21 Essential tips to plan a safe and healthy road trip this summer

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Planning a summer road trip while staying away from the crowds is not easy. Here are our tips to plan a safe and healthy road trip this summer while avoiding any illness on the road. Also find ideas on where to visit, what to pack, and how to plan your route. You may also like our post on Best Social Distancing Vacations & Road Trips to take this summer. 

To travel or not, that is the question. 

The answer just a few weeks ago was relatively easy. We stayed safe at home, toured the zoos around the country virtually, saw the artwork in museums on the laptop, and kept rereading travel inspiration type articles including the Best Places to Visit in the USA. 

However, now everyone is stepping out to enjoy the great outdoors and national parks and state parks are becoming top bucket list destinations.

Do you wish to get outside this summer but are uncertain how? Here are our tips to plan a safe and healthy vacation this summer. 

Get outdoors!

Tip #1: Say bye-bye to air travel and cruises for now

While a trip to London or Budapest was the dream summer vacation for several years, now is not the time for an epic European vacation. Several countries still have restrictions on air travel and even if things change, flying in close contact with many others is not safe at the moment. 

Domestic flights are also out for the very same reason. Even if flights start practicing social distancing, the rates are already getting too high to make vacation affordable for a large family. Also, the risk of exposure to diseases remains high at airports and in transit. 

Many airlines have also stopped flying and experts say that it will be quite sometime before the airline’s industry resumes a normal level of service. The same applies to cruise ships and the cruise industry. 2020 is definitely not the year to be on a ship with hundreds of others. 

Read amazing road trip planning trips here.

Tip #2: Theme parks and city breaks are also not happening

All theme parks in the USA are closed and their reopening dates and rules keep changing every week. Even if they open, they will require visitors to follow a lot of rules, and still, there’s a chance of catching some infection. 

The same goes for popular cities like Chicago or Los Angeles. They have too many people and most cultural attractions including museums and zoos are closed or limiting entry. Even restaurants and malls in the cities are not fully operating and hence, it is better to skip visiting cities for now.  

There will be another time to visit Disney!

Tip #3: Road trips are probably your best bet

If not fly or cruise or visit theme parks or go on a hop on hop off bus tour, then exactly where do you go and how? In a word, road trips! Road trips stand for freedom, even in the times of the virus. Take your car and travel to the place that no one else is going to. 

While the ‘socially distanced summer road trip’ is the latest travel trend, we have been road-tripping to remote destinations for a long time. We have been on several trips where there was no car on the road apart from ours and no one else to see the attraction because we chose a less popular time. 

We have eaten at hole-in-the-wall places where no one else ate and cooked our own meals at campsites. It is totally possible to go on a road trip, see exotic landscapes, and still not come in contact with anyone. Also, the gas prices are at all-time lows, making road trips even more affordable. 

We have been on several road trips in the country and love this way of hands-on, experiential traveling. In fact, several destinations in the USA are amazing for socially distancing road trips. Some of our favorites are Black Hills road trip in South Dakota, a road trip along Texas Gulf Coast all the way to South Padre Island, and a road trip through less-visited parts of Northern California. To see the best road trips in the country, read this post.

Go on a road trip to remote destinations

Tip #4: Even solo travelers can go on a road trip!

Looking to get away from your family after being cooped up with them for so long? Planning to drive home from college now that spring semester is over? Might as well travel since you are working from home? Welcome to the summer of the road trip!

Road trips are a great option for solo travelers and students. It’s not the same as backpacking, sharing a bed in a hostel dorm, or couch surfing but you do get to have all the fun. Try car camping – pack an air bed and keep it in the back. Pack personal hygiene products, food, and snacks and embark on a great journey by yourself. Pick a destination that allows minimal contact exploring. 

Tip #5: Renting a car or RV is quite safe

So what if you plan or need to go on a road trip but don’t want to drive your own car? Thankfully, car rentals are operating, in fact, RV rentals have seen huge surges compared to previous years. 

The car rental companies are emphasizing cleaning and disinfecting cars after every rental period. So you do not need to worry about catching any kind of flu from renting a car or RV. Also, car rentals are quite cheap at the moment, you can rent a minivan for a more spacious road trip.

Renting cars is safe

Tip #6: Plan an outdoors focused trip

There is no point in traveling safely if you plan to visit a crowded city or an extremely popular tourist attraction. There will be another time to take a Statue of Liberty Cruise, another summer to bike the Golden Gate Bridge. 

For now, plan an outdoor-focused trip to less popular destinations. Choose national parks, state parks, monuments, memorials, lakes, recreation areas, national forests, scenic byways, and BLM lands. Plan your activities around hiking, biking, and kayaking. Rent an RV or go car camping in the wilderness to avoid contact with others. 

The time spent outside will also benefit you immensely after the last few hectic and anxious months. It will also get you fit and ensure you spend quality time with your family. This is a great opportunity to go on an educational trip with the kids – one focused on scavenger hunts. 

Travel Tip: Planning to spend a lot of time outdoors? Consider this solar powered smartphone charger. It attaches to your backpack and can charge your phone even when you don’t have electricity! Plus it is sustainable and environment friendly. 

Keep crowded destinations for next year

Tip #7: Keep bucket lists for later

If an attraction or an activity is on your bucket list, so is it for most others. That means large crowds and getting in close contact with other people. And this applies to outdoor attractions as well. Guess how many people are still planning to see a panoramic view of the Grand Canyon from Hopi Point? And how many are still planning a vacation to Miami Beach?

This is the time to think out of the box. Be smart about where you go. Explore underrated attractions like the coast of North California or hidden gems like South Dakota’s scenic drives. Visit Badlands National Park instead of Grand Canyon National Park and go camping on South Padre Island National Seashore in Texas. 

The USA thankfully has many destinations that are off the radar and perfect to go now. We have covered over 25 amazing remote road trips ideas throughout the country in our post, Best Social Distancing Vacations and Road Trips to go on this summer. Read it now for more inspiring ideas including Sawtooth National Recreation Area in Idaho, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. 

Take local day trips like us!

Tip #8: Consider slow travel

Another option is slow travel – travel to an outdoor destination without stopping and stay put in your RV or tent for a few days to a week. Most campgrounds allow visitors to stay up to 14 days. 

Spend the day hiking and biking or on the water, cook by the fire in the evening, and sleep under the twinkling stars at night. Read a book. Enjoy the chirping of the birds. Feel at home with nature. 

As long as you take enough supplies to last for a number of days, you are not interacting with any strangers, making slow travel an amazing alternative to a road trip filled with a number of pit stops.

Tip #9: Plan shorter trips than long ones and explore local treasures

If this is your first-time road-tripping or planning an outdoors focused trip, then cut yourself some slack and plan a shorter trip. Give yourself time to adjust to the new way of travel and you will come to love it. If you are worried about being outside for long, plan a trip to nearby attractions.

This is also applicable to those who still don’t feel safe enough to travel outside. Keep reassessing situations and stay at home orders and plan a last-minute short road trip towards the end of the summer or even fall, if you want, to nearby destinations. 

Explore local gems and small towns within driving distance of 1-2 hours. That allows you to make a quick day trip and come back home in the evening. We recently did just that in mid-March. We visited Washington-on-Brazos and Brenham, two super close destinations that we had never seen before. It was a fun trip and a great way to clear our heads. 

Go biking and camping

Tip #10: Research your destination thoroughly

Research your destination from the pandemic perspective. No trips to hot spots or crowded cities, please. While some stay at home orders are expiring, still others continue to be in effect. Some destinations require visitors to self-quarantine and are imposing heavy fines on rule-breakers. As such it is essential to know what is the local pandemic related law at each and every destination on your trip. 

Some other destinations such as state parks and national parks are requiring online reservations and day passes. The other day we wanted to visit Mustang Islands State Park on the Texas Gulf Coast, but could not as the day passes were sold out. Now is not the time to just walk up to major attractions and expect a smooth entry. To see the CDC guidelines for travel within the US, see here.

Tip #11: Prep your car for the upcoming trip

Prep your car for the long journey ahead. Clean the car thoroughly from the inside. Use disinfectant wipes on most commonly touched surfaces including steering wheels, keys, seat belts, buttons and knobs, door handles, etc. Take it to the mechanic for a pre-trip check. Check oil, tires, alignment, etc. You should also know basic car maintenance. You definitely do not want to be stranded in these times.

Pack your car with these essentials: Car travel first aid kit. Include fever medicines, cough and cold medicines. Car emergency kit with jumper cables and tow rope. We also always keep a car tire inflator kit on hand during our road trips. Pack spare charging cords and batteries for smartphones and devices for the car. We also recommend carrying a portable coffee maker and supplies just in case rest stops are closed. 

Tip #12: Add PPE to your road trip essentials

It is essential to practice excellent personal hygiene, now more than ever. That means carrying PPE or personal protective gear for everyone in the family. Keep on hand a lot of hand sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, hand soap, gloves, and face masks. The masks are especially critical as some states won’t let you in stores unless you wear a mask. 

Other essentials to add? Paper towels and travel toilet paper. While the paper towels will be useful for wiping hands and surfaces, travel toilet paper rolls are extremely compactly packed rolls that you can easily fit in a purse or backpack. 

Another great sanitary gear essential? Disposable travel toilet seat covers! Use them whenever you use a public restroom to be extra cautious. These items should be part and parcel of your trip packing well into 2021. Consider getting a car back seat organizer to keep the essentials organized and handy for the pit stops. 

You need to carry enough essential supplies for everyone in the family. You cannot rely on being able to restock supplies at your destination. Many small businesses are closed and the bigger grocery & department stores are having short supply and restricted opening hours. Adjusting your expectations and habits is the best way to a safe and stress-free summer road trip this year. 

Tip #13: Get creative with your route planning

When you plan your road trip using maps, consider making detours and taking alternative roads to avoid crowded destinations. For example: while visiting Yosemite, the most popular entrance is from the western side of the Sierra Nevadas – however, this is also the most crowded route. Instead, consider driving from the Lee Vinings road from the eastern side of the Sierra Nevadas. You will encounter way fewer crowds and see a different side of Yosemite National Park. 

Also, plan the trip route around the restricted opening hours for major attractions. After you are done with route planning, consider printing a copy of the map for your records. Or at the very least, download a copy of offline maps of the destination just in case you have network issues. We would also recommend buying a dedicated GPS and / or paper maps for your destination.

Be as creative and as inventive as you want! Explore newer areas and spend more time away from civilization. You’ll definitely have a safer and enjoyable road trip!

Tip #14: Plan your road trip stops down to the tiniest detail

When we went on a 15-hour long essential road trip to Atlanta in early April, we planned our stops to the barest essentials. We carried a lot of picnic lunches from home, we ordered take out wherever necessary and followed a strict procedure involving a lot of hand sanitizer and hand washing while filling up on gas. We had a system that ensured we stayed as clean as we could. 

On your next road trip, we would suggest stopping at only trusted gas stations, restaurants, and rest stops. Use contactless methods of purchases and delivery wherever possible. And of course, wipe all door handles, gas pump nozzles, and credit cards before you use them.

Take a holiday on remote beaches

Tip #15: Reserve accommodations in advance

Many hotels are still closed to recreational tourists, while some others are keeping a minimum 2 nights free between two guests. Because of the lower available rooms, they are getting booked faster and also getting more expensive. We recommend picking and reserving accommodations as soon as possible to avoid last-minute hassles. 

Most hotels are taking lots of precautions and sanitizing rooms extra carefully. However, you can still disinfect the room once you arrive and keep the ‘Do not disturb’ sign on for the rest of your stay. If you feel more comfortable declining housekeeping, then do that. 

If you can’t find a hotel, consider vacation rentals and AirBnBs. We know of many friends, families, and readers who are renting villas/beach houses and wiping clean every surface after arriving there. While it is not necessary to take all the extra precautions with well-known hotels, you can still wipe down all surfaces of the room to feel safer. 

Another great option is renting an RV or camping. You do not stay where other people have stayed, you are not coming in contact with anyone, you are practicing social distancing to the utmost! Works amazingly for everyone. If the bigger campgrounds are full, consider staying at smaller private campgrounds. 

This summer is the best to explore America’s national parks

Tip #16: Minimize food-related breaks

Gas station and restroom stops are something you can’t avoid but food stops if properly planned can be definitely minimized. Carry insulated coolers filled with drinks and picnic lunches, as well as foods with a long shelf life on your trips. Protein bars and granola are great road trip superfoods. They do not spoil and provide great nutrition. 

Whenever you need to stock up, visit the grocery stores at less crowded times, and buy as much as you can in one go. Freeze-dried foods are one of our essentials in such times. If you can’t find a grocery or restaurant that seems safe to visit, then you easily cook these packets on a camping stove at many places. 

If you do want to eat out, prefer delis and food trucks over sit down restaurants. We really love food trucks as you won’t really come in contact with people plus get amazing cheap food. For restaurants, we would recommend calling them in advance and checking if they have reservations as current policies differ from state to state. 

See the iconic Jushia trees in Southern California

Tip #17: Have all the necessary documentation

You are going to be away from home for a long time. You need to have all necessary documentation including driver’s license, any additional IDs, car insurance. Check the services covered by your car insurance including coverage for rental cars, protection for additional drivers, roadside assistance, etc. Consider upgrading your insurance if what you have is very basic. 

Also, consider buying travel insurance. We always do and have used it when our car has a break-in in a San Francisco parking garage. Also, consider buying an anti-theft backpack or RFID blocking wallet to safely store your essentials. We know from experience that shopping for new clothes and toiletries during a trip because your bag got stolen is no fun. 

Another critical document to carry right now is travel insurance. Yes, we are planning for a safe and healthy road trip but you never know when emergencies arise. Carry a copy of insurance for each member of your family. Also, research the covered services/providers at your destination beforehand. Carry all your existing prescriptions and medicines with you. 

Eat at food trucks rather than restaurants

Tip #18: Have a back-up plan for all sort of emergencies

Emergencies can take many shapes and forms: you can have a flat tire, run out of food, or your accommodation can suddenly cancel on you. Have a well thought out back-up plan for all kinds of emergencies. Keep extra supplies and repair kits in the car and be well-versed in how to handle emergencies yourself. 

Keep someone in the family informed about your whereabouts and your itinerary, write emergency contact phone numbers on a piece of paper and keep it in the car, learn how to change a flat tire, keep an emergency tent or airbed in your car, and pack a few warm blankets – after all the weather can change anytime during your trip. 

Tip #19: Be overly cautious around kids and let them know what to expect

If you have got kids that love to touch each and everything including doorknobs, walls, counters, etc. then you need to be extra careful. We have a 1-year-old and a 4-year-old who simply do not listen. I have bought a couple of kids’ hygiene and germs related books for them to understand the importance of washing hands, not touching the face, and avoiding unclean surfaces. 

We have seen some success but being kids, they forget what they’re not supposed to do at times. I always keep an extra hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes pack in their diaper bags/backpacks. The important thing is to remember to wipe their hands every hour as they constantly keep exploring with their fingers and palms.

We also pack a few essentials for them including portable potty for them, travel toys, road trip games, their fire tablet, etc. We also emphasize that attractions and businesses may be closed or there may be huge crowds and they may not always get what they want. The setting of expectations is critical to avoid meltdowns on the road. Plan your trip around how long your kids can sit in the car in one go. 

Go outdoors with the kids

Tip #20: Be tourists in your own city

Everyone needs a vacation. Whether you go to a new place or revisit the same old, you still feel less stressed just being away from your work. (Unless you are like me and think about work, when away from it! But we hope not!) If you can’t go anywhere else, see your hometown or city with the eyes of a tourist. 

Explore hidden gems or forgotten attractions in your city. Pack a picnic and spend a lazy day in your nearest park. Visit the most popular spot in the city and admire it without the usual crowds. Take photos of isolated downtowns and abandoned tourist spots. 

Or make up a scavenger hunt. Visit all the independent bookstores in your city or do a mural walk and visit all the murals in your hometown. Once you start thinking of it as a game, you will have plenty of ideas to just go out and have fun without meeting anybody. 

Tip #21: If nothing works, plan a staycation

If you are not comfortable traveling, then there is absolutely no need to feel pressured. There are many ways in which you can travel safely from your home. You can even plan a staycation in your own home: camp out in your backyard, order takeout, and buy a wading pool for the kids! We have one and the kids love running through the water sprinklers and splashing in the pool. 

There are several ways to travel from your home. Build a travel scrapbook from your favorite trip, cook your favorite country’s cuisine, read a travel book or memoir, read inspirational travel articles, see virtual tours of attractions, and more. 

Here are a few other ideas: visit your local family if you all are comfortable spending time together. Or house sit your friend’s house while they do the same for you! It’s like a vacation – you are in different surroundings and have zero to minimum chores. This works especially well if your friends happen to have a large pool!

The time to explore popular attractions will come again, meanwhile, stay safe!

We hope you have a safe and happy trip and get to enjoy the great outdoors without any stress. Have any other great ideas to travel safely this summer? Let us know in the comments, we love hearing from y’all!

Best Social Distancing Vacations & Road Trips to take this summer

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South Dakota Road Trip is an amazing experience

Want to go on a safe and healthy summer road trip while still practicing social distancing? Here are the best places in the USA to plan a road trip this holiday season including remote and inaccessible destinations, hidden gems, and stunning natural areas. You might also like our post on Essential Tips to Plan a Safe and healthy Road Trip this summer.

There is nothing more American than a road trip. From Jack Kerouac’s ‘On the Road’ to Mark Twain’s ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’; the cross country road trip has played a major part in shaping our recreational goals. In fact, what was the Oregon Trail but a long and perilous journey in wagons and carriages! 

And now, suddenly all travel is on the verge of a complete stop due to the global crisis. Well almost. Things are slowly opening up and airlines say it is safe to fly but many prefer not to take the risk of being in close contact with others at the moment. And hence, road trips continue to be one of the safest ways to travel this summer. 

You can sit in the comfort of your car, safe with the people you know. You can pack your own food and cookout in the open. You can sleep under the stars and not worry about whether your bed was sanitized before you arrived. You can call your RV your home and take it to exotic places and landscapes. You can get out in the wilderness and stay miles away from everyone else – forget the minimum 6 feet distance! 

You can teach the kids about Planet Earth by seeing unique geological formations, spotting wildlife, and going on scavenger hunts. Much better than being cooped up at home with a TV screen. You can take a relaxing break and indulge in much-needed self-care while still being safe. Only if you could find such a remote place and keep it a secret!

Go on a road trip to remote places

Best Social Distancing Family Vacations & Road Trips Ideas

Thankfully, many such destinations exist in the USA and almost all of them are perfect for a safe and healthy road trip this summer. Are you looking for ideas and suggestions as well as detailed road trip itineraries? We got your back! Here is the ultimate list of parks, memorials, and states to visit this summer for a post virus road trip:

South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands

Our eternal favorite. On our first trip, we simply fell in love with South Dakota. This is a hidden gem of a state and has many bucket list attractions including the Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park. If you are looking to find a place that everyone isn’t going to, Then you can do no better than South Dakota. 

Drive the scenic Badlands Loop Road and hike the Notch trail to see beautiful badlands formations. Then camp in Custer State Park and see amazing wildlife on the Wildlife Loop Road. For some adventure, drive through the granite tunnels of Iron Mountain Road and go rock scrambling near the Needles Eye on Needles Highway. 

Finally, visit the iconic Mount Rushmore and be inspired by its history. Walk on the Avenue of the Flags and find your state. See how the carvings were made at the Visitor Center. And oh yes, definitely try the vanilla ice cream based on Thomas Jefferson’s original recipe! 

If you have more time visit other attractions like the Wall Drug, Mitchell Corn Palace, Sioux Falls Park, and Crazy Horse Memorial. Read our South Dakota road trip itinerary to plan this trip. 

Road trip to Mt. Rushmore

Northern California Road Trip

If you’re living in California and wondering where to go for a summer vacation, then try the less visited and remote north coast. This is a totally different part of California, one that will blow your mind away. It is perfect for those living in the Bay Area as you simply have to take Highway 1 and 101 up north for as long as you want. 

Go hiking at Point Reyes and eat the oysters in Tomales Bay. Go on a romantic road trip in Mendocino and Fort Bragg. To see the majestic coastal redwoods visit the redwoods national and state parks up north. Drive on the Avenue of the Giants Scenic Byway and hike the prehistoric Fern Canyon. Explore hidden beaches and coves along the Northern California coast. 

But this trip need not be just about the coast. You can also visit the Cascade ranges in Northern California, one of the least visited outdoor attractions in the state. Spend a delightful day in Mount Shasta City. Hike to waterfalls and take panoramic pictures of the landscape. 

This is an area of intense geothermal activity. Road trip Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway and explore attractions such as Lava Beds National Monument and Lassen Volcanic National Park. You can see everything from active volcanoes, lava caves, craters, and hot mud pools. While you’re in the area see the cascading Burney Falls, a beautiful waterfall in MacArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. 

Throughout your trip, you will see very few other visitors, just stunning nature and wildlife for miles. To plan this epic road trip through the Redwood trees and volcanoes, read our ultimate Northern California road trip guide now. 

Drive through the redwood trees

Washington’s Olympic Peninsula

Yet another less visited tourist attraction on the West Coast! Washington’s Olympic Peninsula lies across Puget Sound from Seattle and contains the Northwesternmost point in the country. This trip is perfect for those in the Pacific Northwest. You can even make an easy day trip from Seattle or go on a multi-day road trip covering the Olympic Peninsula Loop Road. 

On the Olympic Peninsula, you will find miles and miles of wild Pacific Coastline, spectacular beaches, amazing marine life and wildlife, and a wide diversity of natural attractions from hot springs to ice-cold lakes and from sea stacks to ice-capped peaks. Enjoy glorious sunsets on the beaches such as Shi Shi Beach, Ruby Beach, and Rialto Beach. 

Try a white variety of seafood and tour charming lighthouses. Visit the Makah Reservation Museum to understand the Makah Indian culture and hike out to Cape Flattery. Wizard delightful coastal towns such as Port Townsend, Port Angeles, Sequim, and Forks. Camp by the lakeside at Lake Crescent and see the Roosevelt elks at Lake Quinault. 

And of course, you must visit the stunning Olympic National Park. Take a dip in the Olympic Hot Springs or see the spectacular wildflowers and mountain views at Hurricane Ridge. Then see the highlight of the entire Olympic Peninsula, the Hoh Rainforest. This rainforest is filled with giant trees that grow over 300 ft and thick mosses that drape everything in sight. The rainforest is an enchanting place and a UNESCO World Heritage Site at that! Hike the Hall of Mosses trail to see the rainforest in a short time. 

To plan a stunning loop road trip around the Olympic Peninsula that covers all the above attractions as well as the Washington State Capitol at Olympia, read our Olympic Peninsula Loop Road Trip itinerary. 

Explore the remote parts of Olympic Peninsula

Lake Tahoe Summer Vacation

Yet another California road trip! Visit the stunning Lake Tahoe and take a loop road trip around it. This beautiful freshwater lake is located on the border of California and Nevada and is a great road trip for those living nearby. Plan a romantic weekend getaway at Lake Tahoe or go on a fun family vacation to enjoy the beautiful lake. 

Lake Tahoe is gorgeous: its crystal clear water, amazing beaches, hiking and biking trails, and scenic drives are perfect to spend time outside in the fresh air and destress yourself. But it’s not just about nature. You will also find fine dining, nightlife, entertainment, and even casinos on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe. 

While you are there you must definitely drive the loop road. Lake Tahoe is huge and has over 70 miles of shoreline. The route passes near the shore in some places and high above the lake in others. So you can see the lake from several different vantage points. Bring along a camera to take panoramic shots of the lake. 

Hike along the rim trail to experience more stunning views. Many state parks are located along the lakeshore including Van Sickle Bi-State Park and Emerald Bay State Park. You can also kayak or paddleboard on the lake or go fishing. Parasail over Lake Tahoe to see bird’s eye views of the emerald lake. 

See the stunning Lake Tahoe

Texas Gulf Coast road trip

If you want to plan a beach vacation but still stay away from the crowds, then plan a road trip along the Gulf Coast of Texas. This area is popular for its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, charming coastal towns, and lots of water sports. 

Keep in mind that the beaches get more beautiful as you go south. That means the Galveston Island State Park Beach and the Crystal Beach on Bolivar Peninsula are nowhere near as beautiful as the beaches at Mustang Island State Park and Padre Island National Seashore. 

Along the way, you will find several natural areas including Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge. You can spot alligators, deer, dolphins, sea turtles, and birds including cranes, ospreys, and pelicans. See charming lighthouses along the coast including Lydia Ann Lighthouse in Aransas Pass and the Port Isabel Lighthouse which is open to tours. 

And of course, at the southernmost point, you will find South Padre Island, an amazing resort city with great family-friendly beaches. There are many things to do on the island and neighboring Port Isabel including dolphin watching tours, birding trails, building sandcastles, and camping over sand dunes. 

Have a seaside picnic at South Padre island

Grand Tetons National park

Visiting Grand Tetons National Park in Wyoming is a life-changing adventure. Due to its remote location and proximity to more popular national parks, this park is often overlooked and is perfect for a camping summer vacation. All the park roads are open in the summer making this a perfect time to visit the park. 

The National Park has beautiful alpine scenery with craggy mountain peaks, pretty lakes, and flower-filled meadows. It is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. The park also has abundant wildlife and you can easily spot deer, bison, and elk in the park. Take a drive along the scenic Teton Park Road to make the most of the park in a short time. 

And you need not even keep it limited to Grand Teton National Park. You can easily combine the Tetons with Yellowstone and Jackson Hole for an amazing week-long road trip. However, bear in mind that Yellowstone stone is one of the most popular national parks in the country and it’s most popular attractions including old faithful might be very crowded. 

See the splendor of the Grand Tetons

Central Texas road trip

Living in Houston, this is one of our favorite road trips when we can’t travel to other destinations. In Central Texas, you will find plenty of charming towns, outdoor activities, and opportunities for water sports. 

We love starting our trip in Brenham and seeing the beautiful murals and the historic downtown. Then visit the Blue Bell Creamery and see Independence Hall in Washington-on-Brazos, the birthplace of Texas. Brenham is technically not in Central Texas but so beautiful that you must visit. 

Then go to Austin and see the State Capitol. Usually, we would recommend seeing the Bat Bridge and enjoying the city’s music and nightlife, but if you prefer being outdoors right now then visit the Hamilton Pool or Turkey Creek Trail. Then visit Fredericksburg, famous for its German heritage. 

North of Fredericksburg, you will find Enchanted Rock State Scenic Area. You can go hiking, rock climbing, and just enjoy the outdoors. If all the Texas heat is making you long for water, then go river tubing in New Braunfels. Or hike the waterfalls at Pedernales Falls State Park in central Texas. 

End your trip in San Antonio, right by the Riverwalk. Take a cruise along the San Antonio River, stroll hand in hand with your partner over the Riverwalk bridges, and enjoy a Tex-Mex dinner with tableside guacamole at one of the Riverwalk restaurants. Finally, visit Alamo and immerse yourself in Texas’s history. 

Explore the attractions of Central Texas

Coastal Oregon Road Trip

Another great social distancing road trip in the Pacific Northwest. The Oregon Coast is filled with beautiful state parks scenic drives and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, sand dunes, crabbing, and clamming. It is the ultimate destination for outdoor lovers. 

The Oregon Coast is a strange beast. It has everything from the redwoods trees and coastal cliffs to wide expansive beaches and towering sand dunes. On a road trip along the coast, you will be rewarded with unique geological landforms such as Thor’s Well, Devil’s Churn, and Spouting Horn. You will spot a lot of marine life including whales, seals, and sea otters. 

However, the coast is not just for backpackers and RVers. It is also for city people, those who like to stay in charming hotels, see cultural and family-friendly attractions, and eat haute cuisine. Plan a getaway in the romantic coastal town of Cannon Beach or spend a weekend in Newport. For history lovers, nothing is better than the Lewis and Clark National Historic Park at Fort Clatsop. 

If traveling from the south, go all the way north to Astoria and then turn inland towards Portland. Explore this vibrant city and its amazing culinary scene. then take a day trip down the historic river Columbia Scenic byway and visit the highlight of Oregon, Multnomah Falls. To plan this road trip along the Oregon coast, read our Oregon road trip planner here. 

The stunning beauty of the Oregon Coast

Florida’s Tamiami Trail

If you are wondering if there’s any place in Florida that won’t be crowded and can be visited now, then Tamiami Trail is your answer. This two-lane road trail connects Florida’s Atlantic Coast to the Gulf Coast in the southern part of the peninsula. 

The official road is Highway 41 and the route is 275 miles long. It starts in Tampa, where you should begin your visit. Check the city’s attractions, then take a detour to nearby Tarpon Springs, a charming Florida town with Greek heritage. We absolutely love the vibrant atmosphere, sponge boat tours, and Greek food in this town. 

Then head south of the Tamiami Trail. Take a detour at Sanibel Island. Enjoy the shelling beaches and the Sanibel Island Lighthouse. We spent two fun days on Sanibel Island and loved this charming holiday destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast. You can also take a day trip to nearby Captiva Island and go beachcombing. Then turn eastwards at Naples.

Here the Tamiami Trail passes through the Everglades National Park and its northern border. In this stretch of the road, you will see signs for several airboat tours inside Everglades National Park. You will also come across the Shark Valley area of Everglades National Park. Get down, walk a boardwalk trail, and spot an alligator or two before getting back on the road. You can also see many birds including ospreys, cranes, and pelicans in the park. 

At the end of the road is the vibrant city of Miami. Enjoy the beaches, Art Deco architecture, and the neighborhood of Little Havana. If you want to spend more time on the road, drive down the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West. You will find stunning snorkeling beaches, enjoy the Caribbean vibe of Key West, and can visit the Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the most remote national parks in the country. 

Spot the wildlife in the Everglades

Southern Utah road trip

Utah is one of the most beautiful states to hike, explore, and road trip in the US. The state is famous for its Mighty Five national parks, however, this is not the time to visit most of them.

Skip the extremely popular Zion National Park and Arches National Park for now and try visiting the less-visited Canyonlands National Park or Capitol Reef National Park. Or give the national parks a miss entirely and try to seek solitude at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Utah. 

Canyonlands is a great national park to visit. Take the scenic drive through the park and see the panoramic views from Mesa Arch and Grand View Point Overlook. Capitol Reef is famous for its whitish Navajo sandstone dome shapes that resemble state capitol domes. Hike through the Fruita section of the park to discover its unique landscape, see the historic buildings, and while you are there pick fruits from orchards planted by pioneers. 

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a never-ending, rugged wonderland of canyons, arches, and cliffs. You can take scenic drives through the main canyons as well as hike the beautiful slot canyons. That’s right, Antelope Canyons aren’t the only slot canyons in the American Southwest. For amazing views of the park, drive the Hells Backbone Scenic Byway.

Catskill Mountains road trip, New York

Remember that episode from Mrs. Maisel where they all went to the Catskills for a whopping 2 months?! There was a time when the rich and wealthy of New York congregated in the Catskill Mountains every year. Then cheap air travel happened and summer meant a Europe trip. But this year, the Catskills might regain their former glory. 

Located just a couple of hours northwest of Manhattan, the Catskill Mountains are a perfect vacation for anyone in the Tri-State area. They have plenty of outdoor activities to offer for most visitors including biking, hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and river tubing. 

But the Catskills are not just about recreation. The mountains have provided inspiration to writers, poets, painters, artists, and musicians for decades. The famous Hudson River School art movement originated here. Throughout the region, art lovers can visit small museums and art centers as well as the Thomas Cole National Historic Site in the town of Catskill.

Death Valley is another great destination for remote vacation

Glen Canyon Recreation Area, Utah

Most people associate the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Utah with a cruise on Lake Powell, Rainbow bridge National Monument, and the nearby Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons. However, the reserve is massive. It covers over 1.25 million acres in Utah and Arizona and has plenty of underrated attractions which almost no one visits. 

You can actually take a kayaking trip to see the waterside of the Antelope Canyons. This won’t actually take you in the most famous part of these canyons however you will be able to see them from a rarely seen vantage point. Just you, a kayak, the waters of Lake Powell, and the beautiful swirling canyon walls. Perfect for social distancing!

You can also rent your own boat for the day to spend time on Lake Powell. Or visit the Glen Canyon Dam Overlook to see this beautiful concrete arch-gravity dam. Similar to the Hoover Dam but without the crowds!

You can also drive along scenic backcountry roads however, you will need a 4WD vehicle for this. Take the scenic Burr Trail through the Henry Mountains or follow the footsteps of the pioneers along the Hole-in-the-Rock Road. 

The beautiful Antelope Canyons

Ozark Mountains Road Trip

Go on a road trip through the Ozark Mountains in Missouri and northwestern Arkansas. The Ozarks are an amazing travel destination and we first fell in love with them while living in Bentonville, Arkansas. 

While the mountains are actually spread over the 4 states of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas, the Missouri and Arkansas regions have the most attractions and are the best for staying away from the crowds. The Historic Route 66 also passes through the Ozarks. 

There are many things to do in the Ozark National Forest from hiking, river tubing, water sports on the Lake of the Ozarks, and sleeping in nature in beautiful campgrounds. 

The Ozark ranges also have many scenic drives including the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway that passes through the Boston Mountains, the Pig Trail, US 67 aka the Rock n Roll Highway, and Scenic Route 7. Many charming mountain towns and cities are located in the Ozarks. Some of the must-visit destinations include Branson, Eureka Springs, Osage Beach, and Bentonville. 

The Ozark Mountains look beautiful in fall

The Great River Road in Missouri

Missouri is a great place to visit this summer. Usually, it is passed over for more popular destinations like California and New York, but this summer is a perfect time to take a road trip in the state. Drive the Great River Road along the banks of the Mississippi, one of our favorite road trips in the country. 

The highlight of this road trip is the town of Hannibal, the homeplace of Mark Twain. It is located 2 hours north of St. Louis and visitors can check out the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum. You can also explore the Mark Twain Cave Complex, mentioned in numerous of his books. 

Then make your way down to St. Louis and see the magnificent Gateway Arch. You can spend more time in the city seeing attractions such as the Art Museum or spend time in nature at the Mastodon State Historic Site. Here you can see fossils and skeletons of the extinct Mastodons. 

Last but not the least, visit the southeast Missouri wine country located on banks of the Mississippi. Stroll through the vineyards, attend a wine tasting, and enjoy the romantic ambiance. Finally, follow the road all the way down to Caruthersville. 

Gateway Arch, St Louis

Monument Valley road trip

While Monument Valley is popular, it is still massive and you can easily go on scenic drives and backcountry hikes in the area while still staying away from most people. Located in the western corner of the Utah-Arizona border, Monument Valley is a panoramic landscape known for its sandstone buttes, mesa formations, and beautiful desert landscape. 

You can take a scenic drive through Monument Valley’s most iconic sites in a few hours or take an entire day or two to explore all its sites. The Tribal Park Loop is the 17-mile long main drive through the major attractions. The drive has many scenic viewpoints. You can also see restricted sites including Totem Pole formation on guided tours. 

While you are in Monument Valley, explore the nearby Four Corners Monument. This is the only place in the country where 4 states meet together. Visitors can place a limb each in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico at the historic marker. 

Monument Valley is one of the most remote destinations in the USA

Lake Michigan Circle Tour & Upper peninsula

If you are in the Midwest, consider a road trip along Lake Michigan and in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula region. Living in Chicago, we have done this trip several times and love the nature and wildlife along the lakeshore. 

Lake Michigan is the only one amongst the Great lakes that is completely located in the USA. You can easily loop around the shoreline without entering Canada. While the route is most spectacular in the fall, it is also great in the summer. 

While you can visit attractions such as Door County in Wisconsin, Illinois Beach State Park, the beautiful city of Chicago, and Indian Dunes National Park in Indiana, the highlight of this road trip is the attractions in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. 

Follow the US 2 across the communities of Escanaba and Gladstone. Make a stop in charming Mackinac Island, a nature paradise where no cars are allowed. Admire the architecture of the historic Mackinac Bridge. 

Consider a detour to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore located along the shores of Lake Superior. This road trip is full of wildlife encounters, fresh seafood, lighthouses, and beaches!

Beautiful lighthouses on Lake Michigan

29 Best Beaches in the USA

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Planning a summer vacation to the best beaches in the USA? Looking for white sand beaches in the US for your next holiday? Read our epic guide on the best beach vacations in the US to enjoy some sun and sand this summer. You may also like our post on Best Places to Visit in the USA. 

From the West Coast to the East Coast, there are a lot of beautiful sandy beaches to visit in the USA. Add in the Gulf Coast, the Great Lakes, Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands and you have got too many amazing beaches to count on one hand. So you don’t need to crowd around the most popular beaches, you can enjoy the sand and the surf in solitude in plenty of places. 

All of these are different: some offer white sand while others offer sea stacks and coastal bluffs. Some have log upon a log of driftwood while others are the perfect shelling beaches. Almost all of them are perfect to dip your toes or splash headlong into the water. Some of them are right beside towering skyscrapers while others need a mile-long hike through the forest. But they all are perfect for the beach lovers!

Also Read: Best Beaches to Camp in the USA

That means, come this summer, you can plan a beach vacation no matter where you are. Just pack your swimsuits and sunscreen, pile up in the car, and go to one of our favorite beaches to get your tan on. Some of these beaches are warm year-round and also make great winter holiday destinations. After all, there is no time like the present to walk barefoot on a beach!

Best beaches in the USA to visit this summer

Here is an epic list of the best beach destinations in the USA for couples as well as families. 

South Beach, Miami, Florida

Looking for a party in the sand? Want to add some flourish to your Florida vacation? Miami is one of the party cities of the southern United States, and it doesn’t take one long to find out why. All you need to do is pass through one of the many popping bar streets or beachfront strips, hear the Latin music bumping from the storefronts, and you’ll realize that spring break never stops. 

To plan your trip to South Beach, read our Miami Itinerary now.

The beach is a small part of the 9 mile Miami Beach, making up the southernmost 2.5 miles. The area is a hot spot for tourists not only for its sparkling white sands and shiny waters but also for the multiple clubs, restaurants, and art exhibits. 

The beach’s diversity and uniqueness make South Beach more of a neighborhood in Miami as opposed to just a beach destination. So, get yourself some good Cuban cuisine, maybe a nice sun hat or pair of sunglasses and get ready for some fun.

Also Read: Miami Key West Drive Road Trip Itinerary

Clearwater Beach, Florida

In central Florida on the Gulf of Mexico, you can find one of the most impressive and highly popular beaches in Florida. The milky white sands, palm trees, boardwalk, and incredibly clear waters can be found on an island opposite the small surf town of Clearwater Florida. 

In 2018 Tripadvisor nominated Clearwater Beach as the #1 beach in the U.S. This is probably because you won’t find the crowds of Miami or Panama city or even Ft. Lauderdale here. Yet, it still offers one of the best views and experiences that you would expect at a good Florida beach. 

At Clearwater Beach, you can go on a dolphin adventure, take a segway tour along the island’s coast, head over to Pier 60 for some fun games and beach snacks, and even participate in watersports like water skiing, tubing, shelling, and more. 

Also Read: Tarpon Springs, the Ultimate Day trip from Clearwater Beach, Florida

Coronado Island, San Diego, California

Coronado Island isn’t actually an island at all, but a peninsula connected to mainland San Diego via a thin wisp of land called the Silver Strand. It is a great day trip from San Diego because beyond the beach itself there is the small town of Coronado where you can enjoy awesome local seafood or go shopping. 

Also, if you’re a golf lover, there are two courses here that are literally walking distance from the beach. So take a dip and then go for a swing at a ball. At the end of the peninsula is a naval air station, open for visits and tours. 

The beach itself is 1.75 miles long and has soft, powdery sands. Towards the end of the beach is Heritage Park, a great place to go for events. On top of that, San Diego is one of the more relaxed cities with some of the best weather in California. If Coronado Beach doesn’t suit you, feel free to try one of the several other beaches in and around the city of San Diego. 

Also Read: Southern California Road Trip Itinerary

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Just a 90-minute drive west of Portland, Cannon Beach is a small coastal town in Northwest Oregon. The town has about four miles of breezy North Pacific beach which can be divided into three sections. 

The two miles of sand between Ecola Creek and Tolovana Park holds one of the area’s most popular attractions: Haystack Rock. The 235-foot dome-shaped behemoth emerges out of the sea in front of the beach and is one of the most photographed places in Oregon. 

North of Ecola Creek you’ll find Chapman Point. Here you can see the “Bird Rock,” large offshore rocks home to a colony of Common Mure that occupy the area year-round. 

Finally, south of Tolovana Park is Silver Point. At low tide, the sea deposits hundreds of its tinier creatures into tidepools on the rocks here. They’re great for exploration by the whole family where you can learn more about marine biology. 

There are other beaches in the area surrounding Cannon Beach as well. Indian Beach, Crescent Beach, Arcadia Beach, Hug Point, and Oswald West State Park have their own ocean-based fun to offer.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Oregon

Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur, California

Do you want to go to a beach in California that nobody has heard of? Are the massive crowds of San Diego and L.A. too much for you? Well, pack up your car and head over to Big Sur. Located along California Highway 1, the beach can be reached along an unmarked path past Big Sur Ranger Station. 

Pfeiffer Beach isn’t just about a sandy beach and the blue ocean. Off the coast, you can see several rock formations as well as sea stacks. One of the most famous with a natural arch in its base is called the Keyhole Rock. Sunsets look fantastic here. Pfeiffer Beach is also known for being a pretty good surfing destination. 

The sand on certain parts of the beach even has a slight shade of purple. This makes the perfect building material for a one of a kind sandcastle! Just be careful of the wind. Blowing sand can turn this normally peaceful location into a chaotic place.

Baker Beach, San Francisco, California

Set beneath the cliffs of the Presidio of San Francisco and in the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge, Baker Beach has a charm of its own. This beach perfectly represents the blending of an urban atmosphere with the coastal environment. 

Located right next to America’s iconic bridge, Baker Beach is an awesome place for a walk, hike, or even a boat tour. This is also a popular place for photographers, especially at sunrise and sunset. This is also a perfect place to go for a picnic and spend a relaxing day in San Francisco. 

There are no entrance fees to enter Baker Beach, but if you want to go for a swim you had better bring a wetsuit. The oceans near San Francisco have an average temperature of 60 degrees and feel cold even in the summer. Be aware that the part closest to the bridge is often populated by nudists. If that is something that bothers you, best to remain as far from the bridge as possible. 

Grayton Beach, Florida

The sands on this beach are so snowy white and the water so blue that you’ll think your plane took a wrong turn and dropped you off in the Caribbean. The sands are interspersed with tiny patches of seagrass and a winding river that gives the area a unique beauty. 

Grayton is located in South Walton in the Florida panhandle and beyond its scenic beauty, it also has a number of activities and attractions. In Grayton Beach state park you can rent a kayak and take it through a series of intricate waterways; weaving in and out of the ocean and wetlands. 

Inside the town, there are a lot of great places to eat like the Red Bar, Chiringo, and Hurricane Oyster Bar where you can enjoy a nice meal after a day in the sun. Grayton Beach is a great place to visit for couples as well as families and a great summer beach vacation destination. 

Calusa Beach, Bahia Honda, Florida

If you’re in the Florida Keys, it would truly be a shame to miss out on Calusa Beach. It is located on the gulf side of Bahia Honda State Park. This vibrant ocean setting is the closest that the United States has to the tropical beaches of the Caribbean. 

The ocean here is a playful light blue in the deeper parts and the shallows are clear enough for you to see your toes wiggle underneath the water. Like most of the Florida Keys, the water here is very calm which makes it a safe place to bring your children. 

Off the coast, you can snorkel over the Key’s colorful coral reefs and spot plenty of aquatic life. If you’re curious about the animals swimming around you visit the nature center near the beach to learn more about the local wildlife. Bahia Honda State Park also has many hiking trails and you can climb over the old Bahia Honda Beach to see Calusa Beach from above. 

South Padre Island, Texas

Texas isn’t exactly known for its beautiful beaches because most of the Gulf Coast has refineries and muddy water. However, this tiny strip of land close to the border with Mexico is certainly an exception to that stereotype. 

South Padre Island has everything you can ask for from a beach destination: smooth sands, surfing, nature trails, sea turtles, and sandcastles! You’ll appreciate the golden sands here even more because they don’t come with the price tag of the more popular California and Florida beaches. 

The most popular part of the beach is Isla Blanca. This area is home to some of the best spots for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and boating activities. If you want a break from the ocean head inland to Beach Park at Isla Blanca. This fun-filled water park has tons of rides and amusements for the whole family to enjoy. 

Sanibel Island, Florida

If you really want to avoid the tourists in Florida then take a trip to this little well-kept secret. Sanibel Island is close to Cape Coral and Fort Myers on the Gulf Coast and has a number of very attractive beaches along with a lighthouse. 

If you’re into collecting shells then take a stop by Bowman’s beach which is famous for its multi-colored and oddly shaped seashells. When the sun sets and your stomach starts to grumble you can take a short walk over to Periwinkle Way, a strip of well-lit sidewalk lined with several classy and delicious restaurants. 

If you want to save money on this island then don’t drive to the beach. All the beaches have parking meters and they don’t come cheap. 

Honopu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii is known for its fabulous beaches and tropical climates. It’s the only island state of the U.S and lives up to that name with immense smoking volcanos, dense tropical forests, and sterling beaches with vibrant blue oceans. 

Honopu may not be the most famous beach on the island of Kauai, however, it probably has the most memorable feature: the Honopu Arch. The massive hole in a seacliff is 124 feet wide and 90 feet tall and serves as the passageway between the two halves of Honopu Beach. This beach is perfect for adventurers.

Located along the Na Pali Coast, you won’t find a road to this beach or even a hiking trail. The beach is utterly inaccessible and isolated. It is located at the bottom of massive cliffs towering thousands of feet above the ocean. The only way to reach Honopu Beach is to charter a boat and swim the final stretch.

Playa Caracas, Vieques, Puerto Rico

On the southern coast of the island of Vieques, there is a white sand beach that will make you never want to leave. Also known as Red Beach, Play Caracas is a favorite among both visitors of Puerto Rico and the locals. 

The reason they all enjoy it so much is because of its calm atmosphere, soft white sands, and turquoise waters. The location adds its own value as a crescent of tropical plants lines the edges of the Caribbean bay. 

The beach is located inside of the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge and also has a number of hiking trails and leisurely walks where you can explore the surrounding region. Vieques itself is only a short boat ride from mainland Puerto Rico and has a lot of other beaches you can see and enjoy as well. 

Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California

A must-see attraction for any Los Angeles visitor, Venice Beach holds the surf-culture identity of Los Angeles. This coastal community lined with boardwalks, thrift stores, street performers, outdoor gyms, and even amusement rides really completes and defines the images of Los Angeles that you see in all the magazines and movies. 

If Venice was a body, then Dogtown would probably be its heart. This little surfer village in the middle of Venice is said to be where skateboarding was invented and has all the fun of Venice without the excessive crowds and tourists. 

A pro tip for any Venice beach walker is to tip any street performer you take a picture of. They work hard to keep onlookers entertained and can be offended if you don’t show any financial appreciation.

Sand Harbor, Lake Tahoe, Nevada

The only non-ocean beach on this list has made it here for a reason. Sand Harbor may not have the crystally white sands or aquamarine waters of the Caribbean, but what it lacks in tropical appeal it makes up for with rustic mountain lake ambiance. 

In addition, Sand Harbor is one of the few beaches on Lake Tahoe that actually has sand, the rest of the lakeshore is primarily made of rocky terrain. During the summer Lake Tahoe is full of water vehicles like jet skis, kayaks, motorboats, and plenty of others. Sand Harbor Beach is the perfect place to enjoy these water sports.

The facilities here are plentiful. Right near the swimming area is a great picnic/BBQ zone equipped with tables, electricity, grills, and water supply. You can even rent a vacation home on the shores and have a long summer getaway. 

Red Sand Beach, Maui

As you probably have guessed, Red Sand Beach  – also known as Kaihalulu Beach – is famous for its moody mahogany sands. The sand here gets its color from the large deposits of iron nearby and is one of the reddest beaches in the world. 

The beach is located on the eastern tip of Maui, and there is plenty you can do here. Take a hike in Hana Beach Park to see the rocky forest streams and tropical plants. Hike up to Wailua waterfall and take a picture of the white rushing water among the leaves. 

Or, once you’re done here, visit any of the other beaches in the area or head into town for a MaiTai to relax with. Maui is the second biggest Island in Hawaii so once you’re done with the red sand beach, make sure you save enough time to visit the plethora of other attractions in the area.

Oak Street Beach, Chicago

Chicago’s Oak Street Beach is an urban beach located on the shores of Lake Michigan along the North Lakeshore Drive. The man-made beach was created way back in 1890 as part of the shipping pier construction project. Today, it is a great place for people to hang out at the beach without leaving the city. 

The beach has beautiful views of the Chicago skyline. It is very popular among locals due to its proximity to the trendy Gold Coast /  Streeterville neighborhoods. The beach is also one of the top tourist spots to visit in Chicago during the summer. 

Visitors can relax by the beach, people watch, rent beach chairs, and play volleyball at the beach. Dipping your toes and swimming in the icy water of Lake Michigan feels amazing on the hot weekends. In the evening, it attracts couples taking a romantic stroll and is one of our favorite places to see the lit-up skyline at night.

Destin, Florida

Destin is a top-rated beach town in Florida. Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast AKA the Panhandle, Destin is famous for its crystal clear water and pristine white sand beaches. It is located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and has 24 miles of powdery soft white sand beaches. 

Add in the 340 sunny days per year and the city is a great spot for your next summer vacation. One of the most popular attractions in Destin is the Henderson Beach State Park. Called the ‘Crown Jewel of Destin’, this park is home to a mile-long white sand beach, multiple picnic areas, and a nature trail that traverses the coastal dunes. 

There are also many other beaches in Destin to enjoy the Florida sand and sun including Miramar Beach and beach. Destin’s HarborWalk Village is great for chartering cruises and tours, dining at seafood restaurants, bar hopping, and boutique shopping. Visitors can also try various water activities such as snorkeling, parasailing, fishing, dolphin cruises, etc. 

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Located off the coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks is a popular summer travel destination. This 200-mile long stretch of barrier islands is well-known for its wide, expansive beaches. 

Outer Banks is home to America’s first national seashore at Cape Hatteras and also the tallest brick lighthouse in the US, Cape Hatteras Light. At 200 feet height, the lighthouse is a major attraction of the Outer Banks.

There are so many beaches in the Outer Banks that there is a bit of something for everyone! If you want to enjoy the laid-back vibe and spend the entire day sunbathing, then head to the town of Southern Shores. Shop at local businesses, browse the art galleries, and enjoy dining at local restaurants. 

If you are looking for a bit of history, go to Kill Devil Hills. This is the site of the Wright Brothers’ first airplane flight. Visit the Wright Brothers Memorial National Memorial to pay your respects to the aviation pioneers. Pet lovers enjoy Duck Beach, one of the most pet-friendly beaches in the USA. 

Other popular Outer Banks attractions include hiking on the coast, sandboarding the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, seeing the lighthouses at Currituck Beach and Bodie Island, and traveling back in time at the Roanoke Island Festival Park. With all its attractions, Outer Banks is truly one of the best beach destinations on the east coast for families.

Nantucket Island, Massachusetts

If you are dreaming of an island holiday, but you cannot travel internationally then Nantucket Island is the perfect alternative! Located just 30 miles away from Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Nantucket island feels like a different world. 

The island is spread over just 105 square miles and is easy to bike across. The town of Nantucket has cobblestone streets, charming churches, and interesting boutique stores. It reminds visitors more of Europe than America. 

But the island is undoubtedly most famous for its beaches. Surf lovers like the rough waves on the southern shore of the island while those with kids prefer to spend a relaxing day on the northern side. This area is known for its calm water and family-friendly beaches. 

Cisco Beach and Surfside Beach on the southern coast are popular for water sports. Cisco Beach even has a surf school and is a good place for beginner surfers. If you have toddlers and preschoolers, visit the Children’s Beach which is closest to the town. 

Brant Point on the north side has a lighthouse and is a great place to watch the sailing boats. Visit Madaket on the southern shore for spectacular sunsets. End your day, by enjoying an evening stroll by the pier and dining or fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Wailea Beach, Maui, Hawaii

Wailea Beach, located on the island of Maui, is one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii. It is also known as America’s best beach. Wailea is actually a resort community and many luxury resorts are located within walking distance of the pristine beach. Consequently, the beach is always crowded but still too beautiful to skip. 

Located on the south shore, the fine white sandy beach is perfect for a fun family day. The water is shallow making it safe and fun for small kids. Picnic and recreational areas are also available on the beach. A paved walkway is present along the length of the beach. 

The beach is known for its excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions due to crystal clear water. It is also popular with water sports enthusiasts including surfers, jet skiers, and parasailers. You can also spot whales in the winter. 

Alternatively, you can take a stroll along the coast and admire the stunning views of the Maui coast. Honeymooners and couples especially enjoy this romantic beach; they can enjoy the soft sand, wide beachfront, and surreal ocean views in the paradise island of Hawaii.

Ruby Beach, Olympic Peninsula, Washington

Ruby Beach is a stunning beach located in the coastal section of the Olympic National Park in Washington. With its unique sea stack rock formations and a large amount of driftwood, Ruby Beach is the ultimate wild, rocky beach. 

The entire area surrounding the beach is extraordinarily beautiful and a must for nature lovers. Visitors can have a variety of adventures along the beach. There are a couple of trailheads that start from the beach, all of them are easy walks at low tides. 

You can hike down to Steamboat Creek and admire the views of the famous lighthouse on Destruction Island. For even more stunning views, head down to the beach during sunset. This is when Ruby Beach is at its poetic best and you won’t be disappointed!

Also Read: Olympic Peninsula Loop Road Trip

Coney Island, New York

For those who like urban beaches and the Big Apple, Coney Island is the ultimate summer beach destination. It is located an hour away from Manhattan. This beach destination is a favorite with New Yorkers and Coney Island’s crowded, touristy vibe is not that far from the busy, urban lifestyle of New York. 

Located in southwestern Brooklyn, Coney Island is known as much for its entertainment options complete with old-school wooden roller coasters as its beaches. Visitors can ride the famed Cyclone roller coaster, visit Luna Park, play some beach volleyball, and see marine life at New York Aquarium.

Another essential on Coney Island is to eat the famous hot dogs at Nathan’s Famous. With its famous boardwalk and beautiful Atlantic beaches, Coney Island is the perfect short summer getaway and should be right on the top of your bucket list. 

Tybee Island, Georgia

Situated less than 20 miles away from Historic Savannah, Georgia, Tybee Island is one of the best summer escapes in the country. Tybee Island is a barrier island surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. It is home to over 5 miles of beautiful sandy beaches. 

The island is fantastic for both a family holiday or a romantic beach getaway. There are many things to see and do on the island including the iconic Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. The colonial-era lighthouse dates back to 1736 and is still functional. A visit to the top requires 178 steps but is totally worth the view over the island.

Other attractions include the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, where kids can see sea turtles and other marine life and the beautiful North Beach. Spend a day sunbathing and swimming at this pretty and clean beach. Eat fresh seafood and shop local restaurants. See a beautiful sunset at the Tybee Beach Pier to end the day.

Rockaway Beach, Queens, New York

Rockaway Beach is where entire Queens congregates during the summer! Situated on the Rockaway Peninsula in New York, this beach has a vast sandy stretch with a 5.5 miles long boardwalk. It is the largest urban beach in America and attracts thousands of New York residents during the summer months. 

It was once known as the Irish Riviera due to the large numbers of the Irish descent population in nearby areas. Today, Rockaway Beach attracts beach lovers of all colors and ages. Outdoor activities at the beach include beach volleyball, swimming, skateboarding, and sunbathing. This is also the only legal surfing beach in NYC.

The beach was destroyed during Hurricane Sandy in 2012 but has been rebuilt and is more popular now than ever. The beach is great to people watch and enjoy typical urban treats like shaved ice, ice creams, fish tacos, pizzas, and drinks at local bars. 

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Hidden away on the Alabama Gulf Coast, the beach towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the most underrated beach vacation destinations in the country. Both the towns are adjacent to the Emerald Coast of Florida, which means the water is a clear turquoise blue. 

Gulf Shores is famous for its 32 miles of clean and soft white sand beaches while Orange Beach is more known for its vibrant culture. Something is always happening here; whether it’s a music festival, shrimp festival, or an arts walk. The best beach in Gulf Shores is undoubtedly Orange Beach. This beach is so spectacular that visitors feel as if they have been transported away to the Caribbean islands. 

The seaside towns are also great for nature lovers. Spot the alligators in the marshlands or take a dolphin-watching cruise out to the sea. You can also try various outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports. From birding to riding roller coasters, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have something for everyone. 

Mustang Island, Texas

As a barrier island on the Gulf Coast, Mustang Island has some of the most stunning beaches across the state of Texas. The island is protected ad a part of the Mustang Island State Park and is popular for camping, hiking, shelling, and birding. The island is named after the wild horses that once roamed over the island. 

The warm waters and the sunny Texas weather make the state park a year-round travel destination. Combined with the 5 miles long wide, sandy beaches, this the perfect spot for a family fun day. The water here has plenty of marine life; we have spotted stingrays, crabs, and sea turtles on our visits. 

Water activities at the park include swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing. Building sandcastles is also a popular activity to enjoy at Mustang Island State Park. For an adventure, you can paddle down the Mustang Island State Park Paddling Trail for stunning shoreline views. While you are there, head to Port Aransas Beach, which has excellent surfing conditions.

Cinnamon Bay, St. John, US Virgin Islands

Want to enjoy the Caribbeans without leaving the country? Visit Virgin Islands National Park! Located on Saint John, one of the Virgin Islands, the park is known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs.

Cinnamon Bay, a picture-perfect white sand beach, is the longest and most beautiful beach on the island. Just one glimpse of the beach and you will feel like you are in paradise. The soft powdery sand is surrounded by the clear turquoise waters of the Cinnamon Bay. Tall palm trees line the beach, creating perfect shady picnic spots.

Cinnamon Bay is the perfect summer family destination. With shallow water and a gentle slope, the beach is perfect for small children. Water sports enthusiasts can try windsurfing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. While snorkeling you can spot colorful tropical fish, corals, seaweeds, stingrays, and sea turtles. 

Indiana Dunes, Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Park is located just 60 miles away from Chicago and is a great family vacation destination for those in the Midwest. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the beaches of Indiana Dunes are fantastic for enjoying a laid-back holiday far from busy city life. 

There are two parks located at Indian Dunes: Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park. Both the parks provide access to miles and miles of the stunning Lake Michigan coastline and hiking, biking, and equestrian trails through dense woods. Hence, visitors can either play and swim on the beach or go on a nature adventure and spot wildlife.

The beaches at Indiana Dunes are known for being some of the best family beaches in America. As a result, the area attracts millions of visitors annually. Many local towns located near Indiana Dunes have charming downtowns, specialty shops, and fine dining restaurants and are perfect for exploring.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

While I lived in Wilmington, Delaware this was my go-to beach! This Atlantic Coastal town has a boardwalk, a bandstand that hosts free concerts, and crystal clear water for swimming. Rehoboth Beach is one of the few places in the US awarded a 5-star rating for its water conditions and is one of the cleanest beaches on the East Coast. 

The little beach town has a population of only 1000 but swells in size on weekends and during summer when visitors flock to Rehoboth Beach to enjoy the beach life. We love exploring the town’s charming streets, historic downtown, and immersing ourselves in Rehoboth Beach’s arty vibe. A must visit is the Rehoboth Beach Museum where you can see vintage postcards on the town.

We hope you liked our post on the best beaches to visit in the USA this summer. Did we miss any amazing beaches? Let us know in the comments.

30 Best National Parks in the USA to visit this summer

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Denali National Park,Alaska in summer

Planning a road trip to the USA National Parks this summer? The country has many beautiful popular national parks including the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Yellowstone. All of these national parks offer hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing and are the perfect summer vacation for families. Explore the best national parks to visit in the US to enjoy the great outdoors. You may also like our post on the Best Places to Visit in the USA. 

The USA has 61 national parks and they are visited by millions of visitors every year. Age of the national parks in the country promises something unique: from one of a kind natural wonders to memorable landscapes and from breathtaking trails and scenic drives to remote camp-sites and glamping opportunities. They also offer a variety of outdoor adventures including spelunking, white water rafting, kayaking, snorkeling, rock climbing, fishing, and birding. 

Needless to say, the National Parks are a very popular summer road trip attraction. Each year, we love planning road trips that combine at least 3 to 4 popular national parks, monuments, and state parks for a memorable trip. A national parks trip is the ultimate family vacation: kids can participate in the national parks program and become a junior ranger, they can see geological formations outside of textbooks, and have inspiring wildlife encounters. 

Best National Parks to Visit in the USA

To inspire your travels within the heartlands and dense forests, we have created this epic list of best national parks to visit in the country. While most of these are perfect for a summer road trip, some like Death Valley and Big Bend are better in the fall and winter. Nevertheless, they should be high on your bucket list for cooler days and so we have included them in this list. Here are the most popular and stunning national parks to visit in the USA:

Yellowstone National Park

Old Faithful, the cone geyser that shoots steaming hot water 190 feet up into the air every 44 minutes to 2 hours, isn’t the only spectacle in this heartland of geothermal activity. In fact, the land reserved for Yellowstone National Park is located on top of a volcanic hot spot which also provides the heat for the Grand Prismatic and Mammoth Hot Springs.

The Grand Prismatic Spring is probably the most recognizable feature of the park: an imperfect circle of incandescent light and dark blues surrounded by shades of bright yellow and orange that makes you feel as if you’re staring into a lake from another planet.

While rumors abound that the volcano lying beneath Yellowstone is overdue for an eruption, you have nothing to worry about as scientists say there isn’t enough magma to cause another eruption. The park is great for trips to the Western United States and is located primarily in Wyoming with small parts in Montana and Idaho.

Yellowstone National Park prismatic spring in Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park prismatic spring in Wyoming

Yosemite National Park

The terrain in Yosemite National Park is dramatic with massive cliffs towering over the forest filled valleys. Tucked into the Northern California countryside, Yosemite is consistently ranked among the top five national parks in the US. 

The park receives thousands of visitors annually, most come to see the twin features of the park: the mountains and the giant sequoias. Half Dome, Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan are the most famous mountains in the park. All of the peaks have hiking trails that go up their sheer granitic rock faces; from here you can get incredible views of the valley below.

The steep faces of the cliffs aren’t the only things you’ll crane your neck at in the park. The giant sequoia trees in Yosemite grow up to 400 feet high and live for over 2000 years. Beyond the mountains and trees, the park has several hiking trails, waterfalls, flower-filled meadows, and some of the freshest air you can breathe in the USA.

Also Read: Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

What would a trip across the United States be without a stop in Arizona to see the Grand Canyon? World-renowned for its size and splendor, the Grand Canyon was originally carved out by the mighty Colorado River millions of years ago. 

Today the river has mostly dried up and is just a ribbon of water dwarfed by the canyon walls. It flows deep within the canyon, over 6,000 feet below on the ground. You can see the panoramas from the Yavapai Point on the south rim. Drive around the rim road to see the canyon from different viewpoints. 

Hike the Bright Angel Trail from the south rim to descend deep within the canyon and reach the river below. Carry along water, sunscreen, and hat to protect yourself against the heat and exhaustion. On the trail, you can look at the oddly shaped sandstone, shale, and limestone layers harshly cut by the river. You can see various geological landforms created by erosion. You can also take a mule ride to the bottom of the canyon but they get booked far in advance.

At Grand Canyon West – outside the park limits but pretty close – there is a transparent glass bridge extending over the canyon floor. Those feeling adventurous can brave standing on the glass and gaze between their feet to take in the full immensity below. Another amazing way to explore the Grand Canyon is to go on white water rafting trips down the Colorado River.

Also Read: Zion Bryce Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Zion National Park

One great source of pride for the state of Utah is the beautiful Zion Canyon. Consistently ranking at the top of Utah’s Mighty 5, Zion National Park is a perfect road trip away from Las Vegas in the great American Southwest. 

The most distinguishing part of the national park is the towering walls of the Zion Canyon. The canyon walls are composed almost entirely of Navajo Sandstone which gives them their distinct reddish hue. The canyon was carved by the Virgin River thousands of years ago. You can walk along the Riverwalk to admire the beautiful surroundings. 

Take a hike deep within Zion’s Narrows at the north fork of the Virgin River and upstream from the main canyon. The Narrows is where the canyon walls close in upon each other and you can see beautiful swirling patterns on the steep cliffs. This watery walkway might get your feet wet, but it will also take you under a series of crevices and magnificent rock formations. This hike is one of the best in the USA and something to be experienced. 

However, this is not the only thing to see in Zion National Park. The park’s Angels Landing hike is equally famous – but strenuous – and leads to spectacular bird’s eye view over the canyon. Or, if you want to see something truly unique, take a walk over to the Checkerboard Mesa. The grid-like grooves on its surface resemble the tiles from the famous board game and create a beautiful pattern unlike any other in the country.

Zion National Park View from top of the Angels Landing trail
Zion National Park View from top of the Angels Landing trail

Arches National Park

If you like art made by Mother Earth, then this is the right stop for your vacation. Also located in Utah, Arches National Park is known for having more than 2,000 naturally formed rock arches in addition to a number of spires, balanced rocks, sandstone fins, and monoliths. Located near Moab, this park is truly one of its kind. 

The park has the feel of walking through the sculpture gallery of a giant. Geologists say the structures are formed due to the presence of a thousand feet thick layer of the salt bed beneath the surface of the park. The weight of the above layers caused the salt bed to liquefy under pressure and thrust up rocks in dome shapes. Wind and water erosion of the salt domes created the famous arches. 

Probably the most iconic arch in the national park is the massive free-standing Delicate Arch. It is 52 feet tall and truly stunning. Its massive stature invites you to stand underneath and pose for a photo. Made of red crimson sandstone, the arch looks spectacular at sunset. Other famous arches include Landscape Arch, Double Arch, and Turret Arch. 

Delicate Arch at sunset in Arches National Park Utah
Delicate Arch at sunset in Arches National Park Utah

Glacier National Park

The deep valleys and snowy peaks of Glacier National Park were cut by glaciers millions of years ago. The park is located in Montana and straddles the Northern Rocky Mountains. The best time to visit the park is in summer when the Going to the Sun Road is open, but if you happen to visit early on in the season you can see northern lights in the park. 

Glacier National Park stretches all the way up to the Canadian border and is known for spectacular scenery. Along with glaciers, you will also find turquoise glacier-fed lakes, densely wooded alpine forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and abundant wildlife in the park.

The park has over 700 miles of hiking trails. One of the more famous hikes is the Hidden Lake Nature Trail which takes you 1.4 miles through the Rockies to the Hidden Lake Overlook. From here, you can appreciate the dark blue waters of the lake. Its beauty and secluded location amidst mountain peaks make it the perfect spot for a photograph. Then continue all the way down to the lakeshore for a quiet picnic by the lakeside.  

The Going-to-the-Sun-Road that cuts through the park is a spectacularly scenic drive. You will wind up and down the mountain slopes and can look out at the valley spread below. The park is also home to clear alpine lakes including Lake McDonald and Saint Mary Lake. The lakes are great for water activities and you can even swim if it’s warm enough. 

Glacier National Park in fall
Glacier National Park in fall

Grand Teton National Park

Wyoming is home to abundant wildlife and rugged terrain that characterized the American frontier during the beginning era of the nation. And there is no better place to experience it yourself, than the wonderful Grand Teton National Park. 

Grizzly bears, moose, elk, wolves, mountain lions, bald eagles, and even wolverines can all be found within the confines of the park. Drive along the scenic Grand Teton Loop Road for some of the best views of the snow-capped rising Teton ranges. You will also be treated to vistas of lush green valleys, rivers and streams, mountain lakes, and meadows.

But that’s not all that the Grand Tetons have to offer. 

The park also has 200 miles of hiking trails for a variety of experience levels. You can even go mountain climbing in the park. On the trails, study the brush and canopy for friendly  – and maybe not so friendly – creatures. Have a picnic on the meadows with the famous peaks towering over the horizon. Tie up a hammock in dense pine forests and look up at the blue sky.

Reflection lake in Grand Tetons National Park in Wyoming
Reflection lake in Grand Tetons National Park in Wyoming

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Welcome to the country’s only free park! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and is one of the best parks in the country.  The mountain ranges in the park are called ‘smoky’ because of the pale blue mist that constantly hovers over them. 

The park is not just for hikers and nature lovers but also for history enthusiasts. See historic Appalachian cabins on the Cades Cove Loop. See a working grist mill with a waterwheel at the Visitor Center. Understand the history of the communities that resided along the Appalachians. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for off the beaten path views.

Most of the trees in the park are deciduous, making the Smokies an awesome place to visit in autumn. The leaves begin to change colors in mid-October and paint the mountain slopes in vibrant shades of red, yellow, and deep orange. The town of Gatlinburg also hosts many fall events and is great to visit. 

The East Coast of the US has many awesome national parks and the famed Appalachian Trail, that begins in Georgia and goes all the way north up to Maine, passes through almost all of them. However, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park comprises some of the most visually appealing portions of the trail: hikers have breathtaking views of mountains, dense forests, and waterfalls. 

Grist mill with a waterwheel at the Visitor Center, Smoky Mountains National Park
Grist mill with a waterwheel at the Visitor Center, Smoky Mountains National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

In Northern Colorado lies the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Featuring spectacular mountain scenery, snow-capped peaks, clear mountain lakes, and inspiring wildlife encounters, this park is one of our favorites to visit year-round.

The national park has many great things to do and is good for visitors of all ages because depending on the activity you choose, you might never even have to leave your car. The Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River road both offer splendid sights of alpine tundra, pine forests, and gorgeous valleys. You can easily see and enjoy the scenic views from behind the wheel.

However, we do recommend stepping out of the car for at least a little bit so you can see Bear Lake. This awesome alpine lake is almost 9,500 feet above sea level and has several hiking trails  – from easy and short to long and exhausting – where you can stop and enjoy the spectacular mountains of the Continental Divide. Go on the lake loop trail for an easy hike. 

The park is a winter wonderland and must-visit for skiers, snowshoers, and snow lovers in the colder months. You won’t spot bears but can still see elk, deer, and even mountain lions. Estes Park makes a perfect base to explore the Rocky Mountain national park and is just 2 hours away from Denver. 

Dream Lake at the Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado
Dream Lake at the Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of the few island-based national parks in the mainland US. It is primarily focused on Maine’s Mount Desert Island, but also extends out in the surrounding archipelagoes and partly on the Schoodic peninsula of the mainland. Because of its unique location, Acadia will give you an experience like no other nature reserve on this list.

The islands around Desert Island: Frenchboro, the Cranberry Isles, Swan’s Island, and several others are great for day trips. Rent a boat or take a cruise to see not only them but also other parts of the famous New England coast. 

In addition to the water-based activities, you can also find over 158 miles of hiking trails within the park. Most trails have awesome views of the wild coast, the park, and wildlife. Watch the dark blue-grey waters of the Northern Atlantic crash against the smooth stones on the beach. 

Once you’re finished hiking, head over to the charming fishing village of Bass Harbor for some delectable Maine Lobster and take a short walk to see the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse; a historic landmark in the area. If you prefer a more urban vibe, make the gateway town of Bar Harbor your base for exploring the park.

Beautiful fall colors of Acadia National Park in Maine
Beautiful fall colors of Acadia National Park in Maine

Bryce Canyon National Park

Do you know what a hoodoo is? Well, Bryce Canyon, located in Southern Utah, is the perfect place to learn about them! These eroded red sandstone rock formations look a lot like intricately carved chess pieces and Bryce Canyon National Park has literally thousands of them. 

The main area where most of the hoodoo rock formations are present is known as the Bryce Amphitheater. You can walk either along the Rim Trail to see the hoodoos from above or descend down into the canyon using the Queen’s Garden Trail.

The trail takes you down among the hoodoos and is great for hiking enthusiasts and landscape photographers. There are several lookout points along the way where you can stop and admire the intriguing and at times, absurd, hoodoo formations. 

There are several other ways to explore the park. Hike the trail to Sunrise Point at dawn to get a stunning aerial view of the sun lighting up the park’s landscape. Or, hike the Navajo Loop trail and view the famous Thor’s Hammer formation.

The Navajo trail also takes you both along the rim of the canyon and through the amphitheater passages and is one of our favorites in the park. The trail is also good to see the ponderosa pine trees growing between the hoodoos.

End your trip with a drive along the Bryce scenic drive and see beautiful formations such as Natural Bridge and the view of Grand Staircase from Yovimpa Point.

Bryce-Canyon-National-Park_Thors-Hammer
Bryce Canyon National Park Thor’s Hammer (Photo Credit – Pixabay / skeeze)

Denali National Park

If you’re taking a trip to Alaska why wouldn’t you stop in Denali National Park? The reserve is Alaska’s most famous and most visited land attraction. 

It is easy to see why with its enormous and untouched wilderness, beautiful and majestic wildlife, and endless lakes and rivers. At all times, you can see the massive shadow of Mt. Mckinley – the tallest mountain in the entire US – cast over the park, like a watchful overlord. 

This is a world-famous place for hunting. Thousands of hunters travel from all over to get a fair shot at the deer, elk and other big game in the area while also enjoying the seclusion of the forest around them. 

If you’re feeling brave, try the hike up Mt. Mckinley. The journey can take 17 to 21 days and definitely isn’t for the faint of heart but is definitely rewarding with spectacular views of snowy white mountain peaks all around you. 

Denali National Park,Alaska in summer
Denali National Park,Alaska in summer

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is located 59 miles south of Seattle, Washington. Mount Rainier isn’t actually a mountain at all, but a volcano located on the Pacific Ring of Fire. It last erupted in 1895 but despite its long dormancy, is still categorized as an active volcano. 

The two most popular areas of the park are Paradise and Sunrise. The Paradise Jackson Visitor Center is open year-round while Sunrise is open only during the summer. From both the areas, you will experience stunning views of Mt. Rainier and the Cascades, the glaciers, and alpine meadows. 

Beyond the two regions, one of the more popular attractions within the park is Narada Waterfall. The falls have two distinct tiers at different heights. The upper fall is the more gorgeous of the two because it is much higher and has a horsetail shape that causes the water to fall down in several different streams. 

If you’re looking to admire tall trees, take the Groove of the Patriarchs trail. This hike follows a suspension bridge over the Ohanapecosh River and transports you to a forest of giants. The area is full of cedars, Douglas-firs, and hemlocks that can reach up to 40 feet in diameter and grow 300 feet tall.

Mount Rainier National Park, Seattle, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park, Seattle, Washington

Badlands National Park

Located in South Dakota, the Badlands kind of look like a fascinating mixture of Utah’s colorful rocks and the eroded depths of the Grand Canyon.  You can’t help feeling stunned as you marvel at the silence and remoteness of the landscape. 

The numerous hills, buttes, mounds, gullies, peaks, and plateaus of the Badlands have every color from a pale grey-brown to vibrant red and deep yellow. The prairies add in the contrast of lush green, making this national park exotic and alien at the same time.

The desolateness of the badlands is real but that doesn’t take away from the powerful vastness and interesting shapes of the park. The view from Big Badlands Overlook shows a rolling valley of otherworldly grey mountains with thin red stripes while the vistas spread before you below the Badlands Wall bring out a feeling of both unease and awe. 

If you want a little more adventure, try visiting the Conata Basin Overlook or hike up the Notch Trail. If you want to spot wildlife, keep your eyes peeled on the Badlands Loop Road. You can spot everything from bison, deer, antelopes, prairie dogs, and coyotes. 

Badlands Loop Road view of the wall formation in Badlands National Park in South Dakota
Badlands Loop Road view of the wall formation in Badlands National Park in South Dakota

Shenandoah National Park

Virginia isn’t the most well-known destination in the US however Shenandoah National Park located in the Old Dominion should definitely be. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the park has thousands of acres of forest, wetlands, and rocky peaks. It is also an important part of the Appalachian Trail. 

Take a hike up to Hawksbill or Old Rag mountain if you want a better view of the park. Auto tour the Skyline Drive in fall and see the mountains turn golden red with fall colors. The scenic road takes you all the way up to the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A number of lookouts are located close to the edge and make your jaw drop from the sheer mountain beauty. 

Grand Caverns, located in the Shenandoah Valley near the town of Grottoes, is a vast limestone cave and one of the first caves in the country to be converted into a tourist attraction. Take a guided tour deep within the labyrinth passages and snap a picture of the stalactites and stalagmites formations.

Shenandoah National Park in Fall, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park in Fall, Virginia

Death Valley National Park

Situated on the border between California and Nevada, Death Valley National Park is the largest American National Park. The nearest major city to the park is Las Vegas, Nevada at approximately 115 miles. As the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the USA, the Death Valley National Park is also known as ‘A Land of Extremes’. 

With impassable badlands, golden sand dunes, unique flora and fauna, and untouched natural beauty, the park attracts adventure seekers looking for a mysterious and extraordinary place to explore. The best time to visit Death Valley is in the winter when the mild temperature makes it comfortable to explore the park.

Visitors can hike the 1.8 miles long trail to Badwater Salt Flats, the lowest point in America at 282 ft below sea level. The hexagonal patterns of salt crystals at Badwater Basin are beautiful. You can also pay a visit to the Devils Golf Course, popular for its interesting large salt formations in the middle of the desert, or Racetrack Playa, a beautiful dry lake with mysterious moving stones. 

Experienced hikers can go on a 12-mile hike that will take them to Telescope Peak, the highest point in the park. There are also many scenic drives in the park including the Artists Drive. The entrance fee to the park is $30 per vehicle for 7 days. Within the park, there are nine camping facilities, as well as a few inns and resorts. 

Death Valley National Park Salt Flats in California
Death Valley National Park Salt Flats in California

Indiana Dunes National Park

Known for its pristine golden sand beaches, Indiana Dunes National Park is the perfect place to visit this summer in the USA. Located just 60 miles away from the urban skyline of Chicago, Indiana Dunes is a place to relax and find solitude. A large portion of the park’s 15,000 acres is along the southern coast of Lake Michigan. 

Not only is Indiana Dunes National Park a fantastic spot to sunbathe and lounge at the beach, but it also offers over 50 miles of hiking trails. Our favorite is the Mount Baldy Beach Trail and the Bailly Homestead Trail. The former will take you up and down the 126 feet tall Mount Baldy dune while the latter will take you past dense woods, prairies, and historic structures.

Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as biking, horseback riding, fishing and boating, bird watching, kite flying, sandboarding, dune climbing, etc. The Dunewood Campground is especially popular as it offers overnight camping by the beach from April till October. 

Nearby smaller towns and communities in Porter County – such as Valparaiso and Chesterton – are perfect to base your stay. You can try local dining, find treasures in antique stores and art galleries, or just stroll down the charming downtown areas. The nearby Indian Dunes State Park is also a great place to visit. 

View of Lake Michigan over the dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park
View of Lake Michigan over the dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park

White Sands National Park

Resembling a sea of sparkling white powdery sand, White Sands National Park is the largest gypsum dune field in the world. The park is situated in the state of New Mexico, with the closest major city being El Paso, Texas approximately 43 miles away. It is the geology of the park that makes it quite unusual and interesting to visit. It is one of our favorite national parks to visit because of its remote location and stunning beauty. 

The story of this park goes back to even before the gypsum dunes were formed. Thousands of years ago, the area was covered with a large lake known as Lake Otero. The area had abundant vegetation and large ice age era mammals lived here.  Fossilized footprints of the prehistoric animals including the Columbian mammoths and ancient camels have been found at the park. Though it is really hard to imagine the lush greenery when all you see around for miles is a sea of white gypsum. 

Visiting White Sands National Park is an amazing experience. You can immerse yourself in the mesmerizing, beautiful landscape of stunning white sand dunes and feel like you are on another planet. Read about the flora and fauna of the park at the Visitor Center and while there, rent a board to go sledding on the white dunes. This is the most awesome experience at the park and enjoyed by kids and adults alike. 

A great way to walk over the sand dunes and learn about the habitat is by taking one of the hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are the Dunes Life Nature Trail, Interdune Boardwalk Trail, Playa Trail, and the Alkali Flat Trail. The farther you walk, the more undisturbed are the dunes. Go on the 16 miles roundtrip scenic Dunes Drive to travel deep within the park. The entrance fee to the park is $25 per vehicle or if you are planning to visit numerous parks in the year, then get the National Parks Annual Pass.

Barbecue and rest area at White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Barbecue and rest area at White Sands National Park, New Mexico

Olympic National Park

Washington’s Olympic National Park covers an area of almost a million acres. With its relaxing hot springs, stunning Pacific coastline, and a valley of lush green rainforests, Olympic National Park is one of the best national parks in the USA. If you are flying, then Seattle is the primary gateway city and located approximately 80 miles away. 

It makes the perfect starting point to your adventures in the park and we recommend driving around the scenic Olympic Peninsula loop to reach the park. However, there are numerous other charming coastal towns located closer to the park where you can base yourself, such as Port Angeles or Sequim. 

The park is famous for its sea stack formations and stunning 48 miles of beaches. The star attractions include Rialto Beach, Shi Shi Beach, and Ruby Beach. Even though it attracts many beachcombers, Olympic National Park is also equally famous for its many rainforests and especially Hoh Rainforest, a UNESCO site. 

Giant green conifers that reach a height of over 300 feet, hanging mosses, ferns, and old vine maples quietly dominate the rainforest. When combined with the narrow winding hiking trails, you can’t help but feel like going on a jungle adventure deep in the trees. 

Another popular spot to visit is Lake Crescent, known as the second deepest lake in the state of Washington. The lake is located on Highway 101 and is popular for camping, hiking around the lake, and watersports. Other great things to do in the park include the Hurricane Ridge and Sol Duc hot springs. 

Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park, Washington
Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park, Washington

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park

Known as the Land of Giants, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park is home to the world’s largest trees. Covering a mountainous terrain of over 400,000 acres, the parks are located in the Sierra Nevada mountains and are approximately 57 miles away from Fresno, California. The two park units are considered as a single national park. 

In the parks, visitors can find both, the largest tree on Earth – the General Sherman Tree – and the highest mountain in the contiguous United States – Mount Whitney. To visit General Sherman Tree, hike to the Giant Forest Sequoia Groves in Sequoia National Park. Hiking deep within this forest of over 8000 towering trees – that reach a height of 250 ft and grow up to 25 ft in diameter – is an essential part of your trip to the park. 

On the hiking trails, you can also enjoy the beautiful forest scenery, walk under the shade of the giants, and see abundant wildlife. From Sequoia, take the drive to the King’s Canyon Scenic Byway in Kings Canyon National Park. The byway is 50 miles long and an excellent way to see the park’s highlights in a short time.

The approximately three-hour-long scenic drive offers many overlooks with stunning views of the canyon. You can also explore the trailheads located along the road and see the General Grant Sequoia Tree, tour the limestone wonders of Boyden Cave, or have a picnic at Grizzly Falls. The drive is open only during summer. 

Sequoia National Park General Sherman Tree in California
Sequoia National Park General Sherman Tree in California

Volcanoes National Park

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea, the largest active volcano on the planet, and Mauna Loa. The park covers an area of more than 520 square miles and over 150 miles of hiking trails. Due to the presence of the volcanoes and the rare flora and fauna in the park, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

There is so much to see and do at the park that you need to spend a minimum of 2 to 3 days to fully explore it. Exploring both Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes is a must. On the way, you can see hardened recent lava flows. The rocky landscape resembles that of a moon and you cannot see any vegetation for miles. 

You can also visit the unique Nahuku – Thurston Lava Tube, located on the Kilauea crater. This fascinating cave was formed by lava flowing out to the sea over 500 years ago. Volcanoes National Park is also known for its two scenic drives, the Chain of Craters Road and Crater Rim Drive. Visitors can also go backcountry hiking to explore the park beyond the popular attractions.

Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii
Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii

Redwoods National & State Park

Redwood National and State Park is an entire complex of several parks located in Northern California. These parks preserve ancient coastal redwood forests and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The park complex consists of Redwood National Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park along the Pacific Coast. The parks cover an area of approximately 140,000 acres and preserve 45% of old-growth redwood forests. 

Famous as home to the world’s tallest trees, the parks draw hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. They are popular to visit during the summer holidays because of the available hiking, biking, and horseback riding over 200 miles of park trails. Visitors can explore old-growth temperate rainforests, prairie grasslands, rivers and streams, and the craggy coastline while in the parks.

Looking for a hiking adventure? Hike the 0.5 miles long Fern Canyon in Prarie Creek Redwoods State Park. You will be walking between 50-foot walls of ferns that surround the Home Creek on each side. Feels scary and primeval? This was a filming locale for the movie The Lost World: Jurassic Park!

You can also take the Newton B. Drury Scenic Drive, which passes through the redwood forests and open meadows, which is a habitat for Roosevelt elks. Another popular attraction is the Wilson Creek Beach at Del Norte Park. 

Redwoods National and State Park, California
Redwoods National and State Park, California

North Cascades

Known as the American Alps, North Cascades is the perfect spot for outdoor lovers. The park consists of 3 units: North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Area. All 3 units are an easy day’s trip from Seattle. 

The parks together cover an area of more than 500,000 acres and are home to over three hundred glaciers, wildflowers, glacier-fed turquoise lakes, and old-growth forests. Diablo Lake Overlook is one of the most popular spots to visit while in the Ross Lake area. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking and canoeing on the lake during summer. 

Popular hiking trails include Ladder Creek Falls Trail and Sterling Munro Trail. Washington Pass Overlook on North Cascades Highway has the most beautiful bird’s eye view over the parks. In winter, the park attracts skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and snowboarding enthusiasts. 

Diablo Lake in Cascades National Park, Washington
Diablo Lake in Cascades National Park, Washington

Channel Islands National Park

Comprising five out of the eight Channel Islands located off the Pacific Coast in California, Channel Islands National Park is the perfect spot to escape from the busy city life. The park, while one of the least visited in the country, is just a short boat ride from Ventura and easily accessible from the Greater Los Angeles area. 

The national park protects the rich marine life and environment in the Santa Barbara Channel. The five islands that are part of the national park are San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa Island, and Santa Barbara. The park covers a total area of 249,561 acres.

There are many things to do on each island. Visitors can explore the hiking trails and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. If you can visit only one island and hike only one trail, then hike the rewarding Inspiration Point Trail on Anacapa Island. The deep blue water, steep cliff edges, and distant islands on the horizon make this hike truly stunning. 

Visitors can also try various water activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, etc. Channel Island National Park is also known for interesting sea cave formations. Kayakers can take a trip to one of the world’s deepest sea caves, the Painted Cave on Santa Cruz Island. The park is also great for whale watching, spotting seals, sea lions, and other marine life as well as birding. 

Potato Harbor in Channel Islands National Park in California
Potato Harbor in Channel Islands National Park in California

Capitol Reef National Park

Situated in the heart of southern Utah, Capitol Reef National Park preserves over 375 square miles of sandstone deserts, deep canyons, and unique rock formations. The town of Torrey is the closest town 11 miles away, however, most visitors see Capitol Reef National Park on a road trip from Las Vegas. 

The most unique rock formations in the park are the white Navajo sandstone domes, similar to the domes on capitol buildings. These have earned the park its name, Capitol Reef. The park is divided into three districts: Fruita Historic District, southern Waterpocket District, and northern Cathedral Valley district.

Visitors can hike, bike, camp, backpack, drive, and go horseback riding in the park. The park is also popular for canyoneering and rock climbing. Another popular activity is fruit picking from the years-old Mormon orchards in summer. Fruita District is the most popular to visit while other two areas receive very few visitors. 

Thousands of hiking enthusiasts from all over the country visit Capitol Reef National Park every year for its beauty and remoteness. The park has many backcountry trails as well as shorter one-day hikes of varying difficulty levels. Fruita District is the most popular for hiking. This area also has historic buildings, petroglyphs, scenic drives. 

Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

To explore the striking beauty and wilderness of the Californian desert landscape, visit the popular Joshua Tree National Park. Situated in the southeastern part of California, the park has unique geography – the two distinct environments of the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet here. 

The park is home to a variety of cacti, palm trees, yucca plants, and other diverse vegetation that has adapted itself to the desert environment. Covering a total of 790,000 acres, the park is a delight for rock climbers, hikers, and off-roading enthusiasts. 

Scrambling over the bare rock formations, hiking to see palm oases, spotting ancient pictographs, and seeing the San Andreas fault from Keys View are some of the park’s amazing adventures. If you are looking for less intense outdoor activities, take a sunset stroll through the Cholla Cactus Garden and spot the flowering ocotillos. 

Of course, you cannot leave the park without seeing the unique Joshua Tree which is native to the Mojave desert. The park is named after these abundant plants that thrive in the desert for miles. Located far away from city life, Joshua Tree National Park is also a fantastic place for stargazing. Camp in the park and admire the stars overhead as you feel close to nature in this unique landscape.

Campground with RVs at Joshua Tree National Park, California
Campground with RVs at Joshua Tree National Park, California

Mesa Verde National Park

Situated in southwestern Colorado, the Mesa Verde National Park covers an area of more than 52,000 acres. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most extraordinary and unique places to visit for history and archeology lovers.

The park preserves the homes of the Ancestral Pueblo people that lived in the area from the 9th century to the 13th century. These homes, known as cliff dwellings, were built on the sides of the cliffs and were several stories tall. The park protects approximately 600 cliff dwellings, dating as far back to the 600 CE.

On a trip to the park, visitors can see several of the cliff dwellings on ranger-guided tours. The most popular is the Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling on the continent. Situated at 7,000 ft elevation, the Cliff palace has over 150 rooms and is fascinating to visit. Something to keep in mind: the tours go over steep and uneven terrains and require climbing steep ladders and crawling in small spaces. 

The park also has many hiking paths to choose from, such as Prater Ridge Trail, Spruce Canyon Trail, and Point Lookout Trail. Plan a trip to Mesa Verde National Park to step back in time, explore ancient archeological sites, and experience spectacular views. 

Point Lookout at Mesa Verde National Park
Point Lookout at Mesa Verde National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote, island park located in the Gulf of Mexico. It is approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Florida, and can be visited only via a boat tour or plane tour. Consequently, the park is one of the most secluded national parks in the country. 

The national park comprises 7 islands or keys as well as the surrounding coral reefs. Fort Jefferson, located on the Garden key, is the highlight of this park. One of the largest fortresses in America, Fort Jefferson is built from over 16 million bricks and is a formidable hexagonal structure. On a guided tour, visitors can see barracks, fortifications, and walk around the moat surrounding the fortress.

The water surrounding the national park is very clear and excellent for snorkeling. You can see parrotfish, angelfish, sea turtles, eels, and other marine life. Other water activities such as diving, swimming, sunbathing, etc are also popular with tourists. You can also camp overnight on the island to enjoy its solitude. The park is also great for birding.

Dry Tortugas National Park Key West Florida
Dry Tortugas National Park Key West Florida

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve is famous for its huge sand dunes. The sparkling golden dunes combined with the backdrop of beautiful snow-covered peaks, dense aspen forests, and alpine tundras make this national park one of the hidden gems in the country.  

Situated in south-central Colorado, Great Sand Dunes National Park covers an area of 149,028 acres. The views across the park are absolutely surreal, both during the day and at night. The dark sky is great to photograph the Milky Way.

Visitors can hike, run, sandboard, and sled down over 30 square miles of dune fields. Kids and adults alike enjoy playing on the sand. You can rent sleds or boards near the Visitor Center. Other park activities include offroading, horseback riding, camping on the dunes, kite flying, and ranger-led hikes at night.

Another popular activity in the park is climbing to the top of the highest dune and seeing the panoramas from above. The park has no actual trails to follow if you want to explore the dunes, so be cautious with supplies and avoid getting lost. The park temperature can get unbearable in the summer and it is better to plan an early morning visit from May to August.

Dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Big Bend National Park

Situated along the Texas-Mexico border, Big Bend National Park is the biggest protected area of Chihuahuan Desert ecology in the USA. The park encompasses an area of more than 800,000 acres and is a favorite with nature lovers. Over 75 species of mammals, 450 species of birds, and 1,200 plant species thrive in the desert habitat of the park. Over 40 dinosaur species fossils, as well as other prehistoric animal remains, have also been found in the park.

Big Bend National Park is also known for its rich cultural history. Many Native American tribes, as well as European settlers, lived here in the past. The park has many archeological sites that date back to almost 10,000 years ago. Visitors can see the pictographs in limestone cliffs at Hot Springs, Indian rock art at the Chimneys trail, and the stone quarry at Burro Mesa Archeological District. 

The park is an outdoor paradise. Popular mountain hikes at Big Bend include the strenuous Emory Peak Trail to the highest point in the park, the moderate Lost Mine Trail, and the easy and accessible Window View Trail. If you are not up for hiking up to the mountain peaks, the national park also has trails that go over the dry flat desert topography. 

Choose the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail for an easy walk or the moderate Chimneys Trail or Dog Canyon to explore this unique environment. The park also has many scenic drives for auto touring. If you have limited time, drive the 6 miles long Chisos Basin Road or for a longer scenic route, head to the 30 miles long Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. On both the drives, you will find stunning desert views, interesting rock formations, and historic sites.

Big Bend National Park View of Chisos Mountains at twilight in Texas
Big Bend National Park View of Chisos Mountains at twilight in Texas

We hope you like our guide to the best national parks in the country. Did we forget to include any amazing national parks in the USA? Let us know in the comments.

25 Essential Things to include in the Ultimate California Packing List

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Planning a trip to the Golden State and looking for the ultimate packing list for California? Read our list of essentials including clothes, beachwear, sunglasses, sun hats, water shoes, makeup, hiking boots, binoculars, and other things to take to California. Find a free printable for the California vacation packing list and make packing easy. You may also like our post on California Road Trip Itinerary. 

Wondering what should you bring on your California trip? You are not alone! California is quite tricky to pack. On our first trip, we went all-in on swimsuits and beach coverups – to be surprised by the foggy climate and chill in the Bay area. Since then, we have packed for a variety of experiences and climates since a trip to California usually involves a combination of micro-climates and activities. 

In California, you have the option to explore from beaches to snow-clad mountains and need to be prepared for a variety of outdoor adventures including surfing, whale watching cruises in Big Sur, desert hikes in Joshua Tree, and camping in the mountains. A trip to California will be among your most memorable ones – here’s what you need to pack for the Golden State. 

Also Read: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary

What to pack for California

In this section, we cover the essentials for packing for California. You will need to pack according to the list for exploring California’s cities. For the rest of the list, pick your attractions and then add in those items. For eg., if your trip involves Southern California beaches, Los Angeles, and a visit to Disney – then pack for cities + beach + theme parks. If you are planning San Francisco plus camping in Yosemite – then pack for cities + road trip + hiking + camping. And so on. 

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For exploring California’s cites

Use this as your starting list. If you are spending any time in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Palm Springs, or any other cities then you need this list. You can follow this list for each family member and customize it as per your preferences.

4-5 Tees, Shirts and Blouses

Carry a bunch of tees, shirts, and blouses so that you do not have to repeat your clothes and worry about washing them when they get spoiled. One or two extra tops and tees should carry you well over several days.

2 pairs of jeans

2 pairs of jeans should be enough for a trip of up to 3 to 4 days without any problem as these can be easily re-worn. If you are planning for a longer trip, add an extra pair. Make sure that the denim is comfortable.

2 pairs of shorts & skirts

Adding a pair of shorts and skirts adds versatility to your outfits. It will ensure that you have enough casual wear for relaxed outings during your trip to California. Choose bright colors or bold prints to add a statement of style.

1-2 Dressy outfit for date nights & clubbing

Packing a couple of dressy outfits is key to having a travel wardrobe for all occasions. Enjoy Los Angeles and San Francisco nightclubs and go on date nights to trendy restaurants with your partners by dressing up to the nines during your trip.

1-2 Maxi dresses or sundresses

Maxi or sundresses are especially essential if you are headed to SoCal. They can double up as casual/stylish outfits and can be worn for visiting museums during the day to having a beach view patio dinner at night. 

1 utility jacket or trench coat if traveling fall to spring

Utility jacket or a trench coat – if it’s waterproof, even better – will make sure that you are ready for whatever weather that California chooses to dish up during your trip. This is especially necessary if you are road tripping along the Pacific Coast as the weather changes quite often as you drive northwards. Read our post on the Most stylish and trendy travel jackets for women to see our recommended picks. 

Pajamas or loungewear

There’s nothing like slipping into your favorite pair of pajamas or nightwear after a long day of shopping, exploring cities, hiking, or swimming on the beach. Chill out in comfortable pajamas and rest for the next day’s activities.

Underwear & socks

Goes without saying, carry plenty of comfortable underwear and socks for your California trip to avoid a trip to the laundry as having a clean pair is indeed essential for everyone.

Comfortable flats or walking shoes

Expect to walk a lot while exploring the cities and walking in museums or zoos. From spending an entire day shopping to walking along the beach, comfortable flats or walking shoes will prove very useful.

Dress shoes

Pack in a pair of fancy shoes that go with your dress for when you plan to go clubbing, visit dive bars, go on brunches, or dine in the uber-trendy restaurants in California.

Sun Hat or cap

The California sun gets super hot, especially in the south. Having a hat will be useful while you go out during the day whether for long walks or to the beaches or shopping. It will definitely save you from getting skin burns and tans.

Sunscreen

Definitely carry sunscreen on your California trip irrespective of when you go. A little tan is good but getting sunburned is painful, trust me – I have learned it the wrong way!

Toothpaste & Toothbrush

Toothbrush and toothpaste are legit one of the most forgotten travel items! Make sure to carry yours in your toiletries. Btw, did you know – if you forget toothpaste most hotels can supply you with one?! Just call up the housekeeping/reception desk and let them know.

Makeup

Super essential for a trip to California. Whether you plan to take pics for the gram while you go clubbing or flaunt that beach bod in Malibu, you definitely need some makeup to look your best self. Make sure that you carry your makeup essentials including waterproof eye makeup with you all the time.

Glasses / contacts & sunglasses

Glasses & contacts are essential for those like me who wear prescription glasses. Don’t forget to carry an extra pair because having a blurry trip is no fun! Also, don’t forget to carry a good pair of sunglasses for both, as a fashion statement, and to shield your eyes from the hot California sun.

Documents for California packing list

Always carry along the required travel documents for a hassle-free and stress-free trip. Here is what all you might need to pack for California.

Passport / ID / Driver’s License

Get an RFID blocking antitheft wallet to keep your essential documents including passport and other IDs safe at all times. Also, don’t forget to pack them as you may be denied entry on planes or in clubs. A driver’s license will be necessary to rent cars and go on a road trip to California. The documents will also be needed for booking attraction travel tickets, hotels, and availing other services.

Travel Insurance documents

Nobody can predict what mishap might befall while traveling; the latest pandemic is a great example. You might end up losing your documents or the airlines might lose your luggage but good travel insurance will come to your rescue in such trying times.

Credit Card

A credit card is a very convenient mode of payment plus helps you rack up miles or rewards points. It also essential for the shopaholic in you!

Money

Most of the transactions can be done digitally today but there is always that one place which is cash only. If you are traveling to the US internationally, make sure to carry a sufficient amount of cash in dollars for your shopping sprees and other needs.

Technology essentials for your California trip

Nowadays tech essentials are as much a part of essential travel gear as clothes and footwear. Here’s what all you need

Powerbanks

Nowadays, I don’t travel anywhere without a power bank to charge my cell phone, tablet, and smartwatch. The gadgets are like a modern extension of my body and I definitely don’t want them to run out of juice. 

Phones and chargers

Several times have I kept my phone out on the desk or for charging to the last minute and then had to run back to get it! While we know that you will *almost* never forget your smartphone and chargers, it is important to double-check before you head out as these items are not easily replaceable.

Cameras and chargers

A California trip is full of epic and memorable moments. You definitely want to retain the memories and a camera plus the charger are essential to treasure the moments forever.

Tripod / Selfie stick

We always carry along some sort of handsfree camera support to click family photos of all of us together on vacation. Whether you prefer tripods or selfie sticks, they are very useful – especially when you’re traveling solo – to take amazing photos for the ‘gram and photo albums.

Kindle Fire/e-reader or tablet

If you enjoy reading, then definitely carry along a kindle, tablet or any e-reader. The tablets are also a blessing when our kids are cranky and need something to cheer them up. I love to load my tablet with books and take some time to read when I find a beautiful and quiet reading spot.

Also Read: Best Travel Gifts for Kids who travel

For a trip to the southern California beaches 

Add these items if you will be spending significant time on the California beaches and engaging in any kind of water sports. Also read our post on Southern California road trip itinerary.

Swimsuit & coverups

We’re pretty sure that you plan to take a dip in the beautiful Southern California Beaches, so don’t forget your swimsuit and coverups. Splurge on something trendy, stylish, yet comfortable for your trip.

Beach towel

Carry a long beach towel or two, whether you plan to go swimming, sunbathe on the beach, or just relax in the sand. You’ll definitely not regret carrying a beach towel for everyone in your party.

Tote

Pack a foldable tote to use as a beach bag to carry your sunscreen, beach towel, books, headphones, tablets, etc to the beach. Totes are easy to carry and spacious enough to carry all the essentials.

Water shoes or flip flops

When you visit the beaches, wear a pair of flip flops or water shoes to keep your feet safe from the trash, weeds, or marine life that may get washed up. Ditch the flip flops for waterproof hiking sandals if you plan to look for tidepool creatures over rough and rocky coast. 

Drybag

While you go for a dip on the beach or try water sports, make sure to carry a dry bag to protect all your accessories and other important items from getting wet.

For spending a day at the theme parks 

California is famous for its theme parks. Anaheim has many including Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Legoland, and many more. Here’s what you need to survive a day at the theme parks

Disney Daily Agenda Planner

While it is easy to get lost in the magical world of Disney, make sure to carry a Disney Daily Agenda Planner so that you don’t miss out on things that you have been wanting to visit all along.

Disney drawstring backpack

The best way to carry a camera, water bottle, sunscreen, etc at Disney is in a matching Disney drawstring backpack. These themed bags are especially hit with kids on their first Disney trip, no matter the age or gender.

Poncho

The climate of California can change in a jiffy with cold showers coming in from out of nowhere on a sunny warm day. Carry a Poncho along with you to avoid getting wet.

Handheld USB Fans & Mist sprayers

A day at Disney can be hot and humid at times, so we recommend carrying a handheld USB fan or a mist sprayer to keep cool during the long walks from attraction to attraction at the theme park.

Disney autograph book

Don’t forget to carry a Disney Autograph book for all kids at all times – you never know when you might run into Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck, or your favorite Disney Princesses at the park.

For biking the Golden Gate Bridge 

Biking is one of the best ways to explore the Golden Gate Bridge. You can also bike at many other places in California including Napa Valley, in the city of San Francisco, along the beaches, and in the national parks. 

1 Padded riding shorts

If you plan to bike the Golden Gate Bridge or Napa Valley, a padded riding short will make your ride much more comfortable and enjoyable.

1 sport jerseys

A sports jersey that you can wear or remove as needed will keep you protected against climate changes and cool winds plus keep you looking trendy and fashionable.

Fanny pack or backpack

A fanny pack or backpack will help you carry your essentials like water bottle, documents, cell phone, power bank, etc while you bike through the Golden State.

For hiking in the Californian deserts

California deserts are a different environment. They are different than the beaches and you need to be uniquely prepared to hike in the harsh climate. Pack these things and you will have a great time hiking in the desert whether you are visiting Joshua Tree or Death Valley. 

1 hiking pants

A pair of comfortable and well-fitting hiking pants will ensure that you are comfortable while hiking through the desert. Some also prefer hiking shorts but the long pant is a good idea to combat the desert heat and walk through the cacti environment. 

1-2 Moisture-wicking shirt

Pack a few moisture-wicking shirts made of 100% polyester for backpacking across the California desert. The shirts are good at keeping the humidity and sweat away from your skin and keep you dry. Pack a combination of long-sleeved and short-sleeved shirts. 

1 Sweatshirt or jacket

While the days are hot, nights can get pretty cool out in the open. A sweatshirt or jacket will help you sheath from cool desert winds and keep you from shivering at nighttime.

Sports underwear

A pair of athletic underwear you snug and comfortable while providing extra support while you indulge in desert adventures such as ATV riding, rock scrambling, and other outdoor activities.

Hiking Backpack / Daypack

We love carrying a packable daypack to keep all essentials while hiking in the desert. The backpacks come with many handy pockets and water bottle compartments and are the perfect hiking gear. 

Hiking boots & socks or hiking sandals

While joggers and sneakers are good for exploring cities, they can’t substitute for hiking boots/ sandals while walking over tough terrain. Also, pack a pair of moisture-wicking hiking socks to avoid blisters. 

Cooling Towels

If you don’t like getting hot, then a cooling towel is the best invention ever! Simply soak the towel in some water, wring it, and keep it over your neck. Or use it to wipe your face. You will instantly feel refreshed. 

Water Bottle

It is very important to carry a water bottle while hiking in the desert. Carrying a bottle of ice water is essential for everyone especially when you are hiking during the summer.

For camping in California’s mountains

If you plan to visit California national parks, then plan to camp. Camping lets you be close to national park attractions and explore the nature more intimately. Here is what you need to go camping.

Tent & stakes

Nothing beats camping in the mountains under the open sky with millions of stars keeping you company. If you are an adventurer wanting to go camping in Yosemite or Sequoia, tent & stakes need to be the first item on your list.

Mallet for hammering stakes

A mallet is essential to hammer the stakes deep in the ground. Mallets also have a tent peg remover which is useful while packing up and can be used as a multi-tool for self-defense or while rock-climbing. 

Sleeping pads & sleeping bags

While camping is thrilling and fun-filled, being ill-equipped can do you more harm than good. A good cold weather sleeping pad & bag should enable you to be comfortable even on cold nights in the mountains.

Flashlights

Unless your site has an electric hookup, a flashlight is your go-to source of electricity for visiting restrooms at night or keeping an eye out for the wildlife. 

Camping chairs

Keep a couple of camping chairs in the car to be comfortable when star-gazing at night or enjoying a campfire and roasting marshmallows. 

Camping lantern

Carry a portable camping lantern to help you stay safe in the dark. Many often double up as bug repellants are useful to keep the swarm of mosquitoes away. 

Camping stove & fuel

As long as you are planning to cook your own camping meals and not survive just on cold cuts, then you absolutely need to pack a camping stove & fuel. And you never know, when you might have night cravings for instant noodles or mac n cheese or hot water in the middle of a cold night!

Camping utensils – Cooking & dining

Carry a set of basic cooking & dining utensils like a skillet, dutch ovens, plates, tumblers, flatware, grill, & tongs to prepare your meal out in the open. 

Cooler

A cooler will keep your beer cold and the food frozen. This is a camping essential to keep your perishables safe and increase their shelf life. 

Trash bag

When we go out into nature, we always practice ‘Leave no trace’. Make sure that you carry a trash bag so that all plastics, paper, & organic waste can be easily disposed of and you leave the natural areas as pristine and clean as you found them.

For skiing near Lake Tahoe

If you plan a winter trip to any of California’s snow destinations, then you can go skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. Here is what you need to take to be prepared for extreme weather and outdoor activities.

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

Ski pants & jackets

A set of ski pants & jackets is made from functional fabric that keeps you warm and dry while you go skiing at Lake Tahoe.

Thermal underwear

Layer thermal underwear under your clothes and ski pants to avoid freezing to death. No matter how tolerant you are to winter and snow, thermal underwear is the best way to stay warm while playing in the snow.

Ski socks

A pair of ski socks are specifically designed to keep you warm and dry as you go skiing. They fit properly inside the ski boots and are longer than normal socks. The wrong ski socks will leave your feet wet, cold, and sore feet thereby ruining the fun of skiing.

Winter hats/beanies

Pack a cozy winter hat or beanie to stay outdoors in the freezing weather and enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, or playing in the snow.

Waterproof gloves

A pair of waterproof ski gloves will keep your hands toasty warm and have enough grip to grasp the skis well. They have enough dexterity for winter activities such as snowmobiling, snowboarding, and ice climbing. 

For road tripping in the redwood forests 

One of the best ways to explore California is to go on road trips. You can take a road trip along the coast and through the giant redwood trees along the Northern Cali coast. We suggest packing road trip essentials to make your time on the road more enjoyable. Pack these items and you will thank us for it later.

Car Insurance Policy

Not only is having a car insurance policy essential from a legal perspective but having a good policy might save you money and come to your aid in case of a roadside emergency.

GPS or road maps

There is little to zero cell phone range at many natural attractions in California. And that’s why we always recommend carrying a separate GPS while hiking through dense woods or going off-roading. You definitely don’t want to get lost in the unknown terrain. If you prefer the old route, then carry road maps for the trip.

Roadside Emergency Kit

While going on any road trip, it is important to carry a well-equipped roadside emergency kit. You can modify the kit according to your needs but have a few essentials including a rope, coolant, motor oil, first aid kit, blanket, snacks, etc as a must.

Road trip games

For families and those traveling with kids, carry along a bunch of road trip games to while away the hours. While the list of road trip games is endless, some of our favorites include I Spy, Scavenger Hunt, etc.

USB drive with songs

A killer soundtrack can break the monotonousness of driving and alleviate any road trip. Open roads, clean air, beautiful scenery, and your favorite songs are all that you need to have a memorable California road trip. We love digital downloads and make a mix or playlist of our favorites on a USB drive that is compatible with most of the cars.

Packing essentials and luggage for your California trip 

Carry on size bags, personal items, anti-theft backpacks, and packing cubes. These items are essential to organizing your stuff and carrying a compact bag. Here is our recommendation for favorite travel gear.

Packing Cubes

We are huge packing cube fans. It is the single most important gear that keeps our clothes and travel accessories organized as well as easily accessible. Packing cubes allows us to pack for all 4 of us in a single bag and is an important packing essential.

Crossbody bag

Keep all of your essentials including hand sanitizers, travel documents, wipes, chargers, water bottles, etc handy and easily accessible by carrying a crossbody bag on your trip.

Anti-theft backpack

We love anti-theft backpacks to keep all our belongings safe. These come with many hidden pockets and compartments plus have safety features such as steel mesh for anti-cut features and lockable zips., Anti-theft backpack keep your important items including passports, tickets, other travel documents, gadgets, wallets, cash, cards, etc. safe

RFID Wallet

While the threat of data skimming and identity theft is more imminent than ever, carrying an RFID blocking wallet will make sure that your digital data and cards are safe during your trip. 

Cosmetics / Makeup / Toiletry Bag

Keep all essentials including cosmetics, eye and face makeup, and toiletries together in a separate bag. The small pouches are perfect for travel-sized items and makeup jars and brushes. 

What to pack for California with kids 

Traveling with kids is a different ball game altogether. If you have got kids – whether babies or teens – you need to pack a few items to keep them occupied in flights, on the road, and while exploring the city and national parks. Here is what you should pack for a California trip with the kids.

Beach toys

We love to carry some beach toys for the kids including sand buckets, rakes, shovels, beach balls, etc so that they can play on the sand to their heart’s content. We also love getting in the sand to build sandcastles with them. 

Kids camera

We love giving our kid’s separate camera as it helps them learn about photography and take their own pictures of attractions. It works as well as any other travel toy to keep them distracted when needed. 

Hiking carrier

California is a hiker’s paradise and everyone visiting the state should go on at least one hike to experience the state’s stunning landscapes. For those traveling with a baby or toddler, carry a hiking carrier to enjoy the outdoors with your kids. 

Wipes & Diapers

If your kids are still not potty-trained, carry enough wipes and diapers to last through the trip. And, this is important – remember to change them more frequently than you would at home. Nothing like a diaper blowout to spoil your trip and mess with your planning!

Travel toys

We always recommend carrying lightweight, safe, portable travel toys for your kids. It will keep them entertained during long flights and in wait lines for attractions. Having a variety of travel toys allows us to enjoy the trip as much as the kids.

That’s it. We hope you like our list of what to pack for California for all types of trips. Did we miss out on an essential item? Let us know in the comments.

24 Awesome Stops on Olympic Peninsula Loop Road Trip

by
Ruby Beach, Washington

This article originally appeared in PCH1 Road Trip: Pacific Coast Highway and Travel Guide and has been republished with permission.

Planning an Olympic National Park road trip or a drive from Port Angeles to Forks along Highway 101? Find the best things to do, cities to visit, and the ultimate Olympic peninsula Itinerary in our Olympic Peninsula road trip planner. You might also like our post on Best Places to Visit in Washington State. 

The Olympic Peninsula Loop Drive in Washington is one of the most scenic drives along the West Coast. The drive through dense evergreen forests that are as tall as California’s redwoods and along wild coastal bluffs is very romantic and at 330 miles, deceptively small. While the drive seems doable in a day or two, you need a minimum of 3 to 5 days to explore everything that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer. 

The Olympic Peninsula is located across Puget Sound from Seattle and remained unexplored almost till the 20th century. Even now while Highway 101 loops around the peninsula, there are no roads in the interior. This large region of old-growth forests and snow-capped Olympic mountain ranges are protected from development by the Olympic National Park. 

Olympic National Park is one of the three national parks surrounding Seattle and is popular for its temperate rainforests, hot springs, the rocky volcanic coastline, and abundant wildlife. The peaks of the Olympic Mountain ranges are visible from the top of the Space Needle and making the drive from Seattle to Olympic National Park is almost an obligation. 

For a long time, Mount Rainier was the most popular national park in Washington but then the spotlight shifted to the Olympic Mountains. Visitors were delighted to discover this hidden gem and today the national park is a primary reason to visit the Olympic Peninsula. Olympic National Park is a unique and incredibly diverse environment. Nowhere else will you find a combination of beautiful beaches, snow-covered mountain peaks, and moss-covered Sitka spruce and hemlock forests in the same park.

However, there is much more to do on the Olympic Peninsula beyond the national park. Visitors can explore the coastal seaport cities of Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Fork. They can explore fascinating formations along the coast and find secluded beaches. They can see historic lighthouses and the beautiful Washington State Capitol at Olympia. Here is our epic road trip guide to this part of the Pacific Northwest. 

Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Planner

In this planner, we have mentioned the essential stops along the road along with things to do at each stop. You can complete the trip in either clockwise or counterclockwise direction. 

To begin this road trip, drive from Seattle to Olympia and then take Highway 101 either towards Aberdeen in the west or to Port Angeles in the north. In this post, we consider the loop trip in a clockwise direction starting with Aberdeen. 

Stop #1: Seattle

Seattle is the best place to begin your Olympic Peninsula road trip itinerary for multiple reasons. For visitors coming out of Washington, Seattle is the easiest city to fly into. Besides, you can’t really visit Washington without experiencing Seattle’s urban attractions. We suggest spending a day or two in Seattle before renting a car for your road trip around the Olympic Peninsula. 

Start your visit to the city at the famous Seattle Center. It has the top-visited tourist attractions in Seattle including the Space Needle, the Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the Museum of Pop Culture. Take the elevator to the top of the space needle to see panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountains. Then see the beautiful blown glass artwork by Dale Chihuly at the Chihuly Garden and Glass. Visit the museum of pop culture to know pop trivia, see movie props, costumes, and more. 

Other must-visit attractions in Seattle include the Pike Place Market – where the first Starbucks opened, the Chinatown International District, and Pioneer Square – where Seattle was first founded. To read more about everything that Seattle has to offer, read our post on the Best Things to do in Seattle.

Stop #2: Tacoma

From Seattle, head your way down to Tacoma Tacoma is also famous for its cultural attractions including museums and historic places. See the Museum of Glass and take a walk across the famous Bridge of Glass that connects the museum to downtown Tacoma. The spirit also has artwork by Dale Chihuly. 

Another great place to visit is the Washington State History Museum where you can see Native American artwork, a model railroad, and Lewis and Clark expedition. Tacoma is also famous for its parks and gardens. The Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium is a great place to visit for families. If you love American cars, then you should definitely visit the LeMay Car Museum. Then drive down to the state capital of Olympia. 

Washington State History Museum in dowtown Tacoma
Washington State History Museum in dowtown Tacoma

Stop #3: Olympia

Olympia, located on the Puget Sound, is the capital of Washington. If you love to check out state capitols on road trips just like us, then you should definitely visit the Washington State Capitol in Olympia. The building is located on a beautiful campus beside the Capitol Lake. The grounds are beautiful year-round and are a popular location for photoshoots in Olympia. The historic building has beautiful architecture and is built from marble from five counties. The Tiffany chandeliers inside the building are beautiful. 

Besides the capital building, Olympia also has many other attractions and is worth spending a day. Take a stroll along the waterfront Percival Landing Park. Here you will find beautiful sculptures and get to watch the boats on the water. Go hiking at the brewery park at Tumwater Falls. Families love to visit the Hands-on Children’s Museum which has a great variety of themed activities and science galleries. 

Washington State Capitol in Olympia
Washington State Capitol in Olympia

Stop #4: Aberdeen

From Olympia, drive west towards Aberdeen on Highway 101. Its small-town charm makes Aberdeen amazing to visit. The city is often called the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula. But the city’s claim to fame and history is through music. 

If you love pop trivia and rock bands, then you’re going to fall in love with Aberdeen. The city is called the birthplace of the Grunge genre of rock music. Nirvana band members Kurt Cobain and Kurt Novoselic were from Aberdeen. In fact, you can see Kurt Cobain’s home, visit the Kurt Cobain Under the Bridge Memorial Park, Young Street Bridge which has Nirvana related graffiti and was mentioned in the song ‘Something in the Way’, and take the Kurt Cobain Walking Tour conducted by the Museum of History. The town’s official welcome sign also says ‘Come as you are’ as a tribute to the band members. 

Other things to see in Aberdeen include seeing the Aberdeen Arts Center and the History Museum. You can also go hiking at the Morrison Riverfront Park or near Lake Aberdeen. 

Optional: Westport

Then you can take the detour to Westport on the Pacific Coast. Westport is home to the tallest lighthouse in Washington state, the Grays Harbor Lighthouse. You can reach the lighthouse by hiking the two and a half-mile long Westport Light Trail (the Dunes trail). You can climb all the way to the top of the lighthouse for a nominal $5 entry fee to see amazing views along the Pacific Coast. The spiral staircase has 135 steps and is a great exercise. 

Another great place to visit in the small coastal town is the Westport Maritime Museum. The museum is located in the historic Coast Guard Station and has amazing exhibits including whale skeletons. The Westport observation door has a panoramic 360-degree view of the area. Other activities in Westport include beachcombing, fishing, people watching at the marina, and taking whale-watching cruises. 

The Grays Harbor Lighthouse in Westport
The Grays Harbor Lighthouse in Westport

Stop #5: Lake Quinault

Then drive back to Highway 101 and visit Lake Quinault. The lake is located to the south of Olympic National Park and is a great outdoor attraction. The area surrounding the lake is known for its rainforest and giant Sitka spruce and cedar trees. Some of the largest trees in the world are found here including the largest Sitka spruce, the largest western cedar, the largest mountain hemlock, and the largest Douglas fir. 

The best way to experience the rainforest is on the loop drive. The 31 miles drive circles around the lake, passes by the Quinault River, and even enters the Olympic National Park. On the way you will see beautiful waterfalls and numerous trailheads. Some stretches of the road are unpaved and suitable only for 4WD vehicles. 

Another must visit attraction is the historic Lake Quinault Lodge. Merriman falls on the loop drive is also worth the visit. Visitors often see the Roosevelt elks near Lake Quinault. The lake is popular for hiking, boating, camping, and other activities. The lake has a variety of fish including chinook salmon and a variety of trouts and fishing in the lake is quite popular. 

Lake Quinault in Washington
Lake Quinault in Washington

Stop #6: Kalaloch Beach

Kalaloch Beach is a hidden gem along the Western Coast of Washington. Located in Olympic National Park, the best beach here can be accessed by hiking the Kalaloch Beach Trail 4. The beach has fascinating rock formations and is a great place to visit for beachcombers. You can find shell, driftwood, and more at the beach. At low tide, you can also spot several tide pool creatures including sea anemones, barnacles, and mussels. Nearby Kalaloch Lodge is a great place to stay for the night. From the beach you can also spot the decommissioned Destruction Island Lighthouse.

Tree of Life in Kalaloch Beach
Tree of Life in Kalaloch Beach

Stop #7: Ruby Beach

Ruby Beach, also part of Olympic National Park, is located along Highway 101 south of the small town of Forks. The rocky beach has beautiful sea stack formations and is very photogenic. To reach the beach visitors can hike a 1.4 miles long loop trail. The trail is kid friendly and good for families. On the beach you can find driftwood, shells, and colorful pebbles. If you visit at low tide, you can also find tide pools at Ruby Beach and spot sea anemones, crabs, barnacles, and starfish. The beach is especially breathtaking just before or after sunset and during winter when a thick fog blankets the area. 

Ruby Beach, Washington
Ruby Beach, Washington

Stop #8: Forks

Forks is one of the best places in all of the Olympic Peninsula to experience the mystical beauty of this region. The town was settled around the wood logging industry and visitors can experience life during that time at the Forks Timber Museum. Another unique attraction is John’s Beachcombing Museum. This private collection of the items that washed up on the beaches of Washington is diverse and fascinating. 

The rivers surrounding the city are full of salmon and steelhead trout and are a delight for those who love fishing. In recent times, Forks is most well known as the setting for the Twilight series. The city is as charming as it sounds in the series and a Twilight walking tour to see many locales mentioned in the books is a must for fans. 

Bridge over Calawah River in Forks, Washington
Bridge over Calawah River in Forks, Washington

Stop #9: Hoh Rainforest

Hoh Rainforest is the place where legends are made. The moss covered trees in this rainforest grow dense and tall with some giants towering at 300 feet. The sunlight can barely penetrate through the canopy of the evergreen trees. The air in the rainforest is always humid, foggy, and misty. This unique set of climatic conditions have led to the Hoh Rainforest being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The area gets over 14 ft of rain a year and is one of the rainiest places in the country. Trees like the Sitka Spruce and the Western Hemlock grow abundantly in the rainforest. Must visit places inside the Hoh Rainforest include the Visitor Centre, Hall of Mosses Trail, and the Spruce Nature Trail. Inside the forest, visitors can see the Roosevelt Elk and the banana slugs that can grow upto 10 inches long.

Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park, Washington
Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park, Washington

Optional: La Push Beaches

After seeing the charming town of Forks and the Hoh Rainforest, you can directly visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs in Olympic National Park or take a detour towards the 3 beaches of La Push. The beaches are named First Beach, Second Beach, and Third Beach. 

First Beach is easily accessible, hence crowded, while Third Beach needs a 2.5 mile long hike through forests of sitka spruce, cedars, and hemlocks. Second Beach and Third Beach are both popular camping destinations because of fewer crowds. All the beaches are excellent for beachcombing for driftwood and spotting wildlife including sea otters, whales, eagles, deer, etc. 

Also Read: Best Beaches to Camp in the USA

La Push Beach, Washington
La Push Beach, Washington

Optional: Rialto Beach

Rialto Beach is located near Forks and is known for its stunning rock formations. This is Rocky Beach also has drift logs, violent waves, and views of islands off the coast including Tatoosh Island and Mushroom Rock.The beach is a part of Olympic National Park and requires the National Park pass to visit the beach. It is located adjacent to the Mora campground. Hikers can go on the two mile one way trail to the Hole-in-the-Wall arch formation. The trail is also good to view tide pool creatures. 

Rialto Beach
Rialto Beach

Optional: Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery on the Olympic Peninsula is the Northwesternmost point of Mainland US. Cape Flattery is a beautiful, wild area where tall trees and rain forests grow directly on water’s edge on the sandstone cliffs. Even the sea stacks have vegetation at Cape Flattery. Cape Flattery is located on the Makah Reservation. 

Visitors can hike a 0.7 mi one way trail from the parking lot to the end of the trail. Along the way, you will find several observation spots perched high on the cliffs and the Pacific Ocean will be at least 40 to 60 ft below you. The trail is family friendly and we highly recommend it. After all, how often can you say that you have visited the northwestern most point of the country?!

Cape Flattery, Washington
Cape Flattery, Washington

Optional: Neah Bay

Neah Bay is located directly across the US Canada border in the Olympic Peninsula on one side of Cape Flattery. It is the home of the Makah indigenous people and located on the Makah Indian Reservation. The coastline surrounding the Rialto Beach, Cape Flattery, Neah Bay, and Shi Shi Beach is one of the most remote and stunning coastlines in the world. 

While Neah Bay has many outdoor activities like wildlife watching, tide pooling, fishing, hiking, and kayaking, it is also an excellent place to understand the Makah Indian culture and traditions. Neah Bay has a museum where you can see exhibits about the tribal ceremonies, excavated historical artifacts, and native artwork. 

Neah Bay, Washington
Neah Bay, Washington

Optional: Shi Shi Beach

The remote Shi Shi Beach is also located on the Makah Reservation and is spectacular at sunset. To reach the beach, drive along the Cape Flattery road and park at the Shi Shi Beach trailhead. You will need to hike at least 2 to 2.5 miles through the forest to reach the beach. 

The trail is not well maintained and frequently muddy but well worth the adventure. Once you reach the beach you will see amazing sea stacks right near the shore. The beach also has many tide pools which are fun for the kids. Visitors can camp anywhere on the beach and this is one of the best places for wilderness camping on the West Coast.

Shi Shi Beach, Washington
Shi Shi Beach, Washington

Stop #10: Sol Duc Hot Springs

Olympic National Park has several natural hot mineral pools located in the northern part and the easiest way to see one is to visit the Sol Duc Valley. Sol Duc literally means magic waters in the native Quileute language. The Olympic Hot Springs Trail is 10.4 miles one way and recommended only for backpackers or bikers. If you do not want to go on the strenuous hike to soak in the hot springs, then you can also stay at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort located within the National Park. The resort has three hot springs soaking pools and is perfect for a relaxing stay. Park visitors can also hike to the Sol Duc Falls. 

Hall of Mosses Olympic National Park
Hall of Mosses Olympic National Park

Stop #11: Lake Crescent

The stunning blue 624 ft deep Lake Crescent is a highlight of Olympic National Park and a must visit on an Olympic peninsula road trip. The lake is located along route 101 and is easily accessible. The lake has very clear waters and is very photogenic.The lake has very clear waters and is very photogenic. Lake Crescent was carved by glaciers during the last Ice Age hundreds of thousands of years ago. Early in the 20th century, before the construction of highways, ferries and steamboats were used to transport people and goods on Lake Crescent. Now the lake is a premier tourist destination on the Olympic Peninsula. 

There are several trails around Lake Crescent and that climb the mountains and go through forests. Some of the most popular ones are Marymere Falls hike, Spruce Railroad hike, and Pyramid Mountain hike. There are also many picnic areas located around the lakeshore and this is a great place to spend a day out in nature. Water activities on the lake include kayaking, sailing, and paddle boarding. Visitors can camp near Lake Crescent at the Fairholme Campground or stay at the Lake Crescent Lodge. 

Wooden old pier at Lake Crescent
Wooden old pier at Lake Crescent

Stop #12: Port Angeles

Port Angeles is considered the gateway to Olympic National Park in Washington. Most attractions within the park including Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent are easily accessible from Port Angeles, making it a perfect place to base your stay on the northern Olympic peninsula. Port Angeles is also a great place to go on whale watching tours and excursions. For a unique international day trip, consider taking the ferry across the border to Victoria in British Columbia. 

Even though it’s an outdoor destination, Port Angeles also has many museums. Art lovers should visit the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center which is located in a historic building. Families love to visit the Feiro Marine Life Center where kids can touch type pool creatures. The city also has many great restaurants, wineries, and boutique stores. The Olympic Game Farm is a great place to see bears, deers, and llamas on a drive through safari.

An Elk Near Elwha River
An Elk Near Elwha River in Port Angeles

Stop #13: Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Ridge is the gateway to the mountains in Olympic National Park. It can be easily reached via a 17-mile scenic road from Port Angeles. Located at an altitude of 5242 feet, Hurricane Ridge is accessible year round and is one of the most popular areas to visit inside the park. In some water it is popular for hiking and biking whereas in winter it is famous for snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and snowboarding. The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit and see exhibits about the Olympic mountains and their wildlife. 

Hurricane Ridge Olympic National Park Washington
Hurricane Ridge Olympic National Park Washington

Stop #14: Dungeness Spit

Inside Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, you will find the Dungeness Spit, which is the longest natural sand spit in the country. The spit is 6.8 miles long and amazing to walk on at low tide. Visitors can walk 11 miles to the very end of this narrow strip of land and explore treasures such as seashells, pebbles, and driftwood. The hike will also take you to the New Dungeness Lighthouse, which is located on the spit. 

But there are many other things to do inside the National Wildlife Refuge besides the Dungeness sand spit. The refuge cup prices of areas of the Dungeness Harbor and Bay as well as the Graveyard Spit. Visitors can hike through lush green forests, spot wildlife and marine life, as well as bird watch for shorebirds and seabirds. The refuge is also fascinating to visit for photographers and beach lovers. 

Dungeness Spit, Washington
Dungeness Spit, Washington

Stop #15: Sequim

Sequim, located on the top of the Olympic Peninsula, is famous for its lavender fields. In fact, no other country has lavender farms that can rival those of Sequim, except for France. There are several lavender farms in and around the town where visitors can pick their own lavender, purchase lavender products, and have a picnic. The Farms look magnificent during the blooming season and are one of the best places to visit on the West Coast. 

Other popular attractions in Seagram include the Olympic Game Farm where kids can see animals including buffaloes, bears, yaks, llamas, and cougars on a drive-thru safari and Sequim Bay State Park which is great for camping and hiking. The town also has many art galleries, museums, and boutique stores and is perfect to spend a relaxing day. 

Lavender field in Sequim,Washington
Lavender field in Sequim,Washington

Stop #16: Port Townsend

Port Townsend is famous for its quintessential small town charm and Victorian architecture. In the Historic Downtown District, visitors can see impressive and ornate Victorians such as the Jefferson County Courthouse as well as residential mansions. Walking in the downtown area is a fun activity. There are many unique shops and boutique stores such as the Whistle Stop Toys and Abracadabra as well as art galleries. As a book lover, The Writers’ Workshoppe was on the top of my list and it didn’t disappoint. 

Port Townsend also has great museums. The Aero Museum is a cool place for aviation enthusiasts. Art lovers will love the Jefferson Museum of Art and History that is housed inside the historic city hall. Port Townsend also has a rich naval history which you can experience at the Northwest Maritime Center. The waterfront Chetzemoka Park is a great place to take a stroll. 

Families and kids love to visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center located inside Fort Worden State Park. Here you can listen to orcas talking to each other offshore via earphones and touch tide pool creatures in a touch tank. There are many other things to do at the State Park as well including seeing the bunkers and batteries of Fort Walton and walking through its underground tunnels. The point Wilson Lighthouse is also located inside the park and is very photogenic. 

After Port Townsend, you have two options. You can either take Highway 101 south to Olympia or take the road through Bremerton. If you have less time you can even take the ferry from Bainbridge Island or Bremerton to Seattle. We recommend the latter options, as you can avoid going all the way down to Olympia and Tacoma plus enjoy the experience of taking a ferry across the Puget Sound. Cars are allowed on the ferries, making them a perfect option to complete the road trip. 

Fort Worden State Park in Port Townsend
Fort Worden State Park in Port Townsend

Stop #17: Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island is located on Puget Sound across Seattle. The island can be easily accessed via the Seattle Bainbridge Island Ferry; we recommend taking this ferry back to Seattle. There are many free attractions on the island. The Bainbridge Art Museum is free to visit and represents many Pacific Northwest artists. The History Museum is located in a historic schoolhouse and has great information about the island’s past. The Eagle Harbor Waterfront Trail takes visitors past most of the town’s attractions. Bainbridge Island also has many great restaurants and cafes located near the ferry terminal and is a great place to stop on your way back to Seattle. 

Bainbridge Island Puget Sound, Washington
Bainbridge Island Puget Sound, Washington

Stop #18: Bremerton

Located on the Kitsap Peninsula in Puget Sound, Bremerton is an excellent destination to conclude your Olympic Peninsula road trip. The city is most famous for being home to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and naval museums. Maritime and navy enthusiasts should visit the USS Turner Joy Ship Museum and the Puget Sound Navy Museum. Architecture lovers should see the striking Manette Bridge which connects Bremerton and Manette. The city also has a puppet museum which is fun to visit for kids. 

Olympic Mountains as seen From Puget Sound in Bremerton Washington
Olympic Mountains as seen From Puget Sound in Bremerton Washington

We hope you liked our post on the Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary. Did we miss out on any must-visit attractions in the Olympic peninsula? Let us know in the comments.

30 Best Diaper Backpacks for Travel

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Planning a road trip or flight with the kids and looking for the best diaper bag backpack for travel? Explore our recommendations for the best backpack style diaper bags that make traveling with kids easy and convenient. You might also like our post of The Best Baby Travel Gear for Parents who like to Travel. 

We have been on several trips with our 2 kids while they were 2 under 3 and have used our backpack diaper bag extensively at airports, changing the kids on the road, in restaurants, and at national park visitor centers. Now our eldest is a preschooler and potty trained but we still use the diaper bag backpacks for our daughter who is 1.5 years old and will still be using diapers for quite some time.

Also Read: Best Travel jackets for Women

I love backpack style diaper bags for multiple reasons – they are great to carry around, they go conveniently on your back leaving the hands free to manage the kids or push a stroller, and many of them are sleeker and fit more stuff than a tote style diaper bag. I especially love diaper bags that have pockets for all your baby essentials including baby bottles, wipes, baby food, and more. Some even have pockets for keys, credit cards, and other essentials making it double up as a purse. 

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Best Backpack Diaper Bag for Travel

Gone are the days when moms and dads had to carry boring, cartoon print diaper bags. Nowadays diaper bags are super trendy and actually look like fashionable purses or everyday carry (EDC) bags. They have multiple pockets and come with built-in organizers that keep all your things organized and easily accessible for travel. Here are our recommendations for the best travel backpack diaper bag:

RUVALINO Backpack Diaper Bag

This is one of my favorite diaper backpacks for travel. It is stylish, super convenient to carry, and has plenty of pockets. The main compartment is roomy enough to carry multiple changes of clothes, toys, etc while the front compartment has pockets for baby bottles and food. There is an easy pocket on the front which is good for keeping car keys, home keys, credit cards, licenses, and other IDs. The bag comes in multiple colors and is very stylish for trendy moms out there. Multiple handles ensure multiple ways of carrying from a tote, sling bag, to a backpack diaper bag. 

Mokaloo Waterproof Travel Diaper Backpack

I especially love the wide zip on this baby diaper backpack which makes it easy to reach for things. The bag has many pockets and organizing even the tiniest of baby items is quite easy. With about ten pockets and a USB charging port, this backpack is the best mini home for the baby travel needs. The diaper bag is spacious that you can keep nappies, clothes, foods, toys in the different compartments without anything getting soiled. The backpack is made of durable and waterproof material so there is no need to worry about it getting torn during travel. The diaper backpack also doubles up as a handbag, making it your perfect shopping companion.

Also Read: Best Travel Gifts for Kids who travel

Chuntianli Diaper backpack

For those who prefer backpack straps but still want their diaper bag to look like a purse, then this is a great option. The backpack comes with a removable pad that can be used as a changing mat for your baby. It also has three mesh pockets so you can store baby bottles and other miscellaneous stuff. The backpack is water-resistant and has a polyester interior, which makes it is tear-proof and durable. The compartments of this backpack are spacious, so you can keep all the essentials that a baby needs.

Miss Fong Leather Diaper Backpack

The leather baby travel backpack diaper bag by Miss Fong is uber chic and trendy. You can easily use it as a backpack purse for your own needs even when you are not traveling with the baby. The backpack is made up of Pu leather as well as waterproof nylon, and it comes with a matching washable changing pad. The backpack is very functional, storing clothes, diapers, food, bottles, and other stuff is a lot easier than most bags and the items remain in place. The diaper backpack has insulated pockets to keep hot/cold feeding bottles at the desired temperature and a partition pocket for small items like pacifiers and rash creams.

HaloVa stylish baby diaper backpack

When it comes to style, fashion, and function no diaper bag can beat the HaloVa baby diaper backpack. It is a large backpack with numerous pockets. The backpack is constructed in durable material and the design ensures that there is a space for everything. It comes with separate pockets for baby wipes, tissues, pacifiers, etc. The backpack has aluminum foil pockets that keep the formula/milk bottle warm. The backpack is made up of oxford fabric, which means the backpack is resistant to tears as well as waterproof.

BabyX Diaper Backpack

While it is similar in design to many other diaper backpacks, the BabyX has the advantage of being very competitively priced. The best part of this backpack is that the weight distribution is pretty even and carrying a heavy backpack will not harm your shoulders. Made of durable oxford fabric, this backpack is waterproof as well as tear-resistant. It also a dual slider zipper. The extra zip on the bag allows easy access to essentials at the bottom of the bag. It is a multi-pocket backpack that allows you to keep everything in place. The backpack also comes with a lifetime guarantee.

Hafmall Diaper Backpack

This baby backpack for travel comes in trendy color block designs and unique patterns like a stylish chevron. It is water and tear-resistant backpack which comes with strong zippers. In other words, it is going to last you for years. The backpack has about 13 pockets and two insulated pockets – which is exactly what traveling moms need. The backpack has a pocket that is specifically designed for wet things. This backpack can be used as a tote as well as a handbag. It comes with clips that will help you in attaching it to the stroller.

BAMOMBY Baby Diaper Backpack

I especially love this bag’s studded texture and gold zips. This backpack comes with a changing pad and can hold everything that a baby needs. It also holds an insulated pocket for keeping hot and cold drinks. This backpack is made up of oxford as well as polyester, which means it is water and tear-proof. It comes with huge compartments for keeping all the baby items in place, and the weight gets distributed evenly. The backpack is available in neutral colors and can be carried around everywhere like a regular bag or a purse.

Beaulyn Diaper Bag

Another diaper backpack that looks more like a purse or a tote but in stylish leather design! This backpack has everything that you need including an insulated bottle holder, a stroller strap, a shoulder strap as well as a changing pad. It has got about 11 pockets, out of which six are external. It also has waterproof pocket storage and an anti theft mobile pocket. I especially love this secure pocket and use it for my credit cards, id, and other things as well. The backpack is available in many pleasing colors. Lastly, this backpack is made up of water-resistant leather and should last you well.

Ticent Tote Diaper Backpack

I really like how sleek this tote style diaper backpack is. The backpack’s large-sized pockets are handy for keeping everything in place and still have a slim backpack. It can easily fit all that a baby needs while traveling from clothes to diapers to toys. It is available in seven colors and can be easily wiped clean, so you don’t have to get worried about it getting dirty during travel. The backpack is designed in such a manner that it has wide openings so that everything is accessible. The shoulder straps distribute the weight easily to your waist, so you don’t end up getting a backache.

Cosyland Diaper Backpack

Another good option for a diaper backpack with multiple pockets which means all your baby’s necessities are in one place. The backpack has wide and adjustable shoulder straps, so you are not going to face any discomfort. The backpack has a USB charging port and a separately designed case for keeping the baby’s bottles. The backpack is available in three basic colors and is insulated. This backpack is ideal for shopping and travel trips with the baby.

SUNPOW Diaper Backpack

I especially love the leathery top panel on this diaper bag. The backpack comes with a whopping 18 pockets so that you can store literally everything in this bag. The pocket makes it easy to organize and traveling with the baby is just that much more manageable. It also comes with insulated bottle pockets and USB charging port, which will help you in charging your phone on the go. It comes with stroller straps and a belt that will keep the backpack in place. The backpack also has a zipper and removable compartment, which, if taken out, provides a lot of extra space.

Maman Quilt Diaper Bag

This bag is made of a puffer quilt material which looks really stylish and is convenient. It is available in four unique colors – I especially love the blue and green versions. The backpack comes with a gathered pocket which is to be used for keeping wet wipes and diapers safely tucked in. It is made up of wipe clean material, so you don’t have to worry about your bag getting dirty while on the move. The backpack has adjustable straps and buckles that can be used to hang the bag on any stroller. 

KILAMAL travel backpack for kids

The white, cream and brown color block design version looks ultra-chic. This cute backpack is also functional so you are instantly going to fall in love with it. It is made up of vegan leather and has a lot of space, so moms can easily keep everything in place. The stitching of this backpack is very strong and durable, and so are the zippers. The backpack can be cleaned easily, so you don’t have to worry about spills and sticky foods. It can easily be used as a shoulder bag, making it convenient on trains and planes.

BabbleRoo Back Backpack

How cute is the matching pacifier case on this baby diaper backpack?! Moreover, it comes with a foldable machine-washable changing pad. It doesn’t have too many pockets, but the seven pockets are smartly so that you can store everything in place. You can also carry your 15 inches laptop in this bag. What else do you need? It is made up of water-resistant material and tear-proof fabric. It comes with an added back panel, which will distribute the weight equally across both shoulders.

Itzy Ritzy Baby Diaper Backpack

An expensive but durable baby diaper backpack option. It is made up of vegan leather and is available in seven cool colors. It comes with 17 pockets! Which translates into you carrying your world in this backpack! It also has additional baby bottle pockets. The backpack comes with a diaper changing pad and stroller coordinated clips. The backpack has extra cushioning at the backside, which provides comfort while carrying. The lower side of the backpack has a rubber that protects the bag from all the dirt and grime when placing it on floors or pavements.

Skip Hop Diaper Backpack

This is the perfect diaper backpack for travel for those who are fans of Skip Hop brand for kids. This is a luxurious looking backpack and is available in four earthy colors. The best part about this backpack is it comes with multiple pockets, and it is made of vegan leather, which can be wiped clean. The backpack has an adjustable strap as well as a stroller strap so that you can take it anywhere without any discomfort. The pockets will store all the essential items, which means you don’t have to worry about anything. Lastly, this backpack has a washable changing pad. As always, it is a durable and quality item by Skip Hop.

Sable Diaper Backpack

This is the perfect small, convertible backpack for traveling moms. It can fit almost all of the baby’s needs without making the bag too big or lumpy to carry around. The bag pattern is very cute while the design is comfortable. The inside and outside pockets make it easy to organize the bag and there is a spot for everything. The material makes it easy to get stains out of the bag. The bag color is also gender-neutral making it a perfect gift for baby showers.

Sensyne Multipocket Backpack

This travel diaper backpack by Sensyne has a whooping 9 pockets and a laptop sleeve! And all of these pockets are smart pockets, which means everything is going to stay in its place. You can keep all your dry and wet stuff in different places. It also has a mommy pocket for keeping keys, iPad, and wallet. The backpack is made up of textured fabric and has a convenient USB charging port. You can use this backpack as a handbag, and you can even attach it to the stroller.

Pipi Bear Diaper Backpacks

It is a very stylish and versatile backpack that is available in 5 different colors. The backpack is made up of water-resistant material and oxford cloth, which means it is durable. The backpack has a lot of pockets, which means you can keep all your things in place. It also has an antitheft cell phone pocket. The backpack comes with adjustable shoulder straps that are padded for extra comfort. That means it is not going to hurt your back. It also has dual zippers and stroller straps, making it convenient to carry.

Best unisex travel diaper backpacks

Eddie Bauer Traverse Backpack

This diaper backpack by Eddie Bauer is a great unisex option. It is great for those who like to keep their baby travel essentials organized in a stylish diaper backpack. It has got 11 pockets and two side pockets for keeping baby bottles upright and easily accessible. The bag is spacious and is the answer to all your storage needs. The backpack also comes with a removable changing pad so you can change your baby’s diapers on the go without any hassles. It comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a top handle, and stroller loops making it easy to be carried in multiple ways.

Mancro Baby travel backpack

This is one of the best unisex diaper backpacks for travel. Both moms and dads can easily carry it, and the straps can be adjusted to suit multiple heights. This backpack comes with insulated pockets, which means bottles stay at the same temperature for a long time. You can keep all your baby’s necessities in the bag’s pockets without worrying about the spillage. The zippers of the backpack are heavy metal and the bag has many anti theft properties. It is a very versatile travel diaper backpack and can easily fit on to the stroller and even trolleys at airports.

Bag Nation diaper backpack

While expensive than most other diaper backpacks, this diaper bag from Bag Nation looks more like a rugged hiking backpack than a baby travel bag. This handsfree backpack is made up of twill polyester and has strong zippers. The backpack has about 14 pockets for keeping all your baby’s necessities. This one backpack is going to last you for years because of its thoughtful design. Need more guarantee? It comes with a lifetime warranty! That alone makes it worth the extra price in our opinion.

TETHYS travel diaper backpack

This diaper backpack looks more like a regular college backpack and is made for travel. It has a wide zip at the bag that provides easy access to the main compartment. It comes with insulated pockets for keeping your things safe and dry. It has got about 18 pockets, so you can legit carry all baby essentials including a host of diapers, wipes, formula, baby bottles, food, feeding spoons, bowls, bibs, diaper creams, clothes, and toys. The backpack has an ergonomic design, which means it will not hurt your shoulders. It also has a convenient laptop pocket which is perfect for working moms. All the pockets are easily accessible, which means everything is right there in front of you. This backpack easily turns into a makeshift handbag when you are traveling by yourself.

Meinkind Unisex Travel Backpack

The Mienkind diaper travel backpack is perfect for both moms and dads. It has a large, spacious main compartment that fits all the kids essentials, toys, gadgets and snacks. It is made up of waterproof and tear-proof material and has a sturdy zipper. There is a separate pocket for wet/soiled clothes or food pouches and a separate insulated bottle bag. The design is stylish and trendy – and the bags looks more premium than the affordable price.

Best backpack for travel with a toddler or older kids

The needs of a toddler or preschoolers are quite different than infants. They do not need milk bottles or formula. Both our kids were able to drink from straws and used regular straw bottles when toddlers. They also ate regular food, so I didn’t need to carry as much food or snacks. On the other hand, they need more entertainment options like toys or tablets. For the older age group, I prefer a backpack that is not a regular diaper bag but still has lots of pockets and holds a lot of stuff. Here are our recommendations for the best backpack for travel with kids that can also be used as diaper bags:

Shangri-La Convertible Tote Backpack

This multi-purpose backpack can be converted into a shoulder bag, a backpack, or a handbag. The material of this bag is very strong as it is made from mix leather-cotton-canvas material. The backpack has many compartments and can easily fit a 14-inch laptop, and the sleeve is padded so your laptop will stay protected. It has got front and back side pockets for keeping your toddler essential including a spare set of clothes, a few snacks, kid’s tablets, books, small toys, etc. 

UTO Backpack Purse

This is my go-to purse since a year and a half. I have used it while traveling to India with my kids and couldn’t have been happier. This backpack is made up of soft synthetic leather, and the zippers of the backpack are heavy duty. It has a top handle as well as a shoulder strap plus comes with two back straps. That makes it quite easy to travel on planes and by cars. The structural design of the backpack is amazing. It is fully lined and the stitching is streamlined. It can easily fit a 14-inch laptop as well as basic toddler and preschooler stuff including snacks and water bottles. The backpack is available in so many vibrant colors and easily catches everyone’s eyes.

Kah&Kee Polyester Travel backpack

This backpack is perfect for traveling moms because of its capacity. It comes with a laptop compartment and other compartments for keeping all your and the kid’s stuff in place. It is available in many amazing colors and designs that one of them is sure to catch your eye. The backpack has a back pocket design so you can easily hold things for 2 kids. The many compartments can fit a change of clothes, changing pad, diapers, and wipes, snacks, etc. 

Pincnel Anti-theft travel backpack

This backpack, apart from being anti theft, has durable properties as it is made up of PU leather and has a nylon lining. The backpack has a huge number of pockets making it perfect for commuter moms. The backpack easily fits a Kids Fire tablet or iPad or a 10-inch laptop. The backpack has two adjustable straps and one single strap which can convert this into a handbag. The pockets included are two exterior side pockets, one mobile phone pocket while the main compartment can be used to hold a range of kids essentials during flights and day trips.

Cheruty Women Anti-theft Backpack

This backpack is made up of PU leather and waterproof material. The functioning of this backpack is anti theft, which means you don’t have to worry about your things getting stolen while traveling. It is medium-sized, very functional, and can easily fit a range of essentials to accessories for kids. The backpack has one huge interior zipper pocket which can hold clothes, toys, and food for 2 to 3 kids. Even after that, you will have enough space for keeping an umbrella, water bottles, and other miscellaneous items in the side pockets. The bag can be converted into a tote, making it more flexible to carry.

We hope you liked our post on the best backpack for baby travel and the best backpack for travel with a toddler and older kids. Do not forget to check out some of our other baby and kids’ travel posts to make travel with the littles easier!

Seattle Travel Guide: 3 to 5 Day Itinerary ideas to explore the Emerald City

by
Waterfront Park, Seattle, Washington

Planning a trip to Seattle? Here’s what to see and do if you have anywhere from three to five days in this vibrant city. Explore top attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Find recommendations on where to stay and what to eat in this ultimate Seattle itinerary guide. You might also like our guide on the Best Things to do in Seattle. 

Seattle is famous for 3 things: coffee, rain, and the Space Needle! And when you are in Seattle, expect to get all three. 

The city is the undoubted gem of the Pacific Northwest. The city has a beautiful location in Puget Sound and stunning natural scenery all around. It is a popular cultural and foodie destination. It is the tech hub of the country and rivals the Bay area in ingenious innovations. Whether you are visiting Seattle on your way to Alaska or traveling here for a weekend getaway, Seattle will keep you busy and happy – unless it rains. 

Also Read: Best Things to do in Washington State

Oh yes, the downpour that you keep hearing about is for real. But it’s the same rain that nurtures the surrounding evergreen forest and earns Seattle its nickname of the Emerald City. The city has plenty of outdoor attractions and many national parks within easy reach. You should definitely visit some of them during your visit to Seattle.

Ultimate Seattle Itinerary Ideas

To explore everything that Seattle has to offer at a leisurely pace we recommend spending at least 3 to 5 days in the city. And that’s why in this post we cover a range of itineraries from 3 days in Seattle, Seattle 4 day itinerary, and even a 5 day Seattle itinerary. Wherever we have mentioned optional attractions you can pick and customize your itinerary as per your interests. Explore the best things to do in Seattle based on our recommendations and enjoy your time in the Emerald City.

3 Days in Seattle

If you have 3 days in Seattle then you have a couple of options. You can either spend 2 days in the city and use your last day to explore the outdoors or you can spend all 3 days exploring Seattle’s most popular attractions as well as hidden gems. We have tried to cover both these options in this post. 

Day 1 – Seattle Center, Chihuly Garden & Glass, Space Needle, Museum of Pop Culture, Olympic Sculpture Park

Start your day in Seattle at the Seattle Center. Admire the beautiful blown glass ornaments and artwork at Chihuly Garden and Glass. Then see the 360 views from the top of the Space Needle. See movie props and costumes and experience pop trivia at the Museum of Pop Culture. End your day at the Olympic Sculpture Park by the Elliott Bay waterfront.

Seattle Center

Seattle Center is the primary attraction in the city and must-visit for first-timers. The Seattle Center is home to many of the city’s top attractions. Along with the museums, theaters, and paid attractions, the Seattle Center also has hiking trails, public artwork, children’s play areas, street performers, and food trucks. The Seattle Center is fun for the whole family and makes for a memorable day in the city.

Cityscape in Seattle downtown, Seattle, Washington
Cityscape in Seattle downtown, Seattle, Washington

International Fountain

The International Fountain is a large water fountain designed by Japanese architects for the 1961 World’s Fair. The fountain was renovated in 1995 and is one of the main attractions of the Seattle Center. There is a 12 minutes long light and sound show throughout the day when the fountain shoots water 120 ft up into the air – it is gorgeous to see. 

The surrounding area is also great for people watching. Kids, as well as adults, enjoy getting wet and splashing about in the water during summer. If you have kids, then we recommend bringing along bathing suits so they can enjoy playing in the International Fountain.

Optional: Seattle Children’s Museum

The Seattle Children’s Museum is a great place to take your babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and preteens for a fun interactive day of learning. This is also a great indoor attraction for kids on rainy days. The museum has many play areas and there is a lot of room for open-ended play and exercising creativity. 

The museum has an art station, a theater where kids can dress up in costumes, and a play town. This last one has a play grocery store, a play fire station, a cafe, a post office, and more making it a favorite with kids. They can easily spend three to four hours at the museum playing with the different toys and sections.

Optional: Museum of Pop Culture

The Museum of Pop Culture is one of a kind attraction in Seattle. This is a must for pop culture fans and includes exhibits from popular movies, musicians, and TV shows. Entire sections are dedicated to genres like sci-fi, horror, grunge, etc. The museum also holds traveling exhibitions. Some of the previous and current ones include Minecraft, Pearl Jam, the Tattoo Culture, and the Seattle based music band Nirvana.

Architectural detail of building. MoPOP Museum, Seattle, Washington
Architectural detail of building. MoPOP Museum, Seattle, Washington

The permanent exhibits are equally amazing. In the guitar gallery, you can find guitars belonging to iconic musicians. You can understand how an electric guitar works and hear popular music clips. In the sound lab, you can record your own songs and learn to play drums, keyboards, guitars, and other instruments. In the fantasy section, visitors can see movie props, costumes, and rare artifacts of classics like The Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter films, Lord of the Rings, and The Chronicles of Narnia.

Science fiction fans will love photographs, props, and more from the Star Trek franchise, the Battlestar Galactica TV series, and movies like Back to the future and Men in Black. The exhibition is especially popular with teens and older kids but visitors of all ages will equally enjoy the unique experience of seeing the pop culture artifacts in person.

Optional: Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is an interactive science museum and a great option if you are visiting Seattle with the kids. They have a variety of exhibits about dinosaurs – and seriously who doesn’t love dinosaurs – the Planet Earth, human body and medicine, etc. 

Arches of The Pacific Science Center, Seattle, Washington
Arches of The Pacific Science Center, Seattle, Washington

The butterfly house has many colorful butterflies fluttering all around you. In the IMAX Theater kids can experience stunning movies and documentaries. Inside the Laser Dome at the Pacific Science Center, you can see beautiful laser music shows. The Sonic Boom exhibit outside the center is also amazing. 

Chihuly Garden & Glass

Dale Chihuly is a world-famous glass sculptor, and he was born right here in nearby Tacoma. He now lives in Seattle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass is a museum dedicated to his stunning blown glass artwork. We had previously seen some of his glass work at the Bellagio in Las Vegas but the Seattle Museum is much more vast. Entry to the museum is expensive but worth it. 

Seattle Chihuly Garden and Glass Hully Garden and Glass Hall Exhibithion, Seattle, Washington
Seattle Chihuly Garden and Glass Hully Garden and Glass Hall Exhibithion, Seattle, Washington

The exhibits are inspired by a variety of themes including Native American culture, Navajo textiles and weaving traditions, the marine life of the Pacific Northwest, colorful flowers and plants, chandeliers, Japanese artwork, etc. Some of the sculptures are also located in the outdoor garden and perfectly blend with the surrounding landscape. 

The highlight of Chihuly Garden and Glass is definitely the suspended floating flower sculpture located in the greenhouse. This sculpture is also one of the most Instagrammable spots in Seattle. The museum also has a small cafe and a souvenir shop where you can actually buy small glass sculptures. We recommend keeping aside at least an hour or two to see the entire museum collection. Inside, you will find an incredible array of glass sculptures. 

Space Needle

Needle Space at sunset, Seattle, Washington
Needle Space at sunset, Seattle, Washington

The Space Needle is the most distinguishing landmark of the Seattle skyline. The building was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair which was held in Seattle. The tower has a unique flying saucer-shaped rotating restaurant and observation deck located at a height of 520 ft. Visitors can take an elevator up to the top of the tower and see panoramic views of the area from the deck. 

On a clear day, you can easily see the islands of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, the Cascade Mountains, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle skyline below you. Visiting the Space Needle is pretty high up on any Seattle Bucket List and we would encourage you not to skip this attraction. 

Travel Tip: Entry to both the Space Needle and the Chihuly Garden and Glass is expensive but if you plan to visit both – and we recommend that you do – you can purchase combo tickets which are much cheaper than the individual attractions. 

Totem Pole

Outside the Space Needle on the Broad Street Green, you will find the Williams Memorial Totem Pole. It is erected in the honor of a Native American woodcarver and a talented artist who was unjustly killed by a Seattle police officer in 2010. The totem pole is iconic to the Northwest Coast and dedicated as a public work of art. The pool has beautiful wood carvings of an eagle, a raven, a First Nation woodcarver, and other symbols. It is a very thought-provoking piece of art and a fitting memorial for the artist.

Beyond these attractions, the Seattle Center has many other things to do including the Bill and Melinda Gates Visitor Center, the Pacific Northwest Ballet performances, and the Seattle Center Armory which is a food court with over a dozen restaurants serving various cuisines. We recommend dining here or trying out one of the food trucks at the center between your sightseeing.

Olympic Sculpture Park

And your first day in Seattle at the Olympics Sculpture Park. This park is part of the Seattle Art Museum and is free to enter. Located by the Elliott Bay Waterfront, the park has beautiful views of the city and Puget Sound. You would be surprised to know that it is built over a former train yard. 

But even more beautiful than the views are the stunning sculptures inside the park. You will find sculptures by talented artists such as Richard Sierra and Alexander Calder. The park has a network of trails that you can follow to see all the sculptures. The park also has a vivarium which can be seen by appointment only. This is an excellent place to enjoy the sunset views before heading to one of Seattle’s popular dining spots.

That’s it! You have completed Day 1 of our awesome Seattle itinerary. Now it’s time to go back to the hotel and rest for an equally awesome Day 2 at the city’s other popular attractions.

Day 2 – Pike Place Market, Historic Pioneer Square, Chinatown-International District, Waterfront Park

If you are a foodie then Day 2 in Seattle is for you. Today you will be visiting attractions such as the Pike Place Market and the Chinatown International District. Here you will find many eateries, cafes, and restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Seattle is famous for its fresh seafood and refreshing coffee and on Day 2 you can have both of them. You will also be understanding the history of Seattle in Pioneer Square and taking a stroll by the beautiful Waterfront Park.

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the country. It was established in 1907 and is an iconic attraction. Inside the market, you can find fresh produce, seafood, eateries, grocery stores as well as stores selling books, antiques, and collectibles. The market is spread over 9 acres, 13 buildings, and 6 levels, and navigating it is almost an art form. Here are some of the things you should watch out for while exploring the Pike Place Market.

Fresh produce at Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington
Fresh produce at Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington

Original Starbucks

Of course, you have to visit the first Starbucks store inside the historic market. It is located at 1912 Pike Place and usually has long crowds of tourists waiting for their cup of coffee. This is where Starbucks began in 1971. Everything in the store is original right from the Starbucks sign on the top of the store to the furniture and the counters. Ordering a hot or cold cup of coffee at the counter is sure to give you goosebumps! 

Pike Place Fish Co.

These are the guys that began the famous fish throwing tradition at the market. To save time during peak hours and make sales more efficient, these fishmongers throw fish from the display cases to the sales counter. Once in a while, they may also throw a fish directly to a customer. It is fascinating to watch the whole large fishes fly over the market and should be on the top of your Pike Place bucket list.

Fish at Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington
Fish at Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington

Rachel the Pig

Meet the mascot of the Pike Place Market – Rachel the Pig – located at the corner of Pike Place and Pike Street. This life-size bronze sculpture is actually a piggy bank that weighs over 550 lbs. Visitors from all over the world enjoy stuffing world currencies into the piggy bank. This is also a popular photo opportunity in Seattle

The Gum Wall

This notorious attraction is similar to the Bubblegum Alley of San Luis Obispo. It basically has pieces of gum stuck to the wall. You will find visitors adding their own pieces of gum to the wall but we would not really recommend this for an obvious reason: It’s yucky! Instead, just view the wall from a safe distance, take a photo for the ‘gram, and be done with it!

The Gum Wall, Seattle, Washington
The Gum Wall, Seattle, Washington

Optional: Pike Place Market Food Tour

The market is famous for its dining scene. You can eat popular Seattle dishes such as salmon and chips, chowder soup at Pike Place Chowder, Rachel’s ginger beer, chocolate-covered cherries, piroshki – which is a Russian bun filled with meat or cheese, and more. The best way to visit the most popular eateries without getting lost in the market is by taking a food tour.

Other things to do at the market include the Giant Shoe Store museum on the 4th level, buying comics at the Golden Age Collectibles also on the 4th level, seeing magic tricks at the Market Magic shop, thrifting at the Rummage Hall, buying pots and pans at the first Sur La Table store, etc. The market also has a variety of buskers from acrobats, magicians, musicians, painters, artists, and living statues and is great for people watching. Last but not the least, take a stroll along the Pike Place Market Front and enjoy the waterfront views of Seattle.

Optional: Seattle Aquarium

If you have kids who love fishes and marine life, then take them to see the Seattle Aquarium. The aquarium is conveniently located near the Pike Place Market and is small enough to be easily seen in an hour or two. The aquarium has a variety of exhibits including fish from Puget Sound, marine mammals such as seals and otters, coral reefs, Pacific Northwest shorebirds, etc. But the real highlight of the aquarium is the underwater dome from where you can see marine life from the Puget Sound such as salmon and rockfish. 

Aquarium Seattle and frontview, Seattle, Washington
Aquarium Seattle and frontview, Seattle, Washington

Historic Pioneer Square

Historic Pioneer Square is where Seattle began. This was the original downtown built in 1851 and has many historic buildings in the Romanesque style of urban architecture which was prevalent in the time period. Take a stroll around the square to appreciate the architecture and the historic vibe of the area. 

Admire the beautiful Iron Pergola, which was once the waiting station for a cable car route. The wrought-iron decoration and the Victorian-style architecture make the pergola one of Seattle’s top photo spots. The street lights here are also beautiful. Adjacent to the pergola is the Pioneer Place Park. The park has a bust of the Suquamish chief, Chief Seattle, after whom the city is named. Here are some of the top attractions in Pioneer Square. 

Pioneer square in Seattle, Washington
Pioneer square in Seattle, Washington

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park

The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is the primary attraction of Historic Pioneer Square. It is located in the Cadillac Hotel building. The park actually consists of a free museum that traces the city’s history. It narrates how the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s and the subsequent migration of prospectors to Canada’s Yukon territory shaped the fortunes of Seattle. At the museum, visitors can understand how the Gold Rush was instrumental in making Seattle the city that it is today. The exhibits are informative and very well arranged while the staff is helpful with queries. Expect to spend about an hour to see the film and the exhibits.

Waterfall Garden Park

Located in the center of Pioneer Square, this small garden goes almost unnoticed. It is a charming little garden with a 22-foot artificial waterfall that cascades down the rocks. A patio with tables and chairs overlooks the waterfall. The garden has an interesting history as the birthplace of UPS. The park is constructed in place of the original UPS building where the company began in 1907.  The park also has a memorial dedicated to UPS and the landscape is full of Japanese plants. We recommend visiting this hidden gem of Seattle while in Pioneer Square. 

Optional: Underground Seattle Tour

When Pioneer Square was initially built, the streets were one to two stories below what you see today. When the entire area was rebuilt after the Seattle Fire, the street height was significantly raised to prevent flooding. The old streets were turned into unused passageways of the Seattle Underground. Visitors can tour these streets on a guided tour of the area. You can also participate in ghost tours of this historic neighborhood. 

Other things to see and do in Pioneer Square include the open-air Smith Tower Observatory, the Fire Department Museum, the Tlingit Indian Totem Pole, etc. The neighborhood also has many art galleries, bars, cafes, and restaurants in the renovated buildings and is a great place to spend an afternoon. 

Chinatown-International District

The Chinatown-International District is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Seattle. This area is home to Seattle’s Asian American communities and has unique stores, famous restaurants, and historic landmarks. It started out as Chinatown but grew to comprise Japantown, Little Saigon, Filipinotown, and the Korean community. 

Some of the must-visit attractions in the area include the Historic Chinatown Gate, the Wing Luke Museum which has a great collection of Asian American artifacts, Kobe Terrace Japanese park, the Hing Hay Park, and the vast Japanese grocery store Uwajimaya which has everything from a manga comic book section to a food court. 

The neighborhood is a delight for foodies. You can try noodles, dim sum, pho, and more in this area. To know the best restaurant in the area, check here.

Waterfront Park

Seattle’s Waterfront Park stretches from Pier 57 to Pier 59 and is the perfect place to spend an evening. In the park, you will find benches, lamp posts, viewing platforms, picnic tables, trees, and the Waterfront Fountain sculpture. The park has stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the waterfront. You can see as far as the Magnolia Bluffs and Discovery Park as well as the Olympic mountains. 

Waterfront Park, Seattle, Washington
Waterfront Park, Seattle, Washington

Kids especially love this place as they can see the activity on the water including ferries, sailboats, docked ships, shipping containers, cranes, etc. The waterfront also has coin-operated telescopes to see the islands and marine life in Puget Sound. You can spot seals and islands like Bainbridge Island and Blake Island. 

Optional: Seattle Harbor Cruises or Ferry Rides

You can take a variety of harbor cruises from the Seattle waterfront. The most popular option is the narrated hour-long harbor cruises by Argosy cruises. You can also go on a whale-watching cruise during the migration season or charter a sailboat for the day. Ferries to islands such as the Bainbridge Island in Puget Sound also depart from here. For a cheap option to see the Seattle skyline from the water, take a passenger ferry to West Seattle and back. The skyline looks pretty awesome from the water and is a great way to spend time in Seattle. 

Optional: Seattle Great Wheel

A great option for couples and families is a ride on the Great Seattle Wheel. This Ferris Wheel is located right on the waterfront and during the ride, you have beautiful views of the city skyline and the iconic Space Needle. The individual gondolas are climate controlled, so the wheel is a good attraction even in adverse weather. The Ferris wheel also has a special VIP gondola with push red leather seats and a glass floor, and it is perfect to propose or for a date night. 

The ferris wheel on the waterfront of Seattle, Washington
The ferris wheel on the waterfront of Seattle, Washington

Optional: Seattle Art Museum

The Seattle Art Museum in Downtown is housed in an architecturally stunning building and has a vast collection of Native American, African, and European art. The museum foyer also has interesting sculptures and is beautiful to see. If you love art, then we recommend visiting this museum while in downtown. The 48 feet high Hammering Man sculpture outside the museum is also must-see. 

Optional: Benaroya Hall

The Seattle Symphony performs at the Benaroya Hall and watching the orchestra perform is a great experience. If you love classical music and are planning a visit to Seattle, then purchase the tickets in advance and plan a trip around the performance. The Benaroya Hall also hosts lectures and exhibitions which are worth seeing. 

We hope you enjoy our itinerary for day two in Seattle. We recommend picking one or two paid attractions such as a tour, a museum, or a kid’s attraction and customizing the day as per your interests.

Day 3 – Ballard, Discovery Park, Capitol Hill

Spend your day three in Seattle exploring the often overlooked areas of the city. Visit the Ballard neighborhood and see the Ballard locks in action. Hike along the Magnolia Bluff at Discovery Park and see the lighthouse. End your day exploring the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Take a stroll in Washington Park and dine at the area’s restaurants.

Ballard Locks

A highlight of the Seattle area is the Ballard Locks. Also known as Hiram M Chittenden Locks, these locks were constructed in 1911. Locks are built to facilitate the transport of ships and other watercraft between two water bodies of differing levels. It is not often that visitors get a chance to view locks in action and the Ballard Locks is one of the best places to see them in the country. At the locks, the freshwater of Lake Washington empties into Puget Sound which is 22 ft below. Walkways about the locks allow visitors to see the activity in the canal. 

Ballard locks, Seattle, Washington
Ballard locks, Seattle, Washington

Fish Ladder

A fish ladder was built in 1976 near the locks to allow Salman to migrate from the Puget Sound to the Sammamish River during the spawning season. The spawning season is from June to September and during this time visitors can see the migrating fish through glass windows in one of the weirs of the fish ladder. It is fascinating to see the swimming fish while the sea lions chase and try to catch them. Visitors can see a variety of salmon and other fish of Puget Sound. 

Carl English Jr Botanical Gardens

Also located in the same complex is the Carl English Jr Botanical Garden. Located to the north of the locks the garden is filled with beautiful plants, flowers, and trees. There are trails located inside the park which visitors can use to see the different species. The park also has an arboretum and a specimen garden. The Ballard Locks Visitor Center is located near the garden and has a small museum with exhibits about the construction of the locks.

In short, the Ballard Locks area is a great place to spend a couple of hours outdoors in Seattle. This is especially great for families, as kids have many educational opportunities to see the working locks and the migrating fish.

Ballard Sunday Farmers Market

If you’re visiting the Ballard Locks on a Sunday, then make sure to stop by the Ballard Sunday Farmers Market. It is a good farmers market and has a lot of fruits and vegetable produce, prepared foods, local artisans, and fresh salmon. The market is quite popular so expect a lot of crowds. You can get items like pasta, pies, cheese, meats, bread, and cider. The year-round market takes place rain or shine and is a great way to spend a Sunday. 

Discovery Park

Located on Magnolia Bluff, Discovery Park is the largest city park in Seattle. The park has amazing coastal trails, beaches, and stunning views of the Puget Sound. The park is located on the site of the former Fort Lawton and has many unused military buildings. Fort Lawton helped to defend Seattle and the Puget Sound against enemies. The fork is now decommissioned. 

Along with the beaches, the park also has meadows and forests and is a great place to spot wildlife in the Seattle area. The Discovery Park environmental learning visitor center is a great place to pick up maps, learn information about the commonly spotted birds, and enjoy hands-on learning experiences for the kids. 

Discovery Park is park on the shores of Puget Sound in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle, Washington
Discovery Park is park on the shores of Puget Sound in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle, Washington

West Point Lighthouse

Also located in Discovery Park, is the West Point Lighthouse. It juts out into the water and is surrounded by the beach on three sides. The recently restored lighthouse marks the northern end of Elliott Bay and helps ships navigate the Puget Sound. The charming whitewashed lighthouse is one of the most photogenic lighthouses in Washington State. 

The lighthouse is 23 ft high and on the National Register of Historic Places. At the visitor center, you can pick up maps showing marked trails to the lighthouse and nearby beach. The round trip trail is about 3 miles but has uneven terrain. It easily takes up to an hour for the one-way hike. Families with kids and those who can’t work can take a park shuttle to the lighthouse during summer or obtain a special permit at the visitor center which allows them to drive to the lighthouse. 

West point lighthouse in Seattle, Washington
West point lighthouse in Seattle, Washington

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill neighborhood is one of the most laid-back and trendy neighborhoods in Seattle. It has hip cafes, bars, eateries, boutique stores, live music venues, etc. and is great to explore on foot. It is a haven for coffee lovers as you can spend hours trying out the different coffee houses in the area. A must visit while in Capitol Hill is the Volunteer Park which has many attractions including a museum, a conservatory, a wading pool, and a free observation deck. 

Optional: Volunteer Park Conservatory

The Volunteer Park Conservatory is housed in a beautiful glass building. It has a Victorian-style architecture and a vast collection of plants changing from ferns, cacti, succulents, and palms. The green conservatory looks especially inviting in the winter when the surrounding landscape is cold and bare. The conservatory has a very tropical feel and is a great place to take photographs. 

Optional: Seattle Asian Art Museum

The Seattle Asian Art Museum is located inside the Volunteer Park. While the museum is on the smaller side it has many beautiful exhibits including paintings, sculptures, vases, etc. The collection ranges from ancient to contemporary art and covers many countries. This is a great place to spend an hour or so for art lovers. The museum is free for children under 14 and also on certain days of the month. From the museum, you can also get good views of Volunteer Park. 

Water Tower

Volunteer Park is also home to the historic red brick structure of the Water Tower. The tower was built in 1906 and it is over a hundred years old. Entry to the tower is free. There is an observation deck at the top of the water tower which can be accessed by climbing the spiral staircase. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower from where you can see stunning views of Seattle. 

Seattle Japanese Garden & Washington Park Arboretum

The Seattle Japanese Garden is located in Washington Park in Capitol Hill. It is a part of the Washington Park Arboretum and has a small entry fee but worth the visit. The park has beautiful Japanese maple and cherry blossom trees as well as traditional Zen garden decor including water features, bridges, and a tea house. In the autumn you will see trees covered in gold, red, and purple while a variety of blossoms bloom all over the garden in spring. You can also participate in a traditional tea ceremony at the Japanese Garden.

The Washington Park Arboretum has many other attractions besides the Seattle Japanese Garden. Covering an area of 230 acres, the arboretum is simply huge and home to a variety of plants and trees from different parts of the Pacific Rim including New Zealand, Australia, and China. The Arboretum has nice trails along well-labeled plant species and provides a fun, educational experience. This is also a good place to bike, jog, or run.

Seattle Japanese Garden & Washington Park Arboretum, Seattle, Washington
Seattle Japanese Garden & Washington Park Arboretum, Seattle, Washington

Elliott Bay Book Company

If you love books and independent bookstores then you must visit the Elliott Bay Book Company in Seattle. This bookstore was originally located in Pike Place Market and had a beautiful exposed brick interior. It is said to be the inspiration for Cafe Nervosa in Frasier. The new location in Capitol Hill is equally inviting. It has a great selection of books – both old and new – and a cafe located inside that serves steaming hot cups for Seattle’s dreary days. 

End your day by enjoying the nightlife and dining scene of Capitol Hill. We hope you liked our recommendation for 3 days in Seattle. 

Alternative Day 3 Seattle Itinerary – Day trip to Mount Rainier National park

Mount Rainier National Park, Seattle, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park, Seattle, Washington

If you’re looking to explore beyond the city limits, then you will love our option for day three that includes a trip to Mount Rainier National Park. The drive to the national park is spectacular. You will experience mountain vistas, wildlife, and charming mountain communities. The park itself is at its most colorful summer through fall.

Mount Rainier is the peak that towers over the Seattle City skyline and provides a panoramic background to the downtown buildings. It is an active stratovolcano located in the Cascade Mountain ranges. Mount Rainier and the surrounding areas are protected by Mount Rainier National Park. This is one of the country’s most visited national parks and sees millions of visitors every year. The park is located two and a half hours (~95 miles) away from Seattle and can be easily seen as a day trip from the city. 

Mount Rainier is the tallest peak in Washington State. The national park has glaciers, miles over miles of hiking trails, viewpoints, and scenic drives. The foothills of Mount Rainier are covered with old-growth forests and alpine tundras. The peaks are covered in snow throughout the year but in summer you will find a profusion of wildflowers on the slopes. You can even forage for berries in the national park, including huckleberries, blueberries, salmonberries, etc. Here are some of the things that you can do if you have just one day at Mount Rainier National Park.

Jackson Visitor Center, Paradise

The Henry M Jackson Memorial Visitor Center located at Paradise is the most popular visitor center of Mount Rainier National Park. This side of the park is partially open year-round. Inside the visitor center, you will find many exhibits and videos explaining the national park’s wildlife and geology. This is also a good place to get park maps, buy souvenirs and water bottles as well as use the restrooms. The Paradise Camp Deli is your one-stop for all food needs. The nearby historic Paradise Inn is a great place to stay and is worth a quick look for its beauty. 

Paradise area

The Paradise area of Mount Rainier is situated at a height of 5400 feet. The region has a lot of subalpine meadows and is popular in the summer for wildflower viewing. The hikes in Paradise are also great for foraging for wild berries towards the end of the summer. The Paradise area remains open in winter and is the center for all snow activities. The views of Mount Rainier from Paradise are breathtaking, making this one of the most popular areas of the park. If you are coming on busy summer weekends, we recommend reaching paradise as early as you can to avoid the crowds.

Mount Rainier National Park Wildflowers Meadow, Seattle, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park Wildflowers Meadow, Seattle, Washington

Nisqually Vista Trail

At just under a mile long, Nisqually Vista Trail is a popular short paved loop trail near Paradise Inn. It is accessible and stroller friendly so a favorite with all types of visitors. From the trail, visitors have good views of the Nisqually glacier and wildflowers in summer. The trail is also popular in winter for snowshoeing. A walk along this trail is one of the easiest ways to see Mt. Rainier. 

Narada Falls

Located on the route from Paradise to Longmire area, the Narada Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in the park. The falls are a mile to the west of Paradise Visitor Center. The two-tiered falls are 176 feet tall. The upper tier has multiple streams cascading down the rocks face while the lower tier is a single fall that plunges 17 feet below. Visitors can see the waterfall from the road as well as take a short trail to get closer to the falls. 

Skyline Trail

At 5 and 1/2 miles, the Skyline Trail is not an easy one. In spite of that, it is one of the most popular trails in the Paradise area. The trail has amazing views of the subalpine wildflowers and the mountains. If you can’t complete this trail, you can always walk on it partway and then return. A great stopping point is the Panorama Viewpoint which is located 2 miles into the hike. 

Sunrise Visitor Center

The Sunrise Visitor Center is located near the northeast side of the park and hence is closest to the city at 2 hrs 20 mins or 95 miles. It is located at an altitude of 6400 ft – quite higher than the Paradise region. Sunrise is also the highest point in Mount Rainier that you can reach by car. The road to Sunrise is open from July to September end. Due to the unique location of the Sunrise area, visitors can have panoramic views of the National Park. The views from this aptly named visitor center look best during the earlier part of the day. Sunrise is the second most visited area of the park and also gets quite crowded on holiday weekends. 

Sunrise Rim Trail

After checking the visitor center and getting park maps, experienced hikers can hike the entire Sunrise Rim Trail. This trail is 5 miles long and will lead you to incredible views of the Emmons Glacier 3000 ft below in the valley. If you still want to see the views but want an easier hike then follow the Sunrise Rim Trail up to Shadow Lake which is 1.3 miles into the hike. This small alpine lake is beautiful and is the perfect place to picnic. Many trails run around the lake and you can head back after exploring the area. Avid hikers can continue past Shadow Lake to Glacier Overlook and the Burrough mountain tundras where the hike ends.  

Sunrise Nature Trail

Start hiking the sunrise nature trail from the picnic area. This loop trail is 1.5 miles long and goes through the mountain meadows. On the trail, you will have stunning views of Mount Rainier and other peaks of the Cascade ranges. This trail is good for all skill levels. If you can do only one hike in the Sunrise area, then do this for the beautiful views. 

Other popular things to do in Mount Rainier – if you have more time – include the famous Groove of the Patriarchs hike through huge old-growth trees, the Longmire homestead and museum, Christine falls, etc. 

During winter Mount Rainier National Park is a paradise for outdoor lovers. While some areas of the park are closed during this season many others are open for activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

Seattle Itinerary 4 days

If you have 4 days in Seattle, then you have quite a few options. Here are some ideas to customize your Seattle 4 day itinerary:

Day 3 and Day 4 in Seattle – Option 1

On Day 3 in Seattle explore the Ballard Locks region followed by Discovery Park and West Point Lighthouse. Then spend the day exploring Capitol Hill as mentioned above. 

On Day 4, Make the scenic road trip out to Mount Rainier National Park from Seattle. See the park’s highlights including Paradise Visitor Center. Hike in the national park and see some of the beautiful waterfalls. Then visit the sunrise area if it’s open. Take photos of the stunning beauty of Mount Rainier, understand the geology and natural resources of the park at the visitor centers, have a picnic by the alpine lakes, and enjoy the day out in nature before returning to Seattle.

Day 3 and Day 4 in Seattle – Option 2

You can spend day three in Seattle exploring the beautiful neighborhoods of Ballard (Ballard Locks and Farmers Market), Magnolia (Discovery Park and West Point Lighthouse), and Capitol Hill (Volunteer Park Conservancy, Water Tower, and Washington Park Japanese Garden and Arboretum). 

To spend your day four in Seattle, consider a day trip to one of the islands in Puget Sound. Bainbridge Island is a popular favorite with tourists. You can easily reach the island by a ferry from Seattle. There are many things to do on Bainbridge Island including museums, stores, boutique shopping, restaurants, etc. 

Day 3 and Day 4 in Seattle – Option 3

Spend your day three making the day trip out to Mount Rainier National Park and doing one of the strenuous hikes to explore the beauty of the park. See the beautiful wildflowers bloom in summer, go foraging for berries, swim in the cold mountain lakes, enjoy the glacier views, and spot wildlife like mountain goats and marmots. 

The next day, enjoy a relaxing day on Bainbridge Island. This is the perfect escape from the city life of Seattle and a chance to relax your feet after the tiring day spent hiking on Mount Rainier. Relax on the beach, see the museum of art, go shopping on the island, and eat fresh seafood. 

Here’s what you need to know about Bainbridge Island:

Day trip to Bainbridge Island

Bainbridge Island, Beach view of Seattle, Washington
Bainbridge Island, Beach view of Seattle, Washington

There is no better way to spend a day in Seattle than take a ferry to the many islands in Puget Sound. Bainbridge Island is a great option as it is easily accessible by ferry and has plenty of things to do. The island has stunning natural beauty, lots of beaches as it is surrounded by saltwater on all sides, and an ‘away from it all’ vibe. Here are some ideas to spend your day on Bainbridge Island.

Ferry to Bainbridge

To reach Bainbridge Island take the Washington State ferry from Pier 52. The ferry ride is short and lasts for just about 35 minutes. The ferry terminal has a visitor’s kiosk where the friendly staff can hand you maps and guide you to things to do on Bainbridge Island.

Washington State ferry during sunset, Seattle, Washington
Washington State ferry during sunset, Seattle, Washington

Bainbridge Museum of Art

The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art is a small free museum that has a great variety of artwork by local artists from the Puget Sound. The artwork features a variety of themes from the Pacific Northwest. The museum building itself is also beautiful and it is an easy walk from the ferry terminal on Bainbridge Island. The museum is good to visit for art and culture lovers. 

Biodel Reserve

The Biodel Reserve is a public park located on the northeast tip of Bainbridge Island. On the reserve, you will find meadows, ponds, gardens including a beautiful Japanese garden. You can also see a variety of wildlife at the reserve. 

Bainbridge Island Historical Museum

You can discover the history of Bainbridge Island at this museum. The museum exhibits narrate the story of the island from its discovery to the tall shipbuilding industry to other events that significantly impacted the island. The museum has a variety of public records, films, videos, newspaper clippings, and artifacts related to past events. 

Bainbridge Island beaches

The island has a total of 32 miles long coastline which is full of beautiful beaches, coves, and rocky bluffs. Many of the beaches feature coastal trails and are great for hikers. Some of the best beaches for sunning and swimming are found in Rockaway Beach Park, Fort Ward Park, and Fay Bainbridge Park. 

Other things to do on Bainbridge Island include the Saturday Farmers Market, Bainbridge Garden, Kids Discovery Museum which has great play areas for children, the Bainbridge Performing Arts Center, and The Bainbridge Island Japanese American exclusion memorial. The memorial honors those islanders who were wrongfully placed in internment camps during World War II.

Seattle Itinerary 5 days

If you have 5 days in Seattle, then you have a lot of options. Here are some of our recommendations: 

One of the simplest itineraries is as follows: You can easily spend 3 days in Seattle followed by a day trip to Mount Rainier and then a relaxing day at Bainbridge Island. 

You can also visit Mt Rainier on Day 1 followed by 3 days exploring Seattle. Then spend a day on Bainbridge island followed by a whale-watching cruise. 

Alternatively, you can also cover Seattle City, Mt Rainier, and a scenic coastal day trip out to the Olympic peninsula. To plan a day trip to Olympic National Park, read our post on the Olympic peninsula loop trip here. 

We hope you enjoyed our post to planning the Ultimate Seattle Itinerary. Let us know if you have any trip planning questions or want to share any new attractions through the comments.