Discover the most picturesque road trip destinations across the United States for unforgettable journeys.
Few things compare to the thrill of hitting the open road and exploring America’s most scenic landscapes. From winding coastal highways to breathtaking mountain passes, the United States offers countless opportunities for unforgettable road trips. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply in search of adventure, these 13 states provide some of the most picturesque routes.
Grab your map, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the ultimate road trip.
1. California’s Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning ocean views
California’s Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is a dream for road trip enthusiasts. Stretching from Dana Point in Southern California to Mendocino County in the north, this iconic route features dramatic ocean cliffs, golden beaches, and charming coastal towns. Highlights include Big Sur’s rugged coastline, the historic Bixby Bridge, and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Along the way, travelers can stop for fresh seafood, explore state parks, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze and sweeping vistas.
2. Arizona’s Route 66 showcases vintage charm and desert beauty
Arizona’s stretch of Route 66 is a nostalgic journey through America’s historic heartland. This legendary highway takes travelers through desert landscapes, quirky roadside attractions, and preserved towns like Williams and Seligman. Highlights include the Petrified Forest National Park and the stunning Painted Desert. Along the way, visitors can enjoy classic diners, vintage motels, and old-fashioned souvenir shops. Arizona’s Route 66 combines history, natural beauty, and Americana for a memorable road trip experience.
3. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 connects red rock wonders
Scenic Byway 12 in Utah is a breathtaking route that links several of the state’s iconic national parks. The drive takes travelers through Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of towering red rock formations, lush canyons, and dramatic desert landscapes. Scenic pullouts and hiking trails invite exploration, while charming small towns provide places to rest. Byway 12 is an unforgettable journey through Utah’s most dramatic and diverse scenery.
4. Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway offers jaw-dropping mountain views
Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway, part of U.S. Route 550, winds through the breathtaking San Juan Mountains. This high-altitude route connects Silverton and Ouray, offering hairpin turns, dramatic drop-offs, and unparalleled views of rugged peaks and lush valleys. Along the way, travelers can visit historic mining towns, soak in natural hot springs, or enjoy hiking and photography. The Million Dollar Highway is an unforgettable road trip that showcases Colorado’s alpine beauty and adventurous spirit.
5. Oregon’s Highway 101 combines coastal beauty with small-town charm
Oregon’s Highway 101 offers a stunning coastal drive filled with breathtaking ocean views, charming towns, and lush forests. Starting near Astoria and ending in Brookings, this route features highlights like Cannon Beach’s iconic Haystack Rock, the Sea Lion Caves, and Cape Perpetua’s rugged cliffs. Families can enjoy stops at state parks, whale-watching points, and local seafood restaurants. Oregon’s coastal highway is a picturesque road trip that combines natural beauty with a relaxed, adventurous vibe.
6. Alaska’s Seward Highway is a wild and untamed adventure
Alaska’s Seward Highway is a journey through some of the most remote and dramatic landscapes in the U.S. Stretching from Anchorage to Seward, the route showcases towering mountains, turquoise glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. Travelers can stop at Turnagain Arm to spot beluga whales or explore the Kenai Peninsula’s hiking trails. In summer, wildflowers bloom along the roadside, adding to the scenic beauty. The Seward Highway is a road trip for those seeking raw and untamed wilderness.
7. Montana’s Going-to-the-Sun Road cuts through Glacier National Park
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana is a marvel of engineering and natural beauty. This 50-mile drive traverses Glacier National Park, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows. Highlights include Logan Pass, the Weeping Wall, and Lake McDonald. Wildlife sightings are common, with opportunities to spot mountain goats, bears, and eagles. This unforgettable road trip combines stunning scenery with unique stops for hiking and photography, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
8. Maine’s Acadia Byway blends coastal views with forest serenity
The Acadia Byway in Maine is a captivating drive through Acadia National Park and the surrounding area. This route takes visitors along the rugged coastline, offering views of rocky cliffs, lighthouses, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. Stops include Bar Harbor, Sand Beach, and Cadillac Mountain, where you can witness stunning sunrises. The byway also winds through serene forests and past quaint villages, combining natural beauty with New England charm for an unforgettable road trip.
9. Florida’s Overseas Highway connects the Keys with tropical beauty
Florida’s Overseas Highway is a one-of-a-kind drive that connects the mainland to Key West via 113 miles of scenic bridges and islands. Highlights include the famous Seven Mile Bridge and breathtaking views of turquoise waters. Along the way, visitors can stop at Bahia Honda State Park for swimming or snorkeling, explore historic sites, or savor fresh seafood in local restaurants. This unique road trip offers a tropical escape unlike any other in the U.S.
10. Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains provide a forested retreat
The Great Smoky Mountains Parkway in Tennessee offers a scenic journey through one of America’s most beloved national parks. The drive features lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and misty mountain views. Key stops include Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, and Newfound Gap. Fall is especially breathtaking, as the park’s vibrant foliage transforms the landscape into a patchwork of color. Whether enjoying a picnic, hiking, or simply taking in the views, this road trip promises unforgettable memories.
11. New Mexico’s Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway reveals mountain beauty
The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in New Mexico is an 84-mile loop that offers breathtaking views of the state’s rugged mountain terrain. The route takes travelers through Taos, Eagle Nest, and Red River, showcasing highlights like Wheeler Peak and Carson National Forest. Along the way, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring historic villages. The Enchanted Circle combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural charm for a truly unique road trip experience.
12. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers lake views and tranquil forests
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula provides a peaceful yet scenic road trip experience. Routes like M-28 take travelers through dense forests, along pristine lakeshores, and past picturesque waterfalls. Highlights include Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, and the historic town of Marquette. Autumn transforms the landscape into a canvas of vibrant colors, while summer offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a hidden gem for road trippers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
13. Texas’s Hill Country Scenic Byway features rolling landscapes
The Hill Country Scenic Byway in Texas takes travelers through a picturesque region filled with rolling hills, wildflower fields, and charming towns. Highlights include Fredericksburg, known for its German heritage, and the scenic Willow City Loop. Along the way, visitors can explore wineries, hike through Enchanted Rock State Park, or enjoy local barbecue. Springtime brings vibrant bluebonnets, adding to the area’s charm. This road trip combines natural beauty with cultural experiences for an unforgettable journey.