The sheer size and diversity of the United States make it a paradise for anyone eager to explore by car or RV. From rugged mountain passes to sun-soaked coastlines, each region has its own character and charm, offering plenty of reasons to hit the open road. Whether you’re drawn to iconic landmarks or hidden gems, planning ahead is key to getting the most out of your American adventure.

If you’re preparing to travel across the country—taking into account everything from travel insurance to cultural norms—be sure to check out these tips for a smooth and memorable visit. Once you’ve got the essentials covered, it’s time to pick a route and begin the journey. To spark your wanderlust, we’ve rounded up a selection of road trips that capture the spirit of the USA, each showcasing a unique slice of scenery and culture.

Pacific Coast Highway

Considered one of America’s most scenic coastal drives, the Pacific Coast Highway spans roughly 470 miles from the lively waterfront of San Francisco to the sunny avenues of Los Angeles. While it’s technically possible to make the trip in just a few days, most travelers prefer to break it up, soaking in the dramatic mix of rugged ocean cliffs, wide sandy beaches, and laid-back seaside towns that dot the route. Even short stops can quickly turn into leisurely stays when redwood groves, hidden coves, and cozy restaurants beckon you to linger a little longer.

The undisputed highlight is Big Sur, where the road winds through steep coastal mountains with sweeping panoramas at nearly every turn. It’s here that you’ll encounter Bixby Creek Bridge, one of California’s most photographed sights, perched majestically above the turquoise waters below. Further down the coast, places like Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offer hiking trails through lush forests and unforgettable views of waterfalls tumbling onto secluded beaches. Wildlife enthusiasts might even spot sea lions, seals, or migrating whales from cliffside vantage points along the way.

Eventually, the shoreline begins to soften as you approach Malibu and its famous surf breaks, where you can pause for a picnic on the sand or watch the surfers catch waves. This mellow, beach-town vibe serves as a fitting prelude to the urban pulse of Los Angeles, where entertainment, dining, and culture come together against a backdrop of palm trees and Pacific sunsets.

Route 66

Few road trips hold the iconic status of Route 66, a historic journey spanning approximately 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. Known as the "Mother Road," this legendary route takes travelers through eight states, offering a glimpse into America’s past with vintage diners, quirky roadside attractions, and small towns frozen in time.

One of the route’s highlights is the stretch through Arizona, where landmarks like the Grand Canyon Caverns and the nostalgic town of Williams capture the spirit of the old highway. Further west, stops such as Cadillac Ranch in Texas and the neon lights of Albuquerque, New Mexico, add vibrant color to the journey. Route 66 is also famous for its diners, where classic American comfort food and vintage decor create memorable pit stops. The journey ends at the Pacific in Santa Monica, with its famous pier marking the end of the road. 

Blue Ridge Parkway

Stretching for approximately 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this route offers breathtaking vistas, rolling meadows, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage woven through the small towns and historic sites along the way.

The journey begins near Charlottesville, Virginia, where the parkway winds through lush forests and past overlooks offering panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Early stops include landmarks like Humpback Rocks, a popular hiking destination with views that reward the climb, and the Mabry Mill, a restored gristmill and one of the most photographed spots on the route.

As you venture further south, the parkway passes through quaint towns such as Blowing Rock and Little Switzerland, both offering cozy lodges and local crafts. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate attractions like the Linville Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls nestled in a dramatic gorge. The vibrant fall foliage makes this drive especially stunning in autumn, with fiery hues blanketing the mountainsides.

The route culminates near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most biodiverse regions in the country.

The Great River Road

Tracing nearly 3,000 miles of the Mississippi River, the Great River Road links ten states from Minnesota to Louisiana and celebrates the region’s cultural and natural heritage. Farmland, bustling cities, and historic river towns all factor into this diverse route, reflecting how deeply the river has shaped life along its banks.At the northern end is Itasca State Park in Minnesota, where the river’s quiet headwaters mark a peaceful starting point. Traveling south, the road leads to dynamic urban areas like Minneapolis and St. Louis, punctuated by landmarks such as the Gateway Arch and the National Mississippi River Museum in Iowa. Many towns embrace their historic ties to the river, including Hannibal, Missouri, where Mark Twain once found inspiration among the steamboats and rustic streets.

Continuing onward, the terrain shifts from rolling bluffs to the humid wetlands of the Deep South. Sites like Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi offer insight into pivotal moments of the Civil War through preserved battlegrounds and monuments. As the waterway nears its end, New Orleans greets travelers with jazz, Creole flavors, and a lively blend of cultures that embody the spirit of the river. Each leg of the journey brings fresh perspectives on America’s heartland and the longstanding influence of the mighty Mississippi.

Utah's Mighty 5

Utah’s Mighty 5 is a bucket-list road trip through five of the state’s most stunning national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Covering roughly 400 miles, this route showcases the Southwest’s breathtaking red rock landscapes, natural arches, and deep canyons that feel almost otherworldly.

The journey often begins in Zion National Park, where towering sandstone cliffs and slot canyons invite exploration. Popular hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows provide unforgettable experiences for those ready to tackle steep trails and wade through shallow canyon rivers. From Zion, the road veers northeast to Bryce Canyon National Park, famed for its unique hoodoo formations that glow at sunrise and sunset.

Continuing through the heart of the state, Capitol Reef National Park offers a quieter setting with dramatic cliffs, historic orchards, and petroglyph panels. The route then leads to Arches National Park, home to more than 2,000 sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. Nearby, Canyonlands National Park captivates travelers with its sprawling desert views and carved canyons, shaped by both the Colorado and Green Rivers.

Whether you’re scrambling across rocky trails or stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country, Utah’s Mighty 5 rewards visitors with awe-inspiring scenery at every turn. Exploring this route in an RV is ideal for maximizing your time, as you can camp within minutes of trailheads and scenic overlooks. With a variety of RV parks and campgrounds available throughout the region, you’ll have plenty of options to customize your adventure. If you’re starting your journey near Salt Lake City, comparing RV rentals allows you to find the perfect vehicle for your needs, ensuring a comfortable and flexible way to explore these dramatic landscapes

Florida Keys Overseas Highway

Often called the “Highway That Goes to Sea,” the Florida Keys Overseas Highway covers about 113 miles between Miami and Key West, connecting a chain of tropical islands marked by clear waters and coral reefs. This laid-back route is known for its scenic ocean views and relaxed island atmosphere, appealing to sun-seekers and adventurers alike.

The journey begins where Miami’s energy fades into a maritime landscape, crossing over 40 bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge. Popular stops like Key Largo and Islamorada attract visitors with fresh seafood, snorkeling spots, and fishing charters. Further south, smaller keys near Marathon and Big Pine Key offer low-key beaches and the chance to catch a glimpse of endangered Key deer wandering among mangroves.

Upon reaching Key West, colorfully painted homes and a lively creative scene reflect the city’s unique heritage. Mallory Square is a favorite meeting point at dusk, where impromptu shows and sunset views capture the free spirit of the Keys. Each stop along this highway embraces a distinct flavor of island life that draws travelers back time and again.

Alaska’s Seward Highway

Spanning roughly 127 miles from Anchorage to Seward, the Seward Highway cuts through a landscape where rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and misty fjords shape the horizon. It starts along Turnagain Arm, a coastal inlet famous for tidal bores and the chance to see beluga whales near the shoreline. Further along, detours into the Chugach National Forest present trails for hiking, creeks for salmon fishing, and panoramic overlooks worth pausing for.

A popular pull-off at Beluga Point offers sweeping views of the water and surrounding peaks. Not far beyond, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center gives visitors an opportunity to see native animals—like bears and moose—up close. As the highway winds south, you’ll find an access road to Portage Glacier, where ancient ice shelves highlight Alaska’s glacial heritage.

Closer to Seward, waterfalls and dense evergreens crowd the edges of the route, revealing how quickly the terrain can shift under the region’s wet, cool climate. At the journey’s end, Seward itself provides a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where boat tours navigate icy waters teeming with marine life.

Beartooth Highway

The Beartooth Highway, often hailed as one of America’s most scenic drives, stretches approximately 68 miles from Red Lodge, Montana, to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This route takes travelers to dizzying heights, with alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and sweeping vistas that define the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

The drive begins in the charming mountain town of Red Lodge, quickly ascending into the heart of the Beartooth Mountains. The road winds through a series of dramatic switchbacks, climbing to an elevation of nearly 11,000 feet at Beartooth Pass. Here, travelers are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast plateaus that stretch for miles.

Highlights along the way include stops at Rock Creek Vista Point, where you can take in the stunning valley below, and the shimmering Beartooth Lake, a serene spot for a picnic or a short hike. The alpine tundra, often dusted with snow even in summer, creates a surreal and pristine landscape that feels worlds away from the bustling cities below.

The highway concludes at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, offering a seamless transition into one of America’s most famous natural wonders.

Other Iconic Road Trips Around the World

While the United States offers a variety of stunning road trips, travelers looking to explore further afield will find equally breathtaking journeys across the globe. Here are some of the most iconic road trips to consider, each showcasing unique landscapes and cultural experiences.

Great Ocean Road (Australia)

Stretching for approximately 151 miles along Australia’s southern coastline, the Great Ocean Road offers a spectacular journey from Melbourne to Allansford. This iconic route is best known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and the striking Twelve Apostles, a series of towering sea stacks rising from the water.

The road weaves through lush rainforests, passing seaside towns such as Lorne and Apollo Bay that invite you to slow down and enjoy a dose of laid-back Aussie hospitality. Highlights include the atmospheric Loch Ard Gorge, a sheltered inlet framed by steep cliffs, and the Great Otway National Park, where ancient eucalyptus forests give way to cascading waterfalls.

The Great Ocean Road is a favorite among motorhome travelers not just for its stunning views but for the immersive experience it offers. This route is designed for those who want to wake up with the ocean at their doorstep or pause to watch the sun set over the Twelve Apostles. Renting a motorhome through Motorhomeland allows you to transform this iconic drive into a truly personal adventure, combining freedom and unforgettable scenery.

Ring Road (Iceland)

The Ring Road encircles Iceland in approximately 828 miles, offering a dramatic showcase of the country’s natural wonders. This route takes travelers past towering waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and geothermal hotspots. Highlights include Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the black sand beaches of Vík, and the steaming geothermal area of Hverir.

The road also passes through small towns like Akureyri in the north and provides access to landmarks such as Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs drift serenely in icy waters.

Given the high cost of hotels in Iceland, many visitors opt for motorhomes to explore the Ring Road. The rising popularity of this travel style has resulted in a strong presence of rental companies, ensuring travelers can easily access vehicles tailored to their needs and preferences.

Garden Route (South Africa)

Running along South Africa’s southeastern coast, the Garden Route covers approximately 190 miles from Mossel Bay to Storms River. Known for its stunning biodiversity, this route takes travelers through lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and wildlife reserves. Highlights include the serene beaches of Wilderness, the lively town of Knysna, and the Tsitsikamma National Park, famous for its suspension bridges and hiking trails.

With opportunities for whale watching, bungee jumping, and exploring ancient forests, the Garden Route offers a mix of relaxation and adventure against a backdrop of unparalleled natural beauty.

Amalfi Coast (Italy)

The Amalfi Coast, located in southern Italy, stretches for approximately 31 miles between Sorrento and Salerno. Known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and Mediterranean charm, this coastal road is a feast for the senses. Highlights include the picturesque town of Positano, the historic villas of Ravello, and the bustling streets of Amalfi.

Travelers can enjoy stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea from winding roads carved into the cliffs, while savoring local delicacies like fresh seafood and limoncello.

Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland)

The Wild Atlantic Way spans approximately 1,550 miles along Ireland’s rugged western coastline, making it one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world. This road trip offers dramatic seascapes, rolling green hills, and traditional Irish hospitality at every turn. Highlights include the towering Cliffs of Moher, the wild beauty of Connemara, and the scenic peninsulas of Kerry and Dingle.

The route also takes travelers through charming towns like Galway and Donegal, where they can enjoy live music, hearty meals, and vibrant local culture. With its raw landscapes and warm welcomes, the Wild Atlantic Way is a journey that captures the essence of Ireland.