This is the year of the road trip and seeing more of America. There’s never been a better time for domestic travel and we’ve compiled the 5 all-time best road trips in the US for retirees.
The all-time best retirement road trips in the US include:
- Pacific Coast Highway
- Route 66
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- The Florida Keys
- The Dakotas
Almost everyone’s travel plans were put on hold in 2020. With global public health concerns, it’ll be a while before we’re jetting off to crowded international destinations.
According to AARP, “nearly a quarter of boomers (23%) who are making travel plans for 2021 did not travel at all in 2020”. Further to this, more than half (57%) of retirees are planning a trip this year.
And, of course, before you go off on your road trip adventures you'll want to make sure you have a good pair of sunglasses. We discuss this in Are Cheap Sunglasses Worth It?
1. Pacific Coast Highway - Hwy 101
Often considered the most scenic of America’s highways, it hugs the coastline with breathtaking views.
Although many travelers only drive the section between San Diego and San Francisco (approximately 600 miles), I suggest driving the entire route.
One of my most memorable trips was riding the entire coastal highway on a motorbike. Many years ago, a buddy of mine and I rode our bikes from Seattle to San Diego. An experience like none other as the entire spectacular coastline unfolded.
More recently, close friends of ours each made this epic journey. One evening, we got together for “wing night” sharing our experiences. One couple pulled their 5th wheel and raved about the parks and camping.
The other couple drove their sports car and were delighted by gorgeous views and the thrill of the open road. This is the perfect retirement road trip with something for everyone.
No wonder it’s often rated as the #1 most beautiful road trip in America!
Planning for the Pacific Coast Highway
The total driving distance from Seattle to San Diego (or vice versa) on the coastal highway is 1,841 miles. This works out to be slightly over 42 hours behind the wheel, not including any side trips.
In other words, unless you’re in a rush, you could easily spend a couple of weeks and still not see everything. If you travel north to south, you’ll be on the right side of the road to pull off for the incredible vista points.
The best weather is generally during the fall which also is less busy. Even so, you’ll want to book hotels or camping spots well in advance.
Sights Not to Miss on the Pacific Coast Highway
Sight to see in Seattle, include:- Space Needle (605 feet tall) provides panoramic views
- Pike Place Market filled with local artisans and street performers
- Museum of Flight and Museum of Pop Culture
- The Future of Aviation Center and Boeing tour
- Hoh rain forest
- Hurricane Ridge
- Lake Crescent
- The Mendocino Headlands State Park with cliffside walking trails and access to Big River beach.
- Russian Gulch State Park with hiking trails to a 36-foot waterfall and the Devil’s Punchbowl overlook.
- Jug Handle State Natural Reserve is a botanist’s dream come true with unusual flora, including a pygmy forest!
- Bixby bridge
- McWay waterfall
- Julie Pfeiffer Burns State Park
- Balboa Park and the site of the famous San Diego Zoo
- Sea World
- Old Town Historical Park
- Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
2. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
One of the first highways, completed in 1926, it traversed 8 states connecting Chicago to Santa Monica. Often referred to as the “Mother Road”, this was the primary highway across the country.
During the depression years, countless thousands migrated west seeking new opportunities. With the prosperity of the post-war years came the explosive growth of automobile travel. These were the glory days of Route 66 extending into the mid 1970’s.
By 1984, Route 66 was officially decommissioned. Newer faster interstates either paralleled or replaced the original highway. Today, approximately 85% of the original roadway remains in drivable condition.
Planning for Route 66
Route 66 is the most iconic of the best retirement road trips in the US and can be likened to a “purist road adventure”. Just you and the open road with all its twists and turns.
I was surprised to learn tourists from all over the world come specifically to drive Route 66! Many folks will drive the 2,400 miles within a week. For me, that’d feel like the “Ultimate Road Warrior Challenge”.
Not my idea of a fun and leisurely journey when you need to average 343 miles a day. That works out to six hours (or more) behind the wheel, not leaving much time for sightseeing.
The route is filled with nostalgia as it winds its way across America. Dotted throughout the drive you’ll come across historical gas stations, vintage diners, motels, museums, signs and so much more.
The best time to travel is in the spring or fall to avoid the intense summer heat. This is a drive like none other, one might even say a trip of a lifetime. For more comprehensive information, see TheRoute-66.com website.
Notable Sights on Route 66
There’re far too many sites to list everything. On your drive you’ll come across many “hidden treasures” such as a vintage neon sign burning brightly and other reminders of the glory days. Some to keep in mind include:
- Wilmington, Illinois. The Giant Gemini space age muffler man is a 30-foot-tall fiberglass roadside decoration. These figures were popular in the 60’s and used to advertise goods and services.
- Pontiac, Illinois. Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum filled with thousands of pieces of memorabilia of the Mother Road.
- Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis, Missouri crosses the mighty Mississippi river. An unusual feature is a 22-degree bend occurring halfway across. Today, it’s open for pedestrians and cycling.
- Stanton, Missouri. The 4.6-mile Meramec cavern system has long been a favorite stop for weary travellers.
- Catoosa, Oklahoma. The Blue Whale, a quirky waterfront structure 80-feet in length.
- Clinton, Oklahoma. One of the best, this museum claims to offer the ultimate Route 66 experience. TripAdvisor rates it 4.5 with 422 reviews.
- Amarillo, TX. Another oddity is the Cadillac Ranch. This is a public art installation with 10 Cadillacs buried nose first in the ground. It’s an interesting site and you’re free to spray paint your own graffiti.
- Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second largest canyon in the U.S. Also, one of the most amazing displays of color and rock formations.
- Albuquerque, NM. One of the most fascinating cities preserving the Mother Road’s heyday. With the longest urban stretch (18 miles), many Route 66 era businesses still thrive. Stay at a classic motel or grab a burger in a vintage diner.
- Holbrook, AZ. For something completely unique, stay a night at the Wigwam Motel. Initially, the Wigwam Villages were a motel chain during the 1930s and 1940s. This one is listed on the National Registry of Historical Places.
- The only National Park on Route 66 is the Petrified Forest National Park. The vistas and hiking trails of the Painted Desert surround you with magnificent scenery.
- Oatman, AZ. Often referred to as a ghost town, Oatman is an old mining town on historical Route 66. Over 2.1 million ounces of gold were mined in the district before operations were shut down in 1941. Today, over half a million visitors flood this unique town.
- San Bernardino, CA. The first McDonald’s restaurant opened here in 1940. Today, it’s become the Original McDonald’s Museum and worthy of a visit.
- Santa Monica, CA. Santa Monica historical pier and amusement park symbolize the end of the journey.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway
One of America’s best kept secrets, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic two-lane highway twisting through rugged beauty. Connecting the Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Much more than a road trip, it’s a never-ending kaleidoscope of stunning natural beauty. At every turn, you’re greeted with breathtaking views and unspoiled nature.
Planning for the Blue Ridge Parkway
The total distance from the southern end of Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 469 miles. As speed limits are 45 mph (and down to 25 mph in places), this is a leisurely drive.
With so much to see and do, I’d suggest planning for a minimum for 3 days. Although, this could easily be extended to a week, or even two. Especially if you’re camping, hiking or taking advantage of the many recreational activities that are available.
The best time to travel is from mid-May to mid-October. The fall is the most spectacular with the leaves turning into autumn colors.
For more detailed information, BlueRidgeParkway.org provides comprehensive information.
Sights Not to Miss on the Blue Ridge Parkway
- The Natural Bridge: (Milepost 61.6). This is a natural solid-rock bridge 215 feet high. Descending the 137 steps leads to Cedar Creek Nature trail. Admission also includes a Monacan village, wax museum, butterfly exhibit and return on a shuttle bus.
- Mabry Mill: (Milepost 176.1). One of the most picturesque sights is the Mabry mill. More than a century old, this gristmill is still grinding out flour. Their restaurant serves their famous buckwheat pancakes and flour can be purchased in the gift shop.
- Blue Ridge Music Center: (Milepost 213) Take in some bluegrass music at the outdoor amphitheater. Additionally, visit the Roots of American Music Museum and visitor center.
- The Blowing Rock: (Milepost 291.9) Towering over 3,500 feet above the Johns River Gorge, the view is spectacular! As the name implies, the winds are strong and instead of falling, light objects will blow back.
- Linville Falls: (Milepost 316.3) A three-tiered waterfall cascading into the Linville Gorge with three different hiking trails varying in distance and difficulty. The easiest is only a 1/2 mile long from the visitor center to the top of the falls.
- Chestoa View Overlook: (Milepost 320.8) A short stroll provides one of the most spectacular views of the Linville Gorge with Grandfather and Table Rock Mountains in the distance.
- Craggy Pinnacle: (Milepost 364.1) The top of the summit is 5,892 feet and rewards hikers with a 360-degree panoramic views. The trail weaves through large expanses of native rhododendron and wild flowers climbing 252 feet in elevation. (0.6 mile).
- Chimney Rock State Park: (Milepost 384.7) The Park is a nature lover’s paradise with a multitude of activities such as hiking trails, the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls and rock climbing. From the top of Chimney Rock, you can see 75 miles overlooking Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge. Accessible via 500 steps or an elevator ride plus short staircase.
- Oconaluftee Indian Village: (Milepost 469.1) Located at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park resides the Oconaluftee Cherokee village. This is like stepping back in time to learn about their culture, dress, ceremonies and their lifestyle.
4. The Florida Keys (Miami to Key West)
The Overseas Highway (US-1) might be one of the most unique, beautiful and best retirement road trips in the US.
We were in Miami a couple of days prior to boarding a cruise ship. Initially, the rental car was to check out the nearby attractions.
It really was an impulse decision. We decided it would be neat to zip down to Key West for the day. We would be there in time for lunch, or so we thought. What a nice way to spend the day!
With the refreshing ocean breezes and surrounded with glistening blue water, it started off as a gorgeous drive. The 42 bridges connecting 34 islands and all those sleepy villages were a delight to drive.
Of course, we fell behind schedule and didn’t arrive in Key West until around 2ish. Not enough time to see much of anything, but the key lime pie was delicious! Retracing our steps made for a long day in the saddle.
My greatest regret, we hardly had time to stop and see anything at all. We’ve promised ourselves, next time we’ll experience all the stuff we missed.
Planning for the Florida Keys
Non-stop, the drive is around 3-1/2 hours, totaling 164 miles. As lamented above, a day trip doesn’t do proper justice to this amazing area. There are many interesting places to visit that we blew by.
The next time we visit, we’re going to plan on spending a week. Everything is so laid back and we’d rather relax and soak it in.
In addition to the many beaches, water sports abound. This includes snorkeling / scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, jet skiing and sport fishing.
The best time to travel is between March and May. These are the driest months with average temperatures in the 70s. This also avoids hurricane season which begins in September.
Sights Not to Miss in the Florida Keys
Key Largo is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It’s also known as the “dive capital of the keys” with incredible snorkeling and diving at the world’s largest artificial reef.Islamorada is known as the sport fishing capital of the world. If that’s not your thing, other attractions include:- Theater of the Sea marine mammal park
- Florida Keys History and Discovery Center
- History of Diving Museum
- Aquarium Encounters and feeding stingrays
- Dolphin Research Center and swimming with dolphins
- Turtle Hospital where injured turtles recover
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, home to more than 60 species of butterflies and exotic birds
- Mallory Square filled with street performers, jugglers and other entertainment
- The original Margaritaville for a frosty beverage or two
5. The Dakotas (North and South Dakota)
One of the best retirement road trips in the US, the Dakotas showcase prairie grasslands to desolate badlands. As two of the least populated states in America, the Dakotas remain an unspoiled panorama of natural beauty.
Beginning about 65 million years ago, North Dakota was a warm swampy area teeming with life. This has led to some of the most unique geographic formations and glimpse back in time.
The Black Hills are made of ancient rock and deemed sacred land by native Americans. But it’s more than just sheer beauty.
As your journey unfolds, the old west envelopes you. Towns like Deadwood or the Custer State Park bring the more recent past to life. The wild west in all its glory! And, of course, Mount Rushmore commemorating past presidents.
Planning for the Dakotas
While it’s only 550 miles in length, with so many unusual things to see and do, consider taking a week or possibly two.
Accommodations available include rustic cabins, campgrounds, “glamping” sites and upscale hotels. There’s something available for every traveler, regardless of their budget.
Plan your trip between May and September. Mount Rushmore puts on an evening light and music show telling the history of the monument.
Things to See and Do in the Dakotas
Badlands National Park, South Dakota: Located at the end of the 39-mile Scenic Byway, it’s one of the best places to see bison, bighorn sheep and pronghorns. Because it’s so remote, it’s perfect for hikers and campers. And, the view of the stars at night is incredible!- Roadside Attraction: The World’s Only Corn Palace is at the beginning of route, located in Mitchell.
- Roadside Attraction: At the end of the route is a six-ton Giant Prairie Dog.
Closing Thoughts on The Best Retirement Road Trips in the US
The pandemic brought travel to a screeching halt and the majority of retirees are itching to do something. With international destinations fraught with restrictions, this is the year to explore America.
The open road beckons and we’ve shared five of the all-time best road trips. Which one is best? That depends upon what most interests you.
As retirees, we have the time and the means to rediscover the beauty of the US. Seldom is it about the destination, rather, it’s the journey itself that creates those lasting memories.
Hi Shannon (and Debbie!) Great information for summer road trips. We’ve taken a couple…done the Florida Keys and the Pacific Coast Hwy through California which are both incredible. But this summer we have plans to spend August on Vancouver Island (if Canada lets us in!) and then another month in Kelowna BC (again if we can get in!) So while we won’t drive along the west coast in California we will be going around the Olympic Peninsula before taking the Ferry at Port Angeles. I didn’t really plan to stop at the Hoh Rain forest but now we might. Thanks for that suggestion! Whatever you have planned for this summer I’m sure you’ll be letting us know! ~Kathy
Both Florida and the Pacific Coast are beautiful, Kathy. Vancouver Island also is also a gem and very picturesque. If you get a chance, stop off in Chemainus on the island. It’s a quaint little town with art and history throughout. Debbie really enjoyed it when she visited. And don’t forget to visit Coombs and have lunch at the restaurant with the goats on the roof.
Our plans are still up in the air due to this stupid pandemic. Hopefully, travel and the borders will open up soon.