrifying at the same time. We won’t do it again, but we’re glad we did it once.

Purchase Toll Passes for Areas Where You’ll Be Traveling

Pre-paid toll booth transponders make it easy for U.S. travelers to skip the toll booth lines and avoid carrying cash for tolls. The problem? Not all passes are accepted in all states. 

But there’s good news for East Coast travelers. In August 2018, Florida began accepting E-Z Pass. That’s the transponder used across the Northeast, as far south as North Carolina, and in some Midwestern states. If your trip includes Georgia, you’ll need to purchase a Peach Pass, also good in North Carolina and Florida. South Carolina only has two tolls roads, but a Palmetto Pass makes it easier to cross them.

You can buy your E-Z Pass within any state that offers it, either online or through AAA . To save the most money, purchase the pass from the state where you plan to spend the most time because you’ll get some discounts on those tolls.

If your travels will take you all the way to California, it’s wise to invest in a FasTrak, too. If you’re renting a car for your trip, ask if you can get a toll pass directly from the rental car company. 

Understand U.S. Rental Car Rules

Car rental tips, rules, and regulations could fill a whole blog post. Some rental companies require customers to be 25 or older. Other companies, including Alamo and Enterprise, rent cars to drivers 21+, but additional surcharges and requirements may apply. Hertz rents to drivers as young as 20, with an additional fee. The minimum age to rent a car in New York and Michigan is 18.

Some companies require you to have a valid credit card, while others accept a debit card for the rental. In either case, expect a hold to be placed on your account until you return the car. You generally are expected to bring a car rental back to the same location where the car was rented. Not doing so will result in extra fees, so one-way trips may be more expensive than you realize!

Inspect the car carefully and take photos with your phone before you drive away so you won’t be held responsible for pre-existing damage.

Educate Yourself About Rental Car Insurance

Rental car insurance can add another $10 to $30 per day to your bill. Do you need it? The answer is: It depends. 

If you don’t have your own car insurance, you’ll want to pay for liability insurance, at a minimum. This protects you against having to pay out-of-pocket if you cause an accident and hurt someone else or damage their vehicle.

If you’re paying with a credit card, you might be able to skip Collison Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance, which covers theft or damage to the rental car. Read the fine print on your credit card statement, because most credit cards offer this perk.

Join AAA if traveling on your own

AAA stands for the American Automobile Association. This organization which advocates for travelers has offices where you can often pick up maps and other handy essentials.

Karen’s husband Jacob swears by the premium membership at AAA, which is a yearly cost. However, the roadside assistance has been a lifesaver in many rural places of the US during breakdowns after numerous breakdowns in rural West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and numerous other states.

Depending on your membership tier, you can get a certain number of tows up to a specific number of miles. Their services include delivering fuel to you if you run of gas, roadside assistance with a tow, vehicle lockout service, flat tire service, and battery starting assistance. It’s less than $150 to join for the year with the premium tier of membership (2019), so consider stopping by your local AAA office (or checking online!) to join.

Know the Difference Between a Rest Stop and a Truck Stop

Once you’re on the road, you’re going to have to stop at some point. You check the GPS and notice there’s a rest stop up ahead. Now, you’re looking forward to that Starbucks Cloud Macchiato.

If you began your journey in the Northeast, you might be used to the “rest stops” dotting the New Jersey Turnpike every 10 miles or so. Big box-style buildings, each with a giant food court, convenience store, and a gas station. You can buy everything from sunglasses to phone chargers. But I wouldn’t recommend it because you’ll pay less at Wal-mart or Target.

Maryland, Virginia, and Connecticut also have robust, state-funded rest stops worth visiting. However, rest stops across most of the country are not like that. You’ll find a few vending machines, bathrooms, and a place to walk dogs. But you won’t find shopping, a gas station, or much of anything else. 

To find some unique pit stops to break up the route, Karen loves buying (and reading out loud in the car!) the Weird America books for inspiring and wacky rest stops! You can also get state-focused guides for road trips within only one state.

When you’re craving a latte and you need to fill up, you need a truck stop. Truck stops combine gas stations, restaurants, and convenience stores, plus amenities like showers for truckers and free WiFi. We like Flying J and Pilot because they’re clean and always have a variety of merchandise in the stores to browse as you stretch your legs. Fun fact: Iowa 80 in Walcott, Iowa, even has a movie theater.

Buy Your Snacks at Walmart or Local Grocery Stores to Save Money

While truck stops are great for that spur-of-the-moment fast food craving, you can save tons of money on your trip by stocking up at snacks from Wal-mart or a local grocery store in the area you’re visiting.

Bring your own reusable grocery bags as some states charge for plastic bags (and it’s greener!) Pack a cooler for drinks and refill it as supplies get low. (A pro tip: bring a bag for the trash!)

Eat Even Healthier by Stopping at Farm Stands

Pack a second cooler and stop at local farm stands or food co-ops for fresh produce for the trip. A few pints of strawberries and a bag of string beans keep me and the kids satisfied until we reach the next Cracker Barrel – a must-stop meal for us on every family road trip.

Find the Best Hotel Prices Online

Ready to stop for the night but haven’t reached your first pre-planned destination? Tap into free WiFi at the next truck stop to find the best prices for hotels on sites like Expedia, Travelocity, Booking, and Hotels.com. It’s smart to stick with one service, as prices don’t vary much, and you’ll earn rewards each time you book to save more money. (Karen usually uses the Booking.com app for last-minute bookings!)

Book your hotel about 20 minutes before you plan to arrive to be sure your reservation made it into the system. You can book a hotel from the parking lot of the hotel, but it might take a bit more time for the front desk to find your reservation. 

Call the Hotel for Discounts

In my experience, I find the best hotel prices booking online. But it always pays to call the hotel and see if they will match that price. When you’re negotiating a rate, make sure you’re accounting for any added taxes and fees. A rate that looks lower online before you book might actually be higher than the hotel’s rate once you get the final price with taxes and fees. Also, be sure to check whether you will need to pay in cash or can pay in person by card.

Be sure to ask about AARP or AAA discounts, if you’re a member of either organization. You can’t use these discounts online, but the discount might just beat the online price.

Likewise, if you’re visiting a local or major regional tourist attraction, the hotel might offer a discount to the attraction or a discounted hotel room if you show your attraction ticket.

Account for Security Deposits

When you book a hotel or rental car, the company is likely to bill a security deposit on your credit card. The deposit covers incidentals – such as room charges – or damage to the room.

After some unfortunate incidents, editor Karen swears by paying extra to bring the deducible of your rental car down to zero in case of something happening. The longer your trip, the more likely you’ll be happy that you paid for it!

Make sure you leave enough room on your card to cover this charge, with the knowledge that it may not be returned until seven to 10 days after your stay. Check your statement to make sure the hotel refunded the charge.

Keep a Smaller Bag Handy for Overnight Stays

No doubt, your trunk or overhead carrier is piled high with suitcases for your journey. If you’re planning multiple overnight pit stops, keep a separate bag with just the necessities. A larger backpack should work well enough although an inexpensive overnight bag will work too!

Useful items for your overnight bag:

• Bathing Suit 
• Towel (hotel pools never have enough!)
• One change of clothes
• Wall charger for your phone plus USB cord
• Your adult beverage of choice for relaxing in the hotel room at night* (Note: some states require stopping off at a state-run liquor or wine/liquor store to purchase said beverages while others sell adult beverages in the gas station.)

When you’re ready for an overnight stop, you’ll have just one small bag to carry, which also means less chance of leaving anything in the hotel room.

When you leave, put your dirty clothes in a reusable plastic bag – or do a load of laundry in the hotel room – and re-pack the overnight bag for your next stop. (Karen uses a cute yet light foldable world map laundry bag that she’s had for years.)

Take Advantage of Local WiFi

Tap into free WiFi at hotels, truck stops, fast food restaurants, and coffee houses to conserve your data for when you really need it. If you have Verizon FIOS or Cablevision service at home, you might be able to use HotSpots for WiFi.

Make Sure You Have Plenty of Data

Of course, you can’t tap into a WiFi network doing 70 mph down the highway. (At least, not yet.) Consider increasing your phone’s data plan before you start your journey. Even if you don’t have passengers streaming Netflix throughout the trip (I’m looking directly into the backseat at my kids!) – you’ll need it for the GPS. (If you’re looking for some entertaining games that work offline, click for 15+ fun travel-friendly apps perfect for a road trip !)

Use Waze to Avoid Traffic Snarls

Apple Maps or Google Maps? The answer, for us, is neither. Waze not only has the most up-to-date traffic information, but you can find out why traffic slowed to a halt on the Belt Parkway. Oh wait, it’s the Belt. Of course , traffic stopped.

An insider New Yorker tip : Avoid the Belt Parkway, a series of three parkways that go from Brooklyn to Queens, if at all possible. (Also avoid the Cross Bronx Parkway, which is terrible most of the time!) It’s often faster to get into New York City via Staten Island or the Lincoln Tunnel via New Jersey.)

Time Your Travel to Save Travel Time

Google Maps usually generates the time to a destination at the moment that you check on your app. If you’re checking when it’s not rush hour, be sure to add extra time into your time calculations if you’re traveling close to or during rush hour.

Native New Yorkers traveling through the Tri-state area know that you want to get through the city before rush hour. For us, this means leaving between 10 AM and 2 PM.  

Wherever you travel, it’s best to time the trip so you’re navigating big cities (think: D.C., Boston, Nashville, Chicago, Jacksonville, etc.) either late at night or early in the morning. If you’re not stopping in the city, you can also look for ways to loop around it.

If you do happen to get stuck in a big city at rush hour, don’t fight it. Stop for dinner and do some shopping until 7 PM when traffic should be clear.

Keep a Stash of Paper Maps

Sometimes, there’s just no avoiding traffic. Or a cell phone dead zone. That’s when paper maps help. You can usually pick up maps at rest stops and at AAA offices although well-prepared travelers can purchase regional maps online. (Karen recommends Rand McNally for US maps , which is the gold standard for US road maps.)

We traveled to Anderson, South Carolina to see the solar eclipse of 2017. On the way back home, we got caught in eclipse traffic (who imagined that would be a thing!?) in North Carolina. 

While hundreds of travelers followed their GPS,  which took us through a residential neighborhood with traffic at a standstill, my husband pulled out a paper map and circumvented the crowd. We took a scenic route in the pouring rain through Batcave, North Carolina – which is just as creepy and cool as it sounds. It’s a travel moment we won’t forget.  

Let Your Bank Know You’re Traveling

Right before our trip, my son fell in love with a pair of sneakers while we were school clothes shopping, but they didn’t have his size and I couldn’t find them online. Browsing the outlet stores in Asheville, North Carolina, he spotted them – at a shoe store chain that we don’t have on Long Island. 

He was bouncing with excitement as I pulled out my Chase debit card – only to have it declined. I checked my balance online and saw I had plenty of money in the account.

Why was my card declined? The bank’s fraud protection department flagged several transactions outside my home state as “unusual activity.” I called the bank and within five minutes, had my account reactivated to buy the sneakers.

As a veteran traveler, I should know better. Learn from my mistake and call your bank and credit card companies to let them know your trip itinerary. Then you can rest easy knowing you have access to all your funds during your road trip adventure – plus all these handy tips in mind to ensure a smooth journey.

Any other US road trip tips that you’d recommend? Any questions about taking a road trip in the United States?

• Tips for traveling in the United States WITHOUT a car
• Tips for tipping in the United States
• First-time tips for visiting New York City by a New Yorker
• How to travel in the United States on a budget

About Dawn Allcott

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July 27, 2021 at 5:25 pm

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37 Must-Know Road Trip Hacks I Learned from Driving Through 48 States

• By Traveling Anne
• February 25, 2024
• In Travel Tips

Ahh, nothing quite a long road trip. One lasting several days, weeks, or possibly even months! These 37 best road trip tips  cover -

• The Planning Stage

Sightseeing along the way

• Tips for an extended stay on the road
• How to keep socially sane
• Safety issues

These tips are based on our experience road-tripping across 47 US states and 4 Canadian provinces! Our road trips were all long! They included -

• Three weeks in California and Arizona
• Five and a half months across the Western US and Canada
• Four and a half months - coast to coast and back!
• Two and a half months in Washington, Oregon, California, and Utah
• Two and a half months driving from Los Angeles to Alaska and back !
• A month of touring the Rockies

We road-tripped as a family, starting when the boys were aged 5 and 7. On our last trip to Alaska, they were 14 and 16! Time flies! And now, without further ado, our tips!

Planning Stage

1. don't be afraid of the long road trip.

It's doable. Promise. Even with kids.

I know many people who fantasize about a long road trip and never fulfill their dreams. Don't let that be you. Go out there and do it. You'll have fun and create memories that will last your entire life.

And if at all possible - make it long.

In our experience, it takes time to get into the "road trip ambiance," to shed off the stress and worry of everyday life, and get into the right state of mind.

That's why I think a decent road trip should last at least weeks, preferably months. And don't worry, at least in North America, I guarantee you'll never run out of things to do and see or roads to travel.

2. Research your route

The essence of road-tripping is about freedom. The freedom to move where you want, when you want. As one of the ultimate road trip songs says,

"We can pack tomorrow, tonight let's flip a coin. Heads Carolina, tails California."

I am so all for that! I love that song !

However - spontaneity does not negate research and planning. 

There's such a wealth of information available online; it would be a shame to drive past this incredible attraction and miss out on it, wouldn't it? I always thoroughly research the area we plan to be going through.

I use sites like Roadside America and Trip Advisor to provide me with unusual ideas for small stops along the road, too. I try to document everything in my notes - or at least keep it somewhere in my head.

3. Have a plan in place

Based on my research, I do create a plan. I have a spreadsheet outlining our route, including all those places - big and small - that I found while researching.

I jot down the mileage we'll need to cover every day and the time it could take to make sure it's even feasible. That way, I don't have to flip coins to decide our route. At least, not daily 😉

Sometimes, it's easier to know where you're going next.

4. Be spontaneous

Yes, I know. I just said how vital planning was. I'm not changing my mind here. On the contrary, I firmly believe good planning allows you to be flexible and spontaneous.

Dwight D. Eisenhower said -

A plan is nothing but planning is everything

The more time you invest in the planning stage, the more familiar you'll be with your route, including the various attractions and alternatives to them.

Then, once you hit the road, you can decide and be more spontaneous with your choices.

After all, if you choose to do X, you're giving up on doing Y. Which could be a great decision! It's easier to make that decision when you know what X and Y mean.

5. Don't book motels in advance (usually)

In other words, stay flexible. That goes hand in hand with the spontaneity we just mentioned.

Now, there's a reason for me to qualify this with "usually."

There are times and places where booking in advance makes sense. It makes a lot of sense. The list includes -

• Popular national parks
• Other super popular destinations
• Any combination of the above

Book in advance if your road trip takes you to Yellowstone National Park and you want to spend a night or two inside the park. Do that even if you think you'll stay in West Yellowstone, Gardiner, or Jackson. If you don't, you could end up without a place to stay - or have to pay exorbitant prices for accommodation.

6. Allocate time for mundane everyday tasks

If your trip is going to last for a week or more, you'll need time for the following -

• Washing clothes
• Shopping in a supermarket
• Going to the ATM or possibly the bank
• Just generally unwinding

The longer the road trip, the more free time you'll need. Avoid creating a tight schedule of sightseeing for every day. You won't be able to accomplish that and will end up exhausted from trying.

Some of our road trips were so long we had to stop for haircuts!

7. Take weekends and holidays into account

I mentioned these briefly when talking about booking accommodation in advance. There's more to holidays than that, of course.

Holidays mean attractions will be busy, and roads will be congested.

If you're going through Monterey on Memorial Day, expect the aquarium to be very crowded. And if you're driving out of Denver at the beginning of Labour Day weekend, know that you'll get stuck in traffic on the i-70—two authentic examples from our road trips.

Now, these things happen on long road trips. You're on the road, and the nation goes on holiday. The trick is to know that in advance and plan around it. Try to spend the busy days resting, away from busy roads and crowded museums.

Even better, stay put in one town and enjoy local celebrations. Like we did on this 4th of July, in Jackson, WY -

8. Don't be fooled by Google Maps time estimates

I've helped many people plan their road trips, so I often see this happening.

You want to get from Los Angeles to Page, AZ, on the same day so you can rent a boat on Lake Powell the next morning.

Great. That's doable.

Just don't think it will take you 8 hours and 23 minutes - which is what Google Maps says it is. Don't assume you can spend 2 hours sightseeing in the Grand Canyon on the way and maybe stopping in Seligman along Route 66 for ice cream because you only have eight and a half hours of driving time.

Realistically, you'll be lucky if it will take only nine and a half hours to cover the distance.

Why? Because you can't drive for eight hours straight. You need to stop for gas, bathroom breaks, food, etc. That adds at least another hour.

And then there are those notorious LA traffic jams. That estimate that Google Maps gives you does not consider your starting location in LA or traffic issues leaving the city.

In real life? The last time we were in LA and headed east towards Arizona, it took us three hours to get out of the LA afternoon rush hour gridlock.

So, while Google Maps is a great tool, remember to adjust its time estimates to your real-life circumstances. As a rule of thumb, add 10% to its estimate. 15-20% if you're traveling with young children.

9. Prepare for toll roads

You can avoid toll roads if you like - but sometimes they're just the easier route to take in a not-very scenic area.

Find out in advance how you're supposed to pay and gear up. Alternatively, avoid those roads when planning your route.

10. Get your travel papers in order

No, you don't need a passport to cross US states. However, when we go on a long road trip, I make sure to keep the following where I can find them -

• Driver license (of all available drivers)
• Car registration papers (rental agreement in our case)
• Passports - in case we'd like to cross the border

What's more, I take photos of all of the above and make sure I have them stored online for safekeeping. You never know when a bag - or the entire car - might get stolen. It's best to have copies.

If you're renting a car like us, here's another time-saving tip: Take a photo of the vehicle's license plate. You'll be asked for that plate number every time you stop for the night in a motel. It's easier to browse through your phone than to go outside and look. I made that photo my home screen image when we were on a long road trip.

11. Get your meds and prescriptions in order

Depending on whether you're traveling in your own country or not, you may need to get medications for the entire trip in advance.

Even if you're an American taking a road trip to the US, some types of medication may have limitations on where you buy them.

Talk to your doctor and/or pharmacist in advance to ensure you have all the medications you need and the documentation required to get more of them.

12. Look for scenic byways

Whenever I plan a long road trip, I go to the official Scenic Byways website  and check the states that we're about to go through. If possible, I will work at least one or two on our route.

Give yourself time to explore these byways. They are often dotted with interesting points where you can stop for scenery or attractions.

13. Try to work national parks into your plans

National Parks are always worth a stop. Always.

In the planning stage, I search Google Maps for national parks along the route. I look for national monuments, national historic sites, etc. Anything that the National Parks Service runs.

Now, here's the thing.

Some of these park units are worth dedicating several days to. If you're going through Yellowstone National Park and this is your first visit, you should allocate a minimum of three days for that detour. Check out my post about Yellowstone to see why.

Other places may only require 1-2 hours to see in full. Or maybe half a day. My point is to take a few minutes to check beforehand so you can plan accordingly.

Oh, and do yourself a favor and buy the National Parks Pass . You can get it in the first park unit you'll visit or order it online in advance. It costs around $80 per vehicle and will cover your future visits to any NPS units for a year. It's a bargain for any long road trip in the US.

14. Some state parks are worth visiting too

State parks are trickier.

Many state parks are not worth going out of the way for. They're recreation areas designated by various states. This is great if you're a local who wants to spend the weekend fishing and ambling by a lake, but it's not worth a stop during a road trip.

Some state parks are worth a detour during a road trip. To mention just a few of our favorites  -

• Custer State Park, South Dakota
• Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire
• Point Lobos State Park, California
• Ecola State Park, Oregon
• Watkins Glen State Park, New York
• Goblin Valley State Park, Utah

And there were many, many more. So do your research and allocate time to the better state parks, too.

15. Follow the seasons

Some places are perfect during some seasons but not so much in others. Traveling, you have at least some ability to go to the right place at the right time.

For example, it was during a July heatwave when we first visited New England. Not so much fun. We celebrated the 4th of July in Maine and headed out west to cooler areas.

When we returned in early October, New England was entirely magical. Fall colors and crisp, clear air. This is the view we had from Mount Washington -

16. Look for festivals and special events

Don't let the crowds deter you. Festivals can be the secret ingredient that would make your road trip perfect. It can be a local Pumpkin Festival or 4th of July parade, a State/County Fair, or something as big as the Balloon Fiesta, which we attended in Albuquerque -

Whenever I plan a road trip, I actively look for festivals and fairs along our route and in nearby states. Some events are well worth going out of the way for. We have great memories of many such occasions.

17. Look for wildlife sighting opportunities

Wildlife is always a huge attraction on a road trip. We've seen over 100 bears in the wild during our travels. Our animal sightings included bison, elk, moose, pronghorn antelopes, beavers, snakes, bald eagles, seals, sea lions, and whales.

While many sightings are spontaneous, there are ways to increase the odds of seeing animals.

• Hike in national parks.
• Find out where animals are usually sighted and go there.
• Go out at dusk and dawn.
• Take tours such as whale-watching cruises.

18. Check opening hours ahead of time

Imagine going out of your way to visit a special museum only to find out they're closed on Mondays. And yes, you arrived on a Monday.

You're not likely to stick around while on a long road trip, so you'll miss out on that museum. Checking their hours ahead of time could have given you some flexibility. You could have rushed things a little to make it a day earlier or spent an extra day along the way to make it a day later.

19. Have time for unplanned detours and adventures

You never know - and that's part of the fun on a road trip!

During one of our road trips, we stopped for the night in a small motel in a tiny town in Wyoming. The owner was fascinated by our adventure and the fact that we had been traveling with two young boys.

The following morning, she introduced us to her husband, who turned out to be a drag racing instructor. We spend the next couple of hours with racing cars and trucks - quite an adventure and an unexpected one! Fortunately, we had the time for it.

So, don't rush things, and enjoy the unexpected opportunities during your journey.

While on the road

20. download maps in advance.

You won't always have access to online data as you're crossing vast empty spaces with few inhabitants. This means an online navigation app like Waze could run out of map resources.

Now, usually, this isn't much of an issue. If an area is so remote that it has no cell reception, that usually also means there won't be too many turns to take along the way. It would be best if you had no trouble finding your way relying on signposts. That's how we crossed the Alaska Highway .

To be on the safe side, here's what we always do.

Start your navigation app when you still use the motel's WiFi or some other internet connection. Let it download the map for your day's journey, and only then head out. This shouldn't take more than a minute or two.

21. Watch the weather forecast

Weather and the elements are always part of a long road trip.

During our road trips, we've encountered tornado warnings, snow, hailstorms, massive forest fires, and more. It's part of the adventure!

Just keep an eye on the forecast for the area you're going through. Watch the fire situation if you're traveling in the West during summer or fall. We've had to change our plans more than once due to severe smoke conditions - to the point of roads being closed.

22. Get a cooler

A spacious cooler is a must-have in your vehicle. Ice is easy to get at any motel you overnight at - or in gas stations. It's such an easy way to keep fresh food with you on the road. Which brings me to my next tip -

23. Have snacks and drinks in the vehicle

A cold drink is a godsend when you're driving for 3-4 hours straight without a break. Fresh fruit, string cheese, or other healthy snacks can revive both driver and passengers.

We always carry both fresh and dry snacks with us. We stock up every few days and ensure we never run out of snacks and drinks for the kids or the grownups.

24. Eat right while on the road

It's too easy to fall into the junk food trap when road-tripping. Don't do that.

Here's how we keep eating healthy on long road trips -

• Eating out? Always order a salad first - even McDonald's has them.
• Buy plenty of healthy food and prepare your meals. A healthy sandwich from wheat bread, low-fat cheese, and lots of veggies makes a great - and cheap - lunch or dinner.
• Keep your snacks healthy, too. You can buy pre-washed and pre-cut fruit and vegetables and keep them in your cooler. Delicious and very beneficial!

25. Don't carry too much stuff

This is something we've learned over several trips. It's easy to pack too much - and it's not necessary. You can do your laundry on the road, which is not a problem. We do that once or even twice a week. This means there's no need to carry too many sets of clothes.

26. Use a plastic drawer set to organize things

On the first day of any long road trip, we buy a Sterilite plastic organizer with several spacious see-through drawers. It's great for storing all those little things we always need while on the road.

Utensils, plastic bags, socks, first aid - whatever we might need while on the way are kept in that storage device.

27. Keep things inside baskets

Cheap plastic baskets cost only a few dollars and are great for storing shoes and other large items in the back of an SUV/minivan. We try to get the collapsible ones. That way, we can store them flat and pop them out when we need additional compartments in the back of the vehicle.

28. Document the trip

Consider getting a road camera for the trip. It's fun to document the drive, and it can also come in handy should you get involved in an accident.

29. Backup your photos

We take lots of photos pretty much every day of a long trip. Mainly just using our phones. A week into the trip, the phone usually gets filled up.

We used to manually back up everything on our laptop at the end of every day. Fortunately, it's much easier now, as our phones back up everything directly to Google Photos when we connect to the WiFi at the end of every day.

People Issues

30. plan activities for the whole family.

If you're traveling with kids, plan to make sure they don't get too bored. Our kids loved taking the Junior Ranger programs in every park we visited.

They each have a collection of over 60 Jr Ranger badges and patches! I can highly recommend that for kids aged 4-12.

Generally, ensure the mix of activities is balanced so people of all ages feel they're doing something fun every day. Sitting in the car without anything to do, day after day, isn't enough.

31. Don't overcrowd the vehicle

When spending 5-12 hours a day in the exact vehicle, everyone must have enough personal space.

In our experience, a 7-seater was excellent for a family of four. I wouldn't have liked to take a long road trip in a smaller vehicle.

32. Arrange to meet people on the way

Whether you meet friends and family or other traveling families via a Facebook group or forum, don't miss out on a chance to meet people.

When on a long road trip, it's good to get some variety and get the chance to talk to people other than your trip mates.

33. Consider Couchsurfing

We found Couchsurfing a great way to meet new people, get to know locals and gain fantastic, memorable experiences. Read my guide about Couchsurfing as a family to learn more about our experiences.

Here are a few more safety tips

34. know your driving limitations.

Long road trips often cover a considerable distance. That's part of their appeal.

Don't be rushed to cover more distance than you can do safely. Just how much depends on your driving abilities and experience.

Be mindful of your limitations and how they change. If the weather turns bad or you feel tired - don't push it. Safety comes first, and a road accident is the most significant risk on a long road trip.

35. Check your car regularly

Modern vehicles are very good at letting you know how they're doing. Keep an eye on the car and ensure it's current on oil changes, etc. If you don't have an air pressure monitor, check your tire pressure manually regularly.

You're putting a lot of strain on your vehicle when road-tripping. This usually isn't a problem with newer cars, but with older ones, it can be.

36. Mountain driving and other special conditions

Road-tripping is likely to take you through some fantastic scenery. It could also mean going through types of terrain that you may not be used to driving through in your daily life. I'm talking specifically about mountain passes.

If you're from a flat area and don't have mountain driving experience, refresh yourself on the basics of mountain driving. Know how to use the lower gears of your vehicle. Don't go too fast; use pullovers to let faster drivers take over safely.

37. Watch for wildlife on the road

This is a good rule, pretty much anywhere where there's wildlife. However, when road-tripping, you're more likely to drive through areas where wildlife could be an issue.

Take special care when driving early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Look for signs warning you against the presence of animals. They're there for a reason.

38. Don't leave valuables in the car

In the end, the real danger is from humans - not animals. Other than traffic accidents, as a traveler, you're also more at risk for burglary and theft. Follow these basic rules -

• Lock your car when you leave it.
• Take the most essential valuables (wallet and phone) with you.
• Avoid leaving cameras, laptops, and other valuables in the car - and cover them if you are forced to leave them in the vehicle.

You can also look into insurance, but we never take one. We accept the risk of theft as part of the traveling experience and "cover ourselves." So far, I'm happy to say we have never had anything stolen from us during more a year and a half of road-tripping in the US and Canada.

39. Carry first aid with you

Having a small first aid kit in the car is always a good idea. You never know when someone will get a small cut or minor injury. It's easier to have that with you rather than start looking for a pharmacy in the middle of nowhere.

Please don't go overboard with it, though. Unless you're a paramedic, you're not likely to need much more than some antiseptic and band-aids.

Hey, that is actually sort of a tip, too! Try to get into the road trip mood. For us, that usually takes a day or two, but once we're "in the zone," there's nothing quite like it—just rolling from one beautiful place to another, leaving your worries behind you!

How about your road trip tips?

I'd love to hear from fellow road-trippers! Do you have your special tips for a successful road trip experience? Please don't be shy and leave them here in a comment!

Thank you in advance for sharing this post on social media. Here are a couple more images for Pinterest.

Like the rest of the photos in this post, they were all taken during our road trips -

I really appreciate your advice that on really long drives it is better to have more space! About a week ago, I was talking to my sister, and she mentioned that she wants to plan a big road trip for both of our families. I think it would be great if we could all drive together so that we can bond. We should look into busses or minibusses that could hold all of us comfortably.

Hi Greta, That’s definitely an interesting idea!

Thank you for sharing! I am currently planning a month long road trip through Washington, Oregon, and California for next summer! This will be the second trip my four travel mates and I will make!

Enjoy your trip! Our next one comes up in March and I’m already super excited about it!

Thank you so much for sharing your memory of your adventures. I learned so much from you. Nature is one God’s beautiful creations. Through nature, God is able to teach us, speak to us, and provide for us. God bless you for encouraging us to follow your footstep.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The Great American Road Trip: A 4-Month Itinerary Around the USA

The Great American Road Trip. It’s the kind of multi-month adventure most dream about, but few actually do.

While many of us have bucket-list goals of exploring this vast and diverse landscape, more often than not, we end up heading abroad instead. International travel just seems more alluring, exotic, and exciting.

But this country has more than enough eclectic cities, small towns, regional culinary traditions, historic sites, fascinating museums, and natural wonders to keep any intrepid traveler busy.

I’ve done five big US road trips (two that completely crisscrossed the country and three in various regions) that cumulatively add up to a year on the road (and that doesn’t count all the “regular” trips, vacations, and weekend getaways). I’ve seen a lot of the United States.

When COVID-19 caused us to consider our backyard more and more, many Americans turned to domestic travel. We finally got to explore all the wonders our own country has to offer.

So, because of that, I’ve created an epic four-month itinerary for traveling around the States. I think it balances time in cities with relaxing in nature.

It may seem like a lot, but four months just scratches the surface. And, since I don’t expect most of you to have four months, you can easily break this trip into smaller portions. It’s much better to concentrate your focus rather than try to see a lot in a short amount of time.

One note before we begin: There are so many routes you could take that it’s impossible to have one “best” route. The US is just too big. The route below is just one of my favorites. Use it as a starting point for creating your own itinerary that mixes realistic drive times, national parks, and fabulous cities.

Table of Contents

Month 1: East Coast, Southern US

Month 2: south, southwestern us, west coast, month 3: pacific northwest, western us, month 4: midwest, northeast us, days 1-3: boston, ma.

• Walk the Freedom Trail – This 2.5-mile (4 kilometer) route links many historic sites, including the Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, the State House, and Bunker Hill. To get the most out of your experience, take a guided tour . You’ll be able to ask questions to an expert local guide for a more in-depth experience.
• Relax in Boston Common – This is one of America’s oldest parks and was once used as communal pasture land by Puritan settlers. Today, it’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and picnic.
• See the Bunker Hill Monument – The Battle of Bunker Hill (1775) was one of the first major battles of the Revolutionary War. While the British won, the Americans wore British forces down more than was expected. The monument stands 221 feet (67 meters) tall; you can climb to the top to enjoy the best view of Boston.
• Visit the Museum of Fine Arts – This museum has over 450,000 pieces of fine art, covering everything from the pre-Columbian era to Italian Impressionists. It’s one of the biggest collections in the country. It’s free after 4pm on Wednesdays.

For more things to do, check out my free guide to Boston . And, for places to stay, here are my hostel recommendations.

Days 4-8: New York City, NY

• Take a walking tour – To get a feel for the city, take a walking tour. There are myriad free and paid tours on a variety of subjects. Nothing is too obscure. Here’s a list of suggested walking tour companies in NYC .
• Wander Central Park – This massive, 51-block-long, 843-acre park is the best free attraction in town. There are plenty of places to bike, walk, jog, read, picnic, and people-watch. During the summer, there are free concerts and theater productions too. Free tours are run by the parks service. The “Iconic Views of Central Park” tour is offered daily at 10am from the spring to the fall.
• See the Statue of Liberty – You can pay to visit Ellis Island if you want to see the statue up close . However, you can also take a free ferry to Staten Island instead if you just want to see it while passing by.
• Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum – At the base of the Freedom Tower is a park commemorating the victims of 9/11. Inside the museum, there are over 14,000 artifacts from that day, as well as 3,500 recordings from survivors, first responders, and family members of those killed. It’s a sobering, eye-opening exhibit. A timed-entry ticket is $19.40 USD.
• Walk the High Line – The High Line is an elevated urban walking park on the west side of NYC. Made from a converted train track, it runs for 22 blocks and is lined with overlooks, gardens, public art, food stalls, and greenery.
• Cross the Brooklyn Bridge – For a view of the Manhattan skyline, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a long walk (around 40 minutes if you stop for photos), but the view is worth it — especially at night. It’s free too!
• Explore the Met – The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the foremost fine art collections in the world. You can easily spend an entire day here if you wanted to see it all.

If you want more ideas for things to see and do in NYC, here’s a detailed suggested itinerary that can come.

For accommodation suggestions, here is my comprehensive list of hostels in NYC , my recommended hotels , as well as a neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to the city .  

Days 9-11: Philadelphia, PA

• See the Liberty Bell – This bell, which dates to 1752, is an iconic symbol of American freedom. It’s said to have been rung when the Declaration of Independence was read in July 1776. Today, the bell is located in Independence National Historical Park, which you can visit for free.
• Wander around Independence Hall – Learn about the founding of the United States at Independence Hall, and wander around the area’s historic colonial buildings.
• Explore Franklin Court – This is where Benjamin Franklin lived while serving in the Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention. While his house was torn down after his death in 1790, a hollow structure stands where it was located, and there’s a museum nearby with information about his life and works.
• Climb the Rocky stairs – The stairs from Rocky , the classic boxing film, are located at the Museum of Art. You can’t visit Philadelphia without running up them and doing your best Stallone impression.
• Visit the Magic Gardens – This quirky art gallery is one of the most unique attractions in town: a collection of indoor and outdoor art and mosaics made from broken tiles, glass, and all kinds of odds and ends. Indoors, there’s a more conventional art gallery and space for events and concerts.

Days 12-14: Washington, DC

• Visit the Holocaust Museum – The Holocaust Museum is informative and heart-wrenching. Its permanent exhibit takes up three entire levels and tells the story of the Holocaust through films, photos, artifacts, and first-person stories. Admission is free.
• Tour the Smithsonian – The Smithsonian Institution is a group of world-class museums and research centers. All of them are free to enter. Some of the best museums are: the Air and Space Museum, the African American Museum, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum.
• See the Lincoln Memorial – This iconic 19-foot statue is located on the National Mall and pays tribute to America’s 16th president. Built in 1914, it’s surrounded by 36 columns, each of which represents a state in the union at the time of his death in 1865.

For tons more ideas on what to see, here’s my free detailed guide to DC!  

Days 15-16: Shenandoah National Park, VA

Days 17-19: Asheville, NC

• The Biltmore Estate – This is America’s largest house. It’s a whopping 178,926-square-foot mansion surrounded by 8,000 acres of land. The massive estate has over 250 rooms (including 33 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms). I love it!
• Enjoying craft beer – Asheville has over 25 breweries (and there are another 50+ outside town too). Take a brewery tour, or just hop around and sample some local offerings. My two favorites are Bhramari and Wicked Weed.
• Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains – Parts of the Appalachian Trail can be found here, and there are lots of day or multiday hikes. You can also climb Mount Mitchell, the highest summit east of the Mississippi River.

Days 20-22: Atlanta, GA

• See the Center for Civil and Human Rights – Opened in 2014, this museum highlights the struggles and accomplishments of the civil rights movement as well as human rights around the globe. (To learn more about civil rights history in Atlanta, take this city walking tour with Unexpected Atlanta. )
• Wander the Atlanta Botanical Garden – Escape the urban hustle and bustle with a getaway to this 30-acre oasis in the heart of the city. In addition to its orchids and tropical plants, there’s a 600-foot canopy walk that lets you enjoy the gardens from 40 feet in the air.
• Take a street art tour – Atlanta is one of the best destinations for street art. There are tons of murals along the Krog Street Tunnel and the Belt Line. Take a guided tour or use the website streetartmap.org for self-guided suggestions.

Days 23-27: Nashville, TN

• Attend the Grand Ole Opry – Opened in 1925, this is one of the most famous country music venues in the world. Today, the Opry hosts regular live performances, TV broadcasts, and radio shows. You can buy tickets here or book a guided tour of the venue here .
• See the Parthenon – This full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, was built in 1897. It was created to celebrate Nashville’s 100th anniversary and chosen because Nashville is called “the Athens of the South” (due to its historic focus on higher education).
• Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – This museum has one of the largest music collections in the entire world. There are over 200,000 recordings here, including 98% of music released before World War II. Tickets are $29.95 USD.
• Visit Franklin – Located just 25 minutes outside of Nashville, most people assume Franklin is just another suburb. However, it has a lot going for it: it’s bursting with small-town charm, has stellar food and drink (it’s where I discovered my favorite Bourbon, H Clark), is full of history ( there was a major Civil War battle here ), and has one of the best-preserved historic main streets in the country. I’d spend two nights here.

Days 28-30: Memphis, TN

• Visit the National Civil Rights Museum – This museum traces the history of civil rights from the 17th century to today. It’s housed in the former motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It’s powerful and poignant. Don’t miss it. Admission is $20 USD.
• See the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – This museum highlights the musical pioneers of blues, rock, and soul music from the 1930s to the 1970s. There are costumes and recordings, interactive media, and exhibitions on famous musicians from Memphis. A joint ticket that also includes the Music Hall of Fame is $17 USD.
• Stroll down Beale Street – Known as “America’s most iconic street,” Beale Street features many bars where you’ll find Memphis’s best live music. There are also numerous street buskers. If you’re going out at night, start here. ( Backbeat Tours offers guided tours if you’d like to learn more about the street’s history.)
• Day-trip to Graceland – The home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is located a few miles south of town. Even if you’re not a huge Elvis fan, it’s worth a visit to see just how impactful his life and music have been. You’ll see loads of lookalikes and die-hard fans making the pilgrimage to see the King.

Days 31-32: Natchez, MS

• Visit antebellum homes – Built in the early to mid-19th century, these historic homes are Natchez’s main draw. Longwood, Rosalie Mansion, and Stanton Hall were my favorites. Admission is $20-25 USD at each or there is a joint ticket that includes all three for $65 USD.
• Attend the Natchez Pilgrimage – During the Natchez Pilgrimage in the spring, all of the private historical homes open up to the public. The costumed guides explain the history of the home, their owners, and the region. It’s the city’s biggest annual event, and there are some 20 homes on display.
• See the Emerald Mount – Constructed sometime between the 13th and 17th centuries, this was an elevated place of worship for the Plaquemine Native Americans. All kinds of animal bones have been found nearby, leading researchers to believe it was the site of religious or sacred activity.

Days 33-36: New Orleans, LA

• Visit the National World War II Museum – This is the largest World War II museum in America. It’s also one of the best museums in the world. You can listen to firsthand accounts of the war, which make it all feel that much more intimate and impactful. You can get your tickets here .
• Listen to music on Frenchmen Street – Live music is available every night of the week, and there are innumerable venues to listen to blues and jazz. My personal favorite is the Spotted Cat.
• Wander the French Quarter and Garden District – These are two of NOLA’s most iconic and historic districts, full of old French-influenced buildings and grand mansions. You can either do a self-guided tour or go with Tour Orleans to learn more about this beautiful area.
• Take a ghost or voodoo tour – “The Big Easy” has a creepy past. The best way to learn about it is to take a voodoo or ghost tour . You’ll get to see cemeteries, explore haunted buildings, and hear all sorts of unsettling anecdotes and ghostly tales.

For more things to see and do in NOLA, check out this detailed itinerary .  

Days 37-39: Houston, TX

Houston is home to the Space Center and NASA’s astronaut training complex, as well as countless breweries and museums and a killer food scene (definitely go out for Viet BBQ).

These are some things you can do while you’re in town:

• Visit Space Center Houston – This is Houston’s top attraction, bringing in over a million visitors each year. There are over 400 items in the collection, including moon rocks and three spacecraft that were used during missions. Get your timed-entry ticket here .
• Explore the Museum of Natural Science – Opened in 1909, this museum has four floors of exhibitions (as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theatre). There are displays on wildlife, ancient Egypt, dinosaurs, minerals, and much more! Tickets are $25 USD.
• Wander Buffalo Bayou Park – This 124-acre park has all kinds of walking trails and is a nice spot for a picnic, to relax with a book, or to people-watch. There are also lots of concerts and events here too, so check the local tourism office to see what’s coming up.

Days 40-44: Austin, TX

• Relax at Barton Springs – Barton Springs is a pool/creek that locals flock to in warm weather. It’s fed by a natural cold-water spring in Zilker Park and has manicured lawns that are great for lounging on and relaxing when it’s too hot to do much else. You can also rent kayaks and paddle around.
• Go two-stepping – Two-stepping is a popular country dance — and country dancing is one of Austin’s favorite pastimes. To see it in action (and try it yourself), head to the White Horse, where there are free lessons so you can then dance your way around town.
• Enjoy world-class barbecue — Some of the best BBQ joints in the US are here in Austin. If you’re looking to treat your taste buds (and don’t mind waiting, usually a couple of hours), head to Franklin’s or La Barbecue. For something faster, check out Micklethwait Craft Meats.

For way more activities, check out my free guide to Austin ! Since I lived here for so long, I have a lot of suggestions on how to spend your time.  

Days 45-47: Truth or Consequences, NM

Originally named Hot Springs, “T or C,” as it’s known, got its name from a radio contest in 1950. After winning, the town kept the name. Located 10 hours from Austin, T or C is known for its wellness tourism. The entire town was built over a hot mineral spring, so it’s the perfect place to relax at a spa.

Try to explore some of the nearby ghost towns. Winston and Chloride, located north of T and C, are two mining towns that were abandoned in the early 1900s; some of the original buildings still remain.  

Days 48-49: Phoenix, AZ

• See the Desert Botanical Garden – This 140-acre garden is home to over 50,000 plants, including over 14,000 cacti. It’s super interesting!
• Visit the Heard Museum – This museum focuses on Native American art. There are permanent and rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, as well as cultural artifacts that highlight the history and traditions of the region’s native cultures.
• Hike Camelback Mountain – With an elevation of 2,700 feet, this 2-3-hour hike is a fun way to see Arizona’s stunning and arid landscapes. There are two trails, both of which are challenging but rewarding.

Days 50-51: Joshua Tree National Park, CA

A seven-day vehicle pass is $30 USD. It allows multiple entries in case you stay in one of the nearby towns.  

Days 52-54: San Diego, CA

• See the USS Midway Museum – This aircraft carrier was commissioned after World War II and was the largest ship in the world until 1955. It saw action in numerous conflicts, including Vietnam. After it was decommissioned, it became a museum open to the public. Skip-the-line tickets are $32 USD.
• Visit wildlife at the San Diego Zoo – Located in Balboa Park, this zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and 700,000 plant species. It’s a massive 1,800-acre park, and you could easily spend an entire day here. It’s a fun place to visit with kids (there’s even a Children’s Zoo). A skip-the-line ticket is $72 USD.
• Go whale watching – California gray whales migrate from Alaska to Mexico between December and April. They are spectacular to see up close, as they grow up to 49 feet long and live for over 70 years. Tours range from around $60-75 USD depending on length and tour company. A 4-hour tour with City Cruises California is $73 USD.

Days 55-58: Los Angeles, CA

• Wander Hollywood Boulevard – Play tourist and visit the Walk of Fame (where stars have their names engraved in the sidewalk) and Grauman’s (now TCL) Chinese Theatre (featuring celebrities’ handprints and footprints).
• Relax on the beach – At iconic Venice Beach, you’ll find all kinds of street performers, surfers, roller-skaters, and locals and tourists alike soaking up the sun. Some other beaches worth checking out are Carbon Beach, Santa Monica State Beach, Huntington City Beach, and El Matador.
• Visit to the Hollywood sign – Don’t just settle for a photo of the sign — go see it up close. The three trails that you can take (from easiest to hardest) are the Mt. Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail. Bring water and sunscreen, as the hike will take a few hours. If you don’t want to go solo, guided hikes to the Hollywood sign cost $25 USD.
• Go hiking – LA is an active city, and locals love escaping the hustle and bustle as often as they can. Some trails worth checking out are the Charlie Turner Trail (90 minutes), Runyon Canyon (45 minutes), Portuguese Bend Reserve (3 hours), and Echo Mountain (3–3.5 hours).

For an even more detailed list of what else you can see and do while in LA, check out my Los Angeles travel guide . For accommodation suggestions, here are my favorite hostels in Los Angeles .  

Days 59-61: Las Vegas, NV

• Explore Fremont Street – Old Vegas is full of sketchy bars, vintage casinos, and a Bourbon Street vibe. It makes for an interesting contrast to the sleek and polished Strip. There are lots of cover bands, buskers, and celeb lookalikes pandering for paid photos, as well as people-watching, cheap slots, and cheap drinks. There’s also an hourly light show on the ceiling above the street. Las Vegas Walking Tours offers a 3-hour tour of Fremont Street if you’d like a bit of a deeper dive.
• Hike Red Rock – Just 30 minutes outside town, Red Rock Canyon offers plenty of hiking and biking trails. Just make sure to arrive early in the morning before it gets too hot. Red Rock Discovery Tours also offers guided hikes starting at $95 USD (includes round-trip transportation from Vegas).
• Visit the Neon Museum – This is essentially an eclectic graveyard for the huge lights and signs that once beckoned to tourists from casinos like the Silver Slipper, Stardust, and El Cortez. It spans three acres and gives you a glimpse into the city’s shining and sinful past. Admission is $20 USD.
• See the Grand Canyon – Rent a car and drive the four hours to the South or North Rim of the Grand Canyon . It’s one of the most epic, iconic sights in the country and absolutely worth the drive. If you can, hike down to the bottom and stay the night. It’s an amazing experience! And if you want to dive deeper into this beautiful area, check out HoneyTrek’s Grand Circle Road Trip .

For more activities (and there’s plenty to choose from that don’t involve gambling), here is my comprehensive guide to Las Vegas .  

Days 62-64: Yosemite National Park, CA

Days 65-67: San Francisco, CA

• Walk the Golden Gate Bridge – When it opened in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was the world’s longest and tallest suspension bridge. Spend some time walking across to enjoy the view of the bay and the ships coming and going.
• Tour Alcatraz – One of the most infamous prisons in the country, Alcatraz housed some of the nation’s worst criminals (renowned gangster Al “Scarface” Capone spent four years here). Today, it’s a national landmark where you can take tours, step foot in the cells, and learn about its grim history. Tickets are $53.25 USD. There are also many joint ticket options, such as this one that includes a cruise around San Francisco Bay .
• Relax at Golden Gate Park – This gigantic park features a Japanese garden, museums, an arboretum, a carousel, and many hiking and walking trails. It’s a whopping 20% bigger than New York City’s Central Park, so you easily could spend an entire day here relaxing, walking, and lounging.

Again, for even ways to spend your time in SF, here’s my guide to the city . And, for suggested places to stay, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in San Francisco .  

Days 68-69: Redwood National Park, CA

Given the drive time from SF, spend two nights here to make sure you get some good hiking in.  

Days 70-73: The Oregon Coast

• Binge on oysters – I’ve grown to love oysters in recent years and some of the best in the country can be found in Oregon. Some of my favorite places I stopped at were from Shucker’s Oyster Bar (Lincoln City), Oregon Oyster Farm and Mo’s Seafood & Chowder (both in Newport), and Clausen Oysters (North Bend).
• See Thor’s Well – This coastal sinkhole near Cape Perpetua is known as the Drainpipe of the Pacific. While it can be dangerous to get too close (it’s very easy to get swept away into the water or rocks), you’ll nevertheless see tons of tourists posing for pictures near the well. It’s worth a stop to snap some quick pics.
• Relax at Cannon Beach – This iconic beach is long and sandy and is best known for its photogenic Haystack Rock, a giant rock jutting out of the ocean just offshore. There are plenty of tide pools and places to picnic here, and the town itself (also called Cannon Beach) is full of all kinds of cafés and artisanal shops.

Here’s a list of my favorite things to see and do along the Oregon coast to help you make the most of your drive.  

Days 74-76: Portland

• See Pittock Mansion – Built in 1914, this 46-room French Renaissance-style mansion was originally owned by a wealthy couple from England. Today, it’s part of the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, you’ll find beautiful artwork and furniture collected by the original owners. Admission is $16.50 USD.
• Devour some donuts – Portland is known for its donuts. Voodoo Doughnuts put Portland on the map with its weird and wonderful combinations, such as Cap’n Crunch and maple bacon. Some argue that Voodoo is for tourists and that actually Blue Star makes better donuts. Try both and see for yourself! You can also take a donut food tour with Underground Donut Tours for $70 USD.
• Hike the Columbia River Gorge – Located east of town, here you’ll find waterfalls (including Oregon’s tallest, Multnomah Falls), scenic vistas, and hiking trails. Some suggested hikes are Dry Creek Falls (easy, 2 hours), Wahkeena Falls Loop (moderate, 3 hours), and Starvation Ridge and Warren Lake (hard, 8 hours). Guided hikes with Wildwood Tours cost around $80 USD (transportation included).

For more suggestions on how to spend your time in Portland, here’s a list of the best things to see and do in the city!  

Days 77-79: Seattle, WA

• Explore the Seattle Center – Seattle Center is home to the Space Needle as well as a complex of entertainment venues: the Museum of Pop Culture (formerly the Experience Music Project), the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, the Pacific Science Center, and the outdoor Mural Amphitheater, as well as the International Fountain and the Armory food court. Don’t miss the views from the top of the Space Needle ( get your skip-the-line ticket here )!
• Wander Pike Place Market – Pike Place Market is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the US. It’s a nine-acre, four-floor sprawl of shops, stalls, galleries, and cafés (including the original Starbucks location) selling everything from crafts to flowers to fresh produce. Wander, eat, shop, and enjoy the ambiance. Show Me Seattle offers food tours of the market for a more guided experience.
• See the Boeing Museum of Flight – This museum highlights planes and spacecraft through the ages, offering insight into how flight has evolved over the decades. You’ll also get a chance to see the original Boeing “factory.” The original Air Force One is here too. Admission is $26.

For more things to see and do, here’s my in-depth guide to Seattle . And here are some budget-friendly accommodation suggestions for your visit.  

Days 80-82: Missoula, MT

• Tour the breweries – For such a small city, there are breweries and bars everywhere (Montana has the third-highest number of craft breweries per capita in the country). Don’t miss Bayern Brewery (the state’s first craft brewery), Draught Works Brewery (which has live music three nights a week), and Imagine Nation (which is also a community center). If you visit in April, you can attend the Missoula Craft Beer Week.
• Hike the M – Mount Sentinel is a small mountain nearby that offers some stunning views. The trail is just 1.2 miles, so it’s not particularly challenging, though you can extend the route for an all-day hike by continuing along the Crazy Canyon Trail at the summit.
• Ski Snowball Mountain – In the winter you’ll find upwards of a thousand acres of skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, the area is open for zip-lining, hiking, and mountain biking. It’s just twenty minutes from downtown,

NOTE: While not here, if you have time, you can drive north to spend a few days in Glacier National Park.  

Days 83-86: Yellowstone National Park, WY

Yellowstone is home to the largest volcanic system in North America, which is why geysers like Old Faithful (and the largest active geyser in the world, Steamboat) can be found here. Wolves, bears, lynx, cougars, and bison all call the park home as well. Spend some time here hiking, camping, and basking in the park’s magnificent landscapes.  

Days 87-90: Denver, CO

• Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum – This museum is housed on an old air base and has a collection of over 50 aircraft on display. Some of the highlights include a supersonic Rockwell Lancer and the massive B-52 Stratofortress. Admission is $19.95.
• Hike Mount Evans – This 14,265-foot peak can actually be summited in under 30 minutes (though there are longer trails too). You’ll see sweeping panoramic views of the region without having to hike for hours. Be sure to visit Like Echo and Mount Goliath on the way here.
• Catch a show at Red Rocks – The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a 9,000-seat outdoor venue that regularly hosts concerts and other events. It’s one of the most beautiful concert venues in the US. Try to catch a show here if you can.

Days 91-93: Kansas City, MO

• Indulge in BBQ – KC is one of America’s best hubs for delicious barbecue. You can find pretty much any kind of meat barbecued here, from brisket to turkey to fish. Kansas City’s barbecue dates back to the 1920s, and the city takes this tradition seriously. Harp Barbecue and Fiorella’s Jack Stack are two of the best in town.
• Wander the Jazz District – The historic 18th and Vine area is known as the Jazz District, owing to the popularity of jazz music from the 1920s to the ’40s and performances here by the likes of Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louie Armstrong. Wander the district and bar-hop to catch some stellar live music.
• See the World War I Museum – The award-winning National World War I Museum and Memorial of the United States sheds light on the history and horrors of the Great War.

Days 94-97: Chicago, IL

• Relax in Grant & Millennium Parks – Located downtown, these two parks provide a relaxing place to hang out, have a picnic, or go for a run. You’ll find people playing chess, and during the summer, there are a lot of free concerts. The famous “Chicago Bean” sculpture is located in Millennium Park.
• Try the pizza – Deep-dish pizza and stuffed-crust pizza were developed in Chicago, and no trip is complete without trying at least one. Deep-dish pizza was invented by Pizzeria Uno, which is now a national restaurant chain. But for something more local, Chicagoans swear by Lou Malnati’s.
• Visit the Art Institute of Chicago – Founded in 1879, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country. It has everything from photography to architecture to textiles, and its permanent collection includes works by Eva Hesse, David Hockney, and Ellsworth Kelly. A skip-the-line ticket is $40 USD.

If you want additional things to see and do (as well as some money-saving tips), consult my comprehensive guide to Chicago!

And here is my list of the best hostels in Chicago for budget-friendly accommodation .  

Days 98-100: Detroit, MI

• Explore the Detroit Institute of Art – This 130-year-old museum is located in the heart of Midtown and has something to offer every visitor. There are more than 65,000 works of art here, ranging from classic to more modern and contemporary pieces, spread out over 100 different galleries. It’s one of the best art museums in the country. Admission is $18 USD.
• Walk the Dequindre Cut – The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a two-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront, the Eastern Market, and several residential neighborhoods in between. Along the path, you’ll find all kinds of street art, as well as buskers in the summer. It’s a nice place to walk or jog and take in the city.
• Shop at the Eastern Market – The Eastern Market is a huge marketplace with local foods, art, jewelry, artisan crafts, and more. It covers 43 acres and is the largest historic public market district in the United States, dating back over 150 years. It is particularly busy on Saturdays, when farmers bring in their fresh produce.

Days 101-103: Cleveland, OH

• See the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – This is one of the largest collections of musical memorabilia in the entire world. John Lennon’s guitar, Elvis Presley’s military uniform, and David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust outfits are just some of the items in the massive collection.
• Tour the Museum of Natural History – Founded in 1920, this massive museum is home to over four million specimens. There are exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, primates, animals, and more. It’s super educational, and there are lots of interactive exhibits too.
• Hike the Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Located on the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron, this is the only national park in Ohio. Encompassing 32,000 acres, the park has all kinds of hiking and biking trails (camping is no longer permitted).

Days 104-106: Pittsburgh, PA

• Ride the Duquesne Incline – This 140-year-old funicular used to transport workers up Pittsburgh’s steep hills before cars became commonplace. Hop on, ride to the top, and enjoy the view! Tickets are $2.50 USD one way.
• Visit the Warhol Museum – Dedicated to Andy Warhol, Pittsburgh’s best-known artist, this is the largest museum in the country dedicated to a single person. While much of his art is unusual, it’s still worth a visit, as Warhol has had a profound and lasting impact on modern art. Admission is $25.
• See Randyland – Created by a local artist, here you’ll find a section of the north end completely painted in all kinds of bright colors and murals. Buildings, fences, driveways — it’s a massive, bright, and fun spot to visit and unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere! Admission is free but donations are encouraged.
• Tour Carrie Furnace – Built in 1884, these former blast furnaces were part of the Homestead Steel Works and produced over 1,000 tons of iron per day. It’s one of the only pre–World War II blast furnaces in existence. Tours are $25 USD.

Days 107-110: Finger Lakes, NY

• Visit the wineries – There are tons of wineries all around the Finger Lakes, most of which offer tours and tastings (some also have live music and serve food). To guide your way, follow the Seneca Wine Trail or the Keuka Wine Trail, which link some of the best wineries in the region.
• See Watkins Glen State Park – Watkins Glen State Park gorge trail is home to 19 picturesque waterfalls spread out over a two-hour hike. It’s not particularly strenuous, and there are lots of spots to relax and snap photos.
• Visit Ithaca – This photogenic small town has over 150 waterfalls within 10 miles of the town. There’s also a charming downtown, the beautiful Cornell campus (one of the prettiest in the country), and Cayuga Lake.

Days 111-113: Albany, NY

• Hike in John Boyd Thacher State Park – Located 30 minutes outside of town, this state park has over 25 miles of trails, as well as panoramic views from the Helderberg Escarpment. It’s a beautiful place for a day hike.
• Visit New York State Museum – This museum has a wide range of interesting exhibitions, including on local birds and wildlife, colonial history, and the ice age, among other topics. Admission is free (though a $5 USD donation is suggested).
• Tour the Capitol – The NY State Capitol building offers free daily tours. They’re the perfect way to learn more about the state, the city, and the building (including some ghost stories about the capitol’s haunting). Tours last one hour.

Days 114-120: Buffer Days

Having some padding in your itinerary will let you explore, have serendipitous travel experiences, and dig a little deeper into the regions and cultures you’ll be passing through.

While this is a solid itinerary, please mix it up. Skip some cities and spend more time in nature — or vice versa!

At the end of the day, the United States is an amazing and diverse country. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it. Delicious food, adventure activities, hiking, museums, history — we’ve got it all. You just need to hit the road and see it for yourself.

Need a rental car for your epic adventure? use the widget below to find the best deals!

Book Your Trip to the United States: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money — and I think they will help you too!

Want more information on the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on the USA for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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10 of the best road trips in the USA

Jan 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Take to the open road and discover a different side to the USA © monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images

While a plane may get you there faster, road-tripping across the US is one of the most iconically American things you can do.

Get up close and personal with the country’s most striking landscapes – dense eastern forests, windswept plains, red rock canyons, dramatic Pacific coastlines – and make pit stops at some of its most famous cities all in one go.

Crisscrossed with an extensive network of pretty well-maintained highway systems, the US is remarkably easy to traverse by car . Some distances may be long, but gas, food and accommodations are largely easy to come by (except in some of the most rural locales), and a set of wheels gives you the freedom to do extra side quests along the way.

Here’s a list of our favorite routes across America’s wide open spaces, along with some tips on how to make the most of your journey.

1. Pacific Coast Highway

Best road trip for Pacific views San Diego–Seattle; 1600 miles; 8–12 days

The Pacific Coast Highway delivers one of the US’ most iconic road trip experiences, linking together the West Coast’s most notable metropolises, quirky California beach towns, ancient redwood forests, and the dramatic capes and pools of the Pacific Northwest . The route includes Hwy 1, Hwy 101 and I-5, starting in San Diego ; it winds up the coast through LA , Big Sur , San Francisco and Redwood National & State Parks , eventually terminating in Seattle .

Planning tip: Always check for road closures, particularly in the Big Sur area, where rockslides are common along the sea cliffs.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Best Appalachian road trip Cherokee, NC–Waynesboro, VA; 469 miles; 2–5 days

This spectacular route takes you through the heart of the US’ oldest mountain range, delivering view after view of rolling green mountains chock full of enchanting hiking trails, thundering waterfalls, ancient rock formations and prolific wildlife. The Parkway – part of the NPS system – begins adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and passes through the spectacular Pisgah National Forest, a number of state parks and recreation areas, and Roanoke, VA, before ending at the southern entrance of Shenandoah National Park .

Detour: In addition to state and national parks , many one-off hikes originate along the parkway. Consult trail maps to avoid missing some of Appalachia’s top routes.

3. Route 66

Best road trip for American kitsch Chicago–Los Angeles; 2250 miles; 1–2 weeks

Nicknamed the Mother Road, Route 66 has permanently ingrained itself in the international psyche as the original US road trip. Starting in Chicago , it crosses eight different states and connects travelers to national parks, weird-but-wonderful roadside attractions and tons of vintage Americana.

Planning tip:  The route can be driven in pieces or all at once, but we suggest allotting plenty of time to explore – distances are long, and the activities are numerous.

4. Natchez Trace

Best road trip for Southern history Pasquo, TN–Natchez, MS; 444 miles; 2–3 days

The path for the Natchez Trace was originally carved not by humans, but by buffalo that wandered the region from middle Tennessee to Natchez, MS. Indigenous hunters and traders soon followed, and later the route became a full-fledged thoroughfare for European colonists, soldiers and dignitaries. Today, a trip down the Trace yields gorgeous scenery, historic towns and the experience of traveling one of the most storied roads in the country.

5. Florida Highway 1

Best road trip for Gulf Coast culture Amelia Island–Key West; 475 miles; 6 days

Florida’s Hwy 1 runs the length of the state’s Atlantic Coast before banking east at Miami  and ending in stunning Key West . This sublime multi-day journey takes you through tons of Florida ’s most iconic stops: historic St Augustine , windswept Canaveral National Seashore , Nascar-fueled Daytona, laid-back Fort Lauderdale and the glam and glitter of Miami and South Beach.

Planning tip: Hurricane season lasts from June through October – with the most active months being August and September – and has the potential to significantly affect Florida. If you’re visiting during this window, keep your eyes on the forecast.

6. Badlands – Black Hills Loop

Best road trip to experience the Great Plains Badlands National Park–Badlands National Park; 330 miles; 2 days

If you want to get a taste of how expansive the Great Plains really are, head to South Dakota for this fascinating road trip through a state of huge ecological and cultural importance. Start your trip at the mind-bendingly beautiful Badlands National Park before looping over to the Black Hills, home to the Crazy Horse Memorial , Mt Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park . Along the way, take in views of thriving buffalo herds, fascinating rock formations and plenty of rolling hills.

7. San Juan Skyway

Best road trip for Rocky Mountain peaks Durango–Durango; 236 miles; 1–3 days

The San Juan Skyway delivers some of the Rockies ’ biggest views in high definition. This route – which includes the renowned Million Dollar Highway – leapfrogs across central Colorado’s mountainous core connecting Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park , known for the cliff dwellings left behind by the Ancestral Puebloans.

Whether you’re a history buff, ski bum, landscape photographer or simply someone who enjoys a thrilling drive, San Juan Skyway has something for you.

Planning tip: A fact that can be deduced by its name, the San Juan Skyway runs through high-altitude terrain, and that makes road conditions somewhat unpredictable, particularly during shoulder season. Always check for closures or local warnings before heading out.

8. Richardson Highway

Best road trip for Alaska outdoors Fairbanks–Valdez; 364 miles; 2–4 days

No road trip list would be complete without a journey through the country’s largest, northernmost state. The Richardson Highway, Alaska’s oldest highway, connects Fairbanks with Valdez, winding past dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers and giving travelers a front seat to some of the country’s most jaw-dropping natural attractions. Be sure to make pit stops for hiking, fishing and whitewater rafting.

9. Scenic Byway 12

Best road trip through red rock country Bryce Canyon National Park–Capitol Reef National Park; 122 miles; 1 day

Southern Utah feels like an entirely different planet, and this backroads route takes you through the best scenery this geologically diverse state has to offer. Start your journey in the town of Panguitch – right outside of Bryce Canyon – and follow the road through red rock canyons, historic towns and pine forests until you finish your journey in Torrey, gateway to Capitol Reef National Park , one of the west’s best-kept secrets.

Detour: From Torrey, it’s an easy 2.5-hour drive to Moab , Canyonlands and Arches , making these routes the best way to see Utah’s Big 5 . And the road itself takes you through some amazing lunar-like scenery that contrasts sharply with the red rocks – wild.

10. Coastal New England

Best road trip for Atlantic maritime vibes New York City–Portland, ME; 430 miles; 3–5 days

Prep yourself for seafood chowder, picturesque oceanside towns and all the lobster you can handle – this coastal New England trip will definitely help you find your sea legs. Start in New York City and make your way north along the coast, stopping to enjoy the lovely beaches in Rhode Island , Massachusetts’  wealth of historical heavy hitters and New Hampshire’ s lighthouses before arriving in culinary-minded Portland, ME .

This article was first published May 22, 2019 and updated Jan 5, 2024.

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The 25 best road trips in the usa.

 If you’re looking for the best road trips in the USA, look no further! These great road trips will have you driving for the rest of your life.

This post was written in partnership and paid for by Hum by Verizon . All opinions are my own.

There’s probably nothing more American than packing up your car and hitting the open road with family or friends, some good snacks, and great tunes… and for good reason. With more than 3.7 million square miles to discover and 4,071,000 miles of road , the United States has so many hidden gems accessible by car.

Although I’ve got about 194 countries on my bucket list right now, I’m grateful to live in the great US of A and think it’s one of the most amazing countries to explore from the road. There are so many fun road trips that you can take all over the country!

Here's a Short Cut

The Best USA Road Trip Safety Tips

Get ready for the best road trips in the usa, 1. pacific coast highway, 2. park loop acadia national park, 3. washington-oregon coast, 4. great river road, 5. big island loop road, 6. musical road usa trip, 7. northern national parks road trip, 8. southwest national parks road trip, 9. hana highway road trip, 10. new york city to finger lakes, 11. williamsburg, va to charlottesville, va to washington d.c., 12. miami to the overseas highway to key west, fl: 160 miles from miami, 13. the grand canyon to las vegas, 14. black hills of south dakota, 15. maine lobster trail, 16. blue ridge parkway, 17. grand teton national park to glacier national park, 18. outer banks scenic byway, 19. olympic peninsula, 20. route 66, 21. alaska highway, 22. ultimate florida road trip, 23. the great american road trip – cross country on the i-90, 24. anchorage to seward, 25. canada to mexico.

If you’re planning to take a road trip this year, I’ve compiled the best American road trip routes in the country.  These are 25 of the best road trips in the USA that everyone should take in their lifetime. We’ve been lucky enough to drive almost every inch of this country and there is some beautiful land to see out there.

Before you leave on any road trip, be sure your car is road trip ready.  If you’re traveling the US by car, it’s important to know how to prepare.

Prepare Your Car for the Best Road Trips in the USA

Before heading out on your USA road trip, be sure your car has been serviced, and everything is working properly. When you road trip around the US, anything could go wrong! It’s best to be prepared.

Use Hum by Verizon  to Prepare for Road Trip Vacations I’ve talked about my love of Hum by Verizon before, but it’s because I love my HumX and think anyone taking a road trip should have one!

Hum by Verizon is campaigning to make the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 Safer Days of Summer.” During these 100 Days, you can find helpful tips for safer driving on their Facebook page.

According to a study from Hum by Verizon and Wakefield Research that surveyed 1,000 U.S. adult drivers ages 20 and older, 80% of participants think that drivers are more likely to speed during the summer months. The survey also found that 61% of millennial drivers struggle to focus while driving during the summer, and one in five drivers have received at least one speeding ticket within the past five years.

Hum by Verizon wants to change that, by helping us practice important road safety with “100 Safer Days of Summer.”

With so many great summer road trip destinations around the country, and so many more Americans traveling these days, safety has never been more important! The best summer trips are safe summer trips!

We use HumX in our car. HumX is a little device that is easily installed in your car and takes the guesswork out of driving by using connected car technology. It allows you to have quick access to emergency services and loved ones while on a road trip, or any time on the road.

If you have an accident or emergency, HumX can send assistance to help you get back on the road.

Hum X car also runs diagnostics on your vehicle to make sure that things are running smoothly so you can take these cool road trips worry-free.

I love that HumX helps you keep track of general maintenance like oil changes and tire rotation, and you can set up alerts to remind you when it’s time for service.

All the Hum by Verizon services can be accessed on your smartphone from the Hum App which you can find in the App Store or Google Play . HumX also comes with a Bluetooth speaker that clips to your visor. This will give you access to roadside assistance with the touch of a button and can also be used as a speaker for your phone and be connected to your contacts.

I’m also really excited to have this service when my kids start driving, which is only in 3 more years (HELP)! It provides a safety score, boundary alerts, and records speed, so you can monitor your teen’s driving.

You can also track your fuel and mileage using HumX, which is great if you’re taking road trips that are for work and need to track mileage for expenses or tax purposes.

To prepare for your American road trip of choice, be sure to follow these tips that I’ve shared in How to Plan a Road Trip . If you don’t know what to do on a road trip, these tips will help you prepare and also help you have the best time! Learn a lot and have fun along the way while you road trip USA style!

25 Best Road Trips in the USA

● Begin: San Francisco, California ● End: San Diego, California ● Distance: 655 miles ● Drive Time: 12 Hours

California is one of the best places to road trip in the USA! Its size and diversity provide so many options and the Pacific Coast Highway is just one. This iconic highway along the California coast covers 655 miles of awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, stretching from San Francisco to San Diego. See classic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Bixby Creek Bridge along the way. The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best summer road trips in the world!

Read more about our detailed West Coast Road Trip.

● Begin: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● End: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● Distance: 27 miles ● Drive Time: 2 hours This is one of the best east coast road trips I’ve ever taken. This is a quick road trip but packed full of stunning views as you drive along the Park Loop in Acadia National Park. Forests, mountains, and rocky shores greet you on your drive along with plenty of wildlife. Be sure to spend some time in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine , the town where you can base your Acadia trip from. All good road trips include some amazing scenery, and this one is no exception!

If you’re looking for a great guide to the park, check out this Acadia National Park Guide.

● Start: San Juan Islands ● End: Brookings, Oregon ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 15 hours

The Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to go on a road trip due to its geographical diversity and stunning scenery. One of the most dramatic coastlines in the world, the Pacific Northwest offers rocky beaches, turbulent waters, thick forests, and great food. Begin in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington and continue down to the southern tip of Oregon for one of the best road trips in the USA.

● Starting point: Minnesota ● Ending point: Louisiana ● Distance: 3,000 miles ● Drive Time: 20 hours Follow along the mighty Mississippi River from its beginning in Minnesota, all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. This route is called the Great River Road and it cuts 3,000 miles down the center of our great nation, passing through 10 states, where you’ll see St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, and everything in between. This United States road trip is one of my all-time favorites as it explores some lesser-known destinations in the “fly over” states!

● Starting point: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii ● Ending point: Mauna Kea, Hawaii ● Distance: 300 miles ● Drive Time: 7 hours The Island Loop Road of the Big Island of Hawaii offers scenic views of beaches, mountains, lava fields, active volcanos, black sand beaches, and heated swimming pools. This may be the most diversity in landscape you’ll ever see in one day.

● Begin: Nashville, Tennessee ● End: New Orleans, Louisiana ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 9 hours If you’re a music fan, then Route 61 (also known as the Blues Highway) will be a perfect road trip for you, giving you the chance to hear live music, visit Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, and see famous recording studios. Finish in New Orleans, where you’ll hear live jazz on the streets nightly!

If you want to continue on farther, you can do this amazing gulf coast road trip !

● Begin: Jackson, Wyoming ● End: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming ● Distance: 70 miles ● Drive Time: 1.5 hours National Parks make for the best road trip destinations. Explore both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park with this road trip full of stunning mountainous scenery! It’s the perfect summer road trip.

● Begin: Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim), Arizona ● End: Moab, Utah (one of the most amazing things to do in Utah !) ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 11 hours This nature-packed road trip will allow you to see five stunning Utah national parks including the Grand Canyon, Zions’, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, and Arches. This is a great Utah road trip itinerary if you’re interested in exploring even more of this beautiful state.

Check out this Utah Road Trip Itinerary

● Begin: Kahului, Hawaii ● End: Hana, Hawaii ● Distance: 52 miles ● Drive Time: 2.5 hours This is possibly the most popular road trip in all of the Hawaiian Islands. The 60-mile Road to Hana takes you along the eastern coast of Maui where you will be sandwiched by beautiful ocean views and jungles filled with waterfalls. The Hana highway will wind you around approximately 600 curves, crossing 59 bridges, but the ride is worth it!

● Begin: New York, New York ● End: Corning, New York ● Distance: 250 miles ● Drive Time: 4.5 hours I love this New York road trip! After enjoying the busy city life, escape into the Fingerlakes region of upper state New York. Enjoy culture, scenery, great food and wineries along the way. New York City with kids is so much fun, but it’s great to mix it with a more relaxing and nature-filled vacation.

• Begin: Williamsburg, Virginia
• End: Washington, D.C
• Distance: 240 miles
• Drive Time: 4.5 hours

Brush up on your colonial history and visit the homes of some of our founding fathers while reliving the past. Begin your journey in southern Virginia where you can visit Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement, where you’ll witness historical reenactments and join in on living history.

Next, head to Charlottesville and visit the homes of former presidents Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) and James Monroe (Highland). Head to Mount Vernon, just outside Washington DC to visit George Washington’s home (Mount Vernon) and finish off your trip in our nation’s capital. The distance from Williamsburg VA to Washington DC isn’t much, but the history that can be found on the side of the road is amazing!

You can also do this trip in reverse. It’s one of the best road trips from DC I’ve ever taken.

Begin: Miami, Florida End: Key West, Florida Distance: 170 miles Drive Time: 3.5 hours Take the 150-mile drive on Route 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, from Miami to the Florida Keys, crossing 42 bridges. These sandy islands are full of history, sun, and relaxation. This southern USA Florida road trip is sure to be one of the most sun-filled, fun-filled drives ever!

Begin: Grand Canyon National Park End: Las Vegas, Nevada Distance: 250 miles Drive Time: 4.5 hours Start out with nature, and end in Sin City. This desert drive will take you through the majestic Grand Canyon, with a stop in St. George, Utah and end with some fun in Las Vegas.

Check out this awesome Utah road trip.

Begin: Deadwood, South Dakota End: Hot Springs, South Dakota Distance: 100 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours The Black Hills of South Dakota offer more than just Mount Rushmore. Drive along the Badlands Scenic Byway, making stops at Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park and the infamous Wall Drug. National parks are some of the places to stop on a road trip. Stunning sunsets and sunrises in the Badlands will take your breath away. Keep an eye out for bison on the road. Check out this South Dakota road trip planner for more information.

Begin: Milbridge, Maine End: Eastport, Maine Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 6 hours Explore the southeastern corner of Maine, also known as “Downeast Maine” as you drive along the Lobster Trail on Coastal Route 1. This colorful and delicious journey will take you through beautiful coastlines and forests while providing tasty and adventurous stops where you can find lobster and all kinds of local seafood. Try your hand at some local activities like clam digging or goat milking. There are so many more incredible east coast road trips .

Begin: Shenandoah National Park End: Asheville, North Carolina Distance: 469 miles Drive Time: 6 hours The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular road trips in the US. Connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, this 469-mile stretch of scenic road is the most visited road controlled by the U.S. National Parks system. Stops along the way include Skyline Drive (particularly beautiful in the fall), Luray Caverns, Natural Bridge, and Asheville.

Begin: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming End: Glacier National Park, Montana Distance: 500 miles Drive Time: 9 hours Explore two national parks in one road trip by driving from Grand Teton National Park to Glacier National Park . The drive along the way will provide some of the most diverse landscapes in the U.S.

Begin: Carova, North Carolina End: Ocracoke, North Carolina Distance: 138 miles Drive Time: 5 hours North Carolina’s Route 12, otherwise known as the Outer Banks Scenic Byway spans 21 coastal villages and 138 miles of paved road and 25 ferry-traveling miles along the coast of North Carolina. Dotted with lighthouses, museums, houses and hotels, the Outer Banks is a great beach road trip.

Begin: Seattle, Washington End: Seattle, Washington Distance: 300 miles Drive Time: 10 hours Explore Washington’s Olympic Peninsula on this scenic road trip which takes you through the Olympic National Park and Forest and the lush Hoh Rainforest. There are great spots along the way for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

Begin: Santa Monica Pier, California End: Chicago, Illinois Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: Several days Follow in the path of your grandparents by taking a quintessential cross-country road trip along one of the original highways in the U.S., Route 66. This road is not traveled very often now that the Interstate Highway system is established, but you can still visit many old towns that once thrived in the middle of the last century along The Mother Road. Route 66 crosses 8 states and dozens of historic sites along the way. It’s the ultimate US road trip, but with so many good road trip places around the country, this classic can be overlooked for bigger cities and National Parks. Don’t skip Route 66!

Begin: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada End: Anchorage, Alaska Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: 27 hours Stretching nearly 1,500 miles between Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada and ending in Anchorage, Alaska, the historic Alaska Highway (also known as the ALCAN) is not for the faint of heart. Though most of the road is paved, many sections are constantly under construction and parts of the road are only gravel.

It’s a road that should only be attempted in the best of weather, usually during the summer months, but the views and wildlife along the way are worth the adventure. An Alaska highway road trip should be well planned out in advance, with stops and accommodations mapped out at least six months in advance!  But it is worth the planning. Alaska is one of the most amazing places to take a road trip! Learn more about planning a trip to Alaska.

Begin: St. Augustine, Florida End: Destin, Florida Distance: 1,400 miles Drive Time: 24 hours See the majority of Florida by circling the entire state, starting in St. Augustine(America’s oldest town) then bring out your inner-child in Orlando, eat your way through Miami, and relax on the beach in Clearwater, then explore the panhandle in Destin. This route is long, but the stops and scenery are breathtaking. Learn more about the best things to do in Destin, Florida .

Begin : Boston, Massachusetts End : Seattle, Washington Distance : 3,000 miles Drive Time: 45 hours This is the best cross country road trip! We’ve done this road trip across America many times out of necessity. It’s more exciting to do it when it’s just for fun. The I-90 spans 3,000 miles across the entire country from Boston to Seattle or vice versa, running along the northern part of the U.S. This route makes some incredible stops like Niagara Falls, Chicago, Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, and Yellowstone. This is one of the best American road trips you will ever take! A US cross country road trip can seem a little daunting. Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time and map out your stops ahead of time, breaking up the long drive.

Begin: Anchorage, Alaska End: Seward, Alaska Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours This quick 125-mile drive along the Seward Highway takes you from Anchorage to Seward. While small, this strikingly beautiful route offers incredible stops like seeing the Bore Tide at the Turnagain Arm, glacier hiking, berry picking, fishing, rafting, kayaking and more. Once in Seward you can finish off your trip with a fishing excursion or a wildlife cruise in the Kenai Fjords National Park where you’ll sail among whales, puffins, seals and more.

Begin: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada End: Tijuana, Mexico Distance: 2,300 miles Drive Time: 24 hours Hit three countries in one epic road trip by starting in British Columbia, Canada and using this itinerary all the way down to the border of U.S. and Mexico into Tijuana.

Whatever road trip you choose this summer, be sure to prepare your car for an epic road trip and install a HumX in your vehicle to take the worry out of your journey and to get you on the road!

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Wanderlust Crew

6 thoughts on “ the 25 best road trips in the usa ”.

thanks for all the info and pictures! would love to do some of these one day I’ve done a lot of road trips in Europe but none in the US yet! route 66 and the grand canyon is definitely on the bucket list!

America certainly has some awesome road trips! I’ve done a lot in Europe, but would definitely love to do more!!

I love that some of these road trip destinations are kid friendly. The kids and us could really use some time off from the house after all that’s happening. But we ‘d like to go once things get better. or rather, safer.

Cross country trips and most of the iconic rides like Route 66 are the best! Gotta love having the countries (and even the continents) so close to us that we can travel by land all we want.

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My Itchy Travel Feet

The Baby Boomer's Guide To Travel

USA Road Trip Planner: The Best Tips for Exploring America

This article may contain referral links. Read our DISCLOSURE

This USA Road Trip Planner introduces you to our road trip philosophy. We also share road trip tips from years of exploring scenic roads and off-the-beaten destinations in the U.S., as well as ideas from guest writers. You’ll also find the online resources, products and gear that Alan and I use while roadtripping.

Baby boomers and U.S. road trips are a natural combination. Most of us grew up taking summer vacations in the family car so roadtripping is a natural way of travel for boomers.

Now that we’re empty nesters and mostly retired, it’s time to revisit America’s scenic places on boomer road trips. If you enjoy slow journeys filled with old favorites or new discoveries, you’ve come to the right place.

What you'll learn in this road trip planner

• tips on getting started
• how to choose a road trip itinerary
• where to find the best places to stay on the road
• how to stay healthy and safe on a road trip
• where to find the best online road trip resources
• which US road trip books and guides to use
• which road trip gear is best for your next trip

Boomer Travel Tip

Subscribe to the Road Trip Newsletter to get your FREE road trip checklist!

Tips on getting started with road trip planning

When I see Alan sitting at the kitchen table with maps spread out in front of him (yes, we still use paper maps), I know there’s a potential road trip in the works. Once we agree on theO route that Alan has planned, I arrange the accommodations. After discussing potential activities like hikes, off-road fun, or cute towns to explore, we use online sites and guidebooks to compete our road trip research.

Choosing a road trip itinerary

When creating road trip itineraries, we avoid the interstate as much as possible in favor of two-lane highways or country roads. If the map shows a dotted road, Alan and I know we’re in for a scenic ride.

Need itinerary ideas? Check  US Road Trips for the articles that we’ve published—from our experiences and those of guest writers. You’ll find itinerary inspiration covering the entire U.S. To make your road trip research easier, the articles are divided into regions: West, South, Northeast and Midwest.

But who says a road trip has to be a long, drawn-out journey? Sometimes you just want to go on a quick, beautiful drive. You’ll find those in our favorite scenic drives .

And  Our Tips for Planning a Fall Road Trip will help you prepare for a glorious, leaf-peeping road adventure!

Finding the best place to stay on the road

We like to stay in bed and breakfasts for their intimacy and connection to the local scene, as well as the opportunity to meet other travelers. I start my research by checking out the b&b’s website, if they have one.

Then I read online reviews —ignore the best and worst reviews to find the true story. I also compare prices, especially when looking for hotels, inns and lodges.

A couple of boomer road trip tips:

• When booking hotels on busy interstates, ask for the quietest room away from traffic noise.
• Park your vehicle so that it’s visible from your room. Theft happens.
• Pet-friendly hotels are convenient for pet owners, but do you want to sleep in a bed where an unknown-to-you pet slept the night before? Look for hotels that do not allow pets if that’s important to you. It is to us.
• If you’re staying in a bed and breakfast or inn, especially over a weekend, inquire if the property will be hosting a wedding. That’s a no-no for us.
• Take it slow. Two or three nights at each destination is definitely more fun than changing hotels rooms each night.

Staying healthy and safe on a road trip

With all the sitting that a road trip requires, you’ll want to read our tips for  staying healthy on the road . Wearing a fitness tracker is another good idea. It might inspire you to walk around the gas station parking lot before continuing your journey.

Then there’s the matter of getting along with your travel partner. As we all know, stress isn’t good for your health. Read our advice in  surviving a road trip . And here are more happy road trip tips .

Being prepared is the best way to stay safe on the road. If you’re roadtripping on a cold weather trip, reading Alan’s  t ips for  making a do it yourself winter driving kit is a must .

Online USA Road Trip Resources

Whether you’re planning a road trip or scenic drive, online travel resources equal instant information at your fingertips. But we’ve found that too much information complicates research rather than speeding it up.

That’s why you’ll find only the best online resources in our USA Road Trip Travel Resources. Bookmark our favorites for your boomer travel planning. We’ve also included  favorite apps.

First of all, start with itinerary articles at the My Itchy Travel Feet Road Trip Destination Guide! You’ll find articles based upon the first-hand experiences of Alan and me or those of our well-qualified writers.

The travel inspiration at Roadtrippers will keep you occupied for hours. What we like: a free trip planner that syncs with our smartphone, interesting guides and the Roadtrippers app is free, too (but includes in-app purchase).

Travel apps can make a great trip even better. Read our recommendations for best road trip apps .

We could get lost in the scenic drives and destination ideas suggested by the Federal Highway Administration at  America’s Byways . Alan would like to drive every one of them!

You’ll find planning tools like a fuel calculator and a map wizard at  RoadTrip America . There’s also an active forum. Registration is required to use most of the resources.

Don’t let road construction or delays mess up your trip. Be in the know by checking U.S. Department of Transportation’s website,  National Traffic and Road Closure Information , before you go. The Department of Transportation in each state is also a helpful resource.

Once you plan your itinerary, use the  National Register of Historic Places to find interesting historical sites to visit along the way.

When we want to do some online road trip dreaming, we click on over to  Photo Gallery of U.S. Road Trips  from National Geographic.

US road trip books and guides

Although we do most of our research online, Alan and I still enjoy holding an atlas or photo book in our hands. We’re big believers in taking an atlas on road trips, especially Benchmark Road & Recreation Atlas for western U.S. adventures. Delorme Atlas & Gazeteer is a good choice for other states.

Of course we load our favorite travel guides into Kindle , because good Wifi and road trips don’t always go together. This is especially true if we’re traveling on remote two-lane roads or to off-the-beaten-path

Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America’s Two-Lane Highways : Want to travel off-the-beaten-path along two-lane highways in the U.S.? This book is for you. Roadside curiosities, popular attractions, big city explorations—you’ll find it all in the mile-by-mile highlights.

The Most Scenic Drives in America : Daydream about your next road trip with the 120 suggestions in this book. Arm chair travelers will especially appreciate the 400 color photos.

The Milepost : Driving the Alaska Highway is the ultimate U.S. road trip. But don’t leave home without The Milepost. This well-rounded guidebook gives locals and visitors a lot of insight into driving Alaska and the Far North. 700 pages of travel goodness that we highly recommend!

Moon Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip : Travel the western U.S. coast on a road trip to California, Oregon and Washington. The travel guide includes tips from locals, a selection of itineraries as well as what to see and where to sleep.

And if you’re looking for a sweet little road trip from Tucson to  northern New Mexico, there’s a book for that and we wrote it! New Mexico Backroads Weekend Adventure will take you off-the-beaten-path.

Road trip gear for your next trip

AAA 66-Piece Severe Weather Road Kit : Although it’s designed for cold weather, many of the items in this auto travel kit can be used year round, especially the emergency first aid kit. If you think this is overkill, go for the regular AAA Emergency Road Assistance Kit .

Keep your coffee hot with a stainless steel heated travel mug . It plugs into your car’s 12 volt charger. And the rubber base will keep the mug from tipping over.

A travel pillow keeps your head from snapping forward when you fall asleep in the passenger seat. Come on, admit it, we all get sleepy in the car. Now you’ll avoid a crick in your neck.

Stay organized with a car trunk organizer . Made of durable oxford polyester, includes removable partitions for creating larger or smaller sections within the organizer. There’s even a fold up section for cold or warm storage.

Check out the My Itchy Travel Feet road trip gear shop for the products that Alan and I recommend. Would you prefer to go straight to Amazon? Click through to my Amazon list of road trip gear for boomers ? I keep it updated with new items while removing any that are no longer available.

Have we given you enough ideas for planning your next road trip in the USA? Check back as we continue to update our resources and advice so that you have the best boomer travel experiences possible.

Don’t forget to sign up for our  Road Trip Newsletter  for the best road trip itineraries, interesting destinations, valuable tips and road trip gear.  Subscribe by clicking here .

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27 Budget Tips To Save Up On Your USA Road Trip

Traveling in the United States can be very expensive and you might end up changing your plan when you run out of your budget. Well, I can tell you it’s not gonna be cheap for sure but if you’re smart enough and you don’t mind putting yourself out of your comfort zone, you can do it for a very reasonable cost.

We’ve done our US road trip recently. Before/during the trip we wanted to find out the best saving tips and share all the ideas with other fellow travelers out there!

Table of contents

Cost of our 25-day long usa road trip, a. car rental – discount websites, b. usaa.com – discount (social security n. required), car insurance – if possible avoid the rental company, rental summary / other rental fees, turo – rent a car from people nearby, buying a car, travel in group/rideshare, gas – look for cheaper stations, parking – look for free parking, navigation – use your smartphone, toll roads – check the list, aaa membership, get some inexpensive car gear, build caravan by yourself, go camping (cheapest option + it’s a lot of fun), stay in cheap motels, hotel tonight – last minute hotel deals, hostels – shared dorm rooms, airbnb.com – get an apartment or room, free hosting – couchsurfing, food – cook at your campsite, grocery discount cards, national parks fees – get annual pass, city tourism fees – get city pass, recommended books (plan your routes), keep track of your spendings with apps.

So you wonder, how much would it cost to travel across America? Here is our cost:

• CAR RENTAL – $950 (we did not reach the monthly discount)
• GAS – $750
• CAMPING – $350 
• FOOD – $550 (we cooked a lot)
• FEES (parking & entrances) – $200
• OTHER (camping gear, car gear, etc.) – $250
• TOTAL: $3050 (2 people)
• TOTAL per PERSON: $1525
• DAILY TOTAL: $60/person

* *NOTE: these prices apply to our costs in 2015, so the prices now can differ.

Renting a car in the United States

IMPORTANT NOTE:   Before we start, I have to point this out!!!  Make sure you bring your credit/debit card with a sufficient amount of funds! You might be able to pay cash for your rental but for security (deposit) reasons they always require valid credit/debit card!

Some of the rental companies don’t accept debit cards , so I strongly suggest checking it out before you make a reservation!

Getting a car trough rental company is usually very expensive, especially when you’re buying full insurance,  returning back in a  different location or under age of 25 . That’s why you should definitely look for some websites with discount offers.

NOTE: This is not a 100% option according to online ratings / but worth to risk!

You can easily find rental websites that compare the prices for you and when you book your car through them, you can get pretty cool discounts and save up to 200 – 500 USD . Usually, you’ll get booking only with basic insurance and the total cost can be much higher (but you can ensure the car with cheaper insurance companies).

For example   hotwire.com  or   rentalcars.com (booking.com partner)

HOT Tip –  Register on  USAA , a website for military members and their families where you can get discounts without ever being somehow involved, not even being US citizen.

Example: You can rent an intermediate car/month / approx. 600 USD

While registering you’ll need basic info, social security number  and for the question about military members be honest you answer “none”. This will allow you to avoid paying fees for additional driver, under 25 years and it gives you also a discount of the total rental price. After you’re done with registration go for “car rental discounts” and from there you can choose from 4 different rental companies (for example Hertz ). When you get there have this document https://images.hertz.com/pdfs/USAA_FAQ.pdf ready, in case they will try to charge some extra fees.

NOTE: Obtaining a social security number might be a problem for noncitizens! You need to have a work permit (work visa) in USA. Find more information here .

Rental companies charge very high prices for full insurance which you can avoid by ensuring your car by an external company, for example, insuremyrentalcar.com .

For example,  You pay only 30USD for a period of a maximum of 1 month!

Make sure you check out policies of your rental car provider! You might not be able to rent by an external company. 

So let’s see what fees you should keep in mind if you would like to estimate your price for rental:

• Car Rental Price – final price of the vehicle.
• Damage Waiver – Insurance of rented vehicle / this is obligatory!
• Liability Protection – Insurance of other vehicles and people injured in an accident caused by you. Make sure that bodily injury liability is also included.    Check out your travel insurance, it might be included (cheaper).
• Personal Accident Insurance – Insurance of you and people in the car. Should be part of your travel insurance.
• Side Road Assistance – You can choose to add this to your insurance. It covers all expenses of assistance, such as, flat tire, lookout, towing, fuel delivery, winching service, etc.
• Young Drive Fee (21-24) – If you have a chance, rent car on somebody who is at least 25 years old. Fee can vary from 10 – 25 USD per day.
• Additional Driver Fee – an additional driver can cost you 10 – 25 USD per day. Insurance doesn’t cover for the driver who’s not added on the contract.
• Airport Rental Fee – some companies charge if you rent straight from the airport. Try to avoid that!
• Different Location Return Fee – almost every company charges you returning fee. They are some exceptions between some locations, such as LA – Las Vegas.

GET 25USD discount on your first rental with our link

This popular concept of Airbnb is now available for cars as well! On websites like getaround.com and turo.com ,  you can rent car for your road trip from people (owners). It’s definitely more affordable and more attractive when it comes to the choice. Imagine, road trippin’ in Mini Cooper, BMW, or Tesla car? Yes! Option are pretty creative and unique.

Buying a car is can be a  very economical option when you’re good in the industry and you can recognize what’s a good deal or not. Buying a used car involves risks, such as repairs, scams but on the other side, you might make money out of it. If you buy cheaper than you sell, you’re the winner! One of the best websites for this purpose is craigslist.com .

Getting a car involves some necessary paperwork that can take quite some time! Read more details about this topic on tripadvisor .

This is pretty straight forward! Best way is to split most of the expenses when you travel in a group of (2-4). If you can’t find anybody, don’t worry there are websites where you can find other fellow solo travelers who you can share ride with. Check out couchsurfing.com , ridester.com or carpoolworld.com .

When road tripping in the US, you will do thousands of kilometers and you might end up spending 600 USD just on the gas! We did 8000 kms, for example. We noticed quite big differences between the prices in states. There might be a 1$ / per gallon just within the state and $2 differences between different states.

We recommend planning your trip according to  gas price map  which is very detailed and helpful. You can also get an app for your smartphone!

TIP: some of the gas stations give a better price for gas when you pay by CASH, it’s very individual and again, depends on the state! But I definitely saw it in California. Watch out for the signs on price stands in front.

Parking in national parks is usually included in the entrance fee or in some small cities is for FREE but in bigger cities, it can be more complicated and much more expensive.

Here are a few tips:

• Wallmart is in most cases free + WIFI. Note that not every single Wallmart parking lot allows you to park, so it might be illegal! Check out parking locator where you can find the exact information about this topic.
• Residential areas are for FREE (sometimes depending on hours)
• Overnight RV / camping parking (affordable)
• WATCH OUT FOR NO PARKING SIGN!

Don’t pay for GPS! Get free apps into your smartphone or buy a map for 6 bucks (like we did).

You can also get GPS in the shop with a good returning policy ! For example in Wallmart, where you can buy your navigation, use it for few weeks and then return it! See point 6. of this article for more information.

Have your “ paper map backup ” ready as well! Some of the remote places in USA won’t have any signal coverage and you might end up lost in the middle of nowhere!

Some of the toll roads can surprise in unexpected locations and prices might also very high. Make sure you always carry some cash in your car to avoid any fines! Check out this full list of toll roads in the USA .

AAA is another interesting website that can be very useful in North America! It’s American Automobile Association which has over 50 million members. It’s a non-profit organization offering road services to their members in all over the United States and Canada.

If you visit their office they can provide you with FREE maps, guidebooks or routing maps. You can also take advantage of great discounts for accommodation, food and road assistance.

If you’re from the US or you’re planning to stay longer, there are options for building your own caravan from the van! You can get cheap/good/spacious vans in the USA quite easily.

Vandogtraveller sells an amazing ebook (276 pages) on his website for only 10 bucks which guides you through the whole process of conversion. His story is really cool, check out his website vandogtraveller.com .

Campsites in the United States are usually in great condition and come with BBQ grill, fire pits, showers, restrooms, wifi access, etc. Price is depending on location, season and facilities.

FREE camping sites you can find on  freecampsites.net  or you can camp basically anywhere in “National Forest”. BLM sites are also sometimes for FREE.

Paid camping sites  have usually more facilities and they are much more affordable than motels. (Costs is between 10 USD – 40 USD). Most of the campsites are in google maps and you can find reviews or the official website.

Camp in my garden  is another cool site where you can find camp spots in people’s backyard for only a couple of bucks. Check out here . These options can be actually pretty fancy and friendly experience since some of the people have really nice gardens.

Motels are almost on every corner in the US. They are not a very economical option but it’s definitely not expensive when you travel in a group of 4 people.

One of the most popular motel budget networks is “Motel 6”   or “ Super 8 ” hotels network. which offers rooms for 4 people between (40 – 70 USD). These rooms usually have desk, small TV, small fridge, AC, closet etc. nothing too special but more than for enough for travelers/backpackers.

Tip: If you travel in a group of 2.. you can go and say that room is for one person only, then you end up paying less, and of course more people can stay.

Tip: if there is options to collect hotel points, definitely go for it. It can save you money as well, just apply for a hotel credit card. You can get straight away 70,000 points when you sign-up and those can cover a couple of nights for you.

USE CODE “VVINCEJ” to get your 25USD discount (minimum spent 150USD)

The way it works is by offering vacant rooms of different hotels that didn’t manage to get their rooms fully booked in time so they offer them on the app for a steep discount just to fill them up. Because of the nature of the app, you can’t book the rooms too far in advance (The maximum is 1 week) so you cannot really rely on it but if you are flexible with your accommodation options then this might be the perfect option for you.

In bigger cities, you can find hostels and take advantage of shared (dorm) rooms which can some costs $15 / night. 

In case you’re a picky person and you wanna make sure your place meets your requirements/need, make sure you visit tripadvisor.com to read reviews! You can find every single hotel/hostel there with a lot of customer reviews.

USE THIS LINK TO GET $20 OFF ON YOUR FIRST STAY!

Airbnb is an amazing website where you easily find cheaper accommodation in somebody’s house, flat or kind of private hotels or hostels. There are plenty of options and you can find accommodation as low as $20-40 per night for single room or bed in a dorm room.

It’s becoming a very popular option these days, not just in USA. They have an amazing interactive search/filtering system which helps a lot to find exactly what you’re looking for. 

Yes, you can also sleep for FREE! One of the most popular websites offering hosting is couchsurfing.com where you can create your profile and send requests to random people all around the world. It’s all based on references from other so-called couch surfers!

You know what they say, travel often & eat well! The food you can find on every corner and basically everything that you wish! But sometimes it might kick-off your budget if you don’t eat smart.

Get good food from restaurants and do not try to save up on food but we recommend some of the tips:

• FAST foods are everywhere (not the most economical option)
• get some snacks and breakfast stuff from cheap stores like dollar tree .
• do your shopping in Wallmart (cheaper prices)
• get the member cards
• cook at your camping site! here are some camping recipes !
• get your cooking tools (for one-time use) from dollar tree or Wallmart.
• be creative! 😉

When you camp during your whole trip and you eat in camp you can squeeze your budget to ( $10 / day ).

Most of the big supermarket chains have free loyalty cards that give you massive discounts every time you purchase at their store. The reason they do this is that by you having a loyalty card they can collect data on your purchases which helps them run their business more efficiently. In exchange for giving them some data on consumer behavior, you are rewarded with pretty neat discounts.

When you are traveling on a budget this is the perfect opportunity to save loads of money on your basic necessities. As you know most of your basic expenses fall into 3 categories: logistics, accommodation, and food. And if you minimize the expenses in the food column then you are on a good path to make your trip budget-friendly. You should definitely make use of this hack!

If you’re planning to visit more than 4 national parks you should definitely get annual pass which cost only $80 per vehicle and it allows you to visit 90% of the parks in US.

City Pass  cards can be really handy while road tripping in USA, especially if you’re planning a lot of sightseeing. They usually contain various city attractions and public transport and helps you to save up to $100 sometimes.

You can also get plenty of information at your hotel’s reception desk and they sometimes give away various discounts (especially in Las Vegas).

Check the video from our USA road trip or our travel quotes for some inspiration!

I hope you’ve found great tips in this article and you learned how to save money on the USA road trip! Make sure you double-check tips you find here (before you make booking or payment) just because you never know when it can change.

We simply can’t say everything will work 100%. We’re continuously trying to update this article to keep it fresh and information up to date but we don’t receive any updates from companies, orgs or websites mentioned above!

Feel FREE to contact us if you have any questions or advice on what to add to the article. Simply post a comment at the end of the article.

We would be super happy if you share these amazing USA road trip tips with your friends on social media. Thank you 🙂

Disclaimer: This article about USA road trip tips contains various affiliate links. When a purchase is made via those links we might earn a commission from the sale. This little income helps us to run our website Traveling Lifestyle and keep publishing more content such as this article.

Great article! So around how much did you end up spending those 20 days?

Hi, thanks for the question. I think it was around 1500USD per person, we were 2.

Awesome tips . Thanks.

thank you Cheryl.. 😉

What is that place in your video with white sand? I would like to see that! Amazing 😊

it’s great salt lake desert in Utah, really cool thing to see! 🙂

Hi Guys, great article- I have few questiongs and wondered if you had any insight? – For the USAA you said one would need social insurance nr- is there a way to go around this? (since neither of us is a US citizen) – Do you think October is still ok for road tripping and camping in the northern states (minesotta, montana washington etc) – Do you think that a small campervan might be better than tent? (having to build it up every night etc)- And if we had a small campervan, do you think we could just part at the wallmart parking and stay there? Isnt this illegal in the US?

1. You don’t have to US citizen to get SSN but you need working permit (work visa) to get it, it’s probably not possible to go around. Maybe through some other person who can register and get it for you! 2. For example: Montana (Yellowstone) was quite cold already in September during the night… depends also on quality of sleeping bags etc… but I think it’s still doable! 3. There is locator for Wallmart parking, there are plenty of places where you can do it! Check our locators http://www.walmartlocator.com/rv-parking-at-walmart/

Enjoy your trip!

i read so many articles abt road trips in USA but this one is the most usuful to me! Really good job guys 🙂 Im doing my trip this year so when i will be back with new tips im gonna share them here too

oh and i found your page during looking up for some cool videos on youtube.

thank you Pati! Enjoy your trip… it would be amazing if you could pass some more tips for US road trip!

Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you writing this article and also the rest of the site is extremely good.

It is good to hear Dennis… more articles are coming… Thanks

These are truly great saving tips! I almost book the car for crazy money, but then I found you tips for renting and saved 500 bucks straight away. We’re planning our trip very soon, hopefully it’s not gonna be too cold for camping these days.

Thanks for sharing… this is definitely ALL in article with the most useful budget tips..

thanks Walt! Enjoy your road trip in USA 😉

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Classic American Road Trips

Pacific Coast Highway

Starting at the northwest tip of the United States at Washington’s Olympic National Park and remaining within sight of the ocean all the way south to sunny San Diego, this 1,650-mile, mostly two-lane road trip takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.

Highlights along the Pacific Coast Route: Olympic National Park (WA), Three Capes Loop (OR), Redwood National Park (CA)

Historic Route 66

The romance of traveling along historic Route 66 from where it starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles continues to captivate people around the world. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”

Highlights along Route 66: Chicago (IL), Meramec Caverns (MO), Tucumcari (NM), Painted Desert (AZ), Santa Monica (CA)

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

Running coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, “The Loneliest Road in America” is a 3,200-mile odyssey from sea to shining sea. US-50 passes through a dozen different states, four state capitals, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Highlights along the Loneliest Road: South Lake Tahoe (CA), Moab (UT), The Million Dollar Highway (CO), Washington D.C.

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims and pioneers, US‑20 takes in a little of everything during its two-lane trek from Oregon’s rugged coast to the glorious sea and sand of Cape Cod.

Highlights along the Oregon Trail: Cannon Beach (OR), Fort Boise (ID), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Mt Rushmore & Carhenge (NE)

Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US‑2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.

Highlights along the Great Northern: Tumwater Canyon (WA), Glacier National Park (MT), Lake Michigan (MI), Acadia National Park (ME)

The Appalachian Trail

This driving route of the Appalachian Trail parallels the epic hike. From the top of New England to the heart of Dixie, it takes you through continuous natural beauty—without the sweat, bugs, or blisters.

Highlights along the Appalachian Trail: Mt. Washington (NH), The Poconos (PA), Shenandoah National Park (VA), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)

Old Man River, Father of Waters, “body of a nation,” Big Muddy: By any name, the mighty Mississippi River cuts a mythic figure across the American landscape. Tag along from its headwaters in Minnesota to where it meets the sea in Louisiana via the GRR.

Highlights along the Great River Road: Main Street USA (WI), St. Louis (MO), Natchez Trace Parkway (MS), New Orleans (LA)

Starting at the Statue of Liberty and ending with a drive across the Overseas Highway to free-wheeling Key West, these almost 2,000 miles of roadway run within earshot—if not sight—of the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlights along the Atlantic Coast: The Statue of Liberty (NJ), Assateague Island National Seashore (MD), Savannah (GA), Cocoa Beach (FL)

Starting at Canada’s Jasper National Park, and winding down in the Sonora Desert, this route traverses some of the wildest and most rugged lands imaginable: mighty mountains, glaciated valleys, raging rivers, and two very different deserts.

Highlights along the Border to Border Route: Columbia Icefield (AB), Bitterroot Mountains (MT), The Extraterrestrial Highway (NV), Joshua Forest Parkway (AZ)

Once the only entirely paved route from Canada to “Old Mexico,” US‑83 cuts across America’s heartland and remains a must-do long-distance byway—transnavigating this broad, odd nation without once grazing a conventional tourist destination.

Highlights along the Road to Nowhere: Sitting Bull Memorial (SD), Nebraska Sand Hills (NE), Monument Rocks (KS), Paint Rock Pictographs (TX)

Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. From deserts to bayou swamps and Tex-Mex to barbecue, this route offers a full-flavored taste of America.

Highlights along Southern Pacific: The Desert View Tower (CA), Tombstone (AZ), Roswell (NM), Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail (AL)

Your ultimate checklist for an epic road trip

Travel Travel Inspiration Road Trips Epic Road Trip Tips

Road trips are one of the most fun ways to travel and explore a place. Think about it - wouldn’t you rather breathe in some fresh air and get lost in serene landscapes instead of waiting in long lines at the airport? Of course! Now, although road trips can be exciting, they can also get to you if you haven’t planned a few things out. We’ve put together a list of hacks and tips to make sure you have an epic road trip with fewer unpleasant surprises and many memorable ones!

27 Expert Tips For An Epic Road Trip

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank us later!

#1 Budget the road trip (and stick to it)

Plan your budget beforehand so you can figure out how much you’ll need for the entire trip. Don’t underestimate your total budget because you don’t want to fall short of money. You’ll also want to account for unforeseen expenses, emergencies, and toll gates. Always carry enough cash just in case you can’t use your cards. If you’re traveling with other adults, decide on a budget together. Talk about how much you plan to spend each day and how much you need to set aside for different activities. It’s always good to plan these things out together and set expectations during the planning process.

#2 Alternate coffee with water to stay alert

Although coffee is widely accepted as the beverage that keeps you awake and alert, it’s not the best choice if you’re driving for long hours. the caffeine can make you very dehydrated and lethargic after a while, making things extremely uncomfortable, especially if you’re driving. caffeine acts as a stimulant but often works for a short duration. taking a few sips of plain water or snacking on water-infused fruits every now can really help you stay hydrated and alert for the whole journey., #3 get a thorough car health check-up before you hit the road.

The last thing you want on your road trip is to have your car break down. Head over to the closest garage or mechanic and have them check your car thoroughly. Check the tire pressure for any signs of a possible flat. Fill up the car with a full tank to skip the hassle of finding a station in the first few hours of your road trip. Always keep a spare tire or two in the car just in case you need it on the way, and of course, learn how to change a tire before you hit the road. You just might need it for those areas where road assistance is miles away.

#4 Let your bank know where you’re going

It’s a good idea to inform your bank about where you’re headed in case of any money-related emergency that can crop up on your holiday. Because you’ll be traveling to unfamiliar places, there’s always the chance of running into frauds, even if you’re extremely careful. Keeping your bank informed can ensure that all transactions made on your holiday are looked into and any action needed can be done almost immediately. Put yourself at ease and let your bank know your travel plans before you head out.

#5 Chart a rough itinerary

You don’t want to rely solely on spontaneity, and at the same time, you don’t want to plan every tiny aspect of the trip. What you can do is chart out a rough itinerary, including pit stops, places to visit once you reach, restaurants, and the like. Basically, a rough idea of all the things you want to cover on the trip. This gives you a lot to look forward to but also room for some flexibility. For instance, let’s say you had a long night and woke up too late for breakfast and sightseeing, that’s okay! If your plan is flexible, you can still make the most of the day and see what else you can do.

#6 Carry cash and stash them carefully

Carrying a sufficient amount of cash on your road trip is absolutely essential. You just might need cash for places that don’t accept card payments, especially if you’re traveling through a small town or village. Maybe you want to grab a quick bite at a little food stall or food truck, maybe you get a flat and have to call for road assistance. Either way, keep some cash with you just in case. But don’t keep all of it in one spot. Carefully distribute it across a few spots and make sure it’s safe and hidden.

#7 Fill up gas using a Credit Card that gives cashback

Many banks have exciting cashback offers when it comes to expenses like fuel. You’ll probably need a full tank or three for your whole trip so why not save some money and earn some points/cashback while you fuel up. Call or visit your bank before you fuel up to see if your credit card is eligible for a cashback. If not, check with your road trip buddies to see if any of them have cashback offers. This is super helpful, especially if your journey is going to be a long one and you need to fill fuel more than a couple of times.

#8 Fill up gas every chance you get

Even if you have more than a half tank of gas, it’s always better to fuel up every chance you get. You never know when you might find the next gas station and sometimes it could be several hours before you do. Sometimes it might even be shut. So, even if you do your homework and figure out where all the gas stations are on your way and back, it’s always better to be safe and fill gas whenever you find a station, especially if you’ve used up half or more of your tank.

#9 Opt for truck stops over rest areas

Because you’re traveling to unknown areas, your safest bet is to opt for truck stops instead of secluded pitstops. This is an especially useful tip if you’re traveling with women and children and want to be cautious. Truck stops aren’t just for truckers anymore. With adequate lighting, food, facilities, and a small crowd, it is definitely much safer than stopping at a remote area with no one around. Either way, be cautious about where you pull up and quickly scan the area to make sure it’s safe.

#10 Schedule exercise breaks every 2 to 4 hours

We all know how painful it is to sit in the same position for hours on end. You definitely want to avoid this especially while driving and stop for a quick stretch every 2-4 hours. Doing this will help keep the inevitable back pain and leg cramps at bay. Stop every few hours and stretch it out, especially if you feel your body starting to get stiff. Breathe in some fresh air, pop a few healthy snacks, and stay hydrated so your body is in good shape to get back on the road.

#11 Learn how to change a tire

No one really tells you the importance of knowing how to change a tire, but it is an extremely valuable skill to have. It’s easy to call someone to change your tire when you run a flat in a city, but what happens when you’re in the middle of nowhere? You may not find road assistance close by or they might be miles away and take hours to reach you. You’d rather take the time to learn how to change a tire yourself and save yourself time and money.. If you learn how to do it right, the whole ordeal takes just 10-15 minutes.

#12 Bring a portable charger for your devices

We’re all pretty reliant on GPS, especially when we’re traveling. Your phone is precious in more than one way and you can’t have it drain out before you reach your destination. When you’re on a road trip, you usually rely on your vehicle’s power to charge your device. On the off chance that your car breaks down and you can’t charge your phone for assistance, it's good to have a backup charger. So carry one or two portable chargers for emergencies!

#13 Carry an offline/physical map for when GPS ditches you

Let’s be honest, we’d be pretty lost without GPS, and you can’t have your GPS giving up on you on a road trip! Backups are essential. Although the age of physical maps might be long gone, you never know when it’ll come in handy. You should also download offline maps before you set out in case you lose network and can’t access your GPS. Having all of this sorted ahead of time will save you from being stranded.

#14 Preload your phone with playlists and podcasts

Road trips are always more fun when you have some fun tunes to hum along to. Remember that you’re probably going to be out of range for the radio to function, so put a few playlists together before you hit the road. You might also lose signal sometimes, so maybe download all the songs and podcasts just in case. That way you always have music and entertainment to keep you engaged through the long stretches. Although road trip games are fun, sometimes it’s nice to just sit back, relax, and listen to good music. Don’t forget to keep everyone’s taste in mind when you’re making these playlists.

#15 Get off the highway and take the road less traveled (sometimes)

Driving on the highway can get monotonous and boring. If you have a car that can handle a little bit of off-roading, why not take an alternate route or a short detour and go on a mini-adventure? You never know what you might find in the nooks of new towns, but we’re sure it’ll be worth finding out. That said, don’t take too much of a detour and lose your way completely! Make sure to check the maps before you hit the detour to see which roads will lead you back to the highway.

Ultimate Bucketlist Road Trips In The World

#16 book flexible attraction tickets in advance.

It’s important to have a loose itinerary in mind when you plan a road trip. Although planning and booking things in advance is helpful, you might change your mind once you’re actually there. Booking flexible attraction tickets gives you the option of canceling your tickets or rescheduling them without losing money. This is a great option if you and your buddies are more on the spontaneous side. Have some fun and be flexible with your plans.

Book last minute experiences on Headout , your one-stop digital marketplace for tours, activties and experiences across 100+ cities around the globe.

#17 Snap pictures of informative signs when you enter a city/town and keep them handy

Just like how you might take pictures of where your car is parked in a massive parking lot, you probably want to take pictures of important signs on your road trip. Keep these pictures in handy in case you get lost and need to retrace your path. It’s also a good idea to keep these pictures in case of any other emergency that pops up when you’re on the road in unfamiliar areas.

#18 Download a handy chunk of road trip friendly apps

Nowadays there are apps for pretty much everything. To find a toilet, to find the closest gas station, to chart your road trip itinerary and even to find the nearest parking. Before setting off on a road trip, make sure to download the few recommended road trip apps to help make your trip hassle-free!

#19 Stock up on emergency essentials (more than one of each)

Include emergency essentials on your road trip packing list. You always need to be prepared in case of accidents and emergencies, especially if you’re in for a long drive and help is far off. Some important things that need to be packed include a first-aid kit, road safety kit, car tools, spare tires and other car parts, a flashlight, blankets, and water.

#20 Travel insurance + Car insurance are an absolute must

There’s a reason why accidents are called that - because you never know when they can happen. Make sure you have car insurance and travel insurance and keep a copy or two of them in the car. You want to be prepared for anything when you’re on a road trip, especially when there are other people in the car with you. Insurance is a must when you’re heading out on a road trip..

#21 Know the road rules of the country

Get yourself familiar with the road rules of the place you’re going to visit. Sometimes each state has its own travel rules for the road. Do a bit of research and find tips for travelers from official travel and tourism websites. Whether it’s Europe, the United States, Australia, or Asia, you can find important information about road rules on their government or tourism sites. This little extra step can help reduce any tension when you’re driving and prepare you for the unexpected.

#22 Carry a foldable chair and portable picnic set

One of the most exciting parts of a road trip is finding beautiful spots along the way where you can enjoy the view, take some cool pictures, or better - have a picnic! Carry a few foldable chairs and a portable picnic set with you so you can have an impromptu picnic anywhere, anytime. Light food and beverages are perfect for a picnic, like sandwiches, juice boxes, chips, and whatever else you fancy. Having a small picnic in the middle of your road trip also gives you a chance to unwind and enjoy nature before getting back on the road.

#23 Sunscreens for the windows are a blessing during afternoons

When you crank the air conditioner up, it can slow down your car or burn up fuel much faster. but when you roll the windows down, it can get loud with harsh winds. plus, the car usually gets quite heated up during noon, making it uncomfortable for passengers inside. a bunch of hot, sweaty, irritable people stuck next to each other for a long time inside a car can make things very uncomfortable. invest in sunscreens for the car windows so that even if you’re driving when the sun is at its peak, you can still have a pleasant drive., #24 cover distances during daylight, the best time to start your road trip is at 4 or 5 am in the morning, just before the sun rises. this way you get to beat the morning traffic and be out of the city in time to catch some sensational views of the sunrise. plus, without regular commuters on the road, your journey becomes less hectic and more enjoyable without being stuck in those annoying traffic jams. after all, you don’t want to start off your road trip in a bad mood. leaving early also helps you cover the majority of your distance during daylight when it's the safest to drive., #25 don’t use cruise control at night, as relaxing as it is to put the car on cruise control, kick back, and enjoy the ride, you don’t want to do this after the sunsets. using cruise control at night can be dangerous because it’s harder to see things at night and your reflexes need to be on high alert. the nighttime is usually when truck drivers tend to become more drowsy and little animals tend to set out on adventures, often ending up on roads. so stay off cruise control at night and be ready for anything unexpected..

#26 Keep a close watch on the weather forecast and change plans accordingly

Weather can be so unpredictable sometimes. you most certainly should check the weather forecast while planning the trip to see what clothes to carry, what activities to plan, and so on. but, as accurate as weather forecasts are, there are times when the weather changes unpredictably. keep a close watch on the forecast every day of your trip, especially when you’re planning to cover long distances. have a rough backup plan in mind, in case mother nature decides to throw some weather hazards your way., #27 kit your car out and carry spare parts, even though vehicles are made of a gazillion different parts, sometimes even if one of those parts stops working, you’re going to have trouble. there are some essential parts to a car where it helps to have a spare, so you don’t end up having to ditch your car in the middle of nowhere. spare tires, car battery, water pump, jumper cables, and a timing belt. if you want to keep even more items handy, that’s perfectly alright, but you should at least have these few essentials just in case there’s a breakdown on your road trip..

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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How to plan a road trip, from cross-country journeys to weekend getaways

Driving is embedded into American culture, which is why road-tripping is so popular across the U.S. Whether you're looking to visit cities for history and culture or national parks for access to the great outdoors, a road trip can take you there. If you're not sure where to start, here's how to plan a road trip.

In this post

How do you plan a road trip for beginners?

When is the best time to start planning a road trip, how many days should you plan for a road trip, how to determine the best itinerary to take, how to choose when to take a road trip, how to plan a road trip on a budget, what is an appropriate/realistic driving time for each section of the trip, what are the best road trip tools/apps to use, what are the essentials to buy and pack, what are the main steps in the road trip planning process.

If you've never planned a road trip before, there are a few things you'll want to discuss with your travel companions before you start crafting a turn-by-turn itinerary. Start with where you want to go. We're talking big picture, like a region or a state, not every single stop along the way (we'll offer tips for how to plan a road trip with stops later on). Then think about how long you want to go for. And finally, consider your budget. Once you nail down those three things, you can start looking at the details.

The earlier the better! Planning a road trip can take quite a bit of time and effort, so allowing yourself at least a few weeks to put together a full itinerary is a good idea. You'll also want to leave enough time between planning and departure to get your car checked out by a mechanic. No one wants to break down on the road!

And if you're renting a car instead of driving your own, you'll want to book your rental car in advance to ensure there's inventory (say, the right type of rental car available).

The duration of your road trip is entirely up to you. The two important things to consider are where you want to go and what you want to do along the way. If you're looking for recommendations for how to plan a cross-country road trip, give yourself at least two weeks if you want to make a few sightseeing stops. If you want to take the trip at a more leisurely pace and spend more time sightseeing than driving, four weeks is more reasonable. Regional road trips, however, can be as short as a few days. Or you could really take your time and stretch them out over a week or more.

Choosing a road trip itinerary largely depends on your personal preferences, but in all cases, you should start by thinking about where you want to go, considering who you'll be traveling with. If you're planning a family road trip , that might take you to different destinations than if you were traveling with a group of friends or by yourself.

Once you have your general destination in mind, whether that's a region or a state or a full cross-country journey, you'll want to start selecting points of interest within that region. Plot these points on a map, then connect the dots! This is a good starting point for route planning, but now comes the laborious part: checking drive times between those points. It'll take a bit of finagling to create an itinerary that works in your favor.

As you're planning your road trip itinerary, you'll also need to consider your overnight locations. Some remote destinations might not have accommodations at all , and more popular accommodations may book up months in advance.

You should always consider seasonality for road trips. When you pick a destination, look at the typical weather for each season. In general, it's usually wise to avoid snowy destinations in the winter (some roads close seasonally) and extremely hot destinations in the summer (extreme heat can affect your car).

You can do a road trip on any budget, but no road trip will be free. You always need to consider the cost of gas and food. One way to save money, however, is on accommodations. Hotels are often more expensive than campsites, but campsites frequently book up in advance, particularly in the summer.

If you have more than one driver, you could take shifts and have a longer driving time each day. But an individual driver should typically not drive more than six to eight hours in one day. More experienced drivers, however, might have a higher limit of say, 10 to 12 hours. Drowsy driving is extremely dangerous, though, so make sure the drivers are well rested before each segment, and take breaks every 2 hours.

Every road tripper has their preference of apps, but these are tried-and-true favorites.

• Google Maps
• Roadtrippers
• Triptik by AAA
• iOverlander
• Atlas Obscura

Here's a quick and easy packing list for a road trip.

• First aid kit
• Tire pressure gauge
• Jumper cables
• Ice scraper (if traveling during winter)
• Portable phone charger
• Paper towels or toilet paper
• Bottled water

2 months before departure: Start looking at the points of interest you want to visit, consider the duration of your road trip, and determine your budget

1 month before departure: Get your car checked out or rent the relevant car for your itinerary and book your accommodations

2 weeks before departure: Buy the essential items

1 week before departure: Do a “test” pack to ensure everything fits in your car, or in your luggages if you are planning a road trip abroad

A road trip is an ideal way to see a destination, but it takes some careful planning to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip. While planning is important, always leave spare time in your itinerary. You never know what you might discover along the way!

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Memorial Day road trip ahead. Here are the best and worst times to go in Florida, the Southeast

Memorial Day is rapidly approaching, which means millions will be hitting the roadways or skies for a quick weekend getaway.

AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period. This is a 4% increase over last year, with experts noting this comes close to matching 2005’s record of 44 million Memorial Day travelers. 

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, said. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”  

When is Memorial Day 2024? When is Memorial Day weekend 2024?

Memorial Day is always observed on the last Monday of May, with this year's being on Monday, May 27. Memorial Day weekend starts on Friday, May 24, and lasts through the holiday until Monday.

Why we celebrate: What to know about federal holiday, what’s open in Florida

Which will be more congested for Memorial Day travel — roadways or airports?

According to AAA, road trips are expected to set a record with 38.4 million people projected to travel by car over Memorial Day weekend. Drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was roughly $3.57.

Renting a car for your road trip? Florida-based rental company  Hertz  says Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Boston and Las Vegas are the cities displaying the highest rental demand, with the busiest pick-up days projected to be Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24. 

But airports are also bracing for a large surge of travelers next weekend.

Is Memorial Day a busy airport day?

AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019.

"This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11," AAA said in its press release.

As for other modes of transportation, AAA predicts nearly two million people are expected to travel by buses, cruises, and train.

“This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic with fewer people taking public transportation or not cruising at all,” Twidale said. “Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Travel demand has been soaring, and long holiday weekends create the perfect windows for getaways.” 

When are the best and worst times to travel on Memorial Day?

For those planning a road trip for the holiday weekend, transportation data and insights provider INRIX offers the best times to get on the road.

Experts advise drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.  

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said.

What are the busiest travel days around Memorial Day?

Thursday, may 23.

• Best times: Before 11 a.m., After 7 p.m.
• Worst Times: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday, May 24

• Best times: Before 11 a.m., After 8 p.m.
• Worst Times: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 25

• Best times: Before 11 a.m., After 6 p.m.
• Worst Times: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, May 26

• Best times: Before 1 p.m.
• Worst Times: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Monday, May 27

• Best times: After 7 p.m.

Floridians beware: Other states are heading to Florida to vacation

Whether Florida residents plan on traveling or relaxing at home all weekend, they might want to be aware of the thousands of others joining them.

AAA compiled a list of the top domestic travel destinations for Memorial Day weekend, with three Florida cities making the list:

• Orlando, Florida
• Seattle, Washington
• New York City, New York
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Anaheim/Los Angeles, California
• Denver, Colorado
• Anchorage, Alaska
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Miami, Florida
• Boston, Massachusetts

"This Memorial Day weekend, travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California. Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver rank high because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed," AAA writes.

Ready for a road trip? Take one of these 10 Instagram-worthy drives

Celebrate national road trip day with a look at the 10 most-tagged road trips on instagram, according to betway..

Expert provides tips for driving in extreme heat

Driving during the summer months poses some unique dangers to vehicles and passengers, but keeping you and others safe all comes down to preparation.

Happy National Road Trip Day! Yes, it has its own day – the Friday before the long Memorial Day weekend. To celebrate, let’s plan your next road adventure. 

Betway crunched the numbers to find the top 10 most Instagrammable road trips across the U.S. and Canada . It counted the number of hashtags for popular routes.

1. Route 66

Route 66 was the crowd favorite, racking up 2.2 million posts. The iconic American gem crosses seven states with more than 2,400 miles of asphalt. Betway recommends 3-weeks to travel from Santa Monica , California and the Pacific Ocean to Chicago's shores of Lake Michigan.

John Steinbeck called U.S. Highway 66, "the Mother Road" in his book "The Grapes of Wrath." It is also known as the "Main Street of America." For almost half a century, it was one of the country's major thoroughfares, according to the Federal Highway Administration . 

DRIVE INTO SUMMER PREPARED: 5 THINGS TO KNOW WHEN YOU HIT THE ROAD

File: "3000 Miles of Hospitality" vintage post card across Route 66. From the shores of the Great Lakes to the orange groves of California, the transcontinental highways traverse regions rich in scenic interest. New Mexico with its mesas and pueblos, its ancient cliff-dwellings and old Spanish missions. Arizona with its Grand Canyon, Painted Desert, Petrified Forest and colorful Indian Country. 

(Rykoff Collection/CORBIS / Getty Images)

Nat King Cole can take you on an audio trip in "Get Your Kicks on Route 66." A 1960s TV show actually followed three fictional men as they spent time on 66.

The route originally connected "barren lands" in the Plains to the Midwest and the West . It linked hundreds of rural communities that hosted the farmers transporting grain and produce, according to the FHWA. By the '30s, it became a trucking route. 

Today, souvenir shops, restaurants, antique stores, old-time filling stations and various landmarks serve as the backdrop for Instagram pictures.

HOT WHEELS: HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CAR FOR SUMMER TRAVEL

File: Orange Alien on Main Street in pickup truck, Seligman on historic Route 66, Arizona.

(Joe Sohm/Visions of America/Universal Images Group / FOX Weather)

2. Florida Keys

If the surf, sun and sand are more your style, you are not alone. The trip from Miami to Key West garnered 2.1 million posts. The BBC has called the 120 miles of Route 1 connecting mainland Florida to the string of main islands of the Keys the "floating highway" because so much of it is over water.

TOP 10 NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT THIS SUMMER AND THE WEATHER YOU CAN EXPECT

File: The Keys gets a reputation for eccentric residents and visitors. Divers participating in the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival pretend to play musical instruments underwater July 8, 2000, off the Florida Keys.

(BILL KEOUGH/AFP / Getty Images)

Britannica.com calls the Overseas Highway one of the longest over-water roads in the world. It takes you over 42 bridges, including the famed Seven Mile Bridge. The area attracts wildlife lovers, snorklers, beach bums and writers like Ernest Hemingway. A handful of lookalikes flock to Key West in July to celebrate the annual Hemingway Days.

3. Canadian Rockies

FILE: The Milky Way over glacier-fed Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier in Banff National Park, Alberta. The Scutum Starcloud is just above and setting over Victoria Glacier, accompanied by star clusters in Serpens and Ophiuchus. Some airglow tints the sky above the mountains green and magenta. 

(Alan Dyer/VW Pics/Universal Images Group / Getty Images)

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

The Canadian Rockies cover several routes to choose from that twist through icy granite peaks and crystal clear lakes. A favorite on many travel sites is Icefields Parkway, which RoadsLessTraveled.us calls the "quintessential Canadian Rockies Scenic Drive." The drive is so popular that it ranked No. 7 on this list as well.

Drive along the 150 miles of "Canada's most dramatic Rocky Mountain scenery," the site continued. It even calls the road that twists past Lake Louise in Banff, one of the world's top scenic drives.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway

File: At certain times of day the mountains do look blue. This is Brevard, North Carolina near Asheville. 

(Education Images/Universal Images Group / Getty Images)

GREAT SMOKEY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK OFFERS UNIQUE EXPERIENCES MAKING IT AMERICA'S MOST VISITED NATIONAL PARK

The National Park Service calls the Blue Ridge Parkway, "America's Favorite Drive."

"A Blue Ridge Parkway experience is unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands," wrote the NPS. "The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals, and providing opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special."

It connects Shenandoah National Park near Waynesboro, Virginia, with Great Smokey Mountains National Park near Cherokee , North Carolina.

5. Acadia National Park Loop

File: Rolling cloud cover sweeps over the top of Bar Island as seen from the summit of Cadillac Mountain Tuesday, June 28, 2016. 

( Gabe Souza/Portland Portland Press Herald / Getty Images)

7 WEATHER EXTREMES EXPERIENCED AT NATIONAL PARKS

The 27-mile loop winds through forests, mountains, lakes and shorelines in Acadia National Park . In the summer , there is even a shuttle which you can hop off and on to explore picnic areas, scenic overlooks and trails. Fall is also a popular time to visit as the park glows with fall foliage colors.

Top 10 most Instagrammable road trips in the US and Canada

Here are the top 10 routes:

• National Parks
• Transportation
• North Carolina

Memorial Day weekend 2024 travel will be busiest at these times: How to avoid traffic jams

If you’re traveling for Memorial Day weekend , be prepared to run into some crowds. The next holiday weekend – taking place May 25 to 27 – is slated to see a record-breaking number of travelers, according to AAA. 

A projected 43.8 million Americans are expected to pack their bags for trips over 50 miles or more over the holiday weekend – a 4% increase from last year and close to 2005’s previous record of 44 million. 

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a press release. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

Both roads and airports will be extremely busy, with a historic number of roadtrippers since AAA began tracking data in 2000. That’s 38.4 million drivers, up 4% from last year. 

A predicted 3.51 million airline passengers are expected to hit the skies over the holiday weekend, a 4.8% increase from 2023. This will make for the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, AAA said. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here’s everything you need to know about traffic if you’re hoping for a Memorial Day weekend getaway.

Summer is just around the corner. Here's everything you need to know for your summertime trip.

What are the most popular destinations for Memorial Day weekend travel?

Most popular domestic destinations:

• Las Vegas, 
• Anaheim/Los Angeles

Most popular international destinations:

• Vancouver, Canada

What are the best times to drive for Memorial Day weekend? 

To avoid the worst traffic, drivers leaving for their long weekend trip on Thursday, May 23, and Friday, May 24, should hit the road before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Thursday and 8 p.m. Friday. 

Travelers driving on Saturday, May 25, who leave before 1 p.m. and after 6 p.m., will be able to avoid the worst traffic jams. On Sunday, drivers should head out before 1 p.m. to avoid the worst congestion. 

Travelers returning home on Monday, May 27, should embark after 7 p.m. if they want to dodge peak traffic. 

What are the worst times to drive by car for Memorial Day weekend?

Travelers should expect the worst traffic on Thursday between noon and 6 p.m. 

Friday between noon and 7 p.m. since they’ll encounter commuter congestion as well. 

Over the weekend, peak traffic is anticipated to be between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday and between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday. 

On Memorial Day, drivers heading back home can expect peak traffic between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., aka peak rush hour time.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

Travelers who are going through major metropolitan areas should unfortunately expect travel times to be up to 90% longer than usual, according to Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” Pishue said in a statement. 

• Worst route: Atlanta to Savannah via I-16 E
• Worst day: Saturday, May 25
• Worst time: 4:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 5 hours, 31 minutes
• 54% increased travel time
• Worst route: Manchester to Boston via I-93 S
• Worst day: Sunday, May 26
• Worst time: 8:45 a.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 48 minutes
• 50% increased travel time 
• Worst route: Milwaukee to Chicago via I-94 E 
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 25 minutes
• 27% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 
• Worst time: 4:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 24 minutes
• 56% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: LA to Bakersfield via I-5 N 
• Worst day: Thursday, May 23
• Worst time: 6:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 45 minutes
• 84% increased travel time
• Worst route: New York to Albany via I-87N 
• Worst time: 11:45 a.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 37 minutes

Philadelphia

• Worst route: Philadelphia to Baltimore/DC 
• Worst day: Friday, May 24
• Worst time: 7:30 a.m.
• 64% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route:  San Francisco to Napa via I-80 E
• Worst time: 11 a.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 34 minutes

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Washington, DC to Baltimore via Balt/Wash Pkwy N 
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 21 minutes
• 72% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Watch CBS News

Memorial Day weekend 2024 could break travel records. Here's what to know.

By Emily Mae Czachor

May 20, 2024 / 5:04 PM EDT / CBS News

Despite another month of spring technically still ahead, travelers often view Memorial Day weekend  as an unofficial kickoff to the summer season — and traffic notoriously reflects that . Based on current forecasts, travel around the upcoming 2024 holiday next Monday, May 27, is not expected to relieve Memorial Day of its bad reputation for drivers and airline passengers. They may actually find themselves on some of the busiest highways and flights they've seen in decades.

The American Automobile Association, or AAA, warned of potentially unprecedented congestion on roads this weekend, along with airports that could be even more crowded than in years past. The organization, which looks at various economic factors and partners with other groups to project travel conditions, announced earlier this month that an estimated 43.8 million people across the United States would likely travel at least 50 miles from Thursday to Monday. That would mark a 4% increase in overall travel compared with 2023, according to AAA. It would also come close to the busiest Memorial Day weekend on record, which happened in 2005 when 44 million people left home for the holiday.

"We haven't seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years," said Paula Twidale, the senior vice president of the travel division at AAA, in a statement. "We're projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we're exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead."  

For those planning to hit the road or board a plane this weekend, here's what to know.

Prepare to hit traffic

Memorial Day weekend in 2024 is expected to set a new record for road trips, according to AAA. The organization has estimated that 38.4 million people will travel in cars over the course of the weekend, which would be the biggest number recorded around this particular holiday since the group first started keeping track of Memorial Day travel patterns in 2000. 

Car rental company Hertz told AAA that demand for rentals this year will be highest in Atlanta, Boston, Las Vegas and Orlando, with most renters scheduled to pick up their cars on Thursday and Friday.

In general, drivers hoping to beat the traffic, or at least face less of it, should avoid the roads during afternoon hours on any day of the long weekend. Citing transit data from INRIX , AAA said the worst times to travel by car , in any U.S. time zone, are between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Thursday, between 12 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Friday, between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday, and between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday. 

The best times to drive will be before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on Thursday, before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m. on Friday, before 1 p.m. or after 6 p.m. on Saturday, before 1 p.m. on Sunday, and after 7 p.m. on Monday.

Airports will be crowded

Airports across the country are bracing for another spike in travelers, following an upward trend in flights booked around Memorial Day since last year's air travel numbers exceeded pre-pandemic levels. An estimated 3.51 million people are projected to fly this weekend, according to AAA, which is up from 3.35 million who traveled on planes to their destinations last year. If as many people fly as expected, this will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when AAA said 3.64 million people caught flights for the holiday.

United Airlines said more than 500,000 people are expected to fly each day from Thursday to Tuesday, which would be the airline's busiest Memorial Day weekend on record. Delta said 3 million people are expected to fly on its planes over that six-day period and American Airlines said it expects 3.9 million people to fly over the weekend.

Public transportation tips

Any of the projected 1.9 million people who use public transit systems to get to where they're going this weekend can plan ahead, too. INRIX projections show metro riders will face a degree of congestion in major cities, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, Philadelphia, Portland, Oregon, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tampa and Washington, D.C. Congestion on metros is expected to peak in those places in the late afternoon, early evening and mid-morning each day between Thursday and Monday. 

Forecasts suggest D.C., Los Angeles, Houston and Tampa will see the largest jumps in metro crowding compared with their respective norms. The worst is projected for one route from Gainesville to Tampa, where INRIX said metro congestion on Sunday at 9 a.m. local time could be 88% higher than usual.

Kris Van Cleave contributed reporting.

• Memorial Day

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

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AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 44 Million Travelers Leaving Town for Unofficial Start of Summer

Second highest memorial day holiday travel forecast since aaa began tracking in 2000.

WASHINGTON, DC (May 13, 2024) – AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period*. This year’s total number of travelers is a 4% increase over last year and comes close to matching 2005’s record of 44 million Memorial Day travelers.  

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”   

Road trips are expected to set a record. AAA projects 38.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, the highest number for that holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The number of drivers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019. Traveling by car is appealing for many people because of the convenience and flexibility it provides. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Boston and Las Vegas are the cities displaying the highest rental demand , with the busiest pick-up days projected to be Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24.  

This Memorial Day weekend drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was roughly $3.57.  Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks. Prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway. The wildcard remains the cost of oil, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.  

Airports are bracing for a spike in travelers. AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019. This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11. This Memorial Day weekend, air ticket prices are comparable to last year. AAA booking data shows a 1% to 2% increase in prices for domestic flights. Several factors play into how much travelers pay for airfare, including destination, number of stops, and fare class. For example, passengers who book nonstop flights with seat selection and carry-on bags included will likely pay more than those who select basic economy with a layover.  

  Nearly two million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. AAA projects 1.9 million people will take these other modes of transportation, an increase of 5.6% compared to last year. “This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic with fewer people taking public transportation or not cruising at all,” Twidale said. “Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Travel demand has been soaring, and long holiday weekends create the perfect windows for getaways.”  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.   

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX.  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT

Source: INRIX   

Source: INRIX  

Top Destinations 

This Memorial Day weekend, travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California. Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver rank high because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed. European cities dominate the international list. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Travel Trends   

As travelers make plans for summer and beyond, AAA Travel has identified the following trends:  

• Bucket Lists : Travelers taking once-in-a-lifetime trips  
• Milestones : Families booking anniversary, retirement, and family reunion trips  
• Asia : More travelers interested in visiting Asia, especially Japan   
• Solo Trips : More people, especially women, interested in traveling by themselves  
• Luxury Vacations : More travelers seeking high-end cruises and tours  
• Trains : Many travelers interested in rail vacations across New England, Canada, and Europe  
• Adventure in Nature : Travelers booking trips to Antarctica, Africa, and South Pacific  

  Travel Agent Survey  

A recent survey of AAA travel agents highlights topics travelers are frequently discussing when booking trips:  

• Travel Insurance : 51 % of agents say more travelers are interested in protecting their trips  
• 77% of agents say ocean cruises  
• 70% of agents say all-inclusive vacations  
• 67% of agents say river cruises  

Holiday Travel Forecast Methodology   

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of April 15, 2024.   

*Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Memorial Day holiday travel period is defined as the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27, 2024.   

AAA Travel Agent Survey Methodology 

AAA clubs distributed surveys to a random sample of their travel agents between March 18 and March 29, 2024 to understand recent traveler trends over the past 60 days. 186 AAA agent responses were collected from 13 AAA clubs (representing 97% of AAA membership overall as of February 2024).  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.