Summer — the season of neighborhood cookouts, popsicle juice dripping down sticky fingers, and road trips. Call us car-zy, but this season brings an abundance of nostalgia, especially when it comes to driving down the highway while blasting The Proclaimers’ “I’m Gonna Be.”

That’s why we’re excited to kick off Hit the Road. In this summer road trip series, we will feature three destinations throughout June, July, and August — each with its own theme. We’ll be talking outdoor adventures, 30-mile getaways, and giving you something for the foodies.

Before you pack your bags, here are some of our recommendations to prepare locally:

🥤 Stock up on road trip essentials

Swing by one of these Louisville spots to stock up on snacks, drinks, and coffee to minimize your stops during the road trip.

Full Stop Station, 1132 E. St. Catherine St.

Fill up on local and sustainable goodies like Phocus, Elixir Kombucha, and Louisville Vegan Jerky + grab a latte before hitting the pavement. We recommend the espresso tonic. It just hits different on a road trip.

Morris Deli & Liquors, 2228 Taylorsville Rd.

Skip the gas station sandwich and grab a made-to-order sammie from this Louisville original since 1987, which also carries locally-made Spudz Chips — go for the Kentucky BBQ.

Logan Street Market, 1001 Logan Street

It’s a one-stop-shop at this market with 15+ locally owned businesses. Stop by The Bodega to stock up on snacks, grab a bubble tea from Boba Fete + hit Harvey’s Cheese for a pre-made charcuterie board for a bougie car ride.

🎶 Create a road trip playlist

Check out these local artists + add some of their tunes to your road trip rotation.

Satellite Twin, “Routines”
My Morning Jacket, “My Morning Jacket”
Nappy Roots, “Nappy Dot Org”

Bonus: Listen to City Editor Katie’s favorite local podcast, “Curious Louisville” or audiobook.

🚘 Get your car ready

Check the fluids + car battery. If you notice anything out of the ordinary or need a last-minute oil change before you go, head to one of these local car shops.

Tachyon Performance, 725 Logan St.
Kavanaugh’s Complete Car Center, 1374 Belmar Dr.
Jim Hendrix Auto Service, 145 St. Matthews Ave.

Bonus: Find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank

🐶 Don’t forget about fido

Be sure to line up accommodations for your pet while you’re away. Reach out to one of the many local pet sitters or pet boarding facilities. Here are a few:

The Highland Dog, 1962 Roanoke Ave.
Bark Louisville, 713 E. Broadway
The Pet Station, 4800 Murphy Ln. + 7924 Vine Crest Ave.