The Most Epic Road Trips to Take This Summer
Summer is finally here, and the open road is calling your name. The best thing about a road trip is the freedom to explore new places at your own leisurely pace while taking in breathtaking scenery and experiencing new cultures. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of six must-do road trips to take this summer.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Dubbed as one of the most picturesque drives in the world, Pacific Coast Highway is a coastal road trip like no other. Starting in San Francisco and ending around San Diego, the famous route of Highway 1 is a 650-mile stretch of winding roads, breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and picturesque towns.
Along the way, make sure to stop by unique attractions such as Muir Woods, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and the famous Hearst Castle. Don’t forget to take a picture with the iconic Bixby Bridge – one of the most photographed bridges in California.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina and Virginia)
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile road trip that connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This drive is all about natural beauty, offering breathtaking views of the forest, valleys, and rolling mountains.
You can stop at various scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and camping sites for an up-close experience with nature. Along the way, make sure to time your visit to the peak of fall foliage season in October.
3. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
Route 66 is a historic road trip that starts in Chicago, Illinois, and ends in Santa Monica, California. This iconic highway stretches across eight states and is filled with kitschy roadside attractions, neon signs, and Americana landmarks.
Take a stroll down the sidewalks of classic Route 66 towns such as Amarillo, Tulsa, and Winslow. Don’t forget to snap some photos with the famous Cadillac Ranch, the World’s Largest Rocking Chair, or the Wigwam Motel.
4. Alaskan Highway (Canada)
The Alaskan Highway is the ultimate road trip for adventure seekers. This 1,390-mile journey from British Columbia to Alaska offers wildlife sightings, stunning glaciers, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes.
Make sure to stop by the Kluane National Park, where you can see grizzly bears, elk, and mountain goats. You can also experience the Yukon gold rush with a visit to historic towns such as Dawson City and Skagway.
5. Great River Road (Mississippi River Valley)
The Great River Road is a 2,500-mile drive that follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This scenic route passes through ten states, offering picturesque views of charming river towns, historic landmarks, and scenic forests.
Take a guided boat tour of the Mississippi River, indulge in some world-famous southern cuisine, and experience live blues music in Memphis or New Orleans.
6. Atlantic Coast (Maine to Florida)
The Atlantic Coast drive is a 2,000-mile trip that starts in Maine and ends in Florida. This coastline journey is full of charming fishing villages, lighthouses, and sandy beaches.
Stop by Acadia National Park in Maine for stunning coastal hikes, visit historic cities such as Boston and Charleston, or hit the waves in surfing hotspots like the Outer Banks.
Conclusion
Summer is the perfect time to hit the road and add some unforgettable memories to your travel bucket list. Whether you prefer the mountains, the coast, or the roadside attractions, these six must-do road trips offer some of the most epic adventures in the world. So pack your bags, grab a map, and get ready for an unforgettable journey. Happy travels!
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