Scenic Drives Kids For Beginners

I'll never forget the day my kids and I took our first scenic drive through the Pacific Northwest. The sun was low, casting golden light over the mountains. My daughter, who had never seen a forest like that, kept asking, 'Are those trees real?' It was one of those moments that made me realize how powerful a simple road trip can be — not just for the sights, but for the memories it creates. For parents who are new to scenic drives, this kind of experience can be both thrilling and overwhelming, especially when trying to balance the excitement of the journey with the needs of young travelers.

The key to a successful scenic drive with kids is preparation — but it's not just about the itinerary. It's about knowing the right places to stop, how to keep little ones engaged for long stretches, and how to make the trip feel like an adventure rather than a chore. I've tested dozens of scenic routes over the years, from the winding roads of the Blue Ridge Parkway to the open highways of the California coast. I've learned that the best trips are the ones where the kids are excited to be there, not just along for the ride.^[1]

This article is for the beginner who wants to plan a scenic drive with their kids without the stress of overplanning or underestimating the needs of a family on the road. I'll share the routes I've tested, the tips that made our trips work, and the mistakes I've made so you can avoid them. Whether you're looking for a 4-day getaway or a quick weekend escape, I've got real, actionable advice that will help you create a trip your kids will remember — and one that you'll enjoy every step of the way.

Why Scenic Drives Are Perfect for Kids

As of October 2026, there's something about the open road that sparks curiosity in kids. I've seen my son point out every single bird we passed on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and I've had my daughter ask why the trees are shaped like that on the coast. It's these small moments — the questions, the wonder — that make the trip memorable.

Scenic drives are also a great way to break up the monotony of long trips. When we were planning our first road trip, I worried my kids would get bored, but with the right stops, they were wide-eyed and excited the whole way. It’s important to find routes that have a variety of things to see and do, like viewpoints, trails, and small towns with local shops and food.

Another benefit is that scenic drives are often flexible — you can stop where you want, how long you want, and you don't have to be anywhere specific at a certain time. This kind of freedom is especially helpful with kids who might get tired or want to explore a little detour.

Part of our Scenic drives with kids family guide.

The Best Scenic Routes for Beginners

One of my favorites is the Pacific Coast Highway in California. The route runs from San Francisco to Big Sur, and there are multiple stops along the way, like the Bixby Bridge and the 17-Mile Drive. I've taken my kids on a portion of this route, and even though it’s a bit long, the views are worth it. The road is well-maintained, and there are plenty of places to pull over for snacks and rest stops.^[2]

Another great option is the Blue Ridge Parkway in the eastern U.S., which runs through North Carolina and Virginia. It’s a slower, more scenic route with plenty of overlooks and picnic areas. I've taken my kids on a day trip here, and they were amazed by the mountains and the wildlife. The parkway is also relatively easy on the eyes — there’s less traffic and fewer crowds compared to other scenic drives.

If you're looking for a more laid-back route, the Great Ocean Road in Australia is a fantastic choice. It’s a bit of a long drive, but it’s packed with beautiful coastal views and family-friendly activities. I've traveled this road with my kids, and we even had the chance to visit a local winery and enjoy a picnic by the ocean.

A great scenic drive isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the journey.

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What to Pack for a Scenic Drive with Kids

When I first started planning scenic drives with my kids, I didn’t realize how much I would need to bring. I quickly learned that snacks, games, and water are essential. I've found that bringing a cooler with ice and snacks helps keep the kids happy and prevents them from getting restless.

Another thing I've learned is the importance of bringing a first-aid kit. My daughter once scraped her knee on a trail, and we were grateful we had bandages and antiseptic on hand. It’s also a good idea to bring extra clothes — especially if you’re driving through different climates or expecting rain.

I've also found that having a small bag of toys or books for the car can help keep the kids entertained during long stretches. I've used travel-sized books, portable games, and even a tablet with educational videos to keep my kids occupied while we're driving.

“I'll never forget the day my kids and I took our first scenic drive through the Pacific Northwest.”— Prettyroads editors

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How to Keep Kids Engaged on Long Drives

I've found that playing educational games or using apps that teach kids about geography, history, or nature can be a great way to keep them interested. I've used the Road Trip app on my phone, which gives trivia about the places we’re passing, and my kids love learning new facts.

Another idea is to bring a travel journal where kids can draw or write about what they see. I've used this with my kids on several trips, and it's been a great way to document the experience and keep them engaged. They love looking back at their drawings and stories after the trip.

I've also used storytelling as a way to keep my kids entertained. I'll make up stories about the places we’re passing, and they love imagining what life was like in the past or what it might be like in the future. It’s a fun way to make the drive feel like an adventure.

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The Best Times to Take a Scenic Drive

I've found that spring is the best time to take a scenic drive with kids. The weather is mild, and the landscape is beautiful — especially in places like the Blue Ridge Parkway, where the wildflowers bloom in the spring. It’s also a great time for wildlife viewing, as animals are more active during this season.

Another great time is early morning, when the roads are less crowded and the sun is just rising. I've taken my kids on drives at dawn, and the golden light over the mountains was breathtaking. It's also a great time for photography, and kids love seeing their reflections in the morning mist.

I've also found that taking a scenic drive on a weekday is often better than on a weekend. The roads are less crowded, and there are fewer people at the stops. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery without the crowds.

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Scenic Drives Kids For Beginners