Few methods of travel have inspired filmmakers as much as the great American road trip. With summer around the corner, you might start feeling the itch for an epic journey. If you hunger for adventure and the open road but aren't sure where to go next, try popping in one of these films for some inspiration!
1. Crossroads (2002)
Three childhood friends take a life changing cross-country road trip from Georgia to Los Angeles to find themselves and rediscover their friendship. With next to no money—but with big dreams and full hearts—these girls figure out what is most important in their lives. Starring Britney Spears, Zoe Saldana, and Taryn Manning, this film is rated PG-13.
2. National Lampoon's Vacation (1983)
The Griswolds set out for a fun-filled family vacation from Chicago to Walley World, an exciting theme park on the West Coast. The dad, Clark, has planned the trip down to the wire, but his quest for adventure is soon thwarted by his dimwitted ineptitude. As a series of crazy high jinks occur, including being robbed by hillbillies, will this road trip be all it was cracked up to be? Starring Chevy Chase, this film is rated R.
3. The Muppet Movie (1979)
Kermit the Frog is just your average frog living a quiet life in a swamp when he is approached by a Hollywood agent for the chance to audition for his big break. As Kermit makes his way to Los Angeles, he picks up some new friends along the way who are also looking for fame, including the hilarious Fozzie Bear, the beautiful Miss Piggy, and the Great Gonzo. However, Kermit must watch his back as he is being chased by a frog legs merchant who is looking to make him the next "spokesperson" for his business. This film is rated G.
4. Are We There Yet? (2005)
Single bachelor Nick tries to win over the heart of a newly divorced woman by offering to escort her kids up to see her in Vancouver when she's in a bind. Her kids, who have never liked anyone that their mom has dated, are determined to make this a road trip that no one will ever forget. Starring Ice Cube, this film is rated PG.
5. RV (2006)
Bob Munro is a stressed out executive who has to attend a meeting in Boulder, Colorado for his soda company. But, with a recently cancelled trip to Hawaii and a dysfunctional family on his back, he rents an RV under the pretense of a fun family vacation to the Rockies. Naturally, hilarity ensues and they experience a series of bizarre mishaps along the way, which ultimately brings them closer together. Starring Robin Williams, this film is rated PG.
6. Thelma & Louise (1991)
This is not your typical road trip movie. Two friends, who are expecting a short weekend getaway, end up on a road trip to Mexico...as they flee the police. Despite these unforseen circumstances, these unlikely fugitives discover the true strength of their friendship on the open road. Starring Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis, this film is rated R.
7. Away We Go (2009)
In this romantic comedy, a newly pregnant and unmarried couple set off on a journey to find the perfect place for the two of them to raise their daughter. They travel everywhere they can think of from Phoenix to Montreal to Miami and have many a misadventure along the way. As they reconnect with friends and family, the couple must figure out where "home" truly is, but on their own terms. Starring John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph, this film is rated R.
8. The Sure Thing (1985)
East coast college freshman, Gib, decides to visit his friend in California over winter break because he is told there is a beautiful beach girl waiting for him. He ends up giving another girl from his college, Alison Bradbury, a ride as she is heading to California as well to see her boyfriend. Alison and Gib can't get along, so what was supposed to be an easy drive becomes a total nightmare. However, the two of them eventually begin to see the good in each other and maybe just a little bit more. Starring John Cusack and Daphne Zuniga, this film is rated PG-13.
9. The Bucket List (2007)
Billionaire Edward and mechanic Carter have absolutely nothing in common—except for their terminal illnesses. While sharing a hospital room, the two decide to bust out and hit the road to check off all the things they wanted to do on their bucket lists before they die. In the process, the two discover much about themselves, each other, and life in general. Starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, this film is rated PG-13.
10. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
When young Olive finds out she's a late qualifier for the Little Miss Sunshine pageant, this hilariously dysfunctional family from New Mexico hits the road in their ancient yellow van and heads to California to get her there. With only 48 hours and a tight budget, you find yourself rooting for this team of misfits through all their struggles. Starring Abigail Breslin, Greg Kinnear, Steve Carrell, and Alan Arkin, this film is rated R.