Epic Self-Drive Road Trips Across the USA

While a plane may get you there faster, road-tripping across the USA is one of the most iconic American experiences you can have.

The USA is home to some legendary road trip routes. Considering how expansive the country is, hiring a car and self-driving around the nation can be a great way to see the sights.

Here’s a roundup of our favourite routes through America’s wide open spaces, along with some tips on how to make the most of your journey.

1. The Pacific Coast

Best road trip for Pacific views

Stretching from Seattle to Los Angeles, this drive gives you a taste of the forest, ocean and city.

Turn up your favourite tunes and head south from enchanting Seattle. Drive through Washington State’s wild natural environment and wind your way around the dramatic, jagged cliffs on the Oregon Coast. Stop and wander through the giant redwood forests before you arrive in San Francisco, the city of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The next stretch of the journey will take you to the stunningly picturesque, Big Sur Peninsula. Stop off for breaks and soak up the stretches of golden sand and undulating green hills. Malibu and Santa Monica will then thrill the beach bunnies amongst you, before arriving in Los Angeles where the land of Hollywood glitz awaits.

2. The Pacific Coast

 Best road trip for famous landmarks

Fancy four-wheeling it through hot spots such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas? Then the Golden California route is just the ticket!

Once you’ve caught a glimpse of the rich and famous in Tinseltown, start your engine and head through the arid Mojave Desert. Not too long after you’ll be greeted by those flashing neon signs that Sin City is known for. Try your luck at a casino or check out a concert at this luxurious desert destination.

The Grand Canyon isn’t far away, so you must take some time out to gaze in awe at the scenery.

3. Route 66

Best road trip for American retro

No list of great USA road trips could be complete without the iconic Route 66.

This drive starts off in the lively city of Chicago and winds its way west to Santa Monica. Along the way you’ll head through a number of states, including Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and finally California. You’ll see so much variety, from big cities to charming rural towns, giving you a taste of the ‘real USA’.

You’re now part of the amazing legacy that is Route 66!

4. The Sunshine Trials 

Best road trip for the coast culture

Starting in the fun city of Miami, savour the laid back beachside vibe and hot nightlife before hitting the road.

Make your way to Key West, an area surrounded by turquoise water and tall palm trees. Swim, dive and golf by day, and enjoy the streetside entertainment and a meal at an open-air café by night. Soak up the African heritage in the Bahama Village neighbourhood, or visit the 1860 African Burial Ground and its memorial.

Scoot to Everglades National Park to try and spot crocs, manatees and panthers, before heading on to Naples at the Gulf of Mexico. This beach resort town exudes luxury and natural beauty.

You’ll stay a night in the historical beach town of St Augustine, then step on the gas and visit famous Daytona Beach before swinging inland to the theme park capital of the world, Orlando.

5. The Great Gatsby Getaway

Best road trip for nature lovers

You might have read the book, you’ve likely seen the film - so why not take a drive to some of the locations key to this American tale?

The route begins in New York, where you can check out Gatsby’s accommodation of choice – the Plaza Resort. Once you’ve had your fill of New York’s bright lights, put your foot on the throttle and make your way to the Hamptons on Long Island, where much of the novel’s narrative is set and where author F. Scott Fitzgerald was based. Continue the journey onto Newport to explore historic estates and quaint streets, which inspired the famed novel.

Cruise 45 minutes across to Cape Cod and visit the Hyannis Port Historic District, home to the Kennedy Compound and where John F Kennedy ran his presidential campaign. Make your way to your final destination of Boston, where you can shop on Newbury Street and soak in all its classical architecture.