8 Scenic Road Trips to Combine Business with Leisure
Business travel doesn’t have to be all work and no play. In fact, scenic road trips offer the ideal chance to blend productivity with moments of relaxation and discovery. As work-life balance gains more importance, and as bleisure (business + leisure) travel becomes a growing trend, these road trips present the perfect opportunity to unwind without compromising your work obligations. Instead of sticking to the same mundane travel routes, why not explore the most beautiful drives the country has to offer? Let’s take a closer look at eight scenic road trips that let business travelers merge the best of both worlds seamlessly.
1. California’s Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), which runs from San Francisco to Los Angeles, is a route celebrated for its jaw-dropping ocean views and charming coastal towns. While driving along this iconic highway, business travelers can effortlessly combine meetings with moments of peace and inspiration. For example, you could schedule a meeting in Silicon Valley and later take a scenic detour to enjoy the rugged coastline of Big Sur or the vineyards of Santa Barbara.
Key Highlights:
- Big Sur’s rugged coastline
- Santa Cruz’s laid-back vibe
- Santa Barbara’s wine country
Bleisure Tip: Many business travelers in tech hubs use this route to unwind. Companies like Airbnb and Google encourage employees to explore such routes during off-hours, highlighting the value of relaxation to boost productivity.
For more tips on sustainable and mindful business trips, check out 7 Ways to Make Your Business Trip Greener.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia
Often referred to as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles, connecting North Carolina and Virginia. Not only does this route offer spectacular mountain scenery, but it also provides business travelers with the perfect escape from the pressures of work. For instance, professionals traveling between Asheville and Roanoke can take this detour to add a sense of calm and adventure to their trip.
Key Highlights:
- Asheville’s vibrant arts scene
- Hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains
- Shenandoah National Park
Industry Insight: A 2023 report by Travel Leaders Group found that over 60% of business travelers prioritize routes with scenic or recreational value when planning their trips.
If you’re looking for eco-conscious adventure options that complement your bleisure travel goals, consider exploring Eco-Friendly Adventure Destinations.
3. Route 100, Vermont
When traveling to New England for business, Vermont’s Route 100 offers a tranquil and scenic option. Winding through charming villages and rolling hills, this road is particularly enchanting during the fall season when vibrant foliage blankets the landscape.
Key Highlights:
- Woodstock’s historic charm
- Stowe’s ski resorts
- Local farm-to-table dining
Practical Example: A marketing executive attending a conference in Burlington used Route 100 to enjoy a peaceful weekend before returning to the grind. This type of journey exemplifies the growing trend of using scenic detours for personal time during business travel. You can discover why your company’s travel policy should include options like bleisure by reading Why Your Business Travel Policy Should Include Bleisure Options.
4. Great River Road, Mississippi River
Spanning ten states, the Great River Road follows the Mississippi River, offering diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. It’s ideal for business travelers navigating the Midwest.
Key Highlights:
- Memphis’ rich musical heritage
- Davenport’s riverfront attractions
- St. Louis’ iconic Gateway Arch
Future Implications: As remote work becomes more common, trips along the Great River Road could be ideal for digital nomads balancing work and exploration.
5. Highway 1, Maine
Maine’s Highway 1 showcases rugged coastlines, historic lighthouses, and charming fishing villages. For professionals attending meetings in Portland or Bangor, this route offers a picturesque escape.
Key Highlights:
- Acadia National Park
- Boothbay Harbor
- Camden Hills State Park
External Reference: According to Skift, 47% of corporate travelers extend their trips to enjoy destinations like Maine, reinforcing the appeal of combining business with leisure.
6. Historic Route 66, Chicago to Santa Monica
Historic Route 66 is a bucket-list drive that connects key business hubs like Chicago and Los Angeles. Spanning eight states, this iconic highway is filled with nostalgia and adventure, making it a favorite among business travelers.
Key Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch in Texas
- Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona
- Santa Monica Pier
Industry Trend: Travel tech platforms are increasingly offering curated bleisure packages, encouraging travelers to explore iconic routes like Route 66.
7. Overseas Highway, Florida
Connecting Miami to Key West, the Overseas Highway is a 113-mile tropical journey over turquoise waters. For business travelers visiting Miami’s financial district, this route offers a quick and scenic getaway.
Key Highlights:
- Seven Mile Bridge
- Key Largo’s coral reefs
- Key West’s lively nightlife
Bleisure Tip: Professionals attending conferences in Miami often use this route to unwind, turning their trips into a rejuvenating experience.
8. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Located near Portland, the Columbia River Gorge offers a mesmerizing drive filled with waterfalls, hiking trails, and vineyards. Business travelers in the Pacific Northwest will find this route to be a refreshing addition to their travel plans.
Key Highlights:
- Multnomah Falls
- Hood River’s outdoor activities
- Local vineyards
External Reference: A study by the Global Business Travel Association highlights the Pacific Northwest as a top destination for bleisure travel, driven by its natural beauty and accessibility.
Making Scenic Road Trips Work for You
These scenic road trips highlight the growing trend of combining business travel with personal time. Professionals increasingly value travel experiences that allow them to recharge and stay inspired. Companies, too, are recognizing the benefits of bleisure travel, as it enhances employee satisfaction and productivity.
Dyme’s Role in Transforming Travel
At Dyme, we help individuals and businesses make travel more meaningful. By compensating emissions from your trip and supporting renewable energy projects, we ensure your journeys are eco-conscious. Whether it’s a business meeting or a scenic detour, Dyme helps you travel smarter and greener. Learn more about how we’re reshaping travel at Dyme.Earth.
