12 Best Family Road Trips to Take This November
A road trip is more than a drive from one place to another. It involves the excitement of packing snacks, creating playlists, and mapping out scenic stops along the way. Families can bond over shared laughs, roadside diners, and unexpected detours that turn into favorite memories. November brings cooler weather and beautiful views, making it a great time to explore new routes together.
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Pacific Coast Highway, California
This famous route stretches along California’s coast, offering ocean views that seem endless. November brings cooler air and lighter traffic, making the drive more relaxed. Families can enjoy stops at places like Monterey, Big Sur, and Santa Barbara for breathtaking scenery. The drive can take several days depending on how often you stop to explore. Whale watching, beach picnics, and exploring tide pools are favorite activities along the way.
A road trip down this highway feels like a moving postcard with every turn. Small seaside towns offer cozy cafes and local shops worth visiting. Kids will love exploring the sandy beaches and watching sea lions bask in the sun. Even a short two-day drive between San Francisco and Los Angeles can feel full of adventure. Be sure to pack layers since the coastal weather can shift from sunny to breezy quickly.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia
This scenic route runs through the Appalachian Mountains and is known for its peaceful charm. In November, the fall colors linger in the lower elevations, creating a warm palette of gold and amber. The drive stretches about 469 miles and can easily fill a long weekend. Families can stop at overlooks, picnic areas, and short hiking trails. Skyline Drive and Linville Falls are two beautiful spots worth a visit.
Traveling this parkway offers a quiet escape from busy cities. The road winds through mountain ridges, forests, and valleys that seem painted by nature. Wildlife sightings like deer and birds are common this time of year. Bring a camera to capture the misty mornings and scenic views. It is one of the most relaxing drives for families who love nature and open roads.
Route 66, Illinois to California
Few drives are as nostalgic as Route 66, which runs across eight states. This road trip is a classic choice for families who enjoy roadside attractions and old Americana. November is a great time to travel because the weather is mild in most parts. The trip can take about two weeks if you stop often to explore. Expect quirky landmarks, historic diners, and photo-worthy small towns along the way.
Driving Route 66 feels like stepping back in time. Kids will love the colorful murals and giant roadside statues scattered along the route. Parents can enjoy vintage motels and historic museums that tell the story of American travel. Stops like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas or Petrified Forest in Arizona are must-sees. It is a long but rewarding drive full of surprises.
Great River Road, Mississippi River
This drive follows the path of the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana. The trip spans over 2,000 miles, but families often choose shorter sections to enjoy. November brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for a calm drive. Expect charming river towns, scenic bridges, and peaceful views of the water. Towns like Natchez and Dubuque are favorites for their history and local food.
Each stretch of the Great River Road offers something unique. From music in Memphis to Cajun cuisine in Louisiana, the drive is filled with culture. Families can stop at state parks for picnics or bird-watching. The route is easy to customize based on how much time you have. It is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of nature and history.
Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
This tropical drive connects the Florida Keys with 113 miles of bridges and ocean views. November is one of the best months to visit since hurricane season has passed and the weather is pleasant. Families can enjoy stops in Key Largo, Islamorada, and Key West. Each island offers beaches, snorkeling, and fresh seafood restaurants. The Seven Mile Bridge is the highlight of the journey.
A drive on the Overseas Highway feels like gliding across the sea. The turquoise waters and sunsets make it a photographer’s dream. Families can plan two to three days to fully enjoy the trip. Key West’s lively atmosphere and coral reefs are worth exploring. Do not forget to visit the famous southernmost point buoy for a fun photo stop.
Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
This road trip offers waterfalls, cliffs, and breathtaking river and forest views. It stretches about 80 miles between Portland and The Dalles, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. November brings misty mornings and dramatic scenery that photographers love. Families can stop at Multnomah Falls, one of the most famous spots. Hiking and picnicking are popular along this route.
The drive through the gorge is peaceful and full of natural beauty. Colorful leaves and cool air make it a refreshing family outing. You can visit small towns like Hood River for local food and cozy lodges. Be prepared for light rain, which adds to the charm of the trip. It is an easy and rewarding drive for families who love nature.
Highway 101, Oregon Coast
Stretching over 300 miles, this route runs along Oregon’s rugged coastline and steep stones. November is quieter, and the moody skies make the scenery even more dramatic. Families can visit lighthouses, beaches, and small fishing towns. Stop by Cannon Beach and Newport for stunning views and tasty seafood. Whale watching is common this time of year.
The Oregon Coast road trip is perfect for families who enjoy scenic drives. Coastal trails and tide pools keep kids entertained. You can easily cover this trip in four to five days with relaxed stops. Local bakeries and coffee shops add comfort to the journey. The cool coastal air makes it a refreshing escape before winter.
Hill Country, Texas
A road trip through the Texas Hill Country offers rolling landscapes and charming small towns. November brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors. The drive can take three to five days, depending on your route. Fredericksburg and Wimberley are great stops for families. Expect local markets, nature trails, and barbecue restaurants along the way.
The roads here wind through vineyards and open ranch land. Families can visit state parks for hiking and fishing. The weather is pleasant for outdoor picnics and scenic drives. Wildflower fields might still be visible in early November. It is a simple and relaxing road trip filled with Southern charm.
Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana
This route runs through Glacier National Park and is about 50 miles long. In early November, snow might close higher elevations, so plan accordingly. The scenery includes glaciers, lakes, and mountain peaks. Families can enjoy scenic viewpoints and short hikes. Even a partial drive offers breathtaking views.
This trip is best for those who love natural beauty and crisp mountain air. Wildlife such as elk and eagles are often seen along the route. Warm jackets and snacks are essential for this high-altitude trip. Nearby lodges and cabins offer cozy places to rest. It is a short but unforgettable experience.
Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee to Mississippi
This drive follows a historic path used by Native Americans and early travelers. It stretches for about 440 miles and connects Nashville to Natchez. November weather is mild and ideal for sightseeing. Families can stop at hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic markers. The slower speed limit makes it a peaceful drive.
Traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway feels like stepping into history. Scenic overlooks and wooded areas create a calm atmosphere. Picnic areas and bike paths make it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Each stop has stories about the past worth exploring. It is one of the most relaxing and family-friendly drives in the South.
San Juan Skyway, Colorado
This loop through the Rocky Mountains covers about 230 miles. November brings light snow and golden aspen trees, creating postcard-worthy views. The route passes through towns like Durango, Ouray, and Telluride. Families can visit hot springs, mountain shops, and historic railways. The drive usually takes two to three days.
The San Juan Skyway offers both excitement and serenity. Scenic overlooks show off Colorado’s mountain peaks and valleys. Be prepared for winding roads and chilly air. Families can enjoy cozy cabins and mountain lodges along the way. It is a memorable drive filled with stunning natural beauty.
Highway 12, Utah
Known as one of America’s most scenic byways, Highway 12 stretches about 122 miles. It connects Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks. November offers mild temperatures and fewer visitors. Families can explore red rock formations, canyons, and hiking trails. Scenic overlooks give endless photo opportunities.
The drive feels adventurous yet peaceful. Families can enjoy exploring small towns like Escalante and Boulder. The cool weather makes outdoor activities comfortable. Sunrise and sunset views are especially striking in November. This route promises unforgettable sights through Utah’s natural wonders.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.