4 Summer Road Trips That'll Have You Opening the Sunroof

June 3, 2021

Everything comes to life in the summertime! Embrace the warm weather and take it all in this summer by going on a great American road trip! Pack up those road trip essentials, and opt for scenic springtime drives, state parks, natural wonders, and more with our list of the best spring road trips in the U.S!

Blue Ridge Parkway

Admire birds foot violets, Indian paintbrushes, buttercups, and many other wildflowers as you embark on "Americas Favorite Drive" this Spring. The 469-mile-long Blue Ridge Parkway links both Virginias Shenandoah and North Carolinas Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. Major attractions are marked by mileposts (MP), so you'll always know exactly where you're headed.

Start your trip off right by enjoying the very best of Virginias Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah. This is where vast forests, waterfalls, caverns, and prevalent wildlife meet panoramic views. Next, savor the starry night sky as you camp in your vehicle at Peaks of Otter (MP 85.6) after a long day of hiking wildflower-filled trails and sipping wine at the local winery.

En route to Linn Cove (MP 304.4), celebrate the bluegrass music and daily outdoor concerts at the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213). Enjoy "heyrides" and warm apple pie at The Altapass Orchard (MP 328.3), and revel in breathtaking views as you reach the highest point of the Parkway at Waterrock Knob (MP 451.92). End your trip by visiting the most popular national park in North America ‐ the Great Smoky Mountains ‐ where you can trek the infamous Appalachian Trail, horseback ride, and explore historic buildings.

Route 66

This 2,200+ mile route stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to sunny Santa Monica, California, trailing through states like Missouri, Texas, and Nevada. Route 66 has long been the inspirational muse for many songs, movies, artworks, and novels and is almost a rite of passage when it comes to great American road trips.

Along this legendary route, you'll spot cherry trees, dogwood blossoms, humble mom and pop shops, historical showcases, and charming roadside attractions. From the 170-ft tall Catsup bottle water tower in Collinsville, IL, to the iconic Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, TX, you're in for a nostalgic, kitschy experience!

As you make your way through this iconic road trip, be sure to stop at Meteor Crater Natural Landmark in Winslow, AZ, for guided rim tours. Book an unforgettable stay at the symbolic Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, AZ. Zipline or pan for gold at the Meramec Caverns in Stanton, MO, and check out the 1950s diners at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. Toward the end of your trip, carve out time to soak in the wonders of the renowned, natural structures of the Grand Canyon.

Texas Hill Country

Enjoy over 591 wildflower species in the Lone Star State as you embrace this endearing ride through the bluebonnet-draped Texas Hill Country. From BBQ and horseback riding to classic breweries and cliff diving, there's a little something for everyone along this route.

Enjoy the awe-inspiring grotto and waterfall at the Hamilton Pool Natural Preserve in Austin, or have a relaxing day on the water by tubing at Landa Falls in New Braunfels. Opt-in for in-depth cave tours at the Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio, and explore the mystical cave drawings and spooky legends when hiking the Enchanted Rock in Fredericksburg.

And if you're seeking good ole southern eats, stop on over at the Salt Lick for tender brisket and pulled pork or try reputable Tex-Mex delicacies at Milagros Hill Country. Other points of interest along this route include the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the Cave Without a Name, Sixth Street in Austin, and the Wetlands Boardwalk.

Pacific Coast Highway

Stunning cliff overheads, sun-kissed oceans, salty air, dense, green forests, and bright-colored poppies and wildflowers ‐ its time to enjoy the wonders of the Pacific Oceans coastline.

Embark on this journey northbound by jumping onto Highway 101 in Seattle, Washington, and travel south to California Highway 1 for a coast-side experience. Take sky-high selfies while overlooking the city through glass floors at the Space Needle, and go backpacking, boating, and hot spring dipping at the Olympic National Park.

Make your way to Oregon, where you can enjoy the puzzling natural rock formation of the Devils Punch Bowl with a layover at Tu Tu Tun Lodge for good eats and a magical evening. Next, admire postcard-worthy scenic views as you enter the Golden State, where you can gawk at the tallest trees on Earth, get some sun at the local beaches, and unmount your bike from the rack for cycling at the Humboldt Redwoods National Park.

Discover new wines in Mendocino and layover at Little River Inn before crossing over the glorious Golden State Bridge into San Francisco. Shop, eat and make a day of exploring the many things this city has to offer, including the azalea-covered waterfalls and lanterns at the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park. Explore Big Surs magnificent views and trails and discover elephant seals at The Piedras Blancas Rookery in San Simeon.

While the Pacific Coast Highway is a beautifully scenic drive, it may also present dangers in the form of slick, rainy roads, sharp and winding turns, and even mudslides. Make sure your Nissan is equipped with the right tires for the season to help provide optimum handling and the best driving experience. If you still have performance or winter tires installed on your Nissan, for instance, its important to swap them out for all-season or all-weather tires before hitting the highway.

Prepare for the Road Ahead with Nissan

Now that you know your next spring road trip destination, its time to make sure your Nissan is as prepared for the journey as you are. Ensure you have the car accessories you want and the maintenance services you need before your next big springtime adventure with Nissan Accessories.