Exploring the open road in an RV offers unparalleled freedom and the opportunity to discover America's most breathtaking landscapes. This guide highlights some of the most famous and unforgettable RV routes across the United States.
Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1, California)The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), or Highway 1, is arguably the most iconic drive in the United States. It offers dramatic coastal views, winding roads, and charming seaside towns.
Highlights- Big Sur: Dramatic cliffs, mist-shrouded bridges, and stunning ocean vistas.
- Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Quaint, beautiful towns with rich history and upscale dining.
- Hearst Castle: A historic landmark offering tours of a spectacular estate.
It is recommended to take a week to truly enjoy this drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia and North Carolina)
Often called "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This road is known for its slow pace, spectacular overlooks, and access to hiking trails.
Highlights- Linn Cove Viaduct: An engineering marvel that curves around Grandfather Mountain.
- Folk Art Center (Asheville, NC): Showcasing traditional and contemporary Appalachian crafts.
- Mount Mitchell: The highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
Route 66 (Illinois to California)
The "Main Street of America" or the "Mother Road" is the quintessential American road trip. While no longer officially a highway, the various segments of Historic Route 66 offer a nostalgic journey through small towns, classic diners, and quirky roadside attractions.
Highlights- St. Louis Gateway Arch (Missouri): A towering monument marking the start of the West.
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas): A public art installation featuring ten partially buried Cadillac cars.
- Santa Monica Pier (California): The official end point of Route 66.
For a trip down memory lane, plan to spend time in these historic spots:
State | Famous Stops | Type of Attraction |
|---|---|---|
Illinois | Lou Mitchell's Diner | Classic American Diner |
Oklahoma | Catoosa's Blue Whale | Roadside Attraction |
Arizona | Petrified Forest National Park | Natural Wonder |
Overseas Highway (Florida)
The Overseas Highway, a 113-mile stretch of U.S. Route 1, connects the Florida Keys from Key Largo to Key West. It is famous for crossing countless bridges, including the spectacular Seven Mile Bridge, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other