The beauty of life is that it's not just about the destination, it's also about the journey. With that spirit in mind, plug one of these places around the United States into the GPS, hop in the car and crank up the tunes. Not only will you love the destination, but getting there will make memories that last a lifetime.

Getting to Seattle is beautiful no matter which direction you're coming from. Make sure to hit up the Pike Place Market and Space Needle, sure, but also make time for Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Pacific Science center.

The most iconic road trip destination for anyone growing up in or near the Midwest, Chicago has it all. Enjoy a scenic trip down Lakeshore Drive, grab some amazing food, enjoy countless museums and attractions, but don't leave without your family selfie from the glass observation deck at Willis Tower.

If your family loves music in any way, shape or form, Nashville is a must-see (or, must-listen). It's not just country music, either-although, of course, it is that too. Nashville has a huge rock, blues, Irish and bluegrass scene. Nashville also has amazing food and plenty of family-friendly things to see and do.

The family Facebook photo at the Southernmost Point of the United States might be hanging on the wall for years to come, but there's more to do in southern Florida than a selfie. History, scenery, nature, culture and so much more await.

America's National Parks deserve more of your time and attention, and there's no better place to start than by introducing your family to Yellowstone. Whether you get the full experience and camp under the stars or stay nearby, the trip is well worth it.

Go to the nearest ocean, yes. However, if your family has already been to the salty seashores (or if those are a little too far), Michigan has some of the most beautiful freshwater coastlines in the world. Sleeping Bear Dunes, pictured here, are a great destination, but you can also find plenty to do in places like Holland, Muskegon, South Haven and Traverse City.

The road trip to end all road trips: plug in Fairbanks or Anchorage (pictured here) and just start driving. You'll need to go through some parts of Canada, of course, and it's definitely going to take a lot of time, but the highways and byways of Alaska are ridiculously beautiful and there's plenty to do in amazing Alaskan destinations that one can't normally reach by plane or cruise ship.

I'll forgive anyone who doesn't think about New York City as a road trip destination, and you'll probably be better off parking the car and learning your way around on the subway. Still, no city has more family-friendly activities and iconic must-see attractions than NYC-and the savings with a couple of tanks of gas compared to plane tickets leaves plenty of extra dough for Broadway shows and dollar slices of pizza.

You want to see real wonder on the face of a surly adolescent or teen who's normally plugged into a screen? Take them to the Rocky Mountains and just watch as they take it all in. Then, take in a concert at Red Rocks for some serious parent cool cred.

North Carolina has some of the most beautiful coastline on the Eastern Seaboard and the bonus here is lots of history to boot. Spend lots of time at the beach, of course, but there are lots of other kid-friendly activities.

It makes sense if your first thought about Las Vegas is more bachelor or bachelorette-friendly, but "Sin City" is far more family-friendly than many realize. Road tripping to Vegas brings so much more to the table, too, as 16 U.S. National Parks and Hoover Dam are all within reasonable driving distance!

Because you're driving, you're going to spend some time in nearby Salt Lake City, but Park City is an even more worthy destination for adventure lovers. The Utah Olympic Park is an adrenaline junkie's dream and Park City Mountain Resort isn't far off (hello zipline!). The hiking and biking are also top-notch, so you may want to invest in a rooftop carrier for this trip!

Going to see the Golden Gate Bridge is a bucket list item for most people, but driving over it at the end of a few days of driving takes the experience to the next level! Meanwhile, San Francisco is one of the most interesting cities on the planet and it won't take long for your entire family to fall in love.

Between the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in nearby Canton, there's most of Americana in just a few short miles of Ohio highway.

The famous Arch is the iconic moment you're headed for, but there's a ton of family-friendly activities in this centrally located Midwestern city. Pro Tip: The St. Louis Zoo is not only one of the best zoos in the entire county, but it's also free!

You'll never feel smaller yet more infinitely connected to nature than when staring up at a giant redwood tree.

Not only can you drive to the World's Most Famous Beach, but you can drive your car on it! Enjoy the ocean and then enjoy the sights (and sounds!) of Daytona International Speedway.

Easily one of the "coolest" cities in the country, Portland has natural beauty blended seamlessly with a hip vibe your whole family will enjoy. Just, make sure you end up at Voodoo Doughnut at some point.

Easily one of the most underrated family destinations in the country, Milwaukee boasts countless activities and some amazing (and ridiculously decadent) food. A Sprecher Brewery tour should be on the list, as should dinner at Organ Piper Pizza.

Often thought of as a party city, New Orleans has some amazing attractions for families! Take a River Boat ride, grab some soul food, enjoy amazing pop-up performances, grab a book at the home of William Faulkner, visit the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium and so much more.

No matter where your political leanings lie, you can inspire your entire family with a visit to our nation's capital! Remember, your tax dollars have already paid for the immense Smithsonian Museum complex, so admission is free. You'll want to give yourself a few days to check it all out.

A city teeming with culture, Austin is a must-see. Plus, the city is growing so quickly that there is always something new to do and see. Pro Tip: Don't worry about where you're going to eat in Austin. It's got one of the best food truck scenes in the country. Just follow the crowds.

Another underrated family city, it would be understandable if you planned your family road trip more around the Grand Canyon (three hours from Phoenix) than around the city itself. That said, the amazing parks, museums and culture of Phoenix may have you planning a return trip quicker than you would have ever guessed.

There is no better location to make American history come alive than in Boston. It's a great trip for everyone, but absolutely perfect for those grade-schoolers who may think history is just something in a book.

One of America's top travel destinations over the past decade, it's time for you and your family to see what all the fuss is about! Amazing culture, tons of history, great food and beautiful low-country nature are all waiting.