The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)

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  • Post author: Andrew D'Amours
  • Post published: December 28, 2022
  • Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
  • Post comments: 26 Comments

Do you like roadtrips? They happen to be a very American tradition and we found the perfect itinerary to visit every state in the continental USA during 1 epic roadtrip. A great trip idea for those who have a lot of time but want to stay closer to home .

Personally, I love roadtrips and I hit the road as much as I can, despite also being an aviation geek: you can like both, right? What matters is traveling and seeing new places , no matter how.

So here are the maps and details of the 2 itineraries that allow you to see all the lower 48 states at once, depending on your travel preference.

Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries

The USA is a huge country, almost as big as Europe (it’s even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).

So the USA has a lot of variety in terms of landscapes, but even in terms of culture too (even if many who aren’t from the country don’t realize that).

If you aim to eventually visit every state, any 1 of these 2 itineraries is a great way to almost all of them at once. The only 2 states you’ll have left to visit after this roadtrip will be Hawaii and Alaska.

There’s a version for national parks and points of interest and a version for cities.

road trip us map

I’m on the quest to visit all 50 states myself (in addition to also visiting every country obviously), and I’m not doing too bad with 47 already.

But let’s just say it would’ve been much quicker to get to 48 at once with this roadtrip instead of having to do it over dozens of trips.

Here are the details.

48-state roadtrip – national parks/points of interest version

Here’s a map of the 1 st itinerary.

road trip us map

It was conceived by American Ph.D. student Randy Olson, on  his blog , and it was done scientifically to optimize the routing: each stop represents a national park or a point of interest.

So you’re not just seeing every state, you’re seeing cool parts of every state (which sadly wasn’t our case in North Dakota during our very random 1200-miles-nonstop-in-2-days Flytrippers roadtrip across the Midwest just for fun).

Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.

Anyway, the itinerary has also been optimized to be as efficient a route as possible to see all 48 states, so you can rest assured you won’t be wasting any time.

If you only stop to sleep, you can complete this roadtrip in only 9 days, but we recommend taking at least a couple of weeks to explore all these places obviously.

And gas is significantly cheaper in the US in case you were wondering. You can start anywhere, it’s a continuous loop, and it passes through many spots near the Canadian border.

You can even take a shortcut from Michigan to Vermont through Canada, as the stop in Cleveland is only to keep Americans without a passport from crossing into the Great White North.

Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California):

1. Grand Canyon, AZ 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT 3. Craters of the Moon, ID 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY 5. Pikes Peak, CO 6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM 7. The Alamo, TX 8. The Platt Historic District, OK 9. Toltec Mounds, AR 10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, TN 11. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS 12. French Quarter, LA 13. USS Alabama, AL 14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL 15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, GA 16. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC 17. Lost World Caverns, WV 18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, NC 19. Mount Vernon, VA 20. White House, Washington, D.C. 21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, MD 22. New Castle Historic District, DE 23. Cape May Historic District, NJ 24. Liberty Bell, PA 25. Statue of Liberty, NY 26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, CT 27. The Breakers, RI 28. USS Constitution, MA 29. Acadia National Park, ME 30. Mount Washington Hotel, NH 31. Shelburne Farms, VT 32. Fox Theater, MI 33. Spring Grove Cemetery, OH 34. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 35. West Baden Springs Hotel, IN 36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, IL 37. Gateway Arch, MO 38. C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, KS 39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, IA 40. Taliesin, WI 41. Fort Snelling, MN 42. Ashfall Fossil Bed, NE 43. Mount Rushmore, SD 44. Fort Union Trading Post, ND 45. Glacier National Park, MT 46. Hanford Site, WA 47. Columbia River Highway, OR 48. San Francisco Cable Cars, CA 49. San Andreas Fault, CA 50. Hoover Dam, NV

These are all very enticing attractions, for the most part. It seems I’ve only seen 14 of those, so maybe I should hit the road again after all.

How about you? Tempted?

48-state roadtrip – city version

Here’s a map of the 2 nd itinerary.

road trip us map

If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2 nd version that routes you through amazing cities instead.

It is slightly shorter but quite as impressive: it makes you go through the “Best City to Visit” in each state, according to TripAdvisor .

But you won’t have all the lower 48 states, unlike the other itinerary. That’s because no city in Vermont, West Virginia, or North Dakota made the top 400 cities to visit ranking, unfortunately. So plan on making a few extra detours if you want to hit all states at once with this version of the itinerary.

Here is the complete list of all cities:

  • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
  • Wichita, Kansas
  • Denver, Colorado
  • Albuquerque, New Mexico
  • Phoenix, Arizona
  • Las Vegas, Nevada
  • San Francisco, California
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Seattle, Washington
  • Boise, Idaho
  • Park City, Utah
  • Jackson, Wyoming
  • Billings, Montana
  • Sioux Falls, South Dakota
  • Omaha, Nebraska
  • Des Moines, Iowa
  • Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • Milwaukee, Wisconsin
  • Chicago, Illinois
  • Indianapolis, Indiana
  • Louisville, Kentucky
  • Columbus, Ohio
  • Detroit, Michigan
  • Cleveland, Ohio
  • Manchester, New Hampshire
  • Portland, Maine
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Providence, Rhode Island
  • New Haven, Connecticut
  • New York City, New York
  • Ocean City, New Jersey
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Wilmington, Delaware
  • Baltimore, Maryland
  • Washington, D.C.
  • Virginia Beach, Virginia
  • Charlotte, North Carolina
  • Charleston, South Carolina
  • Orlando, Florida
  • Atlanta, Georgia
  • Nashville, Tennessee
  • Birmingham, Alabama
  • Jackson, Mississippi
  • New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Houston, Texas
  • Little Rock, Arkansas
  • Branson, Missouri

I do a little better on this list, with 31 already visited. You can see I love cities. How about you?

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If you were looking for an excuse to go on a roadtrip, this is it. And since we always enjoy giving you more for your money, we think 48 states instead of only 1 or 2 is something you’ll enjoy!

What’s the coolest roadtrip you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments below.

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Featured image: The itinerary (image credit: Randy Olson)

Original publication date: May 29, 2018

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Andrew D'Amours

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This post has 26 comments.

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Very informative and well-articulated, It’s always refreshing to see such useful content. Thank you and keep up the excellent work!

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Hello Andrew, the PHD student suggests in the 1st Itinnerary that the one stop to make in Washington State is the Hanford Nuclear Reservation?! Flat out, that is a terrible idea. It is in the middle of nowhere, I am just shocked it’s mentioned. Out of all the beautiful and amazing places to see in such a diverse state as Washington, a Nuclear Site was chosen? Surely this student could have done so much better. Thank you for allowing comments.

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Having been all around the Olympic Peninsula, I agree that’s there are better stops. But my understanding is that he really optimized for the quickest way to do all 48 and had to choose a point of interest that wasn’t too far off that optimal path, hence that choice (I think).

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thanks for sharing this information with us.

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I have taken a road trip from California to the the most northeastern part of theUS. west Quaby light house. it was my 1st trip across the us. .I seen so many amazing places.

Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.

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Why do Americans always think the Statue of Liberty is in NY? it is in NJ. I’ve done road trips now that have taken in 39 states. Here’s a quiz to see how well you know the USA: Which state has only one syllable? Only one city has been name-checked on the moon. In which state is it? Which is the most Northerly of the contiguous states? In which state were Tennessee Williams and Elvis Presley born? Which was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted into the USA? Which four states all share a border with each other? Which state has the lowest population? Twelve cities are name-checked in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” but only three states. Which? Which state has the longest name? Which two states have the most borders with other states? In which state is the geographical centre of the USA – and which one if you exclude Hawaii and Alaska? Which of the states of the USA has respectively the most Northerly, Southerly, Easterly and Westerly points?

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The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.

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Wow, these comments are very rude for no reason. Thanks for the article, maybe when I graduate from college I’ll consider hitting part of one of these itineraries.

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“it’s a huge country (even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).”

Canada – 3.855 million mi² USA – 3.532 million mi² Where does this math fail you?

Where did reading fail you :P? It explicitly says “ when considering LAND area alone ” The quote you copied literally has a link provided under “even larger than Canada” and if you read that, it explains how Canada is only larger than the US due to water area being counted 🙂

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There is no stop in North Dakota on the city version. You should stop in Fargo after Billings and before Sioux Falls

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I’m 46 years old .. I have been to all 50 states and I’m 17 away from all 50 twice .. I have driven to 47 .. flown to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington..

Wow! That’s impressive :O

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This is awesome

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This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

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“this roadtrip in only 9 days“ is extremely false statement. It is only 9 days if you are driving non stop, no breaks to even get out of your car, get gas, or actually see these places. From start to finish drive time it is 225 hours, 16 minutes = 9 days. Wow. Take some time to enjoy the view.

Yes, that’s what we said too 😛

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Thanks for the tip 😊

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My husband wants to do this trip with our new camper once he retires (5-6 yrs?). I said it’s a Perfect 3 month trip … popping up to Kingston, Ontario, Canada to visit family and, again, up from Bangor, Maine to the Canadian east coast to visit more family, and then back on route thru the US! I love being more in the Wilderness so we’ll find spots (we have a generator and solar onboard and able to carry extra weight for extra water/fuel) more in the Great Wild Outdoors (whenever possible) and do 1-2 day stops to ‘see the sites’! A Dream for me… soon to become Reality! I need to Pinch myself for even Dreaming it but, By the Grace of God, we’ll be doing it!! 🙏🤗🙏

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Do you know the total distance of this itinerary? At what moment of the year doing this trip would be the best? Thanks!

Hi! It is 13,699 miles (22,046 km) for the landmarks itinerary and 12,290 miles (19,780 km) for the city version. You can even have the Google Maps links on the creator’s original post (I’ve reposted the link below). As for the timing, I guess it depends on your preferences, but I’d want to avoid that top half of the country (so half the itinerary) in the winter for sure! http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/

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Crappy itinerary! Does not even include Zion National Park… and so many stops in the North Eastern states?? Nobody cares about those places except maybe a couple of places.

As explained, the PhD student who built the itinerary wanted to have one stop per state, and there are many states in the North-East so that’s why there are many stops there. I agree that Zion is an iconic spot, but his goal was also to optimize a routing that was as short as possible so that’s why it’s billed as an itinerary to see all lower 48 states at once and not an itinerary to see *the best spots*. But those interested in doing this can definitely adapt it and add many interesting stops for sure 🙂

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Curtis, you are crappy. Obviously this is meant as a guide that can be adapted to add spots. I think it’s awesome.

Agreed! 🙏🥰🙏

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This Map Shows the Ultimate U.S. Road Trip

road trip us map

The concept of a road trip is as American as apple pie, and yet, devising the “best” U.S. driving route is a bit of a head scratcher. Much depends on time parameters, personal preference, and frankly, how long you want to spend behind the wheel.

In 2015, Tracy Staedter at Discovery News decided to take on that challenge, enlisting Randy Olson —the data scientist behind the famed (and super helpful) Where’s Waldo algorithm —to devise what you might call the platonic ideal of the United States road trip. The parameters were: It had to hit all of the 48 continental states; every stop had to be a National Natural Landmark, a National Historic Site, a National Park, or a National Monument; and of course, had to be confined to car travel and within U.S. borders.

With a stop in Washington, D.C. and two in California, the result is 50 points of all American awesomeness. Here are the destinations:

  • Grand Canyon, Arizona 
  • Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
  • Craters of the Moon, Idaho 
  • Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 
  • Pikes Peak, Colorado 
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
  • The Alamo, Texas
  • The Platt Historic District, Oklahoma 
  • Toltec Mounds, Arkansas 
  • Elvis Presley’s Graceland, Tennessee 
  • Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi 
  • French Quarter, Louisiana 
  • USS Alabama, Alabama 
  • Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida 
  • Okefenokee Swamp Park, Georgia 
  • Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina 
  • Lost World Caverns, West Virginia 
  • Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, North Carolina 
  • Mount Vernon, Virginia 
  • White House, Washington, D.C. 
  • Colonial Annapolis Historic District, Maryland 
  • New Castle Historic District, Delaware 
  • Cape May Historic District, New Jersey 
  • Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania 
  • Statue of Liberty, New York 
  • The Mark Twain House & Museum, Connecticut 
  • The Breakers, Rhode Island
  • USS Constitution , Massachusetts 
  • Acadia National Park, Maine
  • Mount Washington Hotel, New Hampshire 
  • Shelburne Farms, Vermont 
  • Fox Theater, Michigan 
  • Spring Grove Cemetery, Ohio 
  • Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky 
  • West Baden Springs Hotel, Indiana 
  • Abraham Lincoln’s Home, Illinois 
  • Gateway Arch, Missouri 
  • C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, Kansas 
  • Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, Iowa 
  • Taliesin, Wisconcin 
  • Fort Snelling, Minnesota 
  • Ashfall Fossil Bed, Nebraska 
  • Mount Rushmore, South Dakota 
  • Fort Union Trading Post, North Dakota 
  • Glacier National Park, Montana 
  • Hanford Site, Washington 
  • Columbia River Highway, Oregon 
  • San Francisco Cable Cars, California 
  • San Andreas Fault, California 
  • Hoover Dam, Nevada

That list starts with the Grand Canyon , but you could theoretically begin anywhere as long as you drive in sequence after that. Staedter guessed it would take a little over nine days of driving straight through, but more realistically is a two- or three-month trip.

Want to drive across the U.S. & see all major landmarks? #MSU 's @randal_olson made a map. http://t.co/KbFjQGXBXM pic.twitter.com/jDs1EsP1xS — MSU (@michiganstateu) March 9, 2015

For the details on how he came up with the route, check out Olson’s blog . After determining the stops, the main goal of the algorithm was to find the shortest distance between points.

Olson wrote to Staedter: “Instead of exhaustively looking at every possible solution, genetic algorithms start with a handful of random solutions and continually tinker with these solutions—always trying something slightly different from the current solution and keeping the best one—until they can’t find a better solution any more.”

And whether or not you understand the specifics of how it was created, the map is truly a marvel and the kind of itinerary you'll probably spend all winter dreaming about. See the map here , and for additional travel goals, check out Olson’s road trip maps for South America and Europe .

A version of this story ran in 2015; it has been updated for 2023.

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Monument Valley, perfect USA road trip destination

USA Road Trips

No matter what you're driving or how fast you're going, or even where you're heading, there's nothing like a good all American road trip. Spending hours behind the wheel, with the wind in your hair as you watch the scenery change is the very essence of freedom and exploration. Nowhere is that freedom easier to find than hitting the road in the USA.

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Planning the Perfect Road Trip

At some point, we've all dreamed of just hitting the road, kicking back with some good tunes and driving wherever the road takes us. It's inspired many Hollywood filmmakers and head-banging hits and has been ingrained in us that nothing beats a good old car or motorcycle journey. From Route 66 to the Great River Road, a ride through the Land of the Free offers exactly that, freedom. As a country filled with many cultures, golden beaches, impressive canyons, sheer mountains, bustling cities, and never-ending roads, it's not hard to see why the United States offers some of the greatest driving trips in the world.  There's so much to consider when planning the perfect road trip, so we've made it easier for you with itinerary ideas, tips on traveling with your family or four-legged friends, deciding on what time of year is right for you, and ultimately giving you everything you need to know to plan that all American dream.

Road Trip Inspiration

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What does a road trip look like?

motorcycle road trip

Choose your vehicle (or take your own!)

map of a USA road trip

Follow an itinerary

friends on a USA road trip

Enjoy your all American dream!

Perks of a road trip.

friends on a USA road trip

How to Plan the Ultimate Road Trip

california summer road trip

Choose your route

route 66

It's legendary, and what the rest of the world thinks of when you mention you're going a road trip in the United States. This Mother Road is blanketed across eight states and stretches through farmland, deserts, mountains, sleepy towns and metropolitan cities. Must-see stops:  Meramec Caverns, Santa Fe, Mojave National Preserve

pacific coast highway

Pacific Coast Highway

Aside from having a great ocean view the whole time, the Pacific Coast Highway is a bucket list road trip. It's arguably one of the most famous routes in the world, and rightfully so with its dramatic cliffs, sensational scenery, and picture-perfect urban spaces. Must-see stops:  Big Sur, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, Olympic National Park

great river road

Great River Road

Discover the very best of America's most hard-to-spell river, the Mississippi. As the longest scenic byway, the Great River Road passes through a total of ten states and is home to many riverside attractions and soul-stirring cities that are fun for the whole family. Must-see stops: New Orleans, Fort Snelling, Nelson Dewey State Park

blue ridge parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway

If endless vistas of emerald-green trees and dramatic mountain landscapes are your thing, then a road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway is for you. Admire the culture and crafts of the Appalachians, and with a slower speed limit, you can really appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer. Must-see stops:  Linn Cove Viaduct, Linville Falls, Asheville, Sliding Rock 

border to border

Border to Border

From the icy landscapes of Jasper National Park to the cactus-filled plains of the Sonora Desert, the Border to Border road trip features the contrasting wonders of the United States. Flowing through the heart of Las Vegas, this drive truly offers the best of both worlds. Must-see stops:  Glacier National Park, Grand Canyon, Sun Valley, Phoenix

Best Road Trip Routes in the USA

What is Your Ultimate Road Trip?

Who do you want to travel with.

couples/partners together on a road trip

There's something really romantic and exciting about heading on a road to nowhere with your partner. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, on a honeymoon adventure, or just needing to feel that wind in your hair, a road trip paints the perfect setting to create lasting memories with the one you love.

mother and son together on a road trip

Hitting the road can really bring a family together. Spending quality time exploring a country and experiencing new cultures from the states that you know and love can be a wonderful memory to hold. It's also a great way to show your little ones the endless wonders of the world.

friends celebrating their road trip together

I think everyone at some point in their life has dreamt of going on a road trip with their friends. It's a great time to celebrate a birthday, say goodbye after college, or reminisce on good times shared together. Whether you want to hike national parks or hop from city to city on a casino hunt, there's so much to do on a road trip.

dog on a road trip

Exploring a new pet-friendly national park every day can be a total fantasy for man's best friend, think about the different types of sticks you could throw! Hitting the road with your favourite four-legged friend by your side can be a great experience that both you and your best friend will treasure forever.

When do you want to go?

summer in the united states

Last Minute Must Haves

car on a road trip

There are long days of driving ahead of you, and sometimes it can be on uneven roads or in the middle of nowhere. Having reliable insurance for your vehicle is a must and is something that is good to have for your own peace of mind.

book for entertainment on a road trip

Entertainment

Kids, and even dogs, can get bored on long journeys so make sure you bring some entertainment for the road. Whether it's a Kindle, some books or toys, something to entertain them will be a lifesaver!

mother and son

First Aid Kit

It's a good idea to carry a medical kit with you on any journey, but on a road trip you're covering vast distances and you are not always nearby a hospital or doctors. Store one in the trunk of your car for easy access.

low fuel/gas gage

Backup Supplies

It's a good idea to stock up on extra gas when making long journeys, and maybe even a satellite phone or emergency supplies if you plan on going for a long time or venturing out into secluded national parks.

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Family Gap Year Guide

The perfect road trip map to drive across the United States

Summer is the perfect time for a road trip, and spring is the perfect time to plan one! With the weather warming up, we tend to get itchy for travel. Today I’ll share our perfect road trip map to see any part (or all) of the United States. Let’s hit the road and take that great American road trip!

traveling family in front of van

When we started our family gap year , two and a half years ago, we planned to travel from the Pacific Northwest, down the coast of California, through Texas to Florida, and then up the east coast.

We did just that, but then we continued to travel and have now circled the United States four times — and we’re preparing for our fifth cross-country road trip!

Each route has been a little different, which has helped us hit new regions, see diverse landscapes, and visit unique attractions.

The perfect United States road trip map

So where do you want to go? From coast to coast, there is SO much to see and do in the United States. It’s one of the biggest countries in the world, and your experience can be just about anything you’d like — from a tropical adventure in south Florida, to the snowy mountains of Colorado, to the misty Pacific Northwest.

You can try to visit all of the national parks and national monuments. You can head to New York and experience that big city life or escape to the quiet plains of the midwest.

There are two different kinds of road trips: those that are focused on the destination and those that are focused on the journey. Maybe you’re driving on a road well-known for its beauty, like the Going-To-The-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, or maybe you’re driving just to get from city to city and visit the hot spots.

But ideally, you can combine both of those goals and see gorgeous landscapes on your way to fun activities!

Don’t miss: Our Family Gap Year Itinerary

The best route to visit all 50 states at once

Unless you’re a very extreme or long-term traveler, I’m guessing you don’t plan to hit every single state — but if you are, I can point you in the right direction!

Check out Randy Olson’s  optimal US road trip maps , or visit TripSavvy’s list of  must-see American attractions  in an ordered loop you can begin at any point. These are two great resources if you are trying to go everywhere!

Our biggest tip for traveling the whole country: go south in the winter and north in the summer! Yes, being snowbirds is basically our life goal.

The best road trips by region in the United States

I’d love to share our favorite road trip routes in each region of the US. This will help you plan the perfect road trip in your own neck of the woods, or anywhere you plan to visit across the country!

For more details on fun things to do in each region of the US, check out my guest post on The Art of Travel: Visiting all 50 US States

Getting misty in the Pacific Northwest

We’ll always have a soft spot for the northwestern corner of the country, as that was our very first stop on our full-time family travels. We had never visited before, so the giant trees and almost-perpetual rainbows had us captivated.

Head to Seattle for a wide range of activities : go up to the top of the Space Needle, ride a wooden boat on Lake Washington, wander through Pike Place Market, and visit Amazon HQ .

pike place market

If you’ve got plenty of time to spend in Washington, consider driving the Cascade Loop, visit Mount Rainer National Park or Olympic National Park, or look for orcas in the San Juan Islands.

Then go south to Portland and browse the shelves at Powell’s Books and eat a Voodoo Doughnut. Head just to the east to visit gorgeous Multnomah Falls, then drive to the west coast to visit Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock.

Your Pacific Northwest road trip map

Cruise down the coast of California

pacific coast highway

I couldn’t write a blog post on great road trips without including the Pacific Coast Highway ! We got to drive highway 1 down the coast of California near the end of 2018, and we’ll never forget it!

Start in San Francisco — visit the redwood trees, drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, and be sure to take a ride on one of the San Francisco cable cars!

From there, follow highway 1 and drive through Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Big Sur. Stop in San Simeon and see the elephant seals.

Then cruise through the southern California beach towns of Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Malibu, and end your journey at the Santa Monica Pier (or continue on to San Diego).

Your Pacific Coast Highway road trip map

pacific coast highway map

Get your kicks on Route 66

winslow, arizona

Having lived in Arizona for many years, we’ve driven along Route 66 more than once. Yes, it extends all the way “from Chicago to LA”, but there are some great iconic landmarks you can still visit along the Mother Road in Arizona, so it’s our pick for the southwestern region of the US.

Top stops along the way include the Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, “standing on the corner in Winslow, Arizona”, the Meteor Crater, Twin Arrows, Seligman, and Kingman. Visit soon — some landmarks are sadly wasting away.

All 50 States Tip: Once you get to Kingman, it’s just about 90 minutes to get to Las Vegas, if you need to check Nevada off your 50 state bucket list!

meteor crater

Your Route 66 road trip map

Complete the Texas Triangle

Texas boasts a number of major cities, living up to the saying that everything is bigger in Texas! And you can visit each of these metro areas when you take a triangle-shaped road trip in the middle of the state.

san antonio riverwalk

Start in San Antonio: walk the Riverwalk and tour the Alamo. Drive up to Austin for some great live music and nightlife. At the peak of the triangle you’ll find Dallas: smell the flowers at the Dallas Arboretum, play around at the National Videogame Museum, and eat a steak…because you’re in Dallas and living that cowboy life.

Head southeast to Houston and visit the Houston Space Center, and then drive to the coast to ride the rides at the Pleasure Pier in Galveston.

All 50 States Tip: If you’re coming to Texas from Arizona, you might try to time your trip so you hit the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in New Mexico on your way. It happens in October and is well-worth the stop!

Your Texas Triangle road trip map

Glide along the Gulf Coast

You’ll find small beach town charm and pristine white sugar sand along the Gulf Coast of the United States. It’s one of our favorite spots in the country!

gulf shores beach

Start in New Orleans, Louisiana and soak up all the French Quarter has to offer, including muffalettas, beignets, and really great jazz. Then drive east, across the bottom of Mississippi and Alabama. Leave I-10 to drive south to Gulf Shores, Alabama, and then stick to the roads closest to the beach as you drive along the Florida panhandle, stopping at any beach towns that take your fancy.

If you’ve got the time and the budget, continue heading into central Florida for some fun at the theme parks, and then drive south to our next road trip recommendation…

Your Gulf Coast road trip map

Road trip through the tropics

In Southern Florida, you can get a real taste of the tropics without having to leave the continental US! Miami is just a 3-hour drive from Orlando, and about another 3-hour drive will take you through the Keys all the way into Key West.

In Miami, visit the colorful Wynwood neighborhood, and make sure to grab some Taiyaki ice cream! Then head over to South Beach and check out the nightlife.

taiyaki ice cream in miami

In Key West, walk down Duval Street and say hi to all the chickens that roam free. Make sure to have a slice of key lime pie and watch the sunset in Mallory Square.

Your southern Florida road trip map

Saunter through the south

Discover the delights of the southeast! You can make a bit of a circle traveling through Savannah and Atlanta in Georgia; Nashville, Tennessee; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Charleston, South Carolina — or the other way around!

UNC botanical gardens

See the Spanish Moss in Savannah, taste every Coke product in the World of Coke tasting room in Atlanta, experience Music City in Nashville, stroll the botanical gardens at UNC Charlotte, and take a carriage ride through Charleston’s cobblestone streets.

This route will also take you through Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Asheville — other great cities to explore, so be sure to stop if you have time!

And if you have to make the pilgrimage to Graceland, just extend your route to include Memphis, thank you very much!

Your southern states road trip map

Explore US history in the mid-Atlantic

Heading north, the mid-Atlantic states are a great place to learn about our country’s history and visit some of the biggest, busiest cities in the world.

In Virginia, you can experience colonial life at Historic Jamestowne. In Washington DC, you could spend hours and hours exploring all the free museums and memorials (and don’t forget to visit the pandas at the National Zoo). Our big kids even had the chance to tour the White House!

All 50 States Tip: Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia is just one hour west of DC, and there you can hike part of the Appalachian Trail!

In Pennsylvania, you can visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

independence hall in philadelphia

Then drive up to New York City and experience the Big Apple! If you’re visiting after Broadway has reopened, definitely take in a show. Take the requisite visits to Times Square and Rockefeller Center, and stroll through Central Park.

imagine memorial in central park

Ride the Seaglass Carousel in Battery Park and tour the Statue of Liberty. Then, take the Q train to Coney Island and eat some hot dogs and deep-fried Oreos.

That’s right — historic sites AND deep-fried Oreos. You’re welcome.

All 50 States Tip: This is where you should check off Delaware and New Jersey, too. Visit Rehoboth Beach and Atlantic City and enjoy the beaches and boardwalks!

Your mid-Atlantic road trip map

Take a pilgrimage to New England

Get it…pilgrimage?

All 50 States Tip: As you head north, stop in at the Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut and stroll the cliff walk in Newport, Rhode Island.

Get your dose of history by walking the Freedom Trail in Boston, and have some fun on a Duck Tour. Then drive north for a trip through the most quaint, picture-perfect New England port towns. Walk around Portsmouth, New Hampshire, then make your way into Maine.

I was born and raised in Maine, so yes my New England road trip is a little Maine-heavy!

Visit Dock Square in Kennebunkport for some primo shopping and a summertime treat, like a fresh-squeezed lemonade or ice cream from Aunt Marie’s.

lemonade in kennebunkport

Then, head to Old Orchard Beach for a day of fun at the beachside amusement park, Palace Playland. Do NOT leave without getting an order of pier fries — and eat them like the locals, doused in vinegar and caked with salt.

pier fries in old orchard beach

Portland is a much-loved Maine “big city” so take a stroll through the Old Port and check out the unique shops and bars. Then, if you’ve got the time, drive to Acadia National Park and catch the earliest sunrise in the United States.

All 50 States Tip: If you’re headed to the midwest from New England, drive through Vermont and tour the Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, then stop at Niagara Falls in New York!

Your New England road trip map

Meander through the Midwest

Things get a little tricky in the Midwest and central US just because there are so many options for where to go and in what order. So I’ll detail the two routes I would take, but you can mix-and-match the cities in this section and the next, and curate your own perfect road trip map through the middle of the country!

If you’re coming from the Northeast, stop in Cleveland, Ohio to tour the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, then head to Detroit, Michigan to visit the Motown Museum and take the Coney Dog Challenge .

motown museum in detroit

If you’d like, stop to explore Cincinnati on your way to Louisville, Kentucky. In Louisville, see how they make baseball bats at the Louisville Slugger Factory and learn all about horse racing at Churchill Downs (or hey, time your road trip to attend the Kentucky Derby!).

Check out the Indy 500 track in Indianapolis, or try your hand at some duckpin bowling. Then drive west to Chicago. See The Bean, eat a Chicago dog and some deep-dish pizza, and admire the artwork at the Art Institute of Chicago. If you must have the full Ferris Beuller experience, go to the top of Willis Tower and put your forehead against the glass.

the bean in chicago

Head north and cross into Wisconsin. Visit the Milwaukee Public Market and get your fill of local cheese! From there, go to Minneapolis and get lost in the Mall of America or go downtown and toss your hat in the air a la Mary Tyler Moore.

All 50 States Tip: You can drive about 3.5 hours from Minneapolis to Fargo, North Dakota, where you can join the Best for Last Club (IF North Dakota is your 50th and final state visited)!

As your last midwestern stop, head south to Iowa and explore Des Moines. Walk through the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park and visit the famous bridges of Madison County.

All 50 States Tip: You can fit Nebraska in here by heading to Omaha — enjoy a leisurely walk across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge and then have a nice sit-down dinner in Omaha’s Old Market. Or, if you prefer, you can visit the other side of Nebraska on our next route.

Your Midwest road trip map

Go through the Gateway to the West

Start your exploration of the central US in St. Louis and go up in the Gateway Arch. Then, on your way to Oklahoma City, stop in Bentonville, Arkansas to tour the Walmart Museum and the Crystal Lakes Museum (both free and worth the visit!).

In Oklahoma City, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial (the site of the 1995 bombing) and the Land Run Monument. Then head north to Kansas and stop in Hutchinson to go 650 feet underground into the Strataca Salt Mine.

kansas salt mine

From there, drive west to Denver. There’s lots to do here! Stand a mile high on the Capitol steps, relax in one of the many parks, climb Pikes Peak, and take in the majestic view of the Rocky Mountains.

After you’ve gotten your fill of Denver, it’s time to visit the Dakotas. On the way, you can take a quick detour into Nebraska to stop by Chimney Rock, of Oregon Trail fame.

In the southwest corner of South Dakota you’ll definitely want to stop and see Mount Rushmore. Then drive north to Medora, North Dakota and visit the prairie dogs at the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. From here, you’re in a great place to take our final road trip route!

mount rushmore

Your Gateway to the West road trip map

Tour the western national parks

glacier national park

Last summer, we took an epic road trip across the US and the final third was comprised mostly of national parks on the western side of the country. We had a blast and saw some incredibly diverse, beautiful terrain.

Start in Glacier National Park and spend a day driving the Going-To-The-Sun Road. Then head to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming and be sure to see Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring.

grand prismatic spring

After Yellowstone, stop in at Grand Teton National Park, just south of Yellowstone. We missed this one but hear it’s a must-see.

From there, go south to Zion National Park in Utah and drive through the breathtaking red rocks. Then drive into Arizona and visit the Grand Canyon. You’ll see so many wonders on this trip that you’ll never forget it!

Your western national parks road trip map

Our top road trip tips

As expert US travelers (we’ve been to 49 of the 50 states — just gotta make it to Alaska!), here are some of our top tips to consider while you plan your road trip:

1. Make a plan but stay flexible

It’s good to know where you plan to be and when, how long it will take to get there, where you plan to stay, and what you want to do while you’re there. Especially in this post-Covid world, a lot of activities require planning ahead.

That being said, leave room for flexibility wherever possible. If we know we’ll be spending the night somewhere on the way to a destination, we won’t book a hotel until we’re almost ready to stop. Sometimes we are able to drive further than planned, and sometimes things come up and we get delayed — like the time it took 7 hours to drive 20 miles in New Mexico!

2. Prep your car

Fill your tires, check the oil, top up the fluids. Give yourself every reason to believe your car will get you from point A to B to C…and home again!

Also, consider getting your car detailed or deep-cleaned ahead of time, and be prepared with paper towels and wet wipes to keep things clean.

3. Stay comfy and entertained in the car

You’ll be seeing some incredible things…but also spending a lot of time just driving down the highway. A pillow and a blanket per person goes a long way, as does trivia games, books, podcasts, and (when all else fails) well-charged devices!

4. Pack light

You need some clothes and your phone. Not much else! Your phone (assuming it’s smart) is your map, your entertainment, and your way out in an emergency. Like I mentioned, toss in a blanket and pillow, maybe some non-screen books and games, and you’re good to go! Oh and snacks. Because is it really a road trip if you don’t have snacks? (No.)

Visit our sister site for some truly incredible road trip car hacks !

5. Combine touristy attractions with local hidden gems

A Google search can easily tell you the must-do activities in every city you visit, but also visit Atlas Obscura for some more, well, obscure things to see and do!

I sure hope this has given you some great information on where to road trip in each region of the US. Combine two or three routes (or all of them!) to create your own perfect road trip map to really see and experience this beautiful country, by car!

Thinking of heading out on a full-time family travel journey? Learn absolutely everything you need to know in our Family Gap Year Academy !

Pin it if you love it!

perfect road trip map

Family Travel Expert

Megan Tenney traveled full-time for four years with her husband and four children. She's visited 49 of the United States, backpacked across Europe, and spent some time in Canada, Mexico, Asia, and the Caribbean. Megan is the owner and author of Family Gap Year Guide , where she shares stories and tips from her family travel adventures and teaches other families how they can take life on the road!

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29 Best Things To Do In The USA – Road Trip Map

Things To Do In The USA (9)

The United States is as vast as it is exciting! Stretching for thousands of miles, it literally takes days (non-stop) to drive from one end to the other which is no mean feat, especially if you’re the designated driver that’s on the search for all the best things to do in the USA. 

24 Hours In Nashville, Tennessee (7)

Our last road trip from the Florida Keys to Los Angeles took approximately 50 hours of solid driving; thankfully, there’s no need to do this in one fell swoop. There are tonnes of incredible places to stop, chill out and explore on your route.

Things To Do In The USA (1)

That’s why I decided to create a map to showcase some of the very best places you’ll want to see.

Take a look at 29 of the best things to do in the USA to include on your road trip across the United States . Have the best time visiting the United States. 

To use our map below, swipe left or right on it (using the tool in the middle)

road trip us map

29 Places To Visit On A USA Roadtrip

1.) hike washington state.

Things To Do In The USA (11)

Not to be confused with the capital city, Washington State is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature.

Pack some walking boots, walk the coastal paths and visit the breathtaking peaks such as Mt. St Helens. It’s totally beautiful and one of the best things to do in the US

Read more: Best places to hike in Washington State

2.) Chow down at Pike Place Market, Seattle

12 Best Things To Do In Seattle (6)

Seattle is such a distinct city from many others in the US, its chilled vibe, incredible culture and gorgeous Pike Place Market will make you want to stay.

12 Best Things To Do In Seattle (11)

Don’t forget to grab some delicious clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. They’re delicious on chilly winter days. 

Seattle is one of those cities where you can really enjoy that great mix of culture, gorgeous markets and easy access to the great outdoors. Visiting is easily one of the best things to do in the USA – just don’t forget a cup of jo whilst you’re there. 

Read more: Best things to do in Seattle

3.) Stroll across Cannon Beach, Oregon

Things To Do In The USA (3)

Arguably, one of the west coast’s best beaches, Cannon Beach is the perfect place to relax on a lazy day in the sun.

Things To Do In The USA (12)

Rent a bike, walk the coastal route or catch some waves near Haystack Rock.

Read more: Best beaches in the USA to visit

4.) See the geothermal pools of Yellowstone 

Things To Do In The USA (4)

Yellowstone National Park  is one of the country’s most stunning reserves and easily up there as one of the best things to do in the USA if you want to explore the National Parks. 

I loved my trip here.

Things To Do In The USA (7)

This gigantic park is filled with geothermal pools, luminous rock formations and volcanic activity. It’s a unique and diverse national park that’s well worth the visit.

Read more: Best things to do in Yellowstone

5.) Hike up Half Dome in Yosemite

Best Things To Do In Yosemite

Nestled in the stunning countryside of California , Yosemite is one awe-inspiring place to visit. 

Don’t forget to book your tickets for Half Dome before you go, there’s an allotted allocation per day.

Best Things To Do In Yosemite

If you’re not a hiker at heart, then take a tour of Yosemite Village and the Ansel Adams Gallery. Visiting is one of the best things to do in the USA, especially if you love to hike.

Plus, you can easily visit as part of a wider California road trip, too. 

Read more: Best national parks in the USA to visit

6.) Discover the city of San Francisco

Things To Do In The USA (9)

San Francisco is one of my favourite cities in the USA .

Perched on the bay, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the likes of Muir Woods, Nappa Valley and the melting pot of culture that is the city itself.

Free Things To Do In San Francisco (9)

Oh, don’t forget to visit Fisherman’s Wharf and see the massive seals that call the harbour home. Just remember to block your nose; they’re a little stinky.

Read more: Best free things to do in San Francisco

7.) Spot the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles

Things To Do In The USA (8)

Los Angeles and the surrounding regions are a perfect place to stop for a few days of sun, sea and culture. Make sure you check out the Hollywood sign and the Griffin Observatory too.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, make sure to check out Eggslut , they make the meanest (and biggest) hot sandwiches I’ve ever seen.

Read more: Best things to do in Los Angeles

8.) Admire the art at Salvation Mountain 

Have You Ever Heard Of Salvation Mountain in California? (3)

Salvation Mountain is a unique and special place!

Filled with colourful mountains, inspiring installations and lots of artistic flairs this place is perfect to stop at whilst on your journey east or west.

Read more: How to visit Salvation Mountain

9.) Try your luck in Las Vegas

Best Things To Do In Las Vegas (8)

One of the world’s most famous part towns, Las Vegas is one city that has to be seen to be believed. Love it, or hate it, visiting Las Vegas is eye-opening and one of the best things to do in the USA if you want a completely different type of city break. 

Best Things To Do In Las Vegas (5)

Walk (some) of the strip, spend a few $$$ at the casino and take a ride on one of the strip’s hair-raising rides!

Read more: Things to see in Las Vegas

10.) Walk within Antelope Canyon 

14 Best Places In Arizona To Visit (9)

Located in the Navajo lands within Arizona, Antelope Canyon is one of those spots’s you’ll likely have seen but never really knew where it was.

14 Best Places In Arizona To Visit (10)

Head here to walk through this stunning canyon and explore the incredible naturally carved landscape.

Read more: How to visit Antelope Canyon

11.) Drive through Monument Valley

14 Best Places In Arizona To Visit (4)

Monument Valley is an incredible place to visit.

Take your car through this 17-mile trail that weaves through this stunning landscape to enjoy the views.

14 Best Places In Arizona To Visit (8)

For an overnight stay, why not camp in the designated areas and enjoy the pristine, unadulterated skies of the US. Trust me, you won’t forget this place easily.

Read more: Best things to do in Monument Valley

12.) Walk the edge of a Meteor Crater

14 Best Places In Arizona To Visit (31)

When travelling through Arizona, make sure to make a stop at the huge, Meteor Crater .

This massive meteor Crater happened around 50,000 years ago when the region was struck by, you guessed it, a meteor. Take a tour of the crater and marvel at how huge this hole in the earth is!

Read more: Visiting Meteor Crater

13.) Go Alien hunting in Roswell 

Alien Hunting in Roswell, New Mexico (7)

If you’re interested in the conspiracy theories around Area 51 and the alleged UFO sightings in and around New Mexico , then you must head to this quirky town of Roswell.

Visit the UFO Museum, spot the extra-terrestrial artwork around the town and see if you can spot a UFO or two!

Read more: What to do in Roswell

14.) Explore the River Walk in San Antonio

Best Things To Do In San Antonio

This historic city of San Antonio  is the perfect place to chill out and enjoy a little slice of Texan life.

Best Things To Do In San Antonio

Make sure to explore the River Walk and head inside The Alamo, which is very important in the history of the United States. San Antonio is gorgeous and visiting is one of the best things to do in the USA whilst on a wider Texan road trip.

Read more: Best things to do in San Antonio

15.) Find the Presidential Heads

Pit stop in Houston, Texas? Go check out the giant Beatles and US Presidents! (6)

Houston has a lot going for it; the Space Center, the home of Beyonce  and some larger-than-life Presidential Heads .

Yup, most visitors to Houston have no idea about one of the city’s hidden gems that are hidden just off the freeway. Take a look at our full post visiting the Presidential Heads, right here .

Read more: Best things to do in Houston

16.) Gorge at Mother’s in New Orleans 

Things To Do In The USA (16)

New Orleans is one of the United States most amazing cities to visit, especially if it’s your first time.

Head towards the French Quarter , enjoy Bourbon Street (even if it gets a little crazy at night) and soak up the atmosphere at Preservation Hall.

Oh, and grab a mighty fine bite to eat at Mother’s too. Make sure to grab a cup of seafood gumbo or the original debris with au jus gravy. 

Read more: Things to do in New Orleans

17.) See manatees in Ichituknee Springs

Things To Do In The USA (5)

Ichituknee Springs is about 3 hours northwest of Orlando by car and well worth a visit.

Rent yourself a dingy, head toward the springs themselves and allow yourself to float downstream where you’ll float alongside wild manatees and a few other Floridian residents.

Read more: Best things to do in Flordia

18.) Enjoy the thrills of Orlando

Things To Do In The USA (10)

Orlando is one of the best places in the world for thrill-seekers like us!

Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, USA (19)

Regardless of your age, places like Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Disney World are too much fun to miss. We had such a great time exploring all the parks… and they’re perfect for any age.

19.) Explore Miami

Things To Do In The USA (13)

Miami is a one-of-a-kind type of city! If cities were animals, Miami would definitely be a peacock.

Head to the beach, enjoy the art-deco architecture and people-watching in this fascinating city. As the day turns to night, be sure to party it up.

Read more: Best things to do in Miami

20.) See the stunning Florida Keys

Best beach In The Florida Keys

A few hours south of Miami is the gorgeous islands that are the Florida Keys where you can enjoy the humid heat, beautiful beaches and a laid-back way of life.

Best Things To Do In The Florida Keys

Head to Key West and discover the charming heritage of this amazing place.

Read more: Best places in Florida to explore

21.) Visit the Blue Ridge Mountains, Tennessee 

Things To Do In The USA (2)

Tennessee is one of those states that we might not immediately think to visit, especially when you’ve got the big-hitting destinations in Tennessee of Nashville , Memphis and Knoxville .

Make sure to visit the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and take a hike towards some of the smaller peaks. It’s one of the best things to do in the USA, especially if you’re wanting an escape from the hustle and bustle of the cities. 

Oh and don’t forget to make a stop at Dollywood too!

Read more: Things to do in Tennessee

22.) Find the impressive Mt. Rushmore

Things To Do In The USA (14)

If you’re heading to South Dakota , make sure to make a stop at Mt. Rushmore to see the world-famous presidential heads that are carved into the mountainside.

Very Best Places To Visit In South Dakota Mount Rushmore

This huge monument is pretty epic to see and a great place to stop on your way east or west.

Read more: Best things to do in South Dakota

23.) Discover the windy city, Chicago

Nicknamed the windy city, Chicago is one pretty cool city to visit.

10 Very Best Things To Do In Chicago (14)

Spend a few days exploring this epic place and discover the massive legume that now stands, in pride of place, in the city.

Read more: Best things to do in Chicago

24.) Explore Washington DC

14 Best Things To Do In Washington D.C. (4)

Washington D.C . has a lot going for it. Impressive buildings, stunning museums and quaint districts that you have to explore.

14 Best Things To Do In Washington D.C. (23)

Make sure to spend some time appreciating the Smithsonian Museums and the charming heritage of Alexandria.

Read more: Best things to do in Washington DC

25.) See the secret spots of New York City

Top Of The Rock In New York City! (5)

We all know the firm favourites of Lady Liberty , the Rockefeller Center and the Empire State Building ; but there are many other sites that are hidden from view too.

Things To See New York (67)

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, make sure to check out these mouth-watering eateries on your trip to the big apple. Visiting is one of the best things to do in the USA that’s totally iconic.

Just make sure to explore Manhattan and visit some of the other areas; like Brooklyn , too. 

Read more: Best things to do in NYC

26.) Gorge on fresh lobster in Boston

12 Of The Best Things to do in Boston On A First Time Visit (16)

No visit to Boston would be complete without walking the historic, Freedom Trail and grabbing bite to eat from one of the many restaurants serving fresh lobster with lashings of garlic buttery goodness.

It’s easy to visit Providence, Rhode Island from Boston too.

Read more: Best things to do in Boston

27.) See the beauty of the North-East

Things To Do In The USA (15)

The natural beauty of the north-east coastline has to be seen on your road trip across the east coast .

Make sure to make some stops in some of the main towns (and islands) that are just perfect for a day trip. 

Read more: Best places to visit on the East Coast

28.) Enjoy the wintery landscapes of Alaska

Sailing The Impressive Tracy Arm And Endicott Arm Fjord To The Dawes Glacier, Alaska (18)

Yep, it’s pretty chilly and the roads can get super icy, so if you’re planning on visiting Alaska make sure you understand the driving conditions before you go.

Humpback Whales, Glaciers And Northern Lights – The Most Magical Experience Aboard Celebrity Cruises Solstice To Alaska (40)

Once there, there’s a shedload of epic spots and the best things to do in the USA, including some of these beauties . Just make lots of time for the gorgeous natural beauty of Alaska.

Oh, and always take care in exploring the great outdoors. 

Read more: Exploring the best places in Alaska

29.) See the awe-inspiring beauty of Hawaii 

Best Things To Do In Maui (28)

Look, you won’t be able to drive from the mainland but there’s no stopping you from carrying on your road trip to (and within) Hawaii itself.

Best Things To Do In Maui (31)

There are so many places to see in this volcanic archipelago, especially if it’s your first visit! For me, the island of Maui is so stunning. 

Read more: Best things to do in Maui

Tips for driving

The Beautifully Colourful City Of St Pete, Florida (9)

In all, it took me around 7 weeks to complete a ‘circle’ starting in New York City, travelling north to Los Angeles and then from the Florida Keys to Los Angeles.

Each day, we drove between 3-8 hours, mostly around 4 hours and tried to get this finished by noon – this allows you to enjoy the rest of the day(s) at your chosen pit stop. Remember, as driving distances can be long, make sure to take lots of breaks and stop if you’re tired. No one likes a tired driver!

As with any of our posts, if you need any advice/tips on planning your route or any more info on the stops, make sure to send us a message.

We’re always happy to help and suggest heaps of the best things to do in the USA that we totally loved on our trip. 

Read more: Best cities in the USA to visit

21 Fun Cities In The US To Visit

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This Map Shows the Quickest (and Ultimate) Road Trip Across America

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Planning holidays in USA? This map has got you covered for a great American road trip this year. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before. A few years back a savvy University of Michigan researcher figured out the fastest route to drive across the US, hitting all the country’s major landmarks before coming full circle.

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Using a carefully calculated algorithm, it would take about nine days of driving – or 224 total hours – to complete the 13,699-mile (22,046-kilometre) journey across the United States, according to Randy Olson ‘s calculations.

If you’ve got the time to complete the full circuit, you’ll encounter some of the United States’ most famous sights, including Arizona’s Grand Canyon, Washington DC’s White House, New York’s Statue of Liberty and Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park. And if you were curious, Randy calculated the whole thing in less than a minute. Genius.

Here’s a full list (in order) of everything you’ll encounter on your holidays in USA for an epic road trip:

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho

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Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Pikes Peak, Colorado

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

The Alamo, Texas

The Platt Historic District, Oklahoma

Toltec Mounds, Arkansas

Elvis Presley’s Graceland, Tennessee

The Statue of Liberty

Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi

French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana

USS Alabama , Alabama

Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida

Okefenokee Swamp Park, Georgia

Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina

Glacier National Park

Lost World Caverns, West Virginia

Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, North Carolina

Mount Vernon, Virginia

White House, Washington DC

Colonial Annapolis Historic District, Maryland

New Castle Historic District, Delaware

Cape May Historic District, New Jersey

Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania

Statue of Liberty, New York

The Mark Twain House and Museum, Connecticut

The Breakers, Rhode Island

The Liberty Bell

USS Constitution , Massachusetts

Acadia National Park, Maine

Mount Washington Hotel, New Hampshire

Shelburne Farms, Vermont

Fox Theater, Michigan

Spring Grove Cemetery, Ohio

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

The White House

West Baden Springs Hotel, Indiana

Abraham Lincoln’s Home, Illinois

Gateway Arch, Missouri

C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, Kansas

Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, Iowa

Taliesin, Wisconsin

Fort Snelling, Minnesota

Ashfall Fossil Bed, Nebraska

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Mt. Rushmore

Fort Union Trading Post, North Dakota

Glacier National Park, Montana

Hanford Site, Washington

Columbia River Highway, Oregon

San Francisco Cable Cars, California

Golden Gate Bridge

San Andreas Fault, California

Hoover Dam, Nevada

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

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Pacific Coast

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Border to Border

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The Road to Nowhere

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The Great River Road

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Appalachian Trail

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Atlantic Coast

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The Great Northern

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The Oregon Trail

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The Loneliest Road

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Southern Pacific

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Home / Pacific Coast

Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Highway road trip driving distance map from California to Oregon and Washington

For some reason, when people elsewhere in the country refer to the Pacific Coast, particularly California, it’s apparent that they think it’s a land of kooks, an overbuilt suburban desert supporting only shopping malls, freeways, and body-obsessed airheads. All this may be true in small pockets, but the amazing thing about the Pacific Coast—from the dense green forests of western Washington to the gorgeous beaches of Southern California—is that it is still mostly wild, open, and astoundingly beautiful country, where you can drive for miles and miles and have the scenery all to yourself.

Planning a West Coast Road Trip

Road Trip USA’s Pacific Coast route begins at the northwest tip of the United States at Port Townsend near Olympic National Park, and remains within sight of the ocean almost all the way south to the Mexican border. This 1,650-mile (2,655 km), mostly two-lane route takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert. Most of the Pacific Coast is in the public domain, accessible, and protected from development within national, state, and local parks, which provide habitat for such rare creatures as mountain lions, condors, and gray whales.

A misty day at rocky Cape Flattery on Washington's Olympic Peninsula.

Heading south, after the rough-and-tumble logging and fishing communities of Washington State, you cross the mouth of the Columbia River and follow the comparatively peaceful and quiet Oregon coastline, where recreation has by and large replaced industry, and where dozens of quaint and not-so-quaint communities line the ever-changing shoreline. At the midway point, you pass through the great redwood forests of Northern California, where the tallest and most majestic living things on earth line the Avenue of the Giants, home also to some of the best (meaning gloriously kitsch) remnants of the golden age of car-borne tourism: drive-through trees, drive-on trees, houses carved out of trees, and much more. The phenomenally beautiful coast-line of Northern California is rivaled only by the incredible coast of Big Sur farther south, beyond which stretches the beachfronts of Southern California. The land of palm trees, beach boys, and surfer girls of popular lore really does exist, though only in the southernmost quarter of the state.

Along with the overwhelming scale of its natural beauty, the West Coast is remarkable for the abundance of well-preserved historic sites—most of which haven’t been torn down, built on, or even built around—that stand as vivid evocations of life on what was once the most distant frontier of a new nation. While rarely as old as places on the East Coast, or as impressive as those in Europe, these diverse sites include the Spanish colonial missions of California, Russian and English fur-trading outposts, and the place where Lewis and Clark first sighted the Pacific after their long slog across the continent.

Last but certainly not least are the energizing cities— Seattle and Portland in the north, San Francisco in the middle, and Los Angeles and San Diego to the south—that serve as gateways to (or civilized respites from) the landscapes between them. Add to these the dozens of small and not-so-small towns along the coast, with alternating blue-collar ports and up-scale vacation retreats, and you have a great range of food, drink, and accommodations options. Local cafés, seafood grills, and bijou restaurants abound, as do places to stay—from youth hostels in old lighthouses to roadside motels (including the world’s first, which still stands in lovely San Luis Obispo, California) to homespun B&Bs in old farmhouses.

10 Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops

For more insight into each stop along a West Coast road trip, our content is arranged by state, with California’s coastline broken into its northern, central, and southern sections. Here are ten major sights along the Pacific Coast Highway where travelers aiming to follow only a section of the full cross-country route may wish to use to plan their drive:

Sunset at McWay falls in Big Sur along the Pacific Coast Highway

  • Olympic National Park, Washington – Combines the features of Maine’s rocky coast, the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and the unique rainforests of the Pacific Northwest
  • Astoria & Fort Clatsop, Oregon – Part of the extensive Lewis and Clark National Historic Park, Fort Clatsop is just outside the oldest American city west of the Rockies
  • “Dune Country,” Oregon – Hop out of the car and into a dune buggy to travel through some of the tallest sand dunes in the world
  • Redwood National Park, California – Stretch your legs with a walk through Lady Bird Johnson Grove
  • Mendocino, California – One of the prettiest towns on the California coast, and extra fun for fans of the TV show Murder, She Wrote
  • San Francisco, California – Easily one of the most enjoyable cities in the US and a great place to start, end, or spend a weekend along the Pacific Coast Highway
  • Monterey, California – Home to the excellent Monterey Bay Aquarium and the internationally famous Monterey Jazz Festival
  • San Simeon, California (Hearst Castle) – One of the truly unique attractions to see on a classic Highway 1 road trip
  • San Luis Obispo, California – A lively college town with a beautiful 18th-century Spanish mission to tour, and the Madonna Inn, one of the quirkiest places to spend a night
  • Los Angeles, California – Hollywood, Sunset Boulevard, and an intersection with another storied road trip: Route 66
  • San Diego, California – Beautiful beaches, grand buildings, and home to the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most popular zoos in the world

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10 of the best road trips in the USA

Bailey Freeman

Jan 5, 2024 • 6 min read

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Take to the open road and discover a different side to the USA © monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images

While a plane may get you there faster, road-tripping across the US is one of the most iconically American things you can do.

Get up close and personal with the country’s most striking landscapes – dense eastern forests, windswept plains, red rock canyons, dramatic Pacific coastlines – and make pit stops at some of its most famous cities all in one go.

Crisscrossed with an extensive network of pretty well-maintained highway systems, the US is remarkably easy to traverse by car . Some distances may be long, but gas, food and accommodations are largely easy to come by (except in some of the most rural locales), and a set of wheels gives you the freedom to do extra side quests along the way.

Here’s a list of our favorite routes across America’s wide open spaces, along with some tips on how to make the most of your journey.

1. Pacific Coast Highway

Best road trip for Pacific views San Diego–Seattle; 1600 miles; 8–12 days

The Pacific Coast Highway delivers one of the US’ most iconic road trip experiences, linking together the West Coast’s most notable metropolises, quirky California beach towns, ancient redwood forests, and the dramatic capes and pools of the Pacific Northwest . The route includes Hwy 1, Hwy 101 and I-5, starting in San Diego ; it winds up the coast through LA , Big Sur , San Francisco and Redwood National & State Parks , eventually terminating in Seattle .

Planning tip: Always check for road closures, particularly in the Big Sur area, where rockslides are common along the sea cliffs.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Best Appalachian road trip Cherokee, NC–Waynesboro, VA; 469 miles; 2–5 days

This spectacular route takes you through the heart of the US’ oldest mountain range, delivering view after view of rolling green mountains chock full of enchanting hiking trails, thundering waterfalls, ancient rock formations and prolific wildlife. The Parkway – part of the NPS system – begins adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and passes through the spectacular Pisgah National Forest, a number of state parks and recreation areas, and Roanoke, VA, before ending at the southern entrance of Shenandoah National Park .

Detour: In addition to state and national parks , many one-off hikes originate along the parkway. Consult trail maps to avoid missing some of Appalachia’s top routes.

Roadside attraction along historic Route 66 in Kingman Arizona

3. Route 66

Best road trip for American kitsch Chicago–Los Angeles; 2250 miles; 1–2 weeks

Nicknamed the Mother Road, Route 66 has permanently ingrained itself in the international psyche as the original US road trip. Starting in Chicago , it crosses eight different states and connects travelers to national parks, weird-but-wonderful roadside attractions and tons of vintage Americana.

Planning tip:  The route can be driven in pieces or all at once, but we suggest allotting plenty of time to explore – distances are long, and the activities are numerous.

4. Natchez Trace

Best road trip for Southern history Pasquo, TN–Natchez, MS; 444 miles; 2–3 days

The path for the Natchez Trace was originally carved not by humans, but by buffalo that wandered the region from middle Tennessee to Natchez, MS. Indigenous hunters and traders soon followed, and later the route became a full-fledged thoroughfare for European colonists, soldiers and dignitaries. Today, a trip down the Trace yields gorgeous scenery, historic towns and the experience of traveling one of the most storied roads in the country.

5. Florida Highway 1

Best road trip for Gulf Coast culture Amelia Island–Key West; 475 miles; 6 days

Florida’s Hwy 1 runs the length of the state’s Atlantic Coast before banking east at Miami  and ending in stunning Key West . This sublime multi-day journey takes you through tons of Florida ’s most iconic stops: historic St Augustine , windswept Canaveral National Seashore , Nascar-fueled Daytona, laid-back Fort Lauderdale and the glam and glitter of Miami and South Beach.

Planning tip: Hurricane season lasts from June through October – with the most active months being August and September – and has the potential to significantly affect Florida. If you’re visiting during this window, keep your eyes on the forecast.

Cowboys herd American buffalo across an auburn plain

6. Badlands – Black Hills Loop

Best road trip to experience the Great Plains Badlands National Park–Badlands National Park; 330 miles; 2 days

If you want to get a taste of how expansive the Great Plains really are, head to South Dakota for this fascinating road trip through a state of huge ecological and cultural importance. Start your trip at the mind-bendingly beautiful Badlands National Park before looping over to the Black Hills, home to the Crazy Horse Memorial , Mt Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park . Along the way, take in views of thriving buffalo herds, fascinating rock formations and plenty of rolling hills.

7. San Juan Skyway

Best road trip for Rocky Mountain peaks Durango–Durango; 236 miles; 1–3 days

The San Juan Skyway delivers some of the Rockies ’ biggest views in high definition. This route – which includes the renowned Million Dollar Highway – leapfrogs across central Colorado’s mountainous core connecting Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park , known for the cliff dwellings left behind by the Ancestral Puebloans.

Whether you’re a history buff, ski bum, landscape photographer or simply someone who enjoys a thrilling drive, San Juan Skyway has something for you.

Planning tip: A fact that can be deduced by its name, the San Juan Skyway runs through high-altitude terrain, and that makes road conditions somewhat unpredictable, particularly during shoulder season. Always check for closures or local warnings before heading out.

8. Richardson Highway

Best road trip for Alaska outdoors Fairbanks–Valdez; 364 miles; 2–4 days

No road trip list would be complete without a journey through the country’s largest, northernmost state. The Richardson Highway, Alaska’s oldest highway, connects Fairbanks with Valdez, winding past dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers and giving travelers a front seat to some of the country’s most jaw-dropping natural attractions. Be sure to make pit stops for hiking, fishing and whitewater rafting.

An older couple take a break from hiking to enjoy the view at Utah outlook overlooking a canyon. They are sitting on the cliff's edge and soaking in the scenery. The mountains and canyon are in front of them.

9. Scenic Byway 12

Best road trip through red rock country Bryce Canyon National Park–Capitol Reef National Park; 122 miles; 1 day

Southern Utah feels like an entirely different planet, and this backroads route takes you through the best scenery this geologically diverse state has to offer. Start your journey in the town of Panguitch – right outside of Bryce Canyon – and follow the road through red rock canyons, historic towns and pine forests until you finish your journey in Torrey, gateway to Capitol Reef National Park , one of the west’s best-kept secrets.

Detour: From Torrey, it’s an easy 2.5-hour drive to Moab , Canyonlands and Arches , making these routes the best way to see Utah’s Big 5 . And the road itself takes you through some amazing lunar-like scenery that contrasts sharply with the red rocks – wild.

10. Coastal New England

Best road trip for Atlantic maritime vibes New York City–Portland, ME; 430 miles; 3–5 days

Prep yourself for seafood chowder, picturesque oceanside towns and all the lobster you can handle – this coastal New England trip will definitely help you find your sea legs. Start in New York City and make your way north along the coast, stopping to enjoy the lovely beaches in Rhode Island , Massachusetts’  wealth of historical heavy hitters and New Hampshire’ s lighthouses before arriving in culinary-minded Portland, ME .

This article was first published May 22, 2019 and updated Jan 5, 2024.

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cross country road trip

Map Shows the Most Efficient Cross-Country U.S. Road Trip

Looking for the most efficient American cross-country  road trip  that doesn't miss the best landmarks around the USA? This map may have your solution.

Discovery News  blogger Tracy Staedter sought to put an end to tedious roads trip after discovering a road map that claimed to route all of the nation's major  landmarks . Staedter realized the map wasn't just inaccurate (more than a few states were missing), it was also terribly inefficient.

"Wouldn't it be nice to have a map that hit landmarks in every state and not only that," she mused. "Wouldn't it be great if the map represented the optimal, most efficient route across the country?"

To create the perfect American road trip, Staedter contacted Randy Olson, a Michigan State University doctoral student. Olson used an algorithm to generate the map, factoring in logistics for traffic, turns, and alternate routes.

Even though the route isn't technically "perfect", it's about as close as the curious adventurer can get to the most efficient roadmap across America. [ Click here to enlarge the map ]

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Image via RandalOlson.com

All of the stops are in the Continental United States, which is ideal for traveling by car. The route can be started from any state and would be 9.33 days worth of driving. Olson reassures that, in actuality, the round trip would take around 2-3 months including stops at gas stations. You'll hit New York City and New England, looping down along the southeast coast and through the South before looping up towards Canada to hit big cities on your way back. There are certain notable spots you'll miss along the trip like Atlanta or Chicago but you won't feel like you're missing out because of everything else included along the way.

Staedter handpicked the stops, which she thinks provide a "nice mix of history and natural wonder". Sounds like the perfect combination for the spirited traveler. It's time to save some money, pick some playlists, and hit the road on this must-see long-distance trip.

Here are the 50 landmark stops she picked along her road trip route:

  • Grand Canyon, Arizona
  • Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
  • Craters of the Moon, Idaho 
  • Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
  • Pikes Peak, Colorado
  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
  • The Alamo, Texas
  • The Platt Historic District, Oklahoma
  • Toltec Mounds, Arkansas
  • Elvis Presley's Graceland, Tennessee 
  • Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi
  • French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana 
  • USS Alabama, Alabama 
  • Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida 
  • Okefenokee Swamp Park, Georgia
  • Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina
  • Lost World Caverns, West Virginia 
  • Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, North Carolina
  • Mount Vernon, Virginia
  • White House, Washington, DC
  • Colonial Annapolis Historic District, Maryland
  • New Castle Historic District, Delaware
  • Cape May Historic District, New Jersey
  • Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania
  • Statue of Liberty, New York
  • The Mark Twain House & Museum, Connecticut
  • The Breakers, Rhode Island
  • USS Constitution, Massachusetts 
  • Acadia National Park, Maine
  • Mount Washington Hotel, New Hampshire 
  • Shelburne Farms, Vermont
  • Fox Theater in Detroit, Michigan
  • Spring Grove Cemetery, Ohio
  • Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky 
  • West Baden Springs Hotel, Indiana 
  • Abraham Lincoln's Home, Illinois 
  • Gateway Arch in St. Louis Missouri
  • C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, Kansas
  • Terrace Hill Governor's Mansion, Iowa
  • Taliesin, Wisconsin 
  • Fort Snelling, Minnesota
  • Ashfall Fossil Bed, Nebraska 
  • Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
  • Fort Union Trading Post, North Dakota
  • Glacier National Park, Montana
  • Hanford Site, Washington
  • Columbia River Highway, Oregon
  • San Francisco Cable Cars, California 
  • San Andreas Fault, California
  • Hoover Dam, Nevada

Olson also created a bonus map that hits all of the major U.S. cities, for those craving even more travel.

Read More:  Map Shows the Ultimate U.S. National Park Road Trip

This post was originally published on July 24, 2017.

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    Did you know: If you use the Roadtrippers mobile app, your trips will instantly auto-sync over... Ready for navigation and good times! Search. The ultimate road trip planner to help you discover extraordinary places, book hotels, and share itineraries all from the map.

  2. The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)

    Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California): 1. Grand Canyon, AZ. 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT. 3. Craters of the Moon, ID. 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY.

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  4. 11 Epic Cross-Country American Road Trips

    Buy Now. Your great American road trip awaits! Get the fully updated 25th Anniversary Edition of Road Trip USA for the glovebox or as a gift for your favorite armchair adventurer. Author Jamie Jensen's full-color guide includes over 125 driving maps and key sights along the eleven cross-country road trip routes featured on this site.

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    Top 15 Best Road Trips in America. 1. Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip. Location: Utah, USA. Distance: Approximately 1200 miles (1931 km) Suggested Time: 7 days. Minimum Time: 3 days. Best Time of Year: March - October. Inspiration Point at Sunrise in Bryce Canyon National Park | Best Road Trips USA.

  7. This Map Shows the Ultimate U.S. Road Trip

    See the map here, and for additional travel goals, check out Olson's road trip maps for South America and Europe. A version of this story ran in 2015; it has been updated for 2023. Related Tags ...

  8. How to Plan the Ultimate USA Road Trip 2024/2025

    Route 66. It's legendary, and what the rest of the world thinks of when you mention you're going a road trip in the United States. This Mother Road is blanketed across eight states and stretches through farmland, deserts, mountains, sleepy towns and metropolitan cities. Must-see stops: Meramec Caverns, Santa Fe, Mojave National Preserve.

  9. Road Trip Planner

    Plan your next trip, find amazing places, and take fascinating detours with the #1 trip planner. Every trip is a road trip. Mobile Menu Roadtrippers Roadtrippers. ... Look for the illustrations on our maps and read our takes on what make these places so special. ... Connect with us and hit up #roadtrippers. Tall tales, trip guides, and the ...

  10. Your perfect road trip map of the United States

    The best road trips by region in the United States. Getting misty in the Pacific Northwest. Cruise down the coast of California. Get your kicks on Route 66. Complete the Texas Triangle. Glide along the Gulf Coast. Road trip through the tropics. Saunter through the south. Explore US history in the mid-Atlantic.

  11. Road Trip Planner

    The Trippy road trip planner automatically calculates the optimal itinerary including stops recommended by Trippy members, favorite restaurants and hotels, local attractions and things to do based on what people who live in the area have suggested, and more. Once you have a quick trip planned, you can customize every detail, adding or removing ...

  12. Free Road Trip Planner with Unlimited Stops

    Contact Us. Our free road trip planner is easy to use. Create personalized trips with multiple stops, automatically divide multi-day trips into manageable days, export to GPS or print directions, import from your favorite tools, edit, share and more.

  13. 29 Best Things To Do In The USA

    The United States is as vast as it is exciting! Stretching for thousands of miles, it literally takes days (non-stop) to drive from one end to the other - 29 Best Things To Do In The USA - Road Trip Map - Travel, Travel Advice - North America, USA - Travel, Food and Home Inspiration Blog with door-to-door Travel Planner! - Travel Advice, Travel Inspiration, Home Inspiration, Food Inspiration ...

  14. Multi-Stop Route Planning and Optimization Tools

    Provide up to 26 locations and Route Planner will optimize, based on your preferences, to save you time and gas money. Find the shortest routes between multiple stops and get times and distances for your work or a road trip. Easily enter stops on a map or by uploading a file. Save gas and time on your next trip.

  15. Free Road Trip Map & Vacation Itinerary Planner

    The Best 2024 Free Road Trip & Vacation Travel Itinerary Planner App for Multiple Stop Routes, Driving Directions Map, Trip Sharing, Cost Tracking & Inspiration units. Miles. Home. Create New Trip ... Canada, through the USA, and back home again, Geovea made the journey seamless. I could track his progress in real-time, and he could ...

  16. This Map Shows The Quickest And Ultimate Road Trip Across America

    Using a carefully calculated algorithm, it would take about nine days of driving - or 224 total hours - to complete the 13,699-mile (22,046-kilometre) journey across the United States, according to Randy Olson's calculations.

  17. Best Road Trips Across the US

    Road trip ideas by state; National parks; Famous routes; Voices from the Road; Fresh Guides. A Highway 1 road trip along California's Central Coast; The ultimate guide to Mammoth Cave National Park; The Ultimate Guide to Badlands National Park; Route 66 Leg 2: St. Louis to Tulsa; Route 66 Leg 1: Chicago to St. Louis; Route 66 Leg 3: Tulsa to ...

  18. The Classic Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

    Planning a West Coast Road Trip. Road Trip USA's Pacific Coast route begins at the northwest tip of the United States at Port Townsend near Olympic National Park, and remains within sight of the ocean almost all the way south to the Mexican border. This 1,650-mile (2,655 km), mostly two-lane route takes in everything from temperate rainforest ...

  19. 10 of the best road trips in the USA

    1. Pacific Coast Highway. Best road trip for Pacific views. San Diego-Seattle; 1600 miles; 8-12 days. The Pacific Coast Highway delivers one of the US' most iconic road trip experiences, linking together the West Coast's most notable metropolises, quirky California beach towns, ancient redwood forests, and the dramatic capes and pools ...

  20. US Road Trip Map, Perfect USA Road Trip Planner, United States Road

    Best Road Trip Route in the United States. One of the most iconic road trip routes in the United States is the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1. Stretching approximately 650 miles along the California coast, it offers an unparalleled journey through diverse landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant communities.

  21. RoadTrip America Map Wizard

    Welcome to the RoadTrip America Map Wizard! (Note: The name of a city is sufficient.) Step 3: Name, Save, & Print Your Map (Note: You must register to name, save and print your map.) For more map tools and features, please visit RTA's full service RoadTrip Map Center. If you are using a Mac and are having troubles sharing or printing a saved ...

  22. Map Shows the Most Efficient Cross-Country U.S. Road Trip

    Here are the 50 landmark stops she picked along her road trip route: Grand Canyon, Arizona. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. Craters of the Moon, Idaho. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. Pikes ...

  23. 41 West Highway 14 Trip

    41 West Highway 14 Trip road trip makes stops at 13948 97th Street, Becker, United States, and 41 West Highway 14, Spearfish, SD, United States. Plan your road trip with Roadtrippers.

  24. 255 Malauka Rd, Ocklawaha, FL 32179

    Zillow has 28 photos of this $269,900 3 beds, 2 baths, 1,439 Square Feet single family home located at 255 Malauka Rd, Ocklawaha, FL 32179 built in 2024. MLS #O6236822.