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America’s highways are nigh mystical and have ofttimes been glorified in literature and film. The “open road” has become a symbol of an individual’s freedom. This might be one reason why US road trips are so popular with both residents and visitors alike. So without further ado, here are the routes to the 10 best US road trips.
1. California State Route 1
This route takes you from Dana Point (near San Diego) to Leggett. The ease of this drive makes it a good intro to US road trips. You also get to see the beautiful Pacific Ocean. If you take the trip during the summer months, you will probably enjoy the sunlight the entire day. On the other hand, if you take this trip in the winter months then it’s best to take the trip from north to south where it will be warmer.Total Distance: 613 milesEstimated Time: 9 hours
2. Route 66
Route 66 was made famous by the classic song made popular by performer Nat King Cole. In 1926, Route 66 was over 1553 miles long. Today it is but a group of historic byways and has lost its official status and has been reduced a bit. Route 66 meets the famous Santa Fe railroad at La Posada and to this day still remains on many people’s “must do” road trip lists.Distance: 350 miles (Petrified Forest to Kingman)Estimated Time: 4 hours
3. Highway 61
This route was made an icon thanks to the nearly eponymous platter by singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. joins Wyoming in Minnesota with New Orleans, Louisiana. It is one of the best road trips in the south. In tribute to all the music of New Orleans, this route is also known as the Blues Highway. The locals say that the famous blues artist Robert Johnson made a deal with the devil and sold his soul at the crossroads of the 49 and the 61. Veteran visitors claim it is also one of the most scenic US road trips as well.Distance: 1600 milesEstimated Time: 23 hours
4. US Route 20
This is possibly the best US road trip if you’re into “living on the road.” This trip runs from Boston, Massachusetts to Newport, Oregon. (Route 20 itself is the longest route in America stretching for 3365 miles. The route is interrupted by the popular Yellowstone National Park, but this trip features a smooth drive and easy roads. Plus, if you have the extra time you can also plan to spend some time at one of the nation’s most famous parks.Distance: 3150 miles (Newport to Boston)Estimated Time: 47 hours
5. US Route 30
This famous highway goes from Astoria, Oregon to Atlantic City, New Jersey. Those in the know suggest starting your trip in Portland, Oregon. Also known as “the national main street,” potential stops include the National Automobile Museum in famous Reno, Nevada, President Abraham Lincoln’s historic log cabin in Illinois and the tasty Big Mac Museum in Pennsylvania. In winter this highway can become rough so if you insist on driving then consider I-10 as an alternative.Distance: 2925 miles (Portland, Oregon to Atlantic City, New Jersey)Estimated Time: 47 hours
