The open road has long been a symbol of freedom and adventure in America. There’s something special about packing up your car, turning up your favorite tunes, and setting off to explore new places on your own. Solo road trips offer a unique opportunity to discover not just the country, but also yourself.
In this post, I’ll share 18 amazing American road trips that are perfect for solo travelers.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
This scenic drive along the California coast is a must-do for solo travelers. Starting in San Francisco and ending in Los Angeles, you’ll see stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge. Stop at Big Sur to hike among redwoods and waterfalls. Don’t miss the chance to relax on beautiful beaches and sample fresh seafood along the way.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina
Winding through the Appalachian Mountains, this 469-mile road offers breathtaking mountain scenery. You’ll pass through quaint small towns, historic sites, and plenty of hiking trails. In autumn, the changing leaves create a spectacular color show. Make sure to stop at overlooks for panoramic views and visit local craft shops for unique souvenirs.
Route 66, Illinois to California
Experience a slice of classic Americana on this historic route. You’ll drive through small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and vast desert landscapes. Try local diners for authentic regional cuisine and stay in retro motels for the full experience. Don’t forget to snap photos with iconic Route 66 signs and vintage gas stations along the way.
Alaska Highway, Canada to Alaska
This epic journey takes you through rugged wilderness and stunning mountain landscapes. You’ll see wildlife like moose, bears, and eagles in their natural habitats. Stop at hot springs for a relaxing soak and visit small frontier towns to learn about local history. The long summer days in this region give you plenty of time to explore and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Florida Keys Overseas Highway
Drive across the ocean on this unique highway connecting the Florida Keys. You’ll cross 42 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, with turquoise waters on both sides. Stop at Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S., for its vibrant culture and beautiful sunsets. Along the way, enjoy fresh seafood, go snorkeling, and relax on pristine beaches.
Southwest National Parks Loop
This trip takes you through some of America’s most stunning landscapes. Visit the Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches National Parks to see incredible rock formations and colorful deserts. Hike scenic trails, watch breathtaking sunsets, and stargazing in some of the darkest skies in the country. Don’t miss the chance to learn about Native American history and culture at various sites along the route.
New England Fall Foliage Tour
Experience the beauty of autumn in New England on this picturesque drive. Start in Boston and wind your way through small towns in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. You’ll see stunning fall colors, covered bridges, and charming farms. Stop at local orchards to pick apples and try fresh cider. Visit cozy cafes and bookstores in quaint college towns along the way.
Oregon Coast Highway
Drive along the rugged Pacific coastline of Oregon for stunning ocean views and unique landscapes. Stop at lighthouses, sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs for amazing photo opportunities. Visit coastal towns to try fresh seafood and local craft beers. Don’t miss the chance to explore tide pools, watch for whales, and hike in lush coastal forests.
Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
Follow the mighty Mississippi River from its source to the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll pass through 10 states, each with its own unique culture and attractions. Visit river towns, historic sites, and wildlife refuges along the way. Try regional specialties like deep-dish pizza in Chicago and gumbo in New Orleans. Don’t forget to take a riverboat ride to get a different perspective on this iconic waterway.
Outer Banks Scenic Byway, North Carolina
Drive along the narrow islands of North Carolina’s Outer Banks for a unique coastal experience. You’ll see historic lighthouses, wild beaches, and charming fishing villages. Take a ferry ride to remote islands and learn about the area’s maritime history. Try fresh seafood, go kiteboarding, and watch for wild horses on the beach. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the first powered flight took place.
Overseas Highway, Florida
This 113-mile highway connects the Florida Keys, offering a unique island-hopping experience. Solo travelers can enjoy water activities, fresh seafood, and the laid-back Keys atmosphere. The Seven Mile Bridge, stretching over open water, is a highlight of the trip. Stops at Key Largo, Islamorada, and Key West provide opportunities to snorkel, visit historic sites, and watch stunning sunsets.
Historic Route 1, Maine
Drive along the rugged coast of Maine on this scenic route. Stop at charming seaside towns to try fresh lobster and other seafood. Visit lighthouses and rocky beaches along the way. In the fall, you can enjoy beautiful foliage colors as you drive through forests near the coast.
Glacier National Park to Yellowstone, Montana and Wyoming
This route takes you through some of America’s most stunning mountain scenery. Drive the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park for amazing views. Then head south to Yellowstone to see geysers and colorful hot springs. Keep an eye out for wildlife like mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee to Mississippi
Follow this historic route used by Native Americans and early settlers. You’ll see beautiful forests, rolling hills, and historic sites along the way. Stop at Native American mounds and learn about the area’s rich history. The parkway is known for its peaceful, relaxing atmosphere and lack of commercial development.
Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia
This mountain route offers breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. Stop at overlooks to admire the scenery and maybe spot some wildlife. Visit small Appalachian towns to try local foods and hear traditional mountain music. The route is especially beautiful in fall, but it’s lovely year-round.
Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Explore the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on this scenic drive. See stunning waterfalls, vast forests, and the shores of three Great Lakes. Visit historic lighthouses and learn about the area’s mining history. In winter, you can even see the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.
Texas Hill Country Bluebonnet Trail
Experience the beauty of Texas wildflowers on this spring drive. The rolling hills come alive with blue, purple, and red blooms. Visit small towns to enjoy local barbecues and country music. Learn about Texas history at places like the LBJ Ranch. The best time for wildflowers is usually March to April.
Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington
Drive around this diverse peninsula to see rainforests, beaches, and mountains. Hike in Olympic National Park to see massive trees and beautiful waterfalls. Visit coastal towns to try fresh seafood and learn about Native American cultures. Don’t miss the chance to soak in natural hot springs along the way.
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