Originally published by Gunther Mitsubishi.
The US offers an array of road trip routes that are globally renowned for their expansive skies, breathtaking natural landscapes, and opportunities to meet new people. While many of these journeys captivate adults, they might not always cater to the interests and energy levels of younger travelers, who may have limited attention spans and less interest in lengthy drives focused on geography or history.
However, the country is packed with shorter, child-friendly road trips (and shorter day trips) ideal for young explorers. For example, Florida offers family-friendly adventures with attractions like the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Orlando’s theme parks such as Disney World and Universal Studios.
Gunther Mitsubishi carried out a survey of 3,000 families, asking them to identify the ultimate family-friendly road trips they aspire to experience this summer.
The top 5 were as follows:
#1. Flagstaff to Grand Canyon: Arizona
Coming in first place, the route from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon offers a variety of attractions. Start with the Lowell Observatory or the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. Older kids will love the zip lining at the Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course. On the way to the Grand Canyon, stop in Williams to enjoy a scenic ride on the Grand Canyon Railway. Conclude the trip at the Grand Canyon National Park, where families can enjoy breathtaking views, easy hiking trails, and ranger-led programs.
#2. Colorado Springs to Great Sand Dunes National Park: Colorado
Taking the second spot, the trip from Colorado Springs to Great Sand Dunes National Park is filled with exciting stops. Start with the Garden of the Gods or Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. En route to the Great Sand Dunes, stop at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park for stunning views and thrilling rides. Finish the trip at the park, where kids can play on the massive sand dunes and splash in Medano Creek.
#3. Hilo to Kailua-Kona: Hawaii
In third position, the route from Hilo to Kailua-Kona offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. Start in Hilo with visits to the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens or the Lyman Museum and Mission House. Don’t miss the nearby Rainbow Falls, a stunning natural attraction. Continue to Kailua-Kona, detouring to visit Volcanoes National Park with its dramatic landscapes and educational exhibits. End the journey in Kailua-Kona with visits to the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, the Kona Coffee Living History Farm, or snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay.
#4. Boston to Cape Cod: Massachusetts
Fourth on the list is a family trip from Boston to Cape Cod offering historical and coastal attractions. Start in Boston with a visit to the Boston Children’s Museum, the New England Aquarium, or the Museum of Science. A walk along the Freedom Trail is also great for exploring the city’s history. On the way to Cape Cod, stop in Plymouth to see Plymouth Rock or visit Plimoth Patuxet Museums for a living history experience. Conclude on Cape Cod with beaches, the Cape Cod National Seashore, or a whale-watching tour. The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is also a great stop for kids.
#5. Buffalo to Niagara Falls: New York
Rounding out the top five, a trip from Buffalo to Niagara Falls combines cultural and natural attractions. Start in Buffalo with a visit to the Buffalo Zoo, the Buffalo Museum of Science, or the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park is also a great stop. Before heading to Niagara Falls, detour to Lockport to take a tour of the Erie Canal locks and enjoy a boat ride through the Lockport Cave. Conclude at Niagara Falls with a ride on the Maid of the Mist, exploring the Cave of the Winds, and visiting the Niagara Falls State Park.
Maryland had three trip routes voted among the most sought-after by families:
#44 Frederick to Deep Creek Lake
Traveling from Frederick to Deep Creek Lake combines historical and outdoor activities. Begin in Frederick with a visit to the Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums or Carroll Creek Park. Downtown Frederick offers charming shops and restaurants. On the way to Deep Creek Lake, stop in Hagerstown to visit Hagerstown City Park or the Maryland Theatre. Conclude at Deep Creek Lake with activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and visiting the Wisp Resort for year-round outdoor fun.
#68 Salisbury to Assateague Island
A road trip from Salisbury to Assateague Island provides a mix of wildlife and scenic beauty. Start in Salisbury with a visit to the Salisbury Zoological Park or Pemberton Historical Park which offers trails and nature walks. On the way to Assateague Island, stop in Berlin to explore the charming downtown and visit the Calvin B. Taylor House Museum. Conclude at Assateague Island National Seashore, where families can see the famous wild horses, enjoy the beach, and explore nature trails.
#74 Baltimore to Ocean City
A family trip from Baltimore to Ocean City offers a mix of educational and beach fun. Start in Baltimore with a visit to the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, or the Maryland Zoo. The Inner Harbor area offers plenty of family-friendly activities and restaurants. On the way to Ocean City, stop in Annapolis to explore the U.S. Naval Academy or take a scenic boat tour of the Chesapeake Bay. Conclude in Ocean City, enjoying the beach or the Jolly Roger Amusement Park.
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“The diversity of America’s landscapes and attractions makes it an ideal destination for family road trips. From educational sites to thrilling adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, ensuring memorable experiences for families across the country,” says ay Joe Gunther IV of Gunther Mitsubishi.
