With a total size of 9.83 million square kilometres and 6.3 million kilometres of roadway it’s unsurprising that the USA has some of the most picturesque highways and byways in the world. So much so that films including Easy Rider, Rain Man and Thelma and Louise have immortalised American roads on the silver screen. However, with so many miles of tarmacked perfection it’s a near impossible task to choose the ultimate American road trip, so we’ve done the hard work for you and put together our ultimate top 3. Our list is based both on the journey and on the sights you will see along the way, so sit back, relax and enjoy!
Journey:
Memphis – Clarksdale – Greenwood – Tupelo – Nashville – Memphis
Distance:
691 miles
Summary:
This 691 mile round trip takes you through some of the finest towns in Southern America and is the perfect journey for fans of music, bourbon and good old fashioned American cooking! Along the way you’ll stop at historical musical sights and pass through towns famed for their monuments to legendary blues artists, from the birthplace of Elvis Pressley in Tupelo to the BB King Museum situated between Clarksdale and Greenwood. Of course there’s a stunning driving road along the way, as the Natchez Trace Parkway offers sweeping curves, smooth tarmac and a magnificent double arched concrete bridge stretching for nearly 500 metres above the valley below.
Journey:
Los Angeles – Southern California – Central California – Monterey – San Francisco – Los Angeles
Distance:
816 miles
Summary:
The famous Highway 1 is one of the finest driving routes in America and takes in Hollywood hangouts, quaint ocean-side communities and chic cityscapes. Take in the sights and sounds of Hollywood and Los Angeles as you visit the likes of Venice Beach, the Boardwalk and Mann’s Chinese Theatre. You’ll also get to enjoy a road known as one of the most beautiful in America, the Pacific Coast Highway as you travel from central to southern California before spending the night in Santa Barbara. From central California you’ll travel to Monterey, be sure to stop and marvel at the natural beauty in Big Sur and the Del Monte Forest. Your last stop is San Francisco, a city known for its nightlife, delicious food and points of interest; absorb the history of this fascinating city before returning to Los Angeles.
Journey:
San Francisco – Reno – Twin Falls – Yellowstone – Casper – Denver – Moab – Bryce Canyon – The Grand Canyon – Las Vegas
Distance:
2,827 miles
Summary:
This magnificent voyage would take 46 hours of non-stop driving, so its best to stop and explore some of the fascinating sights, cities and towns you will pass. From the bright lights and lively nights of San Francisco and Reno to the stunning natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park, Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon. This trip offers something for everyone, whether you’re feeling lucky enough to hit the casinos or just want to take in the awe-inspiring wonder of Twin Falls – home to wild herds of mustang and the free flowing majesty of the falls. Enjoy leisurely drives and majestic wildlife on this once in a lifetime tour of the American Rockies.
Featured images:
License: Creative Commons image source- License: Creative Commons image source
- About the Author:
Michael Smith is an experienced traveller who has visited over 100 countries. He currently writes for Wanderforth, a tour operator who specialise in holidays to America.
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