Road Trip Guide 2025: 8 Destinations Perfect for Travelers of All Ages

There’s no better time than summer to hit the road and explore the majestic East Coast. From scenic drives and rugged mountain hikes to decadent meals, historic landmarks and superb shopping, there’s plenty of things to do, see and experience in the region. So gather your friends or family, gas up your car and get ready to plan the perfect summer getaway. 

Multi-Generational Road Trippin’ 

If this year’s vacation includes mom, dad, the kids—and grandma and grandpa—you might need to plan a little differently. Sure, there will be challenges, but the experience will create shared memories across generations and strengthen family bonds in ways only traveling together can. Here are five ways to maximize your multigenerational road trip and forge a lasting family experience.  

1. Recognize a tech divide.

Anyone with children knows that as soon as you turn the car on, the earphones go in their ears and their faces are glued to a screen. Tech has transformed car rides—for better and for worse—and it’s become the standard for Gen Z on down. This shift may be a shock for older generations who look forward to family chats on the car ride and during down times.

To bridge the gap, give kids a set schedule for tech times, and then arrange games and conversation starters for screen-free time. On the flip side, have your kids teach their grandparents fun online games and have teens collaborate with them on a vacation playlist—start their love of Frank Sinatra early, and who knows, grandma might be a secret Swiftie.

2. Make the car extra comfy.

Speaking of the drive, in addition to building in plenty of breaks, make sure the car is extra comfy. If it’s a big enough crew, consider taking more than one car and assign seats according to travel styles. (Sit chatters with chatters and nappers with nappers.) Pack blankets and pillows for added coziness for back seat riders and plenty of snacks and drinks for on-the-go treats.

3. Balance energy levels.

From the get-go, it’s important to understand that everyone’s stamina will be different, so don’t expect the family to spend every second of the day together. Consider a divide-and-conquer approach to each day. Seniors and toddlers tend to be early risers, so schedule morning activities like beach walks or donut runs to keep them entertained. And feel free to organize the day with a divide-and-reconvene attitude—say, avid hikers tackle a challenging trail while others explore a local garden or park. Everyone can meet up at dinner and share their experiences from the day.

4. Collaborate on the Itinerary.

A surefire way to make everyone feel included is to have the whole crew collaborate on the itinerary. Allow each generation to select the primary activity for different days or find attractions that offer layered experiences—for example, a history museum with guided audio tours for adults and a kids’ zone for the little ones. Be sure to include rest days where everyone can unwind and catch their breath, and don’t overpack schedules with activities, leaving travelers tired and cranky in the evening.

5. Manage the practical.

Road trips come with a lot of practical planning—make sure you have all your medications and first aid kits, pack appropriately, and bring enough food and water. With multigenerational travel, you’ll probably have to consider some extra factors, as well. For travelers with mobility issues, you’ll want to leave room in the car for equipment like walkers and wheelchairs, and make sure those passengers can easily get in and out of the car. When booking accommodations, look for options that don’t require stairs to enter or to access bedrooms and bathrooms. And, if you’re staying in hotels, request adjoining rooms in advance.

Most importantly, remember to have fun. Use the journey to discover family stories you’ve never heard and create traditions that future generations will remember. And once you’ve reached the destination, take time to enjoy the new family stories you’ll create.

Looking for travel inspiration? Check out these destinations, all an easy drive from the Greater Philadelphia region.

Crawford County, PA

Escape your normal in Crawford County, PA. The best vacations have something to make everyone happy, allowing you to spend quality time together while preventing anyone from being bored! Crawford County offers a variety of fun-filled things for all ages. Get some fresh air and take advantage of the area’s natural beauty by exploring dozens of hiking and biking trails or get out on the water and explore the region’s lakes and rivers. Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and boating. Relax and unwind or get active. Soak up some sun or chill indoors. Plan your visit today!
Visit Crawford County
@visit_crawfordcopa | visitcrawford.org

Frederick, MD

Escape to five state parks and four national parks, bike the country roads through three iconic covered bridges, and paddle the scenic waterways. Sip, sample and unwind at dozens of wineries, breweries and distilleries. Experience their storied past at Civil War battlefields and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. Bring the kids and zip among the trees in an aerial adventure ropes course or indulge in farm fresh ice cream. Located less than one hour from Washington, DC and Baltimore and just 30 minutes from Gettysburg, PA.
Visit Frederick
@visitfrederickmd | visitfrederick.org

Mount Laurel, NJ

Detour into fun, and turn miles into memories. Stay and play at the Funplex Mount Laurel, where you can slide all day, ride all night and wake up ready for more. Home to a dual-branded La Quinta and Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham hotel, the Funplex offers over 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor rides, a water park, restaurant, arcade, bowling, laser tag, go karts and more. And with a combined 125 guest rooms and versatile lodging options for both business travelers and leisure guests, the Funplex is the ideal detour to fun and memories. Stay and play packages include the Funplex, free!
The Funplex Mount Laurel
@funplexparks | thefunplex.com/mount-laurel

Hagerstown, MD

Just a scenic three-hour drive from Philadelphia, Hagerstown is brimming with diverse experiences! Delight in discovering unique pieces crafted by local artisans along the Pottery Trail, or immerse yourself in the profound stories etched into the landscape at the Antietam National Battlefield. For outdoor enthusiasts, the recreational trails, including sections of the iconic Appalachian Trail and the historic C&O Canal, provide for endless exploration. And for those who appreciate fine tastes, the burgeoning Grapes & Grains Trail features inviting wineries, craft breweries and distilleries. What’s more, the local dining scene boasts culinary gems that attract visitors, making it a compelling destination for a weekend escape from Philadelphia.
Visit Hagerstown
HagerstownWashingtonCountyCVB | visithagerstown.com

Kent County, Md

Kent County Maryland offers an unforgettable escape with its scenic waterfront views, charming small towns and rich maritime heritage. Nestled on the Eastern Shore, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers and foodies alike. Visitors can explore quaint shops, art galleries and historic landmarks in towns like Chestertown and Rock Hall. The Chesapeake Bay provides the perfect backdrop for boating, fishing and kayaking. Seasonal festivals, fresh seafood and warm hospitality create an authentic, laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Kent County invites travelers to slow down, soak in the beauty and experience the heart of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Visit Kent County
@visitkentcounty | kentcounty.com/visitors

Johnston County, NC

For travelers heading south on I-95, Johnston County—known as JoCo to the locals—is a must-stop destination between Exits 107 and 79 in North Carolina. In JoCo, visitors are free to roam and reconnect across more than 15,000 acres of parks, trails and wide-open spaces. It’s a place where adventures are designed to delight all ages—perfect for making new memories with the whole family. From picking plump berries on family-owned farms to wandering quaint main streets filled with boutiques, JoCo offers small-town charm at every turn. History buffs can journey through time at the Ava Gardner Museum and Bentonville Battlefield, while foodies can follow their taste buds along themed food and drink trails. Whether here for a weekend wander or just breezing through, there’s something to explore off every exit!
Visit Johnston County NC
@VisitJoCo | johnstoncountync.org

Montgomery County, MD

Plan a weekend getaway in Maryland’s Cultural Capital, just a short drive or train ride from Philly. Connect with nature along the C&O Canal National Historical Park, visit wineries and breweries along the Tastemakers Trail, indulge in great shopping and be inspired by the diverse local flavor. All this and more in Montgomery County, MD, next door to Washington, DC.
Visit Montgomery, MD
@visitmoco | visitmontgomery.com

New Jersey

New Jersey wows are just beyond the bridge—from 130 miles of blissful beaches to legendary lighthouses, over 58 state and national parks and 72 miles of the famed Appalachian Trail. Outdoor escapes are everywhere including paddle-perfect waterways, birdwatching hotspots and more than 108 places to camp and RV. The Garden State is a thrill-seeker’s paradise, home to more than 1,034 attractions like casino resorts in Atlantic City and record-breaking rides at American Dream. There’s also plenty of experiences worth savoring—farm-to-table dining, acclaimed cultural cuisine and unique varietals at over 50 wineries. Road trip wows include Revolutionary War sites, arts and culture and Black history.
New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism
800-VISITNJ | @visit_NJ | visitnj.org