The Classic Car Bucket List: Top 10 Unique Drives in the Lower 48 with Aviation Stops, Eateries, and Shopping Destinations.
Welcome to the ultimate bucket list for every classic car enthusiast! This isn’t just any list; we’ve added a unique twist by including must-see aviation stops, local eateries, and shopping spots along the way. Buckle up and let’s hit the road!
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
Drive
Experience the breathtaking coastal views as you cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway. For more details, check out this Pacific Coast Highway guide.
Aviation Stop
Don’t miss the Museum of Flying in Santa Monica.
Local Eateries
Stop by Gladstones in Malibu for some fresh seafood.
Shopping
Visit the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia/North Carolina
Drive
Enjoy the winding roads and stunning mountain vistas along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Learn more from the Blue Ridge Parkway Association.
Aviation Stop
Take a detour to the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach.
Local Eateries
Try the local cuisine at Mabry Mill Restaurant.
Shopping
Check out the Woolwine Village for handcrafted goods.
3. Great River Road, Minnesota to Louisiana
Drive
Follow the mighty Mississippi River through ten states. For a comprehensive guide, visit the Experience Mississippi River website.
Aviation Stop
While in Atlanta, make sure to visit the Delta Flight Museum.
Local Eateries
Indulge in some Southern BBQ at 17th Street Barbecue in Illinois.
Shopping
Find unique souvenirs at The French Market in New Orleans.
4. Highway 12, Utah
Drive
Known as the “Journey Through Time Scenic Byway,” this route offers stunning views of Utah’s red rock formations. Learn more from Scenic Byway 12.
Aviation Stop
The Hill Aerospace Museum in Ogden offers a fascinating look into the history of aviation.
Local Eateries
Enjoy a hearty meal at Hell’s Backbone Grill in Boulder.
Shopping
Visit Escalante Canyon Outfitters for outdoor gear.
5. Route 66, Illinois to California
Drive
Take a trip down memory lane on the historic Route 66. For an in-depth guide, visit the Historic 66 website.
Aviation Stop
While in California, the Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino is a must-visit.
Local Eateries
Don’t miss Lou Mitchell’s in Chicago for a classic diner experience.
Shopping
Find vintage treasures at Antique Plaza in Mesa, Arizona.
6. Overseas Highway, Florida
Drive
Experience the unique thrill of island-hopping by car on the Overseas Highway. For more information, check out the Florida Keys Tourism Council.
Aviation Stop
The Naval Air Station Key West Museum offers a deep dive into naval aviation history.
Local Eateries
Try the famous Key Lime Pie at Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe.
Shopping
Visit Mallory Square for a unique shopping experience.
7. Florida Panhandle
Drive
Explore the coastal beauty, white sand beaches, and charming small towns of the Florida Panhandle. For more information, visit Visit Florida.
Aviation Stop
Make sure to visit the USAF Armament Museum near Eglin Air Force Base.
Local Eateries
For a taste of local seafood, stop by Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant in Destin.
Shopping
Visit Silver Sands Premium Outlets for a shopping spree in Miramar Beach.
8. Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi
Drive
Travel through 10,000 years of history on the Natchez Trace Parkway. For more information, visit the National Park Service.
Aviation Stop
Visit the Mississippi Armed Forces Museum at Camp Shelby.
Local Eateries
Enjoy Southern comfort food at Mama Hamil’s in Madison.
Shopping
Explore the Renaissance at Colony Park for upscale shopping.
9. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
Drive
Experience the rugged beauty of Glacier National Park on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. For more information, visit the National Park Service.
Aviation Stop
Check out the Museum of Mountain Flying in Missoula.
Local Eateries
Try the huckleberry pie at Park Cafe in St. Mary.
Shopping
Find unique Montana-made goods at Huckleberry Haven in Kalispell.
10. Highway 101, Oregon
Drive
Discover the scenic beauty of the Oregon coast on Highway 101. For more information, visit Visit The Oregon Coast.
Aviation Stop
Don’t miss the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville.
Local Eateries
Enjoy fresh seafood at Mo’s Seafood & Chowder in Newport.
Shopping
Visit Cannon Beach for unique art and souvenirs.
Conclusion
From the coastal roads of California to the rugged beauty of Montana, this list offers a unique blend of driving pleasure, aviation history, and local experiences. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next road trip and make it unforgettable!
Questions for Engagement
- Have you ever combined your love for classic cars and aviation in a single trip?
- What other unique drives with interesting stops would you recommend?
- How do you plan your road trips to make them memorable?
