american road trip map

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Classic American Road Trips

Pacific Coast Highway

Starting at the northwest tip of the United States at Washington’s Olympic National Park and remaining within sight of the ocean all the way south to sunny San Diego, this 1,650-mile, mostly two-lane road trip takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.

Highlights along the Pacific Coast Route: Olympic National Park (WA), Three Capes Loop (OR), Redwood National Park (CA)

Historic Route 66

The romance of traveling along historic Route 66 from where it starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles continues to captivate people around the world. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”

Highlights along Route 66: Chicago (IL), Meramec Caverns (MO), Tucumcari (NM), Painted Desert (AZ), Santa Monica (CA)

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

Running coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, “The Loneliest Road in America” is a 3,200-mile odyssey from sea to shining sea. US-50 passes through a dozen different states, four state capitals, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Highlights along the Loneliest Road: South Lake Tahoe (CA), Moab (UT), The Million Dollar Highway (CO), Washington D.C.

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims and pioneers, US‑20 takes in a little of everything during its two-lane trek from Oregon’s rugged coast to the glorious sea and sand of Cape Cod.

Highlights along the Oregon Trail: Cannon Beach (OR), Fort Boise (ID), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Mt Rushmore & Carhenge (NE)

Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US‑2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.

Highlights along the Great Northern: Tumwater Canyon (WA), Glacier National Park (MT), Lake Michigan (MI), Acadia National Park (ME)

The Appalachian Trail

This driving route of the Appalachian Trail parallels the epic hike. From the top of New England to the heart of Dixie, it takes you through continuous natural beauty—without the sweat, bugs, or blisters.

Highlights along the Appalachian Trail: Mt. Washington (NH), The Poconos (PA), Shenandoah National Park (VA), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)

Old Man River, Father of Waters, “body of a nation,” Big Muddy: By any name, the mighty Mississippi River cuts a mythic figure across the American landscape. Tag along from its headwaters in Minnesota to where it meets the sea in Louisiana via the GRR.

Highlights along the Great River Road: Main Street USA (WI), St. Louis (MO), Natchez Trace Parkway (MS), New Orleans (LA)

Starting at the Statue of Liberty and ending with a drive across the Overseas Highway to free-wheeling Key West, these almost 2,000 miles of roadway run within earshot—if not sight—of the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlights along the Atlantic Coast: The Statue of Liberty (NJ), Assateague Island National Seashore (MD), Savannah (GA), Cocoa Beach (FL)

Starting at Canada’s Jasper National Park, and winding down in the Sonora Desert, this route traverses some of the wildest and most rugged lands imaginable: mighty mountains, glaciated valleys, raging rivers, and two very different deserts.

Highlights along the Border to Border Route: Columbia Icefield (AB), Bitterroot Mountains (MT), The Extraterrestrial Highway (NV), Joshua Forest Parkway (AZ)

Once the only entirely paved route from Canada to “Old Mexico,” US‑83 cuts across America’s heartland and remains a must-do long-distance byway—transnavigating this broad, odd nation without once grazing a conventional tourist destination.

Highlights along the Road to Nowhere: Sitting Bull Memorial (SD), Nebraska Sand Hills (NE), Monument Rocks (KS), Paint Rock Pictographs (TX)

Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. From deserts to bayou swamps and Tex-Mex to barbecue, this route offers a full-flavored taste of America.

Highlights along Southern Pacific: The Desert View Tower (CA), Tombstone (AZ), Roswell (NM), Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail (AL)

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

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

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

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

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

Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the details.

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

Here’s a map of the 1st itinerary.

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

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

Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How about you? Tempted?

48-state roadtrip – city version

Here’s a map of the 2nd itinerary.

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

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

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

Here is the complete list of all cities:

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

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

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

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

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

Original publication date: May 29, 2018

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Andrew D'Amours

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This post has 23 comments.

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

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

thanks for sharing this information with us.

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

Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wow! That’s impressive :O

This is awesome

This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

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

Yes, that’s what we said too 😛

Thanks for the tip 😊

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

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

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

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

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

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The perfect road trip map to drive across the United States

Summer is the perfect time for a road trip, and spring is the perfect time to plan one! With the weather warming up, we tend to get itchy for travel. Today I’ll share our perfect road trip map to see any part (or all) of the United States. Let’s hit the road and take that great American road trip!

When we started our family gap year , two and a half years ago, we planned to travel from the Pacific Northwest, down the coast of California, through Texas to Florida, and then up the east coast.

We did just that, but then we continued to travel and have now circled the United States four times — and we’re preparing for our fifth cross-country road trip!

Each route has been a little different, which has helped us hit new regions, see diverse landscapes, and visit unique attractions.

The perfect United States road trip map

So where do you want to go? From coast to coast, there is SO much to see and do in the United States. It’s one of the biggest countries in the world, and your experience can be just about anything you’d like — from a tropical adventure in south Florida, to the snowy mountains of Colorado, to the misty Pacific Northwest.

You can try to visit all of the national parks and national monuments. You can head to New York and experience that big city life or escape to the quiet plains of the midwest.

There are two different kinds of road trips: those that are focused on the destination and those that are focused on the journey. Maybe you’re driving on a road well-known for its beauty, like the Going-To-The-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, or maybe you’re driving just to get from city to city and visit the hot spots.

But ideally, you can combine both of those goals and see gorgeous landscapes on your way to fun activities!

Don’t miss: Our Family Gap Year Itinerary

The best route to visit all 50 states at once

Unless you’re a very extreme or long-term traveler, I’m guessing you don’t plan to hit every single state — but if you are, I can point you in the right direction!

Check out Randy Olson’s  optimal US road trip maps , or visit TripSavvy’s list of  must-see American attractions  in an ordered loop you can begin at any point. These are two great resources if you are trying to go everywhere!

Our biggest tip for traveling the whole country: go south in the winter and north in the summer! Yes, being snowbirds is basically our life goal.

The best road trips by region in the United States

I’d love to share our favorite road trip routes in each region of the US. This will help you plan the perfect road trip in your own neck of the woods, or anywhere you plan to visit across the country!

For more details on fun things to do in each region of the US, check out my guest post on The Art of Travel: Visiting all 50 US States

Getting misty in the Pacific Northwest

We’ll always have a soft spot for the northwestern corner of the country, as that was our very first stop on our full-time family travels. We had never visited before, so the giant trees and almost-perpetual rainbows had us captivated.

Head to Seattle for a wide range of activities : go up to the top of the Space Needle, ride a wooden boat on Lake Washington, wander through Pike Place Market, and visit Amazon HQ .

If you’ve got plenty of time to spend in Washington, consider driving the Cascade Loop, visit Mount Rainer National Park or Olympic National Park, or look for orcas in the San Juan Islands.

Then go south to Portland and browse the shelves at Powell’s Books and eat a Voodoo Doughnut. Head just to the east to visit gorgeous Multnomah Falls, then drive to the west coast to visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock.

Your Pacific Northwest road trip map

Cruise down the coast of California

I couldn’t write a blog post on great road trips without including the Pacific Coast Highway ! We got to drive highway 1 down the coast of California near the end of 2018, and we’ll never forget it!

Start in San Francisco — visit the redwood trees, drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, and be sure to take a ride on one of the San Francisco cable cars!

From there, follow highway 1 and drive through Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur. Stop in San Simeon and see the elephant seals.

Then cruise through the southern California beach towns of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Malibu, and end your journey at the Santa Monica Pier (or continue on to San Diego).

Your Pacific Coast Highway road trip map

Get your kicks on Route 66

Having lived in Arizona for many years, we’ve driven along Route 66 more than once. Yes, it extends all the way “from Chicago to LA”, but there are some great iconic landmarks you can still visit along the Mother Road in Arizona, so it’s our pick for the southwestern region of the US.

Top stops along the way include the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, “standing on the corner in Winslow, Arizona”, the Meteor Crater, Twin Arrows, Seligman, and Kingman. Visit soon — some landmarks are sadly wasting away.

All 50 States Tip: Once you get to Kingman, it’s just about 90 minutes to get to Las Vegas, if you need to check Nevada off your 50 state bucket list!

Your Route 66 road trip map

Complete the Texas Triangle

Texas boasts a number of major cities, living up to the saying that everything is bigger in Texas! And you can visit each of these metro areas when you take a triangle-shaped road trip in the middle of the state.

Start in San Antonio: walk the Riverwalk and tour the Alamo. Drive up to Austin for some great live music and nightlife. At the peak of the triangle you’ll find Dallas: smell the flowers at the Dallas Arboretum, play around at the National Videogame Museum, and eat a steak…because you’re in Dallas and living that cowboy life.

Head southeast to Houston and visit the Houston Space Center, and then drive to the coast to ride the rides at the Pleasure Pier in Galveston.

All 50 States Tip: If you’re coming to Texas from Arizona, you might try to time your trip so you hit the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico on your way. It happens in October and is well-worth the stop!

Your Texas Triangle road trip map

Glide along the Gulf Coast

You’ll find small beach town charm and pristine white sugar sand along the Gulf Coast of the United States. It’s one of our favorite spots in the country!

Start in New Orleans, Louisiana and soak up all the French Quarter has to offer, including muffalettas, beignets, and really great jazz. Then drive east, across the bottom of Mississippi and Alabama. Leave I-10 to drive south to Gulf Shores, Alabama, and then stick to the roads closest to the beach as you drive along the Florida panhandle, stopping at any beach towns that take your fancy.

If you’ve got the time and the budget, continue heading into central Florida for some fun at the theme parks, and then drive south to our next road trip recommendation…

Your Gulf Coast road trip map

Road trip through the tropics

In Southern Florida, you can get a real taste of the tropics without having to leave the continental US! Miami is just a 3-hour drive from Orlando, and about another 3-hour drive will take you through the Keys all the way into Key West.

In Miami, visit the colorful Wynwood neighborhood, and make sure to grab some Taiyaki ice cream! Then head over to South Beach and check out the nightlife.

In Key West, walk down Duval Street and say hi to all the chickens that roam free. Make sure to have a slice of key lime pie and watch the sunset in Mallory Square.

Your southern Florida road trip map

Adventures in Appalachia

Discover the delights of the southeast in what you might call the “Appalachia” region. You can make a bit of a circle traveling through Savannah and Atlanta in Georgia; Nashville, Tennessee; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Charleston, South Carolina — or the other way around!

See the Spanish Moss in Savannah, taste every Coke product in the World of Coke tasting room in Atlanta, experience Music City in Nashville, stroll the botanical gardens at UNC Charlotte, and take a carriage ride through Charleston’s cobblestone streets.

This route will also take you through Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Asheville — other great cities to explore, so be sure to stop if you have time!

And if you have to make the pilgrimage to Graceland, just extend your route to include Memphis, thank you very much!

Your Appalachia road trip map

Explore US history in the mid-Atlantic

Heading north, the mid-Atlantic states are a great place to learn about our country’s history and visit some of the biggest, busiest cities in the world.

In Virginia, you can experience colonial life at Historic Jamestowne. In Washington DC, you could spend hours and hours exploring all the free museums and memorials (and don’t forget to visit the pandas at the National Zoo). Our big kids even had the chance to tour the White House!

All 50 States Tip: Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia is just one hour west of DC, and there you can hike part of the Appalachian Trail!

In Pennsylvania, you can visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Then drive up to New York City and experience the Big Apple! If you’re visiting after Broadway has reopened, definitely take in a show. Take the requisite visits to Times Square and Rockefeller Center, and stroll through Central Park.

Ride the Seaglass Carousel in Battery Park and tour the Statue of Liberty. Then, take the Q train to Coney Island and eat some hot dogs and deep-fried Oreos.

That’s right — historic sites AND deep-fried Oreos. You’re welcome.

All 50 States Tip: This is where you should check off Delaware and New Jersey, too. Visit Rehoboth Beach and Atlantic City and enjoy the beaches and boardwalks!

Your mid-Atlantic road trip map

Take a pilgrimage to New England

Get it…pilgrimage?

All 50 States Tip: As you head north, stop in at the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut and stroll the cliff walk in Newport, Rhode Island.

Get your dose of history by walking the Freedom Trail in Boston, and have some fun on a Duck Tour. Then drive north for a trip through the most quaint, picture-perfect New England port towns. Walk around Portsmouth, New Hampshire, then make your way into Maine.

I was born and raised in Maine, so yes my New England road trip is a little Maine-heavy!

Visit Dock Square in Kennebunkport for some primo shopping and a summertime treat, like a fresh-squeezed lemonade or ice cream from Aunt Marie’s.

Then, head to Old Orchard Beach for a day of fun at the beachside amusement park, Palace Playland. Do NOT leave without getting an order of pier fries — and eat them like the locals, doused in vinegar and caked with salt.

Portland is a much-loved Maine “big city” so take a stroll through the Old Port and check out the unique shops and bars. Then, if you’ve got the time, drive to Acadia National Park and catch the earliest sunrise in the United States.

All 50 States Tip: If you’re headed to the midwest from New England, drive through Vermont and tour the Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, then stop at Niagara Falls in New York!

Your New England road trip map

Meander through the Midwest

Things get a little tricky in the Midwest and central US just because there are so many options for where to go and in what order. So I’ll detail the two routes I would take, but you can mix-and-match the cities in this section and the next, and curate your own perfect road trip map through the middle of the country!

If you’re coming from the Northeast, stop in Cleveland, Ohio to tour the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, then head to Detroit, Michigan to visit the Motown Museum and take the Coney Dog Challenge .

If you’d like, stop to explore Cincinnati on your way to Louisville, Kentucky. In Louisville, see how they make baseball bats at the Louisville Slugger Factory and learn all about horse racing at Churchill Downs (or hey, time your road trip to attend the Kentucky Derby!).

Check out the Indy 500 track in Indianapolis, or try your hand at some duckpin bowling. Then drive west to Chicago. See The Bean, eat a Chicago dog and some deep-dish pizza, and admire the artwork at the Art Institute of Chicago. If you must have the full Ferris Beuller experience, go to the top of Willis Tower and put your forehead against the glass.

Head north and cross into Wisconsin. Visit the Milwaukee Public Market and get your fill of local cheese! From there, go to Minneapolis and get lost in the Mall of America or go downtown and toss your hat in the air a la Mary Tyler Moore.

All 50 States Tip: You can drive about 3.5 hours from Minneapolis to Fargo, North Dakota, where you can join the Best for Last Club (IF North Dakota is your 50th and final state visited)!

As your last midwestern stop, head south to Iowa and explore Des Moines. Walk through the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and visit the famous bridges of Madison County.

All 50 States Tip: You can fit Nebraska in here by heading to Omaha — enjoy a leisurely walk across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge and then have a nice sit-down dinner in Omaha’s Old Market. Or, if you prefer, you can visit the other side of Nebraska on our next route.

Your Midwest road trip map

Go through the Gateway to the West

Start your exploration of the central US in St. Louis and go up in the Gateway Arch. Then, on your way to Oklahoma City, stop in Bentonville, Arkansas to tour the Walmart Museum and the Crystal Lakes Museum (both free and worth the visit!).

In Oklahoma City, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial (the site of the 1995 bombing) and the Land Run Monument. Then head north to Kansas and stop in Hutchinson to go 650 feet underground into the Strataca Salt Mine.

From there, drive west to Denver. There’s lots to do here! Stand a mile high on the Capitol steps, relax in one of the many parks, climb Pikes Peak, and take in the majestic view of the Rocky Mountains.

After you’ve gotten your fill of Denver, it’s time to visit the Dakotas. On the way, you can take a quick detour into Nebraska to stop by Chimney Rock, of Oregon Trail fame.

In the southwest corner of South Dakota you’ll definitely want to stop and see Mount Rushmore. Then drive north to Medora, North Dakota and visit the prairie dogs at the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. From here, you’re in a great place to take our final road trip route!

Your Gateway to the West road trip map

Tour the western national parks

Last summer, we took an epic road trip across the US and the final third was comprised mostly of national parks on the western side of the country. We had a blast and saw some incredibly diverse, beautiful terrain.

Start in Glacier National Park and spend a day driving the Going-To-The-Sun Road. Then head to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and be sure to see Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring.

After Yellowstone, stop in at Grand Teton National Park, just south of Yellowstone. We missed this one but hear it’s a must-see.

From there, go south to Zion National Park in Utah and drive through the breathtaking red rocks. Then drive into Arizona and visit the Grand Canyon. You’ll see so many wonders on this trip that you’ll never forget it!

Your western national parks road trip map

Our top road trip tips

As expert US travelers (we’ve been to 49 of the 50 states — just gotta make it to Alaska!), here are some of our top tips to consider while you plan your road trip:

1. Make a plan but stay flexible

It’s good to know where you plan to be and when, how long it will take to get there, where you plan to stay, and what you want to do while you’re there. Especially in this post-Covid world, a lot of activities require planning ahead.

That being said, leave room for flexibility wherever possible. If we know we’ll be spending the night somewhere on the way to a destination, we won’t book a hotel until we’re almost ready to stop. Sometimes we are able to drive further than planned, and sometimes things come up and we get delayed — like the time it took 7 hours to drive 20 miles in New Mexico!

2. Prep your car

Fill your tires, check the oil, top up the fluids. Give yourself every reason to believe your car will get you from point A to B to C…and home again!

Also, consider getting your car detailed or deep-cleaned ahead of time, and be prepared with paper towels and wet wipes to keep things clean.

3. Stay comfy and entertained in the car

You’ll be seeing some incredible things…but also spending a lot of time just driving down the highway. A pillow and a blanket per person goes a long way, as does trivia games, books, podcasts, and (when all else fails) well-charged devices!

4. Pack light

You need some clothes and your phone. Not much else! Your phone (assuming it’s smart) is your map, your entertainment, and your way out in an emergency. Like I mentioned, toss in a blanket and pillow, maybe some non-screen books and games, and you’re good to go! Oh and snacks. Because is it really a road trip if you don’t have snacks? (No.)

Visit our sister site for some truly incredible road trip car hacks !

5. Combine touristy attractions with local hidden gems

A Google search can easily tell you the must-do activities in every city you visit, but also visit Atlas Obscura for some more, well, obscure things to see and do!

I sure hope this has given you some great information on where to road trip in each region of the US. Combine two or three routes (or all of them!) to create your own perfect road trip map to really see and experience this beautiful country, by car!

Thinking of heading out on a full-time family travel journey? Learn absolutely everything you need to know in our Family Gap Year Academy !

Pin it if you love it!

Family Travel Expert

Megan Tenney traveled full-time for four years with her husband and four children. She's visited 49 of the United States, backpacked across Europe, and spent some time in Canada, Mexico, Asia, and the Caribbean. Megan is the owner and author of Family Gap Year Guide , where she shares stories and tips from her family travel adventures and teaches other families how they can take life on the road!

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The Ultimate West Coast USA Road Trip Guide

A West Coast USA road trip is one of the classic American road trips. Make the most out of your adventure with this step-by-step Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary.

Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway and Highway 1 on a West Coast USA road trip is an experience to remember – it’s one that I certainly do.

Magnificent views, laid-back towns, vineyards and the great outdoors: this is a real chance to explore the great American coast. What more could you want from your time on the road?

Any great trip is worth taking its time over, so I’ve put together the perfect three week West Coast USA road trip itinerary to help you plan your trip. 

All the ideas, stops and suggestions you’ll need to plan the perfect trip. Don’t stress, just sit back and enjoy the ride, whether you are planning on going in a car, van or motorcycle touring.

In this guide I will cover: 

• What to do and consider before your Pacific Coast Highway trip 
• A step by step West Coast road trip itinerary – with the best things to do on the West coast of America, estimated driving times and suggested stays. 
• Other useful resources for the trip and a handy map to make things super easy

Practical Tips and Frequently Asked Questions About How to Travel the West Coast of the USA

Where does the pacific coast highway start.

The Pacific Coast Highway technically only runs from San Diego to Mendocino in California – the full stretch from San Diego to Seattle is Highway 1 / Highway 101, which is what this itinerary covers. 

In reality, people use the phrases Pacific Coast Highway, Highway 1 and Highway 101 interchangeably (and that’s what I do in this guide)  – it all means one thing: an amazing West Coast America road trip.

Which Direction Should You Drive Highway 1?

The short answer is either way. 

I wanted to travel the West Coast of the USA from south to north but you can drive this West Coast road trip itinerary in the opposite direction from Seattle to San Diego – there isn’t much in it either way. 

If you drive from north to south, it’s easier to turn off and get to lookouts. If you drive from south to north, the sun tends to be behind you and not in your eyes. 

I’d check flights on Skyscanner first and then just book whichever way works best from there. 

How Much Does a West Coast Road Trip Cost?

In general, driving down the West Coast of America costs between $175 and $350 dollars a day (for two people). Estimated costs for a few items are as follows. 

I haven’t included estimates for food and excursions as ultimately, this really will depend on your budget and travel style. 

You can reduce costs by renting an RV rather than a car – although the initial cost of the rental is higher, you save on accommodation (other than pitch fees) and you can cook to save money as you travel. 

How Long Does it Take to Drive the West Coast of America?

You can drive the whole of the West Coast of America in just under three weeks as per this itinerary. This does mean that you will be constantly moving and won’t have time for any detours. 

I would suggest taking things at a slower pace if you can. 1 month for the whole of the West Coast is an ample amount of time allowing you to explore at your leisure. 

If you are looking for a West Coast road trip itinerary that you can do in 14 days or less, I would suggest sticking to the California section of the trip from San Diego to Redwood National Park and taking more time in each stop. 

Car Hire for Your West Coast USA Road Trip

If you’re hiring a car, rather than an RV, your choice of car is going to be really important. 

While it can be tempting to hire the smallest and cheapest car – do remember that you’re going to spend a lot of time in the vehicle. So much so that it’s going to become one of your best buddies during your West Coast America trip.

Who doesn’t want to look flashy in a bright red convertible zipping along the coast? If you’re going for the ultimate road trip vehicle a convertible is the thing that immediately springs to mind. 

That said, if you’re travelling outside of summer, it might not be the best choice: the weather in the Pacific Northwest is notoriously unpredictable…

Things to Consider When Renting a Car for the Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

Here are some pointers on what to think about when you are choosing a car.

• If you want to live it up in true West Coast style and hire a convertible, popular choices are a Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro. If you aren’t fussed about having the top down but still want to go for a muscle car, you may be able to get a really good deal on one of the hard top versions of these cars (that’s what we did and saved a few hundred dollars!).
• You could also consider something a little more unusual like a Dodge Challenger.
• Muscle cars are perfect for two people and a reasonable amount of luggage. They will use a little more fuel than a typical economy car but fuel in the US is pretty inexpensive.
• Most of the rental cars are automatic – worth remembering if you’ve never driven one before (don’t stress, it’s easy).
• US cars tend to be larger than European ones. Watch out on that spatial awareness (though parking spaces etc tend to be larger too).
• Generally, you will be able to pick up and drop off a car at most of the larger stops along this West Coast road trip but do be aware that a one-way fee will probably apply. Be sure to check how much this is before you book as it can be a significant proportion of the overall cost.

Car Hire Options for the West Coast Drive of the USA 

• Hertz – Hertz is an international car rental company that has a variety of cars available for a road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway. 
• Sixt Rent a Car – Sixt has great car rental prices.
• Rentalcars.com
• Alternatively, rather than trawling through all of the car hire companies independently, I often use rental comparison site Holiday Autos to find the cheapest / most suitable rental for my trip.

If you don’t want to hire a car and sort accommodation separately, an RV is something you should consider. RVs or “recreational vehicles” can be as basic or as luxurious as your budget affords.

The whole of Highway 1 is covered with campsites with RV pitches (including all of the campsites mentioned in the article) so you will never struggle to find somewhere to pitch for the night. Pitches tend to come with electricity and water as a minimum. 

Of course, you always have the option of just parking up roadside and kipping there for the night too.

Though RV rental isn’t cheap, it tends to be the more economical option if there’s a group of you travelling.

RV Rental Companies

• Motorhome Republic
• Camper Travel USA

You can also choose to camp and drive in a campervan. 

As a rule, these are much smaller than RVs but also tend to be more cost-effective. Wicked Campers hire brightly-coloured and decorated vehicles that are going to make you look like the coolest kid in town – I used them for our Atacama Desert road trip in Chile and was really impressed by the company.

When is the Best Time to do a Road Trip up the West Coast of the USA?

In the southern part of the road trip (south of Los Angeles) the weather tends to be sunny pretty much all year round, getting colder and chillier the further north you go. 

If you want to do the whole road trip from San Diego to Seattle, I would suggest doing it between April and October. 

Even then, be sure to bring warm clothes and layers as it can be foggy and chilly north of San Francisco , even in the summer. 

The busiest time for a West Coast drive is between mid-June until the end of August (which is also when the notorious “June Gloom” fog engulfs parts of the coast, so if you can travel outside of these times, I would.

What to Pack for Your West Coast USA Road Trip

It can be tempting to pack everything, including the kitchen sink for a West Coast road trip but the reality is you don’t need to bring tonnes of stuff with you. 

I’ve put together a basic list of items you’ll need, plus a few extras if you plan on doing a lot of hiking while you’re on the trip.

• Clothes + Shoes
• Binoculars – for whale watching season, seal and sea-lion spotting, bird watching and trying to work out how tall that tree really is.
• Picnic Blanket

Additional Items for Outdoors Activities

• Wetsuit if you’re planning on surfing , particularly in the sea in and above Northern California.
• Hiking Boots and Socks
• Soft Shell Jacket or Waterproof Jacket for Hiking
• Marco Polo West Coast USA Map

Read My Road Trip Essentials Guide for a Full Packing List

The Ultimate West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary 

San diego (west coast road trip itinerary day 1).

Laid-back, friendly and easy on the eye, San Diego is the perfect place to start your USA road trip itinerary and a great introduction as one of the most beautiful spots in California . 

The city is best known for two things: its great beaches and year-round warm climate – take advantage of both of these before you set off on your West Coast road trip.

Spend some time exploring the compact downtown area and take advantage of the buzzing dining scene before hitting the road. 

See the Practical Tips section above for details on transport, car hire and road trip essentials before you set off.

Best Things to do in San Diego

• San Diego Zoo – San Diego ’s world-famous wildlife sanctuary is located in Balboa Park, with more than 3,700 animals of 650 species.
• Mission Beach – The lively boardwalk and picture-perfect coast make this one of San Diego’s hottest spots.
• Catch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs – They got their name for a reason.
• Take a surfing lesson – Because it’s the West Coast of California and it’s practically mandatory.
• Gaslamp Quarter – Shop, drink and dine in the coolest part of town.

Read for more San Diego travel inspiration 

Where to Stay in San Diego

Sheraton san diego marina (luxury).

This super sleek hotel sits right on the Marina and offers a free transfer from San Diego Airport.

Check Rates and Availability

Hotel Indigo (Mid Range)

An eco-friendly hotel with an eye-catching interior in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Hotel Solamar (Mid Range)

Flaunting its hipster credibilities, Hotel Solamar is a cool place to stay without breaking the bank.

San Diego to Laguna Beach (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 2)

1.5 hour drive from San Diego.

It’s a beautiful drive from San Diego to Laguna Beach, the next stop on your West Coast USA road trip itinerary. Straight outta the OC, Laguna Beach is a pleasant cluster of gorgeous beaches, art galleries and boho-chic eateries.

Stop off to explore the rocky bluffs and hidden coves dotted along Laguna’s coastline. There are over 30 beaches in the seven-mile stretch of Laguna Beach for you to take your pick from.

Best Things to do in Laguna Beach

• Laguna Art Museum – The best in modern Californian art in the oldest museum in the state.
• St Francis Cathedral   – The second-smallest cathedral in the world (it’s tiny).
• Laguna Gallery of Contemporary Art – Showcases contemporary art dedicated to illuminating humanitarian causes.
• Nick’s Laguna Beach – Classic American comfort food is the name of the game at this chic bistro with an open kitchen.

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach

Inn at laguna beach (luxury).

One of the coolest hotels in Laguna Beach (and with the price tag to match), the Inn at Laguna Beach is tucked away on a cliff, 1 minute walk from the beach and with captivating ocean views. Service is second to none.

Laguna Hills Lodge (Budget)

Tucked inland in the Laguna Hills, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

Laguna Beach to Los Angeles (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 3)

1 hour drive from Laguna Beach.

Love it or hate it, no West Coast USA road trip is complete without a stop in Los Angeles . 

Sure, the roads are crazy but take some time to explore and you’ll find some of the coolest galleries, restaurants and beaches in the US.

Best Things to do in Los Angeles

• The Broad – LA’s hottest art gallery is the place to go and an Insta-lover’s dream.
• Venice Beach – Release your inner freak and revel in the weird, wacky and wonderful on Venice Beach.
• Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles – The best fried chicken in LA is something of an institution. Grab your place in line before settling down to a feast.
• Take a short road trip into the surrounding area s – destinations like Palm Springs, Ojai and Big Bear are only a few hours away. Heck, you can even spend a day in Disneyland.
• The Hollywood Sign – No trip to LA is complete without visiting this epic photo spot. I recommend taking the classic hike; it’s sweaty but very worth it.
• Griffith Observatory – Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, head here for epic sunset views.

Best Places to Stay in LA

The mondrian (luxury).

This hotel property is quirky and unashamedly glossy – one of my favourite hotels in the USA.

Banana Bungalow Hollywood (Budget)

Looking for a lively hostel with buzzing social areas? This is your place.

Want more LA travel inspiration? Check out my guide to 25 LA Hotspots you shouldn’t miss on your next trip .

Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 4)

1.5 hour drive from Los Angeles.

After a leisurely (and relatively short) drive from Los Angeles, you should stop off in Santa Barbara for a taste of the good life. 

This old Spanish mission town is a West Coast road trip USA staple – over the years it has blossomed into a hub of pretty buildings, lush gardens and high-end stays.

Don’t forget to pop into a vineyard or two in the style of indie-hit film Sideways. Just remember to appoint a designated driver first.

If you don’t have time to head out to the vineyards, many of them have tasting rooms in town too (mostly centered around the fabulously-named region of town called The Funk Zone).

Best Things to do in Santa Barbara

• Mission Santa Barbara -Dating back to 1786, Santa Barbara’s mission is the city’s main historical landmark and well worth a visit.
• Santa Barbara Museum of Art – Captivating range of artworks from native Californians and international masters.
• Kalyra Winery – A small, independent winery producing stellar wines (also pops up in the indie flick Sideways).
• The Lark – Santa Barbara’s best restaurant is difficult to book but well worth the effort if you bag a table.
• Metropolous Fine Foods Merchant – Stock up on deli dishes, handmade sandwiches and salads for your lunch.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Belmond el encanto (luxury).

A plush hotel overlooking the ocean, El Encanto is the place to really push the boat out, it is perfect if you are having a romantic getaway in the USA .

The Eagle Inn (Mid Range)

A quaint B&B with private cottages a few blocks away from the beach.

Casa del Mar Inn (Budget)

An affordable hidden gem that’s close to the beach.

Check Prices, Reviews & Availability

Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach + San Luis Obispo (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 5)

1.5 hour drive from Santa Barbara.

The drive from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo is full of treasures, and sure to be a highlight of your West Coast USA road trip.

If you’re travelling between October and February, the Pismo Beach Butterfly Grove is a must-do: millions of Monarch Butterflies take sanctuary in the grove’s Eucalyptus trees during the winter season. Bring some binoculars or a good zoom camera for a close up peek.

Pismo is prime seafood country – The Cracked Crab might be no-frills, but who needs them when the seafood is that fresh and tasty? Cover up though, digging in can be a messy business.

Almost perfectly halfway between LA and San Fran, San Luis Obispo (or SLO as the local’s call it) is a buzzing town with an old Catholic mission and a great weekly farmer’s market. Wine lovers should take a little detour into the picturesque Edna Valley to taste the local vintages.

Best Things to do in Pismo Beach + San Luis Obispo

• Monarch Butterfly Grove – It’s quite a spectacular sight seeing so many fluttering butterflies.
• The Cracked Crab – A lively restaurant serving some of the best seafood in Cali.
• San Luis Obispo Mission – A well-preserved mission dating from 1772.
• Farmer’s Market – Pick up some fresh grub, or head here just to people watch.

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

San luis creek lodge (luxury).

High-end B&B that’s consistently rated as one of the best places to stay in SLO.

Madonna Inn (Mid-Range)

Over-the-top in the best possible way. If you want your accommodation with bags of colourful personality, you won’t find anywhere better than the Madonna Inn.

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo (Budget)  

Small inn in walking distance from downtown San Luis Obispo.

San Luis Obispo to Hearst Castle and the Big Sur (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 6)

Get ready for dramatic scenery and photo-opps galore on today’s West Coast drive. Today starts with a visit to the palatial but bizarre Hearst Castle .

Sir William Randolph Hearst built the castle to entertain his hoards of Hollywood star and media magnate friends. Expect unbridled opulence and gorgeous architecture from this Highway 1 Highlight.

After Hearst Castle, jump back into the car for a completely different kind of drama: The Big Sur. 

This winding 100-mile stretch of road is California’s most famous – and for many, the highlight of their West Coast Road Trip. 

For good reason: the salty surf, coastal bluffs and (mildly terrifying) winding road are sure to keep you on your toes. Allow plenty of time to drive the Big Sur as it can get quite congested. 

Sections of Big Sur are closed during 2022. Check here for the latest updates.

Best Things to do in Big Sur

• Hearst Castle – Sir William Randolph Hearst’s fantastical fairytale destination. 
• The seal colony at Point Piedras Blancas
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – home to McWay Waterfalls, redwoods and some great hiking.
• Henry Miller Memorial Library – beatnik books, offbeat events and film screenings.
• Pfeiffer Beach – a purple sand beach in the state park. A little hard to find but worth spending the time to do it.
• Big Sur Taphouse – For locally-brewed craft beers and delicious food.
• Deetjeens Big Sur Inn – Grab some hearty fare from this local institution.

Where to Stay in Big Sur

Post ranch inn (luxury).

Frequently named as one of the best hotels in the US and the place to pamper yourself on your Highway 1 road trip.

Big Sur Lodge (Mid Range)

Tucked away in the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the area.

Big Sur Campground & Cabins (Budget)

If you’ve brought a tent, book ahead and pitch up in this handy campsite.

Read Next: The Ultimate Big Sur Camping Guide 

Big Sur to Carmel, Monterey + Santa Cruz (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 7)

1.5 hour drive from Big Sur to Santa Cruz

Wherever you’ve stopped off in Big Sur, I’m pretty sure that you will be sorry to leave. 

Many people call it a day after Big Sur and head back home. Sure, you could do that – but you’d be missing out on so much of the Pacific Coast Highway / Highway 1 and the adventures that it has to offer.

Pack up and jump back in the car and drive down to the small well-heeled town of Carmel (of Clint Eastwood ex-mayor fame). I can’t say that Carmel was my favourite place ever, but there’s an undeniable charm to the chocolate-box prettiness of the town.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a short distance from Carmel, couldn’t stand in starker contrast to the quiet town. 

You can’t miss the crashing waves and the noisy sea lion population who make their presence known (very loudly).

I’d recommend taking a few hours and doing the six-mile circuit around the park, but if you’re short on time there are plenty of car parks near to viewing points for you to take advantage of.

Further along the coast, you can stop off in Monterey to see the award-winning aquarium (buy your tickets in advance if you do). 

Wander around the town, which was immortalised in the John Steinbeck novel “Cannery Row” thanks to its previous life as the centre of the US sardine canning industry.

Those brave enough to get in the chilly waters might also want to consider booking a dive to explore Monterey’s abundant underwater life. 

When you’re ready to get back on the road, cruise along to eccentric Santa Cruz to spend the night.

Best Things to do in Carmel, Monterey + Santa Cruz

• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Sea lions and wildlife in a rugged natural setting.
• Monterey Bay Aquarium – One of the best aquarium’s in the US (and the world), famed for conservation.
• Point Pinos Lighthouse – the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast.
• Monarch Grove Sanctuary Park . If you missed the Monarch Butterfly grove on the way to Pismo, you get a second chance. October to February only.
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . The oldest seaside amusement park on the West Coast is a celebration of all things kitsch and cool.
• Santa Cruz Surf School . There’s no better place to learn to surf than Santa Cruz – you can even buy a board (or something a little more portable) from the original O’Neill Surf Shop on 41st Ave.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Rio vista inn & suites (luxury).

A pristinely restored historical mansion and the swankiest bed in town.

Pacific Blue Inn (Mid-Range)

Eco-friendly cool spot with comfortable and stylish rooms.

New Brighton State Beach Campground (Budget)

Beachside camping with power connections and shady spots if you can get there early enough to nab one.

Santa Cruz to San Francisco (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Days 8 + 9)

1.5 hour drive from Santa Cruz to San Francisco

It’s only 70 miles from Santa Cruz to San Francisco but what a 70 miles – it is the quintessential American West Coast road trip dream. 

You’d think that you’ll be used to mile after mile of gorgeous coastline unfurling in front of your windscreen by now, but let me tell you – it never gets old.

Stop off outside of Santa Cruz at the Año Nuevo State Park to see the largest mainland breeding colony of elephant seals. 

Watch as the (not so gentle) giants roll around in the surf, snooze and fight – you can book ahead onto a guided tour.

There are plenty of small stops for you to take along the coast: Pigeon Point, Pescadero State Beach and Half Moon Bay are popular ones. 

Seafood-lovers are spoilt for choice with the seemingly endless seafood shacks lining this part of Highway 1 (hey, you can never have too much of a good thing right?).

However many stops you make and shacks you eat in, you’ll eventually make it to San Francisco.

I’d recommend spending an extra day here (mainly because you’ve been doing a lot of driving and it’s one of my favourite cities ) – but if you would rather spend that extra day somewhere else, say in Yosemite , that’s easily done too. 

San Fran is packed with things to do- here are a few of my faves. 

Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz and San Francisco

• Año Nuevo State Park – Here’s where to head for Elephant seal watching on the coast.
• Pigeon Point Lighthouse and Park – One of the tallest lighthouses in the US and a good seal and whale watching spot during the season.
• Pescadero State Beach – The marshy lands behind the beach are a birdwatcher’s paradise.
• Alcatraz – The prison on The Rock. Take the boat and a tour of the most famous prison in the US .
• The Castro – Gay friendly and colourful Castro is the perfect spot to explore on two feet.
• Golden Gate Bridge + Park – Walk through the woodland and hike along the trails to the foot of San Francisco’s legendary Golden Gate Bridge .
• Go Stargazing in the Bay
• Balmy Alley – Politically-inspired street art in the lively Mission District.
• Brunch – Gingey Bites has written a great guide to the best brunch spots in San Francisco

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Argonaut hotel (luxury).

Luxury hotel on Fisherman’s Wharf with a stylishly understated Maritime theme.

The Buchanan (Mid-Range)

Located in Japantown, The Buchanan boasts a sleek design and thoughtful touches at a reasonable price.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse (Budget)

If you don’t want to spend the night in San Fran, you can book a bed in the iconic HI-run lighthouse if you reserve well in advance.

Or check out my guides to The Best Things to do in San Francisco and  to Cool Airbnbs in San Francisco .

San Francisco to Mendocino (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 10)

3hrs drive from San Francisco to Mendocino.

From San Francisco, head back out to Highway 1 to resume your West Coast road trip itinerary. 

You’re heading towards redwood country: where the majestic tall trees are almost as numerous as the people that live there.

Hiking opportunities abound, as do small and quirky towns – each with its own organic food store and cafe. Stock up on picnic supplies and eat your feast on one of the wide-open beaches.

If you’re travelling in season (November to April), keep an eye out for migrating whales making their annual journey between Alaska and Mexico. 

Bed down in Mendocino: the perfect base for exploring the craggy Mendocino Headlands State Park.

Best Things to do Between San Francisco and Mendocino

• Go on a whale watching trip with Bodega Bay Charters .
• Hiking in Salt Point State Park .
• Climb to the top of the Point Arena Lighthouse for spectacular views out to sea.
• Mendocino Headlands State Park for abundant wildlife and (more) hiking.
• Spud Point Crab Company – You’ve got to be a dab hand at making crab if you include it in your name. Fortunately for Spud Point, they are.
• Explore wine country. Head inland to discover Mendocino’s thriving wine country.

Where to Stay in Mendocino

Blue door inn (luxury).

Upscale accommodation with indulgent breakfasts and contemporary decor.

Agate Cove Inn (Mid-Range)

A small, high-end B&B with sea views.

Gualala Point Regional Park

The perfect place to camp: a short walk from the beach in a redwood grove.

Mendocino to Klamath (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 11)

4.5 hour drive from Mendocino to Klamath.

Today is all about the majestic Redwood National Park – home to the tallest trees in the world. 

Start off from Mendocino early for the 3-4 hour drive up to the national park. The park takes its name for the soaring redwood trees, larger than you can possibly imagine that fill its grounds.

There are numerous hiking trails within the park, suited to hikers of all kinds of abilities, otherwise you can explore the highlights and main viewing points by car.

If you’re not camping, the small hamlet of Klamath is your best choice for accommodation – with the added benefit that you can start several hikes from Klamath itself.

If you are stopping your West Coast USA road trip in California, that’s it folks – time to head home. 

If you’re going all the way up to Seattle, keep reading – you’ve got plenty of excitement to come.

Best Things to do in Redwood National Park

• Howland Hill Road – a 10-mile drive through a Redwood grove with an optional ½ mile walk.
• Klamath River Overlook – drive to the overlook for prime whale watching during migration season plus wildlife spotting opps for the rest of the year.
• Fern Canyon – An enchanting canyon lined with ferns in Prairie Creek Redwood State Park.
• Hidden Beach   – Hike along a three-mile coastal and forest trail from the Klamath River Overlook to this gorgeous beach that is only accessible by foot. It’s almost always empty and is dotted with driftwood pebbles and branches worn smooth by the surf.
• Avenue of the Giants – Take a turn off Highway 101 in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park to take the 32-mile Avenue of the Giants. The road is named for the soaring redwood trees that line its sides – nothing makes you feel smaller than hundreds of trees so tall you can’t even see the top.

Where to Stay in Klamath

Holiday inn express redwood national park (budget).

There’s not much to this Holiday Inn that’s special but it’s in a great location for walking out to Klamath River Overlook and then doing the three mile hike to Hidden Beach.

Or, read my guide to camping in Redwood National Park

Klamath to Coos Bay (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 13)

3 hour drive from Klamath to Coos Bay

Welcome to Oregon! 

After a long time dawdling your way up the Californian coast and moseying inland for a detour or two, it’s time to hit a new state. Oregon’s quieter coastline boasts a rugged beauty that never fails to impress.

Almost every Tom, Dick and Harry sets out on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip and sees the Big Sur, but if you’ve made it up this far, you’ve truly earned your Highway 1 road-tripper badge of honour.

Best Things to do between Klamath and Coos Bay

• Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor – Named after the “father” of Oregon’s national park system, the scenic corridor is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Oregon coastline.
• Brookings – A cool little town just over the Oregon border. Chill out on one of the many beaches, hang out on the boardwalk and soak up the laid-back vibe.
• Arch Rock Brewing Company – The Pacific Northwest is famed for its craft beer scene. Make like a local and try a brew or two in Arch Rock (y’all don’t need me to tell you about drink driving – designated driver etc etc).
• Sunset Bay , Shore Acres and Cape Arago State Parks – Three state parks that stand side by side on the southern stretch of the Oregon coast. You can camp in Sunset Bay – make sure you’re there for sunset, it’s named that for a reason.
• Port Orford – Wedged in a small natural harbour next to Cape Blanco State Park , the views from Port Orford are fairly spectacular.
• Coos Bay – Coos Bay is well worth exploring. There are a few cool museums and plentiful seafood to chow down on too.

Where to Stay in Coos Bay

Red lion hotel coos bay (mid-range).

Recently given a breath of fresh air, the Red Lion is a comfortable option in Coos Bay.

Sunset Bay State Park (Budget)

Camping near to the shoreline at this state park. Tent sites, RV hookups or you can rent one of their eight yurts.

Coos Bay to Newport (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 13)

2 hours 10 minutes drive from Coos Bay to Newport

A little north of Coos Bay Highway 1 takes you to the fringe of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area – the largest area of coastal sand dunes in the US.

Up to 150 metres tall – the dunes are impressive enough to look at, but add in dune bashing, hiking and horseriding and you have a whole world of fun. 

I’d recommend parking up and spending most of the day in the park – it’s only a short drive to Newport and the dunes really do have to be seen to be believed.  

Best Things to do Between Coos Bay and Newport

• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area – spend the day (or more if you have the time) exploring the largest area of coastal sand dunes in the US.
• Umpqua Aquaculture – If you love oysters, read on.This tiny little spot may well serve the best oysters you can find on the whole of the West Coast. Yes, we’re serious. Buy them by the bucket and feast your face off.
• Oregon Coast Aquarium – Award-winning aquarium in Newport with a sea otter pool, and a heart-stopping shark tunnel.
• Yachats – A small town on this undeveloped coastline that’s the Oregon beachside hideaway for those in the know.
• Yaquina Head Outstanding Area – A coastal bluff with the tallest lighthouse in Oregon. At low tide, you can spot the sea urchins and starfish that line the shores. You’ll need to book ahead if you want to visit the lighthouse itself.
• Willamette Valley – Not along Highway 101 at all but this valley a short drive inland is the home of Oregon’s flourishing Pinot Noir production. Wine lovers – it’s definitely worth the detour .

Where to Stay in Newport

Inn at nye beach (luxury).

Set in the increasingly cool area of Nye Beach, the Inn has a wonderful view, freshly-roasted coffee and chocolate chip cookies. Heart eye-emoji love.

Sylvia Beach Hotel (Mid-Range)

Every room here is named (and decorated) after a different literary legend, so you can take your pick from Alice Walker, Ernest Hemingway, J.R.R Tolkien, Oscar Wilde and more. The room features books and information about your author of choice. There are no TVs and no wifi – just hunker down with your favourite book and soak up the atmosphere.

South Beach State Park (Budget)

For something a little more rugged, this is a popular campsite two miles south of Newport.

Newport to Astoria (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 14)

3 hours 15 min drive from Newport to Astoria

The stretch of Oregon Coast between Newport and Astoria is studded with uber-cool towns, nice beaches (when the weather’s warm enough) and lots of beautiful vantage points for you to soak up the Pacific Ocean.

Astoria itself is a historic city with plenty of easily-accessible hikes and water-sports for you to take advantage of. 

Seaside and Cannon Beach are two of the better known beaches along this stretch – just watch out, they tend to get pretty busy during the summer months (though that’s not always a bad thing at all).

Manzanita is one of my favourite little villages along this coast – the small city is a thriving outdoors hub and brimming with great restaurants. It helps that the beach is pretty lovely too.

Best Things to do Between Newport and Astoria

• Seaside and Cannon Beach – For summertime beach-bumming and stellar views.
• Manzanita – A cool (dare I say hipster) village that’s well worth a stop.
• Astoria – Soak up the history in Oregon’s northern most coastal town.
• Big Wave Cafe, Manzanita – Hearty and fresh grub served in Manzanita’s friendliest restaurant.
• The Three Capes detour – take a detour off the 101 to soak up the coastal views on the Three Capes road. It winds its way past Cape Meares, Cape Kiwanda and Cape Lookout. The road has been under repair in recent years so check the status before you turn off the PCH.

Best Places to Stay Between Newport + Astoria

Whale cove inn (luxury).

You’ve been on the road for weeks now. Splash out and stay in this super-luxury hotel. Suites come with private decks with a jacuzzi and all boast magnificent ocean views.

Commodore Hotel (Mid-Range)

A cool hotel in downtown Astoria, the Commodore has been built in the vein of our much-beloved Ace Hotels, with funky decor and friendly staff.

Nehalem Bay State Park (Budget)

Bed down in one of Nehalem Bay’s yurts, or pitch up on a RV or tent site. In the morning, simply walk over the dunes and you’re straight onto the beach – perfect for your morning swim.

Astoria to Olympic National Park (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 15)

2.5 hours from Astoria to Olympic National Park

It’s the penultimate day of your West Coast USA road trip itinerary. Can you believe it?

It was over two weeks ago that you set out thinking that you had all the time in the world to wend your way along one of the most famous road-trip routes in the world and now it’s almost over. 

We’re all sad about it, but you’d better make these last days count.

What better way to start than crossing over into a new state? 

You pop over into Washington almost as soon as you leave Astoria – and the Highway 1 dips in and out of the coastline for the last stretch.

Today is really about getting to and spending at least a bit of time in Olympic National Park . It’s 1406 square miles, so probably a bit too much to see in one day (I know you’re keen but no, that’s just too much).

The section of Olympic National Park near to Highway 1 is the wildest and the most untamed – Hoh River Rainforest and Lake Quinault are good places to head to as you can camp or find accommodation in both.

Best Things to do in Northwest Washington

• La Push Beach – Twilight fans can revel in the knowledge that the vampire/werewolf dramafest were set in La Push. The rest of us can just enjoy the rugged tranquility of the three beaches and small surrounding community.
• Olympic National Park – far greater than you’re ever going to be able to tackle in a day (or even a year come to think of it), Olympic is the outdoor adventurer’s dream. Plan your trip using the park’s informative website.

Where to Stay in Olympic National Park

Lake quinault lodge (luxury).

One of the classic park lodges of yore, Lake Quinault Lodge offers high-end stays in a memorable setting.

Quileute Oceanside Resort

Take your pick from the luxury cabins, motel rooms or RV sites in this quaint resort just outside of La Push.

Hoh Visitor Center and Campground

Very, very basic camping but a great base for exploring the near-mystical Hoh River Rainforest.

Olympic National Park to Seattle (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 16)

2 hours drive from Olympic National Park to Seattle (dependent on park location)

The final day of our Highway 1 road trip itinerary lands us in Seattle. 

PNW’s biggest hub sits in the shadow of the towering Mt Rainier and is a charming combination of great coffees, trendy places to eat and drink and grungy hangouts.

If you have a bit more time, Seattle’s a great city to decompress and unwind after your hectic two and a half week trip – otherwise it’s a whirlwind tour of the city and hometime. I hope you’ve had an awesome trip!

Best Things to do in Seattle

• Pike Place Market – One of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, Pike Place is a thriving hub of small businesses, pubs, seafood eateries and shopping nooks. Spend an hour or two with no agenda for the full experience.
• Discover Seattle’s Most Instagrammable Spots – Seattle is full of cool places to photograph, if you know where to find them.
• Space Needle – You can’t miss the Space Needle – the recognisable tower that dominates Seattle’s skyline. Fork out the steep price for the observation deck – it’s worth it.
• Olympic Sculpture Park – The ‘grammer’s dream, Olympic Sculpture Park is bold, arresting and free! Pack a picnic and get snapping.
• Washington State Ferries – Jump on a Washington State Ferry to get around Puget Sound or just soak in the awesome views from the deck. If you have enough time, get a ferry to Bainbridge Island and spend some time in Winslow, the island’s main town – or strike further out to explore the almost-too-good-to-be-true landscapes.

Where to Stay in Seattle

The edgewater (luxury).

(In)famous waterfront hotel where rock-stars and celebrities have stayed and frolicked for several decades.

Staypineapple at the Maxwell Hotel (Mid-Range)

One of the best boutique hotels in Seattle with colourful interiors and stellar service.

Ace Hotel (Mid Range)

A hop, skip and not even a jump away from Pike Place, Ace Hotel offers stylish digs in a central location.

Recommended Detours from Your American West Coast Trip

West coast road trip detour one: yosemite national park.

3 hour drive from San Francisco to Yosemite

The best time to do this detour from Highway 1 is after San Francisco. You can then either add on the second suggested detour (to Sonoma – discussed below) or you can drive from Yosemite to Mendocino and pick up the itinerary from there.

OK, so now we’re going to tear the rule book up and throw it out of the window (or let it flutter over your head if you have a convertible with the top down).

Yes, yes, I know that Yosemite isn’t on Highway 1. In fact, it’s a three hour detour away from Highway 1 towards the Nevada border. 

But, unless you have been and decided never to go again (doubtful), or you are really, really pushed for time (more likely), it would be a real shame to come all this way and not go to Yosemite.

So pack up the trunk, take the rather dull drive inland and get yourself to Yosemite – I can guarantee you won’t regret it.

It would actually take a whole other article as long as this one (7,200 words and counting) to cover all the things you can see and do in Yosemite – which is kind of handy because I’ve written this Yosemite guide for you to check out.

Best Things to do in Yosemite

• Yosemite Falls
• Viewpoint from Tunnel View
• Mariposa Grove – giant sequoia trees.
• Basically everything you see and do.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Evergreen lodge (luxury).

Originally built in the twenties, Evergreen is just outside the national park boundaries but offers rustic-chic lodging for a high-end stay.

Wawona Hotel  (Mid-Range)

It’s a bit of a drive to sights other than the Mariposa Grove, but an affordable and comfortable option.

Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Lodge (Budget)

Hippy vibes and friendly owners on the outskirts of Yosemite.

Upper Pines Campground (Budget)

Upper Pines is busy but it’s well located, shady and a good base for a short Yosemite stay.

Read Next: How to Spend Your Time in Yosemite

West Coast Road Trip Detour Two: Sonoma Valley

The best time to do this detour is between San Francisco and Mendocino. If you did detour one, your itinerary would be as follows: San Francisco > Yosemite > Napa / Sonoma > Mendocino.

My second suggested detour from the Pacific Coast Highway is to Sonoma . If you’re anything like me, you love your wine (almost as much as you like the breathtaking views you caught sight of in Yosemite, but not quite).

You can easily tack on Sonoma to your trip to Yosemite 

We all know that Napa and Sonoma are California’s most revered wine regions, so it makes sense to stop off and have a nose, just while we’re in the area on our West Coast road trip.

I’ve been to both Napa and Sonoma and preferred the latter’s slightly more casual vibe – you can of course go to both, or neither – whatever takes your fancy.

Best Things to do in Sonoma

• WINE. More specifically…
• Bartholomew Park Winery . The wine is mighty tasty, but the 400-acre nature preserve setting is almost as big a draw. Purchase a bottle or two and head out into the grounds with a picnic.
• Sonoma Valley Bike Tours. Let’s face it – no one wants to be the designated driver in Sonoma. Book onto a guided tour or hire a bike and set off on your own.
• Fig Cafe & Winebar . Hearty and delicious food is paired with an extensive local wine list.
• Benzinger Family Winery . Sample Benzinger’s range of biodynamic wines on one of their popular tours. Reserve in advance.

Where to Stay in Sonoma

Farmhouse inn (luxury).

The hefty price tag means the Farmhouse Inn is only a plausible option if you don’t mind splashing on a hotel. Those who do are treated to Michelin-star meals and airy rooms in return.

Vintner’s Inn (Mid-Range)

Within a short distance of countless vineyards, Vintner’s Inn is a homely boutique option a few miles out of downtown Santa Rosa.

Casini Ranch (Budget)

RV Hookups, a tent campsite and small cabins at affordable prices.

Other Useful Resources for a West Coast Road Trip 

• Lonely Planet California Guide
• Lonely Planet Western USA Guide
• Marco Polo West USA Map

West Coast Road Trip Map

Inspiration for The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

• The Best Things to do in Los Angeles 
• The Best Road Trips from Los Angeles
• Big Sur Camping Guide 
• 24 Best Things to do in San Francisco
• Cool Things to do in Seattle
• How to Plan the Perfect California Road Trip
• Gorgeous Places to Visit in the US
• The Ultimate US 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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Great post…. I love the way you given all the details about stay, driving time etc. Very useful.

Thank you Sapna – I really want it to be a practical go-to guide!

Fantastic guide and so thorough.. I need it as an ebook. 🙂 Thanks for the obvious time and though you put into this.

Thanks Susan – that’s actually on my task list 🙂 really enjoyed writing it and glad you find it useful.

what a great guide! I have to admit I’m a California native and have never done the entire road trip, but this post proves I need to! lovely pictures and great in-depth info

Thank you – it was such an awesome trip, very jealous that you have that on your doorstep all the time! Glad you enjoyed it. Do let me know if you do the whole thing!

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Really a Classic roadtrip but still beautiful to do it again sometimes. I’m sure that I will take this trip again and take more time for the beautiful places.

Thanks Ilse – glad you enjoyed your time on the road!

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10 of the best road trips in the USA

Jan 5, 2024 • 6 min read

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

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

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

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

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

1. Pacific Coast Highway

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

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

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

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

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

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

Detour: In addition to state and national parks , many one-off hikes originate along the parkway. Consult trail maps to avoid missing some of Appalachia’s top routes.

3. Route 66

Best road trip for American kitsch Chicago–Los Angeles; 2250 miles; 1–2 weeks

Nicknamed the Mother Road, Route 66 has permanently ingrained itself in the international psyche as the original US road trip. Starting in Chicago , it crosses eight different states and connects travelers to national parks, weird-but-wonderful roadside attractions and tons of vintage Americana.

Planning tip:  The route can be driven in pieces or all at once, but we suggest allotting plenty of time to explore – distances are long, and the activities are numerous.

4. Natchez Trace

Best road trip for Southern history Pasquo, TN–Natchez, MS; 444 miles; 2–3 days

The path for the Natchez Trace was originally carved not by humans, but by buffalo that wandered the region from middle Tennessee to Natchez, MS. Indigenous hunters and traders soon followed, and later the route became a full-fledged thoroughfare for European colonists, soldiers and dignitaries. Today, a trip down the Trace yields gorgeous scenery, historic towns and the experience of traveling one of the most storied roads in the country.

5. Florida Highway 1

Best road trip for Gulf Coast culture Amelia Island–Key West; 475 miles; 6 days

Florida’s Hwy 1 runs the length of the state’s Atlantic Coast before banking east at Miami  and ending in stunning Key West . This sublime multi-day journey takes you through tons of Florida ’s most iconic stops: historic St Augustine , windswept Canaveral National Seashore , Nascar-fueled Daytona, laid-back Fort Lauderdale and the glam and glitter of Miami and South Beach.

Planning tip: Hurricane season lasts from June through October – with the most active months being August and September – and has the potential to significantly affect Florida. If you’re visiting during this window, keep your eyes on the forecast.

6. Badlands – Black Hills Loop

Best road trip to experience the Great Plains Badlands National Park–Badlands National Park; 330 miles; 2 days

If you want to get a taste of how expansive the Great Plains really are, head to South Dakota for this fascinating road trip through a state of huge ecological and cultural importance. Start your trip at the mind-bendingly beautiful Badlands National Park before looping over to the Black Hills, home to the Crazy Horse Memorial , Mt Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park . Along the way, take in views of thriving buffalo herds, fascinating rock formations and plenty of rolling hills.

7. San Juan Skyway

Best road trip for Rocky Mountain peaks Durango–Durango; 236 miles; 1–3 days

The San Juan Skyway delivers some of the Rockies ’ biggest views in high definition. This route – which includes the renowned Million Dollar Highway – leapfrogs across central Colorado’s mountainous core connecting Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park , known for the cliff dwellings left behind by the Ancestral Puebloans.

Whether you’re a history buff, ski bum, landscape photographer or simply someone who enjoys a thrilling drive, San Juan Skyway has something for you.

Planning tip: A fact that can be deduced by its name, the San Juan Skyway runs through high-altitude terrain, and that makes road conditions somewhat unpredictable, particularly during shoulder season. Always check for closures or local warnings before heading out.

8. Richardson Highway

Best road trip for Alaska outdoors Fairbanks–Valdez; 364 miles; 2–4 days

No road trip list would be complete without a journey through the country’s largest, northernmost state. The Richardson Highway, Alaska’s oldest highway, connects Fairbanks with Valdez, winding past dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers and giving travelers a front seat to some of the country’s most jaw-dropping natural attractions. Be sure to make pit stops for hiking, fishing and whitewater rafting.

9. Scenic Byway 12

Best road trip through red rock country Bryce Canyon National Park–Capitol Reef National Park; 122 miles; 1 day

Southern Utah feels like an entirely different planet, and this backroads route takes you through the best scenery this geologically diverse state has to offer. Start your journey in the town of Panguitch – right outside of Bryce Canyon – and follow the road through red rock canyons, historic towns and pine forests until you finish your journey in Torrey, gateway to Capitol Reef National Park , one of the west’s best-kept secrets.

Detour: From Torrey, it’s an easy 2.5-hour drive to Moab , Canyonlands and Arches , making these routes the best way to see Utah’s Big 5 . And the road itself takes you through some amazing lunar-like scenery that contrasts sharply with the red rocks – wild.

10. Coastal New England

Best road trip for Atlantic maritime vibes New York City–Portland, ME; 430 miles; 3–5 days

Prep yourself for seafood chowder, picturesque oceanside towns and all the lobster you can handle – this coastal New England trip will definitely help you find your sea legs. Start in New York City and make your way north along the coast, stopping to enjoy the lovely beaches in Rhode Island , Massachusetts’  wealth of historical heavy hitters and New Hampshire’ s lighthouses before arriving in culinary-minded Portland, ME .

This article was first published May 22, 2019 and updated Jan 5, 2024.

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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.

This Map Shows the Ultimate U.S. Road Trip

By caitlin schneider | apr 10, 2023, 12:50 pm edt.

The concept of a road trip is as American as apple pie, and yet, devising the “best” U.S. driving route is a bit of a head scratcher. Much depends on time parameters, personal preference, and frankly, how long you want to spend behind the wheel.

In 2015, Tracy Staedter at Discovery News decided to take on that challenge, enlisting Randy Olson —the data scientist behind the famed (and super helpful) Where’s Waldo algorithm —to devise what you might call the platonic ideal of the United States road trip. The parameters were: It had to hit all of the 48 continental states; every stop had to be a National Natural Landmark, a National Historic Site, a National Park, or a National Monument; and of course, had to be confined to car travel and within U.S. borders.

With a stop in Washington, D.C. and two in California, the result is 50 points of all American awesomeness. Here are the destinations:

• Grand Canyon, Arizona 
• Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
• Craters of the Moon, Idaho 
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 
• Pikes Peak, Colorado 
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
• The Alamo, Texas
• The Platt Historic District, Oklahoma 
• Toltec Mounds, Arkansas 
• Elvis Presley’s Graceland, Tennessee 
• Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi 
• French Quarter, Louisiana 
• USS Alabama, Alabama 
• Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida 
• Okefenokee Swamp Park, Georgia 
• Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina 
• Lost World Caverns, West Virginia 
• Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, North Carolina 
• Mount Vernon, Virginia 
• White House, Washington, D.C. 
• Colonial Annapolis Historic District, Maryland 
• New Castle Historic District, Delaware 
• Cape May Historic District, New Jersey 
• Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania 
• Statue of Liberty, New York 
• The Mark Twain House & Museum, Connecticut 
• The Breakers, Rhode Island
• USS Constitution , Massachusetts 
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Mount Washington Hotel, New Hampshire 
• Shelburne Farms, Vermont 
• Fox Theater, Michigan 
• Spring Grove Cemetery, Ohio 
• Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky 
• West Baden Springs Hotel, Indiana 
• Abraham Lincoln’s Home, Illinois 
• Gateway Arch, Missouri 
• C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, Kansas 
• Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, Iowa 
• Taliesin, Wisconcin 
• Fort Snelling, Minnesota 
• Ashfall Fossil Bed, Nebraska 
• Mount Rushmore, South Dakota 
• Fort Union Trading Post, North Dakota 
• Glacier National Park, Montana 
• Hanford Site, Washington 
• Columbia River Highway, Oregon 
• San Francisco Cable Cars, California 
• San Andreas Fault, California 
• Hoover Dam, Nevada

That list starts with the Grand Canyon , but you could theoretically begin anywhere as long as you drive in sequence after that. Staedter guessed it would take a little over nine days of driving straight through, but more realistically is a two- or three-month trip.

Want to drive across the U.S. & see all major landmarks? #MSU 's @randal_olson made a map. http://t.co/KbFjQGXBXM pic.twitter.com/jDs1EsP1xS — MSU (@michiganstateu) March 9, 2015

For the details on how he came up with the route, check out Olson’s blog . After determining the stops, the main goal of the algorithm was to find the shortest distance between points.

Olson wrote to Staedter: “Instead of exhaustively looking at every possible solution, genetic algorithms start with a handful of random solutions and continually tinker with these solutions—always trying something slightly different from the current solution and keeping the best one—until they can’t find a better solution any more.”

And whether or not you understand the specifics of how it was created, the map is truly a marvel and the kind of itinerary you'll probably spend all winter dreaming about. See the map here , and for additional travel goals, check out Olson’s road trip maps for South America and Europe .

A version of this story ran in 2015; it has been updated for 2023.

Take Back Roads

Seeking authentic travel experiences, one back road at a time, great american road trips: the best back road by state.

America is home to countless back roads, side roads, and country roads… scenic routes , historic routes, and tourist routes… National Byways and Historic Highways …. and more road trip possibilities than any one person could complete in a lifetime.   Hosting Take Back Roads since 2013 has inspired me to explore a great deal of back roads on local, regional, and long distance road trips.  In that time, I’ve learned one major fact about exploring back roads:  the more of them that I experience, the deeper my appreciation becomes for just how many more there are to see!

Take me to the road trips!

This train of thought led me to develop the collaboration idea you see here.  Since it would be impossible to take every back road in America , I recruited help:  travel bloggers from all across the country.   I reached out with a simple request:  Please write about your favorite back road in the state of your choice.  What do you like about it, what is there to see and do, and what makes it your favorite?  I also requested one or two photos and the names and websites of any restaurants, shops, or local businesses they wanted to highlight (if applicable).

What should you pack for a road trip?

Excellent COVID-19 Protection Options to take with you:

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links.  This means that I receive a commission –  at no cost to you – if you purchase one of the products I’ve linked to on this page.

States are split between East and West of the Mississippi River, and then organized alphabetically.  There are links to navigate the post.  As you will see, while a couple states have two submissions and a few states have no submission yet, the vast majority have a single submission.

Feeling overwhelmed?  We can help plan your next road trip.

Click  here ..

Looking for a great playlist to listen to while ON your road trip?

Start here .

We are still missing THREE states:  Indiana, Missouri, and Rhode Island.  If you can provide us a back road in any of those states, please email me !

Our Second Installment in the Great American Road Trip Series can now be found HERE !

Without further ado…

The Best Back Road by State: East of the Mississippi

Skip to Eastern States by first letter:

Skip down to the Western States

AL-25 from Harpersville to Payne Lake

For a modifiable map, click here

State Route 25 from Harpersville, AL goes through the rural towns of Wilsonville and Columbiana. There is a” bed and breakfast” in Columbiana called the Columbiana Inn. The road continues to wind through beautiful farmland and vineyards. “Wine Trail” signs off SR-25 indicate the vineyard locations.  Heart of Dixie Railroad museum in Calera is a great place for those who love trains! Calera also has a colonial American village recreation, “American Village”. There are a few parks along SR- 25 where the Cahaba River can be accessed. One of them is Shoal Creek Park.  The town of Montevallo is historic and charming, and is home to the University of Montevallo .  Continuing to meander down SR-25 passes through the small town of Wilton.  You’ll soon find another significant historical site, Briarfield Iron Works State Park, which shows some of Alabama’s former iron production facilities. There is also a campground at this park.  The Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge is not far away, but down another back road. It is famous as a place to see and wade in the Cahaba River.  State Route 25 continues to meander through beautiful rural Alabama and ends near Centerville, a nostalgic small town.

Betsey Hallmark, Shutterstock

Down to Western States

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Connecticut

Ct-39 & us route 202 from the new york border to granby.

Ironically enough, this submission is my own, and it’s technically comprised of four different back roads:  CT-39 into Sherman, CT-37 and US Rt 7 into New Milford, and US 202 the rest of the way.  I took this trip in February of 2018 while on my way to visit friends in Granby.  Winter is not the ideal time of year for this drive.  However, the rolling and winding route was still breathtaking enough to cause me to stop several times along its 70 miles to take pictures.  Passing (and crossing) several beautiful lakes, two meandering rivers, and a handful of state parks, the scenic route also slices through the heart of traditional and historical New England farmland, villages, and towns.  Though I noticed several enticing restaurants and wineries, time constraints prevented me from stopping to eat and drink.

Scott Berney, Take Back Roads

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CT-169, Norwich-Worcester Turnpike

State Route 169 in Connecticut is nothing if not bucolic. You’ll feel like you should be traveling by horse-drawn cart through the rolling hills past munching cows, orchards, fields, 19-century mills and colonial villages. The second-longest scenic route in the state (after the also wonderful Merritt Parkway, Route 15) runs from Lisbon to Woodstock on the state border to Massachusetts and carries the federal designation of National Scenic Byway. Stop at roadside stands for apple cider and pumpkins, go antique-ing, or enjoy some fabulous examples of historic architectural styles (e.g. Federal style in Canterbury).

Olivia, Happy in the Hollow

Big Stone Beach Road

This 8 mile long back road will show you the best of Delaware’s wetlands, and take you to a hidden gem of a beach on the Delaware bayshore. The road winds through a rural area of central Delaware, but as you drive, you can see the landscape changing with every mile. The suburbs transition to forests, then the trees open up to reveal an impressive expanse of salt marsh before the road finally dead ends at its namesake, Big Stone Beach. The beach itself offers stunning views of the dune and marsh habitat, and at low tide, you can see reefs and tide pools created by sand building worms. This back road is one that many Delaware locals have never seen, but it’s one that you won’t want to miss!

Abby Shepard, Abby Shepard Photography & DE State Parks

Looking for more Delaware content?  Click here

Florida A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway

When you visit northeast Florida, my advice is to get off the interstate and take the back roads to explore. Specifically, the Florida A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway.

This portion of Florida A1A stretches 72 miles from Ponte Vedra Beach (south of Jacksonville) past St Augustine and down to Flagler Beach. Due to the location of Hwy A1A between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, the opportunities for fishing, birding, and beachcombing are abundant. In addition, there are historical sites along this stretch of road. Staying in St Augustine for a month allowed me to enjoy the beach life and learn about the history of the area,  in particular  the Castillo de San Marcos . The fort, constructed from the local coquina stone from 1672 to 1695, is well worth a visit.

Some of my best times in Florida were spent driving up and down the A1A highway visiting all the  beaches near St Augustine  including the coquina stone beach near Marineland.

Susan Moore, Solo Trips and Tips

Appalachian Foothills Parkway

My love for this beautifully scenic highway may be biased, since it starts less than 25 miles north of my house. From there it winds through the southernmost section of the Appalachian Mountains, twisting and turning alongside many of North Georgia’s major highlights. You can drive through the Chattahoochee National Forest and the Blue Ridge Mountains, hike to see picturesque Amicalola Falls, and take in the stunning views from atop Brasstown Bald. It’s especially gorgeous in the spring, when the Azaleas start to bloom, and when the leaves start to change colors in autumn. And since it’s only 60 miles long, it makes for an exceptional day trip from Atlanta.

Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, Green Global Travel

Keslinger Road to Whiskey Acres, Dekalb IL

If you’re lucky and know where to turn , you can find yourself on Keslinger Road in DeKalb, Illinois, about 60 miles west of Chicago. Down a pin-straight road and nestled among corn fields, you’ll find Whiskey Acres , the estate distillery run by 5th generation farmers highlighted in the video above. Sure, there are back roads with rolling hills or more interesting vistas, but the warmth and sincerity of the family at Whiskey Acres is what keeps me going back. I don’t know another spot where I can visit 2-3 times a year and get hugs and cheers as I walk in the tasting room. A back road and a glass of whiskey – it doesn’t get better!

Savithri Grant, A Whiskey Mama

KY Route 80, from Watergap to Arlington

Editor’s Note – for this map to work properly, when you open it,  you might need to go to “Options” and click “Avoid Highways” – then it will follow KY-80 the whole way

The longest state route in the Blue Grass State, Route 80, clocks in at 425 miles. It sticks in the memory from our 21 states we’ve road-tripped across thus far.  Route 80 offers so much to see. Near Somerset is Lake Cumberland , one of the largest man-made lakes in the world at 101 miles long. The Mammoth Cave National Park , with the world’s longest known cave system (400 miles), is a great excursion near Bowling Green.

Our most precious memory of this trip, though, is stopping to admire beautiful Belgian draught horses in the town of Fancy Farm, just outside Mayfield. The owner, Stephanie, came out to say ‘hello’ and told us all about her horses and life in Fancy Farm. It proved once again, it’s always people who make the place.

Darrin Henry, What the Saints Did Next

Looking for more Kentucky content?  Click here

Old Canada Road Scenic Byway

Finding the best back road in Maine is a bit tricky—mostly because there are hardly any  actual interstates  in Maine, and back roads are as plentiful as lobster. While coastal road trips make most “best of” lists, I prefer the wild and remote roads of western Maine.

The Old Canada Road Scenic Byway is a 60 mile section of Route 201 stretching from the Canadian border to Solon, Maine. Despite its recognition as one of the most scenic roads in the country, you won’t find the kind of bumper-to-bumper traffic that descends upon the Maine coast in the summer—unless, of course, everyone is stopping for a moose.

In addition to reading tales of Benedict Arnold and lumber barons on historic markers, there are plenty of scenic rest areas as you travel along the Kennebec River. Plus a few quirky stops, like a retaining wall covered in birdhouses and the surprising interior of a historic meeting house.

Naomi Figueroa, Roaming the Americas

Blue Crab Scenic Byway

You can take I-95 to get from one city in  Maryland  to another, but where’s the fun in doing that?  If you are coming from Princess Anne, MD and want to go to Ocean City, one good option is to make your way to the Blue Crab Scenic Byway.

If you love water scenery, Blue Crab Scenic Byway is for you.  Water lovers will be delighted on this trip with so many places to access both the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. One can stop for lunch in the Crab Capital of the World (i.e. Crisfield), then take the ferry from Crisfield to the bay on Smith Island.

Don’t forget the famous MD Blue Crabs. Stop by Red Roost in Quantico, MD for some eastern shore eating. It’s open seasonally for all you can eat crabs (yum!), shrimp, fried chicken, and snow crabs. This restaurant also serves BBQ, steaks, and draft beer. If you are into crabs and the good old beer and BBQ, this is the spot for you.

Once you are in Ocean City, make sure to take photos of and on the boardwalk. Also, don’t forget to treat yourselves by going for the amusement rides found in Ocean City.

Allan Liwanag, The Practical Saver

Looking for more Maryland content?  Click here

Massachusetts

Battle road scenic byway.

The Battle Road Scenic Byway pairs year-round beautiful scenery with a big dose of history. Running parallel to route 2A through Arlington, Lexington, Lincoln and Concord for 14 miles, it roughly follows the path of the British on April 19, 1775 at the start of the American Revolutionary War. You can stop at many culturally and historically important sites, such as the Minute Man National Historical Park, art museums, abolitionist sites, and the homes of Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne,  and Henry David Thoreau.

M-22, Lake Michigan Circle Tour

Notable as one of the most scenic Pure Michigan Byways, M-22 is located in the “pinkie finger” of Michigan’s distinctive mitten. Originating in Traverse City and following the Lake Michigan shoreline in Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee Counties, M-22 is a two-lane, hilly highway that twists and turns through historic villages and towns.  It also crosses the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the reservation of the Grand Traverse Band of Chippewa and Ottawa Indians in Peshawbestown. The road dates back to the original trunkline system established in Michigan in 1919, but most likely follows settler and indigenous pathways that are centuries older.

As part of the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, the road has developed a cult-like status among regional visitors and residents.  It was made even more popular when designated “best scenic autumn drive” in the nation by USAToday in 2015.  M-22 sign and marker theft has become a problem for the Michigan Department of Transportation, which has to replace more than 30 signs a year.

Fun things to do along your drive: plan a stop along Sleeping Bear Dunes’ 35 mile stretch of coastline, which won Good Morning America’s “most beautiful place in America” designation in 2011. Explore the Port Oneida Rural Historic District, consisting of 16 government protected farms settled by Europeans in the 19th century, and the historic village of Glen Haven, a lumber company town dating from 1865. Stop in picturesque Leland, on the site of one of the oldest Ottawa Native American villages, where a natural fish ladder made for good angling. Leland’s Fishtown historic area is great for shopping and lunching. Check out the historic Northport Lighthouse and the charming village of Sutt

ons Bay on your way back around to Traverse City. Along the way, stop in one of the numerous vineyards for a taste of local wine, or indulge in preserves and pies made with the area’s famous sweet cherry crop.

Betsy Wuebker, PassingThru

Mississippi

Natchez trace, nashville tn to natchez historical park ms.

The Natchez Trace isn’t your average scenic route:  because of its natural beauty and historic value, it’s run by the National Park Service! The Natchez Trace is a meandering parkway that runs just over 400 miles from  Natchez, Mississippi  to Nashville, Tennessee. Many of the people who complete the journey do so on bicycles or motorcycles, but, of course, it’s a great drive for motorists as well.

If you enjoy hiking, the Natchez Trace offers sixty-five miles of scenic trails, some that can be used for horseback riding. Autumn is a great season to drive The Trace as the fall colors are present in all their glory.

Be sure to visit the  National Park Service website  for updated information on The Trace, including maps, accessibility, and history. From  abandoned towns  and  ruins  to Native American sites, scenic trails to Confederate gravesites, the Natchez Trace is an enjoyable, educational road trip through the state of Mississippi.

Jennifer Campbell, Just Chasing Rabbits

New Hampshire

Kancamagus highway, nh route 112, conway to lincoln.

One of New Hampshire’s best-loved back roads, the 36-mile Kancamagus Highway cuts through a mountainous region of the White Mountain National Forest in northern New Hampshire. Locals love it when you pronounce this famous scenic byway correctly, so the first thing you should know is that it’s “Kank-ah-mah-gus”. The road runs west to east from Lincoln to Conway, providing spectacular views of the surrounding White Mountains.

Driving the Kancamagus Highway is a bit like stepping back in time. There are no stores, gas stations, or lodging, but you will find six National Forest Service campgrounds, ranging in price from $20 to $25 per night. Fall is a beautiful time to drive the Kanc, as it is affectionately known. The winding road has been named one of the top fall foliage drives in America many times over.

Hiking trails, scenic picnic areas, waterfalls, and covered bridges are among the top attractions, with many scenic pull-offs that require you to decide at a moment’s notice if you want to explore further. Our favorite destinations from our recent trip were the Lincoln Woods Trail , the Hancock Overlook , Sabaday Falls , Rocky Gorge Scenic Area , and Albany Covered Bridge . One of the beautiful things about the Kancamagus Highway is that there’s always something new to discover.

Tara Schatz, Back Road Ramblers

US Route 46, Delaware Water Gap to Fort Lee

(Editor’s note:  As is somewhat common, US-46 tracks alongside I-80 for much of the road trip, so I made the map as close to the route described as possible… but it’s not perfect)

New Jersey packs a lot into a small package.  Truthfully, you can create many interesting one to two-hour road trips there.  For example, you can follow the Delaware River on the west side of the state, or follow the coast line on the east side of the state.  You can also explore a plethora of curious sites on the outskirts of Philadelphia or New York City.  But if you only have the opportunity to take one New Jersey road trip, this is my recommendation.  If you were to stay on Route 46 the entire time and made no stops the entire journey would only take a little over an hour… but where’s the fun in that?

Start at the Delaware water gap and find Route 46, “the shortest signed, non-spur U.S. Highway in the country.”  Head east to Morristown and Jockey Hollow , where you can visit Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War.  While on Route 46 you’ll pass through a handful of charming New Jersey towns — the kind of places most outsiders assume don’t exist in the nation’s most densely populated state.

Stop in Paterson and check out the Great Falls to see a breathtaking 75 foot water fall that passes more water by volume (2 billion gallons a day!) than any other falls in the eastern United States (with the exception of Niagara).  Before you leave the area, be sure to check out the ruins of Hinchliffe Stadium , a place the New York Black Yankees once called home.  When back on the road, head over to Weehawken for spectacular views of the New York skyline, and to walk the hallowed ground where Alexander Hamilton once fought Aaron Burr in a duel.  End your day by heading back to Route 46 and Fort Lee, NJ, where you can stop by Hiram’s for one of the best hot dogs in the country.  Not only will you have traversed Route 46 in its entirety, but you’ll have a full belly, great memories, and a new appreciation for New Jersey, one of the smallest and most geographically diverse states in our union!

Tim Tobitsch, Franktuary and 50 Franks

NY Route 73, Adirondack Mountains

Some of the best back roads in New York are upstate in the Adirondack Mountains. I’ve gotten to drive quite a few while living up here, but one of my personal favorites is New York State Route 73. NY-73 is less than 30 miles long, but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in views. The road is nestled in among some of the Adirondacks’ largest and most popular mountains, and along streams through charming little towns. The road ends in Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics. While you’re passing through, you can also stop for skiing in the winter, or hike an Adirondack High Peak.

Danielle, Wanderlust While Working

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North Carolina

Us route 301.

(Editor’s note:  As with Kentucky, you will likely have to click on “Avoid Highways” to ensure that this route follows US-301 instead of I-95)

Running parallel to Interstate 95, choose  HWY 301  to discover North Carolina. This historic route linked tobacco and cotton farms connecting small towns and rural communities. Today, tobacco farms have given way to modernization, but the quaint charm remains. Travel HWY 301 to discover southern cuisine like pulled pork and fried chicken. Grab a fresh squeezed orangeade at the local pharmacy counter. Take a break in Wilson to see Vollis Simpson’s famous whirligigs, or stretch your legs at the botanical gardens in Fayetteville. Wherever you go on HWY 301, discover authentic North Carolina: great food, unique shops and historic places.

Karen Dawkins, Family Travels on a Budget

(Editor’s Note:  I was very tempted to write another submission for North Carolina about my favorite road in the state, US Route 21.  However, I’ve written a full blog about our experience, both heading South , and also about heading back North .  You can read more there!)

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Hocking Hills Scenic Byway – State Route 374

State Route 374 in southeastern  Ohio  is also known as the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway as it connects all six of the Hocking Hills State Park sites: Cantwell Cliffs, Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow, Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls and Ash Cave. The byway begins near Rockbridge at the intersection of US 33 and Route 374 and continues just over 26 miles to Ash Cave. While you can easily enjoy the route in a day from the comfort of your vehicle, the route is best explored when you allow time to explore the parks, hiking trails and remarkable scenery that comprise this unique destination. The route provides an opportunity for visitors to appreciate and enjoy the outdoors year-round. You’ll find plenty of lodging options from campgrounds to luxurious cabins along the route with places to grab a bite to eat.

Tonya Prater, Travel Inspired Living

Pennsylvania

Pa route 32, between new hope & kintersville.

I’ve driven thousands of miles through Pennsylvania, but there’s no drive better in the state than PA Route 32 between New Hope and Kintersville. This road runs along the Delaware River on the eastern edge of the state and features fantastic views of the water. Opposite the river, steep cliffs give rise to many beautiful waterfalls (if you visit during times of high water).

Along the road are fantastic highlights like Ringing Rocks County Park , Delaware Canal State Park , and the charming town of New Hope . You’ll also be driving past homes, barns, covered bridges, and other structures that are centuries old.

This combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and a curvy road make this my favorite drive in Pennsylvania.

Jim Cheney, UncoveringPA and Tripologist

(Editor’s Note:  the charming town of Lumberville is also on this route, which plays home to the absolutely marvelous  1740 House.   Members of my family have stayed there for romantic getaways or relaxing long weekends since it first opened in the late 1960’s.  If you explore this area, I  highly recommend you stay here.  Note – no kids under 14 are allowed!)

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South Carolina

Sc-174, edisto island.

Plying the back roads — the back, back roads – of South Carolina inevitably will present you with a gift basket of surprises. Looming magnolia trees and Spanish moss. Tiny, rural communities populated with folks who more than likely will be happy to spend the afternoon beguiling you with the stories of their lives. Makeshift farm stands and  BBQ pits that you can sniff out a mile away. Ramshackle houses and dilapidated plantations evoking chapters from another world.

One day I was riding along old State Road 174 north of Edisto Island and happened upon the Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge. This sprawling natural gem encompasses more than 12,000 acres. But the day I discovered it, I met more alligators than people. A lovely antebellum former rice plantation sits on the property. Besides the alligators, I saw wood storks, egrets and ibises. Lazy streams and ancient paths wind through the refuge. And I had it all to myself.

Louis Berney, Freelance Journalist for the Washington Post  and beat writer for the  Baltimore Orioles

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The Snake – US Route 421

Many people are most familiar with northeast Tennessee for its Smoky Mountains , but if you are looking for a challenging and beautiful Tennessee scenic drive, travel northeast of the Smokies to Hwy 421.  This 112 mile Tennessee highway is a very popular stretch of mountain highway among sports car enthusiasts and motorcyclists. Within this 112 mile highway lies a 37 mile section known as “The Snake” and for good reason.  This section of highway “snakes” its way through Sullivan and Johnson County, TN taking motorists up the mountain through 489 curves providing one of the most beautiful and thrilling scenic routes in northeast Tennessee. The “snake” isn’t for the weak of stomach, however, but it is fantastic for those who enjoy riding the switchbacks over the mountains while surrounded by beautiful countryside.   

Amanda, VeraVise Outdoor Living

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VT Route 100, between Wilmington & Newport

Vermont is known for its mountainous back roads, incredible recreation opportunities, and charming New England villages. There are endless opportunities for road-tripping in Vermont, but route 100, which runs right through the center of the state, is probably the most iconic stretch of pavement. At 216.6 miles long, it is Vermont’s longest state highway, and it’s also one of the most beautiful. If you’re are looking for a quintessential Vermont road trip, then route 100 is the perfect place to start. It starts in the southern town of Wilmington and winds its way north through the Green Mountain National Forest to the Canadian border. Heading north, the road passes pristine mountain lakes, cascading waterfalls, quiet campgrounds, and secret swimming holes. This awesome Vermont road trip is best enjoyed in the summer or fall so you can take full advantage of the outdoor adventures available in the mountains.

For an in-depth look at things to do in Vermont, click here

Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park

Skyline Drive is a beautiful Virginia byway that goes straight through Shenandoah National Park and the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s especially vibrant – and popular! – in the fall, when the leaves reach their peak colors. It’s not exactly a well-kept secret, but if you’re able to hit the road early enough to catch a misty sunrise, you might be able to beat some of the crowds and enjoy a colorful drive with slightly fewer cars. At just over 100 miles long, it makes for a great half-day drive. This DC local thinks it’s a must see!

Mary Beth, from  MB Sees

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Historic US Route 11, Winchester to Wytheville

(Editor’s note: As is the case with many of the older US Routes (the white shield with a black border ), Route 11 runs parallel to I-81, so mapping out the actual trip described is now essentially impossible.  Google maps eliminated the feature to allow the embedding of full route adjustments, so when you open the map, choose “Avoid Highways.”)

Small towns dot historic Route 11 as it meanders north to south through the Shenandoah Valley in  Virginia . The historic road evolved from Native American warrior path to a migration route known as the Great Wagon Road, before it became the Valley Turnpike in 1834. Wineries, apple orchards, farm stands, and local restaurants offer great places to relax and refresh along the route.

Begin your Route 11 road trip with a visit to the historic Winchester walking district, and a delicious meal at  Sweet Nola’s . As you head south, stop at  Route 11 Chips  to    sample the popular flavored chips and watch them being made. Further south, stop at Natural Bridge State Park, a 500-year-old rock formation that towers over a stream. Head into Lexington for a delicious fried chicken dinner at the  Southern Inn . Finish your trip with a stay at the historic  Hotel Roanoke  where you can sample the city’s many museums and great restaurants like  Local Roots  in the funky Grandin neighborhood. Route 11 offers a fabulous mix of American history, nature, and small town fun.

Julie McCool, Fun in Fairfax VA

West Virginia

Us routes 19 & 250, morgantown to monongahela national forest.

West Virginia’s motto is “Wild and Wonderful,” and truer words may never have been spoken about the state.  Much of the state is completely undeveloped wilderness, which makes it a prime destination for excellent road trips – especially on a motorcycle.  Countless back roads zig-zag up and down the mountains and meander through the dense forest lands, making it tough to pick just one – so I didn’t!  And I enlisted a friend who just posted a rather unique video about his somewhat unusual traveling motivation – hot dogs!

Tim Tobitsch, owner of Franktuary  here in Pittsburgh, described his destination in Clarksburg as “a town with some interesting history.  Native Americans are known to have inhabited it since at least 1000 A.D.  It played a significant role in the Civil War – and was the birthplace of Stonewall Jackson.  In the first half of the 20th Century one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of glass called it home.”  Tim’s review of his experience at The Ritzy Lunch are in the YouTube video below.

Branching further south and east of US Route 19, US-250 runs a looping route to and through the Monongahela National Forest towards the Virginia border.  A historic spur of the iconic cross-country route US-50, US-250 cuts diagonally across West Virginia, northwest to southeast.  Though the route cuts through several old coal mining towns with adorable Main Street style shopping districts, the real highlight is the sections between towns:  cutting across farmlands, forests, and up sizeable ancient mountains.

This is a culinary wilderness adventure that’s not to be missed!

Scott Berney, Take Back Roads , and Tim Tobitsch, TheSausageSage

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WI Route 42, Egg Harbor to Gill’s Rock

Out of all of the scenic drives along Lake Michigan in  Wisconsin , highway 42 in Door County is arguably the most beautiful. The stretch of the highway from Egg Harbor up to Gills Rock on the northern tip of the peninsula is loaded with breathtaking coastline, wonderful small towns with plentiful shopping, cherry orchards, and vineyards. During the wintertime, Green Bay becomes an ice fisherman’s paradise and the trails of Peninsula State park are alive with visitors snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

However, this stretch along highway 42 in Door County is arguably at its most beautiful in the fall, when the leaves are changing colors.  With the state forests full of color and beautiful Lake Michigan as a backdrop, it isn’t hard to see why people flock to Door County in the fall to enjoy the changing of the seasons.

Josh Hewitt, Wanderlust Travel & Photography

The Best Back Road by State: West of the Mississippi

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Alaska Route 1, Homer to Anchorage to Tok

Anyone who hightails it up to  Alaska  will be driving at some time, probably most times, on  Alaska  Route 1. Almost 600 miles long, it’s the main route from anywhere to Anchorage, the largest city. Most drives are on the Seward and Sterling highways, because from Anchorage to Homer, fisherman come in droves hoping to catch the king of fish, salmon. The road is not that wide, but the scenery is stunning as you follow along Turnagain Arm, through the Kenai forest from Seward to Soldotna, then along the Cook Inlet to Homer. Along the way you will see all kinds of wildlife from an abundance of birds to the huge  Alaskan  moose.

Corinne Vail, The Roving Vails

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Mount Magazine Scenic Byway, Ozark to Havana

The northwestern corner of Arkansas is home to some big players in the arena of natural beauty, including the Ouachita National Forest and the Ozark National Forest.  But it is the region in between these two that endeared itself to me in its humble beauty. Between these two forests traverses my favorite Arkansas back road, the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway.

Mount Magazine Scenic Byway, also known as Highway 309, runs roughly north to south from Ozark to Havana.  Along its span, this road winds through a collection of quintessential small towns and lazy farmlands. The highlight of this back road, however, has to be its passage through Mount Magazine State Park, home of the highest point in Arkansas.  Approaching the park, visitors will find themselves steadily increasing in elevation, lending to some stunning roadside views over the expanses below.

Other notable stops along the Byway include Cove Lake Recreation Area, a great option for hiking, sightseeing, water sports, or a quick picnic!  The best place to stop and eat along the route is Cove Creek Supply, a local spot known for their awesome burgers and other classic American foods.

Kristen Czudak, Yonderlust Ramblings

AZ-67 & US-89, North Rim of the Grand Canyon to Flagstaff

Though only about 50 miles as the crow flies, the drive from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to Flagstaff (or vice versa) requires over 200 miles and nearly four hours…. but what a breathtaking drive it is!   I had a difficult time choosing between this drive and AZ Route 64, which runs parallel to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, but the diversity of the scenery and the sweeping panoramas along this drive helped it to win out.

Starting in the lush woodlands and grassy plateaus of the North Rim section of the park, the first leg of the road trip features a nice assortment of green landscapes, and if you’re lucky, a herd of bison.  Shortly after making the right onto US-89A, however, the surroundings begin to change rapidly as you drop in altitude down to the desert floor.  Make sure to stop and walk across the Navajo Bridge at Marble Canyon for some pretty breathtaking views.  The 125 miles from Marble Canyon to Flagstaff crosses a broad expanse of the starkly beautiful Arizona desert with very few pitstops – so make sure you have a full tank of gas!

Scott, Take Back Roads

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CA Route 12, Sebastopol to San Andreas

California’s State Route 12 (known as Highway 12 by the locals) is a 140 mile road trip that runs east-west from Sebastopol (in Sonoma County) to San Andreas (in Calaveras County). The most beautiful part of the highway is arguably the stretch between Santa Rosa (near the Melita Road Intersection) through Sonoma, where the highway is lined with stunning vineyards and redwood trees. During your drive you will pass by numerous wineries with varying tasting room hours. Ledson Winery in Kenwood, a personal favorite, is known as Sonoma County’s Wine Castle.  Its gothic architecture and spires are stunning against Sonoma Valley’s mountain backdrop. Originally built as a private residence, it catches the attention of all drivers and deserves a visit.

(Editor’s Note:  Leah will be submitting photos for this route soon.  In the interim, if you’re a follower of my blog, you know that I have a TON of California photos to peruse….)

Leah, An Adventure is Calling

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Trail Ridge Road, US-34, Grand Lake to Estes NP

(Editor’s note – since Trail Ridge Road is closed in winter, Google Maps won’t allow me to create a map of the road trip described below.  Instead, I’m including a map of a location on the route so you can see where it is, and I will be updating the post with a proper map this summer!)

A highway to the sky, Trail Ridge Road is the 48 mile portion of U.S. 34 between Estes Park and Grand Lake,  Colorado . To me, this is one of the most beautiful stretches of road and mountains you will ever see.

In just a few minutes you travel up from Estes Park and the temperature drops 20-30 degrees. The awesome tree-covered landscape changes to tundra as you climb higher and higher. At the top point, 12,183 feet in elevation, the wind whips and even in summer cars drive by walls of snow.

Not only are there views of majestic mountains, valleys, and snakelike rivers, but you’ll also find a variety of wildlife and plants. You will see the pine trees, the flowers and grass of the tundra, and so much more I can’t begin to identify. Personally, when traveling the road I’ve seen moose, elk, deer, coyotes, bighorn sheep, marmots, chipmunks, and all sorts of birds.

If you’re nearby, make a day trip out of it. Take your time and get out of the car to enjoy the scenic views or take one of the short hikes. The Alpine Visitors Center is almost at the top on the Grand Lake side and worth a stop if nothing else but for the photo op.

One of my favorite places on earth… don’t miss Trail Ridge Road.

Lauren Gonikishvili, Explorer Momma

Mamalahoa Kona Heritage Corridor, Hawaii Route 180

If you’re looking for a way around the Kona traffic, your best bet is Mamalahoa Kona Heritage Corridor. This 20 mile scenic byway is a section of Hawaii Route 180 that passes through the outskirts of the little town of Holualoa, which is known for its coffee and art.

In the old days, this route was part of a footpath encircling the Island of Hawaii. Now, it’s a narrow, two lane road that curves along the slope of Hualalai Mountain. The 30 mph ride takes you through old Hawaii with views of the ocean, beautiful foliage, historic architecture, cemeteries, and coffee farms.

Despite its reputation as an historic town, Holualoa is thriving with locals and tourists alike. Make sure you stop in town on the drive for a cup of Kona coffee, a bite to eat, and a chat with the friendly Holualoa School kids at recess.  

Rachel Bergstrand, Roadtrips & Kittens

Mountains, Valleys, and raging rivers:  Horseshoe Bend to Sun Valley

For a state that’s known for potatoes, Idaho is actually home to thousands and thousands of acres of jaw-dropping mountain peaks and rugged high elevation forests, densely packed with evergreen trees.  Raging river rapids carve deep valleys between these towering mounds of granite, and some poor DOT engineers had to figure out ways to squeeze useable roads in there somewhere.

It’s not all narrow rugged wilderness, but even the more refined parts of this drive are absolutely beautiful.  I had a really hard time deciding which part of this drive to highlight for this write up… so I went with all of it.  Starting and ending in two entirely different outdoor recreation towns – Horseshoe Bend and Ketchum , respectively – this route will weave and twist you along valleys of varying widths, running parallel with the Payette River all the way up to its headwaters about 15 miles east of Lowman.  It starts and ends in broad, sweeping valleys surrounding by rolling mountain peaks, bookending a narrow valley winding between steep-walled mountains.

There are more vista points to stop and soak it all in than I could even begin to highlight… but if you take it slowly and give yourself plenty of time to absorb the natural scenery surrounding you, you’re going to fall head over heels in love with Idaho, just like I did.

Loess Hills National Scenic Byway

(Google Maps occasionally makes building these backroad maps for you into a challenging exercise. When the route in question runs near a major interstate, it’s next to impossible to get the correct backroads route to display.  If you want to see the full looping route for the Loess Hills National Scenic Byway in Iowa, please click here .)

In a state that’s perhaps best known for the intersection of Interstate Highways, it’s fun to explore some of North America’s earliest crosscountry trails.   Few people consider the beauty of western Iowa, where the layers of hills roll right out of a Grant Wood painting away toward the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River.  

Along Iowa’s western border, travelers can explore the origins of several historic byways. The Lewis and Clark Monument , overlooking the Missouri River and Omaha, marks the occasion of the explorers’ 1804 meetings on these bluffs with local Indian tribes.

The Western Historic Trails Center in Council Bluffs describes the paths of the Oregon and California Trails, and tells the story of the Mormon encampments here along the Missouri when a particularly bad winter halted their western progress. The Union Pacific Railroad Museum offers exhibits about the transcontinental railway whose eastern terminus was established here by President Lincoln based on his visit in 1859.

To carve your own route through history, drive north from Hamburg to Council Bluffs along Loess Hills National Scenic Byway  .  Then head to Hitchcock Nature Center . Here the hills contain rare geological formations, remnants of pristine prairie, and opportunities for low-impact and highly scenic recreation.  From there, continue to follow the Loess Hills Scenic Byway northwest, exploring as many of the various points of interest along the way as you desire!

By Kristin Henning, TravelPast50.com

(images belong to Loess Hills Alliance )

US Route 66, the “Mother Road,” Galena to the Oklahoma Border

“Taking the back roads” is more than just a phrase in Kansas. Here, it is a way to connect with the land. Why take the interstate when you could be rolling down a two-lane highway, cruising along a scenic route, or stirring up dust along an old dirt road?

Route 66 is a prime example of a great alternate route. Located in the southeast corner of the state, it is the smallest section of the Mother Road at a mere ten miles long. Don’t let that sway you from investigating, since it is filled with some unique sights along the way. Check it out once, and you’ll fall in love with back road travel.

Jeff Bryant, Our Changing Lives

LA State Route 31, Opelousas to New Iberia

LA-31 is a 54 mile north-south state highway in the Louisiana parishes of Iberia, St Landry, and St Martin. From LA-182 in Opelousas, Hwy-31 winds along the Bayou Teche, south to New Iberia.

During my multi-year road trip around the USA I’ve visited Louisiana four times. And each time I enjoy exploring another slice of Cajun Country.  Starting out in Opelousas, take a moment to stop in  Hebert’s Boudin and Cracklins  and grab some road trip snacks. As the route winds along the Bayou Teche, you may want to pay tribute by taking a moment to visit  Bayou Teche Brewing  in St Arnaudville.

Continuing south to Breaux Bridge you can do a  swamp tour  or try kayaking with alligators at Lake Martin.  In St Martinville be sure to  visit the Evangeline Oak , named for the heroine in Longfellow’s epic poem, Evangeline. If you have more time you can also visit the Longfellow Evangeline Historic State Site.

Finishing up the road trip in New Iberia, you can grab a bite to eat at Victor’s Cafeteria or satisfy your sweet tooth at Meche’s Donuts .

Susan Moore, Solo Trips & Tips

MN Route 61, Duluth to Grand Portage State Park

Spectacular scenery and more along Minnesota’s North Shore

Minnesota has a lot of great road trips, but  Highway 61 along the North Shore of Lake Superior  should be on every traveler’s list. Start in tourist-friendly Duluth, but don’t stay too long – Minnesota’s best scenic drive begins once you leave town. Follow the shore of Lake Superior north to the Canadian border for a 150 miles of shimmering water, rocky beaches, towering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, forested hills, lighthouses, art galleries, historic sites, and fresh local food. Spring and summer bring wildflowers. Fall adds brilliantly colored leaves. Give yourself a couple days to do it all.

One of the best ways to explore Minnesota’s back roads and enjoy Minnesota at its very best is in an RV.  Don’t have an RV?  Why not rent one through RV Rental Minnesota – and spend a week or two affordably experiencing everything Minnesota has to offer!

Cindy Carlsson, Exploration Vacation

US Route 2, Idaho border to North Dakota border

Most people crossing  Montana  by car will take a combination of I-90 and I-94.  An alternative is to take a meandering road trip on US Route 2 across the northern part of the state.  US-2 goes from the hills near Idaho, across the Continental Divide near Glacier National Park, and finally across the high plains as you go from west to east.    This mostly 2-lane highway will take you through many little villages – the largest city along this route has only a bit over 23,000 people.    Although the cities along this route aren’t known for their tourist activities, there are some interesting and quirky sites to see.  Favorites in the western half of the state include the  Montana  Vortex and Glacier National Park.  Central  Montana  includes the underground city in Havre.  Eastern  Montana  has the Glasgow metal animals and the Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs.

Lisa, TheHotFlashPacker

Sandhills Scenic Byway, Grand Island to Hemingford

(Ed:  I hope that Stephen King fans will appreciate my selection of endpoint for this road trip)

There is a reason that the 5 hour scenic drive on the Sandhills Scenic Byway in  Nebraska  (yes,  Nebraska !) is one of the top 10 scenic drives in the US.  You’ll go over rolling hills, through a national forest, can see the famous  Sandhill Crane Migration , drive over one of the world’s largest aquifers and see plenty of wildlife along the way.  You’ll feel a world away from all your stresses and marvel at the pure wilderness and seemingly untouched nature.

So, next time you are doing a cross-country road trip, instead of flying through the state of  Nebraska  on I-80 and just assuming that  Nebraska  is only boring, flat, and cornfields, get off the beaten path a little and see what the locals see and love about our state!

Leanna Brown, Well-Traveled Nebraskan

NV Route 375, Extraterrestrial Highway

I try to travel the backroads as much as possible: the traffic is lighter, the pace is slower, the scenery is better, and the food is real. With all the roads that I have driven, one stands out for me: Nevada 375. It’s only 98 miles long, running between NV-318 and U.S. 6 and runs through some of the most starkly beautiful terrain that this Ontario girl has ever seen. The beauty of the land cannot be denied but that is not the only reason people drive this road. You see, NV-375 is also known as the Extraterrestrial Highway because it is the closest road to the legendary (yet supposedly non-existent) Area 51. There is no gas station in Rachel, so make sure you fuel up before you turn onto the highway. It is marked with road signs so there’s no doubt what road you’re travelling. We didn’t see any lights in the sky, but it was such a peaceful place, we didn’t mind.

Kristal, Adventure Dawgs

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Billy the Kid Scenic Byway

Explore America’s past on this Byway! It is fascinating! When you take the 84-mile drive through Lincoln County, New Mexico, you see the old American West and historic footsteps. Just think, the likes of Billy the Kid, Pat Garrett, the Mescalero Apache nation, Kit Carson, “Black Jack” Pershing, the Buffalo Soldiers, and “Smokey Bear”all walked here. This backroads trip follows the million-acre Lincoln National Forest. You’ll see plains as well as pine forests. Drive up the 12,000 elevation of the Sierra Blanca mountains and visit  Fort Stanton   on the plains.

Key Attractions on the Billy the Kid Scenic Byway include:

• Billy the Kid Visitor Center (575-378-5318)
• Ruidoso River and Sierra Blanca Mountains
• Coe Ranch in Hondo, NM, where Billy the Kid was employed during the Lincoln County War
• Fort Stanton Reservation which has historic sites that were home to Native American battles, the Buffalo Soldiers, 9th Calvary, WWII, US Marine Hospital, Kit Carson, and General “Black Jack” Pershing
• Ruidoso Downs Race Track (1461 Hiway-70 E)
• Smoky Bear Museum
• San Patricio

For additional information about the sites listed above, please visit Barb’s blog post for more details!

Barbara Bradley, The Traveling Seniors

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North Dakota

Enchanted highway.

Exit 74 off of I-94 takes you to the 30+ mile “Enchanted Highway” that leads from the interstate to the town of Regent, North  Dakota .  The Enchanted Highway was built to encourage tourism to this farming community.  The Enchanted Highway features the world’s largest scrap metal sculptures.  The sculptures feature creatures that can be found in the plains of North  Dakota , including geese, deer, pheasants, fish, and grasshoppers.  There’s even a “Tin Family” that consists of a father, mother, and son in the shape of giant tin cans.   Watch the roads for actual wildlife (antelope, deer, and pheasants) and make sure you stop for ice cream in Regent if the Enchanted Highway gift shop is open.  If roadside kitsch is your thing, make sure to check out this short road trip!

McKenzie River Highway, OR Route 126

The McKenzie River Highway in Central  Oregon  is not only a beautiful journey, but also a treasure trove of stops along the way. The two-lane highway acts as the road from Bend to Eugene,  Oregon  — and is also known as Highway 126.  Book yourself a cheap flight into Portland, book yourself a motorhome from RV Rental Portland , and hit the open road!

The McKenzie River Highway runs into the Pacific Crest Trail (a 2,650-mile hiking trail that runs from Southern California to Northern Washington), and some stops along the highway include Sahalie Falls, Koosah Falls, and the Tamolitch Blue Pool.

Tamolitch Blue Pool is an easy 1.5-mile hike in from the McKenzie River Highway, which has you walking along the McKenzie River — and with plenty of beautiful sites along the way. Or you can take in a longer hike, which starts at Sahalie Falls.

Jaclyn Brandt, Your Travel Spark

South Dakota

Iron mountain road, us route 16a, black hills national forest & custer state park.

Iron Mountain Road, also known as US-16A, is a twisting, turning road in the Black Hills of South Dakota . The road ranks amongst America’s Top Ten scenic byways, and driving the Iron Mountain Road is a life-changing experience.

This 17-mile long road, with its continuously looping curves, three pigtail bridges , and three narrow granite tunnels, is considered to be an engineering marvel. The road passes through the Black Hills National Forest and its breathtaking scenery. The many curves force motorists to slow down and take in the abundant wildlife sightings including deer, coyotes, and chipmunks. The highlight of the road is the view of Mount Rushmore in the distance through the third granite tunnel.

Ketki Sharangpani, Dotted Globe

The River Road, FM-170 and FM-118 to Big Bend National Park

The best back road in  Texas  is without a doubt FM 170, commonly dubbed “The River Road.” This stretch of state highway cuts through Big Bend Ranch State Park in West  Texas and hugs the Rio Grande (hence the name). Every local we talked to insisted  this  is the most beautiful drive in  Texas , and I’m inclined to believe them. If you’re a hiker, there are plenty of impressive desert hikes in the State Park all along the highway. There are no shops or gas stations here so stock up before you set out. And don’t forget your camera, it’s seriously beautiful.

Erin Mushaway, Sol Salute

UT Route 12

Highway 12 in  Utah  is one of the most scenic highways in America. It was designated an ‘All American Road’ in 2002. The route is 122 miles long and has a National Parks at each end, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef .  Along this stretch of road there are state parks, landmarks, hiking trails and pulloffs to allow you to enjoy the unique landscape.  The drive along the scenic byway is memorable with sections of the road going through two red rock arches, over a narrow stretch atop slickrock called the Hogback with a steep dropoff to the canyons below on either side, and through one of the world’s highest alpine forests.  Utah ’s Scenic Byway 12 is a road you won’t forget!

Jamie, Photo Jeepers

Looking for more Utah content?  Click here

Washington State

Strait of juan de fuca scenic byway, wa route 112.

Washington  State Route 112, also called the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway, is one of the few must-take side routes while on the Olympic National Park Loop road. The 70-mile road plays hide and seek with the  Washington  coastline from Port Angeles in the east while leading you to the northwestern-most point of the contiguous United States – Cape Flattery . While on one side of this meandering road, you can see the snow-capped mountains of Canada across the strait which is adorned with numerous seas-tacks, on the other side you can see the evergreen hillocks of Olympic Range. Eventually you get to Neah Bay where you enter the Makah Reservation Area (privately owned by Makah Community still) leading you to a trail, to witness an unforgettable sunrise at Cape Flattery!

Vaisakhi Mishra, Just Words

US Route 191, Yellowstone National Park

(Ed:  As with Colorado, winter road closures in Yellowstone National Park prevent me from being able to create a proper map of this road trip)

Highway 191 in Wyoming starts just past the West Yellowstone Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. It must be one of the more scenic roads in the United States.

Along the way, you are likely to see bison, elk, coyotes, and maybe a bear or two. If you are really lucky, you’ll spot wolves (I have!). The road continues through Grand Teton National Park where views of the mountains almost make you forget to look for abundant wildlife. Through Jackson Hole and onto Pinedale, 191 follows the Snake River, Cache Creek, and the Hoback River. It dives under wildlife crossings where the largest migration of pronghorn travel back and forth each year.

All the way to Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area on the Utah border, Highway 191 passes through wild country, ranches, and abundant wildlife – it’s a real peak into the Mountain West.

Melynda Harrison, Yellowstone Trips

Hard to imagine, but…. that’s all, folks!

Stay tuned for another installment of this collaboration next year, and if you would like to participate, please contact me !

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28 comments.

Thank you Scott. This is a trip across our “Great Country” from the comfort of your home. I am saving this for many more enjoyable hours of traveling in my easy chair. Elaine Machamer

Thank you Elaine! I’m so glad you’re enjoying it! If you have any suggestions you would like to see included on the list, please feel free to let me know!

What a good way to travel when you can’t travel! I thoroughly enjoyed the blog and am looking forward to the next one. Thanks, Scott for putting this together.

Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed it, and I will be continuing to either add to it or build similar collaborations in the future!

Thank you Scott and kudos for compiling this list! This list just made me add so many things to my USA places to see list :D. Bookmarking it! (This is so gonna help me while planning some road trips)

Thank you for your kind words! I’m so glad it will be a useful resource for you – that was the primary intent in building the blog!

Thanks for organizing this road trip post. I’m sure I will use this for inspiration on my future travels around the USA. So much more relaxing and interesting to take the back roads instead of the interstate highways.

Thank you so much for your participation! I’m grateful for your submissions, and especially for your help in finding other partners!

[…] careers. I was the latter. Upon graduating, I packed my things in boxes and made the trek from South Dakota to begin my career in […]

is it possible to drive backroads from Brattleboro vt to Menomonee falls Wisconsin? I am anxious about driving on expways and interstates would like to take backroads if possible. thanks much

Hi Connie, thank you for reaching out!

If you would please send me an email at [email protected] , I am glad to help! I will also reach out to the author for Wisconsin to see what advice they can offer you.

I know it’s been a year, but I actually now have a program where I can help you with very specific, detailed road trip planning. Check it out:

https://takebackroads.com/plan-your-road-trip/

[…] order to pull this list together, I built on the initial groundwork laid in my earlier road trip mega-collaboration.  In this installment, I delve even deeper into back road options for you to consider:  working […]

[…] Convenience is also destroying America’s incredibly dynamic culture. […]

[…] I drive on unpaved roads to reach a trailhead. The seats are very versatile, making it great to roadtrip with. Its fuel economy isn’t too shabby […]

[…] the countdown clock for departure for my 2019 Thanksgiving Mega Road Trip. Find out why I only do back roads. In addition, why am I taking a trip through the American Midwest. Learn more in […]

Great list to use when filling in the states that I have not visited on my bucket list. Seeing nature is much more enjoyable than the usual stops.

Thank you, Geri! It’s been – by far – my most successful post ever, probably for that exact reason! If you hadn’t noticed, there are still a few states that I’m missing – they are listed near the top of the post – if you would like to contribute, please email me: [email protected] Thanks!

My family is from Alabama. I moved to Missouri just over 40 years ago. Get in contact when you head for either state and I’ll give you some great info.

Great, thanks so much! Likewise in Pennsylvania, WV, or Ohio!

Absolutely!

[…] year, I collaborated with roughly 40 travel bloggers to put together the first installment of the Great American Road Trip series.  That behemoth of a post looked at the best back roads on a state-by-state basis.  While […]

[…] Part One – the Best Back Road by State […]

[…] Lastly, for a list of the best back road by state, click HERE. […]

[…] Road Trip Ideas […]

[…] Kentucky Route 80 – Cutting across the southern edge of the state, KY-80 is filled with scenic beauty and plentiful options for exploration […]

[…] What’s the best back road in California?  Click HERE […]

[…] The Best Back Road in Each State […]

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• North America
• This Map Shows The Perfect...

This Map Shows the Perfect U.S. Road Trip

Tech Editor

The great American road trip is high on the bucket list of nearly every traveler, whether they’re from the United States or not. There’s a certain romanticism surrounding the idea of cruising down long straight highways experiencing the differences of each state and stopping off at some of the world’s most appealing attractions along the way.

But road trips can also be notoriously tricky to plan, and if you’re visiting the U.S. it’s hard to imagine cramming everything you want to see into your vacation time. Randy Olson, a prominent data scientist enlisted by Chevrolet to tackle this problem, has come up with the most efficient route to go through all 48 contiguous states, including some of the best vacation spots in the country.

The data-driven map he created as a result can be found below, or at this link . National landmarks, theme parks, museums, and state parks are all included on the journey. It’s highly unlikely many people would be able to undertake the entire road trip – it would take 214.56 hours on the road, around nine days – but the map shows the possibilities of traveling by car around the U.S.

“This map is designed so road trippers can start anywhere and drive as much or as little as they like,” Olson said. “Across the U.S., people can create their perfect route, whether staying close to home or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime 48-state journey.”

The American road trip is still alive and well as a vacation option in the U.S., and especially with families. A study conducted by Chevrolet in 2017 showed that 93% of American parents enjoy road trips with their family, and 53% “love” them. The same research found that American parents who take road trips think the perfect length of a family road trip is approximately six hours.

Technology is making the road trip a more comfortable experience. The days of sweltering in a boiling hot car with nothing to do but look out the window are over. Now most modern cars have wi-fi, entertainment systems, and more, the idea of driving halfway across the country with friends or family doesn’t sound grueling at all. If the driverless car revolution continues at the same pace, it may become even more relaxing over time, as passengers sit back and let the car do the work.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

The best couples retreats in the usa.

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Top TRIPS by Culture Trip for Ticking Off Your Bucket List

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Gift the joy of travel this christmas with culture trip gift cards.

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The most epic American road trip

11,000 miles of roadside wonders and national park beauty.

• Featured Trip Guides
• Road Trips of a Lifetime

Created by Holiday Inn - August 18th 2016

T he best part of a road trip is making detours along the way. Pre-planned stops to see classic attractions and unexpected adventures are what make a road trip truly great. But taking the absolute most epic road trip across America? That's easier said than done. Luckily, we know our fans are a wanderlust-y sort, so with the help of Holiday Inn, we turned to them to show us their favorite places to go on a road trip.

Because we can't possibly fit EVERY single amazing place into one epic cross-country American road trip, we've singled out the best of the best, based on user submissions to our "America's Most Epic Road Trip" contest with Holiday Inn. These hidden gems and perennial favorites are user approved and Roadtrippers tested. Buckle up, roll down the windows, and turn up the radio, because we've got the definitive route for the most epic American road trip.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is one of the most jaw-dropping geological wonderlands in America, so it's no wonder that it was the second-most popular place users added to their trips in our contest. Plan to spend a day exploring the many arched rock formations. A few highlights are Balanced Rock and Tunnel Arch. If you take Exit 204 towards Cisco, it will take more time to get to the park but the drive way more scenic. The park can get pretty busy during the day, but it empties out just before sunset, when you can get some amazing photos.

1 Rocky Mountain National Park

From Arches, hit up Rocky Mountain National Park. With more than 300 miles of hiking trails, epic fields of wildflowers, alpine lakes, and wildlife around every corner, this is one of America's most beautiful woodlands. The Trail Ridge Road is a must-drive! It takes you to an impressive elevation of more than 11,0000 feet. Another great trip is the hike along Estes Cone Trail. The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. It's a pretty lengthy hike at four to five hours, but it's definitely worth it.

2 Tucumcari, New Mexico, United States

Then it's on to Tucumcari, New Mexico! After all that national park adventuring, it's time to chill out in an authentic Route 66 town, just off of I-40. There are tons of great diners to eat at here, and loads of retro motels, such as the Blue Swallow and Motel Safari. And make sure to grab a bite at Del's: You'll recognize it 'cause it's got a massive cow on top of its sign. Take some time to walk around and snap loads of pictures of the vintage Route 66-era neon signs.

3 The Alamo

From New Mexico, hop the border into Texas and drive down o the Alamo. Every year, more than 2.5 million people visit this important piece of history. Back in 1836, a band of Texans held out for an impressive 13 days inside the Mission against the centralist army of General Antonio López de Santa Anna. Even though the Alamo ultimately fell to Santa Anna's forces, those brave men who defended the Mission have gone down in history as American heroes and defenders of liberty. The Alamo is located directly in the middle of San Antonio, right next to the Riverwalk (which is a bustling riverfront neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, and cafés).

4 The French Quarter

After San Antonio, head to the French Quarter in New Orleans, for a taste of some insane Louisiana nightlife. Here you can drink on the streets thanks to New Orleans's open container law. Be prepared if you visit during football season: The crowds can get pretty crazy after a Saints game. Bourbon Street is one of the wildest streets in America (in a good way), and the French Quarter itself is full of gorgeous architecture that will make you feel like you're walking back in time through an eighteenth century French tropical colony.

5 South Beach

As if New Orleans nightlife weren't enough, your next stop is Miami's South Beach. Developed back in the 1910s, South Beach became a boomtown, attracting loads of tourists to its beaches and Art Deco hotels, nightclubs, and restaurants. South Beach is perfect for people-watching and for immersing yourself in gorgeous retro architecture. The food on Ocean Drive is alright, but overpriced for tourists. Get off the strip to find some real gems, such as the iconic Cuban restaurant Versailles.

6 Savannah, Georgia, United States

Then drive up the coast and head toward Savannah, Georgia. Settled in 1733, Savannah boasts one of the country's largest historic districts. The riverside hamlet was spared by General Sherman's troops when the mayor of the city allowed Sherman's men to have the run of the city in exchange for leaving it intact (Sherman had a habit of torching every town he went through during the Civil War). Because of the mayor's bargain, Savannah has retained her antebellum charm. When you visit, absolutely go to Forsyth Park, an incredibly lush public park that you could easily spend the entire afternoon in. Savannah also has some great ghost tours, including one that's also a ghost tour/pub crawl.

7 Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hop back on the highway, and head north to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Although this park is beautiful to visit all year-round, the fall is a particularly amazing time to soak in the scenery. When you visit, plan to spend time exploring the abandoned resort town of Elkmont in the park. Also, Cades Cove is a perfect spot for a picnic and for viewing the park's wildlife. And don't leave before you have a chance to walk up Clingmans Dome. At an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the park. It's free to visit, and is the most visited national park in all of America.

8 National Mall

You can't take the most epic American road trip without visiting our nation's capital. Washington D.C. is home to incredible historical architecture and some truly mind-blowing museums, most of which are free! If you only have a day, hit up the National Mall, but be prepared for a long walk, and don't forget your sunscreen and some water. Here, you can enjoy a picnic surrounded by Washington's most iconic memorials, or visit a museum or two right off of the Mall. Also, between the Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History, there's a pretty great fountain where you can cool off. The best time of year to visit is either fall or spring: You'll still find crowds, but the changing colors of the foliage in fall is a can't-miss, as is cherry blossom season in spring.

9 Statue of Liberty

Get back on the highway, and drive north towards New York City, where you can grab a boat to Ellis Island and experience the journey so many immigrants have made over the years. If you only have time to do one thing in NYC, do yourself a favor and visit the Statue of Liberty. Plan to spend time wandering around the museum and enjoying the views of the harbor and Manhattan. Of course, if you have time to do more than just one thing in NYC, the city is renowned for its delicious restaurants. Go to Chinatown for dim sum or Little Italy for pasta, and save room for some Chocolate by The Bald Man.

10 Fenway Park

Next up is Boston. Again, there are just way too many awesome places to visit in this city, but if you have to go to one, Fenway Park is one of the city's most popular attractions. It's the oldest Major League Baseball stadium, having opened in 1912, and it's a hallmark of Boston. You can grab some beer on Yawkey Way, or sit up on the Green Monster... and don't forget your baseball glove to catch a ball! Even though the beer vendors close up shop during the seventh inning, "Who's on First" on Yawkey Way will continue to serve into extra innings. A couple other notable Boston attractions are Faneuil Hall, where you can eat everything from clam chowder to North End pizza, Chinese food, BBQ, and loads of desserts. Also, the Freedom Trail is a walkable tour of Boston's history. Oh, and the aquarium is one of the best in the world. If you have kids, also hit up the Science Museum. There's just so much fun to be had in Beantown!

11 Niagara Falls

Another can't-miss spot is upstate New York's Niagara Falls. The falls can be very misty in the morning, but that's when you can avoid the crowds. If you have the chance, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat, which takes you right up to the falls. If you need a place to spend the night, the Red Coach Inn is a lovely historic hotel with an excellent onsite restaurant. Also, head over to the Canadian side of the falls... there are more food options there. But, don't forget your passport!

Chicago, IL

From Niagara Falls head across to the Midwest and visit Cloud Gate in Chicago. This public sculpture has become a symbol for the city. It was designed by Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor, and is remarkable for how it was welded together. Comprised of 168 stainless-steel plates, there are no visible welding seams because of how much it was polished. You can take some pretty epic photos here at sunrise. The "Bean" (as it's called) is in the AT&T Plaza in Millennium Park, in the Loop area of Chicago, which is a great place to grab a drink or a bite to eat.

13 Gateway Arch

Speaking of iconic city symbols, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis is one of the Midwest's most visited places. There's a museum beneath the park, and an observation deck with great views of the river. If you have time, pack some nibbles for a picnic under the arch, or take a tour of it.

14 Mount Rushmore

From St. Louis, head north towards Mount Rushmore in Keystone, South Dakota. Nothing says “America” more than Mount Rushmore. But, there’s also more to do here than just see the carved mountain memorial. There’s an adorable little tourist town nearby, where you can learn about the making of the monument. Plus, there’s good places to eat. Sometimes there’s a laser light show after dark at Rushmore, so check with the park to see if there’s one on the calendar when you visit. If you want a great spot for a picture, head to the Grand View Terrace. And be aware that there's going to be lots of tourists from June through August, so traffic might be an issue during this peak season.

Devils Tower National Monument

Devils Tower, WY

After Rushmore, it's straight on to Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. This was the first national monument, established in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt. You may remember it from the Steven Spielberg sci-fi film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." It's a pretty phenomenal geological wonder, and even more incredible in person. After you pay the entrance fee, you can visit the monument for seven days. There’s a lot to explore here, including learning about the cryptozoological mythology of the monument and surrounding area. If you take the scenic road on the north side of I-90, you’ll get a great view of the tower.

16 Grand Teton National Park

Next stop is Grand Teton National Park, home to one of America’s most beautiful lakes, Jenny Lake, as well as the majestic Teton mountains. If you visit in summer, it can get pretty hot during the day, but then cool down considerably at night, so be sure to pack accordingly. If you drive in from the South Entrance you’ll get a fantastic view of the Tetons as you approach the park. Another great tip is to hop on a boat and take it across Jenny Lake, and from there, hike a mile to Inspiration Point for one heck of a panoramic view.

17 Yellowstone National Park

Then it’s just a few-miles drive to Yellowstone National Park, and seriously, this park is no joke. It’s a geothermal playground of epic geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and deep boiling pools. The entire park is one big adventure. Also, be prepared to see wildlife everywhere, including roaming herds of buffalo, that will walk right past your car. Some can’t-miss Yellowstone wonders: Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Falls, and of course, Old Faithful. Definitely grab lunch at the Old Faithful Inn, one of the world’s oldest and largest log buildings. No wonder it was the third most-added stop on our fans' Most Epic Road Trips!

18 Glacier National Park

The next major national park on the most epic American road trip is Glacier National Park in Montana. The Kootenai and Blackfeet Native American tribes consider the land this park protects to be sacred, and when you visit, you’ll see why. The immense beauty of Mother Nature here is indescribable. There’s a great Red Bus tour that will take you along the Western Alpine, and a boat tour of Lake McDonald. Also check out Many Glacier, which offers incredible views of the remaining glaciers.

19 Olympic National Park

From Glacier, head west to Olympic National Park. This national park is home to coastline, beaches, rainforests, alpine lakes, glacier-capped peaks, forest valleys, and a primeval, ancient wilderness.There’s really something for everyone: from hiking and backpacking to walking along the beach and taking wildflower meadow picnics. If you have the opportunity, absolutely drive along Hurricane Ridge. This is the park’s most accessible mountain area, and the views are insane.

There you have it: The most epic American road trip as voted by road-trippers just like you during our Most Epic Road Trip contest, powered by our friends at Holiday Inn. Happy travels!

Holiday Inn

We're searching for amazing places across America to create America’s most epic road trip. Get inspired by your fellow travelers’ journeys below, use the link above to share your favorite spots with us, and you can enter to win your next epic journey!

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10 of the Best U.S. Road Trips for Families

Create memories with your kids on these short but sweet journeys that feature stunning scenery and unique landmarks.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

A road trip is a classic American vacation, but it takes planning to make it great — especially when little ones are involved. To help you plan your family's next journey, we've rounded up some of the best road trips around the United States for families with kids, from single-day jaunts to journeys that can take more than a week. With stops the whole crew will enjoy, these drives are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia

Explore two popular Southern cities on one trip with this short-distance getaway. The drive from Charleston straight to Savannah takes just under two hours, but we'd recommend extending your itinerary over a few days so you can stop to enjoy the outstanding hotels and beaches along the way. You can stay at The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island an hour south of Charleston, or fill up the tank for a beach day at Hilton Head , only an hour farther. Once you've passed through Savannah, drive one more hour south for a stay at The Cloister at Sea Island . This five-star resort is another good option for families, with plenty of swimming, fishing, and nature walks.

San Diego to Los Angeles, California

At around two hours, this drive is easy for parents and just long enough to be exciting for the kids. San Diego, Los Angeles, and the stretches of coast between them are packed with beaches and a plethora of crowd-pleasing attractions. Explore the San Diego Zoo, Legoland California, and Disneyland, about a 30-minute from downtown L.A. in Anaheim.

New York City or Boston to Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Whether you choose to stay in a shingled cottage or beachfront apartment, your kids will fall hard for the Cape . Wellfleet is a particularly great destination for families, reachable in two hours from Boston or five hours from New York City. You'll want to stop in other charming towns along the way, like Falmouth and Chatham, before settling in the sands of the Outer Cape. Once you're there, no trip is complete without a visit to Mac's on the Pier , where you can gaze out at the harbor and feast on whole belly clams. Exploring one of the Cape's kettle ponds, which families often have all to themselves, is also a must, as is checking out the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary , home to five miles of trails and salt marshes.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Beginning in Orange County's Dana Point and reaching north to San Francisco, this popular drive can be completed in under eight hours. But why keep it short? With many major stops — from Los Angeles to Carmel-by-the-Sea — you could make this road trip last for days. Driving northward, head to the top of the Topanga Lookout in Malibu for incredible views of the San Fernando Valley. A few hours north in Santa Ynez wine country, relax with a glass of vino as you plot your visit to Hearst Castle. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the media magnate's vast estate, with its sprawling gardens, Roman-style pool, and extensive art collection.

New York City to Philadelphia to the Poconos

At Woodloch Resort in the Pocono Mountains, you'll feel like you're back at summer camp — in a good way. On and off the property, there's plenty to do, including golf, paintball, fishing, and more. A variety of accommodation options are available, too, perfect for families of any size. Whether or not you're headed to the Woodloch, though, the Poconos are an easy getaway for East Coasters. New York City is about a two-hour drive and Philadelphia is about three hours; the two cities can easily be combined with a Poconos visit for a fun multiday adventure.

Boston, Massachusetts, to Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont, is a great destination in all seasons for families road tripping within New England. Just three hours from Boston, the town offers some of the East Coast's best skiing in wintertime and an abundance of outdoor adventure in summer. On your warm-weather visit, cool off with the kids at the Waterbury Reservoir in Waterbury Center State Park , or enjoy the fresh mountain air with a hiking or biking excursion.

There are few roads as iconic as Route 66 , so why not take your kids on this classic American trip? Whether you embark on the full journey from Chicago to Los Angeles or opt for a smaller section, you're bound to have a memorable time. Little ones will love the route's kitschy roadside attractions (world's biggest ketchup bottle, anyone?), while adults will be wowed by the scenery, from the wide-open spaces of west Texas to the mountains of Santa Fe.

Tucson to the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Take in some of the country's best views on a multiday road trip through Arizona . Start in Tucson and visit Saguaro National Park to see the namesake cacti before heading to Scottsdale. Next up, drive to the stunning, red rock-surrounded town of Sedona. Finally, continue north to Grand Canyon National Park for a couple of days in the great outdoors, reveling in this massive natural wonder.

Rocky Mountain Loop from Denver

If you'd like to swap red rocks for snowy mountaintops, set off on a Colorado road trip through some of the state's incredible national parks and charming small towns. From Denver, head northwest to Boulder and Estes Park, a perfect home base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park . Drive farther into the mountains to check out towns like Glenwood Springs, Telluride, and Durango, all located in the western part of the state. Spend a day at Mesa Verde National Park , home to ancient Native cave dwellings that will fascinate kids and grown-ups alike before turning back east. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Colorado Springs are great stops en route back to Denver.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Beautiful year-round but especially colorful in spring and fall, the Blue Ridge Parkway makes for an excellent family road trip. Connecting Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic mountain and foliage views across the Appalachian landscapes of Virginia and North Carolina. Plus, there are plenty of great hikes for all skill levels and places to camp along the parkway if you want to spend a few nights under the stars.

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23 Hacks For The Perfect American Road Trip

Posted: March 2, 2024 | Last updated: March 2, 2024

Easy tips for a memorable trip

Stock up on supplies

Even if you're a fast-food lover, you might get a little tired of burgers and corn dogs on your trip. You should also plan for the possibility that places might be closed, even for takeout. Make sure you have some emergency bites with you on the road – think items with a long shelf life, like snack bars and instant noodles. If you have a portable stove or are staying in places with cooking facilities, some tins of beans, tomatoes, dried pasta and other pantry staples will be a great back-up.

Don’t wing it

Book accommodation in advance

If you’re camping or sleeping in your RV, book at least the first night or three in advance so you don’t end up being turned away. Some campsites in national parks are closed, for example, or require reservations ( check the NPS site for details ). If you’re driving and planning to stay at motels and hotels along the route, do some research. It’s also a good idea to find places with flexible cancellation policies in case your plans change.

Check your vehicle

Familiarize yourself with your wheels

Whether it’s your own RV that’s been sitting on the driveway for the past year or a rental car or camper van, take some time to get to know it – or to reacquaint yourself with all its quirks. If it's a rental, ask the company if it’s possible to take it for a test drive or at least a spin around the parking lot before getting on the road. It’ll help you be more confident, especially if it’s larger than you’re used to. And there’s nothing worse than realizing you don’t know how to switch the headlights on just when you really need them.

Get the right kit

Take the right documents

It’s easy to forget travel documents when you’re jumping in your vehicle and hitting the road. But if there’s any chance you may end up traveling between countries, it’s important to have them where they're easily accessible. Keep car, travel and insurance documents to hand in your vehicle. Some countries may require an International Driving License so check well in advance.

Divvy up the chores

Take a paper map

Don’t neglect the playlist

Travel light

Take camping chairs

Consider breakdown cover

Be prepared for tolls

Take a cool box

A good old-fashioned cool box is an essential road trip item. You'll have a cold drink to hand whenever you want and, if you're not likely to be passing anywhere to eat, you can pull up for a roadside picnic. A large cool box doubles as a bench or table, too. Just remember to replenish the ice when you pull into a gas station. Or you could even invest in an electric box to plug into the car.

Don't run out of gas

Obviously this isn’t something you’d do deliberately. But gas stations can be few and far between in remote areas and some may be closed at the moment – so, even if you know the route inside-out, things might have changed. Try to plan stops to minimize the risk of running out and to avoid unnecessary interactions. Apps like GasBuddy can be useful for locating the nearest places to fill up.

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Keep all essentials within easy reach

Watch out for wildlife

Know the rules of the road

Go with the slow

Bust on-board boredom

Keep in touch

Have supplies for sundowners

There's nothing better after a long day behind the wheel than arriving at your destination and cracking open a cold drink – whether that means a beer, tumbler of wine or a refreshing seltzer – in time for sunset. This is especially important if you’re camping, or even if you’re staying somewhere that may not have a bar or shop. Just don’t forget where you stashed the bottle opener.

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Now check out these stunning US spots to relax in your RV this summer

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Columbus, Ohio : John Glenn Museum: Moon Rock

Small but notable lobby collection includes Glenn's training manual for Mercury 7 and a moon rock from Apollo 17.

John Glenn College of Public Affairs

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On Ohio State University's campus is the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, named after the aviator, astronaut, and senator. In the lobby is a small collection of Glenn memorabilia including knick knacks, awards, and even Glenn's training manual for the Mercury 7 rocket. One award includes a small piece of moon rock!

You know an astronaut is well-favored when he never left orbit but still merits a moon rock in his museum.

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Watch CBS News

3 bodies found in Mexican region where Australian, American surfers went missing, FBI says

Updated on: May 4, 2024 / 8:34 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Three bodies have been found in a Mexican town near where three surfers — two Australians and an American — went missing last weekend, the FBI confirmed Friday evening.

In a statement to CBS News, the FBI said that three bodies were found in the town of Santa Tomas in the Mexican state of Baja California. The Baja California prosecutor's office told CBS News that the bodies have not yet been positively identified, which will be done by the state medical examiner.

"While we cannot comment on specifics to preserve the sanctity of the investigative and legal processes, along with protecting the privacy of those impacted, we can assure you that we are assessing every tip," the FBI's statement read. "If credible, we will pursue those leads with rigor. We are in contact with the family of the U.S. Citizen, and we are steadfast with our international law enforcement partners in finding answers."

On Saturday, María Elena Andrade Ramírez, the Baja California state attorney general, told Reuters in a statement that "all three bodies meet the characteristics to assume with a high degree of probability that they are the American Carter Rhoad as well as the Robinson brothers from Australia," said Baja California's state Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade."  

Andrade Ramírez told Reuters that the three bodies were found in an advanced state of decomposition at the bottom of a well more than 50 feet deep. 

Mexican authorities Thursday reported that they had found tents and questioned three people in the case. The Pacific coast state of Baja California is a popular tourist destination that is also plagued by cartel violence.

Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and their American friend have not been seen since April 27, officials said.

Andrade Ramírez Thursday would not say whether the three people questioned were considered possible suspects or witnesses in the case. She said only that some were tied directly to the case, and others indirectly.

But Andrade Ramírez said evidence found along with the abandoned tents was somehow linked to the three. The three foreigners were believed to have been surfing and camping along the Baja coast near the coastal city of Ensenada, but did not show up at their planned accommodations over the weekend.

"A working team (of investigators) is at the site where they were last seen, where tents and other evidence was found that could be linked to these three people we have under investigation," Andrade Ramírez said. "There is a lot of important information that we can't make public."

"We do not know what condition they are in," she added. While drug cartels are active in the area, she said "all lines of investigation are open at this time. We cannot rule anything out until we find them."

On Wednesday, the missing Australians' mother, Debra Robinson, posted on a local community Facebook page an appeal for helping in finding her sons. Robinson said her son had not been heard from since Saturday, April 27. They had booked accommodations in the nearby city of Rosarito, Baja California.

Robinson said one of her sons, Callum, is diabetic. She also mentioned that the American who was with them was named Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm that. The U.S. State Department said it was aware of reports a U.S. citizen missing in Baja, but gave no further details.

Andrade Ramírez said her office was in contact with Australian and U.S. officials. But she suggested that the time that had passed might make it harder to find them.

"Unfortunately, it wasn't until the last few days that they were reported missing. So, that meant that important hours or time was lost," she said.

The investigation was being coordinated with the FBI and the Australian and U.S. consulates, the prosecutor's office added.

In December, cartel leaders went on a killing rampage to hunt down corrupt police officers who stole a drug shipment in Tijuana, which is located in Baja California.

In 2015, two Australian surfers, Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas , were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California - also known as the Sea of Cortez- from the Baja peninsula. Authorities say they were victims of highway bandits. Three suspects were arrested in that case.

AFP contributed to this report.

• Drug Cartels
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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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