tour usa on the road

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)

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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)

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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Home » North America » USA » Best Road Trip

20 Best USA Road Trips • Famous Driving Destinations in 2024

Many will say that going on an epic road trip is the best and really the only way to experience America. This is the land of the open road, the roadside attraction, the roadside diner. If all roads lead to Rome, they must eventually make a detour in the United States, I say.

There is a lot that goes into planning a road trip in the USA. What to pack, what kind of car to rent, and, most importantly, where to go. There are a million routes out there and they all have their own merits and, in some cases, oddities.

I’ve assembled a list of some of the best and most classic road trips in the country. From East Coast to West Coast and Sea to Shining Sea, the finest stretches of good ol American-made asphalt are all found in this article. Through the desert, over the mountains, into the past, doesn’t matter; we’ve got them all covered right here.

So which Great American road trip will you take?

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20 Greatest Road Trips in the USA

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Let’s get down to brass tacks and start talking about the top American road trips there are! Here are twenty for you to choose from!

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1. California Route 1 – Pacific Coast Highway

The road trip in the usa to take before you die.

• States : California
• Start: San Diego
• End : Mendocino
• Total Distance: 656 miles
• Best Part: Camping in Big Sur

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What’s a trip to California without visiting the coast or the beach? The beach is one of the most important aspects of California livin’, after all. It is talked about during just about every other conversation in the state. Who could blame the natives for loving their coastline so much when you have superlative stops like Malibu, San Luis Obispo, and Point Reyes all there?

For the ultimate road trip in California , consider driving the entire stretch of the Pacific Route 1. This epic route, which should take at least a week (two for maximum enjoyment), seriously pulls out all the stops. Gorgeous coastline, bustling metropolises – like San Francisco and Los Angeles – and more than enough In n’ Out Burger joints all combine to make the perfect road trip itinerary. This is some of the best California has to offer.

Since you’ll be starting in San Diego, why not book a nice place to stay and soak up the city before departing?

2. Route 66

The classic road trip across america.

• States: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California
• Start: Chicago, Illinois
• End : Santa Monica, California
• Total Distance:  2448 miles
• Best Part: The Americana

Route 66 is probably the first thing that springs to people’s minds when they think “Great American road trip.” Over the years, Route 66 has been practically immortalized – by Hollywood films, musicians, novels, etc – so much so that it is practically synonymous with the very idea of going on a road trip around the USA.

Since it passes through eight different states and four different regions, Route 66 offers a somewhat abridged version of American culture. You’ll get to see roadside attractions, antique gas stations, and eccentric diners; all staples of American weirdness.

One of the best parts of Route 66? Watching the landscape shift from the Great Plains and Mississippi wetlands to the deserts and mountains of the West Coast’s roadside landscapes . Entering Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona is a particularly surreal experience, as there is nowhere else quite like the American Southwest. If you have time, be sure to stop by Monument Valley for an iconic American backdrop.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

3. Skyline Drive

The most scenic mountain road trip on the east coast.

• States : Virginia
• Start: Front Royal
• End : Rockfish Gap
• Total Distance: 105 miles
• Best Part: Parking the car and going for a quick hike

It’s a favorite day trip for those visiting Washington DC for a simple reason: the Skyline Drive is one of the most accessible mountain drives in the USA. In just over an hour, one could easily escape from the politics and actions of the nation’s capital and be in the heart of Appalachian Country. For those who like long-winding mountain roads, this will be one of the best road trips in the USA.

The Skyline Drive traverses the entirety of Shenandoah National Park. This means that, besides offering breathtaking views, the route also affords access to many local trails. The epic and grueling AT (Appalachian Trail) runs parallel to Skyline Drive. Those who’ve dreamed of hiking (a section of) the thru-hike can do so at many points of the road.

For those looking for a more docile couple of days in Shenandoah, there are lots of campsites and little towns around worth visiting. Winchester has a rich Civil War history while sleepy Staunton is generally considered the prettiest town in the region.

Stay in Washington DC a few days before heading out and be sure to check out all the spectacular museums.

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road

The best way to see one of the best american national parks.

• States: Montana
• Start: West Glacier
• End : Saint Mary
• Total Distance: 50 miles
• Best Part: Seeing Saint Mary Lake for the first time

Glacier is one of the best national parks in the USA . It’s the kind of place that, once you’ve visited, makes you want to pack up your bags and move to Montana. I’ve dreamt of doing this before and I’m sure a lot of people share this dream with me.

The main road that traverses Glacier is called the Going-to-the-Sun Road and it is, without question, one of the most beautiful roads in the US. Firstly, it passes right next to the stunning Saint Mary Lake, which is one of the highlights of the park. It also provides quick access to some very good trails in the park, like Hidden Lake Lookout. This 3-mile round-trip hike starts at Logan’s Pass and offers views of the uniquely-shaped Bearhat Mountain.

It should be noted that the Going-to-the-Sun Road opens late in the season and closes early due to heavy snow. The road is closed for 7-8 months and crazy busy the rest of the year. There are quite a few hair point turns as well so remember to keep your cool out there when driving.

5. Olympic Peninsula Loop

Rainforests, glaciers, and beaches (oh my).

• States: Washington
• Start : Port Angeles
• End : Port Angeles
• Total Distance: 330 miles
• Best Part: Feeling the carpet in the Hoh Rainforest

Very few places to see in the USA are as geographically unique as the Olympic Peninsula. Here, you’ll find a huge diversity of landscapes, from glaciers to rainforest to rugged coastline. This is a paradise for outdoorsy types or, at least, those who can’t quite decide what kind of outdoor adventure they want to go on during their road trip in the USA.

There are too many cool spots on the Olympic Peninsula to talk about. Hurricane Ridge offers the most spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and also offers solid skiing in the winter. Rialto Beach is famous for its sea stacks that resemble those found commonly in Iceland. The Enchanted Valley is a very remote portion that requires an overnight hike but rewards visitors with, supposedly, 10,000 falls.

The best part about the Olympic Peninsula is exploring the Hoh Rainforest. Thanks to constant rain, the woods of the peninsula are overgrown, towering, and constantly lush. Go for walk here and you’ll see more shades of green then you previously thought possible.

If you’re passing through, then take a couple of nights booking a stay in Seattle before visiting the Olympic Peninsula!

6. Kancamagus Highway

For fall foliage fanatics.

• States: New Hampshire
• Start : North Woodstock
• End : Conway
• Total Distance: 56 miles
• Best Part: Being there in autumn

New Englanders are very proud people and there are certain things that you don’t talk shit about with them. Dunkin’ Donuts, lobster rolls, Tom Brady; even a whisper of ill will about any of these things is a sure way to piss of a local. Just as important to the New Englander identity as any of these though is it’s most noticeable natural phenomenon: the fall foliage.

From late-September to middle-October, the Patriots become slightly less talked about (until they eventually go to the Super Bowl) in lieu of the changing colors of the trees. New Englanders go crazy for the reds, oranges, and golds of the season; some plan whole weekend excursions in search of the best colors. Admittedly, it is pretty damn cool when you travel outside after staying in Boston and are hit by all those hues.

One of the most famous fall foliage road trips in New England is the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire. When the time is right (early-October), a cold fire hits the hills and they explode with color. The 56-mile stretch of the Kanc is never-ending foliage and shifting colors; it’s like driving through the barrel of a kaleidoscope. Just be warned: you and everyone else will be there – it gets busy in October!

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7. San Juan Skyway

Colorful colorado at it’s best.

• States: Colorado
• Start : Durango
• End : Durango
• Total Distance: 233 miles
• Best Part: Dallas Divide Viewpoint

The San Juan Skyway is the best road trip in Colorado ! Nestled in the far southwestern corner of the state, this route offers some of the finest Rocky Mountain views you could hope for. The road twists and turns through the valleys of the San Juan Mountains, arguably the prettiest part of the Colorado Rockies, and visits many historical towns and viewpoints along the way.

This itinerary begins and ends in the former mining town of Durango. There’s not much to do here besides ride the old gauge railroad, which is admittedly pretty damn cool if you like old-school trains.

As you head north from Durango to Silverton, the scenery really starts to unfold. To the east, the rugged Weminuche goads avid climbers and hikers. To get the best views of the Weminuche and the nearby Grenadiers, be sure to stop at Molas Pass for a break.

Beyond Silverton is the remote resort town of Ouray and the Sneffels Wilderness. The Dallas Divide, which overlooks the Sneffels, is very popular with photographers, especially in autumn when the leaves change color.

After the Dallas Divide, it’s straight onto one of the most famous mountain towns in Colorado: Telluride. If you’re staying in Telluride during the summer, be sure to check for local festivals. During this time, there’s one almost every weekend.

Just got off the plane at Denver and need somewhere to crash? Check out our comprehensive accommodation guide for Denver and find something you like!

8. The Cascade Loop

The best of the “american alps”.

• States : Washington
• Start: Everett
• End : Everett
• Total Distance: 440 miles
• Best Part: The North Cascades to the San Juan Islands

This is THE ULTIMATE Pacific Northwest road trip! Seriously, there are few itineraries that offer such a huge array of activities. Alpine hiking, whale watching, breweries; these are just a few of an adventurer’s favorite things!

The Cascade Loop begins in Everett, which is just north of Seattle. Everett is a pretty little town although you will not want to miss out on visiting Seattle. From Everett, you’ll head east over Stevens Pass before turning north along the Columbia Basin until looping back west across the Washington Pass and the astounding North Cascades. You should end your road trip through Washington by spending a few days relaxing in the idyllic San Juan Islands.

If the previous paragraph felt like an oversimplification, I’m sorry; but the Cascade Loop is too grand to fit in this section. To learn more about the route, be sure to visit the official Cascade Loop website for heaps of more information!

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9. Florida A1A – Overseas Highway

340 miles, almost all beaches.

• States : Florida
• Start: Amelia Island
• End : Florida Keys
• Total Distance : 340 miles
• Best Part: Driving across the Caribbean Sea

Knock it all you like for its douchey spring break parties and invasive retirees, but Florida still has some of the best beaches in all of the USA. As you may have gleaned from the subtitle of this particular USA road trip, almost all of them are accessible via a single highway.

The Florida A1A runs the entire length of the Atlantic Floridian Coast AND even further into the Caribbean Sea. The portion that connects the mainland to the Florida Keys (The Florida Key Scenic Byway) is considered an engineering marvel and this is one of the highlights of the trip. Gliding across the Caribbean and into the likes of Ernest Hemingway’s home on Key West is just too good.

But there is more to this Florida road trip than just the Keys. Fort Lauderdale is shedding its MTV beach party reputation (for a more laid back vibe). Cocoa Beach and Vero Beach still surf central. Plus, there’s always hedonistic and culturally rich Miami to demand your attention (probably too much).

Use our Miami travel guide to learn more about the city!

10. Lassen Scenic Byway

A “lasser-known” road trip in california.

• States : California, Oregon
• Start : Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• End : Chemult, Oregon
• Total Distance: 500 miles
• Best Part: Ending at Crater Lake aka Heaven on Earth

The Lassen Scenic Byway is one of the most unknown and underrated road trips in America. The route can’t be faulted either – it’s located in the relative unknown of Northern California, which, unfortunately, only enters the news when there’s a forest fire or a rebellious splinter-nation about to spring up. Yet, Northern California and Lassen are just as beautiful as anywhere else in the state.

The Lassen Scenic Byway, which takes its name from the National Park where it starts, gives a grand overview of the region. Dormant volcanoes, bubbling springs, and waterfalls are just a few of the sights you’ll see along the way. Mt Shasta, which marks the beginning of the Cascade Range, is the most prominent landmark in the area. The Park boasts some of California’s best camping spots ; enjoy the breathtaking views at Heart Lake, or kayak around Manzanita’s calm waters.

The Lassen Scenic Byway also extends across the state border into Oregon. This means you can visit one of my all-time favorite places in the USA: Crater Lake. It is an enormous body of water, perfectly serene and close to fathomless. Every time I see it, Crater Lake reminds of Thoreau and what he said about lakes in general: “(they are) the Earth’s eye; looking into which the beholder measures the depth of his own nature.”

11. The Oregon Coast – USA Route 101

For those who like to wear sandals and sweaters (at the same time).

• States : Oregon
• Start: Brookings
• End : Astoria
• Total Distance: 363 miles
• Best Part: Southern Oregon Coast

Having spent much of my life in Portland, I’ve been on more than a few road trips in Oregon and there’s a special place in my heart for the Oregon Coast.

When I needed to get away from the city and work, I would run away to the coast. When my girlfriend and I wanted a romantic dinner, we’d skip the restaurants and instead buy fresh oysters from the local fishermen in Netarts. To me, the coast was my playground, my church, and my home away from home.

I’m not the only person who loves the Oregon Coast though – lots of people go on vacation here to get away from the madness of their lives (including everyone’s favorite Midwestern melodist, Sufjan Stevens). Apparently, the charm of old coastal towns and the particular moodiness of a cool, cloudy day is not lost on the others.

Mine romanticizing aside, the Oregon Coast is just a beautiful place to visit. The Southern portion, around Bandon, Langlois, and Samuel H. Boardman, is particularly notable as the scenery around here – rocky towers, jagged promontories, and enormous cliffs – are quintessential.

Given how sheer flippin’ magnificent the Oregon Coast is, make sure you know what areas to stay in as you drive through!

12. The High Road to Taos

The magical highway to everyone’s favorite hippy town.

• State: New Mexico
• Start : Sante Fe
• Best Part: The old Spanish architecture

New Mexico is like the weird aunt that always drives up to the family gatherings in her converted VW bus and talks about gemstones all night long. Not that this is a bad thing: we all love them for doing this and hope they never change. After all, these conversations are far more interesting than the ones we have with that one overly conservative uncle (I’m alluding to you, North Dakota).

New Mexico loves art, culture, and the surrounding nature that, in turn, inspires art and culture. People from all over the country, whether native or tourist, are inspired by landscapes and old Indian pueblos of the state (even the esteemed George R.R. Martin has drawn inspiration from this landscape).

One of the best ways to experience the magic of New Mexico is via the High Road to Tao scenic byway. Starting from the city of Santa Fe and ending in Taos, this road trip not only connects two of the most artistic cities in the state, but it also features a lot of interesting stuff in between.

Chimayó makes for a very interesting stop thanks to its namesake church, which promises to heal the sick. The San Francisco de Asís Mission Church is one of the most iconic buildings in the American Southwest and could easily serve as a prop for Tarantino or Sergio Leone western.

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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

13. Texas Hill Country

The “green” part of texas.

• States: Texas
• Start : Austin
• End : Austin
• Total Distance: Depends
• Best Part : The natural pools

Texas isn’t just desert and oil fields; there is plenty of greenery around if you know where to look. In fact, there are heaps of waterfalls and grottos to be found! Texas Hill Country is full of hidden wonders that most would’ve never thought could be found arid ol’ Texas. If you’re looking for some top-notch hiking in the States and want to try some of the tastiest BBQ in the state, then consider going on a trip here.

Texas Hill Country roughly refers to the elevated areas west of Austin. Many roads that go through this area; to visit a decent chunk of it will require you to take many different routes.

Generally speaking, the best parts of Texas Hill Country are around Highway 290. Locally beloved waterholes like Hamilton Pool, Pedernales Falls, and Jacobs Well are all within about 30 minutes detour.

There are many BBQ joints and spirit distilleries spread throughout Hill Country as well. If you want some of the most legendary BBQ in Texas, be sure to drop by Cooper’s Old Time Pit in Llano.

Austin is a bit of an underrated gem, so check out our insider travel guide and make sure you experience it fully.

14. Beartooth Highway

One of the most beautiful highways in america.

• States: Wyoming, Montana
• Start : Red Lodge, Montana
• End : Wyoming/Montana border via US 212
• Total Distance: 69 miles
• Best Part : Arriving at Beartooth Pass

For being one of the prettiest roads in America, it’s amazing how few people have probably heard about the Beartooth. When talking about what to do in Wyoming, most people talk about staying in Yellowstone or the Tetons more than anything. (Rightfully so! Those places are spectacular in their own right!)

Yet, just 2 hours away from the center of Yellowstone lies this stunner of a road trip, so stunning some say that it could easily compete with the aforementioned national park. Not to be taken lightly, this road starts at 5000 ft and climbs to a maximum height of nearly 11,000 ft. By the time you reach Beartooth Pass, you’ll be driving through high-alpine plateau; barren, humbling, and, most of all, awe-inspiring.

The drive is the show-stealer here but there’s still lots to do outside of the car on the Beartooth Highway. Lakes for fishing, trails for hiking, and kitschy shops for souvenirs all abound. Though the drive itself only takes 2-3 hours, one could easily spend several days here. Don’t just look at this as a way to connect Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks; think of this route as a park to be explored onto itself.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

15. The Hana Highway

A must-do on your hawaiian vacation.

• State: Hawaii
• Start : Kahului
• End : Haiku-Pauwela
• Total Distance: 64 miles
• Best Part: Playing “Spot the Waterfall”

Some people find the word “highway” in Hana Highway to be a gross exaggeration. “This isn’t a highway!” they might say; “this is a crooked alley in the middle of the jungle!” Fair enough fictional angry tourist I say.

The Hana Highway is not a typical highway: it’s narrow, winding, and sometimes scary to drive on. What would normally take an hour to drive will take more like two or three. The road is so small that parking on the side of the road is very difficult; sometimes it even turns into a single lane of traffic.

But the Hana Highway is worth the extra effort, of course. Waterfalls are everywhere along this road trip; during heavy rain, falls may spring up out of nowhere (be careful in this case actually). That quintessential Hawaiin lushness will be omnipresent as you coast through different areas of Maui , and you’ll even the opportunity to visit the beach! Pullover at Waianapanapa State Park just before Hana to see one of the better beaches on the island.

If you end up doing this Hawaiin road trip, just be sure to leave Kahului with a full tank of gas and snacks. There isn’t a whole lot in the way of food and gas stations along the way.

To be honest, Hawaii is yummy, expensive, and worthy of a proper adventure. Check out our budget travel guide for Hawaii and extend your trip a bit longer !

16. Charleston to Savannah

Southern comfort at its finest.

• States: South Carolina, Georgia
• Start : Charleston, NC
• End : Savannah, GA
• Total Distance : 108 miles
• Best Part : Comparing the two cities

It’s a well-known fact that there’s a long-standing rivalry between the cities of Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. Both are competing against each other for the title of “most charming cities in the South” and the competition is fierce. Thanks to their close proximity, one could easily visit one on a weekend road trip!

Charleston is the smaller city; not so hectic and pretty down-to-Earth by many standards. It’s mostly known for its old plantations and Southern hospitality. A lot of people – especially the locals – like to say that Charleston is much more laidback than Savannah and consequently much more hospitable. You can find plenty of great Airbnbs in Charleston too, so it’s definitely a place to stop over for a bit longer.

Savannah, on the other hand, is the larger of the two cities. It was formerly and economic center of the region and, as such, expanded quite fast. The original Southern architecture is very well preserved, the best examples being the cobblestone streets themselves, the old-school neighborhoods of Savannah , and the nearby plantations. Fun fact: public drinking is also legal in Savannah, which does lead to the occasional, spontaneous block party 🙂

17. The Best of the American Southwest

Take a trip through one of the most beautiful parts of the usa.

• States : Nevada, Utah, Arizona
• Start: Las Vegas
• End : Las Vegas
• Total Distance: 1200 miles
• Best Part: Doing acid somewhere you love

This isn’t an established route; there is no single road that you’ll stay on over the course of this trip. What this is a collection of highways that together form without question one of the most phenomenal road trips around the USA.

The American Southwest is one of the most beautiful regions in the world; a dreamscape filled with surreal arches, bottomless canyons, and rocks painted by the passage of time. Hiking through the arid landscapes of Arizona or Utah is more fantasy than reality sometimes and, to me at least, a more appropriate place for Gods to inhabit than humans.

My mind reels when I think about how many wonders there are on this Southwestern road trip. The Grand Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs, Antelope Canyon, Havasupai; all of these could be considered amongst the most beautiful places in the world. Yet, I haven’t even talked about the national parks of Utah either! Zion, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, my god – it’s all too much to think about at once.

Love it or hate it, you’ll be visiting Las Vegas for this road trip, so you may as well make the most of it!

18. Route 61 – The Blues Highway

Visit some of the most significant musical sites in america.

• States: Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa , Wisconsin, Minnesota
• Start : New Orleans
• End : Wyoming (Minnesota)
• Total Distance: 1,400 miles
• Best Part: Finding out where Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil

A good American road trip doesn’t ALWAYS have to be about pleasant scenery or heritage sites. Sometimes, all a good road trip takes is an appreciation for our musical forefathers and a really good playlist to go with it.

Route 61 is called the Blues Highway because it has been a part of so many American musicians’ lives. Bastions of classic American music, like Memphis, Des Moines , St. Louis, and the classic southern destination New Orleans are all connected by this road.

That means the greatest blues singers, rockers, country wailers, and more have all, at one point in their lives, driven on this road. It goes without saying that a lot of shit has probably happened here then.

Route 61 is full of interesting and sometimes strange attractions. The BB King Museum, Heartbreak Hotel, and some of the most hallowed music venues and concert halls in the country are all along this route.

The coolest place to visit on this USA road trip? The infamous “crossroads” where Robert Johnson supposedly sold his soul to the devil for fame (at the intersection of Highway 1 and 8).

For a shorter version, road trippers can instead drive from New Orleans to Memphis and experience many of the same attractions.

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19. Seward Highway

A wild road trip in the usa’s most wild state.

• States: Alaska
• Start : Anchorage
• End : Seward
• Total Distance: 125 miles
• Best Part: The Kenai Fjords

Choosing between this and the George Parks Highway is a tough call. The option of seeing the monstrous Denali is possible with the latter, and that alone should be enough to entice people. But overall, the Seward Highway is probably the best road trip in Alaska .

Why is the Seward Highway great? Well, it’s not too long, not too far away from civilization, and it offers a little bit of everything. The drive itself is remarkable as you’ll be afforded views of both the Chugach Mountains and the rugged Alaskan coastline at the same time, plus a bear or two (or more) as well.

For those very adventurous folk, the Kenai Peninsula offers more than just road thrills. Kayaking in the fjords among the glaciers is available as is hiking in the Kenai Mountains. Just remember: if you do decide to go off into the wilderness, don’t forget to exhibit the usual bear safety.

Now things are getting wild! You’ll be starting with a stay in Anchorage so make sure you book an awesome place in an awesome spot… it’s cold up there!

20. Park Loop (Acadia National Park)

Rugged new england coastline.

• States: Maine
• Start : Hulls Cove Visitor Center
• End : Hulls Cove Visitor Center
• Total Distance: 27 miles
• Best Part : Sunset beers at Cadillac Mountain

Maine is one of the most popular road trip destinations on the East Coast during the summer. People travel here over the weekend from as far as New York City or Philadelphia in search of some far more positive vibes. The Maine coastline, long beloved for its lighthouses and sandy beaches, for one reason or another, has long been therapeutic to these city slickers.

When it comes to coastal routes, few can compare to the Park Loop at Acadia National Park. Towering conifers, fine beaches, and that rough coastline that defines New England are all featured here; all are accessible from your car. There are several hikes around that will take you to some pretty solid viewpoints as well. The sunset at Cadillac Mountain is particularly good with friends and brews.

Because everyone wants to travel to Maine these days, it can get pretty crowded during the summer. Traffic will be bad and accommodation will either be limited or expensive. Autumn, though only slightly less busy, is a nice time to visit because of foliage. Spring is a great time though you should definitely have a coat with you. Visiting in winter should only be for the mad or photographically-inclined.

BONUS: The Ultimate USA Road Trip (According to Science)

For niiieerrrdddsss (kidding).

• States : All 48 lower states
• Start: New York
• End : New York
• Total Distance: 13,700 miles
• Best Part: The end.

Does anyone remember when that viral image of the GREATEST ROAD TRIP ACROSS AMERICA EVER was making rounds on the web? How many people made plans to do the damn thing?

Admittedly, this road trip was more notable for its use of data, specifically using a genetic algorithm, which already sounds super cool. In lamens, this genetic algorithm allowed the whizzes behind this to see the greatest amount of American destinations with as little backtracking as possible.

So are you ready to tackle this bad boy? Are you really in the mood for the most epic USA road trip imaginable? Then put in that vacation time and pack the car up as much as you can. Don’t skimp on the Red Bull either – there are going to be a lot of long drives here folks.

With all of those competing companies and exorbitant deposits, renting a car in the USA can seem scary. Frankly, I don’t blame people if they ever felt intimidated in this country while trying to rent a car – there’s a real learning curve.

But booking a rental car can be much more manageable if you know a few things beforehand. Here’s what you need to know:

• You need a credit card to rent a car in America – They rental company will use it to take a deposit for the car.
• You have to be 18 – Even then, you’ll get charged more if you’re under 28. Younger drivers are seen as liabilities.
• Don’t book rental insurance with the rental company – Use a third party because they’re cheaper and have better protection. Rentalcover is a great choice.
• Do your research – Use search engines, like Rentalcars.com , to find the best prices. Sedans are usually the cheapest options. SUVs will cost much more.
• Gas prices are different in every state – Use ViaMichelin  to chart gas prices in each state. As a rule of thumb, gas is cheaper the closer you get to Texas and the South.
• Some credit cards offer rental insurance – Be sure to check if your credit card company will cover you in the case of an accident. If they do cover you, you’ll save heaps of money. You’ll need to book the car with THAT card to qualify, of course.
• Almost all American cars have automatic transmissions – I honestly think it might actually cost more to rent a manual…
• Check to see if there is a cleaning fee – If you made a small mess, most companies won’t charge you anything. Some shady ones will charge you a fortune for a gum wrapper though.

What to Pack for a Road Trip in the USA

First off: your road trip packing list is going to vary wildly depending on how long the itinerary is. If you’re just going for a weekend, then your list is going to be much trimmer and less demanding. But some road trips can last weeks or even months. If you’re like my friends, Kevin and Liz, you’ll eventually end up living out of your car at which point it may be time to consider investing in the vanlife .

When packing for a shorter road trip, go minimal . Take the essentials, like a roadside safety kit and some form of navigation for example, and then add more as needed. If you’re camping, take the appropriate gear. If you have a toddler, take a doona car seat stroller (it’s a seriously cool piece of engineering). If you want to save money, take lots of snacks and pre-made meals to avoid stopping at diners. Easy peasy.

On the other hand, if you’re planning a truly epic American road trip route, the likes of which would make Jack Kerouac or Alexander Supertramp jealous, then you’ll need much, much more stuff. I cannot cover everything in this single section of the article but I can suggest that you check out our road trip packing checklist for more ideas and suggestions.

Aside from knowing what to pack on your road trip in the USA, you’ll also need to know how to pack . If you have a lot of stuff, you will need to be conscious of how you organize everything, especially if you have a smaller, passenger-style vehicle. Get a system in place – use packing cubes and plastic bins to keep everything separated; bungee cables will be your best friends.

For more information on how to pack a car, check out this informative article at USA Today .

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

What to do in Case of Trouble while Road Tripping in the USA

It should go without saying that you need to be prepared for your road trip in the USA. I would like to make a friendly reminder here to do so. Prepare thyself before embarking on your asphalt odysseys by having the following, at a minimum: a roadside emergency kit and some form travel insurance for the USA . 

A lot can go wrong on a road trip: tires can pop, accidents can happen, engines can stutter and stop. Getting stuck in the middle of nowhere because someone forgot to do something essential like change the oil could ruin your trip real fast.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

A roadside assistance kit will contain everything that you could need to fix small problems on the road. They can’t fix everything (you’ll need a mechanic for that) but at least you’ll be able to recharge a dead battery and arrest a bumper on the fly.

If the shit really hits the fan and your vehicle is really in trouble, that’s when the insurance comes in handy. If there’s a fatal problem with the car, trust me, it will be expensive, and having insurance means that you’ll have a bit of financial help.

Now you could invest in two types of insurance: regular travel insurance or special rental car insurance.

Some travel insurance providers provide basic vehicular coverage and will cover you in certain circumstances. World Nomads insurance is a good example. Granted, there is at times some fine print regarding who qualifies. For example, drivers from some US states cannot qualify for vehicular assistance with World Nomads. Always be sure to double-check.

If you want total protection, go with an independent rental insurance company like Rental Cover. Most offer excellent coverage at very reasonable rates, more so than the rental car company will give you.

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Beartooth highway tops out at just shy of 11,000 feet…. not 8000.

Thanks for pointing this out. I’ve changed the detail now.

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The Best USA Road Trip Routes

An essential guide to epic american road trips.

Amy Balfour

Stuart Thornton

Sarah Bence

• In this guide
• Rocky Mountain road trip
• Utah's national parks
• Grand Canyon loop
• California road trips
• Skyline & Blue Ridge Parkway
• Western North Carolina
• West Virginia To Shenandoah NP

Great Smoky Mountains

• NC's Outer Banks
• White Mountains & Falls
• Coastal Maine's Route-1
• Fall foliage
• Lakes Michigan & Superior
• South Dakota
• Chicago to the Ozarks
• Renting an RV
• National park road trips
• Two week routes
• Best cross-country routes
• Family road trip routes
• Summer road trip routes
• History & culture road trip routes

That ribbon of highway, the endless skyway…. Woody Guthrie immortalised life on the road in 1940 and it’s been sung about, written about and filmed about ever since.

So it’s no surprise that the ‘Great American Road Trip’ has a grip on all our imaginations. Anywhere else, a long car journey is nothing but a mundane chore. But you know where to get your kicks, right? Out on…oh you-know-where.

Maybe it’s something to do with the frontier myth: echoes of intrepid settlers, covered wagons, and the search for the American Dream. Or maybe it’s just that the American landscape, in all its dramatic, epic scale, makes a great backdrop for romantic adventures on four—or two—wheels.

There aren’t many places you can get this much scenic diversity without passing a single passport control. Your only problem is deciding how much ground you want to cover.

With a little forethought you can devise your own journey and, if you squint a little, maybe catch a glimpse of the American fairytale.

Mount Washington Auto Road, in New Hampshire's White Mountains

Top US national park road trips

This country was made for epic road adventures. You could just set off and see where the road takes you, or you could use some of the following routes for inspiration.

A few tips: Don’t bite off more than you can chew! Accept you’re not going to discover America on a two-week road trip. Less is more—slow down, avoid the interstates, and steer clear of the A-list tourist hotspots. The national parks hog all the attention, but you’ll find just as much wildlife and adventure (without the crowds) in state parks, national forests, wilderness areas and national monuments.

And most importantly, plan ahead! There might be some romantic appeal to just following the open road, but in reality that can mean expensive motels, RVs camped in Walmart parking lots, and crowded roads snaking through the aforementioned over-popular national parks.

Yosemite National Park, California

The west coast in two weeks

Approx. distance: 1,700 miles

Duration: 14 days

Suggested route: Seattle, Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, Crater Lake National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Los Angeles.

Take in the magnificence of the western United States mountains, while also walking among some of the world’s biggest trees and get sprayed by a few of North America’s largest waterfalls on this route. This inland tour of the best mountainous parks in Washington, Oregon, and California includes crowd favourites Olympic National Park, Crater Lake National Park and Yosemite National Park.

Read more: West coast road trip

Arches National Park, in Utah

Utah's 'mighty five' road trip

Approx. distance: 1,200 miles

Duration: 10 days

Suggested route: Salt Lake City, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Salt Lake City

Fiery red rock formations dot the Southwest, lighting up the landscape at sunrise and sunset with a brilliant array of colours, from red to orange to deep purple. Created by erosion over millennia, and still changing today, these sandstone wonders are the photographic highlight of most road trips across southern Utah.

Read more: Utah's 'mighty five' road trip

Redwood National Park

Northern California road trip

Approx. distance : 600 miles

Duration : Seven to 10 days

Suggested route : Bodega Bay, Avenue of the Giants, Redwood National & State Parks, Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park.

North of San Francisco, California becomes less populated and wilder. Here nature dominates the landscape from the skyscraping redwood trees to the crashing waves on the rugged coast to the volcanic wonders bubbling inland. Northern California is also the place to see magnificent wild animals whether it’s the migrating gray whales off Bodega Bay or the majestic Roosevelt elk wandering around Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

Read more: Northern California road trip

Foothills Parkway in the northern Great Smoky Mountains

Approx. distance: 450 miles

Duration: Six days

Suggested route: Knoxville, Urban Wilderness, Gatlinburg, Cades Cove, Clingman's Dome, Ocoee Scenic Byway, Lookout Mountain, Knoxville.

Gorgeous scenery and outdoor adventure join forces on this Great Smokies loop, which swings past urban parks, waterfall trails and wildlife playgrounds.

Read more: Great Smoky Mountains road trip

Badlands National Park

South Dakota & Badlands

Approx. distance: 400 miles

Duration: 8 days

Suggested route: Rapid City, Spearfish Canyon, Deadwood, Black Hills National Forest, Hill City, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, Wall, Badlands National Park, Rapid City.

This figure-of-eight route takes you on an epic road trip through South Dakota’s national parks, forests, and monuments. The area is particularly rich in Native American history, including that of the past and present-day Lakota people. Although covering a smaller area than other Midwest road trips, it’s filled with plenty of arresting scenery, from the Badlands, to the Black Hills.

Read more: South Dakota & Badlands National Park Road Trip

Fall foliage in the White Mountains

New England's fall foliage

Approx. distance: 700 miles

Duration: One week

Suggested route: Boston, Berkshires, MA, Mohawk Trail Scenic Drive, Vermont Hwy 100, Littleton, NH, Franconia Notch State Park, Kancamagus Highway, Wolfeboro, Lake Winnipesaukee, Boston

When to go: Foliage season runs from mid-September through mid-October

Foliage across New England puts on a brilliant display of colour in fall, with yellow, orange and deep red leaves shimmering across forested hills.

This loop passes leaf-peeping hotspots across Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire. Foliage season runs from mid-September through mid-October.

Read more: New England's fall foliage road trip

Sunrise over Big Bend National Park, southwest Texas

Two week US road trip routes

Austin, san antonio & west texas.

Approx. distance: 1,000 miles

Duration : Two weeks

Suggested route: Austin, Hill Country, San Antonio, Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site, Big Bend National Park, Route 170 River Road, Marfa, Fort Davis, El Paso

South Congress Avenue encapsulates the best of Austin: live music at the Continental Club, tacos at Torchy’s and the quirky appeal of the I Love You So Much mural. Watching the flight of Mexican free-tailed bats from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge is a nightly tradition (Mar-Oct).

Wildflowers, wineries and dance halls abound in the Hill Country. The Salt Lick is a popular Hill Country BBQ joint. Tour the Alamo in San Antonio then dine beside the River Walk.

It’s a long haul west to the pictographs in Seminole Canyon and mountain trails in Big Bend National Park, an International Dark Sky Park.

Follow the Rio Grande west on Route 170 then continue to Marfa for minimalist art and mysterious lights. Sunsets glow with purple-and-orange intensity behind the Davis Mountains while murals brighten downtown El Paso, the westernmost city in Texas.

Four Corners loop: Ancestral Puebloan history

Approx. distance: 1,100 miles

Duration: Two weeks

Suggested route: Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Zuni Pueblo, Acoma Pueblo, Albuquerque

Comprising Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah, the Four Corners region is home to the longest-surviving communities in North America, including the mesa-top villages of the Hopi Tribe and the Acoma Nation.

It’s a landscape rich with beauty and tradition but still bearing the scars of historic cruelties inflicted by white explorers and settlers. Mesa Verde and other lofty cliff dwellings, built by Ancestral Puebloans, are the photogenic hallmarks of the region, but these remote ruins were inhabited for just a short segment of the centuries-old timeline.

Other Four Corners highlights include the ruins at Chaco Canyon, the red-rock spires and buttes of Monument Valley and Spider Rock in Canyon de Chelly.

New York City to Miami: Big cities, mountain towns & the coast

Suggested route: New York City, NY, Philadelphia, PA, Baltimore, MD, Floyd, VA, Asheville, NC, Greenville, SC, Charleston, Savannah, GA, Orlando, FL, Miami, the Everglades

From the Met to Chelsea Market, from MOMA to the latest pop-up, the Big Apple is a cultural and culinary powerhouse. A tip: Don’t try to do too much, just pick one or two neighborhoods and go deep.

For early US politics, head to Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Afterwards, compare Philly cheesesteaks from Pat’s and Geno’s.

In Baltimore, dive bars and seafood joints are packed tight in cobblestoned Fells Point. Mountain music catches the ear in Floyd, Virginia, part of the Crooked Road Music Trail.

Ashville is a mountain town with a sophisticated palate, for good food and drink try Burial Beer, C´urate and the Biltmore Estate.

With its tree-lined Main Street and downtown waterfall, Greenville is notably picturesque. Hit the coast for shrimp & grits, Fort Sumter and live oaks draped with Spanish moss. In Florida, sunbathe on pristine beaches, hurtle through Space Mountain at Disney World, party in South Beach and paddle the swampy Everglades.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Best US cross-country road trip route

Washington, d.c. to los angeles.

Approx. distance: 3,200 miles

Duration: At least three weeks

Suggested route: Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque & Santa Fe, Petrified Forest National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, NV, Los Angeles, CA

This cross-country trip introduces roadtrippers to America’s cultural and artistic diversity as well as its striking landscapes. Cultural highlights include the National Museum of African American History & Culture in D.C., the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque.

The art scene is varied too. Study the masters at the National Gallery of Art, step into the art at Meow Wolf and stroll the gardens at the Getty.

American-born music is another feature. Mountain music thrives at the Carter Family Fold in Virginia while country music legends perform at the Grand Ole Opry. B.B. King’s Blues Club in Memphis parties late into the night.

Natural beauty is prevalent too, from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Mississippi River to the multi-hued grandeur of the Grand Canyon and the golden beaches of Los Angeles.

Classic Arizonan scenery in Saguaro National Park

Best US road trips for families

Arizona: the wild west.

Approx. distance: 625 miles

Suggested route: Tucson, Fort Bowie National Historic Site, Chiricahua National Monument, Bisbee, Tombstone, Wickenburg, Prescott, Jerome, Sedona

With cacti and crusty mountains as your backdrop, this partial loop kicks off in Saguaro National Park in Tucson. From here, delve into the conflicts between the U.S. Army and the Apache at Fort Bowie and at Chiricahua National Monument, where towering volcanic rocks once doubled as a hideout for Apache warriors.

Next up are a string of mining towns where prospectors, cowboys and gunslingers once trod the dusty streets. Families can immerse in Wild West history at the Queen City Mine in Bisbee and the OK Corral in Tombstone.

Dude ranches near Wickenburg offer multi-day horseback-riding experiences. Several dozen multi-use trails crisscross the red rocks of Sedona, which may look familiar from classic western movies.

Southern California: Beaches, Disneyland & Hollywood

Approx. distance: 200 miles

Suggested route: San Diego, La Jolla, Carlsbad, Huntington Beach, Disneyland Resort, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles

Kick off with koalas at the San Diego Zoo & Safari Park in San Diego then follow Hwy 101 north along the Pacific Coast, passing sea lions, snorkelling hotspots and cliffside tidepools.

Surf culture reigns on Huntington Beach, where evening bonfires are allowed. Younger kids will love the Coastersaurus and other low-scare rides at Legoland in Carlsbad.

The 14-acre Star-Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the newest “land” at the iconic Disneyland Resort in nearby Anaheim. Street performers and an eye-catching skatepark keep Venice Beach abuzz while the Pacific Wheel on the Santa Monica Pier offers bird’s-eye views of the coast.

Tour movie sets on the backlot then scream at velociraptors on Jurassic World – The Ride at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Southern New Mexico: Caverns, aliens & white sands

Approx. distance: 350 miles

Duration: Five days

Suggested route: Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Roswell, Lincoln, Capitan, Valley of Fires State Park, Three Rivers Petroglyphs Site, Alamogordo, White Sands National Park

The Natural Entrance Trail is a 1.25-mile drop from the mouth of Carlsbad Caverns to the geologic wonders of the Big Room. After touring the cavern and its formations, high-speed elevators whisk families back to the earth’s surface in minutes. Tour the International UFO Museum in Roswell to learn more about the alleged crash of an alien spacecraft here in 1947.

Wild West history roams the streets in Lincoln, where outlaw Billy the Kid escaped the local jail. Fire-fighting legend Smokey Bear is buried in nearby Capitan. Budding geologists can explore a lava field in Valley of Fires State Park and look for rock art at the Three Rivers Petroglyph Site. Learn about space exploration at the New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo then watch the moonrise during a full moon hike at White Sands National Park. Sledding down the dunes is also recommended.

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Best US summer road trips

Best of kentucky: bourbon, thoroughbreds and mammoth cave.

Approx. distance: 275 miles

Suggested route: Lexington, Keeneland, Versailles, Bardstown, Loretto, Mammoth Cave National Park, Louisville, Frankfort, Midway, Lexington

Anchoring the eastern edge of the Bourbon Trail, Lexington is a cosmopolitan base for visiting the horse farms, distilleries and small towns dotting the rolling hills that stretch west from the city. Pull over for horse races at Keeneland (Apr & Oct; tours year round) and learn about Kentucky’s limestone-filtered water on distillery tours at Woodford Reserve, Four Roses and Buffalo Trace.

Eleven distilleries cluster near Bardstown, where boutiques and historic buildings fill the small downtown. Seal your bourbon bottle with red wax at Maker’s Mark before driving to Mammoth Cave National Park, home of the longest known cave system in the world.

Museums in Louisville spotlight native son Muhammad Ali, Louisville Slugger baseball bats and the Kentucky Derby.

Exploring the Eastern Shore

Approx. distance: 375 miles

Suggested route: Virginia Beach, VA, Chincoteague Island, Assateague Island, MD, Berlin, Ocean City, Rehoboth, DE, Cambridge, MD, Easton, St Michaels, Annapolis

Beaches, fresh seafood and wildlife refuges are plentiful on the Eastern Shore, also known as the Delmarva (Delaware, Maryland, Virginia) Peninsula. This slow-paced region, tucked between the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic, is an easy drive from Washington, D.C. and Virginia Beach.

In Virginia, Chincoteague Island hosts its wild pony swim every July, when the ponies that roam Assateague Island are brought to auction. Just north in Maryland, it’s easy to spot wild ponies while you explore Assateague Island National Seashore.

Crowds flock to Ocean City for the convivial beach-and-boardwalk scene. State parks stretch north from here along Hwy 1 to Rehoboth, known for art galleries and upscale eats.

On the western coast, immerse in centuries-old waterman culture in St Michaels and other coastal villages then crack open steamed blue crabs at Cantler’s in Annapolis.

Route 66: New Mexico & Arizona

Approx. distance: 675 miles

Duration: Five to seven days

Suggested route: Tucumcari, New Mexico, Santa Rosa, Albuquerque, Gallup, Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona, the Wigwam Motel, Winslow, Meteor Crater, Flagstaff, Williams, Seligman, Kingman, Oatman

The completion of the interstate highway system spurred the decline of Route 66, which crossed eight states on its run between Chicago and Los Angeles. Today, the historic route draws road trippers seeking a slower and kitschier drive.

The kitsch hits its peak in the scrubby high-desert of New Mexico and Arizona. Unique lodging includes the neon-fronted motels of Tucumacari, concrete wigwams in Holbrook and a former bordello in Williams.

Quirky attractions run the gamut: a scuba friendly blue hole in Santa Rosa, fossilised logs in the Petrified Forest, the Standing on the Corner statue in Winslow and wandering burros in Oatman. In Flagstaff, taxidermied wildlife watches the roadhouse action inside the Museum Club, which opened on Route 66 in 1931.

Historic Beale Street, in Memphis Tennessee

Best US history & culture road trip routes

America's beginnings: jamestown to dc.

Approx. distance: 300 miles

Suggested route: Jamestown, Virginia, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown, James River Plantations, Richmond, Monticello, Charlottesville, Mount Vernon, Alexandria, Washington, DC.

This history-themed trip spotlights the colonial era and begins at the Jamestown settlement. Established in 1607, Jamestown was the first permanent English colony in the New World. Thriving towns like Williamsburg soon followed.

More than 150 years later colonists fought for independence in the Revolutionary War. Virginia’s Historic Triangle brings Colonial history to life with interactive museums, costumed reenactors and the surviving redoubts at the Yorktown battleground.

From here, the stomping grounds of the country’s Founding Fathers stretch from Berkeley Plantation on the James River to St. John’s Church, Monticello and Mount Vernon. The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights are displayed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

Tennessee & Mississippi music tour

Approx. distance: 500 miles

Suggested route: Memphis, Clarksdale, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, Tupelo, Natchez Trace, Muscle Shoals, AL, Nashville

Blues music spills from late-night clubs on Beale Street in Memphis while 1970s grooviness spills from every direction in the Jungle Room at Elvis Presley’s Graceland.

They say bluesman Robert Johnson made a deal with the devil at the crossroads of Hwys 49 and 61 in the Mississippi Delta, where the blues was born. Red’s is the place to hear it. Test your musical prowess at the hands-on GRAMMY Museum in Cleveland.

Elvis reappears in Tupelo, site of his childhood home. The leafy Natchez Trace Parkway ribbons north from here, passing Muscle Shoals and its historic rock-n-roll recording studios.

The enormous Country Music Hall of Fame anchors the South of Broadway (SoBro) scene in Nashville. Appreciate acoustic perfection at Ryman Auditorium then elbow into Tootsies Orchid Lounge for a raucous honky-tonk jam.

US civil rights tour: Memphis, Alabama & Mississippi

Duration: Eight to 10 days

Suggested route: Memphis, TN, Greenwood, MS, Jackson, Birmingham, AL, Selma, Montgomery

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis shares space with the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968.

Just south, the Mississippi Freedom Trail stops at Bryant’s Grocery near Greenwood. The historic marker here covers the murder of Emmett Till by two white men in 1955. His brutal death and the subsequent acquittal of his killers kick-started the Civil Rights movement.

At the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson, powerful displays explore the struggle for racial equality in Mississippi. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute spotlights the 16th Street Baptist Church, bombed in 1963. State troopers and their dogs attacked peaceful marchers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma two years later.

In Montgomery, learn about Rosa Parks and her refusal to give up her bus seat to white passengers.

New Orleans & Southern Louisiana

Suggested route: New Orleans, Barataria Preserve, Whitney Plantation, Breaux Bridge, Lafayette, Avery Island, New Orleans

French, Spanish, African and Caribbean cultures collide in New Orleans. The city shares this diversity through food, music and friendliness. Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street are calling cards, but full immersion includes oyster po’boys at Domilise's, live music on Frenchmen Street and a ride on the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar.

Beyond the Big Easy, trails at the Barataria Preserve bring the bayou up-close while the Whitney Plantation describes life on a sugar plantation through the lens of those it enslaved. Breaux Bridge and Lafayette are the heart of Cajun Country, where menu specialties include boudin sausage and boiled crawfish.

Zydeco and Cajun tunes keep everyone dancing at the Blue Moon Saloon. Popular regional tours include swamp tours on Lake Martin and a trip through the McIlhenny Tabasco Factory.

In this guide:

Western US National Park Road Trips

Combining the awe-inspiring national parks of the Western USA into a single road trip makes for a true Americana adventure…

The Best East Coast USA Road Trips

There are three national parks in the East Coast mid-Atlantic region: Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the newly created New River Gorge National Park…

The Best New England Road Trips

Acadia National Park in Maine is the only national park in New England, although the region is packed with other federally run recreation areas, including national monuments, seashores and forests…

The Best Midwest National Park Road Trips

The Midwest US is often unfairly labeled “flyover country” but those who fly over middle America don't know what they're missing…

Renting An RV For An Epic Road Trip

The joy of an RV national park road trip is its simplicity: your family, the open road and the great outdoors…

About the authors

Amy has authored or co-authored 26 books on the USA for Lonely Planet. Her articles and essays have appeared in Backpacker, Every Day with Rachael Ray, Houston Chronicle, Redbook, Southern Living, Women’s Health, Vegetarian Times, the Los Angeles Times and Washington Post.

Stuart is a California-based travel writer and guidebook author. His books include Moon California Road Trip , Moon Coastal California and the forthcoming Moon Northern California Road Trips . For more about Stuart and his books, visit his website.

Sarah Bence is a travel journalist based in her home state of Michigan, after living in the UK for three and a half years. She writes for Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Roadtrippers Magazine, Business Insider, and more.

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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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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: 26 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 1 st 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 2 nd itinerary.

If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2 nd 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 26 comments.

Very informative and well-articulated, It’s always refreshing to see such useful content. Thank you and keep up the excellent work!

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 😊

My husband wants to do this trip with our new camper once he retires (5-6 yrs?). I said it’s a Perfect 3 month trip … popping up to Kingston, Ontario, Canada to visit family and, again, up from Bangor, Maine to the Canadian east coast to visit more family, and then back on route thru the US! I love being more in the Wilderness so we’ll find spots (we have a generator and solar onboard and able to carry extra weight for extra water/fuel) more in the Great Wild Outdoors (whenever possible) and do 1-2 day stops to ‘see the sites’! A Dream for me… soon to become Reality! I need to Pinch myself for even Dreaming it but, By the Grace of God, we’ll be doing it!! 🙏🤗🙏

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.

Agreed! 🙏🥰🙏

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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!
• 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!

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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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Grand Tour America

Visit NYC, Philadelphia, Washington DC, BRP, GSM NP, Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, Texas, Route 66, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon NP, Zion NP, Las Vegas, Yosemite NP, San Fran, PCH & LA

Home > Find A Road Trip > Coast to Coast > Grand Tour America

at six weeks, this is our longest and most epic road trip across the USA!

Span the whole of the USA on our fantastic Grand Tour America road trip.  Experience many of America’s bucket list places over six or more amazing weeks as you cross the country from New York to Los Angeles. Start in New York City, and then cruise west, visiting three major East Coast cities, The Deep South, Texas, National Parks and finally, California along this 4,500-mile route.

Key road trip highlights:

• Start by visiting three of the East Coast’s best cities – New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC.
• Drive along many of America’s very best roads, including Skyline Drive, The Blue Ridge Parkway, Pacific Coast Highway and a section of old Route 66.
• Discover America’s Deep South’s music, food, and warm welcome by visiting Nashville, Memphis, historic Natchez, and laid-back New Orleans.
• Cruise clean across Texas, stopping in Houston, Austin, Dallas and Forth Worth. Want to add San Antonio or a stop on a ranch? Then just let us know.
• Witness the outstanding natural beauty of Monument Valley and the National Parks of Shenandoah, Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Death Valley and Yosemite.
• Finish off this ultimate cross-country adventure with a week or more in the West Coast’s three premier cities – Las Vegas, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
• What’s included? Direct flights with a premier carrier, accommodation, car rental and a detailed road trip pack.
• Please Note:  This particular road trip takes a day and a half to quote for, so unfortunately, we have to charge a fee of £199 to provide a full, detailed quote. Should you book, this cost is removed from the trip’s price. However, if you’re just looking for rough guidance on price, let us know, and we can happily provide this without any cost.

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Our Favourite Hotels

We’ll suggest properties to match your preferred budget, be it low-cost, mid-range or high-end luxury that you’re looking for. We can also mix it up so you’ll experience a range of standards and experiences along your road trip.

The Civilian

New York City

Evergreen Lodge

Yosemite National Park

The View Hotel & Cabins

Monument Valley

The Garland

Los Angeles

Thompson Hotel

Virgin Hotel

New Orleans

Bellagio Hotel

Road Trip Itinerary

All of our American road trips can be tailored to meet your requirements. Do you have more or less than 42 days for your road trip? No problem, we can bolt on extra nights to allow more time to explore or shorten the number of destinations as required.

Arguably, the world's greatest city - new york city

Enjoy four unforgettable days exploring arguably the world’s premier city. An epicentre for the arts and America’s dining, theatre and shopping capital – New York City wears many crowns. Suppose you still have the energy after your flight and you arrive early enough. In that case, we recommend you start your adventure with an open-top bus tour of the city. This will help you familiarise yourself with the Big Apple’s layout and tick off many of its famous sights. Your Road Trip Pack will be full of recommendations of where to eat and what to see and do during your stay.

New York, NY

New York City offers so much to see and do

Explore Midtown Manhattan today, highlights include shopping on 5th Avenue, Grand Central Station, the New York Public Library, Bryant Park, Times Square, Broadway and the Rockefeller Centre – just make sure you leave time to visit either the Top of The Rock or The Empire State Building as the sunsets, to witness the city’s lights come alive across the Big Apple.

discover downtown on your third day in new york

A third day to explore New York, go downtown to the business district or the uber-cool neighbourhoods like Greenwich or Soho. Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty can be visited by catching a boat from Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan. The Financial District is also located downtown and is anchored by Wall St, home to the New York Stock Exchange, and the National September 11 Memorial and Museum.

a fourth and final day to enjoy New York City

Manhattan’s Central Park offers a break from the stresses of city life, watch joggers and dog walkers stretch their legs amongst more than 800 acres of well-maintained lawns, boating ponds and even a castle and a zoo. While in uptown Manhattan, you can visit the world-renowned Natural History Museum on the Upper West Side, or if art is more your thing, head to the Upper East Side’s Met and Guggenheim Museums.

collect your car and drive south to Philadelphia

Start your road trip by heading south to the “Birthplace of America”, Philadelphia. Known as Philly to locals, you’ll have two nights to get familiar with the capital of Pennsylvania. In the evening, you may want to take a riverside stroll and head to Race Street Pier for an incredible sunset and nighttime view of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

Philadelphia, PA

a second day to enjoy Philadelphia's highlights

Any visit to Philadelphia will only be complete by consuming an authentic and delicious ‘Philly Cheese Steak’ sandwich. You can enjoy these guilty pleasures in the foodie heaven that is Reading Market and at establishments all over the city. To burn off those calories, recreate the famous scene from the film ‘Rocky’ by climbing the 72 steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art (pictured).

cruise south from philadelphia to washington, dc

Your detailed Road Trip Pack will be the perfect companion to explore Washington, DC and all the other destinations along this route. You may want to begin by taking a self-guided tour of some of Washington’s iconic buildings. The White House, Capitol Hill and the Lincoln Memorial are just some of the key buildings that can be visited. Arlington lies across the Potomac River, a must-see for history and military enthusiasts.

Washington, DC

a full day to discover more of washington's attractions

You may want to dip into some of the famous Smithsonian Museums today, and there are many to choose from. The most notable, the Air & Space Museum and the Museum of Natural History, are on the National Mall, in the city’s heart. Best of all, they’re free to visit. Our favourite is the Newseum, which has impressive artefacts chronicling how ‘news’ has changed over the last 100 years.

Leave washington, dc for shenandoah national park

Front Royal marks the start of the legendary Skyline Drive, which cuts through the heart of Shenandoah National Park. Stunning surroundings, abundant wildlife and a 35 mph speed limit mean you’ll easily spend the day meandering this 105-mile leg of your journey. Why not pull into one of the scenic lay-bys and stretch your legs on one of the many trails.

Shenandoah NP

The superb blue ridge parkway awaits...

The best way to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains area is to drive Skyline Drive through the middle of Shenandoah National Park and then the famous Blue Ridge Parkway down to Great Smoky Mountain National Park. These are two of America’s truly great roads, making the most of the stunning mountain views with the famous blue haze.

Blue Ridge Parkway

another day enjoying the blue ridge parkway

The world-famous Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail roll across this picturesque mountain region. As you cruise south, you’ll witness outstanding scenery around every corner. Old-time mountain music can be heard regularly, and wineries and craft breweries offer tastings in small towns and on mountain slopes.

Final stop on the blue ridge parkway... asheville, nc

Our route will continue south along the Blue Ridge Parkway to Asheville, North Carolina. Some of today’s drive’s primary points of interest will include Lynn Cove, Grandfather Mountain and Linville Falls. Asheville has numerous farmers’ markets to try, and the restaurant scene takes advantage of the seasonal produce sold there. Take advantage of the microbreweries too!

Asheville, NC

Asheville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

You’ll complete the Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Great Smoky Mountains National Park today, where you’ll find ridge upon ridge of forest, which straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Great Smoky Mountains is America’s most visited National Park, so a second day to scour its gorgeous landscape for wildlife is essential. Look out for furry residents roaming the region; these include black bears, bobcats, racoons and elk. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a fantastic place to visit at any time of year; however, during autumn, the trees put on a dazzling show of colour for hikers and road-trippers to enjoy.

Great Smoky Mountains NP

return to city life again, welcome to nashville

Nashville is the home of Country Music, and it’s so very proud of it. Music City boasts about its musical heritage at every turn, no more so than in the fantastic Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s not all about country music, though, this fast-growing city also has a rich blues history, along with singers and songwriters from every other musical genre who call ‘Music City’ their home.

Nashville, TN

a second day to enjoy the sights and sounds of nashville

Enjoy a full day in Nashville. Head to the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge (colloquially known in Nashville as the ‘Pedestrian Bridge’), which spans the Cumberland River. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better view of the expanding Nashville skyline anywhere. Tonight, for the complete tourist experience, head down to lively Broadway and stop by a honky tonk or two for a one-of-a-kind night on the town.

drive west from nashville to soulful memphis

Continue west through Tennessee to find Memphis. Second only to The White House, Elvis Presley’s Graceland is arguably the most iconic home in America. Memphis has plenty more to offer visitors, including the legendary Sun Records Studios and the moving National Civil Rights Museum.

Memphis, TN

a second day to enjoy the food and music of memphis

Spend a second day visiting the sights of Memphis and enjoying the delicious soul food on offer. Memphis is arguably the Barbecue Capital of America, so if you’re not a vegetarian, make sure you try a rib joint or two whilst in town. Lastly, Beale Street is an amazing place to socialise with locals and other visitors from around the US and beyond.

drive through the mississippi delta to historic natchez

Natchez lies on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, with former plantation homes and a few small towns, which gave birth to “The Blues,” dotted along this route through the Mississippi Delta. Depending on your arrival time in Natchez, try to include a visit to Emerald Mound and Grand Village to learn more about the area’s rich Native American heritage.

Natchez, MS

new orleans and all that jazz!

Follow the Great River Road south to New Orleans, or ‘The Big Easy’ as it’s also known. Along the way, Oak Alley Plantation is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s dark history. After arriving at your New Orleans hotel, which sits at the mouth of the mighty Mississippi River, you can step out into the lively French Quarter, which will be waiting to offer you dinner, drinks, and a grand finale in a unique style that only “The Big Easy” can offer.

New Orleans, LA

enjoy a second day in 'the big easy'

New Orleans is a vibrant, sultry city. This will be your final full day to explore New Orleans’ must-see attractions. Take a ride on a Streetcar, taste a sugary beignet and enjoy a stroll around the Garden District. Whether you call it NOLA, The Big Easy or just plain old New Orleans, we’re confident this vibrant city will stay with you for many years.

cruise through cajun country to houston

Leave New Orleans early and spend the morning driving through Cajun Country to Houston in Texas. As you approach Houston, you can visit the NASA Johnson Space Center, where you can witness the thrills of being an astronaut, gape at gigantic space rockets, or stand in the location that oversaw the moon landings and Apollo 13. The sprawling city of Houston has excellent museums, dining and shopping options, and it’s a truly cosmopolitan metropolis. The fourth largest city in the US, with towering skyscrapers dominating downtown Magnolia City.

Houston, TX

drive from Houston to cool and trendy Austin

Onto the Capital City of Texas. Austin is also the self-proclaimed live music capital of the world; it also has an excellent food scene and loves anything that’s a little offbeat – its unofficial motto is “Keep Austin Weird”. How about a refreshing swim to cool off? Then, dive into the Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Finish your day off in the bustling bars, restaurants and entertainment venues found on Sixth Street after checking out the nightly flights of the free-tailed bats that call Congress Avenue Bridge home.

depart austin for dallas & fort worth

Arrive in the neighbouring cities of Dallas and Fort Worth today. Today, you’ll start by exploring Dallas, with a past and present rich in what American legends are made of. The ‘Big D’ is famous for its contributions to popular culture – notably the Cowboys and their cheerleaders, and Dallas, the TV series that once was a worldwide symbol of the USA. Check out the Reunion Tower, which gives you a 360-degree view of the city from its observation deck. Further highlights include The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, chronicling JFK’s assassination and its aftermath. Check out Deep Ellum; this former warehouse district is home to live music, brewpubs and restaurants with incredible barbecue and Tex-Mex.

Dallas & Fort Worth, TX

a full day to absorb fort worth's cowboy culture

Put on your cowboy hat and spend a while discovering Fort Worth’s Wild West heritage and highlights. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is the primary draw here, where you can watch a cattle parade and maybe even a live rodeo. Finish the day (or night) off with a visit to the iconic watering hole that is Billy Bob’s Texas, the largest Honky Tonk on the planet. Be sure to practice your line dancing and even bull riding before you arrive.

time to join The Mother Road - Route 66

We’ll show you the way to Amarillo today; as always, your meticulous Road Trip Pack will detail a recommended route along with all the things you can see and do along today’s route. Finish the day’s drive by joining historic Route 66 in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Cadillac Ranch, just outside Amarillo, is a classic, fun Route 66 stop that’s not to be missed.

Amarillo, TX

take route 66 to beautiful sante fe, new mexico

Cruise west along an old section of the original “Mother Road” to find the Spa Town of Santa Fe. Art lovers should visit The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum whilst in town. It’s a beautiful celebration of her life’s work and her love for the State of New Mexico.

Santa Fe, NM

drive from santa fe to majestic monument valley

More Wild West scenery today as you continue west to the magical landscape of Monument Valley, which sits on the border between Arizona and Utah. It’s a long drive today, but it’s a scenic cruise for most of the route. At its conclusion, you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring sight as you witness the sunset over the proud and majestic “Mittens” of Monument Valley. This is another chance to prove your photography skills, as the landscape and sky turn to every shade of orange and red.

by amazed by the size and beauty of the grand canyon

The world’s biggest and most famous geological wonder is just staggering. Two billion years in the making, the Colorado River has forged a mile deep, 18 miles wide and 277 mile long gouge into northern Arizona. Tonight, you’ll stay in the heart of this incredible National Park, close to the canyon’s rim. Our Road Trip Experts will help you decide whether the North or South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the best overnight stop for your party.

Grand Canyon NP

The Grand Canyon to bryce canyon national park

Drive west to Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its unique geology consisting of horseshoe-shaped amphitheatres carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The erosional force of frost-wedging and the dissolving power of rainwater have shaped the colourful limestone rock into bizarre shapes, including slot canyons, windows, fins, and spires called “hoodoos”.

Bryce Canyon NP

bryce canyon national park to zion national park

Zion National Park is stunningly beautiful. Emerald-coloured pools, lush green trees, and rust-red canyon walls are all on show in this picturesque valley. This combination of colours is a visual delight, and the Park’s trails offer the chance to explore nature at its best. The brave and athletic among you may wish to tackle the epic Angel’s Landing trail, culminating at a lofty perch boasting magnificent 360-degree views over the valley below. Alternatively, walk the famous ‘Narrows’, often knee-deep in water. Tonight, enjoy a meal at Zion Lodge or in the neighbouring town of Springdale, which has plenty of local restaurants.

It's time to head to Vegas baby!

Today, you’ll leave the National Parks of Utah and Arizona and head to the bright lights of Las Vegas. However, your detailed Road Trip Pack will advise you to take in one last area of outstanding beauty en route. Valley of Fire State Park offers a super scenic loop drive off the I-15 interstate, so if you can cope with yet more beautiful landscapes, then this is well worth the detour on your way to Las Vegas. Try to arrive in Vegas after the sun has set, and the lights of the world-famous Strip are turned on. This will be a break-taking moment after the numerous dark-sky places you’ve visited over the last few days.

Las Vegas, NV

wake up in the splendid luxury of las vegas

It’s glitzy, tacky and wrong on so many levels… but we love it! Firstly, it’s unique, and secondly, it’s indulgence at its very finest. First-class hotels, classy restaurants and show-stopping entertainment are all located in the middle of a desert landscape, miles from anywhere. Oh, and if you like to gamble, then Las Vegas is the place to be. If your head hurts from the night before, relax by one of the giant pools that adorn every hotel. If not, then walk the legendary Strip, book tickets to one of the world-class shows or shop till you drop – the choice is yours. As for food, we recommend visiting one of the mega buffets available. Just make sure you are hungry when you visit.

leave las vegas for death valley national park

Death Valley has an extreme climate and geology. The roads here are superb, dipping and leaning around curves before straightening out as you fall to 85m below sea level in the salt flats of Badwater. You’ll finish your drive on the snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. It’s one of the longer driving days but carries with it three awesome experiences.

Death Valley NP

arguably ameriica's best national park - yosemite

Drive north on the super scenic Highway 395. You’ll cruise between sparse desert to the east and massive mountains to the west, passing movie locations and farmland as you drive. Once you reach the weird and wonderful Mono Lake, turn west over the Tioga Pass (open June-October) and enter the majestic Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite NP

a second day to enjoy Yosemite's epic wilderness

Yosemite National Park is over 1,000 square kilometres of awe-inspiring nature. The most popular part of the park is the Valley Floor, where you’ll find vast rock faces, abundant wildlife, staggering views and stunning waterfalls. In the afternoon, drive down to Mariposa Grove to walk amongst giant redwood trees. At sunset, head up to Glacier Point, which offers the very best views in all of Yosemite.

time to hit the pacific coast and san francisco

Spanning the headlands between Marin County and San Francisco, one of the world’s most beautiful bridges, is a delightful experience whether you walk, bike or drive across. Before crossing, you can enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco beyond it by driving up Conzelman Road on the north side of the Bay. Once you hit town, you can explore San Francisco’s iconic visitor spots for the next two or more days.

San Francisco, CA

a second day in wonderful san francisco

Once the famous San Francisco fog lifts, one of America’s favourite cities will be revealed. Ride a cable car, climb the steep streets and get into the vibe that only San Fran can offer. Full of Victorian charm, famous movie locations and world-leading tech companies, this city has something for everyone. Attractions include Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square and curvy Lombard Street, to name just a few.

whale watching and more in monterey bay

Monterey was once California’s capital of the whaling and sardine industry; however, today, it’s best known for the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium that presides on Cannery Row. Want to experience Monterey Bay first-hand? Then take a whale watching trip during your stay. In the early evening, cruise along the famous “17-Mile Drive” to pretty Carmel-by-the-Sea. Carmel offers two world-class beaches backed by a gorgeous small town with beautiful homes, quality restaurants and quaint streets.

drive the pacific coast highway to santa barbara

Big Sur is arguably the best driving experience in all of America. Cruise down the curvy roads, stopping at State Parks and vista points as you go. One optional stop is Hearst Castle, which perches on “The Enchanted Hill” and overlooks the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Next up is Santa Barbara, which was built in a charming Mediterranean style, thus making it one of the Central Coast’s very best highlights. If this drive is too long for your taste, then we’ll be happy to add an extra stop to cut this drive in half.

Santa Barbara, CA

continue along the pacific coast highway to los angeles

Spend the morning in sunny Santa Barbara. After lunch, you’ll continue driving south along the Pacific Coast Highway, passing Malibu’s beaches and coastal homes until you reach Santa Monica in Los Angeles. Santa Monica, with its “Baywatch” beaches and old-fashioned Pier, is a worthy finish to the day. Hire a bike and cruise the boardwalk to Venice Beach or shop your heart out on 3rd Street Promenade.

Los Angeles, CA

spend the day enjoying hollywood's attractions

Tinseltown is synonymous with glitz and glamour, and although many of the studios have now moved on to other parts of the city, it’s still fun to visit the home of the Oscars and walk Hollywood Boulevard looking for the handprints of your favourite movie stars. The Griffith Observatory is just a short drive northeast of here, perched high on a hill overlooking the city. The landmark is well worth a visit and offers excellent views of the legendary Hollywood sign.

a third day in the city of angels

Beverly Hills offers the chance to see movie star homes on palm tree-lined streets and Rodeo Drive, where you can shop with the rich and famous. The next day, you’ll complete your grand tour of America by spending the morning by the pool or finishing any remaining sightseeing before flying home to the UK from LAX.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find the solutions to your queries right here. Do you still require assistance? Feel free to get in touch!

Not a problem. If you are lucky enough to have extra time to explore more places or add more rest days, then just let us know and we’ll adjust your trip to match your preferred timescale.

We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance for your holiday to cover you against medical expenses, theft and other financial costs. Should you need to cancel before travelling, some insurance policies may pay out for any loss of funds that have been paid to us and which cannot be refunded under our cancellation policy.

Many of our trips have a different end destination than the starting point, so this is not a problem. Please note a fee sometimes applies for one-way rentals between other regions or states, which will be paid to the supplier directly when collecting the vehicle. We’ll endeavour to inform you of this charge within your quote.

No, far from it. We work with a range of properties from 3* to 5*, so we can adapt the trip to match most budgets. We have access to rooms in more than 800 hotels, motels, lodges and B&Bs across North America.

The minimum age to rent a car is 21 in the United States or Canada, although, in addition, any drivers under 25 years of age will generally incur a surcharge.

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19 Exciting West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Stretching from the glaciers of Alaska to the deserts of southern California, there’s no doubt that the west coast of the United States is home to some of the most stunning (and diverse) nature on the planet. Add in iconic cities, quirky small towns, a great food scene, plenty of historic highlights, and several wine regions, and the possibilities for putting together a west coast USA road trip itinerary are nearly endless.

We teamed up with several travel writers to share their favorite west coast road trip routes, and the results are worthy of any bucket list.

Here are the best US west coast road trip ideas!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your West Coast USA Road Trip

Best west coast usa road trips in california, oregon + washington road trip itinerary ideas, west coast usa road trip ideas in alaska.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Before we dive into exploring the best west coast 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 west coast USA 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 US west coast road trip today!

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

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 requirements for crossing the border as well.

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, trying out van life, or something in between. We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on our road trip packing list  before you go!

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. We use and recommend  Safety Wing  for road trips in the USA.

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring every nook and cranny of the US west coast is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop in just one more park or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your west coast US road trip driving from one spot to the next.

The Iconic Pacific Coast Highway

From Allison of California Crossroads

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

San Diego to Los Angeles

From Chris of Explore Now or Never

Los Angeles to Yosemite

From Eden of Rock a Little Travel 

A Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip makes an excellent choice for those who love the big city, but also appreciate some quality time outdoors. 

During your time in Los Angeles, I recommend getting an early start to hike the city’s famous Runyon Canyon trail in Hollywood. After your hike, make your way towards Melrose Avenue to grab brunch and maybe do a little vintage shopping. Spend your afternoon in Santa Monica enjoying the beach before heading into downtown LA for dinner and drinks in the Arts District. 

From Los Angeles, you’ll head north to Paso Robles, one of California’s favorite wine regions. The wineries here are fun and affordable, and most are family-owned. Paso Robles is known for being down to earth and friendly, so even if you don’t know a lot about wine, you’re guaranteed to feel welcome and have a good time. 

After enjoying the wineries of Paso Robles, it’s time to head to Yosemite. Once inside the park make your way towards the Tunnel View lookout. This lookout offers some of the best views in the park with Bridal Veil Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome off in the distance.

From Tunnel View, you’ll make your way down into Yosemite Valley. From here you can ditch the car and begin exploring this beautiful park on foot or bicycle. You’ll find trails and waterfalls all around you, so take your time and see it all. 

Three to five days is perfect for this Los Angeles to Yosemite road trip. This will give you at least one full day in each destination with the option to add on more time where you like. 

You’ll have lots of time in the car, so consider bringing some California books like Wild along!

Los Angeles to Eastern Sierra

The first place you can explore is off of the 14 freeway, the Red Rock Canyon State Park. In the summer, this area does get very hot, but if you’re doing this trip in the fall, spring, or winter months, it’s a great place to stop and soak in the desert views.

From there, head to Lone Pine, a cute town where several Western movies were filmed. From here, explore the Alamaba Hills. You can spend the day driving up and down dirt roads, viewing the rock formations, and gazing upon the Sierra Nevada Mountains. You can also disperse camp here.

From Alabama Hills you get a stellar view of Mt. Whitney , standing at 14,505 feet, it’s the highest point in the lower 48 states. Mt. Whitney is not an easy hike, but it’s a must-do for any avid hiker or backpacker. Permits are required for both day hikes and backpacking trips, and it’s a 22-mile round trip hike from Whitney Portal out of Lone Pine, so make sure to train if you want this hike to be part of your west coast road trip itinerary. 

Lone Pine is the start of the Eastern Sierra. From here, as you drive further North, you’ll encounter Independence, Big Pine, Bishop, and then Mammoth. There are so many hiking trails just outside of each of these towns with views that will make you not believe you’re in California.

You can make this trip as short or as long as you’d like. If you’re new to the area, give yourself a week to do several hikes, soak in hot springs and take in different elements of what this area has to offer.

California Gold Country

Highway 49 links many historical gold rush towns through the foothills of the Sierra Mountains in California. Start your journey in the adventure-filled town of Angels Camp, then drive north through Placerville, Coloma, Auburn, Grass Valley, and ending in Nevada City.

Each of these gold rush towns is full of interesting museums, quaint stores, great dining options, and adventures like panning for gold or watch a real blacksmith at work.

Placerville, also known as Hangtown, has the oldest hardware store west of the Mississippi. Half the store is filled with gold mining equipment (like gold mining pans) and hard to find hardware, the other half is packed with housewares and fabulous gifts. There is something for everyone.

If looking for a shorter trip, start in Auburn, the easiest of the towns to get to from Sacramento, then head up to the sister cities Grass Valley and Nevada City. There are old gold mines to explore, the best chocolate candy store (Grass Valley), shopping until you drop, and then top it all off with an ice cream cone from one of many locations.

Highway 49 winds through beautiful pine trees and at times it passes along the South Fork American River making this a peaceful road trip with unlimited potential. Each of these gold rush towns along this highway has something unique and “oldest” that they can claim.

Driving this route directly would only take about 2.5 hours, but with so much to see and do, it could easily take you four to five days to complete this west coast USA road trip route. Much of the drive is through small towns along windy roads with a continuous supply of mining and gold rush history and activities for all ages.

San Diego to Palm Springs Loop

California’s Lost Coast

From Julia of Well Planned Journey

California’s Lost Coast  is the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States. For 75 miles, the famed Pacific Coast Highway cuts inland, unable to pass through the rough terrain. This road trip from Eureka to Mendocino is perfect for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path. 

Start your Lost Coast road trip in Eureka, California, an old town famous for its Victorian houses. Leave the Pacific Coast Highway behind as you head for the small town of Ferndale, where you can explore the Victorian homes and the Golden Gait Mercantile.

Mattole Road winds through rolling hills and backcountry before running parallel to the Pacific Ocean. Stop along Mattole Road to enjoy the solitude and coastal views. As Mattole Road turns back inland, you trade the rugged Lost Coast for a redwood forest.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the largest old-growth redwood forest in the world. End your first day in Humboldt Redwoods State Park exploring the Avenue of the Giants, a famous 31-mile scenic drive through the redwoods. Stay the night in one of Humboldt Redwoods State Park’s many campgrounds or if you prefer a hotel, stay at The Tides Inn in Shelter Cove. 

The next morning, make your way to Shelter Cove. Explore Black Sands Beach and grab lunch and a beer at Gyppo. After lunch, stop to explore Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, searching for sea glass, and watching for seals and whales. End your Lost Cost journey in Mendocino where you can hike the coast on the Mendocino Headlands trail or go on a kayaking tour with Kayak Mendocino.

Recommended Trip Length

While this route could be driven in a day, 2-3 days gives you the perfect amount of time to explore the Lost Coast and the Mendocino area. 

National Parks in Southern California

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Road trips are a wonderful way to experience California’s stunning natural wonders. And one of the very  best California road trips with a nature focus is a route that covers southern California’s great desert parks.

Start in Los Angeles and make your way to Palm Springs, a fun desert city with many resorts and spas to enjoy. Palm Springs is home to mid-century modern architecture and desert canyon hikes, as well as an aerial tramway that takes you to the top of Mount San Jacinto.

From Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is just about an hour’s drive. The park is known for its magnificent boulder masses and the strange-looking, unique Joshua trees that aren’t really trees but a type of succulent. Whether you enjoy hiking or early settler history replete with relics of ranches and mines, you will have fun exploring Joshua Tree National Park.

Next, drive through the Mojave National Preserve, with more stands of Joshua trees and mighty sand dunes, before arriving at Death Valley National Park.

Death Valley National Park is home to the lowest point in North America. It is cool to take a photo by the sign saying “282 feet below sea level” at Badwater Basin! Explore the massive salt flats and take in the views from iconic viewpoints such as Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View. Death Valley National Park is huge but easily explored if you have a car.

From Death Valley National Park, make your way back to Los Angeles, stopping, if you like at more desert places along the way, such as Alabama Hills.

This trip is best enjoyed over a time frame of 5-7 days. Each of the parks is large and deserves a day or two to see the major sights and get in a couple of hikes.

Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport

From Jeanine of Le Wild Explorer

One of the most incredible places in California is the Eastern Sierras. It’s full of natural beauty and a great place for outdoor adventures. A road trip from  Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport  will take you amazing hot springs with killer views, pristine lakes, scenic hiking trails, and more. 

You’ll begin your trip to Mammoth Lakes which is extremely busy in the winter and summer. The famous Mammoth Mountain is an all-season resort that is popular for snow sports in the winter and mountain biking in the summer. Mammoth Lakes also has incredible hot springs and loads of hiking trails.

From Mammoth Lakes, you’ll head north where you can drive the June Lake Loop. The Loop is made up of four different lakes where you can go fishing, kayak, swim (in the summer), and more. There are also hiking trails that lead you to postcard-worthy vistas. 

Continue your drive north to Lee Vining where you’ll find Mono Lake. The lake is one of the oldest in North America and a true gem. The tufa towers are made of mineral deposits and give it an out-of-this-world look. The best time to visit is for sunrise or sunset but you can enjoy day-time activities such as kayaking and birdwatching.

Last, you’ll reach Bridgeport where you can soak in more hot springs and even visit a ghost town. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular. And if you love fishing check out their annual fishing events and go fly fishing in one of the creeks. 

This Mammoth Lakes to Bridgeport road trip can be done in a weekend but at least three days is recommended if you hope to enjoy a few hikes.

Portland to Seattle 

Recommended by Lotte from  Beste voor Kids  

Start your road trip in the delightfully weird city of Portland (Keep Portland Weird is actually the city’s slogan) and stock up on food, snacks, and gas. If you’ve never been to Portland, be sure to allow for a day in your itinerary to explore the city before hitting the road.  

From Portland, head north on the I-5 S and drive to the Mount Saint Helens Visitor Center (about an hour). Here you can learn more about the major eruption on March 27 in 1980. This eruption took the lives of 57 people and drastically changed the shape of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding ecosystem.   

Drive to Randle on the 12 and continue to Windy Ridge via the NF-99. Often cited as one of the most scenic drives in Washington State, be sure to take plenty of time to admire the views here. Note that the NF-99 closes around late October/early November (depending on the first serious snowfall). At the end of the road, you can hike up Windy Ridge for a beautiful view of Mount Saint Helens and Spirit Lake.  

Next up on your west coast road trip itinerary is Mount Rainier National Park. Drive here via the 123 and Steven’s Canyon Road (also closed in winter) and spend a day or two exploring this amazing National Park. Nice hiking trails are the Skyline Trail (8.4 miles round trip) and the short but beautiful Alta Vista trail (1.8 mile). Both start at the Paradise parking lot.   

End your trip in Seattle, the birthplace of Starbucks, home to famous Pike Place Market, and of course the 605-ft.-tall Space Needle.  

You could drive the 175 miles from Portland to Seattle in just under 3 hours via the I-5 S, however, for this road trip, I’d recommend 3 days if you don’t plan on exploring Portland or Seattle. If you want to visit these cities as well, add at least two extra days so you can spend an entire day in both of these great west coast cities.  

Willamette Valley

From Sarah & Nathan of Discover the PNW

Just south of the popular Oregon city of Portland sits the gorgeous Willamette Valley, known for the state’s wine production. A west coast USA road trip between Portland and Eugene will take you right through one of the most beautiful places in Oregon with plenty of opportunities to stop for great wine, food, and scenery.

There are nearly 600 wineries in the Willamette Valley and many of them are open year-round for tastings and tours. The region is known for producing premier Pinot-Noir but you will also find many other varietals to taste. 

Another plus to this road trip is the cute towns along the way offering fabulous dining and charming accommodations. McMinnville is a favorite with its historic center, boutique shops, foodie-focused restaurants, and dozens of tasting rooms. 

Oregon’s pretty capital city of Salem is also worth a visit with its gardens, cultural, arts, and food scene. Pay a visit to the Willamette Valley Cheese Company, enjoy a brunch cruise on the Willamette Queen Riverboat, or partake in a glass of wine at Oregon’s oldest producing winery.

The Willamette Valley is also a top choice of nature lovers. With miles of farmland, orchards, and vineyards plus views of the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains, the drive is nothing short of stunning. If you’re looking for outdoor adventure be sure to spend some time around Eugene which is surrounded by hiking and cycling trails, waterfalls, and rivers. 

120 miles one way or 240 miles as a loop.

It only takes about 5 hours to drive this west coast USA road trip loop but with so many places to stop along the way we recommend at least 1 night and 2 full days.

Portland to Bend

From Amanda of A Dangerous Business

Oregon is a great place for a road trip, and an easy route that includes everything from waterfalls to mountains to rainbow-hued hills is from Portland to Bend.

Once you’ve had your fill of weird in Portland, hit the road to the Columbia River Gorge. This river-carved canyon along the Oregon-Washington border is known for its great hiking trails and incredible waterfalls. Don’t miss Multnomah Falls, or hikes to spots like Latourell Falls, the Oneonta Gorge, and Elowah Falls.

From here, you can head south towards Bend on OR-35, which takes you past Mount Hood, Oregon’s most famous volcano. You could stop to hit the ski slopes or the mountain bike trails on Mt. Hood, or simply ride the Magic Mile Chair Lift up to 7000 feet for great views.

Continue your drive to an otherworldly spot in eastern Oregon: the Painted Hills at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument near Mitchell. Enjoy the scenic drive through the park, and take a short trail or two to get up close to these orange, yellow, and green hills.

You’ll have to retrace your route on your way back towards Bend, so you may as well also stop Smith Rock State Park. Famous for its rock climbing, this stunning park also has some good hikes for all skill levels. If you’re up for a challenge, try the Misery Ridge Trail.

From Smith Rock, it’s only about 40 miles to Bend, the outdoor recreation mecca of Oregon. Bend is a great jumping-off point when you decide to continue your Oregon road trip .

If you drive straight through, this route takes 8 hours. But of course, you don’t want to drive it straight through! I’d recommend at least 3-4 days for the driving portion of this trip, not counting the time you spend in Portland. 

Seattle to the San Juan Islands

From Adria of The Emerald Palate

The San Juan Islands are an incredibly scenic chain of 170 islands about 3 hours north of Seattle that offer a ton of outdoor adventures. San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island are the 3 most popular ones to visit, and all of them are a perfect final stop on a road trip from Seattle.

Starting from Seattle, take I-5 north toward the Skagit Valley. Pronounced “skaaa-jit”, this area spans about 100 miles and is made up of a bunch of quaint towns and farms worth visiting on your road trip.

Start your trip off with a beer tasting flight in Mt. Vernon. If you love shopping, Mt. Vernon has some great antique shops and boutiques worth poking your head into. 

Next head to the nearby Chuckanut Drive. This is one of my favorite things to do in Skagit County, WA . It’s a 20-mile scenic drive that takes you along the coast through dense trees that open up to offer incredible views of the San Juan Islands. Hikers will love the Oyster Dome trail for incredible, uninterrupted views of your final destination. Those looking for more low-key hikes should head to Larrabee State Park.

Before heading to the San Juan Islands, make a stop at Deception Pass State Park. There are a bunch of easy walking trails overlooking some of the bluest water in Washington. It makes for a beautiful photo when you get the mint-colored Deception Pass Bridge in the shot.

Lastly, make your way to the Anacortes Ferry Terminal about an hour before your reserved your ferry ticket (reservations are a must in the summer).

If you chose the quieter and least-visited Lopez Island as your final destination, you can expect the ride to be about an hour on a direct ferry. Orcas Island, the largest and most food-focused of the islands, will take about an hour and 20 minutes. San Juan Island, the most popular and known for art and wildlife, will take about 1.5 hours.

No matter which island you chose, make sure you plan a whale watching tour because this is one of the best places in the world to see orcas and other types of whales.

About 155 miles one way. Here’s a map of the route .

Five days would make for a solid US west coast road trip, spending about 2 days in the Skagit Valley and 3 days on whichever island you choose.

Northeast Oregon

From Erika of Erika’s Travels

Northeast Oregon is an underrated USA west coast road trip destination that will take you to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring wilderness areas in the Pacific Northwest. It is an off-the-beaten-path corner of the state that is home to character-filled Western towns, lonely scenic byways, soaring granite peaks, and the deepest canyon in North America. 

The road trip begins and ends in Baker City—a historic town that was once the largest settlement between Portland and Salt Lake. The picturesque town has over 100 historic houses, a phenomenal Oregon Trail interpretive center, and its very own Carnegie Library. 

From Baker City, the road follows the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway to the artsy town of Joseph, on the shores of Lake Wallowa State Park. 

Lake Wallowa is one of the premier recreation areas in Eastern Oregon. The shimmering cobalt lake is a paradise for boaters, swimmers, and fishing enthusiasts. It is also a primary gateway to the towering granite peaks of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. 

If you have a few days to spare on your road trip, hiking the Wallowas is an unforgettable Pacific Northwest experience. The sprawling area boasts alpine lakes, wildflower-laced meadows, and 18 peaks that eclipse 9,000 feet.  

From the Wallowa Mountains near Joseph, the road trip traverses barn-dotted farmlands and winds through a rugged river canyon to the minuscule community of Imnaha. The tiny town is the starting point of an epic adventure along a narrow and treacherous gravel road, to the Hat Point Overlook.

At Hat Point, a fire tower showcases stunning views of canyon walls that rise nearly 8,000 feet above the waters of the Snake River.

After taking some time to soak in the views of  Hells Canyon  from Hat Point, the scenic loop continues toward Baker City. Along the way, it traverses the eastern flank of the Wallowas and winds through golden hills of cow-speckled farmlands. 

A northeast Oregon road trip should ideally take at least 3-4 days. However, If you enjoy camping and hiking, consider adding a few extra days to enjoy the vast Eagle Cap Wilderness in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains. 

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

Because of its simple route and beautiful coastal scenery, the Oregon Coast is the most popular west coast road trip in the state.

If you start at the north end, closer to Portland, you will pass the iconic bridges of Astoria, and also a major artistic hub for film and movies.

Once you reach the city of Seaside, where Lewis and Clark (and Sacagewea and York!) famously completed their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. While you stop to relax on the beachfront, be sure to head to Cannon Beach for a look at Haystack Rock.

Driving south, stop in the city of Tillamook  to visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory for a taste of their globally recognized cheese and farm-fresh ice cream.

Stay overnight in Yachats, a town that prides itself on sourcing local and sustainable products, as well as amazing attractions such as Oregon’s Sea Lion Caves and Cape Perpetua.

Next, wake up and drive to Florence, the sand dune capital of Oregon, and rent ATVs for the day. Or, continue south and spend your time exploring the dramatic views of the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. However long you decide to drive the coast, the best lodging options to fully experience the location would be to rent a cabin on the beach.

About 338 miles.

It is not a far distance in total,  so 3-4 days is recommended to explore the Oregon Coast at a more relaxed pace. However, if you are an avid photographer or love to immerse yourself in nature by hiking and camping, spending a week in the area might be more fulfilling. 

Beaches of Olympic National Park

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best US west coast road trips to take in the PNW is to the Olympic National Park Beaches. The Olympic Peninsula beaches are so different than any beaches you have ever seen before! These beaches are filled with sea stacks, tide pools, wildlife, and driftwood. If you are lucky, you will spot a bald eagle while having a nice walk down the beach. 

The first stop should be the Kalaloch Beach. There are many campgrounds here if you want to stay a night. After that, make sure to stop by Ruby Beach, which has an enormous sea stack. It is a perfect place for sunset with the family, and you don’t need to hike too far to get great views.

Next, try out a great hike at Second Beach (4-mile round trip). Many people love backpacking and staying the night at this beautiful spot. The trailhead is located close to River’s Edge Restaurant, which had yummy food and large windows to watch the bald eagles hunt outside. 

The next beach on the list is  Rialto Beach . This beach has a popular hike called The Hole In The Wall hike, and it is around 4 miles round trip. The best time to experience this hike is during low tide. 

The last spot on this trip is a special place called Cape Flattery. This is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States and is also part of the Makah Reservation. 

This is a great weekend destination. The first day you should experience Kalaloch, Ruby, and Second Beach, then Stay in Forks. The next day, drive to Rialto Beach and Cape Flattery.

Portland to Cannon Beach

From Daris of The Discovery Nut

The picturesque Cannon Beach is one of the shortest and most popular road trips from Portland.

The most distinct feature of the area is the iconic Haystack Rock, a 235-feet rock formation jutting out of the Pacific Ocean. Not far from it, visitors can explore the scenic Ecola State Park with stunning nature and hikes that can be entered from the north end of Cannon Beach.

Cannon Beach stretches for nine miles and provides plenty of space for walking, running, and strolling. Some of the top activities are wildlife watching, hiking, and relaxing. If you look closely, you might spot colonies of puffins on Haystack Rock and spot large mammals such as elk and deer more in the area more inland.

And while the town has become a tourist magnet for travelers taking a west coast USA road trip, it has retained a small-town charm thanks to stringent regulations that limit the number of big-name chains such as stores and restaurants allowing small businesses to dominate the downtown.

You can easily road trip to Cannon Beach from Portland on a day trip, but to enjoy a quieter side to this beautiful spot, consider spending the night.

Anchorage to Kenai Fjords National Park

From Rachel of Rachel Off Duty

When visiting Anchorage, Alaska, one thing you absolutely must do is rent a car and drive down to the Kenai Peninsula. Just 2.5 – 3 hours away from Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula is a natural wonderland where the ice age mixes with the present day. Lush, dense forests, teal glacial water, massive glaciers, and abundant wildlife make this destination one that truly can’t be missed. 

Driving from Anchorage, within minutes you’ll find yourself tracing the side of Chugach State Park and Turnagain Arm, a massive waterway famous for bore tides that happen on a near-daily basis. Pullover at Beluga Point for a great viewing point of Turnagain Arm and, you guessed it, belugas! 

Back on the road, continue until you hit Girdwood, a resort town that’s bustling with things to do for adventure-lovers. You can stay here for the night, or simply make a pit stop for a bite to eat. Jack Sprat Restaurant is a popular choice, or for something more upscale with unbeatable views, go to Seven Glaciers Restaurant (which you can access by tram!). 

From Girdwood, it’s just another hour and 45 minutes to Seward, the entry point for Kenai Fjords National Park. Once you’re here, you can explore the national park on foot, by kayak, or by boat tour. On Resurrection Bay, you might spot whales, sea lions, otters, kittiwakes, and more! Be sure to also check out Exit Glacier, which is the only glacier you can pretty much drive right up to, park, and enjoy without hiking. 

While a trip to Kenai Fjords National Park and a quick boat tour of Resurrection Bay can easily be done in one day with minimal stops, we recommend dedicating at least 2 days to exploring the park and the surrounding areas in south-central Alaska .

Anchorage, Seward + Denali Loop

From Jenifer of The Evolista

What’s better than an Alaskan cruise? An Alaskan road trip!

On a road trip in Alaska, you’ll see breathtaking views of mountains, wildlife, and ocean critters along with thrilling active pursuits along the way. 

Starting in Anchorage, take one of the most scenic roads in America, Seward Highway to visit Kenai Fjords National Park. Once in Seward, you can hike a glacier, take a whale-watching cruise, go iceberg kayaking, fishing, or one of sample some of these exciting things to do in Seward .

The next stop is Girdwood, Alaska’s ski resort town. Stay in the luxurious Alyeska Resort where you’ll have access to multiple hiking trails and the Alyeska Aerial Tram for breathtaking views of the Turnagain Arm and Chugach Mountain Range.

Talkeetna, Alaska, 3 hours north, is a quirky, fun town that some say was the inspiration for the TV show Northern Exposure. Around May 1st, Talkeetna is overflowing with climbers preparing for a Denali summit. Not planning to climb a 20,320-foot mountain? You can still have the experience of a lifetime with a flightseeing tour complete with a glacier landing.

If you have an extra few days to spare, the entrance to Denali National Park is 2 hours north. The 6 million-acre national park is one of the best places in the world to spend time up close with wildlife but it’s too large for a day trip to be worth it. Plan accordingly and head back to Anchorage to complete the trip.

488 miles without Denali, 767 with Denali.

One week trip for Seward, Girdwood, Talkeetna, and Anchorage.

If you want to include Denali National Park, add a few days to this west coast USA road trip itinerary. There are additional activities near Denali like ATV trips or going to see the Into the Wild bus in Healy, Alaska.

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.

3 thoughts on “19 Exciting West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas”

Vielen Dank für die Tollen Anregungen. kann es kaum erwarten loszufahren. Grüße,Noeppes

Bitte schön!

Thanks a lot! I’m from Europe and planning a road trip for next year on the West Coast, focusing on Oregon and Washington. This was really helpful and interesting to read! I can’t wait to discover this fantastic country.

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The Best USA Tours for Your Bucket List: Cultural Insights and Natural Wonders Await

On the hunt for a spectacular USA tour to see the country’s sprawling landscapes and iconic landmarks? Dive right in with these unique adventures. 

Planning a trip to the  United States can feel a bit overwhelming. The vast landscape covering nearly 3,000 miles from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean isn’t just big; it’s packed with things to do . Imagine epic national parks and lively cities dotting the prairies, mountains, and valleys from coast to coast – welcome to the USA.  

A great way to learn more about the USA is to pick a region and dive into its history, culture, and natural landscapes. Choosing a guided tour of the United States makes it that much easier to navigate. But where should you go and which tour should you book? No need to fret. I got you covered with an action-packed list of the 10 best USA tours you’ll want to consider for your holiday in North America . 

Western USA National Parks Explorer

This 2-week tour of the US sets you up with the best of both worlds – you hit some of the most famous national parks in the USA and pair that with overnights in two of the most iconic cities in the American West. Start off in San Francisco before making your way to Yosemite and Death Valley in California. Talk about a contrast of landscapes – from the waterfalls and towering granite mountains in Yosemite to the salt flats and dark desert skies in Death Valley. After an overnight stay in Vegas, you’ll head to two of Utah’s Mighty Five before reaching the crown jewel of one of the best guided tours the USA offers – the Grand Canyon . Buckle up, and get ready for the most scenic sites in the West.

Best of Yellowstone & Grand Teton

Few places in the world feature the rugged beauty and diverse wildlife of Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. One of my favourite ideas for USA tours is this 7-day adventure . It truly shows you a side of wild Wyoming that will keep you reaching for your camera when you visit two of the most scenic national parks in the USA. Start in Grand Teton National Park, where you can hike to epic waterfalls and take a boat ride on the picturesque Jenny Lake. 

Next, you’ll move to Yellowstone, where you can witness the famous geysers, roaming bison, and cascading Union Falls firsthand.

Hotels and breakfasts are part of the package, but you’ll need to carry some extra cash for lunch and dinner.

Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans

If you want to experience the iconic music scene of America’s south, this 6-day guided tour from Tennessee to New Orleans is a perfect choice. 

Stops include the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, the legendary rock & roll recording studio Sun Studio in Memphis, and the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans. You’re set up with your hotels, breakfast, and private transportation but are on your own for most lunches and dinners. But not to worry. You won’t need to look far to find the best food in the country in any of the destinations on this USA guided tour. 

Best of Utah & Arizona National Parks 

The American Southwest is one of the most incredible sections of the USA, so it’s no surprise one of my favourite tours is this 7-day adventure through Arizona and Utah. Tick three of the bucket list parks in the USA with Zion, Bryce, and the Grand Canyon. Not bad, right? You won’t need to worry about lodging, and you’ll also enjoy a few free breakfasts and lunches on the trip. If you want to splurge (highly recommended), add a Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour for $350, where you’ll get a chance to photograph the iconic stretch of the Colorado River from an aerial view. 

Remember that this tour offers shared accommodations, but you can reserve your room for an extra $1549.

Fall Colours from Montreal to Boston

Looking for US tours in the Northeast? This 12-day tour is unique because you’re actually getting a look at some of the most scenic roadways, hiking trails, and cities in not 1 but 2 North American countries. You start your trip in Montreal before heading down to the United States through the incredible New England state of Maine. Enjoy the most scenic views of the rocky shores and storied lighthouses along the Atlantic Ocean. But the real highlight of a trip to the Northeastern United States in the fall are the magnificent views of the maples, oaks, and birch trees in Acadia National Park, Ogunquit, and Salem. Cap the tour off with some time in Boston, where you take a tour of Harvard with a local student. New England is always a treat, but it just hits different in the fall.

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico and Eclipse

This 10-day tour of New Mexico takes off in the gorgeous Southwest city of Albuquerque before exploring the rugged wild west landscapes of Taos, Durango, and Mesa Verde National Park. 

You’ll spend time in the impossibly charming Santa Fe , where you can browse through the endless art galleries and museums before experiencing New Mexican cuisine at your own pace. Order anything and everything with green chile. As for planned excursions, you take a train ride through the canyons and mountain landscape of Durango, watch the iconic colourful aircraft at the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, and visit a UNESCO pueblo in Taos on this popular tour of New Mexico. This one’s a winner.

Washington DC to New York City Discovery

If you want to stick to some of the most famous cities in the USA on your guided tour, book this 7-day itinerary from Washington, DC to New York City. 

Not only will you visit the top museums and attractions in DC, including the Smithsonian, National Mall, and Capital Hill, but you’ll also enjoy a guided tour that explains the history and fun facts at each stop on an electric roadster. Your American history tour continues at the Civil War site of Gettysburg and the Amish village in Lancaster before spending overnight stays in Philadelphia and NYC . 

USA Road Trip – Highway 1 and San Francisco

Take a drive down one of the most scenic stretches of highway anywhere in the world on California’s Highway 1. 

One of my favourite guided tours in the USA is this 4-day road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway that includes stops at laid-back towns and bustling cities, including Los Angeles , San Luis Obispo, Carmel , and Santa Cruz. But this trip is also a dream if you love the great outdoors. You’ll camp under the stars for 2 of the 3 nights and visit pristine stretches of coastal California at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. End your drive in San Francisco, where you’ll get a quick breakdown of the idyllic Nor Cal city from your guides before setting off on your own. 

Outdoor Alaska

Not content staying in the lower 48 on your USA tour? Head to Alaska on this 13-day tour . See the tallest mountain in the USA at Denali, view glaciers and fjords in Kenai Fjords National Park, and (if you’re lucky) catch a peak of the Northern Lights .

You’ll start your journey in Anchorage and set sail on ferries or drive backcountry roads to some of the most celebrated wilderness locales like Wrangell St. Elias National Park and the Tangle Lakes. I love the flexibility of this tour, which allows you to choose your own adventures, like ice climbing, white water rafting, ocean kayaking, and a flight over Denali. Or, stick to the hiking trails and you may see epic wildlife like grizzly bears, moose, and mountain goats.

Hawaii Multi-Island Explorer

This 2-week tour begins in Waikiki, where you’ll have an action-packed start with kayaking, snorkelling, and hiking. Drive the iconic Road to Hana in Maui, hike around the gorgeous Waimea Canyon (The Grand Canyon of the Pacific) in Kauai, and finally move to the Big Island, where you’ll explore Volcanoes National Park before enjoying a day of adventure in Kona. One of the best US guided tours, this package covers all airfare and driving between islands, 13 nights in hotels, breakfast every day but one, and guided excursions to Akaka Falls, Kailua Beach kayaking, and a canoe surfing trip.   

Practical Tips for Exploring USA Tours 

• When you plan your USA tour, timing matters. If you’re trying to see the autumn colours in New England, want to explore the remote beaches of Big Sur, or hike Utah’s Mighty Five, you’ll want to be sure you’re visiting during the optimal time. 
• Tours of the USA generally focus on one state or region. If you plan to see more of the USA, you can book more than one tour on your holiday. 
• Check the weather for your tours of America. You may need to bring your warmest clothes in the winter and lightweight, loose-fitting outfits in the blazing summer heat. Read my guides on how to pack for different trip itineraries here . 
• USA tour packages are on the expensive side. Plan ahead and use resources like Skyscanner to save money on your flight. 
• The best USA tours fill up fast. Plan your trip as far in advance as possible to score the most popular tours in the United States. 
• Most travel tours in the USA don’t include flights. Factor this into your budget when planning your holiday.

Read all Country Guides to the USA

Now You’ve Chosen Your Tour of the USA: Read These

• Insider’s USA Travel Guide
• 25 Beautiful Places in the USA You Have to See
• Cool Cities in the USA to Add to Your Bucket List

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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East Coast Road Trips & Tours

Travel down the East Coast of the USA on a road trip that captures all the best East Coast highlights.

If you love diverse cities, historic neighborhoods and old-world charm, an East Coast adventure is calling your name. We're turning this road trip into a time machine and exploring some of the United States ' most historically significant places, from Boston 's coastal charm to the iconic landmarks of Washington, DC. We've got a couple of centuries and a few hundred miles to cover, so fuel up with a slice of New York style pizza , a bowl of New England clam chowder or a Philly cheesesteak to keep your (metaphorical) tank full and happy. Fasten your seatbelt, we're headed East... first stop: The City that Never Sleeps.

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Do i need a visa to travel to united states.

It depends on where you’re from. Many countries now operate under the United States Visa Waiver Program, meaning a visa isn’t required for stays of up to 90 days for travel purposes. There are 40 participating countries, including the United Kingdom , Australia , New Zealand, Germany and Spain.

If you're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must obtain a letter of authorization before you travel to the States. This can be obtained by submitting an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ).

If you’re a national from a non-participating country of the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a non-immigrant visa. Please see the Department of State website for more information.

If you have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on or after 1 March 2011, you are ineligible and must apply for a non-immigrant visa instead.

People from a participating country who are also citizens of Cuba, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan must also apply for a non-immigrant visa.

Last updated: 6 March 2024 

Is tipping customary in the US?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in the United States. Tips are expected at restaurants, cafes and diners, as well as by taxi drivers, valet attendants, porters and hotel maids.

People working in the service industry generally receive low wages and therefore rely upon tips as a major source of income.

In general, leave 15 to 20% of the bill at places serving food and a few dollars to bartenders and hotel staff who provide a personal service like carrying bags or cleaning your room.

What is the internet access like in the US?

Internet access is excellent in the US, and internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in the US?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in most parts of the US although coverage may be patchy in remote, mountainous areas like national parks and canyons. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in the US?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in the US.

What is ATM access like in the US?

ATMs are common in the US, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

USA Guided Tours & Trips

• Choose from 1,000+ USA tours
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10 best fully guided USA tour packages

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Nadine USA travel expert at TourRadar

Tastes and Sounds of the South (10 Days)

7 day southwest national parks grand canyon camping tour, private tour -7 day southwest national parks grand canyon camping, mighty 5 from las vegas, best of the canyonlands (7 days), magnificent west – 8 days, best of utah & arizona national parks, la to the bay (11 days), western usa national parks loop, rhythms of the south (11 days).

“A very good tour the only comment I would make was although we enjoyed the piano recital.” Moeroa Urquhart, traveled in May 2024

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing
• Dance through the streets at the birthplace of Rock n Roll
• Delve into the life and foot-tapping tunes of Johnny Cash
• Pay homage to the King at Sun Studios in Graceland

“All the sights were worth seeing. Camping equipment was good, campground bathrooms varied.” Barry Rosenberg, traveled in May 2024

• Mountain Hikes
• Explore Monument Valley and the wild west in a 4x4
• Gather around a roaring campfire and stargaze
• Stand on the edge of awe-inspiring Grand Canyon

• Explore Antelope Canyon and view Horseshoe Bend
• Hike among Bryce's hoodoos and enjoy a hot tub
• Walk the Narrows in Utah's National Parks

“We went to a series of awe-inspiring viewpoints and did some wonderful hikes in what were referred to as 'the mighty five' of Utah.” SHONAGH ADELMAN, traveled in January 2024

• Christmas & New Year
• Drive through Mojave Desert to Zion Park
• Travel Scenic Highway 12 through Utah
• Witness sunrise at Bryce Point

“The scenery was beautiful. Cruise Director was very informative and very knowledgeable of the places.” Leah Saizan, traveled in May 2023

• Explore Denver's vibrant brewery scene
• Discover Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
• Visit ancient cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde

“Overall I enjoyed the tour, especially the stop in Santa Barbara.” Richard Bol, traveled in May 2024

• Explore Santa Barbara's historic Spanish Mission
• Discover the majestic Monument Valley by Jeep
• Tour Las Vegas' iconic hotels and casinos

“Fantastic experience - efficient use of time, great itinerary.” Keith Wheeles, traveled in September 2023

• Drive through Zion and Bryce Canyon
• End with a scenic drive on Route 66
• Hike around the majestic Grand Canyon

“Fantastic tour! Great organisation from Emily, who helped us keep on track and answered our many questions.” JamesCameron, traveled in October 2022

• Be stunned by the scenery of Grand Canyon & Yosemite
• Visit the most famous sites of the stunning Los Angeles
• Visit the famous 'Sin City' & experience its lively nightlife

“This was a great tour, I highly recommend.” Elizabeth Gamino, traveled in September 2022

• Walking Adventure
• Kayak across the stunning Lake Powell
• Hike Bryce Canyon and see the hoodoos
• Explore Zion National Park on a guided hike

“Great venue! Lots to do. Well looked after.” Louise Couchman, traveled in July 2018

• Dance the night away to old classics in Nashville
• Revel in the pure beauty of the antebellum estates
• Explore the home of the King of Rock in Graceland

Regions in USA

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Tucker Carlson takes his show on the road for a 16-day cross-country tour

Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson , who ignites controversy with incendiary comments about race, immigration and LGBTQ rights, among other issues, is taking his show on the road next week for a 16-day cross-country tour that will feature a slate of Donald Trump loyalists and right-wing provocateurs.

Among the guests scheduled to appear on stage with Carlson at various stops are Republican vice presidential nominee Sen. JD Vance, Donald Trump Jr., Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green, former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and far-right pundit Glenn Beck.

“We’re going to be talking about real issues with real people,” Carlson said in a June statement announcing the live shows. “You’d better believe the Establishment will be losing their minds.” 

Carlson, 55, is hitting the road two months before the presidential election and will visit several key battleground states, like Arizona, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Carlson did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

The tour kicks off Wednesday in Phoenix with English comedian Russell Brand, who recently converted to Christianity after facing multiple rape and sexual assault allegations.

In a video posted to his social media accounts last year, Brand denied the allegations and said his relationships had all been consensual.

He said he received “extremely disturbing” communications from a mainstream TV company and a newspaper “listing a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks.”

“But amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute,” Brand said.

British media reported last year that police in the U.K. had questioned Brand about the allegations but he was not arrested nor charged.

In June, before President Joe Biden dropped out of the race, Brand endorsed Trump on Fox News and attended the Republican National Convention in July.

Among the other states Carlson will visit are Florida, Utah, Oklahoma and Texas. His only stop in California will be in Republican-leaning Orange County. 

“This is a brave new world," said Larry Elder, a conservative radio host who ran for California governor and, briefly, for president. "He is unleashed now.”

Elder will join Carlson onstage in Milwaukee, where Republicans recently held their national convention.

Carlson’s roster builds on his recent momentum within the Trump and Make America Great Again camp while fueling speculation of Carlson's own political ambitions.

His name has been mentioned within GOP circles over several election cycles, although Carlson has never formally announced an intention to run for office.

He was among a handful of insiders who worked behind the scenes to persuade Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to end his independent bid for the White House and endorse the former president, NBC News was first to report.

“It really is just rallying the troops and the diehard former Tea Party people, the MAGA people,” said Reece Peck, an associate professor of media culture at the City University of New York-College of Staten Island. 

“They’re giving up on the independent, persuadable voter,” Reece said of Carlson’s lineup, describing his guests as “the stars of the old conservative media world.”

In July, about 15 months after he was fired from Fox News, Carlson returned to the beating heart of the GOP when he addressed Republicans at the national convention. 

He took an almost reverential tone when talking about Trump despite once purporting in private texts to hate him. 

In his 11-minute address to delegates, Carlson called Trump “a changed man” after an attempted assassination in Pennsylvania and praised the former president’s courage and selflessness.

“This was no longer a man. He was no longer just a political party’s nominee or a former president or a future president. This was the leader of a nation,” Carlson said, describing the event as “divine intervention.”

He also railed against corruption in Washington, called the Biden administration’s ongoing military aid to Ukraine a “middle finger in the face of every American” and said “Trump is the funniest person he’s ever met.”

Carlson was abruptly fired from Fox News in April 2023 after the network agreed to pay nearly $800 million to Dominion Voting Systems to avert a defamation trial related to baseless conspiracies it peddled surrounding the 2020 election.

“Tucker Carlson Tonight” had been a cornerstone of the Fox News lineup since 2016 and was one of the most watched shows on American cable news.

He pushed conspiracy theories and misinformation, including spreading falsehoods about the results of the 2020 presidential election and minimizing the severity of the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

After being fired from Fox News, Carlson announced his eponymously named latest venture in December. The Tucker Carlson Network is a mix of news, documentaries and other streaming services. His podcast was ranked No. 2 Friday on Spotify.

In February, Carlson became the first Western-based media figure to interview Russian President Vladimir Putin since his forces invaded Ukraine in 2023.

“It’s important to remember who Tucker Carlson is. He comes from incredible wealth,” said MSNBC commentator Charlie Sykes. “This is not a middle class guy. His motivations are not the same as the person who just lost his job. He wants to be relevant and have a bit of a revenge.”

Carlson’s father, a journalist-turned-ambassador, married an heiress to the Swanson food fortune. Despite his posh upbringing, Carlson’s broad appeal made him a leading voice in the modern conservative movement.

Since his departure from Fox News, Carlson appears to have further stretched his reach through streaming services that helped personalities like Joe Rogan shoot to stardom.

“Here is someone who really knows how to walk in both worlds,” said Christina Bellantoni, professor of journalism at the University of Southern California. “He’s a personality who can make money delivering to crowds. He’s adaptable.”

Alicia Victoria Lozano is a California-based reporter for NBC News focusing on climate change, wildfires and the changing politics of drug laws.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is hitting the road to promote her new memoir, ‘Lovely One’

FILE - Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is seen after her formal investiture ceremony at the Supreme Court, in Washington, Sept. 30, 2022. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)[ASSOCIATED PRESS/J. Scott Applewhite]

WASHINGTON (AP) — Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is embarking on a high-profile, nationwide tour to promote her new memoir, “Lovely One.”

Jackson, 53, is using the book, publisher Random House says, to trace her family’s rise from segregation to her confirmation as the first Black woman on the nation’s highest court in the span of one generation. “It is the story of the promise of America,” she said in a television interview that aired Sunday.

She also is the first public defender to serve as a justice and she delves into advancing in the legal profession as a woman of color and a mother balancing a demanding career and family life.

Since joining the court in June 2022, Jackson has been the most active participant in the argument sessions, according to the Empirical Scotus website. She has at times taken a liberal approach to originalism, a method of interpreting the Constitution more often used by the court’s conservatives.

In her appearances off the court, she has embraced her history-making role, telling an audience on the day of her ceremonial swearing-in that she has “a seat at the table now and I’m ready to work.”

Jackson kicks off the book tour Tuesday at New York’s Apollo Theater on the same day the book is published.

Just in the first week, Jackson will make stops at major entertainment venues in Washington, Atlanta, Miami, Seattle and San Francisco.

She reported receiving an advance of nearly $900,000 last year from Random House, putting herself in the company of two colleagues, Justices Clarence Thomas and Sonia Sotomayor, who each received advances of a million dollars or more for their memoirs.

The up-from-poverty accounts of Thomas’ “My Grandfather’s Son” and Sotomayor’s “My Beloved World” landed atop The New York Times’ bestseller list for nonfiction. Sotomayor has earned roughly $4 million for the memoir and children’s books she has written since joining the court in 2009.

Last year, The Associated Press reported that Sotomayor’s court staff was deeply involved in organizing speaking engagements to sell the books and also prodded colleges and universities to buy them.

The court has referred questions about Jackson’s book tour to her publisher.

The Supreme Court adopted its first code of conduct last year in response to sustained criticism over undisclosed trips and gifts from wealthy benefactors to some justices.

The code lacks a means of enforcement and it sets no limit on income justices can earn from books they write. Other outside income from teaching, for example, is capped at about $30,000 a year. The justices are earning $298,500 this year for their work on the court, though Chief Justice John Roberts gets paid a little more.

“A binding code of ethics is pretty standard for judges,” Jackson told CBS’ Sunday Morning.” “And so I guess the question is, ‘Is the Supreme Court any different?’ And I guess I have not seen a persuasive reason as to why the court is different than the other courts.” She said she does not “have any problem with an enforceable code” and is considering supporting an enforcement mechanism “as a general matter,” but would not comment on “particular policy proposals.”

Democratic President Joe Biden has proposed an enforceable code of ethics .

Jackson began work on the book shortly after joining the court. The book’s title comes from the English translation of Ketanji Onyika, the name suggested by an aunt who at the time was a Peace Corps worker in West Africa.

“My parents really wanted to honor our heritage and asked her to send them a list of African names. And they picked that one, Lovely One, Ketanji Onyika, which is my given middle name,” she told CBS.

Jackson was born in the District of Columbia and grew up in Miami. She has traced her interest in the law to when she was in preschool and her father, Johnny Brown, was in law school and they would sit together at the dining room table, she with coloring books and he with law books. Her father became an attorney for the county school board and her mother, Ellery Brown, was a high school principal. She has a brother, nine years younger, who served in the Army, including in Iraq, and is now a lawyer.

Justice Neil Gorsuch also has been on the road this summer with his new book , “Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law,” written with Janie Nitze, a former law clerk to Gorsuch. Gorsuch has reported receiving advances for the book totaling $500,000.

Yet another justice has a book in the works. Justice Amy Coney Barrett received $425,000 in 2021 as part of a book deal with Sentinel, a conservative imprint of Penguin Random House.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Jeremy Clarkson explains why he’s ended TV partnership with Richard Hammond and James May

Clarkson’s time working with former ‘top gear’ co-stars has ended after 22 years, article bookmarked.

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Jeremy Clarkson has explained why he has ended his partnership with Richard Hammond and James May .

The trio first started working together on BBC ’s Top Gear in 2002 and moved over to Amazon for Prime Video series The Grand Tour , which premiered in 2016.

However, a forthcoming special of the car show, titled One for the Road, will serve as a swansong for the trio’s onscreen partnership – and Clarkson, who is currently enjoying the biggest success of his career with Clarkson’s Farm , has reflected on why he decided to cut professional ties with both Hammond and May.

‘After 36 years of talking about cars on television, I’m packing it in, because I’m too old and fat to get into the cars that I like and not interested in driving those I don’t,” he said in a new interview with The Sunday Times .

“What this means of course is that my 22-year partnership with James May and Richard Hammond is now over. You can see our final road trip together on Amazon Prime very soon. It’s emotional.”

Clarkson said the trio had “thought long and hard about how we should end our 22-year partnership, but in the end we just went to the end of the alphabet” and selected Zimbabwe as a place to set the special.

“There was another reason why we chose Zimbabwe, though,” he continued, revealing: “We would drive across it from east to west, as usual, but then we could cross the border and finish up where we began all those years ago: the Makgadikgadi salt pans in Botswana.”

Clarkson said it “makes the three of us happy” that their working relationship did not disintegrate “in a blizzard of outrage and tabloid headlines”, but was “landed safely and gently”.

“Was it sad when the director called, ‘That’s a wrap,’ for the very last time? Yes, it was. Especially as some of the crew had been with us when we were there before. People think of Top Gear and The Grand Tour as being James, Richard and me. But it isn’t. We’ve had the same crews for years. We’ve all grown up together.

“We’ve camped together. S*** our lungs out together, laughed our arses off together. These are the guys who really made those shows. They’re the ones who kept the cameras and the microphones going even when it was cold or dangerous, so that Andy [Wilman, producer] had his 1,200 hours of material to sift through.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Clarkson, Hammond and May had dissolved their production company, declaring solvency and appointing a liquidator to “wind up” their business.

The final Grand Tour episode will air on Prime Video on 13 September.

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2024 Tour Championship purse, prize money: Payout from $100M FedEx Cup pool for Scottie Scheffler, field

The $25 million bonus paid out to the tour championship winner is the largest in pga tour history.

The largest prize fund ever established was  dished out on Sunday at the 2024 Tour Championship as the entire PGA Tour season concluded at East Lake Golf Club. With the top 30 players from the PGA Tour vying for their slice of the $100 million FedEx Cup bonus pool -- up $25 million from last year -- competitors had the chance to see jaw-dropping figures hit their back accounts by week's end.

Signature events and the first two playoff events boasted a total purse of $20 million, which amounted to $5 million less than what this week's eventual winner will take home. Increasing $7 million compared to the last two seasons, the winner's share represents the largest in PGA Tour history and a $10 million increase compared to 2019 -- the first year of the staggered start format.

Scottie Scheffler was the lone man to surpass $25 million in earnings this season as he won the Masters, Players Championship and four signature events -- six of the largest paydays of the year . Xander Schauffele nearly clipped $20 million himself thanks to two major victories, while Hideki Matsuyama, Wyndham Clark and Rory McIlroy round out those to earn more than eight figures in 2024.

Scheffler and Collin Morikawa, who is winless on the season, were engaged in a two-horse race to the finish before Scheffler got to 30 under and took down the two-time major champion for his seventh PGA Tour victory of the season and the biggest payday in golf history. 

Still, a top-five finish guaranteed players at least a $5 million bonus, while those inside the top 12 all saw seven figures next to their names. Everyone in the field earned at least a half million dollars for qualifying for the Tour Championship.

Let's take a look at the payout list for the 30 players who were in attendance at the 2024 Tour Championship. The other 120 players in the FedEx Cup standings will split the remaining $17.05 million.

2024 Tour Championship payout, prize money

FedEx Cup purse: $100 million Tour Championship purse: $82.95 million

1st: $25,000,000 -- Scottie Scheffler  2nd: $12,500,000 -- Collin Morikawa 3rd: $7,500,000 -- Sahith Theegala 4th: $6,000,000 -- Russell Henley, Adam Scott, Xander Schauffele ($4.8 million each) 5th: $5,000,000 6th: $3,500,000  7th: $2,750,000 -- Sungjae Im 8th: $2,250,000 -- Wyndham Clark 9th: $2,000,000 -- Rory McIlroy, Hideki Matsuyama, Shane Lowry ($1.61 million each) 10th: $1,750,000 11th: $1,075,000 12th: $1,025,000 -- Viktor Hovland, Sam Burns ($1 million each) 13th: $975,000  14th: $925,000 -- Taylor Pendrith, Justin Thomas ($905,000 each) 15th: $885,000 16th: $795,000 -- Ludvig Åberg 17th: $775,000 -- Robert MacIntyre, Patrick Cantlay, Matthieu Pavon ($755,000 each) 18th: $755,000 19th: $735,000 20th: $715,000 -- Tommy Fleetwood 21st: $670,000 -- Keegan Bradley, Ben An ($660,000 each) 22nd: $650,000 23rd: $630,000 -- Billy Horschel, Aaron Rai, Tony Finau ($615,000 each) 24th: $615,000 25th: $600,000 26th: $590,000 -- Akshay Bhatia 27th: $580,000 -- Chris Kirk, Sepp Straka ($575,000 each) 28th: $570,000 29th: $560,000 -- Christiaan Bezuidenhout, Tom Hoge ($555,000 each) 30th: $550,000

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