Best Road Trips for Winter Break 2024

1. Pacific Coast Adventure: Seattle, WA, to San Diego, CA Distance: ~1,300 miles Highlights: Iconic coastlines, vibrant cities, scenic views Starting in Seattle, this epic road trip takes you down the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, stretching all the way to San Diego. Along the way, stop in Portland to explore its lively arts and culinary scene, then head to the Oregon Coast’s stunning beaches and rock formations. Make a memorable stop at the Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California, where you can marvel at some of the tallest trees on earth.

2. Southwest Wonders: Denver, CO, to Grand Canyon, AZ Distance: ~900 miles Highlights: Dramatic canyons, desert landscapes, natural parks Start your journey in Denver and head southwest toward Moab, UT, home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. These parks offer some of the most surreal landscapes in the country and make for an unforgettable hiking experience. From Moab, continue south toward Arizona, with a stop at Monument Valley to see the famous rock formations that often appear in movies.

3. Southern Charm and Nature: Atlanta, GA, to Key West, FL Distance: ~800 miles  Highlights: Warm climate, cultural cities, nature-rich parks Escape winter’s chill with a road trip from Atlanta to the Florida Keys. Start your journey in Florida City, the gateway to the scenic U.S. Route 1 towards the Florida Keys. Stop by Savannah to enjoy its historic streets and famous oak-lined squares, then head down to the coast. Florida is a paradise for winter road trippers, offering everything from wildlife-rich parks to beach towns full of family fun. The road trip ends at the Florida Keys, where families can soak up the sun and explore the coral reefs. Key West, located at the southern tip, offers unique attractions and activities for visitors.

4. Rocky Mountain Majesty: Salt Lake City, UT, to Yellowstone, WY Distance: ~600 miles  Highlights: Snow-capped peaks, geothermal wonders, wildlife While Yellowstone is a well-known summer destination, visiting in the winter provides a unique and less crowded experience. Start in Salt Lake City, then head north to Jackson Hole, WY, a fantastic winter destination for skiing, tubing, and snowshoeing. South Lake Tahoe is a key starting point for popular routes around Lake Tahoe.  From there, make your way to Jackson Hole, WY, a fantastic winter destination for skiing, tubing, and snowshoeing. Snow tubing is a popular winter activity in Jackson Hole. From there, make your way to Yellowstone National Park, which transforms into a winter wonderland complete with steaming geysers, snowy landscapes, and the chance to spot wildlife. Enjoy a variety of winter activities along the way.

5. East Coast Explorer: Washington, D.C., to Charleston, SC Distance: ~600 miles Highlights: Historical cities, beaches, mild winter weather Explore the history, charm, and scenic landscapes of the East Coast. Start in Washington, D.C., where families can visit world-famous museums, national monuments, and festive winter attractions. Then, head south to Richmond, VA, known for its historic architecture and Southern charm. Continue down the coast to Charleston, SC, where you’ll find rich history, vibrant food culture, and beautiful coastal scenery.

6. Texas Hill Country and Beyond: Dallas, TX, to Big Bend National Park, TX Distance: ~600 miles  Highlights: Western landscapes, stargazing, desert beauty Texas offers its own unique flavor of winter road-tripping with a journey from Dallas to Big Bend National Park. RV trips are versatile and appealing year-round, offering unique experiences even in winter. Start with the bustling city of Dallas, where you can explore kid-friendly attractions, then make your way to the quieter beauty of Texas Hill Country. Winter driving provides an opportunity to explore scenic roads and the unique beauty of snow-covered landscapes. Finally, head to Big Bend National Park for a true desert experience, with stargazing, hiking, and wide-open spaces to explore.

Cultural Experiences and Coastal Drives For a more cultural winter experience, consider visiting some of the charming towns and cities along the coast. New Orleans, Louisiana, is a must-visit, with its vibrant music scene, delicious Creole cuisine, and festive atmosphere. The city’s unique blend of cultures and history makes it a fascinating winter destination.  The Florida Keys offer a laid-back atmosphere and stunning ocean views, perfect for a relaxing winter road trip. The Keys are known for their unique cultural experiences, including local festivals, fresh seafood, and water activities like snorkeling and kayaking.  If you’re driving through California, be sure to stop by the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its white-sand beaches, artistic community, and cozy cafes. The town’s picturesque setting and cultural richness make it a perfect winter getaway.

Desert Escapes and Scenic Views For those seeking a warm winter escape, the desert landscapes of Arizona and California offer stunning scenery and mild temperatures. Tucson, Arizona, is a popular winter destination, where you can explore the majestic Saguaro National Park, home to towering cacti and breathtaking sunsets. The park’s trails are perfect for hiking and enjoying the unique desert flora and fauna.  In California, the Mojave Desert provides a unique winter experience with its iconic Joshua trees and expansive vistas. The cooler winter temperatures make it an ideal time to explore this rugged landscape. If your travels take you through New Mexico, be sure to visit White Sands National Park, where you can marvel at the surreal white gypsum sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see.