<p>Why play a video game when you can drive through one? Guaranteed to get the kids off their screens, the roughly 30-mile ride through <a href="https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm" target="_blank">Badlands National Park</a> transports travelers into an out-of-this-world landscape of twisted canyons, striped rock walls, native grasslands, and fantastic spires.</p>

Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway, Cactus Flat to Wall

Why play a video game when you can drive through one? Guaranteed to get the kids off their screens, the roughly 30-mile ride through Badlands National Park transports travelers into an out-of-this-world landscape of twisted canyons, striped rock walls, native grasslands, and fantastic spires.

Photograph by Stephen St. John, Nat Geo Image Collection

25 Essential Drives for a U.S. Road Trip

As you make your way across mainland America, be sure to look into these worthy roads.

These compelling drives will enhance any road trip across the lower 48 states. Whether you're looking for the best highways for foodies, seeking scenic landscapes, or trying to explore America's most historic roads, a dream drive awaits in each of these states. Explore some of our favorites and create your own memories along the way.

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