Road trips are a must-do for anyone looking for adventure, and there are plenty of scenic routes and destinations to choose from in the USA. From winding coastal drives to remote desert highways, here are ten road trips to take before you die. The Pacific Coast Highway in California is renowned for its breathtaking ocean views and charming seaside towns, while Route 66 takes you through classic Americana from Illinois to California. The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for over 2,000 miles, showcasing small-town charm, southern hospitality, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you prefer coastal drives, mountain scenery, or offbeat attractions, these road trips offer unforgettable experiences for travelers of all ages.
10 Road Trips to Take Before You Die
Whether you’re 18 or 80, road trips should be a part of your bucket list. There’s an indescribable feeling of freedom and adventure that comes from hitting the open road. The USA is full of scenic routes and destinations that are perfect for an unforgettable road trip. Here are ten road trips to take before you die.
1. Pacific Coast Highway – California
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the world. It stretches for 655 miles along the California coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll pass through charming seaside towns, redwood forests, and pristine beaches. Stopping at San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles, this road trip has something for everyone.
2. Route 66 – Illinois to California
Route 66 is a quintessential American road trip. Traveling from Illinois to California, you’ll cross eight states and over 2,400 miles. Along the way, you’ll experience small-town America, abandoned roadside attractions, and iconic Route 66 diners. This road trip allows you to see America’s heartland while exploring some of the best cities the US has to offer.
3. The Great River Road – Minnesota to Louisiana
The Mississippi River is the longest river in North America, and The Great River Road follows its course for over 2,000 miles. This scenic drive takes you from Minnesota to Louisiana, passing through ten states. You’ll get to experience small-town charm, southern hospitality, and stunning natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll see historic sites, national parks, and vibrant cities like Memphis and New Orleans.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia to North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile winding road through the southern Appalachian Mountains. This scenic drive takes you through two states: Virginia and North Carolina. Driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll see stunning mountain vistas, quaint mountain towns, and abundant wildlife. This road trip is a must-do for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
5. Florida Keys – Florida
The Florida Keys are a string of islands connected by a series of bridges, and the drive from Miami to Key West is a road trip like no other. The 100-mile-long Overseas Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the country, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you’ll see crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and colorful towns.
6. The Loneliest Road – Nevada
Route 50 crosses the entire state of Nevada and is known as “The Loneliest Road in America.” This road trip takes you through some of the most remote and desolate areas of the country. The landscape is arid and barren, but the solitude and natural beauty are awe-inspiring. This road trip is perfect for those who seek adventure and solitude.
7. Highway 101 – Oregon to Washington
Highway 101 stretches over 1,500 miles from Oregon to Washington, hugging the Pacific Coastline. This road trip takes you through charming beach towns, majestic forests, and rugged cliffs. Along the way, you’ll see picturesque lighthouses, iconic bridges, and stunning sea stacks.
8. The Extraterrestrial Highway – Nevada
If you’re interested in alien life, the Extraterrestrial Highway is a must-do road trip. This highway stretches 98 miles through the Nevada desert and is lined with alien-themed attractions. Along the way, you’ll see signs warning of extraterrestrial activity and Area 51 sightings. This road trip is perfect for sci-fi enthusiasts and anyone who loves offbeat attractions.
9. The Great Lakes – Michigan to Minnesota
The Great Lakes are the largest freshwater system in the world, and a road trip through the region is an unforgettable experience. This road trip takes you through four of the Great Lakes states: Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. You’ll see stunning landscapes, charming towns, and historic lighthouses. The Great Lakes Road Trip is perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty and maritime history.
10. The Million Dollar Highway – Colorado
The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch through the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. The road is narrow, winding, and scenic, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The road also takes you past historic mining towns, including Silverton and Ouray. This road trip is perfect for those who love mountain scenery and appreciate the history of the Wild West.
In conclusion, Road trips are a fantastic way to explore the country’s scenic beauty and cultural diversity. Whether you prefer cityscapes or natural wonders, there is a road trip for everyone. Make your road trip dreams a reality by embarking on these ten unforgettable journeys.
