If you ask us, there’s no better way to experience the heart and soul of the United States than hitting the open road. From winding coastal highways to epic mountain passes and desert landscapes, road tripping is the ultimate summer adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or planning your very first long drive, we’ve mapped out 10 unforgettable USA road trips that promise stunning scenery, rich culture, and endless Instagram-worthy stops. Buckle up and get ready to explore — these are the routes that summer dreams are made of.
Table of Contents
1. Pacific Coast Highway: San Francisco to San Diego, California
Route Highlights:
- San Francisco
- Big Sur
- Santa Barbara
- Malibu
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
What to Expect: Start your journey in the Golden Gate City and head south along Highway 1 for some of the most scenic coastal views in the country. Stop for wine tasting in Monterey, hike in Big Sur, and relax on Santa Barbara’s golden beaches. Continue through the celebrity-studded shores of Malibu before soaking up the vibrant energy of Los Angeles. Wrap up in San Diego with its laid-back surf culture and delicious Mexican food.
Book Your Stay or Local Tours:
2. Route 66: Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California
Route Highlights:
- Chicago
- St. Louis
- Tulsa
- Amarillo
- Albuquerque
- Flagstaff
- Santa Monica
What to Expect: Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip. Take in nostalgic roadside attractions, vintage diners, and quirky museums. Don’t miss Cadillac Ranch in Texas or the Petrified Forest in Arizona. Finish at the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Plan Your Route and Book Hotels:
3. The Great Northern: Seattle, Washington to Bar Harbor, Maine
Route Highlights:
- Seattle
- Glacier National Park
- Minneapolis
- Chicago
- Niagara Falls
- Boston
- Bar Harbor
What to Expect: This cross-country adventure spans over 3,000 miles through mountains, lakes, and charming cities. From the rugged peaks of Glacier National Park to the historic streets of Boston and the Atlantic beauty of Acadia National Park, this road trip offers something for everyone.
Book Along the Way:
4. Blue Ridge Parkway: Shenandoah, Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina
Route Highlights:
- Shenandoah National Park
- Roanoke
- Asheville
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
What to Expect: This tranquil drive through the Appalachian Highlands offers lush greenery, scenic overlooks, and plenty of chances to stretch your legs with hikes and waterfalls. Asheville is a must-stop for its vibrant arts scene and food culture.
Ready to Hit the Parkway?
5. Florida Keys: Miami to Key West, Florida
Route Highlights:
- Miami
- Key Largo
- Islamorada
- Marathon
- Key West
What to Expect: Take the Overseas Highway straight into paradise. With turquoise waters on both sides, you’ll pass over 42 bridges, visit coral reefs, and bask in island vibes. Don’t miss sunset at Mallory Square in Key West.
Plan Your Island Escape:
6. Southwest Desert Loop: Las Vegas to Sedona, Arizona
Route Highlights:
- Las Vegas
- Zion National Park
- Bryce Canyon
- Monument Valley
- Sedona
What to Expect: This loop is a visual feast of red rock canyons, desert skies, and spiritual landscapes. Go hiking in Zion, marvel at hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, and unwind with vortex energy in Sedona.
Explore the Desert Southwest:
7. New England Coastal Drive: Boston, Massachusetts to Acadia National Park, Maine
Route Highlights:
- Boston
- Salem
- Portsmouth
- Portland
- Camden
- Acadia National Park
What to Expect: New England’s coastal charm is unmatched in the summer. Think lobster rolls, lighthouse views, and charming harbor towns. Acadia National Park is the cherry on top.
Find Your Coastal Getaway:
8. The Deep South Drive: Nashville to New Orleans
Route Highlights:
- Nashville
- Birmingham
- Montgomery
- Mobile
- New Orleans
What to Expect: This culturally rich drive brings together music, food, and Southern hospitality. Enjoy live country music in Nashville, civil rights history in Alabama, and end your trip with jazz and beignets in New Orleans.
Ready to Taste the South?
9. Rocky Mountain Adventure: Denver, Colorado to Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Route Highlights:
- Denver
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Steamboat Springs
- Grand Teton National Park
- Jackson Hole
What to Expect: Get your fill of alpine lakes, wildflower fields, and mountain towns. Hike the Rockies, soak in hot springs, and keep an eye out for wildlife as you make your way into Grand Teton territory.
Adventure Awaits:
10. Lake Michigan Circle Tour
Route Highlights:
- Chicago
- Milwaukee
- Door County
- Mackinac Island
- Traverse City
- Holland
- Back to Chicago
What to Expect: This loop around Lake Michigan features charming towns, beaches, lighthouses, and cherry orchards. Explore Mackinac Island by bike, sip wine in Traverse City, and catch a beach sunset in Holland.
Cruise the Circle:
Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re in it for adventure, food, culture, or jaw-dropping views, these USA road trips offer something for every kind of traveler. Pick your route, pack your bags, and prepare to fall in love with the freedom of the open road.
If one (or several!) of these routes is calling your name, now’s the perfect time to start planning. Use Expedia to book your hotels, find amazing local tours on Viator, or check out great travel deals on ThriftyTraveler. Your epic summer road trip starts now!
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