Road trips are pure freedom—the open road, new places, and endless adventures. But long drives can get dull fast. That’s why I made this list of 100 things to do on a road trip to keep the fun going. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or on a family trip, these ideas will make the miles fly by. From fun things to do in the car to must-see road trip places, this guide has you covered. So grab your snacks, hit play on your favorite playlist, and let’s make this drive unforgettable!
Pre-Trip Planning for a Fun Drive (Plan a Drive Trip)
A little planning can make your road trip smoother and more fun. Every mile will be exciting with the right stops, snacks, and entertainment. Here’s how to get ready for an unforgettable trip.
How to Map Out Fun Stops Along the Route (Things to Do Along My Route)
The best part of a road trip isn’t just where you’re going—it’s what you find along the way. Use apps like Roadtrippers or Google Maps to spot cool roadside attractions, scenic views, and fun detours. Keep a mix of planned stops and surprise adventures to improve the trip.
✅ Snippet Answer: Use apps like Roadtrippers or Google Maps to find must-see stops, from scenic views to quirky roadside attractions.
Packing Essentials for a Fun-Filled Road Trip (Games, Music, Snacks, Gadgets)
A long drive feels way shorter when you’re prepared. Pack fun things to do in the car, like road trip games, a great playlist, and plenty of snacks. Don’t forget a phone charger, a travel pillow, and a good mix of music and podcasts to keep things lively.
✅ Snippet Answer: Pack road trip games, snacks, a playlist, and a charger to stay entertained and comfortable on long drives.
Road Trip Activities & Experiences (Road Trip Ideas)
A road trip is all about adventure. It’s not just the destination—it’s the fun along the way! Try new foods, explore hidden spots, and capture memories to make your journey special.
A. Scenic & Unique Stops (Road Trip Places)
Take a break and explore! Stop at quirky roadside attractions or snap pictures at scenic viewpoints. Visit small towns to find cool hidden gems. Love history? Check out historical markers. Want fresh snacks? Stop at a farmer’s market!
✅ Snippet Answer: To make your road trip more exciting, stop at scenic viewpoints, quirky attractions, and small-town gems.
B. Food & Dining Adventures
Food makes every trip better! Try a local fast-food chain or eat at a famous diner. Pack a themed picnic for a fun meal on the road. Feeling adventurous? Try a new dish in every state. If you see a drive-in restaurant, don’t miss it!
✅ Snippet Answer: Try local fast food, pack a picnic, or visit a famous diner for a fun road trip meal.
C. Physical Activities on the Road
Long drives can make you stiff. Stretch at scenic rest stops or quickly work out at a gas station. Walk a nature trail to get moving. Want something fun? Join a local fitness class or rent bikes at a national park.
✅ Snippet Answer: Stay active with quick stretches, nature walks, or bike rides at scenic stops.
Creative Ways to Capture Memories
A road trip is full of moments you’ll want to remember. Here’s how to keep those memories alive!
Keep a Road Trip Journal
Write about fun stops, funny moments, and cool places you visit. Even quick notes will bring back memories later.
✅ Snippet Answer: Keep a road trip journal to remember fun moments and favorite stops.
Create a Travel Scrapbook
Save postcards, receipts, and little souvenirs. Stick them in a scrapbook with notes and photos to tell your road trip story.
✅ Snippet Answer: Make a scrapbook with souvenirs and photos to keep road trip memories alive.
Make a Video Diary
Record short clips of cool places and fun moments. Later, turn them into a mini travel video to relive the trip!
✅ Snippet Answer: Film short clips to create a fun travel video of your road trip.
Start a Travel Blog or Instagram Page
Love sharing? Post photos, tips, and stories on a travel blog or Instagram. Let others follow your adventure!
✅ Snippet Answer: Share your road trip on a blog or Instagram to keep memories and inspire others.
Send Postcards to Family & Friends
Find fun postcards at gas stations or gift shops. Write a short note and send it to loved ones. It’s a simple but sweet way to share your trip!
✅ Snippet Answer: Send postcards from your road trip to share the adventure with friends and family.
Relaxing & Mindfulness Activities
Road trips aren’t just about the adventure—they’re also a chance to slow down and enjoy the moment. Long drives can be peaceful if you take time to relax. Here are simple ways to feel calm and refreshed on the road.
Meditate at a Quiet Rest Stop
Pull over at a scenic rest stop, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. Just five minutes of quiet time can help you feel relaxed and clear-headed. Try using an app like Headspace or Calm for easy guided meditation.
✅ Snippet Answer: Take five minutes to meditate at a rest stop for a quick mental reset.
Listen to Relaxing Podcasts
Need to unwind? Listen to a calming podcast. Try peaceful storytelling, guided affirmations, or nature sounds. Podcasts like Sleepy and Nothing Much Happens are great for helping you relax while you drive.
✅ Snippet Answer: Listen to calming podcasts like Sleepy to relax on a long drive.
Try Guided Breathing Exercises
Feeling tense? Try the 4-7-8 breathing trick: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale for 8. This simple method helps you feel calm and refreshed. Perfect for long drives!
✅ Snippet Answer: Use the 4-7-8 breathing method to stay calm on road trips.
Write in a Gratitude Journal
Road trips are full of great little moments. Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for—like a perfect sunset or a fun roadside stop. It’s an easy way to boost your mood and remember the best parts of your trip.
✅ Snippet Answer: Keep a gratitude journal to remember happy road trip moments.
Stargaze at a Remote Location
Far from city lights, the night sky is incredible. If you’re in a quiet spot at night, step outside and look up. It’s a simple, peaceful way to enjoy nature and relax before bedtime.
✅ Snippet Answer: Find a dark spot on your trip to enjoy the stars and unwind.
Hi, I’m Candace Wafford, a travel and food blogger based in Lexington, Kentucky. As a corporate traveler, I’ve had the chance to explore a lot of places, but now I’m on a mission to travel full-time. My goal? To figure out how to take my cat along for the adventure! Here at destinationdorworth.com, I share my experiences and tips on outdoor activities, travel, and of course, the best food spots I come across. I hope my blog inspires you to explore more and eat well on your journeys!