As you start your road trip, you feel the engine’s hum and the road ahead. The freedom and adventure are clear. The United States has many scenic spots and places to see. But which state is the best for a road trip?
A recent AAA Travel survey found 79% of Americans are planning a road trip this summer. With so many choices, picking the right one can be tough. Yet, some states offer amazing landscapes, landmarks, outdoor fun, and local flavors.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Certain states are more road trip-friendly due to factors like low gas prices, scenic routes, and an abundance of national parks.
- Planning your route, budgeting wisely, and prioritizing safety are crucial for a successful road trip adventure.
- Exploring iconic highways, discovering hidden gems, and savoring regional cuisine are all part of the magic of a road trip.
- National parks, natural wonders, and offbeat attractions make some states stand out as exceptional road trip destinations.
- The best state for a road trip can vary depending on your interests, but the journey itself is often the true reward.
Top Road Trip-Friendly States According to AAA
Planning the ultimate road trip means choosing the right states. WalletHub found that low gas prices and scenic routes are key. Also, the quality of roads and attractions matter a lot.
Road Trip-Friendly States Shine
The top states for road trips are New York, Texas, Louisiana, Maine, and North Carolina. They offer great value, safety, and lots to see and do. You’ll find scenic routes, parks, and historic sites.
New York may have higher costs, but it’s safe and full of activities. Texas is close behind, with lots to see and low costs. Louisiana and Maine also score well, with Maine being the safest.
But, states like Rhode Island, Delaware, and Connecticut are less appealing. They rank lower in activities and costs. Still, these top states are great places to start planning your next trip.
Planning Your Road Trip Itinerary
Planning a road trip is crucial for a smooth and fun journey. You need to map out your route, budget for expenses, and focus on safety. Start by looking up scenic routes, road trip attractions, and top state parks and national parks. Make a detailed plan that includes famous historic sites, cozy roadside diners, and stunning scenic overlooks.
Think about your travel budgeting needs as you plan. Figure out fuel costs, where to stay, and any fees for unique accommodations or local cuisine. Save extra money for surprises and make sure your car is in good shape. Also, learn important driving safety tips like taking breaks, having emergency kits, and knowing local traffic laws.
With careful planning, budgeting, and safety focus, you’re set for an amazing what is the best state to visit on a road trip? trip. Good preparation lets you enjoy every moment and make memories that last.
Scenic Drives and Historic Routes
Looking for the best states to visit on a road trip? You’ve got endless choices. The Pacific Coast Highway along California’s coast is stunning. And Route 66 across America’s heartland is iconic. Both offer scenic views and historic charm.
The Pacific Coast Highway stretches 1,650 miles from Olympic National Park to San Diego. It shows off amazing ocean views and coastal towns. You’ll see state parks, national parks, and historic sites. Plus, enjoy roadside diners and scenic overlooks.
Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America,” goes from Chicago to Los Angeles. It covers thousands of miles, showing off America’s diverse landscapes and communities. You’ll find road trip attractions and stunning natural wonders along the way.
Whether you pick the Pacific Coast Highway or Route 66, these trips are unforgettable. They let you see America’s beauty and culture. So, pack up and start your amazing journey.
National Parks and Natural Wonders
The United States boasts many national parks and natural wonders perfect for road trips. You can see towering mountains, serene trails, and stunning deserts. These places offer endless chances for adventure, wildlife watching, and stunning views. A road trip lets you dive deep into these wonders and see the varied landscapes of America.
The Grand Circle is a famous road trip route. It spans about 1,000 miles, connecting six national parks. These parks include Zion, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches, and Grand Canyon. This trip takes 10-12 days, with each season bringing its own beauty.
Las Vegas is a great starting point for this journey. It’s close to Zion National Park, the first stop. Along the way, you’ll see amazing geological formations and hike to incredible views. You can also find hidden spots like Escalante National Monument.
But there’s more to explore beyond the Southwest. The East has lush forests and waterfalls along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Wyoming’s Wyoming’s Best Hits road trip offers rugged landscapes. And Beyond California’s Coast showcases diverse ecosystems. There’s always something new to discover on a road trip through America’s natural wonders.
What is the best state to visit on a road trip?
Choosing the right destination for a road trip is key. Places like California and Colorado offer amazing views and experiences. To find the best state, think about scenic routes, attractions, and unique spots.
Diverse Landscapes and Natural Wonders
Seeing the country’s beauty is a big reason for road trips. States with different landscapes, like hills and mountains, are favorites. National parks, state parks, and scenic overlooks are highlights, offering great views and adventures.
Don’t forget about historic sites and cultural attractions. Road trips are a great way to learn about a state’s history and culture.
Variety of Accommodations and Dining Options
Good road trips need comfy places to stay, like roadside diners and luxury resorts. Also, trying local cuisine and regional specialties makes the trip better. It lets you dive into the area’s food culture.
The best state for a road trip has beauty, history, and great places to stay. By thinking about these, you can pick a place that’s perfect for you and makes your trip unforgettable.
Roadside Attractions and Quirky Stops
Road trips are a chance to find hidden treasures and see the unique spots across America. You might find roadside diners with local food or giant fiberglass animals. These surprises can make your trip exciting and full of wonder. Exploring offbeat places helps you understand the culture and character of different areas.
In Arizona, the Rainbow Rock Shop has cement dinosaurs up to 25 feet tall. You can even take a photo with them for a few cents. In Alaska, the Hammer Museum in Haines has over 2,000 hammers, including a 20-foot hammer outside.
California’s Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is a huge mansion with 160 rooms. It’s known as one of America’s most haunted places. The PEZ Visitors Center in Connecticut has a huge collection of PEZ dispensers, including a candy bench.
Florida’s Monkey Island is home to a family of spider monkeys. Hawaii’s Pineapple Garden Maze is three acres of plants, making it a unique stop. These places offer unforgettable experiences on the road.
| Attraction | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Rock Shop | Holbrook, Arizona | Features cement dinosaurs up to 25 feet tall, built by the shop owner. Visitors can pose with some dinosaurs for a few cents. |
| Hammer Museum | Haines, Alaska | Showcases around 2,000 hammers, some dating back to Roman times, with a 20-foot hammer out front. |
| Winchester Mystery House | San Jose, California | A sprawling 24,000-square-foot mansion with 160 rooms, considered one of America’s most haunted attractions. |
| PEZ Visitors Center | Orange, Connecticut | A 4,000-square-foot wonderland housing the most comprehensive collection of PEZ dispensers, including a bench made of giant rolls of candy. |
| Monkey Island | Homosassa, Florida | Hosts a family of spider monkeys that have lived on the island for decades, where they can be observed from the Homosassa Resort. |
| Pineapple Garden Maze | Wahiawa, Hawaii | Covers three acres, contains approximately 14,000 plants, and has been titled the “World’s Largest Botanical Maze” for the past ten years. |
Regional Cuisine and Local Flavors
Exploring the diverse regional cuisine and local flavors is a highlight of any road trip. You can taste the unique dishes of each state, from the South’s barbecue to the Midwest’s farm-fresh meals. This journey lets you experience the culinary traditions of the United States.
In North Carolina, the Barbecue Trail is a must-visit. It features 24 top barbecue spots, each with its own twist. The Finger Lakes region in New York is home to over 100 wineries, including 35 on Seneca Lake’s shores, and two cider producers.
Louisiana’s Bayou Bounty Trail is a flavorful adventure. It goes from Houma to Lafayette, showcasing Cajun and Creole cuisine. Alabama’s Northern Trail offers classic Southern dishes and farm-to-table creations, chosen by experts.
Whiskey lovers will enjoy the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. It includes famous distilleries like Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, drawing millions. Colorado’s Denver Beer Trail celebrates the state’s 2,700 craft breweries, the most per capita in the nation.
Wisconsin is a paradise for cheese lovers, producing over 2.8 billion pounds of cheese a year. The Great Wisconsin Cheese Tour is the perfect place to try these dairy delights.
From New Hampshire’s maple walnut ice cream to Oregon’s Willamette Valley pinot noirs, a road trip across America is a feast for the senses. It’s a chance to discover the unique cuisines and flavors of each destination.
Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations
Going on a road trip lets you find hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path places. These spots offer adventure and discovery. You can explore charming towns, see natural wonders, and enjoy unique cultures.
These places give you a real feel of the area. You get to see the true essence of the places you visit.
Uncovering the Untrodden Paths
Think about driving from Anchorage to Hope in Alaska, a 88.39-mile route. Or, take a loop around Phoenix in Arizona, covering 403 miles. In California, drive from Yreka to Willow Creek, a 152-mile trip.
In Montana, go from Kalispell to Anaconda, a 207-mile journey. For a Nevada adventure, drive from Las Vegas to Ely, a 383-mile route.
These routes offer stunning views and attractions. They let you find hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path places that show the essence of each state.
Exploring the Untouched Landscapes
Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan gets about 20,000 visitors yearly. Moloka’i in Hawaii, the fifth largest island, sees fewer than 30 tourists daily in summer. The John Day Region in Oregon has landscapes like visiting every state west of the Rockies.
Alamosa in Colorado is a high-altitude community. It attracts 20,000 sandhill cranes every spring and UFO enthusiasts.
These places offer adventure and a chance to dive into local culture. You get to experience the true essence of the regions.
Hiking the Uncharted Trails
For outdoor lovers, try the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin. It’s a 1,200-mile trail with less than 500 completions. These trails and sites let you escape crowds and connect with nature and culture.
Exploring these hidden gems creates unforgettable memories. You’ll appreciate the diverse landscapes, local food, and unique places on your road trip.
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Conclusion
The best state for a road trip depends on what you like. You might prefer the beautiful landscapes, the many attractions, the history, or the local food. There’s a state in the U.S. that fits your road trip dreams.
Plan your trip well, set a budget, and be ready for surprises. You’ll have a trip you’ll always remember. The U.S. has amazing national parks, historic sites, scenic drives, and fun roadside stops.
Think about your next road trip and look at the different states. Each state has its own charm and things to see. Whether you want a peaceful mountain drive, a bustling city, or tasty local food, the U.S. has it all.
FAQ
What factors make some states ideal for road trips?
WalletHub says the best states for road trips have low gas prices and lots of scenic spots. They also look at road quality and attractions. This makes for a great trip.
What are some tips for planning a road trip itinerary?
First, map out your route and set a budget. Think about safety too. Look up gas prices and find cool spots to see.
Book your stay early and pack what you need. This way, your trip will be smooth and fun.
What are some of the most iconic and picturesque road trips in the United States?
The Pacific Coast Highway is famous for its ocean views. Route 66 is known as the “Main Street of America.” Both are must-sees.
What types of natural attractions can be found on a road trip?
The U.S. has many national parks and wonders. You can see the Rocky Mountains, the Appalachian Trail, and the Southwest deserts. They’re all perfect for a road trip.
What factors determine the best state for a road trip?
The best states have diverse landscapes and national parks. They also have historic sites, quirky attractions, and lots of places to stay and eat.
What types of unexpected and quirky experiences can be found on a road trip?
Road trips let you find unique spots like roadside diners and giant fiberglass animals. You can also visit ghost towns. It’s a chance to see America’s weird side.
How can a road trip allow you to experience regional cuisine and local flavors?
Road trips let you try local foods like seafood and comfort foods. You can also taste the Southwest’s unique flavors. It’s a great way to experience different tastes.
What are some ways to uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations on a road trip?
Explore small towns and natural wonders off the main roads. You’ll find unique cultural spots that most people miss. It’s a way to see America like a local.