Ever dreamed of hitting the open road, leaving behind the humdrum of daily life and embracing a world of adventure and romance? Picture this: the wind in your hair, your favorite tunes on the stereo and a landscape that changes with every mile.
That’s the magic of a weekend getaway. It’s not just about reaching a destination — it’s about savoring each moment, each sight and each spontaneous detour along the way.
And you can easily find the right car rental for your weekend getaway. From finding the perfect set of wheels for your journey to ensuring you get the best deal, Skyscanner makes the process as smooth as the open highway ahead.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best road trips you can take over the weekend.
Pacific Coast Highway
A weekend getaway along the Pacific Coast Highway is a must-do. This iconic road stretches from San Francisco to Los Angeles, offering breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs and beautiful mountain landscapes.
The journey can take a weekend or more, depending on how many stops you make in charming seaside towns like San Diego and Santa Barbara. With plenty of outdoor activities along the way (and the prospect of detouring east for a three-hour drive to Yosemite), it’s a road trip best enjoyed in the spring or summer.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Consider the Blue Ridge Parkway for a mountain town adventure. Stretching across Virginia and North Carolina, this 469-mile route offers jaw-dropping Appalachian Mountain vistas.
Wind your way along this scenic byway to discover hiking trails, breweries, historic sites and waterfalls. It’s a prime choice for day trips — especially during fall when the leaves turn into a vibrant tapestry of colors.
Visitors can travel the parkway end-to-end in about 12 to 13 hours, but the journey isn’t about speed. Take a couple of days to stop at attractions, enjoy a few hikes and truly soak in the natural splendor of this remarkable road trip.
Black Hills of South Dakota
A road trip through the Black Hills of South Dakota should be on everyone’s bucket list. This scenic drive takes you past national landmarks like Mount Rushmore, where you can marvel at huge carvings of four U.S. presidents, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, an ongoing project honoring Native American culture.
Don’t miss Custer State Park, either. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, hike or even a swim in one of its clear mountain lakes. An ideal spring or summer trip, you’ll see wildflowers in full bloom and wildlife in abundance. The journey can easily fill a weekend or stretch into a week if you want to take it slow.
Napa Valley
Welcome to wine country! Drive through California’s famed Napa Valley for a world-class weekend getaway. You’ll find amazing wineries, charming tasting rooms and gourmet dining options.
This road trip is perfect for a romantic weekend, and the best times to visit are during the fall harvest season or the spring when the vineyards are lush and green. This trip is the perfect fit for a foodie or wine connoisseur, offering a smorgasbord of culinary delights and wine tastings to tickle your taste buds.
New England fall foliage
Imagine cruising through a landscape ablaze with fall colors, quaint towns popping up like delightful surprises and seasonal festivities offering a culinary feast — that’s a road trip through New England in the fall.
It’s more than just a drive; it’s an opportunity to canoe down tranquil rivers, discover local art galleries and take spontaneous detours to soak in the region’s beauty.
And the beauty of this road trip? You’re never more than a short drive from the next picturesque scene. Keep regions like Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, the White Mountains of New Hampshire and Maine’s rocky coastline on your radar.
You’ll be rewarded with postcard-worthy views at every turn. Schedule this trip for autumn to get the full experience.
Florida Keys
Craving a taste of paradise? The Florida Keys are your answer. This sun-drenched chain of islands is a playground of natural beauty, live music and adventure on the water.
Whether you’re a pro on a paddleboard, keen to kayak or love to soak up the sun, the Keys have it all. Your road trip will take you along the epic Overseas Highway, where you’ll island-hop through breathtaking scenery, each key offering its unique vibe.
Explore vibrant coral reefs, indulge in fresh seafood at quirky beachside joints or unwind on the open water. And the best part? You can visit year-round and pack all this into a single weekend (although we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to stay a little longer!).
Grand Canyon and Las Vegas
Combine natural wonder with city lights on a road trip to the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas. Kick off your adventure at the Grand Canyon, a natural wonder that’ll leave you breathless.
From the canyon’s depths to the heights of Nevada’s mountains, there’s more to this trip than just sightseeing. How about a thrilling zip line ride or mountain biking to pump your adrenaline?
When you’re ready to switch gears, Las Vegas is waiting with its iconic neon lights, world-class shows and casinos that buzz with energy round the clock. You can hit the road any time of year, but spring and fall are your best bets (no pun intended) for milder weather. It’s a road trip that truly delivers the best of both worlds.
Outer Banks of North Carolina
For a romantic road trip that’s got a little bit of everything, the Outer Banks of North Carolina hits the spot. This romantic getaway takes you along a chain of barrier islands, each a treasure trove of historic lighthouses, postcard-worthy beaches and charming coastal towns.
Meander along the popular boardwalks of Duck and Manteo. Lined with inviting restaurants and quirky shops, these waterfront promenades also lead to serene parks. And they offer front-row seats to the Outer Banks’ real showstopper: sunsets that light up the sky in a blaze of color.
This road trip is best during late spring through early fall, when you can fully enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities.
Route 66
Embrace the spirit of the open road with a trip down the iconic Route 66. Beginning in Chicago and winding its way to Santa Monica, this legendary route showcases the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant small-town life. Highlights include the Painted Desert in Indian Wells, Arizona, and the towering Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri.
Traversing the entire stretch of Route 66 might take more than a weekend, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a slice of it. If you’re short on time, pick a section that packs in the sights you’re eager to see.
Whether it’s classic diners, vintage motels or natural wonders, a piece of Route 66 has your name on it. Best tackled in spring or fall, this road trip deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Joshua Tree National Park and Palm Springs
A drive through Joshua Tree National Park and Palm Springs is worth considering if you’re itching for a road trip that mixes nature with culture. Begin with the surreal beauty of Joshua Tree National Park, where unique rock formations and the park’s namesake Joshua trees create a landscape that feels out of this world.
Next, rev up the style in Palm Springs. Take a leisurely stroll to admire the city’s iconic midcentury architecture and unwind in the soothing hot springs. Make a detour to Big Sur, where rugged cliffs meet the ocean in a breathtaking display of natural beauty.
Palm Springs is a paradise for golfers, with its world-class golf courses set against a backdrop of desert and mountains. This road trip is best enjoyed from late fall to early spring when the desert cools down.
Weekend road trip considerations
Before putting the pedal to the metal, remember to:
- Map out your trip. Plot your route, pinning down key stops and activities that interest you. Use GPS tools to navigate must-see stops and activities, check real-time traffic updates and even get alerts about road closures or construction. Don’t forget to download offline route maps as backup.
- Pack like a pro. Essentials are key! Pack snacks and water to keep your energy up, a first-aid kit for scrapes or scratches and chargers to keep your devices running. If you’re planning a road trip through remote desert areas, bringing extra gas is wise. Stations can be few and far between, and you don’t want to risk running out of fuel.
- Budget wisely. Plan your expenses for gas, food, lodgings and fun activities. Are you booking accommodations in advance or swinging by the closest hotel with a vacancy? All of these choices play a factor in your expenses.
- Stay safe. Stick to the speed limit and traffic laws, avoid driving when you’re tired, keep a friend or family member updated on your route and stay alert to your surroundings.
- Check your vehicle. Give your vehicle a thorough check or have it serviced before setting off. Ensure your tires are in good condition, fluids are topped off, brakes are working well and lights are functioning correctly. Carry a spare tire and know how to change it. A well-maintained vehicle helps reduce the risk of breakdowns on your trip.
- Embrace spontaneity. While planning is great, be ready to embrace the unexpected detour or the unplanned stop. Some of the best memories come from spontaneous adventures.
- Go with a rental. Consider renting a car instead of putting the miles on your own. You’re sure to find an option that works for everyone — from spacious SUVs for family trips to sleek convertibles for that luxury feel. Plus, you can enjoy one-way rentals and free cancellation.
Discover the USA this weekend
Are you ready to reclaim your weekends? The U.S. is a patchwork quilt of stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, charming small towns and worthy sights. Each road trip presents a chance to dive headfirst into these experiences, offering a journey and a wealth of memories.
Whether you’re driving through the lush vineyards of Napa Valley, marveling at the fall foliage in New England or embracing the historic charm of Route 66, there’s something magical waiting for you just a road trip away. And the best part?
Renting a car through Skyscanner allows you to explore at your own pace and with your own style. And with a range of options, you can choose anything from a roomy SUV for a family outing to a sleek convertible for a romantic getaway.
Plus, one-way rentals and free cancellation options give you the flexibility to tailor your trip exactly how you want it.
