There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road in search of retro road trip destinations that feel like stepping into a postcard. If you crave neon signs, vintage diners, kitschy motels, and nostalgic roadside attractions, this guide is for you. From Route 66 icons to hidden small-town gems, these must-visit spots are perfect for a summer getaway full of vintage vibes and classic charm.

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🚗 Route 66: The Most Iconic Retro Road Trip Destination

Where: Illinois to California
Get your kicks on the most iconic road trip of all time. Route 66 is dotted with vintage diners, quirky roadside attractions (hello, Cadillac Ranch!), old-school motels, and neon signs that make you feel like you’re in a time capsule.
Don’t Miss:

• Wigwam Motel (AZ)
• Blue Swallow Motel (NM)
• The Mother Road Route 66 Museum (OK)
  🛍 Retro Rae Tip: Bring along a Polaroid-style instant camera or film camera to capture those classic vibes.

Saugatuck, Michigan: A Vintage Summer Stop with Lakeside Charm

Where: Western Michigan
This artsy lakeside town is packed with vintage charm, retro ice cream shops, and a laid-back 1950s summer camp feel.
Don’t Miss:

• Retro boat rentals
• Oval Beach for a sandy picnic
• Saugatuck Drug Store soda fountain
  🎶 Retro Rae Tip: Make a summer playlist with The Beach Boys, Elvis, and The Ronettes to complete the vibe.

Santa Cruz, California: Retro Boardwalk Fun & Seaside Vibes

Where: Northern California Coast
Home to one of the oldest seaside amusement parks in the U.S., Santa Cruz delivers retro summer perfection with roller coasters, cotton candy, and beachside arcade games.
Don’t Miss:

• The Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster
• Classic boardwalk treats like saltwater taffy
• Neon-lit bowling alleys and vintage photo booths
  🎡 Affiliate Idea: Recommend fun, retro-inspired sunglasses or portable Bluetooth speakers for beach tunes.

Marfa, Texas: A Quirky Retro Road Trip Destination in the Desert

Where: West Texas
Marfa’s mix of desert minimalism and funky vintage motels makes it a dreamy destination for retro-lovers. Think vintage neon signs, desert art installations, and cosmic cowboy vibes.
Don’t Miss:

• El Cosmico’s vintage trailers and teepees
• Marfa Lights Mystery Viewing Area
• Tiny retro shops and local coffee spots
  🧳 Retro Rae Tip: Pack a retro weekender bag—bonus points for floral embroidery or rattan details.

Palm Springs, California: Mid-Century Style for a Retro Road Trip

Where: Southern California
The pastel colors, geometric architecture, and classic Hollywood feel of Palm Springs make it a must for lovers of all things mid-century modern.
Don’t Miss:

• Tiki bars and vintage boutiques
• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
• Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway
  🏖 Affiliate Idea: Link to a retro swimsuit or cat-eye sunglasses.

📸 Bonus: Tips for a Retro Road Trip Aesthetic

Want to fully lean into the nostalgia? Try these touches:

• Pack a vintage-style cooler
• Create a paper road trip journal or printable travel bingo for the kids
• Use a phone filter or app that mimics old-school film
• Bring along retro candy (like Charleston Chews or Pixy Stix) for snack breaks

💾 Save the Memories, the Retro Way

Don’t just scroll through memories—make them tactile. Print your photos, collect postcards, or create a retro-themed travel scrapbook to remember the ride.

Retro Rae’s Road Trip Picks

I pulled together a full list of retro road trip goodies to help you hit the road in style.
🎒 Click here to browse the full MoonSift collection and get inspired for your next nostalgic adventure!

📌 Pin & Plan:

Planning your own vintage-inspired adventure? Save this post and follow @retrorae on Pinterest for more retro travel, fashion, and lifestyle ideas.

P.S. If you are looking for must-watch classic summer movies check out my post here!Stay classy, stay retro!” ~ Retro Rae