Travel Tips

Tested Hidden Gems: Surprising Road Trip Guides

When the open road calls, the right guide can transform a mere journey into an odyssey. From the sleek, full-color pages of Fodor's Best Road Trips in the USA (which splits its routes into 52 and 50 versions, each a curated collection of adventures) to the Reader's Digest tome that promises 120 spectacular drives, these guides are less about ticking off landmarks and more about unearthing stories beneath the pavement. Some, like The Open Road, focus on quintessential routes-think Route 66 and the Blue Ridge Parkway-with a dash of modern twists, while The Best American Road Trip (part of The Best Vacation Series) leans into the art of the unexpected, spotlighting lesser-known paths that feel like secrets whispered by the landscape.

What sets these apart? Fodor's offers meticulous planning, with detailed itineraries and local insights, while Reader's Digest thrives on vivid, almost poetic descriptions of vistas and tucked-away destinations. The Open Road balances nostalgia with contemporary appeal, blending classic drives with hidden gems that cater to thrill-seekers and contemplative travelers alike. Meanwhile, The Best American Road Trip feels like a personal recommendation, curating routes that promise awe without the overwhelm. Each guide is a lens-some focusing on the grand, others on the subtle, all aiming to steer you toward experiences that resonate beyond the map.

So, which one to choose? If you crave breadth and state-by-state variety, Fodor's might be your compass. For those who savor the quiet majesty of nature, Reader's Digest could be the key. And if you're drawn to the idea of a road trip that feels as much about discovery as it does distance, The Open Road and The Best American Road Trip offer contrasting philosophies. The truth? No single guide holds all the magic. The best ones are the ones that match your desire for adventure, like a well-worn pair of boots-comfortable, purposeful, and ready to explore the unknown.