The windows are down while you feel the breeze in your hair. The sky is bluer than you’ve ever seen, and the sun is beaming like never before. The radio is blaring your favorite songs, and you’re carefree in the backseat, staring out of the window, watching as the miles pass, enjoying the ride while your parents are up front chatting about whatever comes to mind. For many families, moments like these are a familiar and treasured part of travelling. When you’re on a road trip, the commute is just as enjoyable as the destination itself, especially on school holidays when there’s no homework to worry about the next day!  Several destinations are easily accessible from South Fla., and even though some are a tad longer, a road trip is the perfect summer vacation. 

Key West

Part of the Florida Keys archipelago, Key West is characterized by its tropical, warm, and breezy climate. Surrounded by cool, glistening waters, this Key has a relaxing atmosphere, colorful streets, shady palm trees, and coastal views that make it perfect for a quick getaway. The Shops at Mallory Square offer niche stores, iconic restaurants, and gift shops where visitors can stroll, dine, and simply wind down while enjoying the atmosphere. 

Henry Flagler’s statue resides in Key West, representing a significant piece of Florida’s development and history. When asked if she had prior knowledge of Florida’s history and Flagler’s role, an Olympic Heights’ mom mentioned that she “had a somewhat broad understanding of it,” but visiting the monument had prompted her to take a greater interest in learning about Key West and the development of Florida as a state. Flagler built the railroad that connects Key West to the rest of the state, transforming it from an inaccessible island into a bustling port for boats and a vibrant travel destination. The statue has become a symbol of progress for Florida and a major tourist attraction that encourages visitors to dive deeper into the history of our treasured state.  The scenic drive from Boca Raton to Key West is about four hours. 

Orlando

Orlando is a major tourist destination for families. It’s characterized by its theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, which offer excitement and unforgettable fun for tourists of all ages.

Universal Studios includes four separate theme parks: Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, Universal Epic Universe, and Universal Studios Florida. Each theme park offers something different, making it effortless for parents to find something the entire family will enjoy, regardless of age. From riveting rides that will leave you eager for more to immersive worlds where little ones can see their favorite characters come to life, Universal Studios provides a memorable experience for everybody. With the drive entirely on the highway, Boca Raton to Orlando takes about three hours. 

Gastonia, N.C.

Gastonia is a modern city that’s surrounded by lush nature. One of its attributes is its proximity to mountains, which are just a few hours’ drive from the city. The mountains offer scenic views, great hiking trails, and winding roads that lead to serenity in nature.

Martha Rivers Park is a tranquil, family-friendly setting that stretches across nearly 60 acres, where people of all ages can relax together and enjoy the vibrant greenery, even with their pets. The park features a safe one acre playground with swings, slides, a sand pit, and a castle, making it the perfect place for children to run wild. In addition to the playground, the park includes four soccer fields and three baseball fields. Families can also walk, jog, or bike on the paved trails that wind throughout the park or picnic under pavilions and enjoy the scenery. 

Crowder’s Mountain State Park in Gastonia offers an exciting outdoor experience that’s perfect for anyone who loves exploring nature. The park is known for its breathtaking hiking trails, picturesque mountain views, and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can explore woodland trails where over 160 species of birds reside, along with other wildlife, making it more than just a trek.  Last Oct., I had the pleasure of visiting this bucolic park. My favorite parts were the colorful foliage and escaping Florida for the breezy weather. Although I had never hiked before, Crowder’s Mountain was beginner-friendly and easier than expected. I even saw parents with children almost seven years old. The mountain has two paths, one leading to the peak of Crowder’s and the other leading to King’s Pinnacle. Crowder’s Mountain is the perfect place to unplug, reconnect with nature, and make lasting memories. Though this drive is a tad longer, the ten hours is worth it to visit beautiful N.C. 

New York City, New York

New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in America, offering travelers the opportunity to visit several other states and cities along the way of a roughly 18-hour drive. As one of the United States’ largest cities, there’s a wide variety of attractions and experiences in the Big Apple! Its iconic landmarks include the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Washington Square Park, and Grand Central Station.

Visiting the World Trade Center isn’t solely about the view; it’s also a place to reflect on the tragedy that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001. The 9/11 memorial is a tribute to honor all those who died during the attacks, with the two pools placed where the Twin Towers used to stand. Along the perimeters of both pools, the names of the victims are engraved into metal panels, making it a place where remembrance and reflection unite seamlessly.

Standing tall in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is a powerful symbol of American freedom, with Lady Liberty welcoming visitors with a friendly wave of her torch. Tourists can take a ferry ride to Liberty Island, allowing them to get up close to explore the monument while getting a phenomenal view of the city’s skyline. 

Known for its glamorous and captivating productions, Radio City Music Hall is the perfect spot for theater buffs or anybody who’s looking to be swept off their feet by dazzling music, booming vocals, thoughtful choreography, and show-stopping performances. Layla Ung, a teenager from Canada, recently visited New York City.  She saw her first live musical, the Aladdin show, and it surpassed her expectations. “Every minute was enchanting,” claimed Ung. Though it’s the longest drive at nearly 20 hours, Boca to NYC is a straight shot on I-95.

 No matter where you’re headed this summer, road trips are a great way to relax, spend time with family and friends, and experience things you have never done before.