Best U.S. Family Road Trips to Try At Least Once in A Lifetime

There is nothing quite like the thrill of packing up the car and hitting the open road with your family. After all, family road trips are adventures full of discovery, bonding, and memorable moments.

Whether you are cruising along the rugged coastline or navigating iconic highways, the U.S. offers some of the best family road trips that everyone should experience at least once. Here are some of the standout routes that are perfect for an unforgettable journey with your loved ones:

San Diego to Los Angeles, California

Start your journey in sunny San Diego, where you can explore its famous beaches, the San Diego Zoo, and the family-friendly Balboa Park. As you make your way north, take the scenic Interstate 5, which hugs the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Stops in quaint coastal towns like Encinitas and Carlsbad add to the charm, with kid-friendly activities like tide pooling and surfing.

Alex / Unsplash / For families looking to embrace the laid-back vibe of Southern California, a road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles is a must.

Once in Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, your family can dive into iconic attractions like Disneyland, and Universal Studios, or even hike up to the Hollywood sign. This trip is all about sun, surf, and a little bit of Hollywood magic.

You bet! It is the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. This makes it an ideal introduction to family road trips in California.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

If you want to experience one of the most scenic family road trips in the U.S., the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is where you will find it. This legendary route, also known as Highway 1, stretches from San Francisco to Los Angeles and winds along the jaw-dropping California coastline.

Starting in San Francisco, your family can walk across the Golden Gate Bridge before heading south along the highway. As you drive, towering cliffs meet the vast Pacific Ocean, offering unmatched views that will leave everyone in awe.

New York City to Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For East Coast families, a road trip from New York City to Cape Cod delivers a delightful contrast of urban excitement and seaside serenity. Begin your adventure in the heart of New York City, where the hustle and bustle will energize your family.

From visiting Central Park to taking in a Broadway show, there is something for everyone in the Big Apple. As you drive north, the landscape gradually changes from the city’s skyscrapers to the serene countryside of Connecticut and Rhode Island.

Route 66

If there is one road trip that is synonymous with American adventure, it is Route 66. This historic highway, often called “The Main Street of America,” stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, covering nearly 2,500 miles of diverse landscapes.

Trip Guru / For families seeking a road trip rich in history, nostalgia, and quirky attractions, Route 66 is unbeatable.

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Starting in Chicago, your family can explore the city’s museums, parks, and famous deep-dish pizza before hitting the open road. As you travel westward, Route 66 takes you through small towns, roadside diners, and iconic landmarks like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas and the Petrified Forest in Arizona.

Blue Ridge Parkway

For families who crave nature and a slower pace, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a peaceful yet stunning road trip through the Appalachian Mountains. This scenic drive stretches for 469 miles, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina.

Along the way, your family can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and exploring hidden waterfalls. Stop by the historic Mabry Mill or visit the charming mountain town of Asheville, home to the famous Biltmore Estate.