12 Incredible U.S. Road Trips That Will Change How You See America
Road trips are made for a country like America. Its endless highways, dramatic scenery, and the most far-out roadside attractions add to the magic of the open road. There’s nothing like driving through the Pacific Coast with the ocean as your copilot, or winding through the Rockies where mountains seem to tower above everywhere you look. At the end of every mile is a discovery. The kind of adventure that kindles your wanderlust and fills your camera roll quicker than you can imagine.
Take a drive through these American roads and be awed by the beauty that will give you a whole new perspective on the country.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
Driving down California’s Pacific Coast Highway is like starring in your own movie. This drive combines dramatic cliffs dropping precipitously into the ocean and waves crashing below. This drive is absolutely spectacular. If you stop in Big Sur, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views. Take a detour to Monterey for a visit to its famous aquarium. Don’t forget to roll down your windows and enjoy the salty sea breeze on your face. It’s cheaper than therapy.
Route 66
Route 66 is a time capsule of Americana. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, this route boasts kitschy roadside attractions, retro diners, and tiny towns that feel caught in the 1950s. This trip is a nostalgic joyride whether you’re taking a picture with the Blue Whale of Catoosa or sipping a milkshake at an old-school soda fountain.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is your answer if you’ve ever wanted to drive through a painting. This stretch between Virginia and North Carolina is especially stunning in the fall thanks to the winding roads and panoramic mountain views, for which it’s known. Spend as much time as you can, get off at the scenic overlooks, and enjoy nature. Pro tip: Bring a picnic basket for one of the many trails – you won’t be disappointed.
The Great River Road, Mississippi
The Great River Road traces the mighty Mississippi from Minnesota to Louisiana and mixes history, culture, and soul. You’ll find charming river towns, jazz-filled streets in New Orleans, and endless southern cooking to sample along the way. It’s a road trip that will leave you with stories to talk about for ages.
Overseas Highway, Florida
The Overseas Highway feels like you’ve arrived on a postcard. This famous road runs from Miami to Key West, connecting through turquoise waters on picturesque bridges. Cruise past coral reefs, lush islands, and fishing boats and try some of the Key lime pie, which is a rite of passage when you get to Key West.
Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway, South Dakota
The Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway is hard to beat for a drive that feels like you’re on another planet. Panoramic views of dramatic rock formations, colorful canyons, and otherworldly landscapes will make you stop every five minutes to take a photo. If you spot bison grazing along the way, bonus points, they’re the locals here.
Highway 1, Maine
Maine’s Highway 1 is a dream for a coastal drive with a side of lobster rolls. This road leads through pretty fishing villages, lighthouses on rocky cliffs and peaceful beaches. If Acadia National Park isn’t already on your Summer bucket list, put it in! Swing by for some hiking or just take in the small-town vibes and freshly caught seafood on just about every corner. It’s all New England charm.
The Loneliest Road in America, Nevada
U.S. Route 50 in Nevada is nicknamed The Loneliest Road in America. This ride has solitude unlike anything else and stretches through vast deserts, mountain ranges, and ghost towns. Bring snacks, a good playlist, and curiosity, because you’ll be on the open road for a while.
Denali Highway, Alaska
If you’re an adventure seeker, exploring the Denali Highway is for you. This epic gravel road through the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, with snow-capped peaks and glaciers will leave you with unforgettable memories. Watch for moose, caribou, and other wildlife as you drive. It’s a bumpy ride but each jolt is worth it for the sheer beauty you will see.
Million Dollar Highway, Colorado
The Million Dollar Highway isn’t for the faint of heart with hairpin turns, and no guardrails. If you’re up to the task, you’ll be treated to a jaw-dropping mountain scenery in Colorado. The section of U.S. Route 550 between Ouray and Silverton offers a thrilling, roller-coaster-like journey through the Rockies that’s truly unforgettable.
Beartooth Highway, Montana to Wyoming
The Beartooth Highway is called one of the most scenic drives in the country and it will take your breath away. This high-altitude route climbs over 10,000 feet with sweeping views of alpine lakes, snow-covered peaks, and wildflower meadows.
Hana Highway, Hawaii
If you’re on Maui, the Hana Highway is not about speed but enjoying the scenery. This road winds past waterfalls, rainforests, and beaches that could be in a travel magazine. You can make frequent stops enjoy a swim or lie in the soft, lush greenery. Plus, the roadside stand makes heavenly banana bread.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
