Welcome to the chaotic yet lovable world of the Loud family in The Loud House on Nickelodeon! With eleven siblings, two parents, and a whole lot of adventures, this lively household never has a dull moment. This summer, they’re taking on their biggest adventure yet—a long road trip in a rental RV, traveling across the country as Rita Loud works as a travel writer. Join us as we follow the Loud family and give you an inside look at how you can create your very own Loud Road Trip. So buckle up and get ready for a wild ride!
From Michigan to Niagara Falls
The Loud family hails from a fictional town in Michigan that’s based on the creator’s hometown of Royal Oak—so that’s where we’re going to start our adventure as we journey to Niagara Falls. If you’re sticking along the coast of the Great Lakes, you’ll travel through various towns in Ohio in order to stay within the boundaries of the United States.
Rental RVs
In recent years, rental RVs and van conversions have surged in popularity as the ideal mode of transportation for going on road trips. These vehicles provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, allowing travelers to explore the great outdoors while also enjoying the luxuries of home. The demand for rental RVs has increased so much that owners are even starting to offer delivery and pickup services at popular destinations. If you’re looking to rent, Cruise America is a longtime favorite of those just starting out with RV rentals who want something manageable. Companies like Outdoorsy offer rentals by owners, so you can choose from a variety of different rentals depending on your comfort level and knowledge.
Roadside Burgers
The Louds have a less-than-stellar visit to what appears to be a charming roadside diner. If you’re looking for a classic stop at a traditional American roadside burger joint, you’ll find several along the way. Buckeye Express Diner in Bellville, Ohio, offers plenty of Americana decor in a retro rail car. Sara’s Restaurant in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a classic diner that boasts all the kitsch you’d hope to find and plenty of burgers and shakes (no mustard sandwiches here). Woodlawn Diner in Blasdell, New York, has all the vintage charm of traditional diner favorites.
Curiosities and Not-So-Oddities
If you’re looking for a museum of oddities like Lincoln, you won’t really find any along the way. Never fear—if you’re looking for something a bit curious and strange, you can stop at a few shops along the way that sell antiques and items that may or may not be just a little bit weird. Three options along the way include This, That & the ODDer Things in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and Cleveland Curiosities in Cleveland, Ohio. Just don’t pick up any weird skull rings along the way!
No Curses Here
While purging an ancient mummy curse likely isn’t on your vacation to-do list, enjoying a visit with nature doesn’t have to require gathering ingredients for spells. We looked ahead to see what you might find in swamps, forests, and caves on your way to Niagara Falls.
Audubon Wetlands Preserve in Ashland, Ohio is a great stop to explore the swamplike atmosphere without the swamp monsters (there’s an elevated boardwalk that’s a short walk from the parking lot). Trek the woods and enjoy the views at Mohican-Memorial State Forest offers plenty of great hikes, opportunities for fishing and canoeing, and plenty of places to camp around the area.
Butler / Mohican KOA Journey is close by and an easy stop for those new to RV life. Take the four-and-a-half-hour drive to Lincoln Caverns in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania to do some exploring in the show caverns and get an up-close look at the crystals. DuBois / Treasure Lake KOA Holiday in Dubois, Pennsylvania, isn’t too far and makes another easy overnight stop.
Niagara Falls, New York
There are two views of Niagara Falls—one side in New York and one in Ontario. While we won’t be joining the debate on which side is better, for the sake of those without passports, we’re going to stick with the New York side for now. There’s a lot to do here, and it gets pretty busy in the summer. Plan to spend at least a couple of days so you don’t have to rush and can enjoy the stunning views. Niagara Falls / Grand Island KOA Holiday is an easy place to camp—make reservations in advance to avoid having to hunt down an alternative spot upon arrival.
Take a day to enjoy some aquatic activities at Niagara Amusement Park and Splash World. Get in some retail therapy at Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls USA. Take in more outdoor explorations at Buckhorn Island State Park. And, of course, visit Niagara Falls State Park for some bucket list views. You’ll find observation decks strategically placed around Goat Island at Terrapin Point, Luna Island, and Cave of the Winds. Make a visit to Three Sisters Island, book a boat tour, and take in all of the sights. You might miss the barrel racing, but you’ll cross off one major bucket list stop!
