There is no doubt that Aussies love a road trip. The outback highways and scenic coastal roads of Australia are made for driving holidays. Another country that is ideal for a road trip is the United States, a destination that has its own share of unique natural landmarks, quirky small towns and isolated desert highways.
Of course, we have all heard of the classic Route 66 and California's Highway One, but there are many small towns and vast national parks not often explored by other international tourists. If you are looking to travel through the heartland, follow the trail of famous rivers and see the remote beauty of the Great Plains, here are some ideas from VroomVroomVroom so that you can start planning your trip to America. For more information you can see our US article recommending local road trips.
Follow the jagged course of the Mississippi as it winds its way through America's heartland. If you're looking to discover the United States beyond the postcard-worthy skylines of New York City and San Francisco, this is the highway for you.
The road winds its way through industrial vistas, urban sprawls and forgotten small towns. Discover offbeat attractions away from the main highways. Of course, it is a long journey of more than 30 hours, so you will want to take your time and split up the drive. Here are some attractions you may see along the way:
Discover the mysterious and unexplained events that draw hoards of travellers to Nevada's isolated desert. Follow the Extraterrestrial Highway into the unknown, a route that has become increasingly popular with tourists who leave tributes on the road signs. The area is also home to the secretive Area 51, a must-see destination for conspiracy theorists.
Originally Nevada State Route 375, the road became popularly known as the 'Extraterrestrial Highway' after a number of reported UFO sightings in the area. For an out-of-this-world adventure, head deep into Nevada's isolated desert and try to discover the secrets of the mysterious region.
To escape the bustling cities and get lost in the wilderness, you cannot go past Oregon's Columbia River Highway. The area is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the northwest, with the mighty Columbia River cutting through the mountains and cliffs, leading to a number of waterfalls.
The scenic highway is just over 100 kilometres in length, with many easily accessible stops along the way. Enjoy the view from incredible lookouts and learn about the native wildlife and unique fauna. A great time to visit the area is through autumn when the colours are at their best.
Connecting the thick forests of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains National Park with the colourful landscapes of Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway has become a popular drive among Americans.
Explore more than 400 kilometres of unforgettable highway, winding its way high through the mountains. The area is home to a number of historic sites, and you can learn more about them through the region's visitor centres and interactive experiences.
