The best road trips on American soil
Here’s a guide to the best road trips in the USA, organized by region and theme. These itineraries include magnificent landscapes, cultural attractions and must-see stops.
West coast
West Coast road trip to discover the great parks
Pacific Coast Highway
Distance: ~1,050 km (650 miles) Duration: 7-10 days
Great Western Parks
Distance: ~1,100 km (680 miles) Duration: 7-9 days
Yosemite Sierra Nevada
Distance: ~500 km (310 miles) Duration: 4-5 days
Nevada and California
Distance: ~1,200 km (750 miles) Duration: 6-8 days
East coast
East Coast road trip to discover the big cities
Blue Ridge Parkway
Distance: ~755 km (469 miles) Duration: 5-7 days
New England Fall Foliage Tour
Distance: ~800 km (500 miles) Duration: 7-9 days
From Boston to Washington D.C.
Distance: ~725 km (450 miles) Duration: 7 days
Florida beaches
Distance: ~600 km (370 miles) Duration: 5 days
Midwest
East Coast road trip to discover the big cities
Route 66 (Mother Road)
Distance: ~3,940 km (2,448 miles) Duration: 2-3 weeks
Great Lakes Circle Tour
Distance: ~2,000 km (1,240 miles) Duration: 10-14 days
Badlands and Black Hills
Distance: ~1,000 km (620 miles) Duration: 7 days
Ozarks Scenic Byway
Distance: ~500 km (310 miles) Duration: 4-5 days
Southern United States
Road trip in the American South to discover American culture
Texas Hill Country
Distance: ~450 km (280 miles) Duration: 4-5 days
Florida Keys
Distance: ~260 km (160 miles) Duration: 3-4 days
Grand Circle
Distance: ~2,000 km (1,250 miles) Duration: 10-14 days
Deep South Music Tour
Distance: ~1,300 km (800 miles) Duration: 10 days
Practical advice
for a dream road trip in the USA
A road trip in the USA is a unique adventure: legendary roads, spectacular scenery, iconic cities and wide-open spaces as far as the eye can see. To make the most of it, good preparation is essential. Here are some practical tips to help you travel with peace of mind and turn your itinerary into a dream road trip.
Preparing your itinerary
The United States is huge, and it’s a common mistake to want to see everything in one trip. A good road trip is based on a realistic pace, allowing time for discovery, rest and improvisation.
It’s advisable to limit long driving days and alternate between urban, natural and road stages. It’s better to plan fewer stops but enjoy them to the full, rather than spend your days behind the wheel.
Leave a few lighter days on purpose: they can be used to absorb the unexpected, extend a favorite stage or simply enjoy the moment.
Choosing the right time to go
The choice of season strongly influences the experience. The American climate varies enormously according to region and altitude.
Spring and autumn are often the best periods: pleasant temperatures, superb scenery and more moderate crowds. Summer is very popular, but can be extremely hot in the deserts and crowded in the national parks.
Anticipating the weather not only improves comfort, but also reduces costs and avoids certain seasonal closures (mountain roads, passes, parks).
Car rental: a strategic choice
The car is the central element of any road trip. Comfort, reliability and space are essential for long distances. An SUV or a spacious sedan is often ideal, especially if you’re carrying a lot of luggage.
Remember to check insurance coverage (collision, third-party liability), additional driver charges and vehicle return conditions.
Renting directly from the airport is generally simpler and avoids unnecessary transfers. Driving in the U.S. is smooth and well-signposted, making it a pleasant experience even for unaccustomed drivers.
Travel formalities and essential documents
Before you leave, it’s essential to check the formalities for entering the United States.
- For a short tourist stay or road trip (under 90 days), most travelers can use an ESTA electronic travel authorization. This procedure is quick and easy, and must be completed before departure.
- For longer stays or specific situations, a B-2 tourist visa may be required. This involves a more formal application to an American embassy.
In all cases, a biometric passport is compulsory, and it is advisable to check the validity of documents several weeks before departure to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
The real secret of a successful road trip
Beyond preparation, the most important thing is the state of mind. A road trip in the United States is best experienced when you’re willing to slow down, get off the beaten track and let yourself be surprised. An isolated dinner, a back road or an unexpected sunset often make the most beautiful memories.
👉 Discover our detailed itineraries and let us guide you towards the American road trip that suits you best.
