The Best Spring Road Trips For 2023

Snow was a no-show in many iconic wintery towns across the U.S. this holiday season, with heightening tempts making it the second warmest January on record in places like New York and Illinois. Though the fresh powder and snowfall were occasional at best, it didn’t stop a series of prolonged storms from making their impact on select regions. After months of on and off flurries, flooding, and disruptive weather patterns in the west, many drivers are yearning for a springtime getaway. If the hints of spring have you longing for an adventure, these top spring road trips are sure to warm you up and keep the good times rolling in 2023!

Watch out winter, we’re springing into action…

The winter season can be a stressful time for drivers as they navigate less than ideal road conditions. That is why it also happens to be one of the most important times of the year to implement defensive driving skills into your daily routine. Between icy roads and heavy rainfall, you need to be on high alert at all times. Fortunately, we’re starting to see these conditions slowly start to ease up in heavy hit areas. As March signals the transition period between freezing cold temps and warmer horizons, we’re here to send you off in the right direction.

Take a look at some of the best springtime destinations:

Phoenix to Flagstaff, Arizona

For a region that is known for its sweltering temps during the summer months, spring is the perfect opportunity to explore this clay oasis. Phoenix is the best place to begin your journey thanks to its buzzing food scene, centrality, and enjoyable temperatures around this time of year. Head north where you’ll encounter miles of beautiful scenery and visit towns like Sedona and Flagstaff for the ultimate desert experience.

Travel Tip: The south end of the Grand Canyon sits just 79 miles from Flagstaff, making it the perfect extension to your trip. Springtime is also a shoulder season at the Grand Canyon, meaning fewer crowds and cooler weather.

Miami to Key West, Florida

Florida in general may be known for its sandy beaches and year-round warm weather, however, the Florida Keys are a truly unique experience in itself. Beginning your trip in the cultural hub of Miami, you can quickly make your way to the Overseas Highway, which spans 113 miles and remains the longest overwater road in the world. Before ending your journey at mile marker 0, locals frequently recommend making a pitstop at iconic treasures such as Robbie’s of Islamorada and Alabama Jack’s for a bite to eat.

Travel Tip: Key West has countless entertaining and local hangouts for tourists to visit. That said, one of the most popular attractions involves a tour  of Papa Pilar’s Distillery. There you can learn more about the town’s rich history and connection to Ernest Hemingway.

Grand Teton Nation Park to Yellowstone National Park

After a winter season, there is nothing like getting reconnected with nature. And perhaps one of the best places to find some peace after weeks of hibernating is two of the nation’s greatest national parks. Grand Teton and Yellowstone are less than 100 miles apart. Which means, double the amount of exploration, nature, and wildlife if you’re feeling adventurous. To make the most of this journey, it’s best to give yourself at least a few days to roam around each national park.

Travel Tip: Consider booking your visit in advance for a smooth and stress-free experience. Not to mention, spring is known for lower rates and amazing wildlife viewing.

New Orleans to Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Louisiana’s capital amasses millions of travelers each year for its thriving nightlife, music scene, and exquisite dining. And of course, let’s not forget those mouth-watering beignets! However, just outside the historical center of New Orleans lies the perfect drive-time experience. Visitors can easily venture out on a number of picturesque roadways and take in more of the cultural landscape of this region. From cruising along the Mississippi River to learning more about Louisiana’s history, this spring road trip is an ideal one or two day adventure for friends or family.

Travel Tip: Baton Rouge is the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun and Creole culture. Stop by Parrain’s Seafood or Mansurs on the Boulevard to quench your savory cravings after a day of driving.

San Antonio to Austin, Texas

Springtime in San Antonio is hard to beat. Thousands of travelers visit the area for Fiesta Days each spring, which includes delicious food, parades, flowers and live entertainment. After indulging in the city’s rich gastronomic scene and historical sites, you can head north for a scenic drive to the state capital. Along the way you’ll come across miles and miles of wildflowers and dude ranches as well as the town of Fredericksburg, a place packed with German culture and local wineries.

Travel Tip: Austin offers a lot to see and do. Most notably, a rather lively music scene. Yet for some tranquility in the center of town, take a hike through Zilker Metropolitan Park. There you can take in the best views of downtown Austin.

Overview of the best spring road trips

With spring season in full swing, there is no better time to reacquaint yourself with some of the best sites in the U.S. And what better way to spend time exploring than from the comforts of your passenger seat! Whether you’re up for a weekend or week-long adventure, grab a few passengers and plan a trip to one of these top destinations.

Do you have a favorite springtime destination? Share your travel experience below!