Go On a Summer Road Trip In a Used Car

Find the Most Reliable, Affordable Used Cars For Your Road Trip

Summer’s calling, and you have big plans to travel. But do you have a ride reliable enough to get you and your friends or family where you’re going?

If not, shop for the most reliable used cars first, and then hit the road to your destination. Keep reading to find out the best places to go in the city and out in the wild.

Explore City Life With Your New-To-You Used Car

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago Road Trip Stops: Millennium Park, Shedd Aquarium, Wrigley Field, and Navy Pier.

Chicago is the perfect road trip destination, thanks to its unbeatable mix of vibrant culture, iconic sights, and lakeside charm. With its deep-dish pizza, intricate architecture, and thriving professional sports scene, the Windy City has something for everyone.

Cruise down Lake Shore Drive in your affordable used car for stunning views of Lake Michigan, or go on foot and check out places like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Confidential & Proprietary 1 Chicago. Whether you’re into music, museums, food, or just soaking up city vibes, Chicago’s lively neighborhoods and scenic routes make it a must-stop on any road trip itinerary.

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit Road Trip Stops: Motown Museum, Comerica Park, Belle Isle Park, and The Guardian Building

Detroit is a Midwestern hotspot. This city is alive with culture and community, and makes a perfect road trip destination to take your affordable used car. The Motor City is a must for car enthusiasts, and the Detroit Auto Museum and Henry Ford Museum will take you on a deep dive into automotive history.

Music fans will love exploring Motown’s roots at the legendary Hitsville U.S.A. Beyond its history, Detroit has a growing art scene with installations like the Heidelberg Project, and beautiful waterfront views along the Detroit Riverwalk.

Whether you're into vintage cars, soulful music, or the hustle and bustle of a vibrant city, Detroit offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis Road Trip Stops: Indianapolis Zoo, Newfields, Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, and Lucas Oil Stadium

Known for the legendary Indy 500, Indianapolis’s racing roots run deep. Cruise into downtown in your used car and discover a walkable hub full of local eats, vibrant street art, and scenic spots like the Central Canal.

The Indianapolis Zoo and the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (the largest in the world!) are perfect for families, while sports fans can catch a Colts or Pacers game, depending on the season. Whether you're after big thrills at the Speedway or chill vibes at a local bar and grill, Indy has all the pieces to put together a great road trip destination.

Escape Into Nature With Your Reliable Used Car

Indiana: Indiana Dunes National Park

This breathtaking national park spans about 20 miles along the coast of Lake Michigan. Veering off the beaten path and going to visit the glittering dunes takes some effort on your end, but your used car can handle it.

You’ll find the glacial sands have been built up into 250-foot tall piles by the lake’s wind. Put on your hiking boots and trek on one of the many park trails, or you can opt to take to the water. Visitors can swim, fish, or boat in the beautiful, blue Lake Michigan. If you happen to pass by this park at night, stargazing on Kemil Beach is a must.

Michigan: Isle Royale National Park

It’s impossible to get to Isle Royale with your affordable used car alone since it’s an island. But with the help of the park’s ferry, you’ll be set. This hidden gem has 450 islands, more than 160 miles of wilderness trails, four lighthouses, and sunken shipwrecks.

You can take a ferry from Houghton, a six-hour trip one way, or Copper Harbor, which takes about three-and-a-half hours. This park visit will take some planning, but the views are worth it.

Illinois: Matthiessen State Park

Illinois may not have national parks, but its state park system has an impressive resume. Matthiessen State Park is the crown jewel, located about two hours outside of Chicago.

This park has trails that take you by waterfalls through canyons and river bluffs. See captivating local plant and animal life on your hikes. The hiking trails are also open to cross-country skiers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers, so look both ways at the trail intersections.

Shop For the Most Reliable Used Car and Make It Your Road Trip Whip

Wherever the road takes you this summer, your buy here pay here used car can see you through and carry all your most important road trip supplies.

Consider these road-trip worthy makes and models as you shop:

  • Chevy Cruze

  • Chevy Equinox

  • Chevy Trax

  • Ford Focus

  • Ford Explorer

  • Ford Escape

  • Dodge Grand Caravan