There’s something magical about hitting the open road—the thrill of the unexpected, breathtaking views, and the promise of hidden treasures along the way. Road trips in the United States for 2025 are shaping up to be better than ever, as more adventurous travelers turn to off-the-beaten-path discoveries. If you’re ready to explore beyond the usual tourist traps, we’ve uncovered the best road trips for 2025, filled with hidden gems, unique experiences, and practical tips to make your next adventure unforgettable.
From the rugged Pacific Coast to the charm of Route 66, these carefully chosen routes will help you explore stunning landscapes, discover hidden delights, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Best Road Trips for 2025: Hidden Gems
Road trips are about the sheer freedom of exploration. But here's the secret—some of the best destinations aren’t on every travel brochure. The best thing about the road trip, is you get to make it your own, add stops, or routes. Change things up as needed for your needs or due to road closures. For example, western NC is still hurting due to Hurricane Helene from back in September of 2024. Changes to driving routes might still need to be made due to road closures, but still visiting the area nearby is a great way to bring tourist money back to the region and explore other sections you maybe would have missed otherwise. The freedom of the open road allows for choices. These hidden gems are waiting to dazzle you in surprising ways. From quirky small towns to awe-inspiring natural wonders, here’s a look at some can’t-miss spots along 2025’s best road trip routes.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (San Francisco, CA to Astoria, OR)
The Pacific Coast Highway is synonymous with epic ocean views from dramatic cliffs, but in 2025, it’s time to look beyond the usual route. While sections closer to Los Angeles have been impacted by wildfires this year, heading north from San Francisco to Astoria, Oregon, reveals a whole new adventure. Of course, if you are wanting to add LA that is fine. You will see Big Sur and the Hearst Castle along with coastal towns of Santa Barbara and Monterey along the way.
Hidden Gems Along the Way:
Astoria (OR): Known as the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, it's filled with museums, charming shops, and views of the Columbia River meeting the Pacific.
Thors Well, The Devils Punch Bowl, and sandy beaches along the way. Click here for more info just on the Oregon Coast
Bandon (OR): One of my favorite beaches in Oregon. Even though there are so many beautiful beaches in the state.
Eureka’s Old Town District (CA): A quaint Victorian harbor city with colorful architecture, artisan shops, and galleries—perfect for strolling and soaking in history.
Avenue of Giants (CA): as the road travel away from the coast for a bit, take a detour that travels alongside Route 101, south of Eureka. It is amazing to be surrounded by these giant trees. Click here to read more about the Avenue of Giants.
Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach (CA): Once a site for discarded glass, time and waves have turned broken pieces into smooth, shiny sea glass scattered along the beach—simply mesmerizing! Click here to read more about Fort Bragg and the best things to do at one of my favorite beaches on the west coast.
If you would like to read about best RV park near Fort Bragg CA, click here.
Planning Tips:
Travel in late spring or early fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Book unique stays, like cozy beach cabins or historic inns, to feel immersed in the Pacific Northwest’s charm. The Oregon coast is magical.
This scenic route stretches approximately 680 miles from Astoria Oregon to San Francisco, featuring charming coastal towns. Be sure to take snapshots at key spots such as the breathtaking cliffs at roadside stops along the epic road trip. With each turn on this highway, you'll discover something new, so it's perfect for unexpected detours. Delight in fresh seafood at coastal restaurants, explore majestic redwood forests, and spend your evenings stargazing along the shore.
If you would like to make this trip even longer consider adding in Washington State. The coastal route is fine, but you can travel inland to visit Mount Saint Helens or Mount Rainer before ending in Seattle also. I have taken a little road trip of this area, and it is beautiful.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, and Skyline Drive (Front Royal, VA to Asheville, NC)
The Blue Ridge Parkway has long been a favorite for its rolling hills and endless mountain views. Although sections in North Carolina are still recovering from Hurricane Helene, the Virginia portion offers an idyllic escape with serene trails and hidden treasures. This stunning highway winds through the Appalachian Mountains, extending over 469 miles. It offers breathtaking views, especially during fall when the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red. The parkway is dotted with overlooks and hiking trails that invite you to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in nature.
Many cities and towns in western North Carolina would love to see travelers again and are open for business after Hurricane Helene Damage, but there are still sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway that have issues as you drive from the NC line to Asheville, but here is hoping all will be up and operating soon.
Hidden Gems Along the Way:
Skyline Drive: A beautiful stretch of road that starts near Front Royal and then ends near Waynesboro, where the Blue Ridge Parkway starts.
Humpback Rocks Visitor Center (VA): Discover the region’s natural beauty and 19th-century farm culture through restored cabins and short scenic hikes.
Fancy Gap (VA) off Route 52: This peaceful area marks the gateway to charming Mt. Airy (inspiration for "Mayberry" from The Andy Griffith Show) and Winston-Salem, known for its blend of history and vibrant arts. Technically this area is off of the Parkway but is road closures due to Hurricane Helene is still happening, this might be a good place to hop off the parkway instead of traveling onto Asheville NC. If you would like to learn more about Fancy Gap, click here.
Boone: A great mountain town, good for a night's stay along the route. If you would like to learn more about Boone, click here.
Grandfather Mountain, Lineville Falls, and the large city of Asheville NC: other place along the way that are some of the best places along the route.
Asheville (NC): The Biltmore Estate is a wonderful place to visit. But Asheville has more than this amazing estate. a great art and craft beer scene too.
Planning Tips:
Pack a picnic for scenic overlooks like Mabry Mill and explore small local diners for Appalachian flavors.
Check Blue Ridge Parkway’s updates for closures and detours to ensure a smooth drive.
For those seeking natural beauty, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-visit. With stunning panoramic view of Blue Ridge Mountains with fall foliage. Visiting in spring? Don’t miss the blooming wildflowers and cascading waterfalls that define this beautiful landscape. Statistics reveal that over 15 million people visit the parkway each year, showcasing its popularity among nature lovers.
3. Historic Route 66 (Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA)
Get your kicks on Route 66—and in 2025, redefine it. While Route 66 traditionally spans from Chicago to Santa Monica, wildfires near Los Angeles make Las Vegas a perfect alternative endpoint without missing out on the adventure. Known as the "Main Street of America," the historic Route 66 provides a nostalgic glimpse into the past. This legendary highway is home to quirky attractions and classic diners that embody Americana.
Hidden Gems Along the Way:
Route 66 Drive-In Theater (Carthage, Missouri) – Relive the golden age of cinema under the stars at this historic drive-in. Pack some popcorn, park your car, and enjoy a classic movie night that feels straight out of the 1950s.
The Blue Whale of Catoosa (Catoosa, Oklahoma) – A quirky, smiley blue whale sculpture that has become a beloved pit stop for travelers. Perfect for snapping a playful photo or simply stretching your legs by the nearby pond.
Midpoint Café (Adrian, TX): Stop at the halfway point of Route 66 for pie that’s as legendary as the road itself.
Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, TX): This captivating sight features graffiti-covered cars half-buried in the ground and is a popular spot for photos.
Hackberry General Store (Hackberry, Arizona) – A nostalgic time capsule filled with Route 66 memorabilia, vintage gas pumps, and old-fashioned knick-knacks. Step back in time and grab a soda while soaking up the retro vibes.
The Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona) – Sleep in a piece of vintage Americana history! This kitschy motel lets you spend the night in a concrete teepee, delivering a truly unique roadside experience like no other.
Oatman, AZ: This quirky gold-mining ghost town has free-roaming wild burros (friendly visitors!).
Jerome Grand Hotel (Jerome, Arizona) – Perched atop Cleopatra Hill, this historic hotel is brimming with ghost stories and sweeping views of the Verde Valley. A hidden gem for both thrill-seekers and history buffs alike!
Las Vegas (NV): You could spend a week here at the end of the road trip and not see everything. Click here for more info on Vegas, for first time visitors.
Planning Tips:
Download Route 66 navigation apps for real-time updates on eateries and roadside attractions.
For an unforgettable finale, plan your Vegas arrival at sunset to watch the city light up.
Engage with local culture through small towns, roadside attractions, and national parks along the route. From famous diners serving up classic burgers to historic landmarks, Route 66 is a true representation of the American spirit. This is a long drive, but a great family road trip.
4. Route 17 Coastal Drive (Newport News, VA to Savannah, GA)
For a slower-paced adventure, Route 17 hugs the east coast and the seaboard’s historic towns, pristine beaches, and Southern charm. This multi-state road trip from Virginia to Georgia, this trail has something for everyone. In North Carolina, Route 17 doesn't include the barrier islands known as the Outer Banks, but if you would like to add that in on your trip, go for it, it's beautiful there.
Hidden Gems Along the Way:
Edenton (NC): Known as the "South’s Prettiest Town," this waterfront gem is dotted with colonial homes and cozy cafes. The Chowan County Courthouse, one of the oldest in the country, is a beautifully preserved courthouse. Also, The S-Bridge is a picturesque and historic bridge nestled along Route 17 that offers a quaint spot for photography enthusiasts and travelers seeking a peaceful stop. The scenic charm of the surrounding landscape makes it a delightful hidden gem.
Goose Creek State Park (Washington, North Carolina) – A sprawling oasis of nature, featuring boardwalk trails through wetlands, serene riverfront views, and shady picnic spots. This park allows you to unwind in the great outdoors while creating memories worth cherishing.
Sylvan Heights Bird Park (Scotland Neck, North Carolina) – Escape into a lush sanctuary home to one of the world’s largest bird collections! Perfect for families and animal lovers, this vibrant park offers opportunities to get up close with exotic species – bring your camera for some stunning shots!
Wilmington (NC): Visit the Battleship North Carolina or just take in the beach or city sites.
Myrtle Beach (SC): Considered to be very touristy and crowded during the summer but still makes for a great stop along the way. If you would like a beach day in the Grand Strand area that is not as crowded as Myrtle Beach, consider Pawley's Island.
Georgetown (SC): one of my favorite downtown areas on the route, and the best boat tours on the coast are in Georgetown. Click here if you would like to learn more about shell tours of the area.
Charleston Tea Garden (SC): The only tea plantation in North America, this scenic spot offers tours and a refreshing cup of (you guessed it) sweet tea. Downtown and the Historic area of Charleston is a great place to visit.
Savannah’s Forsyth Park (GA): A quintessential Southern beauty with moss-draped oaks, fountains, and vibrant local arts. Savannah perfectly blends history and charm. Strolling through its tree-lined streets and historic squares feels like stepping back in time. Consider taking a ghost tour to explore its haunted past or treat yourself to delicious local cuisine at cherished eateries. Tip: Don't leave without sampling the famous pecan pie—it's a must!
Planning Tips:
Try local specialties like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, or tea-infused recipes at Route-side eateries.
Stop at state parks or beaches along the way for peaceful breaks and photo ops.
As you continue your drive on Route 17 South, you will be in what I consider the deep south, of Charleston and Savannah. The old large oak trees lining the streets, with the Spanish moss hanging from the limbs, make me love this section of the United States so much.
5. Route 12, Utah – (Panguitch to Torrey)
Welcome to Route 12, Utah, a jaw-dropping 122-mile stretch officially designated as an All-American Road—and for good reason! This scenic highway takes you on a dazzling ride through some of the state’s most iconic landscapes. This is a short drive so it is best to combine with other roads to make it a true vacation. My time in this area proved to be one of the most beautiful drives I have ever been on.
Bryce Canyon National Park: Look at the famous hoodoo's and take a picture at the famous sunrise or sunset point
Capitol Reef National Park: Where you’ll encounter striking red rock cliffs and captivating desert vistas that look like something out of a dream.
Boulder: Don’t miss the charming town of where you can indulge in locally sourced deliciousness at Hell’s Backbone Grill. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, make a detour to explore the mind-blowing slot canyons at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Planning tips
Book hotels/rentals in advance. As there are limited places available for a night's rest, no vacancy can happen quickly.
Use your phone GPS to see other neat places nearby, add extra routes to make for a longer road trip. You can even go see monument valley if you drive far enough on a different route.
My thoughts if you are not from around here, fly into Salt Lake City and take interstate to Route 12, to Route 89, to Route 9, and then end the trip on Interstate 10 in Las Vegas. By adding route 89 and route 9, you will visit Zion National Park. Then Route 9, will take you back to the interstate where Las Vegas Nevada is only 2 hours away. If you would rather see the Grand Canyon, continue on Route 89 for a few hours into Arizona and end your trip in Flagstaff Arizona.
Route 12 isn’t just a road; it’s a sensory overload of nature’s finest work. Snap those photos, breathe in the pristine air, and revel in the beauty of Utah’s wild heart.
Honorable Mentions with some of my favorite stops featured
These are a few great places to add into a road trip that I highly recommend. I didn't talk about routes specifically for these places, but that is the great thing about road trips. Make your own and you can have a road trip anywhere.
The Badlands (South Dakota)
Nature enthusiasts should not miss the incredible sight of The Badlands. Spanning over 244,000 acres, this national park features bizarre rock formations and a variety of wildlife. The park offers around 30 miles of well-maintained hiking trails, perfect for those wanting to explore the rugged beauty. Photography opportunities are abundant, especially at sunrise and sunset when the landscape is simply stunning. Fly into Rapid City SD and drive East on Route 14 to the Badlands. While in Rapid City drive southwest for fora trip to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park too.
Beale Street (Memphis, Tennessee)
No trip through the southern states is complete without stopping in Memphis. Beale Street, renowned for its vibrant music scene, hosts jazz, blues, and rock 'n' roll performances alongside mouthwatering southern cuisine. Located on an Interstate 40, which is not a fan favorite for road trips, as part of it at the NC/TN line has been shut down to Hurricane Helene (should be open March 1st, 2025). You can take many routes and drives from here, Interstate or 2 lane roads. Drive north to St Louis, East to Ashville NC, Southeast to Chattanooga TN, west to Little Rock AR, or south to New Orleans. So many choices for a great road trip. Indulge in Memphis BBQ at iconic spots like Central BBQ, where you can savor tender ribs, or try Gus's World-Famous Fried Chicken for a crisp and flavorful experience.
Route 1 Miami to Key West (The Florida Keys)
A wonderful beach trip with tons of little islands to stay at along the way. It is a great little drive. It is not a far drive at all from Miami, so you can do the whole drive in one day. But you can take your time and spend the night at stops on islands along the way. Only 164 miles, in length so stop, stay, and explore Key Largo, Marathon, Ismorada, and Big Pine Key along the way to the final destination of Key West. Time moves slower on the islands, relax and enjoy one of the best scenic drives along the ocean. Just avoid hurricane season.
Sustainable Road Trips
Adventure shouldn’t come at the expense of the planet. 2025 is the perfect year to commit to sustainable travel practices for the sake of future adventures.
Rent hybrid or electric vehicles for a fuel-efficient road trip. The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a great choice, but the best car for the trip is what makes you and your family the most comfortable, with the right amount of cargo space
Pack reusable water bottles, utensils, and eco-friendly toiletries to reduce waste.
Support local businesses and book eco-conscious accommodations.
Technology to Elevate Your Road Trip
Everyone uses GPS on their phone these days and that is perfect to prevent you from getting lost. From Google Maps to Waze, these apps are great for accurate road conditions and show closures along the way. These are the best way to stay on track during your road trip.
Turn your road trips into smart trips by utilizing these tools:
Roadtrippers for detailed route planning and discovering roadside attractions.
GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas nearby.
iOverlander for camping spots and off-grid adventures.
Must-Know Safety Tips
The road can be unpredictable, so stay prepared:
Carry a spare tire, first aid kit, and emergency tools.
Check tires, oil, and brakes before heading out.
Share your itinerary with a friend and have offline maps available for signal-dead zones.
Tips for a Memorable Road Trip
Plan Ahead but Stay Flexible: Having a rough itinerary is beneficial but allow some room for spontaneity. Often, the best memories arise from unplanned encounters and detours. It's not always about the travel destinations.
Pack Smart: Bring along snacks, a first-aid kit, and plenty of water to keep everyone refreshed. A stocked cooler can help save time and money on the road. Also, remember to bring entertainment, such as playlists, audiobooks, and car games to engage all passengers.
Time to Hit the Road
2025 is your year to explore breathtaking vistas, quaint small towns, and unforgettable hidden gems that most travelers overlook. Whether you're weaving along the Pacific Coast, cruising Route 66, or discovering the charm of the Blue Ridge, there’s no end to the adventures awaiting you on the open road.
Start planning now, pack that playlist, and hit the highway! Where will the road take you next? We’d love to know—comment below with your favorite road trip memories and destinations.
Adventure Awaits
Road trips in 2025 promise to be more about exploration and connection than ever before. With a family trip, eco-friendly options, unique stopovers, and breathtaking views, now is the perfect time to embrace the open road.
So, gather your friends or family, set out on an exciting journey, and create lasting memories as you unveil America's hidden gems. Happy travels!
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