Back in Time Today
Exploring the United States becomes even more fascinating when you hit the road. Every state offers a unique slice of highway that showcases its culture, landscape, and history. From winding mountain passes to open desert stretches, these roads aren’t just means to a destination; they are destinations in themselves. Let’s embark on a journey across 50 states, each with its own iconic roadway that you should experience at least once in your lifetime.
California – Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway in California is a road tripper’s dream. Stretching over 650 miles, it offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Imagine cruising alongside cliffs, with the sea crashing below and the sky stretching endlessly.
Each turn reveals hidden beaches and charming coastal towns. Pause in Monterey for some fresh seafood or marvel at the grandeur of the Big Sur. The journey is not just about the sights; it’s about the feel of the wind and the freedom of the open road. Adventure awaits at every mile.
Arizona – Route 66
Route 66, the legendary highway, stretches through the heart of Arizona, offering a nostalgic journey into America’s past. Known as the Main Street of America, it takes you through classic diners, neon signs, and quirky roadside attractions.
The desert landscapes provide a backdrop that feels timeless. Stop by the Petrified Forest National Park to witness ancient wonders. This iconic route invites travelers to relive the golden age of road trips, where every stop tells a story and every mile is a memory waiting to be made.
Texas – Hill Country Road
Traveling through Texas Hill Country, you’ll find a landscape that’s both rugged and beautiful. The rolling hills are dotted with wildflowers, especially vibrant in spring.
Charming small towns like Fredericksburg offer a taste of German culture mixed with Texan hospitality. Along the way, visit wineries and enjoy the local cuisine. The journey through Hill Country is more than just a drive; it’s an exploration of culture, nature, and the warm Texan spirit. The open road here invites travelers to discover hidden gems around every bend.
Florida – Overseas Highway
The Overseas Highway in Florida is a marvel of engineering and beauty. Spanning over 113 miles, it connects the Florida mainland to the Keys, crossing over water and islands.
Driving here feels like gliding across the ocean. The turquoise waters and tropical scenery create a paradise-like experience. Stop in Key Largo or Key West for a taste of island life and fresh seafood. This highway offers more than just a path to a destination; it provides an opportunity to immerse in the serene beauty of the tropics, with every mile revealing something new.
New York – Hudson Valley Loop
The Hudson Valley Loop in New York offers a scenic drive through one of the most beautiful areas in the state. Especially breathtaking in the fall, the road is lined with vibrant autumn leaves that create a kaleidoscope of colors.
Along the way, you’ll encounter historic mansions and charming villages. The river views add to the allure, making it a perfect romantic getaway. Whether exploring art galleries or sampling local wines, the Hudson Valley provides a rich tapestry of experiences. It’s a journey through history, nature, and culture that captivates the soul.
Colorado – Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road in Colorado offers an exhilarating drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. This high-altitude route climbs over 12,000 feet, providing views that are both breathtaking and humbling.
As you ascend, the landscape shifts from dense forests to alpine tundra. Wildlife sightings, including elk and marmots, are common. Pause at overlooks to take in the expansive vistas. The road is not just a journey through natural beauty but also an adventure that challenges and rewards at every turn. It’s a drive where the mountains truly feel alive, and every twist offers a new perspective.
Oregon – Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge in Oregon is a scenic wonderland where nature showcases its splendor. Stretching over 80 miles, the drive takes you past towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Hiking trails invite exploration, and the lush greenery of the forests provides a peaceful retreat. The gorge is not just about the views; it’s an interactive experience with nature. From the roaring Multnomah Falls to the tranquil riverbanks, every stop enriches the journey. This road offers a connection to the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest, where every mile feels like a step into a natural masterpiece.
Virginia – Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive in Virginia snakes through Shenandoah National Park, offering a peaceful escape into nature’s embrace. The 105-mile route provides panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The road is especially enchanting during the fall, with leaves painting a vibrant tapestry of color. Wildlife sightings, from deer to black bears, are part of the charm. Picnic areas and hiking trails invite you to linger and explore. This drive is more than just a visual feast; it’s a soulful journey into a world where nature’s beauty is unspoiled and ever-changing.
Michigan – Lake Superior Circle Tour
The Lake Superior Circle Tour in Michigan offers an epic journey around the largest of the Great Lakes. The route takes you through diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to dense forests and rocky cliffs.
Lighthouses dot the shoreline, guiding the way as they have for generations. This drive is about more than just the views; it’s about connecting with the power and beauty of water. Each stop, whether it’s a quaint fishing village or a roaring waterfall, adds to the narrative of a lake that feels as vast as the sea, and as welcoming as a friend.
Georgia – Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway in Georgia offers a tranquil journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southeastern U.S. Known for its serene beauty, the road meanders through lush hills and provides stunning mountain vistas.
The drive is peaceful, offering spots to stop and soak in the views. Along the way, discover trails that invite exploration. The Blue Ridge Parkway is more than just a road; it’s a pathway into the heart of nature, where every mile reveals a new scene of tranquility and beauty, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Hawaii – Hana Highway
The Hana Highway in Hawaii is renowned for its stunning beauty and lush landscapes. This road winds through Maui’s eastern coastline, providing breathtaking views of waterfalls, rainforests, and the ocean.
As you journey through the twists and turns, each stop offers a new adventure. Explore hidden beaches and vibrant gardens. Relax under the cascading waters of a secluded waterfall. The Hana Highway invites travelers to immerse in the exotic beauty of Hawaii, where the journey is as captivating as the destination, with each mile offering a new discovery.
Illinois – Great River Road
The Great River Road in Illinois takes you along the majestic Mississippi River, offering a drive rich with history and natural beauty. This route connects historic river towns, each with its own story to tell.
The views of the river are mesmerizing, creating a sense of timelessness as the water flows steadily on. Explore charming towns, sample local foods, and learn about the region’s rich heritage. This drive is more than just a path; it’s an invitation to explore the cultural tapestry of America’s heartland, where each turn reveals a new chapter of history and beauty.
Alaska – Seward Highway
The Seward Highway in Alaska offers a mesmerizing journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in North America. Stretching from Anchorage to Seward, the road takes you through a world of glaciers, mountains, and fjords.
Wildlife sightings, including moose and eagles, add to the allure. The crisp, clean air and the sense of vast wilderness create an unforgettable experience. Each stop along the way, from scenic overlooks to small towns, offers something unique. This drive is a gateway to Alaska’s untamed beauty, where every mile leaves a lasting impression on the soul.
Missouri – Ozark National Scenic Riverways
Missouri’s Ozark National Scenic Riverways offers a picturesque drive through a landscape of rolling hills and clear rivers. This area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and exploring nature.
The drive takes you through quaint towns and offers a glimpse into the local culture. The rivers, with their pristine waters, are a highlight, inviting you to pause and enjoy the tranquility. This journey is about more than just the scenery; it’s about engaging with nature and experiencing the peaceful rhythm of the Ozarks, where every mile feels like a retreat.
North Carolina – Outer Banks Scenic Byway
The Outer Banks Scenic Byway in North Carolina offers a drive through a coastal paradise. This route, stretching along sandy beaches and historic lighthouses, invites travelers to experience the beauty and charm of the Outer Banks.
The ocean views are captivating, providing a calming backdrop for the journey. Along the way, explore quaint fishing villages and historic sites. The byway is more than just a drive; it’s an exploration of a unique coastal culture, where the sea meets the land, and every mile offers a glimpse into a world shaped by the ocean’s rhythm.
Massachusetts – Cape Cod Scenic Drive
The Cape Cod Scenic Drive in Massachusetts takes travelers through a region known for its charming villages and coastal beauty. The route offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, with lighthouses guiding the way.
Charming towns invite exploration, with local shops and eateries offering a taste of New England. The beaches, with their soft sands and rolling waves, provide a perfect place to relax. This drive is more than just a road trip; it’s an invitation to experience the unique charm and timeless beauty of Cape Cod, where every mile offers something new to discover.
Nevada – Extraterrestrial Highway
The Extraterrestrial Highway in Nevada offers a journey through a landscape both mysterious and intriguing. This remote stretch of road is known for its alien-themed attractions and vast desert views.
As you drive, the sense of mystery grows, with the wide-open skies above. Stops along the way provide quirky insights into the area’s extraterrestrial folklore. This drive is about more than just reaching a destination; it’s about embracing the unknown and exploring a part of Nevada steeped in legend and lore, where every mile offers a glimpse into a world both familiar and otherworldly.
Wisconsin – Door County Coastal Byway
The Door County Coastal Byway in Wisconsin offers a delightful drive through one of the Midwest’s most scenic regions. This route winds along the shores of Lake Michigan, passing charming villages and lush landscapes.
The coastal views are stunning, with opportunities to explore local shops and sample regional delicacies. The byway is more than just a road; it’s an exploration of a unique culture and landscape, where the beauty of the lake meets the warmth of the community. This journey invites travelers to discover a part of Wisconsin where every mile is filled with charm and wonder.
Kentucky – Bourbon Trail
The Bourbon Trail in Kentucky offers a scenic drive through a region known for its rich history and distinctive spirit. This route takes you through rolling hills and past historic distilleries.
The journey is about more than just the views; it’s an exploration of Kentucky’s unique culture and heritage. Stops along the way offer a taste of the state’s famous bourbon, with opportunities to learn about the craft behind its production. This drive is a celebration of tradition and taste, where every mile offers a deeper connection to the heart of Kentucky.
Louisiana – Creole Nature Trail
The Creole Nature Trail in Louisiana offers a drive through a landscape of swamps and coastal marshes, rich with wildlife and natural beauty. This route provides an opportunity to explore a unique ecosystem.
The drive invites you to pause and discover the area’s abundant wildlife, from birds to alligators. The trail is more than just a road; it’s a journey into the heart of Louisiana’s natural world, where every mile offers a new encounter with the wild. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape and experiencing the unique culture of the region.
Tennessee – Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee offers a journey through a landscape rich with history and natural beauty. This route follows ancient trails used by Native Americans and early settlers.
The drive is peaceful, with opportunities to explore historical sites and enjoy the natural scenery. The parkway is more than just a road; it’s a pathway through time, where every mile tells a story of the past. This journey invites travelers to connect with history and nature, where the beauty of the landscape is matched by the depth of its heritage.
Washington – North Cascades Highway
The North Cascades Highway in Washington offers a journey through one of the most breathtaking mountain ranges in the U.S. This route takes you through a landscape of snow-capped peaks and lush forests.
The drive offers opportunities to explore hiking trails and enjoy the stunning views. The highway is more than just a road; it’s an invitation to experience the beauty and majesty of the North Cascades, where every mile offers a new vista of natural wonder. This journey is about embracing the wild beauty of the landscape and discovering the adventure that awaits.
Minnesota – Great River Road
The Great River Road in Minnesota offers a scenic drive along the mighty Mississippi River. This route connects historic towns, each with its own charm and story.
The river views are captivating, providing a sense of timelessness as the water flows steadily on. The drive is more than just a road; it’s an exploration of a region rich with history and natural beauty, where every mile offers a new chapter of discovery. This journey invites travelers to connect with the heart of Minnesota, where the beauty of the landscape meets the warmth of its people.
South Carolina – Ashley River Road
The Ashley River Road in South Carolina offers a drive through a landscape rich with history and southern charm. This route takes you past historic plantations and majestic oak avenues.
The drive is an invitation to explore the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Stops along the way offer opportunities to discover gardens and learn about the area’s history. This journey is about more than just the scenery; it’s an exploration of the timeless beauty and culture of the South, where every mile offers a deeper connection to the past.
Ohio – Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway in Ohio offers a drive through a landscape of lush forests and cascading waterfalls. This route invites exploration and adventure, with trails leading to hidden natural wonders.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into the heart of Ohio’s natural beauty. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to tranquil forest paths. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery and connection with nature.
Indiana – Indiana Dunes Scenic Byway
The Indiana Dunes Scenic Byway offers a drive through a landscape of sandy beaches and towering dunes. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of Indiana’s natural landscape.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of the water. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful beachside retreats. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Pennsylvania – Lincoln Highway
The Lincoln Highway in Pennsylvania offers a drive through a landscape rich with history and natural beauty. This route takes you through historic towns and rolling hills, inviting travelers to explore the region’s rich heritage.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s an exploration of a region where history and nature meet. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to historic landmarks. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery and connection with the past.
New Jersey – Palisades Interstate Parkway
The Palisades Interstate Parkway in New Jersey offers a drive through a landscape of cliffside views and lush forests. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of the water. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful forest trails. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Alabama – Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway in Alabama offers a journey through a landscape rich with history and natural beauty. This route follows ancient trails used by Native Americans and early settlers.
The drive is peaceful, with opportunities to explore historical sites and enjoy the natural scenery. The parkway is more than just a road; it’s a pathway through time, where every mile tells a story of the past. This journey invites travelers to connect with history and nature, where the beauty of the landscape is matched by the depth of its heritage.
Arkansas – Pig Trail Scenic Byway
The Pig Trail Scenic Byway in Arkansas offers a drive through a landscape of winding roads and lush forests. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of nature. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful forest trails. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Kansas – Flint Hills Scenic Byway
The Flint Hills Scenic Byway in Kansas offers a drive through a landscape of rolling hills and prairie landscapes. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of the prairie. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful prairie trails. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Connecticut – Merritt Parkway
The Merritt Parkway in Connecticut offers a drive through a landscape of historic bridges and lush forests. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of the forest. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful forest trails. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
New Mexico – Turquoise Trail
The Turquoise Trail in New Mexico offers a drive through a landscape of scenic desert landscapes and artistic towns. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the creativity of its people. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to vibrant art communities. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Maryland – Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway
The Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway in Maryland offers a drive through a landscape of charming villages and coastal views. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of the water. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful waterside retreats. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Nevada – Extraterrestrial Highway
The Extraterrestrial Highway in Nevada offers a journey through a landscape both mysterious and intriguing. This remote stretch of road is known for its alien-themed attractions and vast desert views.
As you drive, the sense of mystery grows, with the wide-open skies above. Stops along the way provide quirky insights into the area’s extraterrestrial folklore. This drive is about more than just reaching a destination; it’s about embracing the unknown and exploring a part of Nevada steeped in legend and lore, where every mile offers a glimpse into a world both familiar and otherworldly.
Idaho – Salmon River Scenic Byway
The Salmon River Scenic Byway in Idaho offers a drive through a landscape of mountain views and rushing rivers. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the thrill of adventure. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to exciting river excursions. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Montana – Going-to-the-Sun Road
The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana offers a drive through a landscape of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the majesty of the mountains. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to serene valleys. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Vermont – Green Mountain Byway
The Green Mountain Byway in Vermont offers a drive through a landscape of lush green mountains and charming villages. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the warmth of its communities. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to quaint village squares. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Iowa – Loess Hills Scenic Byway
The Loess Hills Scenic Byway in Iowa offers a drive through a landscape of rolling hills and prairie landscapes. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of the prairie. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful prairie trails. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Nebraska – Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway
The Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway in Nebraska offers a drive through a landscape of vast sandhills and prairie landscapes. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the tranquility of the prairie. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to peaceful prairie trails. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
New Hampshire – Kancamagus Highway
The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire offers a drive through a landscape of autumn foliage and mountain views. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the majesty of the mountains. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to serene forest paths. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Rhode Island – Ocean Drive
The Ocean Drive in Rhode Island offers a drive through a landscape of coastal views and historic mansions. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the elegance of its history. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to grand architectural landmarks. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Utah – Scenic Byway 12
The Scenic Byway 12 in Utah offers a drive through a landscape of red rock landscapes and national parks. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the grandeur of nature. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to hiking trails that lead into the heart of the wilderness. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Mississippi – Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi offers a journey through a landscape rich with history and natural beauty. This route follows ancient trails used by Native Americans and early settlers.
The drive is peaceful, with opportunities to explore historical sites and enjoy the natural scenery. The parkway is more than just a road; it’s a pathway through time, where every mile tells a story of the past. This journey invites travelers to connect with history and nature, where the beauty of the landscape is matched by the depth of its heritage.
North Dakota – Enchanted Highway
The Enchanted Highway in North Dakota offers a drive through a landscape of artistic sculptures and prairie landscapes. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the creativity of its people. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to whimsical art installations. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Delaware – Coastal Heritage Greenway
The Coastal Heritage Greenway in Delaware offers a drive through a landscape of coastal views and historic sites. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the richness of its history. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to historic landmarks. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
West Virginia – Highland Scenic Highway
The Highland Scenic Highway in West Virginia offers a drive through a landscape of mountain vistas and lush forests. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the majesty of the mountains. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to serene forest paths. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
South Dakota – Needles Highway
The Needles Highway in South Dakota offers a drive through a landscape of rugged rock formations and scenic views. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the adventure of exploration. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to unique rock formations. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Wyoming – Snowy Range Scenic Byway
The Snowy Range Scenic Byway in Wyoming offers a drive through a landscape of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. This route invites exploration and offers a glimpse of the diverse beauty of the region.
The drive is more than just a road; it’s a journey into a world where the beauty of the land meets the majesty of the mountains. Each stop offers a chance to discover something new, from scenic overlooks to serene alpine meadows. This journey is about embracing the beauty and diversity of the landscape, where every mile offers a new opportunity for discovery.
Oklahoma – Talimena Scenic Drive
Embark on a drive through the Talimena Scenic Drive in Oklahoma, a hidden gem perfect for adventure seekers. This road unfolds like a ribbon across the Ouachita Mountains, offering awe-inspiring views especially during the fall.
The 54-mile route is a delightful blend of natural beauty and serenity. Travelers are greeted with vibrant foliage that paints the landscape with hues of red, orange, and yellow. As you journey through, you’ll feel the crisp mountain air and the warmth of the sun.
Make sure to stop at one of the many overlooks for a picnic. Enjoy the peace and panoramic views that stretch out before you. This drive is more than just a route; it’s an unforgettable experience that captures the heart of Oklahoma.