Whether you’re looking for amazing views of the Pacific Ocean or an adventure through national parks, these road trips will provide a plethora of opportunities for every kind of traveler to explore the United States. Take your pick from these 5 stunning routes that will let you experience the USA like never before. There is no shortage of destinations and detours in a country as huge as the United States. Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip involves an epic, cross-country journey on Route 66 or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks, the road trip options are as large and varied as the country itself.
Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway
The infinite views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 are what road trip dreams are made up of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, you can curate a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. However, we recommend you to not miss the picture-perfect surfing waves at Pismo Beach, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, or a night in Big Sur when you drive between Dana Point and San Francisco.
Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: The Ideal Arizona Road Trip
This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes explorers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for novice and experiences travelers alike, it offers a plethora of opportunities for scenery, hiking, and biking—as well as some exclusive delicacies along the way. You can hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.
North Shore Drive: Minnesota
Lake Superior’s Minnesota shoreline is a glacial beauty. As you drive from Duluth towards Two Harbors, the lake’s shining waters stretch out to the right and birch and maple north woods climb high on the left. You’ll also get a beautiful view at ocean tankers anchored in the last inland port of the St. Lawrence Seaway when they wait to load iron or grain from America’s heartland before sending it out to the world. You can take a stop at Duluth’s lake .
Highway 101: Oregon
You can drive from the state line on the Astoria Megler bridge to the California state line. You can take a stop at Seaside, Tillamook, Florence, Coos Bay, a quick inland detour to Coquille, Bandon, and Gold Beach before entering California. You will find a state park every mile or so along the coast. The unique sight at Oregon coast are the many sea stacks that line the coast and the large empty beaches. You can take this drive with no set time schedule so you can stop when you see something that interests you.
From Chicago to New Orleans: The Deep South
This car drive will take you to a musically-themed trip route through 6 different states. You can begin from Chicago; this route takes you towards Lincoln’s birthplace in St Louis. From here, you can head south to Memphis; which is the cradle of rock’ n’ roll, blues and jazz and is also home to Elvis’s ‘Graceland’ mansion. Feel the southern charm sink in and experience the southern cuisine as you continue to Natchez on the banks of the Mississippi River. From here, it will be 3-hour drive to finish your route in the spectacular southern city of New Orleans – a jazz fan and foodie’s paradise.
*For people who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure. Don’t forget to travel responsibly.