When you picture your perfect road trip, do you see yourself chasing the next great meals, soaking up local history, or discovering the offbeat artistic aspects? Themed road trips are becoming more popular than ever, as they offer a playful way to transform wandering highways into something that’s more focused and passion-driven. Whether you’re craving culinary delights or dream of sunsets in far-flung remote locations, there’s always a themed itinerary waiting for you. Here’s some creative routes to inspire your next journey.
The Culinary Quest
Begin your exploration with a road trip that tickles your taste buds! Chart your course to cities and towns home to renowned eateries like the 2025 award winning steakhouse Mac’s Chophouse, located just outside Atlanta, where you can celebrate classic dishes and an ambiance that excellent restaurants deliver. Of course, don’t forget to book ahead because tables will fill up fast!
A Historic Route Adventure
For history lovers, you should hit the road that takes you back in time to America’s past. Take your time to map out a route that stops at historic railway stations, battlegrounds, or, if none of those take your fancy, the main streets that are preserved in the past. Take the guided tours, or just lose yourself among local museums, because every town has a unique chapter to share. It’s easy to think that so many parts of America are only 60 years old, but really, work on unearthing the forgotten stories that have been etched into old brick and architectural gems that haven’t been replaced by modern homes.
The Outdoor Explorer’s Getaway
Adventure will call to those who love the wild, so plot a route through state and national parks, blending long scenic stretches with short hiking trails, mountain summits, and tranquil lakes. Take a step into solitude and be sure to have some binoculars on hand for birdwatching, and a high-quality tent for when you camp under the stars. We’re all stuck in front of our devices, and the benefits of stepping into nature are abundant and increasingly obvious when we take the opportunity to stop and recharge. That’s not to say it’s boring for those who can’t get off their phones; you can make it as exciting as you want it to be!
The Art Lover’s Trail
You should feed your creative soul and design a tour that takes you among murals, artist collectives, and unique galleries. From urban neighborhoods to rural studios, this theme can take you among the stories and visions of local creators. But for all the culture vultures that don’t like imagery, embrace the other senses, like sound. America’s highways are lined with the sounds of every genre, so sit in on a blues session, go to an outdoor amphitheater, or just let spontaneous live performances lead you along your journey.
Whether you’re seeking inspiration, adventure, or a chance to reconnect, there are many destinations for foodies, music lovers, culture vultures, and everyone in between. If you’re looking for something more than just places to eat, consider turning your road trip into an overarching theme.
