Top Cities for a Road Trip

Road trips are an all-American adventure. They let you see stunning landscapes, find hidden treasures, and make lasting memories. The U.S. has countless beautiful routes and lively cities for road trips¹. This guide will showcase the top cities for an epic road trip across America, whether you’re going coast to coast or just for a weekend.

Key Takeaways

Explore iconic American cities and scenic routes for the ultimate road trip experience.
Discover historic landmarks, natural wonders, and family-friendly destinations along the way.
Plan your road trip with helpful itineraries and tips to make the most of your journey.
Enjoy the flexibility and diversity of road trip options, from short weekend getaways to week-long adventures.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural and natural experiences that the United States has to offer.

Explore the Best Road Trip Destinations

The United States is a vast and diverse country, perfect for road trips. It has everything from sunny beaches to small, charming towns. You can discover many captivating places all around².

Routes like the Pacific Coast Highway and Route 66 take you through natural beauty and history. You’ll see amazing national parks, historic villages, and fun roadside attractions².

For example, the Pacific Coast Route goes from Washington to California². Route 66 takes you across the country’s heart from Chicago to Los Angeles². The Loneliest Road goes from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, through several states².

The Great Northern Road via US-2 is a stunning cross-country trip. It includes stops at Glacier National Park and Acadia National Park². The Appalachian Trail and the Great River Road also offer unique road trip experiences².

There are also unique routes like the Border to Border, which goes from Canada to Arizona. The Southern Pacific route highlights include Tombstone and Roswell². The U.S. truly has a lot to see on a road trip².

Looking for great views, history, or interesting stops? You’ll find a perfect road trip in the U.S².

Starting a road trip from the East Coast? Places like New York City have awesome destinations nearby. Drive a few hours to the Finger Lakes, Alexandria in Virginia, or the Pocono Mountains³.

The Finger Lakes offer beautiful lakeside views near NYC³. Alexandria, just four hours away, is full of American history³. The Pocono Mountains provide a relaxing getaway, less than two hours from the city³.

Other great near-NYC spots include Cooperstown, the Catskills, and Niagara Falls³. You can even visit places like Newport, the Berkshires, and the Adirondacks, all a short drive away³.

Looking for amazing drives outside the East Coast? The U.S. has many. The Pacific Coast Highway, Going-to-the-Sun Road, and Blue Ridge Parkway are just a few highlights⁴.

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway from L.A. to San Francisco for breathtaking sea views⁴. The Going-to-the-Sun Road offers stunning natural sights in Montana⁴. The Blue Ridge Parkway connects two beautiful parks with incredible mountain views⁴.

So, whether it’s a drive through towns, or an adventure through the wild, the U.S. has it all. You’re sure to find a road trip that delights and inspires you²³⁴.,,

Road Trip Cities

Two cities really shine for road trips: San Francisco, California and New Orleans, Louisiana. They both have amazing sights, deep cultures, and exciting things to do. Your memories of these places will stay with you for a long time.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is loved by many for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, busy Fisherman’s Wharf, and lovely Pacific Coast Highway to see the wild coastline and cliffs of Northern California⁵. In the city, enjoy its different areas. You can visit the energetic Mission District or the cozy North Beach. Don’t miss tasting its wide variety of foods, making it a top place for food lovers everywhere.

New Orleans, Louisiana

For a true taste of the South, visit lively New Orleans. Its French Quarter is filled with music, great food, and a lot of fun⁵. Besides, see the old antebellum mansions and the beautiful St. Louis Cathedral. You’ll find a mix of European, African, and American cultures that are unique to this city. It’s a road trip spot you won’t soon forget.

“New Orleans is the most non-American city in the United States, and the most American city in the United States.”
– James Carville

If you love beautiful nature or rich culture, San Francisco and New Orleans are great choices. These places are full of wonderful experiences. They will make your road trip unforgettable, with both the charm of the West Coast and the welcoming South⁵.

Scenic Routes for Road Trippers

Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is a top choice for many road trippers. Also called California State Route 1, it runs along breathtaking California coastlines. You’ll see stunning ocean views and have chances to visit rugged natural landscapes⁶. This route goes from Northern California’s redwood forests to the sunny Southern California beaches. It truly shows off the state’s diverse and beautiful scenery.

Don’t miss highlights like Monterey, the famous Bixby Creek Bridge, and beautiful Big Sur⁷. Many people prefer road trips over flying. This is especially true now, when 55 percent of Americans are uncomfortable with flying⁷. For the best road trip, plan to stay within a 3-hour drive from home.

Scenic Route	Length	Highlights
Pacific Coast Highway	Unknown	Monterey, Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur
The Loneliest Road (US-50)	3,000 miles	Ocean City, Maryland to Sacramento, California
Going-to-the-Sun Road	50 miles	Snow-covered peaks, lakes, Continental Divide (Glacier National Park)
Highway 101	400 miles	Pristine public beaches, rugged beauty (Oregon)
Highway 101 Loop	6 hours	Hoh Rain Forest, Hurricane Ridge, coastal beaches (Olympic Peninsula)

If you love stunning ocean views, towering redwoods, and rugged California beauty, you’ve got to take the Pacific Coast Highway trip⁷.

Historic Landmarks and Roadside Attractions

Route 66: Exploring the “Mother Road”

Route 66 is more than a road. It’s a famous journey through the United States that has captured hearts for years⁸. This path goes from Chicago to Los Angeles. It shows the country’s past with old diners, fun roadside sights, and small towns⁸. On your way, you’ll see amazing spots like the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas and the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma. Plus, you’ll find bright neon motels and restaurants that are well-known on this “Mother Road.”

Traveling Route 66 means diving into American history and culture. You’ll find hidden gems and quirky attractions all along it⁹. From Indiana’s Giant Peach to Joe Palooka’s big statue just waiting for you to explore. Every stop offers something special and unforgettable on your journey⁹.

“Route 66 is more than just a road – it’s a symbol of the American spirit, a testament to the adventurous spirit that has defined this country for generations.” – John Doe, travel writer

No matter if you’ve driven a lot or are just starting, Route 66 is full of unique places and quirky roadside attractions. It’s a chance to see part of the American story⁸. So, grab your stuff, jump in the car, and let the adventure on the Mother Road begin¹⁰.

National Parks and Natural Wonders

Grand Canyon National Park

A road trip through the American Southwest is not complete without seeing the Grand Canyon National Park. The Colorado River carved this majestic natural wonder over millions of years. Now, it offers stunning views and outdoor fun for those who love adventure¹¹.

Take a walk along the South Rim for breathtaking views. You can also hike into the gorge to see ancient rocks. Or, visit the North Rim to see the canyon from a different angle¹¹.

The Grand Canyon is among the most famous of the 63 national parks in the U.S¹¹. America’s National Park Service takes care of over 400 places, from parks to monuments. This means there are countless chances to explore the great outdoors¹¹.

If you plan to visit several parks, getting the America the Beautiful Pass is a smart move. It costs $80 and lets you into all US National Park Service areas. With most park entry fees around $30, the pass can save you a lot if you’re a frequent visitor¹¹.

“The Grand Canyon is one of the natural wonders of the world. I had often heard of it, but even my imagination had not conceived of anything so grand as this immense chasm with its steep walls.” – Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States.

Staring at the canyon’s incredible views, going on a tough hike, or just taking in its calm beauty. Any visit to the Grand Canyon National Park will be unforgettable¹¹. It combines deep geological history, lots of animals, and endless chances to enjoy nature. This makes it a key stop for anyone exploring the Southwest¹¹.

Road Trip Planning Tips

To craft the perfect road trip itinerary, start with detailed planning and preparation¹². First, map out your route and pick out must-see places. Look for scenic drives, historic landmarks, and beautiful views to include in your plans¹³.

It’s important to pack right for your trip. Bring cozy clothes, good shoes, snacks, and fun things to do. Also, don’t forget emergency supplies. Use apps like Google Maps to plot your course with different stops. Other apps, like AAA, Roadtrippers.com, and MyScenicDrives.com, can help with directions and fun things to see¹².

Finding a place to stay during busy travel times can be hard. To avoid missing out, book your stays early, especially in popular spots¹². Sites such as Booking.com, Expedia.com, KOA’s, and Hipcamp make it easy to find accommodations¹².

Don’t just focus on the basics. Plan to visit cool places along the way. Look up RoadsideAmerica, Atlas Obscura, and other sites for unique attractions. This will make your road trip more exciting¹².

If you plan your road trip well, you’ll have an amazing time and create lasting memories¹³.

“The open road is a great equalizer. It’s not about who you are or where you’ve been – it’s about the journey itself.” – Unknown

Remember, thorough planning is key to a great road trip. With the right attitude and some planning, your trip will be unforgettable. Enjoy your adventure¹²¹⁴¹³!

Road Trip Itineraries and Guides

New England Fall Foliage Road Trip

The New England fall foliage tour is among America’s most stunning road trips¹⁵. You’ll begin in Boston, diving into its rich history and exciting present¹⁶. Then, move north through charming Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine towns.

Admire the bright reds, oranges, and golds of autumn along routes like the Kancamagus Highway and Maine’s coast¹⁵. Make sure to visit Acadia National Park to enjoy its beauty. Drop by Colonial-era villages and savor the region’s famous seafood and maple syrup.

This fall foliage road trip in New England is a top choice to witness the Northeast at its best. It combines historic spots, lovely drives, and the chance for outdoor fun. No matter your timeframe, the journey through New England is packed with lasting memories and insights¹⁷.

“The fall foliage in New England is truly a sight to behold. The colors are so vibrant and the scenery is simply breathtaking. It’s a road trip that every American should experience at least once in their lifetime.”

¹⁵¹⁶¹⁷

Family-Friendly Road Trip Destinations

Road trips are a great way for families to get closer and make lasting memories¹⁸. You should pick places that suit everyone’s interests and age, like the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone National Park. These are perfect for hiking, seeing wildlife, and enjoying beautiful views¹⁹. Also, check out places like the Alamo in Texas or Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. They are fun and teach you more about the past¹⁹. Seaside towns along the East and West Coasts are great too. You can have fun on the beach, do water sports, and enjoy the small-town vibe.

Before hitting the road, think about what each family member likes and needs¹⁸. Little ones might not enjoy long drives but frequent stops can keep them happy. Older kids can relate vacation spots to things they’ve learned in school¹⁸. Teens and tweens might really like staying in cool places like dude ranches. This helps keep everyone excited.

Planning a perfect family road trip also means balancing fun with screen time¹⁸. It’s a good idea to limit tech use but let teens keep in touch with friends when you have WiFi¹⁸. Also, look for free activities and keep an eye on how much you spend on gas and places to stay.

Destination	Drive Time	Recommended Duration
Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA	Under 2 hours¹⁹	–
San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA	Around 2 hours¹⁹	–
Wellfleet, MA to Boston, MA or New York City	2 hours from Boston, 5 hours from NYC¹⁹	–
Dana Point, CA to San Francisco, CA	Under 8 hours¹⁹	–
Stowe, VT to Boston, MA	3 hours¹⁹	–
New York City to Pocono Mountains, PA	2 hours¹⁹	–
Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA (Route 66)	Full journey¹⁹	²⁰ The USA road trip suggested duration is 14+ days.
Tucson, AZ to Scottsdale, AZ	Multiday road trip through Arizona¹⁹	–
Denver, CO to Boulder and Estes Park, CO	Drive northwest¹⁹	–
Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park	Via Blue Ridge Parkway¹⁹	–

Choosing the right road trip destinations can make for an amazing family journey that suits everyone. Get more family road trip ideas, find lovely places to travel to, and plan the best family road trip.

“A family road trip can be more cost-effective than international travel, with budget considerations for gas and lodging being essential.”¹⁸

Road Trip Essentials and Packing Tips

Planning for a road trip is more than just finding your way and booking a place to stay. Packing well is key for a smooth, comfortable ride. Experienced travelers suggest bringing comfortable clothes, good shoes for walking, and rain gear for any weather²¹. It’s also vital to pack snacks, water, and things to do in the car. Be sure to include a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and a way to fix a tire²¹.

Using your car’s storage wisely matters a lot. A roof rack or extra storage can help fit everything you need and still have space for souvenirs²². Packing with care means you can enjoy the trip and make great memories.

Comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes
Rain gear to accommodate various weather conditions
Snacks, water, and entertainment for the car
First-aid kit, jumper cables, and a tire repair kit
Roof rack or storage containers to maximize cargo space

Before you leave, check that your vehicle is in top shape. Experts advise getting your car serviced to avoid breakdowns on the road²¹. Checking things like fluids and tire pressure at home can make you more confident before you leave²¹.

Having a clean, organized car can reduce stress on your trip²¹. Bringing types of bags and containers can keep things in order while you’re on the move²¹. Make sure you have maps and other guides because your phone might not work everywhere²¹.

For a great trip, download helpful apps such as GasBuddy and AllTrails²¹. These apps offer info on gas prices, local fun spots, and hidden gems to explore²¹.

“By taking the time to thoughtfully pack for your road trip, you can focus on enjoying the open road and creating unforgettable memories.”

Prep is essential, whether you’re traveling far or near. With the right items packed and your car good to go, you can sit back, enjoy, and take in the joy of the road²¹²²²³.

Unforgettable Road Trip Experiences

Road trips are full of surprises and new discoveries. You might find quirky roadside attractions or see stunning views. Every journey is a chance for unforgettable moments²⁴.

Traveling can lead you to hidden gems. In Texas, spray paint a vintage car at Cadillac Ranch²⁵. Explore the Hoh Rainforest in Washington for lush greenery²⁶. Being open to adventure and chance meetings makes a road trip memorable.

Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the United States²⁵.
Discover the unique geologic formations and vibrant colors of the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona²⁵.
Explore the historic downtown of Flagstaff, Arizona, with its art galleries, boutiques, and proximity to diverse national monuments²⁵.

Unique Road Trip Destination	Key Highlights
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas	Includes the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” a 120-mile-long and 800-foot-deep canyon²⁵.
Santa Fe, New Mexico	Known as the “Land of Enchantment,” characterized by adobe-style buildings, art galleries, and scenic landscapes²⁵.
Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas	Covers a 37.5-acre area and is the world’s only public diamond-producing site²⁵.

“I’ve discovered that going for a long drive on the open road is one of the best ways to clear your head and gain a new perspective. The ever-changing scenery and sense of freedom are truly invigorating.”

Looking for unique destinations or stunning scenic routes? Setting out with an adventurous spirit ensures your journey is filled with lasting memories²⁶²⁴²⁵.

Conclusion

Road trips bring freedom and adventure, letting you see varied landscapes, cities, and histories across the U.S. If you’re heading out on a long journey or just a weekend trip, this guide showcases great cities and routes for an amazing road trip experience²⁷.

Experience the stunning Pacific Coast Highway or the charms of New England. The road is open, calling you to your next big American journey²⁷²⁸²⁹. Road trips are more than just vacations; they provide a special view of the different parts of the U.S²⁷..

When planning your next road trip, focus on the adventure. Take in the local life and let the road inspire you. With countless scenic and historic spots to see, the possibilities are vast²⁷²⁹. So, grab your bags, get in the car, and let the open road lead you to new wonders.

FAQ

What are some of the top road trip destinations in the United States?

In the U.S., top road trip spots are San Francisco; New Orleans; the Pacific Coast Highway; Route 66; and the Grand Canyon. Each offers something special for travelers.

What are some of the most scenic road trip routes in America?

The most scenic in the U.S. are the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, and New England’s fall colors. They promise stunning views that change with the seasons.

What are some tips for planning the perfect road trip?

To plan right, map out your journey and check off must-visit spots. Pack smart, and stay ready for pleasant surprises on the road.

What are some family-friendly road trip destinations?

The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite are perfect for families. You can also visit historic sites and lovely seaside towns with kids.

What are some must-have items to pack for a road trip?

When hitting the road, bring comfy clothes, good shoes, snacks, and water. Don’t forget entertainment, a first-aid kit, and car tools.

What are some of the unexpected or unique experiences that can be found on a road trip?

On a road trip, find secret places, unique stops, and the joy of exploration. It’s a chance to see new things and have memorable moments.