Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, California
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic Californian destination that offers a mix of sun, sand, and thrilling rides, making it an ideal spot for teens. The boardwalk spans 2,745 feet along the coast and is home to the Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster built in 1924. The ride covers a length of 2,640 feet and reaches speeds up to 55 miles per hour. Teens can enjoy various arcade games, mini-golf, and a wide array of food stalls offering everything from corn dogs to cotton candy.
Keeping Teens Entertained During the Drive to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Keeping teenagers entertained during a road trip can be challenging, but with a bit of creativity, it can be part of the fun. Plan car karaoke sessions with popular songs that everyone can sing along to. Road trip bingo is another engaging activity; create bingo cards with sights you might see along the way, like windmills, bridges, and wildlife. Listening to curated playlists or podcasts tailored to teen interests can also make the drive more enjoyable.
Local Attractions Near Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Suitable for Teenagers
In addition to the boardwalk, Santa Cruz offers several nearby attractions that teens will love. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum provides a fascinating look into the history of surfing, which dates back to the 1880s in this region. Natural Bridges State Beach, spanning 65 acres, is perfect for exploring tide pools and seeing monarch butterflies during the migration season. For those interested in marine life, the Seymour Marine Discovery Center offers interactive exhibits and touch tanks, making it a captivating experience.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Address: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Customer Service Phone Number: (831) 423-5590
- Public Email: info@beachboardwalk.com
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Official Website: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
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Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
- Address: 701 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Customer Service Phone Number: (831) 420-6289
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Official Website: Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
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Natural Bridges State Beach
- Address: 2531 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Customer Service Phone Number: (831) 423-4609
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Official Website: Natural Bridges State Beach
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Seymour Marine Discovery Center
- Address: 100 Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
- Customer Service Phone Number: (831) 459-3800
- Official Website: Seymour Marine Discovery Center
Official Website: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Official Website: Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
Natural Bridges State Beach
Official Website: Natural Bridges State Beach
Seymour Marine Discovery Center
The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is a must-visit for teens who love the outdoors. The park covers over 522,419 acres and offers over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry treks. Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park at 6,643 feet, provides breathtaking panoramic views. Teens can also enjoy wildlife watching, with opportunities to see black bears, elk, and deer.
Ensuring Safety During a Road Trip to The Great Smoky Mountains
Safety is paramount on any road trip, especially when traveling to a national park. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with a first-aid kit, emergency supplies, and a map of the area. Inform someone of your travel plans and expected return time. Within the park, stick to marked trails, carry plenty of water, and be aware of wildlife regulations to stay safe.
Weekend Getaways for Teens in The Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains are perfect for a weekend getaway due to their proximity to several bustling towns. Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers attractions like the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, which houses over 10,000 exotic sea creatures, and Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area. In Pigeon Forge, teens can enjoy Dollywood, an amusement park with over 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters and water rides. These towns provide a blend of natural beauty and entertainment options.
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Address: 107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Customer Service Phone Number: (865) 436-1200
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Official Website: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
- Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Customer Service Phone Number: (888) 240-1358
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Official Website: Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
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Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area
- Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Customer Service Phone Number: (865) 436-5423
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Official Website: Ober Gatlinburg
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Dollywood
- Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
- Customer Service Phone Number: (800) 365-5996
- Official Website: Dollywood
Official Website: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Official Website: Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area
Official Website: Ober Gatlinburg
Dollywood
Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant city known for its quirky charm and numerous activities catering to teens. The city’s extensive network of parks and gardens, including the famous International Rose Test Garden, which features over 10,000 rose bushes and 650 varieties, offers beautiful spots for exploration and relaxation. Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, spans an entire city block and houses over a million books, making it a must-visit for book-loving teens.
Finding Hidden Gems in Portland for a Teen Trip
Portland is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The Peculiarium is a unique museum featuring oddities and interactive exhibits that will fascinate teens. Food carts scattered throughout the city offer diverse culinary experiences, from gourmet donuts at Voodoo Doughnut to savory delights at food cart pods. Exploring the city’s street art and murals, such as those in the Alberta Arts District, can also be a fun and visually engaging activity.
Essential Items for a Teen Road Trip to Portland
Packing the right items can make or break a road trip. Ensure you have snacks, travel pillows, portable chargers, and entertainment options like books, games, or movies. Comfortable clothing and good walking shoes are essential for exploring the city. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle and a small backpack for day trips around Portland.
- International Rose Test Garden
- Address: 400 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205
- Customer Service Phone Number: (503) 823-3636
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Official Website: International Rose Test Garden
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Powell’s City of Books
- Address: 1005 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209
- Customer Service Phone Number: (800) 878-7323
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Official Website: Powell’s City of Books
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The Peculiarium
- Address: 2234 NW Thurman St, Portland, OR 97210
- Customer Service Phone Number: (503) 227-3164
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Official Website: The Peculiarium
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Voodoo Doughnut
- Address: 22 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204
- Customer Service Phone Number: (503) 241-4704
- Official Website: Voodoo Doughnut
Official Website: International Rose Test Garden
Powell’s City of Books
Official Website: Powell’s City of Books
The Peculiarium
Official Website: The Peculiarium
Voodoo Doughnut
Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas, is known for its live music scene, but it also offers numerous adventure opportunities for teens. Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool, maintains a refreshing temperature of 68-70°F year-round and is a great spot for swimming and cooling off. The city’s numerous hiking and biking trails, such as the Barton Creek Greenbelt, which spans 7.9 miles and features limestone cliffs and dense foliage, provide excellent opportunities for outdoor exploration. For a unique experience, teens can rent kayaks or paddleboards on Lady Bird Lake, which covers 416 acres.
Keeping Teens Entertained During the Drive to Austin
Long drives can be tedious, but planning ahead can keep everyone entertained. Create a playlist of favorite songs or audiobooks to pass the time. Play games like “I Spy” or “20 Questions” to keep minds engaged. Taking breaks to stretch and explore interesting roadside attractions can also help break up the journey and keep everyone in good spirits
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Local Attractions in Austin Suitable for Teenagers
Austin offers a variety of attractions that are perfect for teenagers. The city’s vibrant street art scene, including the famous HOPE Outdoor Gallery, provides plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. Zilker Park, spanning 351 acres, is ideal for picnicking and outdoor activities, while the Austin Nature & Science Center offers interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences. For those interested in history, the Texas State Capitol, standing at 302.64 feet, is a fascinating place to visit.
- Barton Springs Pool
- Address: 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746
- Customer Service Phone Number: (512) 974-6300
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Official Website: Barton Springs Pool
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Barton Creek Greenbelt
- Address: 3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy B, Austin, TX 78704
- Customer Service Phone Number: (512) 974-6700
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Official Website: Barton Creek Greenbelt
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Lady Bird Lake
- Address: 2100 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741
- Customer Service Phone Number: (512) 974-6700
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Official Website: Lady Bird Lake
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HOPE Outdoor Gallery
- Address: 1008 Baylor St, Austin, TX 78703
- Customer Service Phone Number: (512) 970-1523
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Official Website: HOPE Outdoor Gallery
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Zilker Park
- Address: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
- Customer Service Phone Number: (512) 974-6700
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Official Website: Zilker Park
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Austin Nature & Science Center
- Address: 2389 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
- Customer Service Phone Number: (512) 974-3888
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Official Website: Austin Nature & Science Center
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Texas State Capitol
- Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
- Customer Service Phone Number: (512) 463-4630
- Official Website: Texas State Capitol
Official Website: Barton Springs Pool
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Official Website: Barton Creek Greenbelt
Lady Bird Lake
Official Website: Lady Bird Lake
HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Official Website: HOPE Outdoor Gallery
Zilker Park
Official Website: Zilker Park
Austin Nature & Science Center
Official Website: Austin Nature & Science Center
Texas State Capitol
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe, straddling the California-Nevada border, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Teens can enjoy a wide range of activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, which is 22 miles long and 12 miles wide. During the winter, the area transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. The scenic beauty of Lake Tahoe, with its surrounding mountains and forests, makes it a perfect destination for photography and nature walks.
Ensuring Safety on a Road Trip to Lake Tahoe
Safety should be a top priority when traveling to Lake Tahoe. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for mountain driving and carry chains or snow tires if traveling in winter. Plan your route and check weather conditions before departure. Within the area, follow all safety guidelines for water and winter sports, and always inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
Fun Activities for Teens at Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe offers a plethora of fun activities for teenagers. During the summer, teens can enjoy beach volleyball, hiking trails like the Eagle Falls Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding area, and boat tours on the lake. In winter, the numerous ski resorts, such as Heavenly Mountain Resort and Northstar California, provide exciting snow sports opportunities. For those interested in less strenuous activities, there are numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options around the lake.
- Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
- Address: 169 US-50, Stateline, NV 89449
- Customer Service Phone Number: (800) 288-2463
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Official Website: Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
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Heavenly Mountain Resort
- Address: 3860 Saddle Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
- Customer Service Phone Number: (775) 586-7000
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Official Website: Heavenly Mountain Resort
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Northstar California Resort
- Address: 100 Northstar Dr, Truckee, CA 96161
- Customer Service Phone Number: (800) 466-6784
- Official Website: Northstar California Resort
Official Website: Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Official Website: Heavenly Mountain Resort
Northstar California Resort
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a bustling city with a plethora of attractions that cater to teenagers. Millennium Park, with its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (often referred to as “The Bean”), which measures 33 by 66 by 42 feet and weighs 110 short tons, offers great photo opportunities and space to relax. The city’s many museums, including the Museum of Science and Industry, which covers 400,000 square feet, and the Art Institute of Chicago, housing over 300,000 works of art, provide engaging educational experiences. Navy Pier, which extends over 3,300 feet into Lake Michigan, is another popular spot, offering rides, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Planning a Budget-Friendly Road Trip to Chicago
Chicago can be explored on a budget with careful planning. Many of the city’s attractions, such as Millennium Park and Lincoln Park Zoo, which spans 35 acres and is home to over 1,100 animals, are free to visit. Public transportation, with a fare of $2.50 per ride, is affordable and convenient, allowing easy access to various parts of the city. Look for affordable dining options, such as food trucks and casual eateries, to save on meal expenses. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations, like hostels or budget hotels, can also help keep costs down.
Essential Items for a Teen Road Trip to Chicago
Packing the right items is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Chicago. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city. A reusable water bottle and snacks can help keep you hydrated and energized. Don’t forget essentials like a phone charger, sunscreen, and a small backpack for carrying your belongings. Having a camera or smartphone ready for capturing memories is also important.
- Millennium Park
- Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
- Customer Service Phone Number: (312) 742-1168
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Official Website: Millennium Park
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Museum of Science and Industry
- Address: 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637
- Customer Service Phone Number: (773) 684-1414
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Official Website: Museum of Science and Industry
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Art Institute of Chicago
- Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
- Customer Service Phone Number: (312) 443-3600
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Official Website: Art Institute of Chicago
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Navy Pier
- Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
- Customer Service Phone Number: (800) 595-7437
- Official Website: Navy Pier
Official Website: Millennium Park
Museum of Science and Industry
Official Website: Museum of Science and Industry
Art Institute of Chicago
Official Website: Art Institute of Chicago
Navy Pier
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, is a vibrant city known for its eclectic arts scene and beautiful natural surroundings. The city’s numerous art galleries, street performances, and live music venues offer plenty of entertainment for teens. The Biltmore Estate, spanning 8,000 acres and boasting 250 rooms, provides a fascinating glimpse into history and architecture. The surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains offer opportunities for hiking, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities.
Discovering Hidden Gems in Asheville
Asheville is full of unique attractions and hidden gems. The Asheville Pinball Museum offers a fun and nostalgic experience, with over 80 pinball machines to play. The River Arts District, home to numerous artists’ studios and galleries, is a great place to explore local art. For foodies, the city’s numerous farm-to-table restaurants and food trucks offer a taste of the local cuisine. The Asheville Food Truck Park, for instance, features a rotating selection of food trucks offering diverse and delicious options.
Weekend Getaways for Teens in Asheville
Asheville is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore in a short amount of time. Popular activities include visiting the historic Biltmore Estate, hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and exploring the vibrant downtown area. The city’s numerous festivals and events, such as the Asheville Drum Circle, which takes place every Friday night in Pritchard Park, and Shindig on the Green, offer unique cultural experiences.
- Biltmore Estate
- Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
- Customer Service Phone Number: (800) 411-3812
- Official Website: [Biltmore Estate](https://www.b
iltmore.com)
- Asheville Pinball Museum
- Address: 1 Battle Square Suite 1A, Asheville, NC 28801
- Customer Service Phone Number: (828) 776-5671
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Official Website: Asheville Pinball Museum
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River Arts District
- Address: 140 Roberts St, Asheville, NC 28801
- Customer Service Phone Number: (828) 552-4723
- Official Website: River Arts District
Official Website: Asheville Pinball Museum
River Arts District
FAQs
What are the best safety tips for a teen road trip?
Ensure the vehicle is well-maintained, carry a first-aid kit, plan the route in advance, and keep someone informed of your travel plans. Stay on marked trails in natural parks and follow all safety guidelines for outdoor activities.
How can teens plan a budget-friendly road trip?
Look for free attractions, pack homemade snacks, and stay in budget accommodations like hostels. Use public transportation or carpool to save on travel costs, and search for affordable dining options.
What are some fun activities for teens during a road trip?
Plan car karaoke sessions, play road trip games like bingo or “20 Questions,” and listen to curated playlists or podcasts. Take breaks to explore interesting roadside attractions.
What are essential items for a teen road trip?
Pack snacks, travel pillows, portable chargers, comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a small backpack for day trips. Don’t forget entertainment options like books, games, or movies.
How to find hidden gems and unique attractions near me?
Use social media, local travel blogs, and community recommendations. Explore maps and travel forums, and ask locals for their favorite spots.
What are the best weekend getaways for teens?
Look for destinations with a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and entertainment options. Places like The Great Smoky Mountains, Portland, Austin, Lake Tahoe, Chicago, and Asheville offer diverse experiences perfect for a quick trip.
Conclusion
In summary, these seven road trip destinations offer thrilling adventures, unique attractions, and unforgettable experiences for teenagers. By addressing safety concerns, budget considerations, and entertainment options, you can plan a road trip that is both fun and memorable. So, start packing, gather your friends, and hit the road for an epic summer adventure!
