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Themed Road Trips: Unique Routes for Every Type of Traveler

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Themed Road Trips: Unique Routes for Every Type of Traveler

This guide outlines five themed road trips across the United States built around traveler passions rather than standard routes: haunted sites in New Orleans, Savannah, and Colorado; a music history tour through Nashville, Memphis, and Detroit; literary landmarks tied to Mark Twain, Emily Dickinson, and Ernest Hemingway; a quirky Route 66 detour; and a barbecue trail through Kansas City, Texas, and the Carolinas.

Explore USA Editorial Team· August 15, 2025· 1 min read

Themed Road Trips: Unique Routes for Every Type of Traveler

Introduction

Road trips are the ultimate way to explore America, but why stick to the same old routes? Here are some unique themed road trips that will take your adventure to the next level.

1. Haunted America Road Trip

Visit some of the country’s most haunted locations, including New Orleans' ghostly mansions, Savannah’s eerie cemeteries, and the haunted hotels of Colorado.

2. Music History Tour

Follow the sounds of America, from Nashville’s country roots to Memphis’ blues, and all the way to Detroit’s Motown legacy.

3. Literary Landmarks Drive

Visit the homes of famous authors like Mark Twain in Missouri, Emily Dickinson in Massachusetts, and Ernest Hemingway in Key West.

4. Route 66 with a Twist

Drive the legendary Route 66 but focus on the quirkiest roadside attractions, from Cadillac Ranch in Texas to the Wigwam Motel in California.

5. America’s Best BBQ Road Trip

Taste your way through Kansas City, Texas, and the Carolinas, sampling the best BBQ the U.S. has to offer.

Conclusion

Why take a generic road trip when you can turn it into an unforgettable themed adventure? Pick a route that matches your passion and hit the road!

Places in this story

  • New Orleans
  • Savannah
  • Nashville
  • Memphis
  • Detroit
  • Key West
  • Route 66
  • Cadillac Ranch
  • Wigwam Motel
  • Kansas City
  • Deep South
  • American Midwest

Frequently asked questions

What themed road trips does this guide suggest?
The guide outlines five themed routes: a Haunted America trip, a Music History Tour, a Literary Landmarks Drive, a quirky take on Route 66, and an American BBQ road trip. Each is organized around a specific interest, so travelers can pick a route that matches their passion rather than following a generic itinerary.
Where can I go on a haunted road trip in the U.S.?
The Haunted America route highlights some of the country's most haunted locations, including the ghostly mansions of New Orleans, the eerie cemeteries of Savannah, and the haunted hotels of Colorado. These stops let travelers build an entire trip around spooky history and reputedly paranormal sites.
Which cities are on the music history road trip?
The Music History Tour follows American sound through Nashville, the home of country roots; Memphis, known for the blues; and Detroit, the birthplace of the Motown legacy. The route lets travelers trace the evolution of distinct American genres across three influential music cities.
What authors' homes can I visit on the literary route?
The Literary Landmarks Drive visits the homes of famous American authors, including Mark Twain in Missouri, Emily Dickinson in Massachusetts, and Ernest Hemingway in Key West, Florida. It connects readers with the real places tied to writers they admire.
Where should I go for the best BBQ on a road trip?
The America's Best BBQ Road Trip suggests tasting your way through Kansas City, Texas, and the Carolinas. These regions represent distinct barbecue traditions, letting travelers sample different styles and compare some of the best barbecue the United States has to offer along the way.