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 and the Sierra Nevada
Distance: ~500 km (310 miles) Duration: 4-5 days
Nevada desert 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
- Best period: Spring and autumn to avoid extreme temperatures.
- Transport: Rent a suitable vehicle (SUV, van) depending on the route.
- Budget: Expect fees for national parks (America the Beautiful Pass, $80/year).
- Useful applications: Roadtrippers, AllTrails, GasBuddy.
- Formalities: Apply for a b2 visa if you plan to stay longer than 90 days in the USA.