4 Iconic US Summer Road Trips

Jul 13, 2021
Destination Inspiration
Couple driving in a convertible on an iconic US summer road trip.

Are you craving a new state-side adventure? One of the best ways to see this beautiful country is on a road trip! Rather than simply fly across the remarkable sights, immerse yourself in the history, geography and culture of America’s greatest hits. Here, we’ve highlighted some bucket-list-worthy excitement. Get inspired with these 4 iconic US summer road trips. It’s time to grab some snacks and hit the road!

An iconic summer road trip in the US is to the Grand Teton National Park.

Denver, Colorado to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Driving from Denver, Colorado to Yellowstone National Park is an outdoor adventurer’s dream. With three major national parks along the way, this road trip is chock-full of exciting activities and jaw-dropping mountain views. The trip covers Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.

Begin in Denver, Colorado, and soak in the eclectic activities of this vibrant city. Next, head to Rocky Mountain National Park, and embark on a few stunning hikes. On the way to Yellowstone, make a small detour, and hit Grand Teton National Park. End your trip with Yellowstone, and see the unique vistas that make America’s first National Park so famous.

The Red Rock Scenic Byway in Arizona is an iconic US summer road trip.

Red Rock Country, Arizona

Step into the wild west as you explore towering red rocks and cliffs. Start your journey on the Red Rock Scenic Byway, the gateway to the fascinating geography of the area. The Red Rock Scenic Byway is roughly 14 miles long, and chock-full of adventure and stunning views with each mile.

On the Byway, drive through vistas and valleys of unique structures, and even get out and hike. Some highlights include driving through Sedona, Arizona’s famous “museum without walls”. Additionally, you’ll enjoy the Coconino National Forest, one of the most diverse National Forests in the country, offering remarkable views from every angle. Many stops and scenic overlooks along the byway will also pique your interest and are worth the stop.

South East Coastal Road Trip, Florida to North Carolina

The South East Coastal Road Trip offers relaxation, beach days and history. Start your tour in Jacksonville, Florida, a buzzing city with beaches, great food, and many unique adventures. The next stop is Savannah, Georgia, a city steeped in culture and history. If you stay overnight, be sure to embark on a walking ghost tour!

The next stop is the heart of southern charm, Charleston, South Carolina. Bask in the hospitality and relaxing atmosphere before heading to North Carolina. The final destination is the Outer Banks of North Carolina, which boasts historical landmarks, stunning views, relaxing beaches and more.

The Skyline Drive of Virginia at Shenandoah National Park makes for an iconic US summer road trip.

Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

The Skyline Drive of Virginia acts as the only entrance to the Shenandoah National Park. The drive is 105 miles long, and we suggest embarking for two to three days. The road begins in Front Royal, Virginia, where you can explore the Skyline caverns or grab a bite to eat. On the drive, don’t miss the Signal Knob Overlook, a stunning pull-off that offers great views of the Shenandoah Valley. Next, stop at the Hogback Overlook for another stunning panorama. Take a break and hike the Overall Run Trail to one of Shenandoah’s famous waterfalls. Finally, make sure to check out the Elkwallow picnic area for a relaxing place to soak in the final views of Shenandoah National Park.

A view finder overlooking the ocean at sunset.

Road Trips and More…

Summer is certainly the season for a road trip. From Wild West adventures to East Coast views, America is brimming over with geography to get out there and explore. These 4 iconic US summer road trips are just a few of our favorite state-side vacation suggestions. For even more insights, travel tips and amazing destinations, check out our Blog page.

If road tripping is something that excites you, but planning isn’t, consider booking a trip with Traveling Soul Tours. We are experts in booking unforgettable vacations and customizing our Private Tours for you and your group. For more information on how we craft your perfect getaway, visit our How It Works page. To get started right away, take our Travel Quiz!

You May Also Like…