Summer Bucket List: Drive Along 5 of America’s Most Scenic Routes

Summer is almost here, which means it’s time to take your drop-top convertible out the garage and plan the ultimate scenic road trip. From California to the southernmost point on the east coast, here are five of the most stellar American routes with picturesque views.

Silverado Trail– California

For approximately 29 miles, enjoy this charming route along the edge of Napa Valley. While it’s considered the “road less traveled,” among Napa Valley natives it’s a preferred route. The road is lined with an assortment of wineries with tasting rooms open daily. Plan a picnic lunch or indulge your taste buds at anyone of the Napa Valley restaurants. It is advised that three wineries in one day is more than enough for the wine connoisseur.

17-Mile Drive– California

By way of a forested area and along the oceanfront, marvel at some of nature’s most scenic routes. Passing through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula, you’ll see some of California’s most legendary landmarks. To guide you through the maze there is a red-dashed line down the center of the main roads. While there is an entry fee to drive the private road, you will be reimbursed if you dine or shop within the community.

Drive point of interests: The Lone Cypress, Fanshell Overlook, Spanish Bay, Point Joe, The Lodge at Pebble Beach

Route 66- L.A., Chicago, St, Louis

Nicknamed as America’s “Mother’s Road” or the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is one of the oldest and original highways within the U.S. highway system. This historic route passes through a number of American cities. Along this road you have the option of driving through Illinois all the way to the sunny Los Angeles, passing by landmarks such as the Grand Canyon. You can also drive past the Native American communities of the Southwest, small-towns of Oklahoma and the Ozarks, as well as St. Louis and Chicago.

As Nat King Cole so eloquently sang, “Get your kicks on route 66!”

Delmarva Peninsula-Mid-Atlantic Region

Nestled in the mid-Atlantic region of the U.S., the Delmarva Peninsula is known for its local fresh and delicious seafood. Crabs, especially blue crabs, are staple among this 183 miles eastern coastline. Along this route you’ll pass several of the mid-Atlantic’s popular oceanfronts such as Ocean City, Maryland; Rehoboth Beach, Delaware; Chincoteague, Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Key West-Florida

A drive from Miami to Key West is probably one of the most relaxing and stunning views. Approximately 150 miles long, the drive offers the perfect mixture of warmth, smooth roads and sparkling views of the ocean. Along this route, you’ll cross the Seven Mile Bride, touted as one of the longest bride in the world, with striking views of various hues of the ocean. It’s like entering an enchanted paradise of beach, bars, water sports and more.

(Featured Photo via Sodahead)