There’s a good chance that road trip enthusiasts already know the magic of hitting the American highways and how each journey stitches together stunning landscapes and epic stories, but there are a number of travelers who avoid the car and opt to jet set to their destinations. 

Maybe you’re considering cutting back on your travel budget this year, or the call of the open round is getting to you. Or maybe you’ve hopped around from state to state on your local road trips but are now ready to take on something much bigger.

These longer trips offer you the time to deep-dive into the heart and soul of America, go on a grand adventure, and get a taste of how enormous and diverse America is. Looks like you finally understand that driving through America is much better than flying over parts of it!

Where to start? Well, let’s figure out what long-distance road trip calls to you, and then we’ll get you out on the open road.

Pacific Coast Highway (California to Washington) 

Duration: 7-10 days
Route: U.S. Route 101 & California State Route 1

Most equate the Pacific Coast Highway road trip to being one where you get to spend your days with the windows rolled down, salty wind in your hair, and a dazzling ocean for company. But the truth is, the Pacific Coast Highway is not just a coastline drive. It is far more diverse, scenic, and wholesome than that.

The road trip starts near Los Angeles’ Venice Beach and drives up to Seattle through a route that feels like flipping through the most gorgeous photo album ever. As you hug the California coast on Route 1, you’ll roll past Malibu’s beaches, picture-perfect spots where the ocean waves hello.

But wait till you hit Big Sur! This stretch from San Luis Obispo to Monterey is where the wild cliffs throw themselves into the sea in the most dramatic way. Don’t make the mistake of driving right through this area. You might want to carve a few extra days out to truly enjoy all the small towns and stunning coastlines you find on this part of the drive. The Bixby Creek Bridge is also the perfect spot to soak in those mind-blowing Pacific views.

On the Road: California to the Pacific Northwest

Then you hit San Francisco, where the Golden Gate Bridge is even more stunning in person, and Fisherman’s Wharf is buzzing with life. Keep heading north, and soon, you’ll be surrounded by the tallest redwood trees on the planet at Redwood National Park.

Now let’s cross into Oregon and explore the misty wonderland of the Pacific Northwest. The Portland, Oregon, area throws in a bit of a different vibe as you roll into the city. It’s cool and quirky and offers a chance to see the famous Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach. 

Finally, you land in Seattle, Washington, with the crazy fun Pike Place Market and that iconic Space Needle reaching for the sky. It’s a great city to celebrate your road trip journey’s end and reflect on the road you just traveled.

If you find yourself falling in love with the idea of taking this trip, here are a few quick tips for you:

• Skip this in the dead of winter unless you’re a big fan of fog and rain. (Nobody is!) Otherwise, this coastal cruise is a year-round stunner!
• Travel north to south if you always want the best views on the driver’s side!

Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)

Duration: 10-14 days
Route: Historic U.S. Route 66 (with portions on I-55, I-44, I-40, and I-10)

Forget about those superhighways for a bit. Route 66 lets you embrace Americana, hop into a time machine, and cruise through old-school America. 

Back in the day, this infamous route ran all the way from Chicago to sunny Santa Monica. Today, even though it’s not one continuous road anymore, the bits that are still there are packed with vintage charm and roadside oddities that you just gotta see. 

This route kicks off in Chicago at the famous Route 66 sign. During your time in Chicago, soak in the city vibes and the beauty of Lake Michigan before you hit the open road. 

Rolling On

As you roll on, St. Louis, Missouri, pops up with the giant Gateway Arch and some seriously cool old-school diners and museums right along the route. 

In Amarillo, Texas, you’ll find the popular Cadillac Ranch with cars sticking halfway into the ground. Don’t forget to spray the cars with some old DIY paint. A few minutes away is the Big Texan Steak Ranch, where you can dare yourself to eat a massive steak. 

From here, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a little detour, but trust me, it’s worth it! With its Native American art and those unique adobe buildings, it’s a total feast for the eyes. Then it’s on to Flagstaff, Arizona. Here, let’s add one more detour to your itinerary for a gateway to the mind-blowing Grand Canyon. Your epic journey ends at the Santa Monica Pier in California, with that classic Ferris wheel and the ocean breeze. 

Sure, you’ll be on some modern highways to piece it all together, but make sure you find those original stretches of Route 66 to feel the history of this legendary road. 

A fun tip to make your journey memorable is to get a Route 66 passport and collect stamps of all the unique places you visit along the way!

The Great Northern (Washington to Maine) 

Duration: 14-18 days
Route: U.S. Route 2, with captivating side trips on U.S. Route 89 and Interstate 90

The Great Northern as the name suggests is one of the longest road trip routes in America. It is a sprawling adventure that carves its way all across the northern expanse of the United States. 

Don’t focus on the fastest routes when you are on this journey. Instead, embrace the scenic detours that you take along the way. 

Your journey commences in Washington State, where the evergreen landscapes begin to unfold. From here, point your compass east. Let U.S. Highway 2 be your initial guide, setting the stage for a grand northern exploration.

Your first meaningful stop, however, will take you slightly south to the solemn grounds of the Little Bighorn Battlefield in Montana. It’s a place steeped in history and well worth the small southern detour. To reach this historic site near Billings, you’ll head east on US-2 and then south on a connecting highway.

Now, point your compass north and let U.S. Route 89 be your guide toward the crown jewel of this leg: Glacier National Park. This portion of the road trip will steal your breath away. 

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is where you will pass towering, jagged mountains and pristine clear lakes. Pull over often, breathe deep the mountain air, and let the sheer grandeur sink in. Words truly struggle to capture this spectacle.

As you cruise eastward on Interstate 90 (after heading south from Glacier back towards the main east-west corridor), the landscape gradually shifts, leading you to the vibrant city of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The city itself pulses with a rich cultural energy, and it’s worth taking the time to explore its artistic side as well.

From the Midwest, Eastward

A little further down the road, Chicago beckons. Instead of being surrounded by natural beauty, you will be in the middle of a metropolis brimming with iconic architecture, world-class museums like the Art Institute or the Field Museum, and neighborhoods, each with its distinct flavor. To cover the city most efficiently, step out and use public transport. However, don’t get back on the road without trying the deep-dish pizza of Chicago.

Once back on the road, you’ll keep heading east and make your way to New York, where you’ll have to prepare again for one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world — Niagara Falls. The sheer, untamed power of these cascading waters will leave you utterly awestruck. Take a “Maid of the Mist” boat tour for an up-close experience of the sheer power of water.

Finally, your grand northern expedition culminates in the charming coastal town of Bar Harbor, Maine, nestled beside the rugged beauty of Acadia National Park. Hike along the rocky trails, go on a whale-watching tour, and savor the quintessential New England charm.

For a smooth trip, plan your gas station breaks in advance. There will be a few stretches on the road with few gas stations, so don’t let your tank drop below the halfway mark. 

Southern Charm (Florida to Texas)

Duration: 10-14 days
Route: Interstate 10, with irresistible detours to the soulful streets of New Orleans and the stark beauty of Big Bend National Park

Many people dismiss the Florida-to-Texas route, thinking there are hardly any worthwhile stops. But with the right planning, this road trip can end up charming you with its southern hospitality, history, and soul-soothing landscapes. 

Your journey starts from the vibrant shores of Miami, Florida, and takes you westward to the heart of Texas. Along the way, you will visit charming cities, historic places, and the captivating allure of the Gulf Coast. 

Kick-off from the Art Deco and sun-kissed beaches of Miami’s South Beach. Soak in the energy before you head west on Interstate 10 towards the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Here, the wild wetlands teem with life. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators and a myriad of birdlife, as it’s a world unto itself! Make sure you pack your essentials like bug spray and sunscreen for this leg. 

Then, prepare for the intoxicating spirit of New Orleans. You’ll want to explore the historic French Quarter, with its wrought-iron balconies, echoes of live jazz, and Creole aromas. Don’t forget to check local festivals when planning your visit. 

Southern Comfort

Continuing west, you’ll reach Austin, Texas, a city with an independent spirit and live music. From bustling food trucks to vibrant venues, Austin has a quirky and infectious energy. 

Next on your Southern sojourn is San Antonio, Texas, which is rich in history. Here, visit the Alamo, a poignant reminder of American history. During the day, take a stroll along the famous River Walk, lined with shops and greenery. 

If you crave some desert beauty, detour to Big Bend National Park; prepare for longer drives within the park and ensure you have adequate supplies. This vast expanse boasts breathtaking landscapes and profound silence. Hike its trails and gaze at the stars to feel nature’s raw power. 

An important tip for this road trip is to stay mindful of varying weather conditions along your route and stay prepared for last-minute changes to the itinerary.

The American Wild West (Colorado to Arizona)

Duration: 7-10 days
Route: Interstate 70, U.S. Route 160, U.S. Route 163, and Arizona State Route 179

This exhilarating cross-country route takes you through the heart of Colorado and Arizona. It is perfect for those who would like to dust off their cowboy hats. It is a deep dive into the rugged grandeur of the American Wild West. 

Your road trip starts in Denver, Colorado with the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains as a stunning backdrop to your departure. You’ll then hit the road and make your way to Mesa Verde National Park.

For the next leg of the journey, you have two options:

The Scenic Route (via I-70 West): 

Head west on Interstate 70. Google Maps will not recommend this route as it is longer than the US-285, but it is far more scenic, passing breathtaking mountain vistas and renowned ski towns. You’ll also have to be aware of any road closures on the highway if you opt to take this route as well, especially in the winter.

The Direct Route (via US-285 South): 

For a more direct southward drive, head to US-285. This is a more efficient way to reach southwestern Colorado. You can also use the saved time for detours to attractions like the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Entering the Southwest

Once you converge onto US-160 West towards Durango, head straight to the Mesa Verde National Park. Here, explore ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan tribes. 

Continue your Wild West journey by heading west on US-160 and then south on US-163 towards the iconic Monument Valley, Arizona. You’ll have to cut into southern Utah for a moment, but you’ll know you’re in Arizona when you spot the towering red rock buttes and mesas and transport yourself into a classic Western film. Stop for fantastic photo opportunities. 

Proceed south on US-163 to Arizona State Route 64 (AZ-64) West, which will lead you to the Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim). Prepare for views that will leave you speechless and a sense of scale that will make you feel wonderfully insignificant. Hike along the rim, or if you’re feeling adventurous, descend into its depths! 

Your Wild West odyssey ends in the enchanting town of Sedona, Arizona. This place, with its red rock formations, is so otherworldly that it feels like you’ve landed on another planet. Explore the unique geological formations and experience the area’s spiritual ambiance. 

This route has many popular attractions. Be aware of potential crowds, especially during peak seasons, and book your lodgings well in advance.

Northeast Seaboard Charm (New York to Maine) 

Duration: 7-10 days
Route: Interstate 95 with detours to coastal towns and historically rich cities along the Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire shores, culminating in Maine.

Set off on an exciting journey across the Northeast Seaboard. While many may think of this route as straightforward and not worth labeling a true cross-country road trip, a few thoughtfully planned detours can make it highly scenic and worth a week-long drive.

So, while Interstate 95 forms the backbone of this 7-10 day adventure, the essence of this road trip is in the shores of Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire that you add to your route map. 

Your cross-country trip begins amidst the iconic sights and sounds of New York City. Take your time to experience the city’s renowned landmarks and then point your compass northeastward. To explore New York City, use the efficient subway system and get a city pass. It’s way more convenient than driving all across town struggling to find a place to park!

Once you’re on the open road, your initial eastward leg brings you to New Haven, Connecticut. This city blends impressive architecture with a thriving culinary scene, It is also home to the exceptional Yale University Art Gallery. While you’re here, don’t leave without savoring the distinctive New Haven-style pizza.

Then, cross into Rhode Island for your next stop: the historic city of Newport. At Newport, check out the opulent Gilded Age mansions lining Bellevue Avenue. Dedicate ample time to tour grand estates like The Breakers or Marble House. 

Cities and Charming Countrysides

From here, head on a scenic drive north to Boston. In Boston, walk in the footsteps of American history along the Freedom Trail, explore world-class institutions like the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

After this leg, continue your coastal exploration northward to the picturesque North Shore and arrive in Salem. Salem is a town steeped in its poignant history related to the witch trials. Park enough time to visit the Salem Witch Museum and explore its historic harbor.

Just a short drive further up the coast lies the charming city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Portsmouth will leave you awestruck as you drive through its beautifully preserved colonial architecture and vibey waterfront.

As you cross the state line into Maine, you’ll arrive in Portland. And trust us when we say that the food scene here is awesome and shouldn’t be slept on. Gorge the delectable catches of the day and wander its inviting cobblestone streets.

Finally, end your journey along the breathtaking Maine Coast, particularly the dramatic landscapes of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Even as you end your road trip, you will continue to be captivated by the rugged shorelines, the invigorating sea air, and the countless opportunities for scenic hikes and exploration. Take your time to drive the Park Loop Road and soak in the stunning vistas.

A crucial tip for this coastal odyssey is to embrace a relaxed pace. Allow ample time to truly discover the charm of each coastal stop.