10 Family Road Trips in the United States For Fun Vacations

Author: Maharshi Soni on Sep 04,2023

A vacation without the storyline of a family road trip is like not following the time-honored American tradition. The United States offers a treasure trove of epic destinations that promise unforgettable memories for your family. Nothing is more enchanting than hitting the open roads and embracing the life in motion. This is especially true when Fun on Wheels is a power-packed road trip with family. Lets go through some of the best family road trip locations in the United States, with their extraordinary views and mesmerizing spots for making memories.

1. Appalachian Mountains

Get your vehicle into the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, known for their Great Smoky Mountains that store the most picturesque landscapes. Make your way to The Peddler Steakhouse in Gatlinburg. Their succulent steaks are sure to satisfy both adults and kids alike. You can also take hikes to Laurel Falls and Cades Cove. For an underwater adventure, head to Ripley's Aquarium, where you can experience colorful marine life. Remember to try classic Southern comfort food, like biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and cornbread when dining out. As you explore the trails and waterfalls, carry comfortable hiking gear, a backpack with picnic supplies, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

2. Yellowstone

Yellowstone is a natural wonderland known for its geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. Spend your days enjoying the Grand Prismatic Spring and taking wildlife-watching excursions. Take advantage of a visit to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, where you can admire the stunning Lower and Upper Falls. You can enjoy a meal at the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room while witnessing the famous Old Faithful geyser erupt on schedule. When it comes to food, try bison burgers and huckleberry ice cream, both regional favorites. For this adventure, carry binoculars to spot wildlife, bear spray for safety in bear country, and layered clothing for the varying weather conditions.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a city with culture, music, and incredible cuisine. You can stroll through the historic French Quarter, where you'll get a chance to be a part of the unique architecture and lively atmosphere. Take a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River and explore the city's rich music scene, the birthplace of jazz. Sample beignets, gumbo, and po'boys are iconic New Orleans dishes. Commander's Palace, an iconic Creole restaurant, is renowned for its jazz brunch and mouthwatering Creole dishes. When exploring the city, carry comfortable walking shoes for strolls and an appetite for spicy food.

4. San Francisco, California

The House of Prime Rib is a classic dining spot where you can savor prime rib dishes amidst a cozy atmosphere. Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island, bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and enjoy the hustle and bustle of Fisherman's Wharf. Savor the famous clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, a San Francisco specialty. You must carry layers of clothing to adapt to the ever-changing weather, a camera to capture the iconic landmarks, and a sense of adventure to explore the city's vibrant culture.

5. Savannah, Georgia

With its historic charm and Southern hospitality, Savannah is an excellent destination for family road trips. The Grey, located in a renovated Greyhound bus terminal, is a renowned restaurant that offers modern Southern cuisine in an elegant setting. Travel back in time with a horse-drawn carriage tour through the historic district. Forsyth Park is perfect for picnics and leisurely walks, and River Street is lined with shops and eateries. Make sure to catch Savannah's culinary delights, including fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and pralines. While exploring Savannah's historic streets, carry comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent for warm evenings, and a passion for history to appreciate this charming city.

6. The Florida Keys, Florida

Louie's Backyard is a waterfront restaurant that offers stunning sunset views while you dine on delicious seafood. Give yourself a fabulous treat with snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. Discover the area's history at the Ernest Hemingway Home and drive the scenic Overseas Highway. Indulge in the fresh seafood of Florida, especially conch fritters and the quintessential key lime pie. Pack snorkeling gear, sunscreen, and a cooler for beach picnics as you explore the beautiful keys.

7. The Black Hills, South Dakota

South Dakota's Black Hills blends natural beauty and cultural history with Alpine Inn, a rustic restaurant renowned for Swiss-inspired cuisine. Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore, where you'll see the faces of four American presidents carved into the mountainside. For outdoor enthusiasts, Badlands National Park offers a surreal landscape, and the Crazy Horse Memorial is a work in progress that's worth a visit. When dining out, try buffalo burgers and homemade pie. For this adventure, you'll need hiking boots for exploring the trails, a National Park Pass for access, and a sense of wonder to appreciate the unique landscapes.

8. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a haven for nature lovers and art enthusiasts with the Blue Ridge Mountains. Tupelo Honey Cafe is a restaurant that offers a twist on Southern comfort food. Explore the opulent Biltmore Estate, a grand mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens. Hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains and, in the evening, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant arts scene. Asheville is also known for its craft beer, so bring a love for trying new brews. Gear up for mountain adventures, a camera for capturing the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and an open mind for the city's creative and eclectic culture.

9. Seattle, Washington

Pike Place Chowder, located in the historic Pike Place Market, is famous for its award-winning clam chowder. Visit iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and the bustling Pike Place Market, where you can watch fishmongers throw fish. Take a ferry to Bainbridge Island for picturesque views of the city. Make sure to indulge in fresh seafood, notably salmon and Dungeness crab. Bring an umbrella for Seattle's frequent drizzles, comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city's hilly streets, and a curiosity to discover the city's diverse neighborhoods.

10. Charleston, South Carolina

Tour historic plantations like Middleton Place and Drayton Hall, where you'll return to the antebellum South. Stroll along Rainbow Row, a series of colorful historic homes, and take a boat to Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began. The classics are Charleston dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Lowcountry boils. Husk is a restaurant that showcases the best of Southern ingredients and traditions. While exploring Charleston's historic streets, carry comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets, a landmark mindset to appreciate the city's rich past, and a taste for sweet tea, a Southern staple.

Conclusion

Family road trips are the most intimate times to spend with your close ones, especially in the U.S. destinations with a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Whether you're exploring the natural wonders of national parks, savoring regional cuisine, or immersing yourself in the unique cultures of each location, you're bound to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!