The East Coast of the United States has iconic landmarks, scenic routes, and picture-perfect coastal towns waiting to be explored. Road trips make for the perfect way to soak up all the beauty and charm that this region has to offer. Here are 10 must-do road trips on the East Coast of the USA that are guaranteed to leave you breathless.
1. The Blue Ridge Parkway
Stretching from Virginia to North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway has been named the most scenic drive in America. This 469-mile route offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains, waterfalls, and rolling valleys. Make sure to stop at the historic Biltmore Estate and experience live bluegrass music in Asheville.
2. The Outer Banks Scenic Byway
The Outer Banks of North Carolina offer scenic beaches, historic lighthouses, and dramatic seaside cliffs. This 138-mile stretch of road takes you across Bodie Island, Roanoke Island, and Hatteras Island. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial and learn about their historic first flight.
3. The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are an archipelago of over 100 islands connected by the Overseas Highway, which offers stunning ocean views and tropical landscapes. This 113-mile drive takes you from Key Largo to Key West, home to Hemingway’s House and the southernmost point in the continental United States.
4. The Chesapeake Bay
The Chesapeake Bay offers a unique blend of coastal and historical attractions. Start your journey in Annapolis, Maryland, and follow the 470-mile loop around the bay. Highlights include the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and the scenic town of St. Michaels.
5. The Acadia All-American Road
Acadia National Park in Maine showcases stunning fall foliage, mountains, and the rugged coastline. The Acadia All-American Road offers a 40-mile loop with scenic stops like Otter Cliff and Jordan Pond. Don’t miss the chance to experience a Maine Lobster Bake in the seaside town of Bar Harbor.
6. The Great River Road
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana and offers scenic views of the riverfront. The 3,000-mile route offers plenty of cultural sites, scenic parks, and quirky attractions like the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle in Illinois.
7. The Pennsylvania Wilds
The Pennsylvania Wilds offer a stunning vista of Appalachian Mountains and offer the sights and smells of rural farm country. Follow Route 6 from the New York border to Ohio to experience the elk herds of Elk County, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, and the historic town of Wellsboro.
8. The Coastal Maine
Coastal Maine offers some of the most picturesque and quaint settings of any road trip on this list. Enjoy a variety of fresh seafood eateries, I-can’t-believe-it’s-real lighthouse views, and whale watching tours.
9. The Black Hills
The Black Hills of South Dakota offer a rich Western history with wild frontier towns and the famous Mount Rushmore Monument. Follow the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway through Custer State Park for the chance to see buffalo, mountain goats, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
10. The Florida Gulf Coast
The Florida Gulf Coast offers stunning beaches and exciting wildlife. The 44-mile stretch from Tampa to Clearwater follows Florida’s coast and takes drivers through charming beach towns and across several iconic bridges. Don’t forget to take in the sunset from Pier 60 in Clearwater.
In conclusion, the East Coast of the USA offers road trip adventures that are hard to match. From the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Florida Gulf Coast, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Make a plan, pack your bags, and start exploring!
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