If no one has told you yet, you’ve earned a much-needed reset. You work hard, and there’s no better time than the summer to reset and unwind. Sometimes, the best way to recharge isn’t hopping on a plane, but it’s hitting the road and disappearing for a bit.
Think somewhere with good energy, a little space to breathe, and even some unplanned detours. If that all sounds like your type of time, that’s probably because there’s something unmatched about a summer road trip. Whether you’re riding solo or with people, the magic lives in the in-between. Windows down, the perfect playlist, and no real rush to get somewhere.
The goal is to enjoy the moment, not rush to a destination. Coca-Cola’s been part of those rides for generations, from the proverbial “We out?” text to the moment you finally pull up. It’s about resetting your perspective, staying present, and soaking it all in with a cold beverage in hand. The allure of road tripping doesn’t need explaining. The hardest part is deciding where to go.
With so many places to visit–scenic stretches of highways to the off-the-grid gems tucked away in nature—the options are endless. Maybe there’s a music festival a few states that way you’ve dreamed of attending, a cabin in the woods to fully disconnect in, or– maybe it’s just a city you’ve always talked about visiting but never actually made time for. Now is the time.
Whatever it is, the key is simple: find somewhere where you can reset and reconnect with the moment with an ice-cold Coca-Cola in hand. Ready to lock in the route? Here are some must-visit road trip destinations to make Summer 2025 one to remember.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Good food, good music, good ambiance – sign us up! New Orleans is one of those cities that feeds your soul. It’s culturally rich, overflowing with color and life, and full of flavor (literally and figuratively). Whether you’re vibing in the French Quarter, pulling up to a late-night po’ boy spot, or catching live music on a random street corner, there’s always something going on. New Orleans is one of those places where the energy feels timeless, but never stale. You also don’t need an itinerary. Pull up, walk around, and the city’s magnetic energy will take care of the rest. Enjoy some local eats and a Coca-Cola, and connect with everything the city has to offer.
Denver, Colorado
If you’re itching to take a selfie that will make the group chat jealous, look no further than Denver. The scenic drive into the city is a whole experience, especially when you detour through beautiful areas like Estes Park or Garden of the Gods – but Denver shines as a road trip hub because it offers a little bit of everything: city vibes, open nature, and breezy summer drives. You can brunch in RiNo, catch a sunset show at Red Rocks, and cool off with a refreshing Coca-Cola in hand before heading to the next stop.
The Jersey Shore
Just a classic in every sense of the word. If you’re in the Northeast, there’s no excuse not to tap into the sun and vibes that the Jersey Shore offers. No need for a heavy itinerary—there’s plenty to do along the boardwalk, from arcades and amusement rides to casinos and shops. You can even swing through Atlantic City for a quick detour to enjoy its bars, nightlife, and more. You don’t need much—just a solid crew, a packed car, and a plan to stop for food along the way (trust, Jersey diners never miss). The best part? It’s the kind of trip where the little things like ocean breeze, fried boardwalk snacks, sunset photos, and an ice-cold Coca-Cola to keep you refreshed after hours in the sun matter the most. If your summer needs spontaneity and sand, the Shore is calling.
Palm Springs, California
There’s something about seeing the desert on a road trip that truly captures those classic summertime vibes. Palm Springs is an amazing destination to indulge in if you’ve got the time to explore. The architecture is unique, the vibe is laid-back, and there’s a certain luxury to the place, especially if you score a nice hotel or homestay. Just make sure to pick one with a pool, because as the temperatures rise, things can get hot. Keep Coca-Cola on hand while exploring the area, including nearby Joshua Tree National Park, Big Bear Lake for the nature lovers, or, if you want to escape the desert heat, swing over to San Jacinto State Park.
Washington, D.C.
If you’re looking for history and a solid brunch scene, don’t overthink it; Washington, D.C. is the move. It’s the perfect weekend getaway, especially if you’re traveling with a partner and want to spark some good convo between bites and sightseeing. From iconic monuments that hit differently at night, to free museums (shoutout to the National Museum of African American History and Culture), the city brings the perfect mix of history, culture, and vibes. Bike along the Mall, eat your way through H Street, or post up at Gravelly Point and watch planes soar overhead, all without blowing your budget.
Austin, Texas
If your summer mood board includes live music, funky neighborhoods, and food that slaps, make your way to Austin, Texas. From swimming in Barton Springs to bar-hopping down Sixth Street, Austin serves up energy, culture, and charm in every corner. South Congress (SoCo) is great for vintage shopping and selfies (don’t miss the “I love you so much” mural), while food trucks across the city serve everything from brisket to vegan tacos. If you're feeling artsy, check out the Blanton Museum or one of the many galleries on UT’s campus. And when the sun sets, grab a Coca-Cola and catch a show because live music is the city’s love language. Road-tripping to Austin means good vibes, bold flavors, and stories you’ll be telling until your return to Austin.