The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip Around the US

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, especially when that road takes you across the cinematic landscapes of the United States. From sun-drenched deserts to pine-covered mountain passes, a US road trip offers travellers a taste of authentic Americana and an unforgettable journey through culture, cuisine, and scenery. 

Whether you're in a classic convertible or a trusty campervan, the journey is the destination. With so much to see and do, it can be tricky to decide what’s worth stopping for and what to leave for next time. 

This guide highlights some of the most memorable experiences to have on the road, giving you a flavour of what makes American fly drive holidays so irresistible. Buckle up, map out your route, and get ready to uncover the very best of the USA!

Visit National Parks

No American road trip is complete without marvelling at the sheer scale and beauty of its national parks. Whether you’re winding through the rocky terrain of Yosemite, gazing out across the Grand Canyon, or catching the sunrise in Bryce Canyon, these natural wonders are road trip royalty. 

They’re often located far from big cities, so having your own transport is ideal. Make sure you plan ahead, as many parks now require advance reservations for parking or timed entry. 

If you're heading east, the Great Smoky Mountains are incredible, offering scenic drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway. Out west, don’t miss Arches National Park or Yellowstone for geysers, wildlife and epic views. Bring a pair of hiking boots, a decent camera and plenty of snacks. The sheer scale of the landscapes you’ll encounter is hard to overstate. Trust us, you’ll want to pull over and stare more than once.

Eat Your Way Across Regional America

One of the best parts of a US road trip? The food. American cuisine is as varied as the landscapes, and each state brings something unique to the table. If you’re passing through Georgia, for instance, you absolutely must try the best steak in Savannah. This charming Southern city is a haven for food lovers, where you can tuck into thick-cut ribeye, buttery mashed potatoes and expertly mixed bourbon cocktails. 

Elsewhere, New Mexico’s hatch chile will add heat to your trip, while Louisiana’s Creole cuisine offers rich, spicy comfort food you’ll dream about long after you leave. Up north, cities like Chicago and New York bring the goods with pizza, deli sandwiches, and street eats on every corner. Make it a mission to stop at small-town diners, roadside BBQ shacks and farmers' markets.

Experience Classic Roadside Americana

There’s something nostalgic and oddly magical about roadside attractions. Part of the charm of a US road trip lies in its quirky stops - the giant balls of twine, alien-themed diners, and Elvis impersonator museums. Route 66 is the quintessential example, lined with neon signs, vintage motels, and throwback gas stations. 

These oddball attractions break up long drives and make for brilliant photo ops. If you're on the West Coast, don’t miss the Cabazon Dinosaurs in California or Salvation Mountain near the Salton Sea. In Texas, Cadillac Ranch is a colourful pitstop where visitors can spray paint old cars buried nose-first into the desert ground. 

Roadside Americana is a celebration of eccentricity, a nod to a bygone era when cross-country travel was an event in itself. Slow down, pull over, and embrace the road trip charm.

Explore Cities Without Losing the Road Trip Vibe

While road trips are usually about the journey between places, America’s cities are destinations in their own right. The trick is to strike a balance - spend just enough time to explore without losing that on-the-move feeling. 

San Francisco’s hilly streets and iconic bridge views make it worth a detour, especially if you drive the Pacific Coast Highway. Nashville offers country tunes, hot chicken, and a surprisingly walkable downtown. Then there’s New Orleans, with its jazz-filled streets, French Quarter architecture, and vibrant nightlife. 

Many cities cater well to drivers, with park-and-ride options or RV-friendly sites nearby. You can dive into city life by day, and hit the road again the next morning. When planning American fly drive holidays, consider booking hotels or motels on the outskirts, so you don’t get stuck in city traffic. With the right approach, you can enjoy both skyline and countryside without compromising the road trip magic.

Connect with Locals and Make Unexpected Stops

One of the most rewarding aspects of a US road trip is the people you meet along the way. From gas station attendants to café owners and park rangers, Americans are often curious and welcoming to travellers. 

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation - locals can point you towards hidden gems and tell you stories that no guidebook can match. Leave space in your itinerary for spontaneity. 

That art fair in a small Midwestern town? Go for it. 

Heard about a beach that’s not on the map? Take the detour. 

Some of the best adventures happen when you throw the plan out the window. 

Many travellers find that it’s not the big sights that stay with them, but the unexpected encounters and small towns they stumbled upon. So stay flexible, listen to your instincts, and let the journey unfold naturally. After all, discovery is what road trips are all about.

Make the Miles Count

A road trip around the US is more than just a holiday - it’s a full-on adventure across a country bursting with personality, variety and surprises. From sampling the best steak in Savannah to revelling in the nostalgia of Route 66, there’s a little something for every kind of traveller. 

Don’t rush, don’t over-plan, and definitely don’t stick too rigidly to the highways. The magic is often found on the quieter backroads, in local diners, and in the moments where you least expect it. So grab your keys, hit play on your road trip playlist, and head out to explore a continent full of stories, one roadside attraction at a time.