If you love the roar of an engine and the feel of wind in your hair, the United States has a few places that let you unleash that need for speed. You don’t have to be a professional racer to enjoy a stretch of road where the limit is high or even non‑existent. Below are the top spots you can add to your road‑trip list.
Bonneville is famous for land‑speed records, and for good reason. The flat, white expanse stretches for miles, giving you a straight, almost endless runway. Bring a well‑tuned car, a spotter, and check the event calendar – many weekends host organized runs where you can test your numbers safely. Remember, the surface can be slick after rain, so timing matters.
The Sun Valley Road Rally isn’t a typical race; it’s a closed‑road experience that lets you push your vehicle on a 3.2‑mile highway segment. Organized by local clubs, the rally runs a few times a year, and you need to register in advance. It’s a chance to feel the power of your car without the usual traffic worries.
Texas adds a twist with its SH 130 toll road. The speed limit here is 85 mph, the highest posted limit in the nation. Driving on SH 130 feels like a gentle sprint – you’re still on a public highway, but the extra speed makes the trip feel shorter. Keep an eye on the posted signs and stay aware of other drivers, especially trucks that may travel slower.
Safety is the backbone of every fast‑driving adventure. Always wear a seatbelt, make sure your car is in good condition, and avoid driving under the influence. Check local regulations before you go; some states require special permits for organized runs.
When planning your trip, combine these high‑speed stops with nearby attractions. In Utah, the nearby Great Salt Lake offers scenic sunsets, while Idaho’s Sun Valley boasts great hiking and ski trails in the summer and winter. Texas’ Hill Country gives you vineyards and live music that can cool you down after a fast stretch.
Fuel cost is another factor. High‑performance driving burns more gasoline, so budget for extra stops at well‑priced stations. Many of the routes have rest areas with cheap fuel, especially off the beaten path.
Travelers love the mix of adrenaline and scenery these spots provide. You get the excitement of speed without needing to fly to an exotic country. Just pack your driver’s license, a good insurance policy, and an appetite for the open road.
Ready to add fast driving to your travel bucket list? Pick a location, check the event schedule, and hit the road. The US offers some of the best legal, safe places to satisfy that need for speed. Happy driving!
If you're like me and have a need for speed, you might be surprised to know there are places in the US where you can drive as fast as you want. The most notable is the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, a famed location for setting land speed records. Another is the Sun Valley Road Rally in Idaho, where you can let loose on a 3.2-mile stretch of highway. Texas also has the SH 130 toll road with an 85 mph speed limit, the highest in the nation. However, remember, safety first!