Since the first automobiles rolled off the assembly line, American couples have taken to the road in search of the most secluded, scenic spots in the country. However, I think we all know they weren’t there to just enjoy the view.
The make-out spot is a time-honored part of dating culture, immortalized in film, song, and story. From Danny and Sandy’s not-so-happy make-out session at the drive-in, to Jack and Rose’s passionate rendezvous in the cargo hold, we’ve been looking for paradise by the dashboard light for decades.
Maybe it’s the thrill of being intimate in a public place, or maybe we’re just really turned on by the scent of Corinthian leather. One thing is certain: American couples love getting romantic in secluded, scenic spots across the country.
We surveyed 3,000 Americans to find out which locations are the most conducive to a bit of automotive erotica. Based on our findings, we’ve got some recommendations for the ultimate make-out spots in the U.S.
Maui to Florida: Couples Rank Ideal Make-Out Locals
From scenic mountain drives to lakeside lookouts and stunning seaside spots, these 150 places are all great places to take that special someone.
“Planning is everything when it comes to successful dates,” said Amber Brooks, Editor-in-Chief at DatingNews.com. “You can’t just drive to a parking lot and expect your date to swoon! Go find a vista, pack a picnic, put on some tunes, and make a memory together!”
1. Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii
Connecting the towns of Hana and Kauai, the 64.4-mile-long Hana Highway is perfect for stimulating some scenic smooching. Perhaps you and your partner can get lost in each other’s eyes over a cup of Kona coffee in one of the quaint cafes along your route. Or maybe you prefer to indulge in some summer love on one of the island’s many beaches.
Nature lovers can take a dip under a waterfall, or just enjoy the colorful flora of this tropical paradise. Take your time and enjoy every moment of intimacy this island has to offer.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Tennessee
One of America’s favorite national parks, the Great Smoky Mountains are named for the blueish mist that rises from the mountains. So it should come as no surprise that many couples travel here to make a bit of steam of their own if you get my drift.
From beautiful forests, tranquil lakes, and fields of colorful wildflowers, this park’s enthralling atmosphere is sure to spark some romance.
3. Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Meandering up the side of Colorado’s famous Pikes Peak, this 19-mile road has no shortage of smooch-inspiring views. Have a romantic picnic at Crowe Gulch, or try your hand fishing at the Crystal Creek Reservoir.
Couples may want to cuddle up and share spooky stories about the legendary Big Foot that was supposedly seen in the area. No matter what you do, sparks are certain to fly.
4. Lookout Mountain Parkway, Chattanooga, Tennessee
This 93-mile road stretches through Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, and passes by some must-see attractions. You and your lover can see seven states from the famous Rock City Gardens, or bask in the vistas of Nocalula Falls.
Cloudland Canyon State Park is particularly scenic, making it the perfect spot to inspire a bit of romance.
5. Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive is a 105-mile road that winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains. It takes about three hours to complete the drive, depending on weather conditions and how often you stop to pucker up.
They aren’t kidding about the Skyline part either: you’ll feel like you’re driving through heaven itself as you cruise through the tranquil forests and wildflower fields.
6. Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive, Las Vegas, Nevada
Vegas is known for its neon lights, but those looking for a more natural spectacle can find it just outside the city. Red Rock Canyon is the quintessential vision of the American West, with otherworldly rock formations and skies that seem to stretch to infinity.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, Red Rock Canyon is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. When it comes to sparking romance in Vegas, this gorgeous destination is a sure bet.
7. The 17-Mile Drive, Monterey, California
Pebble Beach’s scenic 17-Mile Drive meanders along the Pacific Ocean, passing forests, beaches, and golf courses. This famous highway is home to the Lone Cypress, one of the most photographed trees in the world, and a perfect spot to inspire a bit of intimacy.
Watch the sunset as the waves crash against the rocks, or get cozy as you watch the seals frolic on the shore.
“The California coastline is truly unique, and I’ve actually done this drive many times headed to Monterey Bay,” Amber said. “Because it’s all public property, the beaches tend not to be crowded, even in the summertime, and it’s actually pretty easy to find a section of beach all to yourself.”
8. South Mountain Park, Phoenix, Arizona
Covering more than 16000 acres, South Mountain Park includes three awe-inspiring mountain ranges. The (literal) high-point of the park is Dobbins Lookout, standing at a staggering 2,330 feet tall.
While it’s not quite enough for the Mile High Club, the panoramic views are the perfect backdrop for your romantic encounter..
9. A1A Coastal Highway, Palm Coast, Florida
Stretching along Florida’s Atlantic Coast, the A1A Coastal Highway is the Sunshine State’s most storied road. There’s no shortage of smooch stops along this route, whether you’re watching a rocket launch at Cape Canaveral or roaming the streets of St. Augustine.
While only 72 miles of the A1A are recognized as a scenic byway, the road doesn’t stop being gorgeous as you head south toward the Florida Keys, making it one of the most varied spots on our list.
10. Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, Rangeley, Maine
Following Route 4 and Route 7, this stunning drive goes around Rangeley Lake, passing through tiny towns and towering mountains.
There are various lookout points along the way that are perfect for a kiss with a view, while places like Angel Falls, Coos Canyon, and the Wilhelm Reich Museum offer plenty to see and do along the route.
The complete rankings:
Key Findings:
It comes as no surprise that many of the places on the list of 150 make-out spots are national parks and scenic highways. Whether you’re driving through Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Montana’s Going-to-the-Sun Road, there are bound to be plenty of places to enjoy the views and pucker up.
Alternatively, locations like the Cape Cod National Seashore, and Nevada’s Lake Tahoe Scenic Drive provide romantic settings along the water. With the sun setting over the ocean or rising over a tranquil lake, these destinations are sure to soften any heart.
Other favored locations include iconic mountain landscapes like Colorado’s Pikes Peak Highway and Georgia’s Lookout Mountain, while urban attractions like New York’s Central Park also provide a convenient location to steal some romance away on an ordinarily busy day. You’ll also discover several cultural sites or unusual attractions included in the list, such as Mississippi’s Vicksburg National Military Park, Maryland’s Bengies Drive-In Theatre, and Louisiana’s Avery Island for couples looking to do something different.
Methodology
We conducted an online panel survey of 3,000 respondents based on age, gender, and geography in August 2024. Internal data sources are used to obtain population data sets. We used a two-step process to ensure representativeness through stratified sampling and post-stratification weighting.
