Best Affordable Road Trips In the US
The US is renowned for its magnificent national parks, massive metropolises, and beautiful roads crossing the country. Today, we are going to talk about the latter. This country has so many options for scenic roads that sometimes choosing one can be tough. If you are eager to venture into a road trip, whether alone, with your friends, or with your family, this article is for you.
Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
This tropical expressway runs from Key Largo to Key West. Visits to these cities pair perfectly with stops at Marathon, Islamorada, and Big Pine Key. Mangrove forests, crystal blue waters, and historic museums entice tourists from around the globe.
US Route 1, East Coast
This highway spans 2400 miles from Eastern Canada to the Florida Keys, allowing for a fully customizable tour of the East Coast with notable stops including Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, and Miami.
The Oregon Trail
History buffs will love this cross-country drive, which mimics the path of 400,000 settlers to the Western Frontier in the 1840s. While the trip length can vary today, potential stops include Niagara Falls, Chicago, Mount Rushmore, and Yellowstone.
Trail of The Ancients Scenic Highway, US Southwest
This route comprises three byways in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. Many archaeological sites offer a budget, first-hand look into Native American life throughout the Colorado Plateau.
Hana Coast Highway, Hawaii
The Hawaiian highway’s winding roads make for a daunting yet worthwhile journey. The 2.5-hour drive has enough stops for a 2-3 day trip. The must-sees include Twin Falls, the Maui Garden of Eden Arboretum, the Hana Lava Tube, and Wailua Falls.
Grand Circle Route, US Southwest
This is the best way to experience multiple national parks in one go on a budget. Along the way are a few notable gems in the Western US, like the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Las Vegas, and Arches National Park.
Avenue of the Giants, California
Humboldt Redwoods State Park is known for its gigantic trees, which cars can easily pass through their trunks. Popular activities include hiking, rafting, and camping, making it a perfect destination for any nature lover.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Bourbon lovers rejoice! Fans can discover the history of Kentucky’s famous whiskey in cities like Louisville, home to over 15 distilleries with plenty more in surrounding areas to explore.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
California’s Pacific Coast Highway is a trendy road trip, and it’s clear why. Travelers will enjoy a slow-paced vacation, visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Diego.
Olympic Peninsula Route, Washington
This loop in the Pacific Northwest is affordable and excellent for an extended weekend drive. Three days is enough time to traverse Olympic National Park, stop by Twilight’s famous Forks, explore Sequim’s lavender fields, and hike in the Elwha River Valley.
Route 66
Many will say this is the ultimate American road trip that weaves through a tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and history, offering travelers an iconic journey unlike any other. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this legendary highway spans over 2,400 miles of adventure.
Natchez National Parkway
There is plenty to see between Nashville and Mississippi, from archaeological sites to historic battlefields. Also known as Old Natchez Trace, this route passes through magnificent forests.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
This magnificent road was built to encourage tourists to visit the US’s best national parks. This trail passes through Montana’s Glacier National Park and over the famous Continental Divide at Logan Pass. If you opt for this route, do so in the summer. During the winter months, snowbanks can be massive.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and Carolinas
Are you in the mood for a fall car trip? Then, the Blue Ridge Parkway is what you are looking for. Stretching hundreds of miles, this road twists through the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks. If you are planning your car trip during October and November, you will be able to see one of the most beautiful foliage of your life.
Road trips are a great way to explore the US, with famous and offbeat routes available. The best part is that they can be tailored to suit any traveler’s budget.
