TOP TEN U.S.
ROAD TRIPS

Disclaimer: It's always good to take your car in for service before starting any road trips.

Picking the Top 10 road trips in the U.S. can be daunting task and quite subjective. Is it family friendly? Is it pet friendly? What about the seasonal differences? Many people also would rate a road trip based on who was with them, or a time in their life, or the stories that went with it. Some do it based on a band’s concert tour. For that reason, this is not a definitive list, but if you want to go on a road trip and see the iconic United States, here is our Top 10

New England Fall Foliage

#10 New England Fall Foliage (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island

Driving through New England in the fall is like entering a picturesque painting where nature showcases its most stunning colors. The beauty of this region during autumn is unparalleled, with vibrant foliage, charming villages, and towns that beckon you to explore. If you have time be sure to visit Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard.

  • The Foliage: As you embark on your journey through New England in the fall, you’ll be greeted by a symphony of colors. The lush green forests transform into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, yellows, and deep purples. The maples, oaks, and birches don their finest attire, creating a breathtaking mosaic of nature’s artistry. The winding roads are adorned with canopies of leaves, casting dappled sunlight onto the pavement, making every turn a delight.
  • Quaint Villages: Along your route, you’ll encounter quaint villages that seem frozen in time. Places like Woodstock, Vermont, and Stowe, Massachusetts, boast charming town squares lined with colonial-style architecture. The buildings are often adorned with pumpkins, hay bales, and cornstalks, adding to the cozy, fall atmosphere. You can stop and stroll through these villages, enjoying local shops, eateries, and cozy inns
  • Historic Towns: New England is rich in history, and its historic towns are a testament to this legacy. Places like Concord, Massachusetts, and Portsmouth, New Hampshire, offer a glimpse into America’s past. You can visit colonial-era houses, museums, and landmarks, all while surrounded by the vibrant autumn foliage. The contrast of history against the backdrop of fall colors is truly captivating.
  • Scenic Byways: New England boasts a network of scenic byways that wind through the countryside, offering some of the most breathtaking views. The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire and the Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts are just a couple of examples. These routes take you through dense forests, along rivers, and up to scenic overlooks where you can take in the panoramic views of the autumn landscape.
  • Apple Orchards and Pumpkin Patches: Fall in New England also means apple picking and pumpkin hunting. You’ll come across numerous orchards and patches along your drive. It’s a quintessential autumn experience to pick your own apples or select the perfect pumpkin to take home as a souvenir.
  • Cozy Cafes and Bakeries: As you drive, you’ll have the chance to discover cozy cafes and bakeries that serve up seasonal treats. Sip on hot apple cider, indulge in freshly baked pies, or savor warm, hearty soups. These culinary delights add to the overall sensory experience of the trip.
  • New England is known for its iconic covered bridges, and they look even more charming when framed by fall foliage. You can plan your route to include stops at these historic landmarks, such as the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge between Vermont and New Hampshire.

In summary, driving through New England in the fall is a journey of sensory delights. The vibrant foliage, charming villages, historic towns, and delicious seasonal treats all come together to create an unforgettable experience. It’s a time when the beauty of nature harmonizes with the rich cultural heritage of the region, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the magic of autumn. The only reason this road trip is not higher on the list is due to it’s seasonal nature.

#9 Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks

This road trip takes you through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the U.S. Visit Utah’s five national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Each park offers its own distinct natural wonders and hiking opportunities.

We’ve built you a 9-day round trip itinerary and we recommend starting from Salt Lake City.

Day 1: Salt Lake City to Moab (Arches National Park)

  • Drive from Salt Lake City to Moab, the gateway to Arches National Park.
  • Explore Arches National Park, famous for its iconic arches and unique geological formations.
  • Recommended Stops: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Balanced Rock.
  • Overnight in Moab.

Day 2: Moab to Bryce Canyon National Park

  • Drive from Moab to Bryce Canyon National Park.
  • Witness the otherworldly hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock) that make Bryce Canyon famous.
  • Recommended Stops: Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Navajo Loop Trail.
  • Overnight near Bryce Canyon.

Day 3: Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park

  • Drive from Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park.
  • Explore Capitol Reef’s dramatic landscapes, including Waterpocket Fold and fruit orchards.
  • Recommended Stops: Scenic Drive, Hickman Bridge Trail, and Capitol Gorge Trail.
  • Overnight near Capitol Reef.

Day 4: Capitol Reef to Moab (Optional Detour to Goblin Valley State Park)

  • Head back to Moab or take a detour to Goblin Valley State Park if you have extra time.
  • Goblin Valley is known for its unique rock formations resembling goblins.
  • Continue to Moab for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Moab (Canyonlands National Park)

  • Spend the day exploring Canyonlands National Park, known for its deep canyons carved by the Colorado River.
  • Recommended Stops: Island in the Sky, Mesa Arch, and Shafer Canyon Overlook.
  • Overnight in Moab.

Day 6: Moab to Springdale (Zion National Park)

  • Drive from Moab to Springdale, the gateway to Zion National Park.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Zion as you enter the canyon.
  • Recommended Stops: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and Court of the Patriarchs.
  • Overnight in Springdale.

Day 7: Zion National Park

  • Spend a full day exploring Zion National Park’s trails and stunning scenery.
  • Recommended Hikes: Angels Landing, The Narrows (if conditions permit), and Emerald Pools.
  • Overnight in Springdale.

Day 8: Departure

  • Depending on your departure plans, you can either spend another day in Zion or start heading back to Salt Lake City.

Day 9: Return to Salt Lake City

  • Drive back to Salt Lake City, returning to your starting point.
  • Depending on your schedule, you can explore more of the city’s attractions or prepare for your departure.

This road trip will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States, showcasing the diverse beauty of Utah’s national parks. Be sure to check park hours, road conditions, and any permit requirements in advance, as they can vary depending on the season and park regulations.

 
 

#8 Texas Hill Country

Discover the unique charm of Texas Hill Country with its rolling hills, wineries, and German heritage. Begin in Austin and explore towns like Fredericksburg and San Antonio while savoring delicious barbecue along the way

We couldn’t help ourselves and thought this one can’t be all “road trip”, spend a little time in Austin, then hit the road. We thought we should provide another itinerary based on our experiences:

Day 1: Arrival in Austin

  • Arrive in Austin, the state capital of Texas, and check into your accommodation.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Austin’s vibrant downtown area.
  • Visit the Texas State Capitol building and take a walk along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake.
  • Enjoy dinner at a local Tex-Mex restaurant.

Day 2: Austin

  • Start your day with a visit to Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming pool in Zilker Park.
  • Explore South Congress Avenue (SoCo), known for its quirky shops and food trucks.
  • Visit the Bullock Texas State History Museum to learn about Texas history.
  • In the evening, enjoy live music at one of Austin’s famous music venues on Sixth Street.

Day 3: Fredericksburg

Day 4: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and San Antonio

  • Start your day early with a hike to the summit of Enchanted Rock, a massive pink granite dome. The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area has 11 miles of trails. 
  • After hiking, head to San Antonio.
  • Visit the historic San Antonio Missions, including the Alamo.
  • Explore the vibrant River Walk, lined with restaurants, shops, and beautiful scenery.
  • End your day with a delicious Tex-Mex or Mexican dinner along the River Walk.

Day 5: Hill Country Day Trip

  • Take a day trip to explore the scenic Texas Hill Country.
  • Visit the charming town of Wimberley, known for its artisan shops and the Blue Hole Regional Park.
  • Enjoy lunch at a local cafe or barbecue joint.
  • Explore the wildflower-covered fields of the Willow City Loop (Wildflower season is March through May) or visit the LBJ Ranch and the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. The state park has a nature trail that includes American Bison and Texas Longhorn. Well, since we mentioned the Longhorn, we might as well send you a link to the true story about the origins of BEVO, the Texas Longhorns mascot.
  • Return to Austin for your departure or extend your stay in the Hill Country. If the timing is right, you might as well stick around for Hook ’em sports experience

This 4-day itinerary provides a taste of the diverse attractions that Texas Hill Country has to offer, from the vibrant city life in Austin to the charming small towns, natural wonders, and historical sites. Be sure to customize it based on your interests and the time of year you’re visiting, as Texas Hill Country hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.

#7 The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Explore the beauty of the Great Lakes region by taking a circular route around these massive bodies of freshwater. You’ll pass through charming towns, sandy beaches, and lush forests.

This is one where you should start in Chicago. Four Days may not be enough, but depending on what you are looking for, you will definitely want to come back to some of these spots for a long weekend.

Day 1: Chicago, Illinois

Day 2: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Day 3: Traverse City, Michigan

  • Ever heard of Traverse City? Neither had we, but this is a must stop on the road trip. It’s charming town on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay.
  • Explore the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula with its wineries and scenic views.
  • Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and take a dune climb for panoramic vistas.
  • Overnight in Traverse City.

Day 4: Mackinac Island and Mackinaw City, Michigan

In summary, this 4-day Great Lakes road trip offers a mix of city exploration, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Keep in mind that the Great Lakes region has much more to offer, so if you have extra time, consider extending your trip to explore additional cities, parks, and landmarks along the shores of these magnificent lakes. This road trip would rank higher, but not as much fun in the winter, and involves quite a bit of time outside the car.