Top 15 Family Road Trip Destinations in the United States
If you really want to see the heart of this country, a road trip is the way to go. It’s about the freedom to explore, the scenic drives, and the fun stops you find along the way. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, the coast, or somewhere in between, nothing beats the experience of a great family road trip. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 15 family road trips in the U.S. So, grab the snacks, load up the car, and get ready for your next grand family adventure!
Road Trip Around Lake Michigan
A family road trip around Lake Michigan combines city thrills and natural beauty across four states. Starting in Chicago, families can explore interactive museums and iconic landmarks. As the journey continues through Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin, there are opportunities to enjoy sandy beaches, charming small towns, and scenic parks. Highlights include the Indiana Dunes National Park, the historic lighthouses of Michigan's coastline, and family-friendly attractions like Green Bay Packers' Lambeau Field for football enthusiasts. This approximately 1,100-mile loop provides a rich tapestry of experiences, making it an ideal adventure for families seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Route 66 Family Road Trip
Another road trip starting from Chicago is the iconic Route 66, allowing families a unique blend of history and adventure. Begin at Chicago's Millennium Park, then head to the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium for interactive exhibits. As you travel through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, and beyond, discover attractions like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton. Don't miss the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Many families turn this trip into an educational experience by encouraging their kids to keep a travel journal, documenting their adventures and reflections along the way. This 2,448-mile journey can take anywhere from 2 to 3 weeks, or more! A one in a lifetime experience families won’t forget.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway, a favorite for family road trips, faced significant challenges after Hurricane Helene struck in September 2024. The storm caused severe flooding, landslides, and downed trees, leading to extensive damage, particularly in North Carolina, resulting in widespread closures along the parkway.
Despite these setbacks, restoration efforts have made notable progress. By October 2024, a 198-mile stretch in Virginia reopened, allowing families to once again enjoy scenic spots like Humpback Rocks and Peaks of Otter. In North Carolina, sections near Waynesville have also reopened. While some areas remain closed due to ongoing repairs, the commitment to restoring this iconic route ensures that families can look forward to memorable adventures on the Blue Ridge Parkway in the near future.
As the parkway reopens, it's vital for visitors to support local businesses along the route. Many small enterprises have faced significant hardships due to the closures and are eager to welcome travelers back. By dining at local restaurants, shopping in nearby stores, and staying in regional accommodations, families can contribute to the economic recovery of these communities, helping to restore normalcy to this cherished area after the devastation.
Boston, MA to Acadia National Park
Traveling from Boston to Acadia National Park gives families the chance to experience the best of New England. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly stops and scenic views to make the journey memorable. As the journey progresses through Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, there are opportunities to explore charming towns, scenic beaches, and cultural landmarks. Highlights include the historic streets of Salem, the waterfront of Portsmouth, and the vibrant arts scene in Portland. Upon reaching Acadia National Park, families can hike the trails, spot wildlife, and take in the breathtaking sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. A trip like this offers more than just miles—it’s filled with memories your family will cherish forever.
Baltimore, Maryland to Virginia Beach
A road trip from Baltimore to Virginia Beach highlights the natural beauty of the Mid-Atlantic, with a stop at Assateague Island to see its famous wild horses. The drive transitions from city streets to coastal views, offering families a chance to pause and explore. At Assateague, you can watch the wild horses, walk along sandy beaches, or learn about the local ecosystem at the visitor center. Once in Virginia Beach, the focus shifts to biking the boardwalk, enjoying the ocean, and spending quality time together. This might not be the obvious choice for a family road trip, but it’s one that stands out for all the right reasons.
Glacier National Park to Yellowstone
A road trip from Glacier National Park to Yellowstone offers a stunning journey through two of the most iconic national parks in the United States. The drive takes you from Glacier’s rugged peaks and pristine alpine lakes to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders and sprawling valleys. Along the way, families can enjoy scenic byways, stop to explore charming Montana towns, or look for wildlife in wide-open landscapes. In Glacier, the Going-to-the-Sun Road sets the tone with breathtaking views, while Yellowstone greets you with geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife. This might not be the obvious choice for a family road trip, but it’s one that stands out for all the right reasons. Read our tips on planning a national park vacation for more information!
Drive Along the California Coast
The California Coast drive takes a top spot among United States road trips for its breathtaking views and stunning scenery. You’ll pass everything from rocky cliffs and calm beaches to lively towns with the ocean always in sight. Along the way, families can stop to explore tide pools, visit charming spots like Carmel-by-the-Sea, or experience the raw, natural beauty of Big Sur. In the north, the gorgeous redwoods set the stage, while the south welcomes you with sunny beaches and laid-back vibes. Few road trips capture the spirit of adventure and natural beauty like the journey along California’s coast.
Tucson, Arizona to the Grand Canyon
Traveling from Tucson to the Grand Canyon, the scenery transforms so dramatically that it’s impossible not to get excited. You start in the cactus-filled desert, wind your way through rugged mountains, and pass through some charming, off-the-beaten-path towns. Along the way, you can stop to check out Prescott’s historic downtown, the red rocks in Sedona, or even the ancient ruins at Montezuma Castle. By the time you arrive at the Grand Canyon, you’ve already experienced a slice of Arizona’s natural and cultural beauty. Make sure you read our tips on staying safe in national parks before embarking on this journey!
Denver, Colorado to Estes Park
This short road trip from Denver to Estes Park offers a stunning introduction to Colorado’s mountain beauty. The drive takes you from city streets to open foothills and into the heart of the Rockies. Along the way, you can stop in Boulder to stroll along Pearl Street or enjoy the views at Gross Reservoir. By the time you reach Estes Park, you’re surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Rockies, with Rocky Mountain National Park just beyond the town. If you have extra time, consider driving to Grand Lake for a different view of the Rockies and a quieter atmosphere. It’s the kind of road trip you may just want to stop and stay for a while!
Explore the Phenomenal Oregon Coast
An Oregon Coast road trip is a journey through some of the most dramatic and diverse coastal scenery in the country. The drive winds past rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush forests, offering plenty of places to pull over and explore. Along the way, you can stop to admire the iconic Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, explore tide pools at Cape Perpetua, or visit the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport. Farther south, the wild beauty of Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor showcases rugged rock formations and hidden coves. Many people don’t realize just how stunning and diverse the Oregon Coast really is until they see it for themselves.
Miami, Florida to Key West
Start in Miami, Florida, and end in a place that barely feels like the U.S.—Key West. The Overseas Highway takes you through the Florida Keys, offering a constant mix of open water and small island views. The bridges on this drive seem to go on forever, but the turquoise water below makes them anything but boring. Once you arrive in Key West, stroll down Duval Street and enjoy a picture-perfect sunset at Mallory Square. The kids will love exploring Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park or playing at Truman Waterfront Park, making this trip fun for the whole family.
Savannah, Georgia to St. Augustine, Florida
Start in Savannah, Georgia, and end in St. Augustine, Florida—two cities filled with history and Southern charm. The drive takes you along scenic coastal highways, past marshlands, and through quaint small towns that feel like they belong to another time. Along the way, stop in Jekyll Island to see its driftwood-strewn beaches or explore the historic squares of Fernandina Beach. Once you arrive in St. Augustine, wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and visit Castillo de San Marcos for a glimpse into its centuries-old past. The mix of natural beauty and historic stops makes this road trip both relaxing and unforgettable.
Discover the Gulf Coast
A Gulf Coast road trip is all about easy drives, sandy beaches, and plenty of good food along the way. Starting in Florida’s Panhandle, you’ll follow the coast west with lots of chances to stop and explore. Spend some time on the white sands of Destin, check out the laid-back vibe of Dauphin Island, or grab a bite in Mobile. As you head into Mississippi and Louisiana, the mix of beach views and small-town stops keeps things interesting, with spots like Ocean Springs and New Orleans adding some local flavor. Be sure to grab some beignets at Café du Monde—the kids will love that, along with hearing a marching band in Jackson Square. It’s a journey where the food is as unforgettable as the views along the way.
Enjoy the South Carolina Lowcountry
A Lowcountry road trip through South Carolina and into North Carolina offers a perfect mix of charming towns, scenic marshlands, and plenty of good food. Start in Charleston, where cobblestone streets and historic homes set the tone, and then head south toward Beaufort, a quiet coastal town known for its waterfront views and shrimp boats. Along the way, you’ll find stretches of scenic highways lined with live oaks draped in Spanish moss. If you’re up for an adventure, detour to Hilton Head Island for a bike ride on the beach or keep heading north to Wilmington, North Carolina, where you can walk along the riverfront or tour the historic battleship. From the live oaks to the marshlands, this road trip showcases the quiet magic of the Lowcountry.
St. Petersburg, Florida to Fort Myers
The ultimate beach road trip along Florida’s Gulf Coast takes you from St. Petersburg to Fort Myers, with plenty of chances to enjoy the coast along the way. Start in St. Petersburg, then head south through Sarasota and Venice, where you can stop for a walk on the beach or try shark tooth hunting at Venice Beach—a favorite with kids. Once you reach Fort Myers, visit Manatee Park, where families can spot manatees in their natural habitat during the cooler months. This is the kind of trip where you hit the beach, stay put, and don’t move much—and that’s perfectly okay.
Where Will You Go Next?
What’s next for your family’s travel plans? Family road trips are the ultimate way to explore—go at your own pace, make unexpected stops, and discover something new together. These 15 trips are full of destinations and detours perfect for families ready to hit the road and make unforgettable memories. Let us know where you decide to go next!
