America’s open roads beckon travelers with promises of adventure, discovery, and memories waiting to be made. The USA is home to some of the world’s most iconic and quirky roadside attractions, stretching across highways that have become as legendary as the destinations they lead to. Whether you’re chasing history on Route 66, marveling at the scenic beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway, or indulging your curiosity on the Extraterrestrial Highway, there’s a unique spot to match every traveler’s interests. This guide will take you through some of the best roadside tourist attractions across the country, providing a must-see list for your next American road trip adventure.
1. The Historic Route 66: A Journey Through Time
Route 66, often referred to as the “Main Street of America,” is arguably the most famous highway in the United States. This historic route stretches over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, offering a nostalgic drive through a slice of American history. Route 66 is dotted with quirky and memorable roadside attractions that are essential stops for any traveler.
Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas): An art installation consisting of half-buried Cadillacs covered in colorful graffiti, welcoming travelers to leave their mark.
- Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona): Stay the night in a motel shaped like a traditional Native American teepee—a true roadside oddity.
- The Blue Whale of Catoosa (Catoosa, Oklahoma): A giant, smiling blue whale sculpture that sits in a pond, offering a whimsical rest stop.
Traveling Route 66 is not just a drive—it’s an experience, an opportunity to connect with the past while enjoying the unique, retro roadside attractions that have charmed travelers for decades.
2. Pacific Coast Highway: A Scenic Drive Like No Other
For those in search of breathtaking natural beauty, the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable journey. Stretching from Southern California to Northern California, this iconic coastal drive offers some of the most scenic views in the world. The highway’s twists and turns hug the dramatic coastline, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged cliffs.
Highlights:
- Big Sur (California): Known for its towering cliffs and redwood forests, Big Sur is one of the most photographed sections of the highway.
- Hearst Castle (San Simeon, California): Once home to publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, this opulent mansion-turned-museum showcases spectacular architecture and stunning gardens.
- Bixby Creek Bridge (Big Sur, California): One of the most photographed bridges in the U.S., its graceful arches are set against the rugged coastal landscape.
Whether you’re snapping photos at every turn or enjoying the peaceful sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the Pacific Coast Highway offers a quintessential American road trip experience.
3. Extraterrestrial Highway: A Road Trip into the Unknown
If you’ve ever wondered about the mysteries of the universe, then Nevada’s Extraterrestrial Highway is the road trip for you. Officially known as State Route 375, this stretch of highway runs through the remote desert near Area 51, a location famous for its UFO sightings and conspiracy theories.
Highlights:
- Little A’Le’Inn (Rachel, Nevada): This kitschy roadside cafe offers alien-themed memorabilia and a chance to chat with locals about UFO sightings.
- Black Mailbox (near Area 51): A popular spot for UFO enthusiasts, this seemingly unremarkable mailbox has gained a cult following as a place to watch for unexplained aerial phenomena.
The Extraterrestrial Highway isn’t just about UFOs; it’s also a peaceful drive through Nevada’s stark, beautiful desert, offering a sense of isolation and wonder.
4. Florida’s Overseas Highway: A Tropical Paradise on the Road
Driving Florida’s Overseas Highway is like traveling through paradise. This 113-mile stretch of road connects the Florida Keys with the mainland and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico on both sides. The highway’s many bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, make it a scenic drive that feels like a journey to the ends of the Earth.
Highlights:
- Seven Mile Bridge: One of the longest bridges in the world, offering incredible views of turquoise waters.
- Key West: The southernmost city in the U.S. and home to attractions such as Ernest Hemingway’s house and lively Duval Street.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore underwater adventures, the Overseas Highway delivers a tropical road trip unlike any other.
5. The Great River Road: A Scenic Drive Along the Mighty Mississippi
The Great River Road is a historic and scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River for over 2,000 miles, passing through ten states from Minnesota to Louisiana. This drive offers travelers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of America’s heartland.
Highlights:
- Mark Twain’s Boyhood Home and Museum (Hannibal, Missouri): Explore the life of one of America’s greatest authors and see the setting for classic novels such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.
- Delta Blues Museum (Clarksdale, Mississippi): Dive into the history of the Delta blues and its influence on American music.
Following the Mississippi River offers travelers a mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and small-town charm.
6. U.S. Route 50: The Loneliest Road in America
For those seeking solitude and stunning landscapes, Nevada’s portion of U.S. Route 50, often dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America,” is the perfect destination. Stretching across vast deserts and mountain ranges, this road offers stark beauty and an escape from the bustle of modern life.
Highlights:
- Great Basin National Park (Nevada): A hidden gem with stunning night skies, ancient bristlecone pines, and the Lehman Caves.
- Ely, Nevada: A historic mining town offering a glimpse into Nevada’s past.
While Route 50 may be lonely, it provides travelers with the opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the serenity of the open road.
7. Blue Ridge Parkway: A Drive Through the Appalachian Mountains
Winding through the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile stretch of road that offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in the eastern United States. This scenic byway is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color, offering a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Highlights:
- Linn Cove Viaduct (North Carolina): A stunning engineering marvel that curves around the edge of Grandfather Mountain, offering breathtaking views.
- Natural Bridge (Virginia): A geological wonder that has captivated visitors for centuries.
Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or hiker, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-see for its scenic views and outdoor opportunities.
8. Seward Highway: Alaska’s Rugged Beauty
For those looking to experience the wild beauty of Alaska, the Seward Highway offers a 125-mile drive from Anchorage to Seward, filled with breathtaking landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and fjords.
Highlights:
- Turnagain Arm: A narrow waterway that offers incredible views of beluga whales and bore tides.
- Kenai Fjords National Park: A stunning national park known for its glaciers and wildlife, accessible by boat tours from Seward.
The Seward Highway is a road trip unlike any other, offering a sense of adventure in the rugged wilderness of Alaska.
