Few travel experiences beat the freedom and beauty of a scenic American road trip. Whether you’re hugging a coastline or winding through mountain passes, the journey becomes even better when you can save money along the way.
This guide highlights five stunning road trip routes, each paired with cashback-friendly stops for gas, food, and attractions—using tools like Fluz and other savings apps to keep your budget intact and your adventure rolling.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia to North Carolina
Distance: 469 miles
Best For: Mountain views, overlooks, and fall foliage
Scenic Highlights:
- Linn Cove Viaduct
- Peaks of Otter
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Savings Stops:
- Fuel Up at Chevron with a Fluz gift card to earn cashback.
- Food Break at Panera Bread in Asheville or Roanoke.
- Attraction: Free entrance along most of the parkway; stop at visitor centers for free maps and exhibits.
2. Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) – California
Distance: ~650 miles
Best For: Coastal cliffs, ocean views, and seaside towns
Scenic Highlights:
- Big Sur
- Bixby Bridge
- San Simeon (Hearst Castle)
Savings Stops:
- Parking with SpotHero in cities like San Francisco or Santa Barbara.
- Coffee Stop at Starbucks with Fluz cashback.
- Quick Lunch at Subway in Monterey or Malibu.
3. Route 66 – Chicago, IL to Santa Monica, CA
Distance: ~2,400 miles
Best For: Americana, quirky attractions, and classic diners
Scenic Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch (TX)
- Petrified Forest National Park (AZ)
- Route 66 Museum (MO)
Savings Stops:
- Fuel Up along the way with Fluz-purchased Chevron cards.
- Attractions like museums often have parking available via Ace Parking in urban centers.
- Stay or Snack at Airbnb and Chipotle to earn cashback.
4. Going-to-the-Sun Road – Glacier National Park, MT
Distance: ~50 miles
Best For: Jaw-dropping alpine landscapes and wildlife spotting
Scenic Highlights:
- Logan Pass
- Lake McDonald
- Weeping Wall
Savings Stops:
- Groceries for picnic supplies from Safeway in nearby Kalispell.
- Lodging at nearby Airbnb cabins or lodges.
- Parking Tip: Use ParkWhiz in Missoula or Glacier International Airport for longer stays, or check Eco Parking for airport parking solutions.
5. Florida Keys Scenic Highway – Key Largo to Key West, FL
Distance: 113 miles
Best For: Ocean bridges, seafood, and tropical vibes
Scenic Highlights:
- Seven Mile Bridge
- Bahia Honda State Park
- Southernmost Point Buoy
Savings Stops:
- Food & Snacks at Panera Bread or Walmart before hitting the Keys.
- Parking in Miami or Key West through Ace Parking.
- Long-Term Storage with ParkEase or SwiftPark near Miami International Airport if flying in or out.
Bonus Tip: Stack Your Rewards
For every stop, combine these strategies to maximize your return:
- Use Fluz to buy gift cards for gas, dining, and attractions.
- Reserve parking ahead with SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or Ace Parking—all Fluz merchants.
- Track loyalty points from hotels and restaurants while using Fluz gift cards.
- Choose secure long-term parking with Eco Parking, ParkEase, or SwiftPark to protect your vehicle and wallet.
These road trips deliver stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences—but with the right planning, they can also deliver big savings. Use apps like Fluz to turn every fuel stop, meal, and overnight stay into an opportunity to earn cashback and rewards.
