There’s something magical about the open road—the way it stretches endlessly ahead, pulling you toward places you’ve never seen but somehow feel destined to explore.
The wind in your hair, your favorite song playing, and that unmistakable thrill of chasing the horizon with no rush to arrive. Some roads change how you see the world, others make you fall in love with the journey itself.
From jaw-dropping coastlines to mountain passes that steal your breath, these 17 epic road trips aren’t just drives—they’re experiences you’ll never forget. Buckle up—this adventure is calling, and you won’t want to miss a single mile.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California) – The Ultimate Coastal Drive
If there’s one road trip that feels like a dream unfolding mile by mile, it’s the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in California. Stretching over 600 miles from San Francisco to San Diego, this legendary highway hugs the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking coastal views, charming seaside towns, and iconic landmarks that make it an absolute must-drive.
One of the most jaw-dropping stretches is Big Sur, where the road snakes between towering cliffs and the endless ocean, offering unreal views at every turn. If you’ve ever seen a postcard of Bixby Bridge, you know exactly what I’m talking about—it’s even more stunning in person. Stop by McWay Falls, a hidden waterfall that spills onto a secluded beach, and 17-Mile Drive in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where the coastline looks straight out of a painting.
This route isn’t just about the scenery—it’s the entire experience. Roll down your windows, feel the salty breeze, and take your time exploring charming beach towns like Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Laguna Beach. There’s something magical about this drive that makes you want to slow down, soak in the views, and just be present.
Quick Travel Tips for the PCH:
- Best Months to Visit: September to November (fewer crowds, stunning sunsets)
- Must-Stop Spots: Big Sur, McWay Falls, Bixby Bridge, 17-Mile Drive, Santa Barbara, Laguna Beach
- Ideal Trip Duration: 5–7 days for a relaxed pace
- Driving Tip: Go North to South for the best ocean views on your right side
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina & Virginia) – The Fall Foliage Fantasy
If you’re craving rolling mountains, winding roads, and the kind of fall colors that look photoshopped, the Blue Ridge Parkway is where you need to be. This 469-mile scenic highway snakes through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) to Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina).
The best time to drive? October. Period. The fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges of autumn turn this drive into something straight out of a fantasy novel. But honestly, every season brings something special—wildflowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, and misty mountain views in winter. The endless curves and panoramic overlooks make it impossible not to stop every few miles for another photo.
Beyond the scenery, small-town charm is a huge part of the experience. Stop in Asheville, NC (a quirky, artsy town with incredible food), hike to Craggy Gardens for epic views, and don’t miss Linville Falls, one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the region. The pace is slow, the air is crisp, and there’s just something about the Blue Ridge Parkway that makes life feel simpler.
Quick Travel Tips for the Blue Ridge Parkway:
- Best Months to Visit: Mid-September to late October for peak fall foliage
- Must-Stop Spots: Asheville, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, Mabry Mill, Great Smoky Mountains
- Ideal Trip Duration: 4–6 days
- Driving Tip: The speed limit is 45 mph (or lower), so embrace the slow ride!
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana) – The Crown Jewel of the Rockies
If road trips could win beauty pageants, Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, Montana, would take the crown. This 50-mile masterpiece (yes, only 50 miles!) is easily one of the most scenic drives in the world, cutting through glacier-carved valleys, towering peaks, and mirror-like alpine lakes.
Driving this road feels like stepping into a postcard—especially when you reach Logan Pass, the highest point at 6,646 feet. The switchbacks hug cliff edges so tightly that it almost feels like you’re driving into the sky. Wildlife sightings are common too—grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep often make an appearance.
The best part? Sunset at Lake McDonald. The way the alpenglow paints the mountains in shades of pink and purple is something you’ll never forget. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just here for the drive, Going to the Sun Road is a journey that leaves you speechless.
Quick Travel Tips for Going to the Sun Road:
- Best Months to Visit: July to September (it’s closed most of the year due to snow!)
- Must-Stop Spots: Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, Weeping Wall, Hidden Lake Overlook
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1–2 days (but more if you love hiking)
- Driving Tip: You need a vehicle pass in peak season—reserve early!
4. Route 66 – The Legendary American Road Trip
Ah, Route 66—the Mother Road, the OG cross-country adventure, the ultimate nostalgia trip. Running from Chicago to Santa Monica, this 2,448-mile journey is all about the journey, not just the destination.
The best part of Route 66 isn’t just the classic roadside attractions (though they are amazing—Cadillac Ranch, the Blue Whale of Catoosa, and Santa Monica Pier are must-sees). It’s the feeling of driving through history, passing small diners, quirky motels, and neon signs straight out of the 1950s.
Sure, some parts of Route 66 have faded, but that’s what makes it special—it’s a mix of the past and present, filled with stories waiting to be discovered. If you want a road trip that’s as much about American culture as it is about scenery, this is THE one to take.
Quick Travel Tips for Route 66:
- Best Months to Visit: April to October (avoid extreme summer heat in the desert sections)
- Must-Stop Spots: Cadillac Ranch, Santa Monica Pier, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oatman, AZ (wild burros roam free!)
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 weeks
- Driving Tip: Some sections are decommissioned—use a Route 66 guide to find the best paths!
5. Big Sur Coastal Drive (California) – Rugged Beauty on Another Level
If raw, untouched coastal beauty is what you crave, Big Sur is your place. This 90-mile stretch of Highway 1 between Carmel and San Simeon is one of the most jaw-dropping coastal drives in the world.
The cliffs plunge dramatically into the Pacific, the waves crash against rocky shores, and Redwood forests line the inland portions—it’s a sensory overload in the best way possible.
Make sure to stop at Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Beach (where the sand turns purple!). Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just soaking in the views, Big Sur is a place that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Quick Travel Tips for Big Sur:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring and fall (less fog, fewer crowds)
- Must-Stop Spots: Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, Garrapata State Park
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
- Driving Tip: Gas up before you go—stations are scarce and pricey!
6. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys) – A Tropical Road Trip Over the Ocean
Imagine cruising over crystal-clear turquoise waters, hopping from island to island on a highway that feels like it floats on the sea—that’s the Overseas Highway for you. This 113-mile drive connects Miami to Key West, crossing 42 stunning bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
Driving this road feels like an endless summer escape. You’ll pass through Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key, each offering its slice of paradise. Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, watching the sunset at Bahia Honda State Park, or grabbing a slice of Key Lime Pie in Key West—it’s all part of the adventure.
And when you finally reach Mile Marker 0 in Key West, you’ll feel like you’ve truly escaped reality. The laid-back, colorful island vibes, combined with the unreal ocean views, make this one of the most unique road trips in the USA.
Quick Travel Tips for the Overseas Highway:
- Best Months to Visit: December to May (dry season, sunny and warm)
- Must-Stop Spots: Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef, Key West
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2–4 days
- Driving Tip: Start early to avoid heavy traffic, especially on weekends
7. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana) – Following the Mighty Mississippi
This historic 3,000-mile route follows the Mississippi River from its source in Minnesota all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a journey through America’s heartland, passing through 10 states, charming river towns, and endless scenic overlooks.
The landscapes shift dramatically—from the rolling bluffs of Minnesota and Wisconsin to the cotton fields of Mississippi and the bayous of Louisiana. Stop at Hannibal, Missouri (Mark Twain’s hometown), St. Louis for the Gateway Arch, and Natchez, Mississippi for historic mansions.
This road trip is all about slow travel, small-town charm, and immersing yourself in the deep history of America. If you love the idea of meandering through river towns, tasting local flavors (think BBQ and beignets), and soaking in peaceful river views, this trip is for you.
Quick Travel Tips for the Great River Road:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring and fall (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
- Must-Stop Spots: Lake Itasca, St. Louis Arch, Memphis, Natchez, New Orleans
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1–2 weeks
- Driving Tip: Stick to the scenic byways instead of major highways for the best views
8. Beartooth Highway (Montana & Wyoming) – A High-Altitude Adventure
The Beartooth Highway is not for the faint of heart—this 68-mile mountain pass climbs to nearly 11,000 feet, making it one of the highest and most scenic roads in North America. If you love dramatic mountain landscapes, hairpin turns, and epic lookouts, this road will blow your mind.
The journey starts in Red Lodge, Montana, and snakes its way into Yellowstone National Park, passing glacial lakes, rugged peaks, and endless alpine meadows. Wildlife is everywhere—grizzly bears, moose, and mountain goats are common sightings.
The highlight? The views from Beartooth Pass. At the summit, you’ll feel like you’re standing on top of the world, looking down on endless mountain peaks. If you’re a road-tripper who lives for adventure, this drive is a bucket-list must.
Quick Travel Tips for Beartooth Highway:
- Best Months to Visit: Late June to September (snow closes the road the rest of the year)
- Must-Stop Spots: Beartooth Pass, Rock Creek Vista, Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Driving Tip: Weather can change fast—bring layers and check road conditions before heading out
9. North Shore Scenic Drive (Minnesota) – Lake Superior’s Best Kept Secret
If you think Midwest road trips are boring, you haven’t driven the North Shore Scenic Drive in Minnesota. This 150-mile journey along Lake Superior’s rugged coastline offers some of the most gorgeous lake views in the country—it’s an inland ocean road trip.
The drive from Duluth to Grand Portage is packed with dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and charming small towns. You’ll find waterfalls (like Gooseberry Falls), sea caves, and hidden beaches along the way. The best part? The feeling of solitude and tranquility—this is a road trip that feels truly off-the-beaten-path.
Fall is especially stunning when the maples and birches explode in fiery reds and gold, creating a perfect contrast against the deep blue of Lake Superior.
Quick Travel Tips for North Shore Scenic Drive:
- Best Months to Visit: September to October (fall foliage is unreal)
- Must-Stop Spots: Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche State Park
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2–3 days
- Driving Tip: Take your time—hiking to waterfalls is half the fun!
10. Cascade Loop (Washington) – The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Drive
For a quintessential Pacific Northwest road trip, nothing beats Washington’s Cascade Loop. This 440-mile circular route takes you from Seattle through the North Cascades, past alpine lakes, and into the wine country of central Washington before looping back to the coast.
The North Cascades Highway is the highlight—massive snow-capped peaks, glacier-fed rivers, and emerald green lakes make this stretch absolutely stunning. One of the best stops? Diablo Lake Overlook, where the vivid turquoise waters look almost unreal.
From there, the drive winds through Leavenworth (a charming Bavarian-style village), Wenatchee (apple country), and Whidbey Island before returning to Seattle. If you love variety in your road trips, this one has mountains, lakes, forests, and charming small towns all packed into one adventure.
Quick Travel Tips for the Cascade Loop:
- Best Months to Visit: June to September (warm weather, all roads open)
- Must-Stop Spots: Diablo Lake, Leavenworth, Whidbey Island, Stevens Pass
- Ideal Trip Duration: 4–5 days
- Driving Tip: Book a ferry ride from Whidbey Island to add some extra charm to your trip
11. Million Dollar Highway (Colorado) – A Heart-Pounding, High-Altitude Ride
They don’t call it the Million Dollar Highway for nothing. This 25-mile stretch of U.S. Route 550, running between Ouray and Silverton, Colorado, is as breathtaking as it is nerve-wracking. With sheer cliffs, tight switchbacks, and no guardrails in some sections, it’s a drive that demands attention—but rewards you with mind-blowing mountain views.
The road winds through the San Juan Mountains, where jagged peaks rise dramatically against the sky, especially in the fall when the aspens turn golden. Along the way, tiny mining towns, cascading waterfalls, and rugged rock faces make every mile more scenic than the last. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you crave adventure with a side of adrenaline, this one’s for you.
Quick Travel Tips for the Million Dollar Highway:
- Best Months to Visit: Late May to October (winter driving is risky)
- Must-Stop Spots: Ouray, Silverton, Red Mountain Pass, Box Canyon Falls
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Driving Tip: Drive north to south (Ouray to Silverton) for the best views
12. Highway 12 – Scenic Byway (Utah) – A Journey Through Red Rock Wonderland
If otherworldly landscapes and Mars-like terrain intrigue you, Utah’s Highway 12 is a road trip that will leave you in awe. This 122-mile scenic byway connects Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park, carving through some of the most jaw-dropping desert scenery in the U.S.
Picture this: twisting canyons, towering red rock formations, and sweeping desert vistas that stretch for miles. Some of the most spectacular sections include the Hogsback—a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides—and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, where the rugged beauty is unmatched.
This is one of those drives where you’ll constantly be pulling over just to take it all in. Whether you’re hiking slot canyons, chasing sunsets at Bryce, or soaking in the silence of the desert, Highway 12 is pure magic.
Quick Travel Tips for Highway 12:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October)
- Must-Stop Spots: Bryce Canyon, Escalante, The Hogsback, Capitol Reef
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2–4 days
- Driving Tip: Cell service is spotty—download maps ahead of time
13. Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee) – A Road Through Time
For a road trip that feels like stepping back in time, the Natchez Trace Parkway is the way to go. This 444-mile historic route follows an ancient Native American trail, weaving through dense forests, rolling hills, and historic landmarks from Mississippi to Tennessee.
Unlike some of the more rugged drives on this list, this one is all about relaxation and history. No commercial vehicles, no billboards—just nature, history, and a peaceful, meandering road. Stop at Civil War sites, historic inns, and nature trails, or just enjoy the gentle curves and Southern charm along the way.
Quick Travel Tips for Natchez Trace Parkway:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring (March-April) and fall (October-November) for mild weather
- Must-Stop Spots: Jackson Falls, Cypress Swamp, Elvis Presley’s birthplace in Tupelo
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3–5 days
- Driving Tip: There are no gas stations directly on the parkway—plan fuel stops ahead
14. Hana Highway (Hawaii) – A Tropical Rainforest Dream Drive
Hawaii’s Hana Highway is not just a road trip—it’s an experience. This 64-mile stretch from Kahului to Hana, Maui, winds through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along jaw-dropping ocean cliffs. It’s a drive that forces you to slow down and savor every twist and turn—and trust me, there are plenty.
With 600+ curves and 50+ one-lane bridges, this road is a test of patience, but it’s also one of the most rewarding scenic routes in the world. Stop at Waianapanapa State Park for its black sand beach, hike to the hidden Red Sand Beach, or cool off in the famous Seven Sacred Pools. Just be sure to start early—this drive gets crowded fast!
Quick Travel Tips for Hana Highway:
- Best Months to Visit: April to October (dry season)
- Must-Stop Spots: Twin Falls, Waianapanapa State Park, Seven Sacred Pools
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1–2 days
- Driving Tip: Start at sunrise to avoid traffic and allow time for stops
15. Lake Shore Drive (Chicago, Illinois) – A City Skyline Meets the Water
For an urban road trip with postcard-worthy views, Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive delivers. This 15-mile stretch runs alongside Lake Michigan, offering stunning skyline views, beaches, and access to some of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks.
It’s not just about the drive—it’s about the energy of the city. Roll down your windows, feel the lake breeze, and take in the sights—the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, Buckingham Fountain, and the legendary Millennium Park. If you’re lucky enough to drive it at sunset, the golden glow on the water and the twinkling city lights are pure magic.
Quick Travel Tips for Lake Shore Drive:
- Best Months to Visit: May to October (Chicago winters are brutal!)
- Must-Stop Spots: Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Oak Street Beach, Buckingham Fountain
- Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day to a full day
- Driving Tip: Early morning or late evening = less traffic and better views
16. San Juan Skyway (Colorado) – A High-Altitude Masterpiece
Another Colorado classic, the San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile loop that takes you through towering peaks, old mining towns, and alpine forests. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, history, and scenery, this is a road trip you can’t miss.
Drive through Telluride, Durango, Silverton, and Ouray, each town packed with charm, history, and incredible mountain views. The route reaches over 11,000 feet in elevation, so be ready for some seriously stunning panoramas.
Quick Travel Tips for San Juan Skyway:
- Best Months to Visit: Late May to October
- Must-Stop Spots: Telluride, Silverton, Ouray Hot Springs, Mesa Verde National Park
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3–5 days
- Driving Tip: The road has steep drops—take your time!
17. The Loneliest Road – US Highway 50 (Nevada) – A Drive into the Unknown
If you’re craving solitude, vast desert landscapes, and open road freedom, U.S. Highway 50 in Nevada is the road trip for you. Dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America,” this route runs through miles of nothingness, but that’s exactly what makes it so captivating.
Expect expansive desert valleys, old mining towns, quirky roadside stops, and an endless horizon. It’s the kind of trip that makes you appreciate the beauty of the open road and the power of silence.
Quick Travel Tips for The Loneliest Road:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring and fall (summer is brutally hot!)
- Must-Stop Spots: Eureka, Austin, Sand Mountain, Great Basin National Park
- Ideal Trip Duration: 3–4 days
- Driving Tip: Fill up your gas tank whenever you can—stations are few and far between
