- Pacific Coast Highway (California)
Why It’s Special: This iconic route along Highway 1 hugs California’s dramatic coastline, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and the Pacific Ocean. Big Sur, Bixby Bridge, and Malibu are highlights.
Best Car for the Trip: A convertible like the Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro. The open top lets you feel the ocean breeze while soaking in stunning coastal panoramas.
- Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia & North Carolina)
Why It’s Special: Often called "America’s Favorite Drive," this 469-mile road winds through the Appalachian Mountains with spectacular fall foliage, historic landmarks, and endless scenic overlooks.
Best Car for the Trip: A comfortable SUV like the Subaru Outback. Its roomy interior is perfect for long drives, and all-wheel drive makes it safe for mountain curves.
- Route 66 (Chicago to Santa Monica)
Why It’s Special: Known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 is one of the best scenic drives in USA, blending nostalgia with quirky roadside attractions, classic diners, and small-town America charm.
Best Car for the Trip: A retro-styled vehicle like the Volkswagen Beetle or a modern Jeep Wrangler. They add character to a road rich with history.
- Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Why It’s Special: Located in Glacier National Park, this road showcases alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery. It’s only open in summer due to heavy snow.
Best Car for the Trip: A mid-sized SUV like the Toyota RAV4. Large windows and comfortable seating make it easy to admire every twist and turn of this breathtaking route.
- Overseas Highway (Florida Keys)
Why It’s Special: This highway connects Miami to Key West via 42 bridges over turquoise waters, offering one of the most scenic drives in America. The Seven Mile Bridge is an unforgettable highlight.
Best Car for the Trip: A convertible or compact car like the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Perfect for sun-soaked drives with the ocean on both sides.
- Great River Road (Mississippi River States)
Why It’s Special: Stretching over 3,000 miles across ten states, this drive follows the Mississippi River, weaving through charming towns, farmlands, and riverfront cities.
Best Car for the Trip: A hybrid sedan like the Toyota Prius. Its fuel efficiency is ideal for covering long distances while keeping costs down.
- Hana Highway (Hawaii)
Why It’s Special: This 64-mile road on Maui features lush rainforests, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the ocean. With 600 curves and 59 bridges, it’s an adventure in itself.
Best Car for the Trip: A small, agile car like the Jeep Renegade. Its compact size makes navigating narrow, winding roads easier while still offering comfort.
- Beartooth Highway (Montana & Wyoming)
Why It’s Special: Dubbed "the most beautiful drive in America," this high-altitude road near Yellowstone National Park features alpine plateaus, glacial lakes, and sweeping views at 10,000+ feet.
Best Car for the Trip: A rugged SUV like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The elevation changes and possible snow patches call for a reliable, all-terrain vehicle.
- Skyline Drive (Virginia)
Why It’s Special: Running 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive offers spectacular overlooks, especially during spring blooms and autumn foliage. It’s a serene escape into nature.
Best Car for the Trip: A family-friendly crossover like the Honda CR-V. Perfect for enjoying slow, scenic rides with stops at picnic areas and hiking trails.
- Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (Oregon)
Why It’s Special: Known for waterfalls like Multnomah Falls, lush forests, and sweeping river views, this historic highway is a Pacific Northwest gem.
Best Car for the Trip: An eco-friendly EV like the Tesla Model Y. Quiet, smooth, and sustainable—ideal for enjoying nature responsibly.
Tips for Enjoying the Best Scenic Drives in USA
- Plan your route: Research road conditions and seasonal closures (especially for mountain passes like Going-to-the-Sun Road and Beartooth Highway).
- Choose the right vehicle: Match the car to the terrain—convertibles for coastal drives, SUVs for mountains, hybrids or EVs for long hauls.
- Take your time: Scenic drives are about the journey, not just the destination. Stop at overlooks, trails, and small towns along the way.
- Pack essentials: Bring snacks, water, a camera, and a playlist for the road.
Final Thoughts
The scenic drives in the USA showcase the country’s unmatched beauty, from ocean coasts to towering peaks. Whether it’s the nostalgia of Route 66, the dramatic cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway, or the tropical paradise of the Hana Highway, these routes represent the most scenic drives in America. Choosing the right vehicle enhances the experience, making every stop and mile even more enjoyable.
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