From the Rocky Mountains to the desert mesas of the Southwest, there’s a lot to see on a road trip through the middle of the U.S. 

Flyover states? We think not. 

Read on to discover the most scenic road trip destinations in Colorado, Texas, and more!

1. Austin, TX

Austin stays true to its reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” with the Austin City Limits and South by Southwest music festivals. But you can visit any time of year and wander down the city streets to hear music, from country to rock. Sip a margarita and sway along while you chow down on one of the city’s famous TexMex tacos or barbeque.

Instagrammable Spot: From “I Love You So Much” to “Hi, How Are You,” Austin’s got no shortage of funky street art murals that come with an Instagram caption built-in. 

2. Houston, TX

They say everything is bigger in Texas. In Houston, the Lone Star State’s biggest city, they take it to heart! This sprawling metropolis has tons to see, eat, and do, from two-stepping at a bonafide honky tonk to pretending you’re an astronaut at the Johnson Space Center, made famous by the Apollo 13 mission. 

Instagrammable Spot: Not to be outdone by Austin, Houston has its own graffiti park, too. Swing by this Midtown destination for your choice of murals to pose in front of. 

3. Boise, ID

Step away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Boise by going for a walk or bike ride along the Boise River Greenbelt. Bonus points if you stop for a selfie on any of the Instagram-famous Greenbelt bridges (Railroad Trestle Bridge is a favorite), or hike up Table Rock. 

Instagrammable Spot: Add some classic glamour to your Instagram feed with a photo in front of the historic Boise Union Pacific Depot.

4. Denver, CO

Denver’s got everything you could want in a big city, from an impressive capitol building and art museums to botanic gardens and a zoo. But since you’ve got a car, why not take a small detour to the outskirts of town and check out the Red Rocks Amphitheatre? This place is always busy, even when there's not a show. You’ll find locals running the stairs or simply chilling out with their friends.

Instagrammable Spot: Larimer Square is a historic district with Victorian buildings made for Instagram backgrounds. Browse the vintage shops and grab a bite to eat. For something a bit more upscale, check out the Brown Palace Hotel.

5. Boulder, CO

Plan your road trip into the city with a drive by the breathtaking views of Flatirons rock formations. You won’t regret it! Then, once you arrive in Boulder, take a rest stop at Rayback Collective. This food truck park has a beer garden and live music.

Instagrammable Spot: More epic views await you at Flagstaff Mountain and Royal Arch Hiking Trail. For the city gals, there’s the art deco Boulder Theater and the fun stores and eateries along Pearl Street Mall.

6. Sedona, AZ

The Grand Canyon gets all the hype, but there’s truly nothing like Sedona. The city boasts over 400 miles of trails, with some winding through the majestic Red Rocks formations and others weaving through lush forests and creeks. This is the place to connect with your spiritual side. After your hike, get on with your New Age self at one of Sedona’s many vortexes and crystal shops.   

Instagrammable Spot: According to BuzzFeed, Sedona is Arizona’s most Instagrammable place! Cathedral Rock is a must-see (for the best shot, pose in front of a reflection pool with Cathedral Rock in the background), but you can also get extra girly on a Pink Jeep Tour.

7. Santa Fe, NM

Located just off Route 66, Santa Fe is a capital city known for its Pueblo architecture and being the inspiration behind much of Georgia O’Keeffe’s Southwestern art. Shop for souvenirs in Santa Fe plaza, with hand-blown glass, Native American jewelry, and Navajo rugs to choose from.

Instagrammable Spot: Ready to incorporate some neon into your Instagram Feed? Check out Meow Wolf, a wild series of interactive art installations.

Psst… since you’re already on Route 66, the travels don’t have to end. Hit the road and keep on driving! We’ve got a list of the best road trip spots on the West Coast for you to see. 

Roam often, stay stylish.