As summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to make the most of the open road. These best summer road trips USA take you through iconic landscapes, hidden gems, and unforgettable towns — all before the leaves begin to turn. Whether you’ve got a weekend or a full week, these routes promise adventure, scenery, and serious summer vibes.
1. Pacific Coast Highway – California
Drive along Highway 1 from San Francisco to San Diego and enjoy dramatic coastal cliffs, seaside towns, and sunny beaches. Stop in Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and Laguna Beach for scenic rest points and fresh seafood.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia & North Carolina
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this route connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy mountain views, waterfalls, and peaceful overlooks with fewer crowds in late summer.
3. Great River Road – Mississippi River Route
Follow the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. This historic byway winds through 10 states, river towns, wildlife refuges, and Civil War sites. Ideal for history buffs and slow-paced travelers.
4. Beartooth Highway – Montana & Wyoming
Often called the most scenic drive in the continental U.S., the Beartooth Highway leads to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone. Expect alpine lakes, switchbacks, and sweeping views at 10,000+ feet elevation.
5. Olympic Peninsula Loop – Washington
Circle the lush Olympic Peninsula and experience coastlines, rainforests, and mountains. Highlights include Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, and Rialto Beach. It’s a wild and diverse adventure that still feels uncrowded in late summer.
6. Route 100 – Vermont
This underrated gem in New England passes charming villages, covered bridges, and green mountain views. Stop for maple creemees, swim in lakes, and enjoy roadside farm stands before fall colors begin to dominate.
7. Utah National Parks Loop
Visit the Mighty 5 — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands — in one legendary loop. Expect red rock landscapes, scenic drives, and epic hikes. August and early September are hot, but crowd levels start to drop.
8. Lake Superior Circle Tour – Great Lakes
Take a loop around the largest freshwater lake in the world, passing through Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario. It’s peaceful, wild, and full of northern summer magic — including waterfalls, cliffs, and coastal lighthouses.
Tips for a Late-Summer Road Trip
Check road conditions: Some mountain routes may close early due to weather
Pack layers: Evenings can be cool in high elevations or northern states
Travel midweek: Avoid weekend congestion and hotel surcharges
Bring snacks and maps: Rural stretches can be sparse on services
Watch for wildlife: Animals are active at dawn and dusk near forested areas
Essential Gear Checklist
Cooler with water and drinks
Road atlas or downloaded offline maps
Power bank for devices
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Camera or smartphone for photos
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a summer road trip — windows down, music up, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. These best summer road trips USA offer the perfect opportunity to squeeze the last bit of sunshine and adventure out of the season.
So grab your keys, set your GPS, and let the road lead you into one last summer memory before autumn arrives.
