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USA road trip planner map showing the 5 iconic routes across America

Ultimate USA Road Trip Planner: Routes, Tips & Must-Have Gear

There’s something magical about the open road in America—where every mile brings new landscapes, unexpected discoveries, and the freedom to create your own adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of coastal highways with breathtaking ocean views, historic routes through the heartland, or wilderness journeys past towering mountains and ancient forests, planning the perfect USA road trip starts here. This comprehensive guide will walk you through iconic routes, essential planning tips, and must-have gear to ensure your American road trip is everything you’ve imagined and more.

5 Iconic USA Road Trip Routes You Can’t Miss

America’s vast landscape offers endless road trip possibilities, but these five legendary routes stand out for their incredible scenery, cultural significance, and unforgettable experiences. Each route below includes key stops, approximate driving times, and insider tips to help you plan your perfect journey.

USA road trip planner map showing the 5 iconic routes across America

Map of the 5 most iconic USA road trip routes

1. Historic Route 66: Chicago to Los Angeles

Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 represents the ultimate American road trip experience. This 2,448-mile journey takes you through the heart of America, crossing 8 states and countless small towns that capture the essence of mid-century Americana.

Historic Route 66 road sign with classic American landscape
Key StopsDriving DistanceHighlights
Chicago, IL to St. Louis, MO300 miles (5 hours)Cloud Gate sculpture, Route 66 Begin Sign, Gateway Arch
St. Louis, MO to Oklahoma City, OK485 miles (7.5 hours)Meramec Caverns, Cars on the Route, Blue Whale of Catoosa
Oklahoma City, OK to Amarillo, TX260 miles (4 hours)Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, Cadillac Ranch, Big Texan Steak Ranch
Amarillo, TX to Albuquerque, NM290 miles (4.5 hours)MidPoint Cafe, Blue Hole, Route 66 Auto Museum
Albuquerque, NM to Flagstaff, AZ325 miles (5 hours)Petrified Forest National Park, Painted Desert, Meteor Crater
Flagstaff, AZ to Santa Monica, CA470 miles (7 hours)Grand Canyon (detour), Oatman, AZ, Santa Monica Pier End Sign

Route 66 is best experienced over 10-14 days to fully appreciate its nostalgic diners, quirky roadside attractions, and historic landmarks. The route officially begins in Chicago and ends at the Santa Monica Pier, where you can celebrate with a photo at the “End of the Trail” sign.

2. Pacific Coast Highway: Seattle to San Diego

For breathtaking coastal views that will have you constantly pulling over for photos, nothing beats the Pacific Coast Highway. This stunning 1,650-mile route hugs the western edge of the United States, offering dramatic ocean vistas, charming seaside towns, and access to some of America’s most beautiful national parks.

Pacific Coast Highway winding along dramatic California coastline
Key StopsDriving DistanceHighlights
Seattle, WA to Portland, OR175 miles (3 hours)Olympic National Park, Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock
Portland, OR to Redwood National Park, CA330 miles (6 hours)Oregon Dunes, Thor’s Well, Avenue of the Giants
Redwood National Park to San Francisco, CA310 miles (6 hours)Ancient redwood forests, Glass Beach, Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco to Big Sur, CA150 miles (3 hours)Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Bixby Bridge
Big Sur to Santa Barbara, CA170 miles (4 hours)McWay Falls, Hearst Castle, Morro Bay
Santa Barbara to San Diego, CA215 miles (4 hours)Malibu, Venice Beach, La Jolla Cove

Allow 14-21 days to fully experience this coastal journey. The route is particularly spectacular between San Francisco and Los Angeles, where Highway 1 winds along dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss Big Sur, often considered America’s most scenic coastal drive.

3. The Great Northern Route: Seattle to Boston

Following US Route 2 across the northern United States, this epic 3,600-mile journey takes you through mountain ranges, vast prairies, and the Great Lakes region. It’s perfect for travelers seeking diverse landscapes and fewer crowds than more popular routes.

Great Northern Route passing through Glacier National Park in Montana
Key StopsDriving DistanceHighlights
Seattle, WA to Glacier National Park, MT550 miles (9 hours)Cascade Mountains, Spokane, Going-to-the-Sun Road
Glacier National Park to Fargo, ND650 miles (10 hours)Great Plains, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands
Fargo, ND to Minneapolis, MN240 miles (3.5 hours)Lakes region, Paul Bunyan statue, Mississippi River headwaters
Minneapolis to Mackinac Island, MI420 miles (7 hours)Wisconsin Dells, Green Bay, Mackinac Bridge
Mackinac Island to Niagara Falls, NY570 miles (9 hours)Great Lakes shoreline, Detroit, Lake Erie
Niagara Falls to Boston, MA470 miles (7.5 hours)Finger Lakes, Adirondack Mountains, Berkshires

This cross-country adventure deserves at least 3 weeks to fully appreciate. The highlight for many travelers is Glacier National Park in Montana, where the Going-to-the-Sun Road offers some of America’s most spectacular mountain scenery. This route is best traveled in summer, as many northern sections can be snow-covered in winter.

4. The Southern Route: Los Angeles to Miami

Experience the cultural richness and warm hospitality of America’s southern states on this 2,600-mile journey from the Pacific to the Atlantic. This route takes you through desert landscapes, bayou country, and historic cities with distinctive regional cuisines and music traditions.

Southern Route road trip through New Orleans with historic French Quarter architecture
Key StopsDriving DistanceHighlights
Los Angeles, CA to Phoenix, AZ370 miles (5.5 hours)Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs, Sonoran Desert
Phoenix, AZ to El Paso, TX430 miles (6.5 hours)Saguaro National Park, Tombstone, White Sands National Park
El Paso to San Antonio, TX550 miles (8 hours)Guadalupe Mountains, Marfa, The Alamo
San Antonio to New Orleans, LA540 miles (8 hours)Houston Space Center, Cajun Country, French Quarter
New Orleans to Atlanta, GA470 miles (7 hours)Gulf Coast beaches, Mobile, Montgomery Civil Rights Trail
Atlanta to Miami, FL660 miles (10 hours)Savannah, St. Augustine, Kennedy Space Center

Plan for 2-3 weeks to experience this diverse route. The cultural highlights include New Orleans’ vibrant music scene, Texas barbecue, and the historic cities of the Deep South. This route is ideal in spring or fall to avoid summer’s intense heat and humidity.

5. The National Parks Loop: Las Vegas to Las Vegas

For nature enthusiasts, this 1,500-mile loop starting and ending in Las Vegas takes you through the spectacular landscapes of America’s Southwest, including some of the country’s most iconic national parks. The dramatic red rock formations, canyons, and desert vistas make this route a photographer’s dream.

National Parks Loop showing the Grand Canyon's vast landscape
Key StopsDriving DistanceHighlights
Las Vegas, NV to Zion National Park, UT160 miles (2.5 hours)Valley of Fire State Park, Kolob Canyons, Angels Landing
Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park, UT75 miles (1.5 hours)Checkerboard Mesa, Red Canyon, Bryce Amphitheater
Bryce Canyon to Capitol Reef National Park, UT120 miles (2.5 hours)Grand Staircase-Escalante, Boulder Mountain, Waterpocket Fold
Capitol Reef to Arches National Park, UT140 miles (2.5 hours)San Rafael Swell, Goblin Valley, Delicate Arch
Arches to Grand Canyon National Park, AZ320 miles (5.5 hours)Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, Horseshoe Bend
Grand Canyon to Las Vegas, NV280 miles (4.5 hours)Route 66, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead

Allow 10-14 days to fully experience this loop. Each national park deserves at least one full day of exploration, with additional time for hiking. This route is accessible year-round, though summer brings crowds and high temperatures, while winter may bring snow at higher elevations.

Ready to Navigate These Epic Routes?

Don’t rely on spotty cell service in remote areas. A dedicated GPS device ensures you’ll stay on track even when signal drops.

Find Your Perfect GPS Navigator

Essential USA Road Trip Planning Tips

A successful road trip requires thoughtful preparation. From budgeting to vehicle preparation, these planning essentials will help ensure your journey is smooth and enjoyable.

Best Times to Road Trip Across America

Statue of Liberty, New York under white and blue cloudy skies
RegionBest SeasonWhy It’s IdealWeather Considerations
NortheastFall (Sept-Oct)Spectacular fall foliage, fewer tourists, pleasant temperaturesPack layers; early snow possible in northern areas
SoutheastSpring (Mar-May) or Fall (Oct-Nov)Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes or fall colorsAvoid hurricane season (June-Nov)
MidwestSummer (June-Aug)Warm days, outdoor festivals, accessible rural areasPossible thunderstorms; humidity in some areas
SouthwestSpring (Mar-May) or Fall (Sept-Nov)Moderate temperatures, desert blooms in springAvoid summer’s extreme heat (100°F+)
West CoastSummer (June-Sept)Sunny days, minimal fog in coastal areasFire season may affect air quality (Aug-Oct)
Pacific NorthwestSummer (July-Sept)Driest months, best hiking conditionsRain possible year-round; pack waterproof gear
Rocky MountainsSummer (July-Aug)All mountain passes open, wildflowers bloomingAfternoon thunderstorms common; snow possible at high elevations
AlaskaSummer (June-Aug)Long daylight hours, all roads accessiblePrepare for variable conditions; many roads closed in winter

Road Trip Budget Calculator

Understanding your expenses before hitting the road helps prevent financial surprises. Use this calculator to estimate your road trip costs based on your specific route and preferences.

Expense CategoryCalculation MethodBudget-FriendlyMid-RangeLuxury
Fuel(Total miles ÷ MPG) × Avg. gas price$0.10-0.15/mile$0.15-0.20/mile$0.20-0.30/mile
AccommodationNightly rate × number of nights$0-50/night (camping, hostels)$100-150/night (motels, budget hotels)$200+/night (upscale hotels, resorts)
FoodDaily food cost × trip days$30-40/day (groceries, occasional dining)$50-75/day (mix of dining out and cooking)$100+/day (restaurants for most meals)
ActivitiesSum of attraction costs$10-20/day (free hikes, occasional attractions)$30-50/day (museums, tours, parks)$75+/day (guided experiences, premium attractions)
Vehicle Rental (if applicable)Daily rate × trip days + insurance$30-50/day (economy)$60-100/day (mid-size, SUV)$150+/day (luxury, specialty vehicles)
Emergency Fund15-20% of total budget15% of total15% of total15% of total

For a 14-day road trip covering approximately 2,500 miles, budget travelers can expect to spend around $1,500-2,000, mid-range travelers $3,000-4,000, and luxury travelers $5,000+. Costs vary significantly based on your route, season, and personal preferences.

Vehicle Preparation Checklist

Whether you’re taking your own vehicle or renting one, proper preparation is essential for a safe and trouble-free journey.

Mechanic performing pre-road trip vehicle inspection

Before Departure

  • Schedule a maintenance check-up (oil change, fluid levels, brakes)
  • Check tire pressure and tread depth (including spare tire)
  • Test battery and replace if older than 3-4 years
  • Verify all lights and signals are working properly
  • Replace windshield wipers if streaking or worn
  • Check air conditioning and heating systems
  • Clean interior and exterior thoroughly

Emergency Kit Essentials

  • Jumper cables or portable jump starter
  • Basic tool kit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
  • Tire pressure gauge and portable air compressor
  • Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • First aid kit with essential medications
  • Reflective warning triangles or flares

Protect Your Road Trip Memories

A dashcam not only provides security and evidence in case of accidents but also captures those unexpected scenic moments and wildlife sightings along your journey.

Browse Top-Rated Dashcams

Where to Stay: Accommodation Tips for Road Trippers

Finding the right places to stay is a crucial part of road trip planning. America offers diverse accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style, from camping under the stars to luxury resorts.

Scenic campsite setup near Grand Teton National Park

Accommodation Options Comparison

Accommodation TypePrice RangeBest ForBooking Tips
Camping (National/State Parks)$20-40/nightNature lovers, budget travelers, outdoor enthusiastsReserve 6+ months ahead for popular parks; some sites offer first-come, first-served options
Private Campgrounds$30-60/nightRV travelers, families wanting amenitiesLook for KOA or Good Sam affiliations; book weekends in advance
Motels/Budget Hotels$60-120/nightConvenience, quick overnight staysWalk-in rates often higher; book same-day through apps for discounts
Mid-Range Hotels$120-200/nightComfort seekers, business amenitiesJoin loyalty programs; Sunday-Thursday stays usually cheaper
Vacation Rentals$100-300+/nightLonger stays, families, groupsBook well in advance for popular destinations; look for weekly discounts
Unique Stays (Treehouses, Yurts, etc.)$100-400+/nightSpecial occasions, unique experiencesReserve months ahead; often minimum stay requirements

Camping in National Parks: What to Know

Camping in America’s national parks offers an immersive nature experience and significant cost savings. However, it requires advance planning, especially for popular destinations like Yellowstone National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Camping in Yellowstone National Park with wildlife in distance

Reservation Tips

  • Book through Recreation.gov 6 months in advance when possible
  • Set calendar reminders for reservation windows opening
  • Consider less popular campgrounds within the same park
  • Look for first-come, first-served campgrounds for flexibility
  • Have backup options outside the park (national forests, private campgrounds)

Essential Camping Gear

  • Quality tent appropriate for the climate
  • Sleeping bags rated for expected temperatures
  • Sleeping pads or air mattresses for comfort
  • Headlamps and lanterns for nighttime
  • Compact cooking equipment and cooler
  • Bear-proof food storage (required in many parks)

Hotel Booking Strategies for Road Trips

When camping isn’t your style or you need a break from the outdoors, strategic hotel booking can save you money and enhance your road trip experience.

Traveler checking into roadside hotel during USA road trip
  • Flexibility Strategy: Book accommodations with free cancellation for the first and last few nights of your trip, but leave middle portions flexible to adjust your pace.
  • Location Strategy: In cities, stay slightly outside downtown for better rates; near national parks, book further out (30+ minutes) for significant savings.
  • Timing Strategy: In business-oriented cities, weekend rates are lower; in tourist destinations, weekday rates are better.
  • Loyalty Strategy: Join hotel loyalty programs before your trip; even new members often get benefits like free WiFi or late checkout.
  • Same-Day Booking: Apps like HotelTonight and Priceline offer deep discounts for same-day bookings if you’re comfortable with spontaneity.

Unique Accommodation Experiences

Make your road trip more memorable by including a few unique accommodation experiences along your route.

Historic lighthouse accommodation on Pacific Coast

Historic Lighthouses

Several lighthouses along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts offer overnight stays in keeper’s quarters, providing dramatic ocean views and unique historical experiences.

Luxury treehouse accommodation in the forests of Oregon

Treehouses & Glamping

From luxury treehouses in Oregon to safari-style glamping tents near national parks, these upscale outdoor accommodations offer comfort without sacrificing nature immersion.

Historic Route 66 vintage motel with neon sign

Historic Route 66 Motels

Experience a slice of Americana by staying in restored vintage motels along Route 66, complete with neon signs, classic cars, and retro decor that transports you back to the golden age of road trips.

Road Trip Packing Essentials

Packing smartly can make the difference between a stressful journey and a smooth adventure. Beyond the obvious clothing and toiletries, here are the essential items every road tripper should have.

Organized road trip gear and packing essentials laid out

Printable Road Trip Packing Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you don’t forget any essentials. Customize it based on your specific route, season, and activities planned.

Vehicle Essentials

  • Vehicle registration and insurance documents
  • Roadside assistance information
  • Spare tire and jack
  • Jumper cables or portable jump starter
  • Basic tool kit
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Portable air compressor
  • Windshield washer fluid
  • Motor oil and coolant
  • Ice scraper (seasonal)
  • Sunshade for windshield
  • Dashcam

Navigation & Electronics

  • GPS device or road atlas
  • State/regional maps
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Car charger/adapter
  • Portable power bank
  • Hands-free phone mount
  • Headphones
  • Camera and memory cards
  • Multi-outlet adapter
  • Extension cord
  • Portable WiFi device (optional)
  • Tablet/laptop and chargers

Comfort & Convenience

  • Reusable water bottles
  • Travel mug for hot drinks
  • Cooler for food and drinks
  • Snacks and non-perishable food
  • Trash bags
  • Tissues and wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Travel pillow and blanket
  • Sunglasses
  • Umbrella or rain poncho
  • Day pack for hiking
  • Reusable shopping bags

Safety & First Aid

  • First aid kit
  • Prescription medications
  • Pain relievers
  • Motion sickness remedies
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Aloe vera gel
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Emergency contact information
  • Whistle
  • Multi-tool
  • Duct tape

Camping Gear (if applicable)

  • Tent and stakes
  • Sleeping bags
  • Sleeping pads or air mattresses
  • Camping pillows
  • Headlamps or lanterns
  • Camp stove and fuel
  • Cooking utensils
  • Portable grill
  • Matches/lighter
  • Camping chairs
  • Portable table
  • Water container

Documents & Finances

  • Driver’s license
  • Passport (if near borders)
  • Health insurance cards
  • National park passes
  • Hotel/campground reservations
  • Cash in small denominations
  • Multiple credit/debit cards
  • Roadside assistance card
  • Travel insurance information
  • Emergency contacts list
  • Itinerary copies (digital and print)
  • Address book for postcards

Car Organization Products

Keeping your vehicle organized during a long road trip prevents frustration and makes the journey more enjoyable. These products help maximize space and keep essentials within easy reach.

Backseat car organizer with multiple storage pockets

Backseat Organizer

These hanging organizers attach to the back of front seats, providing easy access to essentials for rear passengers. Perfect for families with children.

  • Multiple pockets for snacks, tablets, books
  • Tablet holder for entertainment
  • Insulated drink holders
  • Easy to install and remove
Trunk organizer with compartments for road trip gear

Trunk Organizer

Collapsible cargo organizers keep your trunk neatly arranged and prevent items from sliding around during driving. Essential for longer trips with lots of gear.

  • Adjustable compartments for customization
  • Non-slip bottom stays in place
  • Collapses when not in use
  • Reinforced handles for easy removal
Center console organizer with cup holders and storage

Console Organizer

These organizers expand your center console’s capacity, keeping frequently used items within easy reach of the driver and front passenger.

  • Additional cup holders
  • Phone and sunglasses storage
  • Coin and toll money compartments
  • Adjustable to fit most vehicles

Capture Every Moment of Your Journey

A dashcam not only provides security but also automatically records those unexpected scenic moments and wildlife sightings you might miss.

Find Your Perfect Dashcam

Road Trip Safety: Essential Tips and Gear

Safety should be a top priority for any road trip. From vehicle preparation to emergency planning, these tips will help ensure your journey remains trouble-free.

Road trip safety kit with emergency supplies laid out

Avoid These 7 Common Road Trip Mistakes

  1. Inadequate Vehicle Preparation – Skipping a pre-trip inspection can lead to preventable breakdowns. Always check fluids, tires, brakes, and batteries before departing.
  2. Overly Ambitious Itineraries – Planning too many miles per day leads to exhaustion and reduced enjoyment. Limit driving to 4-6 hours daily when possible.
  3. Relying Solely on Digital Navigation – Cell service can disappear in remote areas. Always have physical maps or an offline navigation backup.
  4. Ignoring Weather Forecasts – Severe weather can dramatically impact driving conditions. Check forecasts regularly and be willing to adjust plans.
  5. Driving While Fatigued – Driver fatigue contributes to thousands of accidents annually. Take breaks every 2 hours and switch drivers when possible.
  6. Neglecting Emergency Supplies – Being stranded without essentials can turn inconvenient to dangerous. Always carry water, food, and emergency gear.
  7. Leaving Valuables Visible – Break-ins at scenic stops are common. Never leave valuables visible in your parked vehicle.

Essential Safety Gear

These safety items should be considered non-negotiable for any road trip, especially when traveling through remote areas or national parks where help may be far away.

Dashcam installed in vehicle recording scenic highway

Dashcam

A dashcam provides valuable evidence in case of accidents and can capture unexpected wildlife sightings or scenic moments during your journey.

  • Records proof in case of accidents
  • Captures unexpected scenic moments
  • Some models offer parking surveillance
  • GPS-enabled models track your route
Portable jump starter being used to start car battery

Portable Jump Starter

Modern portable jump starters eliminate the need for another vehicle when your battery dies. These compact devices can restart your car multiple times on a single charge.

  • No second vehicle needed for jumps
  • Many include built-in flashlights
  • USB ports for charging devices
  • Compact enough for glove compartment
Comprehensive first aid kit for road trip emergencies

Comprehensive First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for handling minor injuries and emergencies until professional help is available.

  • Bandages in various sizes
  • Antiseptic wipes and ointment
  • Pain relievers and allergy medications
  • Emergency contact information

Emergency Planning for Remote Areas

When traveling through remote regions or national parks like Yellowstone National Park or Death Valley, additional preparation is necessary as cell service may be nonexistent and help could be hours away.

Vehicle prepared for remote travel in Yellowstone National Park

Communication Preparedness

  • Download offline maps before entering remote areas
  • Consider a satellite communicator for emergency messaging
  • Leave detailed itinerary with someone reliable
  • Establish check-in times with family/friends
  • Research locations of ranger stations along your route
  • Note areas with known cell coverage on your maps

Survival Essentials

  • Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day
  • Pack high-energy, non-perishable food
  • Include emergency blankets and warm clothing
  • Bring signaling devices (whistle, mirror, bright fabric)
  • Carry a multi-tool and basic repair supplies
  • Include fire-starting materials in waterproof container

Safety First: Document Your Journey

A dashcam provides peace of mind and captures evidence in case of accidents or unexpected events during your road trip adventure.

Explore Dashcam Options

Local Secrets From Coast to Coast

Discover hidden gems and insider tips that will take your road trip beyond the typical tourist experience. These local secrets will help you find authentic experiences, avoid crowds, and create unforgettable memories.

Hidden waterfall off Pacific Coast Highway discovered by locals

Hidden Gems Along Major Routes

These lesser-known attractions near popular routes offer authentic experiences without the crowds of more famous destinations.

Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas with red rock formations

Valley of Fire State Park, NV

Just an hour from Las Vegas, this stunning park features 40,000 acres of bright red Aztec sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and desert landscapes that rival the more crowded national parks. Visit early morning for the best photography and cooler temperatures.

Apostle Islands ice caves in winter, Lake Superior, Wisconsin

Apostle Islands Ice Caves, WI

When Lake Superior freezes in winter, these sea caves transform into spectacular ice formations accessible by walking across the frozen lake. Timing is tricky as conditions must be perfect, but the crystalline chambers and frozen waterfalls create an otherworldly experience worth the effort.

Enchanted Highway metal sculptures in North Dakota prairie

Enchanted Highway, ND

This 32-mile stretch of highway in western North Dakota features seven massive scrap metal sculptures created by a local artist. These whimsical roadside attractions include “Geese in Flight” (world’s largest scrap metal sculpture) and “Tin Family,” offering perfect photo opportunities in an otherwise sparse landscape.

Natural Bridges State Beach butterfly grove in California

Natural Bridges Butterfly Grove, CA

From October to February, thousands of monarch butterflies migrate to this eucalyptus grove near Santa Cruz. Walking through the trees with countless orange and black wings fluttering overhead creates a magical experience often missed by travelers rushing down the Pacific Coast Highway.

Bisti Badlands alien landscape in New Mexico

Bisti Badlands, NM

This remote wilderness area features some of the most otherworldly landscapes in America. The bizarre hoodoos, cracked clay, and balanced rocks create an alien landscape perfect for photography. Visit at sunrise or sunset when the low light creates dramatic shadows across the formations.

Dry Tortugas National Park fort and crystal clear waters

Dry Tortugas National Park, FL

Located 70 miles west of Key West and accessible only by boat or seaplane, this remote park combines history and natural beauty. The massive 19th-century Fort Jefferson sits amid crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling over pristine coral reefs with minimal crowds.

Best Local Eateries by Region

Skip the chains and experience authentic regional cuisine at these local favorites that showcase America’s diverse culinary traditions.

Authentic BBQ joint in Texas with smokers and outdoor seating
RegionMust-Try DishLocal Favorite SpotInsider Tip
Pacific NorthwestFresh SeafoodPike Place Chowder (Seattle, WA)Visit between 2-4pm to avoid the notorious lines while still enjoying the award-winning chowder
CaliforniaFish TacosLa Jolla Shores (San Diego, CA)The food trucks near the beach often have better tacos than sit-down restaurants
SouthwestGreen Chile StewThe Shed (Santa Fe, NM)Ask for “Christmas style” to try both red and green chile sauces
TexasBrisketSnow’s BBQ (Lexington, TX)Only open Saturdays from 8am until sold out (usually by noon)
Deep SouthShrimp & GritsHominy Grill (Charleston, SC)Go for breakfast when locals outnumber tourists
MidwestDeep Dish PizzaPequod’s Pizza (Chicago, IL)Order ahead by phone; the caramelized cheese crust is their signature
New EnglandLobster RollRed’s Eats (Wiscasset, ME)Visit mid-week and outside lunch hours to minimize wait times
Mid-AtlanticCheesesteakJohn’s Roast Pork (Philadelphia, PA)Locals prefer this over the touristy Pat’s and Geno’s; closed Sundays

Pet-Friendly Road Trip Stops

Traveling with four-legged companions? These pet-friendly destinations welcome your furry friends with open arms.

Dog enjoying beach at pet-friendly Cape Cod National Seashore

West Coast Pet Havens

  • Carmel Beach, CA – This leash-free beach welcomes dogs to run in the surf; nearby town is extremely pet-friendly
  • Portland, OR – Over 30 off-leash dog parks and countless pet-friendly breweries and restaurants
  • Cannon Beach, OR – Dogs allowed off-leash on the beach before 10am and after 4pm
  • San Diego, CA – Visit Dog Beach in Ocean Beach for off-leash fun year-round

Central States for Pets

  • Austin, TX – Numerous dog-friendly patios, parks, and swimming holes like Red Bud Isle
  • Breckenridge, CO – Pet-friendly hiking trails and outdoor dining options abound
  • Custer State Park, SD – Pets allowed on leash throughout most of this scenic park
  • Chicago, IL – Montrose Dog Beach offers city pups a place to swim in Lake Michigan

East Coast Pet Spots

  • Cape Cod National Seashore, MA – Several beaches allow leashed pets year-round
  • Acadia National Park, ME – 100+ miles of pet-friendly hiking trails
  • Jekyll Island, GA – Dogs allowed on beaches before 9am and after 6pm
  • Shenandoah National Park, VA – One of the most pet-friendly national parks with most trails open to leashed dogs

Ready to Hit the Road?

America’s highways and byways are calling, offering endless possibilities for adventure, discovery, and connection. Whether you’re drawn to coastal drives with ocean views, historic routes through the heartland, or wilderness journeys through national parks, the perfect road trip awaits. With proper planning, essential gear, and an open mind for unexpected discoveries, your USA road trip will create memories to last a lifetime.

Remember that the journey itself is as important as the destinations. Take time to explore those roadside attractions, chat with locals at small-town diners, and occasionally venture off your planned route—these spontaneous moments often become the highlights of any great road trip.

Essential Gear for Your Adventure

Don’t leave home without the tools that will make your journey safer and more enjoyable. Invest in quality navigation and safety equipment before hitting the open road.

Safe travels and happy exploring!

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