The Best U.S. Road Trips: Scenic Routes You Must Travel Once in a Lifetime

The United States is a dreamland for road trippers. With its vast and varied landscapes—from coastal highways and mountain passes to desert roads and forest trails—the U.S. offers a road trip experience for every kind of traveler. Whether you're after dramatic ocean views, red rock canyons, or vibrant cityscapes, the country’s highways and byways lead to unforgettable adventures. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best road trips across America, with tips on routes, must-see stops, food, lodging, costs, and travel precautions.

Why It’s Special
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as California State Route 1, stretches along the stunning California coastline from San Francisco to San Diego. This route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal cliffs, and charming beach towns.

Attractions and Scenic Spots

• Big Sur: A dramatic coastline where the mountains meet the sea.
• Bixby Creek Bridge: One of the most photographed bridges in California.
• Monterey: Visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.
• Santa Barbara: Known as the "American Riviera" with Mediterranean-style architecture.

How to Get There
Fly into San Francisco (SFO) or Los Angeles (LAX) to start the drive. You can rent a car from any major airport.

Accommodations and Food
Expect boutique inns and cozy B&Bs in towns like Carmel, Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara. Seafood is a must—try clam chowder in Monterey or fish tacos in Santa Barbara.

• Budget Stay: $100–$150/night
• Mid-range: $150–$250/night
• Food: $40–$70/day per person

Estimated Total Cost (5–7 day trip)
Around $1,000–$1,500 per person including car rental, fuel, food, and lodging.

Cautions
This route has narrow and winding roads, especially near Big Sur. Drive slowly and avoid traveling during foggy or rainy conditions.

Why It’s Special
This scenic route connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, covering 469 miles of stunning mountain vistas.

Attractions and Scenic Spots

• Mabry Mill: One of the most photographed spots on the parkway.
• Craggy Gardens: Beautiful rhododendron blooms in spring.
• Linn Cove Viaduct: A feat of engineering and a beautiful photo op.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Finish your trip with a hike or wildlife spotting.

How to Get There
Start in Charlottesville, Virginia, or Asheville, North Carolina. Both cities have nearby airports.

Accommodations and Food
Cabins, mountain lodges, and camping spots are widely available. Enjoy Southern comfort food—biscuits, barbecue, and fresh mountain trout.

• Budget Stay: $80–$120/night
• Mid-range: $120–$200/night
• Food: $30–$60/day per person

Estimated Total Cost (4–6 day trip)
$800–$1,200 per person.

Cautions
Gas stations are limited along the route, so fuel up when you can. Watch out for wildlife on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.

Why It’s Special
Known as the "Main Street of America," historic Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey through America’s heartland, covering over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica.

Attractions and Scenic Spots

• Cadillac Ranch (Texas): Iconic roadside art.
• Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona): Fossilized trees and colorful desert.
• Santa Monica Pier (California): Classic end point of Route 66.
• Tulsa & Oklahoma City: Great BBQ and live music scenes.

How to Get There
Begin in Chicago. Fly into O'Hare International Airport and rent a car for the long journey westward.

Accommodations and Food
Route 66 is dotted with classic motels and diners. Don’t miss roadside staples like burgers, milkshakes, and BBQ ribs.

• Budget Stay: $60–$100/night
• Mid-range: $100–$150/night
• Food: $25–$50/day per person

Estimated Total Cost (10–14 day trip)
$1,500–$2,000 per person.

Cautions
Some parts of the original route are no longer maintained—use a detailed Route 66 map. Summers can be extremely hot in the Southwest.

Why It’s Special
Located in Glacier National Park, this 50-mile road offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, showcasing alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and glacial valleys.

Attractions and Scenic Spots

• Logan Pass: The highest point on the road, ideal for panoramic views.
• Lake McDonald: A crystal-clear lake surrounded by mountains.
• Wild Goose Island: One of the most iconic photo spots in the park.

How to Get There
Fly into Glacier Park International Airport near Kalispell, Montana. The road typically opens in late June and closes in October due to snow.

Accommodations and Food
Inside the park, you’ll find historic lodges and campgrounds. Nearby Whitefish offers boutique hotels and upscale dining.

• Budget Stay: $100–$150/night
• Mid-range: $150–$250/night
• Food: $40–$70/day per person

Estimated Total Cost (3–5 day trip)
$600–$1,000 per person.

Cautions
Reservations are required to access the road in peak season. Wildlife is abundant—keep a safe distance, especially from bears and moose.

Why It’s Special
This 113-mile drive connects mainland Florida to Key West, stretching across coral and limestone islets via over 40 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge.

Attractions and Scenic Spots

• Key Largo: Great for snorkeling and diving.
• Bahia Honda State Park: Pristine beaches and picnics.
• Key West: Explore Duval Street, Ernest Hemingway’s house, and the southernmost point of the U.S.

How to Get There
Fly into Miami International Airport and rent a car. It’s a 3- to 4-hour drive to Key West, not counting stops.

Accommodations and Food
Expect island resorts, beach cottages, and seafood shacks serving conch fritters, grilled snapper, and Cuban-inspired dishes.

• Budget Stay: $120–$180/night
• Mid-range: $180–$300/night
• Food: $50–$80/day per person

Estimated Total Cost (3–5 day trip)
$700–$1,300 per person.

Cautions
The drive can be congested on weekends and holidays. Book accommodations in advance, especially in Key West.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re drawn to rugged mountain passes, endless desert horizons, tropical coastlines, or classic Americana charm, the U.S. offers road trips for every soul. Each route listed here is more than just a drive—it’s a journey through natural beauty, history, culture, and adventure.

No matter which trip you choose, be prepared: plan your route, book early during peak seasons, keep an emergency kit, and most importantly, take your time. After all, the joy of a road trip isn’t just in the destination, but in the moments and memories made along the way. Buckle up, hit the road, and let the landscapes of America unfold before you.