Whether you’re planning a summer road trip or just dreaming of one, America’s scenic highways are a great way to explore the country’s history and beauty. From east coast to west, each highway offers its own unique experience.
Let’s take a look at the 10 most awe inspiring roads in the United States.
1. East Coast:
Starting from the East Coast, we have three main highways that provide excellent historical road trips. The Blue Ridge Parkway is an iconic 469-mile route through Virginia and North Carolina. Connecting Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This route takes visitors through some of the oldest mountains on earth. As well as quaint historic towns such as Roanoke and Asheville. There are plenty of opportunities to explore America’s Revolutionary War history, too.
Another great east coast route is the Colonial Parkway connecting Yorktown and Jamestown in Virginia. This 23-mile scenic drive follows the banks of the James River, offering panoramic views of wildlife and lush greenery along the way. It also gives visitors a chance to explore two of America’s earliest settlements.
The third highway on this list is US Route 1, commonly referred to as “America’s Main Street.” Spanning over 2,000 miles from Maine to Florida, this highway takes travelers through charming small towns with rich American heritage like Mystic Seaport and St. Augustine. On this trip you’ll be able to explore the nation’s oldest lighthouses. Enjoy beautiful beaches, and indulge in some of the best seafood around.
2. Midwest:
In the Midwest you have a few scenic highways that provide an amazing historic experience. The first is US Route 20, spanning 3,365 miles from Boston to Oregon. As one of America’s longest roads, it takes visitors through charming small towns like Wisconsin Dells and Hannibal Missouri (which was home to Mark Twain). Along the way you’ll also find plenty of natural wonders including Niagara Falls and Crater Lake National Park.
Another great Midwestern highway is Route 66. This 2,400 mile route has become iconic for its stunning landscapes, roadside attractions, and charming small towns. You’ll find a number of historic sites like the Petrified Forest National Park and Standing’ on the Corner Park in Winslow, Arizona.
3. West Coast:
For those wishing to explore the west coast, some great historic highways include Pacific Coast Highway 1 (PCH), which spans over 600 miles from California to Washington. This route takes travelers through some of America’s most stunning coastal scenery. And along beaches such as Santa Monica and Big Sur. It also offers glimpses of early American settlements like San Francisco and Monterey.
The Lincoln Highway is another great western highway spanning 3,389 miles from New York to San Francisco. It was one of the earliest transcontinental highways across the US, and takes travelers through some of America’s most iconic cities such as Chicago and Salt Lake City.
No matter which scenic route you choose, these historic highways are sure to provide a trip of a lifetime! So get in your car and explore all that America has to offer from coast to coast. Happy travels!
FAQs:
Q: What are the most scenic highways in the United States?
A: The 10 most awe inspiring roads in the US include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Colonial Parkway, US Route 1, US Route 20, and Route 66 on the East Coast; and Pacific Coast Highway 1 (PCH), Lincoln Highway on the West Coast.
Q: How long do you need for a road trip along these routes?
A: Depending on your route and how many stops you want to make along the way, it can take anywhere from several days to weeks to complete a cross-country road trip. We suggest planning out your route ahead of time so that you’re sure to get the most out of your journey!
Conclusion:
No matter which route you choose, a road trip along any of America’s scenic highways is sure to be an unforgettable experience. From the Blue Ridge Parkway in the east to Pacific Coast Highway 1 (PCH) in the west, these historic roads offer breathtaking views, interesting stops and American heritage that you won’t find anywhere else. So pick your favorite highway and hit the open road! Have a safe and fun journey!