If you’re a fan of road trips, there’s no better way to experience the beauty of the United States than by driving along its scenic highways. From winding mountain roads to oceanfront routes, the U.S. offers some of the most breathtaking drives in the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best scenic drives in the U.S. that will make your road trip unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for coastal views, desert landscapes, or lush forests, these drives offer something for everyone.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is one of the most famous scenic drives in the U.S. This route stretches along the California coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, cliffs, and beautiful beaches.
Why Drive Here:
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Breathtaking Views: You’ll pass dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
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Must-See Stops: Don’t miss stops at Big Sur, Malibu, and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge.
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Year-Round Adventure: The Pacific Coast Highway is a great drive at any time of the year, with each season offering a unique experience.
If you love the ocean, this scenic drive is a must for your road trip.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina)
The Blue Ridge Parkway is often called “America’s Favorite Drive.” This 469-mile stretch runs through the Appalachian Mountains and offers some of the most scenic views in the Eastern U.S. It’s perfect for anyone who loves mountain landscapes and colorful fall foliage.
Why Drive Here:
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Stunning Mountain Views: Enjoy views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, lush forests, and rolling hills.
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Great for Hiking: Along the way, there are plenty of hiking trails for those who want to explore more.
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Best Time to Visit: Fall is particularly beautiful here, with vibrant autumn colors painting the landscape.
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
3. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the U.S. This historic route stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, California, and is filled with quirky roadside attractions, diners, and unique landmarks.
Why Drive Here:
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Historic Route: Route 66 is rich in American history and culture.
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Fun Stops: From the Cadillac Ranch in Texas to the Grand Canyon, there’s plenty to see along the way.
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Nostalgic Vibes: If you love Americana, this is the ultimate road trip route.
Route 66 is the perfect drive for anyone who loves history and wants to experience a bit of the old-school American road trip vibe.
4. The Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
The Great River Road follows the mighty Mississippi River from its source in Minnesota all the way to Louisiana. This drive takes you through charming small towns, historic sites, and lush riverbanks, offering a mix of natural beauty and rich history.
Why Drive Here:
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Diverse Scenery: From the river to forests, farmlands, and bluffs, there’s a lot to see along the way.
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Historical Sites: Visit Civil War landmarks, old river towns, and museums that tell the story of America’s past.
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Charming Stops: Explore towns like Hannibal, Missouri, the home of Mark Twain, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
If you’re looking for a leisurely and scenic route through the heart of America, the Great River Road is a great option.
5. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Going-to-the-Sun Road is a breathtaking drive through Glacier National Park in Montana. This 50-mile stretch takes you through rugged mountain terrain, past sparkling lakes, and over dramatic cliffs.
Why Drive Here:
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Jaw-Dropping Scenery: Experience the stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and wildflower-filled valleys.
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Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife like elk, mountain goats, and bears.
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Seasonal Access: This road is typically open from late June to mid-September, so plan your trip accordingly.
If you want to experience the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-do drive.
6. The Overseas Highway (Florida)
The Overseas Highway is a unique scenic drive that connects the mainland of Florida to the Florida Keys. This 113-mile route is famous for its bridges and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Why Drive Here:
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Ocean Views: With water on both sides of the highway, you’ll enjoy spectacular ocean views at every turn.
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Key West: The drive ends in Key West, where you can relax on beautiful beaches, visit Ernest Hemingway’s home, and enjoy local seafood.
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Unique Bridges: The Seven Mile Bridge is an iconic stop along this route, offering stunning views of the sea.
If you want to enjoy both a scenic drive and a tropical getaway, the Overseas Highway is the perfect choice.
7. Utah Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is often considered one of the most beautiful roads in the U.S. This route takes you through red rock canyons, desert landscapes, and charming small towns in southern Utah.
Why Drive Here:
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National Parks: Pass by Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and other stunning national parks that showcase Utah’s famous red rock formations.
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Great for Photography: The unique landscape offers endless opportunities for breathtaking photos.
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Outdoor Adventure: Hiking, biking, and exploring the desert landscape are some of the activities you can enjoy along this route.
Scenic Byway 12 is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the beauty of the American Southwest.
8. Alaska Highway (Alaska to Canada)
The Alaska Highway is a scenic drive that stretches from Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada, all the way to Delta Junction in Alaska. The route takes you through remote wilderness, stunning mountain views, and wild, untouched landscapes.
Why Drive Here:
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Wild Beauty: Expect to see glaciers, rivers, and forests in their most natural form.
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Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for moose, bears, bison, and other wildlife along the way.
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Adventure of a Lifetime: This is a longer road trip, but it’s one that offers a unique sense of adventure and isolation.
If you’re looking for a road trip that offers a true sense of adventure and the chance to see some of the most untouched landscapes in North America, the Alaska Highway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Conclusion
The U.S. is filled with scenic drives that will leave you in awe. From the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway to the historic charm of Route 66, these scenic routes offer everything from stunning ocean views to mountain landscapes and desert beauty. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, these drives will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful places in the country.
