Only a handful of things match the thrill of American road trips — windows down, woofers thumping, and miles of open road ahead. Whether you’re chasing ocean views, mountain air, small-town charm, or desert drama, the US offers some of the best road trips in the world. If you’re asking what is the best road trip in the USA, from sea to shining sea, it depends on your niche. But classics like Route 66, Pacific Coast Highway, and the Blue Ridge Parkway continue to top the list for their scenery, cultural significance, and iconic stops.
This guide features the most popular and picturesque US road trip ideas, perfect for everything from family road trips to spontaneous weekend road trips. Whether you’re plotting your next cross country American road trip, exploring back roads travel, or cruising along the coast, these scenic drives are a must have on your checklist. And while you’re out there exploring, Zee Business can soon help you find the perfect hotel accommodation along your route.
Ready to hit the road? Buckle up and get set for some of the most beautiful road trips the U.S. has to offer.
Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)
What is the most famous US road? That honor goes to Route 66 — the legendary “Mother Road” stretching over 2,400 miles across eight states. This iconic Route 66 road trip takes you through a nostalgic slice of Americana, dotted with vintage motels, kitschy roadside attractions, classic diners, and small-town charm. It’s perfect for those seeking a cross-country road trip experience with a retro twist, and a must-visit for history buffs and road-trippers who want to trace the past from the Midwest to the Pacific.
Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Also known as ‘PCH’ , the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the US, stretching from Dana Point in the south to Leggett in the north. The highway offers endless ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and glances through towns like Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Santa Barbara. It’s a favorite for romantic getaways, road trips with kids, or anyone contemplating the ultimate green ocean road trip. On your way, you can consider a pit stop at Hearst Castle and the scenic Bixby Bridge to grab some Insta-worthy shots.
Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
The answer to – What is the most scenic place in the United States? The Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” winds through the Appalachian Highlands. Along this 469-mile route are misty mountain vistas, rolling farmland, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Especially stunning in the fall, it’s a popular pick for both family road trips and solo drives. This Blue Ridge Parkway road trip is a peaceful, nature-soaked journey with dozens of overlooks and historic landmarks along the way.
Florida Highway 1 (Miami to Key West)
The ultimate tropical drive, Florida Highway 1 — also known as the Overseas Highway — connects Miami to Key West via 42 bridges. It’s one of the most scenic road trips in the country, offering turquoise water views, coral islands, and iconic pit stops like Islamorada, Marathon, and the Seven Mile Bridge. Ideal for winter escapes, weekend road trips, or spontaneous adventures, it’s a sunshine-soaked route perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Adventure seekers, take note: Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is a geological masterpiece. This 123-mile stretch between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Park features red rock canyons, desert plateaus, alpine forests, and panoramic views at every turn. It’s a top choice for back roads travel and one of the best options for road trips with kids thanks to its easy access to natural wonders and outdoor recreation. And wherever the day ends, Zee Business can help you find a place to rest near the parks.
San Juan Skyway (Colorado)
The San Juan Skyway, including the famed Million Dollar Highway, delivers high-mountain adventure and historic charm. This 230-mile loop through Durango, Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride offers sharp switchbacks, jaw-dropping cliffs, and old mining towns turned ski resorts. A scenic highlight for any road trip planner, it’s great for both thrill-seekers and leisure travelers looking for alpine views and cozy cafés.
Hana Highway (Maui, Hawaii)
Hawaii’s Hana Highway offers one of the most lush and immersive road trips in the U.S. Winding 64 miles along Maui’s northeastern coast, this drive features more than 600 hairpin turns, 50+ bridges, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and hidden beaches. It’s the definition of green ocean road trip. It’s worth taking regular stops at Waianapanapa’s black sand beach, roadside fruit stands, or the Garden of Eden. Here, the rule is — slower you go, better the experience.
New England Road Trip (VT, NH, ME)
What is the best state to visit on a road trip? When it comes to seasonal charm, it’s hard to beat New England in the fall. Wind your way through Vermont’s covered bridges, New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, and coastal Maine’s harbors and lighthouses. From cider mills to lobster rolls, this family road trip USA staple offers history, food, and incredible foliage. It’s a storybook-style journey made for weekend road trips and fall getaways.
High Road to Taos (New Mexico)
North Shore Drive (Minnesota)
Quiet and scenic, North Shore Drive along Lake Superior stretches from Duluth to Grand Portage, offering views of waterfalls, rocky shorelines, and forested hills. It’s especially vibrant in autumn and ideal for travelers seeking peace, nature, and back roads travel. Hike to Gooseberry Falls, explore Split Rock Lighthouse, and enjoy lakeside lodges or cabins. This hidden gem makes for a year-round cozy, family-friendly escape.
Bonus Road Trips Worth the Detour
- Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA) – A 300-mile loop through rainforest, coastlines, and alpine terrain in Olympic National Park. Great for nature lovers who want to explore multiple ecosystems in one trip.
- Great River Road (MN to LA) – Follow the Mississippi River through 10 states for a laid-back, historical cross country road trip dotted with charming river towns.
- Trail Ridge Road (CO) – At over 12,000 feet, this is the highest paved road in the U.S., cutting through Rocky Mountain National Park with sweeping alpine views.
- Richardson Highway (AK) – A remote stretch of Alaskan wilderness perfect for spotting moose, glaciers, and untouched landscapes.
- Natchez Trace Parkway (MS to TN) – If you’re looking for a manageable, historical journey, the 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway offers peaceful driving and a deep connection to America’s past.
The Best US Road Trips Captivate...and Surprise You
From the golden beaches of California to the red rocks of Utah and the forests of New England, America’s best road trips offer more than just scenery — they deliver stories and surprises throughout your route. Whether you’re drawn to the legendary Route 66 road trip, the calm of the Blue Ridge Parkway, or dreaming of your first cross-country American road trip, there’s a road calling your name.
Wherever your journey leads, Zee Business helps you find hotel deals that fit your route, your vibe, and your budget, so that you can focus on the drive. Your adventure starts now!
(We do not own any images. Images are sourced from Freepik or Unsplash respectively.)
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