What is the best route to take across the United States?

Choosing the Best Cross-Country Route Across the United States

For those embarking on an epic cross-country drive across the United States, selecting the most suitable route is crucial. Whether prioritizing efficiency, scenic beauty, or historical significance, various options cater to diverse preferences.

Interstate Highways: The Efficient Option

For a straightforward and time-saving drive, the vast network of Interstate highways provides the most direct paths. These well-maintained roads prioritize speed and convenience, offering numerous services and amenities along the way.

• I-90/94: Connecting Boston to Seattle, this route traverses the northern United States, offering a convenient and scenic passage through cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Billings.
• I-80: This highway stretches from San Francisco to Teaneck, New Jersey, passing through the scenic Sierra Nevada, the Great Plains, and the industrial Midwest.
• I-70: Known as the “Main Street of the Rockies,” I-70 connects Baltimore to Cove Fort, Utah, providing access to stunning mountain vistas and iconic national parks.
• I-40: This route runs from Barstow, California, to Wilmington, North Carolina, traversing the vastness of the Southwest and the historic cities of Nashville and Memphis.
• I-20: Connecting El Paso, Texas, to Florence, South Carolina, I-20 provides a scenic drive through the Sun Belt region, including the vibrant cities of Dallas, Atlanta, and Birmingham.

Scenic Byways: The Route for Beauty

Those seeking a more leisurely and immersive experience can opt for scenic byways that wind through breathtaking landscapes and charming towns.

• Route 66: Dubbed the “Mother Road,” Route 66 stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, offering a nostalgic journey through small-town America and iconic landmarks.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: This scenic drive meanders along the Appalachian Mountains, showcasing stunning mountain views, waterfalls, and vibrant forests.
• Pacific Coast Highway: As its name suggests, this route hugs the California coast, providing unparalleled vistas of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.
• Great River Road: This byway follows the course of the Mississippi River, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of America’s heartland.

Historical Routes: The Path of History

For history enthusiasts, certain routes retrace significant events and connect historic landmarks.

• Lewis and Clark Trail: This route follows the path of the iconic expedition that explored the American West, offering a glimpse into the rugged wilderness and pivotal moments in U.S. history.
• Trail of Tears National Historic Trail: This somber trail commemorates the forced relocation of Native American tribes in the 1830s, providing an opportunity for reflection and understanding.
• Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area Trail: This route traces the life and legacy of the 16th U.S. president, highlighting key landmarks from his childhood to his assassination.

Choosing the Perfect Route

The best route for a cross-country drive depends on individual preferences and interests. For efficiency and convenience, the Interstate highways offer the most direct and well-maintained paths. For a scenic and immersive experience, scenic byways provide breathtaking vistas and ample opportunities to explore. And for those seeking historical connections, historic routes offer a profound insight into the nation’s past.

No matter which route is chosen, a cross-country drive across the United States promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse experiences, stunning landscapes, and enduring memories.