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The Best USA Road Trips In July

It’s no secret that when summertime rolls around, we start daydreaming of all the road trips we want to take. White sandy beaches, stunning waterfalls, scenic drives with the top down on a jeep? Find a good playlist and you’re making memories to last a lifetime. Here are the best places to travel in July in the United States!

P.S. In the US, the 4th of July is a national holiday, and even when it falls on a weekend – we’re typically rewarded with an extra day off that weekend. It’s one of the busiest times to travel during the summer so make sure you plan ahead!!

A Gilmore Girls Adventure in Connecticut

Starting with a more off-the-beaten-path location for your summer road trip – consider Connecticut! Home to the birthplace of the American hamburger, miles of sandy beaches, and the inspiration for Gilmore Girls – you’ll find plenty to do in this tiny state.

Starting your road trip from New York City, you can enter Connecticut within an hour by car (45 minutes by train). From there, start driving North to the tiny towns of Leightfield like Washinton and Bantam that inspired Amy Sherman-Palladino to create the idyllic Stars Hollow. You’ll immediately find yourself immersed in a very Gilmore Girls vibe! These tiny towns were the inspiration for the show with charming shops around every corner and not a Starbucks in sight!

After getting your Gilmore Girls fix, head about 40 minutes east to Lake Campounce , America’s oldest theme park ! Operating since 1846, Lake Compounce has a waterpark and regular rides for a refreshing break from the summer heat.

Once you’ve eaten all the cotton candy your stomach can handle, hop back in the car and head to Gilette Castle State Park! Perched on the beautiful Connecticut River, Gilette Castle is a mid-evil fortress completed in 1919, and open to the public. The over 140-acre grounds would be breathtaking to walk through at dusk!

Connecticut’s Coast

Following a tour of the delightful Gilette castle, take your summer road trip to the coast, starting with the charming town of Old Saybrook. Along with lighthouses dotting the shore, you’ll soon run into Connecticut’s pristine, two-mile-long Hammonasset Beach . Before continuing on your journey down the coast, we highly recommend spending an afternoon lounging here! It’s one of the best places to travel to in July for uncrowded beaches! (But maybe not 4th of July…)

• Make sure you grab a lobster roll while in Connecticut! If you’ve never experienced one before – your summer road trip won’t be complete without one of these New England native delicacies. Lobster meat slathered in mayonnaise, butter, and lemon juice sauce on a fresh hot dog bun is one of the most delicious things you’ll eat in the Northeast!

Eat your lobster roll, catch some sun, and then continue down the coast to New Haven. New Haven is home to two of the things America is most famous for: Yale University and the American Hamburger!!

• Yale University: Why would you want to stroll through a college campus? Not only was it the college stomping grounds for our favorite young Gilmore Girl, Rory, the grounds themselves are also picturesque. Founded in 1701, you can take a guided tour through the historic 136 acres of architectural masterpieces!
• Louis Lunch: The birthplace of the American Hamburger according to Congress !! Established in 1895 – this 4th generation family business still serves their burgers on white toast, with only cheese onion, and tomatoes for garnishes.

Ideal Road Trip Time: 3-4 Days

Explore ‘The Nation’s Summer Capitol’ : Delaware

The second smallest state in the US, Delaware was the first to become an official state of the US , having signed the constitution in 1787! Home to 28 miles of shoreline, historic forts, and cypress swamps, Delaware makes for a perfect budget-friendly USA destination in July.

When you think of beaches in the United States – most people think of Florida, California, and Hawaii. Delaware, however, is considered ‘The Nation’s Summer Capitol’ because a mass exodus occurs from Washington D.C. to their sandy shores every year! There is even a 40 year old National Sandcastle Building Contest in mid-July at Delaware Seashore State Park … we would definitely participate and let the good-natured competitiveness take over!

• Most Popular Beaches in Delaware: Broadkill Beach, Fenwick Island, Lewes Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park, and Delaware Seashore State Park

other Than The Beach

When you’re done frolicking in the Atlantic, you can head to a few more of Delaware’s claims to fame.

• Fort Delaware State Park : A ‘living museum’ complete with live cannon demonstrations and period re-enactments of blacksmiths, soldiers, and commanders who lived at Fort Delaware during the Civil War!
• Dogfish Head Brewery – home to one of Ev’s favorite beers: the Dogfish 120 Minute IPA! Since Ev used to live close, he’s actually been to this brewery quite a few times and said the best part is their restaurant!
• Trap Pond State Park : The home of Delaware’s Cyprus Tree Swamp – this location is famous for kayaking on the East Coast!

Ideal Road Trip Time: 3 Days

Be Pleasantly Surprised in Kansas

Home to the Kansas City Chiefs, Monument Rocks State Park, and some of the prettiest sunsets in the USA , Kansas should be on your bucket list for July. It’s one of those states people often skip over on road trips – we definitely have for years! After the last few years though, we’ve started to look at all of the not so Instagrammed places to travel this summer. Here are a few stops throughout this Midwest State we’d love:

• Visit Lavender Farms Near Topeka : Kansas is a breeding ground for these stunning lavender farms! There are quite a few throughout Kansas but these are the top-rated: The Lavender Patch Farm , Gertie’s Lavender Farm , and Washington Creek Lavender .
• Mushroom State Park : These odd formations only exist in one other place in the US!
• Monument Rocks: The perfect road trip stop along I-70 when you’re driving across the state. (Try to catch it at sunset!)

Kansas City

The 29th biggest city in the United States and home to a to of craft breweries, an NFL team, and air-conditioned museums when you need to cool off during your travel this summer! Here are a few things you can do during your summer road trip through Kansas City:

• Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – Ranked #2 in the country, you’ll have to stop in and grab brunt ends and slow-smoked brisket!
• Kansas City Chiefs NFL Football Game : A top-ranking NFL team! Whether or not you’re specifically into sports, it’s always fun to go to live events. Get a hot dog and an ice-cold beer!
• Nelson Atkins Museum of Art: One of the biggest art museums in the country, this museum holds of thirty-five thousand works!!
• Percheron Rooftop Beer Garden : The best views of the city and stunning at sunset.

Ideal Road Trip Time: 4 Days

Across The Plains of Iowa

If you’re looking for budget-friendly destinations to travel to this summer, add Iowa to your list for the best places to travel in July. Here are a few of our favorite itinerary items for a road trip through the birthplace of cornhole:

• For the hiker : Northwest Iowa is home to the mountainous region of Decorah and Iowas Great River Road Trails.
• Pella Historical Village District would be fun to walk through on an afternoon and see the historic Vermeer Windmill. Surrounding thousands of tulips, this village looks like it’s straight out of Holland.
• The Influence – Selfie Museum – The first one of its kind in the US – this museum explores selfie culture and its effects on humanity. We’re sure it’s interesting… but also sounds like a fun place to get out and enjoy air-conditioning!
• National Balloon Classic: At the end of July and into the first week of August, hundreds of hot air balloons will take to the skies over Iowa! Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy watching them all glow at sunset for a perfect way to end your July road trip through Iowa!

The Lush Forests of Kentucky

Kentucky is one of those states that Instagram just hasn’t discovered yet. We’ve lived here for a few years together and are just now seeing all that it has to offer! From waterfalls, incredibly lush forests, and hiking to die for – it’s one of the USA’s best places to travel in July.

Get your FREE Kentucky Summer Bucket List Guide Below!

If You Like Music & 5-Minute Escapes…

You may not get to leave your day job, but you can take a 5-minute daydream break. Sometimes that’s just as good. Get your monthly playlists here & our Kentucky Summer Bucket List FREE Printable Guide!

For a few of our favorite Kentucky activities this summer, check out these posts:

• The Ultimate Kentucky Summer Bucket List
• Waterfalls of Southern Daniel Boone National Park
• Best Taco’s In Louisville Kentucky

There are so many places to explore in Kentucky, so we recommend hitting a few highlights like the Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge, and Louisville! (There’s so much to see and do in Louisville – it’s our biggest city! Get all of our Louisville guides here. )

Don’t forget to check out our gear guide for waterfall hiking ! You’ll need it for exploring over 700 waterfalls that call Kentucky home!

Ideal Road Trip Time: 5 Days

A Watery Wilderness Adventure in WISCONSIN

Wisconsin should be on every avid outdoor adventurer’s bucket list in July. Perched on the Canadian-United States border, Wisconsin also straddles two of the great lakes: Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. This area of the country is famous for its epic hiking and kayaking with some of the clearest water through the United States.

These are our bucket list outdoor adventures throughout Wisconsin:

• Apostle Islands Sea Caves : A premier kayaking destination in the USA! Truly in our top ten bucket list experiences we want to have in the USA.
• Witches Gulch
• Devil’s Lake State Park- Named the prettiest place in Wisconsin by a few travel publications!
• Ice Age Trail – 1,200 Miles through Wisconsin’s prairies and forests.
• Interstate State Park – Along the stunning St.Croix National Scenic Riverway

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hiking destination, Wisconsin should also be one of your go-tos because the weather is perfect for camping . With their dryer summer season hovering in the 80s during the day, and 50’s at night – you can hike in relatively warm weather, and cuddle up at night by the fire! (Camping is the most budget-friendly way to travel!)

Explore Minnesota’s Wild Side

Did you know that Minnesota has ninety thousand miles of shoreline? That’s more than California, Florida and Hawaii have combined! Not only will you find incredibly clean beaches springing out of Minnesota’s pristine wilderness, but you’ll also find epic scenery and hiking around every turn. There is no end to the number of gorgeous photography destinations for the avid photographer too!

If we were planning a summer road trip in July through Minnesota, this would be our itinerary:

• Mall of America – Day 1: Located in Minneapolis, this is the biggest mall in the United States with over 4.3 miles of storefronts! (And a small theme park located inside!)
• City of Duluth – Day 2: Perched on the edge of Lake Michigan and arguably one of the prettiest
• Itasca State Park – Day 3: – One of the prettiest parks in Minnesota with a ton of magnificent hiking adventures!
• Boundary Waters – Day 4: – We’ve read it’s a life-changing experience to kayak here!
• Whitewater Rafting – Day 5: In the land of 10,000 lakes, Class III rapids are a no-joke adventure sure to help you cool off this July!

Relax At Indiana Dunes State Park

The last but not least stop on your summer road trip in July should be the Indiana Dunes State Park . With some of the bluest (cleanest) waters on the Great Lakes, miles of sandy beaches, and being only 30 minutes from Chicago – it’s really a perfect stop. So what is there to do at the Dunes?

• 50 Miles of Hiking Trails
• 15 Miles of Sandy Beaches
• Rare bird watching – Take a virtual tour here!

Not to mention it would be great to camp here, making this another budget-friendly USA destination this July ! The temperatures in this area, combined with the cool breezes flowing off of Lake Michigan mean you won’t be too hot at night, even in the dead of summer.

This is the second destination we’ve shared as some of the best places to travel in July, and for good reason! It’s incredibly scenic and if you’re looking to take a longer trip – just add in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Kentucky to avoid the crowds and take in these beautiful states. (You’ll probably need about 2 weeks for a trip like that!)

Ideal Road Trip Time: 2 Days

share this guide

Did you find inspiration for all the best places to travel in July? We have a few more guides for where to travel this summer, fall, and winter.

• The Best Places To Travel in February
• Where To Travel This Summer in August
• Best Places To Catch Fall Foliage in September
• The Best Destinations To Enjoy this December

If you’ve found this post helpful, save it for later to aid you in planning! Drop us any planning questions in the comments below.

Make sure to subscribe to our blog , snag all of your road trip basics (below), get your travel insurance , and have fun jamming to a new playlist !

Until next time friends,

Thanks for sharing!

Evan and Shelby

Sharing beautiful places, sustainable & slow living tips, + good food from across the globe. You can probably find Shelbs creating a new playlist or editing photos, and Ev researching the latest and greatest in all manner of travel gear and tech. We're so happy you're here taking a moment to read and slow down a little.

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The best view in alabama: weathington park overlook, where can americans travel right now destination + requirements guide, the 17 prettiest sunsets in the usa.

I might have to check a few of these out this summer – Montana and Wyoming are always SO PACKED! Thanks for the ideas!

Such great ideas, I love anything Gilmore Girls related haha ??

I love the sound of the lavender fields in Kansas, and Wisconsin looks so pretty. What I love about this post is that it’s a bunch of places I haven’t heard as much about and yet now I really want to visit them all for various reasons. I do enjoy a good road trip, going to have to keep these ideas in mind

Rachel - Rays of Adventure

These all look great! I love the look of Iowa in particular. I can’t wait to travel to the USA again and visit some of these places.

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29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love

Posted on Published: March 1, 2023  - Last updated: January 17, 2024

The US is filled with amazing sights, hikes and adventures from coast to coast. The absolute best way to experience everything it has to offer is by taking an amazing road trip! Here’s an epic list of the best road trips USA to find your next adventure.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

One of the best perks about US road trips is you can take your time, admire the views, stop at fun road-side attractions and design the route exactly how you like! Whether you have a long weekend, a week, or even longer, these road trips across the US are full of a variety of cities, wide open spaces and some underrated spots you’re going to love.

From coast to coast and even a few bonus routes, this guide will help you get started in planning the greatest American roadtrip that’s just perfect for you!

Must-see video: road trips USA

Best road trips in USA map

Whether you’re hoping to explore close to home or take a bucket list cross-country road trip, this USA road trips list has something for everyone! Check out the map below to find which one works best for you.

By the way, I haven’t been everywhere (yet), so I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list of the best American road trips.

Essentials to pack on the greatest road trips in America

Before we dive into the list of USA road trip routes, make sure you’ve packed the right gear to help make your road trip go smoothly. Here are some top recommendations…

• Food and water. Regardless of how long of an adventure you choose, you’ll want some food or at the very least some snacks to keep that energy up! Here are 101 road trip food ideas . Don’t forget to bring reusable water bottles to fill up at hotels, restaurants and national parks so you can avoid buying single-use plastic bottles.
• Collapsible cooler. Store your food and drinks in a handy cooler, then fold it down when it’s empty for storage or to easily pack it up.
• Layers for weather. Depending on which epic US road trip you choose and the time of year you take it, be prepared for anything! From a light jacket or medium coat for hiking, an umbrella , sun hat or even the perfect merino wool layers for any season, you’ll want to be prepared.

• Good hiking gear. If you’re stepping foot in a national park on this list, or any other outdoor space with trails, you’ll want the right hiking gear. That means hiking shoes , socks, trekking poles and hiking backpack . As someone who’s hiked with and without the proper gear, I can say with confidence hiking is a lot easier and more comfortable with the right gear.
• Emergency preparedness items like satellite communicator and first aid kit . Whether you’re in your vehicle or are renting a car , be prepared for anything. This satellite communicator allows for 2-way communication anywhere it can see the sky – regardless of if you have cell phone service or not. Call for help on a hiking trail or road out in the middle of nowhere.
• GoPro. This awesome camera is perfect for recording epic road trips! Hang this GoPro out the window or sunroof while another person is driving, go underwater with it or use it to capture amazing landscapes. Maybe not an ‘essential,’ but certainly fun if it’s in your budget! 🙂

By the way, if you need to rent a car for these epic road trips, try using Discover Cars . It’s a search engine for the major car carriers that finds the lowest price, and it’s free to use. I typically save 10-30% on car rentals with Discover Cars .

Best road trips USA

YAY! You’re ready to start planning your bucket list road trip! You’re going to love this amazing list of the best road trips in America!

1. Utah national parks road trip (one of the absolute best road trips in America)

Distance: 878 miles Recommended time: 6-10 days Best time of year: spring, summer or fall

For out-of-this world landscapes, you’ll love an Utah national parks road trip through the Mighty 5! From crazy rock spires known as hoodoos in Bryce Canyon to the vast, wide open spaces in Canyonlands National Park, there’s so much to see and do on this road trip!

For the most efficient use of your time, fly into Salt Lake City and start your adventure in Moab. Home to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, you’ll want to spend at least 2 days exploring this area – more if you have time!

Spend one day in Arches by hiking to Delicate Arch – the most famous rock arch in the world! See Landscape Arch and The Windows areas of the park, too. With the popularity of this park over the last 5 years, you’ll need a timed entry reservation , so be sure to plan in advance!

Discover the best hikes in Canyonlands National Park. From the short, 0.5 mile trail to Mesa Arch, to the breathtaking Grand View Point trail. Don’t forget to stop at the scenic overlooks – Green River and Grand View Point.

From there, head west to Capitol Reef National Park. Visit the Fruita orchards and do the Hickman Bridge Trail hike. Allow at least an hour for the scenic drive as well. It’s easy enough to see the park highlights in day, or take more time to explore more hiking trails.

Next is Bryce Canyon National Park. Home to the funky hoodoo rock formations, these views are incredible any time of year. Be sure to check out the views at Inspiration Point, and if you’re up for a hike, do the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop combination. So cool!

Lastly, head to Zion. One of the most visited national parks in the country, and for good reason! This massive canyon is so incredible from almost anywhere in the park. Popular hikes like The Narrows and Angels Landing (permit required) and Canyon Overlook Trail don’t disappoint !

The final part of this trip is just heading to Las Vegas to fly back home. This trip can be done year round, but some of the roads and hikes in the national parks will be closed during the winter months due to snow and ice, so it’s recommended during spring, summer and fall.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Ozark Mountains

Distance: 200 miles Recommended tim e: 2-3 days Best time of year: April-June or September-November

One of the best road trips in USA is a trip through the Ozark mountains in northern Arkansas. There is so much to see and do on this road trip and it’s perfect for a 2-3 day weekend.

This exciting road trip will start in Little Rock and end in Eureka Springs. The total mileage of this trip is 200 miles and driving straight through takes 3 hours and 25 minutes.

One of the best stops along the way is at the Natural Bridge just outside of Clinton . It spans 100 ft and was actually used as a bridge in the past. The next best stop on this road trip is at the Buffalo National River. You can go on an awesome  Buffalo River float trip , and stay in one of the adorable VRBO cabins the area has to offer.

After spending a day floating down the river, head to excursion train , one of Arkansas’ best towns. You can spend days checking out this charming town. Make sure that you check out the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway while you’re there! You can go on an excursion train, a lunch train, and a dinner train and see some of the gorgeous scenery in the area.

One of the best places to stay in Eureka Springs is at this incredible unique Hobbit Cave Hotel where you can actually stay in a cave for the night. The best time of the year to do this road trip is either in the spring or fall when the weather isn’t too hot and the Buffalo River is great for floating. 

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

3. Beartooth Highway (one of the greatest road trips in America)

Distance: 68.7 miles Recommended time: 1+ day Best time of year: June-September

Charles Kuralt called the Beartooth Highway “the most beautiful drive in America.” This scenic USA road trip route begins in Red Lodge, Montana, and ends in Cooke City and the northeastern entrance to Yellowstone National Park. At 68.7 miles, it’s a short drive, but you’ll want to allow several hours to take advantage of as many scenic views as possible.

While  Beartooth Highway  is a route where the drive is the destination, there are some must-stop places. A stop at Beartooth’s scenic overlook will give you a glimpse of the peak for which the mountain range and the highway is named after. During this US road trip, you should also stop at Rock Creek Vista Point where you’ll be met with majestic views at 9,190 feet . Don’t be surprised to see marmot and scampering chipmunks while you admire the views.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Top of the World Resort has vacation rentals. They also have camping for tents and RVs, and you can rent UTVs and Snowmobiles. Skiers will love Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area.

Because Beartooth Highway is the highest elevation road in the Northern Rockies, it’s closed most months of the year . It typically opens in late May or early June and closes around October. Summer squalls have been known to happen, so it’s always best to find out ahead of time if the road is open.

Recommended by Theresa of The Local Tourist

Looking for adventure a little further north? This guide will help you plan an amazing Canadian road trip !

4. Florida Springs

Distance: 165 miles Recommended time: 3-5 days Best time of year: November-February

Without a doubt, a Florida Springs road trip is one of the best US road trips of them all. In fact, Florida is actually home to more freshwater springs than any other state in the nation . So, make the most of this fact and enjoy a fantastic road trip to some of the best natural springs in Florida . 

Now, if you’re starting near Tampa then this road trip will take between three and five days to complete. After all, many of these spots are secluded in the wilderness and require that you have an RV or do a bit of camping. 

So, while this USA road trip really only covers a distance of 165 miles, each spot is truly awesome and could easily keep you busy for a day.

Once in Tampa go a bit north to see the Weeki Wachee Springs. Sure, this natural spring is amazing but the real highlight of your visit will be the mermaid show. In fact, it is held in an underwater theater and is one of the coolest things you will ever see. 

Continue to Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River Natural Wildlife Refuge. Rent a kayak and enjoying all that Manatee Springs has to offer. 

Just know that while this is a great place to see Manatees, there are typically only found in the water here during the winter months. Plan your visit for this time of year so that you can get up close and personal with these gentle giants. 

Whatever you do though, don’t forget to visit Ginnie Springs. There are some great camping spots here. It’s an epic place to relax, take in the scenery, and do a bit of tubing. 

Finally, head to Ichetucknee Springs and end your road trip here. Check out the famous blue hole which is a great place to go cave diving, snorkeling, tubing, hiking, swimming, and more. There’s also tons of cool fish in the water so be on the look out for them as they swim by.

Recommended by Victoria of Florida Trippers

5. Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada (out of this world USA Road Trip!)

Distance: 98 miles Recommended time: 1 day Best time of year: October-April

If you’re looking for a quirky USA road trip you won’t soon forget, consider  driving Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway !

This road trip spans 98 miles on State Route 375 between the towns of Crystal Springs and Warm Springs. Along the way, you are treated to arid desert landscapes, mostly desolate roads, and plenty of alien-themed attractions. 

There are lots of unique stops along this route. You have ET Fresh Jerky where you can buy alien-themed snacks. There’s the iconic Extraterrestrial Highway sign plastered in stickers left behind by pilgrims who’ve made the trek from far and wide. And don’t pass up the Alien Research Center where you can buy souvenirs and hear some UFO lore.

As you continue driving along the ET Highway you’ll see the Black Mailbox, where believers come to leave mail and other trinkets for otherworldly creatures. And lastly, there’s the Little A’le’inn, which is a motel, bar and restaurant which is hard to miss thanks to the UFO-towing pick-up truck out front!

This is a road trip that can be easily done in one day . However, you can tack it onto a bigger Nevada itinerary.

Also, while the Extraterrestrial Highway can be driven any time of year, it’s probably best to avoid the summer months when the desert temperatures are a scorcher. This road trip would be much more enjoyable if done in spring or autumn.

As far as accommodations go, you can stay in Las Vegas which is only 1 hour 37 minutes from the starting point of Crystal Springs. 

As a final tip, fuel up before you begin driving the ET Highway; this area is fairly remote with very little traffic, so you wouldn’t want to get stranded!

Recommended by Audrey of That Backpacker

6. Washington DC to Boston

Distance: 440 miles Recommended time: 2+ days Best time of year: September – October

A road trip from Washington DC to Boston is the perfect way to take in the changing colors of fall. The journey will take at least 2 days and cover a total of 440 miles with stops in New York, Philadelphia and Providence.

Starting out from Washington DC, you’ll have a chance to explore the nation’s capital. It’s home to famous monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, The White House and the Smithsonian Museum .

If you’re taking a longer route towards New York City, you can even stop off at Gettysburg National Military Park along the way.

Once in New York, there’s plenty to keep travelers entertained! From iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square and Rockefeller Center to exciting attractions like Broadway shows, shopping boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

From there it’s just a short drive up to Philadelphia. Visit historic sites such as Independence Hall or experience some of its world class cultural institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art or Liberty Bell Center. You may also want to make sure that your itinerary includes stops at local favorites like Reading Terminal Market and South Street for an authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich! 

Continuing northward towards Providence, you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural scenery as you pass through Connecticut and Rhode Island. On this leg of your journey, you should make time for some outdoor activities. Think whale watching on Narragansett Bay, biking along Newport’s Cliff Walk or hiking in Lincoln Woods State Park.

Finally reaching Boston will be worth all 7 hours and 30 minutes of total drive time it takes to get there! Take some time to explore picturesque spots such as Harvard Yard or Fenway Park before enjoying a classic lobster roll dinner at one of the city’s seafood restaurant s. Don’t forget about all the shopping opportunities in downtown either – including everything from vintage bookstores to designer apparel stores.

If you’re looking for family-friendly adventures even further north, consider expanding your trip into Ontario, Canada. Silent Lake Provincial Park is outside of Bancroft, Ontario and offers excellent recreation, including some of the best campgrounds in Ontario .

Recommended by Victoria of Guide your Travel

7. Seward to Denali, Alaska (one of the best US road trips for wildlife)

Distance: 767 miles (from Anchorage airport) Recommended time: 7 days Best time of year: June-September

For adventurers looking to add to their road trips USA bucket lists, a 7 day Alaska road trip itinerary from Seward to Denali should be at the top of your list. 

Fly into Anchorage and rent a car before making the 2.5 hour drive on the Seward Highway to the start of your trip in Seward. Stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to break up the drive and stretch your legs while you check out the bears, moose, reindeer and more that they care for in their sanctuary.

Seward is a perfect base for a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park. Spend 2 days here doing an iceberg kayaking excursion at Bear Glacier lagoon . Or take a whale watching cruise where you’ll see tons of aquatic wildlife in addition to a glacier calving. The Exit Glacier hike is another interesting thing to do.

Then it’s time for a 2 hour drive north to the popular Alyeska Resort . They have plenty of summer activities including terrific hikes and stunning views from the top of the Gondola ride. Stay overnight.

Next stop is Talkeetna – the small town made famous for being the inspiration for TV show Northern Exposure. It’s also the starting point for climbers planning a Denali summit.

You can get a bird’s eye view by taking a flightseeing tour of Denali with a glacier landing before spending your last 2 days at Denali National Park exploring wildlife and nature. 

The total distance from Seward to Denali is 397 miles . Doing the trip in a loop from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is 767 miles. Not too bad for 7 days of non-stop fun!

The best time for this road trip is summertime but if you can brave cold autumn weather you’ll also have the chance to be rewarded with spectacular Northern Lights! Make sure to plan your trip well in advance to get the best rates.

Even though it’s not in the continental US, it’s still one of the very best road trips in America!

Recommended by Jenifer of The Evolista

8. Newfound Gap Road, Smoky Mountains USA road trip

Distance: 30 miles Recommended time: 1 day Best time of year: September-Early November

Smoky Mountains is one of the most visited national parks of the USA! It covers South Carolina and Tennessee in the southeastern region of the US. Many  scenic drives on the Smoky mountains road trip  are worth doing, but the most famous is Newfound Gap Road (US-441). 

This American roadtrip starts from Sugarlands Visitor Center and ends at the Mountain Farm Museum in North Carolina. It connects Cherokee and Gatlinburg and is an approximately 30 Mile one-way trip.

Many scenic stopovers are on Newfound gap road in Smoky Mountain National Park and can be done in one day trip. Chimney Tops, Campbell Overlook, Newfound Gap, Rockefeller Memorial, Morton’s Gap Overlook, Oconaluftee Valley Overlook, and Mingus Mill are the most famous stopovers. 

The whole road trip is scenic, passing through a forest of Smoky Mountains with a view of foggy, misty peaks overlooking valleys and tunnels. The best time to make this road trip is during fall. You can see a fantastic riot of fall colors throughout this drive. 

Book your stay in the mountainous town of Gatlinburg for this road trip in the Smoky mountains. There are many cozy cabins with amazing views to choose from.

It’s important to note that the whole area is foggy and misty throughout the year, so it’s worth it to check the fog conditions before driving as sometimes it can be very foggy, and driving becomes very difficult. 

This is one of the best USA road trip routes, and can be done in conjunction with a larger trip to the Smokies.

Recommended by Yukti of Travel with me 24 x 7 Blog

More of the best road trips USA

With so many good options all over the country, how do you ever choose? Let’s keep exploring more options before you choose your perfect adventure…

9. Route 66 (one of the classic US road trips!)

Distance: 2,448 miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: September-Early November

Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, is one of the most iconic road trip routes in the USA. Starting in Chicago, IL, and ending in Santa Monica, CA, the route goes through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. 

Covering a total of 2,448 miles, the route offers tons to see and do . Set aside a week to do justice to the trip, more if you can afford it!

Take in the many sights along Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, from Lincoln Park to Soldier Field, before heading out. Admire the State Capitol in Springfield and visit the Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site before crossing the Mississippi River.

In Missouri, admire Gateway Arch in St. Louis . Then snap a photo of Red’s Giant Hamburg, the world’s first known drive-through! Stay at the Drury Plaza Hotel at the Arch in downtown St. Louis. 

In Texas, possibly the most famous attraction along the route is Cadillac Ranch, in Amarillo, but Shamrock makes for a nice stop as well.

In New Mexico, the route passes through the major cities of Santa Fe and Albuquerque, both of which offer tons to do. Adventure-loving travelers should try hot air ballooning in Albuquerque!

Spend a night in Tucumcari, where you will find some iconic Route 66 motels such as the Blue Swallow Motel. 

In Arizona, the stretch between Kingman and Seligman is considered historic. Also be sure to check out the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook. In Seligman, stay at the Supai Motel , a vintage Route 66 motel. 

Route 66 in California  passes through the Mojave Desert and a string of small ghost towns and roadside attractions. Elmer’s Bottle Ranch is one of the more popular stops. 

Pasadena is home to several Route 66 sights, and also to The Huntington, a complex of beautiful Southern California gardens.

Although not where the original road ended, today you will find the End of the Trail sign on the Santa Monica Pier. Pose for a photo under the sign to celebrate the completion of your road trip!

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

10. Coastal Carolinas road trip

Distance: 600 miles Recommended time: 7 days Best time of year: June-October

If you’re a foodie, history buff, or family, you’re going to love a  Coastal Carolinas Road Trip . This approximately 600-mile route (one way) takes you from the Deep South starting in Charleston, SC, up the entire Carolinas’ coast, and ends in the small naval city of Norfolk, VA.

Budget about a week of travel to immerse yourself in this land of pirates, beaches, and the North Carolina marshes you might know from  Where the Crawdads Sing .

Plan to spend at least one full day in Charleston’s historic downtown. As you make your way north, consider a night or two in either Myrtle Beach, SC or checking out the Wilmington beaches in North Carolina.

Don’t miss a stop in New Bern to visit the birthplace of Pepsi Cola. Devote at least 2 days to exploring the beaches and lighthouses of the Outer Banks . Be sure to check out the hidden gem – Pea Island , particularly the wildlife refuge!

The Wrights Brother National Monument is another Outer Banks must-see. Also, if you’re not eating your weight in seafood on this road trip, you’re not doing it right! 

You can do this road trip any time of year, but you’ll find the most crowds over school vacations, especially summer vacation and spring break. Autumn is an ideal time to do a Coastal Carolinas road trip. Just keep in mind that many Outer Banks businesses – especially restaurants – operate seasonally, so plan accordingly.

It’s most convenient to do this road trip with a multi-city plane ticket and one-way car rental . Fly into Charleston, drive north in your rental car, and fly out of Norfolk.

For a cheaper, but more time-consuming option, fly in and out of either Charleston or Norfolk. If you opt for a round-trip plane ticket, you’ll need to make a 7-hour drive on Interstate 95 at either the start or end of your adventure.

Recommended by Ada of Beyond the Yellow Brick Road

11. LA to Joshua Tree National Park – (a desert oasis road trip in the USA)

Distance: 130 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: April-May or September-November

One of the best USA road trip routes is driving from LA to Joshua Tree National Park. It’s a relaxing way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and in only a few hours, you’ll be in a desert oasis. While it’s only 130 miles one way, traffic can take up more of your time than you want. That’s why I recommend taking 3 days to go from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree and back so you can fully enjoy all the different sites there.

On the first day, start off by checking out the Cabazon Dinosaurs. They’re giant roadside dinosaurs you’ve probably seen on Instagram, and there’s even a museum to learn more about them. From there, continue until you get to Big Morongo Canyon Preserve for gorgeous views and hiking trails.

Finally, crash in Twentynine Palms for the night – they have affordable lodging and fun places to see, like the Twentynine Palms Historical Society and Adobe Museum.

On the second day, head out to explore  Joshua Tree National Park ! You could spend days exploring! If you’re short on time, Jumbo Rocks is a great spot to watch rock climbers in action, and Barker Dam offers a chance to find water in the desert and see some historic ruins. Lost Horse Mine is an abandoned gold mine you can explore, and the Cholla Cactus Garden is a great place to catch the sunrise.

For your last day, check out the Palm Springs area. Downtown has many options for amazing food, drinks, museums, and shopping. Who knows, you might even bump into a celeb!

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a fun ride with epic views of the desert landscape and access to Mount San Jacinto State Park’s hiking trails. Grab dinner up there and catch the last tram of the night for a memorable end one of the greatest road trips in America.

Recommended by Marissa of Postcards to Seattle

12. Talimena Scenic National Byway (a completely underrated route on this road trips USA list)

Distance: 54 miles Recommended time: 1-3 days Best time of year: October-November

The  Talimena Scenic National Byway  is a 54-mile scenic route that winds its way through the Ouachita Mountains in southeastern Oklahoma and southwestern Arkansas. It’s one of the best US road trips in the south!

Stretching between Talihina, Oklahoma, and Mena, Arkansas, the route’s name is a portmanteau of these two terminal cities. You can drive the route one way or as an out-and-back, depending on the remainder of your trip itinerary . For example, those on a cross-country road trip will typically do the route one-way. But those enjoying a vacation in nearby Broken Bow or Hochatown will do the route as an extension of their trip and usually drive both ways.

While you can accomplish the trip in one day, it’s best to spend a weekend of 2 to 3 days exploring. This way you can spend time in Talihina and Mena as well as explore the state parks and hiking trails along the route.

Talimena State Park in Oklahoma and Queen Wilhelmina State Park in Arkansas both offer camping sites and hiking trails . The US Forest Service maintains them.

Whether you choose to camp along the way or stay in one of the towns on either end of the route, you need to make your bookings in advance. This is a more rural part of the country. There are many times of the year when there won’t be any rooms available at the last minute.

The best time of year is to take the trip in the last week of October or the first 2 weeks of November when the fall foliage is peaking. However, the viewpoints and vistas along this national scenic byway are beautiful any time of year.

Recommended by Stephanie of History Fangirl

13. Pacific Coast Highway (a favorite on this list of road trips USA)

Distance: 615 miles Recommended time: 2 – 7 days Best time of year: anytime

Undoubtedly, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the greatest road trips in America. Incredible coastal views greet you from a mix of big cities and untouched land. This San Francisco to San Diego road trip is one you absolutely must do in your lifetime!

While you could *technically* do this road trip in 2 days, you’ll see and experience a lot more of this incredible drive if you give yourself more time. Fly into San Francisco and rent a car and head south towards San Diego!

While there are so many amazing stops along the way, you absolutely must stay for a moment in Carmel-by-the-Sea. A charming beach town with beautiful architecture, this is one of the last stops to eat and fuel up before heading deep into Big Sur.

Along the way, there are so many cool and amazing things to do in Big Sur . Highlights include the Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls and Sand Dollar Beach.

As you head further south in California, you’ll get to quaint beach towns than large Southern California cities. Go surfing or hiking near San Luis Obispo. Wine tastings in Lompoc, hang out on the beach in Malibu and visit the Santa Monica Pier.

The end this epic American roadtrip in a city that’s easy to love – San Diego. Visit the birthplace of California in Old Town San Diego and indulge in one of the many Mexican restaurants there. Check out the nightlife in the Gaslamp district or watch the sunset on the sparkling Coronado Beach.

This road trip can be done at any point in the year. The weather along Big Sur can be a bit moody with marine fog in the late spring/ early summer and wildfire season during early fall. Just pack layers for comfort and bring your camera for amazing landscapes!

14. Athens to Macon, Georgia

Distance: 93 miles Recommended time: 3-4 days Best time of year: anytime

Even though about 93 miles (less than two hours) separate Athens and Macon, Ga., the destinations share something in common besides just being college towns : both have played (and continue to play) a role in shaping American music culture. 

A three- or four-day getaway is suitable throughout the year, even in the winter, since the weather in Georgia tends to be mild-ish. Still, it is weather and can change ~ always have an umbrella available and except for summer, dress in layers.

It can be crowded in Athens during University of Georgia home football games in the fall. The best thing to do is to check the calendars and watch the weather reports. Accommodations in both places include vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, chain hotels and boutique hotels. Something suitable for all needs and budgets.

Begin this American roadtrip in Macon. It’s a little over an hour from Atlanta (for those who may be flying into Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson Airport) and a straight drive down I-75 South. 

Macon’s music history ranges from soul with Otis Redding, funk with Little Richard, Southern Rock with Allman Brothers and much more. Download Macon’s Macon Music Trail app for stories and locations of attractions like the Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House and The Little Richard House .

For true fans, a guided walking tour with Rock Candy Tours provides a detailed look at Macon’s music heritage. Finally, grab lunch at H&H Soul Food for the fried chicken and the connection to the Allman Brothers and end the evening at a music venue.

The drive from Macon to Athens is on highways. If you’re on good on time, take a break in Madison (about 35 minutes from Athens) to enjoy its quaint historic downtown.

Athens was at the forefront of the indie and rock alternative rock movement, introducing America and the world to R.E.M and B-52s, among others. A self-guided Athens Music History Tour highlights the many sites that played a role during these times . And don’t miss the Athens Music Walk of Fame, a two-square-block area downtown showcasing the people and places of the city’s rich music scene. 

Live music venues are plentiful in Athens, and festivals like Athfest, a three-day music event. This will surely be one of the best road trips in America for music-lovers!

Recommended by Apryl from   Southern Hospitality Magazine  

15. Road to Hana, Maui (a quintessential route on your road trips USA list)

Distance: 52 miles Recommended time: 1- 2 days Best time of year: any time of year

The  Road to Hana  is a scenic 52-mile highway on Maui’s northern coast. A bucket list road trip, it provides one of the most iconic experiences in Hawaii, and for a good reason. It’s truly one of the greatest road trips in America!

On the narrow road, you will encounter 620 curves and 59 bridges, with many sections only accommodating one vehicle.

Whether staying in Maui or visiting for the day by cruise ship, pick up a car rental at the Kahului Airport to begin your journey . Expect to spend at least 2-1/2 hours making the drive or longer if you intend to go beyond Hana to Haleakala National Park.

You can make the trip any time of year (thanks to Hawaii’s great weather). You’ll need to purchase a visitor’s pass to visit the national park.

What makes this drive so spectacular is the plethora of scenery you can observe along the way. Imagine roadside cascading waterfalls, rainbow eucalyptus trees, a lava tube, and colored beaches begging for exploration.

For one of the best opportunities to view Hawaiian sea turtles, stop at Ho’okipa Beach, where they often bask in the sun . Keanae Landing, another can’t-miss stop, allows you to taste Aunt Sandy’s Banana Bread, rated highly worldwide.

If you want to spend more than a day exploring the Hana area, the Hana-Maui Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Residence , offers a luxury stay with a restaurant and spa.

USA road trip tip : If you aren’t visiting Maui by cruise ship, plan to drive the Road to Hana when there are no ships in port. Then you’ll share the highway with fewer tourists.

Recommended by Karen of Forever Karen

16. Blue Ridge Parkway (vibrant fall colors American roadtrip)

Distance: 469 miles Recommended time: 3+ days Best time of year: October

Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most iconic scenic drives in America. It passes through Virginia and North Carolina where the endpoints are two national parks – Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

It spans 469 miles so it’s recommended to spend 3 days driving Blue Ridge Parkway so you have plenty of time to stop at overlooks, go hiking to waterfalls and explore local museums along the way.

If driving from north to south, on day one, be sure to stop at Humpback Rocks Visitor Center to learn about mountain pioneers. Then head to Yankee Horse Ridge for an easy to get to multi-tiered waterfall, Kanawha Canal Lock to learn about this historic innovation, and Mabry Mill, one of the most beautiful and iconic stops along the parkway.

Stay at the Grassy Creek Cabooses your first night for a unique experience sleeping in a converted train car.

On your second day, visit Puckett Cabin, where a mountain midwife helped deliver over 1000 babies! Visit the Blue Ridge Music Center where you can catch bluegrass concerts, and Linn Cove Viaduct, arguably the most iconic curve of the parkway that’s a photography hotspot.

You’ll end day two in Asheville where there are a number of places to stay, especially downtown!

On the final day of this US road trip, explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park where the highlights include Laurel Falls , Cades Cove, and Clingman’s Dome.

If hoping to catch the most spectacular views, try to visit during autumn when the fall foliage is out in full swing – it’s one of the best fall drives in the country!

Important Note: When traveling on Blue Ridge Parkway, be sure to check the official notices by the National Park Service as some parts of the road may be closed due to construction or weather damage.

Recommended by Alanna of Periodic Adventures

17. Oregon Coast (one of the absolute greatest road trips in America)

Distance: 730 miles Recommended time: 2-7 days Best time of year: June-August

If you’re looking for one of the most dramatic road trips in the United States, consider driving along the Oregon Coast. This awesome American roadtrip offers rugged beaches, jaw dropping seascapes, and dozens of charming towns to explore. 

Start the drive in Portland and head an hour and a half west to Cannon Beach, one of the most adorable towns along the coastline and known for its iconic sea stack, Haystack Rock. Here, you can peruse its quaint downtown, explore the beach’s tidepools, and hit any of the incredible hikes near Cannon Beach . For example, head to Ecola State Park for the Crescent Beach trail, where you’ll hike to a secluded beach.

Continue further south to the town of Newport. Here, you stop by the town’s docks to see dozens and dozens of sea lions. They happily bark the day away and stop at Seal Rock State Park, known for its wildlife sighting opportunities and unique sea stacks.

Finally, head further south to the southern section of the Oregon coast, Brookings. This is home to the Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, with some of the most stunning views in the state.

There’s a variety of things to do in the park, from stopping at scenic overlooks to exploring its hidden beaches. Once you’re done taking in the breathtaking sights, head back to Portland, completing a 730 mile loop around the western portion of the state. 

While you could drive the coastline in a day or two, the small towns along the way are best savored slowly. If you can build in about a week to mosey your way down the coastline, that would be best.

If you can swing it, visiting in the summertime is the best . The temperature is warm, the skies are clear, and you’ll have the best chance of spotting wildlife, like gray whales and puffins.

Although, the Oregon Coast is also dreamy December – February when there’s far less people too. The Oregon Coast is also one of the best winter road trips , too!

Recommended by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

18. Savannah to Charleston

Distance: 107 miles Recommended time: 4 – 7 days Best time of year: April – June, September – November

If you’re interested in a coastal getaway and are a fan of majestic old oaks, Southern-style dining, and incredible architecture, then a road trip from Savannah to Charleston might be just the ticket! A week is an ideal amount of time to get a taste of these two pretty cities and the stunningly beautiful  South Carolina Lowcountry  that lies between them.

Begin your journey in Savannah, where you might feel as if you’ve stepped back in time a couple hundred years! The Historic District is filled with architecture from the mid-1800s . Cobblestone streets line the waterfront, and each square is shaded by old oaks covered in Spanish moss.

Stay in a historic property like  The Marshall House  or  Hamilton-Turner Inn .

While in Savannah, be sure to take a stroll down Jones Street, view the interior of the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, and dine at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants. (Common Thread, The Grey, and Brochu’s Family Tradition are three excellent options!)  

Savannah and Charleston are 107 miles apart, and the drive between them takes about 2 hours. HWY 17 to I-95 back to HWY 17 is the fastest route, but Okatie HWY is the most scenic way to go. Don’t miss a brief stop in Yemassee to see the Old Sheldon Church Ruins.

Beaufort is an ideal halfway stopping point along the route. It’s such a small city that you only need to stay one night to get a good overview (try the Cuthbert House Inn). Be sure to take a sunset stroll along the waterfront park and go on   a walking tour to see the beautiful historic homes in The Old Point area.

As you head into Charleston, the Angel Oak is a must-see on the outskirts of the city. It’s approximately 400 years old, with twisted branches that are a sight to behold!

Stay at  The Spectator Hotel , which is within easy walking distance to restaurants, shops, and landmarks. Charleston is known for award-winning restaurants like Husk, so a Charleston food tour  is always a good idea!

Spring is the best time of year to take this road trip, with fall running a close second. 

Recommended by Erin of Savannah First Timer’s Guide

Best road trips in USA – continued

Can you believe this list?! With some of the best American road trips yet to come, one of my favorites is up next!

19. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park

Distance: 50 miles Recommended time: 1 -3 days Best time of year: July – September

If you’re looking for one of the very best USA road trip routes, this is it! The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking experiences you’ll have.

In just 50 short miles, this road trip really packs a punch! The Going-to-the-Sun Road can obviously be done in one day, but taking 3 (or more) days to explore is ideal.

Located in northern Montana and at over 6600 feet in elevation, the Going-to-the-Sun road experiences heavy snowfall and isn’t cleared of snow until July. And because it typically starts snowing again by October, the season to do this incredible road trip is short.

Note: due to the high volume of visitors, a vehicle reservation is required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road (and most of the rest of the park as well).

These can be a pain to get, with strict deadlines and they go super fast. However, you can enter the park before 6am or after 3pm without a reservation and drive the road and explore all that it has to offer.

It truly is a stunning drive! Along the way, you’ll pass Lake McDonald, which hold’s nature’s skittles – brightly colored rocks that line the shores of the lake.

If you’re up for hiking, you’ll love Avalanche Lake Trail , Hidden Lake Trail, and Virginia Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Glacier National Park.

Pro tip: vehicle passes don’t ensure you’ll find a parking spot. Arrive at the park early and have a plan B if parking is full. Use this Glacier National Park itinerary to set up your plan for this incredible park!

20. Phoenix to Page Arizona (one of the BEST southwest US road trips)

Distance: 600 miles Recommended time: 7+ days Best time of year: March – May, September – November

The Phoenix to Page Arizona road trip itinerary  is one of the best road trips in America that offers a blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The journey starts and ends in Phoenix, covering approximately 600 miles in total, making it a perfect loop trip for travelers who want to explore the best of Arizona .

To fully appreciate the journey, it is recommended to take at least 7 days to complete the route.

Phoenix is the starting point of this road trip, and it is a city worth exploring. Visitors can experience fun hikes, mouthwatering restaurants, interesting museums, and beautiful shopping areas. The neighboring city of Scottsdale is also worth a visit. Known for its luxurious spas, resorts, and golf courses, there’s so many things to do in Scottsdale .

After exploring Phoenix, head to Sedona, famous for its red rock formations and stunning natural beaut y. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring their vortexes, or visiting wineries.

Next up is Flagstaff, which is famous for its beautiful mountain scenery and historic downtown. Here, visitors can explore the famous Route 66 and visit the Lowell Observatory, which was where Pluto was discovered .

From Flagstaff, the journey continues to Page, which is home to the famous Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

After Page, you’ll head to the majestic Grand Canyon, which is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Grand Canyon offers stunning views, and visitors can explore the park on foot or helicopter tour .

The best time to take this road trip is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable . During the summer, the temperatures can reach up to 100 degrees, making outdoor activities challenging.

It’s also important to note that some parts of the road trip itinerary may be closed during the winter due to snowfall.

Recommended by Destiny of Guided by Destiny

21. New England during the fall (one of the best road trips in USA)

Distance: 830 miles Recommended time: 5+ days Best time of year: October

For a true bucket list experience, you have to do a road trip in New England during the fall. It’s truly one of the best road trips in America! Enjoy the stunning array of colorful foliage and classic, charming small towns in the region. 

If you’re flying in, plan to start and end at Boston Logan International Airport with a rental car . Otherwise, adapt this loop to your own starting point.

This road trip is a loop spanning about 830 miles. You can certainly add more destinations if you have more time! You can do this trip in 5 days but a week or more would be ideal to add even more stops into the mix.

Start in Boston and head just north of the city to the iconic fall town of Salem, Mass. Whether you’re into Hocus Pocus or history, visitors love Salem for its Halloween vibes and fun fall events. Just be sure to book accommodations early during this very busy season!

From Salem, head north to Bar Harbor, Maine. En route, stop in Portland for a foodie adventure. This is the longest drive at just over 200 miles, but there is ample opportunity to stop along the way for coastal views and foliage photo ops.

You could spend a week in Bar Harbor alone, but from there, your road trip will backtrack a bit before cutting west into New Hampshire. Spend the night in Conway so you can start your drive through the White Mountains early the next morning . This is a truly idyllic destination in the fall! 

From Conway, take a 15-minute detour up to Bartlett for a quick, easy morning hike to the very pretty Diana’s Baths. Then you’ll drive across NH along the incredibly scenic Kancamagus Highway; plan to stop several times for photo ops! After crossing the state, you’ll basically follow the border between NH and VT before cutting across Vermont to the pretty town of Manchester.

From Manchester, you can skirt Green Mountain National Forest and head southeast back toward Boston. If you do have more time, add more stops for a more robust 1-week New England fall road trip to maximize your adventure.

Recommended by Amanda of Hey! East Coast USA

22. Texas Hill Country (an underrated American roadtrip)

Distance: 300 miles Recommended time: 2 – 7 days Best time of year: March – April

A road trip through Texas Hill Country is one of the best road trips in the US due to the amazing things to do and sights to see along the way. This drive starts in Austin, ends in San Antonio, and has dozens of charming small towns along the way.

At just under 300 miles long, this road trip can be completed in one day. However, travelers can easily fill 7 days with all there is to experience.

There is plenty to explore year round. Beware of the Texas heat in summer months and plan plenty of swimming hole stops. Spring is the best time of year for this road trip. Hill country comes alive with  Texas bluebonnets  and other wildflowers making for a gorgeous scenic drive.

Starting in Austin, consider checking out the Capitol building, live music in the Red River District, and the beautiful metropolitan park, Zilker Park. If you happen to be doing this road trip during October, be sure to check out the best haunted houses in Austin , too.

Then, head out west toward the sweet towns of Burnet and Marble Falls. Explore Longhorn Caverns, discover Devil’s Watering Hole at Inks Lake, and pick up a slice of pie at the Bluebonnet Café.

Fredericksburg is the next highlight on your road trip and also a great spot for staying overnight.

The numerous wineries, beautiful German heritage woven throughout the town, and the beauty of a hike at Enchanted Rock can keep you busy for several days. In spring, head to Jenschke Orchards to pick strawberries or for fresh peaches in the summer. An overnight stay at the Behr House is sure to please!  

As you start heading south, check out the historic post office in Luckenbach, lavender fields in Blanco, cowboy boots tour and Blue Hole in Wimberley, and the Comal River in New Braunfels . Don’t miss brisket from Salt Lick in Driftwood.

End your road trip in historic San Antonio by visiting Riverwalk and the Alamo. Dinner at The Pearl Historic District and pastries from Mia Tienda will end your Hill Country road trip with delicious local fare.

Such a fun adventure, and one of the best USA road trip routes!

Recommended by Sierra from Very Truly Texas

23. Southern Colorado

Distance: 800 miles Recommended time: 7 – 14 days Best time of year: June – September

Colorado has some of the most beautiful places in the country, and nothing makes that more clear than a road trip around southern Colorado . While most people visit to explore the Rockies, there is so much more to Colorado than just the Rockies. This road trip will show you why southern Colorado is really where you want to be.

Assuming you start and end in Colorado Springs, the road trip will cover about 800 miles through some of the most scenic places in the country. If you’re flying into Denver International Airport, add about 180 miles total.

Start your trip off with a scenic drive through Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs before ascending up to Pikes Peak. It’s the second highest paved road in the United States, just outside of the city.

From the peak head straight across Highway 50 to southwest Colorado, stopping by Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. While far less known than the Grand Canyon in Arizona, Black Canyon is impressive in its own right with its sheer 2700 foot drop to the river below.

From Black Canyon, head south through the San Juan Mountains, stopping by Silverton to do one of the best hikes in Colorado, the Ice Lake Hike . When your legs are sufficiently exhausted, continue to Mesa Verde National Park. Mesa Verde protects the most impressive and well-preserved ancient Puebloan cliff cities in the US.

You’ll then head across southern Colorado on highway 160, a simply stunning drive with breathtaking scenery around every turn. Be sure to stop in for a craft beer in Durango before making your way to Great Sand Dunes National Park. There, you’ll find the tallest and most impressive sand dunes in North America. Do some dune hiking before heading back to Colorado Springs.

The best time of year to complete this road trip is summertime between June and September. It’s possible to visit all the places on the route year-round (except the Ice Lake hike). Summer will have the most pleasant weather and best hiking opportunities. 

This is certainly one of the best road trips in America, and one full of unexpected adventures.

Recommended by Chris of Around The World With Me

24. Florida Keys from Miami to Key West (another favorite on this list of road trips USA)

Distance: 165 miles Recommended time: 1- 3 days Best time of year: December – June

One of the very best road trips in America is driving the Florida Keys on Highway 1. From big party cities on either end to tropical vibes along the way, this is one fun road trip you’ll want to drive!

The Miami to Key West road trip can technically be done in a day, but it’s best done over 3 days, at minimum. That would give you one day in Miami, one day in Key West and one day to explore the islands between.

Although if you have a week or more, that’s even better! Just after leaving Miami, make a stop in Everglades National Park . From birdwatching to the short Anhinga Trail hike, you’ll love seeing nature in this park.

Another stop along the way is Key Largo. From a glass-bottom boat tour to snorkeling , this island offers a lot of water activities. Robbie’s in Islamorada is a popular spot to stop and feed the tarpons   – so fun!

The famous 7-mile bridge is an engineering feat as you drive down Highway 1. Finally making it to Key West, you’ll find shops, restaurants and historic hotels greet you with open arms. It’s quite the busy little island, welcoming passengers from cruise ships by the day and a live party scene at night.

Stay in the Kimpton Winslow’s Bungalows in the historic district, or on Smather’s Beach at Margaritaville Beach House Key West . You can fly back out of Key West, although it may just be more affordable to drive back to Miami.

This fun route from Miami to Key West down Highway 1 is truly one of the greatest road trips in America, and holds a deserving spot on this list!

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

25. Oahu Circle Island Tour (a tropical USA road trip route)

Distance: 60 miles Recommended time: 1-3 days Best time of year: year-round!

Dive into the depths of Hawaiian culture and explore the sights, sounds, scents, and flavors of Oahu on a classic circle island tour. It’s absolutely one of the best road trips in USA, even though it’s on an island thousands of miles offshore. 🙂

This route is an ideal way to get a better sense of all Oahu offers. From world-famous beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities to small towns with uniquely local flair.

Start and end the trip in Honolulu, driving 60 miles around the island’s perimeter. You can spend from 6 hours to 2-3 days on this route, based on where you want to stop and how much time you want to spend there.

No trip around Oahu is complete without a stop at the iconic Waikiki Beach. You can take in the crystal-clear waters and picturesque sunset views.

Other highlights include…

• Byodo-In Temple, located on the Windward Coast
• Chinaman’s Hat, a small islet off the shore of Kualoa Ranch
• Banzai Pipeline, a world-famous surfing spot on the North Shore
• Dole Plantation for its famous pineapple fields and ice cream
• Laie Point or Makapu’u Point Lookout for some of the most beautiful views in all of Hawaii

Be sure to also marvel at Waimanalo Waterfall, tucked away in the Ko’olau Mountains, and the breathtaking Ka’ena Point Natural Area Reserve.

Embarking on this journey during the summertime is ideal due to the longer days, yet it can still be a memorable experience year-round . Just keep in mind that you may encounter crowds at beaches on weekends and holidays and when the waves are high.

If you’re looking for a guided tour, there are many tours you can book to do the circle island tour of Oahu. If you’d rather have an adventure of your own, renting a car is the perfect option! With apps like Shaka and Gypsy to assist with planning and managing your itinerary, you can guarantee yourself an extraordinary experience.

Recommended by Melodie of Travel Must Do’s

26. Badlands to the Black Hills (an unexpected one on this list of best road trips in USA)

Distance: 60 miles Recommended time: 1 – 3 days Best time of year: May – September

In western South Dakota, visitors find a land of great contrasts and great beauty. The Black Hills got their name because the dense, dark pine trees make the hills appear almost black. The landscape is so starkly bare in Badlands National Park that it appears almost otherworldly.

Luckily for visitors, you can visit both within just a few hours–although you could easily spend weeks exploring all the beauty and fun in western South Dakota. This is one of the best, unexpected US road trips!

For the ultimate western South Dakota road trip, visitors can start at Badlands National Park in Interior, South Dakota.

Inside the park, visitors drive the 31-mile Badlands Scenic Loop Road to the Ben Reifel Visitors Center . There are so many things to do in Badlands National Park like hike the park’s beautiful trails and stop at scenic overlooks for spectacular views of the park’s colorful rock formations. Be sure to watch for bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs!

After exiting to Wall, South Dakota many visitors stop at Wall Drug for free ice water (and snacks and souvenirs.)

Then, it’s a short jaunt on interstate 90 to the South Dakota Air and Space Museum. This free aerospace museum on Ellsworth AFB is home to more than 30 aircraft and tons of other artifacts and exhibits.

A few minutes further and you’re in Rapid City and can check out all the town has to offer. Check out Storybook Island, Dinosaur park, Presidential statues downtown, and fossils at the Museum of Geology on the Campus of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. 

Then, it’s less than a half hour from downtown Rapid City to the Black Hills. Take the Peter Norbeck Scenic Highway to see attractions like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park.

The beauty of the rock formations in the Black Hills, the trees, the wildlife, and the view are absolutely breathtaking.

Recommend by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

27. Washington DC to Asheville

Distance: 471 miles Recommended time: 5 days Best time of year: March – May, September – October

A road trip from Washington, DC to Asheville, North Carolina can be driven in just eight hours but you’ll miss a lot of historic southern towns. Plan on a long five-day vacation and make frequent stops.

Your first stop on this American road trip is Front Royal via Route 66. This charming town offers the best apple donuts to pack for your all-day hiking in Shenandoah National Park . Rent an Airbnb or book a campsite inside the national park.

Wake up bright and early the next day to enjoy a big flapjack breakfast then head out on 1-81 South via I-66 W. Select a detour to Luray Caverns or antique shopping in Strasburg.

Plan to reach the 215-foot-tall Natural Bridge by noon . Carved out by Cedar Creek, the limestone bridge offers vistas of the forests and rolling meadows. Explore seven miles of hiking trails and the beautiful Lace Falls, a 30-foot waterfall cascade.

Then, spend time touring the Monacan Indian Village or participate in seasonal living history programs. Book your second night at Wyndham’s Natural Bridge Hotel surrounded by Blue Ridge Mountains.

On your next morning head into the hills of east Tennessee to explore Johnson City. Choose between hiking at Buffalo Mountain Park or boating at Winged Deer Park.

In the afternoon, explore Sycamore Shoals Historic Park, which is a former Cherokee site. Alternatively, visit Gray Fossil Site and Museum to see mastodon fossils. Schedule the hour drive to  Asheville  before nightfall where you can pplurge and book a room at the historic Omni Grove Park Inn .

On your last morning, book a morning walking tour to learn about the city’s Art Deco architecture. Then head to the Arts District to explore working artists’ studios. Leave time for a two-hour drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to admire the stunning scenery at road stops . Extend your USA road trip (if time permits) to tour the Biltmore Estate.

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

28. Southwest USA (one of the BEST road trips USA)

Distance: 950 miles Recommended time: 6 days Best time of year: March – May, September – November

Going from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon is only the beginning of an epic southwest USA road trip. It starts and ends in the City of Lights – Las Vegas. To complete the itinerary in a moderate way, you will need 6 days (not counting the days in Las Vegas ). The distance of the whole itinerary is around 950 miles. Along the way, you will get your ‘kicks on Route 66’, visit 3 US States, and the most Instagram-worthy national parks. From Grand Canyon to Page with Horseshoe Bend you’ll surely be in awe of America’s natural wonders.

In Page you will also visit the famous Antelope Canyon, but before that, make a stop at the the famous spot where Forrest Gump stopped running, Monument Valley.

The best place to stay in the Monument Valley in Goulding’s Lodge , where you get stunning sunset and sunrise views of Table Mountains and Monolites.

On your way back to visit Zion National park, and add Bryce Canyon as an optional stop. The last stop before returning to Vegas should be Valley of Fire, a popular wedding photoshoot location with amazing hikes. The great part about this road trip is that it can also be done in reverse. You can do this road trip at any time of the year, but winter would be the least favorable.

The best time would be spring or autumn, when temperatures are moderate and there is no snow on the roads. Summer, also a great time to follow this southwest itinerary, can be crowded and extremely hot.

Whichever time of year you choose, you won’t be disappointed. Just be careful if driving at night as the roads are full of wildlife that will be extremely hard to spot. This may just be one of the very best US road trips you will take! Recommended by Anja of Anja On Adventure

29. Milwaukee to Minneapolis

Distance: 336 miles Recommended time: 5-8 days Best time of year: June-October

If you’re looking for a great northern Midwest road trip, plan a road trip from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Minneapolis, Minnesota. You’ll be able to see some of the best of the upper Midwest, including important US cities and charming small towns.

Start with two days in Milwaukee. Explore the iconic Milwaukee Art Museum, eat a fabulous lunch at the Milwaukee Public Market, and spend time strolling through the historic Third Ward.

Leaving Milwaukee, you can spend a few days enjoying Wisconsin’s smaller but still important cities and towns. Three stops worthy of spending a night or two include Madison, Wisconsin Dells, and Eau Claire. If you make your road trip during the fall, look to see if there are any football or basketball games happening in Madison during your trip. This is truly one of the greatest college towns in America!

Continue on to Minneapolis. Devote 3 days to enjoying the best of the Twin Cities. There are tons of  great free things to do in Minneapolis  and St. Paul. See the Stone Arch Bridge from the Guthrie Theater, wander through the Minneapolis Institute of Art and tour the Cathedral of St. Paul. 

Other can’t-miss sites along this USA road trip include the Mall of America, the Museum of Russian Art, and Fort Snelling State Park.

Road trips USA

There you have it! 29 of the very best US road trips you’ll find . From driving through vibrant fall colors, to marveling at the sparkling blue water in Hawaii, to hopping in a helicopter over the Grand Canyon, the adventures are truly endless.

Let’s recap this amazing list one more time (in a slightly quicker fashion…)

Best US road trips

• Utah national parks
• Ozark Mountains
• Beartooth Highway
• Florida Springs
• Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada
• Washington DC to Boston
• Seward to Denali, Alaska
• Newfound Gap Road, Smoky Mountains National Park
• Coastal Carolinas
• LA to Joshua Tree National Park
• Talimena Scenic National Byway
• Pacific Coast Highway
• Athens to Macon, Georgia
• Road To Hana, Maui
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Oregon Coast
• Savannah to Charleston
• Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park
• Phoenix to Page, Arizona
• New England
• Texas Hill Country
• Southern Colorado
• Florida Keys from Miami to Key West
• Oahu Circle Island Tour
• Badlands to the Black Hills, South Dakota
• Washington DC to Asheville
• Southwest USA
• Milwaukee to Minneapolis

Related posts to read next: 30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe 26 Absolute Best (and Underrated) Fall Drives in the US You’ve Gotta See to Believe 17 Exciting Winter Road Trips USA: Scenic and Unexpected Routes You’ll Love 12 Epic Scenic Drives Colorado (Map + Tips + Photos)

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Saturday 4th of March 2023

We love road trips! I definitely need to take the Utah road trip and I would also love to drive Beartooth! We did a little bit of the ET Highway last spring and it was fun! Great post. Lots of exciting options!

Friday 10th of March 2023

Yess Yvonne! Sounds like you've got some good options coming up. So much to discover via a USA road trip ❤️

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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22 U.S. Road trips to take before you die

Take these bucket list road trips before you kick the bucket

By Roadtrippers

Road trips in the USA offer limitless possibilities, be they mountain-winding roads snaking through majestic peaks, sea-kissed highways hugging shimmering coastlines, or national park routes crisscrossing breathtaking landscapes.

To help get your wheels rolling, here are the bucket list road trips in the USA to take before you kick the bucket. 

Planning app for a US road trip

Road trips are the name of our game. In fact, it is our name — Roadtrippers is the go-to app for all things car trip planning. Our recently released Autopilot™ tool makes this even easier by using info from 38 million real-life trips to plan your ideal road trip itinerary for you. Simply answer a few questions about the type of trip you want and Autpilot™ does the rest. Try Autopilot™ for free . 

Jump to US road trips by region:

Road trip usa: the midwest, road trip usa: west/southwest, road trip usa: pacific northwest, road trip usa: eastern us, road trip usa: alaska and hawaii.

Route 66 (Illinois to California)

The Mother Road weaves a path through the psyche of Americana. Starting in the Midwest, this route kisses against many of the most iconic moments in our history as it meanders to the West Coast. It’s also one of the most popular road trips in the USA for folks from around the world who make the pilgrimage just to run this road. 

This legendary highway is dotted with quirky roadside attractions, vintage motels, and classic diners. Explore the art deco architecture of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and the ghost towns of the Mojave Desert. Whether you’re fascinated by history or just love a good road trip, Route 66 offers a unique glimpse into America’s past.

You can even electrify your journey because Route 66 is now EV-friendly .

Related The ultimate guide to riding Route 66 on a motorcycle

Minnesota’s North Shore

Discover the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore on a road trip along Highway 61, stretching from Duluth to Grand Portage. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Lake Superior, towering cliffs, and lush forests. 

Highlights include the picturesque Split Rock Lighthouse , the cascading waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park , and the serene beauty of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area . 

This road trip in the USA offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring charming lakeside towns like Two Harbors and Grand Marais.

Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trip

Michiganders are uber-proud of their picturesque Upper Peninsula, and with good reason. The “ U.P. ” is known for its pristine wilderness, dramatic shorelines, and historic landmarks. Drive along US Highway 2 and M-28 to explore stunning spots like the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore , with its colorful cliffs and waterfalls, and the serene beaches of Lake Superior. Visit the historic town of Marquette , the breathtaking Tahquamenon Falls , and the secluded beauty of Isle Royale National Park . 

The Upper Peninsula splits between Lakes Superior and Michigan, and kisses Lake Huron at the end. A road trip here offers views of these Great Lakes, plenty of hiking stops, and all the boating breaks you could want along the journey.  

Related 5 must-see stops on a road trip through Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula

Texas Hill Country

This road trip takes you along the rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns of Texas Hill Country, a region known for its scenic beauty and cultural richness. 

Visit charming towns like Fredericksburg , with its German heritage, and Bandera, the “Cowboy Capital of the World.” Enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards, wildflower viewing in the spring, and the unique limestone formations of the Hill Country State Natural Area . 

The roads here offer a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and picturesque landscapes.

Great River Road (Mississippi River)

The Great River Road along the Mississippi River is a scenic byway that passes through ten states and offers a rich tapestry of American history and culture. 

From the headwaters in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll encounter charming river towns, historic sites, and stunning river vistas. Highlights include the vibrant music scene in Memphis, the historic homes in Louisiana, and the scenic bluffs in Iowa. 

The Mississippi River is part of the fabric of America, and that’s why this is a part of a top road trip in the USA

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

This road trip captures the stunning shorelines of Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. You’ll see bustling cities like Chicago and Toronto, as well as serene natural areas like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Sleeping Bear Dunes . 

Boating, fishing, and diverse cultural and natural attractions also dot this itinerary. This is one road trip in the USA that takes time to do it right and rewards those who do it with the experience of a lifetime. 

Related Sand dunes and dark skies: Can’t-miss stops on a road trip around Lake Michigan

Pacific Coast Highway (California)

This route is on virtually every US road trip list because it’s simply spectacular . 

Stretching from San Francisco to Los Angeles, it offers breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara. 

A road trip itinerary on the PCH offers iconic stops such as Big Sur’s dramatic coastline, the quaint Danish village of Solvang , and the glamorous beaches of Malibu. With plenty of opportunities for whale watching, hiking, and exploring coastal state parks, this road trip is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

San Juan Skyway (Colorado)

This scenic (and slightly scary) loop offers dramatic mountain passes, historic mining towns, and breathtaking vistas. 

Key stops include the skiing and summer mecca of Telluride , the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad , and the picturesque alpine village of Ouray . 

This US road trip also encompasses the Million Dollar Highway , a famed road not for the faint of heart. The highway cuts through the heart of majestic mountains, etching a path along sheer cliffs, towering peaks, mountain forests, and raging waterfalls. 

Related The ultimate guide to Colorado’s San Juan Skyway

The Loneliest Road (Nevada)

Venture through Nevada’s remote landscapes on the Loneliest Road in America , also known as U.S. Route 50. This historic route takes you through vast desert expanses, rugged mountains, and ghost towns that echo the state’s mining past. 

Visit the eccentric town of Austin , the beautiful Great Basin National Park , and the intriguing dunes of Sand Mountain . This drive’s solitude and stark beauty make it an iconic choice.

Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)

Discover the otherworldly landscapes of Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 , which traverses red rock canyons, high desert, and ancient Native American sites. This 124-mile route passes through two national parks, Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef , and features stunning natural wonders like the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument . 

Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the region’s unique geology and vibrant colors. This drive is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to experience Utah’s extraordinary beauty.

Related Why you should visit Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and how to do it the right way

Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway (New Mexico)

Circle the stunning Sangre de Cristo Mountains on this road trip in New Mexico. This 84-mile loop takes you through diverse landscapes, including alpine forests, high deserts, and picturesque valleys. 

Stroll through the historic town of Taos , the artist community of Arroyo Seco , and the ski resort of Red River . Explore the natural beauty of the Rio Grande Gorge and the serene waters of Eagle Nest Lake . 

The Enchanted Circle is a US road trip that blends cultural heritage, outdoor recreation, and scenic beauty.

Related In Taos, a community of ‘voluntary anarchists’ is taking off-the-grid living to the next level

Route 89A (Arizona)

This American road trip meanders through the epically awesome landscapes of Northern Arizona. Along the way, you’ll see the red rocks of Sedona , roll through the Oak Creek Canyon , and cap your trip in the hip mountain town of Flagstaff . 

The 89A offers dramatic canyon views, vibrant rock formations, and lush forests. Be sure to take a pit stop in Sedona, known for its towering red rocks and spiritual vortexes. The drive through the Oak Creek Canyon offers several trailheads to park and take a hike.  

Highway 101 (Oregon Coast)

Discover the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast along Highway 101, a scenic drive that offers dramatic coastal views, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns. 

Visit the iconic Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, explore the historic lighthouses at Cape Meares , and enjoy fresh seafood in Newport . The route also features lush forests, tide pools teeming with marine life, and scenic overlooks like the one at Heceta Head Lighthouse . Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or relaxing by the ocean, Oregon’s stretch of Highway 101 has it going on.

Columbia River Gorge (Oregon)

A scenic drive through the Columbia River Gorge offers waterfalls, lush forests, and breathtaking views of the Columbia River. Highlights include the iconic Multnomah Falls , the historic Vista House at Crown Point , and the picturesque Hood River Valley. 

This route is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous opportunities for hiking, windsurfing, and exploring the region’s diverse flora and fauna. The Columbia River Gorge is an iconic testament to Oregon’s natural beauty.

Related From snow to sea: The perfect Northwest Oregon road trip

Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

This road trip in the USA takes you through Glacier National Park . Going-to-the-Sun Road in the heart of Montana’s prized park is an engineering marvel that spans 50 miles. This mountain road offers spectacular views of glacial valleys, towering mountains, and pristine lakes. 

Highlights include the Logan Pass, where you might spot mountain goats and bighorn sheep, and the breathtaking views of Lake McDonald. This route is a paradise for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the park’s rugged beauty.

Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)

The Beartooth Highway showcases some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the U.S. Built in The Thirties, it’s been called “the most beautiful drive in America.”

The road winds from Montana to Wyoming near Yellowstone National Park . This high-altitude route passes through dramatic switchbacks, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks. 

Key stops include Beartooth Pass, which offers panoramic views, and the scenic vistas of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness . This highway is built for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and even camping.

Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic US road trip winding through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia to North Carolina. 

Known for its stunning vistas, especially during the fall foliage season, the parkway offers numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic spots. Visit the historic Mabry Mill , the Linville Falls , and the Blue Ridge Music Center to experience the region’s cultural heritage. 

Related Planning a Blue Ridge Parkway road trip

Florida Keys Scenic Highway

This USA road trip is built right into the ocean via a network of highways connecting a beloved Florida archipelago. It stretches from Miami to Key West over several islands connected by 42 bridges. 

See stunning ocean views, vibrant coral reefs, and charming seaside communities. Key highlights include the Seven Mile Bridge, the historic town of Key West, and the Bahia Honda State Park with its beautiful beaches. This tropical drive offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a taste of the Caribbean in the continental U.S.

Outer Banks Scenic Byway (North Carolina)

Road trip along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, a coastal route with lighthouses, sandy beaches, and charming seaside villages. 

Check out historic sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial , the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse , and the picturesque town of Ocracoke . This drive offers a mix of natural beauty, maritime history, and relaxed beach town vibes, making it perfect for those seeking the ideal coastal road trip in the U.S.

Acadia All-American Road (Maine)

Discover the rugged coastal beauty of Acadia National Park on this All-American Road in Maine. This scenic drive offers rocky shorelines and lush forests. 

Highlights include the picturesque Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse , the scenic loop road around Mount Desert Island , and the summit of Cadillac Mountain , the highest point on the East Coast. 

This drive is ideal for nature lovers and photographers. Take pit stops along this US road trip to find spectacular hiking opportunities, snap pics, and enjoy quaint New England towns. 

Hana Highway (Hawaii)

Moving on to non-continental US road trips, the winding Hana Highway on Maui offers a journey through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastal cliffs. 

Stunning views can be had at every turn on the Hana Highway as you trek over 600 curves and 50 bridges in just 64 miles of road-tripping. Highlights include the serene Hana town, the beautiful Waianapanapa State Park , and the majestic Oheo Gulch with its series of cascading pools. 

Alaska’s Seward Highway Road Trip

Alaska’s Seward Highway stretches from Anchorage to Seward and offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the Last Frontier. 

This US road trip takes you through the dramatic Turnagain Arm , with its breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and the rugged coastline. 

Fun pit stops include the picturesque town of Girdwood, the stunning Kenai Peninsula , and the majestic Exit Glacier Area . A Seward Highway road trip offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, hiking, and experiencing the rich cultural heritage of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. 

This road trip through the 49th state is a must on a road trip USA bucket list. 

Road trips in the USA pack in a plethora of sights. Few other countries feature car-bound adventures where you can see so much from your windshield. Check off this bucket list of road trips before you kick the bucket to soak in the special mojo that is the US of A. 

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25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

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Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. :-) We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. :-) We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Appalachian Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Home » North America » USA » Best Road Trip

20 Best USA Road Trips • Famous Driving Destinations in 2024

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

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

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

So which Great American road trip will you take?

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20 Greatest Road Trips in the USA

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

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1. California Route 1 – Pacific Coast Highway

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

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

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

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

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

2. Route 66

The classic road trip across america.

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

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

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

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

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

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

You do the math. 😉

3. Skyline Drive

The most scenic mountain road trip on the east coast.

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

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

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

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

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

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road

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

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

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

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

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

5. Olympic Peninsula Loop

Rainforests, glaciers, and beaches (oh my).

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

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

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

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

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

6. Kancamagus Highway

For fall foliage fanatics.

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

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

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

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

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7. San Juan Skyway

Colorful colorado at it’s best.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. The Cascade Loop

The best of the “american alps”.

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

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

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

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

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9. Florida A1A – Overseas Highway

340 miles, almost all beaches.

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

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

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

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

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

10. Lassen Scenic Byway

A “lasser-known” road trip in california.

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

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

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

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

11. The Oregon Coast – USA Route 101

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. The High Road to Taos

The magical highway to everyone’s favorite hippy town.

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Texas Hill Country

The “green” part of texas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Beartooth Highway

One of the most beautiful highways in america.

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

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

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

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

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

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

15. The Hana Highway

A must-do on your hawaiian vacation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Charleston to Savannah

Southern comfort at its finest.

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

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

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

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

17. The Best of the American Southwest

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Route 61 – The Blues Highway

Visit some of the most significant musical sites in america.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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19. Seward Highway

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Park Loop (Acadia National Park)

Rugged new england coastline.

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

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

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

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

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

For niiieerrrdddsss (kidding).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for a Road Trip in the USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Préparer un road trip aux USA – Le guide complet

Dernière mise à jour : 11/05/2024

Et oui, voilà, enfin la première fois que je pose les pieds sur ce continent Nord-Américain, à presque 34 ans, lors d’un voyage en famille. Je m’étais déjà bien arrêté plusieurs fois à LAX comme on dit (l’aéroport de Los Angeles), mais je n’avais jamais eu l’occasion d’y passer des vacances. C’est chose faite. Je reviens en effet d’un mois de road trip aux USA entre San Francisco et son célèbre Golden Gate bridge, la zone aride aux alentours de Salt Lake City et les rocheuses côté Canada, où j’ai eu l’occasion de passer une semaine. Le grand ouest, sa démesure, les grands espaces à couper le souffle, la grandiose côte Californienne, les paysages grandioses du Yosemite National Park, les époustouflants parc des Keys et Everglades en Floride, ça vous parle ? Le rêve américain, non ? Nous vous invitons à venir lire notre guide sur le parc de Bryce Canyon , une merveille !

Un mois, évidemment c’est trop court pour dire que je connais bien les États-Unis. Néanmoins, cela m’a donné une très bonne impression du pays et des zones que j’ai eu l’occasion de visiter. Qui n’a jamais rêver d’un tel roadtrip honnêtement ? Qui n’a jamais eu envie de rouler des heures sur des routes sans fin, en plein désert ? Dans cet article, le premier sur les USA, je vous explique tout ce que vous devez savoir pour préparer votre voyage aux États-Unis : itinéraire, météo, organisation, logistique sur place, etc. Selon votre façon de voyager, il existe plusieurs moyens de prévoir un road trip aux États-Unis . Préparer son voyage n’est jamais simple, et j’espère que l’article pourra vous y aider !

Si vous prévoyez un séjour sur place, n’hésitez pas à aller lire ce guide complet pour prévoir votre voyage à New-York .

1 – Quand partir pour un road trip aux USA

C’est à mon sens, la première question à se poser si vous envisagez un road trip sur le territoire américain. Enfin, pour être précis, je dirai qu’il faut réfléchir à la chose en même temps que l’itinéraire de votre road trip mais aussi en fonction du prix du billet d’avion pour y aller. Gardez cette idée en tête. Évidemment, vous pouvez partir aux USA toute l’année, on est d’accord. Existe t-il une meilleure période pour visiter les grands lacs ? L’immensité de l’Alaska ? La Sierra Nevada ? Le Cap Cod ? Pour autant, selon vos envies de destination, il sera nécessaire de se caler sur une « saison idéale », car visiter le Grand Canyon au mois de décembre, c’est très différent que de la faire en plein mois d’aout… (enfin surtout beaucoup plus froid…oui oui, il neige dans cette zone très fréquentée l’hiver !).

Le pays est immense et les possibilités de circuit aux USA sont presque à l’infini. Vous pouvez tout à faire voir du désert, des montagnes, des ours, des dauphins, des forêts à perte de vue, tout ça dans le même voyage. Vous pouvez aussi décider de couper en plusieurs road trip. Pour les amoureux des parcours hors des sentiers battus et des zones reculées, il y a de quoi se faire plaisir aussi ! Tout le monde n’est pas obligé de se rendre à Mesa Verde, au Lac Powell ou Tahoe, le majestueux Arches National Park, etc.

Côté climat, voilà ce qu’il faut retenir selon moi : le Sud des États-Unis est dans l’ensemble bien plus chaud que le Nord. Partir au Texas ou en Louisiane en plein été relève presque du suicide ! Je ne vais pas vous donner les températures et précipitations moyennes sur l’ensemble des États-Unis. Il y a des sites très bien faits pour ça, notamment ou-quand-partir par exemple. Commencez donc par regarder la météo des zones qui vous intéresse. Il est fort probable que vous n’ayez pas la possibilité de choisir vos vacances, par exemple par rapport à vos congés.

Sachez que la majorité des touristes prévoit un road trip sur le sol américain entre Mai et Septembre (en gros) et qu’une très grosse majorité se retrouve en Juillet/Aout. Ce sont les périodes les plus chaudes évidemment. Il faut aussi savoir que même en plein été, il peut faire très froid la nuit dans certaines zones. Après avoir passé plusieurs nuits à zéro degré à Yellowstone ou Grand Téton, je vous le confirme. Attention donc à la saison par rapport aux endroits où vous souhaitez aller. A l’inverse, certains lieux (Utah, Arizona, Nouveau Mexique, etc.) peuvent être très chaud la journée.

Pour résumer, je conseille :

• La majorité des parcs de l’ouest américain seront ouverts,
• C’est la saison idéale pour visiter les zones les plus chaudes (Vegas, la mythique vallée de la mort/Death Valley, etc.),
• Certains parcs pourront être totalement ou partiellement fermés (Yellowstone, Yosemite, Sequoia National Park, etc.),
• L’été  : vous pouvez envisager de partir n’importe où dans les États-Unis. La seule limite je dirais sera la chaleur écrasante la journée dans certaines zones. Je pense en particulier à l’Arizona, l’Utah et tout le Sud des États-Unis (Texas, etc.). Autre point négatif, le monde sur place. Vous ne serez jamais seul pour observer toutes ces merveilles, et il faut s’attendre à voir des touristes. Sachez que certains parcs ne sont ouverts que durant cette période ( Yellowstone ), ou du moins c’est durant cette saison que vous n’allez pas mourir de froid normalement (Glacier).

A mon sens, je conseillerai de réaliser un voyage aux États-Unis durant les intersaisons, soit les mois de Mai/Juin et Septembre/Octobre. Beaucoup n’auront pas le choix (comme moi) à cause des vacances scolaires par exemple et une majorité réaliseront le road trip dans l’Ouest Américain entre San Francisco et Las Vegas. Ce n’est donc pas une mauvaise idée d’éviter les grosses chaleurs et les touristes à mon sens, non ? Voyager hors saison, en plein hiver permettra de se balader en étant quasiment seul au monde. Vous allez aussi vous loger pour pas trop cher (baisse des prix).

2 – Combien de temps partir aux États-Unis ?

C’est une des autres questions à se poser pour votre road trip aux USA. Si vous n’avez pas le choix vis-à-vis de vos 5 semaines de vacances, la question ne se posera pas trop. Dans la majorité des cas, je dirai que vous allez adapter votre itinéraire en fonction du temps que vous restez sur place. Ceux qui ont du temps (plus rare), feront la démarche inverse et choisiront un itinéraire dans le pays et adapteront le temps passé.

Commencez donc par choisir dans quel cas vous vous situez. Une fois que vous vous êtes fixés 2 semaines, 3 semaines ou un mois pour votre road trip aux USA, vous pouvez avancer sur votre itinéraire et commencer à prévoir la suite. Le voyage commence alors vraiment. Je ne pense pas qu’il y ait de durée idéale pour votre road trip aux États-Unis. Tout va dépendre aussi de votre façon de voyager (courir ou adepte du slow travel – voyager lentement/prendre le temps), du temps que vous pouvez prendre pour vos vacances et très probablement de votre budget aussi. Les États-Unis, ce n’est pas la Thaïlande et voyager un mois sur place vous coûtera au final assez cher (je sais de quoi je parle, hein !).

Un avis qui n’engage que moi, je préfère largement en voir moins mais mieux. Il me parait impensable de vouloir voir « tous les parcs les plus célèbres » en un seul road trip. Les parcs nationaux sont parfois assez loin en distance et je préfère profiter quelques jours dans un parc plutôt que d’y rester 2h et dire « je l’ai fait… ». A méditer donc en fonction de vos envies.

3 – Comment organiser l’itinéraire pour un roadtrip aux USA ?

Voilà le plus dur qui arrive, ce qui va vous demander le plus de temps, d’organisation, et il va falloir faire un choix (enfin des.)… Tout voir n’est pas envisageable, vous allez forcément louper des choses. Mais c’est aussi finalement le plus excitant, le plus enrichissant et motivant. La préparation du voyage fait partie intégrante de la chose, non ? On pourrait ouvrir un débat sur la nécessité ou non de prévoir son road trip aux USA. C’est une question qui se discute et qui n’engagera que chacun. Personnellement, je prévois de moins en moins mes voyages, mais prépare un peu les grandes lignes. Par exemple, pour ce road trip, j’avais prévu les parcs nationaux dans lesquels je souhaitais passer. Pour le reste, j’ai fait globalement au feeling sur place.

Une fois que vous savez combien de temps vous avez sur place pour vos vacances, il est temps de réfléchir à ce que vous voulez voir et faire sur place. Qu’avez-vous en tête pour votre road trip aux USA ? Visiter les terres désertes de l’Arizona ? Voir un geyser, un gratte ciel, bronzer sur les plages de Californie ou de la Floride ? Partir en randonnée pendant plusieurs jours à Yellowstone ou Glacier National Park ? La zone désertique de l’Utah ? Bref, vous l’aurez compris, définissez en premier lieu vos envies et ce que vous souhaitez voir.

Il est possible que vous réalisiez cette étape en corrélation avec la première (celle du climat), mais aussi avec la suivante, l’achat et le coût du billet d’avion pour aller aux États-Unis.

Vous voyagez souvent avec les guides pour préparer tes voyages ?

J’aurai tendance à conseiller de se planifier un ensemble de zone, très souvent les parcs nationaux du pays, que vous souhaitez voir. Une fois que vous avez plus ou moins tout en tête et votre destination finale, vous pouvez alors regarder sur une carte des USA, par exemple sur Google Maps, pour tenter de planifier un itinéraire exact de votre road trip aux USA . Prenez une marge vis à vis du temps que l’on va vous donner dans les planificateurs. Vous allez forcément vous arrêter pour prendre des photos, aller aux toilettes, faire une visite non prévue, manger un bout quelque part, etc. Bref, comptez large.

Personnellement, j’avais planifié les principaux parcs nationaux et autres coins sympas, en gardant à l’esprit du temps que j’avais (1 mois) et la façon de voyager (tranquillement et avec un enfant de 2 ans). Vous cherchez d’ailleurs des idées d’itinéraires pour votre voyage à l’ouest des USA ? Ce site propose des idées d’itinéraires classiques. Vous pouvez vous en inspirer pour vos vacances !

Des exemples de road trip aux États-Unis ?

Clairement, il sera impossible pour moi de vous lister toutes les possibilités de road trips à faire et il faudrait d’ailleurs de très nombreux voyages aux USA pour faire le tour de tous ces lieux mythiques. C’est aussi ça la beauté des USA, il y en a pour tous les goûts et tous les budgets. La majorité des gens qui vient ici profitent souvent des belles routes qui traversent les grands parcs nationaux à la découverte des beautés naturelles que le pays peut offrir : volcans, séquoias géants, dunes de sable, sorties baleines/dauphins, canyons, geysers, déserts, et j’en passe…Je n’ai eu l’occasion que de faire un seul road trip sur 1 mois entre Salt Lake City et Banff au Canada, en passant par Yellowstone, Grand Teton et d’autres coins supers sympas. Mais voici quelques idées qui pourraient vous plaire si vous êtes dans la préparation de votre trip sur les routes américaines.

Un grand classique de voyage dans l’ouest américain (18/21 jours)

C’est le grand classique, celui que l’on retrouve proposé dans les agences de voyage et les voyages organisés. Le road trip démarre de San Francisco ou de Los Angeles. Au programme : Los Angeles -> Le Grand Canyon -> Monument Valley -> Page (Arizona) -> Horseshoe Bend -> Antelope Canyon -> Lake Powell -> Bryce Canyon / Coral Pink Sand Dunes -> Zion National Park -> Las Vegas -> Lake Mead et Vallet of Fire -> Vallée de la mort -> Yosemite -> San Francisco.

Road trip au départ de Las Vegas (15/18 jours)

Voici un autre classique dans le Sud-ouest américain, sur 17/20 jours

Las Vegas -> Lake Mead + Valley of Fire -> Parc national de Zion -> Bryce Canyon -> Capitole Reef National Park -> Moab -> Arches National Park -> Canyonlands NP -> Dead Horse -> Monument Valley -> Page -> Horseshoe Bend -> Antelope Canyon -> Grand Canyon -> Retour Las Vegas.

Autre idée de Road trip au départ de Seattle

Nous ne sommes pas partis de Seattle, mais vous pouvez envisager de venir faire une partie de ce qu’on a fait. Vous pouvez envisager Seattle -> Olympic National Park -> Parc National du Mont-Rainier -> Boise -> Grand Téton NP -> Yellowstone NP -> Parc National du Glacier -> Parc National de North Cascades -> Retour Seattle

4 – Voyager aux USA et trouver un vol pas cher

Une fois que la durée de vos vacances est fixée avec votre itinéraire, vous pouvez vous intéresser à l’achat de votre vol. Nous recherchons tous des vols pas chers pour partir, non ? Voici quelques points clefs à connaitre :

• Soyez FLEXIBLES, aussi bien sur vos dates, horaires et compagnies. Envisagez même d’atterrir sur d’autres villes à l’arrivée comme au départ,
• Il est clairement possible de trouver des vols internationaux à partir de 200€ pour Los Angeles, New-York ou Miami (si si, je vous promets) depuis la France. Vous aurez donc l’embarras du choix pour la compagnie,
• J’utilise personnellement Skyscanner , que je considère comme le meilleur comparateur de vol. L’idée est de fixer « le mois le moins cher » est d’adapter vos dates de vacances en fonction du prix du billet, dans la mesure où vous le pouvez.

Voici les vols les moins chers vers toutes les villes des USA au départ de :

• Retenez qu’en règle générale, le prix du vol va dépendre essentiellement de la saison à laquelle vous partez, mais aussi la ville où vous arrivez
• Il est bien évidemment possible d’arriver à une ville et de repartir à une autre. Vous pouvez alors envisager de prendre deux aller simples par exemple, voir même de prendre un vol intérieur.

De mon côté, j’avais personnellement opté pour un vol Papeete – San Francisco avec la nouvelle compagnie low-cost Frenchbee, qui propose des vols vraiment pas chers selon les dates, à partir de 350€ aller-retour. J’ai ensuite volé avec Delta Airline le tronçon San Francisco – Salt Lake City. L’idée était d’éviter les 4 jours supplémentaires de route (2 allers et 2 retours).

5 – Le Passeport et l’ESTA pour voyager aux Etats-Unis

Les choses sont assez simple ici. Vous avez deux choses à penser absolument :

• Pour le passeport , vous devez avoir une date de validité de plus de 6 mois au moment de votre entrée aux États-Unis. Si vous possédez un passeport biométrique, vous avez une autorisation de rester 90 jours dans le pays
• L’autre point à ne pas oublier pour visiter les USA, c’est la demande d’ESTA. Elle se fait en ligne et il n’existe qu’un seul site officiel . Attention donc aux arnaques en tout genre avec des sites annexes qui tentent de vous faire croire qu’ils sont officiels… Le tarif est de 14$ par personne et vous recevez généralement la réponse dans la journée. L’ESTA est valable 2 ans.

Pour les personnes qui se posent des questions sur les passages à la frontière, souvent celle du Canada, j’ai entendu plusieurs sons de cloche. En théorie, il semblerait que l’on doive payer 6$ par personne pour passer. J’y suis passé en Aout 2018, et je n’ai eu qu’une vérification de passeport, à l’aller comme au retour du Canada. Rien à payer.

6 – Se déplacer lors d’un séjour aux Etats-Unis

Voici le moment de se poser la question de ses déplacements dans le pays, car qui dit road trip aux États-Unis, dit moyen de locomotion et temps de trajet, c’est le but non ? Les possibilités ici sont immenses et tout dépendra principalement de vos envies et de votre budget. Entre petites citadines, campervan, 4×4, SUV, etc. il y a de quoi ravir tout le monde je pense.

Si vous êtes à la recherche d’un camping car ou d’un van pour votre road trip aux USA, je vous recommande de jeter un coup au comparateur ci-dessous. C’est, selon moi, le meilleur comparateur pour comparer les prix directement dans un très grande nombre d’agences. Vous pouvez y aller les yeux fermés.

Il existe un nombre incalculables de sites incontournables – Faites donc le bon choix de votre véhicule de location !

Voilà les points clefs à retenir pour la location de votre voiture pour votre road trip aux USA :

• L’assurance : c’est un point important à regarder dans votre contrat. Faite donc attention à ce qui est inclu ou pas. Personnellement, nous avons rajouté au dernier moment une assurance rapatriement et échange de voiture
• L’âge : c’est simple, il vous faudra 21 ans et vous payez plus cher entre 21 et 25 ans
• Le permis international: en théorie, il n’est pas obligatoire, mais certains ont déjà eu des soucis avec. Par mesure de sécurité, je l’avais fait
• Le prix de l’essence : il est bien moins cher qu’en France. Vous faite le plein au galon (3,8L environ). Très souvent, vous aurez le choix de payer avec la carte bancaire ou il vous faudra payer à l’avance en cash à l’intérieur du magasin avant de se servir. Aucun souci avec les stations essence, elles sont nombreuses dans l’ensemble
• Les options : vous pouvez très souvent rajouter un GPS, un siège bébé, etc.
• Le conducteur supplémentaire : chose très importante. Nous n’avions pas fait attention et le second conducteur était à 20$ par jour en plus. Attention donc quand vous louez.

Tu cherches le meilleur comparateur de loueurs de voiture ?

J’ai personnellement réservé mes 3 semaines de location de voiture aux USA avec DisoverCars. C’est vraiment un comparateur que j’adore et chez qui je trouve des prix hallucinants !

Petite astuce, ne cherchez pas obligatoirement à récupérer votre voiture à l’aéroport, car la facture peut être beaucoup plus chère. En règle générale, une voiture de location à la journée peut varier de 35 à 40$ selon le modèle.

Pour la petite histoire, j’avais deux possibilités pour récupérer ma voiture à Salt Lake City : à l’aéroport ou en centre ville. Allez savoir pourquoi, le centre ville coutait 300$ de moins. J’ai simplement pris un taxi à 25$ de l’aéroport jusqu’au loueur. Vous pouvez aussi utiliser l’application UBER qui fonctionne très bien pour un séjour aux USA.

7 – Prévoir ses hébergements : une nécessité ?

Lors de votre road trip aux USA , c’est une question qui va se poser forcément : où dormir ? Plus le temps avance et moins je prépare les choses dans l’ensemble, même avec l’arrivée de mon petit.

Chacun verra midi à sa porte et il y en a peu qui préfèrent tout organiser et planifier en voyage et ceux qui préfèrent se laisser porter par le vent. Prenez en compte quelques points importants :

• La saison : en plein été, il serait en théorie plus sage de plus réserver qu’en hiver
• Certains parcs peuvent être plein plusieurs mois à l’avance donc si vous souhaitez obligatoirement y loger à l’intérieur, il vous faudra le faire. Sachez aussi que parfois, vous pouvez très bien dormir juste à l’extérieur, pour moins cher…
• Il existe de très nombreux couchsurfing et Airbnb dans le pays

Personnellement, je ne conseillerai pas forcément de tout réserver, loin de là, mais c’est ma vision des choses et ma façon de voyager. J’avais néanmoins réservé mes deux premières nuits à San Francisco et Salt Lake City, le temps d’arriver et vu les horaires d’arrivée des vols. Au retour, j’avais aussi réservé les quatre nuits pour San Francisco. Durant le séjour, les seules nuits réservées étaient les campings dans le Parc de Yellowstone. Il n’est ouvert que très peu de mois dans l’année et les campings sont pris d’assaut assez vite.

Sur de courtes périodes de vacances (moins de 2 semaines), et si vous êtes du genre à tout planifier à la lettre, réservez vos hébergements du coup. Pour ceux qui ont du temps et un peu de latitude, vous pouvez très bien vous débrouillez au jour le jour. Je n’ai eu aucun souci durant tout mon road trip aux États-Unis , et j’étais en pleine saison touristique, au mois d’août.

Voici quelques infos et idées de prix pour vos hébergements sur place

• Les campings : vous en trouvez à tous les prix, du gratuit ( voir ce site ) à environ 30$ la nuit pour les plus chers (camping privés). Je rédigerai un article complet sur le sujet dès que j’ai le temps, mais faire du camping dans le pays c’est facile et c’est le moyen que je préfère avec le Airbnb
• Les motels : les premiers prix se trouvent aux alentours de 30$ la nuit. Généralement en bord de route, ils peuvent dépanner mais manque de charme à mon sens !
• Les lodges/cabins : les prix flambent très vite à plus de 100$ la nuit voir beaucoup plus. Je n’ai pas testé personnellement.

Je préfère très largement les road trip aux USA en camping, mais c’est une affaire de gout. Cela nécessite cependant d’avoir tout le matériel de camping. C’est ce que je préfère pour être au plus proche des parcs et de la nature. J’avoue que quand il fait froid, ce n’est pas toujours marrant (surtout avec un enfant de 2 ans et demi). J’ai apprécié quelques nuits en Airbnb au chaud ! Vous pouvez aussi utiliser le site de Booking qui fonctionne très bien et propose de très nombreux hébergements sur l’Ouest Américain.

8 – Prévoir une assurance voyage pour son road trip aux USA

Voilà un point que je n’ai pas encore pris le temps de développer sur ce blog. Pourtant, c’est un point qui ne faut pas négliger quand on voyage aux USA et si on veut être sûr de passer un bon voyage…  Vous allez me dire pourquoi particulièrement aux États-Unis ? Car quand vous voyagez dans des pays en développement ou au faible niveau de revenu, les frais d’hospitalisation ou un rendez-vous chez le médecin ne coûtent rien ou presque. J’ai fait l’expérience d’un dentiste au Laos, d’un médecin en Malaisie et de plusieurs jours d’hôpitaux en Indonésie. Même sans assurance, vous pouvez vous permettre de payer.

Aux États-Unis, plusieurs retours de voyageurs ayant eu des soucis sur place sans assurance ont été faits. Les frais médicaux sont colossaux et peuvent dépasser très facilement les centaines de milliers d’Euros.

J’avais donc choisi de prendre une assurance avec ma banque pour tous les trois pour couvrir l’ensemble des frais d’hôpitaux et d’éventuel rapatriement que nous pourrions avoir pour ce road trip aux USA. A titre d’info, cela m’a couté un peu plus de 100€ par personne pour l’année.

En réalité, il existe des assurances spécialisées dans le domaine du voyage (AVI, Chapka Assurances, etc.) et elles proposent toutes des forfaits à la semaine ou au mois pour vos vacances. Les prix varient en fonction des zones où vous allez. Attention à bien regarder les lieux couverts et surtout les plafonds de prise en charge. Pour info, les prix les plus chers (ce n’est pas une coïncidence) sont affichés pour le Canada et les USA.

Pour info, si vous avez acheté votre billet avec votre carte bleue, vous avez généralement une assurance basique de 90 jours (presque 3 mois). Les plafonds sont assez faibles de base donc, attention. Avec une carte premium ou Gold, c’est déjà beaucoup mieux.

Rappelez-vous aussi que vous allez passer beaucoup de temps sur la route et qu’un accident est très vite arrivé. Si vous devez aller à l’hôpital ou si quelqu’un porte plainte contre vous pour l’accident, vous serez généralement content d’avoir souscris à une assurance. Se serait dommage de gâcher un voyage pour ça, non ?

9 – Quel budget prévoir pour visiter les Etats-Unis ?

C’est une question qui va intéresser tout le monde, car à moins d’avoir les moyens, il va falloir tenir un budget ou une estimation. Comme toujours, c’est assez délicat de répondre et de donner des réponses toutes faites.

Selon votre façon de voyager, de dormir (choisir de camper, motels ou hôtels), de manger (snack, restaurant, fruits), des activités que vous souhaitez faire sur place (randonnée, kayak, hélicoptère, etc.), le budget pour un road trip aux USA pourra donc être très variable, du simple au double je dirai. Difficile donc de donner des chiffres parfaits.

Les principaux points de dépenses à calculer seront (hors billets d’avion) :

• Louer une voiture : de 25/30$ par jour minimum
• Les déplacements en voiture, l’essence : un plein d’essence entre 40 et 50$ selon la voiture
• Les hébergements : de 12 à 25$ en camping, 30$ en moyenne pour un Airbnb, à partir de 50$ minimum en motel, beaucoup plus pour les hôtels (>100$). Attention aux pourboires (tip) aux États-Unis qui sont en théorie obligatoires, de l’ordre de 15 à 20% de la note
• La nourriture : ce n’est pas excessif dans les supermarchés du type Walmart. Tout dépend de vos habitudes et de où vous vivez. Comparé à Tahiti, les USA, ce n’est pas cher du tout. Privilégier ses propres repas midi et soir vous coutera moins cher. Un menu au MacDo/Fast Food pour 7$, un repas dans un snack ou petit restaurant pour 20/25$
• Les activités : un survol en hélicoptère du Grand Canyon coute plus de 200$
• L’entrée des parcs nationaux : de 10 à 35$. Ne pas hésiter à prendre la carte «  America the beautiful » qui donne la possibilité pour 80$ de visiter tous les parcs des USA.
• Les à côté (shopping, ESTA, frais de carte bleu, cadeaux, etc.).

Si vous cherchez à prévoir des activités lors de votre road-trip aux USA, je vous recommande de jeter un œil sur ce site internet .

En règle générale, d’après mon expérience de ce mois aux États-Unis et des voyageurs dans le pays, il faut compter une moyenne de 70$ par jour par personne au minimum. Une moyenne tourne plus aux alentours de 100/120$ par jour sans les vols, tout compris.

10 – Que prévoir dans sa valise ?

Dernier point selon moi important à prévoir pour votre voyage aux USA , l’équipement. Il va évidemment dépendre de plusieurs points :

• La Saison : c’est la première chose à penser. Ne croyez pas que parce que vous partez en plein mois d’aout, vous allez forcément avoir une chaleur à crever et que vous n’allez devoir prendre que des shorts et Tee-shirts ! Beaucoup de parcs dans l’Utah, le Colorado, le Wyoming, Montana, etc. se trouvent en altitude et vous pouvez avoir frais voir froid en soirée et surtout la nuit.
• Les parcs que vous visitez : Comme évoqué plus haut, même en été, certains parcs sont réputés pour leur relative fraicheur. Nous avions choisi volontairement de nous écarter des parcs les plus chauds (Grand Canyon, Brice Canyon, Antelope Canyon, etc.) et nous focaliser sur les parcs de l’Idaho, le Montana et le Wyoming. Pour vous donner une idée, nous avons eu quelques nuits à zéro à Grand Teton National Park, et de nombreuses nuits froides à Yellowstone, et dans tout le Montana. Très souvent, il faisait aux alentours de 4° la nuit. Idem côté Canadien aux alentours de Banff et Jasper, donc attention.

• Le type d’hébergement : si vous êtes en camping car par exemple ou en tente, cela change la donne. Si vous dormez en Airbnb, vous avez moins de risque d’avoir froid aussi…

Dans tous les cas, même en plein été, je vous conseille de bien regarder les températures moyennes des parcs où vous allez passer pour votre road trip. Prévoir des vêtements pour le froid dans tous les cas pour ceux en camping tente !

Comme ça en vrac, je dirai déjà :

• Quelques sweets, un poncho pour la pluie ou pour le vent,
• Tout le matériel pour randonner,
• Un maillot de bain (pour les sources thermales ou les rivières et lacs !),
• Des adaptateurs pour les prises locales (vous pouvez prendre un adaptateur universel ).

J’arrive au bout de ce long article et j’espère qu’il vous sera utile pour la préparation de votre road trip aux USA . Ce road trip m’a vraiment donné envie en tout cas de découvrir les États-Unis et l’Ouest Canadien lors d’un prochain voyage pour avoir un autre aperçu des autres parcs nationaux. J’en garde de très bons souvenirs et je languis déjà. Je suis en train de traiter mes photos de voyage et j’en reprends plein les yeux !

Si vous avez des questions sur l’article, ne surtout pas hésiter à me laisser un commentaire ! Qu’avez-vous prévu pour l’instant pour votre premier voyage alors ?

Je vous souhaite un beau voyage et une bonne route ! Parmi les sites naturels et les magnifiques paysages dont je suis tombé amoureux…une visite du Grand Teton National Park ? Je garderais toute ma vie en tête les panoramas inoubliables sur les Tétons.

Je suis curieux, où avez-vous eu le plus de dépaysement aux États-Unis ? Vos plus belles excursions ? Plus belles chutes d’eau ?

Pour ceux que ça intéresse, voici le site de l’ambassade des États-Unis .

Bonne continuation.

Vous avez aimé l'article ? Suivez-nous !

Écrit par Sylvain PONS

J'ai eu l'occasion de découvrir, à deux reprises et durant environ 2 mois, plusieurs coins des États-Unis, profitant pleinement de ce que le territoire a de plus beau à offrir. Je partage ici le récit de mes expériences passées sur place !

Grâce à vous, nos lecteurs, notre blog peut continuer à grandir. Cette page peut contenir des liens affiliés, ce qui signifie que nous pouvons gagner une commission si vous faites un achat par leur intermédiaire, sans que cela ne vous coûte plus cher. Cela nous aide à continuer à vous offrir toujours plus et soutenir notre travail !

Malgré notre vigilance, une erreur peut s'être glissée dans cet article. Si vous en repérez une, n'hésitez pas à nous le signaler pour que l'on corrige dans la foulée et garder nos infos à jour !

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30 commentaires

Merci beaucoup pour cet article très complet ! Un road trip dans cette région est sur ma to-do list depuis trèèèès longtemps et ce guide va beaucoup m’aider à le préparer !

Avec plaisir 🙂

Bonjour. Merci beaucoup pour tous ces renseignements. Je pense qu’une petite mise à jour des tarifs suite à la pandémie et guerre en Ukraine serait la bien venue. En effet, en location de voiture je ne trouve rien en dessous des 100€/j de même pour les hôtels (minimum du minimum) rien sous les 100€/nuit. Pour l’essence, compter 1,4$/l, mais inutile de dire que chaquejour ça hange.. Peut-être que les prix redeviendront moins fou en fi d’année ? Encore un grand merci pour ce Road trip.

Oui, il faudrait que je mette les prix à jour, car effectivement, les choses ont évolué depuis 🙂

bonjour super votre site et vos dossiers sont super complets et tres motivants .je prevois de partir avec ma femme et notre fille de mai a juillet , de new york a san francisco . en voiture , et se laisser un peu guider par les rencontres . avez vous quelques conseils en plus ? merci et bravo benoit

Hello Benoit,

merci du message. Disons que je te conseillerais de bien étudier la chose, surtout en fonction du temps que tu as sur place et de la météo ! S.

Attention contrairement a ce que vous indiquez pour certains pays, il n’est pas nécessaire d’avoir un passeport validité de plus 6 mois après votre entrée

https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/assets/documents/2017-Dec/Six-Month%20Club%20Update122017.pdf

C’est vrai, je vais corriger ça ! Sylvain

Bonsoir à tous et à toutes !

J’aurais une question à vous poser : une fois dans les parcs nationaux de l’Ouest Américain est-il possible de parcourir l’essentiel des paysages qui s’offrent à nous en utilisant la voiture ou bien il est franchement préférable de marcher pour profiter aux mieux des parcs ?

Je vous remercie par avance pour vôtre réponse, ayant dans l’idée de réaliser un road trip photo aux US !

Je dirais que dans la majorité des parcs, tu as toujours des points de vue faciles et accessibles en voiture, mais si tu désires sortir des sentiers classiques et admirer d’autres choses que « celles de Monsieur tout le monde », il faudra marcher un peu !

bonjour j’aimerai savoir si il faut réserver avant le survol en hélicoptère du Grand Canyon et on aimerai trouver une personne pour une visite guidé à San Francisco .Merci

Je ne suis jamais allé encore au Grand Canyon, mais en pleine saison touristique, à mon sens, il vaudrait mieux réserver, c’est presque sûr ! Pour un guide à SF, je n’ai malheureusement pas de nom à donner, désolé ! Sylvain

très beau billet, bien étayé. Nous adorons le camping en France et sommes bien équipé, mais je ne vois pas comment faire pour les USA? Il n’y a pas moyen de louer son matériel là bas. Car ca fait un sacré volume à trimballer et je ne me vois pas avec ça dans l’avion sans avoir un énorme surplus à payer? Comment faites vous? Cordialement

Coucou Nath,

Je t’avoue que nous avons tout notre matos de camping et que nous avons tout amené dans les valises (principalement tente + matelas + réchaud + popote + quelques bricoles). C’est lourd mais ça se fait bien. On avait le droit à 3x 23kg en soute + 3x 12Kg en bagage main alors bon…

Après sur place tu peux peut être louer mais je ne me suis jamais penché sur la question ! S.

bravo , excellent site a ajouter  » roadtrippin » c’est a partir de ce site que j’ai organiser mes randonnées nous sommes partis mon épouse et moi durant 1 mois dans parcs de l’UTAH ,ARIZONA , NEVADA j’ai tout organiser et je peux si vous voulez tous vous expliquer nous y repartirons en 2020 juin ou septembre et j’ai besoin de renseignement sur les hébergements du parc de yellowstone

Merci beaucoup 🙂

Bonjour Sylvain

Super blog, Merci beaucoup ! Très beau travail. Pour 2023 nous partirons également en Roal trip en famille. Ce sera Le Voyage Famille. Car cette année, il y aura les 50 ans de monsieur et les 18 ans de notre fille. Nous partirons pour 3/4 semaines uniquement en juillet ou août à 4 au départ de Paris. Nous souhaitons faire : 3 jours New York/ 4jours texas/ 4 jours Louisiane/7 jours los angeles et les à côté/4 jours San Francisco Voilà ma présentation ! Mes questions sont : mon planning est il faisable ? Est ce que le nombre de jours accorder aux villes sont suffisantes? Les vols intérieurs faut il les réserver d avance ? Et quelle compagnie prendre ?

Merci pour ces précieuses réponses Amicalement vôtre Carmen

faisable oui, mais cela va revenir cher car beaucoup de vols intérieurs et vous allez à mon sens tout survoler 🙂 Mais pourquoi pas. Tu ne pourras de toute façon pas voir l’essentiel de villes aussi grosses en 3 jours, impossible ! Sylvain

Bonjour sylvain nous partons dimanche matin pour 15 jours avec nos petits trois jours à Los Angeles 6 jours en camping à visiter les parcs et on se pose trois jours à San Francisco mais en tant que maman je me stresse pour trouver des points de de ravitaillement pour notre périple en camping car est ce qu’on trouve facilement ? Merci pour votre réponse Eva

Coucou Eva,

Tu parles de points de ravitaillement pour le bébé ? Car franchement c’est si c’est il y a de tout partout au USA 😁 Sylvain

Salut à toi Sylvain ! Et grand merci pour ton blog et surtout ton texte que je trouve excitent, car il me donne encore plus envie de faire le road trip avec ma famille 🙂 … dit moi toi qui a fait cela pendant plus de 1 mois avec ta petite famille j’ai quelques questions si cela te gêne pas ? Déjà nous nous sommes 5 mon conjoint , nos filles de 7ans (jumelles) et notre petite dernière de 9mois actuellement et bien sûr moi hein 😀 !! Nous contions partir d’ici une année je pense et je vise pas mal le moins de juin , car il n’y fait pas trop chaud et pas trop froid celons les états , de deux c’est la fin de l’école et de 3 les prix sont quand mêmes moins élevés à se qu’il parait mais aussi il y aurai moins de monde !! La question de notre budget à prévoir me reste vraiment incertain encore à ce jour ;( .. je ne pense pas que nous puissions camper avec tout nos enfants ! (Trop compliqué et trop de matériels à prévoir il me semble ) .. nous adorons les motels mi tiques des États Unis 😀 .. crois tu que tu pourrais me donner une fourchette de budget sur 15 jours pour faire une bonne partie de la côte Ouest ? En sachant par contre que niveau alimentation nous serons pas pénibles sur le faite de manger à la pique nique !! Et de temps en temps un petit food.. et dit moi parle tu bien l’anglais ? Voilà … j’ai tellement de choses à te demander mais je ne veux pas t’embêter avec cela …mais bordél tu m’a fait rêver et je rêve encore de pouvoir partir avec notre petite famille … bien à toi Jessica 😉 Et merci de ton retour par avance

Coucou Jessica,

merci de ton message. C’est vraiment très difficile de donner un budget car il y a pas mal de choses à prendre en compte : vol + hébergement + location voiture/camping-car + essence + bouffe + activités payante + entrée des parcs. Oui je parle bien anglais pas de soucis, pourquoi ?

Pour 15 jours, je dirais que ton va dépendre de 3 choses : si tu trouves des vols pas chers, comment tu te déplaces et ou tu dors. Un motel, ça chiffre vite à 80/100$ la nuit je pense déjà…

Je t’avance pas trop désolé 🙁 Sylvain

Bonjour, Pour le budget, nous sommes partis en août à 5 ( avec nos deux garçons de 16 ans et notre fille de 12) en août. Estimation a 60 euros par personne ( sans le billet). Voiture , mix hôtel/motel/appart, nourriture ( pas mal de fast-food, ou chez nous le soir), loisirs ( peu de choses payantes- tellement de choses à voir!!). Voilà, on peut diminuer les coûts en tenant des logements moins chers, mais la piscine est appréciable l’été, et être proches des sites à visiter limitent aussi les kilomètres . Un voyage fabuleux!!

Coucou Valérie, Je te remercie pour ton retour d’expérience qui fait plaisir. À bientôt sur le blog. Sylvain

bonjour, merci pour votre site. Concernant le budget, vous donnez une fourchette de 70 à 120 dollars par personne ou pour la 1ere personne ? Par exemple les hébergements, nous sommes 4, vous donnez 25$ la nuit en camping. Il nous faut multiplier par 4 pour 4 personnes ? De même pour la location de voiture ?

Nous prévoyons de partir l’été prochain, je commence donc à regarder.

Concernant les vols, pensez vous qu’il soit plus interessant d’acheter son billet 1 an à l’avance, 2 mois à l’avance…?

Encore merci. Cordialement. Jean Yves.

Coucou Jean-Yves,

Les 70-120$, se sont une moyenne globale de mon expérience et de ce que j’ai trouvé à droite à gauche. Il faut comprendre par personne avec nuit, essence, location de voiture, assurance, nourriture, divers, etc.

Pour les vols, si tu peux t’y prendre un peu à l’avance quand même c’est bien selon moi 🙂 Sylvain

Bonjour Sylvain,

Merci pour votre article, je dois prévoir mon roadtrip en 1 semaine chrono car un changement de plan en pleines vacances de 5 mois, il m’a beaucoup aidé pour me donner une idée. J’ai tout de même une petite question : etes vous passé des USA au Canada avec le même véhicule ou avez vous changé entre temps ? Les assurances fonctionnent dans le nouveau pays si c’est avec la même voiture ? Faut-il voir avec le loueur à l’avance si il est autorisé de sortir du territoire avec le véhicule ? (cela fait plusieurs questions c’est vrai mais je ne trouve pas vraiment d’info sur internet)

Merci beaucoup pour tout 🙂

Coucou Margaux,

merci de ton message. J’avoue que je me suis aussi posé la question, mais vu que ce n’était pas prévu et à la dernière minute ce passage au Canada, je n’ai pas demandé au loueur. Il est possible qu’il faille payer un supplément ou du moins en informer le loueur. Je pense surtout à l’assurance/assistance aux USA. S’il m’était arrivé quelque chose côté Canada, je ne suis pas sûr que l’assurance aurait fonctionné, c’est possible. le mieux serait de se renseigner avec ton loueur quand même avant !

Passionnant ! Ouest américain prévu pour 2022, et je pense qu’il faut bien 2 ans pour économiser un tel voyage 😉

Merci beaucoup ! Mel.

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Road trips dans l'Est américain

La côte est.

Ce road trip dans le Nord-Est américain vous offrira une mosaïque d'expériences, mêlant l'énergie des grandes métropoles à la quiétude des paysages côtiers, créant ainsi des souvenirs inoubliables.

Les grandes villes

Embarquez pour un road trip inoubliable à travers les grandes villes du Nord-Est américain, une expérience où l'effervescence urbaine rencontre la richesse historique.

Mon road trip sur mesure

Explorez les États-Unis à votre façon avec un road trip 100 % sur mesure. Créez votre itinéraire idéal en sélectionnant les destinations emblématiques, les attractions incontournables et les expériences qui résonnent le plus avec vos envies.

5 lieux insolites à New York (à garder secrets)

L’ultime road trip en floride, top 5 des plus beaux couchers de soleil en floride, la nouvelle-orléans : que faire  que voir , côte est des usa : le meilleur road trip de 2 semaines, circuit de 7 jours en floride : carte + itinéraire, les 5 meilleures activités pour découvrir la faune en floride, l’ultime road trip en vr en floride, le meilleur circuit en famille en floride, voyage aux usa : toutes les formalités d'entrée, visiter miami en 2 jours, les 5 meilleurs endroits pour observer les alligators en louisiane, les keys en floride : les 10 plus beaux arrêts de la overseas highway, le meilleur circuit de 10 jours en floride, visiter la floride : 5 trésors à découvrir absolument, 15 spots photo incontournables à new york, 5 astuces pour économiser sur votre billet d'avion vers les états-unis, 5 astuces pour voyager moins cher aux états-unis, l'ultime road trip en louisiane, 5 faits étonnants que vous ne saviez (peut-être) pas sur les états-unis, visiter new york en 3 jours, voyage gratuit en floride... en 10 photos , voyage en famille en floride : après disney, on fait quoi , observation de la faune en floride, top 10 des choses à faire à new york, top 6 des plus belles plages de la floride, faq sur les road trips aux usa, quand partir en voyage aux états-unis .

Il est possible de faire un voyage aux États-Unis à l'année longue, selon la région que vous allez visiter.

Pour un circuit dans l'Ouest américain par exemple, la haute saison se situe entre la mi-juillet et la mi-août . C'est aussi à ce moment qu'il y a le plus de voyageurs sur les routes et où les prix sont le plus élevés. Il est possible d'y voyager en hiver, entre la mi-décembre et la mi-mars , mais il faut savoir que certaines destinations peuvent recevoir des précipitations de neige comme le Grand Canyon et Bryce Canyon.

Il est possible de faire un voyage en Floride à l'année mais attention à la saison des ouragans entre le mois d'août et octobre.

Consultez notre section " Quand partir ? " pour en savoir plus.

Conduire aux USA

Il est préférable de vous informer sur les particularités du code de la route américain avant de partir pour un road trip aux États-Unis .

Dans notre article blog " Conduire aux USA ", nous avons fait ressortir les différences les plus marquantes sur la conduite d'une voiture au pays de l'Oncle Sam.

Quand réserver mon voyage aux États-Unis ?

Pour votre circuit en Californie par exemple ou ailleurs aux USA, il est préférable de réserver au minimum 6 mois d'avance .

En effet, si vous désirez vous assurer d'avoir de la disponibilté ou à tout le moins, vous assurer que les plus beaux endroits ne sont pas complets, vous devez réserver très tôt. Pour certaines destinations comme l' Ouest américain par exemple, les voyageurs réservent jusqu'à 1 an d'avance .

Le manque de disponibilité n'est pas la seule et unique raison de réserver d'avance. En effet, plus vous allez réservez tôt et plus vous allez économiser.

Alors il n'y a aucune bonne raison d'attendre à la dernière minute pour réserver votre voyage aux USA.

Consultez notre section " Quand réserver votre voyage ? " pour en savoir plus.

Qu'est-ce que le roadbook Authentik ?

Le roadbook Authentik est un véritable assistant personnel qui vous suivra partout lors de votre autotour aux États-Unis .

C'est un guide voyage personnalisé pour votre circuit individuel qui vous indiquera les incontournable sur votre route. Quoi faire ? Où manger ?

Dès votre réservation, votre conseiller local commencera l'élaboration de votre roadbook sur mesure. Il est possible de le recevoir à la maison avant de partir ou bien dès votre arrivée au pays.

Consultez notre section " Roadbook Authentik " pour en savoir plus.

Quoi choisir entre un voyage en voiture ou VR ?

Parcourir les routes américaines avec une voiture de location ou un VR ? Il n'y a pas de mauvaises réponses.

Contrairement à la croyance populaire, il n'est pas nécessairement moins cher de voyager en VR.

Consultez notre section " Voiture vs VR " pour vous aider à faire un choix éclairé sur le sujet.

Voir toutes les FAQ sur les road trips aux USA

Consultez notre FAQ complète sur les road trips aux États-Unis ou encore, notre section " Informations pratiques " pour mieux planifier votre voyage au pays de l'Oncle Sam.

Les road trips au Québec sont également disponible avec l' agence de voyage Authentik Canada .

Partagez le tracé de votre road trip aux USA !

Rencontre RoadTrippers 2024 : direction la Belgique !

• Accueil du forum Vous revenez des USA Carnets de voyage aux USA
• Guides USA  • Carte USA  •--> Préparez votre voyage  • App  • Excursions et activités  • Le Hub  • Bons plans

La Floride en Juillet, une très bonne idée !

• Recherche dans le titre du carnet : Floride | New York | Louisiane | Canada
• Recherche dans le 1er message du carnet : Floride | New York | Louisiane | Canada
• Aller sur la page :

Message par Starla57 » 10 août 2019, 16:51

• J1 - Le départ
• J2 - Cocoa Beach - Kennedy Space Center
• J3-J4-J5 - Discovery Cove- Seaworld - Aquatica
• J6 - Clearwater Beach
• J7 - Fort De Soto SP
• J8 - Myakka River SP - Sanibel Island
• J9 - Lover's Key SP - Naples
• J10 - Naples
• J11 - Everglades
• J12 - Sur la route des Keys
• J13 - Key West
• J13 - Soirée Key West
• J14 - Partie 1 - Route vers Miami
• J14 - Partie 2 - Coral Gables - Little Havana
• J15 - Miami Wynwood
• J15 - Miami Downtown - Metromover - Bayside
• J16 - South Beach et Retour France

• sam 6 juil Paris > Miami > West Palm Beach
• dim 7 juil Kennedy Space Center
• lun 8 juil Discovery Cove
• mar 9 juil Seaworld
• mer 10 juil Aquatica
• jeu 11 juil Clearwater
• ven 12 juil Clearwater > Siesta Key Beach
• sam 13 juil Siesta Key Beach > Fort Myers Beach
• dim 14 juil Fort Myers Beach > Naples
• lun 15 juil Naples
• mar 16 juil Naples > Everglades
• mer 17 juil Florida City > Key West
• jeu 18 juil Key West
• ven 19 juil Key West > Miami
• sam 20 juil Miami
• dim 21 juil Miami > Retour France
• Train+ avion € 3,160 (avec réservation des sièges duo aller et retour)
• voiture €744
• hôtels €3,053
• Essence+péages €213
• Repas, courses env €2,000
• Activités €1,614
• Total €10,789

Re: La Floride en Juillet, une très bonne idée !

Message par valerie49 » 10 août 2019, 17:05

Message par Nathdestella » 10 août 2019, 17:11

Message par Jo89 » 10 août 2019, 17:23

Message par Roxinette » 10 août 2019, 17:27

Message par Cessie » 10 août 2019, 17:37

Message par brem » 10 août 2019, 18:01

Message par Starla57 » 10 août 2019, 18:55

Message par Starla57 » 10 août 2019, 19:05

Message par jlm47 » 10 août 2019, 19:12

Revenir à « Carnets de voyage aux USA »

• Vous partez aux USA
• ↳   Préparation de votre itinéraire aux USA
• ↳   Vos roadbooks
• ↳   Travaux et fermetures
• ↳   Billets d'avion pour les États-Unis
• ↳   Location de voiture et camping-car aux USA
• ↳   Hébergements aux USA
• ↳   Visites des parcs et villes des États-Unis
• ↳   Généralités sur les voyages aux USA
• Vous revenez des USA
• ↳   Carnets de voyage aux USA
• ↳   Notez les villes et parcs des USA !
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Alabama
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Arizona
• ↳   Notez les sites de la Californie
• ↳   Notez les sites de la Caroline du Nord
• ↳   Notez les sites du Colorado
• ↳   Notez les sites du Dakota du Sud
• ↳   Notez les sites du District of Columbia
• ↳   Notez les sites de Floride
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Idaho
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Illinois
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Indiana
• ↳   Notez les sites du Kansas
• ↳   Notez les sites de la Louisiane
• ↳   Notez les sites du Minnesota
• ↳   Notez les sites du Missouri
• ↳   Notez les sites du Montana
• ↳   Notez les sites du Nebraska
• ↳   Notez les sites du Nevada
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'état de New York
• ↳   Notez les sites du Nouveau-Mexique
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Oklahoma
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Oregon
• ↳   Notez les sites du Texas
• ↳   Notez les sites de l'Utah
• ↳   Notez les sites de Virginie
• ↳   Notez les sites de Washington
• ↳   Notez les sites du Wyoming
• ↳   Avis sur les hôtels aux États-Unis
• ↳   Arizona
• ↳   Grand Canyon NP et les alentours
• ↳   Monument Valley
• ↳   Page
• ↳   Sedona
• ↳   Autres
• ↳   Californie
• ↳   Los Angeles
• ↳   San Francisco
• ↳   San Diego
• ↳   Yosemite NP et les alentours
• ↳   Sequoia NP et les alentours
• ↳   Death Valley NP
• ↳   Joshua Tree NP et alentours
• ↳   Sur la Côte Pacifique (entre San Francisco et Los Angeles)
• ↳   Colorado
• ↳   Floride
• ↳   Nevada
• ↳   Las Vegas
• ↳   New York
• ↳   Utah
• ↳   Bryce Canyon NP
• ↳   Zion NP
• ↳   Moab
• ↳   Capitol Reef NP
• ↳   Salt Lake City
• ↳   Wyoming
• ↳   Yellowstone NP et alentours
• ↳   Grand Teton NP
• ↳   Cody
• ↳   Avis sur les restaurants aux États-Unis
• ↳   Vos bons plans aux USA
• ↳   Bons plans à New York
• ↳   Trading Posts
• ↳   Outlets
• ↳   #WeAreRoadTrippers
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