There’s something special about rolling down the windows, cranking up the road trip playlist, and setting off on a scenic drive where the journey is just as memorable as the destination. For families who love a good adventure, scenic routes offer a chance to slow down, soak in nature, and make unexpected stops that spark curiosity and joy. From winding mountain roads to sun-soaked coastal highways, these drives aren’t just pretty—they’re packed with fun for the whole crew.
This list highlights seven of the most iconic scenic drives in the Eastern U.S.—and I’ve personally driven every mile with my own family in tow. Each route offers its own blend of landscapes, kid-friendly attractions, picnic spots, and seasonal magic. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or adding something extra to a longer road trip, these routes deliver the kind of memories that stick with you long after the car is unpacked.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway (VA to NC)
- Mileage: 469 miles.
- Best enjoyed over 3-5 days.
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-September to late October for vibrant fall foliage.
- Blue Ridge Parkway official NPS page
Nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway offers families an epic journey through the Appalachian Highlands, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Along the way, you’ll wind past dramatic overlooks, quiet hiking trails, and quaint mountain towns.
What to See: Stop at Mabry Mill (MP 176) for a photo op and short trail, take a family hike at Linville Falls (MP 316), or explore the mountaintop views at Craggy Gardens (MP 364). The Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213) is a great place to tap your toes to live Appalachian tunes.
Picnic/Dining: Peaks of Otter Lodge (MP 86) and the Pisgah Inn (MP 408) offer scenic meals, while designated picnic spots dot the parkway.
Family Tips: Download the BRP app for an interactive map. Plan shorter segments for younger kids—each 50- to 75-mile stretch is packed with things to do.
2. Skyline Drive (Shenandoah National Park, VA)
- Mileage: 105 miles.
- Best enjoyed over 1-2 days.
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn draws leaf peepers in October, but late spring offers wildflowers and fewer crowds. Weekends are busier than weekdays.
- Shenandoah National Park official site
Skyline Drive offers a slower-paced ride that’s ideal for families looking to meander through mountain scenery without a rush. The entire route can be completed in a day, but it’s best enjoyed with stops to explore Shenandoah’s accessible trails and educational centers.
What to See: The Dark Hollow Falls trail is a manageable family hike, and Big Meadows offers both wildlife sightings and open space for play. The visitor centers at Dickey Ridge and Byrd provide ranger talks and exhibits.
Picnic/Dining: Big Meadows Wayside has picnic tables and grab-and-go eats. The Skyland Dining Room offers hearty meals with a view.
Family Tips: Arrive early to beat traffic and spot deer grazing at dawn. Cell service can be patchy—download maps in advance. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially deer.
3. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys, FL)
- Mileage: 113 miles.
- Best enjoyed over 2-3 days.
- Best Time to Visit: March through May has the best weather with fewer crowds.
Driving the Overseas Highway from Key Largo to Key West feels like a tropical adventure on the open sea. With turquoise water on both sides and the famous Seven Mile Bridge at its heart, it’s a dreamy stretch ideal for families looking for a sun-filled road trip.
What to See: In Key Largo visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (MM 102.8) for snorkeling or a glass-bottom boat tour. In Islamorada stop in at Theater of the Sea for marine shows and dolphin encounters. Or feed the tarpon at Robbie’s Marina. Just after Marathon you’ll cross the Seven Mile Bridge – a great spot for photos and views. In the Lower Keys, Bahia Honda State Park offers some of the best beaches in the keys. At the end of the road, be sure to check my post on Key West!
Picnic/Dining: Pack a cooler or grab lunch at The Hungry Tarpon. Bahia Honda for a beach picnic. Sunset dining in Key West is a must.
When to Go: March through May has the best weather with fewer crowds than winter.
Family Tips: Traffic is slower midday. Don’t miss sunset celebration in Key West’s Mallory Square.
4. Kancamagus Scenic Byway (NH)
- Mileage: 34.5 miles.
- Best enjoyed over a full day.
- Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October for fall foliage.
- White Mountains Visitor Guide
Don’t let the short distance fool you—the “Kanc” is a powerhouse of natural beauty. Nestled in the White Mountains, this route offers dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountain views that make every mile count.
What to See: Visit Sabbaday Falls for a short walk to a stunning cascade, stop at Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, and don’t miss the Albany Covered Bridge. Kids will love the boulder-strewn riverbanks.
Picnic/Dining: Picnic areas along the byway are perfect for packed lunches. Grab food in Lincoln or Conway before entering.
Family Tips: There are no gas stations along the byway, so fuel up first. Bring binoculars—moose sightings happen!
5. Cape May to Atlantic City Coastal Drive (NJ)
- Mileage: 40 miles.
- Best enjoyed over a half to full day.
- Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to early fall is ideal beach weather and family-friendly festivals.
- Cape May Point State Park
This under-the-radar gem along New Jersey’s southern shoreline combines charming beach towns, classic boardwalks, and coastal wildlife—all within a short, driveable stretch. It’s a perfect half-day to full-day route for families wanting a breezy coastal vibe without big city stress.
What to See: Start in Cape May, one of America’s oldest seaside resorts, where kids can climb the Cape May Lighthouse or visit the Nature Center. Continue up the coast with stops in Wildwood for its iconic boardwalk and amusement piers, and end in Atlantic City where families can enjoy Steel Pier rides or explore the aquarium.
Picnic/Dining: Bring lunch for a beach picnic at Cape May Point State Park or grab funnel cakes and pizza on the Wildwood boardwalk. Craving seafood? The Lobster House in Cape May is a longtime local favorite.
Family Tips: Try to visit on weekdays to avoid summer traffic. Bring quarters for boardwalk meters and arcade games. Consider biking parts of the Wildwood or Ocean City boardwalks for extra fun.
6. Acadia All-American Road (ME)
- Mileage: 27 miles.
- Best enjoyed over 3-5 days.
- Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to early fall is ideal beach weather and family-friendly festivals.
- Acadia National Park official site
This route loops through Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park, delivering craggy coastlines, evergreen forests, and sweeping ocean views. It’s short but mighty—perfect for a family day of coastal exploration. Getting here is half the fun, its far but worth a few days of relaxation.
What to See: Climb (or drive) to the top of Cadillac Mountain, explore the tidepools at Sand Beach, or hear the thunderous crash at Thunder Hole.
Picnic/Dining: Jordan Pond House is famous for popovers. Picnic spots abound within the park.
When to Go: Late spring through early fall offers the best weather. Autumn is quieter and colorful.
Family Tips: Use the Island Explorer bus to get around and avoid parking headaches. Grab a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center.
7. U.S. Highway 441: Bryson City to Gatlinburg, (NC to TN)
- Mileage: 85 miles.
- Best enjoyed over a full day.
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-October is peak foliage time, but late spring is equally beautiful and less crowded.
- Great Smoky Mountain National Park
This route cuts straight through the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and connects two of the East’s most charming mountain towns. Expect mountain vistas, family-friendly hikes, and plenty of “wow” moments along the way. I like to approach using 74 through the Nantahala gorge.
What to See: Kick off your adventure with a stop at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, where older kids and teens can enjoy whitewater rafting, canopy tours, and riverside trails. Then head into the national park to explore the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and its historic Mountain Farm Museum. Hike to Clingmans Dome for breathtaking panoramic views, and don’t miss Newfound Gap’s iconic state line photo op. Wrap up your journey at Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg—perfect for a final stretch, nature exhibits, and a short family-friendly hike.
Picnic/Dining: Just outside the park in Cherokee, you’ll find a peaceful riverfront park ideal for a quick picnic and playtime. Deep Creek Picnic Area in Bryson City is a personal favorite, offering access to a waterfall hike and tubing on the river. For a sit-down meal, head to The Bistro at the Everett Hotel in Bryson City. See my Gatlinburg post for more dining and picnic ideas.
When to Go: Mid-October is peak foliage time, but late spring is equally beautiful and less crowded.
Family Tips: Traffic can build—start early and pace the trip with hikes and snack breaks. Pack layers, even in summer we bring a sweatshirt, for the higher elevations.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing fall colors, ocean breezes, or mountain air, these scenic drives are more than just roads—they’re memory makers. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, your next family road trip could become a highlight reel of laughter, discoveries, and moments you’ll talk about for years to come.
Ready to plan your next journey? Don’t forget to check out our road trip packing list, download your free activity printable, and browse destination guides to build your perfect getaway!
