From Coast to Coast: How Road Trips Captured America's Heart Again
Hi, it’s Sarah again! I just got back from one of the most incredible experiences of my life—a five-day road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway—and I can’t wait to share my love for road trips with you. It seems I’m not alone because, in 2025, road trips are seeing a massive resurgence. They’re no longer just a nostalgic nod to childhood vacations; they’ve become a trend-forward way to explore at a slower pace, connect with nature, and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of this country.
At first, I wasn’t sure I could handle the unpredictability of a road trip. I mean, who wouldn’t be tempted to book a quick flight instead of mapping out hours of driving? But like so many, I’ve found that when other travel plans feel chaotic—think flight cancellations and tight schedules—the road offers something simple, freeing, and honestly, magical.
Whether it’s soaking up the nostalgia of iconic highways or shaping a fully personalized trip, hitting the road has become a top pick for travelers, including families, solo explorers, and couples like my husband and me. Trust me—it’s not just a trend; it’s an adventure waiting for you to turn the key and go.
Why Road Trips Are a Must in 2025
Did you know that hitting the road can be easier on your wallet than flying? As stated in a U.S. News article, driving is often the more cost-effective choice for families and groups—especially when you factor in gas, meals, and accommodations.
For example, a road trip from San Francisco to Miami costs around $1,325 total, while flying the same route with one checked bag and a rental car comes out to about $315 per person. Those savings, combined with the freedom and adventure you get along the way, make road trips more than just a smart choice—they’re an unforgettable experience.
Here’s why road trips should top your travel list this year:
1. Flexibility and Freedom
Here’s the thing about road trips—they put you in the driver’s seat, literally and figuratively. Unlike rigid flight schedules, a road trip gives you the freedom to tweak your plans on a whim. During our Pacific Coast Highway adventure, we decided to make an unplanned stop at a roadside fruit stand just outside Carmel.
Between the freshly picked cherries and the quirky shop owner who had endless stories about Highway 1, it became a highlight of our trip—one that could never have happened if we were confined to airport wait times.
And then there’s the joy of pulling over for scenic vistas whenever you please. If you’ve ever wanted to linger at a cliffside view without worrying about “missing your connection,” road trips are your answer.
2. Slow Travel for Deeper Connections
There’s a growing travel movement you might’ve heard of called “slow travel.” It’s all about deeply experiencing places instead of rushing to check landmarks off a to-do list. Road trips naturally fit into this idea. When I drove through Big Sur, I felt completely immersed in its rugged coastline. Wind in my hair, windows down, and no pressure to meet a tour schedule—it was pure magic.
Beyond the stunning coastal drives, so many people are weaving road trips through national parks like Yellowstone, Zion, or the Great Smoky Mountains. These places remind us that our world is breathtaking when we slow down to appreciate it. For me, driving through Zion and stopping to hike along its canyons made me feel like I was truly part of nature instead of peering at it through a window.
3. Budget-Friendly Bonding
Airfare prices in 2025 are no joke, especially if you’re traveling as a family. But with road trips? You can pile everyone into one car and go. Some of my favorite childhood memories are from road trips with my parents and siblings—constant snack breaks, silly car games, and turning up the music when our favorite songs came on.
I hear from so many friends now doing multigenerational road trips, and why not? It’s one of the few types of vacations where adventure, downtime, and unexpected laughs come for free. Plus, skipping pricey plane tickets means more budget for great meals or extra activities along the way (hello, wine tasting stops or kid-friendly amusement parks!).
4. A Whiff of Nostalgia
Vintage motels, neon diner signs, and the classic playlist of road trip tunes—there’s such a sense of nostalgia tied to driving America’s highways. I felt it when I stayed in an old roadside motel in San Simeon during my PCH trip. The little details—the retro keychains, the leather booths in the breakfast area—took me back in time and made my trip feel like a classic American adventure.
What’s amazing is how these nostalgic touches have stayed relevant, yet refreshing. They reawaken that “freedom of the open road” spirit for newbies and seasoned travelers alike.
Where to Go? The Best Road Trip Routes of 2025
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
I have to start with this one because it’s fresh in my mind—and heart! The Pacific Coast Highway is postcard-perfect. Start in Los Angeles and wind your way up through Big Sur, stopping to take in jaw-dropping ocean views at every turn.
Don’t skip the Bixby Creek Bridge—it’s as iconic in person as it is in every photo. And the vibe in Carmel? Dreamy. This trip is pure West Coast beauty.
2. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
Ah, Route 66. The “Mother Road” is back, my friends. Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, it’s less about the destination and more about the quirky and unforgettable stops along the way.
I’ve driven short stretches, admiring vintage diners and kitschy roadside attractions, and trust me—it’s got that storytelling magic you won’t find anywhere else.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
If you’re more of a mountain lover, you have to check out the Blue Ridge Parkway. This 469-mile route rolls you through layers of blue-tinged mountains and autumn-hued forests.
I personally loved the mix of quiet hikes and scenic pull-offs where I could catch my breath (and snap endless photos).
4. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
This road hug’s the Mississippi River’s curves, offering a slower, soulful drive through America’s heartland. Imagine pausing to explore historic towns, eat a great meal in New Orleans, and watch the sunset over sleepy riverbanks. It’s the kind of trip that sticks with you long after your wheels stop spinning.
5. The Loneliest Road (Nevada)
Okay, if solitude is your jam, U.S. Route 50—or “The Loneliest Road”—will make you feel free as a bird. Running through Nevada’s open desert, I’ve never seen night skies so full of stars. It’s perfect for anyone craving disconnecting from the noisy rhythm of life.
Modern Must-Haves for a Road Trip
Planning is part of the fun, so here’s everything I recommend packing before you head out on your own adventure:
- Reliable Navigation Tools – While spontaneity is great, make sure you have a solid GPS or a good old paper map in case you lose cell signal somewhere remote.
- Cozy Accommodations – Whether you’re pitching a tent in the national parks or snagging a boutique motel in a small town, planning ahead (especially in busier months) is key.
- Local Eats – Pro tip? Skip the fast food chains and find small-town diners or cafés. I still dream about the crab cakes I had in a roadside spot outside Monterey.
- Snacks and Playlists – Load up on trail mix, jerky, and playlists that match the vibe you’re after—be it rock classics or acoustic indie tunes.
The Road Ahead
Now here’s the fun part—road trips are evolving, and they’re here to stay. With so many electric vehicle (EV) charging stations popping up along major routes, traveling sustainably is easier than it’s ever been. And don’t get me started on van life. My friend just converted her van, complete with a mini kitchen and a fold-out bed, and it has me itching to hit the road with next-level flexibility.
Whether it’s nostalgia or a fresh take, road trips are more than a trend. They’re one of the best ways to connect with landscapes, explore towns, and rediscover what adventure really feels like.
Travel Sparks ✨
- Pack Like a Pro – Use soft duffel bags instead of bulky suitcases to save space in your car.
- Stay Charged – Invest in a power bank or car inverter to keep your devices juiced and ready.
- Layer Up – Weather can change fast on the road, so dress in layers for versatility.
- Avoid Overplanning – Keep some buffer time in your itinerary for spontaneous stops and detours.
- Scout for Deals – Use apps to find cheap last-minute lodging or free campsites.
- Fuel Smarter – Plan ahead for gas stops, especially in remote stretches, to avoid running on empty.
Because the Best Maps Are the Ones You Make
And there you have it! Road trips are all about freedom, discovery, and making memories you’ll cherish forever. Whether you’re chasing breathtaking views, savoring local flavors, or just soaking in the joy of an open road, there’s something for everyone out there.
Trust me, your next big adventure might just be a drive away—so grab a map, pack your bags, and hit the road. The possibilities are endless, and the journey is yours to create. Safe travels, friends—go make the road yours!
