Florida-based road trip expert Rob Taylor has identified five under-the-radar destinations across the United States ideal for family travel. Over the past 13 years, Taylor and his husband, Chris, have driven their two children to 30 states, prioritising educational experiences over typical theme park visits.
Taylor, author of "The Road Trip Survival Guide," told Business Insider he seeks out locations where children can learn through activities like ranger-led programmes. He typically takes his children out of school three to four times a year for trips lasting up to two weeks, with the educational focus garnering support from their teachers.
Alaska's Untamed Wilderness
While Alaska is a popular destination, Taylor, a former resident, recommends avoiding the crowded Parks Highway between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Instead, he suggests driving from Anchorage towards Palmer, crossing the rough but scenic Hatcher Pass road.
This route offers access to several state parks and the chance to experience the tundra. "It's not a mainstream destination," Taylor said. His family has enjoyed multiple hikes, bird and moose-watching, and a mining tour in this area.
The Overlooked Side of Glacier National Park
Taylor notes that while Glacier National Park in Montana is well-known, most tourists crowd its west side. He advocates for visiting the park's east side, which borders the Blackfeet Nation reservation.
"It has far fewer people than the west side," Taylor stated. "It's one of those spots where you can still have a detached-from-the-rest-of-the-world experience."
Utah Beyond Zion
With vast public land, Utah offers ample opportunity to escape crowds, according to Taylor. He recommends Capitol Reef National Park in the south-central desert region as an alternative to the busier Zion National Park.
"Capitol Reef is not crowded at all," Taylor said, describing it as "astounding" with a landscape of large sandstone monoliths, natural bridges, and dramatic colour contrasts. He recommends it for families wanting to "geek out on geology," noting "there's literally science around every corner."
Historical Detour in South Carolina
On the East Coast, Taylor highlights Columbia, South Carolina, as a historical hidden gem located off the major Interstate 95. The city offers significant sites related to civil rights and post-Civil War reconstruction history.
Just outside the city lies Congaree National Park, which Taylor describes as "an incredible Cypress swamp full of snakes and alligators and birds and fireflies." He calls it a "unique park visit with kids" that is beautiful, creepy, and squishy.
Maine's Inland Highlands
While Maine is famous for its coastline and lobster, Taylor suggests families explore the inland region known as the Maine Highlands for a less crowded experience.
"It's really a wonderful place for wildlife, and you get to see what the northeast was like before all the cities were booming," Taylor told Business Insider.