The Ultimate Guide to the Best Scenic Road Trips in the US

What comes to your mind when you hear “road trip?” 

A serene view? Stopping now and then for roadside snacks? Or listening to your favorite road trip playlist while driving?

Well, that’s the beauty of a road trip. A flight may get you there faster, but a journey gives you plenty of time to soak in the beautiful moments. 

While rides can be exciting, choosing the best route offering breathtaking scenery can be daunting. To ease the selection process, we’ve narrowed down some major journeys in the US. 

So, sit back and make an itinerary for your next road trip effortlessly. 

To start with the best, you must hit the most scenic route in the US, the highway of the Pacific Coast. Stop to capture the beauty of picturesque seaside towns like Big Sur, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, and Malibu. 

On this exciting trip, you will come across dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches. We know that the beauty of this route will make you forget everything, but you must remember to visit McWay Falls and Bixby Creek Bridge. 

Tip: Before heading to the towns, check for road closure, especially in the case of Big Sur, where landslides are common. 

No list would be complete without mentioning the iconic Route 66. It’s spread over 2,400 miles, covering eight states, offering a blend of Americana, roadside attractions, and national parks. 

Interesting Fact:
More than three in 10 Americans prefer to travel longer routes to enjoy the scenery, with 48% also opting for local or country roads rather than major highways.

There are numerous activities that you can enjoy en route. Before reaching your destination, you can visit the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, explore the Grand Canyon, or try local cuisines at highway diners. And don’t forget to ask your partner to capture videos of you driving on this epic route. 

Tip: If you love your sandwiches and coffee on the go on a road trip, you know that spills and stains are inevitable. Ensure the good condition of your car interior by putting on leatherette seat covers that are super easy to clean.

For all nature lovers, there can’t be a better opportunity to witness lush green forest than being on a 469-mile scenic drive from Virginia to North Carolina. This route, known as the Blue Ridge Parkway, offers mind-blowing Appalachian views.

If you visit in October, you will witness the romantic fall foliage. While passing through this route, you can also stop to explore the Folk Art Center and Mabry Mill or hike along the green mountains. 

Tip: Carry a trail map, so you won’t miss out on the chance to explore the hidden gems of Appalachia. 

Take a journey to paradise on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. This 113-mile stretch of route offers a view of crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and picturesque bridges. It connects the mainland of Florida to Key West. 

Do You Know?
In 2019, the Florida Keys had 4.23 million overnight domestic visitors which was later anticipating a similar level of visitors for 2020. 

Make sure to stop at Bahia Honda, State Park, and Seven Mile Bridge. If traveling with kids, you might interest them in hand-feeding fish to tarpons at the Islamorada’s docks.  

Tip: Florida gets affected due to the Hurricane Season which starts in June and lasts till October, becoming more powerful in August and September. Better check the forecast if you plan to travel in these months. 

Do you have a thing for mountains and historical charm? If yes, then you must select San Juan Skyway for your next journey. Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this 233-mile loop takes you through some stunning terrains. 

Intriguing Fact:
The San Juan’s skyway is the largest and most rugged collection of mountain peaks in Colorado with thirteen of the peaks above 14,000 feet. 

You will even get the chance to enjoy hot springs, explore mining towns, and capture images of Pueblo ruins and the colorful cliffs of Red Mountain Pass.  

Tip: Don’t rush the journey. Take frequent breaks and breathe in the beauty of the route. You can even plan an overnight stay to connect with the locals and enjoy photographing the landscape view in different lighting conditions.

Conclusion

“Journey is more beautiful than the destination” – The statement must have been coined by someone who went on a journey to one of these places! 

Each of these scenic routes offers diverse landscapes of the United States. So, pack your bags, hit the route, and create memories that will last a lifetime.