Top Ten Summer Summer 2023 Destinations to Enjoy on your Motorcycle
From classic roads to legendary rallies, make every mile count
Summer has arrived, fresh tires are on the bike, and it’s time to get outta town! Long weekends and vacation are calling, and there are so many amazing destinations across the United States to visit. While it might be possible to see all of them in one summer, America is a big place and we’ve narrowed down ten top events, roads, and destinations for Summer 2023.
Coming in at number one, of course, is the Sturgis Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. From August 4th-13th this year, this small town is taken over by bikers and motorcyclists of all stripes and from all walks of life. Concerts, camping, rides, and more make this rally one for the books, and with legendary headliners like ZZ Top, REO Speedwagon, and Lynrd Skynrd, it is truly a biker’s paradise. Don’t miss out on riding in the Dakota badlands while visiting, rides like the Spearfish Canyon loop and the Bear Butte loop show of the area’s incredible scenery, and nearby monuments like Mount Rushmore and Devil’s Tower offer memorable photo ops. Looking for more? Check out the rally website here: sturgis.com
Not into crowds and concerts, but still looking to head west and enjoy the expansive, open roads? No sweat: Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway is coming in hot as our number two. As part of the San Juan Skyway Colorado Scenic Byway, legend has it that this stretch of road cost one million dollars per mile to build. With views of mountains and gorges, and dramatic valleys, it’s easy to see why this stretch of road on US 550 between Ouray and Silverton is beloved by Coloradoans and visitors alike.
One of the best things about America is our wide variety of terrain and geography, and while the western mountains and badlands are beautiful, everyone is into something a little different. For those that love the sun and sand of the island life, our number three choice will be a big hit. Starting out in Miami, the overseas highway through the Florida Keys is an incredible ride in both directions! With nine state parks and options for camping along the way, this is a great weekend trip. Time it right, and riders can even enjoy a beautiful sunrise or sunset over the spectacular seven mile bridge. Bring that sunscreen though, there’s no shade on this road.
Another scenic sunset ride on the opposite coast is on the beautiful Highway One through the Big Sur region on California’s coast. Our number four choice is a favorite for motorcycle riders all over the world, and for good reason. The Big Creek bridge is one of a kind, and is recognizable from all kinds of media. Enjoy epic coastal mountain views and beautiful sweeping curves with destinations along the way. Beaches and state parks abound, and California’s wine country is right next door. A quick note however: Portions of Highway one are closed due to rock slides until July 14th, 2023; so best to leave this one for later in the summer season.
More of a Midwest is best type? Our fifth destination on this list won’t disappoint: Located in Southeastern Ohio, US 555, known as the “Triple Nickel,” is regularly touted as “Ohio’s tail of the dragon.” With twisties and sweepers through the Appalachian mountains, this road is not for the faint of heart! Green rolling hills and mountain hollers make this ride unique, and roadside stops keep it interesting. Cabins, hotels and lodges abound, don’t miss out on historic Marrietta on the Ohio river; allegedly one of the most haunted places in the United States.
If only the real thing will do, the Tail of the Dragon is the road for you. Number six on this list, but number one in many hearts, US 129 between Tennessee and North Carolina has a blistering 318 curves in about 11 miles of roadway. WOW! With no intersections or driveways, riders are free to enjoy the road, but do take caution: US 129 is a public roadway, and riders should be aware of other vehicles, both four wheel and two wheel. Visit Deal’s Gap for lodging, see other riders’ mishaps on the tree of shame, and be sure to check the photographer’s website to buy shots of the day’s ride and see the pictures of the day.
Our next pick brings us back to the midwest, to Harley-Davidson’s home state of Wisconsin. Door County is our seventh choice for this summer, and it is not to be missed! Located on a beautiful peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, this area is a hit for motorcyclists and perfect for families. The Door County Coastal Byway covers the best of the county, and runs along both sides of the peninsula for beautiful views of Lake Michigan and Green Bay. At only about three hours away from Milwaukee, Door County is a great addition to a trip to Harley-Davidson’s 120th Anniversary Celebration or any trip to Wisconsin.
There are rallies all over the country, and we mentioned Sturgis above, but what about east coast bikers? Our eighth pick on the list is another legendary rally, this time in New Hampshire. Laconia Motorcycle Week is held during the second week in June, and comes complete with live music, races and competitions, bike shows, demos, and more. Check out scenic riding with other rally attendees, and visit Mount Washington: the highest elevation in the Northeast! There’s even a boat cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee for riders looking for a relaxing break. It’s the 100th anniversary for Laconia Motorcycle Week, so the 2023 rally is not to be missed.
Billed as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway rounds out our list at number 10. Crossing through North Carolina and Virginia, this scenic route includes spectacular riding and great stops like Asheville and Roanoke, historic sites, and more. Don’t miss out on the Wheels through Time motorcycle museum in Maggie Valley, just five miles off the Parkway. Backroads in the area abound for those wanting to get off the beaten path, and options abound for hiking and recreation aside from riding.
While these are just ten destinations, the USA is full of amazing places to visit and wonderful people to meet. Roadside farm stands, diners, and even gas stations can make a trip truly memorable, enjoy the journey and don’t be afraid to get a little bit lost out there. We’ll see you out on the road!
Wherever the road is headed, Harley-Davidson has a bike that will tackle the trip with ease and comfort. Contact us to book a no obligation, free VIP appointment to check out the Harley-Davidson lineup.