Road Trips
US Road Trip Guides & Itineraries
Explore the best road trips across the United States, from coastal drives and mountain routes to national park loops and cross-country classics. Find detailed itineraries, drive times, where to stop, and practical tips to help you plan a road trip that fits your time and interests.
Explore by route
Pacific Coast Highway
California’s iconic coastal drive cliffside views, beach towns and Big Sur.
Blue Ridge Parkway
A scenic mountain drive through Virginia and North Carolina’s Appalachian ridgelines.
Route 66
The classic cross-country drive through eight states, from Chicago to Santa Monica.
Great River Road
A Mississippi River drive through small towns, bluffs and farmland across 10 states.
Road trip Guides
Our latest and most thorough guides →
Plan by route
Pacific Coast Highway
- Itinerary
- Best time to go
- Hotels
- Where to stop
Route 66
- Itineraries
- Best time to go
- Hotels
- Where to stop
Frequently Asked Questions
Driving the full Pacific Coast Highway takes about 2-3 days without stops, but most travelers spend 5-7 days to properly explore beach towns, viewpoints, and Big Sur along the way.
Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the most reliable weather for most routes, though desert and southern routes are better in fall, winter, or early spring to avoid extreme heat.
Most paved mountain routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway are fine in a standard car, but some high-altitude or unpaved routes may require a vehicle with good ground clearance — check road conditions before you go.
A week-long US road trip typically costs $1,000-$2,500 per person, covering gas, accommodation, food, and activities, depending on route length and travel style
It’s possible in less popular areas, but booking ahead is strongly recommended for national park gateway towns and coastal routes during peak season (June-August), when accommodation fills up fast.
Start planning your Road trip
From coastal highways to mountain passes, find your next great American drive with The Life Savvy.