America’s Greatest Road Trips — And How to Do Them
It is a portrayal of simple elegance. A narrow asphalt ribbon stretches endlessly toward the horizon, its surface shimmering in the distant mirage caused by the heat. Or maybe it winds through a dense forest, its twists and turns obscured by dark green fir trees and lush undergrowth, climbing steadily with each bend. Perhaps mountains loom directly ahead, asserting themselves into the scene as the road rushes towards them. The essential part is the presence of a car on this road, heading somewhere definite yet without any pressing haste about its arrival.
The road trip has always been a quintessentially romantic way to travel. This is particularly true in its American form, characterized by vast desert expanses and sweeping coastal views, which unfurls the great expanse of a nation comprising 50 states and countless dynamic elements. Spending a week—or perhaps two—at the wheel has been the quintessential method to experience the United States, a concept deeply rooted in American culture. Though the notion didn't originate with Henry Ford's introduction of the Model T in 1908, it certainly took on a new life in the buoyant post-war era of the 1950s when Route 66 emerged as the quintessential vacation route westward, ushering American travelers to landmarks like the Grand Canyon and the shores of the Pacific.
This allure has captivated a global audience. Each year, between four and five million Britons visit the United States (excluding times of global health crises). Many of these travelers exchange the confines of an airport for the freedom of a rental car, embarking on their personally crafted journeys. Their travels might include bustling cities and towering skylines or meander through forests ablaze with autumnal colors. They might delve into local cuisines, music, history, or architecture. Whether following a meticulously planned route or navigating spontaneously, such trips are invariably thrilling, epitomized by the boundless liberty of the road and the exploration of an America that extends far beyond the polished allure of beachside resorts, the pulsating energy of amusement parks, or the enticing sounds of casino slot machines.
How to undertake this quintessential American experience? Here, we explore the various "whats," "wheres," and "whens" of planning the ultimate US road trip—what to do to make it unforgettable; where to go to encounter diverse landscapes, environments, or experiences; and when to visit specific areas at their peak. The "why" of it all becomes self-evident the moment you merge onto the highway and set forth in pursuit of your personal slice of the American Dream.
The best routes
1. Illinois to California - Route 66
The perception of Route 66 as an ideal setting for transformative journeys might overshadow the actual experience of traveling it during a vacation. To begin with, it’s an extensive stretch—spanning 2,448 miles from the beginning in Chicago to its endpoint near the ocean in Santa Monica, requiring a minimum of two weeks to traverse completely. Secondly, the terrain across the eight states it passes through, especially parts of Oklahoma and Kansas, tends to be monotonous and uninspiring. Thirdly, the Route 66 of today primarily exists in the collective nostalgia, having been reclassified into various other highways since losing its official designation in the US Highway System in 1985. Nevertheless, it remains a vibrant part of American culture, particularly when exploring the states of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California that make up the western segment, where the landscape infuses the journey with a sense of drama and exploration.
2. California - State Route 1
Highway 1 is an iconic stretch of road skirting the Pacific coast of California, extending a remarkable 656 miles. It's a name that instantly conjures images of coastal drives and scenic views, a must-see for anyone with a penchant for road trips. Tackling the entire route isn't necessary to appreciate its beauty. Starting from the south in Dana Point, you'll initially navigate the bustling traffic of Los Angeles; whereas, nearing its northern terminus in Leggett, you might find yourself longing for the vibrant buzz of city life, a stark contrast to the tranquil expanses of the north. The most recommended segment runs about 485 miles from San Francisco down to Long Beach, passing through enchanting locales like Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and Malibu. This route offers a spectacular combination of towering cliffs and expansive ocean vistas, ensuring a memorable journey.
3. Arizona - US Route 160
Arizona boasts a precise 160-mile stretch of the 1,465-mile US Route 160, traversing it from the northeast to the southwest. This particular segment might seem unremarkable at first glance, as it slices through a stark expanse of dust and earth, embodying the grand scale of the American West with its sparse settlements and infrequent gas stops. However, it's the iconic endpoints of this route that truly define its allure. Monument Valley, with its towering Mittens and Buttes, is located 20 miles north of Kayenta at the northeastern edge of Arizona; this corner is also home to the Four Corners Monument, where Arizona meets Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico. The real highlight, however, is the Grand Canyon, located 75 miles from Tuba City at the route’s western end, a site of enduring splendor.
4. Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee - Blue Ridge Parkway
While the towering peaks of the Western mountain ranges, particularly the Rockies, are a magnet for photographers, the East Coast boasts its own scenic high points as well. The Appalachian Mountains stretch majestically from Alabama through Maine and into Canada, presenting a rugged landscape that captivates visitors. Nested within this extensive range are various sub-ranges, each offering unique attractions. Notably, the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and the expansive Blue Ridge Mountains that extend across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia are standout features. A highlight of this region is the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile route that connects the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee to the forest-rich Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. This scenic drive is ideal for leisurely road trips, particularly in the spring and summer, though it reaches peak beauty in the fall when the forests blaze with autumnal colors.
5. Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana - Lake Michigan loop
Lake Michigan may not be the biggest among the Great Lakes—that title goes to Lake Superior—but it's the most accessible for a complete drive around its perimeter, uniquely lying entirely within the United States, unlike its siblings. Describing this journey as "simple" does come with caveats, though. Completing a full loop of Lake Michigan involves covering some 900 miles and ideally requires two weeks, especially if you’re soaking in the sights at a relaxed pace. However, the landscape, particularly outside the urban hubs like Chicago in Illinois, and Milwaukee and Green Bay in Wisconsin, is marked by a pastoral beauty. This route showcases an idyllic American backdrop featuring orchards, sandy dunes, and a welcoming small-town vibe, prominently seen in Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula and the more refined stretches of Michigan to the east. Additionally, the Straits of Mackinac offer a delightful experience, where the waters of Lakes Michigan and Huron converge beneath an iconic suspension bridge.
6. Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana - US Routes 98 and 90
Florida showcases an iconic American road trip along the Overseas Highway, a celebrated route that extends from the mainland to Key West at the southernmost point of the Florida Keys. The only drawback of this coastal jaunt is its short duration; spanning just 113 miles, it's a journey that can be completed in less than a day. For those seeking a longer driving experience, Route 98 offers a more extensive voyage. Starting at Palm Beach on the Atlantic side, it traverses the state to Crystal River before hugging the Gulf of Mexico coastline westward through the "Panhandle," passing vibrant resort towns like Mexico Beach, Panama City, and Pensacola. The route veers inland after Mobile Bay, yet those yearning for more coastal scenery can continue on Route 90, which runs along the shore for an additional 200 miles to New Orleans.
7. Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont - US Route 7
Navigating New England can take many forms, but to truly savor its renowned autumn landscapes, wandering seems most appropriate. The region dazzles with a tapestry of colorful leaves, best appreciated on the less-traveled roads bordered by sycamore and oak. For those preferring a more structured journey, consider embarking on Route 7. This 308-mile pathway begins at the coastal town of Norwalk in Connecticut, ascends through the Berkshire hills of western Massachusetts, and meanders through Vermont's Green Mountains nearly reaching Canada. Avoid doubling back as much as possible; instead, from Burlington, connect to Interstate 89. This route heads southeast for 190 miles, bringing you close to Boston's bustling hub.
How to do it
When should I go?
The USA offers a plethora of experiences throughout the year as it sits in the Northern Hemisphere. Thus, while prices might fluctuate based on the month, there shouldn't be any unexpected spikes. Travel during school vacations tends to be pricier compared to times when school is in session. For instance, seeking the winter warmth in Florida is more economical in November than around the Christmas holidays. However, financial considerations aside, there’s hardly a wrong time for a road journey. Of course, venturing into Alaska’s wilderness during winter might not be wise, and states like Minnesota, the Dakotas, and Montana might not be the best choices for a road trip from November through February due to severe weather conditions. Likewise, it makes little sense to visit Vermont or Maine in search of autumn colors during the peak of summer. Nonetheless, road trips through California, its deserts, or the southern states are viable nearly all year round.
How do I get there?
Apart from its European neighbors, the United States is one of the most accessible countries from the UK. Major airlines including British Airways (0344 493 0787; ba.com), American Airlines (0844 369 9899; americanairlines.co.uk), Virgin Atlantic (0344 874 7747; virginatlantic.com), and United (0845 607 6760; united.com) offer extensive coverage across the US. Most major cities in the US are within reach from London, with minimal layovers. Depending on which part of the country you want to explore by car, your landing airport could be one of many, including Miami (for Florida), Boston (for New England), Phoenix (the capital of Arizona; for the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley), Atlanta (Georgia; for the Southern states), Austin (for Texas), and Chicago (for Route 66 and the Great Lakes), along with San Francisco and Los Angeles (for California), all of which have direct flights from the UK.
How much does it cost?
A road trip can be seen as a holiday where you get out what you put in; the more extensive the trek, the greater the expense (accounting for car rental days, nights at hotels, and fuel costs). The overall cost will be fixed at a set amount (excluding additional expenses) if you choose a bundled package (including flights, car rentals, and accommodations) through a travel organizer. Nonetheless, the principle holds that the longer you are on the road, the higher the total cost. On average, anticipate spending about £1,000 per person for each week of travel (excluding the cost of gasoline and meals).
Can I do it on a budget?
Certainly. If you prefer the hands-on method of travel planning, simply booking your own flights (perhaps arriving at one airport and departing from another) and car hire, while making up the rest as you go, you can control your spending, especially if you stay in more economical accommodations. Even better, securing your flights and car together offers a minimal level of consumer protection, all within a reasonable budget.
