5 Epic Road Trips To Take This Summer

Road trips are the perfect vacation for people who cherish the journey as much as they do the destination itself. If you’re ready to get out on the open road and explore the country, consider adding these five epic road trip destinations to your itinerary this summer.

1. Knoxville, TN

Less than an hour from both Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville is a great summertime destination for road-trippers ready to get outdoors.

Visitors can wander the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum’s 44 acres and participate in one of this season’s scheduled events, such as Natural Indigo Dyeing classes or their recurring Yoga in the Garden classes. Or, zipline your way through the trees at Navitat Knoxville’s Aerial Adventure Park, and test your agility and strength on their various ropes courses.

For a bit of history and family-friendly entertainment, check out the World’s Fair Park, which hosts events like charity concerts, festivals and more. While you’re there, don’t miss the newly reopened Sunsphere observation deck — originally built for the World’s Fair in 1982 — for breathtaking views. If you’re looking for some indoor fun, the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame offers sports lovers the chance to hone their skills on the museum’s three courts.

Wrap up the day by getting a drink and catching some music at one of the many bars, restaurants and clubs along Market Street. The Peter Kern Library offers an upscale speakeasy experience, located in the back of the Oliver Hotel; for a more casual night, head to the Preservation Pub for a pint and live music.

2. Carlsbad, CA

Plan a road trip to Carlsbad, California and take advantage of the comfortable, moderate temperatures year-round.

All summer long, the city hosts events for the whole family, including Concerts In The Park, international and independent film showings, farmers markets and more. Plus, Carlsbad is home to thrilling destinations, including the LEGOLAND California theme park and SEA LIFE Aquarium, situated right next door.

Carlsbad has multiple museums in the area for visitors looking to enjoy some indoor activities. The Museum of Making Music invites visitors of all ages to learn about the origins of instruments and discover how they’re made and used. It also hosts live musical performances, scheduled throughout the summer. Other local attractions include the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum, Carlsbad Sculpture Garden and the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, which offers free guided tours of the 27-acre park.

Along your drive, be sure to make pit stops in the many nearby beach towns — including Encinitas, Oceanside and Solana Beach. These charming coastal communities offer plenty of shopping, beach access and delicious food. If you’re looking for a bigger city feel, San Diego is located about 30 minutes south for even more exploration!

3. Bar Harbor, ME

A little over an hour from Maine’s Bangor International Airport, and a five-hour drive from Boston, sits Bar Harbor, the largest community on Maine’s Mount Desert Island.

Bar Harbor is situated on one of the easternmost points of the country, acting as an entry point for Acadia National Park — the park’s entrance is conveniently located downtown. The town boasts a summer calendar jam-packed with family-friendly events and celebrations, making it an epic destination for families looking to spend some time in nature.

The town and the surrounding park offer an array of views, including forest and mountain landscapes, along with lake and pond access throughout. Visitors can vacation how they want, whether it's camping amongst nature or kicking back at one of the area’s many luxury accommodations.

Plus, there’s no shortage of shopping, museums and eateries, including plenty of options to try Maine’s official state treat: whoopie pies. Don’t forget to grab a fresh lobster roll while you’re there too — after all, Maine is one of the U.S.’s main providers of lobster around the country.

4. Glen Arbor, MI

Sitting between Sleeping Bear Bay on Lake Michigan and the Glen Lakes, Glen Arbor is a Michigan community loaded with outdoor activities.

Throughout the season, the town offers a full schedule of art shows, farmer’s markets, parades and events for the public to enjoy. From its wine tours, including the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail and the Glen Arbor Village Wine Trail, to its abundance of recreational activities and shopping options, there’s something for everyone.

A quieter town in the winter, Glen Arbor comes alive in the summertime to welcome visitors with its array of overlooks, such as the Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook — a roughly two-thousand-year-old dune that once resembled a bear. However, erosion has impacted the overlook, meaning time is of the essence to see this historic landmark.

Don’t miss the “ghost forests” while you’re there. These once-living trees were buried by the shifting dunes but later re-emerged as sand patterns changed. Next door is the National Park Service’s Dune Climb, offering a unique opportunity to participate in the strenuous but exhilarating climb up to the top of the dunes.

5. Astoria, OR

Drive along the coast of the Pacific Northwest and enter the oceanside town of Astoria, Oregon — the oldest settlement in America west of the Rocky Mountains.

With cooler summer temperatures thanks to the ocean breeze and abundant morning fog, Astoria has plenty of greenery and coastal sights to explore, from trails with 300+-year-old trees to jaw-dropping waterfalls.

Visitors can embrace the city by hopping on the Astoria Old Riverfront Trolley, which is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary, or get a birds-eye-view by visiting the Astoria Column. Then, explore Astoria’s ample access to the Pacific Ocean by visiting the Peter Iredale Shipwreck from 1906, or wander through one of the area’s many state parks. If you’re looking to stay indoors, head to a museum — there’s plenty in the area, including the Columbia River Maritime Museum and the Oregon Film Museum, to suit all interests.

Astoria is in the prime location for an epic road trip. It’s situated less than 30 miles from Cannon Beach (known for its iconic Haystack Rock), which was once called one of the 100 most beautiful places in the world by National Geographic. Keep traveling further inland and you’ll hit Portland, which is less than two hours away by car.

Ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the U.S.? Now is the time to hit the road and embark on an epic road trip! Choose any of these destinations on our list and set off on an adventure you’ll never forget.

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