Discover the Thrill of the Open Road with These 10 Bucket List U.S. Drives You Won't Believe!

The joy of hitting the open road is something many dream about. Imagine the wind in your hair while the sun bathes the scenery in golden light. The thrill of adventure is just around the next bend. Whether you're a road trip veteran or a casual traveler, certain drives in the United States create unforgettable experiences. With breathtaking landscapes, unique attractions, and rich history, these routes offer an incredible feast for the senses. Let’s dive into ten must-see U.S. drives that will take your breath away.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway, known as Highway 1, is a quintessential American road trip that showcases California’s breathtaking coastline. This route spans over 650 miles from San Francisco to San Diego, offering stunning views of the ocean along with charming seaside towns.

As you travel, make sure to visit Big Sur, where you'll be rewarded with exceptional hiking trails and stunning vistas. Don’t miss the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, an engineering marvel that offers jaw-dropping views of the coastal cliffs. In fact, nearly 7 million people visit Big Sur each year to experience its natural beauty.

The breathtaking Bixby Creek Bridge on the Pacific Coast Highway.

2. Route 66, The Mother Road

An essential part of American culture, Route 66 spans over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. This historic highway is sprinkled with quirky roadside attractions, vintage motels, and classic diners.

While traveling this famous route, stop at Cadillac Ranch in Texas to see the famous painted cars and visit the Route 66 Museum in Albuquerque to dive into the history of this iconic highway. With each stop, you'll feel the nostalgia of a bygone era and discover the cultural significance of this trail.

A vintage car sits under the iconic Route 66 sign

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina

Known as "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway spans 469 miles and offers breathtaking mountain views, particularly in the fall when vibrant colors blanket the landscape.

Along the way, you'll find plenty of hiking trails, picnic spots, and scenic overlooks. Make sure to visit Asheville, a charming town filled with art, culture, and exceptional dining options. In 2021, it was reported that over 15 million visitors flocked to this area to enjoy the natural beauty and local attractions.

The vibrant autumn colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

4. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

If you're looking for stunning views and adventure, the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is vital. This engineering feat winds through mountains, offering panoramic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildflower-filled meadows.

Watch for wildlife, including bighorn sheep and mountain goats. This scenic drive is loved by nature enthusiasts and photographers alike, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

A car navigates the scenic, winding Going-to-the-Sun Road

5. The Florida Keys Scenic Highway

The Overseas Highway connects the Florida Keys via a series of breathtaking bridges and islands. This scenic drive offers views of crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning sunsets, truly a slice of paradise.

Be sure to stop in Key West, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, relish fresh seafood, and join the lively sunset celebrations at Mallory Square. Surveys show that about 4 million tourists visit the Florida Keys annually to soak in its beauty.

The breathtaking waters of the Florida Keys can be seen along the Overseas Highway.

6. The Loneliest Road in America, Nevada

For those who crave solitude, the 287-mile stretch of U.S. Route 50 through Nevada beckons. This route offers a unique driving experience through vast landscapes, ghost towns, and striking rock formations.

This stretch invites a deeper connection with nature, where you can disconnect from modern life's hustle and appreciate the tranquility of the great outdoors, especially under a starlit sky.

A solitary road stretches endlessly through the desolate Nevada desert

7. The Oregon Coast Highway

The Oregon Coast Highway is a visual feast with its rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, and dramatic ocean views. This 363-mile stretch is perfect for those who enjoy both coastal scenery and delicious local seafood.

On your drive, make sure to stop at Cannon Beach to see the iconic Haystack Rock and explore the charming town of Astoria, known for its rich maritime history. With so many picturesque spots along the way, you'll want your camera ready!

A vintage car cruises along the scenic Oregon Coast Highway

8. Hill Country Highway, Texas

Texas Hill Country is filled with rolling hills, vibrant wildflowers, and quaint small towns. Routes through this area will take you past local wineries, scenic ranches, and historic sites.

A popular drive is from Fredericksburg to Marble Falls, offering stops at local wineries and opportunities to savor authentic Texan barbecue. In fact, the region hosts over 50 wineries and has become a top destination for wine lovers.

showcasing a picturesque highway lined with majestic trees under a cloudy sky.

9. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia (for the adventurous)

Although technically in Canada, the Cabot Trail is too beautiful to leave off the list. This coastal drive offers sweeping views of the ocean and dramatic cliffs, making it a must-see for those near the U.S. border.

As you journey along this route, take time to explore short hiking trails for breathtaking views and indulge in the local seafood. The Cabot Trail sees around 200,000 visitors each summer season from across North America.

Cars navigate the winding roads surrounded by lush green forests along the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.

10. The Million Dollar Highway, Colorado

The Million Dollar Highway is famous for its stunning mountain scenery. This stretch of U.S. Route 550 takes you through the San Juan Mountains, showcasing steep cliffs and incredible canyon views.

If you feel adventurous, consider detouring to explore charming towns like Silverton and Telluride. Each stop along this route offers unique dining experiences, local art, and unmatched natural beauty, making it a highlight of the Colorado experience.

Vehicles navigate the scenic Million Dollar Highway

Your Next Adventure Awaits

The United States is a land rich with diverse landscapes and stunning drives. Each of these ten unforgettable routes offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Be it the crashing waves along the Pacific Coast Highway or the majestic mountains of the Million Dollar Highway, every journey promises new adventures.

So get ready! Grab your keys, gather your favorite companions, and set off on the open road. Many amazing experiences await—don't forget to prepare for your adventure ahead!

Happy travels!