13 US road trips to make your spring getaway incredible

Photo of author

| Published:

Spring is the perfect excuse to hit the road, roll the windows down, and pretend you’re in a music video. These 13 road trips have everything—coastal drives, mountain routes, and highways that test your GPS and patience. Some are quick, others are long, but all come with good food and weird roadside attractions. Just don’t forget the snacks—nothing makes gas station chips taste better than a scenic view.

Buffalo border crossing.
What You Need to Know When Crossing the Border into Canada. Photo credit: Jenn Allen.

Las Vegas to Grand Canyon: A Spectacular Road Trip

road trip from las vegas to grand canyon.
Las Vegas to Grand Canyon: A Spectacular Road Trip. Photo credit: Pexels.

The drive from the bustling city of Las Vegas to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon offers more than just a long stretch of road. It’s a chance to see the dramatic change in landscape, from neon lights to natural wonders. Along the way, pit stops in small towns provide a glimpse into local life. The vastness of the Grand Canyon at the end of the road puts the whole trip into perspective.
Read more: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon: A Spectacular Road Trip

What You Need to Know When Crossing the Border into the USA

A woman showing her passport for border check-in checkpoint.
What You Need to Know When Crossing the Border into the USA. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Crossing into the USA requires preparation, such as ensuring passport validity and understanding visa needs. At the border, answering officers’ questions clearly and politely is important. Travelers should be aware of what items are permitted and which are restricted. It’s also helpful to have plans and accommodations booked in advance to smooth the process.
Read more: What You Need to Know When Crossing the Border into the USA

How To Plan a Road Trip That’s Both Fun and Affordable

driving on a planned road trip.
How To Plan a Road Trip That’s Both Fun and Affordable. Photo credit: Pexels.

Planning a road trip that’s fun and doesn’t break the bank starts with mapping out the route carefully to avoid unnecessary detours. Packing snacks and meals can save money and allow for more flexibility with travel times. Choosing accommodations like campsites or budget hotels helps keep costs low. Looking for free or low-cost attractions along the way can make the trip memorable without a hefty price tag.
Read more: How To Plan a Road Trip That’s Both Fun and Affordable

6 Amazing Off-the-Radar National Parks Near Vegas

Redstone Dunes Trail.
6 Amazing Off-the-Radar National Parks Near Vegas. Photo credit: National Park Service.

Close to Vegas, there are national parks that are less crowded but just as stunning as their more famous counterparts. These parks offer trails, wildlife, and landscapes that are worth the detour. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just enjoying nature, these places have something for everyone. Visiting these parks can be a refreshing break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Read more: 6 Amazing Off-the-Radar National Parks Near Vegas

7 Scenic Stops on a California Road Trip From San Francisco

A rocky beach with yellow flowers.
7 Scenic Stops on a California Road Trip From San Francisco. Photo credit: Yayimages.

Starting in San Francisco, a road trip down the California coast is dotted with scenic stops. Each stop offers its unique blend of nature, history, and culture. From towering forests to peaceful beaches, the variety is astounding. Making time for these stops turns a simple drive into a rich experience.
Read more: 7 Scenic Stops on a California Road Trip From San Francisco

Alaska Unleashed: Discovering the Great Frontier’s Larger-Than-Life Wonders

Brown bear fishing in Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park.
Alaska Unleashed: Discovering the Great Frontier’s Larger-Than-Life Wonders. Photo credit: Yay Images.

Alaska’s sheer size and natural beauty offer an experience unlike any other. Its landscapes range from icy glaciers to lush forests, providing a playground for nature lovers. Wildlife viewing here is unparalleled, with opportunities to see bears, moose, and eagles in their natural habitat. Road tripping in Alaska means encountering the unexpected, from northern lights to quiet, small towns.
Read more: Alaska Unleashed: Discovering the Great Frontier’s Larger-Than-Life Wonders

Uncorking the Best of Michigan Wineries: A Wine Lover’s Guide

Small glasses of cider and wine at a Michigan Winery.
Uncorking the Best of Michigan Wineries: A Wine Lover’s Guide. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Rolling hills and fresh air make wine country a great stop. Michigan wineries offer bold reds, crisp whites, and unique fruit blends. Many have tasting rooms with views of the water or vineyards stretching for miles. Spring brings new releases, making it a good time to visit.
Read more: Uncorking the Best of Michigan Wineries: A Wine Lover’s Guide

Arch to Skyline: An Epic Road Trip from St. Louis to Chicago

Traffic flowing to and from downtown Chicago at dusk.
Arch to Skyline: An Epic Road Trip from St. Louis to Chicago. Photo credit: YayImages.

History, food, and big city sights make this drive worth it. The trip from St. Louis to Chicago passes small towns, roadside diners, and famous landmarks. Route 66 stops and deep-dish pizza are part of the fun. A mix of urban energy and Midwest charm keeps it interesting.
Read more: Arch to Skyline: An Epic Road Trip from St. Louis to Chicago

Travel Around California: 7 Epic Places to Visit

A view of the ocean from the top of a cliff.
Travel Around California: 7 Epic Places to Visit. Photo credit: Zuzana Paar.

Big cities, quiet coastlines, and wide open deserts all fit into one trip. California has national parks, scenic highways, and small towns full of history. From ocean views to mountain trails, every stop feels different. Mild weather and blooming flowers make spring a good season to go.
Read more: Travel Around California: 7 Epic Places to Visit

What Is Boondocking and How to Camp for Free

Fifth wheel and truck in the alabama mountains boondocking.
What Is Boondocking and How to Camp for Free. Photo credit: YayImages.

Public lands, rest stops, and quiet backroads are key for free camping. Boondocking means skipping the hookups and finding a spot off the grid. It’s all about self-sufficiency, with solar panels, water storage, and good planning. Many travelers use it to see more without spending too much.
Read more: What Is Boondocking and How to Camp for Free

Rediscovering the Mother Road: Route 66 Road Trip

The interior of a car with a map on the dashboard, ready for an adventurous Route 66 road trip.
Rediscovering the Mother Road: Route 66 Road Trip. Photo credit: Yayimages.

Classic diners, roadside attractions, and neon signs give this drive a nostalgic feel. Route 66 stretches through small towns, deserts, and rolling plains. Old motels and vintage gas stations take travelers back in time. Spring weather makes it easier to enjoy long stretches of open road.
Read more: Rediscovering the Mother Road: Route 66 Road Trip

An Epic California National Parks Road Trip Guide

Redwood forest, california, california, california, californi.
An Epic California National Parks Road Trip Guide. Photo credit: YayImages..

Mountains, forests, and waterfalls make California’s national parks a top pick. Driving between them means seeing everything from deep valleys to giant sequoias. Each park has hiking, wildlife, and views that change with the season. Spring means fewer crowds and better chances to spot wildflowers.
Read more: An Epic California National Parks Road Trip Guide

What You Need to Know When Crossing the Border into Canada

Buffalo border crossing.
What You Need to Know When Crossing the Border into Canada. Photo credit: Jenn Allen.

Rules, paperwork, and wait times are important for a smooth trip. Crossing into Canada by car means having the right ID and knowing what items are allowed. Different crossings have different hours, so checking ahead helps. Friendly border agents and clear signs make the process easier.
Read more: What You Need to Know When Crossing the Border into Canada

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.