Road Trip Worthy Destinations In All 50 States

By: Calla Conway | Published: Sep 11, 2023

Spring is upon us, and the travel bug is out and jittery. If you want to stay land bound but are up for an adventure, consider taking a road trip this coming season.

Each U.S state has something unique and wonderful to offer and is worth a visit. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite destinations for each state.

Alabama: The Gulf Coast

Most of us don’t think of white sandy beaches when we think of Alabama, but that is exactly what you’ll find on the Gulf Coast of this beautiful state. Drive along the Alabama State Routes 180 and 182 which links the state’s borders between Mississippi and Florida.

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Source: PlanetWare

Along with the beaches, hotels, and restaurants, also make a point to stop at Gulf State Park for paddle boarding, kayaking, and biking.

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Alaska: Denali Highway

The Denali Highway is a 135 mile stretch of gravel road along the rugged and gorgeous Alaska landscape. We included this on the list due to the lack of tourist traction this expansive adventure tends to pull in, making it beautiful and desolate.

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Source: Alaska Tour & Travel

Camping is the most popular approach to exploring this road, however there are a number of countryside lodges and roadhouses peppered along the way to cater to travelers.

Arkansas: Hot Springs National Park

Visit the natural and ancient thermal springs of Arizona’s Hot Springs National Park. The breathtaking mountain views, forestry, hiking, and amazing geology is worth the trip.

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Source: nps.gov.com

All of this is right in the center of town and features nine historic bath houses with a rich cultural past. This exquisite place has been around for hundreds of years and is a unique destination for your road trip that you won’t soon forget.

California: Venice Beach

Venice Beach is a bohemian beach town with upscale commercial and residential pockets sprinkled without. You’d be hard-pressed to find anything close to the energy at the Venice beach walk, where free-spiritedness is on full display in the form of street performers and funky shops.

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Source: Cheap Tickets

There are plenty of spots to eat delicious food, get some cocktails, and shop. Don’t forget to check out the Venice Canals for a small taste of Europe.

Colorado: Million Dollar Highway

Take in the glory of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado through this winding road drive. You’ll enter a portal through time and nature on this tough terrain road, you can explore the mountain town Ouray, located in a box canyon, with its charming historic streets and ice-climbing park.

Source: Visit Durango

Just outside of Ouray is a geothermal heated mineral pool called Ouray Hot Springs to soak and relax. And lastly, a little town worth exploring is the sleepy and charming town of Silverton.

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Connecticut: Mystic

What is in a name? The town Mystic carries its own historical feel and personality. The sea port town, which used to host more than 600 ships beginning in 1784, now has an array of attractions, food, and sightseeing.

Source: Runner’s World

Between the tours, museums, cruises, vineyards, breweries, farmers’ markets, music, and nightlife, we are sure you’ll find something to do.

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Delaware: Bethany Beach

This small and coastal town is known for its wide boardwalk beach and historical gems. The Indian River Life Saving Station, which was built in 1877, is an interesting and engaging place to visit, along with the Fenwick Island Lighthouse.

Source: Wikipedia

The beach is clean, and the water is great for swimming or catching some surf in.

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Florida: Emerald Coast Drive

Known for its turquoise waters and small beach towns, this stretch of the Gulf Coast a must-see tour on your road trip if you are going within Florida. Good luck not pulling over again and again!

Source: Trips to Discover

Some highlights of the stretch include both Alys and Rosemary Beach. They are exclusive resort towns with savory restaurants and eye candy homes. Feel free to park, rent a bike, and take it all in.

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Georgia: Rock City Gardens

Feast your eyes on the natural wonders of Rock City Gardens, only a few miles away from downtown Chattanooga. The gardens feature upwards 400 native plant species and have gorgeous panoramic views that features seven states.

Source: Lookout Mountain

The lookout opened in May of 1932; however, evidence shows that Native Americans inhabited Lookout Mountain at some point.

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Hawaii: Hanauma Bay

Of course, you would already have to be in Hawaii for this trip, but assuming you are and have a mode of transportation you would have to visit Hanauma Bay! This marine embayment formed within a tuff ring alongside the southeast coast of O’ahu.

Source: Hawaii Aloha Travel

The jaw-dropping reefs beneath the clear blue water are encircled within the striking verdant mountains, and the white sand beach is peppered by tall palm trees. Heaven.

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Idaho: Boise to Idaho Falls

Travel to the capital of Idaho for tree-dotted trails, green parks, art deco buildings, and wonderful museums and eateries. From there take the I-84 eat and head towards the Shoshone Falls Park near Twin Falls.

Source: thediscoverer.com

Twin Falls are known as the Niagara Falls of the west for their beautiful cascading waters over dramatic cut stone. End your Idaho trip in Idaho Falls located in Snake River.

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Illinois: Starved Rock State Park

A natural wonder of the world, Starved Rock State Park is a sight to see. Located in Oglesby, Illinois, the sandstone canyons formed from glacial meltwater and forms 13 miles of trails.

Source: Chicago Magazine

Depending on when you go, the waterfalls will either be cascading and ready for fishing and boating, or frozen in place which is also a sight to see!

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Indiana: Dunes State Park

If you find yourself on a road trip through Indiana, immerse yourself in the expansive scenery and outdoor recreation of the Indiana Dunes State Park. One of the most distinctive features of the park is “The Challenge.”

Source: Conde Nast Traveler

This hike up Mt. Holden is the largest sand dune on the southern shore of Lake Michigan and is classified as a challenge for a reason.

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Iowa: Swinging Bridge

If you don’t consider yourself afraid of heights, check out the Swinging Bridge in Columbus Junction, Iowa. Also known as “Lover’s Leap,” the 262 feet long bridge was originally built in 1886 and then rebuilt in 1922.

Source: Midwest Explorer

The hike is shorter (about an hour) and when you cross the bridge it really will swing side to side, so height-fearers be warned!

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Kansas: Prairie Trail Scenic Byway

Cut through the state of Kansas on the Prairie Scenic Byway for the stunning views and landscape that Kansas has to offer. One of the first stops is the Monument Rocks National Natural Landmark where you’ll find rare chalk formations where 80-million-year-old fossils have been discovered.

Source: Pintrest

A bit east is the Mushroom Rock State Park, which is aptly named. Stop in Canon as well for a tour of the 2,800-acre Maxwell Wildlife Refuge.

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Kentucky: Kentucky Bourbon Trail

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail isn’t just for the whisky drinkers, this bluegrass region route has some of the best attractions that Kentucky has to offer. Begin in Louisville, Kentucky’s major city and home of the Kentucky Derby.

Source: Roads Unraveled

From there, head southwest towards Owensboro, a small city located on the Indiana state border and sample some amazing distilleries.

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Louisiana: Frenchmen Street

If you want to still be near the heart of New Orleans but are looking for less of a raucous, try Frenchmen Street, which is walking distance away and contains something for everyone. With its authentic live music and art, it’s a must see for New Orleans immersion.

Source: Peek

Frenchmen Street also has a rich history and a ton to uncover. For example, the way it got its name is from “six French men who were executed after leading an uprising after Louisiana was ceded to Spain.

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Maine: Portland Head Lighthouse

This spot is perfect for history buffs! The historical Portland Head Lighthouse landmark dates all the way back to 1776 when the Town of Cape Elizabeth had eight soldiers posted at the lighthouse to warn their citizens of incoming attacks.

Source: countryliving.com

You can also enjoy the beautiful day along the water in Cape Elizabeth along the shores of Fort Williams Park.

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Maryland: Assateague Island

For sightly views of beach landscape and wild horses, visit Assateague Island. The wild horses roam around the beach, and legend has it that the horses are survivors of a shipwreck off of the Virginia coastline.

Source: countryliving.com

If you do visit, make sure to give the horses a lot of space, as they do not enjoy being approached and you don’t want to scare them or take a hoof!

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Massachusetts: The Freedom Trail

Boston is one of the most significant historical cities in the United States, so it makes sense that there is a three-mile self-guided tour trail to explore. The Freedom Trail has 16 monuments that includes graveyards that contains graves of notable signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Source: Gracefullee Made

If you’re a history buff and visiting the graves of John Hancock and Samuel Adams, get yourself on the Freedom Trail.

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Michigan: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Known for its picturesque and multi-colored rock cliffs, the Pictures Rocks National Lakeshore is a sight to behold! The extraordinary sandstone formations contrast beautifully against the multi-hued water and trees that line the cliffs.

Source: Pintrest

While there, don’t forget to walk through the white birch forest in Twelvemile Beach for one of the more gorgeous hikes you’ll take in your life.

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Minnesota: Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

For the art fans, make sure you stop by the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden to see 40 permanent art installations along with several temporary installments. The sculpture garden spans across the 11-acre park and is one of the largest urban sculpture gardens in the entire country.

Source: walkerart.com

There is a lot to look at so wear your sneakers and bring your camera for an experience you won’t soon forget.

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Mississippi: Elvis Presley’s Birthplace

Tupelo, Mississippi is the birthplace of one Elvis Presley, you may have heard of him…the King of Rock and Roll and all that. The small two-bedroom house was built by Elvis Presley’s father, grandfather, and uncle.

Source: Simona Sacri

The home is a part of the Mississippi Blues Trails stands as a museum and is preserved to honor the American musician and his impact on American culture.

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Missouri: The Gateway Arch

This Giant Arch is quite literally record-breaking and stands at 630 feet. It is made entirely out of stainless steel and is in the shape of a catenary arch. It is the tallest arch in the world and is also the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere

Source: Simona Sacri

You can sit amongst the park by the water and enjoy the beautiful city of St. Louis while admiring an incredible work of architecture.

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Montana: Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

This stop is unlike any state park you’ve ever been to! The Lewis and Clark State Park is one of the largest (known) limestone caverns in the Northwest.

Source: Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Experience

You can be given a guided tour by the staff and explore various hiking levels. This wonderful nature reserve spans across 3,000-acres and was established in 1935.

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Nebraska: Oregon Trail Route

Enter a portal back in time and explore the Oregon National Historic Trail, which travels through six states. Recreate the traveler’s journey as they passed by Courthouse and Jail Rocks, the iconic and massive clay and sandstone rock formations.

Source: thediscoverer.com

The Nebraska leg has one of the more iconic features, several of which are protected historic locations. These include the California Hill and Fort Kearny State Historical Park.

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Nevada: Lake Tahoe

Sitting on the border of California, Nevada, lies the third deepest lake in North America, Lake Tahoe. Depending on when you decide to take your trip, you will either be met with snowy peaks and glistening snow for skiing or snowboarding, or with pretty weather fit for hiking, swimming, stand-up paddling.

Source: GetYourGuide

There are many campgrounds to choose from, if you decide to put down some stakes on your road trip, as well as resorts if you’re feeling more bougie.

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New Hampshire: Mount Washington

For dramatic views of incredibly high peaks and incredibly low valleys, make it a point to stop at Mount Washington for your road trip in New Hampshire. Mount Washington is the record highest peak in Northeastern United States.

Source: Wikipedia

The 6,288.2 feet peak stands east of the Mississippi River and can offer erratic weather so prepare yourself with layers.

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New Jersey: Cape May

This is a great place for this history enthusiasts while also balancing out summer fun in the sun. The entire city is a National Historic District and has nearly 600 Victorian buildings. So cool! Furthermore, the picturesque beach town always has a lot to do.

Source: TravelPulse

You can put your toes in the sand or find a host of special events throughout the year, including art and jazz festivals.

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New Mexico: Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument is located in Los Alamos, New Mexico and is truly a treasure. The national site has over 3,000 dwelling sites of the ancestral Pueblo People who existed over 11,000 years ago.

Source: PeakVisor

Hikers have access to these dwelling sites, which even have ladders propped up against them so you can go inside! A very unique and enriching experience.

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New York: Finger Lakes Tour

This upstate New York destination is one of the more dazzling destinations that we’re recommending that has something in it for everyone. This family-friendly spot has anything from amusement parks to winery tours.

Source: thediscoverer.com

If you are feeling particularly adventurous check out Letchworth State Park and take a hot air balloon ride over the falls or a whitewater raft in the thick of it.

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North Carolina: Grandfather Mountain

Located in Linville, North Carolina, Grandfather Mountain is the perfect destination for those seeking hiking adventures of all ages. The mountain offers supreme views along with varying hiking trail levels.

Source: grandfather.com

If you do find yourself at Grandfather Mountain, be sure to visit the Mile High Swinging Bridge, which is most definitely as exciting as it sounds! There is also an environmental habitat to explore that has black bears, bald eagles, otters, elk, and cougars.

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North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park

The namesake of the United States’ 26th president, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in Western North Dakota. There is a plethora of activities to do while there and is definitely a great location for the outdoorsy road tripper.

Source: Mental Floss

From hiking, camping, or just taking a leisurely drive through the glorious park, this bison-filled park is sure to add some excitement to your trip.

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Ohio: Ohio Waterfalls Route

It was t TLC who said “don’t go chasing waterfalls” but we may have to make the case to forgo this advice in lieu of chasing the waterfalls in Ohio! Ohio is packed with beautiful waterfalls across the state, and depending on what you’re up for, are either incredibly accessible or more of a hike.

Source: Road Trips & Coffee

If you do choose to do this, there is a pre-mapped route available and takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

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Oklahoma: Route 66

While this isn’t a destination per say, it is a revered road and is a great route to take for the average road tripper. The reason is because Route 66 connects from Chicago, Illinois all the way to Santa Monica, California, passing through a total of eight states in between.

Source: touropia.com

Stop off in Tulsa and Oklahoma City along the way to get a flavor of what Oklahoma is all about or stop off at Elk City to enjoy a museum dedicated to the National Route 66.

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Oregon: Portland

This one may seem obvious, but Portland is truly a unique and amazing city that has so much to offer! From Powell books, Voodoo Donuts, the near constant live music, and wonderful Bagby Hot Springs, there is truly something in it for any personality type.

Source: Government Alliance on Race and Equity

If you’re looking for a lively destination that offers food, culture, music, and gorgeous trees scattered about, add Portland to your road trip.

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Pennsylvania: Philadelphia

Yet another great place for the history fans, Philadelphia, Philly, the City of Brotherly Love—whatever you want to call it, offers handsome historic buildings that once homed Benjamin Franklin and the like, as well as where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence.

Source: Pintrest

Stop by the Liberty Bell on your way to a jazz club, grab a cheesesteak and take in the iconic sights that the American forefathers helped to form.

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Rhode Island: Newport Mansions Loop

Explore colonial-era towns and stunning Atlantic Ocean beaches on your seaside “Rhode-trip” (see what I did there?) Yet another historic place to explore is Providence for the history buffs, as well as a drive south towards the coastal communities for the beach-lovers.

Source: newportmansions.com

Be sure to stop by Newport to observe the large mansions from the Gilded Age that give off serious Great Gatsby vibes and a true look into the old elite.

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South Carolina: Hilton Head Island

Visit this oasis in South Carolina for 12 miles of pristine beaches and savory southern fine dining. Hit the beaches for some surf, swing a couple golf clubs, or discover the art and culture on the island. Or better yet, do it all!

Source: hiltonheadisland.org

Depending on when you’re there, every year between May and October offers an opportunity to see the sea turtles lay their eggs. In 2021, 283 nests were laid on the beaches.

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South Dakota: Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is located in Keystone, South Dakota, and is definitely a sight to see! Imagine, 60-foot-tall heads of former Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln towering over you and the great state of South Dakota.

Source: Pinterest

It is definitely a bucket list worthy location and one that we think everyone should see at least once in your lifetime.

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Tennessee: Dollywood

Dollywood, created by the ever-iconic Dolly Parton, offers more than 40 rides, high-energy entertainment, delicious dining, and a friendly park atmosphere that is fun for everyone. Dollywood was even voted a Top 10 Outdoor Waterpark by USA Today Readers!

Source: Dollywood.com

You’re also welcome to stay on the premises and take a break from the road trip with their luxurious DreamMore Resort. It truly is a fun escape for you and yours!

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Texas: Willow City Loop

If sprawling wildflowers and dreamy colored landscapes are your thing, visit Hill Country of Texas. The historic and scenic drive is a 13-mile stretch of bluebonnets, yellow and white daisies, sunflowers, Mexican poppies, and Indian paintbrushes.

Source: thediscoverer.com

If you’re looking for somewhere with some small-town charm, stop at the small German town of Fredericksburg for some cute wineries and tasting rooms, antique stores, and some adorable mom-and-pop restaurants.

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Utah: Zion National Park

Follow the path of the native people and pioneers and gaze upon the massive sandstone cliffs against the backdrop of the sky at Utah’s first national park, Zion. Explore The Narrows, hike on whatever type of level you’re most comfortable with and reserve a campsite if you’re so inclined.

Source: GetYourGuide

It is a truly beautiful park with expansive views, wildlife, and hiking for the whole family.

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Vermont: Church Street Marketplace

Explore Vermont’s marketplace area, Church Street for dining, shopping, and pretty parks. Before you go, check out their online calendar to see what live events they may be offering. There are also beautiful freshwater beaches that can be explored.

Source: thediscoverer.com

While you’re driving through, stop in the town of Waterbury for a tour of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream factory. Yes, really!

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Virginia: Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail

Fun fact: Virginia clocks in at number five on the list of states with the most wineries. We say, when in Rome! Tour the scenic Shenandoah Valley on the western side of the state for a gorgeous road trip.

Source: Virginia Travel Tips

There is a plethora of wineries to stop by and enjoy. Relax with bright sunsets, rolling hills, and expansive vineyards with a glass of wine in hand.

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Washington: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest

Be it the summer season or time for skiing time in winter Mountain Baker Snoqualmie National Forest is a naturistic escape into scenic trails and wildlife.

Source: The Mountaineers

It is the perfect place to explore on your adventure! After you are done exploring the beauty that is this national forest, there is a collection of local restaurants and cabins to stay in over in the neighboring town of Glacier.

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West Virginia: New River Gorge Bridge

The New River Gorge Bridge is a large steel arch bridge that spans 3,030 feet over the New River near Fayetteville, West Virginia. For nearly 30 years, it was the world’s longest single-span arch at 1,700 feet long but has now been pushed down to number four.

Source: ACE Adventure Resort

The bridge is located in the Appalachian Mountains and is the epitome of the scenic route!

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Wisconsin: Devil’s Lake State Park

The largest state park in Wisconsin is called Devil’s Lake State Park and is located south of Baraboo. The park is well known for its 500-foot-high quartzite bluffs alongside the 360-acre Devil’s Lake.

Source: Pintrest

This was a result of a glacier depositing terminal debris that plugged the north and south ends of the opening in the bluffs during the last ice age, some 12,000 years ago. You’re welcome to hike, camp overnight, and take in all of the scenery and worldly history around you.

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Wyoming: Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is located in Northwestern Wyoming and spans a total of 310,000 acres of country. It has dramatic mountain ranges and clear blue lakes.

Source: countryliving.com

If you do decide to visit this park, you can also add Yellowstone to the list, as it is nearby. Yellowstone was the world’s very first national park!

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