America’s highways are nigh mystical and have ofttimes been glorified in literature and film. The “open road” has become a symbol of an individual’s freedom. This might be one reason why US road trips are so popular with both residents and visitors alike. So without further ado, here are the routes to the 10 best US road trips.

1. California State Route 1

This route takes you from Dana Point (near San Diego) to Leggett. The ease of this drive makes it a good intro to US road trips. You also get to see the beautiful Pacific Ocean. If you take the trip during the summer months, you will probably enjoy the sunlight the entire day. On the other hand, if you take this trip in the winter months then it’s best to take the trip from north to south where it will be warmer.
Total Distance: 613 miles
Estimated Time: 9 hours

2. Route 66

Route 66 was made famous by the classic song made popular by performer Nat King Cole. In 1926, Route 66 was over 1553 miles long. Today it is but a group of historic byways and has lost its official status and has been reduced a bit. Route 66 meets the famous Santa Fe railroad at La Posada and to this day still remains on many people’s “must do” road trip lists.
Distance: 350 miles (Petrified Forest to Kingman)
Estimated Time: 4 hours

This route was made an icon thanks to the nearly eponymous platter by singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. joins Wyoming in Minnesota with New Orleans, Louisiana. It is one of the best road trips in the south. In tribute to all the music of New Orleans, this route is also known as the Blues Highway. The locals say that the famous blues artist Robert Johnson made a deal with the devil and sold his soul at the crossroads of the 49 and the 61. Veteran visitors claim it is also one of the most scenic US road trips as well.
Distance: 1600 miles
Estimated Time: 23 hours

4. US Route 20

This is possibly the best US road trip if you’re into “living on the road.” This trip runs from Boston, Massachusetts to Newport, Oregon. (Route 20 itself is the longest route in America stretching for 3365 miles. The route is interrupted by the popular Yellowstone National Park, but this trip features a smooth drive and easy roads. Plus, if you have the extra time you can also plan to spend some time at one of the nation’s most famous parks.
Distance: 3150 miles (Newport to Boston)
Estimated Time: 47 hours

This famous highway goes from Astoria, Oregon to Atlantic City, New Jersey. Those in the know suggest starting your trip in Portland, Oregon. Also known as “the national main street,” potential stops include the National Automobile Museum in famous Reno, Nevada, President Abraham Lincoln’s historic log cabin in Illinois and the tasty Big Mac Museum in Pennsylvania. In winter this highway can become rough so if you insist on driving then consider I-10 as an alternative.
Distance: 2925 miles (Portland, Oregon to Atlantic City, New Jersey)
Estimated Time: 47 hours

6. Monument Valley

This scenic route is named after the Colorado plateau famous for its limestone buttes. Start on route 17 heading out of Phoenix. Check out the legendary Grand Canyon and stop at Flagstaff too.
Take Route 160 so you can cruise through the beautiful red desert landscape. The buttes might make you think of the old west. Once you cross the border between Arizona and Utah merge onto 191 and then take I-40. This will take you to famous Route 66.
Distance: 195 miles (Phoenix to Kingman)
Estimated Time: 4 hours

7. Florida Keys

If you like you American road trips to include an ocean, this fabled Florida Keys trip should more than suffice. Start from Miami and head out on the highway towards Key West. This trip will take you through the Everglades and some ocean keys.

Highlights of this road trip include the stunning Seven Mile Highway found in Monroe County. You will see the Gulf of Mexico to your right and the Atlantic Ocean to your left as you are heading north.
Distance: 165 miles
Estimated Time: 3.5 hours

Some people enjoy road trips through the barren mountains and sparse deserts of the US. Others enjoy a bit of foliage thrown in for their viewing pleasure. Recognized by the National Park Service, this beautiful run will take you through roughly 450 miles worth of both North Carolina and Virginia. This route will also take you right through arguably the most scenic portion of the popular Appalachian Mountains. (This writer can confirm the attraction of this place having hiked many miles through said mountain range.)
Distance: 450 miles
Estimated Time: 6 hours

According to USA Today, this is the best west coast road trip in the country. This highway was constructed about a century ago and was meant to be specifically for sightseeing as opposed to transporting goods. Take time to enjoy the breathtaking Columbia Gorge and some of the hundreds of hiking trails and waterfalls. Start your trip at The Dalles and head for Troutdale by heading east of Portland. Veteran visitors also suggest sampling some of the great food along the way too.
Distance: 75 miles (The Dalles to Troutdale)
Estimated Time: 2 hours

10. Hill Country Hideaways, Texas

This trip is the best one to take if you truly want to take in Texas as it is so often seen in motion pictures. Drive a loop on highways 337 and 335. While the landscape is wild, the roads are reportedly smooth. See the rivers and cruise through the canyons and sagebrush plains. The top recommended stop is the aptly named city of Utopia, Texas, which is exceptionally beautiful.
Distance: 189 miles
Estimated Time: 4 hours