Scenic road trips across the US for breathtaking views and memorable adventures

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Global DeskLast Updated: Aug 10, 2025, 07:08:00 AM IST

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These scenic road trips across America offer volcanoes, national parks, oceans, lakes, historic towns, and wildlife views, all perfect alternatives to summer air travel. From the Florida Keys to Wyoming’s Wind River loop, these eight routes deliver natural variety, local charm, and unforgettable driving experiences

Tavernier in the Florida Keys - stock photo — Tavarnier in the Florida Keys - stock photo

1. Florida Keys Overseas Highway: tropical bridges and coral reefs

Travel the Overseas Highway between Key Largo and Key West for a scenic road trip unlike any other in America. This 113-mile route links barrier islands via 42 bridges, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic and Gulf. Attractions include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, and mouthwatering key lime pie at Blond Giraffe. Don’t miss Rain Barrel Village’s artsy souvenirs and a photo with Betsy the lobster.

Aerial view of the island Marathon Key and the Seven Mile Bridge and the Overseas Highway at the Florida Keys

2. Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway: California to Oregon’s volcano loop

Journey the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway for a 500-mile scenic road trip spanning two states. Discover extinct volcanoes, Lava Beds National Monument caves, and breathtaking Burney Falls. This route traverses forests, serene wilderness, and provides access to the Pacific Crest Trail, a geologist’s paradise in America.

A part of the Lava Beds National Monument on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway in California. (Bernard Friel/Getty Images)

Also read: 10 best road trips to take in the US: Complete itineraries ...

3. Great River Road: Mississippi states through culture and history

Follow the Mississippi River across ten states on a nearly 3,000-mile scenic road trip. Explore Civil War sites, Delta blues history in Mississippi, brewery tours in Wisconsin, and local cuisine from St. Louis to New Orleans. This route connects diverse cultural gems across America’s heartland.

Children play in the outlet of Lake Itasca in Minnesota, the source of the Mississippi River. (Education Images/Getty Images)

4. Maine’s Bold Coast National Scenic Byway: rugged Atlantic splendor

The Bold Coast Byway stretches 147 miles of rocky shoreline, lighthouses, and blueberry country in Maine. This often-overlooked scenic road trip traces the easternmost point of America, from Milbridge to Lubec, offering sunrise views, wild blueberries, and quiet coastal beauty.

Bold Coast Scenic Byway

5. Natchez Trace Parkway: historic Americana from Natchez to Nashville

Cruise 444 miles on the Natchez Trace Parkway, the ideal scenic road trip for history lovers. Highlights include Meriwether Lewis’s grave monument, Cypress Swamp, and the Wichahpi Stone Wall, plus detours to Tupelo’s Elvis birthplace and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio.

The Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee. (iStock)

6. Wyoming Wind River Country Loop: mountains, native heritage, adventure

Circle the Continental Divide on a 480-mile scenic road trip through Wyoming’s Wind River Country, past Yellowstone, Grand Teton, the Wind River Indian Reservation, and serene hot springs. This America-centered route balances rugged scenery with cultural immersion.

7. Utah’s five national parks loop: a week of awe-inspiring landscapes

Pack over 1,000 miles into a weeklong scenic road trip through Utah, linking five national parks: Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. Enjoy fiery canyons, petroglyphs, and hidden areas like Kolob Canyons. It’s a breathtaking slice of America’s red rock country.

A sign states the elevation at the Togwotee Pass in Wyoming for the Continental Divide. (iStock)

Also read: Tourists say ‘No Thanks’ to U.S. under Donald Trump; President's America first approach backfires as forei

8. Great Lakes Seaway Trail: lakes, history, and Thousand Islands

The Seaway Trail spans 518 miles along Lakes Erie and Ontario, your scenic road trip through the Great Lakes. Highlights include Presque Isle beaches, Niagara Falls, War of 1812 history, quaint towns, wineries, and boat tours to Boldt Castle. A distinctive America drive through freshwater beauty.