Get out and drive on the wide open roads that the world has to offer. Road trips allow you to experience new and exciting destinations, going from one point to the next. Take your time while behind the wheel and stop by some lesser-known spots in addition to those major tourist destinations to make the most out of your travels. Want to plan a road trip, but aren't sure where to go? These amazing routes are sure to provide you with inspiration for your next road trip.
1. The Milford Road, New Zealand
The journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most amazing scenic experiences that you will ever have by vehicle. This road not only takes you to Milford Sound, but it passes through the heart of the Fiordland National Park in addition to the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area. You will also cross through some of the Southern Alps of New Zealand. Along this route, there are many places to stop for photo opportunities. Some highlights include Eglinton Valley, which was once filled with glacier ice, the Mirror Lakes, the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain, and a beautiful waterfall known as The Chasm.
2. The East Coast of Australia
Australia's east coast offers a wide range of places to see and things to do along the way. The coast is made up of beautiful beaches, national parks, cities, and much more. Make your way from Melbourne to Sydney and finally to Queensland, stopping at a variety of destinations along the way. Explore Australia's farming areas or relax at tropical, secluded coastal spots. While traveling along the open road, you'll notice sculptures such as the famous Big Banana in Coffs Harbour.
3. The Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is the perfect road trip route that takes travelers from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. This 469-mile drive provides travelers with gorgeous views of some of the last remaining wilderness areas in Southern Appalachia. The speed limit along the entire parkway is just 45 mph, giving you time to take in the breathtaking views that surround you. There are regular turnoffs for overlooks, trails, folk art centers, and nature centers along The Blue Ridge Parkway.
4. U.S. 1 in The Florida Keys
Looking to enjoy a shorter, yet amazing road trip? A drive along U.S. 1 in the Florida Keys is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. This 120-mile-long island chain features beautiful beaches, water sports opportunities, beach bars, underwater coral-reef parks, lighthouses, and more. While traveling from Key Largo to Key West, you'll make your way across the 7-mile bridge, one of the longest bridges in the entire world. Don't forget to stop at the historic Theater of the Sea to swim with the dolphins.
5. Hana Highway, Maui
The road to Hana can take more than 4 hours to travel when you stop to take in all of the views. You will travel 51 miles from Kahului to Hana as you make your way through steep sea cliffs that are filled with lush mango trees. Stop by the roadside stalls and taste the delicious local banana bread, relax on the popular red sand beach, and spot endangered monk seals as they bask in the warm sunlight.
6. Alaska's Seward Highway
Alaska's Seward Highway is one of the world's greatest road trip routes. There are no billboards, few towns, and few gas stations to be found along this route, but it can also provide you with once-in-a-lifetime views. Start in Anchorage and head south for 127 miles, ending in Seward on Resurrection Bay. Spot glaciers, waterfalls, whales, ocean fjords, mountains, and more during this road trip experience.
