In the wake of America's 250th birthday, there's no better time to rediscover the country the way generations of travelers have before: from behind the wheel. The great American road trip remains one of travel's defining rituals—not because it's the fastest way to get from A to B, but because it's a tempting invitation to slow down. The best routes are dotted with scenic pull-offs, roadside diners, small-town gems, and the national parks, coastlines, deserts, and mountain passes that reward those willing to take the long way there.
As someone who has embarked on my fair share of road trips—from the Columbia River Gorge to Montana, across the South, and throughout the Northeast—I know there is no such thing as too much planning before you hit the road. But mapping out the perfect itinerary is only half the battle. Whether you're tracing a legendary highway, like Route 66, hugging the Pacific coast, winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains, or linking together some of the most bucket-listed national parks, every road trip offers a different perspective on America's many landscapes.
To help inspire your next adventure, I've rounded up 17 of the most scenic road trips in the US, complete with recommendations on where to stop, what to see, and where to stay along the way. All you need now is a set of keys, a great playlist, and time to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
FAQ:
What is the 3-3-3 rule for road trips?
The 3-3-3 rule is the ultimate road-tripper's remedy for highway burnout—trading grueling marathon drives for a relaxed, restorative pace. By capping daily travel at 300 miles, pulling into your destination by 3:00 PM to enjoy the afternoon sun, and committing to a three-night stay at each stop, you'll transform tedious transit into an actual vacation. It is a famed slow-travel philosophy that ensures you spend less time gripping the steering wheel and more time exploring the world outside your window.
What are the best tips for taking a national park road trip?
According to Traveler specialist Mike Augustine, a trip consultant at the adventure company Mountain Travel Sobek, it's best to plan these types of trips early. Most national parks in the US are in remote areas, which is part of what makes them worth visiting. However, the best hotels inside the parks and in the gateway towns tend to book up far in advance. For example, the Many Glacier Hotel in Glacier National Park sells out a year in advance and is often fully booked by 1:00 a.m. on the day reservations go on sale. It's more adjacent to Ticketmaster than to typical hotel reservations. Another word of advice from Augustine?: “Get out of the car and off the main roads. Go for a walk or hike. Most of these amazing parks come to life when you get away from the crowded spots and main tourist attractions.”
What are some must-see destinations on a “great American road trip” along Route 66?
If you're planning to drive the entire Route 66—rather than the shorter, aforementioned version—know that the route spans 2,500 miles across eight states, offering iconic roadside kitsch, vintage neon signs, and all sorts of awe-inspiring natural wonders. Top must-see destinations include Chicago's Begin Sign, St. Louis' Gateway Arch, Texas' Cadillac Ranch, Arizona's Petrified Forest, and the Santa Monica Pier.
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Mark Ellwood.