Top Scenic Drives in the USA That Will Take Your Breath Away

From winding mountain passes to coastal highways hugging the ocean’s edge, the United States is packed with unforgettable scenic drives. Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip or a weekend getaway, these routes offer the best of natural beauty, historic charm, and adventure. Buckle up and get ready to cruise through some of the most iconic and picturesque roads in the country.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California State Route 1)

Location: California

Best For: Ocean views, coastal towns, and sunsets

Stretching along California’s rugged coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and charming beach towns like Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. Make time for a stop at McWay Falls and the Bixby Creek Bridge.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

Location: Virginia to North Carolina

Best For: Fall foliage, mountain views, and serenity

Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this 469-mile route connects Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains. The rolling Appalachian landscape, especially during peak fall color season, is unforgettable. Enjoy scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and wildlife sightings along the way.

3. Going-to-the-Sun Road

Location: Glacier National Park, Montana

Best For: Alpine views, glaciers, and wildlife

This high-altitude route slices through Glacier National Park and offers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and lush valleys. Open only in summer due to snow, it’s a must-drive for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

4. Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1)

Location: Florida Keys

Best For: Island vibes, turquoise waters, and tropical breezes

Drive over 40+ bridges connecting the Florida Keys, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge. You’ll feel like you’re floating over the ocean as you cruise toward Key West. This tropical drive is perfect for sunshine, seafood, and laid-back exploration.

5. Beartooth Highway

Location: Montana to Wyoming

Best For: Remote beauty, switchbacks, and alpine scenery

This lesser-known gem climbs to nearly 11,000 feet and offers panoramic views of snowfields, wildflower meadows, and jagged peaks. It’s often called one of the most beautiful mountain drives in America, and it leads right into Yellowstone National Park.

6. Route 66 (The Mother Road)

Location: Illinois to California

Best For: Nostalgia, quirky stops, and Americana

Though no longer a continuous highway, historic Route 66 is a cultural icon. From old-school diners and neon signs to ghost towns and kitschy attractions, this drive is a blast from the past. A must for classic car lovers and road trip junkies.

7. Highway 12 (Scenic Byway 12)

Location: Utah

Best For: Red rock canyons, national parks, and adventure

This drive connects Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks and is loaded with epic desert views, hoodoos, and colorful rock formations. It's remote, otherworldly, and incredibly photogenic.

8. Cascade Loop

Location: Washington State

Best For: Lakes, mountains, and small-town charm

This 440-mile loop showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest, including the North Cascades, Leavenworth (a Bavarian-style village), and the Methow Valley. With scenic byways, forest roads, and views of towering peaks, it’s a diverse and rewarding drive.

9. Great River Road

Location: Minnesota to Louisiana

Best For: Mississippi River culture, river towns, and history

Following the mighty Mississippi River for over 3,000 miles, this road winds through 10 states. Experience changing landscapes, Civil War sites, and authentic Southern hospitality as you trace America’s heartland.

10. The Loneliest Road in America (U.S. Route 50)

Location: Nevada

Best For: Wide open skies, solitude, and desert scenery

If you’re seeking solitude and stark beauty, this stretch of Route 50 through Nevada lives up to its name. Pass through ghost towns, mountain ranges, and vast valleys. It’s an unforgettable experience for those who love the road less traveled.

Final Thoughts

The best scenic drives in the USA aren’t just about getting from Point A to Point B—they’re about the journey. Whether you're drawn to ocean breezes, high mountain passes, or open desert roads, there's a route here that belongs on your bucket list. So pack your bags, cue up your favorite playlist, and hit the road—America is calling.