Summer Travel 2022: 5 epic road trips in the US to take this year

Share the article

Last updated

Still worried about getting confused with international travel rules? There is always a solution. Why not hit the open road and tour the US this summer?

From underrated national parks to the most scenic hikes in California, here are some adventurous ideas for 2022 summer road trips in the US that won’t break the bank.

Family of 4 packing the car for a summer road trip

Indianapolis to Milwaukee

You can begin this summer road trip in the Hoosier State and drive north to Milwaukee or do it in the opposite direction. Either way, this 4-hour road trip will give you the perfect Midwest experience (and plenty of stunning views) along the way.

With warm weather approaching, there’s no better time than exploring the state capital of Indiana. For the perfect day in Indy, head to downtown Indianapolis where you can walk along the picturesque canal at White River State Park before sitting down to a sunset dinner on one of the many patios.

Milwaukee-Kinnick Street, Bayview area in summer

Although Milwaukee is not as popular as neighboring Chicago, it has a lot to offer travelers. The city is also a great destination for road trips, especially during the summer months. Enjoy a baseball game and sample some fresh brews at one of the many breweries in the downtown area.

There are also a handful of interesting stops worth making on this road trip. Take a break in the small town of Justice, Illinois and visit the world’s largest stained glass window (found in the Guinness Book of Records!) and the world’s first McDonald’s.

Drone shot of Bixby Bridge in Big Sur, California on a sunny day, ocean view in the background

Las Vegas to Great Basin National Park

This summer road trip blends outdoor adventures with the glamor and charm of the big city. To start this wild ride, fly to Las Vegas for a few days of fun before heading to one of the most underappreciated national parks in the western United States.

Great Basin National Park is located in Nevada, a 4.5-hour drive northeast of Vegas, adjacent to the border with Utah. The park gets amazing reviews and offers camping, great trails, peaks, and even cave tours. Plan a few nights camping here and you’ll have some of the best stargazing experiences of your life.

Low level, wide angle view from the edge of Stella Lake toward the famous Wheeler Peak in Nevada's Great Basin National Park in Nevada

The White Mountains of New Hampshire

Looking for cheap travel inspiration? Head east coast to New Hampshire and discover the beauty of the White Mountains. The weather is perfect this time of year, making New Hampshire one of the best states for an epic summer road trip.

Drive along Highway 112, where you can spend your time exploring the beautiful “live or die” northeastern region of the state before entering the White Mountain National Forest. You and your road trip buddies can spend at least 4-5 days here chasing waterfalls, swimming in lakes, camping and much more. If you don’t want to fear it, there are plenty of rustic cabin stays and hotels in and around the woods.

Sunny cloudy sky on top of a mountain in the White Mountains range in New Hampshire.  View from the top of Mount Lafayette.

Central California Morro Bay Road Trip to Big Sur

Nestled between Los Angeles County and just a few hours’ drive south of bustling San Francisco is the sunny spot in central California. For many explorers, this area is the heart of the Golden State. Why not plan a West Coast road trip here this summer and find out why.

Start your road trip in beautiful Morro Bay and eventually make your way to Big Sur by driving along the famous Highway 1. If you have a few extra days in your road trip itinerary and want to explore some of the interior, head to Paso Robles, one of the most Under-appreciated wine regions in California.

Some of the most amazing parts of the epic California coast can be found here on this wild ride (seriously, though), so take your time and enjoy the ride.

Waves in Morro Bay, California

Kansas City to Omaha

Learn more about Heartland on this quick and fun summer trip from Kansas City to Omaha. The journey takes less than 3 hours in total, giving you plenty of time to stop in small towns along the way.

Spend at least a few days in Kansas City, exploring the many museums and markets before heading to Omaha. On a sunny summer’s day, Overland Park is a great place to explore some outdoor fun in the heart of the city.

Heartland of America Park is a public park located at 800 Douglas Street in downtown Omaha, Nebraska, USA.  The 31-acre park is located between Interstate 80 and the Missouri River, is adjacent to Jane Leahy Mall and the Old Market and is connected to Lewis & Clark Landing

Read more:

Travel insurance covering Covid-19 for 2022

Mask authorization confusion is spreading across the US

Switzerland removes all entry requirements for travelers

↓ Join the community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB It has the latest news, talks and Q&A reopened daily!

Travel off-track group 1-1
Subscribe to our latest posts

Enter your email address to subscribe to the latest breaking travel news from Travel Off Path, straight to your inbox

Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions It can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm entry of your citizenship and/or any changes to travel requirements prior to travel. Travel Off Path does not endorse travel against government warnings