For many years, road trips have been synonymous with tourism in this part of the world. From the Mother Road to the Pacific Coast Highway, spectacular drives await visitors all across the United States. If you’re looking to explore the east side of this spectacular landscape, you won’t be short of options if getting behind the wheel is your travel mode of choice. Here are three of the very best routes to add to your shortlist.

Vermont Route 100

Set in slightly different (but no less iconic) surroundings than the world-famous Route 66, this Vermont road offers one of the more scenic drives you’re ever likely to enjoy, anywhere on the planet. The route cuts through the heart of the state and measures over 200 miles – it’s by no means the longest road trip in the country. Owing to its length, you could of course complete the route in just one day, but to do so would mean missing out on the catalog of authentic experiences that await drivers and passengers along the way.

Be sure to pack your itinerary with plenty of local treasures: indulge in the breweries, fudge and syrup shops, and restaurants that champion local produce. As well as the unique experiences on offer, there are also a plethora of magnificent natural sites to admire on your journey through the state. Stop off at the magnetic Moss Glen Falls, which lies just off the road, and Lake Rescue, where you can hike, paddle or simply soak up the sun on a lakeside hammock.

There isn’t a bad time to tackle Route 100, but as with any part of this kaleidoscopic state, it’s often best to visit in fall, when the colorful leaves embellish the landscape.

Overseas Highway

Jumping from one end of the coast to the other, our next road trip takes us to the Sunshine State of Florida. This route transports you along one of the most unique stretches of road in the country to Key West. As the name suggests, you’ll be shifting gears just a short distance above the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, traveling across a series of 42 bridges that float above the keys. When you roll the windows down, you’ll be splashed with lashings of the sea air, providing a constant reminder of your proximity to the stunning waters that lie just beneath.

As you might expect, beautiful scenery surrounds you at just about every point along the 113-mile stretch of road. However, don’t get too distracted by the teal and turquoise hues of the water – there are plenty of stops you need to make along the way. The route is adorned with state parks that are too beautiful to ignore: Curry Hammock, Long Key and Bahia Honda are three of the most enticing. And what better way to take your mind off the driving than by kicking back on the beach for an afternoon of rest and relaxation? Islamorada offers plenty of peaceful places to take your mind off the road, including the small but special Anne’s Beach.

Boston to Washington

If you’re looking for more of an urban excursion, take on the ultimate East Coast road trip from Boston to the capital of Washington D.C.. Passing through some of the region’s most prominent cities, this journey of discovery is a true bucket-list adventure.

Don’t be in a hurry to leave Boston – the city is full of unique sites, offering something for every traveler’s taste. Grab some tickets to a sports event at Fenway Park or TD Garden, before meandering along the Freedom Trail that passes through some of the city’s most historical sites.

Once on the road, an abundance of spectacular spots lay ahead. Explore the beautiful Connecticut coastline, before taking in the sights and sounds of the Big Apple. From New York City you can continue southwards for around two hours, at which point you’ll arrive in the city of Philadelphia. More history awaits in the final stop of Washington D.C.; explore the museums and monuments of this important global city to round off your adventure.

How many stops you choose to make and how long you spend in each place is entirely up to you – there is enough to enjoy in each destination to spread the road trip out across a number of weeks.

Top tips for your trip

Whether you plan your own U.S. itinerary or rely on the tried and tested routes, there truly isn’t a ‘wrong’ way to travel across this gorgeous country – what’s important is that your trip feels rewarding and tailor-made for you. There are a few tips, however, that you’ll want to consider to get the most out of your trip:

• Plan around the traffic: Avoid rush hours in major corridors like Boston–NYC–D.C., and check live traffic before long drives.
• Allow extra travel time: Cities may look close on the map, but traffic and toll roads can significantly extend driving times.
• Choose scenic routes when possible: Swap interstates for coastal roads and small-town byways to make the journey memorable.
• Book smart during peak seasons: Reserve accommodation early during fall foliage, summer beach months, and busy city weekends.
• Pack for the changing weather: Bring layers and rain gear since conditions vary widely from New England to Florida.

The East Coast offers something for everyone. Remember to leave a little room in your itinerary for spontaneous experiences.