Cruisin' Top 5: Romantic Drives in the US

Kendra Sommer
Feb 14, 2017
3 min read

It's Valentine's Day, which means planning a romantic getaway with your sweetheart... and maybe your other sweetheart sitting in the garage. Here are our picks for the Top 5 Romantic Drives in the US.

5. Overseas Highway (Florida)

This beautiful stretch of highway starts at the southern tip of Florida and goes all the way to gorgeous Key West. It’s 113 miles from one end to the other and offers a breathtaking view of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. You can stop at each key along the way to get those perfect couples' beach selfies, then settle down with a margarita or three when you reach the southernmost tip of the US, Key West. Don’t forget to check out Key West’s historic buildings, including the house of Ernest Hemingway!

4. California State Route 1 (California)

Nothing can compare to cruising in a convertible, listening to the soft crash of waves next to you as you twist and turn through America’s Pacific Coast. CA Highway 1 goes by a number of names, including the Pacific Coast Highway, the Cabrillo Highway, and the Coast Highway. The 123 mile stretch takes just five hours to commute, making it a great way to spend a romantic weekend getaway from the city.. Taste some wine in Sonoma County and stop by Big Sur for incredible views of rocky cliffs. You’ll see larger-than-life redwood trees and, if you're lucky, some great wildlife like otters and sea lions.

3. San Juan Skyway (Colorado)

For the more adventurous romantic getaway, plan a trip to explore the 233 mile stretch of road through the San Juan National Forest. This may take a couple days to get through considering all that this scenic route has to offer. Dubbed “The Road To The Sky”, this drive boasts scenic views of the San Juan Mountains, small towns, and ancient Native American pueblo ruins. In addition to driving through the National Forest, you can mountain bike, hike, and even ski! This drive is not to be missed for anyone looking to spend a romantic yet adventurous weekend in the great outdoors!

2. Big Island Belt (Hawaii)

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, or if you’re lucky enough to live there, then take a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii and take a spin around the belt. Hawaii is already one of the most romantic places on earth, but the Big Island Belt offers amazing views of lush jungle and beautiful lava deserts. This route encompasses the entire circumference of the island and is a great way to see everything this beautiful location has to offer. Though this is called the “Big Island”, the entire driving route is a little over 300 miles, making it a perfect and accessible road trip for people looking to experience a gorgeous view of nature. There is never a dull moment in this drive and you’ll dip into valleys and climb as high as 3,000 feet above sea level. But make sure you stop and get plenty of pictures so you can brag to all your friends!

1. Beartooth Highway (Montana/Wyoming)

How can you beat Yellowstone National Park? With its incredible beauty, lush forests, and jaw-dropping waterfalls, it’s no wonder this route is often called “the most scenic drive in America.” Beartooth Highway starts in Red Lodge, Montana and winds through the heartland of America and over a million acres of wilderness. The route is choc-full of wildlife and is the perfect way to spend a few romantic days or even a whole week! You can go at your own pace and there’s no shortage of breathtaking views of mountains and glacial lakes. Get out of the city and treat your significant other to this amazing slice of American beauty.