If your family has Christmas Day all planned but little else and you find yourself in need of some adventure this winter break, here are some nature-focused and city-focused road trips you can take with friends or family to stay entertained and indulge in bonding time, split up by geographic location!
If you want to explore nature…
The Northeast: Acadia National Park in Maine
For $12 a person, go hiking, biking, or take a boat ride through this beautiful national park, and if you just don’t want to leave, take advantage of the numerous private campgrounds in the area!
The Midwest: The Starved Rock State Park in Illinois
Participate in winter sports, go eagle watching, or just simply hike at this beautiful park!
The South: The Ozarks in Arkansas
Visit the Ozark Mountains to hike, mountain bike, camp, rock climb, and more! This beautiful region also celebrates its Festival of Trees in early-to-mind December.
The West: Yosemite National Park, California
Go backpacking, hiking, birdwatching, and so much more at this iconic American national park.
If you want to explore cities…
The Northeast: New York City, New York
Driving through this city would be a mess, so find parking (I recommend SpotHero) and break out your walking shoes. There is so much to do in December to get yourself in the holiday spirit – the wonderful window displays on Fifth Avenue, the Rockefeller Tree, ice skating at Bryant Park, and so much more!
The Midwest: Chicago, Illinois
Visit the Bean, the Navy Pier, and take a typical tourist picture at the Willis Tower for an unforgettable road trip!
The South: Nashville, Tennessee
Visit the Music City for amazing concerts, exhibits, and the massive Jack Daniel’s Music City Midnight: New Year’s Eve party!
The West: San Francisco, California
Walk the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz, and eat along Pier 39 for a fast-paced and scenic family trip!
Images courtesy of: National Geographic, Enjoy Illinois, Ozark Mountain Region, National Parks Conservation Association, Inside the Magic, Mint Notion, Frame Bridge, Travel Zoo, and Lonely Planet