There’s nothing like the thrill of the open road—windows down, tunes cranked, and adventure calling. Whether you’re chasing history, coastal views, or rugged backroads, these five iconic road trips will take you on a journey you won’t forget.

1. Route 66 – The Mother Road

This one’s the granddaddy of all road trips. Route 66 stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, packed with old-school diners, quirky roadside attractions, and neon-lit nostalgia. Drive through ghost towns, cruise past Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and snap a pic at the end of the road in Santa Monica. If you’re looking for a trip soaked in Americana, this is it.

2. Pacific Coast Highway – California Dreaming

If jaw-dropping ocean views are your thing, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is calling your name. Winding along California’s coastline from Dana Point to Leggett, this route takes you through the iconic Big Sur, past the Bixby Bridge, and right by the legendary Hearst Castle. Every curve brings another postcard-worthy view, so take your time and soak it all in.

3. Blue Ridge Parkway – America’s Favorite Drive

Rolling through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is all about slow-paced beauty. Covering 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina, it’s a dream for nature lovers, especially in the fall when the foliage explodes with color. Stops like the Linn Cove Viaduct, Peaks of Otter, and Asheville make it worth every mile. Plus, no billboards or commercial traffic—just pure, scenic bliss.

4. Great River Road – Following the Mighty Mississippi

Want history, culture, and stunning landscapes all in one trip? The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana, winding through charming river towns and major cities. Visit Mark Twain’s hometown in Hannibal, Missouri, grab some beignets in New Orleans, and take in the breathtaking bluffs of Iowa. Every stop is packed with character and a story to tell.

5. The Loneliest Road in America – U.S. Route 50

If you’re looking for solitude, stunning desert landscapes, and a true off-the-grid experience, U.S. Route 50—known as “The Loneliest Road in America”—is the way to go. Stretching from Ocean City, Maryland, to Sacramento, California, this road cuts through some of the country’s most remote and breathtaking scenery. Drive through Nevada’s vast Great Basin, visit historic mining towns, and experience wide-open stretches of highway where it’s just you and the road. Be sure to stock up on supplies—towns can be hundreds of miles apart!

Final Thoughts

Road trips aren’t just about the miles—they’re about the moments. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on the coast, following the footsteps of history, or venturing into the wild, these routes guarantee memories for a lifetime. So, pack your bags, hit the gas, and let the road lead the way!

Scott Nicholson