For most Americans, an iconic road trip probably sits pretty high on their bucket list. No other country in the world is mapped out for people to so quickly hit the road for the adventure of a lifetime. Once you leave the large urban centers of the U.S., the roads will lead you to wide open spaces, captivating mountain views, stunning shores, and unexpected treasures. Adventure awaits in whatever direction that you choose.
Have a Plan
There are over four million miles of road in the United States. It is unlikely that you will cover them all in one fell swoop. You will want to have a plan, or at least an idea before you hit the road. Ask yourself a few questions.
- What kind of weather am I equipped for? If your road trip is in March and you don’t have a four-wheel drive vehicle, the mountains could be tricky.
- Do I my heart set on any specific locations? Start your planning with locations that are must-do in mind.
- Do I want to stay at campgrounds, large hotels, or B&Bs? Your choice of overnight accommodations can have a large impact on drive length and packing needs.
- What kind of adventure am I looking for? Photography, culinary, historical…
- How many miles do I want to drive? For some people, the drive itself is the journey, while others prefer short hops between exciting places.
- How much time do I have? Realistic expectations are key to a successful road trip.
Don’t Have Too Much of a Plan
One of the greatest aspects of an American road trip is the unknown. While having a general plan is necessary, don’t plan your trip to death. You need to leave some wiggle room for things that pop up along the way. Trust this, when you see a billboard announcing The World’s Largest Ball of Stamps, or The World’s Only Corn Palace, despite it not being on your itinerary, you will be compelled to stop.
Three Fantastic U.S. Road Trip Highways
Interstate 20
If you have time and want to make tracks on your road trip, you can’t go wrong with a jaunt on I-20. This almost 1600 mile route begins in Kent, TX, a tiny ghost town big on Texas history, and traverses the country all the way to Florence, SC, the childhood home of Cale Yarborough, four-time Daytona 500 champion. Along the way, you will find camping near Monahans Sandhills State Park, amazing sights to see near great hotels in Fort Worth TX, quaint B&Bs in Shreveport and Jackson and many historic inns between Atlanta and Florence.
Highway 61
For a road trip fueled by blues, rock and roll, and good old fashioned home-cooking, this is the route for you. From Nashville to New Orleans, your senses will be overwhelmed with the finest music and eats that the American South serves up.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers up its awe-inspiring scenery and curvy mountain roads. Trucks are prohibited, and the speed limit stays at 45 mph throughout, making this route ideal for folks wanting a relaxing drive with breathtaking views and opportunities to experience the artisans and history of the Appalachian and Smokey Mountains.
