North Carolina Scenic Route Among Best U.S. Road Trips
From rugged mountain passes to coastal highways and enchanting countryside routes, scenic drives are like stepping into a real-life postcard. Beyond being just a means of transportation, scenic road trips transform into unforgettable adventures. Travel + Leisure magazine narrowed down what they say are the best scenic road trips in the U.S.
The United States has an abundance of scenic drives, each with its own unique charm. From the breathtaking California coastline to the historically rich roads of New England, these routes offer a treat for the eyes at every turn. One such example is the 34.5-mile stretch of the Kancamagus Highway, which you can pull over and explore the White Mountains on foot. Depending on the season, the views may vary, painting the landscape in ever-changing colors.
And it’s not just nature that makes these drives unforgettable. Some people enjoy human-made scenic views. For instance, American architectural wonders along Chicago’s famed Lake Shore Drive, like the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), which once held the title of the world’s tallest building.
According to the travel magazine, the Carolinas and Virginia have one of the best scenic roads for road trips. Making the list is the Blue Ridge Parkway. Spanning nearly 469 miles, this winding blacktop journey through the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks was crafted with Appalachian vistas in mind. An all-season panoramic drive, it offers slopes with autumn colors, lush forest views during the summer, and ski resorts nestled amid winter landscapes.
Also highlighted is the mineral Appalachian Mountains where visitors can pan for emeralds, rubies, topaz, and gold. During your drive, you can take in the beauty of hundreds of bird species and several kinds of trees.
See who else made the cut for the best scenic road trips in the U.S. here.
11 Essentials for Your Summer Road Trip
1) Roadside Safety Kit
Before you head out on a road trip, you want to give the ole jalopy a tune up and make sure you have kit to solve even the problems you didn’t know you could have. Then, buckle up and rest assured that if/when something goes astray you don’t have to wait hours for roadside assistance.
2) Air Freshener
No one thinks they smell bad, but when you’re cooped up in the car for an extended period of time with food and drink, there are bound to be smells and not every one of them will be pleasant. These Febreze air fresheners are the solution you’re looking for.
3) Seat Organizer
Whether your backseat passenger is 2, 22, or 92, this seat organizer is what every road tripper needs. Perfect for storing snacks, drinks, reading materials, and even a tablet at eye level to binge your favorite shows.
4) Baby Wipes
This one is a game-changer. Behold the magic of baby wipes. They’re perfect for a quick wash when you’re not feeling so fresh (which is apt to occur on a road trip). They clean up spills and sticky messes. They get marks off clothing and other fabrics. And, of course, you can use them if you stop for a pitstop and there is no toilet paper.
5) Cooler
One of the best things about going on a road trip is the snacks! This cooler is great to buckle into the middle seat (perfect between two toddlers, teens, or twenty-somethings) and pack with drinks, fruit, and other munchies to keep the trip rolling.
6) Infinity Pillow
Some people have no trouble falling asleep in the car, but if you’re like me it takes more than a seatbelt to hold my body in a position of comfort. This infinity pillow can be shaped in a way to make it work for you!
7) Road Atlas
I know you have Waze and Google Maps, but what happens when the satellite is on the fritz or when you don’t have service? You’ve got to pull out the good ole trusty map!
8) 4 Port Portable USB 2.0 Hub
If you have a car full of passengers, everyone needs to be charged. This hub will keep your devices running, making everyone happier.
9) Portable Utensils
There’s nothing worse than pulling away from the drive-thru window, merging back into traffic, and then realizing you don’t have any utensils. This set is a must have for every car, whether you’re road-tripping or commuting to and from work.
10) Quick Drying, Lightweight Mat
This handy-dandy mat folds up small enough to keep in your glove box but unfolds large enough to host a family picnic at a rest stop along your journey. And can double as a blanket if you’re arguing over the a/c.
11) Snacks!
More than two-thirds of Americans think snacks can make or break a road trip. This assortment is sure to please everyone in the car.
Please note that items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time we published this list. Have an idea for a fun theme for a gift idea list you’d like us to create? Drop us a line at [email protected].
