The Most Scenic Drives in America – A Masterpiece for the Road Trip Enthusiast
If you’re planning your next great road adventure or simply love the idea of discovering the hidden beauty of North America, The Most Scenic Drives in America by Reader’s Digest is more than a travel guide — it’s a celebration of the open road. This expertly curated collection of 120 stunning road trips offers travelers of all types a practical, beautiful, and inspiring tool to explore some of the most picturesque and memorable routes across the United States and Canada.
Whether you’re an experienced road tripper or a beginner looking for the perfect place to start, this book provides everything you need for a stress-free, unforgettable journey. Let's take a closer look at what makes this guide an essential addition to your travel library.
A Visual and Planning Delight
One of the most immediately impressive aspects of this book is its visual richness. Packed with vibrant full-color photography, each page is designed not only to inform but to inspire. The imagery captures the spirit of the landscapes — from the winding cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway to the fiery autumn hues of Vermont's Route 100. It's the kind of book you’ll want to keep on your coffee table just to flip through and dream.
But this guide isn’t just pretty pictures. It’s also highly functional, offering easy-to-follow itineraries for each of the 120 routes. Each drive comes with a detailed map, estimated mileage, best seasons to visit, and top attractions along the way. This means you can start planning immediately — whether you want a weekend escape or a long-haul cross-country trek.
Organized by Region for Effortless Use
The book is smartly divided into five sections: Western, Rocky Mountain, Central, and Eastern U.S., plus a dedicated section for Canada. This regional layout makes it simple to plan trips based on your location or desired travel direction. Whether you want to explore desert canyons, mountain passes, coastal highways, or pastoral countryside, there’s something here for every taste.
Each section is rich with practical travel information, and the routes are selected to balance natural beauty, cultural significance, and ease of travel. For those new to road-tripping, this structure removes the overwhelm and offers clear paths to exploration. For experienced travelers, it provides fresh ideas and perspectives.
Hidden Gems & “Star Routes” for Deeper Discovery
In addition to the main drives, the book includes a brilliant bonus feature: "Star Routes" — detours and alternate paths that reveal lesser-known scenic byways, cultural landmarks, and unique local experiences. These mini-routes are perfect for curious explorers looking to step off the beaten path and discover the kind of gems that don’t show up on typical tourist maps.
From small-town diners to forgotten lighthouses, from quirky museums to stunning roadside overlooks, these additions bring depth and personality to each journey. They invite readers to slow down, savor the moment, and engage with their surroundings, which aligns perfectly with the growing trend of mindful travel.
A Book for All Types of Travelers
One of the most commendable qualities of this book is its inclusive approach to travel. The itineraries are crafted to suit a wide variety of travelers — whether you’re a family with kids, a solo explorer, or a couple on a romantic getaway, the routes are low-stress and highly rewarding.
You don’t need to be a seasoned navigator or own a camper van to use this guide. Many routes are accessible by car, and travel tips include information on accommodations, seasonal considerations, and roadside services. This makes it an ideal tool for anyone who wants to embrace the freedom of the road without the headaches of over-planning.
A Gateway to Lasting Memories
What makes The Most Scenic Drives in America so much more than a guidebook is its power to inspire long-term memory-making. This book doesn’t just tell you where to go — it encourages you to connect with the journey. Each page feels like an invitation to adventure, reflection, and discovery. It makes you excited not just for the destination, but for the stories you'll create along the way.
The thoughtful mix of cultural tidbits, historical context, and natural wonders makes every trip feel immersive and meaningful. It's a book that respects both the traveler and the land — a perfect balance of utility and storytelling.
Final Verdict
If you’re searching for the ultimate road trip companion, The Most Scenic Drives in America by Reader’s Digest delivers on every front. It’s beautifully made, easy to use, and packed with valuable content that appeals to both planners and dreamers. Whether you're flipping through it for travel ideas or actively mapping your next getaway, this book offers a level of richness and detail rarely found in travel guides.
It’s not just a book — it’s a passport to some of the most spectacular sights North America has to offer.
Highly recommended for any traveler looking to explore the road less traveled — and do so with confidence, inspiration, and joy.