Top 5 best road trips in the U.S.

Pacific Coast Highway: California dreamin'

The Pacific Coast Highway hugs 656 miles of California’s curves where cliffs meet crashing waves. 

Though it’s a popular route in either direction, taking the Pacific Coast Highway from north to south ensures that you’re in the lane closest to the ocean views the entire journey. The route is lined with places to explore, including the cliffs of Mendocino Headlands State Park, the scenic 17-Mile Drive near Pebble Beach, McWay Falls in Big Sur, and Morro Rock rising out of the bay.

Grab fish tacos in Santa Barbara, walk beneath and between the Redwoods near Big Sur, or sip coffee in Monterey before heading south. Step outside of your car, take a peek over any lookout you find, and you’ll quickly understand why this drive deserves a spot on your bucket list.

Blue Ridge Parkway: Appalachian beauty

This trip is for the scenic seekers out there. The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches through the Appalachian Mountains, linking Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park across North Carolina and Tennessee.

With nearly 500 miles of forested ridges and small-town charm, every overlook feels like a discovery: cascading mountain layers fade into the horizon behind layers of valleys and colors that shift with the seasons. Fall might be its best show, but any time of year delivers. 

Local farm stands, hiking trails, and roadside cabins make it easy to slow down and stay awhile. The Blue Ridge Parkway truly embodies the phrase, “stop and smell the roses”; it’s beautiful, untamed yet accessible, with the road unfolding before and beside you.

Route 66: The classic American drive

Route 66 isn’t just any road (and is one of the original highways in the United States). 

Spanning 2,448 miles between Chicago and the Santa Monica Pier, this legendary highway cuts through eight states and three time zones. Dubbed the “Main Street of America,” it ties together roadside icons like the Gemini Giant in Illinois, Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma.

You can also grab a meal at the Midpoint Café in Adrian, TX, or take a photo of the restored Cool Springs gas station near Oatman, AZ. The route remains a living snapshot of 20th-century road culture, lined with diners, motels, and landmarks that keep its history alive.

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Montana majesty

Few places on earth feel as wild and open as Glacier National Park, and the Going-to-the-Sun Road takes you right through its heart. 

This 50-mile stretch winds past alpine peaks, waterfalls, and turquoise lakes, culminating in a climb to Logan Pass along the Continental Divide. The drive is seasonal and typically opens in late June; always check the road status before you go. Start early—parking fills up quickly—and pack layers, as temperatures can drop sharply at higher elevations. 

There are no gas stations between Lake McDonald and Rising Sun, so be sure to fill up beforehand and bring snacks. Keep your camera ready for mountain goats, moose, and sweeping views that change with every turn.

Overseas Highway: Florida’s island escape

There’s something surreal about driving across the sea, and that’s what the Overseas Highway offers. Linking Miami to Key West, this route strings together 42 bridges over crystal-clear blue water. It’s most famous for its endless ocean views and the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest stretches of overwater highway in the world. 

Roll down the windows, breathe in the salt air, and watch the horizon melt slowly into the sea. Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon each have their own unique vibe, ranging from snorkeling and seafood shacks to historic shipwreck museums. 

When you reach Key West, grab a sunset drink at Mallory Square and toast to the road ahead.

Ready for your next adventure?

Pick a direction, grab your favorite co-pilot, and see where the miles take you. Every route on this list offers something different: coastlines, mountains, or history that sticks with you long after the engine cools.

Before you head out, stop by Transwest for a quick inspection, fluid top-off, or gear check.