There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road. For those looking to embrace adventure, discover natural beauty, and make unforgettable memories, few travel experiences compare to taking an RV road trip. The United States is home to some of the world’s most iconic and scenic routes, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. 

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely drive along the coast or a scenic road trip through picturesque regions, these RV road trips offer something for everyone. Below are some of the top favorite RV road trips in the U.S. worth taking.

Best U.S. Road Trips for RV Travelers

1. Route 66: The Classic American Road Trip

Distance: 2,448 miles
Route: Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California

There’s no road trip more iconic than Route 66. This historic highway, often called the “Main Street of America,” stretches from the bustling city of Chicago all the way to the sandy beaches of Santa Monica, California. Along the way, you’ll encounter classic Americana, from old-school diners and motels to quirky roadside attractions like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas and the Wigwam Village in Arizona.

RV travelers love Route 66 for its diverse scenery, which ranges from the flat plains of the Midwest to the breathtaking desert landscapes of the Southwest. Key stops along the route include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest in Arizona, and the Santa Monica Pier at the journey’s end.

For an additional scenic detour, consider exploring the Texas Hill Country, known for its charming towns, vineyards, and natural attractions.

This trip is ideal for those looking to experience a mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Plus, with Cruise America rental locations in major cities like Chicago and Los Angeles, getting started on this adventure is easy.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway: A Scenic Drive Through the Appalachians

Distance: 469 miles
Route: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina

For those who love the beauty of mountainous landscapes, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must. This scenic drive stretches nearly 500 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park with North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its vibrant fall foliage, making it a popular destination in the autumn months. However, it’s a beautiful drive any time of year, with rolling green hills, stunning overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and opportunities to explore hiking trails, waterfalls, and quaint mountain towns. Highlights include Mabry Mill, one of the most photographed spots on the Parkway, and the Linn Cove Viaduct, an engineering marvel that seems to float over the mountainside.

Another scenic destination for nature enthusiasts is the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse natural beauty.

RV travelers will appreciate the ample campgrounds along the route, providing scenic spots to park for the night and soak in the natural beauty. Cruise America has rental locations nearby, making it easy to pick up your RV and hit the road.

3. 17-Mile Drive: A Stunning Coastal Experience

Distance: 17 miles
Route: Pacific Grove to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

For a shorter but equally breathtaking road trip, 17-Mile Drive in California offers a coastal experience like no other. This picturesque route runs along the Pacific coast, offering sweeping views of the ocean, rocky cliffs, and lush golf courses. The drive begins at Pacific Grove and winds through the exclusive Pebble Beach community before ending at the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Highlights along 17-Mile Drive include the Lone Cypress, one of the most photographed trees in the world, and the scenic vistas at Point Joe and Spanish Bay. The area is also known for its wildlife, with seals, sea lions, and bird species frequently spotted along the shoreline.

While 17-Mile Drive is short, it’s perfect for those looking to add a leisurely coastal drive to a longer California road trip. With Cruise America rental locations throughout California, starting your journey along the coast is a breeze. Another coastal destination with unique attractions is Key West, known for its scenic Overseas Highway, Seven Mile Bridge, and vibrant local wildlife and beach culture.

4. Utah’s Route 12: Red Rock Wonders

Distance: 122 miles
Route: Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park

For lovers of red rock landscapes and dramatic desert vistas, Utah’s Route 12 is a road trip like no other. This All-American Road winds through the heart of southern Utah’s canyon country, offering unparalleled access to two national parks and several state parks. Arches National Park, with its iconic Delicate Arch, is another must-see landmark in the region, perfect for those planning comprehensive road trips exploring the natural beauty of the southwestern United States.

Beginning at Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its otherworldly hoodoos and vibrant colors, Route 12 takes travelers through the stunning Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and on to Capitol Reef National Park, a lesser-known gem featuring colorful cliffs, arches, and canyons.

Highlights along the route include:

• The scenic viewpoint overlooks at Red Canyon.

• Hiking opportunities in Kodachrome Basin State Park.

• The surreal landscapes of Escalante Petrified Forest State Park.

Route 12 is ideal for those who want to experience the rugged beauty of the American Southwest while enjoying the comfort of an RV. Cruise America has rental locations in nearby cities, making it easy to start your journey.

5. Pacific Coast Highway: A Drive Along the West Coast

Distance: 655 miles
Route: San Francisco, California, to San Diego, California

Few road trips offer the dramatic coastal views of California’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). This famed route hugs the coastline from San Francisco to San Diego, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns.

The PCH is home to some of California’s most iconic attractions, including Big Sur, where towering cliffs meet the crashing waves of the ocean, and Hearst Castle, an opulent estate built by media magnate William Randolph Hearst. Further south, travelers can explore the sandy beaches of Malibu, the historic Santa Monica Pier, and the bustling boardwalks of Venice Beach. Similarly, the Seven Mile Bridge is a significant landmark along the Overseas Highway in the Florida Keys, offering a scenic drive with stunning ocean views and connecting various islands.

RV travelers will find numerous campgrounds along the route, many of which offer beachfront views. This road trip is perfect for those looking to experience the best of California’s natural beauty while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of its coastal towns. Cruise America has several rental locations along the California coast, making it easy to embark on this scenic drive.

6. The Great River Road: A Journey Along the Mississippi

Distance: 3,000 miles
Route: Lake Itasca, Minnesota, to the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana

For a different kind of road trip, consider the Great River Road, which follows the path of the mighty Mississippi River from its source in Minnesota to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico. This route passes through 10 states and offers travelers a unique glimpse into America’s heartland.

The Great River Road is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Along the way, you’ll find charming river towns, historic sites like Mark Twain’s boyhood home in Hannibal, Missouri, and sprawling wildlife refuges teeming with birdlife. Key stops include the lively city of New Orleans, the historic Vicksburg National Military Park, and the scenic bluffs of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area. Another key destination for nature lovers is Acadia National Park, known for its rugged coastal beauty, high ridgelines, and landmarks like Cadillac Mountain and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.

RV travelers can enjoy the slower pace of this journey, with numerous campgrounds and RV parks located along the route. With Cruise America rental locations in several cities along the Mississippi River, starting your Great River Road adventure is easy.

National Parks Road Trips

7. Glacier National Park Road Trip

For those who crave the raw beauty of the wilderness, a road trip to Glacier National Park in Montana is a must. Known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and abundant wildlife, Glacier National Park offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. The crown jewel of the park is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile marvel that takes you through the heart of the park, offering stunning vistas of rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows.

As you traverse this iconic route, you’ll have the chance to explore the park’s many lakes, glaciers, and diverse ecosystems. Activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching are popular here, with opportunities to spot grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to soak in the natural beauty, Glacier National Park is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every outdoor enthusiast.

8. Yellowstone and Grand Teton Road Trip

Embark on a journey through two of the most iconic national parks in the U.S.: Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Located in Wyoming and Montana, these parks offer a unique combination of geothermal wonders, stunning mountain scenery, and abundant wildlife. Start your adventure in Yellowstone, where you can marvel at the famous Old Faithful geyser, explore the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, and hike through diverse landscapes teeming with wildlife.

Continue your road trip to Grand Teton National Park, where the jagged peaks of the Teton Range rise dramatically above the valley floor. Here, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and wildlife watching. The parks are home to a wide range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and elk, making them a paradise for nature lovers. A road trip through Yellowstone and Grand Teton is a journey through some of America’s most awe-inspiring natural landscapes.

9. Zion and Grand Canyon Road Trip

For a road trip that combines the grandeur of two of the most iconic national parks in the U.S., head to Zion and the Grand Canyon. Located in Utah and Arizona, these parks offer a unique blend of stunning rock formations, deep canyons, and abundant wildlife. Begin your adventure in Zion National Park, where you can hike the famous Angel’s Landing trail for breathtaking views of the canyon below.

Next, make your way to the Grand Canyon, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Here, you can explore the park’s many hiking trails, take in the panoramic views from the South Rim, and enjoy activities such as camping and rock climbing. The parks are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including mule deer, peregrine falcons, and condors. A road trip through Zion and the Grand Canyon is a must for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast.

Mountain Road Trips

10. Rocky Mountain Road Trip

The Rocky Mountains, stretching from British Columbia, Canada, to New Mexico, offer some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the western U.S. This stunning range is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a unique combination of towering peaks, abundant wildlife, and endless recreational opportunities. Start your journey in Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can explore over 300 miles of hiking trails, spot elk and moose, and take in the panoramic views from Trail Ridge Road.

Continue your road trip through the Rockies to Grand Teton National Park, where the dramatic Teton Range provides a stunning backdrop for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Don’t miss the chance to visit Yellowstone National Park, where geothermal wonders and diverse ecosystems await. The Rocky Mountains are home to a wide range of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mountain lions, and black bears, making it a must-visit destination for any nature lover. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains, a road trip through the Rockies promises an unforgettable experience.

Rent an RV from Cruise America for Your Road Trip

No matter which RV road trip you choose, Cruise America makes it easy to get on the road. With convenient rental locations across the U.S., you can pick up your RV near the starting point of your journey and hit the open road in comfort and style. Whether you're planning a cross-country adventure or a shorter scenic drive, Cruise America has the right RV for you.

From the rugged landscapes of Utah’s Route 12 to the coastal beauty of 17-Mile Drive, these RV road trips offer something for every type of traveler. Ready to embark on your next adventure? Rent an RV from Cruise America and discover the best of what America’s roads have to offer.