When the sun’s out and the days are long, there’s nothing better than a road trip in a classic car. Whether you’re behind the wheel of your own pride and joy or renting something special for the weekend, summer is the season to slow down, roll the windows down, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
If you’re planning a getaway or just looking for an excuse to take the scenic route, here are five US drives that are worth going out of your way for.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
Few drives can match the drama of California’s Highway 1. Hugging the Pacific coastline between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the route takes in rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and postcard-worthy spots like Big Sur and Bixby Bridge. It’s a road that invites you to stop often — for a coffee in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a photo of the sunset, or just to take it all in.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina
Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands, the Blue Ridge Parkway is as much about the journey as the scenery. Summer brings rolling green hills, wildflowers, and hazy mountain vistas, with plenty of pull-offs to enjoy a picnic or stretch your legs. With a lower speed limit and winding roads, it’s the perfect place to cruise in a car that was built for enjoying the drive, not racing to the finish.
3. Route 66 (Arizona stretch)
You could spend weeks exploring the full length of Route 66, but the Arizona section packs in all the nostalgia and Americana you could want. Think neon motel signs, classic diners, and roadside attractions straight out of a mid-century postcard. A drive between Seligman and Kingman takes you back in time and offers plenty of photo opportunities — not to mention a few great spots for pie.
4. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
If your idea of summer driving includes sun, sea, and endless horizon, the Overseas Highway delivers. Running from Miami to Key West, it links the Florida Keys with 42 bridges — including the famous Seven Mile Bridge — and serves up turquoise water views at every turn. Put the top down, turn up the radio, and let island time set the pace.
5. Great River Road, Mississippi
Following the Mississippi River through 10 states, the Great River Road offers a slower, more meandering way to see America’s heartland. The Mississippi stretch is particularly charming in summer, with leafy backroads, river views, and welcoming small towns where you can stop for a cool drink or some Southern cooking. It’s a road that rewards curiosity — the more detours you take, the more you’ll find.
Make it happen this summer
Summer won’t last forever — so if one of these routes is calling your name, now’s the time to make it happen. On DRIVESHARE, you can rent everything from convertibles and sports cars to vintage cruisers, ready for your next road trip.
And if you own a classic, listing it on DRIVESHARE means you can share the joy of summer driving with others while earning a little extra along the way. Wherever you’re headed, take the scenic route. You’ll be glad you did.
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