Road Trip Destinations

A road trip is an adventure of a lifetime! If you haven’t taken one recently, now’s the time to make it happen.

Simply grab your family, friends, or significant other, your car (a van will serve you better), gassed up, and get ready for the excursion of a lifetime. And, the best part is, it can all be done on a budget because each state has multiple free summer road trip destinations to explore.

Take a journey through history to beautiful landscapes that you’ve only seen in pictures. Summer is the perfect time of year for an unforgettable adventure for the entire family. Keep reading for the best summer destinations you won’t want to miss!

1. California’s Sprawling Coastline

One of the most obvious is the fact that there’s simply so much to explore! From the iconic Big Sur to the stunning beaches of Malibu, there are dozens of popular destinations to choose from. Moreover, the roads and infrastructure along the coastline make it easy to plan a well-paced road trip.

For instance, one can take part in a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and beach camping, as well as explore hidden coves and hike through rustic trails. It is often just as rewarding to discover untouched patches of land and experience the beauty of nature in its purest form.

2. Wyoming’s Yellowstone

This type of vacation planning is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, boasting stunning natural scenery and some of the most diverse wildlife. Yellowstone offers something for everyone; there are hiking trails, camping sites, and lodges that offer a luxurious stay. It provides scenic drives that offer a wealth of opportunities to explore the surrounding landscape and see the unique wildlife in the area.

Additionally, the park is home to the world’s first national park, offering a plethora of educational opportunities. The park rangers offer a wealth of activities, including lectures, tours, and amazing photography sessions.

3. Colorado Rockies

The stunning mountain scenery combined with the rugged yet beautiful outdoor activities is simply unmatched. You can explore incredible parks and outdoor activities like rafting, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding, fishing, camping, and more. Plus, the stunning 14-ers offer amazing views to see from the top of the mountains.

Additionally, the culture is very laid-back and welcoming. There are tons of amazing restaurants and breweries, all of which serve up some delicious food and drinks. You can also book a cabin rental here if you are staying.

From the delicious eats to the beautiful outdoors to the warm and friendly locals, these road trip ideas have something for everyone to enjoy and explore during a summer road trip.

4. Grand Canyon

Not only is it a beautiful natural wonder, but it offers so much in terms of outdoor recreation. From scenic hikes to amazing views, and incredible wildlife, the Grand Canyon has something to offer everyone. Camping along the North Rim or South Rim makes it easy to take advantage of all the natural beauty the park has to offer.

This provides a great variety of tourist activities, from rafting its mighty rapids to horseback riding to shopping in its Native American marketplaces. You can even go stargazing over its majestic night sky or take an educational tour of the natural and human history of the area. With its incredible natural beauty and exciting events, the trip planning is definitely a summer road trip destination you will not want to miss.

5. Yellowstone National Park

The Yellowstone National Park is the perfect summer road trip destination. Not only is it beautiful, with lush green terrain and gorgeous wildlife, but it also has the distinction of being the world’s first national park. This means you can not only enjoy the scenery and wildlife but you can also learn about the unique history and culture of the area.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. You can spend time exploring the geothermal features like Steamboat Geyser and Grand Prismatic Spring or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views. You can also find a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, bison, and elk.

6. Hudson Valley

With its captivating landscapes, historical sites, quaint villages, and outdoor adventures, the Hudson Valley is truly a year-round destination. But the summer months offer something particularly special. The weather is mild, and the days are long, making it the ideal time to explore the natural beauty of the valley.

You can spend days kayaking, canoeing, and fishing on the Hudson River or take a hike to soak up stunning views of the Catskills or ridgeline of the Hudson Valley. For the culture connoisseur, the area is honeycombed with historic architecture and art galleries. If you’re after a little luxe, there are plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants to try and luxury hotels for an opulent overnight trip.

7. Acadia National Park

With its breathtaking views, Acadia’s rugged coastline will keep you and your family mesmerized. The 40 miles of scenic biking trails will have you naturally exploring the area with no shortage of stunning views. The park itself is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot to watch some of Maine’s most interesting animals in their natural habitats.

There’s so much to take in that you won’t want to miss. For the adventurous, there are some of the best hikes in the nation, from easy strolls around Jordan Pond to the strenuous ascent of Cadillac Mountain. If you’re looking for a break from hiking, have a picnic on the beach and watch the sunsets paint the sky in the evening.

Visit These Road Trip Destinations Today

Summer road trips allow one to explore different sights and landmarks throughout the country. With varying climates, locations, and attractions, there is something for everyone.

Plan ahead to make sure you get the best rate and enjoy these amazing road trip destinations that create lifelong memories. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next summer road trip today!

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Bobby Jansson