Warmer weather means the school year is coming to an end, and families are hitting the road. Whether you’re planning to explore the great outdoors, visit popular tourist destinations, or simply spend quality time together, a road trip is a fantastic way to create lifelong memories. No matter where your destination is, you can #VacayWithTA along the way.
To help you make the most of this summer’s adventures, we asked TA employees across the country to share some of their favorite travel tips and memories. Here are five ways to make your summer road trip fun for the whole family:
- Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Mapping out your summer road trip route will help you save time and money and ensure you don't miss out on any must-see attractions along the way.
If you’re planning a trip to California, TA Livingston’s General Manager Michael Correia recommends exploring Yosemite National Park, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and Monterrey Bay Aquarium. On the East Coast, TA Pembroke’s General Manager Jeffrey Warf emphasized that if you’re near Buffalo, New York, going to a Bills game or catching a speedway race are two unmissable activities.
- Stock Up on Your Favorite Snacks
Fuel your journey with a selection of treats that keep everyone satisfied and energized along the way. General Manager of TA Baltimore South Debo Adepiti shares, “I try to stay on the healthy side, sticking with baby carrots but always end up with my favorite — trail mix and granola bars.”
Whether you’re making a quick trip to visit family or heading out on a cross-country adventure, TA offers grab-n-go snacks and full-service restaurants. You’ll find TA along your route, wherever you’re heading this summer.
- Get Creative to Pass the Time
Long drives can get boring, and fast, especially for kids. While it can be tempting to turn on the iPad, try some family car games!
TA Ashland’s General Manager, Brenna Hunt, explains her favorite game to play while traveling is the “sign game:” “Everyone starts at letter A, and you have to spot a word that starts with that letter on anything you see outside the building, billboards, license plates, exits, etc. The first person to get done with Z wins the game.”
For something quick and easy, TA Statesboro’s General Manager, Christopher Hill, says, “I Spy would be my go-to.”
- Embrace Spontaneity
While we love a good travel plan, don't be afraid to embrace spontaneity. Sometimes the best memories are made when you veer off the beaten path and discover something unexpected.
TA Chicago North’s General Manager, Joe Woolever, explained, “I start out as a planner, but I get easily sidetracked along the way. Part of the trip is getting there. Why miss out on the sites that are on the secondary roads?” We couldn’t agree more!
- Share Family Memories
Summer road trips create unforgettable memories that last a lifetime and often start new traditions.
“In the 1970s, my parents, sister, and I traveled in a camper with two neighboring families from Chicago to Disney World. These same 3 families continue frequent visits, just with our own children and friends now,” said General Manager Steven Lindgren of TA Savannah.
This summer, you can #VacayWithTA by snapping a photo and sharing your own road trip memories on social media. Safe travels - we can’t wait to see your adventures!
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TravelCenters of America
A Blog By TA & Petro Stopping Centers
