Going on a road trip across the country with family is a classic American tradition. For many, there is nothing they love more than getting in their car, filling up the gas tank, turning up the radio, and hitting the road with loved ones.
If you and your family are ready to go on a nice drive, but have no idea where to go, consider picking from a list of the best scenic drives in the U.S..
To help you plan an unforgettable road trip, here are the 10 most scenic drives in America.
Route 200 (Saddle Road) — Hawaii
Considered to be one of the most dangerous roads in Hawaii, Route 200 – also known as Saddle Road – is both desolate and beautiful. Reaching an altitude of 6,600 feet, the highway connects the Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea volcanos and offers some of the lushest greenery and bluest skies on our list due to geographic location and mineral-rich soil.
Overseas Highway — Florida Keys
Taking a road trip to the Florida Keys is truly an unforgettable experience.
The main reason this is considered one of the most scenic drives in Florida is due to the Overseas Highway, which consists of 113 miles of bridges and roads. The Overseas Highway begins in the mainland of Florida and ends in Key West, which is the southernmost point in the entire United States.
Finger Lakes Region — New York
A road trip to the Finger Lakes Region is definitely in order if you want to explore the northeastern region of the United States.
The Finger Lakes are located in the center of New York State. As you may have guessed by the name of the region, these lakes are shaped like fingers. There are a total of 11 lakes in the Finger Lakes region. Some of these lakes include Cayuga, Canandaigua, Seneca, Otisco, Skaneateles, and Honeoye which were formed by glaciers. The region spans 75 miles from to Rochester from Syracuse.
Pacific Coast Highway — California
The Pacific Coast Highway in California is one of the most scenic drives in California. You will see many coastlines and cliffs as you drive along The Golden State’s coast. This scenic drive is a whopping 123 miles long, but you and your loved ones will unlikely experience boredom with the constant incredible views.
Going-to-the-Sun Road — Montana
If you want to visit a national park during your scenic drive, you should consider the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Montana. This 52-mile scenic drive will take you through Glacier National Park. If you drive without making any stops, you might be able to drive through this scenic route in just two hours.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road also crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass.
Skyline Drive — Virginia
You will find the Skyline Drive scenic route along the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. This 105-mile scenic route will take you through Shenandoah National Park – the only public road you can navigate through this protected land.
Seward Highway — Alaska
Should you desire a truly unique experience, the Seward Highway in Alaska is one to consider. Beginning in Seward, this frigid – albeit beautiful – scenic drive ends in the capitol city of Anchorage after 127 miles.
Breathtaking photo opportunities litter this icy excursion and frequent stops are recommended to thoroughly explore the surrounding landscape.
San Juan Skyway (Million Dollar Highway) — Colorado
The San Juan Skyway refers to a 233-mile scenic route through the Grand Mesa, the San Juan National Forest, Gunnison National Forests, and Uncompahgre. The San Juan mountains will dazzle you and your family with their many hues.
Brandywine Valley National Scenic Byway — Pennsylvania and Delaware
Even though the Brandywine Valley drive is relatively short, it is still just as scenic and lovely. Cutting through Delaware and Pennsylvania, the 12-mile journey along the Brandywine River watershed is lined with beautiful gardens and country mansions.
Patchwork Parkway (Scenic Byway 143) — Utah
Utah’s Route 143, also referred to as the Patchwork Parkway, connects Scenic Byway 12 and Heritage Highway 89. Without making any stops, this drive will only consume approximately two hours. However, stopping throughout the historic pioneer communities makes the trip worth it and offers insight into Native American and early Pioneer history.
Whether you prefer breathtaking ocean views or serene, countryside drives, the most scenic drives in the U.S. offer something for everyone.
All that’s left now is to pack the car, fill the tank, hit the road, and make some memories.