The American road trip is an iconic right of passage for many. Whether you’re driving through New England to see the vibrant colors of fall or cruising between towering redwoods on the Pacific Coast, consider Staying Select along the way. Read on to learn about some of the best scenic road trips in the USA. If you’re traveling with your sweetheart, check out our Romantic Getaway Guide for some great suggestions for making your adventure romantic!
13 of the Best Scenic Road Trips in the USA
“It is good to have an end to journey toward, but it is the journey that matters in the end.”
— Ursula Le Guin
1. The Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as California State Route 1, runs from greater Los Angeles up through the Bay Area. Admire ocean waves crashing against rocky cliffs, stand in awe of sky-high redwoods, and find plenty of arts and culture attractions along the way. This road trip is arguably one of the most popular in the United States.
Stay at the Ballard Inn & Gathering Table
Near Santa Barbara, CA
Spend some time in Santa Barbara Wine Country, then stay the night at the Ballard Inn. This romantic inn boasts an award-winning restaurant where chef Budi Kazali fuses Eastern and Western techniques to provide an unforgettable food and wine experience for guests.
Stay at Mill Rose Inn Bed and Breakfast
In Half Moon Bay, CA
Half Moon Bay makes an excellent stop along your Pacific Coast road trip. Stay at Mill Rose Inn for an unparalleled night’s rest, outstanding service, and beautiful accommodations. Beautiful antiques and lovely watercolor paintings adorn the halls throughout the property.
2. The Blue Ridge Parkway
Where the Pacific Coast Highway is a classic West Coast pilgrimage, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the same for the East Coast. Travel through the majestic mountainscapes of Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia and revel in some of the most amazing sunrises you will ever see in your life! Treat yourself to delicious eats, unique shopping, and adventurous detours along the way.
Stay at Beechwood Inn Georgia’s Premier Wine Country Inn
In Clayton, GA
While you’re in the mountains of Georgia, consider staying at Beechwood Inn for a Southern wine country experience. Sit outside with a glass of wine and watch for birds, feel the gentle breeze, and take in the beautiful natural surroundings!
Stay at Snowbird Mountain Lodge
In Robbinsville, NC
Stay on the Southern border of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in an elegant, rustic lodge for a one-of-a-kind mountain experience. You’ll encounter plenty of scenic vistas along the way. Once you’re settled in, kick your feet up and relax at the cozy Snowbird Mountain Lodge.
Stay at Fort Lewis Lodge & Farm
In Millboro Springs, VA
Fort Lewis Lodge & Farm sits on 3, 365 acres in the quiet mountains of Virginia. Rest assured that whichever room out of the 21 to choose from will offer outstanding views of the region. There’s no better place to rest your head on your journey through the Blue Ridge Mountains!
3. Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA
While both Charleston, SC, and Savannah, GA, share a similar Southern charm, each city offers its own unique experience to visitors. Explore the best of the twin cities’ architecture, rich history, and tranquil waterfront settings. Along the way, you can expect to see ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss, flat marshes, and vibrant, historic buildings.
A Tale of Two Cities: The Best Charleston to Savannah Road Trip
4. The Olympic Peninsula Loop
Soak in the diverse ecology of the Pacific Northwest when you opt for a road trip along the Olympic Peninsula Loop. You can expect to witness beautiful scenes such as sub-alpine forests, rivers, lakes, glacier-capped peaks, rainforests, and the Pacific Ocean, of course. Don’t miss attractions such as Ruby Beach, Mount Walker, Whidbey Island, Port Angeles, and Olympic National Park, of course!
Stay at Colette’s Bed and Breakfast
In Port Angeles, WA
While you’re traveling, take a load off and stay in luxury at Colette’s Bed and Breakfast. This oceanfront estate sits nestled between the Olympic Range and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The sweeping views of the ocean, as well as the mountains, paint a picture of peace and serenity.
View more of our Port Angeles properties below:
5. Florida Overseas Highway
From the booming cultural hub that is Miami, FL, down to the warm waters of Key West, the Florida Overseas Highway carries travelers along the strip of land that is the Florida Keys. Drive straight over the ocean on the famous Seven Mile Bridge and see nothing but beautiful blue waters from either direction. You’ll encounter bikeways, museums, a Dolphin Research Center, and more on your way South! It’s a magical experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Stay at The Mermaid and the Alligator
In Key West, FL
After a long day of driving, once you reach your destination, Key West, check-in at the Mermaid and the Alligator! This beautiful early 20th century Victorian home serves up a delicious breakfast each morning, offers convenient access to the beach, and has its own private pool.
View more of our Key West properties below:
6. Kancamagus Highway
For views of fall foliage unlike any you’ve seen before, travel along the Kancamagus Highway in Northern New Hampshire. It’s easily one of the best places to travel in October due to the unbelievable colors that the autumn leaves paint against the blue sky this time of year. Just be sure to fuel up, grab some snacks, and prepare for a long stretch of road on which you won’t find many gas stations, restaurants, or other businesses.
Stay at the Manor on Golden Pond
In Holderness, NH
Relish in the experience of staying in the charming New England town of Holderness, NH. Refined decor, manicured landscaping, and high-class service set the Manor on Golden Pond apart from your average lodging experience.
Stay at the Notchland Inn Bed & Breakfast
In Hart's Location, NH
Venture off the beaten path to Notchland Inn Bed and Breakfast within the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Here, guests will find everything they need to unwind after traveling in a car for hours. Choose between eight romantic bedrooms for your stay!
7. Route 6: Cape Cod
There’s a reason why Cape Cod is one of the top travel destinations in the United States. Quaint fishing villages, historic lighthouses, and New England foodie favorites draw visitors year after year. You’ll find that the light dances along the shores of the Atlantic in such a mesmerizing manner. It’s the perfect place for artists and creatives to restore and reinspire their energies.
Our Cape Cod Road Trip Itinerary
More Road Trip Ideas
One of the best parts about going on a road trip is that you can cater it to be exactly what you want! For more great road trip ideas, take a look at some of the following blogs and resources to map out the perfect adventure!
- The Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas
- Civil War Road Trip Destinations
- The Best Scenic Drives in Vermont
- Pacific and Mountain States Road Trip Itinerary
- Route 66 Road Trip Planning
- The Perfect Road Trips Through the Central United States
Stay Select
Cross off some of your long-time bucket list ideas while embarking on one of the best scenic road trips in the USA. The breathtaking views don’t have to end once you’re off the road. You’ll find that many of our esteemed bed and breakfasts, inns, boutique hotels, lodges, and luxury cabins sit in front of gorgeous backdrops. Wake up to a gourmet breakfast, soak in the views, and spend some time exploring natural wonders or embarking on outdoor adventures. Then, hit the road towards your next destination!
What are you waiting for? Start planning your getaway today!
