america road trip with family

The best US road trips for the entire family

Feb 17, 2020 • 6 min read

Ah, the family road trip. A source of endless possibilities, new experiences and family bonding. That being said, let’s not forget about restless children, aching backs and that age-old question: 'are we there yet?'. Throw in a dog and a full bladder and you might be wishing the road led right back to your driveway. If that sounds familiar, don’t despair! The following road trip destinations will prove their worth, having the entire family hanging their heads out the window rather than staring at their screens. Read on!

Lake Placid, New York 

Nestled within the Adirondacks, Lake Placid hosted the last of the small town Olympics back in 1980. Today, the area still attracts world-class athletes for training, but the real attraction is the outdoor beauty. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and dense forest provide a slew of family-friendly activities; from fishing, kayaking, rafting and hiking, to biking and boating. The area was once popular with the power elite who built Great Camps, which were massive hideaways for their friends and family. White Pine Camp is one of the few remaining and is available for family retreats with an abundance of summer camp-like activities that will take you back to your childhood. 

Read more:   Dig into the chilly charms of Lake Placid in the winter

Southern Arizona

If your family has a cowboy/girl at heart, then this is the drive for you! The soul of the Southwest is located in Southern Arizona , where cowboys once roamed and artists still reign. Don’t miss the ol’ west cowboy town of Tombstone with its dusty boots, low-slung six-shooters and a daily re-enactment of the historic OK Corral shootout. Not far from Tombstone is Bisbee, a quirky mining town with an enclave of artists and eccentric charm. 

Ninety miles west is Tubac, a former Spanish presidio with a nearby mission called Tumacacori that dates back to the 17th century. If your kids (or you!) like stranger than strange rock formations, you’ll all love the Chiricahua Mountains where thin spires (called hoodoos) support larger rocks that appear to be balancing on top. Lastly, Southern Arizona is the only place in the U.S. where you’ll find the Organ Pipe Cactus, a large prickly plant that looks like a 6’ tall upside down spider with twenty legs.

Vicksburg, Mississippi

Vicksburg: what southern hospitality and history are made of. Civil War history?  Check.  Stunning National Park? Check. Outstanding Blues music? Double check! 

Highway 61, also known as the Blues Trail, rivals that of Route 66, if not for its historical importance, certainly for its musical significance. This legendary Blues Highway runs right through the heart and soul of Vicksburg, while the Great River Road follows the mighty Mississippi River . Antebellum homes, more music and soulful food also welcome you in Vicksburg.  

Moab has a landscape so awe-inspiring that it is home to two National Parks, and where countless movies, TV shows and commercials have been filmed. Hwy 128, which runs along the Colorado River, is one of the most scenic roads in the country. Activities are boundless, from water sports, hiking & biking, to off-roading through the vast wilderness. Moab is a place that will stir the inner-explorer in you and your kids.

Huntsville, Alabama 

Known as Rocket City, Huntsville will blow you away with its friendly atmosphere and an  abundance of activities that both kids and adults will equally enjoy. The U.S. Space and Rocket Center will delight your inner-astronaut as you look down the 363’ span of a Saturn 5 rocket. The Lowe Mill Arts Center is a former textile mill now providing a backdrop as a cultural complex with myriad artists and performers. A stroll through the historic Twickenham district is a must with its treelined streets and splendid antebellum homes. The epicenter of town is Big Spring Park , an urban oasis providing recreation, annual events, lodging, restaurants and shopping.

Olympic Peninsula

Simply said, this drive is sensory overload! Waterfalls, picturesque shoreline, pristine lakes, mountain views and a dense rainforest await you in the northwesterly part of Washington State . That is, if your kids don’t convince you to veer off to Forks, where the ever-popular Twilight movie franchise was filmed. 

Don’t miss hiking through Sol Duc . Even if it’s raining, the nearly impenetrable forest canopy will keep you dry. Driving along coastal Hwy 112 will take you to the end of the road at Cape Flattery ; the most northwesterly point in the contiguous United States. Sequim is a great home base for exploring the area with some excellent inns and restaurants. While there, don’t miss walking along the Dungeness Spit, a unique phenomenon, and, where you’ll find the famous namesake crabs.

Bozeman, Montana

Nestled within the Gallatin Valley of the western Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is perfectly positioned to explore the splendor of Yellowstone National Park . The area is surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine rivers, rippling waterfalls and open prairies with wildlife moseying through their day. If spotting bald eagles, bison and bighorn sheep doesn't do it for the kids, the guest ranches and lodges that embrace the flair of cowboy life certainly will. And don’t miss the snowcapped peaks, alpine lakes, glaciers and plateaus of the Beartooth Highway ; it's a road tripper’s delight. 

Traverse City, Michigan

Scenic coastal roads, cobalt blue waters, roadside farm stands and Midwestern charm are just a few of the things to experience when road tripping around Traverse City. The Pierce Stocking scenic drive is a 7.4 mile loop through a Maple and Beech forest with massive sand dunes and stunning lake views. Rent some bikes and head down the trails through pumpkin patches, corn mazes, cider houses and orchards. Be sure to make pit stops to enjoy the apple and cherry juice for which the region is famous! 

South Lake Tahoe

The magnificent mountain town of South Lake Tahoe is situated along the banks of a breathtaking body of water that has inspired artists and outdoor enthusiasts for generations. The whole family can take advantage of year-round activities, whether lacing up hiking boots, snapping in snow boots or renting kayaks for a lazy day on the water. If you like your drive with some excitement, the curvy mountain and lakefront roads provide amazement around each bend.

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls was one of the first road trip vacation destinations in the country.  Beyond the impressive display of waterfalls, Niagara has some wonderful nearby road trips. This area will have you sneaking lessons in history into your vacation, all without the little ones knowing it!  There’s no better way to interest young minds in history than Old Fort Niagara , an immersive historical site with exciting reenactments and demonstrations. Don’t pass up the chance to see the Erie Canal, where an engineering marvel connected the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean through a series of locks.  

In this day and age, where young and old eyes are glued to screens of all sizes, a road trip can be the perfect antidote to unplug and rediscover this beautiful and diverse country, not to mention each other.

Mike Shubic is a road trip blogger on MikesRoadTrip.com

You might also like: 16 ways to keep your kids (and wallet) happy on family holidays 7 best US national parks to take your kids Unlikely destinations for an unforgettable family holiday  

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The Family Vacation Guide

15 of the Best Family Road Trips in the US

posted by James Brockbank on November 29, 2021 // last updated on November 29, 2021

Road trips are the perfect opportunity to spend time with family and create lasting memories. While packing up the bags and getting everyone together for the trip may be a hassle, the adventure you find along the way and watching the scenery change around you is an experience you won’t soon forget. 

Experiencing these new places with your family is by far the best part of family road trips as you live the stories you will one day tell years down the road at holiday dinners. 

If your family is an avid road trip family, you may be running out of family road trip ideas. If this is the case, there is no need to worry as we have compiled a list of 15 of the best family road trips in the US.

Branson, Missouri

Vermont fall foliage road trip, grand canyon, bryce canyon, and zion national park, pacific coast highway, highway 7 scenic byway, north shore scenic drive, blue ridge parkway, scenic byway 12, the high road to taos scenic byway, florida keys, saddle road, george park highway, state highway 82, the best road trips in the us for families.

Families all across the United States find happiness in partaking on a road trip adventure. However, inspiration for these road trips can be hard to come across, depending on the time of year and home location. 

Whether your family seeks road trip adventure regularly or you are partaking on your very first family road trip, here are the best road trips in the US for families. 

There is nothing quite like a trip to the good ole midwest. Whether you are a midwest native or as far from the midwest as you can get, a trip to Branson, Missouri, will not disappoint. 

Branson is a year-round destination spot with the best times to visit in the middle of the summer or Christmas. Because Branson is located on Table Rock Lake, like time activities and beautiful lake condos are a draw to the area. 

Once you enjoy a day out in the sun on your boat rental, drive down the Highway 76 Strip to experience what is known as “Little Vegas.” The Strip is bursting at its seams with entertainment opportunities. 

A significant draw to Branson is the Winter Wonderland it transforms to in November and December. If your family needs a vacation destination for Christmas, Branson will not disappoint. Visit The Branson Landing and immerse yourself in Christmas music and a Christmas light show. Or, visit Silver Dollar City to take in the millions of sparkling Christmas lights on display.

One of the best parts about a family road trip to Branson is no matter which direction you come from, the beauty of the Ozark hills allows you to see for miles. The rock formations on both sides of the highway let you experience the area’s true natural beauty before reaching the majestic Table Rock Lake-town.

Route 66 is one of the most well-known family road trips in the United States, stretching from Chicago, IL, to Los Angeles, CA. This 2,448-mile trek is a must for every family. 

The historic route goes through the heart of the midwest. It allows you to mark the states of Illinois , Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas , New Mexico, Arizona , and California off your list of states you’ve visited. 

One of the most beneficial parts of the Route 66 road trip is that you don’t have to travel the whole thing to enjoy what it has to offer. Start on I-44 Springfield, MO, and travel to Carthage, MO, to see a Drive-In movie at 66 Drive-In Theatre .

After your movie and a night’s stay in The Westport Lodge , make your way to Oklahoma City, OK, to check out the American Banjo Museum. Once you have your fill of banjos, stop at Boomarang Diner in OKC before continuing your trip East towards Texas. 

You can’t drive through Amarillo, TX, without stopping at the unique Cadillac Ranch , where you will find ten Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground. These ten Cadillacs represent the succession of the car line, and the cars used were either older or junk cars. We promise your trip on Route 66 will not disappoint!

It’s no secret that Vermont is a premier fall foliage destination. Stowe, Vermont, was named one of the best places in the United States to view the autumn colors. If your family enjoys the beauty of the leaves changing from their green colors to vibrant oranges and reds, a road trip to Vermont in the fall is a must.

Starting in Bennington, VT, travel north through Weston and Killington. After stopping and exploring Killington, continue north and cross over the Winooski River into Middlesex. Once you arrive at Middlesex, stop by Red Hen Baking Co. and enjoy a fresh piece of Apple Pie and a glass of milk. 

If you’re not served a dairy side with your pie, such as milk, cheese, or a big scoop of ice cream, you may have to call the authorities as it is illegal for restaurants to serve apple pie without a “good effort” to serve dairy side in Vermont .

A list of the best family road trips in the US wouldn’t be complete without the Grand Canyon . If natural beauty is the name of the game, the Grand Canyon takes home first place. The stunning views of the canyon, mixed with its surrounding natural beauty, make it one of the most highly sought-after vacation destinations in the world. 

Because there is so much natural beauty surrounding the Grand Canyon, it would be a shame for you to visit the Grand Canyon and not explore the surrounding canyons. That is why this loop of the area is elite. 

Starting in Las Vegas, travel to the south rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. Here you have the opportunity to take in the majesty of the canyon and enjoy the most visited part of the park. After taking in the views and visiting the visitor center, hop back in the car and head towards the north rim, then continue onto Page, AZ, where you can view the canyon’s east side.

From Page, AZ, make your way to Bryce Canyon for a less-visited canyon, but still popular nonetheless. The red clay mixed with the unique rock structures of Bryce Canyon makes it a unique destination you won’t soon forget. 

Once you have your fill of Bryce Canyon, continue onto Zion National Park then, finish your loopback in Vegas. 

Although the Pig Trail is a renowned motorcyclist trail, it is also the perfect family road trip to take in the beauty of the Ozarks. Starting and ending in Fayetteville, the Pig Trail gets its name from the University of Arkansas Razorbacks, which call Fayetteville home. 

Motorcyclists heavily trafficked this trail during Bikes, Blues, and BBQ , an annual bike fest with a BBQ destination in Fayetteville. This festival is typically held on the last weekend of September. 

If a family road trip on the Pig Trail is on your bucket list, you may consider refraining from taking this trip during the festival. Otherwise, you may have issues with bikers attempting to pass your vehicle on the curvy roads, preventing you from enjoying your drive.

Take in the beauty of the Ozarks and the small, historical towns along the way. Make sure you stop by The Farmer’s Table Cafe and eat an authentic Arkansan breakfast. You may also consider stopping in Eureka Springs, comparable to Gatlinburg, TN, and walking the historic downtown area while enjoying the rolling hills.  

If you love the ocean breeze and live for beach vacations, there is no doubt that you’ve heard of the popular Pacific Coast Highway. Running along the Pacific Ocean from Washington to California, the Pacific Coast Highway is full of ocean views, magnificent cliffs, and picturesque towns.

Composed of highway US 101 in Washington and Oregon and California Highway 1 in the Golden State, this 1,675-mile stretch is sure to impress everyone in your family. 

Starting in Olympia, Washington, head south on US 101 and make a stop at Hoh Rainforest . A rainforest in Washington? That’s right! Because of the precipitation the area receives, this area qualifies as a rainforest—the foliage is a sight to see. 

After a small hike through Hoh Rainforest, continue south, stopping at the various beach destinations through Washington and Oregon. One of the more unique beach stops is Devils Punch Bowl, where you will find a unique rock formation in the ocean. 

Once in California, you must drive through the redwood trees in Humboldt Redwoods State Park and stop to take a quick hike. Further south, you will find the Fort Bragg glass beach that is full of sea glass. 

Continuing down the Pacific Coast Highway, you will find numerous stops with fantastic views and unique experiences. You must stop and get some seafood along the way. Even if you don’t prefer seafood, fresh and professionally prepared seafood may change your mind. 

There is a reason Arkansas highways are on this list more than once. The Highway 7 Scenic Byway is known as one of the best drives in America , which totals 290 miles. 

Another popular drive among motorcyclists, this byway begins on the southernmost border of Louisiana and Arkansas in El Dorado, AR. It ends in Diamond City, AR, near the Arkansas and Missouri border. 

This scenic route winds through four of the state’s geographical regions and passes through the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains. The Ouachita Mountains are known for their quartz crystals, while the Ozark Mountains produce winding roads with spectacular views.

While on your scenic tour of Arkansas, be sure and stop in Hot Springs, where you can enjoy the Hot Springs National Park. The national park is known for the naturally warm waters that you can experience along Bathhouse Row . 

It is also imperative that you partake in a true midwestern activity at Ron Coleman Mining in Jessieville. Give your legs a stretch in Jessieville by visiting Ron Coleman Mining, where you can dig for quartz and crystals. Anything you find you are free to take home, which makes for a unique souvenir.

You will also find numerous hiking spots along the way, with some of our favorites in Newton county along the Buffalo National River. Don’t miss out on the beauty the Ozarks have to offer by planning your road trip on Highway Scenic Byway today!

Lake Superior is known for its scenic shoreline and crystal clear waters, which makes the North Shore Scenic Drive one you have to experience. Located in Minnesota, this drive takes you along access points to eight different state parks and through Superior National Forest. 

Make a stop at the 1910 Split Rock Lighthouse , which has become a Minnesota icon through the years. Or, take some time out of your vehicle to visit the commercial fishing museum in Tofte. 

If reading about the area’s history doesn’t strike your interest, stop at the Superior Hiking Trail and go for a short hike to stretch your legs while taking in the surrounding scenery. You can also visit the local golf course, mountain biking park, and ski area to add multiple activities to your quest. 

Don’t forget to stop by the New Scenic Cafe in Duluth, MN, to experience local cuisine like Canadian hot chicken or smoked beets. It’s also a must to stop by Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors, MN, for some Banana Cream Pie. 

It’s nearly impossible to compare the vast difference of the natural scenery from one side of the United States to the other. You have the canyons and desert in the west and the majestic mountains in the east, which offer immaculate views. However, if I had to pick my favorite family road trip destination, it would have to be Blue Ridge Parkway.

Blue Ridge Parkway is located along the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Carolinas and Virginia and offers some of the most spectacular views in the US. Begin your journey on Blue Ridge Parkway at the base of Shenandoah National park in Afton, Virginia, and end in Cherokee, North Carolina , near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Along the way, you will travel through mountain towns like Roanoke, Virginia, and Asheville, North Carolina. In Roanoke , you can shop at the local markets and boutiques along the historic downtown stretch with views of the mountains as the city’s backdrop. 

Continuing along the parkway, you will travel through the quaint little town of Blowing Rock, NC, before finding yourself in Asheville, NC. In Asheville , you will find numerous recreation and nature activity options mixed in with an artistic atmosphere. 

Whether your family is all for getting out and exploring nature or prefers to enjoy the local culture, you are sure to find something that the whole family will enjoy along the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Known as the “All-American Road,” Scenic Byway 12 in Utah is sure to get your kids off their phones and fixated on the scenery out the window. Just over 122 miles, this stretch of road takes you through the desert mountains, where you will see slickrock and how the sun reflects off the red rocks.

This Scenic Byway connects US 89 near Panguitch to SR 24 near Torrey. Stop at the scenic overlook along the route to take in the 9,000-foot view where you can see for miles and take in what the area’s natural beauty has to offer. 

Be sure to stop at the Dixie National Forest, where you can explore the area by food and view various peaks and plateaus, lakes, and valleys. You can also stop along the way at the Capitol Reef National Park, where you will find a stretch of the Waterpocket Fold with multi-colored rock and rolling hills.

The Hogback Area of the byway stretches along a narrow ridge, with both sides of the road dropping drastically. This stretch is one of the more famous parts of the byway, and for good reason.

With so many naturally beautified spots along Scenic Byway 12, it’s tough to pick and choose which ones to stop at and enjoy and which to pass up. While all stops along the way are 100% worth it, one of the more unique stops is the Lower Calf Creek Falls. 

In the middle of the desert, it is refreshing to find a scenic waterfall. While this waterfall does require a hike, it is a must-stop along the byway. You can find the trailhead that takes you to Lower Calf Creek Falls at the Calf Creek Campground . 

Mountains, desert, forests, farms, and Spanish and Indian villages, The High Road to Taos Scenic Byway in New Mexico has it all. A road trip out west is one of the most American road trips you can take as you engulf yourself in the area’s rich history and enjoy the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.

Pack your bags and load the kids; this scenic highway is one we are sure will not disappoint. This byway runs between Santa Fe and Taos and provides mountain views with historic Spanish and Indian villages along the way. 

See local architecture that you don’t see anywhere else as you travel along the byway. Stop at the Iglesia de la Santa Cruz de la Canada, a massive church that has seen continuous use for 250 years. Sharpen your western US history by visiting the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian Arts and the Georgia O’Keefe Museum. 

Don’t forget to try some of the local Spanish cuisines in Taos , such as tamales, enchiladas, chile Rellenos, and posole. 

It is difficult not to enjoy a road trip along the ocean. But what about a road trip on the sea? That’s right, the roadway travel from mainland Florida to the Florida Keys is a road trip you take on the ocean.

The seven-mile bridge that connects keys makes you feel like you’re driving on water. While the bridge that connects the middle keys to the southern keys is seven miles long, the total road trip from Key Largo to Key West is 110-miles and is known as the “Road to Paradise” by locals. 

With a mixture of the blue waters to the tropical scenery, you won’t get tired of looking out the window along this road as you can point out the marine life swimming through the ocean waters or the tropical birds floating in the wind. 

Stop at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to stretch your legs and discover what lives on the ocean floor and how it survives. You will also have the opportunity to learn a history lesson by visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. 

As with any other road trip, you must check out some local cuisines by visiting Mangoes Key West Cuisine in Old Town Key West for some Cuban seafood stew. 

It’s time to get your hula skirts and sunscreen out because we are going to Hawaii . Saddle Road in Hawaii is one of the best family road trips in the United States because it offers pure adventure. 

Saddle Road is named after its geographical location in the valley or “saddle” between the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa Mountains. The technical term for the stretch of road is Hawaii Route 200, but we like Saddle Road better. 

This 54 mile stretch of land gives you the Hawaiian experience as you can view the pastureland of Hawaii while passing by dried lava flows. You will also experience the edge of the rainforest and desert fields. 

You are sure to get an experience like no other on this road trip because who else can say they experienced a rainforest, pastureland, and dried lava on the same road trip?

Don’t forget to get out of the car and stretch your legs along the way by stopping at one of the trailheads or a quaint lunch spot along the highway. 

You may have to rent a vehicle to embark on this road trip, but it is a must for your family road trip bucket list. The George Park Highway is in Alaska and is the road that connects Anchorage and Fairbanks, the two largest cities in the state. 

Running approximately 320 miles, this highway takes you through Alaska’s wild wilderness for an experience you won’t soon forget. Keep a close eye out for wild moose or even bears as you travel the George Park Highway.

You can also take in the magnificent views of Denali , the tallest mountain in North America. But why just look at the mountain? Why not make a pit stop and explore? With over six million acres of untamed land, Denali National Park is a must-stop on your Alaskan road trip. 

Make sure you take the time to stop along the way for a taste of Alaska at Moose-AKa’s , an Eastern European Restaurant and Tavern. At Moose-Aka’s, you will find appetizers such as Schnitzel Fingers and Mekice, which is fry bread with red peppers and cream cheese.

If you think their appetizers sound unique, wait until you see their main menu with stuffed peppers, Moussaka, and varying types of schnitzel. We promise you will fall in love with the Eastern European cuisine Moose-Aka’s has to offer. 

Whether you enjoy experiencing new places for the scenery and adventure, or the delightful food, Alaska has plenty of both to offer along the George Park Highway. 

Colorado is known for its steep mountains and beautiful scenery. That is exactly what you’ll find along Colorado State Highway 82. The highway is engulfed in mountainside scenery that makes you feel finite.

At 12,095 feet above sea level, this 85 mile-long stretch of road is the highest paved road on the Continental Divide in North America and the highest road in Colorado. This means the views from the highway are unmatched, as you can see for miles along the route.

Because this pass is so high above sea level, it is closed in the winter months as winter weather causes driving hazards that shouldn’t be risked.

Stop along the route at one of the many hiking trails to stretch your legs and take in the fresh, crisp air. You may also want to stop by The Twin Lakes Inn Restaurant and enjoy a Tasso Green Chili Omelet for Brunch or a Shrimp Bisque for dinner. 

Family road trips are an excellent way to bring the whole family together to create lasting memories. Whether you plan to travel far from home and take a road trip somewhere you’ve never been before, or if they are to stay close to home and see a different side of your local terrain, there are road trips all across the United States that will not disappoint.

Explore the midwest by hopping on Route 66 and driving through the heart of the US. Or, take a more tropical road trip down south to Hawaii along saddle road or the infamous Pacific Coast Highway in California. If you’re in for more of a western adventure, drive along The Highroad to Taos and enjoy the beauty nature has to offer.

Taking a vacation as a family doesn’t just have to be about the destination; let the road trip to your end destination be the adventure your family seeks. What is your favorite family road trip in the United States?

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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Road Tripping in the USA | The Ultimate Family Road Trip Ideas

As a family travel expert and a dedicated road trip enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share with you the best USA family road trip ideas that promise fun, excitement, and quality time together. Buckle up and get ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime with your loved ones!

Are you ready to transform your family’s next vacation into a thrilling adventure filled with unforgettable moments? Family road trips are more than just vacations; they’re opportunities to bond, explore, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

In order to tick of these Top American Family Road Trips, and enjoy a once in a lifetime family road tripping in America experience, you need to rent a self drive car, and we recommend you to book your Rental Self Drive Car in Texas on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com

1. The Classic American Road Trip

2. disney magic on the road, 3. national park adventure, 4. coastal charms, 5. the wild west adventure, 6. southern comfort, 7. the great lakes getaway, 8. rocky mountain adventure, 9. island hopping in hawaii, 10. new england discovery, 10 best family road trip ideas in the usa.

Start: Anywhere, USA

End: Your Dream Destination

Total Distance Covered: Varies

The classic American road trip is the stuff of legends, offering your family the freedom to shape your adventure. Chart your own course, create your playlist, and hit the open road. Explore iconic landmarks, discover hidden gems, and craft an itinerary that caters to your family’s interests. From Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway, which are some of the Best Road Trips in the World , this adventure is a canvas for your imagination. The open road invites you to make spontaneous stops, share laughter, and revel in the joy of being together.

Start: Your Hometown

End: Orlando, Florida

If your family is enchanted by Disney, then imagine a road trip to the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando . Along the way, you’ll explore thrilling attractions, visit captivating theme parks, and create enchanting memories. These 10 Disney World Tips and Hacks , will further enhance your epic family vacation in Disney World. And why stop at Disney World? Extend the magic by visiting Disneyland in California or Disney resorts in Hawaii for an all-encompassing Disney experience that your family will treasure forever.

Start: Your Choice of National Park

End: Your Choice of National Park

America’s National Parks offer the ultimate playground for family road trips. Whether you’re marvelling at the geysers of Yellowstone , uncovering the ancient history of Mesa Verde , or gazing in awe at the majesty of the Grand Canyon , these treasured landscapes are a living classroom for your family. Hike scenic trails, camp under the starry skies, and dive into the heart of nature while discovering the heritage and beauty of our great nation.

Start: San Francisco, California

End: San Diego, California

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 500 miles

A road trip along California’s captivating coast is nothing short of breathtaking. Savour scenic drives along the iconic Highway 1 , explore charming seaside towns such as Monterey and Santa Barbara , and visit landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and San Diego’s world-renowned zoo. This road trip marries the beauty of nature with family-friendly destinations, promising your family a stunning journey.

Start: Denver, Colorado

End: Rapid City, South Dakota

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 350 miles

Transport your family back to the days of the Wild West on this incredible road trip through the heart of the Rockies. Discover national parks like Rocky Mountain and Badlands, step into the historic town of Deadwood , and gaze upon the grandeur of Mount Rushmore . Exciting outdoor activities, from hiking to wildlife watching, await your family in this thrilling journey through the Old West.

PS – Useful Travel Resources to use while heading to different parts of USA to tick off these Best Family Road Trips in America – 

• Book your Rental Car in USA on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best USA Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
• Book your Accommodation in America on Agoda or Booking.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to anywhere in the USA, to enjoy premium Airport Lounge Access.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free road trip vacation in the United States.

Start: New Orleans, Louisiana

End: Destin, Florida

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 250 miles

Delight in the warmth of the American South with a family road trip along the Gulf Coast . Immerse yourself in the rich culture of New Orleans , unwind on the pristine beaches of Alabama , and savour the fresh seafood of Florida’s Panhandle. This journey weaves together the melodies of jazz, the flavours of southern cuisine, and the tranquility of coastal living, creating an unforgettable experience for your family.

Start: Chicago, Illinois

End: Mackinaw City, Michigan

Unearth the beauty of the Great Lakes region with your family road trip. Delve into the cultural tapestry of Chicago , explore captivating cities such as Milwaukee and Detroit , and bask in the serene landscapes surrounding Lake Michigan . Take ferry rides to enchanting Mackinac Island , where your family will create memories against the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Lakes.

End: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Total Distance Covered: Approximately 600 miles

Experience the majesty of the Rockies and the wonder of Yellowstone on a thrilling family road trip. Explore the mountainous terrain of Colorado , visit the geysers and wildlife of Yellowstone, and engage in outdoor adventures like hiking and rafting. This epic family road trip, which covers some of the Best Places to visit in Colorado , promises a fusion of adventure, nature, and education for your family.

Start: Honolulu, Oahu

End: Hilo, Big Island

Imagine a journey through the tropical paradise of Hawaii , where island-hopping becomes a reality. Explore the unique culture of Oahu , traverse the lush landscapes of Kauai , and witness the volcanic marvels of the Big Island. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, attend enchanting luaus, and give your family the gift of diverse experiences against the stunning backdrop of the Hawaiian Islands.

This 7 Day Oahu – Hawaii Travel Itinerary and 7 Day Kauai Trip Itinerary, will help you plan your Family Road Trip Adventure in Hawaii.

Start: Boston, Massachusetts

End: Bar Harbor, Maine

Immerse your family in the rich history and natural beauty of New England , which is one of the Most Colourful Destinations in the USA . Explore historic sites in Boston , savour the coastal charm of seaside towns, and delight in the fresh seafood of Maine . Lighthouses, scenic coastal drives, and the unique culture of this northeastern region await your family’s discovery. Do the New England Family Road Trip during the falls, and fall in love with the colours of the fall.

These are not just road trips; they are epic family adventures waiting to happen. Whether you choose the classic American road trip, a Disney-themed journey, or an exploration of national parks, these USA family road trips guarantee fun, bonding, and lasting memories.

Pack your bags, chart your course, and hit the open road for the best family road trips that will fill your family with joy, laughter, and a treasure trove of shared experiences. The adventure of a lifetime awaits your family, where the journey is as meaningful as the destination. Road tripping with family is a promise of endless discovery and a celebration of the extraordinary gift of togetherness!

Don’t forget to Pin this USA Travel Bucket List featuring the Top USA Family Road Trip Ideas for an Adventurous Family Vacation.

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10 of the Best U.S. Road Trips for Families

Create memories with your kids on these short but sweet journeys that feature stunning scenery and unique landmarks.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

A road trip is a classic American vacation, but it takes planning to make it great — especially when little ones are involved. To help you plan your family's next journey, we've rounded up some of the best road trips around the United States for families with kids, from single-day jaunts to journeys that can take more than a week. With stops the whole crew will enjoy, these drives are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia

Explore two popular Southern cities on one trip with this short-distance getaway. The drive from Charleston straight to Savannah takes just under two hours, but we'd recommend extending your itinerary over a few days so you can stop to enjoy the outstanding hotels and beaches along the way. You can stay at The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island an hour south of Charleston, or fill up the tank for a beach day at Hilton Head , only an hour farther. Once you've passed through Savannah, drive one more hour south for a stay at The Cloister at Sea Island . This five-star resort is another good option for families, with plenty of swimming, fishing, and nature walks.

San Diego to Los Angeles, California

At around two hours, this drive is easy for parents and just long enough to be exciting for the kids. San Diego, Los Angeles, and the stretches of coast between them are packed with beaches and a plethora of crowd-pleasing attractions. Explore the San Diego Zoo, Legoland California, and Disneyland, about a 30-minute from downtown L.A. in Anaheim.

New York City or Boston to Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Whether you choose to stay in a shingled cottage or beachfront apartment, your kids will fall hard for the Cape . Wellfleet is a particularly great destination for families, reachable in two hours from Boston or five hours from New York City. You'll want to stop in other charming towns along the way, like Falmouth and Chatham, before settling in the sands of the Outer Cape. Once you're there, no trip is complete without a visit to Mac's on the Pier , where you can gaze out at the harbor and feast on whole belly clams. Exploring one of the Cape's kettle ponds, which families often have all to themselves, is also a must, as is checking out the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary , home to five miles of trails and salt marshes.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Beginning in Orange County's Dana Point and reaching north to San Francisco, this popular drive can be completed in under eight hours. But why keep it short? With many major stops — from Los Angeles to Carmel-by-the-Sea — you could make this road trip last for days. Driving northward, head to the top of the Topanga Lookout in Malibu for incredible views of the San Fernando Valley. A few hours north in Santa Ynez wine country, relax with a glass of vino as you plot your visit to Hearst Castle. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the media magnate's vast estate, with its sprawling gardens, Roman-style pool, and extensive art collection.

New York City to Philadelphia to the Poconos

At Woodloch Resort in the Pocono Mountains, you'll feel like you're back at summer camp — in a good way. On and off the property, there's plenty to do, including golf, paintball, fishing, and more. A variety of accommodation options are available, too, perfect for families of any size. Whether or not you're headed to the Woodloch, though, the Poconos are an easy getaway for East Coasters. New York City is about a two-hour drive and Philadelphia is about three hours; the two cities can easily be combined with a Poconos visit for a fun multiday adventure.

Boston, Massachusetts, to Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont, is a great destination in all seasons for families road tripping within New England. Just three hours from Boston, the town offers some of the East Coast's best skiing in wintertime and an abundance of outdoor adventure in summer. On your warm-weather visit, cool off with the kids at the Waterbury Reservoir in Waterbury Center State Park , or enjoy the fresh mountain air with a hiking or biking excursion.

There are few roads as iconic as Route 66 , so why not take your kids on this classic American trip? Whether you embark on the full journey from Chicago to Los Angeles or opt for a smaller section, you're bound to have a memorable time. Little ones will love the route's kitschy roadside attractions (world's biggest ketchup bottle, anyone?), while adults will be wowed by the scenery, from the wide-open spaces of west Texas to the mountains of Santa Fe.

Tucson to the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Take in some of the country's best views on a multiday road trip through Arizona . Start in Tucson and visit Saguaro National Park to see the namesake cacti before heading to Scottsdale. Next up, drive to the stunning, red rock-surrounded town of Sedona. Finally, continue north to Grand Canyon National Park for a couple of days in the great outdoors, reveling in this massive natural wonder.

Rocky Mountain Loop from Denver

If you'd like to swap red rocks for snowy mountaintops, set off on a Colorado road trip through some of the state's incredible national parks and charming small towns. From Denver, head northwest to Boulder and Estes Park, a perfect home base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park . Drive farther into the mountains to check out towns like Glenwood Springs, Telluride, and Durango, all located in the western part of the state. Spend a day at Mesa Verde National Park , home to ancient Native cave dwellings that will fascinate kids and grown-ups alike before turning back east. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Colorado Springs are great stops en route back to Denver.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Beautiful year-round but especially colorful in spring and fall, the Blue Ridge Parkway makes for an excellent family road trip. Connecting Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic mountain and foliage views across the Appalachian landscapes of Virginia and North Carolina. Plus, there are plenty of great hikes for all skill levels and places to camp along the parkway if you want to spend a few nights under the stars.

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15 BEST Family Road Trips in the USA

A family road trip is a classic American holiday, but it takes planning to make it great. Some places are better for road trips, while some are better treated as a single-focus destination. In addition to considering the sights and scenery, you need to factor in things like hotel costs and gas prices.

Planning the best family road trip in USA

How to make a family road trip in the USA a success? Keep the little ones occupied. Watch some great family road trip movies . Make up trivia questions on certain places of interest, when you are passing certain landmarks. Have you already played my National Parks Trivia Game? If not, feel free to leave a comment at the bottom of this article and I will add you to my newsletter subscription send it to you absolutely FREE!

Strive to keep the pit stops kid-friendly. You don’t have to get too “sophisticated or elaborate” at restaurants, but do give children an opportunity to sample – and learn from – the local flavors and culture. We recommend taking them to a location where they can try local things and have them relate to wherever they are.

Finally, be open to new experiences. Word-of-mouth recommendations are great, as are in-the-know tips from your trip advisor.

For more great tips on keeping sanity while road tripping with kids check out A Dozen Tips for Stress Free Travelling with Kids.

When on a trip with the whole family, safety is of high importance. Also, never drive without a license. For a safe drive, follow traffic laws and rules, and never forget what you’ve learned from the DMV written test . For more information, also check out my recent article What Makes a Good Driver .

Why are Family Vacations Important?

Taking a family vacation is not just about having fun. There are some great benefits to family holidays.

The Benefits of Taking Family Vacations:

• Getting away helps you take a break from a high-stress lifestyle.
• You can model successful problem-solving and planning for your kids while on holiday.
• Family vacations give a chance to learn new things.
• Traveling together can create a bond over shared experiences.
• You’ll create family memories that will last for many years.

How Much Does the Average Family Vacation Cost?

The expense of a family vacation varies based on many things. Are you taking a road trip or flying? Are you planning to attend many attractions with entrance fees or planning to do mainly free things? Where are you staying? A five-star hotel will obviously cost more than staying in a budget motel. 

According to American Express, the average cost of family vacation for a family of 4 is $4,580. Travel taxes can “eat” a lot of your travel budget. If you are taking a family road trip, you are, of course, saving money on air travel, which is a huge chunk.

For great ideas on saving money on travel, please, read my article How to Travel Cheap .

How Long Should a Family Holiday Last?

There are a couple of things that will decide how long a family vacation should be. Some studies have suggested that a vacation should be eight days long to capture the full advantages of your time away.

But for some families, you may be limited based on how many vacation days you have from school or work. Hotel and food can also add up quickly, so longer holidays will mean spending more money on the trip.

We typically like to plan our main family vacations for our household to be seven to eight days long, depending on travel time. If we’re flying the majority of the first day, then we might need an additional day to experience the destination.

I will be honest that by day seven, most of us are missing home and somewhat tired. You don’t need to be so busy on vacation that you feel like you need a vacation following your vacation!

Best Family Road Trips in USA

There might be no greater sense of freedom than the one felt while driving on an open road with a full tank of gas. Road trips are a fantastic vacation option for households, as you control every aspect of the trip: the route, space, the time spent in each place, where you are going to stop and when. You’ll save more and see more than you ever thought possible and avoid the hassle that is mixing kids and airplanes. Explore your home state, drive through the Southeast, lay your head in one of the National Parks or explore the whole nation – the possibilities are endless! Here is the list of 15 best family road trips in USA that every family should make.

Best Family Road Trip # 1: Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park is the 2nd most visited park in the USA., with roughly six million visitors annually. The canyon itself is 277 miles long, yet there are 1000 miles of road excursion possibilities that you can explore to understand and see the true beauty of this canyon.

That means that if you would like to take a short road trip or a long one, the Grand Canyon is the best spot to do it. Here is a detailed itinerary for you to make planning super easy: Arizona Road Trip Itinerary Phoenix to Grand Canyon .

Best Family Road Trip #2: Pacific Coast Highway, California

I highly recommend Pacific Coast Highway in California for your family road trip in USA if you could travel on just 1 highway. This road (HW 1 joining in places with U.S. 101) goes north through Oregon and Washington and offers some of the most amazing views you’ll ever see.

The highway follows the Pacific Ocean, so your drive through The Golden State will be much more than only a drive. It is an experience of a lifetime. All of its 656 miles have something fantastic to offer. Here are some top highlights that you should not miss: Big Sur and Redwoods State and National Parks .

Best Family Road Trip #3: Niagara Falls, Ontario/ New York

Are you thinking of a Niagara Falls family road trip? Making your way through New York to the main attraction can in itself be enjoyable. Some stops along the way can make your journey amazing! These always popular attractions include; Cooperstown, Letchworth State Park, and the Erie Canal, among other excellent attractions.

If you want the authentic Niagara Falls Experience, be sure to pack your passport because the most famous view of Niagara Falls is on the Canadian side. In addition, there are lots of hotels, attractions, and restaurants on the Canadian side also!

Once on the Canadian side of the falls, be sure to fit time in to travel on the Niagara Parkway and pay a visit to the famous town of Niagara on the Lake that’s full of shops and other terrific places to visit.

Best Family Road Trip #4: Yosemite National Park, California

The great thing about choosing a road trip to Yosemite National Park is the drive itself is half the fun! There are countless routes that you could take here.

A lot will depend upon whether you want to drive and get to the park, stop in fun places along the way, or even if you want to enjoy beautiful panoramic views across the way.

This is one of the most beautiful national parks I have visited with my family. But please, note that Yosemite goes way beyond the most popular Yosemite Valley. Check out all the driving routes which generally are less crowded than the Valley. But if your heart is set on it, I have a detailed article with a road trip itinerary to the Yosemite Valley .

If you have time add Sequoia National Park to this road trip, which is located about 130 miles South of Yosemite.

Best Family Road Trip #5: Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Want a break from the bright lights of Las Vegas? A road trip to Valley of Fire State Park should be on your itinerary! It is just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, and it’s one of those places you need to go to and take your camera as well. It’s extremely kid-friendly, with plenty of hikes fit for everyone.

The drive through Valley of Fire is easily one of the most breathtaking drives you’ll ever take. The orange, red, clay-colored, and pink sandstone rocks create the most amazing vistas.

You can spot landmarks like The Beehives and Elephant Rock without even getting out of your car – although you want to get out and catch some photos.

Best Family Road Trip #6: Zion National Park, Utah

Zion is very centrally situated, which means it makes a great road trip destination for many! Many people don’t realize this, but it’s just 2 hours outside of Vegas, making it a perfect road trip in the Las Vegas area.

If you’re new to exploring Utah, you will be amazed to learn that this state is home to 5 of the country’s most beautiful National Parks, Zion being the most popular of them.

With its beautiful expansive canyon, amazing hiking opportunities, natural stone arches, and spectacular views, it’s no wonder why.

I have a detailed article for you with more fantastic ideas on top road trips from Las Vegas which also has information in Zion and The Valley of Fire mentioned above.

Best Family Road Trip # 7: Hana Coastline, Hawaii

When you start looking for the best family road trips in the U.S., you will always find the Hana Coastline on the listing. This road trip is taken by tens of thousands of tourists every day and for a good reason.

With 35 winding miles of awe-inspiring views of the coastline, sights of classic Hawaiian farms, and much more, this is a drive that is well worth it!

You can find the information on some of the best Road to Hana highlights and stops in my article Classic Maui Itinerary 6 Days Perfect for Families .

Best Family Road Trip #8: Florida Keys, Florida

Looking for a relaxed family road trip in USA? Then head down Overseas Highway – U.S. 1 to the Florida Keys. This drive is approximately 100-miles each way and lets you drive down the Florida Keys to experience sandy beaches and amazing seafood.

Strategize to make a few stops along the way before you reach Key West, where you’ll find the Southernmost point of the U.S. that’s also just 90 miles to Cuba. Can you believe that?

If you want to explore Florida Keys, definitely check out my article Things to Do in Key Largo with Kids .

Best Family Road Trip #9: Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina

Whether you are looking for a one-day drive or a multi-day experience family road trip in USA, you should think about a Blue Ridge Parkway road trip. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile long road that weaves through Virginia and North Carolina.

The cultural experiences here are like no other and will introduce you to Southern Appalachian history, Cherokee history, and more.

Right off the Blue Ridge Parkway you can also find the most popular National Park in the U.S. – Great Smoky Mountains National Park , which is worth a trip on its own.

Best Family Road Trip #10: Route 66, Illinois to California

I don’t think there is any family road trip more popular than Route 66. This road trip has been very instrumental to pop culture. To do the entire Route 66 road trip, it is stated that you need a solid two weeks, but that does not mean that you can’t enjoy part of Route 66 with less time.

Route 66 begins in Chicago and officially ends at the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles. Despite being removed from the U.S. Highway System in the mid-80s, this road trip route has maintained its popularity.

We explored Route 66 in Arizona and it was an unforgettable experience! Here is our fun video below to give you the taste of it:

 Best Family Road Trip #11: Estes Park, Colorado

Whether Estes Park is the destination, or you happen to be passing through on your way to the Rocky Mountain National Park , this is a must-stop place for a Colorado road trip.

The views seem like they come straight from a postcard or a nature photography book. They are that amazing.

A road trip through Estes Park means you will be treated to amazing mountain views while driving through areas surrounded by sheer granite walls. Another bonus is that this family road trip can easily be enjoyed whatever the time of year!

 Best Family Road Trip #12: Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is a great place for a road trip! From awesome tourist attractions such as Stone Mountain Park (the country’s number 1 attraction), The Jimmy Carter Museum, and much more, you are going to find a lot to do!

Atlanta is also recognized as the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr! The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a must.

If you wish to get away from town for a bit, then add Athens to your family road trip, which has been named” The # 1 College Music Scene in America” by Rolling Stone Magazine. If you’re a music enthusiast, this is a perfect stop on any Atlanta road trip since it is the birthplace of these iconic groups as Widespread Panic, The B-52s, and R.E.M.

For the most unique experience, drive 89 miles to Helen GA where you can experience… Germany! Helen is one of the best Germantowns in the U.S. and is a top highlight on my list of International Experiences in the U.S .

Best Family Road Trip #13: Portland, Oregon

A Pacific Northwest road trip truly is an unforgettable experience you will want to relive over and over. While there is an infinite number of awesome places throughout the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon should be on your family road trip list. From a beautiful botanical garden to an amazing Columbia River Gorge, Portland has it all.

With a couple of additional hours, you can even go to the Oregon Coast or the beautiful high desert region of Central Oregon. Portland is a road trip destination that warrants at least a week so you can get a real feel for the beauty of the country itself!

Best Family Road Trip #14: Door County, Wisconsin

If you’re road tripping with kids, then a road trip through Door County is going to be a hit! Not only will you get treated to a number of the most beautiful scenic drives (especially in the fall), but the attractions along the way make for a wonderful family vacation!

These attractions include such quirky things as Pinkie the Elephant in DeForest, the World’s Largest Six Pack in La Crosse, the Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha, and much more!

I personally adore this Midwest gem, so much so that I creates a stand along guide to best family vacations in Wisconsin .

Best Family Road Trip #15: Portland, Maine

On a Portland, Maine road trip, you’ll be lucky enough to experience the quaint coastal towns, rocky coastline views, delicious lobster rolls, and much more.

Late summer is always a wonderful time to go to, though a road trip like this is wonderful any time of year. Stopping by to see all the gorgeous lighthouses are a must. And autumn is the time to enjoy the fabulous New England fall colors.

In case you have enough time, be sure to drive to Acadia National Park . The drive down there and the beauty of the national park is completely worth it.

Hopefully, this article has given you a couple of ideas, and you can begin planning your family road trip in USA. The goal is to use these destinations above as the main point of your road trip and then add other stops along the way. Take your time, don’t rush, make frequent stops and enjoy everything a road trip has to offer. And then do it again next vacation!

I would like to thank DMV Written Test for their collaboration on this article. They provided lots of useful information on these 15 best family road trips in the USA and especially on those that are still on my family road trips “dream list”.

If you found this information about best family road trips in USA useful, please, share it with others as it may help them with their travel plans. Follow us on Instagram for more great travel content!

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18 All-Time Best American Road Trips To Take Before Your Kids Turn 18

No country in the world does road trips quite as well as the United States.

Seriously, hitting the road is almost a way of life. You’re very unlikely to meet a single person in America who hasn’t made at least a few road trips throughout their life!

Thanks to its incredibly vast size (over 4 million miles of road!), and wide variety in terrain and landscapes, no two United States road trip is ever alike.

From driving through seemingly endless deserts to following the Pacific Coast in search of the best beaches and driving around glaciers, one could easily spend an entire lifetime dedicated to road-tripping the country and never find themselves getting bored!

If you’re currently on the lookout for ideas for your next family road trip but find yourself at a loss when choosing which road to hit next, here’s the ultimate list of fabulous American road trips to truly immerse yourself in the landscapes and flavor of specific regions all over the United States!

18 Best American Road Trips

1. miami to key west overseas highway (highway 1), florida, 2. anchorage to valdez, alaska, 3. pacific coast highway (highway 1), california, 4. utah mighty 5 national parks road trip, utah, 5. new york city to five finger lakes, new york, 6. skyline drive, virginia, 7. trail ridge road, colorado, 8. windward coast scenic drive, oahu, hawaii, 9. olympic peninsula loop, washington state, 10. million dollar highway (san juan skyway), colorado, 11. going-to-the-sun road, montana, 12. historic columbia river scenic highway, oregon, 13. south dakota road trip, 14. historic route 66, 15. great river road, 16. appalachian trail, 17. america’s longest drive (route 20), 18. america’s loneliest road (route 50), more incredible drives from around the world.

As one of the most mesmerizing and classic American road trips, Highway 1 is a must on any traveler’s bucket list.

This route will take you all the way from Miami to the alluring Florida Keys, with a huge portion of the road being set over the sea! A huge part of the highway is made up of bridges connecting the Keys, which allows you to drive over the ocean without having to use a ferry or boat to get to the next island.

Needless to say, the scenery along the way is spectacular no matter where you look. As you go from bustling Miami past Coral Gables, Key Largo, and Islamorada before arriving at your final destination at Key West, you’ll be treated to glorious ocean views and beautiful white sandy beaches.

To top it all off, there are several state parks and tons of historical attractions scattered throughout, making this palm-dotted highway a wonderful way to get the best of all worlds. Seriously, there’s literally something worth seeing or stopping the car for every mile of the way, so make sure you plan at least a few days to complete this American road trip.

A few stops worth adding to your road trip bucket list include the underwater Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Bahia Honda State Park, the Dolphin Research Center, and beautiful Islamorada.

• Find our complete guide to road-tripping Miami to Key West here

Road-tripping from Anchorage to Valdez in Alaska is an experience you won’t soon forget, if ever!

This splendid drive is probably the most overlooked of American road trips, and that’s probably only due to its distance from the continental USA rather than its lack of beauty. Throughout the road trip, you’ll be treated to almost 300 miles of pristine glaciers, towering snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers, and lush valleys, making it an absolute must on your bucket list if exploring the raw wilderness of Alaska sounds like your type of adventure.

As you slowly make your way to Valdez, you’ll be treated to many scenic vistas, ranging from mountains to glaciers. A few stops worth making include the Chugach State Park, the Eklutna Historical Park to see the area’s oldest continuously inhabited Athabaskan settlement, the Matanuska Glacier, and the Dall Sheep Viewing at Sheep Mountain, where you can see large numbers of wild sheep!

A few miles before Valdez, you’ll see the Worthington Glacier Recreational Center . This is one of the few places in Alaska where you can walk on a glacier on your own, so make sure to stop and walk a bit to touch the blue ice!

Valdez is known as Little Switzerland because of its stunning beauty and gorgeous landscapes. Backdropped by the snow-capped Chugach Mountains , this quaint city offers visitors incredible coastlines, tidal water glaciers, interesting museums, and a good variety of restaurants and bars to help you cap off the road trip in an epic way!

It’s hard to beat the Pacific Coast Highway when it comes to incredible coastal scenery.

Boasting spectacular views of the Pacific every mile of the way, this coastal highway is one of the most spectacular American road trips. Even though the route can be extended to the states of Oregon and Washington , this itinerary will take you along the California portion of the drive from San Francisco to San Diego .

Along the way, you’ll be treated to some of the best attractions California has to offer, get to visit several state parks, pass through picturesque seaside towns, and of course, have options aplenty to stop at several beaches!

Even though you could easily complete this road trip in a day or two if you were to barely make any stops, this drive is all about the journey rather than the destination.

This is especially true once you find yourself in the Big Sur area, a 90-mile stretch of the road that starts in the charming seaside town of Carmel-by-the Sea and ends in San Simeon and passes some of the most jaw-dropping natural wonders in the area.

We need an entire blog post to describe every single attraction worth stopping for at Highway 1, but a few favorites to include in your itinerary are the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco , the city of San Jose, the laid-back seaside village Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz and Monterey. Other amazing spots are Hearst Castle and the Danish-style town of Solvang!

• We have a detailed guide here to tackling the Big Sur section of Highway 1 or heading to the north, these are the best stops San Francisco to Seattle

The Utah National Parks Road Trip is one of the best American road trips to complete if raw desert magic is what you’re after.

This road trip is all about exploring all five of Utah’s national parks and a few extra attractions scattered throughout, each of which comes with unique features but is equally beautiful as the last and provides desert adventures in massive doses.

Start out at Zion National Park, where you’ll find jaw-dropping vistas, desert terrain, unique sandstone cliffs, and lots of interesting desert wildlife to observe. Next, make your way to Bryce Canyon National Park , where you’ll find a large collection of striking red hoodoos and tons of trails that will allow you to hike amid a desert landscape that looks almost like it should belong on Mars.

Other fantastic parks on the list are Capitol Reef to feel as though you’re exploring a different planet, Monument Valley for its legacy of Native American and Old West history, and Dead Horse Point State Park to feel as though you’re in a true cowboy setting in the middle of the Moab desert.

From there, Arches National Park is an easy ride (and yes, you’ll find more than 2000 natural arches and rock formations here!)

Last but definitely not least, on this amazing American road trip, there is a stop at Canyonlands National Park , where you’ll find a desert landscape so vast that you could easily spend an entire year exploring and never get to do the same thing twice. Here, you’ll find sweeping canyon views, whacky-looking rock formations that come in all shades of red, and a vast array of hiking trails and adventures for you to explore at your own pace!

• We share here our detailed itinerary for tackling the Utah Mighty 5 + What to do around Moab with kids

Taking you from one of the most iconic cities in the United States into the Finger Lakes region, this beautiful road trip will show you some of the best New York State has to offer beyond the Big Apple.

Set out from the bustle and hustle of New York City and head northwest towards Cayuga, where you can take a little detour at the Cayuga Wine Trail, the oldest running wine trail in the country! There’s more to this trail than *just* wine, so if possible, try taking a couple of days to fully take everything in.

Don’t miss out on seeing the beautiful glass creations at the Corning Museum of Glass – you can even create your own to take back home with you!

Next, drive over to the town of Watkins Glen, where you can explore a quaint village before heading out into nature to chase waterfalls and hike a few trails at Watkins Glen State Park .

The rest of your time will be spent checking out the finger-shaped lakes that gave the region its name, all of which you’ll find spread across the highway. Each of the lakes comes with its own charm; Cayuga is famous for its wine scene, Taughannock Falls, Seneca for scenic hiking, and Keuka Lake for fishing.

No matter which lakes you choose, water sports, relaxation, and fun are always guaranteed!

• Check out this guide to some of the best scenic drives you can take in New York State

The Skyline Drive in Virginia is one of the most cherished American road trips, especially for those looking for a relatively short drive that still provides a ton to see along the way.

Taking you all the way from the busy capital into the heart of the mesmerizing Appalachian Mountains in just over an hour, this drive runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park.

As you move further along the road, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of mountains and the Shenandoah Valley , as well as get plenty of opportunities to park your car and head out for a hike to get closer and personal with the landscape around you.

• We have further suggestions below on how you can extend this drive along the east coast , plus the most stunning scenic drives in Virginia to extend your journey through the state

The Rockies are one of the most strikingly beautiful mountains in the United States, and even though this “road trip” is more of a scenic drive than anything, we still thought it needed to make it to the list due to its unparalleled beauty!

Cutting straight through the Rocky Mountains, the Trail Ridge Road reaches an elevation of over 12,000 feet, which means the top views are absolutely unbelievable.

You’ll want to start your journey at Estes Park, a picturesque mountain town that features incredible hiking trails, great dining, and fine shopping. From here, you’ll start driving upwards all the way to the national park, passing through groves of golden aspen trees, a few trailheads, and glorious vistas all over. Be sure to stay on the lookout for elk, bighorn sheep, and moose, which are easy to spot from the car!

As a tip, this is one of the best American road trips to take for fall foliage , so keep that in mind if you’re still looking for ideas on where to go next fall!

• You’ll find more ideas for epic Colorado mountain drives over here!

Also dubbed “The Gathering Place,” Oahu is one of the main islands in Hawaii and the most populated and visited one of them all.

The Windward Coast Scenic Drive along the eastern coast will take you from lively Honolulu to some of the best laid-back coastal towns and secluded beaches in the North Shore area of the island.

As soon as you start driving the Pali Highway, bustling Honolulu will give way to lush natural landscapes as you begin entering the Koolau Mountain Range. This extreme change in landscape will make you feel almost as though you were teleported into a different time!

As you wind along this lesser-traveled Windward Coast road, you’ll see the ocean turn from a turquoise shade to a deep dark blue as the landscape becomes lusher and greener. With its spectacular panoramic views of the Windward Coast and the Koolau Mountains, Nuuanu Pali Lookout is a great spot to make a quick stop to stretch your legs.

Right across from the island, you’ll find Kualoa Ranch , a privately owned ranch where some scenes of “Jurassic Park” and “Lost” were filmed. Of course, you’ll also want to stop at a few of the many secluded beaches that dot the road, so make sure you dedicate at least a few days to this epic road trip in order to be able to make “serendipitous” stops as you go along!

• We share all our favorite Oahu scenic drives here – also, check out all the best scenic drives in Maui , including the famous Road to Hana !

Imagine seeing a rainforest, snow-capped mountains, a lake, and the Pacific Ocean, all on the same day!

Taking you all around the 3,500 square miles that make up Olympic National Park, this amazing loop will have you wondering your way around one of the most diverse national parks in the entire United States , making it a great short road trip to take if a little variety is what you’re after.

While the list of things to do at Olympic National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is pretty much endless if you’re short on time, we recommend making a stop at Ruby Beach for some beachside fun, hiking the Hoh Rain Forest, and having a picnic at Crescent Lake!

US National Parks With Timed Entry Pass Requirements –…

8 Sensational Scenic Drives in Washington State

Top 10 Things To Do In Moab With Kids

• See our complete road trip itinerary for the Olympic Peninsula here , along with a great selection of Washington scenic drives for those who’d like to delve further into the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest

Featuring some of the finest Rocky Mountain views in Colorado , the San Juan Skyway is one of the most mesmerizing road trips to take in the United States.

The San Juan Skyway begins and ends in the mining town of Durango, where you can ride horses, but also the old gauge railroad, which is still functioning to date! From Durango, head north to Silverston and get ready for a change of scenery as views of the Weminuche Wilderness start taking over.

Stop at Molas Pass and the Dallas Divide before arriving at the town of Telluride, which is a gorgeous mountain locale boasting Victorian-era homes that offer prime skiing during the winter, glorious hiking year-long, and hosts some of the best festivals in the state during the summer months.

• With no shortage of incredible mountain drives, here’s where you’ll find some of the best views in Colorado

As the only road that crosses the entirety of Glacier National Park , Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most incredible US road trips that will have you gawking at melting glaciers, staring at still blue lakes, passing alpine meadows, and getting glorious views of carved valleys and cascading waterfalls.

Also dubbed the “Crown of the Continent,” this Montana road is considered an engineering marvel, especially when you consider it was built without explosive blasts in order to preserve the landscape!

Even though the road is pretty short at just over 50 miles long, opportunities for interesting stops abound on this immensely scenic drive in Montana .

Make sure to pinpoint the following places: Avalanche Creek for dreamy lake views, The Loop for glorious vistas of Heaven’s Peak, the Jackson Glacier Overlook to gawk at the seventh-largest glacier in the park up close, and the Wild Goose Island Overlook to see a tiny island nestled in a lake that feels almost as though it should belong in a storybook!

Top Tip: Going-to-the-Sun Road now requires a timed entry permit in peak months – make sure to apply early if you plan to tackle this drive in summer .

If you’re after the most sensational natural beauty in America, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more enchanting drive than the 80-mile-long Historic Columbia River Scenic Highway (the first road in America specifically built for auto-touring ).

Following the I-84 east from Portland on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge , “The King of Roads” is lined with lush temperate rain forests, mossy canyons, intermittent river views, and most famously, the highest concentration of waterfalls in North America (77, to be precise!)

Not just natural beauty, the Columbia River Highway has some of the most beautiful bridges in the country too. Besides the famous Multnomah Falls, some of the highlights of this drive include Vista House and catching the sunset at Crown Point, Bridal Veil Falls, hiking the Eagle Creek Trail, Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint, Columbia River Gorge Discovery Center in The Dalles, and the Dalles Lock and Dam .

Oh, and don’t forget the numerous wineries and microbreweries that dot the area too. This is natural and man-made beauty combined at its best in the Pacific North West .

Top Tip: During the peak summer season, permits may be required for Multnomah Falls and the Waterfall Corridor. Check here if timed permits are required .

• Find all our favorite scenic drives in Oregon – the spectacular Oregon Coast was very unlucky not to get our top billing in this list!

South Dakota is a vast state full of natural wonders and heritage. The population is small, and the terrain wide, making it a dreamy destination for an outdoor-focused American road trip.

Begin at Sioux Falls, the largest city in the state and a great base point for visiting Falls Park to check out the waterfalls that dwell within. Upon your return to the city, you can stroll along the Big Sioux Riverwalk all the way to the downtown area, where you can sit at a few restaurants that overlook the river, check out a few local shops, or count how many wall murals you can find!

The next day will be all about exploring Badlands National Park and the varied terrain it covers. Here, you’ll get to see colorful buttes and pinnacles and suddenly blend into the largest mixed-grass prairie in the United States. Prairie Dog Town is a cute spot on the western end of the park, home to prairie dogs eager to be cuddled!

After exploring Badlands National Park’s vastness, continue to Rapid City, where you’ll find plenty of lodging and dining options -undoubtedly one of the best family vacation spots in the Midwest . If you want to sightsee a bit, you can complete the City of Presidents Walk , which passes by life-size bronze statues of former U.S. Presidents.

The last stop on this Midwest road trip is Black Hills National Forest, which boasts a seemingly black mountain range, many hiking trails, and iconic attractions like Mount Rushmore and the famous Presidents’ heads carved in the stone walls!

These next few American road trip suggestions are much longer! Crossing state borders are some of the USA’s longest and most iconic drives; you’ll want to try at least one of these in your lifetime!

No road speaks louder about classic American road trips than the famous Route 66 , especially if you’re keen to feel as though you traveled back in time to old America.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, this road trip has nostalgic Americana written all over it. Back in the day, this USA road trip was a favorite for families and friends to venture the road to see the West Coast, and even though the route is not as popular anymore, it remains a dream to complete for many!

Although some parts of Route 66 have been overrun by freeways, large parts of it are still used, and citizens who live in the towns along the way have made huge efforts to revive it. Route 66 is all about nostalgia, resilience, quirky highlights, and fantastic scenery.

Iconic stops along the route are the Gemini Giant, Route History, the Gateway Arch, Meramec Caverns, the giant Blue Whale, Pops Diner, The Leaning Tower of Texas, Cadillac Ranch, the Santa Rosas’s Blue Hole, Meteor Crater, Petrified Forest National Park, Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, and the Mc Donald’s Museum.

If this list seems long, trust me, the real one is a lot longer, so make sure you plan for plenty of time to make the most out of Route 66!

They don’t come much mightier in America than the Great River Road , following the Mississippi River through 10 states. From the headwaters at Lake Itasca in Minnesota all the way through to the mouth in the Gulf of Mexico, the GRR is a wonderful showcase of the best the Midwest has to offer.

Far more than just flat farmland, there are dozens of interesting stops and side turns you can make on this 3,000-mile-long route. Some unmissable stops include the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, the picturesque town of Dubuque in Iowa (baseball fans will want a side stop to Field of Dreams), and Gateway City, St Louis.

Heading further south, Memphis is a must-stop, along with the National Civil Rights Museum and Graceland, followed by the Mississippi River State Park in Arkansas and the old port town of Helena. New Orleans is, without a doubt, the crowing highlight of the GRR before reaching the Gulf of Mexico.

Top Tip: The official GRR route is about 50% longer than taking the Interstate; You may choose to mix and match the original route – marked with a green steamboat wheel on road signs – with the Interstate to save some time.

If you’re not big into hiking but still dream of following the Appalachian Trail, fear not; there is a road trip version you can take that shadows the 2,100-mile route all the way from New England to the Deep South.

This epic scenic drive will take you through 14 states. You’ll witness some of the most contrasting landscapes on the east coast of the USA . Fascinating and wealthy historical towns give way to former mill towns, mountains to plains.

Your route starts in Maine and takes you through the incredible peaks of the White Mountains and New Hampshire’s Presidential Range – taking the Kancamagus Highway , NH is a must!

The journey continues through Vermont’s Green Mountains and the Berkshires before descending through Connecticut and New York ( unmissable in the Fall !).

In New Jersey , you’ll cross the mountainous ski town of Vernon Valley and the immensely scenic Kittatinny Ridge of Pennsylvania before crossing Pennsylvania Dutch Country .

The Appalachian Trail drive will briefly take you through Maryland and West Virginia before you commence the Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park. You can even take on the 11-mile stretch through Tennessee and North Carolina is known as the Tail of the Dragon ( motion sickness sufferers may want to seek an alternate route! )

This epic east coast drive concludes in Georgia – Springer Mountain, to be precise; we’d also add a stop at Tallulah Falls to complete your itinerary.

Fancy heading coast to coast? America’s Longest Drive (Route 20) takes you more than 3,300 miles from Boston to Newport, Oregon, traversing the country in an almost straight line through megacities and small towns.

Highlights along the route, often nicknamed “Big Daddy,” include the Baseball Hall of Fame , driving through Chicago, checking into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland and the kids will definitely want a day at Cedar Point Amusement Park.

The journey continues westward with incredible nature and history stops to work into your itinerary, including Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historic Park , Yellowstone National Park, Craters of the Moon National Monument, and Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. Your journey through Oregon isn’t complete without a stop at Bend on the Deschutes River and finishing your journey on the incredibly picturesque Oregon Coast.

If you’ve got plenty of time to spend and want a true taste of North America, this is the most spectacular drive to take with your family for “the Great American Road Trip.”

• Check out our complete guide to road tripping coast to coast, New York to California
• We detail all the fascinating stops from Yellowstone and through Oregon here

Whilst many of the American road trip routes we’ve described here are famous for their unbridled beauty, there’s something truly unique and fitting about finishing our listing of the best road trips in the USA with U.S. Route 50.

This major east-west highway takes you from Ocean City, Maryland, across the country to West Sacramento, California. Over 3,000 miles long, you’ll traverse some of the most rural parts of America, including the 287-mile stretch between Ely and Fernley, Nevada , dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America” by Life magazine in 1986.

The moniker has certain stuck, and the Nevadian take pride in this claim to fame. If your family loves a challenge, pick up an “ Official Highway 50 Survival Guide ” and get it stamped at every town you pass!

Other awesome stops along the entirety of Route 50 include Washington DC, Kansas City, the Million Dollar Highway in Colorado, Moab, Utah (add in the Utah Mighty 5 we describe above!), and crossing the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Whilst you could plow straight through and complete the cross-country drive in under a week, it would take months to properly explore; we recommend at least three weeks for this ultimate American road trip!

America’s Best Road Trips

We hope this list of the best American road trips inspired you to pick a place and hit the road. Even though listing every road trip worth driving in the United States would be an impossible feat (seriously, there are so many of them!), these are a few great ones to start exploring the country!

Why not set yourself the goal to try one of these per year until your child turns 18?

Each of these drives is so vastly different from the next that choosing one is a pretty hard task, so we’d love to know which one sparked your interest the most and why!

If you’ve completed many of these epic driving routes in the USA and are now scouting for your next adventure, you may also be interested in

• The Most Beautiful Roads in the World You Need to Drive
• Plan Your Road trip Through the Canadian Rockies
• Top 10 Best Scenic Drives in Canada

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The 25 best road trips in the usa.

 If you’re looking for the best road trips in the USA, look no further! These great road trips will have you driving for the rest of your life.

This post was written in partnership and paid for by Hum by Verizon . All opinions are my own.

There’s probably nothing more American than packing up your car and hitting the open road with family or friends, some good snacks, and great tunes… and for good reason. With more than 3.7 million square miles to discover and 4,071,000 miles of road , the United States has so many hidden gems accessible by car.

Although I’ve got about 194 countries on my bucket list right now, I’m grateful to live in the great US of A and think it’s one of the most amazing countries to explore from the road. There are so many fun road trips that you can take all over the country!

Here's a Short Cut

The Best USA Road Trip Safety Tips

Get ready for the best road trips in the usa, 1. pacific coast highway, 2. park loop acadia national park, 3. washington-oregon coast, 4. great river road, 5. big island loop road, 6. musical road usa trip, 7. northern national parks road trip, 8. southwest national parks road trip, 9. hana highway road trip, 10. new york city to finger lakes, 11. williamsburg, va to charlottesville, va to washington d.c., 12. miami to the overseas highway to key west, fl: 160 miles from miami, 13. the grand canyon to las vegas, 14. black hills of south dakota, 15. maine lobster trail, 16. blue ridge parkway, 17. grand teton national park to glacier national park, 18. outer banks scenic byway, 19. olympic peninsula, 20. route 66, 21. alaska highway, 22. ultimate florida road trip, 23. the great american road trip – cross country on the i-90, 24. anchorage to seward, 25. canada to mexico.

If you’re planning to take a road trip this year, I’ve compiled the best American road trip routes in the country.  These are 25 of the best road trips in the USA that everyone should take in their lifetime. We’ve been lucky enough to drive almost every inch of this country and there is some beautiful land to see out there.

Before you leave on any road trip, be sure your car is road trip ready.  If you’re traveling the US by car, it’s important to know how to prepare.

Prepare Your Car for the Best Road Trips in the USA

Before heading out on your USA road trip, be sure your car has been serviced, and everything is working properly. When you road trip around the US, anything could go wrong! It’s best to be prepared.

Use Hum by Verizon  to Prepare for Road Trip Vacations I’ve talked about my love of Hum by Verizon before, but it’s because I love my HumX and think anyone taking a road trip should have one!

Hum by Verizon is campaigning to make the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 Safer Days of Summer.” During these 100 Days, you can find helpful tips for safer driving on their Facebook page.

According to a study from Hum by Verizon and Wakefield Research that surveyed 1,000 U.S. adult drivers ages 20 and older, 80% of participants think that drivers are more likely to speed during the summer months. The survey also found that 61% of millennial drivers struggle to focus while driving during the summer, and one in five drivers have received at least one speeding ticket within the past five years.

Hum by Verizon wants to change that, by helping us practice important road safety with “100 Safer Days of Summer.”

With so many great summer road trip destinations around the country, and so many more Americans traveling these days, safety has never been more important! The best summer trips are safe summer trips!

We use HumX in our car. HumX is a little device that is easily installed in your car and takes the guesswork out of driving by using connected car technology. It allows you to have quick access to emergency services and loved ones while on a road trip, or any time on the road.

If you have an accident or emergency, HumX can send assistance to help you get back on the road.

Hum X car also runs diagnostics on your vehicle to make sure that things are running smoothly so you can take these cool road trips worry-free.

I love that HumX helps you keep track of general maintenance like oil changes and tire rotation, and you can set up alerts to remind you when it’s time for service.

All the Hum by Verizon services can be accessed on your smartphone from the Hum App which you can find in the App Store or Google Play . HumX also comes with a Bluetooth speaker that clips to your visor. This will give you access to roadside assistance with the touch of a button and can also be used as a speaker for your phone and be connected to your contacts.

I’m also really excited to have this service when my kids start driving, which is only in 3 more years (HELP)! It provides a safety score, boundary alerts, and records speed, so you can monitor your teen’s driving.

You can also track your fuel and mileage using HumX, which is great if you’re taking road trips that are for work and need to track mileage for expenses or tax purposes.

To prepare for your American road trip of choice, be sure to follow these tips that I’ve shared in How to Plan a Road Trip . If you don’t know what to do on a road trip, these tips will help you prepare and also help you have the best time! Learn a lot and have fun along the way while you road trip USA style!

25 Best Road Trips in the USA

● Begin: San Francisco, California ● End: San Diego, California ● Distance: 655 miles ● Drive Time: 12 Hours

California is one of the best places to road trip in the USA! Its size and diversity provide so many options and the Pacific Coast Highway is just one. This iconic highway along the California coast covers 655 miles of awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, stretching from San Francisco to San Diego. See classic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Bixby Creek Bridge along the way. The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best summer road trips in the world!

Read more about our detailed West Coast Road Trip.

● Begin: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● End: Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Acadia National Park, Maine ● Distance: 27 miles ● Drive Time: 2 hours This is one of the best east coast road trips I’ve ever taken. This is a quick road trip but packed full of stunning views as you drive along the Park Loop in Acadia National Park. Forests, mountains, and rocky shores greet you on your drive along with plenty of wildlife. Be sure to spend some time in beautiful Bar Harbor, Maine , the town where you can base your Acadia trip from. All good road trips include some amazing scenery, and this one is no exception!

If you’re looking for a great guide to the park, check out this Acadia National Park Guide.

● Start: San Juan Islands ● End: Brookings, Oregon ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 15 hours

The Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to go on a road trip due to its geographical diversity and stunning scenery. One of the most dramatic coastlines in the world, the Pacific Northwest offers rocky beaches, turbulent waters, thick forests, and great food. Begin in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington and continue down to the southern tip of Oregon for one of the best road trips in the USA.

● Starting point: Minnesota ● Ending point: Louisiana ● Distance: 3,000 miles ● Drive Time: 20 hours Follow along the mighty Mississippi River from its beginning in Minnesota, all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. This route is called the Great River Road and it cuts 3,000 miles down the center of our great nation, passing through 10 states, where you’ll see St. Louis, Memphis, New Orleans, and everything in between. This United States road trip is one of my all-time favorites as it explores some lesser-known destinations in the “fly over” states!

● Starting point: Kailua-Kona, Hawaii ● Ending point: Mauna Kea, Hawaii ● Distance: 300 miles ● Drive Time: 7 hours The Island Loop Road of the Big Island of Hawaii offers scenic views of beaches, mountains, lava fields, active volcanos, black sand beaches, and heated swimming pools. This may be the most diversity in landscape you’ll ever see in one day.

● Begin: Nashville, Tennessee ● End: New Orleans, Louisiana ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 9 hours If you’re a music fan, then Route 61 (also known as the Blues Highway) will be a perfect road trip for you, giving you the chance to hear live music, visit Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, and see famous recording studios. Finish in New Orleans, where you’ll hear live jazz on the streets nightly!

If you want to continue on farther, you can do this amazing gulf coast road trip !

● Begin: Jackson, Wyoming ● End: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming ● Distance: 70 miles ● Drive Time: 1.5 hours National Parks make for the best road trip destinations. Explore both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park with this road trip full of stunning mountainous scenery! It’s the perfect summer road trip.

● Begin: Grand Canyon National Park (North Rim), Arizona ● End: Moab, Utah (one of the most amazing things to do in Utah !) ● Distance: 600 miles ● Drive Time: 11 hours This nature-packed road trip will allow you to see five stunning Utah national parks including the Grand Canyon, Zions’, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, and Arches. This is a great Utah road trip itinerary if you’re interested in exploring even more of this beautiful state.

Check out this Utah Road Trip Itinerary

● Begin: Kahului, Hawaii ● End: Hana, Hawaii ● Distance: 52 miles ● Drive Time: 2.5 hours This is possibly the most popular road trip in all of the Hawaiian Islands. The 60-mile Road to Hana takes you along the eastern coast of Maui where you will be sandwiched by beautiful ocean views and jungles filled with waterfalls. The Hana highway will wind you around approximately 600 curves, crossing 59 bridges, but the ride is worth it!

● Begin: New York, New York ● End: Corning, New York ● Distance: 250 miles ● Drive Time: 4.5 hours I love this New York road trip! After enjoying the busy city life, escape into the Fingerlakes region of upper state New York. Enjoy culture, scenery, great food and wineries along the way. New York City with kids is so much fun, but it’s great to mix it with a more relaxing and nature-filled vacation.

• Begin: Williamsburg, Virginia
• End: Washington, D.C
• Distance: 240 miles
• Drive Time: 4.5 hours

Brush up on your colonial history and visit the homes of some of our founding fathers while reliving the past. Begin your journey in southern Virginia where you can visit Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement, where you’ll witness historical reenactments and join in on living history.

Next, head to Charlottesville and visit the homes of former presidents Thomas Jefferson (Monticello) and James Monroe (Highland). Head to Mount Vernon, just outside Washington DC to visit George Washington’s home (Mount Vernon) and finish off your trip in our nation’s capital. The distance from Williamsburg VA to Washington DC isn’t much, but the history that can be found on the side of the road is amazing!

You can also do this trip in reverse. It’s one of the best road trips from DC I’ve ever taken.

Begin: Miami, Florida End: Key West, Florida Distance: 170 miles Drive Time: 3.5 hours Take the 150-mile drive on Route 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, from Miami to the Florida Keys, crossing 42 bridges. These sandy islands are full of history, sun, and relaxation. This southern USA Florida road trip is sure to be one of the most sun-filled, fun-filled drives ever!

Begin: Grand Canyon National Park End: Las Vegas, Nevada Distance: 250 miles Drive Time: 4.5 hours Start out with nature, and end in Sin City. This desert drive will take you through the majestic Grand Canyon, with a stop in St. George, Utah and end with some fun in Las Vegas.

Check out this awesome Utah road trip.

Begin: Deadwood, South Dakota End: Hot Springs, South Dakota Distance: 100 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours The Black Hills of South Dakota offer more than just Mount Rushmore. Drive along the Badlands Scenic Byway, making stops at Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park and the infamous Wall Drug. National parks are some of the places to stop on a road trip. Stunning sunsets and sunrises in the Badlands will take your breath away. Keep an eye out for bison on the road. Check out this South Dakota road trip planner for more information.

Begin: Milbridge, Maine End: Eastport, Maine Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 6 hours Explore the southeastern corner of Maine, also known as “Downeast Maine” as you drive along the Lobster Trail on Coastal Route 1. This colorful and delicious journey will take you through beautiful coastlines and forests while providing tasty and adventurous stops where you can find lobster and all kinds of local seafood. Try your hand at some local activities like clam digging or goat milking. There are so many more incredible east coast road trips .

Begin: Shenandoah National Park End: Asheville, North Carolina Distance: 469 miles Drive Time: 6 hours The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular road trips in the US. Connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, this 469-mile stretch of scenic road is the most visited road controlled by the U.S. National Parks system. Stops along the way include Skyline Drive (particularly beautiful in the fall), Luray Caverns, Natural Bridge, and Asheville.

Begin: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming End: Glacier National Park, Montana Distance: 500 miles Drive Time: 9 hours Explore two national parks in one road trip by driving from Grand Teton National Park to Glacier National Park . The drive along the way will provide some of the most diverse landscapes in the U.S.

Begin: Carova, North Carolina End: Ocracoke, North Carolina Distance: 138 miles Drive Time: 5 hours North Carolina’s Route 12, otherwise known as the Outer Banks Scenic Byway spans 21 coastal villages and 138 miles of paved road and 25 ferry-traveling miles along the coast of North Carolina. Dotted with lighthouses, museums, houses and hotels, the Outer Banks is a great beach road trip.

Begin: Seattle, Washington End: Seattle, Washington Distance: 300 miles Drive Time: 10 hours Explore Washington’s Olympic Peninsula on this scenic road trip which takes you through the Olympic National Park and Forest and the lush Hoh Rainforest. There are great spots along the way for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

Begin: Santa Monica Pier, California End: Chicago, Illinois Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: Several days Follow in the path of your grandparents by taking a quintessential cross-country road trip along one of the original highways in the U.S., Route 66. This road is not traveled very often now that the Interstate Highway system is established, but you can still visit many old towns that once thrived in the middle of the last century along The Mother Road. Route 66 crosses 8 states and dozens of historic sites along the way. It’s the ultimate US road trip, but with so many good road trip places around the country, this classic can be overlooked for bigger cities and National Parks. Don’t skip Route 66!

Begin: Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada End: Anchorage, Alaska Distance: 2,500 miles Drive Time: 27 hours Stretching nearly 1,500 miles between Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada and ending in Anchorage, Alaska, the historic Alaska Highway (also known as the ALCAN) is not for the faint of heart. Though most of the road is paved, many sections are constantly under construction and parts of the road are only gravel.

It’s a road that should only be attempted in the best of weather, usually during the summer months, but the views and wildlife along the way are worth the adventure. An Alaska highway road trip should be well planned out in advance, with stops and accommodations mapped out at least six months in advance!  But it is worth the planning. Alaska is one of the most amazing places to take a road trip! Learn more about planning a trip to Alaska.

Begin: St. Augustine, Florida End: Destin, Florida Distance: 1,400 miles Drive Time: 24 hours See the majority of Florida by circling the entire state, starting in St. Augustine(America’s oldest town) then bring out your inner-child in Orlando, eat your way through Miami, and relax on the beach in Clearwater, then explore the panhandle in Destin. This route is long, but the stops and scenery are breathtaking. Learn more about the best things to do in Destin, Florida .

Begin : Boston, Massachusetts End : Seattle, Washington Distance : 3,000 miles Drive Time: 45 hours This is the best cross country road trip! We’ve done this road trip across America many times out of necessity. It’s more exciting to do it when it’s just for fun. The I-90 spans 3,000 miles across the entire country from Boston to Seattle or vice versa, running along the northern part of the U.S. This route makes some incredible stops like Niagara Falls, Chicago, Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, and Yellowstone. This is one of the best American road trips you will ever take! A US cross country road trip can seem a little daunting. Just make sure you give yourself plenty of time and map out your stops ahead of time, breaking up the long drive.

Begin: Anchorage, Alaska End: Seward, Alaska Distance: 125 miles Drive Time: 2.5 hours This quick 125-mile drive along the Seward Highway takes you from Anchorage to Seward. While small, this strikingly beautiful route offers incredible stops like seeing the Bore Tide at the Turnagain Arm, glacier hiking, berry picking, fishing, rafting, kayaking and more. Once in Seward you can finish off your trip with a fishing excursion or a wildlife cruise in the Kenai Fjords National Park where you’ll sail among whales, puffins, seals and more.

Begin: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada End: Tijuana, Mexico Distance: 2,300 miles Drive Time: 24 hours Hit three countries in one epic road trip by starting in British Columbia, Canada and using this itinerary all the way down to the border of U.S. and Mexico into Tijuana.

Whatever road trip you choose this summer, be sure to prepare your car for an epic road trip and install a HumX in your vehicle to take the worry out of your journey and to get you on the road!

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6 thoughts on “ the 25 best road trips in the usa ”.

thanks for all the info and pictures! would love to do some of these one day I’ve done a lot of road trips in Europe but none in the US yet! route 66 and the grand canyon is definitely on the bucket list!

America certainly has some awesome road trips! I’ve done a lot in Europe, but would definitely love to do more!!

I love that some of these road trip destinations are kid friendly. The kids and us could really use some time off from the house after all that’s happening. But we ‘d like to go once things get better. or rather, safer.

Cross country trips and most of the iconic rides like Route 66 are the best! Gotta love having the countries (and even the continents) so close to us that we can travel by land all we want.

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The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: December 28, 2022
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 23 Comments

Do you like roadtrips? They happen to be a very American tradition and we found the perfect itinerary to visit every state in the continental USA during 1 epic roadtrip. A great trip idea for those who have a lot of time but want to stay closer to home .

Personally, I love roadtrips and I hit the road as much as I can, despite also being an aviation geek: you can like both, right? What matters is traveling and seeing new places , no matter how.

So here are the maps and details of the 2 itineraries that allow you to see all the lower 48 states at once, depending on your travel preference.

Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries

The USA is a huge country, almost as big as Europe (it’s even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).

So the USA has a lot of variety in terms of landscapes, but even in terms of culture too (even if many who aren’t from the country don’t realize that).

If you aim to eventually visit every state, any 1 of these 2 itineraries is a great way to almost all of them at once. The only 2 states you’ll have left to visit after this roadtrip will be Hawaii and Alaska.

There’s a version for national parks and points of interest and a version for cities.

I’m on the quest to visit all 50 states myself (in addition to also visiting every country obviously), and I’m not doing too bad with 47 already.

But let’s just say it would’ve been much quicker to get to 48 at once with this roadtrip instead of having to do it over dozens of trips.

Here are the details.

48-state roadtrip – national parks/points of interest version

Here’s a map of the 1st itinerary.

It was conceived by American Ph.D. student Randy Olson, on  his blog , and it was done scientifically to optimize the routing: each stop represents a national park or a point of interest.

So you’re not just seeing every state, you’re seeing cool parts of every state (which sadly wasn’t our case in North Dakota during our very random 1200-miles-nonstop-in-2-days Flytrippers roadtrip across the Midwest just for fun).

Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.

Anyway, the itinerary has also been optimized to be as efficient a route as possible to see all 48 states, so you can rest assured you won’t be wasting any time.

If you only stop to sleep, you can complete this roadtrip in only 9 days, but we recommend taking at least a couple of weeks to explore all these places obviously.

And gas is significantly cheaper in the US in case you were wondering. You can start anywhere, it’s a continuous loop, and it passes through many spots near the Canadian border.

You can even take a shortcut from Michigan to Vermont through Canada, as the stop in Cleveland is only to keep Americans without a passport from crossing into the Great White North.

Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California):

1. Grand Canyon, AZ 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT 3. Craters of the Moon, ID 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY 5. Pikes Peak, CO 6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM 7. The Alamo, TX 8. The Platt Historic District, OK 9. Toltec Mounds, AR 10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, TN 11. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS 12. French Quarter, LA 13. USS Alabama, AL 14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL 15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, GA 16. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC 17. Lost World Caverns, WV 18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, NC 19. Mount Vernon, VA 20. White House, Washington, D.C. 21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, MD 22. New Castle Historic District, DE 23. Cape May Historic District, NJ 24. Liberty Bell, PA 25. Statue of Liberty, NY 26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, CT 27. The Breakers, RI 28. USS Constitution, MA 29. Acadia National Park, ME 30. Mount Washington Hotel, NH 31. Shelburne Farms, VT 32. Fox Theater, MI 33. Spring Grove Cemetery, OH 34. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 35. West Baden Springs Hotel, IN 36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, IL 37. Gateway Arch, MO 38. C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, KS 39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, IA 40. Taliesin, WI 41. Fort Snelling, MN 42. Ashfall Fossil Bed, NE 43. Mount Rushmore, SD 44. Fort Union Trading Post, ND 45. Glacier National Park, MT 46. Hanford Site, WA 47. Columbia River Highway, OR 48. San Francisco Cable Cars, CA 49. San Andreas Fault, CA 50. Hoover Dam, NV

These are all very enticing attractions, for the most part. It seems I’ve only seen 14 of those, so maybe I should hit the road again after all.

How about you? Tempted?

48-state roadtrip – city version

Here’s a map of the 2nd itinerary.

If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2nd version that routes you through amazing cities instead.

It is slightly shorter but quite as impressive: it makes you go through the “Best City to Visit” in each state, according to TripAdvisor .

But you won’t have all the lower 48 states, unlike the other itinerary. That’s because no city in Vermont, West Virginia, or North Dakota made the top 400 cities to visit ranking, unfortunately. So plan on making a few extra detours if you want to hit all states at once with this version of the itinerary.

Here is the complete list of all cities:

• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Wichita, Kansas
• Denver, Colorado
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Francisco, California
• Portland, Oregon
• Seattle, Washington
• Boise, Idaho
• Park City, Utah
• Jackson, Wyoming
• Billings, Montana
• Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Des Moines, Iowa
• Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Chicago, Illinois
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Columbus, Ohio
• Detroit, Michigan
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Manchester, New Hampshire
• Portland, Maine
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Providence, Rhode Island
• New Haven, Connecticut
• New York City, New York
• Ocean City, New Jersey
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Wilmington, Delaware
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Washington, D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Orlando, Florida
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Birmingham, Alabama
• Jackson, Mississippi
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Houston, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Branson, Missouri

I do a little better on this list, with 31 already visited. You can see I love cities. How about you?

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If you were looking for an excuse to go on a roadtrip, this is it. And since we always enjoy giving you more for your money, we think 48 states instead of only 1 or 2 is something you’ll enjoy!

What’s the coolest roadtrip you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments below.

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Featured image: The itinerary (image credit: Randy Olson)

Original publication date: May 29, 2018

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Andrew D'Amours

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This post has 23 comments.

Hello Andrew, the PHD student suggests in the 1st Itinnerary that the one stop to make in Washington State is the Hanford Nuclear Reservation?! Flat out, that is a terrible idea. It is in the middle of nowhere, I am just shocked it’s mentioned. Out of all the beautiful and amazing places to see in such a diverse state as Washington, a Nuclear Site was chosen? Surely this student could have done so much better. Thank you for allowing comments.

Having been all around the Olympic Peninsula, I agree that’s there are better stops. But my understanding is that he really optimized for the quickest way to do all 48 and had to choose a point of interest that wasn’t too far off that optimal path, hence that choice (I think).

thanks for sharing this information with us.

I have taken a road trip from California to the the most northeastern part of theUS. west Quaby light house. it was my 1st trip across the us. .I seen so many amazing places.

Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.

Why do Americans always think the Statue of Liberty is in NY? it is in NJ. I’ve done road trips now that have taken in 39 states. Here’s a quiz to see how well you know the USA: Which state has only one syllable? Only one city has been name-checked on the moon. In which state is it? Which is the most Northerly of the contiguous states? In which state were Tennessee Williams and Elvis Presley born? Which was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted into the USA? Which four states all share a border with each other? Which state has the lowest population? Twelve cities are name-checked in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” but only three states. Which? Which state has the longest name? Which two states have the most borders with other states? In which state is the geographical centre of the USA – and which one if you exclude Hawaii and Alaska? Which of the states of the USA has respectively the most Northerly, Southerly, Easterly and Westerly points?

The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.

Wow, these comments are very rude for no reason. Thanks for the article, maybe when I graduate from college I’ll consider hitting part of one of these itineraries.

“it’s a huge country (even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).”

Canada – 3.855 million mi² USA – 3.532 million mi² Where does this math fail you?

Where did reading fail you :P? It explicitly says “ when considering LAND area alone ” The quote you copied literally has a link provided under “even larger than Canada” and if you read that, it explains how Canada is only larger than the US due to water area being counted 🙂

There is no stop in North Dakota on the city version. You should stop in Fargo after Billings and before Sioux Falls

I’m 46 years old .. I have been to all 50 states and I’m 17 away from all 50 twice .. I have driven to 47 .. flown to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington..

Wow! That’s impressive :O

This is awesome

This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

“this roadtrip in only 9 days“ is extremely false statement. It is only 9 days if you are driving non stop, no breaks to even get out of your car, get gas, or actually see these places. From start to finish drive time it is 225 hours, 16 minutes = 9 days. Wow. Take some time to enjoy the view.

Yes, that’s what we said too 😛

Thanks for the tip 😊

Do you know the total distance of this itinerary? At what moment of the year doing this trip would be the best? Thanks!

Hi! It is 13,699 miles (22,046 km) for the landmarks itinerary and 12,290 miles (19,780 km) for the city version. You can even have the Google Maps links on the creator’s original post (I’ve reposted the link below). As for the timing, I guess it depends on your preferences, but I’d want to avoid that top half of the country (so half the itinerary) in the winter for sure! http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/

Crappy itinerary! Does not even include Zion National Park… and so many stops in the North Eastern states?? Nobody cares about those places except maybe a couple of places.

As explained, the PhD student who built the itinerary wanted to have one stop per state, and there are many states in the North-East so that’s why there are many stops there. I agree that Zion is an iconic spot, but his goal was also to optimize a routing that was as short as possible so that’s why it’s billed as an itinerary to see all lower 48 states at once and not an itinerary to see *the best spots*. But those interested in doing this can definitely adapt it and add many interesting stops for sure 🙂

Curtis, you are crappy. Obviously this is meant as a guide that can be adapted to add spots. I think it’s awesome.

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11 U.S. Road Trips Kids Should Experience Before They Grow Up

Nov 6, 2020

See recent posts by Courtney Elko

The classic family road trip should be experienced by every kid at least once in their lifetime (more if you can withstand the are-we-there-yet’s!). When the vacation is about the journey, the memories last even longer. Kids will remember the quirky roadside attractions or the funny jokes dad told in the car more than the amusement park ride that lasted three minutes. Road trips allow families to reconnect and truly experience a journey together. These are our picks for the best road trips kids should experience before they grow up.

1. Pacific Coast Highway 101 Road Trip

Technically, the Pacific Coast Highway 101 (which becomes Pacific Coast Highway 1 in California) runs from Seattle all the way to San Diego for a total of 1,650 miles. You could do one ultimate family road trip and drive the length of Pacific Coast Highway or you could conquer half in two different vacations.

The Northern portion of a Highway 101 road trip would run between Seattle and San Francisco for about 1,075 miles. Near Legget, California, Highway 101 splits and families can continue on 101 or continue the drive down the coast and take Pacific Coast Highway 1 to San Francisco.

Pacific Coast Highway 101 Road Trip Stops 

• Seattle, WA:  The iconic Space Needle and Pike Place Market are a must when in Seattle. The Seattle Great Wheel gives a great birds eye view of the skyline and the Seattle Aquarium is small enough to do in an hour or so.
• Cannon Beach, OR:  After a long ride in the car, a walk along Cannon Beach is exactly what everyone needs.
• Portland, OR:  Portland offers one of the nation’s best science museums, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. You might also rent bikes and stop by a kid-friendly brewery.
• Columbia River Gorge:  Located about 30 minutes from Portland is the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, which features gorgeous waterfalls, hiking trails, the Lost Lake and the “Fruit Loop,” an area with lots of pick-your-own berry farms.
• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area:  Located along the Oregon Coast, these sand dunes stretch for more than 40 miles. Families can rent ATVs and ride the sandy hills, go horseback riding or take a hike.
• Gold Beach, OR:  After playing in the sand dunes, it’s time to hit the rapids! Families looking to pick up some speed can hop aboard a jet boat that rushes down the Rogue River (but you can also slow down to enjoy nature along the way).
• Eureka, CA:  Once you’ve reached California on your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip, you will be taken back in time to a Victorian-era Old Town where there are mansions to tour and hundreds-of-years-old trees that reach high into the sky.
• Leggett, CA:  For what could possibly be the most memorable drive on your Pacific Northwest road trip, make a stop in Leggett. There you can drive through a Redwood tree. The Chandelier Tree, which is so large most vehicles can fit through the center of it, is located in the aptly named Drive-Thru Tree Park.
• Mendocino, CA:  This pretty village offers gorgeous Northern California Coastline. Families can get out of the car and into a canoe, take a hike or bike ride or just stroll the village to admire all of the historic New England-style homes and buildings.
• Santa Rosa, CA:  For Snoopy and Peanuts  fans, Santa Rosa is a must! It is the adopted hometown of comic creator Charles Schulz and families can visit his museum to see original works, as well as create their own!
• San Francisco, CA:  Whether San Francisco is the start, stop or middle point of your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, there’s lots to do. Visit Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 and Alcatraz.

Recommended Hotel:  Omni San Francisco Hotel 

Related:  28 Roadside Attractions Worth a Stop on Your Next Road Trip

2. Pacific Coast Highway 1 Road Trip

The Southern portion of Pacific Coast Highway 1 runs from San Francisco to San Diego for about 575 miles (turning into I-5 at Dana Point). With coastal cliff views almost the entire way, it might be the most picturesque road trip your kids will ever experience.

Pacific Coast Highway 1 Road Trip Stops 

• San Francisco, CA:  Visit the Painted Ladies (the colorful Victorian row homes) and Alamo Square Park, especially if your kids watched Full House  (or Fuller House ). Then take a ride on a cable car before hitting the road in your own car.
• Santa Cruz, CA:  Only about 90 minutes south of San Fran, Santa Cruz offers families a few unique things to see on a road trip with kids. There’s Natural Bridges State Park and the world’s largest whale skeleton at Seymour Marine Discovery Center. But for a true enigma, visit the Mystery Spot, a small section of the Redwood Forest where balls roll uphill and gravity doesn’t seem to exist!
• Big Sur, CA:  Travel over the most photographed bridge on the West Coast in Big Sur. The concrete Bixby Bridge is 714 feet long and 280 feet high and offers fantastic views from either side.
• San Simeon, CA:  The iconic Hearst Castle can be found in San Simeon will wow your kids (and you). William Randolph Hearst himself would love to have your kids marvel at his theater, billiard room or the library, or his magnificent outdoor pool or the indoor Roman pool, modeled after the ancient Roman baths.
• Santa Barbara, CA:  Hit the beach, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, or one of Santa Barbara’s many museums as you continue your road trip down the West Coast.
• Los Angeles, CA:  Once you reach the City of Angels, take a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame or Rodeo Drive. Turn your eyes to the sky at Griffith Observatory or look for movie stars instead on a Legends of Hollywood Tour.
• Buena Park, CA:  Less than an hour from LA is Knott’s Berry Farm, an amusement park that’s more manageable than Disneyland nearby. Knott’s features thrills for everyone in the family.
• Carlsbad, CA:  After roller roasters and log flume rides in Buena Park, head to Carlsbad for some LEGO fun on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip with kids. LEGOLAND California features more than 60 rides and shows, and millions of blocks of LEGOs.
• San Diego, CA:  End your Pacific Coast Highway 1 road trip in San Diego (or drive another 30 minutes and finish the route at the Mexican border). It’s all about the animals in San Diego where families will find SeaWorld and the legendary San Diego Zoo, with the Elephant Odyssey, Urban Jungle and Panda Canyon.

Recommended Hotel:  Rancho Bernardo Inn

3. The Oregon Trail Road Trip

The Oregon Trail runs from Cape Cod to Portland, Oregon, across the northern part of the U.S. It’s quite a lengthy road trip at about 3,100 miles, but surely it can be done more quickly than the early pioneers, whose journey averaged four months! Your kids will see several wonders of the world–Niagara Falls, Mt. Rushmore and Yellowstone National Park–on this road trip they need to experience before they grow up.

Oregon Trail Road Trip Stops 

• Cape Cod, MA:  Start your Oregon Trail road trip off with some beach time on Cape Cod. Relax in the sand and surf before gathering your rations and hitching your wagon for the West.
• Rochester, NY:  Rochester offers both American history, and history of toys! It’s the perfect mix of education and fun. The Toy Hall of Fame is located here, where kids can play and adults can feel some nostalgia. Susan B. Anthony’s House and Museum are also located in Rochester and help remind families how far women have come since the Oregon Trail pioneer days.
• Cooperstown, NY:  For baseball history, you’ll want to make a stop in Cooperstown for the Baseball Hall of Fame. Or experience life as a true pioneer at the Farmers’ Museum, which features a recreated historic village and is a working farm.
• Niagara Falls, NY:  Make one more stop in New York and view the three awe-inspiring waterfalls at Niagara Falls State Park, which also happens to be the oldest state park in America.
• Cleveland, OH:  Rock ‘n Roll and roller coasters await in Cleveland (two things that the Oregon Trail pioneers surely didn’t experience). Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for all things music in Cleveland and then visit the Roller Coaster Capital of the World at Cedar Point.
• Fort Wayne, IN:  If you want to dig into your own family history and find out if your ancestors journeyed along the Oregon Trail, stop in Fort Wayne and visit the Allen County Public Library. This public library, which also features a children’s center and LEGO club, is the second largest genealogy center in the world. Families can search (for free!) the more than 1.2-million physical records and 2.8-million online records.
• Chicago, IL:  If you have an American Girl Doll fan in the family, visit the American Girl Place Chicago, the birthplace of American Girl Dolls. Kids can have lunch with their dolls or get their hair styled together. One of the original American Girl Dolls, Kirsten Larson, represented the pioneer era and would love a visit with your family as you cross the Oregon Trail!
• Des Moines, IA:  Take your Oregon Trail road trip in August and you can make a stop in Des Moines so your kids can experience the iconic, internationally-acclaimed Iowa State Fair.
• Mount Rushmore, SD:  The four presidents carved into this national memorial were chosen because they played important roles in American history. What better stop to make on an Oregon Trial road trip with kids?
• Yellowstone National Park, WY:  Kids will see wildlife, bubbling mud pots, canyons, rivers, forests, hot springs and geysers at Yellowstone. Old Faithful is of course the highlight and the park rangers can tell you when this predictable geothermal wonder will erupt!
• Bend, OR:  After driving across the country and reaching Oregon on your Oregon Trail road trip, you’ll want to go for a hike and get outside. Bend offers several hiking trails, some with waterfall or citywide views. Or you can go tubing on the Deschutes River, a classic pastime in Bend.
• Portland, OR:  You’ll surely be out of rations by the time you reach Portland, Oregon, on an Oregon Trail family road trip so make sure to visit The Fruit Loop, a 35-mile scenic loop of farms where you can pick your own cherries, apples, berries and more.

Recommended Hotel:  Best Western Plus Hood River Inn

Related:  A (Tongue-in-Cheek) Guide to Surviving the Oregon Tail with Kids

4. Historic Route 66 Road Trip

Historic Route 66 was about 2,448 miles long but officially, it no longer exists in its entirety. Today, the trip runs about 2,278 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica and can be done in about two weeks time. On this classic road trip across the American Midwest, Great Plains and Southwest, your kids will surely get their kicks seeing some great Route 66 attractions along the way. You can even begin and end your road trip with a Ferris wheel ride!

Route 66 Road Trip Stops 

• Chicago, IL:  Museum Row, lakefront beaches and Navy Pier fill Chicago with plenty for the kids to see and do as you kick off your Route 66 road trip from this midwestern metropolis. Ride the Ferris Wheel at Navy Pier and see if you can map out your entire Route 66 road trip.
• Springfield, IL:  The Land of Lincoln offers some great Route 66 attractions filled with Abraham Lincoln history. Families can take a guided tour of the home Lincoln shared with his wife and kids, visit the Presidential Library and Museum and see Lincoln’s tomb, where you can rub a statue of Lincoln for good luck on your road trip with kids.
• Tulsa, OK : Situated just 20 minutes from Tulsa is the Big Blue Whale of Catoosa. A giant whale structure in a pond, it’s become one of the most recognizable Route 66 attractions. When it was built in the 1970s, it actually had waterslides you could ride into the pond. You can’t use the slides today, but it’s still a cool roadside attraction along Route 66.
• Amarillo, TX:  A small historic portion of Route 66 exists in Amarillo. Families can drive along the mile-stretch of road and stop at one of the antique shops or cafes. Then visit Cadillac Ranch, a true must-see Route 66 attraction. The art installation from the 1970s consists of 10 Cadillacs buried nose down in the middle of an empty field. The colorful cars have been spray painted over and over again, creating an ever-changing piece of art. Don’t forget to bring a can of spray paint to add your own touch. If you’re traveling in an RV on your road trip with the kids, stop at Jack Sisemore Traveland RV museum and see how families have road tripped through the years.
• Albuquerque, NM:  If you’re taking your Route 66 Road Trip in October, that’s when Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta and the sky is filled with colorful hot air balloons. If you aren’t in town for the festival, make sure to check out Old Town, where Spanish families settled in the 1700s.
• Flagstaff, AZ:  Flagstaff offers families plenty of space to stretch their legs during a road trip across the USA. There are numerous hiking trails in several state parks. You can even hike through a lava river cave, an underground cave where you will need flashlights and headlamps to guide you over rocks and boulders.
• Los Angeles, CA:  Check out one of the many museums in LA, including the Automobile Driving Museum, where families can explore the classic and vintage cars
• Santa Monica, CA:  Mark the end of your Route 66 Road Trip at Santa Monica Pier where you can ride the Ferris Wheel and see how far you’ve come. Your kids will never forget beginning and ending a Route 66 road trip with a Ferris Wheel ride.

Recommended Hotel:  Shore Hotel

5. Mt. Washington Auto Road

This New Hampshire scenic drive is less than 8 miles long and is a must see for kids before they grow up. While the Mount Washington Auto Road  is short in miles, it’s high in elevation. The road climbs more than 4,600 feet from an altitude of 1,527 feet to 6,145 feet and offers narrow mountain roads without guardrails. You can drive yourself up the Mt. Washington Auto Road, America’s first manmade attraction, or take a guided tour if mountain driving makes you nervous. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to drive each way.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKacMRQgpJM  Mt. Washington Auto Road Stops 

• Mountain Turn-Outs:  There are several turn-outs or pull-off points where you can stop along your Auto Road Road Trip. Stop to admire the view or park the car and go for a hike on one of the many trails.
• Mount Washington Summit:  As the highest peak in the Northeast, the views are outstanding from the top and your kids might see as far as the Atlantic Ocean. At the top, families can explore the historic Tip-Top House, the Summit Stage Office Store and learn more the mountain at the interactive Mt. Washington Observatory Museum.

6. Lake Champlain Byway Road Trip

This family road trip is about 80 miles and can be done in about two and half hours or a few days depending if you want to stop for some overnights. It starts at the Canadian border and runs south to Middlebury, Vermont.

Lake Champlain Byway Road Trip Stops 

• Rouses Point, NY:  The Lake Champlain Byway begins in the small New York village near the border of Canada. Make a quick stop at the small Champlain Historical Society to better understand the area before embarking on your family road trip.
• Grand Isle County, VT:  Visit the Goodsell Ridge Fossil Preserve in Isle La Motte where kids can wonder at the 480-million-year-old fossils found throughout the 85-acre preserve.
• Burlington, VT:  As Vermont’s largest city, Burlington is located on the shores of Lake Champlain between the Adirondack and Green Mountains. While strolling Church Street Marketplace and admiring all of Burlington’s charm, don’t forget to visit the world’s tallest filing cabinet, too. It’s 38-feet tall and a must-see roadside attraction on a New England road trip.
• Shelburne, VT:  Shelburne is home to the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, where kids can make their own bear. The Shelburne Museum is also a must.
• Vergennes, VT:  In Vermont’s oldest city, stop for a picnic at Vergennes Falls Park or MacDonough Park and enjoy the walking trails and waterfall views. If you have time, enjoy an overnight at Basin Harbor Resort .
• Middlebury, VT:  You can wrap up this New England Road Trip with several charming covered bridges like the Pulp Mill Covered Bridge, Halpin Covered Bridge and the Cornwall-Salisbury Covered Bridge.

Recommended Hotel:  Basin Harbor Resort

7. East Coast Road Trip

A full-length East Coast road trip can be a bit overwhelming so we’ve broken this family road trip option into a smaller chunk. For a history-heavy road trip with lots of big city stops (and beach town alternatives), an East Coast road trip down I-95 is filled with landmarks kids need to see before they grow up.

East Coast Road Trip Stops 

• Boston, MA:  Start your East Coast road trip in Boston and walk the Freedom Trail where kids can see Paul Revere’s House, Faneuil Hall and the Bunker Hill Monument. Even if you aren’t a baseball fan, the stories and history at Fenway Park can’t be missed on a behind-the-scenes guided tour. Before heading down the coast, make a stop at the Hood Milk Bottle, a must-see roadside attraction. It’s a 40-foot milk bottle that weighs 15,000 pounds and was one of the first drive-in restaurants in the U.S.
• Newport, RI:  Get out of the car and stroll the Cliff Walk in Newport. This popular 3.5-mile walk shows off the Rhode Island beach coastline on one side and the massive Newport mansions on the other. Mansions like The Breakers (the Vanderbilt’s “summer cottage”) can be toured and kids can see how a Vanderbilt child once lived.
• New York City, NY:  The Big Apple is overflowing with things kids should see before they grow up, including the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and Broadway shows .
• Philadelphia, PA:  As the birthplace of the U.S., kids can see where the Declaration of Independence was signed, visit Betsy Ross’s house and the Liberty Bell and walk the cobblestone streets that Ben Franklin once walked. But a visit to Philly wouldn’t be complete without eating a cheesesteak and running up the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
• Baltimore, MD:  After seeing where Betsy Ross sewed the American flag, families can visit Fort McHenry National Monument in Baltimore, where the story of America’s national anthem began. Visit the historic ships along Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and make some time for the National Aquarium, too.
• Washington, DC: As with NYC, the number of things to see in our nation’s capital can be overwhelming for a family road trip. We recommend choosing one or two museums and a few landmarks depending on the interests of your family. The National Air and Space Museum, National Mall, Tidal Basin, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and International Spy Museum are just a few of your options.
• Charlottesville, VA:  In Richmond, Virginia, families will want to stop at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, the former president’s home and gardens, for a guided tour.
• Fayetteville, NC:  For a look at the U.S. Army’s history, visit the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville. The free museum honors the original paratroopers and Army Parachute Test Platoon, as well as the special operations units of today.
• Savannah, GA:  Some say the cobblestone streets of Savannah are haunted. So take a ghost tour when you arrive and explore the 22 squares in the historic district that are dedicated to important people from the Revolutionary Wartime.
• Alternatively, if you want to sprinkle in some beach time and skip parts of I-95, after Philadelphia, visit Ocean City, MD,  and then Virginia Beach, VA  (both towns offering sand, surf, and boardwalks!) and then pick I-95 back up in Fayetteville.

Recommended Hotel:  Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District

8. Florida Keys Road Trip

It’s all about wildlife on the road to Key West. Take the Overseas Highway (Route 1) across the water for about 160 miles for a family road trip from Miami to Key West. This shorter family road trip can be done in a day, or make longer stops along the way and spend a few overnights.

Florida Keys Road Trip  Stops 

• Miami, FL:  Kick off your wildlife Florida Keys road trip with the primates at Monkey Jungle in Miami. Families can walk the fenced-in trails and watch the 30 species of monkeys in their own habitats.
• Everglades National Park, FL:  After the monkeys, it’s time for some reptiles on your Florida Keys road trip. A stop at Everglades National Park means a visit with the American crocodile and alligators. Families can take a boat tour to see alligators, manatees, birds and more.
• Key Largo, FL:  After the Everglades, it’s time to embark on the overseas portion of the highway and hang out with some mammals. In Key Largo, families can interact with and experience dolphins in their natural seawater homes within a variety of dolphin encounter opportunities.
• Islamorada, FL:  Just another 20 minutes south on the road to Key West, families can make a stop at the Theater of the Seas in Islamorada. The marine mammal park is home to dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, stingrays, alligators, birds and more.
• Marathon, FL: Stop at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for a guided tour of the rehabilitation and release center for sea turtles. Families will learn how they can help injured sea turtles, tour a turtle operating room where many turtles have been saved, and–if timing is just right–you may be able to witness a turtle release back into the wild.
• Sugarloaf Key, FL:  Trade your car in for a boat charter on your Florida Keys road trip and go fishing in Sugarloaf Key.
• Key West, FL:  Once you reach the southernmost point of the continental United States, make sure to visit the six-toed cats at the Ernest Hemingway House and the Key West Butterfly Conservatory. Kids will also love a conch train tour around the streets of Key West.

Recommended Hotel:  Parrot Key Hotel and Villas

9. Appalachian Trail Road Trip

The Appalachian Trail runs through 14 states from Maine to Georgia. But if hiking through 14 states isn’t your speed, there’s an Appalachian Trail road trip that (mostly) parallels the iconic walking trail. It’s still quite a lengthy road trip so families could do the full road trip or portions of it with the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive (see below).

Appalachian Trail Road Trip Stops 

• Mount Katahdin, ME:  The Appalachian Trail technically begins in the North at Mount Katahdin, which is situated in Baxter State Park in Maine. Hiking Katahdin isn’t for the novice hiker so we recommend starting your Appalachian Trail road trip with a smaller hike or night of camping in Baxter State Park.
• Washington Auto Road, NH: This 8-mile New Hampshire scenic drive up to Mt. Washington can be its own road trip (see above) or it makes for a cool drive along your longer Appalachian Trail road trip.
• Woodstock, NH:  In this charming New Hampshire town families can visit the Cascade waterfalls and the Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves. Arrive at night and take a guided lantern tour through the caves!
• Somerset, VT:  Visit Mount Snow in Vermont in the summer months and stretch your stiff legs with some mountain biking.
• Mt Washington, MA:  Visit the Mount Washington State Forest in the southwest corner of Massachusetts and hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail.
• Cornwall, CT:  Drive across the West Cornwall Covered Bridge on your way through Connecticut. It dates back to the 1800’s.
• Danbury, CT:  Make a road trip stop at the Danbury Railway Museum, where you can ride the rails and tour the museum. The former Danbury train station was a major thoroughfare in the first half of the 1900’s and is also where Alfred Hitchcock’s movie Strangers on a Train was filmed.
• Monroe, NY:  The Museum Village, a living-history museum in Monroe, New York, is a great road trip stop alongside the Appalachian Trail. Kids will love the 200-year-old log cabin, one-room schoolhouse and the general store, all depicting 19 th century rural American life.
• Easton, PA:  After history and hiking on your Appalachian Trail road trip, it’s time for some creativity. Visit the Crayola Factory in Easton, Pennsylvania, to see how crayons are made, play with interactive games, create your own unique crayon, splash at the water table, draw with chalk, paint, sculpt, color and more.
• Lancaster, PA:  At the Turkey Hill Experience, families can learn how ice cream is made. While this isn’t a working factory, kids can star in their own commercial, milk a mechanical cow and create virtual ice cream flavors. The Amish Experience is also worth a stop; families can visit an Amish farm, home and one-room schoolhouse.
• Gettysburg, PA:  Kids can learn about the American Civil War at the Gettysburg National Military Park, where the Battle of Gettysburg (a turning point battle in the war) took place. Families can take a guided battlefield walk, visit the National Cemetery, experience a living history battle demonstration or go horseback riding along the trails.
• Frederick, MD:  Take a stroll through Historic Downtown Frederick and visit the playgrounds and lake at Baker Park. Your kids might also enjoy the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.
• Shenandoah National Park, VA:  The Appalachian Trail runs the length of Shenandoah National Park. Stop for a hike, picnic, some fishing or a bike ride.
• Roanoke, VA:  Visit the animals at the Mill Mountain Zoo in Roanoke where you’ll find snow leopards, red panda, otters, turtles and more. Or go mountain biking or kayaking in the river.
• Asheville, NC:  Get out of the car and head to the treetops with a variety of ziplining experiences throughout Asheville. Some are more daring than others, but all of the courses will have your family seeing Asheville from on high. A tour of America’s castle, the Biltmore Estate, is also a fun, with kid-friendly audio tours.
• Great Smoky Mountain National Park, TN:  Families will love to go fishing, camping or hiking to see waterfalls, wildflowers and wildlife in this expansive 800-acre national park.
• Springer Mountain, GA:  As the end (or start) in the south of the Appalachian Trail, families can complete the Appalachian Trail road trip with a 2-mile hike to the summit from the Springer Mountain parking area. It’s a moderate hike with rocky areas, but offers outstanding views of the Blue Ridge Mountains to complete your ultimate family road trip.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHy6n9NAOI0  Recommended Hotel:  Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort

10.  Skyline Drive Road Trip

Skyline Drive (which can also be part of the longer Appalachian Trail Road Trip) runs 105 miles north and south along the Blue Ridge Mountains within Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. You can drive the length of Skyline Drive, which takes about three hours, or choose only a portion as there are four entrances to this road trip.

Skyline Drive Road Trip Stops 

• Front Royal Entrance Station:  Before officially entering Shenandoah National Park, make a stop at Dinosaur Land, a prehistoric forest from the past. Kids will love seeing the (almost) life-size dinosaurs that fill the park. On a family road trip, this kitschy roadside attraction is a must.
• Thornton Gap Entrance Station:  Near the Thornton Gap Entrance Station on Skyline Drive, families will find the Luray Caverns, underground caves that were discovered in 1878. Kids will marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites along the 1.5-mile guided underground tour. A bonus when visiting Luray Caverns is that your ticket also includes the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum, Luray Valley Museum and the Toy Town Junction.
• Swift Run Gap Entrance Station:  Big Meadows is located about 30 minutes from the Swift Run Gap Entrance at milepost 51 along Skyline Drive. Families will find several Skyline Drive hikes at Big Meadows, as well as camping facilities.
• Rockfish Gap Entrance Station:  Continue your Skyline Drive hikes near the Rockfish Gap Entrance to Shenandoah National Park as you reach the southern point of your Skyline Drive road trip and the northern point of a Blue Ridge Parkway road trip (see below).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjWsrkBvTts  Recommended Hotel: Big Meadows Lodge

11. Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

From Virginia to Tennessee, this family road trip begins and ends at two different national parks, Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A Blue Ridge Parkway road trip, which runs about 469 miles, allows your kids to experience two great national parks in one road trip.

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip Stops 

• Shenandoah National Park, VA:  Begin your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip at Shenandoah National Park’s Rockfish Gap Entrance Station. This is the point where Skyline Drive ends in the south and the Blue Ridge Parkway starts in the north.
• Natural Bridge, VA:  Make sure to stop at this 215-foot tall natural arch on your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip. Located within Natural Bridge State Park, the Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek and as a Virginia Historic Landmark, it’s definitely something kids should see before they grow up.
• Roanoke, VA:  Visit the Roanoke Pinball Museum, where there are 55 playable machines dating as far back as the 1930s.
• Blowing Rock, NC: In this charming North Carolina town along the Blue Ridge Parkway sits a rock formation that juts out from a cliff. The wind blows upward from the Blowing Rock and snow seems to fall upside down here. The lore behind why the wind blows upward at Blowing Rock is a love story between a Chickasaw Chieftain’s daughter and a Cherokee brave.
• Asheville, NC:  A tour of the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home, is a must on a Blue Ridge Parkway road trip. Built by George W. Vanderbilt in the 1890s, it features 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces.
• Cherokee, NC:  As the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, families can visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, where kids can experience and learn about the 13,000 years of Cherokee history through artifacts, art work, life-sized figures and special effects.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN:  This expansive 800-acre national park sits in North Carolina and Tennessee and is home to some of the oldest mountains in the world. Finish out your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip with some family camping. There are a variety of campsites and facilities in Great Smoky Mountains National Park; whether you want to rough it on the ground or camp near your car with running water, you have options.

Recommended Hotel:  Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg Downtown

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25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

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Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. 🙂 We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. 🙂 We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Classic American Road Trips

Pacific Coast Highway

Starting at the northwest tip of the United States at Washington’s Olympic National Park and remaining within sight of the ocean all the way south to sunny San Diego, this 1,650-mile, mostly two-lane road trip takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.

Highlights along the Pacific Coast Route: Olympic National Park (WA), Three Capes Loop (OR), Redwood National Park (CA)

Historic Route 66

The romance of traveling along historic Route 66 from where it starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles continues to captivate people around the world. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”

Highlights along Route 66: Chicago (IL), Meramec Caverns (MO), Tucumcari (NM), Painted Desert (AZ), Santa Monica (CA)

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

Running coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, “The Loneliest Road in America” is a 3,200-mile odyssey from sea to shining sea. US-50 passes through a dozen different states, four state capitals, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Highlights along the Loneliest Road: South Lake Tahoe (CA), Moab (UT), The Million Dollar Highway (CO), Washington D.C.

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims and pioneers, US‑20 takes in a little of everything during its two-lane trek from Oregon’s rugged coast to the glorious sea and sand of Cape Cod.

Highlights along the Oregon Trail: Cannon Beach (OR), Fort Boise (ID), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Mt Rushmore & Carhenge (NE)

Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US‑2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.

Highlights along the Great Northern: Tumwater Canyon (WA), Glacier National Park (MT), Lake Michigan (MI), Acadia National Park (ME)

The Appalachian Trail

This driving route of the Appalachian Trail parallels the epic hike. From the top of New England to the heart of Dixie, it takes you through continuous natural beauty—without the sweat, bugs, or blisters.

Highlights along the Appalachian Trail: Mt. Washington (NH), The Poconos (PA), Shenandoah National Park (VA), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)

Old Man River, Father of Waters, “body of a nation,” Big Muddy: By any name, the mighty Mississippi River cuts a mythic figure across the American landscape. Tag along from its headwaters in Minnesota to where it meets the sea in Louisiana via the GRR.

Highlights along the Great River Road: Main Street USA (WI), St. Louis (MO), Natchez Trace Parkway (MS), New Orleans (LA)

Starting at the Statue of Liberty and ending with a drive across the Overseas Highway to free-wheeling Key West, these almost 2,000 miles of roadway run within earshot—if not sight—of the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlights along the Atlantic Coast: The Statue of Liberty (NJ), Assateague Island National Seashore (MD), Savannah (GA), Cocoa Beach (FL)

Starting at Canada’s Jasper National Park, and winding down in the Sonora Desert, this route traverses some of the wildest and most rugged lands imaginable: mighty mountains, glaciated valleys, raging rivers, and two very different deserts.

Highlights along the Border to Border Route: Columbia Icefield (AB), Bitterroot Mountains (MT), The Extraterrestrial Highway (NV), Joshua Forest Parkway (AZ)

Once the only entirely paved route from Canada to “Old Mexico,” US‑83 cuts across America’s heartland and remains a must-do long-distance byway—transnavigating this broad, odd nation without once grazing a conventional tourist destination.

Highlights along the Road to Nowhere: Sitting Bull Memorial (SD), Nebraska Sand Hills (NE), Monument Rocks (KS), Paint Rock Pictographs (TX)

Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. From deserts to bayou swamps and Tex-Mex to barbecue, this route offers a full-flavored taste of America.

Highlights along Southern Pacific: The Desert View Tower (CA), Tombstone (AZ), Roswell (NM), Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail (AL)

14 Best Family-Friendly Road Trips on the East Coast

Posted on August 20, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on April 9, 2023

Planning a family road trip on the East Coast and wondering where to go? Hit the open roads, get ready for some adventure, and discover some of America’s most stunning landscapes, prettiest cities, and most important historic sights.

Whether you’re looking for a short road trip near you for your next weekend getaway or a long one for your next vacation, you’ll find the best East Coast family road trips listed below. From wild beaches and quaint villages to mountain roads and national parks , find inspiration for your next family road trip.

These road trips feature plenty of kid-friendly activities and many stop opportunities to avoid driving for too long . They can easily be adapted to the time you have, the things you want to do and see, and your kids’ age.

Keep on reading to discover the best road trips on the East Coast for families!

Related – Road Trip Must-Haves and Packing List

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Before You Go – Family Road Trip Tips

• Make sure to pack road trip entertainment and snacks for the kids;
• Plan where you’re going to spend the night beforehand and book everything, especially during high season. You can check the best deals on hotels here and the best deals on vacation rentals here ;
• Before heading out to more remote areas, make sure you have enough gas , and check where you can fill up your tank;
• If you’re flying in, check the best deals on flights on Skyscanner and the ones for car rental here;
• Getting travel insurance can be a good idea. World Nomads has a plan for road trips, covering sudden trip cancellations, unexpected medical emergencies, rental car insurance for vehicle damage, emergency assistance, road trip interruptions and delay, and protection for stolen belongings – More info on their website.

Vermont Fall Foliage Road Trip

Start: Wilmington End: Newport How many days: 3 to 7 days Length: 216 miles Best time: Fall

Route 100 in Vermont is one of the most picturesque roads on the East Coast , especially during the fall, when the trees’ colors turn into intense shades of red and oranges. Meander through the Green Mountains enjoying the scenery, and visit charming New England villages.

You can complete the road trip in 3 days but can easily stretch it to a whole week. You can start in Wilmington, in the south, and make your way north to Newport.

Take the time to visit Wilmington then make your way to Ludlow (maybe the next day depending on when you get in town). On the way stop at Mount Snow and ride the gondola to the top of the mountain to see the fall foliage from high up.

Next head to the charming town of Jamaica, for an easy hike through the forest , don’t miss Jamaica State Park . The West River Rail trail is ideal during fall and easy enough for children to hike it.

Next stop is the picturesque town of Weston . There, stroll around town, window shop, and stop by the Vermont Country Store where you’ll find a bit of everything.

Once you’re in Ludlow, enjoy the small-town vibes and head to Buttermilk Falls , gorgeous during the fall. If you want to meander through the countryside, you’ll find a couple of trails around town.

The next stretch of road, from Ludlow to Stowe, is filled with charming villages, acres of farmland, and plenty of scenic lookouts. Some of the most popular stops for families include Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth Notch , Moss Glen Falls in Granville , Ben & Jerry’s Factory Store , and  Little River State Park .

Once you reach Stowe, make sure to ride the gondola to the top of the mountain , Vermont’s highest peak.

If you have time, you can make a detour to Smuggler’s Notch on route 108, a narrow pass between Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak with plenty of easy hikes you can do from the road. The trail to Bingham Falls is only a 1.6-mile round trip. Note that the pass is not suitable for RVs.

Related – Best Road Trips in the US for your Bucket List

Great Lakes Seaway Trail

Start: Erie, PA End: Massena, NY How many days: 3 to 7 days Length: 518 miles Best time: Spring through Fall

Outdoorsy families will love driving along Lake Erie, the Niagara River, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River , stopping at state parks, and enjoying the wilderness. With stunning scenery and plenty of fun things to do , the Great Lakes Seaway Trail is one of the best East Coast family road trips.

You can drive it within a day but you can also take your time, visiting the towns along the way, enjoying water activities (if you’re there during summer), visiting historic sites, and hiking at some of the state parks. It’s an ideal road trip to take with kids as you’ll find plenty of easy trails and fun things to do.

There are plenty of stops you can take, depending on what you want to do, make sure to visit a state park or two, some beaches, historic lighthouses, maybe a museum or two, and a couple of small towns and cities. You can check out Wikipedia’s page for a full list of attractions along the way.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Start: Front Royal, VA End: Cherokee, NC How many days: 3 to 7 days Length: 469 miles Best time: mid-May to mid-September

From Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches through stunning landscapes and offers plenty of kid-friendly things to do.

You could drive the parkway in 2 days but it’s recommended to stay at least 5 days , to really explore the area and see the top sights. You can also plan a longer road trip, you won’t get bored.

Along the way, you’ll find plenty of easy hikes that will be perfect for kids and that will take you to stunning overlooks. Some of the most kid-friendly trails include:

• Fallingwater Cascades Trail – 1.4 miles back and forth
• Gully Creek Trail – 2-mile loop (recommended for older kids as some parts are pretty rough)
• Price Lake Trail – 2.2 miles
• Rough Ridge Trail – 0.2 miles, leading to a viewpoint
• Hike to the top of Mount Mitchell – great if you are looking for a longer hike.

The towns of Waynesboro, Roanoke, Blowing Rock, Asheville, and Gatlinburg make great places to stay for the night – and also, offer plenty of activities the kids will enjoy.

For more cultural activities, visit the 1890s farm building in Humpback Rocks , stop by Mabry Mill , tour the Moses Cone Manor House , and visit the Museum of North Carolina Minerals.

Florida Keys

Start: Miami End: Key West How many days: 2 to 3 days Length: 165 miles Best time: Winter and Spring

A great family road trip to escape the cold weather in winter, the Florida Keys offers pristine beaches, fun water activities, and opportunities for kids to learn new things.

The easiest is to start in Miami, you can drive to Key West in a day, but it’s better to plan 2-3 days so you can stop along the way. You can then spend a couple of days in Key West before driving back.

You should plan to spend a day exploring Everglades National Park . Airboat tours are popular, but for something more eco-friendly take a kayak tour to learn more about the different plant and animal species. There are also short hikes you can take with kids – Bobcat Boardwalk Trail , Eco Pond Trail , Anhinga Trail , Pa-hay-okee Trail are recommended.

Next, spend some time snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – watching the beautiful coral reefs, colorful fish, and their famous underwater statue. There’s also a mangrove area where you can kayak.

You can plan to spend a night in Key Largo , where you can enjoy cruising the canals onboard the famous African Queen , and watching the sunset from Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach.

Kids will love seeing the giant Lobster statue on marker 86. Another highlight of the drive is the impressive 7-mile bridge.

Once you reach Key West, relax at the beach for a couple of days and enjoy some water activities.

If you have more time you can drive down the entire East Coast of Florida, starting in St Augustine or Jacksonville , planning a few stops at Hollywood, Cocoa Beach, and Fort Lauderdale, before heading to the keys.

Finger Lakes Road Trip, New York

Start : Canandaigua, NY End: Ithaca, NY How many days: 3 to 7 Length: 100 to 300 miles Best time: May through September

With 9,000 square miles of stunning lake views, endless farmlands, gorges and waterfalls, world-class vineyards, flower fields, breweries, historical museums, and much more, the Finger Lakes region will make an awesome family road trip destination in New York.

With the perfect blend of culture, history, and nature, everyone in the family will have fun . There’s not one itinerary you have to follow, you can adapt it according to how long you have and what you want to see.

The main lakes are Canandaigua, Kekua, Seneca, Cayuga, and Skaneateles Lakes, and are called Finger Lakes, because of their shape.

Along the way, you’ll find a couple of state parks and easy hiking trails , waterfalls, small towns, historic sights, farm-to-table restaurants, museums, and crafts markets.

The Outer Banks of North Carolina

Starts: Nags Head, NC Ends: Beaufort, NC How many days: 5 Length: 138 miles Best time: Mid-April to Mid-December

The perfect East Coast road trip for families, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway will take you through North Carolina’s beautiful beaches, thriving wildlife preserves, historic towns, and iconic lighthouses . Kids will love spending time at the beach, exploring historic buildings, and seeing wild horses roam free.

Start in Kitty Hawk and visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial where the first flight took place. In town, you can have a meal at the kid-friendly Rundown Cafe , serving Caribbean and Pacific Rim-inspired food.

Then keep heading south until you reach Beaufort . You can drive the byway within a day, but it’s better to plan at least 5 days for the trip as you’ll want to spend time visiting some of the places along the way.

Some of the top sites to tour with children include Jennette’s Pier  in Nags Head, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse , the Chicamacomico Lifesaving Station from the 19th century, the shipwreck Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum , and Ocracoke Lighthouse .

You’ll find plenty of pretty beaches, nice restaurants, and small towns to stop by along the way as well.

Outdoorsy families who want to spot wildlife, enjoy unspoiled beaches, and go for easy hikes, need to include Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge or Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge in their road trip.

You can visit the Outer Banks year-round, but most restaurants, hotels, and shops will be closed during winter.

Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

Starts: Boston, MA End: Bar Harbor, ME How many days: 3 to 7 Length: 280 miles Best time: Summer and Fall

If you’re feeling like going on an adventure with stunning views of the coast, beautiful state parks, and historic towns, the quick yet scenic East Coast road trip from Boston to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor is one the whole family will enjoy.

Crossing Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, the whole trip can be done in a day, and then, you can spend a couple of days in Acadia National Park or you can plan a couple of overnight stops along the way. This road trip can also be started in NYC or Portland.

If you have time, you can take a detour to drive the Kancamagus Highway part of the White Mountains Scenic Byway.

You should definitely plan to visit a couple of historic cities like Portsmouth , Portland, Rockport, and Camden , strolling around their historic district and maybe touring a couple of historic buildings and museums.

If your family likes hiking, then stop for a short hike in one of the many state parks you’ll pass by . Stroll around the 19th-century gardens and plantings at Maudslay State Park , go for a swim at Bear Brook State Parks, look for birds at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge , and make a small detour to explore Fort Knox State Park .

Once you reach Bar Harbor, you can spend a couple of days exploring Acadia National Park, where you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly hiking and biking trails as well as beautiful beaches . Take a few hours to drive the Acadia All American Road.

Skyline Drive Road Trip, Virginia

Start: Front Royal, VA End: Rockfish Gap, VA How many days: 1 Length: 105 miles Best time: Spring and Fall

Located within Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive is one of the most scenic road trips you can go on on the East Coast. Featuring stunning scenery over the Shenandoah Valley, picturesque viewpoints, and easy trails accessible from the road , this drive is ideal to take with kids. And, if you’re lucky, you might even see some wildlife.

Running along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the drive will take you through 75 overlooks and will connect you to all the major visitor centers, campgrounds, lodges, picnic areas, and most trailheads.

You can do this road trip in a day, but you can also plan a couple of overnight stops at the campgrounds or lodges found along the way within Shenandoah National Park. Just make sure to book ahead.

Some of the top kid-friendly hikes you’ll find along the way include:

• Fox Hollow Interpretive Trail – 1.2-mile loop
• Traces Trail Hike – 1.7-mile loop
• Mary’s Rock Trail – 3.7-mile round trip – Moderate, recommended for older kids.
• Stony Man Trail – 1.6-mile round trip 
• Dark Hollow Falls – 1.4-mile circuit – Moderate, steep and rocky trails, often slippery

Charleston to Savannah Road Trip

Start: Charleston, SC End: Savannah, GA How many days: 3 to 8 Length: 108 miles Best time: Year-round

Charleston and Savannah both have a lot to offer, and taking a road trip to explore the iconic cities as well as their surrounding is a great thing to do with kids. They’ll enjoy touring historic plantations, visiting children’s museums and their hands-on exhibits, and gorging on Southern food.

Explore the low-country in Georgia and South Carolina, first starting in Charleston, then heading to Beaufort, stopping by Hilton Head Island, then Bluffton, making your way to Savannah (or the other way around). You could do the drive in one day but it’s recommended to plan a couple of overnight stops.

Spend time exploring the historic districts , visit museums and historic buildings , enjoy the beach, stroll around a state park or two ( Edisto and Hunting Island State Parks are recommended), and don’t miss touring a plantation.

If you have time, you can drive the Savannah River Scenic Byway where you’ll find scenic views, get a glimpse of life in the rural South, and experience southern hospitality. The byway starts a bit before Clarks Hill and ends in Oakway, it takes around 3 hours.

You can also start this road trip in Raleigh, North Carolina, and drive to Myrtle Beach, then onto Charleston.

Appalachian Trail Road Trip

Start: Carrabassett Valley, MA End: Tallulah Gorge State Park, GA How many days: 14 Length: 2,100 miles Best time: Spring through Fall

One of the most popular hiking trails in the United States, the  Appalachian Trail winds from Maine’s North Woods all the way down to Georgia. The driving route follows closely along the trail passing by stunning landscapes, charming towns, and historic sites .

The best part about this road trip is that it combines some of the best road trips on the East Coast , so you get to drive some of the most scenic drives in the country in one big road trip.

The Appalachian Trail crosses through 14 states (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia), 8 national forests, and 6 national parks.

Popular spots along the route include:

• Baxter State Park in Maine.
• The White Mountain National Forest, Mount Washington Auto Road, and the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire.
• Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks in New York.
• Shenandoah National Park, Water Gap National Recreation Area, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, and Mount Rogers in Virginia.
• The Great Smoky Mountains, and Blood and Springer mountains in Georgia.
• Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, in DC and Maryland.

Northern Florida Road Trip

Start : Falling Waters State Park End: Fort Clinch State Park How many days: 5 to 7 Length: 424 miles Best time: Spring or Fall

Northern Florida has a lot to offer and hides many gems few tourists know about. Plan a road trip there to explore its highlights, enjoying the sun, the beaches, and all the natural wonders it features. It’s ideal for families looking to spend some time outdoors while still having time to relax.

The drive from Falling Waters State Park to Fort Clinch State Park takes around 8 hours but you’ll want to spend time at the stops, so count at least 5 days but a full week would be better as there is a lot to do and see.

Here are the highlights of the trip:

• Visit Florida’s highest waterfalls at Falling Waters State Park – there you’ll find many easy hikes through the wood, accessible to kids of all ages.
• Take a 45-minute tour through the caves in Florida Caverns State Park – check the tour schedule beforehand. There you can also kayak on the Chipola River and hike to the Blue Hole Spring.
• Ride a boat at one of the biggest and deepest freshwater springs in the world, Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park , where you might spot birds, manatees, and alligators. The park also features a couple of nature trails and areas where you can swim and snorkel.
• Tube down the river at Ichetucknee Springs State Park
• Swim in a sinkhole at the Devil’s Den Spring .
• Stroll around America’s oldest city, St. Augustine
• Enjoy the peaceful scenery at Big Talbot Island and Little Talbot Island
• Spend some time at the beach on Amelia Island

Washington Heritage Trail, Virginia

Start: Paw Paw End: Berkeley Springs How many days: 1 to 3 Length: 136 miles Best time: Year-round

Forming a loop through the Morgan, Berkeley, and Jefferson counties, the Washington Heritage Trail traces the footsteps of George Washington and the marks his family left in the Eastern Panhandle . It’s an ideal road trip to take with kids to teach them about American history in a fun way.

There are over 40 official sites to visit along the trai l, from 18th-century towns and historic sites to scenic overlooks and picturesque scenery. You can pick the ones you like best or visit them all!

Most of the sites are located within 5 towns: Berkeley Springs, Martinsburg, Shepherdstown, Harpers Ferry, and Charles Towns . At each, you’ll find historic buildings and museums you can visit. You can see the full list here>>

Hudson Valley Road Trip, New York

Start and End: New York City How many days: 2 to 3 Length: 180 miles Best time: Fall

Less than an hour’s drive away from New York City, the Hudson Valley is ideal to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax for a few days – it’s a perfect road trip from New York City for families looking to explore some stunning landscape and enjoy outdoor and cultural activities.

You can either start from NYC and back or take a train to one of the towns along the Hudson River and rent a car from there (a good idea to avoid traffic).

If you start from NYC, drive the Palisades Interstate Parkway and then Perkins Memorial Drive to reach the top of Bear Mountain . Don’t miss some of the lookouts on the way. Once in Bear Mountain State Park you can spend some time hiking (the Hessian Lake Loop is easy and nice to do with kids) or keep going.

Stop by West Point Academy , you can take a guided tour there and visit the museum. Then stroll around Storm King Art Center , home to one of the largest collections of contemporary outdoor sculptures in the United States – kids will love walking around the park, seeing all these sculptures.

Make your way to Hyde Park , where you can visit the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Home and The Vanderbilt Mansion . Then drive to the village of Rhinebeck , home to over 300 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Kids will love touring the Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum as well.

Next stops include Poughkeepsie (don’t miss the bridge), the Locust Grove Estate, Sleepy Hollow, and Tarrytown.

Cape May to Virginia Beach Road Trip

Start: Cape May, NJ End: Virginia Beach, VA How many days: 3 to 7 Length: 200 miles Best time: Summer

An ideal road trip to take from Washington DC or Baltimore for families who want to spend some time at the beach, explore the wilderness, and see the famous wild horses.

The top spots on this East Coast road trip include:

• Lewes and Rehoboth Beach
• Bethany Beach
• Chincoteague and Assateague Island National Seashore
• Virginia Beach

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The 10 best road trips to take with your family this summer

The great American road trip is a tried-and-true family tradition.

Driving the country's scenic highways and stopping to explore anything that catches your eye — perhaps a stunning viewpoint, a side-of-the-road lobster shack or a historical marker — is a wonderful way to explore the U.S. with your family this summer.

It's also a great way to save money while exploring, whether you redeem points, rent an RV or find affordable hotels, motels or camping sites along the way.

Of course, road-tripping with kids brings a few challenges , including keeping them entertained and dealing with possible car sickness.

Try using one of the fun kid-friendly voices for the Waze app to give directions to keep everyone laughing. Think about bringing iPads that can attach to the back of headrests and make a list of car games to play. Old-school favorites such as I Spy, 20 Questions and license plate-spotting are as good as ever.

To reduce or avoid nausea, be careful what you feed children before getting in the car (no spicy or greasy food), make sure there's enough airflow in the car and consider Dramamine if your child is over 2 years old (but talk to your doctor first).

If an accident does happen, make sure you are prepared with extra clothing, plastic bags and paper towels or wipes.

Packing a good credit card for gas fill-ups is also a very smart move. Check out TPG's guide to the best cards for gas purchases here .

Now that we have the logistics out of the way, here are 10 classic summer road trips in the U.S.

Appalachia to Nashville

Explore Appalachia with a big finish in Nashville on this route through West Virginia and Kentucky. Start in West Virginia's capital, Charleston, which is at the convergence of three major state highways — fly into West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) if necessary.

Visit the state's picturesque Capitol building, which has a gold leaf-covered dome that's 5 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol's; the West Virginia State Museum, where you can learn about Appalachian history and culture; and the Avampato Discovery Museum, an interactive science museum for all ages.

Stroll down the tree-lined Capitol Street and stop into one of several restaurants there, or get tender barbecue with stellar sides from the acclaimed Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill.

All the major hotel chains are here. Use your Marriott Bonvoy points at the Charleston Marriott Town Center (from 15,500 points or $124 per night) or Four Points by Sheraton Charleston (15,500 points or $114 per night), or your Hilton Honors points at Embassy Suites Charleston Historic District (from 37,000 points or $140 per night).

From Charleston, head straight into Kentucky and the horse capital of Lexington. Visit the famous Keeneland Racecourse and tour the Kentucky Horse Park, then go to the revitalized Distillery District for pizza, ice cream, beer, live music and, of course, bourbon.

From there, it's a short drive to Louisville — stop at the Claudia Sanders Dinner House (yes, that Sanders ... Claudia was the Colonel's wife) for a classic Southern family-style meal.

Louisville is full of family-friendly attractions, including the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and the Kentucky Science Center, and kids will love cruising the Ohio River on the oldest river steamboat, the Belle of Louisville.

Stay at the original 21c Museum Hotel (rooms from $309), which has an attached contemporary art museum and is also home to the acclaimed Proof on Main restaurant. The architecturally stunning Seelbach Hilton (from 41,000 Hilton Honors points or $162 per night) dates to 1869 and has classically appointed rooms and lavish public spaces.

Finally, head south to Nashville for a big finish in Music City, where you can stay at Hotel Fraye, part of Hilton's independent Curio Collection (from $224 or 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night).

Guests can get a real taste of the city's eclectic style while checking out attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Radnor Lake State Park, Nashville Zoo and the Grand Ole Opry.

Don't forget to get some made-in-Nashville chocolatey treats at the Goo Goo Clusters Shop before flying out of Nashville International Airport (BNA).

Related: Music City on the mind? These are the best new points hotels in Nashville

Lake Michigan highlights

Hug the lake on this drive that starts in Milwaukee, heads south to Chicago and then back up through Michigan, ending in Traverse City.

Fly into Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) and explore the city's Lynden Sculpture Garden, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum and the hands-on Discovery World Science and Technology Center. Grab a frozen custard at the famous Kopp's . Kids are sure to love the spy-themed burger joint SafeHouse.

Hyatt loyalists can use points or their free night certificates to stay at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee (from $109 or 6,500 points). Or, redeem Marriott points at the Milwaukee Marriott Downtown (from $143 or 30,000 Bonvoy points per night).

Head south out of town, and in about two hours you'll hit Chicago, with its world-class family-friendly attractions like Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, Lincoln Park Zoo and Millennium Park, to name a few.

Related: Forget the ocean: 8 amazing lake vacations to take in the US this summer

From Chicago, curve around the lake shore, stopping at the stunning Indiana Dunes National Park for some outdoor lake time before driving up to charming Holland, Michigan. This Dutch-founded town on the shores of Lake Macatawa is home to a centuries-old windmill, a tulip festival and Dutch-inspired food, like the classic pastries from deBoer Bakkerij & Dutch Brothers Restaurant.

The beautiful lakeshore includes Holland State Park, Laketown Beach, Tunnel Park and an adorable red lighthouse.

Traverse City is 168 miles north, with numerous small towns and the Huron-Manistee National Forests to explore along the way.

Once in Traverse City, take advantage of some well-earned beach time. If you are visiting from July 1-8, don't miss the National Cherry Festival .

For some real family fun, stay at Great Wolf Lodge and enjoy its indoor water park, or redeem IHG One Rewards points at Hotel Indigo Traverse City (from $125 or 20,000 points per night).

Fly out of Cherry Capital Airport (TVC).

Related: TPG's 10 top family vacation destinations for 2023

Big Bend National Park in Texas

This 150-mile-long national park along the Texas and Mexico border makes for a gorgeous and adventure-filled road trip.

Fly in and out of El Paso International Airport (ELP) and then drive about 300 miles east to enter the remote park, with a stop in the artsy enclave of Marfa along the way.

Another option is to take an Amtrak train to Alpine, or start from the San Antonio/Austin area. Either way, you'll likely enter the park at the town of Marathon, where you can stay at the historic Gage Hotel and eat at Brick Vault Brewery and Barbecue.

Once inside the 800,000-acre park, the epic drive is dotted with picturesque attractions at every turn.

Hugging the Rio Grande and comprising the stunning Chisos mountain range, much of the park is the Chihuahuan Desert.

Other highlights include traveling the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, discovering the Terlingua Ghost Town, walking the Santa Elena nature trail, zip lining at Lajitas and exploring Boquillas Canyon.

Best of all, there are plenty of kid-friendly hiking trails and boat rides up the Rio Grande.

Related: A beginners guide to visiting Big Bend National Park: Everything you need to know, see and do

If you don't want to camp, the family-owned Big Bend Holiday Hotel has vintage rooms and charming, beautifully appointed casitas in the area (from $160 per night). For more family-oriented amenities (including a golf course and swimming pool), stay at the sprawling Lajitas Golf Resort (from $399).

Central California coast

California's epic coastline is ripe for adventure.

Kids will enjoy exploring the central part of California the best: tons of animals, history and, of course, crashing waves. You can fly in and out of Meadows Field Airport in Bakersfield (BFL).

First, drive to Pismo Beach. Check out the Monarch Butterfly Grove, walk the Pismo Pier and rent a multiperson surrey that you can pedal down the boardwalk. Eat at Splash Cafe and sample the goods at Old West Cinnamon Rolls.

Spend the night with your Hilton Honors points at the Hilton Garden Inn San Luis Obispo/Pismo Beach (from $115 or 23,000 points per night), or try the lovely and affordable SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel (from $206).

From there, get on the Pacific Coast Highway and head north along the coast to Morro Bay, where you can see the striking Morro Rock, the last of the Seven Sisters — a chain of ancient volcanoes that lie between Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo. Try to catch it at sunset.

Related: Planning your California road trip using Hyatt points

Then, drive up to Cambria for a bit of farm love. Cuddle some goats, see cows getting milked and, of course, eat some cheese at Stepladder Ranch and Creamery. Ride on a Clydesdale horse at Covell's Ranch, explore the beautiful Moonstone Beach and grab a bite to eat at Robin's.

Keep heading north to San Simeon, where you can't miss the adorable seals at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, just off the highway.

Then head inland a bit to visit the famous Hearst Castle and its 127 acres of gardens, pools and paths. If you're lucky, you may even spot some zebras (yes, really!) on the tram ride up to the castle.

Use 10,000 Choice Privileges points (or $83) to stay at the budget-friendly Quality Inn Near Hearst Castle or, for a more luxurious option, try the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort (from $369 per night).

Related: 43 real-world family travel tips that actually work

Drive coastal Maine 

The eastern coast of Maine is full of rocky cliffs, swirling waves and quaint lobster shacks, making it ideal for a drive up the winding roads that overlook the Atlantic.

Start in Portland, a fun and walkable city with a great food scene. If you need to, fly in and out of Portland International Jetport (PWM) or Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), which is two hours south of Portland. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) in Manchester, New Hampshire, is a good Southwest Airlines destination as well.

Explore the city's Old Port district, where you can stop and buy the kids some fudge while you peruse pottery and jewelry. Then head to the Children's Museum and Theatre of Maine and climb up the Portland Observatory for sweeping harbor views.

Portland also has a great food scene. Some family-friendly spots include Two Fat Cats Bakery, Duckfat, Silly's and Salvage BBQ.

Use your Marriott Bonvoy points to spend the night at the Residence Inn Portland Downtown/Waterfront (from $146 or 40,000 points per night), which has an indoor pool. Or you can choose the funky Press Hotel (from $165 or 50,000 points per night), which is part of the Autograph Collection .

Continue north through Freeport and stop at the L.L. Bean Outlet before heading on to Rockland. Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum and check out the Maine Lighthouse Museum and the Coastal Children's Museum.

Stop for hot dogs at Wasses or buy picnic supplies at local co-op the Good Tern and take them to Birch Point State Park. Rockland also hosts the Maine Lobster Festival every summer (Aug. 2-6 in 2023).

From Rockland, drive north to Bar Harbor and the adjacent Acadia National Park for a few days of incredible hiking and biking, sailing and kayaking, swimming in Echo Lake and the best popovers in the state at the famous Jordan Pond House. For your local lobster fix, try Beal's Lobster Pier.

Use your Hilton Honors points at the seasonal Hampton Inn Bar Harbor (open from May to October; from $175 or 33,000 points per night), which has panoramic ocean and mountain views as well as two pools.

Find natural fun in Florida

Florida is so much more than theme parks, even if you're looking for family-friendly activities. And if you want to revel in nature, Florida has it covered. This 118-mile route dives into some of the state's best natural attractions, from Tampa to Fort Myers.

You can't go to Florida without enjoying its beaches, and you'll find some of the state's finest sugar-sand beaches along the Gulf coast.

From Tampa, take Highway 60 west to Clearwater Beach and then head south to Pass-a-Grille. The island road curves along a 20-mile-long strand of alluring beaches and restaurants where you can order grouper fresh from the Gulf.

As you head east back toward the mainland, follow signs for Fort De Soto Park, where there are 1,136 acres of beaches, mangroves, bike trails and remnants of a Spanish-American War fort. Then drive an hour south to Sarasota to spend the night.

Use your Marriott Bonvoy points at the Westin Sarasota downtown (from $254 or 31,000 points per night) or splurge on The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota (from $871 or 65,500 points per night) if you want to be on the beach.

Related: 13 of the best beaches in Florida

Sarasota is filled with natural attractions. Kids can frolic through a rainforest at the Children's Rainforest Garden, part of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens on Sarasota's bayfront, which parents will also enjoy.

Across Sarasota Bay, discover Gulf of Mexico critters at Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and set sail on one of Mote's marine biologist-led eco-boat tours of Sarasota Bay.

When hunger strikes, check out O'Leary's Tiki Bar and Grill adjacent to Bayfront Park, which has a playground and walking trails, or Old Salty Dog right on Sarasota Bay, where kids get their meals served on a frisbee.

The next day, head inland on Highway 72 to Myakka River State Park, where alligators are the star attraction, often sunning themselves along the river's banks. Walk along the boardwalks and canopy trails that drape over the wetlands and among the treetops. You can also rent kayaks to explore the waterways, or join a boat tour.

Continue south on Highway 41 to Fort Myers, where you can check out the gentle underwater giants at Manatee Park, explore more wetlands at Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, and be among colorful winged creatures at the Butterfly Estates.

For a quick and tasty seafood lunch, hit up Shrimp Shack, and for dinner, try the award-winning pies at Fine Folk Pizza.

Use your Hilton Honors points at Hilton Garden Inn Fort Myers (from $174 or 50,000 points per night) or Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Myers-Colonial Blvd. (from $160 or 38,000 points per night).

Fun in the Finger Lakes

Western New York's Finger Lakes region consists of 11 lakes between Syracuse, Rochester and Elmira-Corning, and while some lakes are larger than others, they're all surrounded by charming towns and wineries.

Start in the more eastern town of Skaneateles (pronounced SKINNY-atlas), stopping at Skaneateles Bakery for some of its freshly made doughnuts and blueberry muffins to munch on as you stroll down the pier and walk along the lake.

Go for a boat ride on the lake with Mid-Lakes Navigation — you can even help the Barbara S. Wiles mail boat deliver mail to lakeside homes.

In the evening, catch a movie at New York State's oldest drive-in, Finger Lakes Drive-In, and then spend the night at the cute bed-and-breakfast The Bond 1835 or Skaneateles Suites; points hotels are hard to come by here.

Drive 22 miles west to Seneca Falls to see Women's Rights National Historical Park, where the first women's rights convention was held in 1848.

Keep on Route 20 to Seneca Lake, which is great for kitesurfing and windsurfing, and enjoy a sail with Sail Seneca.

The town of Geneva, at the top of the lake, is home to lovely restaurants and shops like F.L.X. Fry Bird and Kindred Fare. Explore the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and sip some wines at vineyards like Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, Red Tail Ridge Winery, Barnstormer Winery and Fox Run Vineyards. At the bottom of the lake is Watkins Glen State Park, known for its incredible waterfalls, canyons and hiking.

Continue west to Canandaigua Lake, which is home to the chic Lake House Canandaigua (from $239 per night), which boasts a lakefront pool and hot tub, the Rose Tavern with farm-to-table dishes, and kayaks and a yacht for tooling around the lake, among other luxurious amenities.

But if you're looking to earn or redeem Hilton Honors points, the Hotel Canandaigua, Tapestry Collection by Hilton will do you right (from $390 or 60,000 points per night), with its lakefront location, pool and direct access to the Canandaigua Lady at Steamboat Landing. Drive to the bottom of the lake to Naples to sample its famous grape pie.

End your trip in Rochester, just 28 miles northwest from Canandaigua. Once there, check out the George Eastman Museum, a photography museum devoted to the founder of Kodak; the Strong National Museum of Play, an interactive museum dedicated to toys and games; the Susan B. Anthony House, the home of the suffragette that's now a museum; and Highland Park, a beautiful landscaped park that hosts annual flower festivals.

To try some regional foods, visit the Rochester City Public Market, a massive farmers market with vendors from across the region, and for the city's famous "garbage plate," head to the original: Nick Tahou Hots, who invented the one-plate meals with potatoes, meat and several other sides.

Use Hyatt points at the recently renovated Hyatt Regency Rochester (from $139 or 6,500 points per night) or book a night at the Courtyard by Marriott Rochester Downtown (from $193 or 17,000 points per night) for a centralized location.

The South Carolina coast

Start in Hilton Head Island and catch some rays at the popular Coligny Beach Park, or if you like a quiet scene, try Alder Lane or Burkes Beach.

Learn about South Carolina's Lowcountry and Gullah history and culture at the Coastal Discovery Museum and enjoy the area's natural beauty at the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge and Sea Pines Forest Preserve.

Later, chow down on authentic Gullah cuisine at Ruby Lee's, or enjoy seafood at Skull Creek Boathouse. Book a night at an amenity-filled beach resort like Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort (from $280 per night), or if you have Marriott Bonvoy points to burn, check out the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa (from $339 or 40,000 points per night).

Head north on Route 17 along the coast up to charming Charleston. Once there, you can explore Museum Mile, a walkable route that includes museums like the Charleston Museum and the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry, along with some historic homes and buildings and green parks.

The Battery and White Point Gardens, at the southern end of the Charleston peninsula, features displays of Civil War artillery, views of Fort Sumter and picturesque live oak trees. Kids will love the South Carolina Aquarium, which houses a wonderful touch tank.

For more beach time, check out the 6-mile-long Folly Beach, and try Lowcountry favorite frogmore stew at Bowens Island Restaurant.

Related: 7 reasons why your next vacation should be on Hilton Head Island

The food scene in Charleston is legendary, and as long as you seek out authentic Southern food, you'll be happy; a few favorites include Rodney Scott's BBQ, The Ordinary and Bertha's Kitchen.

All the big hotel brands are here, so depending on your loyalty, you can book a night at a place like the Charleston Marriott (from $238 or 32,000 points per night) or Hyatt Place Charleston/Historic District.

But if you're looking for character, some of Charleston's best hotels are independent boutiques like The Loutrel, Planters Inn and The Dewberry. For the best of both worlds, try Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton (from $312 or 65,000 points per night).

Just before you cross into North Carolina, you'll arrive in Myrtle Beach, one of South Carolina's most popular beaches. While it has some tackier attractions like water and amusement parks, chain restaurants and shopping malls, it's also home to 60 miles of gorgeous beach, known as the Grand Strand.

Check out the Golden Mile for a hotel-free zone, or hit the sand near 82nd Avenue for the gay beach. Beyond the beach, walk down the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, stopping to hear live music and sip drinks along the way, or stroll down the lively Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. And save room for some authentic barbecue at True BBQ, owned by locals Joseph and Sheila Evans.

Redeem your Hilton Honors points at the all-suite Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach (from $169 or 84,000 points per night), just two blocks from the boardwalk with two pools, a kids activity center and an oceanfront restaurant.

Pacific Northwest parks trip

Start in Oregon's Crater Lake National Park, which is home to the deepest lake in the country. Known for being extremely pristine, its purity is created by rain and snow filling in the deep caldera that was formed during a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Drive the park's 33-mile loop road around the crater, stopping off for spectacular views and hikes along the way. Camp at Farewell Bend Campground or use 20,000 Choice Privileges points at Sleep Inn & Suites in nearby Chiloquin.

The next day, drive 100 miles north to the adorable town of Bend, Oregon. Explore the Bend Ale Trail, home to 30 breweries, and if it's fall, visit Smith Rock Ranch for a corn maze and pumpkin patches. Explore the Old Mill District's shops and restaurants along the Deschutes River and visit the High Desert Museum to learn about the wildlife, history and art of the region.

Sleep over at Hampton Inn & Suites Bend (from $145 or 28,000 Hilton Honors points per night) or Residence Inn by Marriott Bend (from $156 or 32,000 points per night) if you have Bonvoy points to use.

Finally, head to the McKenzie River Valley and its centerpiece, the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail. Don't miss the Sahalie and Koosah falls.

Exploring Missouri via Route 66

This classic strip of highway has been mostly replaced by interstates, but this route will have you going over parts of it.

Start in St. Louis, the Gateway to the West. You'll want to check out Gateway Arch National Park, which includes the famous arch as well as the courthouse where the Black enslaved man Dred Scott sued for his right to freedom in the late 1840s.

Also worth visiting are the Missouri Botanical Garden, Saint Louis Art Museum and the super-interactive City Museum, made of repurposed industrial objects inside an old shoe factory.

If you have little ones, the Magic House children's museum is a great addition. For eats, consider the City Foundry Food Hall, Balkan Treat Box, Louie and the James Beard Award-winning Gioia's Deli. For authentic St. Louis barbecue, head to Pappy's Smokehouse.

Use your Hilton Honors points at Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Louis Downtown (from $148 or 40,000 points per night) or World of Hyatt points at the Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch (from $119 or 8,000 points per night), which overlooks the iconic arch. Marriott Bonvoy points can be spent at the Magnolia Hotel St. Louis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel (from $213 or 30,000 points per night), a historic property inside a 1924 building that once hosted Cary Grant.

Related: Home is where the arch is: The best things to eat, see and do in St. Louis

Go west on Interstate 44, which replaced Route 66 in Missouri. You can stop at Route 66 State Park and some campy roadside attractions like Meramec Caverns and the Jesse James Wax Museum.

You'll also drive through the small town of Cuba, aka Route 66 Mural City, where you can see 14 murals painted on buildings along the route.

If you're craving barbecue, stop at Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que while you're there. Once back on the road, drive a portion of the original Route 66 through the beautiful Mark Twain National Forest and the Devil's Elbow bend of the Big Piney River. For an authentically vintage experience, stay in a Route 66-themed room at the vintage Munger Moss Motel in Lebanon.

The next day, drive to one of Missouri's largest caves, Fantastic Caverns, just outside Springfield. Then head to Springfield, where kids and grown-ups alike will have a blast at the Discovery Center, Wonders of Wildlife and the Dickerson Park Zoo. Grab burgers at Black Sheep, and for a sweet treat, head over to Askinosie Chocolate.

Sleep over at the Best Western Coach House (from $72 or 16,000 Best Western Rewards points per night) or Hilton Garden Inn Springfield, MO (from $116 or 40,000 Hilton Honors points per night).

Bottom line

Road trips do not have to mean burning rubber all day to cover as much ground as possible. In fact, some of the best trips look nothing like that at all. They focus on amazing sights and experiences along the route.

Amazing 1 Month Family Vacation Road Trip Across the USA with Kids (Itinerary and Activities)

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During the summer of 2021, our family set out on a 5 week epic, adventure road trip across the United States. You can see our complete itinerary and experience below. If you aren’t ready to commit to this long, you can easily break this up into several smaller family vacation road trip itineraries (such as a 2 week road trip USA Rocky Mountains or Utah National Parks).

You could also extend this into a 2 month road trip across the USA by adding more time at each destination or going further south or west. If you wanted to make this into a 1 month road trip (USA) you could leave off the time in McCall, Idaho, or if you aren’t driving all the way from the East coast you would save a few days of driving.

We also have plenty of ideas on how to plan a successful road trip with kids, tweens and teens and lots of information on different destinations .

• How to Have the Best Road Trip with Teens and Kids (find planning information and kid’s road trip essentials)
• 20 Not Boring Things to do on a Car Trip with Teenagers (find fun things to do in the car with kids and teens)

Quick Look at our 5 Week Family Vacation Road Trip

Here’s a quick look at our itinerary. Note that we’re including 5 weeks of travel here since we needed to drive out and back. This is really a 1-month road trip itinerary.

Week l – Drive from our home in New Hampshire west over several long days. Stop to see friends in Wisconsin. Camp at the Badlands and hike. Drive from here to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse – camp in Red Lodge Montana. Drive over Beartooth Pass into Yellowstone. Spend 2 days in Yellowstone .

Week 2 – Drive to the Grand Tetons for 3 days to hike and explore. Drive to McCall Idaho via Craters of the Moon National Par k. Spend 5 days at a rental house in McCall, Idaho with family.

Week 3 – leave McCall and do an overnight at Sawtooth and Alpine Lake in Idaho. Drive down for the night to Antelope Island . Rock climb in Cottonwood Canyon. Continue on to Capitol Reef NP for a night and on to Kodachrome State Park for several nights. Hike slot canyons and visit Bryce NP .

Week 4 – Spend 3 days in Zion NP exploring. Drive to Mesa Verde NP for a day. Drive up to Boulder to visit friends. Hike the Flatirons and explore the Rocky Mountains – overnight backpacking trip into the mountains.

Week 5 – camp at Rocky Mountain NP and do day hikes into the mountains for 3 days. Start driving east. We drove pretty much straight home with a stop at some family in New York

Highlights of this Itinerary

• Seeing 8 National Parks
• 2 Overnight Backpacking Trips
• Having our Bikes to Explore near the campgrounds
• Seeing friends along the way
• The variety of landscapes including canyons, mountains, geysirs and more

Complete Details For Your Own Family Vacation Road Trip

This itinerary includes camping and an emphasis on hiking and other outdoor activities. We also started our trip in NH and drove out west and back, but I’m only including the portion of the road trip that starts in the Badlands and ends in Rocky Mountain National Park. If you’re going to follow this itinerary, you will want to adjust your starting and ending locations – the days listed below allow for some extra time to get to the start of the trip and back home at the end.

Day 1 – Arrive at the Badlands in time for sunset and visit some of the overlooks on your way to your campground at Cedar Pass inside Badlands National Park .

Day 2 – Get an early start to see the Badlands in the morning light. Hike the challenging and fun Notch Trail and then explore the Castle Trail (we did this as a point to point as two-person didn’t want to hike so could pick us up). After your hikes drive through the Badlands Loop Road. Stop at the Fossil exhibit for a short walk and then stop along the way at any of the overlooks that strike your fancy. Leave the Badlands and stop off at Wall Drug then drive to your campground for the night near Mount Rushmore. Camp at Sheridan Lake or Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore.

Day 3 – Visit Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse . You need just about an hour at each location. I recommend watching the welcome video and snapping some photos at both these sites. You still have a 7 hour drive, so hit the road and head to Red Lodge. There are lots of places to stay – we camped at Parkside campground, but you can also check out the Red Lodge Inn .

Day 4 – Get an early start (we left by 5:30). Drive over Beartooth Pass. Pack some breakfast and eat on the way up or find a breakfast picnic area once your up there. This is an AMAZING drive so enjoy it! You will descend into Yellowstone National Park just in time to see Bison as you drive into the Lamar Valley. Stop at Mammoth Spring and Norris Geyser Basin on your way to stay at the Old Faithful Inn. You can see old faithful and stay here for the night.

Day 5 – Head out to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and hike either the North Rim or the South Rim Trail, drive through the Hayden Valley and visit 1-2 geyser basins. Check out the Grand Prismatic Spring or West Thumb, then drive south to the Grand Tetons. There are many excellent places to stay near the Grand Tetons. We camped at Gros Ventre, but you can also check out Wyoming Inn at Jackson Hole .

Day 6 and 7 – Explore Grand Tetons National Park . Choose one of the longer hikes for one of the days. We loved hiking Cascade Canyon. We also recommend renting boats at Jenny Lake or biking along the trail to Jenny Lake. You can eat in Jackson or Moose.

Day 8-13 – Drive to Craters of the Moon and spend a few hours exploring this unique place. We took a break during the next few days to stay with family. You can either skip ahead to the next section from here or choose a place to explore and set up camp for a few days or rent a house. We stayed in McCall, Idaho , and loved the variety of things to do including white water rafting, hiking, climbing, and biking.

Day 14 – Backpack to Sawtooth and Alpine Lake in Idaho. This is an amazing backpack to Sawtooth, but we recommend staying a little closer at Alpine Lake and hiking up to Sawtooth from there. Stay the night by the water and watch the sunrise the next morning.

Day 15 – Backpack to the car and head south to Antelope Island for the night. We stopped for lunch in Ketchum and then headed right to the campground. Get there in time to see the sunset.

Day 16 – Before you leave the campground, go for a drive, hike or bike around Antelope Island and look for the wildlife that lives here including bison. You are heading south from here to Capitol Reef National Park . You can head straight there or we stopped outside Salt Lake City to go rock climbing. If you get to Capitol Reef in time take a short sunset hike – we explored Grand Wash. Camp right in the National Park at Fruita campground.

Day 17 – Enjoy Capitol Reef in the morning and then drive to Kodachrome State Park. Stop on the way at Peek a Book and Spooky Gulch. You can also take a hike at Kodachrome on one of the many trails. We camped here for 2 nights.

Day 18 – Get an early start and head to Bryce Canyon National Park . Hike down into the Amphitheatre – try the Navajo Trail. Spend the whole day here or head back to quieter Kodachrome for the afternoon and evening. Try hiking or biking at Kodachrome .

Day 19 – Hike Willis Creek Slot Canyon and then drive 1.5 hour to Zion National Park . We stayed in two different places during our 3 nights in Zion. We stayed at Springdale Suites by Marriot and loved the pool. We also camped for a night at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and had a blast playing mini-golf and swimming in the pool.

Day 20 and 21 – Explore Zion National Park. We did the Zion Narrows, Emerald Pools, and did some bike riding. Zion is crowded with a shuttle service so getting an early start here is important.

Day 22 – Get ready for a driving day to Mesa Verde . There are several options of places to stop at along the way including Lake Powell, 4 corners and more. The drive is about 6 hours. We stayed at the Morefield campground.

Day 23 – drive and explore Mesa Verde. If you can book a tour and check out one of the houses. Leave here and drive up to Boulder. We spent the next 2 nights with friends.

Day 24 – Get out and explore the Front Range. We hiked the Flatirons.

Day 25 – head up into the mountains and hike and camp for the night. We stayed at Golden Gate State Park

Day 26 – Backpack into Jasper Lake for the night and camp in the woods at the lake. Get there early as the parking lot does fill up and enjoy a night out under the stars.

Day 27 – Backpack out and then head to Rocky Mountain National Park. We spent 3 nights at the Hermit Park Campground and loved it.

Day 28 and 29 – Explore Rocky Mountain National Park . Make sure you get in some good hikes while you’re here. We loved hiking to Nymph and Emerald Lake and also the longer hike to Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge . Even at the end of August it was cold here, so pack well!

Day 30 – that’s a wrap – we headed east from here but you can head on to your own home or your next destination.

What we Loved About This Family Vacation Road Trip

This road trip was amazing and while our kids are well travelled in general they still hadn’t seen much of the country. This trip pushed them out of their comfort zones and gave them a new perspective. Here are some of the things we loved about our trip:

• Since we drove, we saw parts of the country that weren’t on our list but gave us a fresh perspective on the United States
• The National Parks are amazing and we can’t wait to visit more!
• We loved the time together as a family
• We were able to keep the trip relatively inexpensive by camping, cooking and doing free activities
• We enjoyed breaking up the travel with some stops to see friends
• Our kids were highly motivated to adventure since that was the only option!
• We tried to drive during the middle of the day when it was hot and explore early and late when possible
• It was a very active trip with not much downtime which worked well for us, but might not for everyone

Some of the Challenges of This Road Trip with Kids

• Since we were in a mini-van with lots of adventure gear, it was tight and difficult to get to everything we needed
• We loved having the bikes with us, but the rack on the back meant we couldn’t open the back of the car which was challenging (we also got 8 flat tires on our bikes during one bike ride)
• Balancing time together as a family and time to ourselves

We loved this road trip and are inspired to plan another big US road trip. The United States has so many extraordinary places to see and we can’t wait for our next adventure!

About the Author: Gretchen Stuppy Carlson

A passionate adventurer and travel agent dedicated to getting families outside and exploring. Gretchen is an expert in adventure travel with 15+ years of experience working in outdoor education and travelling with her own family.

View all post by Gretchen Stuppy Carlson | Website

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

American Northwest Family Road Trip: National Parks and the Pacific Northwest

This Pacific Northwest family road trip loops from San Francisco out to Utah and Montana, up to Canada, and then down through Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. The American Northwest is packed with amazing wildlife, incredible scenery, and some epic national parks.

On this northwest family road trip itinerary, you’ll cross through 9 US states, 1 Canadian Province, and visit 5 National Parks including Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park, along the way. You can start anywhere on the loop that is convenient for you.

This route as planned should take about 4 weeks, though you could easily spend a lot more time at the major National Parks . Use this route to get northwest or pacific northwest family road trip ideas, or modify it to fit your schedule and the age of your kids.

When possible, we’ll include alternate routes or additional stops that may be of interest along this northwest road trip.

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase.   As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. All our recommendations are independent and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

At the bottom of the post,  Download a free License Plate Game  for the kids to play on your American Northwest family road trip!

Lodging: Booking.com Flight Deals: Skyscanner Rental Cars: Discover Cars Airport Transfers: Welcome Pickups

Digital SIM Cards: Airalo eSIM Travel Insurance: SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Pacific Northwest Family Road Trip Itinerary

This northwest family road trip is the second leg of our  Family Year Out . We started with a 60+ day cross-country road trip .

We are traveling with our 4-year-old and our 6-year-old, so we are trying to limit our time in the car to 4-5 hours a day. There are a few longer days on this trip to cover some of the vast distances between sites.

If you have older kids, you could do a similar route in a lot less time. All activities we recommend are appropriate for families with young kids. Due to the current environment, we are mostly focusing on outdoor activities, with a few exceptions.

Need help keeping the kids entertained on your family road trip? We’ve got all the best road trip activities , road trip snacks , and all the road trip essentials from gear to safety equipment.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks?

Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks both have their peak season during July and August, which is also when you will find peak crowds.

Visiting Yellowstone National Park in September and October means fewer crowds and fewer mosquitos. During this time you can expect high temperatures in the low 60s, with cold nights. Avoid spring in Yellowstone, as this is called “mud season”.

Summer temperatures in Glacier National Park average in the 70s, with cooler nights in the 40s. As you get into September the temperatures drop, but you also have a chance of seeing the Northern Lights. By October, you may see snowfall, and sections of the park start to close for the season.

We visited Yellowstone in mid-September, followed by Glacier National Park a week later.

Don’t forget to buy your America the Beautiful National Parks Pass before you go!

Buy Now: Annual National Parks Pass

Start: San Francisco

We are starting from just north of San Francisco, but you could start this family road trip from anywhere on the loop.

We are heading out in early September, so we should be avoiding the summer crowds, though we’ll be hitting the end of the season in some of the national parks, and found that some of the boat tours will no longer be running.

If you’ll be spending any time exploring San Francisco, consider getting a San Francisco CityPASS which admits you and your family to 4 major attractions in the city.

Check Prices: San Francisco CityPASS

San Francisco is a great city to explore as a family, from the tourist hot spots of Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf to curvy Lombard Street and a ride on a traditional cable car.

If you’ll be bringing your car into San Francisco, consider booking your parking spot ahead of time via SpotHero . They show you a map of the area you are interested in, so you can choose the best price around, and know that a spot will be waiting for you. Keep in mind most hotels either don’t include parking or charge a hefty fee to add it to your reservation.

PreBook Parking: SpotHero San Francisco

Affordable Hotel: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf . A great, walkable location close to many popular sites. Modern, comfortable, and spacious, with a hot breakfast. Our room had a view of the Golden Gate Bridge until the fog set in.

Check Availability: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf

Considering San Franciso at Christmas ? It can be magical! We’ve got a one-day itinerary to walk you through all the best of the holiday season in the city by the bay.

Jelly Belly Factory Tour

First stop, the Jelly Belly Factory Tour in Fairfield, CA!

Head to One Jelly Bean Lane to take a self-guided tour above the factory floor to learn how Jelly Belly jellybeans are made, with games and interactive exhibits along the way.

Finish by browsing the Jelly Belly Candy Store to pick up some bellyflops (odd-shaped or mixed-up jellybeans) or stop by the cafe for coffee or even lunch. We love jelly beans as travel snacks- they don’t melt and a few go a long way!

This was one of our kids’ favorite stops along the whole Pacific Northwest road trip!

Stop for lunch in Davis, CA. This is a university town, with lots of options for food. Waker spent some time growing up here, so we’ll be showing the kids around town and meeting up with some old friends.

Reno, NV- 2 nights

Reno is called the “Biggest Little City in the World”, there’s a lot to do here! Take a relaxing stroll through the Truckee River Walk, or play in the arcade while watching circus acts at Circus Circus carnival midway.

We are so excited to be hitting Reno just at the right time for the Great Reno Balloon Race ! This is the world’s largest, free hot air balloon event. We’ll arrive on a Friday, then get up very early in the morning to watch over 100 hot air balloons rise at dawn on Saturday!

After such an early morning, we decided it was best not to try to drive to Utah, so we’ll have an easy afternoon and then head out the next morning.

Stop for brunch at Squeeze In – their portions are huge, and their hot chocolate is epic!

Bonneville Salt Flats

From Reno, the next stop on your northwest family road trip is a six-hour drive to the Bonneville Salt Flats . This will be one of the longest drive days. You can also visit the flats as a day trip from Salt Lake City, it’s about 110 miles East.

The Bonneville Salt Flats are over 30,000 acres of land that used to be Lake Bonneville. The original lake was the size of Lake Michigan- when it dried up it left behind these salt deposits.

It’s best to visit the salt flats during summer and fall when the flats are most likely to be dry. You’ll see an expanse of white glittery salt stretching to the horizon. This is a truly beautiful and almost unearthly spot. Don’t miss it!

You can visit the Bonneville Salt Flats Speedway if you want to try driving on the flats- make sure they are completely dry, or you risk getting your car stuck in deep mud. Many movies are filmed here, and speed records are set. Take exit 4 off I-80 and follow the signs to the speedway.

If you’re more interested in exploring the Salt Flats than driving on them, there’s a viewing area at a rest stop 10 miles from the town of Wendover, UT. You’ll see it on the map as “Salt Flats Rest Area”.

The best viewing area is going westbound- there is no way to easily cross from the eastbound side of the highway, and the next exit is quite a few miles away.

Update: There were races happening when we visited so we could only walk a few feet out on the flats briefly. On a quiet day, this would be a magical place!

Wendover, UT- 1 night

After visiting the salt flats, stay in the nearby town of Wendover for the night.

Budget Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Wendover . Simple, clean rooms, breakfast included.

Shoshone Falls State Park

It’s a 3-hour drive from Wendover, UT to Shoshone Falls State Park . This waterfall has been called the “Niagara of the West”. It’s over 900 feet wide, making it one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States. It’s at its most impressive in the Spring.

In the summer some of the water is diverted for irrigation, and it may even be dry in the fall as the water is refilling the reservoir upstream.

Craters of the Moon National Monument- 1 night

Craters of the Moon is a large area of lava flow, with a few sagebrush plants and cinder cones mixed in. Astronauts explored here in 1969 while training for a trip to the moon. You can explore lava tubes, but you’ll need a free permit from the visitor’s center.

The caves are generally free of ice and snow from May onward. Make sure to bring flashlights or headlamps and protect your head.

There is a seven-mile loop trail that circles the park, you’ll explore from there. After the visitor’s center, follow the loop until it splits to the right. Here you’ll find the short hikes to Snow Cone and Splatter cones. Continue along the loop.

At the next intersection, decide whether to head right for Big Sink, the Molds Trail, and Buffalo Caves (closed in 2021), or continue along the loop to the next intersection.

Stop here to explore Indian Tunnel, and two caves of moderate difficulty- Dewdrop Cave and Beauty Cave. This area also has Boy Scout Cave which is more difficult.

We highly recommend checking out Craters of the Moon with kids , then plan to spend the night just north of the park in Arco, ID.

Budget Hotel: Arco Inn Motel . A no-frills Motel, with a park across the street that has a playground.

Check Availability: Arco Inn Motel

Grand Teton National Park- 2 nights

From Arco, you’ll have about a three-hour drive up to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. This park is full of hiking trails, and wildlife, keep an eye out for bears, and never let the kids run ahead of you on a trail. If you’re going to surprise a bear, best it’s an adult, not a kid!

You could easily spend a week exploring this park. There are a lot of trails in the family-friendly 2-3 mile range. One of the most popular hikes involves taking the Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle across the lake, then hiking 2 miles road trip to Inspiration Point and back.

Make sure to check on the best time to visit Grand Tetons !

You can hike around the lake as well, but you’ll add two miles each way to the journey. From the boat, you can also hike the 1-mile round trip to Hidden Falls before heading up to Inspiration Point.

You can raft on the Snake River- either a slow float or a more adventurous rafting adventure. Tours leave from the Jackson Lake Lodge. For sunset, drive up Signal Mountain Summit Road for great viewpoints.

We weren’t able to get lodging in the park (see Travel Tips : plan ahead!), so we stayed in the lovely, but pricey town of Jackson, WY.

Affordable Hotel: Alpine Motel . This is a gem in an expensive town. Includes a kitchenette so you can do some cooking yourself, or at least eat take-out at a table on real plates. In a quiet area, but close to downtown restaurants.

Check Availability: Alpine Motel

Yellowstone National Park- 2 nights

Head up to Yellowstone National Park , just an hour from Grand Teton. Yellowstone was the first National Park and is one of the most famous. The park covers over 2 million acres and has over 900 miles of trails to explore.

Download the Yellowstone Park App for info, guided audio tours, road closures, and geyser eruption predictions. You could spend a lot of time exploring this park- we found 3 days in Yellowstone to be the perfect amount of time.

Old Faithful and Wildlife

When you enter the park, head straight for the Old Faithful area. From here you’ll see the most famous geyser, as well as Morning Glory Pool, a famous hot spring with intense colors.

There are two places best known for seeing herds of bison and other wildlife in Yellowstone. The first is Lamar Valley, the second is Hayden Valley.

The road between Canyon Village and Roosevelt is scheduled to be closed until May of 2022. This makes Lamar Valley much more difficult to reach, as it’s a long way around!

Hayden Valley is a 20-mile stretch between Yellowstone Lake and Canyon Village- it often gets congested with traffic. There are often a lot of bison and even grizzlies on this stretch of road.

Mammoth Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs, with its other-worldly formations, is at the northernmost point of the park. From here you can also check out Gardner, MT. We will visit this area on our way out of the park, heading north into Montana.

Livingston, MT

About an hour after you leave the Mammoth Springs area of Yellowstone you’ll be in Livingston, Montana. Stop here for lunch, stretch your legs, and stroll down Main Street to soak up the Old West ambiance.

This is the town in Montana where much of “A River Runs Through It” was filmed. Anthony Bourdain dubbed the Murray Hotel in Livingston one of his favorite hotels in the world.

Pinkys serves breakfast all day and is known for its pancakes. Closed Wednesday and Thursday.

Gil’s Goods has wood-fired pizza, salads, and hamburgers. Closed Tuesdays.

If you are feeling open-minded, try Faye’s Cafe , you give them an idea of what sounds good, and they’ll make it for you! Set price per meal with a drink included.

If you have more time to spend in Livingston, check out this article in Thrillest .

White Sulphur Springs, MT- 1 night

We’ll be visiting a friend in White Sulphur Springs, known for its ranching and natural hot springs. This small town sits in the middle of the Lewis and Clark National Forest.

Affordable Hotel: Spa Hot Springs Motel . The only motel in town, your room includes access to the three hot spring pools in the center. Call to make a reservation, you have the option of newly renovated rooms (where we stayed) or older rooms for a lower price.

Book Now: Spa Hot Springs Motel

Alternate Stop: Lewis and Clark Caverns

These magnificent limestone caverns are part of Montana’s first state park. Discovered in 1892, you’ll need to take a guided tour to see these vast caverns. These caves are closed during the winter with the exception of a special candle-lit tour. Located in Whitehall, MT about 1:15 min West of Livingston.

Alternate Stop: Helena, MT

The capital of Montana, Helena started as a camp during the gold rush. Take the Last Chance Train Tour to see some of the highlights of the city. Take a self-guided tour of the state capital building with its massive rotunda, or head over to the Great Northern Carousel to ride some native animals, including a mountain goat and a cutthroat trout!

Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour

Just north of Helena, the Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour takes you on a 2-hour cruise on the Missouri River. The Lewis and Clark expedition named this area the “Gates of the Mountains”. Follow in their footsteps as you admire towering limestone cliffs as you glide along the river.

We loved this tour- we saw two bald eagles! The rock formations here are really cool.

Great Falls, MT- 2 nights

Continue your northwest road trip to Great Falls, Montana! Check out the five waterfalls the town is named for in Giant Springs Park, then visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to learn about this important expedition. You can also visit the First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park , about a 20-minute drive outside of town.

If your kids are as excited about grilled cheese as ours are, check out The Block . The menu is all sorts of variations of grilled cheese, with a few nachos options as well.

Don’t Miss Hotel: Hotel Arvon . With contemporary art all around and an Irish pub attached, this historic hotel is a great stop. Rooms are narrow, but the location is an easy walk to everything downtown.

Book Now: Hotel Arvon

Glacier National Park- 3 nights

Glacier National Park has over 700 miles of trails and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. You must have an entry reservation ticket and a park pass to drive this road from late May to Mid-September. Make sure to get a Vehicle Reservation .

West Glacier and Saint Mary’s are connected by the Going to the Sun Road, a 50-mile scenic drive that is the only road through the park. Drive West to East to be on the outside of the road, with the best views, but also with sheer drops off the side.

We’ll be staying in West Glacier Village at the West Glacier Motel just outside the west entrance to the park.

From the East side of the park, you can access the Many Glaciers area and the Two Medicine area. Both have great hikes and lots of wildlife. The hike out to Grinnell Glacier is the most popular in the Many Glaciers area.

It is a 7-mile hike unless you take a series of ferries from the Many Glacier Hotel. This shortens the hike to make it family-friendly. The boats stop running for the season in mid-September, so this won’t be an option for us.

Read our full itinerary for Glacier National Park .

Bonners Ferry, ID

Plan to stop for lunch in Bonners Ferry, about a three-hour drive from West Glacier. We’re planning to try the Two Tones Cafe which has a lovely back garden, but you can also check out Mugsy’s Tavern and Grill . There are quite a few options in this town.

Christina Lake, BC- 3 nights

After Glacier, cross into Canada and west to Christina Lake. The lake the town is named after is 18 km long and the warmest tree-lined lake in British Columbia! We’ll be visiting friends here, but this is a great place to relax and explore the lake by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard.

Update: We had to reroute our family road trip to successfully cross the Canadian border , which was a bit of an ordeal at the time.

Alternate Stop: Nelson, BC

Nelson, BC sits on Kootenay Lake, making it a great place for water activities. Take the 2.2-mile round-trip hike to Pulpit Rock or stroll along Baker Street for shopping, coffee, or ice cream, keeping your eyes peeled for street art throughout town.

Alternate Stop: Princeton, BC

This is a great place to break up the drive to Vancouver if you’d like to limit your hours in the car. We stopped for lunch here and had a lovely lunch at Thomasina’s Cafe in an old theatre building.

Vancouver, BC- 3 nights

Less than an hour from the US border, we’ve heard many people rave about the beauty of this city- we’re so excited to visit!

Visit Granville Market, check out Stanley Park and its famous seawall and first people’s totems, then head to the Richmond Night Market. Consider a whale watch if you’re visiting from May to October- over 20,000 grey whales migrate past the coast here!

This 2.5-hour food tour of historic Gastown looks like lots of fun for the whole family.

Book Now: Gastown Historic Food Walking Tour

Affordable Hotel: Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown . Great location, walk to the ferries to Granville Island, or to restaurants in Yaletown or Gastown.

Book Now: Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown

Seattle, WA- 3 nights

If this is your first visit to Seattle, make sure to visit Pike Place Market to watch the seafood workers throw fish.

This famous market has all sorts of delicious things to eat- donuts, empanadas, smoothies, elote, greek yogurt, cheesecake on a stick, and more.

Head out to the Seattle Center to see the Space Needle . This is a not-to-be-missed Seattle icon, and it’s lots of fun! The elevator going to the top is glass. You can explore the open-air observatory deck, then go down one floor to the rotating observatory. It’s soo cool to watch the ground move underneath you!

Consider combining the Space Needle with a visit to the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum . The Museum of Pop Culture is also right next door. I was unsure whether our girls would be interested in the Chihuly Museum, but it was a huge hit! We watched a glass-blowing demonstration in the garden and the girls were transfixed. We all learned so much and had a great time together.

Consider getting Seattle CityPASS – it covers the Space Needle, the Aquarium, and two other attractions of your choice including the Chihuly Garden and the Museum of Pop Culture. It saves you close to 50% off admission.

Book Now: Seattle CityPASS

The Artists at Play Playground in the same area makes a great stop for kids- the climbing structure will keep even older kids occupied.

Take a ride on the Seattle Great Wheel – it’s slow and steady, so even though it’s quite high (175 feet!), it’s perfect for the whole family.

To see a different side of the city, this Underground Seattle History Tour is really fun and affordable! It’s got lots of history for the adults, but the cool underground spaces that you can’t normally enter will fascinate the kids.

Book Now: Seattle Underground History Tour

Affordable Hotel: La Quinta Inn Seattle Downtown . We ended up staying here for five nights. It was very comfortable, and we walked all over town including to Pikes Place Market and the Space Needle. Breakfast is included.

Book Now: La Quinta Inn Seattle Downtown

Alternate Stop: Mount St. Helens

Three hours south of Seattle is the magnificent Mount St. Helens. During your visit, you can see evidence of the famous 1980 eruption. You can camp here, or stay in one of the park’s yurts. You’ll approach the mountain via the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway. At mile 33 stop at the Forest Learning Center for lots of great kid activities.

Portland, OR- 3 nights

Portland’s slogan is “Keep Portland Weird”, so of course, there are a ton of kid-friendly things to do!

We started with the downtown but were disappointed by Pioneer Courthouse Square. The downtown has gotten a bit rough- so choose your locations carefully.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the famous Powells Books and then had lunch at The Roxy on Harvey Milk Street, which was funky and fun for us all (update: now closed). They serve breakfast all day, which makes it a win for kids.

Taste test some of Portland’s most famous doughnut shops- Voodoo, Blue Star, and Pip’s Originals, then walk it off on one of the trails in Forest Park.

Parking in Portland can be tricky, as street parking is often tight. Save yourself some stress and pre-book parking on SpotHero . You can reserve for just an hour or two.

Check Prices: SpotHero Parking in Portland

Just 30 minutes from Portland is Columbia Gorge and Multnomah Falls . This 620-foot waterfall is sure to impress! You can either take a short walk over the bridge crossing the middle of the falls or a longer hike to the top of the falls.

One of our favorite meals in Portland was at brunch at Broder Nord . This Scandinavian restaurant was a delightful place to meet friends for brunch. We sat at a picnic bench outside and enjoyed aebelskivers served with lemon curd and lingonberry jam among other things. Bonus, it’s right next to Blue Star Donuts if you want to take some to go…

Speaking of donuts, just go all in and take the Underground Donut Tour! You’ll tour the city while trying five different donut stores, perfect for families.

Book Now: Portland Underground Donut Tour

Oregon Coast- 2 or 3 nights

After rerouting from Seattle up to Canada we had a few days to explore the rugged, beautiful Oregon coast. We started in Seaside, Oregon, home to a long esplanade, and lots of family-friendly shops.

This is the place to get saltwater taffy, ride a carousel, and play in the sand. There’s even a swing set on the beach!

Next, we headed down the coast to the much smaller town of Pacific City. You’ll find the main sandy beach area next to Pelican Brewery. There’s lots of soft sand to play in, if you head to your right, you’ll find the Cape Kiwanda sand dune. Climb the dune for delightful views of the coast (and a bit of exercise), or explore the tide pools at the base of the dune.

When you’re ready, have dinner on the patio of the Pelican Brewery . The food is delicious, and you’ll get a lovely sunset view. We recommend the Bad Santa Ale if it’s in season!

Affordable Hotel Seaside: Seashore Inn on the Beach . Great hotel just off the beach. We had side views of the ocean. Walk to anywhere in town.

Affordable Hotel Pacific City: Surf & Sand Inn . One-story motel with very friendly customer service. Clean and comfortable, a short drive to the beach.

Book Now: Surf & Sand Inn

Alternate Stop: Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is fifteen minutes from Seaside and about 1 1/2 hours from Portland. This beach could be a day trip from Portland, or you could use this as a starting point for heading down the beautiful, rugged Oregon coast.

Known for its iconic Haystack Rock, you’ve seen this beach in the classic 1980’s movie Goonies. Fly a kite on the windy beach, then grab an espresso or some sweet treats from the Chocolate Cafe in town. Check out the family-friendly Public Coast Brewing for beers and burgers. This is a more upscale town, full of art galleries and boutiques.

Leaving Portland, you can take your time meandering down the coast, or head to Eugene- the 2-hour drive that makes for a great lunch stop. We ended up staying longer than originally anticipated and were very impressed with this town.

Don’t miss the 5th Street Public Market . The market has a large food court, with everything from gyros to Thai food, and many other stores including a large toy store and a beautiful home store.

Check out Hideaway Bakery (yes, it’s a bit hidden, as it shares a parking lot with Mazzi’s Italian restaurant). They have a great covered, outdoor seating area. This is the kind of place you want to spend a quiet morning with a coffee and a muffin.

Also, if you missed Voodoo Doughnuts in Portland (or didn’t want to stand in a crazy long line), the location here had no line at all.

Budget Hotel: Courtesy Inn Downtown . Everything in Eugene is a ten-minute drive. This town is just easy. Clean and simple rooms.

Book Now: Courtesy Inn Downtown

Alternate Stop: Bend, OR

Bend, Oregon is known for its great outdoor activities, its farmers market, and of course, the last Blockbuster! There are lots of family-friendly breweries packed into the city as well.

Don’t Miss Hotel: Campfire Hotel . They have campfire-themed rooms and a big fire pit area outside to congregate. They also have a heated swimming pool and hot tub.

Book Now: Campfire Hotel

Alternate Stop: National Dunes Recreation Area

The National Dunes Recreation Area is over 31,000 acres- full of wetlands, dunes, and beaches. You can go sandboarding, hike the dunes, or take an ATV across some of the dunes.

Fun Fact: These enormous dunes (some reach 500 feet) inspired the science-fiction classic “ Dune” by Frank Herbert .

Alternate Stop: Crater Lake National Park- 2 nights

Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States at 1,943 feet- it is also one of the most pristine. Created by a collapsing volcano, it is known for its clarity and intense blue color.

Drive the rim of the lake for fantastic views, then take a boat tour out onto the lake. To get to the boat launch, take the Cleetwood Trail 1.1 miles down to the shore of the lake.

Leaving the Klamath Falls area, head west to Ashland which makes a great lunch stop. Then continue to Crescent City, CA on the coast before heading south.

Bandon, Oregon makes a great place to stop along your tour of the Oregon coastline. Check out the tidepools at Coquille Point during low tide to find lots of sea creatures. Fly kites at Face Rock State Park, then visit the old town for fish and chips while you watch the fisherman at the marina.

From Bandon, you will continue down the coastline and into California.

Klamath, CA

Klamath is a great place to explore the redwoods of California. This is also one of the last few places you can drive your car through one of the trees (mirrors in please!). Visit the Yurok Country Visitor Center to learn more about the Yurok Tribe, one of several who traditionally lived in this area.

We’ll be stopping here for a quick lunch break before heading down the coast.

Update: We ended up stopping for the day in Crescent City, just north of Klamath, so we could start the next day at the Trees of Mystery – a fun roadside attraction built through the redwoods.

Don’t miss Trees of Mystery! It was a lot more fun than we expected, for all of us. Read all about it in our Trees of Mystery Review

Patrick’s Point State Park

About 45 minutes south of Klamath, is Patrick’s Point State Park. This is a one-square-mile park along the Pacific Ocean. It has tide pools, the chance to search for agates, sea stacks, and amazing views.

You can also visit Sumêg Village, which includes several traditional Yurok plank houses. In the spring and fall, you may be able to see migrating grey whales.

Hike the 2-mile Rim Trail, and decide whether to take one of the short trails down to the shore or hike inland to one of the higher viewpoints at Ceremonial Rock or Lookout Rock.

Fortuna, CA- 1 night

We’ll continue down the pacific northwest coast, passing through Eureka, CA, and stopping for the night in the smaller town of Fortuna, pop 12,000. Fortuna is a great place to explore the redwoods and puts you only a five-hour drive from San Francisco.

Stop by Eel River Pub and Brewery – they have a delightful, expansive beer garden to hang out in. Their menu has a lot of variety, including quite a few salads, and some vegetarian options. We also loved that they have a section of “smaller meals”. All the beer is organic, they are actually the first certified organic brewery in America!

From Fortuna, you can take The Avenue of the Giants (rt 254), which parallels Rt 101 for 33 miles taking you through the redwoods and giving you access to hiking trails

Budget Hotel: Redwood Riverwalk . This place calls itself a boutique and has a cute lobby and outside eating area, but the rooms need updating. Walking distance to the Eel River Brewery.

Affordable Hotel: Comfort Inn & Suites Redwood Country . Hot breakfast, an indoor pool and hot tub, and more spacious rooms.

Check Availability: Comfort Inn & Suites Redwood Country

Fort Bragg, CA

After getting your fill of the redwoods, head to Fort Bragg, to see Glass Beach . The beach is named after all the sea glass mixed into the pebbles on the beach. Please don’t take any glass home with you!

Fort Bragg is also known for the Skunk Train , an old-fashioned train that has been chugging through the redwoods since 1885. You can also take a rail bike along a section of track.

There are lots of cute shops to browse in town, including a sock shop, and a local bookstore. We had a delicious lunch at Headlands Coffeehouse (don’t skip the African vegetable samosas), then crossed the street for treats at A Sweet Affair Patisserie . There are so many beautiful and tasty options here, you’ll have a hard time choosing. Our favorite macaroon was the Coconut Caramel (we tasted several), and we also enjoyed the cheesecake baked into a poached apple.

Mendocino, CA

Just 10 miles farther south is Mendocino, CA. A popular weekend getaway from San Francisco, Mendocino is a great place to stop for lunch. If you have more time, explore Russian Gulch State Park.

Final Road Trip Stop: San Francisco, CA

We’ll end this northwest family road trip by returning to the City by the Bay, San Francisco, California.

How Much Does a Northwest Family Road Trip Cost?

How much money you will spend depends on your family and your comfort level. Camping is one of the best ways to save money, though you need to make reservations well in advance. We are not comfortable camping, so we will be staying with friends when we can, and in hotels or motels the rest of the time.

You can save a lot of money on food by packing breakfast foods and snacks.

Don’t miss our list of the best road trip snacks which includes ideas for breakfasts and lunches.

Including staying with friends, we averaged $100/night on this northwest family road trip during the fall of 2021. Staying inside National Parks is more expensive, but allows you to see the park at sunrise, and avoid waiting in line to get in each morning.

We were able to get a room inside Yellowstone National Park, but stayed just outside of Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

How Much Do National Parks Cost?

Each National Park has a different fee, but in general fees at larger parks are between $35 and $40 per car. If you will be visiting a few National Parks, be sure to get an  America the Beautiful Pass – this annual pass costs $80 and gets you unlimited access to National Parks for one year. This pass covers entrance fees, it does not cover tour fees or lodging fees.

Buy Now: America the Beautiful Annual National Park Pass

All  4th graders  get a free annual park pass for their families.

Look for Junior Ranger packets in the visitor centers at National Parks. The kids complete the packets, and return them to be sworn in as Junior Rangers complete with a wooden badge! You may also want to get a family  National Park Passport Book  to stamp at each park.

Download the  National Park Service app before you leave, it allows you to download important information about any of the parks so you can access it when offline. From maps to parking and bathrooms, this is app will come in handy.

What Should I Pack for a Long Family Road Trip with Kids?

We’ve got you covered! We drive a “not-so-huge” Subaru Outback, so space matters. Check out our list of road trip essentials to make sure you are prepared, as well as our best road trip activities for kids.

Don’t forget travel insurance! We find that SafetyWing is the best insurance for long-term travel.

Consider Renting a Car

If you’ll be flying into a new city before starting your road trip, you’ll need to rent a car. Even if you’ll be driving the full trip, consider whether your current vehicle is the right choice- you’ll be adding a lot of mileage, and want to make sure your family (and your luggage) can comfortably fit for long stretches of time.

For car rentals, we recommend Discover Cars . They help you compare a large list of rental companies and are always upfront about what’s included. The best part is that they offer free cancellation if your plans change.

Check Prices: Car Rental from Discover Cars

How Much Do I Have to Plan Ahead?

We advise booking all hotel and motel rooms well in advance, with particular emphasis on the national parks, some of which are limiting visitors. Some popular lodging options in both Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks book up a year or more in advance, so the sooner you can reserve rooms in these parks, the better.

Most National Parks including Yellowstone and Glacier have limited cell service and wifi, even in lodges. Plan to download maps ahead of time or pick up paper maps at the visitor’s centers.

Planning ahead is one of our top family travel tips – it can save you a lot of stress when traveling with kids!

There You Have It: American Northwest Family Road Trip

This loop will take you 30+ days across the American Northwest on a fantastic family road trip. From San Francisco to Montana, to Canada, and then through the Pacific Northwest, this route covers a lot of ground.

Which stops are you most excited about? Any recommendations for alternate stops?

Ready to cross another North American border? Check out SoCal and Baja Road Trip.

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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How Road Trips Across America Looked Through The Decades

Posted: March 1, 2024 | Last updated: March 1, 2024

The open road

1910s: a family poses by their car

Although the first car was invented in 1886 , it wasn’t until a couple of decades later that automobiles became more popular and widespread in America. This was thanks to a game-changing invention: Henry Ford’s Model T, which launched in 1908. It ran on gasoline, which made it cheaper and meant it could travel further distances than the electric vehicles that had previously been used. In this photograph from the 1910s, a family poses by their brand new Model T.

1910s: the first-ever RV

You might be surprised to learn that the world’s first recreational vehicle, or RV, was invented back in 1915. The 25-foot (7.6m) long automobile was created by Roland Conklin’s Gas-Electric Motor Bus Company and dubbed the Gypsy Van. It was kitted out with a kitchen, sleeping berths, folding tables, various small appliances, a generator and lighting. It was used by the Conklin family to travel from Huntington, New York to San Francisco, California on a journey that captured the attention of national media. 

1910s: touring the national parks

Since the first national parks were signed into law in the late 1800s, Americans began to gain a greater appreciation for the natural beauty in their backyard. Then the arrival of cars made it easier to access them – although it was still a privilege available to the wealthy few who were lucky enough to own one. Pictured here is a group of visitors on a guided “Two National Parks in Two Weeks” tour that swept through Rocky Mountain National Park and Yellowstone National Park.

1920s: birth of Tin Can Tourism

1920s: an unusual attraction in Yosemite

1920s: a legendary cross-country race

While road trips may have been a way to unwind for many, motorcyclist and car racer Erwin Baker turned these cross-country journeys up a notch – by driving as fast as he could. In fact, he even earned the name “Cannonball”, after a newspaper compared him to a Cannonball Express train during one of his famous cross-country races. Shown here in 1923, in his Oldsmobile 30A surrounded by fans, the racer had just completed a trip from New York to Los Angeles by motorcycle in a record-breaking 12-and-a-half days. 

1930s: road trippers check their directions

1930s: boots allow people to pack luggage

1930s: the first Airstream arrives

1940s: car drives through Badlands National Park

The striated peaks of the Badlands, South Dakota are just as striking in this rudimentary color photograph as they are today. The national park (then a national monument) was located close to US Highways 14 and 6, so when roads were built through it during the 1930s and 1940s there was a significant uptick in visitor numbers.

1940s: automobile ownership on the rise

1940s: car drives through Yellowstone National Park

1950s: road-tripping increases in popularity

By the 1950s, the road trip had become an undeniable fixture of American culture. The postwar years saw a continued boom in car ownership across the country and road conditions had improved a great deal too. In 1959, an engineer at Volvo developed the three-point seatbelt (the kind we're familiar with today) which also made hitting the road a whole lot safer. Pictured here, a road-tripping couple check their map.

1950s: famous stars take to the road

Jack Kerouac's 1957 novel On The Road helped cement the dream of traveling through America’s highways and byways in the collective imagination. Celebrities also helped to give road-tripping a glamorous image. Pictured here is Marilyn Monroe and her husband at the time, playwright Arthur Miller (center, with box), with their friend Milton Green (right), a photographer. Captured in New York in 1956, the trio are about to take a trip to Connecticut in a Thunderbird convertible.

1950s: motels and diners spring up everywhere

Now that more Americans were taking to the road during their vacation time, they needed a place to stay. So the neon signs of motels and diners became an increasingly common sight along the country’s highways. A classic “mom-and-pop” motel would offer affordable lodgings, a place to park up for the night, and often a diner serving home-style food.

1960s: Route 66 gains notoriety

The first all-weather road between the Midwest and the Pacific Coast, Route 66 revolutionized the road trip. It shaved some 200 miles (322km) off the journey between Chicago and Los Angeles, making it easier for people in the rural west to get to cities in the midwest and northeast. In 1960, Route 66 , an American TV series that followed the escapades of a pair of young men traveling the route, aired on CBS. As the so-called Mother Road continued to crop up in popular culture, America's fascination with her grew.

1960s: Aristocrat is the top trailer maker

1960s: camper vans make waves

1970s: VWs dominate the hippie trail

1970s: more campsites spring up

1970s: trailers experience a fall from grace

1980s: motels shut their doors on Route 66

1980s: NASCAR fans gather at Daytona International Speedway

1980s: RVs become more advanced

After a lag in the 1970s due to the oil crisis, the RV industry boomed during the 1980s. Popular movies including National Lampoon's Vacation and The Blues Brothers, whose storylines heavily featured the motorhomes, helped to cement RVs’ place in popular culture. The iconic RV of the decade was the Fleetwood Bounder, released in 1985, which was the first of its kind to include basement storage – now a common fixture in these vehicles.

1990s: tourists take in Alaskan scenery

1990s: old-school trailers are back

1990s: Big Sur maintains its magic

Made popular by the Beat Generation in the 1950s and the hippies of the 1960s, central California’s Big Sur is one of the most popular road trips in the country. Highway 1 is the iconic route which takes travelers along this rugged coastline, with the most visited stretch running between Santa Barbara and Monterey. Here, a classic 1990s compact car drives alongside the sun-splashed cliffs. 

2000s: the most popular RV

2000s: drive-thru in Maryland

2000s: remnants of Route 66

By the 2000s, the historic Route 66 had become a tourist attraction in its own right, with plenty of motels, diners and even a museum profiting off its storied past. At this section near Prewitt, New Mexico, photographed in 2003, the road runs parallel to Interstate 40. It seems a fitting visual metaphor, given the road was ultimately surpassed by the high-speed interstate highway system.

2010s: navigation gets an upgrade

2010s: camper vans powered by solar

2010s: road tripping goes electric

Until very recently, long-distance travel in an electric vehicle has felt like a distant dream. But thanks to the rapid improvements in EVs themselves, which mean they can travel for longer distances, as well as the installation of new charging points across the States, electric-powered road trips look like an increasingly viable option. And  a new cross-country network of EV charging points , running from Los Angeles, California to Washington DC, is making it easier than ever to refuel. Pictured is a motorway sign for a charging point along southern California’s Pacific Coast Highway.

2020s: a pandemic causes problems

The start of the 2020s saw a curveball thrown at the travel industry: the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular destinations, such as Las Vegas (pictured), had their income from tourism almost completely slashed overnight, as lockdowns took hold and flights were canceled. However, when Americans were allowed to travel within the USA again, road trips experienced a renaissance: a survey for Vacationer magazine estimated that 80% of Americans planned to take a road trip in 2022. Many were keen to avoid airports and flying for fear of contracting the virus, and the open road offered a safer way to satisfy the wanderlust.

2020s: remote working on the road

Another unexpected twist from the pandemic was the rise in remote working, which made long-term 'workations' a genuinely feasible option for many: one 2022 survey of RV owners revealed that over half had worked while on the road that year. Looking into the future, an increased awareness of the impact of flying on our planet means travelers will be looking for a different kind of trip, and driving through dramatic landscapes with the ability to stop anywhere certainly presents a more ecological and enriching alternative. It seems the freedom of the road will always beckon.

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Strong performances propel road trip dramedy ‘Ezra’

Director Tony Goldwyn opens his family dramedy “Ezra” in the warm, collegial comfort of a comedy club. Max (Bobby Cannavale) perches on a stool, a handheld camera drifting closer and closer as he tells jokes about his life – including his autistic son – layering truths with punchlines, walking a tight-rope of tones. It’s an invitation from Goldwyn, and screenwriter Tony Spiridakis, to sit down and listen awhile as they unfurl this heartfelt, humorous and sometimes harrowing yarn.

It establishes right away that Max is the proud and loving father of Ezra (William A. Fitzgerald, an autistic actor making his film debut), who has no problem grappling with the realities of raising an autistic child. Throughout the events that follow, we never lose sight of that, because Max fiercely loves his son, and that understanding offers a sense of emotional safety as the plot that unfolds becomes increasingly high stakes.

It’s this place setting, as well as the strong lead performances, that allow Goldwyn to thread the needle on a story that could potentially go off the rails. “Ezra” is the story of a father, desperate to protect his son, who takes him on a cross-country road trip where they experience catharsis and healing. It’s a fairly traditional road movie formula with an autism twist. Also, the “road trip” is technically a “kidnapping,” since Max spirits Ezra out of bed from the home of ex-wife Jenna (Rose Byrne), and the film never shies away from that reality, in fact relying on this perceived danger to ramp up the dramatic tension and set characters in motion.

The kidnapping stems from a misunderstanding that spirals into an unfortunate accident, coupled with Max’s own traumatic triggers. It’s never fully explicated in the screenplay, but Max’s past mental health issues and possibly undiagnosed autism spectrum disorder are frequently alluded to, thrumming below the surface. His experience makes him an understanding father to Ezra, but also somewhat hampers his ability to properly parent his son. Upset that Ezra might be medicated with anti-psychotics and placed in a special education school, Max assesses that the doctors, pharmaceutical companies and the state are in collusion to keep himself and his son apart. He’s not necessarily wrong, but his desire to expose Ezra to the world and treat him like any other kid bumps up against Jenna’s wish to provide her son with every accommodation and suggested treatment.

Every character choice in “Ezra” is plausible because it comes from a place of emotional honesty, both in the script and performances. We understand why Max acts in the extreme, and also why Jenna is hesitant to call the authorities, but feels forced to do so, because their characters are well-established and perfectly performed.

It’s no surprise that longtime life partners Byrne and Cannavale have an easy chemistry, and Cannavale and Robert De Niro, who plays his gruff father, Stan, have sparkling, rapid-fire New York-accented rapport. While Cannavale holds the center as the complex Max, demonstrating his range, as well as his ability to lead a movie, De Niro, unsurprisingly, is magnetic. It’s not a huge role, but his performance is beautifully expressed.

Goldwyn has called in the big guns to set “Ezra” up for success, and in addition to Cannavale, Byrne and De Niro, he has cast supporting actors such as Vera Farmiga, Rainn Wilson, himself in a small role, and his “Ghost” co-star Whoopi Goldberg, who plays Max’s agent. She calls him when he’s on the road to Michigan to visit a friend (Wilson) at a summer camp, to let him know that he’s been booked on Jimmy Kimmel and needs to be in L.A. in a week, extending their trip even further across the country. Despite Ezra’s protestations, they head West, with Max convinced he needs his son as a good-luck charm for his set.

Meanwhile, Stan and Jenna hit the road in hot pursuit, and “Ezra” becomes a dueling odd-couple road movie.

The film is an actor’s showcase, and it’s the performances that hold everything together, especially the young Fitzgerald, who is terrific as Ezra, a young man who communicates his preferences and boundaries clearly – he’s often the only character saying exactly what he means. But Goldwyn’s direction is sure-handed in navigating the complicated tone that tiptoes through comedy and pathos. He pushes his style with cinematographer Danny Moder, utilizing those handheld close-ups for more emotionally intense moments, and imparting a sense of gritty authenticity to a story that often requires a suspended disbelief.

“Ezra” could tip into melodrama, but Goldwyn sidesteps that with a rather facile ending, seemingly skipping a story beat in the denouement. You crave one more moment to wrap things up, but sometimes it’s better to leave us wanting more, avoiding the treacle and focusing on the heart – and the humor – of the matter.

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Planning a summer road trip? Arizona residents receive "overdue toll" scam text

Whether you're hitting the road for a short getaway out of town or driving across the country, a road trip is an American summer staple.

When you hit the road, make sure to keep track of your tolls.

Arizonans and residents in other states are receiving phishing text messages. The messages impersonate road toll collection services. The Federal Bureau of Investigation , the Better Business Bureau , and other organizations are putting out the alert to warn consumers.

The messages claim the recipient needs to pay an outstanding toll payment and must pay quickly to avoid a late fee. Recipients are directed to an impostor link that appears to be from the toll service. If you click on the link and enter your personal or financial information, your money and even your identity could be at risk.

According to the BBB, many consumers have reported the text asks them to pay online via SunPass. SunPass is a legitimate company, based in Florida, that allows travelers to pay for tolls in multiple states. The company recently issued its own alert about the scam texts, stating they do not ask customers to make payments via text message.

The FBI recommends consumers who receive one of the texts follow the steps below:

File a complaint with the IC3

•       Include the phone number from where the text originated
•       Include the website listed within the text

-If you think you have an outstanding toll, check your account using the toll service's legitimate website. Do not use the site or contact information provided in the text message.

-Delete any scam texts received

-If you clicked any link or provided your information, take efforts to secure your personal information and financial accounts. Dispute any unfamiliar charge

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