Travel by Land: The Best Road Trip Routes to Explore This Summer
Dreaming of open roads and breathtaking scenery? This summer, embark on an unforgettable road trip adventure across iconic routes like the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, or the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway. Discover hidden gems, savor local flavors, and explore national parks at your own pace. Plan ahead for the best experience – book accommodations, secure tickets, and map your route. Start your engines and prepare for the ultimate summer road trip!
Important information
- Summer road trips offer scenic routes and flexibility to explore at your own pace, allowing for spontaneous stops and detours.
- Popular U.S. road trip routes include the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, Blue Ridge Parkway, and others offering diverse landscapes from coasts to mountains.
- Pre-trip planning is essential: book accommodations and attraction tickets in advance, map your route, and check for potential road closures.
- Ensure your vehicle is road-ready by checking tires, fluids, and brakes. Pack an emergency kit with essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, and tools. Practice safe driving habits.
- Save money by packing snacks and drinks, considering camping or budget-friendly motels, and exploring free activities like hiking and visiting parks.
Travel by Land: The Best Road Trip Routes to Explore This Summer
Hit the road this summer and discover incredible landscapes across the U.S.! Perfect driving weather and endless possibilities await. Cruise the iconic Pacific Coast Highway for breathtaking ocean views, or explore classic Americana on Route 66. For majestic mountain scenery, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-see.
U.S. Road Trip Ideas
- Pacific Coast Highway: experience stunning ocean views.
- Route 66: discover classic Americana.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: enjoy majestic mountain scenery.
- Yellowstone and Yosemite National Parks: explore natural wonders.
- Florida Keys and Oregon Coast: savor beautiful seaside escapes.
- Natchez Trace Parkway: delve into history and culture.
International Road Trip Ideas
- Australia’s Great Ocean Road: witness stunning coastal vistas.
- Iceland’s Ring Road: embark on a unique adventure.
Why Travel by Land is Ideal for Summer
Summer is the ideal season for a land-based adventure, offering scenic routes and the freedom to explore diverse landscapes at your own pace. Road trips provide incredible flexibility, allowing for spontaneous stops and detours that often lead to discovering hidden gems. Embrace local cultures, savor regional dishes, and witness stunning natural beauty. The extended daylight hours maximize your exploration time, letting you enjoy more outdoor activities. This all creates an unforgettable summer travel experience.
Planning Ahead for Summer Road Trips
Secure your accommodations in advance. Reserving campsites or hotel rooms early, especially during peak season, guarantees you the best locations and amenities, potentially saving you money and eliminating last-minute stress.
Pre-book attraction tickets and events. Booking in advance avoids potential disappointment and often unlocks early bird discounts, maximizing your budget.
Map your route. Explore scenic byways and consider potential road closures or delays to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable adventure.
Must-See Road Trip Routes Across the U.S.
Route 66, an iconic American road trip, spans over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica. Winding through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and finally California, this historic highway offers a nostalgic journey past classic roadside attractions, from vintage motels to quirky diners.
California’s Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), stretching from Leggett to Dana Point, hugs the coastline, revealing breathtaking ocean vistas. Experience dramatic cliffs, charming seaside towns, and iconic landmarks like Bixby Bridge and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. This scenic route is also renowned for whale watching.
The Blue Ridge Parkway winds 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. Enjoy stunning mountain views, vibrant foliage, and scenic hikes along this leisurely route.
Highway 50, aptly nicknamed “The Loneliest Road“, traverses Nevada and Utah, stretching from San Francisco to Ocean City. Experience vast desert landscapes, unparalleled stargazing, and a profound sense of isolation on this remote highway.
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River for over 3,000 miles, from Minnesota to Louisiana. Journey through diverse landscapes and historical sites, visiting charming river towns and discovering the cultural heartland of America along this iconic waterway.
Route 66: The Historic Journey from Chicago to Santa Monica
Stretching approximately 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, the iconic Route 66 showcases diverse landscapes and iconic roadside attractions. This highway is a true American classic.
Exploring the Pacific Coast Highway
California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) traces a breathtaking path along the state’s dramatic coastline, from Southern California to its northern reaches. The route offers stunning vistas of beaches and majestic mountains, making it a true scenic wonder.
The Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway
Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking views and numerous recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and unforgettable scenic drives, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
The Loneliest Road: A Journey from San Francisco to Ocean City
Embark on a unique trans-American adventure along the Loneliest Road, a 3,200-mile stretch of highway connecting San Francisco to Ocean City. Discover the solitude and diverse landscapes of this remarkable route.
The Great River Road Across the American Landscape
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River through ten states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
This scenic route showcases diverse landscapes, from towering bluffs to vast fertile plains.
Along the way, travelers encounter unique cultures and explore fascinating historical sites, immersing themselves in the rich history of the Mississippi.
Cross Country Road Trips: Routes and Planning
Northern Route
Embark on a scenic journey through the northernmost states, experiencing breathtaking mountains, forests, and coastlines. Explore Washington, Montana, and Michigan, including iconic destinations like Glacier National Park and Olympic National Park. Discover the natural beauty of these states and immerse yourself in the wilderness.
Heartland Route
Traverse the heartland of America, discovering states like Colorado, Kansas, and Illinois. Witness vast plains, rolling hills, and iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore and the Gateway Arch. Explore captivating historical museums and delve into the rich history and culture of the region.
Southern Route
Experience a southern adventure, winding through California, Arizona, and Florida. Encounter diverse landscapes, from deserts and coasts to vibrant cities. Immerse yourself in the unique cultures and cuisines of each state, and uncover numerous historical sites, experiencing the rich heritage of the south.
Best Time to Travel
The ideal time for a cross-country road trip depends on your chosen route and preferences. Summer offers warmth and long days, perfect for exploring national parks and engaging in outdoor activities. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures and fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed travel experience. Winter trips require careful planning due to varying weather conditions, particularly in the northern states.
Northern Route: Exploring the Northern States
The Northern Route winds through Minnesota, Montana, and Idaho, offering stunning views of the region’s unique landscapes and showcasing amazing attractions. This route includes Glacier National Park, known for its rugged mountains and pristine lakes, and Yellowstone National Park, famous for its geothermal features and diverse wildlife. Travelers can also explore the charming towns and cities along the way, experiencing the local culture and hospitality.
Central Route: Discovering the Middle States
Embark on a scenic journey through America’s heartland via the Central Route. Traveling through states like Kansas and Colorado, you’ll discover a new appreciation for the nation’s midsection.
Southern Route: Adventures in the Southern States
A southern route typically winds through states like Georgia, Texas, and Arizona. These states offer diverse landscapes, from canyons and deserts to coastal plains. Travelers encounter a blend of cultures, savoring various cuisines and exploring historical sites. This southern journey offers a truly enriching experience.
When to Plan Your Cross Country Road Trip
Plan your cross-country road trip for late spring or mid-fall to enjoy pleasant weather and lighter traffic.
Travel Tips and Road Trip Essentials
Prepare your car. Check tires, fluids, brakes, and lights. Have a well-stocked emergency kit including a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, and tools.
Practice safe driving. Follow traffic laws, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid distractions. Be alert to changing road conditions, especially in mountainous or remote areas.
Check the weather forecast. Consider the season: summer offers warm weather but crowds, spring and fall have pleasant conditions with fewer crowds, while winter requires extra preparation for snow and ice.
Plan your accommodation. Choose from budget-friendly camping or comfortable motels and hotels. Reserve campsites and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Share your itinerary with someone you trust. Use a map, GPS, or offline maps for navigation, especially in areas with limited cell service.
Save money on the road. Pack your own snacks and drinks. Opt for free activities like hiking and sightseeing. Consider a fuel-efficient car to reduce gas expenses.
Driving Tips and Road Conditions
Before starting your trip, ensure your vehicle is prepared for the journey by checking the tire pressure, oil levels, and researching road conditions.
Prioritize safety by always fastening your seatbelt and adhering to traffic laws.
Minimize distractions while driving, especially cell phone use.
Prepare a well-stocked emergency kit containing essential items such as water, snacks, and first-aid supplies.
Keep your roadside assistance contact information readily accessible.
Plan your route in advance, including designated rest stops, and share your itinerary with a friend or family member.
Stay alert and avoid driving when fatigued.
Be aware of potential weather changes and be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
Weather Considerations and Best Travel Seasons
Summer’s great weather makes it ideal for road trips, but be mindful of potential heat waves. Researching typical temperatures and rainfall along your route will help you pack accordingly. This ensures you have both light clothing for warm days and rain gear for unexpected showers. A little planning goes a long way toward a smoother, more enjoyable trip.
Camping and Accommodations on the Road
Looking for a place to stay? You have several options, from developed campgrounds to dispersed camping or other comfortable accommodations.
Campgrounds
Campgrounds offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. They provide a convenient and comfortable camping experience.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping involves setting up camp in undeveloped areas. You need to be completely self-sufficient. Come prepared with all necessary gear and supplies.
If camping isn’t your style, consider these alternatives:
- Budget-friendly motels: Perfect for basic needs, offering a simple and affordable place to sleep.
- Hotels: Provide additional amenities like pools, fitness centers, and restaurants, for a more comfortable stay.
- Vacation rentals: Cabins, condos, and houses offer more space and privacy for a home-away-from-home experience.
Safety and Budget Travel Tips
Safe and affordable travel is within everyone’s reach. Begin by ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained. Check the oil, tires, and brakes to prevent potential problems. Always buckle up, follow traffic laws, and avoid distractions while driving. Pack essential supplies, including a first-aid kit, water, and non-perishable food. Planning your route and sharing it with someone you trust adds an extra layer of safety. Avoid driving when tired and take regular breaks. Monitor weather conditions and consider roadside assistance for peace of mind.
Tips for Affordable Travel
- pack your own snacks and drinks,
- consider camping or budget accommodations,
- explore free activities like hiking and visiting parks,
- look for discounts on attractions and fuel,
- travel during the off-season for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Tips for Safe Travel
- ensure your vehicle is properly maintained,
- check the oil, tires, and brakes,
- always buckle up,
- follow traffic laws,
- avoid distractions while driving,
- pack essential supplies,
- plan your route and share it,
- avoid driving when tired,
- take regular breaks,
- monitor weather conditions,
- consider roadside assistance.
With a little planning, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip without overspending.
