For those who find joy behind the wheel, there’s nothing more rewarding than a scenic road trip through the diverse landscapes of the United States. From coastal highways and mountain passes to desert trails and forest roads, America offers some of the most breathtaking drives in the world. If you’re ready to hit the road, here are the most scenic road trips you must experience.
Pacific Coast Highway – California
Arguably the most iconic coastal drive in the U.S., the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) stretches along California’s rugged coastline, offering sweeping ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and charming towns.
Highlights: Big Sur, Bixby Creek Bridge, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Malibu.
Best For: Ocean lovers, photographers, and convertible drivers.
Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia to North Carolina
Winding through the Appalachian Mountains, this route connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s famous for its rolling hills, lush forests, and colorful fall foliage.
Perfect Season: Autumn, when the leaves change into fiery hues.
Great Stops: Linville Falls, Mount Mitchell, and the Blue Ridge Music Center.
Route 66 – Chicago to Santa Monica
No list of American road trips is complete without the Mother Road. Route 66 is a nostalgic journey across the heart of the U.S., rich with quirky attractions, historic diners, and roadside Americana.
Highlights: Cadillac Ranch, Wigwam Motels, and the Gateway Arch.
Ideal For: History buffs and classic car fans.
Going-to-the-Sun Road – Montana
Located within Glacier National Park, this drive is both thrilling and awe-inspiring. Carved into the edge of mountain cliffs, it offers panoramic views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and wildlife.
Note: Closed in winter due to snow. Best to visit between July and September.
Must-See: Logan Pass, Wild Goose Island, and Lake McDonald.
Overseas Highway – Florida Keys
Connecting mainland Florida to Key West, this tropical highway takes you over 42 bridges across the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
Top Attractions: Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and Key Largo.
Great For: A laid-back island-hopping adventure.
Beartooth Highway – Montana to Wyoming
Regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., the Beartooth Highway climbs to nearly 11,000 feet and offers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes.
Pro Tip: Bring a camera — and warm clothes — even in summer.
Best Route: Red Lodge, MT to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone.
Columbia River Gorge – Oregon
Just a short drive from Portland, the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway offers waterfalls, cliffs, and riverside beauty. It’s especially popular for those who love lush green landscapes.
Main Attractions: Multnomah Falls, Crown Point Vista House, and hiking trails.
Recommended Time: Spring for vibrant greenery and powerful waterfalls.
Natchez Trace Parkway – Mississippi to Tennessee
A peaceful and historic drive, this 444-mile parkway follows a route once used by Native Americans and settlers. It’s slow-paced and perfect for a relaxing ride through southern charm.
Points of Interest: Cypress swamps, civil war sites, and preserved plantations.
Great For: Slow travel, history lovers, and RV travelers.
Red Rock Scenic Byway – Arizona
Just outside Sedona, this short but spectacular drive takes you through some of the most vivid red rock formations in the country. The landscape feels like it’s from another planet.
Don’t Miss: Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and hiking trail access.
Best Time: Early morning or sunset for golden lighting.
Final Thoughts
America’s roads were built for exploration, and for driving enthusiasts, these scenic routes are pure joy. Whether you’re in a sports car, motorcycle, or RV, each road offers its own story, scenery, and thrill. Fill up your tank, plan your playlist, and set off on the drive of a lifetime.