18 Must-Visit Road Trip Destinations for Summer

There’s no better time to hit the open road and embrace the spirit of adventure than in summer. With nature in full bloom, beaches at their best, and mountain trails clear, you get to experience the great outdoors at its finest. Summer is perfect for exploring new places, enjoying the sunny weather, and making unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, fuel up the car, and get ready to hit up these destinations perfect for Summer!

Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. Starting in Southern California and stretching up to the northern part of the state, this route offers breathtaking ocean views, towering cliffs, and serene beaches. Highlights include the stunning Bixby Creek Bridge, the dramatic scenery of Big Sur, and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see the famous McWay Falls and enjoy whale watching along the coast.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Mountains, providing 469 miles of stunning vistas, lush forests, and vibrant wildflowers. This scenic drive connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Explore numerous hiking trails, visit historic sites like Mabry Mill, and enjoy the breathtaking views from overlooks such as Linn Cove Viaduct and Craggy Gardens.

Route 66, Illinois to California

Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is a historic road trip that spans from Chicago to Santa Monica. This legendary route is filled with quirky roadside attractions, vintage motels, and classic diners. Highlights include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, and the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. End your journey at the Santa Monica Pier, where Route 66 meets the Pacific Ocean.

Great River Road, Mississippi River

The Great River Road follows the course of the Mississippi River, stretching through ten states from Minnesota to Louisiana. This scenic byway offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Discover charming river towns like Galena, Illinois, and Natchez, Mississippi, enjoy scenic overlooks, and experience the vibrant music scene in New Orleans. The journey is rich with history, from Mark Twain’s Hannibal to the historic plantations along the river.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

A drive through the Outer Banks takes you along a string of barrier islands with stunning beaches, historic lighthouses, and wildlife refuges. Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, explore the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and climb the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S. at Cape Hatteras. The serene beauty and laid-back vibe of the Outer Banks make it a perfect summer road trip destination.

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

This 50-mile stretch through Glacier National Park is a must-see, featuring breathtaking mountain scenery, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. The road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass and offers stunning views of the park’s rugged terrain. Highlights include Lake McDonald, St. Mary Lake, and the Weeping Wall. This route is only open in the summer, making it a perfect seasonal adventure.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Connecting the Florida mainland to Key West, the Overseas Highway offers stunning ocean views, coral reefs, and vibrant island culture. The 113-mile drive includes the famous Seven Mile Bridge and passes through picturesque islands like Key Largo and Marathon. Enjoy snorkeling and diving in the clear waters, visit the historic Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, and relax on the beautiful beaches.

The Loneliest Road, Nevada (US Route 50)

Experience the vast, open landscapes of Nevada on US Route 50, dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America.” This route takes you through the heart of the Great Basin, with wide-open skies, rugged mountains, and historic ghost towns. Visit Great Basin National Park, home to the ancient Bristlecone Pine trees and the Lehman Caves, and enjoy the solitude and beauty of this remote drive.

Skyline Drive, Virginia

Skyline Drive runs 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. With over 75 overlooks, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Piedmont region. The drive is especially beautiful in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Numerous hiking trails and picnic spots make it a perfect summer destination.

 Coastal Maine

A road trip along the coast of Maine promises charming seaside villages, rugged cliffs, and fresh seafood. Start in Portland and make your way to Acadia National Park, where you can explore rocky shorelines, hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain, and enjoy the serene beauty of Jordan Pond. Visit the historic town of Bar Harbor, explore the many lighthouses along the coast, and indulge in lobster rolls at local seafood shacks.

Alaska Highway, Canada and Alaska

For an adventurous road trip, drive the Alaska Highway, stretching from Dawson Creek in British Columbia through the Yukon to Delta Junction in Alaska. This 1,390-mile route offers stunning wilderness, wildlife sightings, and majestic mountain ranges. Highlights include the Liard River Hot Springs, Kluane National Park, and the stunning landscapes of the Yukon. This journey is a true adventure through some of North America’s most remote and beautiful regions.

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon and Washington

Follow the Columbia River through a dramatic gorge, with waterfalls, lush forests, and scenic viewpoints. This 80-mile drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway offers stunning vistas of the river and surrounding cliffs. Don’t miss Multnomah Falls, the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and the picturesque Hood River Valley, known for its orchards and wineries. The drive also offers opportunities for hiking, windsurfing, and exploring charming small towns.

Black Hills, South Dakota

Explore the Black Hills of South Dakota, home to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the scenic Needles Highway. This region offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure. Visit Custer State Park to see bison herds and enjoy hiking, swimming, and fishing. The historic town of Deadwood offers a glimpse into the Old West with its well-preserved buildings and lively saloons.

Texas Hill Country

A road trip through Texas Hill Country offers rolling hills, charming small towns, and beautiful wildflower displays. Visit Fredericksburg, a town with rich German heritage, sample local wines at the many vineyards, and enjoy the natural beauty of the rivers and swimming holes. The region is known for its live music, delicious BBQ, and vibrant arts scene, making it a perfect summer destination.

Olympic Peninsula, Washington

Drive around the Olympic Peninsula to experience diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines. Olympic National Park offers stunning vistas, wildlife viewing, and the serene beauty of Lake Crescent. Explore the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S., and visit the picturesque coastal town of Port Townsend. The drive also offers opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring tide pools along the coast.

Vermont Route 100

This scenic byway runs through the heart of Vermont, offering picturesque villages, covered bridges, and stunning fall foliage. Explore the Green Mountains, visit quaint towns like Stowe and Woodstock, and enjoy local farm-to-table cuisine. The route is especially beautiful in the summer, with lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

Route 12, Utah

Route 12 in Utah is a scenic byway that traverses through stunning red rock landscapes and national parks. Highlights include Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its unique hoodoos and vibrant colors, and Capitol Reef National Park, with its towering cliffs and scenic drives. The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers a rugged and remote wilderness experience, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring slot canyons.

Great Lakes Circle Tour

The Great Lakes Circle Tour takes you around the shores of the Great Lakes, offering stunning waterfront views, charming towns, and cultural attractions. Explore cities like Chicago and Toronto, visit beautiful islands and beaches, and enjoy water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The tour also offers opportunities to explore historic lighthouses, state parks, and vibrant urban centers.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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