With travel back on the rise, many people might opt for road trips to cure their travel bugs. Though more time-consuming, road trips offer an experience unlike any other. From beautiful views you would never see in a plane to the excitement of stopping wherever you please, there are many perks to taking the scenic route on your next vacation.
The U.S. has countless breathtaking destinations that are well worth the trip. Just make sure you are ready before you hit the road.
Preparations such as snacks, having your car seen by a professional, and the right insurance coverage can save you many headaches on your trip.
Snacks can save you from spending excess money on eating out while you are traveling. Mechanics can make sure your car is in good working order before you get on the road. And options like 14-day car insurance can come in handy when you plan to spend such an extended amount of time in your car.
Once everything is in order, you may be wondering where exactly you should go on your epic road trip. Here are some of the most stunning destinations you can drive to in the U.S.
#1 – Acadia National Park, Maine
Starting strong on the East Coast, Acadia National Park is sure to leave visitors in awe. Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, this park offers incredible views from every angle. Rocky seashores, mountain peaks, and picturesque towns make this place incredibly unique.
The Park spans 47,000 acres, offers 158 miles of hiking trails, and is home to a large variety of wildlife.
The stunning scenery makes Acadia National Park a perfect road trip destination. And if you’re looking for a break from all that driving, the beautiful town of Bar Harbor has plenty of accommodation options to relax after a long day.
#2 – Charleston, South Carolina
Founded in 1670, this port city in South Carolina certainly has a reputation that precedes it — and for a good reason. It’s hard to compete with the charm and romance of Charleston.
This Southern town offers visitors a step back in time with its cobblestone streets and antebellum-style houses. You can enjoy a slower pace of life while visiting, enjoy incredible food, and even visit surrounding areas for some stunning nature views.
Moss-covered tree lanes and beautiful beaches sit just outside of downtown Charleston and offer those visiting various options to see during their time there. This is the perfect location to put your insurance to good use and take a day trip to the surrounding areas while visiting.
#3 – Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Mammoth Cave in Kentucky contains more than 400 miles of explored and mapped caves, making it the longest recorded cave in the world. There is a small fee to explore the caves, but they are well worth the price. Tours range from one to six hours, allowing visitors to choose an experience that meets their comfort level.
If caves are perhaps not your thing, or you’re simply looking to spend more time in the area, the national park also offers plenty of hiking options as well as kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding, and bike trails.
#4 – Aspen, Colorado
This gorgeous mountain town is undoubtedly well known, but many associate it with skiing and perhaps not much more. However, Aspen has a lot more to offer than just mountain slopes in the winter.
Downtown Aspen has an abundance of activities available to visitors that go far beyond just skiing. Not only does the town offer plenty of shopping options, but there are also many mouthwatering places to dine during your time there.
If you’re looking to get out of the city, Aspen’s surrounding landscaping will surely not leave you wanting. With options like Maroon Bells just 10 miles south, it’s easy to hop in your car — covered by insurance, of course — and explore the incredible mountain views.
#5 – Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
If you’re looking for mountain views that take your breath away, look no further than Grand Teton National Park. This incredible spot in Wyoming is perfect for your next vacation destination if you’re hoping to get back to nature.
Grand Teton is an outdoor lover’s dream with crystal clear lakes, lush forests, and the youngest range in the Rockies. For animal enthusiasts, the park is home to an abundance of elk, buffalo, wolves, and over 300 species of birds. The park spans 310,000 acres and offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience.
There is no shortage of activities in the park to fill your time with. Options like scenic raft trips, horseback riding, and even bus tours offer visitors a wide variety of ways to see and experience Grand Teton.
#6 – Skagit Valley, Washington
This incredible region nestled in the northwest corner of Washington state is one of the most agriculturally diverse areas west of the Cascades. The area is most famously known for its Tulip Festival, spanning the entire month of April every year.
If you are planning a road trip during this time of year, you won’t want to miss this event. With millions of tulips blooming during the month, you will have a breathtaking view as you cruise by the fields of Skagit Valley.
If you can’t make it in April, the region still has plenty to offer its visitors. There are many hiking options in the area for those looking to enjoy the beauty of this location. There are also museums, shopping, and even guided tours you can take so you won’t miss a minute of the stunning Northwest.
#7 – Temecula, California
Located in southern California, Temecula offers visitors a unique experience. With a downtown boasting historic buildings, museums, and specialty shops, there is a little something for everyone in this lesser-known region of the state.
If you are a wine lover, Temecula may be just the place for you. The region features over 40 wineries and more than 3,500 acres of vineyards.
Not only is the wine tasting delicious, but the accompanying views are breathtaking. Nestled in the foothills of the Temescal Mountains, this area offers visitors stunning views for miles around.
U.S. Road Trips: Stunning Views Across the Country
The U.S. has a lot to offer for those ready to go out and explore it. From the East Coast all the way up to the Pacific Northwest, there are stunning destinations just waiting to be seen. Make sure you have road trip auto insurance coverage so that you are prepared against any emergency.
While road trips may be more time-consuming, they offer an experience unlike any other. With incredible views and the open road ahead, you will surely enjoy your time spent traveling. Stop at any — or all — of these fantastic destinations on your next road trip and be prepared to be wowed.
Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, BuyAutoInsurance.com. Road trips are her chosen method of travel, and she enjoys sharing her favorite locations with others looking to hit the road.
Published by HOLR Magazine.