8 Unforgettable Summer Road Trips To Take Now

Summer is the perfect time to hit the open road and explore new places. Whether you’re craving scenic drives, coastal views, or historic landmarks, there’s a road trip for everyone. Here are 8 unforgettable summer road trips that will give you the freedom to discover the beauty of nature, culture, and adventure.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

One of the most iconic road trips in the U.S., the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs. Starting in San Francisco and heading south to Los Angeles, you’ll pass through beautiful coastal towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, and Santa Barbara. Stop to take in the breathtaking views, explore secluded beaches, and visit historic landmarks like Hearst Castle.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina

Known for its winding roads and stunning mountain views, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-do road trip for nature lovers. Stretching from Virginia to North Carolina, this 469-mile scenic route takes you through the Appalachian Highlands, offering access to national parks, hiking trails, and charming towns like Asheville, NC. Don’t miss the hike to Linville Falls and the chance to experience the diverse wildlife and flora along the way.

3. Route 66, Chicago to Santa Monica

A classic American road trip, Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey through small towns, quirky attractions, and beautiful landscapes. Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, California, the route passes through cities like St. Louis, Amarillo, and Albuquerque. Stop to take pictures with giant roadside attractions, enjoy local diners, and soak in the spirit of one of America’s most legendary highways.

4. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana

If you love rivers, the Great River Road is the perfect road trip. Following the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana, this 2,000-mile route offers an opportunity to explore charming riverside towns, historical landmarks, and scenic vistas. The route passes through major cities like St. Louis, Memphis, and New Orleans, offering both cultural and natural beauty along the way.

5. The Florida Keys Scenic Highway, Florida

For a tropical road trip, head to the Florida Keys Scenic Highway. This 113-mile drive takes you through a series of islands connected by bridges, offering stunning ocean views at every turn. Start in Key Largo and head south through Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West. Stop at beaches, local seafood restaurants, and enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

6. Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks Loop

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Mighty 5 road trip is a bucket-list adventure. This route connects all five of Utah’s national parks: Arches, Canyonlands, Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef. Each park offers dramatic landscapes, towering rock formations, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty, this road trip will provide you with unforgettable experiences.

7. The Oregon Trail, Missouri to Oregon

The Oregon Trail is a historic route that stretches from Missouri to Oregon, offering a blend of history and nature. Follow the footsteps of early settlers as you visit landmarks like Independence Rock, Fort Laramie, and the Columbia River Gorge. This road trip combines historical education with stunning landscapes, from the plains to the rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest.

8. The Alaska Highway, Canada to Alaska

For an adventure that’s truly off the beaten path, consider the Alaska Highway. Starting in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, and ending in Delta Junction, Alaska, this 1,390-mile route offers an incredible mix of wildlife, natural beauty, and small-town charm. Stop to see wildlife like bison and moose, enjoy the vast wilderness, and visit unique sites like the Northern Lights and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park.

Conclusion: Hit the Road and Make Memories

Whether you’re looking for scenic vistas, cultural experiences, or a bit of both, these 8 unforgettable summer road trips will give you the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and diverse parts of the country. Pack your bags, hit the road, and make this summer one to remember with a road trip that suits your adventure style.