Best 10-Day Road Trips in the U.S. [Popular Routes]

Planning a road trip can be an exciting way to explore new places.

This article shares five great ten-day road trips in the U.S. that promise adventure and beautiful scenery.

These trips will help you discover hidden gems and popular attractions across the country.

1) Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most scenic drives in the United States. This highway runs along California’s coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and beaches.

Starting in San Francisco, you can head south towards Los Angeles. The drive is about 650 miles long and can take about ten days if you take your time exploring. You will see many charming towns like Monterey, Carmel, and Santa Barbara along the way.

Don’t miss the chance to stop at Big Sur. Here, you will find stunning views and hiking trails. The Bixby Creek Bridge is a must-see spot for photographers.

As you drive, you can stop at beaches and parks. Places like Pfeiffer Beach and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve will enhance your trip. You can take a walk, have a picnic, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The PCH is also known for its local food. Treat yourself to fresh seafood in coastal towns. Try clam chowder, fish tacos, or any local specialty you find.

This road trip is not just about the drive. It’s about experiencing the beauty of California’s coast. Each stop offers something unique. Whether it’s art, nature, or food, you will find it along the Pacific Coast Highway.

2) Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stunning drive that connects Virginia and North Carolina. It stretches about 469 miles and is famous for its beautiful views and rich wildlife. You will find plenty of overlooks to stop and take pictures.

As you travel, you can see the changing seasons. In spring, wildflowers bloom everywhere. In the fall, the leaves turn bright colors, creating a breathtaking scene.

The route is lined with hiking trails. You can explore national parks, like Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. There are spots for picnics and rest areas along the way, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors.

You will also discover cultural sites. Visit Mabry Mill, a famous spot for photos and demonstrations of traditional crafts. You can learn about the area’s history and local art.

Along your road trip, enjoy the local food. Numerous diners and cafes serve delicious Southern cuisine. Try some barbecue or fresh mountain trout for a true taste of the region.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is more than just a road. It’s a journey through stunning landscapes and rich culture. Each stop offers something new and exciting, making every mile worth your time.

3) Route 66, Illinois to California

Route 66, often called the “Main Street of America,” runs from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This famous highway is about 2,400 miles long. It offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, quirky roadside attractions, and rich history.

Starting in Chicago, you can visit the Art Institute and Millennium Park. As you drive, you’ll pass through the flat plains of Illinois. Make sure to stop in small towns to enjoy local diners and shops.

Moving into Missouri, Route 66 takes you through St. Louis. You can see the iconic Gateway Arch here. The drive includes beautiful scenery as you go through the Ozarks and enjoy nature.

In Kansas, the trip is short but charming. The state features a historic stretch of the road with vintage signs and murals.

As you enter Oklahoma, you can explore towns like Tulsa and Claremore. Each has unique shops and famous BBQ restaurants.

Texas offers a taste of the Old West. You’ll find the Cadillac Ranch, where art and cars meet.

In New Mexico, the landscapes change to desert views and Native American culture. Stops like Santa Fe add local flavor to your journey.

Finally, as you reach California, enjoy the beaches and surf culture in Santa Monica. Route 66 ends here, but the memories of your trip will last a lifetime.

4) Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

The Overseas Highway is a unique drive in Florida. It stretches about 113 miles from Miami to Key West. You will find stunning views of the ocean and islands along the way.

This highway connects a chain of islands known as the Florida Keys. Each island has its own charm and activities. You can stop to explore beaches, parks, and little shops.

One popular stop is Key Largo. Here, you can enjoy snorkeling or diving in clear waters. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a highlight for many visitors.

As you drive further, you reach Islamorada. This village is famous for fishing and great seafood. You can find many restaurants that serve fresh catches of the day.

Finally, you arrive in Key West. This is the last stop on your journey. You can visit famous sites like Ernest Hemingway’s house or watch the sunset at Mallory Square.

Driving the Overseas Highway offers amazing sights and fun experiences. You can take your time exploring the different islands and enjoying the scenery. It’s a great way to spend ten days, full of adventure and relaxation.

5) Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana

The Great River Road is a scenic route that follows the Mississippi River. It starts in Minnesota and flows all the way to Louisiana. This trip is about 3,000 miles long.

As you drive, you will see beautiful landscapes and charming towns. The road winds through woods, fields, and river views. Each state along the way offers something special.

In Minnesota, visit the river bluffs. In Wisconsin, enjoy the quaint towns and local cheese. Illinois offers historical sites, including the city of Chicago.

Moving south, you will reach Missouri, known for its BBQ and music. In Arkansas, explore the Ozark Mountains. Mississippi has rich culture with festivals and historic sites.

Finally, you will arrive in Louisiana, famous for its food and music. New Orleans has lively streets, jazz, and delicious cuisine.

This road trip is perfect for history buffs, food lovers, and nature fans. There are lots of parks, museums, and attractions to explore along the route.

Make sure to plan your stops ahead of time. Each area has unique experiences, so take your time to enjoy all the sights.

Planning Your Road Trip

Planning a road trip takes careful thought. You need to pick the right route, plan your budget, and pack smartly for your adventure. Here are some key points to consider as you prepare.

Route Selection Tips

Choosing the right route can make your trip enjoyable. Start by deciding where you want to go. Use mapping apps to explore different routes. Consider scenic byways for beautiful views.

Look for interesting stops along the way. National parks, historic sites, and quirky roadside attractions can enhance your journey. Make a list of these spots and plan your driving days around them.

Also, think about driving times. Try to limit your daily drive to 6-8 hours. This allows time for breaks, meals, and exploration. Be flexible as plans can change during the trip.

Budgeting for a Ten-Day Trip

A good budget is key for your road trip. Start by estimating costs for gas, food, lodging, and activities. Use online calculators or apps to help plan expenses.

Gas Costs: Calculate your vehicle’s mileage. Find the current price of gas in the areas you will travel. Consider using fuel-efficient routes to save.

Food Costs: Decide if you’ll eat out or cook. Eating at home can save money. Plan for snacks and meals while driving.

Accommodation Costs: Look for budget-friendly hotels or campgrounds. Websites can help compare prices and find deals.

Adding a small buffer for unexpected expenses is smart.

Packing Essentials

Packing well can make your trip smooth. Start with clothing that matches the weather and activities. Layering is useful in changing climates.

Must-Haves:

• Snacks and Drinks: Healthy options keep energy up during drives.
• First Aid Kit: Basic supplies are important for minor injuries.
• Navigation Tools: A GPS or maps are crucial, especially in areas with poor cell service.

Don’t forget chargers for electronics and a camera to capture memories. Packing these essentials helps ensure you enjoy your road trip fully.

Must-Have Road Trip Apps

Having the right apps can make your road trip easier and more fun. You’ll need tools for navigation, finding places to stay, and keeping everyone entertained. Here are some great apps to consider.

Navigation and Maps

Getting lost can turn a fun trip into a frustrating one. For navigation, use apps like Google Maps and Waze.

• Google Maps provides detailed directions, traffic updates, and information about nearby attractions. You can download maps offline, which helps in areas with poor coverage.
• Waze is great for real-time traffic updates from other users. It can help you avoid construction or accidents.

Both apps allow you to search for gas stations, restaurants, and rest stops along your route.

Travel and Accommodation

Finding a place to stay is important, especially on long road trips. Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hotels.com are reliable choices.

• Airbnb offers unique lodging like homes and cabins, giving you a local feel.
• Booking.com provides hotel options and user reviews.
• Hotels.com lets you earn free nights with their rewards program.

Using these apps, you can compare prices, check availability, and book your stays in advance. This will save time and reduce stress on the road.

Entertainment and Music

Keeping everyone entertained is key on long drives. Apps like Spotify, Audible, and Netflix can help.

• Spotify has playlists for every mood, plus you can download songs for offline listening.
• Audible offers audiobooks, which are perfect for long stretches of road. Listening to stories can make the time fly.
• Netflix allows downloads for shows and movies if you plan stops or downtime at your accommodations.

These apps help you create a fun and engaging atmosphere to enjoy the journey together.

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