Are you looking for January road trips in the United States that focus on scenic beauty while avoiding harsh winter conditions? January is the perfect time for a boomer road trip, if you know where to go.
These road trip itineraries offer a chance to get out in nature combined with active adventure. If you’re looking for inspiration, I’ve rounded up some of the best road trips throughout the United States for January, each offering its own unique experience. (But pay attention to weather reports).
Let’s hit the road:
Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys: Miami to Key West
Distance: 167 miles one way/334 miles round trip
Best for: warm temperatures, history, snorkeling, kayaking, and a tropical vibe
Driving from Miami to Key West along the Florida Overseas Highway (U.S. Highway 1) offers beautiful scenery, warm weather, and plenty of quirky things to do. You’ll also drive across 42 connecting bridges that reveal the aquamarine waters of the Florida Keys.
Escape winter on a warm weather road trip that includes key stops in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and Key West. Expect sunny skies and 70 degree temperatures. This is a popular winter destination so book accommodations ahead.
You’ll find plenty of active boomer travel adventures. January is a great time for kayaking at Bahia Honda State Park or through the mangroves at Big Pine Key, snorkeling, fishing, and gorgeous Key West sunsets. Be sure to make time for a Dry Tortugas National Park day trip.
Boomer Travel Tip
Make this a round trip journey with plenty of stops. And don’t forget to enjoy a piece of Key Lime pie!
Turn this road trip into a fly/drive adventure by flying to Miami (check flights here) and renting a car (check prices here).
Texas road trip from Austin to the Rio Grande Valley
Distance: 313 miles one way
Best for: city life, Texas history, Spanish colonial architecture, birding
From the pulsing energy of Austin to the historic charm of San Antonio, Texas is a state that captivates the senses. Explore vibrant cities, rich culture, and incredible natural landscapes, including the stunning Rio Grande Valley, a birdwatcher’s paradise on this 313-mile road trip.
Begin in Austin to experience a city vibe that includes great food and music before heading to San Antonio where visits to the Alamo, River Walk, and the missions are a must. End your trip in the birding paradise of the Rio Grande Valley.
Boomer Travel Tip
Extend your road trip by spending some time on a Texas Gulf Coast beach before heading home.
Would you like to fly and drive? Fly into Austin, Texas; rent a car; then fly home from McAllen.
St. Augustine to Charleston Coastal Road Trip
Distance: 279 miles one way
Best for: Southern charm, U.S. history, mild temperatures, delicious food, beaches
Start the year with a 279-mile journey through the timeless beauty in the lowcountry of the Southeast Coast. Our itinerary begins in the elegant southern city of Charleston, South Carolina, known for delicious cuisine like shrimp and grits or she crab soup, antebellum architecture, and historical sites such as Fort Sumter.
The road trip itinerary continues to the captivating architecture and thriving art scene of Savannah, Georgia, another Southern food city, before stoping for relaxing beach fun on charming Amelia Island (be sure to explore the quaint village of Fernandina Beach).
Our road trip finally ends in historic St. Augustine, Florida our nation’s oldest city. Enjoy Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. George Street, the Colonial Quarter, and St. Augustine Lighthouse.
Boomer Travel Tip
Due to lower tourist numbers and mild temperatures, January is the perfect month to drive this itinerary.
Would you rather fly and drive? Fly into Charleston, South Carolina; rent a car; then fly home from Jacksonville, Florida, 40 miles north of St. Augustine.
Driving Southern Louisiana: New Orleans to Lafayette
Distance: 152 miles one way on Highway 90 (the southern route)
Best for: Food, jazz, Cajun culture, antebellum architecture
If you’re craving warmth, culture, and delicious food, consider this 152-mile road trip through southern Louisiana. With mild temperatures in January and plenty of history, music, and great cuisine, this route offers a taste of the South’s charm and vibrant culture.
The journey begins with 2 days in New Orleans, Louisiana with its colorful Mardi Gras parades, lively music scene, and delicious Creole cuisine. Don’t forget to sample some beignets at Cafe du Monde, catch some live jazz at Preservation Hall, and visit the amazing National WWII Museum.
Next, explore the antebellum architecture and history on a Southern Louisiana plantation tour. You’ll visit plantations like Oak Alley or Houmas House, considered the crown jewel of Louisiana’s River Road.
And, finally, your road trip ends in exploring Cajun country that surrounds LaFayette, Louisiana. Take a swamp tour or listen to Cajun music while dining on crawfish etouffée.
Boomer Travel Tip
Did you know that Cajun Country has the largest French speaking population in the United States?
Is fly and drive more your style? Fly in and out of New Orleans and then rent a car for a 300-mile round-trip journey through southern Louisiana.
Whether you’re seeking the warmth of Southern hospitality, the tropical beauty of the Florida Keys, or the culture and history of Texas, January is a great time to hit the open road to explore the diverse beauty of the United States. Enjoy!
