Best Places To See Along Your American Road Trip

Back in 2008, when I was in the US on a Work & Travel program, I had this dream of rounding off my summer with a legendary coast-to-coast road trip. I had it all mapped out—hostels, playlists, snack stops... But as it often goes, plans met reality, and the trip never happened. Well, not yet anyway...

 If it had happened back then, these are the places I would've made sure to visit. Fun fact: I did manage to see the Statue of Liberty during my stay, and it was just as iconic as you’d imagine. So here’s a mix of spots I dreamed of seeing, plus a few I actually did. Maybe this list will help you plan your own American adventure—and live out the trip my 22-year-old self never took.

Depending on which route you’re taking, you might not be able to see them all and instead will want to split this into two or three trips. Or, you might be heading out on the road for an extended period, making sure that you can soak up as much as you can within the one expedition. In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at some of the best places that we think everyone should see, so keep reading if you would like to find out more.

Statue Of Liberty (Been there, done that!)

Let’s start with the one I did cross off my bucket list: the Statue of Liberty. I visited Lady Liberty while I was staying in New York, and yep—it was just as impressive in person as it looks in the movies. I highly recommend booking tickets all the way up to the crown (yes, the stairs are brutal, but worth it), because the views of Manhattan? Unreal. It’s touristy, yes. But sometimes things are popular for a reason.

The Freedom Trail, Boston

If you're into history and enjoy a good walk, Boston’s Freedom Trail is a must. This 2.5-mile red-brick path leads you through 16 historically significant sites—including Paul Revere's house, the Old North Church, and even a couple of charming cemeteries (spooky in the best way). It’s basically a walking time machine through America’s revolutionary past. Bonus: Boston itself is full of cute cafes, brownstones, and that classic East Coast charm.

Philadelphia’s Magic: Liberty Bell & Reading Terminal Market 

Philadelphia deserves a spot on any East Coast road trip. Check out the cracked-but-iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence was signed). Then head over to Reading Terminal Market for some of the best food you'll have on your trip—think Amish donuts, Philly cheesesteaks, and fresh pretzels the size of your face. History + snacks = perfect combo.

USS Alabama 

If you're into all things nautical—or just love a good “giant ship you can walk around on” experience—then the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama, needs a spot on your list.

The big star here is of course the battleship USS Alabama, but the park packs a punch with a whole aircraft pavilion, the USS Drum submarine, memorials, and even tanks. It's one of those places you go expecting to spend an hour... and suddenly it’s dinner time and you’re still climbing around turrets. Pro tip: book your tickets in advance so you’re not stuck on the outside looking in.

Bonus for road trippers: it’s located close to several RV parks,, which means you’ve got a cozy place to crash nearby if your ride doubles as your bed.

Mount Rushmore 

You can't talk about an iconic American road trip without mentioning Mount Rushmore. Located in South Dakota (aka, the middle of nowhere but totally worth it), it’s the spot where four of America’s most well-known presidents—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln—are forever carved into stone.

If you’re a history geek or just love dramatic backdrops for your selfies, Mount Rushmore delivers. You can do a self-guided walk, or hop on a tour if you prefer someone else doing the talking while you focus on snacks and taking photos. Either way, check reviews before you book—not all tours are created equal.

San Francisco Cable Cars 

Okay, picture San Francisco. Got it? I’m betting you’re thinking of the Golden Gate Bridge... or maybe a foggy skyline... or (if you're like me) the Full House intro. But don’t forget the city’s iconic cable cars—they’ve been clickety-clacking their way through the streets since 1873.

There are three main routes to choose from, and any of them will give you that movie-scene feeling of zipping up and down steep hills with gorgeous views on all sides. It's part vintage, part thrill ride, and 100% must-do. While you're in town, don't skip the nightlife—whether you're into hopping bars or just vibing in one place with cool locals, San Francisco delivers.

Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, freedom-lover, or just someone with a solid playlist and a tank full of gas, these stops bring something special to your American road trip.

And who knows? Maybe you’ll make it to a few of these places I only dreamed about back in 2008. Just don’t forget to take the trip... even if it’s 15 years late.