The Great American Road Trip has always been romantic. From films, music, art and songs, the idea of taking off for a big adventure with the one you love has always been attractive.
With such a vast country to discover, rich in diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, couples are spoilt for choice.
With affordable car hire from Cheaper Than Cars, you can start planning your romantic road trip right away.
Choosing where to head on your big romantic adventure can be difficult, so here are ten of the best road trips for couples in the USA.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is often named as the most scenic drive in the world as well as one of the best road trips for couples. It’s not difficult to see why so many people fall in love with this stunning coastal drive. Beginning in the charming city of Dana Point in Southern California it winds its way along the Pacific Coast, past towering cliffs, endless sandy beaches, and panoramic ocean views. As you navigate this 600-mile route, you pass countless landmarks, such as Big Sur, the Bixby Creek Bridge, and the rugged coastline of the Monterey Peninsula.
Along the way, there’s a chance to spend time in Santa Monica and Venice Beach, Malibu, San Francisco and the Point Reyes National Seashore. While the scenery is majestic, road trippers are also spoilt for choice when it comes to charming coastal towns and relaxing spots to eat and drink.
- Total Driving Distance: Approximately 600 Miles (965 km)
- Total Driving Time: 11-15 Hours
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
Stretching for approximately 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural richness. Often referred to as ‘America’s Favourite Drive’ it’s best taken at a leisurely pace, allowing you to enjoy some of the most enchanting landscapes on the East Coast.
Along the route, you can encounter charming mountain communities, such as Asheville and Blowing Rock, and discover local crafts, music and cuisine. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a picturesque journey through the Appalachian Mountains and a cosy retreat for couples looking to spend time together in beautiful surroundings.
- Total Driving Distance: Approximately 600 Miles (967 km)
- Driving Time: 10-12 Hours
Florida Keys Scenic Highway, Florida
A shorter journey, but one of the best road trips for couples is the Florida Keys Scenic Highway. This route is ideal for a relaxed romantic getaway in the idyllic surroundings of the Florida Keys. This is a prime US holiday destination and your every need is catered for, meaning all you have to do is enjoy a leisurely few days exploring this tropical paradise.
Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, you can enjoy a romantic journey surrounded by turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and coral landscapes. As you journey through the keys you’ll cross stunning bridges spanning crystal clear channels, and encounter charming beach towns and historic sites. There are also lots of opportunities for watersports or relaxing on the beach. The breathtaking sunsets in Key West, the southernmost point of the United States, are meant to be shared. With a host of amazing places to stay, incredible seafood and a relaxed tropical climate, this is a road trip made for romantic moments.
- Total Driving Distance: 113 Miles (182km)
- Total Driving Time: 3 – 4 Hours
Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
For couples with a real spirit of adventure, the Great River Road offers an unparalleled journey through the heart of America. For a honeymoon to remember or the romantic trip of a lifetime, this journey of over 2,000 miles along the mighty Mississippi River is hard to beat. Travelling through the lush forests of Minnesota to the vibrant southern culture of Louisiana allows couples the chance to spend quality time exploring, adventuring or simply relaxing along this epic all-American route.
With charming river towns to explore, great places to stay, and outdoor activities all along the route, the Great River Road is an immersive experience and one of the best road trips for couples seeking romance and adventure.
- Total Driving Distance: Over 2,000 Miles (3219 km)
- Total Driving Time: Several Days To A Week Or More
Napa Valley and Sonoma, California
A short road trip for couples looking to spend more time relaxing than on the road is the 50 or so miles through the sun-kissed vineyards and luxurious wine estates of California’s Napa Valley. Couples have the opportunity to explore world-renowned vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and dine at gourmet restaurants surrounded by rolling vine-covered hills.
With its charming small towns like St Helena, Calistoga and Napa itself, there’s so much to explore and enjoy. There’s a wealth of places to stay to meet all budgets, from boutique hotels to cosy bed-and-breakfasts. With relaxed artisan and upscale shops, spas, and outdoor activities, the Napa Valley has a relaxed, informal atmosphere that’s conducive to romance.
- Total Driving Distance: 50 Miles (80km)
- Total Driving Time: 1 to 2 Hours
Route 66, Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California
Route 66 is the classic American road trip. As well as being a feat of driving stamina, it’s regularly mentioned as one of the best road trips for couples, particularly adventurous honeymooners. This two-week expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, taking you through 8 states, beginning in Chicago, Illinois and finishing by the Pacific at Santa Monica, California.
This historic route, known as The Mother Road, journeys through the heartland of America, through forgotten towns, historic landmarks and breathtaking national parks. Along the way, you can enjoy the countless classic diners that grew up by the road. Route 66 is a journey into classic American auto-nostalgia, and will create memories that will last a lifetime.
- Total Driving Distance: 2,448 miles (3,940km)
- Total Driving Time: Around 2 Weeks
The Grand Circle Tour, Nevada, Utah and Arizona
For couples with a love of the great outdoors and the wonders of the natural world, then The Grand Circle Tour is not to be missed. With a host of geological wonders, desert landscapes, breathtaking canyons to enjoy, and sunsets to share, it’s no wonder this flexible adventure through the American Southwest is growing in popularity.
Typically beginning in cities such as Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, road trippers can make a loop through several national parks, monuments and natural wonders before returning to the starting point. The specific stops on the Grand Circle Tour can vary, but they often include iconic destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, and others.
Whether it’s standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon, wandering through the slot canyons of Antelope Canyon, or marvelling at the arches of Moab, the Grand Circle Tour creates lasting memories for couples seeking a truly immersive road trip experience.
- Total Driving Distance: 100-1000 Miles ( 161 – 1609 km)
- Total Driving Time: 1.5 – 17 Hours
Romantic Upstate Escape, New York State
If you’re looking for a break from the urban bustle of New York, then a romantic road trip from The Big Apple is a great option. Leave behind the bright lights and wind your way northward to the picturesque Hudson Valley, where historic towns like Cold Spring and Beacon are great to explore. Journey through the serene Catskill Mountains, then west to the Finger Lakes region, where vineyards and lakeside retreats set the stage for a romantic escape.
On the border of the US and Canada, you’ll find the breathtaking spectacle of Niagara Falls, before heading into the pristine wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains, and winding down in the charming settings of Saratoga Springs and Albany in the east.
This romantic Upstate Escape includes approximately 1,500 to 2,000 miles of exploration, weaving through the heart of New York State and venturing briefly into Pennsylvania. It allows you to combine a New York City break with a more leisurely exploration of this beautiful region.
- Total Driving Distance: Around 1750 Miles
- Total Driving Time: Around 30 Hours
New England Discovery Loop, Massachusetts, New Hampshire & Maine
When it comes to the best road trips for couples in the USA, no list is complete without a relaxed tour around the charming and cultured northeast. With its old-fashioned towns, coastal serenity and importance in the American story, New England is always a fascinating region to explore. Begin your adventure in the historic city of Boston, with its vibrant culture and iconic landmarks, before journeying north to explore the coastal charm of Rockport and Portsmouth.
Coastal beauty and stunning beaches await you in Kennebunkport and Ogunquit in Maine. Continue your journey to the enchanting town of Portland, Maine, celebrated for its culinary scene and waterfront charm. From there, head inland to the lakeside town of Meredith in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, before looping back to Boston.
Whether it’s history, art, great food, outdoor activities or just spending time with the one you love, this relaxed loop of New England is a deserved addition to the list of best road trips for couples. Charming all year round, but visit in the Fall to experience New England at its vibrant natural best
- Total Driving Distance: Around 500 Miles
- Total Driving Time: 8-10 Hours
Music Highway, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee
Take a soulful journey through the heart of the American South with a road trip that includes the melting pot rhythm of New Orleans, the global musical legacy of Memphis, and the lively country scene of Nashville. Begin your adventure in the Big Easy, where the lively spirit of jazz and Creole cuisine fills the air. Explore the French Quarter, stroll along the Mississippi River, and savour the unique atmosphere of this legendary city.
From New Orleans, head north to the musical mecca of Memphis, Tennessee, the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. oll. Visit the historic Sun Studio, home to legendary recordings, pay homage to Elvis Presley at Graceland, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Beale Street. Continue your journey to Nashville, the home of country music, where you can explore the Grand Ole Opry, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and check out the scene on Broadway.
Customise your journey to match your preferences and always be willing to detour in search of that memorable moment. This is a soulful, sun-kissed tour for anyone in love with the South’s rich musical heritage.
- Total Driving Distance: 670 Miles ( 1080 km)
- Total Driving Time: 12 Hours
Ready To Begin Your Romantic Adventure?
Wherever you choose for your great romantic escape, a road trip is a great way to create memorable memories with that special someone.
Cheaper Than Cars makes it easy to find the perfect vehicle for your trip, whatever your budget. Whether you’re taking a leisurely journey of a hundred miles or embarking on a 2,000-mile romantic odyssey, we can help.
With convenient pick-up points across the USA and with cars for every budget your next big adventure is only a few clicks away!
