14 Incredible U.S. Road Trips You Must Take Before You Die

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

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Stretching from San Francisco to San Diego, this coastal route offers breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and the iconic Bixby Bridge. Don’t miss stops in Monterey, Big Sur, and Malibu along the way.

2. Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)

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Dubbed the “Main Street of America,” this historic highway takes you through small towns, vintage diners, and quirky roadside attractions. It’s a nostalgic journey through America’s heartland.

3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)

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Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this scenic route winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering stunning views of fall foliage, rolling hills, and quaint mountain towns.

4. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)

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This 113-mile journey connects mainland Florida to Key West via a series of breathtaking bridges over turquoise waters. Stop at Bahia Honda State Park for a swim or enjoy fresh seafood in Islamorada.

5. Great River Road (Mississippi River)

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Follow the Mississippi River through 10 states, exploring charming river towns, historic landmarks, and lush landscapes. Don’t miss the vibrant city of New Orleans at the southern end.

6. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)

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This 50-mile drive through Glacier National Park offers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. Wildlife sightings are common, so keep your camera ready.

7. The Loneliest Road (Nevada)

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Spanning across Nevada, Route 50 lives up to its name with vast stretches of desert landscapes and minimal traffic. Experience the haunting beauty of the Great Basin National Park along the way.

8. The Hana Highway (Maui, Hawaii)

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This 64-mile road is a lush paradise of waterfalls, tropical rainforests, and black sand beaches. Stop at the Garden of Eden Arboretum and the famous Seven Sacred Pools for a truly magical experience.

9. The Million Dollar Highway (Colorado)

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Winding through the San Juan Mountains, this road offers dramatic cliffs, historic mining towns, and breathtaking views. Don’t miss the picturesque town of Ouray, often called the “Switzerland of America.”

10. Natchez Trace Parkway (Tennessee to Mississippi)

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This 444-mile route is rich in history, offering scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping. Visit the charming town of Natchez to step back in time.

11. Highway 101 (Oregon)

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Travel along Oregon’s rugged coastline for views of sea stacks, lighthouses, and dense forests. Stop at Cannon Beach, explore the Tillamook Cheese Factory, and visit the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

12. Lake Superior Circle Tour (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan)

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Encircling the largest freshwater lake in the world, this route offers stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and dense forests. Explore quaint harbor towns and relax on serene beaches.

13. The Bourbon Trail (Kentucky)

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Perfect for whiskey lovers, this road trip takes you through rolling hills and iconic distilleries like Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve. Enjoy Southern hospitality and delicious cuisine along the way.

14. The Black Hills and Badlands (South Dakota)

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Explore iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park. This trip is a mix of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences.

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