If there ever was a time for family road trips, it’s the summer. The warm temperatures and long days offer an opportunity to explore somewhere new, make memories that will last a lifetime, all while bonding as a family. Whether your family is searching for child-friendly scenic drives, fun educational experiences, or thrilling activities we have once in a lifetime destinations that conveniently cater to families. Our quick guide highlights the ultimate family-friendly summer vacation road trip destinations for a well-rounded and memorable experience!
1. Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming
Overview
As the worlds first national park, Yellowstone National Park is among the best family vacation spots in America. The park consists of more than 2.2 million acres that contain a rich variety of impressive features including geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
- Old Faithful: Watch as the geyser that Yellowstone is most famous for explodes about every 90 minutes.
- At Grand Prismatic Spring: you can be amazed the vibrant colors burst across the biggest hot spring in American.
- WILDLIFE WATCHING: TO SEE BISON AND ELK, GRIZZLY BEARS AND WOLVES IN THEIR NATURAL STATES.
- The Junior Ranger Program allows children to participate in fun and high-quality activities designed to educate about our national parks, earn a free badge!
Tips
- Avoid the crowd; plan your visit early morning or late afternoon.
- Bring along binoculars and a camera to see local animals wildlife onAnimation
- August 31: Have layer clothing with you as the temperature differs greatly
2. Tennessee/North Carolina | Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Overview
Address: Boundary between Tennessee and North CarolinaHighlights- Home to the mist-covered mountains of Great Smoky Mountains, which hosts a stunning array of biodiversity. There are different programs created for people of all ages.
Highlights
- Clingmans Dome: Drive to the highest point in the park for views on all sides.
- Cades Cove: Enjoy beautiful riding or walking through this hilly valley, scene of old buildings and wildlife.
- Hiking Trails: More than 800 miles of trails including the kid-friendly Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail.
- Waterfalls : Explore Grotto Falls and other picture-perfect waterfalls.
Tips
- Come on weekdays so not as busy compared to weekend.
- If cell-service in the area is limited, make sure to bring a map and plan your route.
- Remember to bring a picnic with you, as there are many places in Wange National Park worth stopping for along the way.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway, VA/NC
Overview
Reaching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway is called “America’s Favorite Drive.” This scenic drive link Shenandoah National Park, VA with Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC
Highlights
- Vista Points – Bring your car to rest at several view points that allow a killer horizontal glimpse of the mountains along with whatever valley you happen to be driving through.
- Mabry Mill: Stop at this historic mill, one of the most photographed spots on the parkway.
- Hiking and Biking With hundreds of miles of trails for all levels, strikingly easy hikes like the one at Humpback Rocks.
- Folk Art Center Fascinating interpretive center featuring Appalachian culture and crafts.
Tips
- Before you go, be sure to take a look at the weather forecast and road conditions.
- Spend time meandering down side streets and checking out local sights.
- Be prepared to watch for deer and black bears.
4. Location: Pacific Coast Highway, California
Overview
California Route 1, more commonly referred to as The Pacific Coast Highway or PCH is arguably one of the greatest road trips in world. Whether you’re near Dana Point in Southern California, or Leggett way up north, it has a view around every twist and inspiring details within each quaint town.
Highlights
- Big Sur- Travel along rugged bluffs and make your inevitable stop at Bixby Creek Bridge
- Monterey Bay Aquarium: Children will love learning about sea creatures through hands-on interactive exhibits at this world-class aquarium.
- Hearst Castle – Explore this historic home once owned by a formidable media magnate.
- Santa Cruz Boardwalk: A classic board walk with amusements, rides, and games at the beach.
Tips
- Some places like Big Sur can fill up quick, so there are opportunities to book accommodations ahead.
- Bring layers for all the coastal exits.
- Plan in some additional time to stops and photo ops as well along the way.
5. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Overview
One of the seven natural wonders of the world, Grand Canyon is a hit among families. Unique and educational in this, its massive size coupled with stunning panoramic views.
Highlights
- South Rim: Most popular and easily accessible side of the canyon with many hikes stops and facilities
- Junior Ranger Program – kids can do activities to learn about the canyon’s geology and wildlife.
- Ranger-led Programs: Go on guided hikes and talks to give you insight into the park.
- Mule Rides – take a mule out on the park’s trails like travelers have done for years.
Tips
- Choose early morning time or late afternoon so that you will miss out the heat of midday.
- But you will need to bring a lot of water and protection from the sun.
- Rely on the park’s shuttle system to transport you around the South Rim with minimal fuss.
6. From Illinois to California along Route 66
Overview
America’s “Main Street,” Route 66 is a legend in its own right. Follow the lead and take a walk down memory lane in the heartland of America.
Highlights
- Route 66 Museum: Understand the importance of Route 66 in history by visiting one or more of many museums lining up along this road.
- Cadillac Ranch: Make sure you stop at this must-see art installation in Amarillo, Texas where antique Cadillacs are buried nose down and begging for a new coat of paint.
- The Petrified Forest National Park: Ancient petrified trees and rainbow-colored badlands in Arizona.
- Santa Monica Pier: Finish at the famous pier with its amusement park and views of the ocean.
Tips
- That means know where you are stopping and how long before its dark to find your… place of rest for the night.
- You get a more authentic version of the town by exploring small towns and their diners.
- Be sure to check out the local accommodations, countless historical sites and scenic stops along the way.
7. From Disneyland to San Diego, California
Overview
If you start your journey in Disneyland Anaheim, then a road trip to San Diego will include the best of theme parks and coastal destinations. This family-friendly line hits a number of major stops and highlights.
Highlights
- Disneyland Resort: Kick off your Capes visit with a magical trip to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.
- Legoland California: Pull into Carlsbad for some fun that you will drop as fast as a pile of Legos.
- San Diego Zoo: Do not miss to visit one of the largest and most famous zoos in the world, featuring an array of animal exhibits.
- La Jolla Cove – Visit a stunning beach and explore tide pools with ocean critters
Tips
- Buy tickets in advance for theme parks
- Choose weekdays to explore the best of Tourism Attractions
- Allow yourself some beach stops on the way so that you can take in and soak up the Pacific Ocean.
8. Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park
Overview
Coloradans are also passionate about Rocky Mountain National Park, providing an unforgettable background for a family driving trip. The park offers rugged mountains, alpine lakes and a variety of wildlife.
Highlights
- Trail Ridge Road: This winding, scenic highway takes you up to more than 12,000 feet.
- Bear Lake: Walk a leisurely reef; around this scenic alpine lake
- Wildlife Viewing: Elk, moose as well bighorn sheep in undomesticated format.
- Best for KidsBe a Junior Ranger: Children can become work out and earn an official lego ranger badges by completing educational exercises.
Tips
- Go early as we did to get some place to park and avoid the crowds.
- Bring lots of water, snacks and protection from the sun.
- Also, keep in mind that temperatures can fluctuate quickly up on the mountains, so be prepared for layers.
9. Florida Keys, Florida
Overview
The Florida Keys are the quintessential tropical paradise and an amazing place to visit with your family. A string of islands with white sandy beaches, water activities and a casual atmosphere extending from Key Largo to the southernmost island Bahamas-bound_Key_West.
Highlights
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – Snorkel or Dive to Enjoy the Beautiful and Colorful Coral Reefs & Fish
- Seven Mile Bridge: Cruise one of the world’s longest bridge over water with scenic ocean views.
- Key West: Wander this historic island, see the home of Ernest Hemingway and enjoy a high-energy vibe.
- Dolphin Research Center – Marathon: Interact and learn about dolphins in their natural atmosphere.
Tips
- Stay in hotels ahead of time, especially to stay safe not at Key West.
- Take advantage of the low wind mornings and plan morning water activities.
- The sun can be brutal with sunscreen and hats.
10. Acadia National Park, Maine
Overview
Acadia National Park, with its mountains and forests that rise up from a rocky coastline. Great for Families looking to spend more time outdoors
Highlights
- Cadillac Mountain: Take a drive to the mountain summit for an early morning experience at sunrise; its received claim as being first place in the USA where one could see daylight.
- Sand Beach, the only decent sandy area in Acadia is a beautiful beach surrounded by mountains and rocky shores.
- Jordan Pond: Hiking trails, large head pond with clean water from glacial formation; dining at the Jordan Pond House.
- Carriage Roads: Or hike or bike along carriage roads in the park.
Tips
- Shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall): summer crowds disappear but trails are still open.
- Sign up for a ranger-led program; Arena are great…
- Make sure to have bug spray on you, as mosquitos and blackflies are often bad.
Conclusion
Day after day, more Americans are hitting the open highway for a road trip – and many of those miles will be driven with kids in tow. Hopefully you have planned your journey out to some family friendly destinations that offer entertainment or educational value – if not both! All of these highlighted road trip destinations above cater to different experiences, whether it be national parks and historic routes or scenic highways and coastal getaways. From unique tourist spots to attractions, these are some places your family will enjoy at any one of the destinations that you consider for your summer road trip
So – be prepared, pack carefully and allow yourself plenty of time to soak in all the culture & adventure each place has waiting for you! Armed with these expert tips and hot insider knowledge, you are now ready to prepare an unforgettable summer road trip experience for your family.