1. The Blue Ridge Parkway
Meandering across North Carolina and Virginia, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Scenic Byway and an All-American Road. This route passes through both the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, offering breathtaking scenery along the backbone of the Appalachian Mountains.
Active travelers will find a lot to love on this road trip. There are plenty of outstanding hiking trails to explore, and the scenic mountain roads are great for cyclists. The mountain biking is also fantastic, particularly in Roanoke, VA, which claims the title of the “Mountain Biking Capital of the East.” You’ll also discover numerous Appalachian towns steeped in history and culture, with places like the Blue Ridge Music Center and the Biltmore Estate providing plenty of excuses to leave your vehicle behind and soak in the rich experiences.
2. The Pacific Coast Highway
California’s Pacific Coast Highway stretches from San Diego in the south all the way to the Oregon border in the north. The route covers over 790 miles, much of which follows the stunningly beautiful coastline, offering views of rocky coves, towering cliffs, and sun-drenched beaches. For many, the highlight of the trip is crossing the Bixby Bridge near Big Sur, an iconic location that is recognizable from countless photos, movies, and TV shows.
Activities along the PCH include everything from exploring big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco to relaxing in wine country. This route has it all, with options for hiking, biking, swimming, surfing, and more. If you take the drive between May and November, you might even spot humpback and gray whales frolicking just offshore.
3. The Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone National Park
Even though Montana’s Beartooth Highway is only 68 miles in length, it definitely leaves a lasting impression. The road wanders east out of the town of Red Lodge, winding its way up into its namesake mountains before terminating in Cooke City just outside of Yellowstone National Park. The route is easily the most memorable way to reach Yellowstone, feeding directly into the park’s network of scenic roads, which are perfect for spotting wildlife and capturing postcard-perfect photographs.
If you don’t make any stops, driving the Beartooth takes about two hours to complete. But you can easily spend a whole day exploring everything this highway has to offer. From dramatic scenic overlooks to rugged hiking trails, there is much to take in here. The road even climbs as high as 10,947 feet, so it is possible to experience a snowstorm in the middle of summer. Be sure to stop at the Top of the World store to stretch your legs and grab snacks and drinks.
4. The North Shore All-American Scenic Drive
Northern Minnesota is a hidden gem for anyone who loves camping and the outdoors. One of the best ways to explore this region is by taking a road trip along the North Shore All-American Scenic Drive. The 154-mile route starts in Duluth and runs along the shores of Lake Superior all the way to the Canadian border, passing through eight state parks while en route.
This drive features gorgeous views around every turn, with three picturesque lighthouses, two stunning harbors, and a rocky freshwater coastline that seems to go on forever. With nearly a dozen Minnesota towns and villages located along its length, you’ll discover restaurants, pubs, shops, and other unique attractions to occupy your attention. Go for a hike along the 310-mile Superior Hiking Trail, try your hand at fishing on the iconic lake, or paddle along its remote shores. And be sure to stop by Grand Portage and Tettegouche State Parks to see Minnesota’s largest and most impressive waterfalls.
5. US Route 1
Not to be confused with California Highway 1 mentioned above, US Route 1 is actually a road that runs nearly the entire length of the East Coast. This is a road trip of epic proportions, covering 2,370 miles and spanning 14 states and the District of Columbia. The route begins in Fort Kent, Maine, in the north and continues south all the way to Key West, Florida.
This road trip requires a serious commitment but offers never-ending rewards. US Route 1 passes through major metropolitan areas, small towns, and remote regions, providing something new to see and do each day. Because it is so long, it offers something for everyone. Most importantly, this is a journey that passes through numerous cultural and historical epicenters across New England, the Mid-Atlantic States, and the deep South, discovering America along the way.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas’ lights, sounds, and excitement are legendary. The city was built around casinos and gambling but has re-invented itself as a mecca for shows, concerts, and sporting events. The list of kid-friendly attractions has grown as well, making Vegas a fun destination for all ages. In recent years, the local arts and culture scene has burgeoned, giving Vegas a homegrown texture many visitors might miss.
The city is ever-changing as older casinos get torn down and replaced with something bigger, better, and brighter. Gone are the iconic white tigers of yore, replaced with tech-heavy attractions and big-name stars. Cheap buffets have been replaced by high-end dining with a bold international flavor. Las Vegas Boulevard, world-renowned as “The Strip,” is the heart of the action and dazzles at night with a sensory overload of eye candy. Giant signs entice with the latest shows. Fountains erupt. But there is more to Vegas than The Strip, with recreational opportunities surrounding the town as well as a wide array of fascinating museums.
7. The Grand Canyon, Arizona
Most RV travelers take the western route, and the best point to visit is The Grand Canyon in Arizona. The Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world and a destination you won’t forget. It offers a one-of-a-kind scenery of gorges, cliffs, and colorful vistas. If you visit at the right time, you can catch an amazing view of the sunrise or sunset, which will leave you in awe.
8. Moab, Utah
Moab is a breathtaking destination for RV travelers looking for adventure in the great outdoors. It’s a haven for rock climbers, mountain bikers, hikers, and those who want to take part in extreme sports such as jeep and ATV tours. You can explore the Arches National Park, Canyonland National Park, and the Colorado River, which offers world-class rafting opportunities.
9. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe should be high on your list for those looking for a cultural and historical experience. Known for its art galleries, museums, and unique architecture, this Southwestern city has something to offer travelers of all ages. Plus, several RV parks are nearby, making it a convenient place to visit in your RV.
10. Route 66
Covering almost 2,500 miles of the very heart of our country, Route 66 is one of our nation’s most beloved highways. In fact, in many ways, it’s a destination in and of itself. But as liberating and soul-lifting as just cruising down the asphalt itself can be, there are definitely a few stops you’ll want to make along the way. Joshua Tree National Park, Havasu National Wildlife Refuge on the border of Arizona and California, Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, and The Enchanted Circle in Northern New Mexico just to name a few.
When it comes to RV camping along Route 66, you’ll find a wide range of options, from developed, resort-style campgrounds to public parks and other low-cost options. You’ll also be passing through areas with lots of BLM land, where dispersed camping, or “boondocking,” is possible — and may be completely free of charge.