With the pandemic slowly coming to an end, many people are looking to travel again and explore the beauty of the United States. One of the best ways to do so is by taking a road trip. The US has some of the most scenic routes in the world, and there's no better time to hit the open road than in 2023. In this article, we will explore the best road trips in the US that you should consider taking this year.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
With the pandemic slowly coming to an end, many people are looking to travel again and explore the beauty of the United States. One of the best ways to do so is by taking a road trip. The US has some of the most scenic routes in the world, and there's no better time to hit the open road than in 2023. In this article, we will explore the best road trips in the US that you should consider taking this year.
The Pacific Coast Highway, California
Why should you take this road trip?
The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic routes in the world. This road trip will take you along the California coastline and offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. You'll see everything from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, and you'll have the opportunity to stop and explore charming towns along the way. This road trip is perfect for those who love the ocean and want to experience the beauty of California's coastline.
What are some must-see attractions?
Some of the must-see attractions along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Hearst Castle in San Simeon, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey. You can also stop in charming towns like Santa Barbara and Carmel-by-the-Sea to explore their unique offerings.
The Great River Road, Mississippi River
Why should you take this road trip?
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This road trip will take you through 10 states and offer stunning views of the Mississippi River along the way. You'll see everything from small towns to big cities and experience the unique culture of the South. This road trip is perfect for those who want to experience the history and charm of the Mississippi River.
What are some must-see attractions?
Some of the must-see attractions along the Great River Road include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi, and the French Quarter in New Orleans. You can also stop in small towns like Natchez and Hannibal to explore their unique offerings.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
Why should you take this road trip?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the US. This road trip will take you through the Appalachian Mountains and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. You'll see everything from rolling hills to rocky peaks, and you'll have the opportunity to explore charming mountain towns along the way. This road trip is perfect for those who love the mountains and want to experience the beauty of Virginia and North Carolina.
What are some must-see attractions?
Some of the must-see attractions along the Blue Ridge Parkway include the Natural Bridge in Virginia, Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina, and the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. You can also stop in charming mountain towns like Boone and Blowing Rock to explore their unique offerings.
The Loneliest Road, Nevada
Why should you take this road trip?
The Loneliest Road is a 400-mile stretch of highway that runs through the middle of Nevada. This road trip will take you through some of the most remote and desolate areas of the US. You'll see everything from barren deserts to majestic mountain ranges, and you'll have the opportunity to experience the solitude of the open road. This road trip is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the beauty of the Nevada desert.
What are some must-see attractions?
Some of the must-see attractions along the Loneliest Road include the Great Basin National Park, the Hickison Petroglyphs, and the Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park. You can also stop in small towns like Eureka and Austin to explore their unique offerings.
The Oregon Trail, Oregon and Idaho
Why should you take this road trip?
The Oregon Trail is a historic route that was used by pioneers in the 19th century to travel from Missouri to Oregon. This road trip will take you through some of the most beautiful areas of Oregon and Idaho and offer a glimpse into the history of the US. You'll see everything from majestic mountains to rolling hills, and you'll have the opportunity to explore charming pioneer towns along the way. This road trip is perfect for those who want to experience the history and beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
What are some must-see attractions?
Some of the must-see attractions along the Oregon Trail include the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, the Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the Columbia River Gorge. You can also stop in charming pioneer towns like Baker City and La Grande to explore their unique offerings.
The Florida Keys, Florida
Why should you take this road trip?
The Florida Keys are a chain of islands that stretch from the southern tip of Florida to Key West. This road trip will take you through some of the most beautiful areas of Florida and offer stunning views of the ocean. You'll see everything from white sandy beaches to crystal clear waters, and you'll have the opportunity to explore charming island towns along the way. This road trip is perfect for those who love the ocean and want to experience the beauty of Florida's coastline.
What are some must-see attractions?
Some of the must-see attractions along the Florida Keys include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, the Seven Mile Bridge, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. You can also stop in charming island towns like Islamorada and Marathon to explore their unique offerings.
The Grand Circle, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico
Why should you take this road trip?
The Grand Circle is a 1,400-mile loop that takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of the Southwest US. This road trip will take you through four states and offer stunning views of canyons, rock formations, and desert landscapes. You'll have the opportunity to explore national parks and monuments along the way and experience the unique culture of the Southwest. This road trip is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty and history of the Southwest US.
What are some must-see attractions?
Some of the must-see attractions along the Grand Circle include the Grand Canyon National Park, Monument Valley, Arches National Park, and Mesa Verde National Park. You can also stop in charming towns like Sedona and Durango to explore their unique offerings.
Conclusion
There's no better way to explore the beauty of the US than by taking a road trip. Whether you're looking to experience the ocean, mountains, or deserts, there's a road trip for everyone. From the Pacific Coast Highway to the Grand Circle, these road trips offer stunning views and unique experiences that you won't find anywhere else. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and discover the beauty of the US in 2023.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time of year to take a road trip?
A: The best time of year to take a road trip depends on the destination. For example, the Pacific Coast Highway is best experienced in the summer, while the Blue Ridge Parkway is best experienced in the fall. It's important to research the best time to visit each destination before planning your road trip.
Q: What should I pack for a road trip?
A: It's important to pack essentials like clothes, toiletries, and snacks for your road trip. You should also bring a map or GPS, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications. It's also a good idea to bring a cooler to keep drinks and food cold.
