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The 15 Best American Road Trips, Ranked

Take the wheel and step on the gas.

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It’s basically written in the Constitution that you must, at some point, hit the open road and explore this beautiful country by car. After all, America was built for it. Road trips are something of a rite of passage: two-lane highways, cornfields that stretch for miles, red rocks towering in the distance. (Not included: Fixing a flat tire on the side of said highway or pushing your car to the next gas station.) If you’re envisioning a laid-back vacation à la Cars , look no further. Here, we’ve rounded up 15 of America’s best road trips. That includes the iconic Route 66 ( Chicago to L.A ., baby), a tour of Utah’s best national parks , and a quick jaunt through Cape Cod . No matter your interests, you’ll have the trip of a lifetime, whether you’re cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway or driving through the Badlands.

Here’s Everything I Pack for a Family of 4 in a Single Carry-On & Backpack (Without Losing My Mind)

1. Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)

• Distance: 2,400 miles
• Where to Stay: Wigwam Village Motel (inquire for rates); Hotel Albuquerque (from $289/night); The Ambrose Hotel (from $356/night)
• Things to Do: Lake Michigan , Ozarks , Mojave Desert

It doesn’t get much more Steinbeck than this 2,400-mile interstate stretching from Illinois to California. It’ll probably take you two weeks to get all the way across, but before you embark, be sure to spend at least a day on the shores of Lake Michigan before heading west. Along the route, you’ll want to explore the Ozarks in Missouri and the Mojave Desert once you cross into the Golden State. One of my favorite unexpected stops was the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. The landscape is incredibly varied, with some spots reminiscent of South Dakota’s Badlands. There’s also the pull-out where you can take a photo with the rusting, dilapidated shell of the iconic 1932 Studebaker station wagon. As for lodging and food along the route, a stop at Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois, offers the chance try the original corn dog, while the Wigwam Village Motel in Holbrook, Arizona lets travelers spend the night in a freestanding tepee.

2. Big Sky Country (Montana and Wyoming)

• Distance: 559 miles
• Where to Stay: Under Canvas Glacier (from $299/night); Old Faithful Inn (from $655/night); Colter Bay Village (from $287/night)
• Things to Do: Yellowstone National Park ; Glacier National Park ; Grand Teton National Park

Give yourself about ten days to drive from Montana to Wyoming while you visit Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton national parks. Honestly, if you’re a scenery person but less athletic (me), you’d be content to simply drive the winding roads and make intermittent stops at the pull-outs to take pictures. Although, when I went to Yellowstone and Grand Teton, there were plenty of easy hikes and I’m glad I did them. The areas are so lush and vibrant and it’s the cleanest air I’ve ever breathed. Lakes here sparkle. The most iconic part of Glacier is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which cuts through the park and leads to a summit at Logan Pass.

3. California State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway)

• Distance: 656 miles
• Where to Stay: Madonna Inn (from $309/night); Simpson House Inn (from $589/night); Beverly Hills Hotel (from $1,859/night)
• Things to Do: Carmel-by-the-Sea , Big Sur , Malibu

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping part of this 147-mile drive from Monterey to Morro Bay is the 90-mile stretch through Big Sur. “The PCH road trip has forever been on my bucket list because it’s such an amazing way to see California,” says PureWow Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay . “There are a few ways you can do it, but I loved starting in SF and ending in L.A., with stops at Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Solvang, Anaheim (Disneyland), L.A. and a few beach towns in Orange County. Big Sur is stunning, so give yourself plenty of time to pull over to take in the views. Some of my favorite spots were Santa Barbara and Carmel-by-the-Sea. I also took a last-minute detour up north to Muir Woods with zero regrets. Word to the wise, Route 1 can at times be a long and windy two-lane highway that gets very dark once the sun goes down (and half the time you can’t even see the ocean). If you’re in a rush to get from point A to point B, hop over to US-101 which is a faster, more direct (and better lit) route.”

4. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia And North Carolina)

• Distance: 469 miles
• Where to Stay: Craddock Terry Hotel ($269/night) ; The Hotel Roanoke (from $191/night); 1899 Wright Inn and Carriage House (inquire for rates)
• Things to Do: Lynchburg, Virginia ; Blowing Rock ; Claw of the Dragon

Extending from Virginia to North Carolina, this 469-mile parkway connects the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks. Visiting in October allows you to catch the dazzling fall foliage. My friend and I only drove a sliver of the road, but it was so peaceful to watch the countryside roll by on a two-lane highway, landscape dotted with cottages and farmhouses, sky stretching for miles. We ended up antiquing in a nearby town before heading home, but I would have loved to go all the way to Asheville, known for its art and architecture.

5. Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive, Washington

• Distance: 454 miles
• Where to Stay: Silver Cloud Inn (from $279/night); Super 8 Port Angeles (from $309/night); Moonstone Beach Hotel (from $279/night)
• Things to Do: Hoh Rainforest , Ruby Beach , Cape Flattery

This 450-mile loop around Olympic Mountain Range swoops past rainforests, snow-capped mountains, cobalt-blue lakes, sprawling beaches---all contained in Olympic National Park. The almost supernatural Hoh Rainforest (think: Twilight saga) and stunning Ruby Beach are just a couple of the places that warrant a daytrip. And don’t forget Cape Flattery, a quiet little cove with sapphire waters and steep cliffs that will dazzle you with their majesty.

6. Las Vegas to Dallas

• Distance: 1,222 miles
• Where to Stay: High Country Motor Lodge (from $229/night); Inn on the Alameda (from $399/night); The Statler Dallas (from $286/night)
• Things to Do: Hoover Dam , Grand Canyon , Cadillac Ranch

I did Las Vegas to Dallas a couple years ago and the Southwest totally blew me away. The Grand Canyon is an easy detour, but we went a little farther up into Zion National Park . Both are great choices and a respite from barreling down a 12-lane interstate. You exchange that for winding, two lane-roads on treacherous cliffs with (maybe literally) killer views of endless canyons. The whole landscape of this area of the country is so unique, with red rocks and mountains at every turn. Once you get into Texas, you think the fun’s over, but then you’re surprised on I-40 when you see everyone trying to exit to take a picture at Cadillac Ranch. It’s exactly how it sounds: A row of Cadillacs buried nose-first in the dirt, surrounded by a cornfield, covered in graffiti. Maybe one of my most favorite pieces of contemporary art.

7. Dallas to Los Angeles

• Distance: 1,436 miles
• Where to Stay: The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park (from $209/night); Royal Palms Resort and Spa (from $229/night); The Hollywood Roosevelt (from $339/night)
• Things to Do: Joshua Tree National Park , Saguaro National Park , El Paso Mission Trail

On the flip side, trek back out West and do a Dallas to Los Angeles road trip. This is an opportunity to hit a different route than I-40’s Las Vegas to Dallas leg. I’ve done this route, and Joshua Tree and Saguaro national parks are a total must. For scheduling reasons, I couldn’t stop in these two places and those are huge regrets. Both locales will offer you the arid desert landscape and cacti for miles. Once you hit Texas, the El Paso Mission Trail, a nine-mile stretch of historical missions on a solitary road. It’s an interesting window into the state’s history and Spanish influence.

8. Natchez Trace Parkway (Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee)

• Distance: 444 miles
• Where to Stay: The Graduate Hotel (from $249/night); The Westin Jackson (from $251/night); Hotel Tupelo (from $199/night)
• Things to Do: Mount Locust ; Elvis Presley’s house ; Country Music Hall of Fame

A Southern odyssey starts in Natchez, Mississippi and ends in Nashville. The 444-mile stretch will take you through the whole of the Magnolia State, with stops at the archeological site Mount Locust and Elvis Presley’s birthplace in Tupelo. I drove on a tiny sliver in Tennessee near Nashville , and got to walk across the bridge, peering at the valley below. Once you arrive in the city, there are a handful of non-negotiables. The Honky Tonk Highway, where country music blares so loudly from the bars your whole being shakes, for starters. Right across from that is the Assembly Food Hall, an emporium of Southern delights, from the hot chicken sandwich to fried pickles. And did I mention the Loveless Café ? Best biscuits of my life. It’s also not a visit to the city unless you pop into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry .

9. Palm Springs to San Diego

• Distance: 139 miles
• Where to Stay: Pantai Inn (from $549/night); Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa (from $399/night); The Saguaro Palm Springs (from $107/night)
• Things to Do: Palm Springs Aeriel Tramway ; Balboa Park ; Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Hit two iconic southern California hotspots in a single road trip from Palm Springs to San Diego. Of course, you’ll want to take a couple days to explore all the mid-century modern architecture of the former (my preferred activity) and ride the aerial tram for sweeping views of the Coachella Valley. In San Diego , the eternally beautiful and varied Balboa Park (one of my favorite spots) offers lush gardens, the San Diego Zoo and plenty of museums. When you need to see the ocean, Torrey Pines is a good spot, known as one of the state’s wildest stretches of beach.

10. Houston to Amarillo

• Distance: 635 miles
• Where to Stay: Hotel 1928 (inquire for rates); Embassy Suites (from $347/night); Big Texan Motel (from $146/night)
• Things to Do: Space Center Houston ; Magnolia Silos ; American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

Amarillo is *kind of* iconic. After all, it’s one of the destinations sung about in the legendary song “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66,” covered innumerable times by everyone from Nat King Cole to John Mayer. It makes sense that several of America’s best road trips will take you through this Texas town. The proposed route here starts in Houston, where you should take the opportunity to see the Space Center before zooming up to Waco, home to Joanna Gaines’s Magnolia Silos empire. Rock ‘n roll fans will want to pull over at Lubbock, which is the birthplace of Buddy Holly, known for pioneering the genre. When you arrive in Amarillo, there’s plenty to see, from the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum to Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon State Park .

11. Seattle to New York

• Distance: 2,840 miles
• Where to Stay: The Dominick (from $625/night); The Sapphire Motel (from $312/night); Canyon Lake Resort (from $175/night)
• Things to Do: Yellowstone National Park ; Mount Rushmore ; Harley-Davidson Museum

Craving a true cross-country adventure? Try Seattle to New York, which will take you across the Midwest. Because the drive will take you through Bozeman, you might as well bake in some extra days to explore Yellowstone. Then, take a detour to see Mount Rushmore once you hit South Dakota. Motorcycle fanatics will want to pull over in Milwaukee, home to the Harley-Davidson Museum. (They even have one of Elvis Presley’s on display.) The last leg of the trip will motor you straight through the entire state of Pennsylvania and the historical Dutch Country.

12. Utah National Parks

• Distance: 691 miles
• Where to Stay: Hoodoo Moab (from $229/night); Cougar Ridge Lodge (from $404/night); Zion Mountain Ranch (from $309/night)
• Things to Do: Arches National Park ; Bryce Canyon National Park ; Dark Canyon Wilderness

Those whose dream is to tour all the country’s national parks should start with Utah. The state is rife with them, and they’re all in a convenient loop. Moab is your starting place, and from there, you can make the circle, starting with Arches National Park and Canyonlands. As you continue counter-clockwise, you’ll hit Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, Zion and Dark Canyon (which is also part of the Manti-La Sal National Forest). Before you know it, you’re rolling back into Moab, dusty and filled with awe for Mother Nature.

13. Smoky Mountains (Charlotte to Asheville, North Carolina)

• Distance: 430 miles
• Where to Stay: Albemarle Inn (from $300/night); Twin Mountain Inn & Suites (from $224/night); The Ballantyne (from $316/night)
• Things to Do: Dollyworld; Great Smoky Mountains National Park; Biltmore Estate

Yep, you took this road trip to see the legendary Smoky Mountains, so take a pit stop to see Cades Cove, along with the myriad historic buildings and waterfalls. Then, shock yourself back into the man-made with a day at Dollyworld. (Because how could you not?!) The 430-mile loop will take you back into North Carolina and end with Asheville, where a stay at the Biltmore Estate. You’ll feel like literal royalty after having spent a week cruising in your car.

14. Southern Arizona (Sonoran Desert)

• Distance: 97 miles
• Where to Stay: Loews Ventana Canyon Resort (from $179/night); The Tuxon (from $126/night); Arizona Biltmore ($209/night)
• Things to Do: McFarland State Historic Park ; Catalina State Park ; Oracle State Park

At less than 100 miles, this itinerary is one of America’s best road trips for those pressed for time. Start in either Phoenix or Tucson and then you’re in closer proximity to several state parks in the famous Sonoran Desert. For maximum fuel efficiency (and to maximize your time outside), start at McFarland State Historic Park if Phoenix if your home base, and at Oracle State Park if Tucson is. Everywhere you turn, you’ll be met with saguaros and sunsets. Seems pretty dreamy, isn’t it?

15. Cape Cod

• Distance: 90 miles
• Where to Stay: Edgar Hotel (from $630/night); Earl of Sandwich Motel (from $219/night); The Old Harbor Inn (from $514/night)
• Things to Do: Martha’s Vineyard Museum ; John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum ; Godfrey Windmill

Do you summer on the Cape? Well, you can now. This easy road trip takes you through a handful of quintessential seaside towns. Start in Martha’s Vineyard and then continue with: Falmouth, Sandwich, Mashpee, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Brewster, Harwich and end with Chatham. Because everything is close to each other, you have the luxury to linger. We recommending stacking a few days on the Vineyard, and also slotting the JFK museum in Hyannis into the itinerary. Chatham is a charming town to end your road trip, with a windmill, lighthouse and delightful downtown perfect for stretching your legs.

The 13 Best Travel Backpack Carry-Ons in 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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10 of the Best U.S. Road Trips for Families

Create memories with your kids on these short but sweet journeys that feature stunning scenery and unique landmarks.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

A road trip is a classic American vacation, but it takes planning to make it great — especially when little ones are involved. To help you plan your family's next journey, we've rounded up some of the best road trips around the United States for families with kids, from quick, single-day jaunts to journeys that can take more than a week. With stops the whole crew will enjoy, these drives are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia

Explore two popular southern cities on one trip with this short-distance getaway. The drive from Charleston straight to Savannah takes just under two hours, but we'd recommend taking a few days for this itinerary so you can stop to enjoy the outstanding hotels and beaches along the way. You can stay at The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island an hour south of Charleston, or fill up the tank for a beach day at Hilton Head , only an hour farther. Once you've passed through Savannah, drive one more hour south for a stay at The Cloister at Sea Island . This five-star resort is another good option for families, with plenty of swimming, fishing, and nature walks.

San Diego to Los Angeles, California

At right around two hours, this drive is easy for parents and just long enough to be exciting for the kids. San Diego, Los Angeles, and the stretches of coast in between them are packed with beaches and attractions the family will love, like the San Diego Zoo, Legoland California, and Disneyland , about a 30-minute from downtown L.A. in Anaheim.

New York City or Boston to Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Whether you choose to stay in a shingled cottage or beachfront apartment, your kids will fall hard for the Cape . Wellfleet is a particularly great destination for families, reachable in two hours from Boston or five hours from New York City. You'll want to stop in other charming towns along the way, like Falmouth and Chatham, before settling in the sands of the Outer Cape. Once you're there, no trip is complete without a visit to Mac's on the Pier , where you can gaze out at the harbor and feast on whole belly clams. Exploring one of the Cape's kettle ponds, which families often have all to themselves, is also a must, as is checking out the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary , home to five miles of trails and salt marshes.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Beginning in Orange County's Dana Point and reaching north to San Francisco, this popular drive can be completed in under eight hours. But why keep it short? With many major stops — from sprawling Los Angeles to Carmel-by-the-Sea — you could make this road trip last for days. Driving northward, head to the top of the Topanga Lookout in Malibu for incredible views of the San Fernando Valley. Then, a few hours north in Santa Ynez wine country, relax with a glass of vino as you plot your visit to Hearst Castle, where the kids can marvel at the mansion's many fountains and statues.

New York City to Philadelphia to the Poconos

At Woodloch Resort in the Pocono Mountains, you'll feel like you're back at summer camp — in a good way. On and off the property, there's plenty to do, including golf, paintball, fishing, and more. A variety of accommodation options are available, too, perfect for families of any size. Whether or not you're headed to the Woodloch, though, the Poconos are an easy getaway for East Coasters. New York City is about a two-hour drive and Philadelphia is about three hours; the two cities can easily be combined with a Poconos visit for a fun multiday adventure.

Boston, Massachusetts, to Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont, is a great destination in all seasons for families road tripping within New England. Just three hours from Boston, the town offers some of the East Coast's best skiing in wintertime and an abundance of outdoor adventure in summer. On your warm-weather visit, cool off with the kids at the Waterbury Reservoir in Waterbury Center State Park , or enjoy the fresh mountain air with a hiking or biking excursion.

There are few roads as iconic as Route 66 , so why not take your kids on this classic American trip? Whether you embark on the full journey from Chicago to Los Angeles or opt for a smaller portion of the road, you're bound have a memorable time. Little ones will love the route's kitschy roadside attractions (world's biggest ketchup bottle, anyone?), while adults will be wowed by the scenery, from the wide-open spaces of west Texas to the mountains of Santa Fe .

Tucson to the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Take in some of the country's best views on a multiday road trip through Arizona . Start in Tucson and visit Saguaro National Park to see the namesake cacti before heading to Scottsdale. Next up, drive to the stunning, red rock-surrounded town of Sedona. Finally, continue north to Grand Canyon National Park for a couple of days in the great outdoors, reveling in this massive natural wonder.

Rocky Mountain Loop from Denver

If you'd like to swap red rocks for snowy mountaintops, set off on a Colorado road trip through some of the state's incredible national parks and charming small towns. From Denver, head northwest to Boulder and Estes Park, a perfect home base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park . Drive farther into the mountains to check out towns like Glenwood Springs, Telluride, and Durango, all located in the western part of the state. Spend a day at Mesa Verde National Park , home to ancient Native cave dwellings that will fascinate kids and grown-ups alike before turning back east. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Colorado Springs are great stops en route back to Denver.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Beautiful year-round but especially colorful in spring and fall, the Blue Ridge Parkway makes for an excellent family road trip. Connecting Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic mountain and foliage views across the Appalachian landscapes of Virginia and North Carolina. Plus, there are plenty of great hikes for all skill levels and places to camp along the parkway if you want to spend a few nights under the stars.

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15 East Coast Road Trip Itinerary Ideas!

February 29, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   1 Comment

There are so many options for an East Coast road trip itinerary! I love road tripping and the East Coast states offer so much to see and do!

Whether you are interested in seeing gorgeous nature, historic sites, charming towns, or bustling cities, there are East Coast America road trip ideas in this list for you!

I’ve made sure to have options that hit almost every state on the East Coast. Some of them are all in one state, others you’ll spend time traveling to several different states.

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a few days on the road, I’m sure there is something here for you.

From Maine to Florida, there is so much waiting for you to explore on an East Coast trip.

Don’t forget to check out my list of the best resorts on the East Coast if you are looking for some inspiration!

Now, let’s dive into my road trip planner for the East Coast USA!

Coastal Maine Road Trip

• Ogunquit Beach
• Kennebunkport
• Acadia National Park

A coastal Maine road trip is a great way to see the northernmost state on the East Coast.

Begin your road trip in Ogunquit Beach, which has miles of beautiful sandy beaches. You’ll also find great shopping, dining, and a nice art scene.

Continue to Kennebunkport where you can visit the quaint Cape Porpoise, a lobster-fishing village.

From there, head to Rockland. This tourist spot is famous because it’s where the mountains and sea converge. After enjoying the pretty landscape, head to Acadia National Park.

Acadia is a perfect way to end your Maine road trip. It’s got stunning rocky beaches, plenty of hiking trails, and sweeping panoramic views.

This is also one of my favorite summer trips in the USA !

Picturesque New York Road Trip

• Hudson Valley
• Catskill Mountains
• Watkins Glen

If you want a New York road trip that takes you outside of New York City, then consider this East Coast USA itinerary.

Begin in Albany, a beautiful city that is actually the state’s capital. You’ll also find one of the oldest museums in the US. The Albany Institute of History & Art was founded in 1791.

From there, head to the Hudson Valley. This is a large area of the state and where the Hudson River flows. It’s a beautiful place to unwind and admire New York’s wild landscape.

Next, head to the Catskill Mountains. These pretty mountains are where people from NYC go to reset and relax. There are lakes and rivers you can hike to and enjoy.

Continue to Ithaca, a picturesque city in New York’s Finger Lakes region. It’s also home to the ice cream sundae, so make sure you enjoy one while you’re there.

You’ll end your trip by exploring Watkins Glen. It’s a small village with a canal that goes straight through it. Stop by Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike and discover lovely waterfalls.

Florida Springs Road Trip

• Ginnie Springs
• Devil’s Den
• Rainbow Springs
• Gilchrist Blue Springs

The best way to start your Florida springs road trip is at Ginnie Springs. You’ll find some of the clearest waters in Florida. It’s made up of seven springs with beautiful white sandy shores.

From there, head to Devil’s Den. This is the perfect Florida spring for divers, as it is inside a cave. It is super unique!

Next, head to Rainbow Springs. The waters of this state park were once believed to hold magical healing powers. Now it’s a favorite spring for visitors. Float down the natural “lazy” river or swim in the massive spring.

End your road trip at the Gilchrist Blue Springs. It’s a very popular tourist destination, so make sure you get there early if you want to be able to enjoy a swim.

This Florida vacation is great for an East Coast itinerary with kids!

Kentucky Bourbon Trail Road Trip

• Woodford Reserve Distillery
• Wild Turkey Distillery
• Lexington Brewing Distilling Company
• Maker’s Mark Distillery

Kentucky is known for its bourbon, so you should absolutely take a bourbon trail road trip while you’re there!

Start at the Woodford Reserve Distillery about 30 minutes outside of Lexington. See the still, the warehouse, and the bottling process before enjoying a bite to eat in the sampling room.

Then drive twenty minutes to tour the Wild Turkey Distillery.

Next, head to the Lexington Brewing Distilling Company. They make bourbon as well as beer, moonshine, vodka, and rum.

End this Kentucky road trip at the Maker’s Mark Distillery. It’s possibly the most famous dis tillery in the state. You’ll be able to finish your trip by dipping your bottle of bourbon in their signature red wax.

Kancamagus Highway In New Hampshire

• Loon Mountain
• Hancock Overlook and Pavilion
• Sugar Hill Overlook
• Rocky Gorge Scenic Area

Do you want to experience an amazing fall foliage road trip in the US? The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is one of the best routes!

Start this East Coast road trip at Loon Mountain. It’s a popular ski area and a great place to stop and walk around while you admire the changing leaves.

Next, head to the Hancock Overlook and Pavilion. On a clear day, you’ll get a beautiful view of the mountains. There is also a pavilion that has plenty of infographics about the area.

Continue to the Sugar Hill Overlook. There, you’ll have a great view of the Swift River Valley and mountains covered in fall foliage.

End your road trip at the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area. There are paved walkways and a bridge you can cross. You can even walk down to the river. It’s a beautiful area and a great stop to end your northeast road trip.

Virginia Monticello Wine Road Trip

• Flying Fox Vineyard
• Pollack Vineyard
• Knights Gambit Vineyard

The Monticello Wine Trail is one of the best road trips in Virginia! The route is inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision of grape growing in Virginia.

This scenic wine trail can be done in a day or you can spread it out over a few days. There are 30 wineries on the trail, but I’ll mention three favorite must-sees.

At all of the vineyards on the trail, you can take tours before sampling their wine selection. Most even have a small restaurant or café where you can grab a bite to eat.

I suggest at least stopping at the Flying Fox Vineyard, the Pollack Vineyard, and the Knights Gambit Vineyard. They are all beautiful vineyards with great views, tours, and wine to sample.

Waterfalls Of South Carolina

• Wildcat Wayside Falls
• Issaqueena Falls
• Reedy Falls

This Eastern USA road trip is great for seeing some of South Carolina’s best waterfalls.

Start at the 30-foot-tall Wildcat Wayside Falls, which you can see from the highway. Park near just off the highway and take a short walk to get a closer look.

Twin Falls, the most popular falls in the state, are nearby. So make sure you make a stop there too.

Then head to Issaqueena Falls, which is just a short hike away from the Twin Falls. You get to see two beautiful waterfalls at the same spot! At over 200 feet of cascading waters, it’s an absolute must-see.

Finish your tour of South Carolina waterfalls at the Reedy Falls. The 25-foot waterfall is actually in downtown Greenville, so take some time to enjoy the city while you see the falls.

Charming East Coast Towns

• Montpelier, Vermont
• New Haven, Connecticut
• New Hope, Pennsylvania
• Roanoke, Virginia

There are so many charming small towns on the East Coast ! This road trip will introduce you to some of the most popular townsto explore.

Start in Montpelier, Vermont. It is the capital, but it is not as bustling as other East Coast capital cities. While there, head to the Ben and Jerry’s factory to sample ice cream before heading to New Haven, Connecticut.

New Haven is home to the Ivy League University, Yale. It’s the state’s second-largest city, but still feels very much like a small town.

Grab some coffee, explore the city, or hang out on one of the beautiful lawns of Yale.

Next, head to New Hope, Pennsylvania. This is a charming small arts town near Philadelphia. You’ll find some unique shops, great food, and awesome art galleries to explore.

From there, head to your final small town: Roanoke, Virginia. While there, enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery, the world’s largest free-standing illuminating star, and the town’s many parks.

Cities of the East Coast

• Boston, Massachusetts
• New York City, New York
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Washington D.C.

Are you looking for a East Coast travel guide that focuses on the big cities? You can’t go wrong with this fun itinerary as all of the cities are vibrant and interesting!

Start your trip in Boston, Massachusetts, where you can explore art museums, historic sites, and amazing food and shopping. Boston with kids is amazing, so this is a great family road trip option for you!

From there, head to the Big Apple! In New York City, you can find some unique things to do outside of Times Square . There are a ton of iconic buildings and monuments to see!

In Philadelphia, see the Liberty Bell, grab a cheesesteak, and run up the famous stairs from Rocky .

End your trip at the nation’s capital. In Washington D.C., hit up the many Smithsonian museums, admire the famous national landmarks like the Washington Monument, and learn about the founding of the United States.

Make sure to check out these Washington D.C. travel tips before you go! You are sure to have a wonderful time on this road trip down the East Coast!

The Blue Ridge Parkway of North Carolina

• Cumberland Knob
• Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
• Linn Cove Viaduct
• Little Switzerland
• Crabtree Falls

The Blue Ridge Parkway is probably one of the most famous East Coast road trip destinations. This one focuses on all the great bits of the route in North Carolina.

Start at Cumberland Knob where you can explore scenic views. Linville Falls is also nearby, so make sure you hike out to see it.

From there, head to the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. There are hiking trails and even a manor you can tour. You may even see people horseback riding.

As you continue down the parkway, you will pass over the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct.

When you make it to Little Switzerland, walk around before hiking to Crabtree Falls to end your road trip.

This is one of the best fall foliage weekend road trip ideas on the East Coast!

Hidden Gems Of Tennessee

• The Lost Sea
• The Minister’s Treehouse
• The First Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
• Geographic Center of Tennessee

Tennessee is a great place to see some unique attractions.

Start your road trip at the Lost Sea. The Lost Sea is a lake 3/4 miles beneath the ground in Craighead Caverns. When you take your tour, you’ll even ride in a little boat.

From there, head to the Minister’s Treehouse in Crossville. The Minister’s Treehouse is a massive, abandoned structure in the shape of a treehouse.

It was built by a minister in the 1990s and was officially closed years ago due to safety concerns. But you can still admire it from the outside.

Continue to the First Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Lebanon. You can see the original building and learn more about the chain restaurant’s early history.

End your road trip at the Geographic Center of Tennessee in Murfreesboro an hour outside of Nashville. There’s a small plaque marking this unique spot.

Ultimate New England Road Trip

• Newport, Rhode Island
• Mystic, Connecticut
• Burlington, Vermont

This East Coast road trip is all about exploring New England. You’ll do a sort of loop as you start in Boston.

Boston is the quintessential New England city, so take time to explore all it has to offer.

From there, head to Newport, Rhode Island. It is known for its massive and iconic mansions. Make time to tour one of them.

Next, head to Mystic, Connecticut. It’s a small, coastal town full of charm that you are sure to enjoy. It was also the filming location for the 1988 movie Mystic Pizza .

End your road trip in Burlington, Vermont. It’s Vermont’s biggest town and is super cool. You’ll find a great art scene, amazing restaurants, and more. It’s a great way to end your exploration of New England.

Georgia Film Buffs Road Trip

• Crawfordville

There have been so many amazing movies and TV shows filmed in Georgia . It has recently become the Hollywood of the East Coast, and this makes it one of the best Southeast road trip ideas.

Start in Atlanta, where films like Driving Miss Daisy and The Blind Side have been filmed. Even Marvel movies have been made there!

Check out the beautiful Swan House where scenes from The Hunger Games series were shot.

Next, head to Crawfordville, where you can tour the Taliaferro County Historical Society’s exhibits on local filmmaking. It’s also where Sweet Home Alabama was filmed.

From there, head to the cute small town of Monticello. In Monticello, head to the Whistle Stop Cafe, one of the filming locations for Fried Green Tomatoes .

End your road trip in Savannah. Savannah has been used as the backdrop to over 85 films, like Forrest Gump and X-Men: First Class .

This is the best road trip on the East Coast USA for anyone interested in film-making!

Historic East Coast Cities

• Salem, Massachusetts
• Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
• Optional Extensions: Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; St. Augustine, Florida.

When everyone thinks of historic East Coast road trip stops, they think of Boston first. While Boston is a great historic city, I suggest traveling just a little outside of Boston as well to Salem.

After learning about Colonial Boston, it’s interesting to learn about Salem, which is notorious for the Salem Witch Trials. The town leans into that history, and you’ll find tons of cool places to explore.

Nearby is also Plymouth, the site of Plymouth Rock and where European Settlers first landed in New England.

Next, head to Philadelphia. There, you’ll learn more about America’s fight for freedom. Check out the Liberty Bell, see where the Declaration of Independence was written, and visit the Betsy Ross House.

Next, head to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. While there, you’ll learn what daily life was like for Colonial Americans.

Finish your East Coast road trip itinerary in the nation’s capital: Washington D.C. You’ll be able to see the actual Declaration of Independence as well as learn more about the nation’s history.

If you have the time to extend your trip further south, consider checking out Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and St. Augustine, Florida. All have a unique and fascinating history!

Pennsylvania’s Route 30

• Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium
• Dutch Wonderland
• The Coffee Pot
• The Bicycle Built For Two

If you love kitschy roadside attractions, then you’ll love the best East Coast road trip stops on Pennsylvania’s Route 30.

Start your journey outside of Gettysburg at Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium. It is full of unique elephant memorabilia, and of course, lots of candy.

From there, head to Dutch Wonderland, which is in Lancaster just off Route 30. It’s a theme park centered around the area’s Pennsylvania Dutch heritage.

Next, head to The Coffee Pot. This is a roadside luncheonette in the shape of a massive coffee pot. It has been restored, and now you can visit it.

Finish your tour of Pennsylvania’s roadside attractions at the Bicycle Built For Two. It’s a 17-foot-high tandem bicycle!

This is one of the most fun family road trips on the East Coast USA!

There are so many great things to do on the East Coast. From big cities, charming small towns, and beautiful scenery, you will have a great time!

I hope you enjoyed this list of the top road trips on the East Coast and found one that is perfect for you.

Have you ever done any of these road trips? Is there one you’d like to try? Let me know in the comments!

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10 great motorcycle routes across America that offer natural social distancing

The perfect pandemic outing might be cruising through the country on a motorcycle, says Paige Bouma of Cycle Trader  (CycleTrader.com). “It naturally lends itself to social distancing, and it’s a great fun thing to do. You just feel like you’re at one with nature,” says the vice president of the online marketplace for new and used motorcycles. She shares some favorite routes with USA TODAY.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Tennessee and North Carolina

The nation’s most-visited national park offers motorcyclists 400 miles of roadway to explore. Popular rides include the Tail of the Dragon , the Blue Ridge Parkway  and the  Cherohala Skyway Loop . “You can get lost in the ride. You have mountains all around you,” Bouma says.

More information:  nps.gov/grsm

Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park

This 105-mile, ridge-hugging route runs the entire length of Shenandoah National Park, offering scores of scenic overlooks with valley views and Blue Ridge Mountain vistas.“It’s the prettiest ride out there. I don’t think there’s anything more beautiful,” Bouma says. With a speed limit of just 35 mph, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, but watch out for bear, deer and other wildlife.

More information:    nps.gov/shen

Tunnel of Trees

Harbor Springs to Cross Village, Michigan

At just 16 miles, it won’t take long to drive this forested route in northern Michigan, but the trip’s still unforgettable. “It’s a narrow path with sharp turns. It’s beautiful in all seasons,” Bouma says. The trip along highway M-119 offers views of Lake Michigan and plenty of places to make a pit stop or pause for meal.

More information:    mackinawcity.com/day-trips/tunnel-of-trees/

Located in the center of the state, this Green Mountains ride is particularly popular during the fall color season. Covering more than 200 miles, riders can pick and choose their route. “It's right in the heart of Vermont. You ride and you can get out and do some hikes,” Bouma says. A must-visit: the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory in Waterbury. “Get a little Chunky Monkey or Cherry Garcia to make it an even more fun day.”

More information:    vermontvacation.com/landing-pages/byways/scenic-route-100-byway

San Juan Mountain Skyway

This 230-mile loop takes riders past historic mining towns, alpine vistas, hot springs and more. One favorite section, the Million Dollar Highway , connects the Rocky Mountain towns of Ouray and Silverton. With its hairpin turns and switchbacks, the driving is memorable too. “You can map out where you want to go and what you want to see,” Bouma says.

More information:    colorado.com/articles/colorado-scenic-byway-san-juan-skyway

Kancamagus Highway

New Hampshire

Although the riding’s wonderful, visitors will be tempted to get off their motorcycles to hike to waterfalls and take in White Mountains views. The 34½-mile route on New Hampshire State Highway 112 is particularly popular with visitors seeking fall foliage, but the area attracts visitors in the spring and summer too, Bouma says.

More information:  visitwhitemountains.com/the-kancamagus-highway

Pig Trail Scenic Byway

Twisting through the Ozark National Forest on Arkansas State Highway 23, this byway takes riders on curves and climbs and under canopies of trees. Although it's just 19 miles long, there are many other sites in the region. “It’s a quick fun ride. A good adventure,” Bouma says.

More information:  arkansas.com/ozark/tours-experiences/pig-trail-scenic-byway

Historic Columbia River Highway

One of the nation’s first purpose-built scenic highways, this 75-mile route follows the Columbia River and offers views of Mount Hood, the state’s highest point. A must-stop: thundering Multnomah Falls with paths climbing to the top of the cascade. But the ride itself is worth the trip, Bouma says. “Any time you’ve got twists and turns along the route, it’s going to make a fun day.”

More information:  oregon.gov/odot/regions/pages/historic-columbia-river-highway.aspx

Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Kentucky and Tennessee

Commonly called “The Trace,” this 43-mile route through forests and open fields features gentle curves and rolling hills as it follows a ridge route between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Riders find many places to stop and stretch their legs, Bouma says.

More information:  fhwa.dot.gov/byways/byways/2345

Mohawk Trail

Massachusetts

Once a Native American trade route, this 69-mile scenic drive offers breathtaking scenery through the Berkshire Mountains. The best section covers the section from North Adams to Greenfield, Bouma says. “This is one of the most popular places to drive in all of New England.”

More information:  mohawktrail.com

August 20, 2020

The Best Road Trips in Every State

Autumn. Crisp breezes. Vibrant landscapes. Let's drive!

Stephanie Citron

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We scoured the nation for the best driving excursions in every state. Many showcase stunning fall foliage backdrops. Others present unique and spectacular geography. In some cases, we bypassed the best-known byways to feature hidden gems. Oh, we surely missed some — there are just too many to choose from. (Let us know your favorites in the comments below..) We hope to inspire you to venture out and explore this beautiful country we call America. Happy motoring!

Wrapping around Mobile Bay on Alabama’s southern tip, the 130-mile Coastal Connection Scenic Byway runs alongside pristine, powder-white Gulf beaches, shorebird sanctuaries, pecan and produce farms, and historic Fort Gaines and Fort Morgan.

Dream of driving from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle? Then gas up and prepare to not see another human soul for hours, just lots of wildlife, including migrating caribou, Dall sheep, musk oxen, and arctic foxes. While spellbinding, the rugged 415-mile mountain-pass Dalton Highway is largely void of civilization and creature comforts.

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A favorite of motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts, the harrowing 123-mile Coronado Trail, aka Devil’s Highway, ascends, narrows, dips, and twists through more than 400 switchbacks as it climbs from high desert floor to 9,000-foot alpine forest.

Arkansas’s 363-mile section of the multi-state Great River Road runs alongside the Mississippi River through its Delta region, brimming with ancient Native American and Civil War sites, steamboats, and Mark Twain’s boyhood haunts.

U.S. Route 395, “El Camino Sierra,” stretches from Mexico to Canada, and the California section packs in some of its most diverse landscapes: 14,000-foot peaks, tufa formations, ancient volcanos, ghost towns, and a bristlecone pine forest.

Also check out: The Gold Rush Highway journeys through California’s gold rush era in the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas.

Drivers cross the Continental Divide twice while traversing the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway’s 82 miles from Aspen to Copper Mountain. The road seldom drops below 9,000 feet while passing through three national forests — Pike, Arapaho, and White River — abounding with bighorn sheep, red-tail fox, and mountain goats.

Connecticut

Rolling hills, covered bridges, historic taverns, charming villages … the vast array of Litchfield Hills Loop’s scenic routes will have you wondering if you’ve been dropped in an Andrew Wyeth canvas.

Also check out: Trailing the coastline, the 105-mile Connecticut Coast Scenic Highway between Stonington and Greenwich features salt marshes, wide beaches, and some of the East Coast’s oldest towns.

Tranquil, two-lane Bayshore Byway parallels the Delaware Bay and migratory flyways between New Castle and Lewes. Antique-filled towns give way to corn and soybean farms, wildlife refuges, and marshlands.

The southernmost leg of Route 1 spans 165 miles over scenic bridges from Miami to Key West, showcasing coral islets, reedy wetlands, and unobstructed sunsets over the aquamarine sea. Watch for white herons, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, and dolphins.

Three-state Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway travels 40 miles through Georgia’s mountain country, crisscrossing Brasstown Bald (Georgia’s highest peak), granite canyons, and the Chattahoochee River.

Just 11.2 miles long, the Big Island’s Mauna Loa Road traverses lava fields and koa forests while climbing majestic Mauna Loa for panoramic views of Kilauea volcano.

Also check out: Famed for its 620 curves and 59 bridges, Maui’s Hana Highway abounds with fragrant South Pacific foliage (think rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and multi-hued beaches).

The Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway’s 131 wooded miles wend from Boise to Sun Valley, past old gold mines, Western towns, and national forests, including the massive Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness.

Nicknamed a “living museum,” 150-mile Illinois River Road Scenic Byway embodies more than 100 nature-based, historic, and cultural sights, including Lewistown’s Dickson Mounds Museum, which interprets the ecology of the Illinois River.

The Indiana track of America’s first paved transcontinental route, the Lincoln Highway, includes a sundry of historic sites (some commemorating Abraham Lincoln) a circa-1889 synagogue, and lodgings from the early days of road-tripping.

Travel the 82-mile Covered Bridges Scenic Byway across Madison County and see the five famous bridges. Also drive by the birthplace and museum of legendary actor John Wayne and the stunning Iowa Quilt Museum, both in Winterset.

Western Vistas Historic Byway, a 102-mile, one-time pioneer and cowboy trail (trod by the likes of “Wild Bill” Hickok), encompasses extraordinary landscapes, 70-foot spire Niobrara Chalk formations, dinosaur fossils, and limestone-ledged buttes amid roaming buffalo and prairie dogs.

Trekked by Daniel Boone, Civil War soldiers, and European explorers, the 92-mile Wilderness Road Heritage Highway features Cumberland Gap National Park, mountain music venue Renfro Valley, and Kentucky’s crafts capital, Berea.

Bayou Teche Byway loops 125 miles through lush bayous, Acadian cultural districts, and the country’s largest wetland, the million-acre Atchafalaya Swamp Basin.

The 125-mile Bold Coast Scenic Byway winds through Downeast Maine’s craggy seashore, foggy coastal forests, blueberry barrens, and historic towns Milbridge and Eastport, filled with maritime heritage.

Also check out: Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway, a mountain-hugging trail tracing a logging-era U.S.–Quebec trade route.

Three hundred years of history, marked in significant mileposts, tollhouses, taverns, and stone arch bridges, line the Historic National Road’s 170 miles spanning Baltimore to Maryland’s western border.

Massachusetts

Mohawk Scenic Byway began as a Native American trade route. Centuries later, Benedict Arnold marched his army here. Today, its 69 miles offer centuries-old churches, mountain passes, pristine rivers, and quaint towns.

U.S. Route 23 stretches from Florida to northern Michigan. Avoid all of it … except its final 200 miles along Lake Huron’s Sunrise Coast. The panoramic Huron Shores Heritage Route snakes along hardwood forests, waterfalls, sand dunes, and freshwater beaches.

Road trippers pass by four of Eastern Minnesota’s state parks, basalt rock cliffs, steep gorges, and 19th-century towns, including lovely Stillwater, following the 124 rolling miles of the St. Croix Scenic Byway.

Also check out: Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway, 287 miles of prairies, woodlands, and Dakota heritage.

Mississippi

Traversing three states, the Natchez Trace was once an east-west passage for Native Americans, slave traders, and campaigning presidents. Mississippi’s 308 miles include a Plaquemine-culture ceremonial site, the antebellum Windsor Ruins, and Elvis’s birthplace.

Just 27 miles long, Glade Top Trail in the Ozarks is the Show Me State’s only National Forest Scenic Byway. Largely unchanged since its construction by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, its many panoramic “pull-outs” showcase limestone glades, tall-grass prairies, and eastern red cedars in the Mark Twain National Forest.

The All-American Scenic Byway Beartooth Highway abuts a plethora of national forests, climbs high alpine plateaus, overlooks glacial lakes, and crosses the 45th parallel — the halfway point between the North Pole and Equator.

Also check out: Seeley-Swan Scenic Drive spans 90 miles between the Bob Marshall Wilderness and Mission Mountains.

Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway’s 231 miles of rough, rambling topography made it a prime hideout for Old West bandits like the James Gang and Doc Middleton. Sights include Smith Falls (Nebraska’s tallest), Monowi (a one-resident town), and authentic cowboy saloons.

The landscape fluctuates between high and low desert microclimates along 355-mile Great Basin Highway. Don’t miss the Miller Point and Mathers Overlooks, Lehman Caves, and the 19th-century Ward Charcoal Ovens.

New Hampshire

The Kancamagus Scenic Byway’s 34.5 alpine miles through the White Mountains deliver monumental panoramic overlooks (especially the 2,860-foot Kancamagus Pass), dramatic bluffs, lush forests, and Sabbaday Falls.

Bucolic 89-mile CR-519 feels more New England than central Jersey. This country lane twists through picturesque woodlands with idyllic rivers, wholesome farmsteads, and tiny towns. Fittingly, it’s nicknamed The Land of Make Believe Highway, after one of its many roadside attractions.

We’ll bet no other 30-mile drive ever felt as thrilling. Interconnected by a series of stunning mountain passes, the Adirondacks’ High Peaks Scenic Byway ascends through verdant forests and past crystal-clear waterways, offering views of more than 40 peaks that soar over 4,000 feet.

Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway weaves for around 100 miles through high desert forests and wilderness regions where Wild West explorers once roamed. Interspersed within jaw-dropping vistas are the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, desert towns, and the Continental Divide.

North Carolina

Sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound, Outer Banks National Scenic Byway breezes through 138 miles of driving (plus another 25 miles by ferry) alongside salt-air beaches, sea turtles splashing around barrier islands, quiet coastal villages, and wildlife refuges.

Also check out: Famous Blue Ridge Parkway, America’s longest linear park, runs 469 miles through the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Virginia.

North Dakota

Extending 64 miles from the Killdeer Mountains to the Badlands, Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway’s hilly landscape provides visual respite from North Dakota’s flat, barren terrain. The drive is a cultural tour of the region’s history, featuring the 1864 Killdeer Mountain Battlefield and the reservations of native Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara tribes.

The 26.4-mile Hocking Hills Scenic Byway offers so many Instagram-worthy vistas and must-see historic sites, driving it could take the whole day. The road winds around Hocking Hills State Park’s towering Black Hand sandstone cliffs, carved gorges, recessed caves, and plunging waterfalls.

Nineteenth-century Texas ranchers drove millions of cattle across the Chisholm Trail to Kansas for beef distribution in the north. The Oklahoma portion (now US-81) is exquisitely rural, with sightsee stops dedicated to cowboy and outlaw history.

The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway follows Oregon’s 363-mile coastline. Public beach access is protected by state law, ensuring opportunities for up-close views of soaring cliffs, marine caves, dunes, splashing sea lions, and naturally formed landmarks.

Also check out: Circling from Baker City to Le Grande, Hells Canyon Scenic Byway snakes above America’s deepest (7,993 feet) canyon.

Pennsylvania

The 265-mile Scranton-to-Warren portion of Scenic Route 6 is at its most impressive in the Endless Mountains, Pennsylvania Wilds (home to Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon), and the hardwoods and hemlock of the Allegheny National Forest.

Rhode Island

Covering just 13 miles in the nation’s smallest state, RI-77 offers waterfront Sakonnet Peninsula vistas and alluring places to explore: Nonquit and Nannaquaket Ponds, the Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge, and historic towns Tiverton Four Corners and Little Compton.

South Carolina

We love 118-mile Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway’s picturesque path through the Blue Ridge Mountain’s Piedmont region, featuring glistening green forests with cascading waterfalls, jagged granite cliffs, and the postcard-perfect mountain town Walhalla.

South Dakota

The 68-mile Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway drives like an amusement park ride, tackling hairpin curves, spiraling bridges, plunging tunnels, and granite pinnacles. Mt. Rushmore and Cathedral Spires are added bonuses.

The Cherohala Skyway gives you mile-high views of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests as it zigzags past freshwater mountain lakes and waterfalls, crimson and gold vistas, and apricot fall foliage.

The longest highway in Texas, the 542-mile, two-lane Highway 16 travels through dusty ranchlands, red rock hills, cowboy towns, and the Hill Country’s “Swiss Alps of Texas.”

Traversing the Grand Staircase-Escalante, Henry Mountains, and Capital Reef Natural Park, the otherworldly geology along 123-mile Scenic Byway 12 doesn’t disappoint with its random arches, “hoodoo” rock formations, and deep-slot canyons.

The 51-mile Northeast Kingdom Scenic Byway showcases quintessential Vermont backcountry: hilly farm towns, colorful mountains, covered bridges, and shimmering lakes.

Also check out: The Crossroad of Vermont Byway with panoramic views of and from the Green Mountains.

Skip Skyline Drive, swarming with bumper-to-bumper scenery seekers. Southbound from Winchester to Roanoke, the Wilderness Road meanders through the Shenandoah Valley’s historic towns and natural wonders: vertiginous sandstone cliffs, gushing waterfalls, and majestic mountains.

The 440-mile Cascade Loop encompasses three scenic byways, touring through Washington’s diverse array of ecosystems: Puget Sound islands, open desert, lush forest, craggy alpine peaks, sagebrush lowlands, and cityscapes.

West Virginia

The 180-mile Midland Trail National Scenic Byway offers mountain landscapes; plummeting waterfalls; purveyors of authentic Appalachian craft food, drink, and art; mountain-music venues; and adventure destinations for rafting, spelunking, and fly fishing.

The 100-mile Lower Wisconsin River Road through the Driftless Area was Wisconsin’s first designated scenic byway. Following the Wisconsin River, it winds around rocky bluffs, through mysterious bottomlands, and into quaint river towns.

Encompassing 162 miles of steep mountain passes and verdant forests, through Grand Tetons National Park and famous Jackson Hole, Parks Centennial Scenic Byway is cited as one of the finest drives in the Rockies.

Stephanie Citron ( stephaniecitron.com ) is a contributing editor for The Saturday Evening Post .

This article is featured in the September/October 2020 issue of The Saturday Evening Post . Subscribe to the magazine for more art, inspiring stories, fiction, humor, and features from our archives.

Featured image: Maciej Bledowski / Shutterstock

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THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP FOOD LIST: 50 Scrumptious Travel Snacks

Post Summary: The definitive road trip food list with 50 snack ideas and meals to keep you happy the entire car ride. Plus, tips for what else to bring and recommendations for the best road trip coolers.

Road trips are the classic adventure that everyone needs to do at least once in their life, whether you’re traveling solo, with your best buds, or packing in the whole family. What’s the secret to a great road trip? Besides having your maps already downloaded to your phone (travel must #1), it’s to have a collection of the best road trip food at your disposal. Being prepared with good travel food will ensure you don’t:

• Kill your travel mates because you’re hangry.
• Get killed by your travel mates because they’re hangry.
• Get lured in by every gasoline stop and somehow end up with bright orange Cheetos and Slim Jims.
• Waste your travel budget dining on Subway and Wendys road trip meals.

After road tripping with a toddler for half a year around the US, we’ve figured out the ultimate road trip food list so we can enjoy the journey together feeling nourished and happy. Our list includes road trip food ideas for adults and kids as well as healthy car snacks.

After the road trip food list, we’ve included non-food items you’ll want to bring and some tips on choosing the best road trip cooler.

Need More Road Trip Tips? Check out our other articles below:

The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: 41 Essentials For The Road 160 Fun, Deep, and Sometimes Silly Road Trip Questions 41 Fun and Challenging Road Trip Trivia Questions 17+ Fun Things To Do On A Road Trip How To Survive A Road Trip With A Toddler 40 Must Have Items To Have In Your Camper

*This road trip food list post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products and services we genuinely think are helpful.

The Ultimate Road Trip Food List

Healthy snacks for a road trip

We’ll start with healthy snacks for the road. I don’t know about you, but when we go on road trips, we tend to fall back on fast food and junk food. In an effort to have a quasi healthy road trip we make sure to include some healthy options so we can at least feel like we’ve balanced out all our snickers bars and Wendy’s frosties. Here’s our list of the best road trip foods that won’t leave you feeling sluggish at the end of the day. We also added in a few recommendations of some of our favorite brands.

Healthy Snacks For Car Rides 1. Fruit: Bananas, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, grapes, apples, oranges 2. Sliced veggies: carrots, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, pickles, radishes 3. Cherry tomatoes 4. Olives (buy the pitted kinds) 5. Salsa 6. Deli sandwiches or wraps (already made from home or pre-purchased) 7. A simple charcuterie spread (summer sausage, pepperoni, sliced cheese, dried apricots, olives, crackers, etc.) 8. Popcorn 9. Yellow corn chips, blue corn chips, kale chips 10. Granola Bars and Energy Bars ( Munk Bars are our favorite! ) 11. Dried Fruit 12. Crackers (cheese crackers, saltines, whole wheat crackers, these almond crackers are my favorite!) 13. Pretzels 14. Nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews, macadamia, walnuts, pecans) 15. Trail mix 16. Tuna (Get the kind that doesn’t need to be refrigerated! It can become a snack on crackers, a sandwich, or added to a salad) 17. Coconut chips ( Dang chips are our favorite. ) 18. Dark chocolate 19. Wasabi peas 20. Fruit leather 21. Whole-grain muffins 22. Bread (pretzel rolls, pita bread) 23. Water (Preferably in a water bottle like a Hydro Flask that will keep your water cold for hours.) *The following are all still healthy snacks for a road trip but will require a cooler. Skip them if you are going sans cooler. Further down, we’ll talk about the best road trip coolers. 23. Hard-boiled eggs 24. Small yogurt containers or drinkable yogurts 25. Humus 26. Guacamole 27. Pasta salad 28. Lentil salad 29. Grocery store salad kits (Can be eaten out of the bag! Just cut the top, pour in the salad dressing, and shake it away. You can also opt to do salads in a jar) 30. Cheese

Essential Road Trip Snacks

These road trip snacks might not be the healthiest, but look…you can’t always be perfect!

Road Trip Snack List 32. Beef Jerky 33. Chips 34. Fun candy (Any kind of candy that brings you joy for your road trip. Gummy bears, reeses pieces, airheads) 35. Ranch dip to go with your healthy veggies 36. Fun drinks (Just make sure the drink is able to be resealed or small enough that you’ll drink it all quickly. My favorite road trip drink is coconut water!) 37. Cookies

Road Trip Snacks For Kids And Toddlers

While we don’t put a distinction between road trip food for the adults and road trip food for kids, here are some fun ideas you can add in addition to the travel food listed above. We found that allowing for leniency with what we let our kid snack on will mean a more fun time for everyone in the car.

Road Trip Snacks For Toddlers and Kids 38. String Cheese or Babybels 39. Peanut butter pretzels 40. Clementines 41. Squeezable applesauce 42. Squeezable nut butters (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter) 43. Graham crackers 44. Goldfish 45. Fruit snacks 46. Fruit roll ups 47. Peanut butter and jelly sandwich 48. Dry cereal 49. Nutella 50. Snap pea crisps ( I love the wasabi ones from Harvest Snaps . I can only get them online because my grocery store never has them!)

Essential Non Food Items

Now that you’ve got your travel food and made your road trip food list, let’s talk about non food items to have on your road trip packing list. We are both advocates for minimal waste living so we do advise using reusable items like real utensils, glass containers, and reusable straws rather than single-use items. I know it can feel like a nuisance, but once you get used to doing it, it’s easy to integrate it into your habits. We’ve provided links to different products, so you can check out some good options.

-Trash bags (old shopping bags work well) – Stackable glass or plastic containers (While glass may feel like a hazard, I find that most of them are built for endurance and would require some extreme throwing around to actually break. Either way, bringing containers rather than an entire bag of snacks is a great space saver.) -Reusable straws (we like this multipack option here ) -Bento boxes (another option is to make individual bento boxes with everyone’s preferred snacks put in. It’s essentially a healthier version of a Lunchable. Great option if you’re traveling with kids.) Check out these cute bento boxes here . -Utensils -Plates -Paper towels -Hand sanitizer -Ziplock bags -Wipes -Cups if you want to share drinks -Ice packs for the cooler (We prefer to use reusable ice packs like these , but frozen water bottles or ice cubes in a ziplock back will do the job as well.) -Reusable grocery bag to carry your non-perishable stuff -Plastic tub (If you’re going on a long road trip and will have lots of snacks, a good option is to pack all your non-perishable items in a tub like this .) -Cooler

Related : A Comprehensive Guide To the Best Toddler Carriers For Traveling

Best Road Trip Coolers

If you’re going on a long road trip, you’ll definitely want to bring a cooler so you can have more options for the journey. Things to consider when deciding what kind of road trip cooler to bring.

• How much space will you have in your car?
• How many days will you be driving and subsequently how much food will you need?
• Cost of the cooler
• If you road trip or camp a lot and will use a cooler several times a year.

Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler

Our choice for the best road trip cooler is the Yeti Roadi 24 Cooler . It’s a mid-sized cooler that can fit a bottle of wine standing upright. We like its lightweight design and that its compact size can fit on the ground behind the passenger seat.

It has a mid-range price point, so if you are wanting something more economical, you’ll probably want our next pick.

Igloo MaxCold Cooler

If all you need is a no-frills cooler to keep your food cold, the Igloo Maxcold Cooler is a great option. The thin design also makes it a great choice for someone wanting to save room in the car.

Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze

If you like a soft cooler, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze consistently offers the best bang for your buck.

Yeti Tundra 45

Lastly, if you are wanting a high-end cooler that will be great for camping and can take the wear and tear of consistent use, the Yeti Tundra 45 is your best bet. Yeti is the reigning champion of coolers and you can’t go wrong with anything you purchase from them.

Before you head out on your epic road trip, we suggest packing the night before. Alleviating as much stress as possible on the day you leave, especially when you’re doing a road trip with a toddler , is key to enjoying the road trip journey. We find that the night before, it’s best to:

• Wash, cut, and peel all vegetables and fruit.
• Pack up all non perishable food and supplies.
• Prepare any road trip sandwiches you plan to eat.

Lastly, don’t forget to make sure all your tasty road trip snacks are within reaching distance in the car.

We hope you enjoyed our complete road trip food list. Happy road tripping!

** For more road trip inspiration follow us on Instagram . We travel… a lot.

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Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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The 9 most spectacular road trips in India

Dec 12, 2023 • 12 min read

From self-drive motorbike adventures to tips on hiring a car and driver, here are the best road trips in India © Solovyova / Getty Images

In India, every journey is an experience, whether you rumble across the subcontinent on a classic Enfield motorcycle or rattle through the hills in a chartered 4WD.

The simple act of traveling from A to B will immerse you in the sights , sounds and sensations of the world’s most colorful country. Plenty of people get around  by bus and train, but taking a road trip will give you extra control over your itinerary, letting you choose where to stop and which route to follow.

The good news is that you don’t need to drive yourself – it’s easy to hire a car or 4WD with a driver almost everywhere in India , meaning you can concentrate on the scenery while your driver deals with the sometimes challenging road conditions. 

If you prefer to take the driving seat, renting a motorcycle is a wonderful way to explore the subcontinent, particularly if you stick to the backroads. Self-drive car rental is harder to arrange, but some adventurous souls travel around India with their own vehicles – a few hardy travelers have even navigated India in a modified autorickshaw!

Grab your sense of adventure and get ready to hit the road with this guide to the best road trips in India. 

1. India’s Golden Triangle 

Best road trip for Mughal monuments Delhi–Delhi; 1120km (696 miles); allow five days

Short and sweet, the loop from  Delhi to  Agra and  Jaipur packs a lot of wonders into a few days of driving. Your adventure begins in Delhi, where the ruins of eight cities tell the story of India’s great Islamic empires. Hit  the city's highlights , including Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, the Jama Masjid and the bazaars of Chandni Chowk, which have changed only superficially since Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s time.

With a chartered vehicle or rented motorcycle, it’s easy to swing by the sacred cities of Mathura and Vrindavan, where Krishna frolicked with milkmaids in the Hindu epics. After these peaceful stops, steel yourself for a mix of the stressful and sublime in Agra, where the glorious  Taj Mahal more than lives up to its reputation.

Find more Mughal magnificence at nearby  Fatehpur Sikri , the red sandstone city founded and later abandoned by emperor Akbar the Great. Once you follow the NH21 to Jaipur, you’ll share every fort, palace and mystical observatory with a crowd, so consider making the odd detour before you hit the Pink City’s palaces and bazaars. 

Detour: Before zooming west from Fatehpur Sikri to Jaipur, consider a detour south to  Gwalior , whose beautiful fort is less mobbed than other stops on this circuit. Before you complete the third side of the triangle, tack on one more detour to spot tigers stalking ruined battlements in  Ranthambhore National Park before diving back into urban life.

2. Manali to Ladakh across the Himalaya

Best road trip for silence and serenity Manali–Srinagar; 800km (497 miles); allow ten days

Many people follow the mountain circuit from  Manali to  Ladakh and on to  Kashmir in a chartered 4WD, but we strongly recommend traveling by rented Enfield Bullet motorcycle. This allows you the life-affirming thrill of pulling over by the roadside to find yourself alone in the silence of these high-altitude deserts in the rain shadow of the Himalayas.

From the hippie hill resort of Manali, it’s a two-day slog over the 3978m (13,051ft)  Rohtang La to  Leh , through a landscape plucked straight from the heyday of the Silk Road. There’s little vegetation and even less shade, and the cold and altitude will hit you like a sledgehammer. Recuperate with trips to Buddhist monasteries and yoga classes in Leh, then hit the road again for a different take on the Himalayas in Kashmir.

The highway west to  Srinagar weaves between ancient villages, but as the hills turn from dust-yellow to lush green, the culture shifts from Buddhism to Islam before the minarets of Srinagar loom into view. The Kashmir valley is sometimes troubled, but when it’s calm, the experience of watching  Dal Lake appearing slowly through the morning mist from the deck of a houseboat is simply sublime. 

Planning tip: Whether you drive yourself or let someone else take the wheel, it's imperative to respect the mountain climate. Snow closes the high passes into Ladakh in winter, and road travel is usually only possible from June to late September or early October.

3. Rajasthan’s colored cities 

Best road trip for desert colors Jaipur–Jaipur; 1630km (1012 miles); allow ten days

Desert driving in  Rajasthan is an incredible experience. Mighty fortresses loom dramatically out of the landscape, and you’ll share the dusty highways with camel carts and old-timers, some with vividly colored turbans and handsome mustaches. Kick-off in  Jaipur – the pink city – touring pink-sandstone palaces, bustling bazaars and the awe-inspiring fortress at  Amber .

Follow NH48 to the Jain and Muslim pilgrimage center of  Ajmer , and duck west to reach the famous  Pushkar , with its temple-circled lake and  legendary camel fair in October or November. Return to NH48 for the rumbling ride to  Udaipur , the white city – draped like a silk scarf on the shores of tranquil Lake Pichola. Dose up on ice-white palaces, then deviate west to the temple-strewn hill station of  Mt Abu . 

Veering north to  Jodhpur , you’ll immediately spot the lapis-colored buildings that earned the Blue City its name. Get another blast of military might at  Mehrangarh Fort , then drive west through serious desert country to the sand-yellow city of  Jaisalmer , whose fortified walls look almost carved from the desert itself. Close off the loop via  Bikaner , where you’ll leave the tourist crowds behind before diving back into the thick of things in Jaipur.

Detour: Having your own transport opens up the opportunity to get off the tourist track in this heavily visited state. Consider tacking on a side-trip north from Jaipur to Shekhawati, famed for its mural-filled haveli mansions. 

4. Hampi and the Hoysalas

Best road trip for temples Mysuru–Gokarna; 1060km (659 miles); allow ten days

For many travelers, visiting the time-tumbled ruins of the Vijayanagar kingdom at  Hampi is the  most memorable experience  during a trip to India. Start off in  Mysuru (formerly Mysore), with its mesmerizing markets, fiery vegetarian cuisine and famously extravagant  palace . Rumble north on the backroads to fascinating Sravanabelagola with its naked 17m (56ft) statue of  Gomateshvara , the first tirthankara  (spiritual teacher) of the Jain religion.

The temples just keep on coming in Karnataka. Slingshot through Hassan to Belur and Halebid, where the  temples of the Hoysala Empire represent perhaps the zenith of the Hindu temple-building art. A three-hour drive east will drop you in Karnataka’s capital,  Bengaluru , known for its cosmopolitan dining, shopping and nightlife. Enjoy its comforts; it’s a long drive to reach Hosapete, the leaping-off point for the ruins at Hampi.

Once you roll into Hampi’s centuries-old bazaar, allow at least two days to explore toppled temples and time travel across centuries in a landscape of stacked granite boulders. For more timeless temple architecture, duck onto the backroads to reach Badami, where blood-colored cliffs are pock-marked with  cave temples .

Detour: To mix things up, consider taking a side trip to Aihole, dotted with dusty ruins from the ancient Chalukya kingdom, then finish on the beach with some well-earned R&R in  Gokarna  – part pilgrim-town, part beach retreat. 

5. Kolkata to Darjeeling

Best road trip for Himalayan views and side treks Kolkata–Yuksom; 808km (502 miles); allow eight days

The east of India is often overlooked by the crowds who surge north from Delhi, but the journey through West Bengal to the foothills of 8586m (28,169ft) Mt Khangchendzonga has an epic sense of mission. Start in crowded but cultured  Kolkata , visiting ashrams, temples and striking civic buildings reclaimed from British rule. Fit in a tour of the tiger-stalked swamps of the  Sunderbans before you head for the hills. 

The journey north takes you past little-visited country towns to intriguing  Shantiniketan , a university town with a long history of dance, theater and poetry. From here, you’ll break north to reach the emerald-green tea plantations and delightfully dated grand hotels of  Darjeeling , where you’ll likely catch your first up-close views of the Himalayas.

To get intimate with the snow peaks, walk the Singalila Ridge trekking route or edge even closer to Mt Khangchendzonga by picking up a permit to enter lofty  Sikkim . A route through  Kalimpong ,  Gangtok and Pelling will reveal views that would make mountaineers itch for their ice axes. To cap it all off, you can get within touching distance of the snow on the trek to the Goecha La from Yuksom.

Planning tip: You’ll need a Restricted Areas Permit to enter Sikkim, but this is easily obtained in Kolkata, Siliguri or Darjeeling, or when crossing into Sikkim at Melli or Rangpo.

6. Mumbai to Goa 

Best road trip for beaches Mumbai–Palolem; 650km (404 miles); allow one week

Short journeys don’t mean scrimping on excitement in India. From brash and brilliant  Mumbai , pick up NH66 and head south, detouring down to the coast to explore fascinating forts such as  Murud-Janjira , a legacy of centuries of coastal conquest. Pull into the low-key seaside resorts at Ganpatipule and Malvan before you hit the busy beaches of  Goa . 

As you roll into northern Goa, swing by the famous market in  Anjuna and the fun-filled beach hubs at  Baga and Calangute . Head onward to  Panaji , Goa’s charming Portuguese-colonial capital, and the timeworn basilicas of  Old Goa .

The mood changes as you roll south to laid-back  Agonda , the center of Goa’s nascent surfing scene. It changes again as you head inland through green hills dotted with spice farms for a peek at thundering  Dudhsagar Falls , India’s second-highest cascade. Finish up on the sand-sprinkled shore at lovely  Palolem (making time for a bird-spotting  hike at the nearby  Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary ).  

7. A drive through the northeast

Best road trip for tribal encounters Guwahati–Guwahati; 1700km (1056 miles); allow two weeks

With a hired 4WD and a driver who can speak local languages, a fascinating journey through the varied cultures of the northeast states awaits. Start in  Guwahati , the under-explored capital of Assam, and follow the mighty Brahmaputra River northeast to  Kaziranga National Park for close encounters with one-horned Indian rhinos.

Next, aim your sights north towards  Arunachal Pradesh and the awesome  Buddhist monasteries of the Tawang Valley (local travel agencies can arrange a permit).

Add on a wander through the tribal communities of Ziro and Daporijo, and loop back through Upper Assam, continuing east to the fascinating Konyak Naga villages around Mon in northern  Nagaland . Slip back to the plains via Kohima (ideally in December to catch the  Hornbill Festival ), then climb up onto the high plateau of  Meghalaya , where trees are woven into living bridges and markets sell bows and arrows as day-to-day essentials, before barrelling downhill from  Shillong to Guwahati.

Planning tip: A Protected Area Permit is required to enter Arunachal Pradesh, and you may need to be in a group of two or more to visit some areas; contact travel agencies in Guwahati in advance to get the paperwork in place.

8. Around the tip of India

Best road trip in the south Kochi–Kochi; 807km (501 miles); allow 7 days

The bottom end of India feels like a different country. Start the journey through India’s steamy south in historic  Kochi , whose ancient streets tell a timeless tale of seafaring, trade and Keralan spices. As you roam south to  Alappuzha , park up for a day or two to explore the fascinating, waterlogged backwaters by boat.

As you pass through Amrithapuri, you can pause for a hug from a living guru before soaking up some rays on  Kerala ’s loveliest beaches at  Varkala . Next, whoosh through  Thiruvananthapuram (pause just long enough for some incendiary Keralan curries) to the southern tip of India. From here, you’ll head inland, through drier, rockier Tamil Nadu, to reach  Madurai , whose temple towers are encrusted with brightly colored deities and demons.

The trip back to Kochi will take you through the Palani Hills, a side spur of the Western Ghats, where the landscape surges upwards to  Kodaikanal , perhaps the most charming of India’s southern hill stations. Grab a cuppa amidst swirling tea plantations in  Munnar , South India’s top tea-growing center, before you return to the coast. 

Planning tip: The monsoon obscures the views from the Western Ghats from June to September, but waterfalls run at full force, so this is still a rewarding time to come.

9. Chennai to Puducherry (Pondicherry)

Best road trip for cultural variety Chennai–Puducherry; 232km (144 miles); allow 3 to 4 days

For a short, sweet and spicy trip along India’s southeast coast, consider the three-day trip from  Chennai south to  Puducherry (Pondicherry) . Start in Chennai, with its vast beach, famous-name ashrams and  delicious vegetarian cuisine , then track south along the coast, wedged between the sea and the salt lake.

Stop one is the surprising surf resort at Kovalam (Covelong), a worthy stop en route to  Mamallapuram , where you can view a riot of carvings and temples created by the Pallava dynasty. Duck inland to see the ancient Pallava capital at  Kanchipuram , then return to the coast to close out the trip at charming Puducherry, formerly Pondicherry.

A Gallic air pervades this seaside town – best experienced in heritage hotels in the old French Quarter. Just be warned: some spiritually-minded travelers pull into the famous ashram at  Auroville just north of "Pondy" and never leave! 

Top tips for hiring a car and driver in India

You’ll find drivers-for-hire offering their services at taxi and 4WD stands all over India, or you can make arrangements through hotels and travel agencies. Check that the driver speaks enough English to understand where you want to go and where you want to stop, and confirm that the driver is able to cross state lines – some vehicles are only licensed to operate in certain areas. 

You’ll need to agree on a price for the trip before you start, and the cost should include fuel, accommodation and food for the driver for multi-day trips. Prices start at around US$40 per day, rising for 4WD vehicles. Be clear with your driver about what you want from your journey; if you want to avoid stops at tourist shops and commission-paying venues, make this clear from the outset.

Exploring India by motorcycle or bike is for experienced riders

India’s roads are not for fair-weather motorcyclists, but if you have a few miles under your belt and fancy a challenge, it’s a fabulous way to explore this enormous country. Veteran hire companies such as  Lalli Singh Tours in  Delhi have sent hundreds of travelers off on journeys across India, from the steamy southern jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.  

The best advice we can give is to ride slowly and defensively, always give way to larger vehicles, and carry a full repair kit and spares – and know how to use them! The nostalgic British-designed Enfield Bullet is the vehicle of choice for many travelers, but it’s a heavy brute; newer machines from the likes of Bajaj are lighter and easier to handle.

If you plan to pedal your way around India by bicycle, carry plenty of puncture repair kits and bring lights and high visibility gear. If you don’t want to transport your own bike into the country, consider flying into Delhi and buying a bike at the Jhandewalan Cycle Market.

This article was first published Apr 7, 2022 and updated Dec 12, 2023.

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Best Weekend Getaways From Chicago

By Nina Kokotas Hahn

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Chicagoans itching to travel right now should not underestimate the power of a great winter road trip, and not just because it may feel like the only safe option at the moment. In a break from the norm, we’ve found exciting places offering something fresh and surprising for the Midwest, making them well worth the drive. A fun, elegant cocktail experience, lakefront retreats that offer stunning views, snowy ski trips with plenty more to do off the slopes—it’s all available. Here are the best weekend getaways from Chicago .

(Editors note: Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic , the hours and accessibility of many venues are fluid and subject to change. Make sure to contact them before visiting.)

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

LAKE FOREST, ILLINOIS

Distance from Chicago 33 miles

The Deer Path Inn

In less than 60 minutes by Metra or just over 30 minutes by car, find yourself feeling far from the city in this pretty Northshore town off of Lake Michigan. No doubt Lake Forest is fancy with its sprawling estates, Market Square, and upscale shops (check out the all-women-run Lake Forest Bookstore and Valentina boutique), and coveted waterfront views. Being here also puts you 20 minutes closer to the 385-acre Chicago Botanic Gardens , where the Japanese and dwarf confider gardens are especially sublime in winter.

Where to Stay

The main reason to go to Lake Forest now is a weekend away at the 57-room Deer Path Inn ( from $329 per night ), a fabulous, little-known gem that puts you in arm's reach of the shops and lake, and offers many experiences available only to guests. Opened in 1929 with the style of an authentic manor house, the elegant inn feels as storied and local as it does far-flung and English. Spacious, modern, and sophisticated rooms offer upscale amenities (think Frette linens and bathtubs that fill from the ceiling); recently, the inn began in-room delivery of its popular Afternoon Tea service, complete with a tower of tea sandwiches, petit fours, and tartelettes. Patio dining in the English Garden at Deer Path is scenic and doable in winter with heaters. Guests at the hotel can also reserve the inn’s hidden cellar for a new, private, and totally custom cocktail or wine tasting paired with dinner that's led by Deer Path’s fun and expert chief spirits officer, Jorge Centeno.

INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL PARK, IN

Distance from Chicago 49 miles

The dunes overlooking Lake Michigan at Indiana Dunes National Park

Drive just 60 minutes and find yourself surrounded by beauty in the 15,000-acre Indiana Dunes National Park , which packs in an astounding amount of botanical diversity thanks to its variety of lowlands, highlands, prairies, wetlands, forests, and Lake Michigan shoreline. Time your visit with cool winter conditions, when snow cloaks the park in white, and there’s a chance to see spectacular shelf ice formations on the water, not to mention you’ll get a far more secluded experience. Venture out on cross-country skis or snowshoes—the latter of which can be borrowed for free at the park’s Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education. All of the park’s 50 miles of trails are available for winter activities, but opt for a one-mile loop or three-mile route on the Paul H. Douglas Trail, which takes you to the beach through a rolling black savannah, one of the rarest habitats in the country. Often confused with the national park, the two-acre Indiana Dunes State Park , immediately next door, is also open and admission is waived on weekdays in winter.

Nearby Chesterton offers a good location central to both parks, and interesting B&B’s are the way to go. Within walking distance to restaurants and shopping, Riley's Railhouse Bed & Breakfast ( from $140 a night ) is housed in a former New York Central style freight station and has rooms in real rail cars. The family-friendly DunesWalk Inn at the Furness Mansion ( from $125 a night—you can also rent the entire place out on Airbnb ) is another historic option that balances digs in an 1881 mansion with modern comfort, just a few minutes from the beach.

HARBOR COUNTRY, MI

Distance from Chicago 75 miles

A view of Lake Michigan from the Water's Edge house

Didn’t score a Michigan beach house last summer? Winter isn’t hot, but it’s a gorgeous and secluded time to experience the dramatic Lake Michigan coast from the comfort of a luxury beach home, most of which can be had now at low season rates. Take your pick of towns on the state’s south coast like Union Pier, New Buffalo, and little-known Harbert. Sans summer crowds, this is the time to stop at the harborside Stray Dog Bar & Grill . Even better, book an igloo for outdoor dining at small-batch Beer Church Brewing , try alfresco wine tastings at Round Barn Estate , or get takeout from Red Arrow Roadhouse (try the buffalo cauliflower and nachos) and locally made whiskey from the Journeyman Distillery to bring back home. As everyone does, give into the pull of the lovely Lake Michigan coast, where dune walks and sledding at Warren Dunes State Park should be high on your list.

Bluefish Vacation Rentals (from $100 a night ) is your best option for a well-curated assortment of homes throughout Harbor Country, plus the bonus concierge-like guidance of the local husband-and-wife team who run it, Jason and Erika Milovich. In winter, most of their homes can be had at low season rates and don’t require summer’s usual full week stay. The scenery can’t be beat in Harbert at three-bedroom Water’s Edge , a splurge-worthy find tucked into a forested bluff overlooking a private stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline; spend $750 a night in winter verses the nearly double rate of $1,429 a night in summer. Walk the beach and watch glacier-like ice form with the waves, warm up in the hot tub, and light a bonfire under starry winter skies framed by trees. Other notable options include the three-bedroom Harbor Time , new five-bedroom Darby Cottage with its massive showroom-worthy open kitchen, and new four-bedroom Lake Life that puts spectacular lake views right in your lap.

KOHLER, WISCONSIN

Distance from Chicago 149 miles

Chloe Sachdev

Lina Abascal

Connor Sturges

One of the Kohler luxury Cabins

On a drive of just over two hours, cruise past Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha (hit the brakes to load up on Wisconsin gold), and lakefront Milwaukee, on your way to Kohler. Popular in temperate months for its jaw-dropping golf courses, which regularly feature on the PGA Tour, Destination Kohler is a find in winter with fewer visitors, killer spa treatments at its Kohler Waters Spa, and invigorating outdoor adventures at its lesser-known River Wildlife preserve. Like Kohler’s golf courses, the 500-acre wilderness playground showcases the natural beauty of the landscape here. Try hikes and horseback rides through rolling trails, ice skating and curling at Winter Wonderland, guided trap shooting in a forest canyon, and brunch or hot toddies at River Wildlife Lodge, the preserve’s atmospheric log cabin outpost.

Options at the resort include classic hotel rooms at the 241-room American Club ( from $189 ), but four chic and splurge-worthy cabins (f rom $842 a night ) are the way to go, especially if you want privacy and space wrapped in some gorgeous nature. The two-bedroom Lake Cabin ( from $1009 a night )—one of two opened just last summer—positions you on a staggering bluff just above Lake Michigan. The beach is inaccessible from this rugged perch, but you won’t care with endless, ocean-like views from the back porch and firepit, and the sprawling evergreen forest at the front of the house that doubles as a wildlife crossing (watch for deer and wild turkeys). It’s all the more magical with a dusting of snow on the beach grass, a warm fire, and dinners inside your own beautiful kitchen—everything from tenderloin and ricotta gnocchi takeout from the new Taverne on Woodlake to whiskey pairings, curated Wisconsin cheese boards, and gourmet groceries delivered from Woodlake Market .

Distance from Chicago 164 miles

Downtown Galena

With rolling forested landscapes, an historic downtown on the Mississippi River, and the best (one of the only!) ski mountain in Illinois, Galena is as charming as ever in winter. Even the two-hour-and-45-minute drive sets the mood as flat highways turn to one-lane roads that climb gentle hills and weave through farmlands and woods, eventually dropping you into this once-thriving river port town. Stroll the downtown’s Main Street for a superb array of local shops and studios; new options include Galena Book & Paper , the Galena Spoon Company for handcrafted spoons and carving classes, and Scent Workshop , where you can learn French perfuming techniques. There are loads of restaurants and boozy options here, too; go for especially good take-home dining and cocktail kits from French-meets-German Fritz and Frites , Miss Kitty’s Grape Escape , and the drive-thru Galena Brewing Co . Downhill skiers won’t want to miss Chestnut Mountain Resort, just 15 minutes from the downtown, with 19 runs that race to a halt at the bank of the Mississippi River.

It’s a-okay to vape in the new guest-only “potting shed” outside the pretty five-bedroom Aldrich House , Illinois’ only cannabis-friendly bed and breakfast ( from $145 a night ). For something upscale and romantic, it’s hard to do better than the luxury six-suite Jail Hill Inn , set in a former jailhouse at the end of Main Street and serving a three-course breakfast ( from $345 a night ). Families settle in nicely at the stylish, condo-like Ulysses Suites ( from $214 a night ), while south of downtown on 6,800 acres of Galena Territory, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa offers a robust nordic activities program and everything from simple hotel rooms to full homes ( from $99 a night ).

INDIANAPOLIS, IN

Distance from Chicago 185 miles

The Bottleworks Hotel in Indianapolis' Bottleworks District

Every worthwhile weekend getaway from Chicago isn’t a charming small town or lakeside retreat. For those who want some city culture that isn’t their own, Indy’s Bottlework’s District is calling. Stop in Merrillville for proper road trip junk food—fresh Indiana-made gummy bears—at Alabanese Confectionery Group on the three-hour drive south to Indy. Once there, head to the new 12-acre, mixed-use neighborhood that spans the north side of Mass Ave in downtown Indianapolis and brims with local indie shops in historic industrial buildings. Explore the mix of offerings at Circle City Industrial Complex , a 500,000 square-foot warehouse opened in the old Schwitzer car manufacturing facility, where you should check out newly opened SoChatti dairy-free chocolate tasting room and a class at Indy Fused Glass. Other new places worth a visit are Good Neighbor for fresh duds and the Living Room movie theater. For dinner, head out of the district for romantic outdoor dining in the new fireside greenhouse huts at Public Greens , a modern, community-driven restaurant that shares its profits to feed nearly 2,000 of Indy’s less fortunate youth every week.

Opened in December in what was formerly the world’s largest Coca Cola bottling plant, the 139-room Bottleworks Hotel ( from $249 a night ) is the stylish new anchor for the Bottleworks District. The industrial, art-deco-inspired hotel occupies the top two floors of the historic building, showing off a white terra-cotta exterior and brass-patterned doors. High-style rooms have velvet couches, loft ceilings, and terrazzo-tiled floors. Adjacent to the hotel, find more dining options at Garage Food Hall , Indy’s first food hall opened this month in the factory’s former garages, with nearly two dozen vendors serving everything from lobster rolls and poke to Pakistani-Indian fare and Brazilian steak.

BOYNE, MICHIGAN

Distance from Chicago 346 miles

A look down Boyne Mountain

Make your winter ski trip happen at Boyne Mountain Resort , one of the most exciting ski mountains within a reasonable drive of Chicago—five and a half hours, plus a one-hour time change. Rising up from the northern part of Michigan’s lower peninsula, the mountain offers 500 feet of vertical with 60 downhill trails for a range of skiers and riders, though the biggest perk of a visit here is the abundance of high-quality outdoor adventures that go beyond skiing. Rent a new sno-go ski bike and shred downhill runs, fat-tire bike on forest trails, zipline 50 feet in the air across the mountain, cross country ski or snowshoe on dedicated trails, ice skate or snow tube, and even dine outdoors in one of five igloos serving at Forty Acres Tavern. If you have a little extra time you can also tack on the 40-minute drive north to Boyne Highlands , the mountain’s sister resort, for even more challenging ski terrain plus the new “Enchanted Trail,” an illuminated two-mile trail for nighttime winter walks and snowshoeing. NOTE: Like other ski resorts around the country, both mountains are limiting capacity during the pandemic and booking lift tickets and gear rental in advance is recommended.

Spread out in one of the fully-equipped three- and four-bedroom Mountain Cabins that are part of the resort (f rom $607 per night ). Each is set in the woods with a hot tub on the deck, fully equipped for cooking your own meals, and offers ski-in/ski-out access. Some of the cozy one- and two-bedroom condos at the Village at Disciples Ridge also offer ski-in/ski-out access ( from $488 per night ). Pro tip: the best way to guarantee access to the slopes this season along with your accommodations is to book a “ Ski & Stay Package ,” which bundles lodging and lift together and lets you ski both resorts.

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The Ultimate USA Road Trip Is Right Here… And You’ll Definitely Want To Do It

Katie Lawrence

Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015. Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).

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Hey, America! Are you ready for the ultimate USA road trip across our incredible country? I know you’ve dreamed of traveling the country to see all the famous landmarks and cities. After all, freedom is the foundation of the United States, and what’s more freeing than the open road and no obligations? From the Grand Canyon to the French Quarter, Mount Rushmore to Mount Vernon, Randy Olson has compiled a geographically diverse road trip that perfectly represents just how awesomely varied the landscape and culture of America is.

In fact, he used an advanced algorithm he created to come up with the perfect route that would appeal to everyone. His only rules were 1) the road trip could not leave the US, 2) you had to be able to take the entire trip in your car, and 3) it would only stop at National Natural Landmarks, National Historic Sites, National Parks, or National Monuments. From there, his calculations were used to put them in the best order and timing.

As you’ll see below, the result is the ultimate USA road trip that will leave you with enough memories to last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for?

2. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. Continue the majestic offerings of the Grand Canyon by heading to southern Utah. Bryce Canyon is known for its rock formations and amazing overlooks.

3. Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho. The open rift cracks of the 3 massive lava fields at the preserve are a sight to behold.

5. Pikes Peak, Colorado. This 14,115-foot mountain peak is filled with so much to do. Block off plenty of time for Pikes Peak.

6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico. The cavern is the primary attraction here because water has created an unbelievable array of limestone decorations within.

8. The Platt Historic District, Oklahoma. There are plenty of reasons this is on the ultimate road trip, but don’t miss the waterfalls.

9. Toltec Mounds, Arkansas. The state’s tallest American Indian mounds can be found here.

10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, Tennessee. Curious and Suspicious Minds must stop here.

11. Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi. Stand where the famous Civil War battle once took place, lasting from May 18, 1863-July 4, 1863.

13. USS Alabama, Alabama. Now a museum ship, it served our amazing country from 1942-1962.

14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida. Rockets have been launched from here. Need I say more?

16. Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina. Famous (infamous?) for two Civil War battles, this seafort in Charleston is a historical must-see.

18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, North Carolina. “First In Flight” being NC’s motto, this one is a no-brainer for the road trip.

19. Mount Vernon, Virginia. Why here? Because the plantation house of this country’s first president, George Washington, is here.

21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, Maryland. There’s so much to do in this part of the state’s capital. Don’t miss it.

22. New Castle Historic District, Delaware. Continue your historic exploration in Delaware.

23. Cape May Historic District, New Jersey. Over 300 acres and 600 buildings await you here with more things to discover than you can imagine.

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25. Statue of Liberty, New York. Another obvious one, but it would be criminal to leave it off of the list. She is perhaps our nation’s most incredible sculpture.

26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, Connecticut. After the crowds in NYC, check out the home of Samuel Clemens in Hartford. Literature fans especially.

27. The Breakers, Rhode Island. This Vanderbilt mansion is a historic landmark with an area of 125,339 square feet and 62,482 square feet of living area on five floors. Wow.

30. Mount Washington Hotel, New Hampshire. Why a hotel? Because it’s centered around a 1902 Spanish Renaissance building.

32. Fox Theater, Detroit, Michigan. After all the parks and historic homes, check out the Fox Theater in the Grand Circus Park District of Detroit.

33. Spring Grove Cemetery, Ohio. The 2nd largest cemetery (and garden) in the U.S. has a design that will blow you away.

35. West Baden Springs Hotel, Indiana. This “resort” has a history, some of it dark, that’s too long to explain here. Stop there and you’ll learn all about it.

36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, Illinois. Widely considered the best President we’ve ever had, it’s surreal to stand where Lincoln once lived.

38. C.W. Parker Carousel Museum, Kansas. A carousel museum? Yes, please.

39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, Iowa. This has been the residence of the state’s governors since 1971 and guided tours are available.

40. Taliesin, Wisconsin. This is the estate of Frank Lloyd Wright, perhaps the most famous and impressive architect who ever lived.

42. Ashfall Fossill Bed, Nebraska. Bring out your paleontology side where a Yellowstone eruption preserved an ecological snapshot. It’s like going back millions of years.

44. Fort Union Trading Post, North Dakota. This is actually one of the earliest declared national landmarks.

46. Hanford Site, Washington . In 1943, this became a site of the Manhattan Project, which led to the first ever nuclear weapons created by the United States.

47. Colombia River Highway, Oregon. This part of the trip truly embodies “road trip” as you take in the most beautiful scenery not only in Oregon but the country.

48. San Francisco Cable Cars, California . This should be on everyone’s bucket list. There’s nothing like the San Francisco cable cars.

49. San Andreas Fault, California. When you hear San Andreas Fault, you think of earthquakes. This 810 mile continental transform fault terrifies many people – it’s extraordinary.

More details on how Olson computed the trip can be found on his website .

Now that the ultimate U.S. Road Trip has been laid out for you, will you take it? If nothing else, try to take them in sections as time allows. You won’t regret it!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Ultimate usa road trip.

What one-of-a-kind destinations can I visit in the U.S.?

Travelers seeking to immerse themselves in unique American cultures will find exciting destinations across our nation. The Acadiana region of southern Louisiana is a gem of preserved heritage offering a wealth of excursions, natural and cultural activities, and friendly small towns. Settled in the 1700s, Cajun country is steeped in fascinating history with enduring traditions that influence its distinctive cuisine, musical heritage, and French Cajun dialect. Dominating the region’s lush wetland landscapes, massive palmettos, knobby cypress knees, and drapes of Spanish moss transport visitors to an otherworldly atmosphere. The 3 million-acre network of Louisiana’s bayous are alive with native wildlife where visitors will spot white egrets, statuesque blue herons, and alligators. Exploring this one-of-a-kind destination is not only easy to navigate but packs a wealth of experience without breaking the bank.

What food trails can I take in the U.S.?

In nearly every region of the U.S., you can discover unique food trails to satisfy your culinary wanderlust. In the south, the Historic Barbecue Trail in North Carolina tempts visitors with smokey delights, delicious regional sauce recipes, and beloved local BBQ spots. A trip to Wisconsin isn’t complete without traversing the Great Wisconsin Cheese Trail. With a 175-year-old tradition of cheese making, Wisconsin travelers are afforded opportunities to tour factories and sample artisan cheeses from some of the most renowned producers in the country. Head down to the Delta for an unforgettable trip along the Mississippi Culinary Trail. Deeply rooted in African, Native American, French, and Spanish heritage, touring the Mississippi Delta’s culinary range is an education in melting pot culture.

What are the most unique places to spend the night in the U.S.?

From sea to shining sea, travelers can discover an exciting range of remarkable destinations offering unique overnight stays. Visit Fairbanks, Alaska from August to April and spend an unforgettable night in a cozy yurt viewing the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Northern Lights. When you are planning a relaxing beach getaway, Tybee Island off the Georgia coast is an ideal destination for fun in the sun. Rent an adorable cottage as your home base to explore this charming island’s wide, sandy beaches and delicious local cuisine. Go glamping in Montana and sleep under the stars surrounded by majestic mountains. Big Sky Country’s stunning natural landscapes and wealth of outdoor activities has made it a popular spot for adventure-seeking tourists and offers an abundance of unique glamping grounds.

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Featured Addresses

The best road trip to take in all 50 states

Posted: November 24, 2023 | Last updated: November 24, 2023

Life is a highway, especially if you take a road trip on one of the country’s great highways and byways. A road trip is truly one of the best ways to discover America’s natural glories, small towns, and great metropolises en route. Whether you want awesome views of glaciers, mountains, plunging waterfalls, placid lakes or sunbaked deserts, every state has a road trip worth taking. Hook up your trailer, fire up your engine, and let’s get started.

Alabama: The ultimate Alabama road trip

Only in Your State promises large—“the ultimate” Alabama road trip—and seems to deliver with a 918-mile journey to eight of the places that “truly define” the state. Taking less than 17 hours to drive, depending how long you stop at attractions, the looping route goes by attractions such as Cheaha Mountain, Gulf Coast Beaches, and Ted’s Restaurant in Birmingham, serving homestyle food since 1973.

Alaska: Anchorage to Valdez

This spectacular 300-mile route, connecting the Glenn and Richardson highways, takes you past spectacular glaciers and mountain ranges with skyscraping peaks. The Spirit Houses of Eklutna Village, the Matanuska Glacier scenic turnout, and an easy hike along Thunderbird Falls Trail to see a memorable 200-foot waterfall are among the road-trip highlights on the Anchorage to Valdez route . And find out why Valdez is known as the Little Switzerland of Alaska.

Arizona: Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive

Just south of Flagstaff, follow Arizona State Route 89A to enjoy sights ranging from a breathtaking series of switchbacks into a scenic, smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon, Oak Creek Canyon . The route is famous for its spectacular scenery, including colorful rocks and unique formations. There are plenty of overlooks, picnic areas, swimming holes, fishing spots, and hiking trails along the way. As you leave the canyon, you can continue past Sedona through Red Rock Country.

Arkansas: Natural wonders road trip

This road trip takes you past 10 of the state’s natural wonders . You can do it in as little as 11 hours but give yourself a few days so you can linger and enjoy. The sights include the living cave system of Blanchard Springs Caverns, reflecting still waters of Mirror Lake, stark bluffs rising above the Buffalo National River, and Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area.

California: Highway 1 to Big Sur

Hugging some of the most dramatic coastline on the west coast, this magnificent stretch of Highway 1 runs from Santa Cruz through Big Sur . You take the twisting road past rocky cliffs, bashing surf, and the desolate silhouettes of twisted Monterey cypress trees. Catch a wave surfing, sip a cold and delicious local brew, and cross Bixby Street Bridge, soaring 260 feet above ground in a graceful arch.

Colorado: San Juan Skyway

The San Juan Skyway is a 233-mile loop that takes you through river valleys, mountain peaks, breathtaking overlooks, and historic mining towns such as Telluride, Durango and Silverton. The Chimney Rock Archaeological Area preserves 200 ancient homes and buildings of the Ancestral Pueblo peoples of the Chaco Canyon. Other worthwhile stops en route include Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and the Ute Indian Museum, in Montrose, slightly north of Ridgway.

Connecticut: Last Green Valley Scenic Byway

The lush Last Green Valley is a scenic route and 35-town National Heritage Corridor in eastern Connecticut and south-central Massachusetts. The 1,100-square-mile area is defined by the Quinebaug and Shetucket Rivers systems and the hills surrounding them. Throughout the region you’ll find farmer’s markets, nature centers, vineyards, campgrounds, museums and all sorts of great stops to have fun.

Delaware: Brandywine Valley Scenic Byway

Starting in Wilmington, this picturesque 12-mile route through the Brandywine Valley goes by so many estates and gardens that it’s been dubbed both “Chateau Country” and “America's Garden Capital.” Stops along the way could include the du Pont family estates and gardens, Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, and Montchanin Village, with buildings dating back to the 1700s.

Florida: Overseas Highway – Miami to Key West

Made famous in commercials and movies, the Overseas Highway is even more impressive when driven in person. It spans the green-blue seawater in a series of bridges that take you through the Florida Keys. The 150-mile trip is actually the southernmost leg of Highway US 1, and is built on an old, narrow railroad bed so the highway is often just two lanes, making the trip from Miami to Key West between 3.5 and four hours. But the scenery is great and there are a lot of nifty places to stop, so you won’t complain.

Georgia: Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway

Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway wanders 40 miles through Georgia’s mountain country, and takes in Brasstown Bald (the state’s tallest peak), granite canyons, and the Chattahoochee River. Hike the Appalachian Trail, enjoy the beauty of the Chattahoochee National Forest, fish in cold mountain streams, and stop at scenic overlooks to enjoy awesome views of the mountains and piedmonts.

Hawaii: Hana Highway

The 52-mile Hana Highway, aka Road to Hana , isn’t one that you will want to take quickly, with its 617 hairpin curves, 59 one-lane bridges, and many blind spots along the way. But you won’t mind the 25 mph speed limit because it will give you more time to drink in the waterfalls, boulder-strewn Pacific coastlines, rainforests, snow-capped mountains and black lava beaches.

Idaho: Sawtooth Scenic Byway

Offering a captivating experience of the Idaho Rockies, the 116-mile road connects Shoshone to the resort towns of Sun Valley, Hailey and Ketchum. While you could drive the Sawtooth Scenic Byway in three hours, you’ll want to take much longer to visit the Ernest Hemingway Memorial, see the amazing view 8,700 feet up at the Galena Summit, enjoy boating and fishing at scenic mountain lakes, and admire the surreal, lava-rock sculptures of Black Magic Canyon.

Illinois: Route 66 Byway

Possibly the most famous road in America, Route 66 begins its wandering journey through America, connecting the Midwest to the coast, in Illinois. The “Mother Road” goes by enough roadside attractions, restaurants and museums to keep any traveler happy. Rather than seeing Ford Model Ts navigating a dirt track in 1926, today you’re more likely to view camper vans sailing down its black ribbon.

Indiana: Fort Wayne to Evansville via I-69

You get to enjoy a lot of good old Midwestern charm traveling through towns between Fort Wayne and Evansville on I-69. Attractions along the way can include covered bridges, museums, the state capitol, rustic barns, nature preserves and Johnny Appleseed’s gravesite. While nice to drive anytime of year, the route is particularly beautiful when bursting with fall colors.

Iowa: Covered Bridges Scenic Byway

See the system of bridges celebrated in the book, play and movie The Bridges of Madison County . The Covered Bridges Scenic Byway connects an old townsquare, the birthplace of John Wayne, the Iowa Quilt Museum, recreational parks and trails, and historic sites. Of course, the 82-mile route also serves up lots of beautiful covered bridges.

Kansas: Prairie Trail Scenic Byway

A drive down the Prairie Trail is a journey through early America, once traveled by Native Americans, explorers, pioneers and Western celebrities such as Zebulon Pike and “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Driving along I-70, you can see the unique chalk formations of the Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark, the eccentric sandstone formations of Mushroom Rock State Park, and the abundant wildlife of the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge.

Kentucky: Flint Hills National Scenic Byway

If you want to see the land the way it was thousands of years ago when the Kaw, Osage and other native tribes lived here, then drive the Flint Hills Scenic Byway . You’ll get amazing views of the native grasses and flowers of the tallgrass prairie, as well as green rolling hills with colorful wildflowers. You can arrange a ranger-led tour at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and stop at the Scenic Byway Overlook for a panoramic view of tallgrass prairie.

Louisiana: The Great River Road

Taking about 36 hours of straight driving, the Great River Road National Scenic Byway follows the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The Louisiana stretch of the route includes Baton Rouge, the old state capitol; Cajun Country; and New Orleans with its French Quarter and delicious Creole cuisine.

Maine: Acadia All-American Road

Fresh lobster feasts, beaches, swimming holes, hiking and biking trails, water and mountain views, scenic ocean cruises and abundant wildlife are among the things you can enjoy on Maine’s Acadia All-American Road . The 40-mile route crosses a bridge to Mount Desert Island, where you’ll find Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Take a side trip up Cadillac Mountain, the highest East Coast peak north of Rio de Janeiro.

Maryland: Blue Crab Scenic Byway

In “Tidewater Maryland,” the Chesapeake Country Blue Crab Byway takes you on a 210-mile journey from the Nanticoke River toward the urban center of the region, Salisbury. Located between Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, it lets you enjoy rivers, wetlands, marshes, coves, beaches, fresh-caught crab, abundant farmland, unique dialects and historical structures, including 200-year-old neoclassical Teackle Mansion.

Massachusetts: Old King’s Highway

Originally a Native American trail and then a cart path for settlers, Old King’s Highway is an alternate route to Cape Cod, the playground of the rich and famous. Charming seaside towns, outstanding clam chowder, unspoiled beaches, the 43,000-acre Cape Cod National Seashore established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, and the resort joys of Provincetown are some of the attractions of this route.

Michigan: Heritage Route 23

While Route 23 may extend down to Florida, its best part is the final 200 miles in northern Michigan, traveling along Lake Huron’s Sunrise Coast. The panoramic route winds through hardwood forests, waterfalls, sand dunes and freshwater beaches. Travelers can also enjoy 468 miles of multi-use trails and 109 miles of exclusive footpaths, as well as more than 150 historic sites, and arts and cultural venues.

Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Drive

The stunning scenery of the North Shore of Superior , including eight state parks, has earned this route ​​a national designation as an “All-American Road.” Also found on this trip are many hiking trails, Minnesota’s largest waterfalls, fur-trading and fishing museums, small towns serving fresh-caught fish, scenic golf courses and the city of Duluth, with its Great Lakes Aquarium and Aerial Lift Bridge.

Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway

Traveling across three states, the 400-mile Natchez Trace Parkway was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps following the Native American trading route. The route offers lots of history, beautiful scenery and music. The Mississippi section of the parkway boasts Tishomingo State Park (named for the leader of the Chickasaw nation who served in the War of 1812); Tupelo, where Elvis Presley was born; and Natchez, where the route ends.

Missouri: Glade Top Trail Scenic Byway

USDA Forest Service tells us: “This 23-mile Scenic Byway is named for the beautiful glades that surround the ridge tops where the Scenic Byway traverses.” The trail boasts seven overlook “pull-outs” that provide panoramic views of Springfield Plateau, 20 miles to the northwest, and 40 miles south to the Boston Mountains in Arkansas. The all-weather gravel road follows narrow ridge tops rising about 500 feet above the surrounding countryside.

Montana: Going-to-the-Sun Road

Built in 1932, this 50-mile road lives up to its evocative name, carving its way through and by impressive glaciers, beautiful valleys, cascading waterfalls, towering mountains, colorful wildflowers and lots of photogenic wildlife. Going-to-the-Sun Road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, and because it goes through mountainous terrain it is only open seasonally.

Nebraska: Oregon National Historic Trail

Step back in time and follow the Oregon National Historic Trail that passes through six states. Nebraska offers some of its most iconic features, including Chimney Rock National Historic Site, California Hill and Fort Kearny State Historical Park. You’ll pass by the massive clay and sandstone rock formations of landmarks such as the Courthouse and Jail Rocks, viewed by early pioneers following the same route.

Nevada: The loneliest road in America

In 1986, Life magazine dubbed the 400-or-so-mile stretch of Highway 50 cutting across Nevada “the loneliest road in America,” because of its desolate, wide-open spaces and harsh climate. Rather than being put off by the description, many people have chosen to navigate the route, taking in the unforgiving vistas, ghost towns, historic mining communities, state parks and sagebrush saloons along the way.

New Hampshire: Kancamagus Scenic Byway

Known by the locals as the “Kanc,” the Kancamagus Scenic Byway is best experienced in September or October when the fall colors are at their height. The 34.5-mile section of Route 112 running through the White Mountain National Forest is particularly known for its dazzling autumn displays. Walking trails, historic farmhouse museums, self-guided bike tours and highland games are also on offer.

New Jersey: Atlantic City to Cape May

This road trip takes in the full gamut of what Jersey has to offer, ranging from the nightlife and gambling of Atlantic City to the quiet coastal charms of Cape May. Along the way you might want to stop for a Ferris wheel ride at Gillian’s Wonderland Pier or walk to Playland’s Castaway Cove for other kinds of amusement rides. Tranquil Cape May is the oldest of the New Jersey beach towns, with historical buildings, and a large wetland and beachfront nature reserve that are great for beachcombing and bird-watching.

New Mexico: El Camino Real Scenic Byway

First traveled more than 400 years ago, the El Camino Real Scenic Byway begins just north of Las Cruces, in Fort Selden, and continues to cross 90 miles of flat, waterless desert, the Jornada del Muerto (“journey of the dead man”), before reaching Socorro. It then heads north to Albuquerque and the historic town of Santa Fe, reaching its final destination at San Juan Pueblo, the first capital of New Mexico.

New York: Lakes to Locks Passage

Known as the “Great Northeast Journey,” New York’s Lakes to Locks Passage is a 225-mile journey along the interconnected waterways of Lake Champlain, Lake George, Champlain Canal and the Upper Hudson River. The route also features many historic and recreational sites, including a network of 32 “Waypoint Communities,” which work together to offer visitors walking, biking, and driving tours of the region.

North Carolina: Outer Banks Scenic Highway

North Carolina's Route 12, aka the Outer Banks Scenic Highway , starts at Bodie Island Lighthouse in the north and goes by the narrow spits of land that make up the barrier islands, protecting the mainland from the ocean. Along the way you can see wildlife, shipwrecks, lighthouses, beaches and Kitty Hawk, where the Wright brothers made their historic flight.

North Dakota: Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway

This 64-mile byway takes in some of the most scenic areas in North Dakota, ranging from the Killdeer Mountains to the Little Missouri River Breaks and Badlands. You can experience the culture and history of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara tribes, as well as cowboy and rodeo lifestyles, along the way. Stops of interest include the Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge, the Killdeer Battlefield State Historic Site, and the Crow Flies High Butte overlook.

Ohio: Waterfalls route

Ohio isn’t just about its rivers and lakes—it has many beautiful waterfalls that this route will take you by in a roughly 10-hour, looping journey (depending on how long you stop). Some of the highlights you’ll fall for include Hayden Falls in a suburb of Columbus, Big Lyons Falls tumbling into a 300-foot-deep sandstone gorge, the breathtaking 65-foot waterfall flowing from Brandywine Creek, and the falls at Lanterman’s Mill.

Oklahoma: Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway

If you haven’t heard of this scenic byway , you don’t know what you are missing. You can take in mountains, of course; and countless wildflowers in summer and exploding colors in the fall. You travel through the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, hosting more than 50 species of mammals, 240 species of birds, 64 species of reptiles and amphibians, 36 fish species and 806 species of plants. Iconic bison and endangered species such as the black-capped vireo are also part of the show.

Oregon: Oregon Coast Highway 101

California's Pacific Coastal Highway may get all the attention, but the Oregon Coast Highway 101 deserves equal kudos. The seven-hour coastal route snakes by or through redwood forests, wonderful beaches, including Cannon Beach (the charms of the seaside town celebrated in movies such as The Goonies and Twilight ), small towns such as Seaside and Newport, state parks, and the Myrtle Tree Trail, a quarter-mile walk leading to what may be the world’s largest known eucalyptus tree, with a canopy that’s almost 70 feet across.

Pennsylvania: Route 6

About 400 miles of cross-continental Route 6 pass through northern Pennsylvania, going through bustling cities, small towns and lots of natural attractions. Trip highlights include the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon (almost 1,500 feet deep), the Tioga-Hammond Lakes recreation area, the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum, the Allegheny Reservoir, and Kinzua Bridge State Park, with “one of the world’s Top 10 most beautiful skywalks.”

Rhode Island: Ten Mile Drive

Any Rhode Island road trip is bound to take you by fantastic seascapes, colonial-era towns and great mansions. The Ten Mile Drive immerses you in the summer neighborhoods of the ultra-wealthy, who started coming to the island to escape the New York City heat in the 1800s. The journey has four legs: Brenton Cove Shore, East Passage of Narragansett Bay, Ocean Drive, and Bellevue Ave. (where many of the early huge mansions were built).

South Carolina: Lowcountry road trip

Between Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, lies the lowcountry, a coastal area lined with oak trees, pristine shores, and all the fresh seafood and barbecue you can consume. In South Carolina, the lowcountry road trip takes you to the historic city of Beaufort; one of the newest National Park sites, Penn Center (the first school in the South for former slaves); and Charleston, with its great food, drink and sightseeing opportunities.

South Dakota: Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

The Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway in the Black Hills of western South Dakota features fantastic granite pinnacles, hairpin curves, wooden “pigtail” bridges, mountain tunnels and the famous four faces on Mount Rushmore. Driving to Custer State Park along the Needles Highway, you’ll see the granite formations that attract rock climbers from around the globe.

Tennessee: Cherohala Skyway

Named a National Scenic Byway, the Cherohala Skyway delivers an amazing scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. The 41-mile route ascends about 4,500 feet and winds around mountain peaks and provides scenic outlooks from a mile up. A lovely hidden waterfall, a lake beach, many mountain vistas and tons of hiking trails are among the other attractions on the skyway.

Texas: Hill Country Route

Running across Edwards Plateau, the Hill Country Route covers rugged hills, flowing rivers and small towns such as Fredericksburg, Lampasas, and New Braunfels. Along the way you can enjoy wine tastings at award-winning vineyards, antique hunting, horseback riding, hiking, and stopping at great natural attractions such as the Hamilton Pool Preserve, where a 50-foot waterfall spills over limestone outcroppings into a green swimming pool below.

Utah: Byway 12

Connecting the Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef national parks, Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 delivers one amazing natural scene after another in almost 123 miles of driving bliss. Some of the highlights include the one-of-a-kind geological features of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, the hairpin turns of the “Hogsback” between Boulder and Escalante, and multiple state parks, like Kodachrome Basin, Escalante Petrified Forest and Anasazi State Park Museum.

Vermont: Route 100

Sometimes called Vermont’s “Main Street,” Route 100 is the state's longest state highway at 216.6 miles, providing a great scenic summer tour through the Green Mountains and a lot of quaint New England villages. Running from north to south in the center of Vermont, the highway provides lots of opportunities to pitch a tent in campgrounds, enjoy amazing vistas, and discover gorgeous lakes and hidden swimming holes.

Virginia: Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains along the North Carolina/Tennessee border, meandering through 469 miles of mountain meadows, with over 200 breathtaking overlooks. In Virginia, you can follow the long, narrow route 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park. It features some 300 square miles of hardwood forest throughout the northern region of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and more than 500 miles of trails.

Washington: Olympic Peninsula Loop

This 445-mile looping road trip from Seattle takes you around the Olympic National Park, past rainforests, snow-capped peaks, the crashing ocean surf, tide pools, abundant wildlife and much more. Whale-watching, fields of fragrant lavender blooms, placid lakes, warm spring resorts, and remote beaches with sea stacks are also on the travel menu.

West Virginia: Midland Trail National Scenic Byway

Traveling along the 180-mile Midland Trail National Scenic Byway , you’ll be exposed to some of the best of West Virginia. This includes mountain landscapes, waterfalls, authentic Appalachian cuisine and culture, alpine music venues, and chances to do rafting, spelunking, and fly fishing. Families might enjoy the century-plus-old Camden Park with its amusement rides, or Charleston’s Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, with its ElectricSky Theater and the Avampato Discovery Museum.

Wisconsin: Highway 60

Highway 60 is the first corridor to be designated a Wisconsin Scenic Byway , stretching 100 miles along the Lower Wisconsin River from Lodi to Prairie du Chien in the center of the rural Driftless Area. You can stop for winery tours, enjoy the charms of small towns, learn about native cultures and enjoy the sights of the Wisconsin River shifting shape and running through hills, bluffs and valleys.

Wyoming: Snowy Range Scenic Byway

Originally a wagon-road built in the 1870s, the Snowy Range Scenic Byway (Hwy. 130) in southeastern Wyoming takes you through a majestic mountain range, past icy glacial lakes, meadows, rushing streams, and wildlife such as yellow-bellied marmots, bighorn sheep, pikas, and blue grouse. While you could drive the route in a day, plenty of scenic overlooks and inviting campsites might tempt you into making it a multi-day excursion.

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29 Best Road Trip Stops on a Texas to California Drive

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A Texas-to-California drive is one epic road trip with a ton of unique sites to see. I’ve done this drive twice but on two different routes, one sticking south along the southern border and one through Northern Texas, going through Amarillo to visit the famed Route 66 attractions .

Driving from Texas to California allows you to see some of the most stunning and iconic attractions in the Southwestern United States, from hot springs and ghost towns to the Golden Gate Bridge and National Parks. No matter your final destination in California, a Texas to California road trip through America’s southwest should be high on your bucket list!

Table of Contents: Jump to

Road Trip at a Glance

How many days does a drive from texas to california take.

It takes at least two days to drive from Texas to California. However, this entirely depends on where you start and stop. One of the most direct routes from Central Texas (Dallas) to Southern California (Palm Springs) takes about 20 hours and is just over 1,300 miles following I-10

What states do you pass through to get to California from Texas?

The most direct route passes through New Mexico and Arizona to get to California from Texas.

What is the best route to drive from Texas to California?

The most popular routes to drive from Texas to California are the northern route, along I-40 (Route 66), or the southern route along I-10. The southern route is more scenic and takes you through an array of National Parks, while the northern route is perfect for those who want to experience the country’s most famous highway, quirky attractions and historic towns.

When is the best time to drive from Texas to California?

The best time for a Texas to California road trip, for optimal temperatures and road conditions, is March to May. Fall is another good time to drive from Texas to California.

Where Should I Start and End my Texas to California Road Trip?

Your Texas to California road trip will likely start from one of Texas’s four major cities: Austin, Dallas, Houston, or San Antonio. Dallas and Houston have the two major airports and are well connected to the rest of the state, making them great starting points.

There are two main routes that most people take when driving from Texas to California, the northern route along I-40 (Route 66) and the southern route along I-10.

I-20 runs across the center of Texas and is a great option if starting from Dallas. I-20 runs into I-10, heading west near Fort Davis.

However, if you are looking to skip out on driving across Texas altogether, start in a western city in Texas, such as Amarillo in the north or El Paso in the south.

Where to start in Texas

• Dallas : Dallas has the largest airport in the state (DFW) and is the perfect place to start your road trip and a fun city to explore on its own. It’s easily accessible to the northern route along Route 66 and features city highlights such as Deep Ellum, Bishops Arts districts, and dozens of fascinating museums. If you start your drive in March, make sure to stop at Texas-Tulips, a dutch tulip farm just north of the city.
• Amarillo : Amarillo, in northern Texas’ panhandle, is one of the most popular cities along Historic Route 66, with quirky diners, housing murals, and nostalgic gift shops. It’s a great place to begin a Texas to California road trip when wanting to go through Northern New Mexico to visit Tucumcari or Santa Fe. Make sure to stop at the Welcome to signs for Arizona and New Mexico at the border along I-40.
• Austin : Known as the Live Music Capitol of the World, Austin is one of the most exciting destinations in Texas. It’s full of nightlife, delicious cuisines, and a friendly and inviting atmosphere. It is a perfect place to explore and begin a road trip from Texas to California when wanting a bit of community, delicious grub and some outdoor adventures.
• El Paso : The border town of El Paso is the best place to start your Texas to California road trip if you want to bypass Texas altogether. It sits in the western panhandle and features a vast blend of American and Mexican cultures. 
• Houston : I-10 runs through Houston and allows you to drive the furthest along your road trip in Texas, offering the most to see and do. Houston, the largest city in Texas, is known for its NASA Space Center, and has a fun Theater district and historic center showing off 19th-century architecture. It is an epic starting point for a Texas to California drive. 

Where to End in California

Palm Springs or San Diego are two convenient final destinations when taking I-10 through southern Texas but there is a slew of other great options in southern California with easy access to some of the best destinations in northern California. It all depends on how much time you have and what kind of experiences you are looking forward to.

Southern California

• San Diego : California’s southernmost city of San Diego, is a melting pot of cultures and one of the most beloved cities in California. Ending here will allow you to enjoy the small seaside towns of La Jolla, Encinitas, and Oceanside and makes a great stopping point for those who want to relax on the beautiful California beaches, enjoy sunset cliffs Natural Park and indulge in delicious local cuisine.  From Tuscon, you can take I-8 directly into San Diego.
• Palm Springs : Palm Springs sits close to Joshua Tree National Park, right off of I-10. It is a great end point to your Texas to California road trip for desert vibes, boutique shopping, relaxing spas and golf. Its relaxing atmosphere is the perfect way to end a long drive, and Palm Springs makes a great jumping off point for many other day trips in the area.
• Los Angeles : Los Angeles, or the City of Angels, is the second largest city in the United States and a great destination for your Texas to California road trip if you love Hollywood, beautiful beaches, fun piers, and a mix of culture. It is also the most convenient ending point when taking Interstate 40 from Texas. There is a ton to see and do in Los Angeles and it surrounding areas, including Santa Monica, the official end of Historic Route 66.
• Santa Monica : If you want to end up on the California coast, there is no better end point to a Texas to California road trip than Santa Monica, the official “end of the road” of Historic Route 66 commemorated with a historical sign and booth along the pier. It is a great way to end your long adventure and take in one of California’s most iconic areas. Walk along the famous pier, hit Muscle Beach for a workout, enjoy the world famous Looff Hippodrome Carousel, or relax with a Pacific Ocean sunset.

Northern California/Central Coast

These options are not along the direct routes from Texas to California but are hugely popular and worth the effort if you can add more days to your road trip to see more of California.

• Carmel: Heading inland to the famous Route 1 along California’s coast is the rugged coastlines of Big Sur stretching from San Simeon to Carmel. It is one of the most sought-after areas for scenic drives that make for phenomenal road trips. Featuring many state parks, sea lions, rocky cliffs, and gorgeous beaches, the Big Sur drive to Carmel is one of the most impressive coastal drives in the world and the perfect way to see more of California after a road trip from Texas.  
• San Francisco : North of Monterey is San Francisco, home to Silicon Valley, the Golden Gate Bridge, the world’s windiest Street (Lombard Street), and Alcatraz (to name a few). San Francisco is another wonderful city to visit in northern California. The city is full of color, culture, and unique experiences, close to the beautiful Point Reys National Seashore, Muir Woods State Park, Sonoma, and Napa wine regions, and the unique streets of Normandy Village in Berkeley, CA.
• Yosemite National Park : Yosemite is located in the central east of California and makes for a wonderful ending point if you want to explore some of California’s most dazzling National Parks, including Death Valley, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park. While this route may be the longest, it’s full of some of the best things to see and do for nature lovers and allows you to explore a bit more of inland California.

How Much Does a Drive From Texas to California Cost?

Is it cheaper to fly or drive from Texas to California? 

The cost depends on multiple factors, and flights fluctuate frequently, but generally speaking, it is cheaper to fly to California from Texas rather than drive. But this would only be an option if you were not looking for the best sites to see from Texas to California and wanted to get out on the open road for an adventure of a lifetime!

A direct drive from east Texas to southern California is around 20 hours and 1,300 miles, which could be done in two days if going direct.

To know how much a Texas to California drive will cost, calculate your car’s gas mileage based on 1,300-1,500 miles. Keep in mind you may not take the most direct route if you want to see the best things from Texas to California.

Also, calculate the cost of accommodations and food based on how long of a drive you want to take.

I recommend at least 5 days for a Texas to California drive to allow plenty of time for stops and overnights. I typically do this road trip in 10 days minimum but could go for much longer, depending on what I want to see (I also hate feeling rushed, and I always have to plan for some remote work days).

For accommodation, if you want to camp along the way, expect to spend $10-$35 a night for a drive-up site for one vehicle. Most motels and 3-star hotels charge around $80-$150 a night.

To save money on accommodation, consider car camping. You can sleep for free in many open lots across the US, including Cracker Barrel, Walmart, Lowes, and Home Depot. Also, at rest stops, visitor centers, and travel centers such as Flying J, Pilot, and Love’s (restrictions on overnight parking vary by cites- always ask first to avoid being towed or ticketed).

If you fly to California to Texas, you may only need an airline ticket, which is cheaper than gas, food, accommodation, and activities along the way, BUT you’ll be missing out on quite a lot.

I encourage you to hit the road and discover the best sites from Texas to California!

The Best Sites to See From Texas to California.

From scenic deserts and mountain landscapes to bustling cities, ghost towns, vintage roadside attractions, delicious diners and some quirky random sites, it’s amazing how much variety there is on a Texas to California drive.

I’ve separated this post into two sections, the Northern Route and the Southern Route, and included a variety of sites to see, from hiking trails and major cites to small towns and national parks with some quick pit stops that are sure to impress!

No matter which route you take, you will enjoy all the adventures and cool experiences waiting for you along a Texas to California road trip!

Northern Route Sites to See 

The Northern route takes you through the iconic “Mother Road” and is the more historical option best for anyone dying to experience what is left of the classic Route 66. Much of this route is on I-40, with many optional fun and quirky Route 66 stops along with a few National and State Parks.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

Palo Duro Canyon dubbed the Texas Grand Canyon is the second largest canyon in the country based on length (120 miles long). This unique geological attraction is not too far from Amarillo, Texas. Start at the visitors center for panoramic canyon views, then take the 16 miles scenic drive to the canyon base to discover more of the canyon floor. Hikers can enjoy miles of scenic trails, including the popular Lighthouse trail to the most famous landmark in the park, or get great panoramic views of the canyon along the Triassic Trail. Fees start at $8 for day use and $16 for campsites. Reservations for camping and day use are recommended to ensure availability.

Cadillac Ranch, Texas

Sitting in the panhandle of Texas is the unique Cadillac Ranch art installation, one of the most famous attractions along Route 66. in Texas This attraction was thought up by three artists apart of the San Francisco art group “Ant Farm” and Stanley Marsh as an ode to the American Dream with hopes to baffle the locals. It’s the perfect place for a fabulous Instagram photo op and one of the unique stops along a Texas to California road trip. 

Adrian, Texas (Route 66 Midpoint)

The small town of Adrian is home to the famous midway to Chicago Route 66 sign along with the famous Midpoint Cafe. Have fun checking out all the Route 66 memorabilia and snap a photo at the ‘Welcome to Adrian’ sign, a perfect shot to document your Texas to California road trip. 

Tucumcari, New Mexico

Another iconic Route 66 town, Tucumcari, is known for its vintage neon signs that come alive at night. It is also home to museums, gift shops, and murals dedicated to the Mother Road. Visit the Tucumcari Historical Museum to learn about the History of Route 66 and the town of Tucumcari. Head down Tucumcari Blvd (old Route 66) to see the vintage Blue Swallow Motel with a classic car parked out front. Make sure to stop in at TeePee Curious, a unique gift shop, and look out for the abandoned garages and gas stations with a ton of funky fun murals and Route 66 plaques adorned to the walls. Tucumcari is a great stop along I-40 for any one looking to get their kicks on Route 66! If you are looking to take a longer pit stop, enjoy the nearby Mesalands Community College Dinosaur Museum , or enjoy some outdoor activities or picnic lunch at nearby Ute Lake  or  Conchas Lake  State Parks.

Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico

Although this stop requires a slight detour from i-40, it is totally worth the effort for anyone who enjoys historical cultures and Native American history. The area is home to over 33,000 acres of preserved lands with petroglyphs, canyons and valleys that were once apart of a thriving community dating back over 11,000 years ago. It only takes a few hours to walk around the preserved homes of the Ancestral Puebloans but there are longer hiking trails and a system of ladders that you can climb to view different levels of the historic city.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Just north of Albuquerque sits the unique and quirky town of  Santa Fe , New Mexico’s capital city and the oldest capital city in the USA. This town oozes with creativity, as seen in over 100 art galleries sprinkled around the city. It is known for its striking Pueblo-style architecture and is the location of America’s oldest public building, The Palace of the Governors, and the oldest church in the US, the San Miguel Chapel. Enjoy the art scene along Canyon road, one of the many art and history museums in the downtown square, and make sure to try some of the delicious southwest fare-The Shed comes highly recommended. If you visit in August, head to the annual Santa Fe Indian Market, the largest and most prestigious intertribal art market in the world, hosted by the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts .

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque, New Mexico , is the largest city in the state and is full of culture, historical sites, and delicious cuisine. Boasting multiple museums, loads of shopping, and the Rio Grande Zoo, nature lovers and city buffs will enjoy the magic of Albuquerque. Be sure to stroll around the Old Town’s narrow streets for the best locally made souvenirs and authentic Mexican eateries. If you are driving through Albuquerque in early October, you are in for a treat! The town explodes with color flying high in the sky during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, a hot air balloon festival known for its quirky balloon shapes, including chickens, pigs, bulls, and even Dracula.

Be aware that Central Ave (Historic Route 66) in southeast Albuquerque runs through the International District (locals refer to it as the War Zone ), which has very high crime rates, including car theft and violent crime. If you want to stay overnight, stick to a hotel with secure parking. The airport hotels are known to have fewer car thefts .

Santa Rosa Blue Hole, New Mexico

The  Santa Rosa Blue Hole  in New Mexico is a natural phenomenon- a sink hole filled with spring water creating a swimming hole with a system of underground secret caves. It’s one of the most popular stops along Route 66 and is also a dedicated location to scuba diving training. It’s most famous for its electric blue color and constant water temperate of 61℉. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, or relaxing around the Santa Rosa Blue Hole. If you are traveling in the summer, this place is a must-stop for cooling off and beating the heat, winter is their high season, so you may have it all to your self. Just be aware temperatures in the Santa Rosa area can surpass 100 ℉ in the summer.

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Located in northeastern Arizona is the infamous  Petrified Forest National Park . It’s one of the most jaw-dropping places in the United States and one of the best sites along a Texas to California road trip for nature lovers. What was once an ancient forest turned to stone over time and now contains the most significant amount of petrified wood in the world. Hike along the miles of trails and discover fossilized logs and trees with diverse textures and colors. 

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona 

No road trip through Arizona would be complete without a stop at Arizona’s most famous natural wonder, the Grand Canyon. One hour from Williams along I-40, its a bit of a detour but one many would agree is a must see. The Grand Canyon is the country’s #1 most visited national park, with over 4.5 million annual visitors. It can easily be reached from Route 66 and is a must-stop along any Texas to California road trip for its expansive vista and dramatic canyon, where there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and relaxing. Formed millions of years ago from erosion of the Colorado River, it spans 277 miles and is 6,000 feet deep at its lowest point. Begin at the visitor’s center to learn the canyon’s history, hike or ride around the rim, or descend into the canyon to discover it firsthand. 

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Another stop, about 30 mins south of I-40, is Lake Havasu City. This area is fantastic for enjoying the Colorado River with water sports or nature in some nearby parks. It is also home to the original 1830s London Bridge. The bridge was purchased, deconstructed, and moved to the US, where it was rebuilt in Lake Havasu City in the 1970s. It connects the mainland to an island in the Colorado River. The downtown area is known for pubs, eateries and unique local boutiques. You can even take a boat tour to spot the many US lighthouse replicas doting the river’s shoreline.

Route 66 Historic towns and sites in Texas, Arizona and California

There are many Route 66 towns and historic sites running through Texas and Arizona all the way to Santa Monica in California. I’ve listed the most popular sites from west to east below but for a more detailed look at all there is to see along Route 66 from Texas to California, check out this post highlighting the best Route 66 stops in Arizona and the best Route 66 towns in northern Texas.

• Cadillac Ranch
• Big Texan Steak Ranch
• Route 66 Historic District
• Wigman Teepees
• Historic Route 66 Museum & Welcome Center
• Mr. D’z Route 66 diner
• Kingman Welcome Sign
• Amboy Crater
• Roy’s Motel & Cafe

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, California

This unique collection of vintage bottles arranged as a maze of glass and steel trees is quite the sight. It is right off of the National Trails Highway (Historic Route 66), just under two hours from Los Angeles in Oro Grand, California. Elmer started turning his collection of vintage bottles into art over 15 years ago. There is a ton to look at however, Elmer recently passed away, and the ranch is no longer open to walk through freely, but you can still enjoy the artistic lawn from the road.

End of the Road Route 66 marker, California

The mile marker finishing Route 66 sits on the Santa Monica pier overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the one of the country’s most popular beaches, Santa Monica Beach. Your Texas to California road trip isn’t complete without a photo at this famous landmark.

Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley National Park  is one of the best natural sites to see on a Texas to California road trip if you have time to head north. This national park is about 2.5 hours north of Barstow and is the hottest place in the USA and the driest in North America. Death Valley is home to many surreal landscapes, from salt flats stretching for miles and towering yellow sand dunes to the colorful mountains of the Instagram-famous Artist’s Pallet. It is truly a land of wonders, and one not to be missed.

Southern Route Stops

The Southern route along Interstate 10 is the more scenic option when driving from Texas to California and passes through various national parks, state parks, and little towns. It’s the best option for those who love exploring the outdoors and appreciate stunning natural scenery and diverse landscapes.

Big Bend National Park, Texas 

Big Bend  is one of the least visited and remote National Parks in the United States, primarily due to its location, but it is undoubtedly the hidden gem of Texas. Ditch the car, set out on foot or by bike, and explore the vast National Park firsthand. Home to the rugged Chisos mountains on the northern end of the Chihuahuan Desert, its a fantastic area to enjoy canyons, diverse wildlife, and the dark night sky.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico 

The well preserved natural wonder of Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a UNESCO Heritage Site for its diverse geological formations and one of the best sites along the southern route if you have some time for a short detour. The park features some of the largest caves worldwide that began to form over 250 million years old by a single drop of water. The best way to explore the caverns is by booking a guided tour, allowing you to learn about the area’s history. Tickets to enter the caves sell out weeks in advance, so make sure to book in advance at Recreation.gov.com.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Another national park worth a stop is the Guadalupe Mountains, located four hours north of Big Bend and two hours east of El Paso. This is a hiking park where outdoor lovers will enjoy the miles of rugged canyon trails and backpacking opportunities. It is only 30 mins south of Carlsbad caverns so it makes a great stop if you are hoping to visit as many National Parks as possible. If you are not into hiking or if the weather isn’t good, skip this one and head to el Paso from Big Bend.

El Paso, Texas

Whether you begin your road trip in  El Paso  or not, it still deserves a stop on any Texas to California road trip. El Paso is on the Rio Grand River and borders Juarez, Mexico. El Paso is blended with a mix of cultures, attractions, and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. It’s one of the most underrated cities in Texas, and home to the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame, the Museum of Art, and the Franklin Mountains State Park, a perfect setting for outdoor lovers offering hiking and biking trails, camping, and rock climbing. While in el Paso, don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the Greetings from Mural located in the Substation.

Las Cruces, New Mexico

Las Cruces, New Mexico, lies just north of El Paso. Although its the 2nd largest city in New Mexico, it still has a small town charm. It makes a good overnight stop on your drive to California, where you can enjoy many attractions, including museums and art galleries, and annual festivals. It is only an hour’s drive from White Sands National Park and is home to the US’s largest military facility, the White Sands Missile Range. Explore the museum to learn more about the origins of missile testing and the space program and view over 50 rockets and missiles in the outdoor missile park. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy, from the Soledad Canyon recreational area and the Organ Mountains to the many trails perfect for wilderness pack trips and horseback riding.

White Sands National Park, New Mexico 

Sitting in Alamogordo, New Mexico, White Sands National Park is one of the best natural wonders along any Texas to California road trip. Most famous for its vast gypsum deposits and Ice-Age fossilized foot prints, it features giant white sand dunes and miles of hiking trails. Sandboard down the white dunes or walk for miles around the dunes near the Alkali Flat trail. You can even sleep overnight in the National Park with a permit.

Tombstone, Arizona

This historic mining town dubbed the Town Too Tough to Die , is famous for the O.K Corral shootout depicted in the hit film Tombstone and is more like a western amusement park without the rollercoasters- it is a little cheeky, a lot touristy, and one of my favorite quirky towns to stop at on a drive to California from Texas. Tombstone requires a short detour from the main route along I-10 but makes a perfect 1/2 day stop if you want to be transported back to the 1880s when the Wild Wild West was thriving.

Kartchner Caverns State Park, Arizona

An hour outside of Tuscon, only 15 mins south of I-40, are the caverns of Kartchner. These live limestone caves were discovered in the 1970s and began forming over 200,000 years ago. During summer, the Big Room is home to over 1,000 female cave myotis bats and their young. You can camp at the state park and take guided tours of the cave system.

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson, Arizona , is, without a doubt, one of the most underrated cities in the country. Featuring more than 200 years of history, beautiful landscapes, and an eclectic downtown area, Tucson is a fun and exciting stop to make on your Texas to California road trip. Outdoor lovers can enjoy exploring the massive cacti of Saguaro National Park and hiking the foothills of the Catalina Mountains. In contrast, city birds will love exploring historic 4th Avenue’s unique boutiques and having a bite at one of the many cuisine options. 

Borrego Springs, California

Surrounded by the magnificent Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs is a small town community bathed in natural splendor. It is located in the California desert and is home to many hiking trails, dramatic 4×4 roads, and the Borrego Palm Canyon. It is also California’s first dark sky community and has an intriguing art display of over 130 scrap metal sculptures, including horses, dragons and dinosaurs seemingly popping out of nowhere throughout the town.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

If you are ending your road trip near or around Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park in California will likely be one of your last stops. The unique environment, climate, and vegetation make this National park one of the most impressive in the country, bursting with Joshua trees, cholla cacti, ocotillos, and a wide range of wildlife. From the Interstate, head towards Cottonwood Visitors Center, the southern entrance to the park, and enjoy miles of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, scenic drives, and a chance to camp under the stars. 

Dinosuars of Cabazon, California

If you are a fan of dinosaurs or traveling with children, add  Cabazon  to your itinerary during your Texas to California road trip. This quirky roadside attraction features two life-size dinosaur replicas (T-rex & Apatosaurus) and another 70+ dinosaurs and kid-friendly attractions within the park. Cabazon is great for a quick roadside stop and a unique Texas to California road trip excursion. 

Pioneer Town

Pioneer Town is only 30 mins from Joshua Tree National Park and makes a fun pit stop if western movies spark your interest. This tourist spot is a historic town that came to be when a number of Hollywood investors turned their dreams into reality and built an 1870s western movie set. Over 50 films and tv shows including Annie Oakley, and more recently Ingrid Goes West, have been shot here since the 1940s. The town is open to visitors weekly so every can get a taste of what it was like to live in an authentic western town. Enjoy restaurants, gift shops and plenty of photo ops.

Palm Springs

If you want to explore Joshua Tree National Park or visit the Cabazon Dinosaurs, you will be in the neighborhood of Palm Springs which makes a fantastic ending to your Texas to California Road Tip. There is plenty to see and do within the city of Palm Springs and surrounding towns , including la Quinta, Palm Desert and Cathedral City. Enjoy museums, biking and Giant Marilyn in downtown Palm Springs, the shopping and golf course in La Quinta, and the thriving art scene and outdoor festivals of Cathedral City.

With all the unique roadside attractions, lively cities, historical towns and enormous natural beauty along the route from Texas to California, you’ll want to continue this road trip long after you meet your destination. Road trips can be fantastic money savers and are a great way to see the country at your leisure, so pack up your car with these road trip essentials and have your self an amazing adventure out on the open road.

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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I want to drive from Houston to California in the most economical manner visiting all of the major sites in California.

Do it! I’m heading to Houston now from California with a lot of stops in between. Car Camping is the most economical option but in California many areas do no want you to sleep in your car so finding camp sites or public lands is the best bet.

Tucson is misspelled several times. Born and raised there I see that a lot. TuCSon.

OH MY GOSH- How embarrassing! Thank you for pointing that out. I re-read the post and found a few more…uugh hate it when that happens. I’ll be heading back to Tucson this fall!

Trying too plan a road trip from Texas to Sequoia National Park in the summer (July). Looking for suggestions on the best places to see on the way .

Exciting-that will be a fun trip, but hot in July! Where are you coming from in Texas? What kind of interests do you have? I’ve driven this route, once along I-40 and once along I-10. Both have a lot to see! There are many other National Parks to see along the way, White Sands, Saguaro, Death Valley are a few and plenty of towns like the R66 towns in Arizona, Flagstaff, Sedona, Santa Fe, Las Vegas, if you stay north or Tombstone, Bisbee, Tucson, Phoenix, Palm Springs, San Diego if you stay south.

Thank you for this guide, we are doing a road trip for the 2024 Great American Eclipse, and it was really helpful planning a route

I hope you got a good show. I saw the eclipse from Charleston a few years back and will never forget how cool it was to witness in real time. What a great road trip to do!

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