Our top six spring break road trips to take in 2023
Spring break is coming! We’re about four weeks out, which means if you haven’t already made your getaway plans, it’s time. We all know the beaches will be packed and cruises are expensive… so why not take a road trip? Road trips are a great way to see the country and get out and explore new destinations, and they can also be more cost-effective. Here are six of our favorite spring break road trips at Toyota of Orlando – whether you take your own Toyota or rent one, happy travels!
#1: Joshua Tree National Park
Head west to California to escape into the desert – Joshua Tree National Park is waiting for you. This incredible park has a 70-mile drive right through it, but you’ll want to stop along the way – trust us. There are scenic lookouts, amazing hikes, places to camp, rock climbing opportunities, and even a cactus garden to explore. If you need a break from the open road, the town of Joshua Tree is definitely worth staying a night or two. The park is also only a short drive away from Palm Springs if you need to relax and rejuvenate before heading home.
Joshua Tree Landscape
#2: Blue Ridge Parkway
Want to stay on the east coast for spring break 2023? This road trip can start right here in Orlando – you just have to drive north to Georgia and hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It travels through North Carolina and into Virginia, offering unbelievable scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The weather will be mild enough to stop for hiking, waterfalls, climbing, and camping. And don’t forget your fishing poles and kayaks – there are endless rivers and lakes to explore. Wrap up your trip at Skyline Drive in Virginia, which travels along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers incredible views.
Morning light on the Lynn Cove Viaduct along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina
#3: New Orleans, LA to Baton Rouge, LA
Looking for a little bit of nightlife mixed into your spring break road trip? New Orleans is definitely the place to start it (and it’s also driveable from Orlando). Kick things off in the capital city of Louisiana and spend a few days checking out the historical sites of the city (and eating the food – all of the food) before heading out of town and toward Baton Rouge. Get a taste of the south and stop at destinations like Destrehan and Evergreen Plantations, historical churches, old cemeteries, and some of the best restaurants you’ll cross paths with in your life before winding up in Baton Rouge, where you can explore the city.
New Orleans, Louisiana downtown city skyline at twilight.
#4: San Antonio, TX to Austin, TX
If you like country music, bluebonnets, and barbecue, head to Texas for your spring break road trip. We recommend making the journey from San Antonio to Austin and if you have time, exploring Texas hill country while you’re there. Starting in San Antonio will let you explore the River Walk and check out the historic Alamo before you start making your way to Austin through fields of wildflowers (perfect for spring, right?). Along the way, stop at Bandera (the Cowboy Capital of the World), Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, and Pedernale Fall State Park. Once in Austin, it’s all about the food and music… enjoy. From Austin, you can drive a few hours into Texas hill country for incredible views and waves of bluebonnets.
Beautiful bluebonnets along a lake in the Texas Hill Country.
#5: Grand Canyon National Park to Arches National Park
Looking for some adventure in your spring break road trip? Arizona and Utah are definitely excellent contenders for finding it. Start your road trip on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon; it’s quieter there and you won’t run into quite as many tourists. You can explore and hike and get your fair share of breathtaking views before heading north to Utah and Arches National Park. Hike through amazing red rock formations and don’t forget your mountain bike – Arches is renowned nationwide for its trails. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out Capitol Reef, Goblins, Moab, and Canyonlands for similar incredible southwestern scenery, hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Beautiful Sunset Image taken at Arches National Park in Utah
#6: Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park
Hit two of the most impressive national parks in the nation in one go – base your road trip out of Jackson, Wyoming, which is a short drive from Grand Teton National Park. It’ll be cold still – we won’t lie – so bring the right gear. However, this stretch of road trip is probably one of the most beautiful you’ll take in your life. Drive through Grand Teton, making pitstops to see the famed Jenny Lake and hike the multitude of trails that exist there. You can even spend the night to rest up before heading north to Yellowstone National Park. Here you’ll see mudpots, hot springs, geysers, and more.
Grand Prismatic Spring view at Yellowstone National Park
Ready to find the right Orlando Toyota for your spring break road trip, or think you need auto service to get your car ready to hit the open road? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and we’re conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.