Hi! We’re Advanced Automotive, a family-owned auto repair shop that has been servicing Gainesville, Warrenton, and the surrounding areas for more than 35 years. As summer approaches, families from Manassas, Bristow, and Haymarket, as well as Centreville, have already begun planning their summer vacations.

Before you head out on the road, making sure your car is prepared for road trips is crucial because nothing wrecks an experience more quickly than a car breakdown on the spot.

In this blog post, you will find our 5 most popular family-friendly road trips starting from Gainesville, VA, as well as simple tips on car preparation to ensure a safe, easy, stress-free trip.

1. Shenandoah National Park

Distance: ~90 miles from Gainesville
Highlights: Skyline Drive, beautiful waterfalls and overlooks, scenic hiking trails

Shenandoah National Park is ideal for families that love mountains and adventure. Driving through the park is a relaxing experience with stunning scenery at each and every corner.

How to Prep Your Car

• Make sure your tires and brakes are in good condition for safe operation on mountain slopes
• Make sure you top off the essential fluids, such as coolant, oil, and transmission fluid
• Have an emergency kit with you Include Water, snacks, a flashlight, first-aid kit, etc.

2. Virginia Beach

Distance: ~200 miles
Highlights: Beachfront boardwalk, dolphin tours, aquarium

Virginia Beach is the classic vacation spot. As it’s a longer travel time, making sure that your car is in good condition will help make your journey more enjoyable.

How to Prep Your Car

• Make sure you change your oil and change filters to ensure a smoother driving experience.
• Check tire pressure in order to increase the efficiency of your fuel
• Check that the air conditioning is working properly for hot weather.

3. Luray Caverns

Distance: ~85 miles
Highlights: Guided cave tours Natural formations, local stores and farms

Luray Caverns offers a special educational experience for children as well as adults.

How to Prep Your Car

• Make sure you test your battery in order to make sure you do not get stuck in remote locations
• Check brakes for safe, smooth stops.
• Check that your lights and wipers work, especially in the rainy season.

4. Colonial Williamsburg

Distance: ~170 miles
Highlights: Living history museums and historic reenactments. Also, carriage rides

Colonial Williamsburg is perfect for families who love engaging learning experiences, as well as historical sites.

How to Prep Your Car

• Check the condition of hoses and belts, particularly on older vehicles.
• Include an essential set of roadside tools (jumper cables and tools for repairing tires)
• Check tire fluid levels and ensure that tire conditions are good for fuel efficiency.

5. Great Falls Park

Distance: ~40 miles
Highlights: Waterfalls, hiking trails, picnic areas

For an easy escape near the home of yours, Great Falls Park offers the ideal family day out.

How to Prep Your Car

• Make sure tire tread is aligned and checked to ensure safe cornering
• Check that coolant and oil levels are in a normal range to prevent overheating.
• Be sure to carry snacks, water and appropriate footwear

How to Prep Your Car for Any Road Trip

Whatever your destination, this checklist will make sure your vehicle is secure and reliable.

1. Make a reservation for a pre-trip check at a reputable local shop.
2. Examine all liquids for oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and washer fluid.
3. Inspect tires for pressure, tread depth, and condition of spare tire.
4. Test the brakes and steering for safety and responsiveness.
5. Make sure to check all signals and lights in order to make sure they are visible.
6. Emergency gear for your bag: a first-aid kit, a flashlight, snacks, jumper cables, and water.
7. Make a plan for your journey by stopping at the rest stop and gasoline stations as well as having an emergency contact.

Why Gainesville Is the Perfect Starting Point

Gainesville’s central position allows for easy exploration of Northern as well as Central Virginia. If your family is fond of mountains, beaches, hiking, or historical locations, the adventure is not far away.

Family members from Manassas, Bristow, Haymarket, Centreville, Chantilly, Fairfax, Aldie, Sterling, Leesburg, South Riding, Marshall, The Plains, Middleburg, and Culpeper often depend upon our Advanced Automotive team to prepare their vehicles prior to taking them out.

Conclusion: “Travel Safely”

Family road trips are a source of lasting memories. A well-maintained vehicle will help these memories last for a long time. If you’re planning a short day excursion towards Great Falls or a weekend trip in Shenandoah and Virginia Beach, vehicle preparation is essential for a safe trip.

If you’re located in Gainesville, Warrenton, Bristow, Haymarket, Manassas, Centreville, or the surrounding areas, make sure to stop by Advanced Automotive. We’ll make sure that your vehicle is ready for a road trip.

Contact us at (703) 665-1818
(703) 665-1818 Visit us at 13380 University Boulevard, Gainesville, VA