Budget-Friendly Road-Trip Routes for Under-21 US Travelers
It’s hard to beat the US for road-trip adventures. The variety of landscapes is staggering, but the obvious routes can get overcrowded. That’s why we think taking the less-travelled paths - where the scenery is still wild and the hotels actually take 18-year-olds - is often more rewarding.
The US is enormous, which makes road trips endlessly appealing. The obvious highways and national parks are tempting, but they’re crowded, overpriced, or sometimes just too polished. For younger travellers looking for adventure (and a bed that actually accepts 18‑year-olds), veering off the beaten path can be far more rewarding.
Oregon: Coastal wilderness
Oregon’s coastline is deceptively quiet. Sure, Cannon Beach is Instagram-famous, but drive a little south or north and you’ll hit wild beaches, towering cliffs, and forested rivers without another tourist in sight.
The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a highlight - rugged coastline, natural bridges, and hidden coves. Wildlife sightings range from seals and seabirds to the occasional black bear in the forests behind the coast. Small towns nearby have motels and inns happy to host under‑21 travellers, and some even throw in surfing lessons or kayak rentals. The combination of sea and forest feels like a real escape from crowded beach towns.
New Mexico: Desert and mountains
New Mexico is one of those states that surprises every visitor. Outside of Santa Fe and Albuquerque, it’s vast and quiet, with desert plains giving way to pine‑covered mountains. The Jemez Mountains offer trails for all levels, volcanic formations, and hot springs that feel like a reward after a day of walking.
The wildlife is diverse: roadrunners, hawks, and even elk in higher elevations. Many smaller towns have boutique motels or hostels that accept guests under 21, making it possible to plan a multi-day trek without worrying about age restrictions. Combine walking with a taste of local culture - Pueblo pueblos, ghost towns, and historic mission churches - and you have something uniquely New Mexican.
Maine: Island hopping
Maine isn’t just about Portland’s foodie scene. The islands along the coast, like Monhegan or Matinicus, are ideal for walking. They’re small, mostly car-free, and loaded with hidden trails along cliffs and forests. Seabirds, puffins, and bald eagles are frequent companions.
You can time your stay to avoid the summer rush. Quaint inns and small lodges on the islands are often willing to take bookings from 18‑year-olds. Inland, the paths meander through blueberry fields, historic lighthouses, and tiny fishing villages, keeping the pace relaxed and the scenery constantly changing.
Underrated destinations
Oregon, New Mexico, and Maine are just a few of the under-the-radar US destinations where walking, exploring, and staying under‑21‑friendly hotels intersect. Other states, from northern Michigan to the Smoky Mountains and coastal Georgia, also offer similar experiences. Take the quieter path, and your encounters with locals will feel genuine, the prices will be kinder, and you won’t have to dodge selfie sticks at every turn.
