Taking a family road trip is one of the most classic ways to see the varied and beautiful landscapes that exist throughout this great country. America is a vast country of towering peaks and serene coastlines, with so many roads that are perfect for family road trips-it completely spoils us with choice. In this article, we are going to explore the best family road trip routes in America for you as a parent looking out for ideas with some bonus insights into each journey catering to your large or small families.
1. PchPacific Coast Highway (California)
Overview
That is a long stretch of road, comprising one of the best coastal driving roads in the world – The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) or Highway 1. This is best for families, because of bird watchers and seafood lovers – it’s a family (child) friendly route to have panoramic views above the ocean.
Highlights
- Big Sur – Famous for its dramatic cliffs and unspoiled beaches, Big SUR is an attractive beach to stop by. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a beautiful post-hike destination for families, with is its famous Bixby Creek Bridge and the unique purple sand on Pfeiffer Beach.
- Monterey and Carmel: Visit the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium, walk along Cannery Row and spend time in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea.
- Santa Barbara – Often called the American Riviera, check out stunning beaches, Santa Barbara Zoo and also the historic Old Mission.
Tips
- If you really want to properly enjoy the sights and activities, they suggest allowing at least one week.
- Ideal Time to Visit: During the spring or fall when weather is nice and there are less crowds.
- Stay: Look for family-friendly hotels or rental homes along the way.
2. Route 66 ILLINOIS to CALIFORNIA
Overview
Route 66, better known as the “Main Street of America,” is one of Americas greatest road trip routes stretching over from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica in California. This classic road is an opportunity to drive through small towns, off-the-wall places and scenic vistas past.
Highlights
- Grand Canyon: Just a tad off Route 66, the Grand Canyon is an epic feat of nature that offers countless ways to entertain your family such as hiking tours on foot or by mule and ranger-led programs.
- Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona) – A park of ancient petrified wood and colorful badlands for educational family hikes.
- Amarillo, Texas – This oddity in Amarillo is an art statement of 10 half-buried Cadillacs that greets millions of travellers and welcomes them to spray paint more graffiti on their already tagged bodies.
Tips
- Trip Duration: You should spend no less than 2 weeks witnessing the route and things it has to offer.
- When to Go: Spring and fall have the most pleasant climates.
- Breakfast: Motor lodges, historic inns and campgrounds
3. Virginia to North Carolina on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Overview
This mile-long National Parkway runs from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and is well known for its incredible mountain vistas and colored hardwoods. This is a family naturalist route that will appeal to those who love the nature and beautiful surroundings.
Highlights
- Skyline Drive: This will take you through Shenandoah National Park in Luray, Virginia where you can drive on Skyline Drive and look out for scenic pull-offs to hike to as well see animals like deer or a black bear.
- Mabry Mill – Arguably the most photographed spot on the parkway, Mabry Mill is a living reminder of early Appalachian life.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Finally, for the end of your journey visit this popular national park where families can hike and spot wildlife or join an educational ranger program.
Tips
- Recommended Duration: To one week there to see most of the major attractions.
- When to Go: September-October or April-June.
- Lodging: Family-friendly lodges, cabins and campgrounds
4. Great River Road from Minnesota to Louisiana
Overview
The Great River Road From Lake Itasca, Minnesota to New Orleans With its source in the U.S. state of Minnesota and mouth at the Gulf of Mexico near Venice, Louisiana@PostMapping my first Hub is a somewhat difficult venture for me mainly because I’d rather be writing oth While taking you across charming scenic roads; it takes also to natural wonders, cultural landmarks and historic sites.
Highlights
- Minneapolis & St. Paul: Launch your tour in the Twin Cities, where you can check out the Science Museum of Minnesota (right), meet animals at visiting brookfield zoo tours and discover more wildlife just a few minutes away at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.
- St. Louis: Known as the city with Gateway Arch, St. Louis also gives you tons of family-friendly places such as the City Museum and Saint Louis Zoo.
- Memphis: Get in some of that rich musical heritage with visits to Graceland, the Memphis Zoo and National Civil Rights Museum
Tips
- Time Required: Allow yourself at least two weeks to complete the route in full.
- When to Go: Spring and fall (festival season)
- Lodging: A combination of hotels, B&Bs and campgrounds.
5. Yellowstone and Grand Teton Loop (Wyoming)
Overview
Families looking for a great outdoor adventure will find it in the form of this loop route that includes stops at Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. This route features some of the most beautiful natural scenery and wildlife in the United States.
Highlights
- Yellowstone National Park: Known for its geothermal features like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone also includes wildlife viewing along with several hiking trails as well has ranger-led educational programs.
- Grand Teton National Park: This park is famous for its towering mountaintop views, it’s expanding over mountains and lakes which are perfects of hikers, boaters or wildlife sightseeing.
- Jackson Hole – From rodeos to river rafting, this quaint town is great for families and home to the National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Tips
- Time: A week or 10 days and this amazing non-commercial pair can be covered
- When to Go: Summer (for warm weather and open roads) or autumn (fewer crowds, fall foliage).
- Lodgings: National park lodges, cabins, campgrounds
6. Florida Keys Scenic Highway (8) – Florida
Overview
Florida Keys Scenic Highway (U.S. Route 1) – Miami to Key West: This tropical family paradise from Florida City through the Overseas Transport system will take you on an exploration of wonders in less time than others because it stretches only about hundred miles and more fun done by the experiencing, rather than seeing its exquisiteness arcipelago must do or visit for all while living a homely with automobileosto near resting stations that offer total facil introductionstra). With its clear waters, healthy reefs and relaxed island vibe this has to be one of our favourites.
Highlights
- Key Largo: Dubbed the “Diving Capital of the World,” Key Largo activities suitable for all ages include snorkeling, touring via glass-bottomed boats, and exploring John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
- Marathon: The Turtle Hospital and the Dolphin Research Center are located here, offering family-friendly educational experiences that allows for a bit more hands on participation during your visit.
- Key West: The southernmost point of the contiguous U.S., Key West is home to popular attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and sunset celebrations at Mallory Square.
Tips
- Length: Plan on a long weekend to explore the Keys.
- When to Go: Winter and spring (for pleasant weather, with lighter crowds)
- Lodgings: Resorts, vacation rentals & campgrounds
7. Texas Hill Country (Texas)
Overview
Texas Hill Country A combination of rivers, lakes and rolling hills dotted with small town charm makes the Texas hill country an attraction you cannot pass up. For families looking to get down deep in the heart of Texas this is your route.
Highlights
- San Antonio Kick off your road trip in San Antonio, where you can see the famous Alamo or stroll down River Walk. And if you have time to spare visit the San Antonio Zoo as well!
- Fredericksburg German roots make this is a great stop for all ages including kids activities as The National Museum of the Pacific War Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and many local wineries.
- Finish your trip with a bang – Hip Austin offers live music, the family-friendly Austin Nature and Science Center and tours of Texas State Capitol.
Tips
- Length of Time: A week is ideal for exploring the area properly.
- When to Go: Visit in spring for wildflowers or fall, when you can expect better temperatures.
- Accommodations: Hotels, bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals
8. Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington
Overview
Flickr user: Nickay3111) The Olympic Peninsula Loop in Washington State runs the gamut from its rocky coastline to deep green rain forests. This is a fantastic itinerary for families looking to combine outdoor activities with beautiful scenery.
Highlights
- Olympic National Park (UNESCO world heritage) – Diverse ecosystem from lush temperate rainforests and alpine mountains to the wild Pacific coast. Hiking trails, tide pooling and wildlife viewing that the whole family can enjoy.
- Hoh Rain Forest – This one of the largest temperate rainforests in USA and features easy-going family-friendly hikes, as well as opportunities to learn about this unique ecosystem.
- La Push + Rialto Beach – These beaches are famous for their dramatic sea stacks and tide pools – giving you the best of both worlds when it comes to exploring marine life in addition to coastal views.
Tips
- Time: 1 week should be plenty to see the loop.
- When to Go: Summer, when trails are clear and the weather is welcoming.
- Where to Stay: National park lodges and cabins, campgrounds.
9. New England Autumn Tour (U.S. Northeast)
Overview
For many families, a classic road trip along the leaf-strewn landscapes of the northeastern U.S., with charms like covered bridges and old-timey general stores and annual stops at sugarhouses, is sure to be part of your family history. The route is well known for its colorful fall foliage, small picturesque towns and historic places.
Highlights
- Vermont – Begin your trip in Vermont with its charming towns like Stowe and Woodstock, apple orchards, and trails for hiking through the Green Mountains.
- White Mountains, New Hampshire: Ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway and cruise along I-93 through Franconia Notch State Park.
- Massachusetts: Boston is a historical city with an important place in American history, but don’t forget that the New England coast is littered with beautiful little towns like Cape Cod or Salem – and they put on some of America’s best fall festivals.
Tips
- Time: I suggest spending at least two weeks if you want to fully experience the fall foliage and attractions.
- When to Go: Late September-mid-October for peak foliage.
- Lodging: Inns, B&Bs and vacation rentals.
10. The Parks Highway in Alaska (Anchorage to Fairbanks)
Overview
A Parks Highway road trip through the heart of Alaska offers families willing to drive (some 10 hours or more per day) vistas and far-flung sights one could never encounter on a national park loop in the Lower 48. It links Anchorage to Fairbanks and cuts through Denali National Park.
Highlights
- Anchorage –Start your adventure in Alaska’s largest city with stops at the, Chugach State Park or Anchorage Museum.
- Park goers can partake in a number of family-friendly activities at Denali National Park, which is home to North America’s highest peak and facilities include wildlife bus tours, hiking and ranger-led programs.
- Fairbanks: Finish your trip in Fairbanks and discover Alaskan culture at the University of Alaska Museum of the North, explore an ice museum at The Chena Hot Springs or absorb all that steamy goodness yourself.
Tips
- Recommended Time: Ideal for 1 week to a maximum of 10 days in this route.
- Summer, in order to ensure the optimal weather and access
- Lodging: Park hotels, campgrounds.
Conclusion
Road trips: Time to bond There is no better way than a family road trip, when you want to explore and create some unforgettable memories. From the beautiful coastal views of Pacific Coast Highway, to Route 66’s historical charm and Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks’ natural wonders – America has a myriad amount of routes perfect for family adventures. With a bit of planning and selecting the best family-friendly accommodations, you can have an enjoyable road trip with your whole family. Happy travels!