You'll Love These Top 25 Road Trips in the U.S.
There’s nothing like cruising along an open road with the music blaring, a car full of snacks and no idea where you’re going. That sense of adventure gave way to the classic American road trip. After all, there aren’t many other places where you can drive amidst tall pine trees, dart along the coast or zig-zag over a mountain range — all while staying in the same country.
So, why do we love road trips? Because of the freedom and discovery that come along with them. You might stop at a roadside diner that serves the best pancakes you’ve ever had, or you could find a cabin next to a peaceful lake to channel your zen for a few days.
For this ranking of the 25 best road trips in the U.S., we used data gathered by Geotab that looked at TripAdvisor review ratings, annual average daily traffic data and a country-wide survey to score these classic highway and parkway routes. While the iconic Route 66 didn’t break into the top 25, other popular routes throughout the Southwest made the top 10. No matter your travel interests, here’s all the info you need to plan your next American road trip!
25. Natchez Trace Parkway
Days: 3
Good For: History & culture
Traffic: 9,500
Total Mileage: 485
A road trip along the Natchez Trace Parkway extends from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi, on the Mississippi River. Take it slow and stop at Leiper’s Fork (a small town in Tennessee) for antique shopping and country cooking. Check out Jackson Falls for an Insta-worthy lookout, and don’t miss Tupelo in northeast Mississippi to tour the birthplace of Elvis Presley.
The Natchez Trace Parkway is full of historic sites and scenic hikes, and you’ll find plenty of bed and breakfasts for shelter along the way.
24. The Tour of Four Ivies
Days: 5
Good For: History & culture
Traffic: 68,962
Total Mileage: 228
While the Tour of Four Ivies may seem like an academic excursion, it’s an ideal road trip full of colonial architecture and small towns. The journey starts at Yale in New Haven, Connecticut, and includes stops at Brown in Providence, Rhode Island, and Harvard in Cambridge, Massachusetts, before making its way up to Dartmouth in Hanover, New Hampshire.
Each university is home to some of the most beautiful college campuses in the country. Embark on this road trip during the fall to catch the colorful fall foliage and possibly a football game! Sports not your thing? The Yale University Art Gallery is home to incredible works of art with exciting new exhibitions!
23. The Native Trails of Oklahoma
Days: 5
Good For: History & culture
Traffic: 20,303
Total Mileage: 395 (from Ponca City to Sulphur to Spiro)
The Native Trails of Oklahoma is an ideal road trip for those interested in Native American history. The route travels around the Trail of Tears, a series of forced relocations of thousands of Native Americans in the 1830s and teaches you about traditional tribes.
Along the way, stop at Standing Bear Park and Museum in Ponca City, Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur and Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center in Spiro. While this route only takes you through Oklahoma, the Trail of Tears spans across Alabama, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Georgia, North Carolina, Illinois, Missouri, and Kentucky.
22. Around the Big Bend
Days: 6
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 20,323
Total Mileage: 40+
Big Bend National Park is in the wilderness of West Texas, and its isolated location can make it tricky to visit. But once you get here, you’ll be hard-pressed to find much traffic along these country roads, as it’s one of the least visited national parks in the nation. Start the journey at the Big Bend Information Center in Marathon, Texas, and from there, drive about 40 miles to the entrance of the park at Permission Gap. The rest of the road trip can be done at your leisure.
You’ll pass through the Chisos Mountains, the Chihuahuan desert, Santa Elena Canyon, hot springs and miles of backroads. Along this route, you’ll even come across Wild West ghost towns you’ve only seen in movies. The park is also a certified dark sky park, meaning you’ll get a clear view of the stars at night. Pack extra food and gas, and take your time exploring this beautiful part of the world. Big Bend has three campgrounds within the park and options for indoor accommodations.
21. The Four Corners of the Southwest
Days: 10
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 29,488
Total Mileage: 869 (if you start and end in the same place)
The Four Corners of the Southwest is a classic road trip that showcases the incredible natural beauty of America. This road trip follows the area around where Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona meet. Start in Arizona to see the Grand Canyon and Moenkopi dinosaur tracks. Then zoom over to New Mexico to take that iconic photo on the Four Corners monument (say cheese!).
Colorado offers plenty of highways, including the Trail of the Ancients, which highlights the cultural history of southwestern Native Americans. Continuing on towards Utah, be sure to visit Monument Valley, which belongs to the Navajo Nation and includes impressive rock formations. This route is a loop (or a square if you’re getting technical), so if you start in Arizona, you’ll end there if you complete the full, 10-day trip.
20. Two Roads to Taos
Days: 4
Good For: History & culture
Traffic: 16,126
Total Mileage: 70
If New Mexico caught your eye during the Four Corners road trip, check out more of the state by doing the Two Roads to Taos road trip. The journey connects Sante Fe, New Mexico, to Taos, New Mexico. Along the way, you’ll see ancient Indian pueblos, views of the Rio Grande and small adobe villages.
Craving the local cuisine? Stop at Rancho de Chimayo, which dishes out traditional family recipes in a 19th-century house. Taos is known for its sunsets, so be sure to catch one before hopping back in the car!
19. The Cascades of Oregon
Days: 3
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 3,723
Total Mileage: 300+
The word “cascades” in Spanish means “waterfalls.” So, you know the Cascades of Oregon is going to be an epic road trip! This round-trip route stretches between Portland and Ashland and is not only waterfalls but also crater lakes, breweries, hiking trails and artsy towns.
A portion of the route is taken up by the Cascades Lakes Scenic Byway, one of those drives where you’ll want to stop and take a picture about every 10 minutes. So, keep a car charger handy!
18. The All-American Acadia Byway
Days: 3
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 8,611
Total Mileage: 40
Stretch out your time on the All-American Acadia Byway. Sure, it’s only 40 miles, but it provides a great opportunity to slow down and experience the great state of Maine. Along the way, you’ll drive past 22 lakes, cute (for lack of a better word) cottages and plenty of food spots.
Of course, we’re going to recommend eating a whole Maine lobster because why not? Embark on this road trip during the summer with the windows rolled down and the sun shining.
17. US-1 Florida
Days: 6
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 45,829
Total Mileage: 503 (Jacksonville to Key West)
US-1 stretches 2,369 miles from Fort Kent, Maine to Key West, Florida. But only Florida’s section made it on this list. (Way to go, Florida.) The length of US-1 in Florida is about 500 miles from Jacksonville to Key West.
The road goes along the Atlantic coast of the Sunshine State, passing through the Space Coast, Daytona Speedway and Miami. If you’re driving north to south, reward yourself with a big slice of Key lime pie once you make it to the southernmost point of the continental United States.
16. Great River Road
Days: 6
Good For: History & culture
Traffic: 16,173
Total Mileage: 3,000
You probably learned all about the Mississippi River in school, but this road trip will give you a first-hand look at the country’s most famous river. Great River Road stretches 3,000 miles from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. It passes through 10 states and hundreds of small towns. During this drive, notice the green pilot’s wheel logo on signs along the highway. This symbol represents which roads are part of the designated route, as this is a popular and high traffic road trip.
Don’t worry, you’ll find plenty of tourism amenities along the way. Think the Gateway Arch in St. Louis or author Mark Twain’s house in Hannibal, Missouri. There are several wonderful places to stop to help you learn about the Midwest and Southern states while also meeting locals who are happy to talk to you.
15. New England’s Coast
Days: 7
Good For: History & culture
Traffic: 50,057
Total Mileage: 292
New England’s Coast paves the way for a scenic road trip best experienced during the summer or fall months. This route stretches from Massachusetts to Maine, and it’s full of surprises. Your New England coast bucket list may vary, but try to include exploring historic Salem, relaxing on the beaches of Ogunquit and eating your way through Portland.
Our best insider tip? Taste the many versions of clam chowder throughout New England, and find your favorite!
14. Minnesota’s Route 61
Days: 3
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 4,887
Total Mileage: 27
Minnesota’s Route 61 is a short drive along the Minnesota side of Lake Superior. It’s a quiet road with little traffic and a lot to see. If you’re into waterfalls, check out Gooseberry Falls just off of Two Harbors. Iona’s Beach is also a tranquil spot to reconnect with nature.
Fun fact: This scenic drive was the inspiration for Bob Dylan’s album “Highway 61 Revisited.” Blast that album on the speakers for a quintessential road trip experience.
13. Vermont’s Scenic Route 100
Days: 4
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 4,300
Total Mileage: 216
With “scenic” in the title, you know this is going to be a worthwhile road trip. Vermont’s Scenic Route 100 cuts right through the middle of the state. It runs along the Green Mountains and offers plenty of stops for history, food and outdoor activities.
This route is famous for spots that offer skiing during the winter and horseback riding during the summer as well as golf courses, hiking trails and biking paths. Plus, you’ll pass through the birthplace of President Calvin Coolidge. A road trip of Route 100 is stellar, no matter the time of year.
12. Fall Foliage Drive
Days: 6
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 18,490
Total Mileage: 188
As the name implies, the Fall Foliage Drive is the most scenic from September to November. This route stretches from Connecticut to New Hampshire, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Be sure to get out of the car, and take a walk through the brightly colored trees while snacking on warm apple cider donuts (aka the actual taste of fall).
Walker’s Roadside Stand in Little Compton, Rhode Island, is a great place to buy seasonal fruits and vegetables. This isn’t the longest drive in terms of mileage, so make sure to take your time stopping at different farms, cafes, and bed and breakfasts for an all-American experience.
11. Smoky Mountains
Days: 5
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 17,442
Total Mileage: 270 miles of roadways within the park (but the total depends on your starting point)
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has 270 miles of roadways. Zoom through the park from Tennessee to North Carolina (or vice versa). The best time of year to take this road trip is during the fall, as the Smoky Mountains are also famous for having brightly colored fall foliage.
Stop for a break to paddle along Fontana Lake, and be sure to visit the historical sites of Cades Cove. Pack enough food for the group so that you can have a picnic at one of the campgrounds along the way.
10. Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park
Days: 6
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 7,055
Total Mileage: 74
While the road trip between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks is only 74 miles, it’s best to stretch this trip out because there are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities during the summer or fall when both parks are open. We recommend getting on the trails bright and early, as treks like Mossy Cave Trail, Bristlecone Loop Trail, Angels Landing Trail and Observation Point get crowded during the day.
Also, make sure to pack plenty of meals and snacks, so you’re not overpaying for groceries in these somewhat isolated parts.
9. Hells Canyon Scenic Byway
Days: 3
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 6,681
Total Mileage: 213
Did you ever play the game Oregon Trail when you were a kid? Well, a road trip along Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is reminiscent of that beloved computer game. The route is a backward C-shape that starts at La Grande, Oregon, encircles the Wallowa Mountains and intersects with Interstate 86 to end at Baker City, Oregon.
Stop at Hells Canyon overlook for a view of North America's deepest river gorge. At Baker City, you can visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center to catch living history demonstrations of, you guessed it, the Oregon Trail. This road trip will also show you the wild side of America with small towns, lush valleys and wide-open ranges. Keep in mind that this route experiences road closures in the winter.
8. Grand Canyon Road Trip
Days: 5
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 12,561
Total Mileage: Depends on where you start your road trip
In case the name didn’t give it away, the Grand Canyon road trip is a route along the Grand Canyon. Whether you’re starting your journey in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Denver or parts of Arizona and New Mexico, you’re sure to have one hell of an experience.
Keep in mind that the South RIm is the best way to access the Grand Canyon, no matter which route you take. If you’re a lucky one driving from New Mexico, you get the chance to stop at the world’s largest pistachio in Alamogordo. I mean, we’d take that route just to visit the “nuttiest place in New Mexico.”
7. Colorado Rockies
Days: 5
Good For: nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 22,254
Total Mileage: 1,553
Some may say the Colorado Rockies rival the Swiss Alps, but we think it has a different personality. A journey through this mountain range stretches from Denver to Jasper, Alberta, Canada. You don’t have to commit to the whole thing, but at least stop at Rocky Mountain National Park to visit the Continental Divide, Sprague Lake and Estes Park.
This route is gorgeous during the winter but is probably best taken during the summer months so that you can enjoy comfortable camping, easy hiking and avoid road closures. Don’t forget: You can’t leave the Rockies without trying Rocky Mountain oysters. Yes, they’re a thing!
6. Oregon’s Pacific Coast
Days: 7
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 8,724
Total Mileage: 323
Oregon is full of scenic road trip routes! The Pacific Coast is no exception. Dramatic cliffs drop off to pleasant beaches on this oceanside drive from Astoria, Oregon to Samual H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Stretch your legs at Ecola State Park, or splash in the cold water at Cannon Beach.
Take your time driving, and stay the night in rural campsites or luxurious Airbnbs. No matter the time of year, pack a puffer jacket and a hat. It gets chilly in the Pacific Northwest.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway
Days: 5
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 17,251
Total Mileage: 400
Blue Ridge Parkway has a reputation for being America’s favorite drive. The road goes from North Carolina to Virginia and zips along the Appalachian Mountains, where you’ll drive through thick forests and see an abundance of wildlife.
Because this route has gained so much adoration for experiencing America’s iconic landscape, it’s jam-packed with other road trippers, especially during the fall.
4. Along the Missouri River
Days: 7
Good For: History & culture
Traffic: 10,464
Total Mileage: 1,025
The Along the Missouri River road trip follows the path of Lewis and Clark’s exploration of America. Stretch out this seven-day journey from St. Louis to Williston, North Dakota, and ride through Kansas City, Missouri; Omaha, Nebraska; and Pierre, South Dakota.
This road trip is a great opportunity to experience the music scene and cultural history of middle America. Oh, and of course, order a mysterious McRib from McDonald’s in Omaha.
3. Mesa Verde and San Juan Mountains
Days: 7
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 7,049
Total Mileage: 236
This list gives more love to the Southwest with a big road trip of Mesa Verde National Park and into the San Juan Mountains of southern Colorado. Mesa Verde is one of America’s least-visited national parks. But it’s home to the largest archeological preserve in the U.S. Here you’ll find cliff dwellings that were home to Native Americans for several centuries.
Continue onto the San Juan Skyway, a 236-mile loop with the title of “America’s Best Spring Drive” — keyword being “spring” — so you know exactly which months to visit.
2. Yellowstone and the Tetons
Days: 7
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 3,879
Total Mileage: 225
Wild animals, geysers and incredible mountain scenery make up the road trip of Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. But first, you have to get there. The best way to start (if coming from other parts of the country) is to fly into Salt Lake City and drive five hours to Grand Teton National Park. From there, hike Death Canyon Trailhead, followed by a jump in Jenny Lake!
Continuing into Yellowstone, you must stop at Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring and mammoth hot springs for that all-American, natural wonders vibe. You can loop back to Salt Lake City or continue driving towards Jackson, Wyoming, to end this road trip. This trip is best done during the summer months when roads and lodging are open.
Note: There are plenty of accommodations within the parks, including Signal Mountain Lodge (which is also a restaurant that serves blackberry margaritas).
1. Monument Valley Trails
Days: 5
Good For: Nature & the outdoors
Traffic: 1,985
Total Mileage: 70
The traffic on the Monument Valley Trails road trip is virtually non-existent. The route spans 70 miles from Mountain Valley, Utah, to Natural Bridges National Park via Route 261. Buckle up and prepare to climb the Moki Dugway in your car.
This detour is a gravel road that winds around a steep cliff filled with switchbacks and beautiful views. You’ll also get to see Valley of the Gods rock formations and pinnacles, along with miles backcountry on this No. 1 road trip in the U.S.