There are very few things that represent Americana than the fabled road trip. Generations of people – from singles to couples, and family to groups of friends, have embarked on this national pastime. Hitting the open road towards one or destinations is an experience everyone should try at least once.
When many people think of taking a road trip, the first thing that comes to mind is the legendary Route 66, which ran from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. However, there are other highways and byways that put Route 66 to shame.
Between the natural beauty, culture, people and landmarks, these underrated road trip routes are more than worth the drive.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
A culturally rich and scenic state, a road trip through the Albuquerque, New Mexico region is one like no other. The people of Albuquerque represent a diverse population with a rich history that goes back centuries
New Mexico also boasts nearly 20 national parks and monuments in the greater Albuquerque region, including Carlsbad Caverns National Park, the Old Spanish National Historic Trail, and the Petroglyph National Monument.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Described as America’s favorite drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the states of Virginia and North Carolina. Its incredible length connects Shenandoah National Park, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Whether you take a leisurely drive along the Parkway, or stop to take in the breathtaking views along the way, the area has so much to offer. Whitewater Falls, Linville Gorge, Mount Mitchell and the New River are some of the must-see destinations.
North Shore Scenic Drive
This All-American Road borders the northern shores of Lake Superior in Minnesota, includes no less than eight state parks. Take in the view of the enchanting waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park, or the glorious cascades at Cascade River State Park.
Some of the things that sets the North Shore Scenic Drive apart from other road trip routes are the black and pink cobblestone beaches, unique restaurants and shops, and prime fishing at the McQuade Harbor Rest Area.
Hana Coast Highway
A visit to the Hawaiian Islands is already a wonderful trip in and of itself. If you add a ride along the Hana Coast Highway, also known as The Road to Hana, you’ll enjoy a once in a lifetime experience that can’t be replicated anywhere else in the country.
Located on the island of Maui, the Road to Hana is full of incredible natural beauty that is ideal for photographing lifetime memories. As the island is still recovering from the devastating 2023 fires, it’s best to take a guided road trip.
Overseas Highway
The 113 miles of road stretching through Florida’s Keys, from Key Largo to Key West, is also referred to as the Highway that Goes to Sea. The highway has 42 bridges, all offering views of the various communities lining the way.
In addition to the unique communities, road trippers are treated to the naturally beautiful sights of the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean, and manmade wonders like grand oceanfront villas and resorts.
Seward Highway
Alaska’s Seward Highway has the distinction of being named an Alaska Scenic Byway, a USDA Forest Service Byway, and an All-American Road. Along the 127 mile highway, you’ll find both land and sea wildlife.
Bald eagles, migratory birds, moose, and beavers have a home at the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge at Potter Marsh, At other spots along the way, sea life such as beluga whales and schools of salmon can be observed.
The Berkshires
The Berkshires of Massachusetts is an idyllic place to visit year-round, but there’s something about a fall road trip there that is especially appealing. For starters, you can visit any number of farms and pick your own apples and pumpkins.
Stop by any food store and pick up a jar of real New England maple syrup. You can also experience the amazing foliage color changes as you drive on the Mohawk Trail. If you schedule your visit at the right time, you can attend the annual Fall Foliage Parade.
Mississippi Blues Trail
Fans of music, particularly the blues genre, will have a deep appreciation for the Mississippi Blues Trail, also called the Highway 61 Blues. The original Highway 61 started in New Orleans and ended at the Canadian border.
Many musical legends from Mississippi lived close to Highway 61, including Sam Cooke, B.B. King, Robot Johnson, and Muddy Waters. Bob Dylan’s 1965 album, Highway 61 Revisited, adds to the spirit of a road that shaped the musical industry.
Oregon National Historic Trail
With a span of more than 2,000 miles across seven states, the Oregon National Historic Trail tells the story of the journey undertaken by American settlers seeking a new life in the West. Kansas, Idaho, Missouri, Nebraska, Wyoming, Washington, and Oregon are along the trail.
As you drive along the trail, you can get an idea of what the settlers experienced by visiting places like Gardner Junction Park in Kansas, the Milner Historic Recreation Area Swales in Idaho, and the Barlow Pass in Oregon.
Highway 395
One of the first places that comes to mind when someone thinks about the West Coast is Hollywood. While the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown has its own appeal, it doesn’t match up to the attractions found along Highway 365.
The highway runs through four states: California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, but the California leg of the trip is something to see. Locations like Lone Pine, the famous (or infamous) Death Valley, and Lake Tahoe await your arrival.
Rapid City
No one will fault you if you’re not familiar with Rapid City. It’s a hidden gem found in South Dakota. The state isn’t exactly the first place you may think of to embark on a road trip, but you’ll change your mind once you learn of the landmarks in the area.
Dignity Statue, in Chamberlain, is a tribute to the rich Native American culture of South Dakota is about three hours from the city. An hour away from Rapid City is Badlands National Park, and 35 minutes from the city is Mount Rushmore.
High Road to Taos
From Santa Fe, New Mexico to Taos is the High Road to Taos scenic byway. In many respects, it’s a step back in time. You’ll see the Spanish influence along the route, from the architecture to the history and culture of the people who lived there in the past, and are there in the present time.
Travel on Route 76, and you’ll see the San Francisco de Asis church in Saint Francis Plaza, and along the way you’ll drive through villages such as Rancho de Taos and Talpa. It’s an unforgettable experience for all road trippers.