1. Roadside Diners
For many families in the ’70s, a road trip didn’t feel official until the car pulled into a classic roadside diner. These places were easy to spot from the highway, usually glowing with neon signs promising burgers, pie and bottomless coffee. Parents could relax for a bit while kids slid into vinyl booths and studied laminated menus that always seemed slightly sticky. It was also one of the few places where everyone could agree on what to eat.
Meals at these diners were rarely fancy, but they felt satisfying after hours on the road. Pancakes, grilled cheese sandwiches and towering club sandwiches were standard road trip fuel. Sometimes the jukebox in the corner would be playing a familiar song while travelers swapped stories at the counter. Families often left feeling refreshed and ready to tackle another long stretch of highway.
2. Gas Stations With Full Service
In the ’70s, gas stations were more than quick stops to fill the tank. Most offered full service, which meant an attendant would pump the gas, wash the windshield and sometimes even check the oil. Kids often watched the process from the car window like it was a small roadside show. It made the stop feel like a break rather than a chore.
Parents appreciated the chance to stretch their legs while the car got a little attention. Inside the small convenience area, there might be maps, candy bars or postcards for sale. Many families stocked up on snacks during these stops before heading back onto the highway. The routine became part of the rhythm of every long drive.
3. Howard Johnson’s Restaurants
During the ’60s and ’70s, Howard Johnson’s was practically synonymous with road travel. The bright orange roofs were easy to recognize from a distance, making them a reassuring sight for tired travelers. Families often planned their meals around these restaurants because they knew exactly what they would get. Consistency mattered when you were traveling with hungry kids.
The menu included comfort foods like fried clams, hot dogs and ice cream in a surprising variety of flavors. Parents liked that the atmosphere was clean and predictable, while kids often focused on the dessert options. For many families, a stop at Howard Johnson’s became a tradition on certain routes. It was one of those places people still remember decades later.
4. Roadside Fruit Stands
When families drove through rural areas, roadside fruit stands were a common sight. Wooden tables piled with peaches, cherries or sweet corn tempted travelers to pull over. These stops often felt spontaneous, especially if someone in the car suddenly suggested fresh fruit instead of another candy bar. It was a small break from typical highway snacks.
Farmers usually ran the stands themselves, sometimes chatting with visitors about where they were headed. Kids might get to sample fruit before their parents bought a bag to take along. The fruit always tasted fresher than anything from a grocery store. By the time the car was back on the road, sticky fingers and empty pits were usually proof of a successful stop.
5. Roadside Motels
When a trip stretched longer than expected, roadside motels became the solution. Many of these motels lined highways with simple signs advertising “Color TV” or “Vacancy.” Families often picked one on the spot rather than reserving a room in advance. It added a bit of unpredictability to the journey.
The rooms were usually simple but comfortable enough for a night’s rest. Kids might jump on the beds while parents unpacked suitcases and checked the bathroom. Sometimes there was a small pool outside where travelers gathered after long drives. These overnight stops often became memorable parts of the trip itself.
6. National Park Visitor Centers
Families traveling across the country often stopped at national park visitor centers. These buildings were filled with maps, brochures and exhibits about the surrounding landscape. For parents, it was a chance to learn about the area and plan the next part of the trip. For kids, it sometimes meant picking up a souvenir patch or postcard.
Rangers often gave short talks about wildlife or the park’s history. Families might watch a short film explaining what made the place special. After the visit, many headed out for a scenic drive or a quick hike. Even a brief stop made the journey feel a little more adventurous.
7. Roadside Souvenir Shops
Souvenir shops were irresistible to many families on vacation. These stores were often packed with postcards, snow globes and T-shirts printed with the name of the nearest attraction. Kids usually rushed inside hoping to convince their parents to buy something small. Even browsing the shelves was part of the fun.
The items were sometimes kitschy, but they captured the spirit of the place. Families might leave with a magnet, a keychain or a novelty mug. Years later, those souvenirs often became reminders of long summer drives. They were small pieces of the trip that made it back home.
8. Scenic Overlooks
Highways across the country included scenic overlooks where travelers could stop and admire the view. These pull-offs were especially common in mountainous areas or along coastlines. Families often paused here to stretch their legs and take photos. It was one of the easiest ways to break up a long drive.
Parents might point out landmarks while kids leaned on the railing and looked out at the landscape. Cameras clicked as someone tried to capture the moment. Sometimes the view became one of the most memorable parts of the trip. A quick stop often turned into a lasting family photo.
9. Roadside Amusement Parks
Small roadside amusement parks dotted many popular travel routes. They weren’t as large as the big theme parks, but they offered just enough rides to excite kids on a road trip. Ferris wheels, bumper cars and small roller coasters were common attractions. For families, it was a chance to burn off energy after hours in the car.
These parks often had bright lights, music and the smell of popcorn in the air. Parents might buy a handful of ride tickets and let the kids choose their favorites. Even a short visit could turn into the highlight of the day. Once everyone was tired again, it was back into the car for the next leg of the journey.
10. Roadside Barbecue Stands
In many parts of the country, barbecue stands drew travelers off the highway. Smoke drifting from a grill was often enough to convince families to stop. These stands usually offered simple menus focused on ribs, pulled pork or chicken. After hours of driving, the smell alone could make everyone hungry.
Meals were often served on paper plates at picnic tables nearby. Families ate with sticky fingers while watching cars pass by on the road. The food tended to be memorable because it felt local and authentic. Many travelers still recall the best barbecue they found during a long road trip.
11. Tourist Trap Attractions
No ’70s road trip was complete without at least one stop at a quirky roadside attraction. Giant statues, mystery houses and odd museums popped up along highways to lure curious travelers. Kids often begged to stop when they spotted a huge billboard advertising something strange ahead. Sometimes the attraction was as odd as the sign promised.
Families might explore a small exhibit or take photos with oversized props. The experience could be silly, but it broke up the monotony of driving. Even when the attraction was underwhelming, it gave everyone something to laugh about. Those strange stops often became some of the most talked-about moments of the trip.
12. Ice Cream Stands
Toward the end of a long driving day, an ice cream stand was often the perfect stop. Many towns had small walk-up counters serving soft serve cones and milkshakes. Kids typically chose bright flavors while parents ordered something simple. It felt like a reward after spending hours on the road.
Families often stood outside or sat at nearby picnic tables while eating their cones. Melting ice cream and warm summer air were part of the experience. Conversations about where to go next filled the time. By the time the cones were finished, everyone was ready to pile back into the car and keep going.
