What Are The Best Family Road Trip Destinations In The USA? When Our Kids Decide 

A good summer trip! For the longest time, these road trips have been the ultimate bonding time for our family. Us, our parents, and the stars, the 15-year-old moody chatterbox, and the 10-year-old, giving me young Sheldon vibes. 

Now, my daughter has always been a sport, and she has behaved her best during road trips. It’s my son who always brings the challenges. Also, he is now 10 and has a lot of opinions to share. 

And with him growing up, the perennial sibling fights are more frequent. So, this time, we let our kids prepare their lists and make small chits. The trick was to shuffle the chits and keep them in a bowl. Finally, I will pick the chit, and it will be the place we go for this summer’s road trip

Now, I was amazed to see how detailed and diverse their lists were! Here are the best family road trip destinations they chose for this summer. 

What Are The Best Family Road Trip Destinations In The USA?

Be it the on-mountain summer experience, the dream adventure in the national parks, or the iconic and mighty Niagara Falls! The best places to travel with kids on a summer trip are endless in the USA. 

These are the places our kids want to visit. 

1. Vail

Vail

Honestly, I would not have thought of Vail as one of the best family vacation spots if my daughter had not said it. 

In the Rocky Mountains, Vail is beautiful in the fall and winter. However, it is more amazing during the summer. 

Epic Discovery

Learning about local wildlife, adventure sports, and a scenic gondola ride are the main attractions at Epic Discovery. 

There are many fun activities for the kids. They can do ziplining, roll down the hill on a tube, or try their hands at the golf club. Also, for all of us, the forest flyer mountain coaster ride can be the ultimate adventure. 

Also, if you think that seniors can’t enjoy it, they will love the gondola rides, exploring the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and hiking through the short nature trails. River kayaking, white water rafting, and hot-air balloon rides are some other exciting activities here. 

Moreover, you can try horseback riding or cattle drives. But as always, I am never up for these things ethically! 

2. Orlando

Orlando

This was expected from my son. And Walt Disney is The PLACE when you are traveling in Orlando with kids. And my son has been cribbing since Christmas that we missed the Disney visit this time. 

It was I who was unsure about it because I could not think of Walt Disney World without Toy Story Mania, and the reconstruction work was not complete before the holiday season. 

However, the restoration of the Toy Story entrance archway is complete now. And this summer, Disney is going to have the debut of the “Soarin’ Across America”, and the experience around 30th June is going to be more patriotic at Walt Disney as the nation celebrates its 250th year. 

Moreover, there is now a new snack kiosk near Toy Story Land. This place sells amazing pepperoni pizza spring rolls. 

3. Luxury Glamping At The Resort At Paws Up

Luxury Glamping At The Resort At Paws Up

Now, resorts are the most convenient choices when it comes to the best family holiday destinations. The Resort at Paws Up in Montana was once again my daughter’s suggestion. 

She heard of it from her best friend, who went there last summer with her family. 

I already knew about the resort, as it has multiple accolades to its name. It is a two-Michelin-Key resort, and in 2025, it won the title of the 8th best resort in the world in the “Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.”

Glamping here gives a wonderful opportunity to sleep beneath the star-filled sky. Furthermore, this cattle ranch, spreading over 37000 acres, has 100 miles. 

Along with cattle and horseback rides, you can enjoy water rafting here in the massive Blackfoot River. Furthermore, it has spa and wellness amenities for your rejuvenation.

4. Glacier And Yellowstone National Parks In Montana

Glacier And Yellowstone National Parks In Montana

Montana also has gems such as the Glacier National Park and the Yellowstone National Park.

You can do wilderness camping at Glacier National Park with a wilderness permit. It has easy to moderate hiking trails such as the Avalanche Lake, Hidden Meadow, and Highline Trail. 

Furthermore, the national park has the North Fork Flathead River and the Middle Fork Flathead River. 

Moreover, this 1,583 square miles of wilderness is the Crown of the Continent. It has fossils, a growing wildlife, and a unique geology. 

The Yellowstone National Park, on the other hand, is home to bison, grizzly bears, and wolves. In fact, the concentration of mammals here is the highest among the lower 48 states. 

In addition, it has reptiles such as the bullsnake and rubber boa. 

5. Grand Teton National Park In Wyoming 

Grand Teton National Park In Wyoming

The Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming has the National Elk Refuge. It is an area of 25000 acres, offering refuge to 7000 elk. 

Furthermore, the Oxbow Bend here is frequented by the mother bear grizzly No. 399 with her cubs. The Kelly Loop, Antelope Flats, and the Moose Wilson Road are the other spots in the national park to spot wildlife such as bison, pronghorns, and antelopes.

Moreover, this national park has the endangered white bark pine trees, the bald eagles, which are a species of concern, and the grizzly bear, which is a species at risk. 

By the way, I was surprised to see that both my kids had these national parks on their list of best holiday destinations for families. 

6. California Coast

California Coast

We have been to the California Coast once during the spring, and I was glad to see that my son wanted to repeat it. 

The last time, we started the trip in San Diego, and the kids had a lot of fun at Legoland, the San Diego Zoo, and the beaches. 

Then, we continued our drive north and had an extensive beach experience at Pismo Beach, Santa Barbara, Malibu, Newport Beach, and Solvang. 

And of course, as we reached the Central Coast, we had to stay at the Madonna Inn. The charm of 1958 is still intact here with the iconic pink dining room and 110 uniquely themed rooms. 

A We Continued North 

We chose to stay at a resort near Pebble Beach, and from there, it was about 17 miles to Big Sur to enjoy its wonderful views. 

Also, we booked a few rounds and enjoyed our time at the Pebble Beach golf courses. 

Final Stop San Francisco

Last time, our California road trip ended at Santa Cruz. We enjoyed the play at the boardwalk, which still has the old-world charm. 

Furthermore, our kids enjoyed their time in San Francisco. Of course, the sundae at Ghirardelli was the biggest highlight. They also loved exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and flying kites by the Golden Gate Bridge. 

7. Las Vegas

Las Vegas

Las Vegas, despite being the “Sin City,” is actually a fun place for kids. My daughter hasspecific demands about the Las Vegas summer trip. 

She wants to stay at New York-New York as she is dying to take the Big Apple coaster ride there. Also, she has the Shark Reef Aquarium and the Circus Circus adventure dome on her wishlist. 

8. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is one of the most beautiful road trip destinations. I told my son, “It’s going to be so hot and it’s the peak season, you will feel annoyed.

He was persistent as he wanted to join the “Junior Ranger Program.” “I also want to see the Yavapai Geology Museum, and I want to ride the train (Grand Canyon Railway),” He added. 

Now, with his research being so immaculate, I had to consider his choice. 

9. Zion National Park

Zion National Park

I know summer is the busiest time at Zion National Park, and the heat is intense. But it is also the time when we get access to almost all the trails in the park in Utah. 

The Lower Emeraland Pool Hike will be easy this summer. It is an easy trail and usually takes 1 hour to complete. 

I also chose this trail because it continues through Juniper and pinyon woods. So, even with the high heat, the kids would have a comfortable time walking. 

 As the trail ends, the beautiful Emerald Pool and ephemeral falls await us. 

10. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls was the first place we visited on a family trip after my daughter was born. She was all of two then, but I don’t know if she remembers anything. 

I think she has picked things about the trip from our family album. The real thrill begins with the boat ride to the mighty falls. She wants to enjoy the Maid of the Mist boat ride once again this summer. 

And if we visit the Niagra Falls again this season, I have plans of descending at the tunnel behind the Horseshoe Falls.

11. Milwaukee

Milwaukee

And as they say, “The nearer the church, the farther from God,” I know that I have missed visiting Milwaukee even after staying so close to it. 

Milwaukee, suggested by my son, is a bright city in the summertime. And of course, the young lad is growing up to be quite a bike connoisseur. So, no wonder that the Harley-Davidson Museum was his calling. 

The Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival from July 9-12 is the ultimate time to visit Milwaukee if you are also a bike enthusiast like him. 

Furthermore, the city also has the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Art and Public Museums. 

12. Washington DC

Washington DC

It’s great to see that my daughter wants to visit Washington, D.C. for the summer road trip. I am even happier because I once shared my experience of being there on 4th July. 

The teens these days! They don’t show emotions, but they feel a lot! She specifically mentioned that she wanted this road trip to see the National 4th of July Parade and the fireworks. 

I never knew that she harbored such patriotic feelings.

13. NYC

NYC

We have been to NYC once. My son was 6 years old then. He still can’t forget the experience of seeing the Statue of Liberty. So, it was an expectation suggestion from him. 

He also wanted to see the views of New York City from the One World Observatory and enjoy the elevator ride. Last time, he even loved the Central Park Zoo and a boat ride on the lake.

14. Chicago

Chicago

Contrary to the questions I get to read online, Chicago is a safe place, and it is one of the best holiday destinations with kids. 

I don’t know why my son has picked the name, but I think he has done so for the Lincoln Park Zoo. He loves wildlife, and he wanted to meet the penguins at the “Malott Family Penguin Encounter.” A few days back, he was giving me a scoop on this. 

Furthermore, Chicago has the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and the Science and Industry Museum. All are brilliant places for curious kids. 

Moreover, my son is a huge baseball fan. So, a match day at Wrigley Field or the Guaranteed Rate Field would be a lifetime experience.

Now, Are You Ready With The Best Holiday Destinations With Kids?

Our list of family road trip destinations has been quite diverse. It’s time you plan your adventure!

If you ask me, it’s a difficult task to choose among these destinations. I liked all the suggestions from my daughter and son. And I can’t take a side as I don’t want to deal with a sulking face for the next two days. 

Nevertheless, from the list here, my favorite would be Chicago. Though kids see it in a different way, I always find it so culturally enriching to be in Chicago. 

Also, being from India, Chicago always reminds me of how once a monk from India came and offered a lecture on the inclusiveness of Sanatana Dharma! Very pertinent in the days of wars and violent geopolitical stunts today. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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The Painted Ladies are also famous for appearing in many movies and TV shows, such as Full House, Mrs. Doubtfire, and The Princess Diaries. 7. The Haight-Ashbury District The Haight-Ashbury District is the birthplace of the hippie movement and the counterculture of the 1960s. It was here that young people gathered to protest against the Vietnam War, to experiment with drugs and music, and to create a new lifestyle and identity. The Haight-Ashbury District is still a place of creativity and diversity, and you can see the influence of the hippie era in the colorful murals, the vintage shops, and the psychedelic art. You can also visit some of the landmarks that were associated with the hippie icons, such as the Grateful Dead House, the Jimi Hendrix House, and the Janis Joplin House. 8. The Castro District The Castro District is the heart of the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco and one of the most vibrant and progressive neighborhoods in the city. It was here that the gay rights movement began in the 1970s, led by the activist and politician Harvey Milk. The Castro District is a place of pride and celebration, and you can see the rainbow flags, the pink triangle, and the Castro Theatre that symbolize the history and culture of the LGBTQ+ people. You can also enjoy the nightlife, the restaurants, and the bars that cater to the diverse and friendly crowd. The Castro District is also the host of many events and festivals, such as the Castro Street Fair, the Pink Saturday, and the Pride Parade. 9. The Mission District The Mission District is the oldest and the most eclectic neighborhood in San Francisco, and a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and art. It was named after the Mission Dolores, the oldest building in the city that was founded by the Spanish missionaries in 1776. The Mission District is known for its Hispanic and Latino heritage, and you can see the influence of the Mexican and Central American immigrants in the food, the music, and the language. You can also admire the stunning murals that cover the walls and the buildings, and that depict the social and political issues of the community. The Mission District is also a hotspot for entertainment, shopping, and dining, with many venues, such as the Roxie Theater, the Elbo Room, and the Tartine Bakery. 10. Lombard Street Lombard Street is one of the most famous and crooked streets in the world, and a must-see attraction in San Francisco. It is located on Russian Hill, and it has eight sharp turns that make it look like a zigzag. The street was designed this way in 1922 to reduce the steepness of the hill and to make it safer for cars and pedestrians. Lombard Street is also known for its beauty and charm, and it is lined with colorful flowers, trees, and houses. You can drive down the street, or walk along the sidewalk, and enjoy the views of the city and the bay. 11. The Palace of Fine Arts The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning architectural masterpiece that was built for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in 1915. It was designed by the architect Bernard Maybeck, who was inspired by the ancient Greek and Roman temples. The palace features a large dome, a colonnade, a lagoon, and a garden, and it is a popular spot for weddings, concerts, and events. The palace is also a museum that showcases the history and the art of the exposition, and the science and the technology of the present.  You can visit the palace and marvel at its beauty and elegance, and learn more about the city's past and future. 12. The Golden Gate Park The Golden Gate Park is the largest and the most diverse park in San Francisco, and one of the best places to relax and enjoy nature. It covers over 1,000 acres of land, and it has something for everyone. You can explore the many attractions that the park offers, such as the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, the California Academy of Sciences, and the De Young Museum. You can also enjoy the outdoor activities, such as biking, hiking, boating, and golfing. The park is also home to many animals, plants, and flowers, and you can see the bison, the turtles, and the roses. The park is also a venue for many events and festivals, such as the Outside Lands, the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, and the Shakespeare in the Park. Bonus: San Francisco is a Foodie’s Delight! San Francisco is a food lover's paradise, with a variety of cuisines and restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a cozy brunch, a romantic dinner, or a casual bite, you will find something to satisfy your cravings in this vibrant city. In this part of the blog, I will share with you my top 5 places to eat in San Francisco based on my personal experience and online reviews. 1. Zuni Café Zuni Café is a San Francisco institution, located on Market Street near Civic Center. It has been serving delicious food since 1979, and has won several awards, including a James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2003. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx07GGIvvTw/?hl=en The restaurant is famous for its slow-cooked, roasted chicken and bread salad, which takes about an hour to prepare, but is worth the wait. The menu changes daily, featuring fresh, local ingredients and seasonal dishes.  The price range is moderate to high, with the chicken costing $62 for two people. Other dishes that I recommend are the oysters, the Caesar salad, and the espresso granita. 2. State Bird Provisions State Bird Provisions is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique dim sum-style service. You can choose from a variety of small plates that are brought to your table on carts and trays, or order from the menu. https://www.instagram.com/p/C3wsGdMOplt/?hl=en&img_index=1 The dishes are eclectic and innovative, featuring dishes like fried quail, duck liver mousse, and sourdough pancakes. The price range is moderate to high, with the dishes costing between $5 and $25 each. You can also opt for the chef's tasting menu for $95 per person. The restaurant is located on Fillmore Street near Japantown, and is very popular, so make sure to book in advance. 3. Sanraku Sanraku is a cozy and authentic Japanese restaurant that serves high-quality sushi and sashimi, as well as other traditional dishes like donburi, udon, and tempura. The fish is fresh and the service is friendly. https://www.instagram.com/p/C37lalmLJmH/ The price range is moderate, with the sushi rolls costing between $6 and $18 each. The restaurant also has a happy hour from 5 to 7 pm, where you can get discounts on selected items. The restaurant has three locations in San Francisco: on Sutter Street near Union Square, on Metreon near Yerba Buena Gardens, and on 4th Street near Moscone Center. 4. Honey Honey Café & Crepery Honey Honey Café & Crepery is a casual and charming spot that serves delicious breakfast and brunch items, such as crepes, pancakes, omelets, and sandwiches. https://www.instagram.com/p/CvAyNOTtkDj/?hl=en&img_index=1 The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, with most items costing between $10 and $15. The restaurant also has drinks like coffee, tea, smoothies, and milkshakes. The restaurant is located on Post Street near Nob Hill, and is open from 7 am to 9 pm daily. 5. Le Colonial Le Colonial is a elegant and romantic restaurant that evokes the ambiance of French colonial Vietnam. The menu features dishes like pho, spring rolls, curries, and grilled meats, as well as exotic cocktails. https://www.instagram.com/p/CsZpmdwyCwC/?hl=en The price range is high, with the main courses costing between $25 and $40 each. The restaurant also has a lounge area, where you can enjoy live music and dancing. The restaurant is located on Cosmo Place near Union Square, and is open from 5 pm to 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and from 5 pm to 11 pm on Friday and Saturday. Wrapping It Up! San Francisco is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or innovation, you will find plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant and diverse city. From its iconic landmarks to its delicious cuisine, from its artistic scene to its social movements, San Francisco will surprise and delight you with its charm and creativity. If you are planning to visit San Francisco, you can use this blog as a guide to explore some of the top things that the city is known for. You can also check out our other blogs for more tips and recommendations on how to make the most of your trip. And don't forget to share your experiences and feedback with us in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Time Travelers’ Haven: Savannah’s Top Museums And Your Itinerary Art, Architecture, And Azaleas: 24 Things To Do In Savannah 15 Unexpected Things To See And Do In Georgia