The best vacation does not have to be an international excursion. As flight prices continue to surge, vacation plans may not be out of reach. Although fuel prices are also on an incline, with proper planning, a road trip might be the perfect opportunity for you to create new memories. Whether you’re packing up the kids for a family trip, planning a much-needed steamy baecation, or setting out solo for meaningful alone time, do not be nervous about taking a road trip.
Understandably, road trips can be intimidating; however, there’s much to gain from time behind the wheel or in the passenger seat. Lasting anywhere between two and eight hours, the drive itself can be a meaningful element with fun games, album revisits, interesting podcasts and scenic views. Many surprising domestic destinations will satisfy your wanderlust, and here’s a starting point.
Tap into some of EBONY’s key spots for five road trips across the United States to consider for summer fun.
The Blues Highway
Don’t sleep on the deep south. The rich history of the Magnolia State has been carefully preserved, and a trip down the “Blues Highway” is proof. The route, located on U.S. Highway 61, celebrates its 100-year anniversary this year. Taking the drive, which stretches from Natchez to Tunica, allows travelers to gain insight into the musical legends that call Mississippi home, with stops at juke joints, museums, and towns across the Delta.
The route also follows the Mississippi Blues Trail, a network of over 200 markers from the B.B. King Museum in Indianola to Clarksdale’s legendary juke joints, where live music still draws a crowd. Grab a map and put pins in the mile markers found here.
The Windy City
There are few cities as vibrant as Chicago in the summertime. From the west, take a quest through Route 66, which runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, and find the starting point in the heart of the city. The 2,500-mile route includes several landmarks along the way, no matter where the trip begins.
While in town, take advantage of the amazing offerings found at museums, festivals, parks, and theaters. The midwestern mecca is also home to some of the country’s top-rated restaurants and bars, making it the perfect destination for adventurous foodies.
Texas’ Hidden Gem
Houston and Dallas are Texas hot spots, but San Antonio might be the Lonestar State’s best kept secret. The drive from the south also carries through New Orleans on I-10 West, while other routes pass through small towns and breathtaking views of the southwest. San Antonio itself, nestled in the southern part of the state, has a welcoming downtown with dining, bars, shopping, and more steps away from each other. The city has a diverse population and each community boasts pride in their contributions to preserving the history and traditions of their town.
Take a walk with San Antonio Black History Tours and discover little-known facts about the African American legacies fostered in the River City. The Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, San Fernando Cathedral, and more all complete the itinerary for a memorable stay.
The Coastal Cruise
Driving to the Florida Keys offers some of the most picturesque views of the Sunshine State. The Overseas Highway, also called the “highway that goes to the sea,” is a 113 mile stretch that sits above the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and the Gulf of America (formerly recognized as the Gulf of Mexico).
There are 40 different bridges on the drive, including the Seven Mile Bridge, which connects Marathon to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys and has some of the best panoramic ocean views. With parks, galleries, museums and additional landmarks, the relaxing road trip is a bucket-list qualifier. Make sure to bring a camera or have enough phone storage for the hundreds of photo moments along the way.
East Coast Views
Road trips down the New England coast make perfect plans. Wherever the trip starts or ends, there are bound to be unique stops along the way that offer a different outlook on the East Coast. From New York City to Bar Harbor, Maine, I-95 and passes through cities including Boston, Salem, Mass., Providence, R.I. and more.
Indulge in the serenity of parks and beaches and mountain views with hikes, swims and climbs. Of course, do not leave without having a lobster (or two).