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.