There’s no doubt that America’s got road trip fever these days. If you’re looking for your own revved-up adventure, we’ve got plenty of ideas. From coastal drives to desert adventures and mountain journeys, these are some of the best road trips our seasoned travel writers have loved most over the years, and you will, too.
Lobster and lighthouses in Maine
New England is calling! Explore twisting roads and rugged coastline, historic lighthouses, scenic fishing harbors, charming inns and, of course, fresh seafood along the famed Lobster Trail.
The ultimate Texas road trip
If you’ve been craving the chance to break out into the great wide open, this one’s for you. Speed along the Texas stretch of Route 66, spot roadside oddities like the Cadillac Ranch, and then head for Hill Country via scenic backroads. Barbecue and cowboys are also in the mix, natch.
Related: America’s 12 least-visited National Parks
National Parks of the Southwest
The only travel trend as hot as road trips right now is America’s National Parks. Experience three or more of them on this exciting tour of the American Southwest. Prepare for an epic jaunt that takes you through desert and canyons, all the way to the beaches of California.
The leaving Las Vegas road trip
If you need a break from the bling-ding action of the Las Vegas Strip, work one or more of these Sin City-based road trips into your vacation plans. You’ll be treated to colorful roadside attractions and water sports, Old West history, and beautiful mountain scenery.
Tuning in to Mississippi’s Blues Highway
For a true taste of the American South, head down to Mississippi. There on Route 61, also known as the Blues Highway; you’ll find delicious slices of Americana at every turn; plus the beachy beauty of the Gulf Coast of Mississippi on Route 90 and pre-Civil War era mansions shrouded in centuries-old oaks.
Related: America’s 12 least-visited National Parks
Cruising the Cascades
Cool, crisp mountain air is good for the body and soul; so you might want to add this Cascades road trip to your to-do list. You’ll discover the stretch of the Cascade Range running from Ashland to Terrebonne; stopping in funky towns with craft breweries and marveling at glaciated mountains and high desert along the way.
Going deep in the Deep South
History, warm breezes, and chatty locals make the Southern states of Alabama; Mississippi, and Louisiana a good choice for a fall road trip. You’ll sample delicious Southern cuisine at rustic stops along the way; take in the neoclassical architecture, and speed along under Spanish moss-covered Cypress trees.
Ocean thrills along PCH
This California road trip is practically a rite of passage for any American adventurer. This truncated version starts in San Francisco; ends in Monterey, takes you from lively, fascinating cities to ocean to mountains to farmland within just a few miles.
Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state, and local advisories before scheduling trips.
