6 of the top road trips in the US and where to stay along the way

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• Although travel might not be within the realm of possibility yet, it's never too early to start daydreaming about where to go to first — even if just for a few days.
• While international trips might not be feasible, there are plenty of great destinations close to home, where the drive is as much of a treat as the destination.
• We've picked top road trips known for scenic views and activities like hiking and cycling where it's fairly easy to practice social distancing. To make an overnight trip of it, we've added top hotel picks, too.

It might not be completely safe to travel just yet — staying in place is still the safest option for now — but that doesn't mean that we can't start imagining what future road trips might look like.

As states begin to reopen and Americans consider summer travel, the best options will be those that are close to home, and accessible by car, as opposed to crowded airports and planes.

While we recently compiled a list of the best getaways across the US located near major cities, sometimes, you just want to hit the road and make the trip as much about the journey, as the ultimate destination. For that reason, we've picked top road trips around the country renowned for scenic activities that are also great for social distancing. Think nature, hiking, and plenty of fresh air.

Best of all, staying close to home helps cut down on costs, and we have plenty of tips on how to save money on your next road trip. From a trip through the quaint towns of the Hudson Valley to a quirky Bavarian-inspired village in Washington, these driveable destinations are all ideal for a day trip, weekend jaunt, or a full vacation. And fear not urban dwellers; if you don't have a car, we spoke to experts on how to best protect yourself in rental cars, where risks related to the novel coronavirus are minimal.

For those looking to make their road trips into long weekends, we've included top hotel picks for each. And if you're wondering if it's safe to stay in a hotel right now, be sure to read our report with expert insight from doctors and specialists. Prefer an Airbnb? So do some of our experts. Here's what you need to know about choosing an Airbnb or a hotel, but rest assured, many hotels have announced sweeping new cleaning policies to their properties, too.

Of course, it's crucial to follow local expert guidance in your communities, and that from the CDC and WHO, which should ultimately lead your travel-making decisions.