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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Brimmed with picturesque views, some of the best road trips in the U.S. treat travelers with memorable and priceless memories. From winding mountain springs to awe-inspiring rock canyons, all the tiring hours in cars are paid with the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.
For those seeking long getaways and fresh air across American highways, grab your gear and read on to find out which road trips are best in the United States of America.
Citing Lonely Planet and Travel + Leisure, this article unveils the 10 best road trips in the U.S.
1. Pacific Coast Highway
Stretching along California’s coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway is considered the best road trip in the U.S. Also known by the name “Highway 101," the #1 scenic drive connects the country’s 1,650-mile-long West Coast, from Port Townsend, Washington, to San Diego.
Tripping the road with a car is the most ideal way to truly delight in the scenery like Big Sur without worrying about any twisting roadway.
2. Hana Highway
Hana Highway comes in second place among the best road trips in the U.S. The road offers some of the Jurassic world-like landscapes mile by mile, surrounding those on the road with lush sea cliffs.
Commonly referred to as 'The Road to Hana,' it stretches for over 64 miles and bridges Kahului to Hana, a town in east Maui. Along the way, be sure to make time for stunning sights and stops like Ho’okipa Beach Park, turning your journey into an unforgettable experience rather than just a long drive.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway
The enchanting 469-mile-long route of Blue Ridge Parkway never fails to captivate road trip enthusiasts around the world, as it connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Named “America’s Favorite Drive,” this road guides you to the country’s oldest mountain range, revealing breathtaking hiking trails and magical waterfalls along the way.
Driving from mid-May to mid-September offers the ultimate experience, with lively fall foliage warmly greeting you throughout the park.
4. Route 66
Popularized through books, movies, and TV shows, Route 66 is famously known as the “Mother Road.” As one of the best road trips in the U.S., this epic route offers unforgettable experiences and attractions, making for a vibrant and exciting journey.
Spanning 2,451 miles, it connects eight states, winding through charming small towns with welcoming stops on the journey. It is highly recommended to allow ample time to fully immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Route 66.
5. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive is the most gorgeous continuous stretch of urban parkway in America. A road trip through south to north promises some of the most charming landscapes and stops, including iconic American architecture.
From thought-provoking museums like the Museum of Science and Industry to sparkling beaches like Oak Street Beach, the windy route offers beyond buildings and streets.
6. Natchez Trace
A chance to drive along the Natchez Trace is much more than just a road trip but also a glimpse into history and culture. The path was known for being traced initially by buffalo that wandered from middle Tennessee to Natchez. By the early years of the country, the trail was passed by soldiers and settlers for centuries, further underscoring its significance.
Enclosed by pristine forests, the 444-mile route stretches from Nashville to Natchez, unveiling a journey rich with historical landmarks along the way.
7. 17-Mile Drive
The 17-Mile Drive is one of the best road trips in the U.S., granting jaw-dropping views of the Pacific coastline. Starting in Monterey and ending in Carmel by the Sea, you can immerse yourself in iconic landmarks such as the Lone Cypress tree and the Pebble Beach Golf Links as you drive the road. Be sure to set your camera in advance, as you will encounter various wildlife, including deer and sea lions.
8. Florida Highway 1
Running along Sunshine State’s eastern coast, Florida Highway 1 is a tropical road trip that showcases some of the most picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. Called a “magic carpet,” the remarkable 545-mile-long route comprises Miami's vibrant cityscapes to the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys.
While you’re traveling along the route, be sure to stop at Key West—the southernmost point of the U.S.—for stunning sunsets and a lively atmosphere.
9. U.S. 1
Stretching from Maine to Florida, U.S. Route 1 offers a diverse road trip experience. Along its path, travelers can enjoy everything from the charming coastal towns of New England to the colorful archipelago of the Florida Keys. Along the 238-mile-long path, every turn reveals a story of both war and peace, delivering a profound journey through history.
10. Badlands-Black Hills Loop
The Badlands-Black Hills Loop in South Dakota completes the best road trips on the U.S. list, standing as the hotspot for lovers of dramatic landscapes and American history. The 330-mile-long route passes through the striking geological formations of the Badlands National Park to the Black Hills.
With its layered rock formations and the iconic presence of Mount Rushmore, the journey feels like driving through a living movie set.
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