21 wonderful spring road trips around the United States

This 400-mile stretch through New England will take you through the country’s history. The numerous historic towns, such as Salem, Bar Harbor, and Camden, are set against coastal views, lighthouse walks, and forest hikes.

Washington state’s tulip festival is one of the best in the country and you can make a whole road trip through it. Explore the Skagit Valley, one of the state’s lesser-known areas, check out the flowers, hike along Puget Sound, and enjoy the warming temps of spring!

Two of the country’s most breathtaking parks make for a stunning spring road trip. Freshly melted snow fills the rivers and waterfalls with roaring water. Wildlife is starting to come out of winter hibernation, and you (hopefully) won’t need to double-layer socks!

This state route takes you from the state border with Louisiana to Eureka Springs, one of the best destinations in the state. Relax in the hot springs and admire spring blooms!

California is a quintessential road trip destination for both American and international vacationers. The drive between the state's two largest cities is certainly one for the books. Springtime brings fresh flowers, flowing waterfalls, and friendlier weather for the beach.

Spring is the perfect season in Florida as it’s not hurricane season, and the summer’s extreme humidity hasn’t yet taken over. Start in Miami before taking the breathtaking bridges to the Keys, admiring the various hues of the ocean along the way.

The Oregon Coast is a favorite beach destination for those all around the Pacific Northwest. Travelers from further afield will also appreciate the drive along the 101 sand top at Cannon Beach to check out the iconic Haystack Rock. Then, hike up Neahkahnie Mountain for views of Manzanita before continuing to the sand dunes further south.

Phoenix is great in spring as it’s not as full of snowbirds, but the summer heat hasn’t rolled in either. Get your fix of sun before hopping on the 17 north to Sedona, Flagstaff, and the Grand Canyon.

Storied Savannah is on many travelers' radars, and the city makes an ideal spring getaway with friendlier temps than the summer months. Once you’ve explored the historic center, jump in the car and head north on the 95 with stops in Charleston and Myrtle Beach before ending in charming Wilmington.

Hill Country isn’t just an up-and-coming wine destination; you can also see the pretty bluebonnet blooms. This stretch from Austin west through Texas is ideal for those looking for wide open roads.

Route 285 is an elevated highway through the amazing scenery of New Mexico through mountains and valleys. Stop at the UNESCO Taos Pueblo and hike the Taos Mountains before looping back via the Rio Grande.  

This one-day (full-day, as it takes seven hours) loop through Durango, Cortez, and Mesa Verde National Parks is worthy of your bucket list. If you want to extend your stay, you can break up the journey with hikes.

Better known as the Great River Road this route follows the Mississippi River through the mossy swamps and nature of the state. Admire the fresh buds and majestic trees and learn about the dark history of the Civil War period at the Whitney Plantation Museum.

The Badlands are one of the top natural phenomena in the US, and luckily, there’s a fantastic scenic loop that makes for a full road trip. Start in either Cactus Flat or Wall and make stops along the one-hour drive to hike or admire the vistas.

The Appalachian Mountains are a favorite road trip destination due to the numerous hikes and viewpoints you can pack in. The drive through North Carolina and Virginia is 469 miles and can be broken up into smaller legs.

Also known as the M-119 state route, this drive from Harbor Springs to Cross Village follows Lake Michigan. You’ll feel as though you’re on one of the coasts with water views that stretch as far as the eye can see. 

This short but lovely drive through the smallest state is ideal in the spring sun. Take the 10-mile stretch slowly as you coast by the ocean and massive mansions.

The North Cascades Highway closes annually in early to mid-November and then re-opens in the spring, usually in May. Start along Puget Sound and drive east, hike (or camp) Diablo Lake, admire Washington Pass, and continue through western-themed Twisp and Winthrop. 

The Blue Ridge Mountains aren’t just something made up in a John Denver song; they’re towering peaks that stretch through Virginia. The Skyline Drive is a 105-mile stretch that also takes you through the Shenandoah National Forest, perfect for hiking along the way.

Acadia National Park is a favorite amongst travelers near and far. The 27-mile loop will take travelers through various vistas, including forests, mountains, and the ocean!

Ending the round-up with one of the most iconic road trips out there, Route 66. Drive through some of the most amazing landscapes in the country or break it up into shorter routes.