12 Amazing Summer RV Road Trips You Have to Take!

Are you ready to hit the open road and embark on an unforgettable summer adventure?

I still remember my first RV road trip with my family as a teenager to Florida. That one trip sparked my lifelong love of exploring the country by RV, and I’ve been hooked ever since!

Summer RV road trips offer the perfect blend of freedom, flexibility, and fun, allowing you to explore incredible destinations at your own pace.

Imagine waking up to stunning views of majestic mountains, pristine beaches, or lush forests right outside your window.

Trust me, the memories you’ll make and the sights you’ll see will stay with you forever.

In this blog post, I’ve compiled 12 amazing summer RV road trips that showcase the very best of what the United States has to offer. From scenic coastal drives to breathtaking national parks and historic routes, these RV road trips will inspire you to gas up the rig and hit the highway for an unforgettable summer getaway.

Best Summer RV Road Trips

1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)

• Route: San Francisco to Los Angeles along Highway 1
• Distance: Approximately 500 Miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 5-7 days
• Highlights: Dramatic coastal views, Charming seaside towns including Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Santa Barbara, and Iconic sights including the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bixby Creek Bridge in Big Sur
• Activities: Hiking in Big Sur, Wine tasting in Napa Valley, Exploring world-famous beaches, and Soaking up California sunshine

Overview:

With so much to see and do along the Pacific Coast Highway, it’s no wonder that this iconic route has become a bucket-list destination and one of the most popular summer RV road trips.

It was certainly on my bucket list before I crossed it off.

Offering a perfect balance of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and laid-back coastal culture, this iconic route showcases the very best of the California coast, from the foggy cliffs of San Francisco to the sun-drenched beaches of Los Angeles.

Plus, the great thing for those traveling this route in an RV is that it’s super easy to pull over at one of the many scenic overlooks to snap a photo, take in the breathtaking views, or have a quick lunch.

Journey:

As you wind your way down Highway 1, you’ll see an ever-changing panorama of stunning coastal vistas including craggy cliffs that plunge straight into the turquoise waters of the Pacific.

Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore some of California’s most charming seaside towns. Stop in Monterey to visit the world-famous aquarium or take a stroll along Cannery Row, once the heart of the city’s sardine-packing industry. Just down the road, the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.

Further south, the rugged coastline of Big Sur is the main highlight. This wild and untamed stretch of coast is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, with towering redwoods, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs that drop straight into the sea. Take a hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see the iconic McWay Falls, or simply pull over at one of the many overlooks to soak in the views.

As you continue your journey down the coast, you’ll pass through the rolling hills and picturesque vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley before arriving in the charming city of Santa Barbara. Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is a perfect place to relax and unwind, with its sandy beaches, world-class dining, and historic Spanish-style architecture.

Finally, you’ll arrive in the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles, where you can explore iconic sights like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Griffith Observatory, and the Santa Monica Pier. Take a stroll along Venice Beach, sample some of the city’s famous street food, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the Southern California sunshine.

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2. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)

• Route: Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Distance: Approximately 560 Miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 3-5 days
• Highlights: Stunning Appalachian Mountain views, Lush forests and waterfalls, Historic sites, and Charming mountain towns
• Activities: Hiking portions of the Appalachian Trail, Visiting craft breweries and wineries, and Exploring caverns and caves

Overview:

While the Blue Ridge Parkway is perhaps most popular during the Fall due to its amazing foliage, the route is also one of the best summer RV road trips you can take.

No matter what your interests or travel style, the Blue Ridge Parkway has something to offer everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, this iconic route is the perfect destination for a summer RV road trip.

This mountainous 500-mile route winds its way through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

As you drive along the parkway, you’ll be treated to an endless series of breathtaking vistas, with sweeping views of the mist-shrouded valleys, rolling hills, and towering peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the most pristine and unspoiled wilderness in the eastern United States.

Journey:

Take a hike through the lush hardwood forests of Shenandoah National Park, where you can marvel at the stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and abundant wildlife. Or head further south to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, home to over 800 miles of hiking trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail.

But the Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t just about natural beauty, as it’s also a region rich in history and culture.

Stop at one of the many historic sites along the route, such as the Mabry Mill in Virginia or the Folk Art Center in North Carolina, to learn about the fascinating history and traditional crafts of the Appalachian people. Or take a detour to one of the many charming mountain towns that dot the landscape, such as Asheville, North Carolina, with its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants.

For those seeking a bit of adventure, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers countless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Go whitewater rafting on the New River, rock climbing at Linville Gorge, or mountain biking on the many trails that crisscross the region.

Also, be sure to explore one of the many caverns and caves that lie hidden beneath the surface of the Appalachian Mountains, such as Luray Caverns in Virginia or Linville Caverns in North Carolina.

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3. New England Coast (Maine to Massachusetts)

• Route: Portland, ME to Cape Cod, MA
• Distance: Approximately 220 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 4-6 days
• Highlights: Picture-perfect lighthouses, Fresh seafood and lobster rolls, Quaint coastal villages
• Activities: Kayaking and sailing, Visiting historic sites, Biking along scenic trails

Overview:

With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine, the New England Coast is another popular summer RV road trip.

The New England Coast is a true paradise for RV enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and culinary delights.

This stunning 220-mile route takes you from the rocky shores of Maine to the sandy beaches of Cape Cod, with countless opportunities for adventure and exploration along the way.

Journey:

As you set out from Portland, Maine, you’ll be immediately struck by the rugged beauty of the coastline, with its towering cliffs, crashing waves, and picturesque lighthouses.

Take a tour of the historic Portland Head Light, one of the most well-known lighthouses in the country, or explore the charming cobblestone streets and bustling waterfront of Portland’s Old Port district.

Heading south, you’ll pass through a string of charming coastal towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm.

Stop in Kennebunkport to explore the town’s famous “Wedding Cake House“, or take a stroll along the sandy beaches of York. In Portsmouth, be sure to visit the historic Strawbery Banke Museum, a 10-acre living history museum that showcases the region’s rich maritime heritage.

As you cross into Massachusetts, you’ll be greeted by the picturesque fishing villages and sandy dunes of the North Shore.

Stop in Gloucester to see the famous “Man at the Wheel” statue, which honors the town’s long history of fishing and seafaring. Or head to Salem to learn about the infamous witch trials of the 17th century.

Further south, the charming towns of the South Shore await, from the artists’ colony of Rockport to the historic streets of Plymouth, where the Pilgrims first landed in 1620 on Plymouth Rock.

Finally, you’ll arrive at the sandy shores and pristine beaches of Cape Cod, one of the most beloved summer destinations in the country.

Explore the charming towns of Hyannis and Provincetown, with their colorful gardens, art galleries, and seafood shacks. You can even take a whale-watching cruise from Barnstable Harbor.

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4. Alaska Highway (British Columbia to Alaska)

• Route: Dawson Creek, BC to Arctic Circle Sign in AL
• Distance: 1,800 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 7-10 days
• Highlights: Spectacular wilderness and wildlife, Unique roadside attractions, Crossing into the Arctic Circle
• Activities: Fishing in pristine lakes and rivers, Visiting hot springs, Spotting bears, moose, and other iconic Alaskan animals

Overview:

While you’ll need your passport for this summer RV road trip if you’re looking for once-in-a-lifetime views and scenery this road trip is hard to beat.

With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and endless opportunities for adventure, the Alaska Highway is truly the ultimate road trip for RV enthusiasts seeking to experience the raw power and majesty of the northern wilderness.

This epic 1,800-mile route takes you from the rolling prairies of British Columbia to the rugged mountains and vast forests of the Yukon and Alaska.

Journey:

As you set out from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, you’ll quickly leave the trappings of civilization behind and enter a world of pristine wilderness and breathtaking natural beauty.

Winding your way through the stunning Rocky Mountains, you’ll pass glistening lakes and rushing rivers, vast stretches of forests, and some of the most remote and unspoiled landscapes in North America.

Take a hike in the stunning Muncho Lake Provincial Park, where you can admire the turquoise waters and towering peaks of the northern Rockies. Or stop at the Liard River Hot Springs, where you can soak in the soothing waters and watch for wildlife.

As you cross into the Yukon, the scenery becomes even more dramatic, with towering mountains, vast tundra, and deep glacial valleys.

Stop in Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon, to explore the city’s many museums and cultural attractions, or take a scenic flight over the stunning Kluane National Park and Reserve.

Continuing north, you’ll enter the wilds of Alaska, where the road becomes even more remote and the wilderness even more vast.

Traveling through Delta Junction, Alaska, you’ll have the opportunity to experience one of the most unique and memorable moments of the trip: crossing into the Arctic Circle and ending your trip at the Arctic Circle sign.

Also along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore unique and fascinating roadside attractions like the Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake, or the Alaska Highway House in Dawson Creek.

You’ll also have the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous peoples who have called this region home for thousands of years.

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5. The Grand Circle Summer RV Road Trip (Southwest US)

Route: Las Vegas loop through AZ and UT national parks
Distance: Approximately 1,500 miles
Recommended Amount of Time: 7-14 days
Highlights: Iconic parks like Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon, Unique desert landscapes, Vibrant cities like Las Vegas and Flagstaff
Activities: Hiking amid towering rock formations, Scenic drives and viewpoints galore, Stargazing in some of the darkest skies in the US

Overview:

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, the Grand Circle has something for everyone.

With its incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, and experiences, this route is one of the best summer RV road trips you can take through the heart of the American Southwest.

This 1,500-mile route takes you on a loop through some of the most iconic national parks and landscapes in the country, from the towering cliffs of the Grand Canyon to the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon and the red rocks of Sedona.

Journey:

Starting and ending in the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, this route quickly takes you into the heart of the desert, where the landscapes are as vast and varied as they are beautiful.

Your first stop is the Grand Canyon, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Take a scenic drive along the South Rim, stopping at viewpoints like Mather Point and Yavapai Point to take in the breathtaking vistas of the canyon stretching out before you.

From there, head north to Utah, where a string of stunning national parks await. First up is Zion, with its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and lush hanging gardens. Take a hike up the famous Angels Landing trail for incredible views of the park, or drive along the scenic Virgin River.

Next, head to Bryce Canyon, where thousands of hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock) create an otherworldly landscape that is truly unforgettable. Take a scenic drive along the park’s 18-mile main road, stopping at viewpoints like Inspiration Point and Bryce Point.

Continue on to Capitol Reef National Park, with its colorful cliffs, canyons, and domes, before heading to the stunning landscapes of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.

In Arches, awe at the more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches that dot the landscape, including the famous Delicate Arch, which has become a symbol of the park and the American Southwest.

As you make your way back towards Las Vegas, be sure to stop in the vibrant city of Flagstaff, with its historic downtown and proximity to incredible natural wonders like Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and Wupatki National Monument.

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6. The Great Lakes Circle RV Road Trip (Great Lakes Region)

• Route: Chicago to Chicago through Wisconsin and Michigan
• Distance: Approximately 1,100 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 7-10 days
• Highlights: Picturesque lakeside towns, Beautiful sand dunes, and beaches, Car-free Mackinac Island
• Activities: Exploring the shores and lighthouses, Sampling local wines and cherries, Riding bikes or horses on Mackinac Island:

Overview:

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a truly unique and unforgettable Summer RV trip that showcases the stunning beauty and rich history of the Great Lakes region.

This RV road trip takes you on a loop around Lake Michigan, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Chicago and taking you through the picturesque states of Wisconsin and Michigan.

Journey:

As you set out from Chicago, and leave the city behind you’ll enter a world of stunning natural beauty and charming small towns.

Your first stop is Milwaukee, known for its rich brewing history and stunning lakefront parks. Take a tour of the famous Miller Brewery, or explore the beautiful gardens and museums of the Milwaukee Art Museum.

From there, head north along the western shore of Lake Michigan, stopping at charming lakeside towns like Sheboygan and Manitowoc.

Take a scenic drive along the Door County peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, charming small towns, and delicious cherry orchards.

Continue on to the stunning Mackinac Island, where cars are banned and the only modes of transportation are bicycles, horses, and your own two feet. Take a step back in time as you explore the island’s charming streets, historic buildings, and scenic trails, stopping at famous landmarks like the Grand Hotel and Fort Mackinac.

Then head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering sand dunes rise up from the waters of Lake Michigan.

Stop at the charming town of Traverse City, known for its beautiful beaches, delicious local wines, and the famous National Cherry Festival held each July.

From there, head south along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, stopping at picturesque lakeside towns like Petoskey and Ludington.

As you make your way back towards Chicago, be sure to stop at the charming town of Saugatuck. Take a stroll along the town’s charming streets, or take a sunset cruise on the Star of Saugatuck, a historic sternwheeler.

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7. From City to Serenity (San Francisco to Lake Tahoe)

• Route: San Francisco to South Lake Tahoe via Highway 50
• Distance: Approximately 200 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 2-4 days
• Highlights: Crossing the iconic Bay Bridge, Scenic mountain passes, Crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe
• Activities: Hiking and mountain biking, Boating and paddleboarding, Exploring historic gold rush towns

Overview:

The journey from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe is a study in contrasts, taking you from the bustling streets and iconic sights of the city to the serene beauty and peaceful atmosphere of one of the most stunning alpine lakes in the world.

This 200-mile route is the perfect RV road trip for those seeking a blend of urban excitement and natural wonder, with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation along the way.

Journey:

As you set out from San Francisco, you’ll cross the iconic Bay Bridge, taking in the stunning views of the city skyline and the glittering waters of the bay. From there, head east on Highway 50, winding your way through the rolling hills and picturesque valleys of the Sierra Nevada foothills.

Your first stop is the charming town of Placerville, known for its rich history as a hub of the California Gold Rush.

Continue on to the stunning Eldorado National Forest, where towering pines and rugged mountains create a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventure.

As you climb higher into the mountains, you’ll pass through the charming town of South Lake Tahoe, known for its stunning views of the lake and its vibrant nightlife and casino scene.

But the real highlight of this journey is the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe itself. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and towering peaks all around, this alpine lake is truly a sight to behold. Take a scenic drive along the shore, stopping at viewpoints like Emerald Bay and Inspiration Point.

Or get out on the water and experience the beauty of the lake up close. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the hidden coves and sandy beaches, or take a guided boat tour to learn about the history and ecology of the area.

Back on land, there are also countless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor adventures. Take a hike along the famous Tahoe Rim Trail, which circles the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

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8. The Oregon Trail Summer RV Road Trip (Missouri to Oregon)

• Route: Independence, MO to Oregon City, OR
• Distance: Approximately 2,200 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 10-14 days
• Highlights: Follow in pioneer footsteps, Diverse western landscapes, Columbia River Gorge waterfalls
• Activities: Visiting Oregon Trail interpretive sites, Hiking in state and national parks, Exploring historic towns

Overview:

The Oregon Trail is a journey through history, taking you on a 2,200-mile odyssey from the streets of Independence, Missouri to the lush forests and rolling hills of Oregon City.

This iconic route, which was traveled by over 400,000 pioneers in the mid-1800s, offers a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of America’s westward expansion, as well as some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the country.

Journey:

As you set out from Independence on one of the lesser-traveled summer RV road trips, you’ll quickly leave the modern world behind and step back into the days of the pioneers.

Visit the National Frontier Trails Museum to learn about the history and significance of the Oregon Trail, then head west across the rolling prairies of the Great Plains.

Your first major stop is Scotts Bluff National Monument in western Nebraska, where towering rock formations rise from the prairie and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Continue on to Fort Laramie in Wyoming, once a major stop along the Oregon Trail and now a beautifully preserved historic site.

Moving on from there you’ll enter a world of stunning natural beauty, with towering peaks, deep canyons, and rushing rivers. Take a scenic drive through the Sawtooth Mountains, stopping at places like Redfish Lake and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area to take in the incredible views.

In Oregon, the landscape changes once again, with lush forests, rolling hills, and the mighty Columbia River dominating the scenery. Take a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway, stopping at viewpoints like Crown Point and Multnomah Falls.

As you near the end of your journey in Oregon City, be sure to visit the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, which offers a fascinating look at the challenges and triumphs of the pioneers who traveled this route over 170 years ago.

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9. Route 66 Summer RV Road Trip (Chicago to Santa Monica)

• Route: Historic Route 66 from IL to CA
• Distance: Approximately 2,400 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 14+ days
• Highlights: Classic Americana roadside attractions, Diverse landscapes across 8 states, Iconic cities like Chicago, St. Louis, and LA
• Activities: Visiting museums dedicated to Route 66 history, Sampling local diners and drive-ins, Exploring natural wonders like Petrified Forest NP

Overview:

Route 66 is one of the most iconic American Summer RV road trips, a journey through the heart of the nation that has captured the imagination of travelers for generations.

This 2,400-mile odyssey takes you from the busy streets of Chicago to the sunny shores of Santa Monica, passing through 8 states and countless small towns along the way.

Journey:

As you set out from Chicago, you’ll quickly step back in time to the golden age of the American road trip.

Your first major stop is the charming town of Pontiac, Illinois, home to the Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum. Learn about the history and significance of this legendary highway, then continue on to St. Louis, Missouri, to see the iconic Gateway Arch.

As you cross into Kansas, the landscape begins to change, with rolling prairies and wide-open skies stretching out before you. Stop in the charming town of Galena to see the restored service station that inspired the character of Tow Mater in the Pixar movie “Cars”, then continue on to Oklahoma City, where you can learn about the state’s rich cowboy heritage at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

In Texas, the road takes on a distinctly southwestern flavor, with stunning desert landscapes and iconic roadside attractions like the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo. Stop in the town of Shamrock to see the beautifully restored U-Drop Inn, a classic example of Art Deco architecture, then continue on to New Mexico, where you can explore the ancient Native American cliff dwellings of Bandelier National Monument.

As you cross into Arizona, the landscape becomes even more dramatic, with towering red rock formations and vast expanses of desert. Take a detour to the stunning Petrified Forest National Park, where you can hike among the ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands of the Painted Desert.

Continue on to Flagstaff, a charming mountain town that serves as a gateway to the Grand Canyon and other natural wonders of the region.

From there, it’s on to California, where you’ll pass through the Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains before finally reaching the end of the road in Santa Monica.

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10. From Glaciers to Geysers (Glacier to Yellowstone National Park)

• Route: Glacier NP to Yellowstone NP via US-89
• Distance: Approximately 550 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 5-7 days
• Highlights: Stunning alpine scenery in Glacier, Geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, Abundant wildlife
• Activities: Driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Watching Old Faithful erupt, Hiking, biking, fishing, and more

Overview:

The journey from Glacier to Yellowstone is a memorable trip through two of America’s most iconic national parks and one of the best summer RV road trips you can take.

I still remember my trip to Yellowstone, and it was over 10 years ago.

Offering a stunning contrast between the rugged alpine beauty of the Northern Rockies and the otherworldly geothermal wonders of the Yellowstone Plateau.

This Summer RV road trip takes you through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country, with plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Route:

As you set out from Glacier National Park, you’ll be immediately struck by the jaw-dropping beauty of the landscape, with soaring peaks, pristine lakes, and lush valleys carved by ancient glaciers.

Take a scenic drive along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds through the park and offers breathtaking views at every turn, including Logan Pass, the highest point on the road.

As you leave Glacier behind and head south towards Yellowstone, you’ll pass through the charming mountain towns of Montana. Take a detour to the National Bison Range, where you can see these majestic animals roaming freely across the grasslands.

As you cross into Wyoming, the landscape begins to change, with the rugged peaks of the Rockies giving way to the rolling hills and vast expanses of the Yellowstone Plateau. Stop at the stunning Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States.

Then continue on to Old Faithful, the most famous geyser in the world, and watch as it erupts in a spectacular display of natural power.

Before finishing up at the Grand Teton National Park, with its jagged peaks and crystal-clear lakes.

As you make your way back towards civilization, stop at the charming town of Jackson Hole, where you can explore the local galleries and museums or take a scenic float trip down the Snake River.

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11. Jazz to Beach Bliss RV Road Trip (New Orleans to Panama City)

• Route: New Orleans, LA to Panama City, FL
• Distance: Approximately 330 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 3-4 days
• Highlights: Jazz clubs and Creole cuisine in New Orleans, White sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle, Charming coastal towns
• Activities: Airboat tour of the bayous, Relaxing on the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, Exploring nearby state parks and forests

Overview:

The journey from New Orleans to Panama City is a trip through the heart of the Gulf Coast, offering a perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and laid-back beach vibes.

With its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure, this journey, in my opinion, is one of the top Gulf Coast Summer RV road trips you can take.

Route:

As you set out from New Orleans, take some time to explore the city’s iconic neighborhoods and attractions. Stroll through the historic French Quarter, with its colorful buildings, lively street performers, and delicious Creole cuisine.

Take a tour of the famous cemeteries, or explore the many museums and galleries that showcase the city’s rich history and culture.

Head out of the city and into the bayous and swamps of southern Louisiana. Take an exhilarating airboat tour through the wetlands, where you can spot alligators, turtles, and a wide variety of birdlife.

As you cross into Mississippi, stop at the charming coastal town of Bay St. Louis. Stroll through the historic streets, lined with beautiful antebellum homes and live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss.

Continue on to the artsy town of Ocean Springs, known for its vibrant downtown district and thriving arts community.

As you enter Florida, the landscape changes to the flat, sandy expanse of the Gulf Coast. Stop at the stunning beaches of Pensacola, where you can relax on the sugar-white sand or take a dip in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Finally, continue on to Panama City, the ultimate destination for beach lovers and sun seekers, with its 27 miles of pristine white sand beaches and endless opportunities for water sports and outdoor recreation.

Take a stroll along the bustling shores of Panama City Beach, or head to the more secluded stretches of St. Andrews State Park, where you can hike through the dunes and pine forests or kayak through the calm waters of the Gulf.

Plus, don’t forget to visit the famous Shell Island, a 7-mile-long barrier island known for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife.

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12. Florida Keys Scenic Highway (Florida)

• Route: Miami to Key West along the Overseas Highway
• Distance: Approximately 170 miles
• Recommended Amount of Time: 3-4 days
• Highlights: Driving over the famous Seven Mile Bridge, Exploring unique coral islands, Vibrant nightlife, and sunsets in Key West
• Activities: Snorkeling or diving in John Pennekamp State Park, Visiting Ernest Hemingway’s house, Sampling key lime pie

Overview:

One of my favorite Summer RV road trips is the Florida Keys Scenic Highway.

If you plan on taking this road trip though, be prepared for unrelenting heat and humidity during the Summer even with the constant on-shore breeze.

The Florida Keys Scenic Highway is a journey like no other, taking you on a 170-mile trip from the vibrant neon-drenched streets of South Beach in Miami to the laid-back, tropical paradise of Key West.

This iconic route, also known as the Overseas Highway, spans 44 islands and 42 bridges, offering stunning views of turquoise waters, sandy islets, and vibrant coral reefs.

Route:

As you set out from Miami and leave the city behind you’ll enter a world of swaying palm trees, colorful beach houses, and endless blue skies.

Your first stop is Key Largo (think Beach Boys), the largest of the Keys and home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park in the United States. Take a snorkeling or diving trip to explore the park’s vibrant coral reefs or take a glass-bottom boat tour for a unique view of the underwater world without getting wet.

Continue on to Islamorada, known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World”, where you can cast a line for sailfish, marlin, and other prized fish. Then visit the historic Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, home to a pristine hardwood hammock and the remains of a 19th-century homestead.

As you cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge, you’ll feel like you’re driving on water, with stunning views of the turquoise sea stretching out on either side.

Continue on to the quirky, colorful town of Marathon, where you can visit the Turtle Hospital, a rescue and rehabilitation center for injured sea turtles.

As you near the end of your journey in Key West, take some time to explore the historic streets and landmarks of this vibrant, eclectic town.

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous author lived and wrote for more than a decade, and where you can see the descendants of his beloved six-toed cats.

And finally, don’t forget to check out the southernmost point in the continental United States, marked by a colorful concrete buoy.

Additional RV Travel Resources:

• 36 Essential RV Travel Tips Every RVer Needs to Know
• 47 RV Storage Ideas to Maximize Your Space for Compact Living
• 20 Must-Have RV Accessories Under $20