11 Unforgettable Road Trips to Take in Retirement
Retirement does not mean the end of adventure. For many, it marks a fresh start. Imagine the open road before you, your favorite music playing, and your companion enjoying the breeze. Road trips offer a chance to explore new places and revisit cherished ones at your own pace.
Kiplinger highlights 11 memorable road trips that retirees can take to enjoy the beauty and culture of the United States.
Preparing for Your Road Trip
Before you set off, preparation matters. To avoid common frustrations like forgetting essentials, make a checklist of everything you plan to bring. Booking hotels ahead can help, especially during busy seasons when rooms fill up fast. Checking your vehicle is also key—make sure tires have proper pressure and fluids are topped up. Apps such as AAA’s help locate the cheapest gas stations, aiding budget management. Once ready, grab your map or GPS, pack some snacks, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
1. California Highway 1
California’s Pacific Coast Highway stretches 656 miles along the coast. It runs between San Francisco and San Diego, offering views of scenic landmarks like Point Reyes, Muir Woods, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pebble Beach, Big Sur, Hearst Castle, and Napa Valley wine country. Since it is a popular route, make accommodations in advance and prepare for crowds at restaurants during peak times.
2. Route 66
Known as "The Mother Road," Route 66 covers 2,451 miles across eight states from Chicago to Santa Monica. It has inspired many movies, songs, and books. Though some original roadside attractions have disappeared, highlights remain, including Cadillac Ranch, Will Rogers Memorial Museum, Meteor Crater, Santa Monica Pier, St. Louis Gateway Arch, and the Bradbury Building.
3. Transmountain Highway (Going-to-the-Sun Road)
A 50-mile scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains in Glacier National Park, this route crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. It’s great for nature lovers who enjoy wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. The road is only open in summer months due to weather. Visit places like Hidden Lake, Lake McDonald, Grinnell Glacier, Bird Woman Falls, and Scenic Point.
4. Highway 61 (Blues Highway)
Stretching from New Orleans to the Minnesota border, Highway 61 has strong ties to blues music. Many famous blues musicians were born near this road. Travelers can visit music pubs and cafes along the way, Elvis Presley’s mansion, the Delta Blues Museum, Sun Studio, Crossroads Monument, and Club Ebony.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway
This 490-mile route through Virginia and North Carolina connects Shenandoah National Park with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Parkway offers leisurely drives amid beautiful landscapes. Attractions along the way include Mabry Mill, Linville Falls, Chimney Rock, the Blue Ridge Music Center, and the Southern Highland Folk Art Center.
6. Key West Overseas Highway
The 160-mile drive from Miami to Key West offers tropical beaches and clear waters. This route allows travelers to explore the Florida Keys at their own pace, visiting Everglades National Park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Turtle Hospital, and more. Activities include swimming, jet skiing, scuba diving, and enjoying fresh seafood.
7. Atlantic Highway (US-1 East Coast)
US-1 runs 2,369 miles from Key West, Florida, to Fort Kent, Maine. It connects many major East Coast cities such as Miami, Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston. Travelers can enjoy museums, shopping, and renowned restaurants. Visit points of interest including the Liberty Bell Center, Acadia National Park, Fenway Park, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
8. Route 12 (Scenic Byway, Utah)
This 124-mile route leads through forests, Bryce Canyon National Park, and rugged landscapes. Ideal for those who enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. Highlights include Red Canyon, Calf Creek Falls, Hell’s Backbone, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Local eateries like Big Bubba’s Bar-b-que offer a taste of the region.
Other Road Trip Ideas
The article also suggests routes like the Natchez Trace Parkway, Oregon Coast Highway, Great River Road, and others that blend natural beauty with cultural experiences.
Taking a road trip in retirement allows you to discover America’s varied landscapes and attractions. It offers freedom to travel on your own terms and create new memories. With thoughtful preparation, these trips can be enjoyable and comfortable. Start planning your next adventure and open a new chapter on the road.
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