10 Famous U.S. Roads That Are Worth the Drive

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10 Famous U.S. Roads That Are Worth the Drive

There’s something special about hitting the road and exploring new places from the comfort of your car. The United States boasts some truly iconic roads that take you through breathtaking landscapes, from towering mountain ranges and rugged coastlines to lush forests and desert vistas.

Here, we’re spotlighting 10 famous U.S. roads that promise unforgettable drives, perfect for those looking to experience the beauty and diversity of America from a fresh perspective.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a road like no other. Stretching over 469 miles between Virginia and North Carolina, this road gives you a front-row seat to the Appalachian Highlands’ stunning beauty.

Driving along this route, you’ll pass through vibrant deciduous forests and see panoramic vistas that seem to stretch forever. The parkway is especially magical in fall when the foliage turns into a brilliant tapestry of autumn colors. Along the way, there are plenty of spots to pull over, enjoy a picnic, or start a hike.

2. Going to the Sun Road

Nestled in Montana’s Glacier National Park, Going to the Sun Road is a 50-mile journey that offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the United States.

This road takes you through the heart of the park, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass and offering views of glacial lakes, cedar forests, and alpine meadows. It’s a narrow road, with sharp turns and steep drop-offs, but the unparalleled views are worth every moment on this thrilling drive.

3. Million Dollar Highway

Part of the San Juan Skyway in Colorado, the Million Dollar Highway stretches for about 25 miles between Silverton and Ouray. What makes this road special is its stunning mountain scenery and the sheer drop-offs that are enough to give even the most seasoned driver a thrill.

It’s called the Million Dollar Highway because it cost a million dollars a mile to build in the 1920s or because of its fill dirt that contains gold ore. Regardless, driving this road is a breathtaking experience, with its winding curves and views of the San Juan Mountains.

4. Pacific Coast Highway

California’s Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is a famous stretch of road that offers stunning views of the rugged Pacific coastline. This route takes you along the coast from the sandy beaches of Southern California to the rugged cliffs in the north. It’s a favorite for road trippers due to its beautiful landscapes and the charming towns you pass along the way, like Malibu, Monterey, and Big Sur.

5. Route 66

Route 66 is more than just a road; it’s a slice of American history. This legendary highway, also known as the Mother Road, once ran all the way from Chicago to Los Angeles.

Today, driving along the remaining sections of Route 66 offers a glimpse into a bygone era, with classic diners, quirky roadside attractions, and vintage motels dotting the highway. It’s a nostalgic road trip that tells the story of America’s past.

6. US Route 50

Known as the “Loneliest Road in America,” US Route 50 travels across the Nevada desert. This road tells a story of solitude and survival, crossing barren landscapes that are both challenging and beautiful.

Along this road, you’ll find old mining towns and stunning desert vistas, offering a sense of isolation that is both eerie and captivating. It’s a road that tests the spirit and provides a unique kind of peace.

7. Moab’s Scenic Byway 128

Driving Moab’s Scenic Byway 128 in Utah is like driving through another world. This road curves alongside the Colorado River, with towering red rock cliffs on either side.

The contrast between the lush riverbanks and the stark, arid rock formations creates a stunning visual experience. It’s a popular road for those visiting Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, offering countless opportunities for photography and adventure sports.

8. Kancamagus Highway

New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway is a drive through the heart of the White Mountains. Known locally as “The Kanc,” this road offers some of the best fall foliage views in New England.

The highway is a 34.5-mile scenic drive that features swift rivers, ancient forests, and expansive mountain vistas. It’s also home to numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and camping areas, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

9. Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive runs 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. This road is famous for its stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Virginia Piedmont.

With 75 overlooks offering sweeping views of the natural surroundings, Skyline Drive is a peaceful retreat for those looking to slow down and soak in the beauty of the great outdoors.

10. Overseas Highway

Florida’s Overseas Highway is like no other; it literally takes you over the sea. Part of U.S. Route 1, this road spans 113 miles from Miami to Key West, crossing 42 bridges over the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys.

It’s a vibrant drive, with the blue of the ocean on both sides and the chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life along the way. The drive culminates in Key West, a lively town with its own unique charm.