The best road trips in the United States
When we think of travelling to the United States, we usually think of iconic destinations like Florida, New York, Los Angeles… but those who have spent a long time here know that the country has much more to offer and that it is full of natural beauty and many other cities worth visiting. However, to reach them, public transport is not always the best solution, that’s why we have gathered in the following post some of the best road trips in the United States for you to enjoy the journey!
Of course, you’ll need a cheap car rental to go on a road trip in the USA, so don’t worry! You can also rent a car with us and enjoy the road in all its splendour..
The best road trips in the USA
Route 66
States crossed: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California
You’re probably itching to start with the most iconic route of them all, aren’t you? And no wonder! Route 66 is historic and fascinating. It starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles, covering a total of no less than 3945 km! A road that will take you through some of the most mythical cities in America, such as St. Louis, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque and Santa Monica. In fact, the route itself is the central theme around which many of the country’s local traditions and pop culture revolve, which is why so many people include it on their list of must-do’s in the U.S. The experience is worth it!
looking for a hostel? If you want to stay in an amazing place in Chicago, don’t miss the Freehand Chicago, a hostel surrounded by art and culture with amazing furnishings and a cocktail bar . You’ll feel like you’re staying in a luxury hotel… except for the price!
California State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway)
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States crossed: California
If you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the American West Coast, California State Route 1 is another legendary route that will delight your Instagram followers. Its long stretches of highway wind around the curves of California’s sunny coastline, making it the ideal adventure for those looking for a bit of sun and sea. Add to that the art of San Francisco, and the glamour and fun of Los Angeles, and you’ve got yourself a guaranteed success! A word of advice: keep your eyes peeled for the occasional sea lion along the way!
looking for a hostel? San Francisco exudes colour, style and innovation everywhere you look. If you’re looking for a hostel that has it all, stay at HI San Francisco City Centre, the perfect blend of modern comfort and vintage chic. And for your information… it even has a hidden bar!
Great River Road
States crossed: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana
In reality, the Great River Road is not a single route but a series of small state and local roads that follow the Mississippi River from its source to the ocean. The landscapes it traverses across the United States are like a symphony of nature that changes depending on where you are. You’ll experience everything from the brilliant jazz and seafood of New Orleans to the delicious artisanal cheese of Wisconsin to the extraordinary mountains of Minnesota (which in winter give way to cold tundra). No wonder it’s one of the best driving routes in America!
looking for a hostel? Since you’re going to do this route, you can take advantage of it and stay overnight in the best hostel in the United States according to the votes of our customers in the last edition of the Hoscars. We are talking about Auberge NOLA, in New Orleans. Its location is perfect if you want to visit the French Quarter or Bourbon Street, and its beds are very cheap (from 17 dollars!).
Utah Highway 12
States crossed: Utah
This route through the USA is much shorter than some of the others – it’s only 198km – but it’s a great option if you’re in the heart of the West and fancy a day trip. You may have seen many mountains, but none quite like the impressive red rock formations in southern Utah. The route of this road passes through Bryce Canyon National Park, an American treasure that no nature lover should miss in the USA.
looking for a hostel? A little further north, near the ski resorts of Park City, is the Park City Hostel. The accommodation is very close to the facilities that were used for the 2002 Winter Olympics (which are actually still in use) and, in case you’re interested, the famous Sundance Independent Film Festival is held right here.
Route US-6 as it passes through Pennsylvania
States crossed: Pennsylvania
This section of Route US-6 (one of the highways that crosses the United States from east to west) is considered by National Geographic to be one of the most beautiful driving routes in the country – and no wonder! This section through the state of Pennsylvania evokes the classic American backwoods and highways we all have in our minds. A great option for those who are looking to get away from the bustling metropolis and escape into the wilderness. Along the way you’ll pass through a number of small communities and adorable little towns.
Going-to-the-Sun Road
States crossed: Montana
Anyone who knows the United States well will tell you that everything you’ve seen so far can’t compare to Montana’s Glacier National Park. The state is famous for its natural beauty. But remember: if you visit, you should be well prepared, especially during the winter when the snow covers everything. The route shares its name with a mountain in the area, and in some sections it can be particularly narrow and windy, so make sure those accompanying you are up to the challenge!
Skyline Drive
States crossed: Virginia
Back east to discover this beauty. Skyline Drive is another one of those short routes that will take you through the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah National Park in the wonderful state of Virginia. The state itself, being located right next to Washington DC, is very close to some of the country’s most important monuments and historic sites, but be careful not to lose sight of the road! The road is teeming with wildlife.
looking for a hostel? Located in the nation’s capital, the Highroad Hostel DC is like a dream come true: memory foam mattresses, luxurious linens… even a cosy lounge with a fireplace! Get ready for a first-class stay at half the price.
West Coast of the United States
Special mention should be made of the legendary route along the west coast of the United States, as we even have a single post dedicated just to this trip. A route that runs along highways 101, 1 and 5. We will start in the most fashionable city in the United States, Los Angeles, where you will feel like you are in an American film. We’ll pass through Santa Barbara, where you can bring out your adventurous side, and continue on to San Luis Obispo and its magnificent Montaña de Oro State Park. We’ll invite you to get lost in the streets of San Francisco after visiting all the tourist attractions, to tour the hipster Portland, and to have a coffee in Seattle, the hometown of Starbucks!
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