It is TOO HOT in Atlanta right now. Let's get you and your little ones to the beach! Buckle up, because we’ve got the ultimate guide to making this trip not just bearable, but downright fun for you and young travel companions. With the right prep, this 5-6 hour journey can become one of your family’s favorite memories.
Route Information
First things first, let’s talk route. The straight shot from Atlanta to Destin is around 300 miles. Here’s the breakdown:
- Start on I-85 S from Atlanta.
- Merge onto I-185 S toward Columbus.
- Continue on US-431 S to Dothan, AL.
- Take US-231 S and FL-83 S to FL-20 W in Walton County, FL.
- Follow FL-20 W and US-98 W to your final destination in Destin.
With the boring stuff out of the way, let’s get to the fun part – keeping those little ones entertained!
Car Activities for Little Kids
Long drives can be tough for young kids (and their parents). But fear not, here are some car-friendly activities to keep everyone happy:
1. Sticker Books and Activity Pads
These are lifesavers. Kids can stick, peel, color, and draw for hours. Look for activity pads that feature their favorite characters or themes.
2. Audiobooks and Podcasts
Check out kid-friendly audiobooks and podcasts. Stories like “The Gruffalo” or podcasts like “Wow in the World” can captivate their imaginations and keep them engaged.
3. Road Trip Bingo
Create a simple bingo card with things you might see on the road: cows, police cars, stop signs, etc. First one to get bingo wins a prize (maybe an extra cookie at the next stop).
4. Portable Puzzles and Games
Magnetic puzzles and travel-sized games like Connect Four or Guess Who are perfect for the car. They’re compact and pieces won’t get lost easily.
5. DIY Craft Kits
Pack a small box with coloring sheets, crayons, and easy crafts. It’s amazing how a little creativity can keep boredom at bay.
6. Sing-Along Sessions
Have a mini karaoke session with your car playlist. Not only is it fun, but it also lets your kids burn off some energy while they’re buckled in.
7. Storytime
Take turns making up stories. Start with a simple prompt and let everyone add a sentence. This can lead to some hilarious and creative tales!
Age-Appropriate Movies
Sometimes, you just need to let a movie do the heavy lifting. Here are some age-appropriate films that will keep your kids entertained:
1. Toy Story Series
These movies are a win for any age. The adventures of Woody and Buzz never get old.
2. Finding Nemo/Finding Dory
These underwater adventures are captivating and full of laughs.
3. Moana
A beautiful story with great music. Plus, it might inspire some beach-themed excitement.
4. Frozen
You know the drill. Let it goooooo and enjoy the peace while they’re glued to the screen.
5. The Lion King
A classic that’s both entertaining and full of life lessons.
6. Paw Patrol: The Movie
If your kids love the TV show, they’ll be thrilled to watch the pups on a bigger adventure.
7. The Secret Life of Pets
Ever wondered what pets do when we’re not home? This movie answers that with a lot of humor.
8. Sing
A fun, musical film that will have your kids dancing in their seats.
9. Cars
Perfect for a road trip! The adventures of Lightning McQueen will keep them entertained.
10. Despicable Me
Who can resist the Minions? This movie is full of laughs and fun.
There you have it, road warriors! With these activities and movies, your trip from Atlanta to Destin will be smooth sailing (or driving). Remember to pack plenty of snacks, take breaks to stretch those legs, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. After all, it’s not just about the destination, but the fun you have along the way. Safe travels and happy road tripping! And if you're looking for the right haven for your getaway, take a look here!
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