The United States has it all – beaches, mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, deserts – you name the scenery, and we have it! Planning a road trip is always a fun and exciting experience, especially when you can do it with your family or friends. Road trips allow you to explore new places at your own pace, and there is really no better way to complete an adventure in comfort than in a van charter. If you’re ready to take on some new stunning destinations, read on to discover our top USA road trip itineraries. Don’t forget, the USA is known for its scenic beauty, but it is not always about the destination; it is about the journey too!
Top USA Road Trip Itineraries by Van
The USA truly embraces the road trip – with 80% of Americans taking a driving trip every summer, it has become a part of our cultural identity. From the stunning Pacific Northwest to beautiful New England, these routes are sure to please.
- The Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway is regarded as one of the most scenic driving routes in the United States. It runs along the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington, starting in Los Angeles and continuing to Seattle (you can even carry on well into Canada if you bring your passport!). This route is known for its stunning ocean views and rugged cliffs. However, be aware that a lot of the road is tightly hugging the cliffs by the ocean, so don’t forget to drive slowly and always keep two eyes on the pavement! There are plenty of scenic stops to rest and take photographs along the way.
- New England Fall Foliage
One of the most treasured sights in the eastern United States is the changing of the leaves in New England. This area is known for its beautiful, balanced four seasons and the incredible colors its trees turn during autumn. New England has the variety of all four seasons, but fall is the best time to wind your way through this region’s country towns and forest roads. You can stop to visit maple syrup production facilities, cheese farms, and wineries. Enjoy the crisp fall air and take in the stunning, vibrant views of forests that tower overhead. Check out some quaint bed and breakfasts for a cozy stay!
- The Classic Route 66
No USA road trip list would be complete without it – Route 66 is THE iconic American road trip. Running from Chicago to Los Angeles (or in reverse), this behemoth of a journey is over 2,000 miles long and is packed full of sights and attractions. Some route highlights are Sleeping Giant State Park, Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon, and cities like St. Louis, Amarillo, and Albuquerque. This route has it all – you get to drive through small towns and diverse regions of the country.
- Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is also one of the prettiest regions in the United States. Summer is the best time to explore this region, known for its rainy climate. This region is known for its artsy cities like Seattle, Portland, and Bend, Oregon. It is jam-packed with nature – the whole Cascadian area boasts around 20 national parks. There are plenty of routes through the region depending upon what you want to see – the temperate rain forests of Washington, the Oregon coast, or the northern mountains. If you have the time, venture into nearby Montana or Wyoming for an unforgettable stop at Yellowstone or the Grand Tetons!
- Stunning Southwest National Parks
Utah is one of the most underrated states in the US – often skipped over for neighboring Colorado or California. However, you don’t want to miss Utah’s national parks! Start in Salt Lake City and charter a van to Moab, where you can experience the nearby Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Continue southward to the iconic Monument Valley and Capitol Reef National Park, and head to the southwest corner of the state to visit Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. You can even add a visit to the nearby Grand Canyon or Antelope Valley canyons in Arizona or end your trip in vibrant Las Vegas!
- The North Coast
The Great Lakes region may seem an unlikely contender for an iconic road trip. However, this itinerary also matches the beauty of the other destinations on this list. Driving the eastern coast of Michigan, the Upper Peninsula, or through scenic Wisconsin is an ideal relaxing summer road trip itinerary. There are plenty of places to stop for fishing, camping, or berry picking. One of the best things about this itinerary is that it is very accessible for people who live in the Midwest. Looking out at the Great Lakes feels like being on an ocean, except you’re right in the middle of the country!
