USA’s Wanderlust Wonders: Top 10 Epic Road Trips!
The United States of America is known for being a country of wanderers. From coast to coast, there are countless epic road trips to be had that are sure to feed your wanderlust. Whether you’re looking for stunning ocean views, quirky attractions, mountain scenery, or small towns, there’s a road trip for everyone. Here are the top 10 epic road trips in the USA that you must experience at least once in your lifetime.
1. Pacific Coast Highway: Ocean Views & Cultural Gems
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as State Route 1, is a 655-mile stretch of road that winds along the California coast from San Francisco to San Diego. This road trip is famous for its stunning ocean views, from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches. Along the way, you’ll pass through quaint coastal towns, like Monterey and Carmel, where you can explore art galleries, museums, and historic sites. The Pacific Coast Highway is also home to some of California’s best seafood restaurants, so be sure to stop and indulge in some freshly caught fish and chips.
2. Route 66: Historic Stops & Quirky Attractions
Route 66 is perhaps the most famous road trip in the USA. This historic highway stretches over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns and big cities, like St. Louis and Albuquerque, where you can explore quirky attractions like the Cadillac Ranch and the World’s Largest Rocking Chair. Route 66 is also known for its historic stops, like the Petrified Forest National Park and the Grand Canyon.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway: Mountain Scenery & Southern Charm
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile-long road that winds through the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia to North Carolina. This road trip is known for its stunning mountain scenery, from rolling hills to dramatic peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming southern towns like Asheville and Roanoke, where you can indulge in southern comfort food and explore historic sites like the Biltmore Estate and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
4. Great River Road: Mississippi River & Small Towns
The Great River Road is a 2,000-mile-long road that follows the Mississippi River from its headwaters in Minnesota to its mouth in Louisiana. This road trip is known for its small towns and scenic river views. Along the way, you can explore historic sites like Mark Twain’s boyhood home and the Vicksburg National Military Park. The Great River Road is also famous for its riverboat cruises and seafood restaurants, so be sure to indulge in some crawfish and gumbo.
5. The Loneliest Road: Nevada’s Desert & Ghost Towns
The Loneliest Road, also known as Highway 50, is a 400-mile-long road that cuts through the heart of Nevada’s desert landscape. This road trip is known for its ghost towns and quirky attractions, like the Shoe Tree and the Middlegate Station. Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns like Eureka and Austin, where you can explore historic sites and indulge in some classic American roadside diners.
6. Big Sur: Rugged Cliffs & Redwood Forests
Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of California coastline that is known for its rugged cliffs and towering redwood forests. This road trip is perfect for nature lovers, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Along the way, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Bixby Bridge and the McWay Falls. Big Sur is also home to some of California’s best wineries, so be sure to stop and sample some local wine.
These are just a few of the epic road trips that you can take in the USA. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time adventurer, these routes are sure to inspire your wanderlust and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So grab your car keys, hit the open road, and let the adventures begin!