Ah, the family road trip. A source of endless possibilities, new experiences, and family bonding. However, let’s not forget about restless children, aching backs, and that age-old question: ‘are we there yet?’. If that sounds familiar, don’t despair! The following road trip destinations will have 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 continues to attract world-class athletes for training, but the real attraction is the outdoor beauty. Lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and dense forests provide a plethora of family-friendly activities, from fishing, kayaking, rafting, and hiking to biking and boating. One of the few remaining Great Camps, White Pine Camp, is available for family retreats with an abundance of summer camp-like activities that will take you back to your childhood.
Southern Arizona
If your family has a cowboy/girl at heart, 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 daily reenactments of the historic OK Corral shootout. Not far from Tombstone is Bisbee, a quirky mining town brimming with artistic flair 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. For those who love peculiar rock formations, the Chiricahua Mountains offer thin spires (called hoodoos) that support larger rocks appearing to balance on top. Lastly, Southern Arizona is the only place in the U.S. where you can find the Organ Pipe Cactus, a large prickly plant that resembles a 6’ tall upside-down spider with twenty legs.
Vicksburg, Mississippi
Vicksburg exemplifies southern hospitality and rich history. Civil War history? Check. Stunning National Parks? Check. Outstanding Blues music? Double check!
Highway 61, also known as the Blues Trail, rivals Route 66, not only for its historical significance but also for its musical heritage. This legendary Blues Highway runs through the heart of Vicksburg, where antebellum homes, soulful music, and delicious southern cuisine await you.
Moab, Utah
Moab boasts a landscape so awe-inspiring that it is home to two National Parks, and countless movies, TV shows, and commercials have been filmed here. Highway 128, which runs along the Colorado River, is one of the most scenic roads in the country. Activities abound, from water sports, hiking, and biking to off-roading through the vast wilderness. Moab is a place that will awaken the inner explorer in you and your children.
Huntsville, Alabama
Known as Rocket City, Huntsville captivates visitors with its friendly atmosphere and an abundance of activities suitable for both kids and adults. The U.S. Space and Rocket Center will delight aspiring astronauts as they stand beneath the towering Saturn 5 rocket. Additionally, the Lowe Mill Arts Center, a former textile mill, now serves as a cultural hub showcasing various artists and performers. A stroll through the historic Twickenham district is essential, with its tree-lined streets and stunning antebellum homes.
Olympic Peninsula
This drive is sensory overload, featuring waterfalls, picturesque shorelines, pristine lakes, mountain views, and dense rainforests in the northwestern part of Washington State. If your kids are fans of the ever-popular Twilight movie franchise, they might convince you to veer off to Forks.
Don’t miss hiking through Sol Duc; the nearly impenetrable forest canopy will keep you dry, even in the rain. Driving along coastal Highway 112 will lead you to Cape Flattery, the most northwesterly point in the contiguous United States.
Bozeman, Montana
Nestled within the Gallatin Valley of the western Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is perfectly positioned to explore the splendor of Yellowstone National Park. Surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine rivers, and rippling waterfalls, this area boasts wildlife meandering through open prairies. If spotting bald eagles, bison, and bighorn sheep doesn’t excite the kids, the guest ranches and lodges that capture the spirit of cowboy life certainly will.
Traverse City, Michigan
Scenic coastal roads, cobalt blue waters, roadside farm stands, and Midwestern charm define Traverse City. The Pierce Stocking scenic drive is a 7.4-mile loop through a Maple and Beech forest, showcasing massive sand dunes and stunning lake views. Rent some bikes to navigate trails through pumpkin patches, corn mazes, cider houses, and orchards, and don’t forget to enjoy the famous apple and cherry juice of the region!
South Lake Tahoe
The magnificent mountain town of South Lake Tahoe sits beside a breathtaking body of water that has inspired artists and outdoor enthusiasts for generations. The whole family can enjoy year-round activities, whether hiking, skiing, or renting kayaks for a leisurely day on the water. If you prefer excitement during your drive, the curvy mountain and lakefront roads offer amazement at every turn.
Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls is among the first road trip vacation destinations in the country. Beyond the impressive display of waterfalls, this area offers fascinating nearby road trips. There’s no better way to pique young minds’ interest in history than visiting Old Fort Niagara, an immersive historical site with exhilarating reenactments and demonstrations. Additionally, don’t miss the Erie Canal, where an engineering marvel connected the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean through a series of locks.
In today’s world, where both young and old eyes are glued to screens, a family 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.
