Music has always connected us as a family — it’s the heartbeat of our everyday. It’s what gets us moving in the mornings, what fills the kitchen when we’re cooking dinner, and what brings us back together no matter how far apart life pulls us.
So when we had the chance to hit the road for the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Vegas, we packed our playlists, snacks, and a little sparkle, and made it happen.
This wasn’t just another road trip — it was a full-on family adventure. Uncle Joe, Brody and I kicked things off from Huntington Beach, and Bobby (aka Daddy Gorgeous) flew in to meet us in Vegas later for the big weekend.
The car? The all-new 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9, a bold, all-electric SUV that somehow made every mile feel like part of the show.
And no, this isn’t a car review. It’s a story about family, music, and the open road — because sometimes, the journey really is the destination.
The Playlist That Started It All
We hit play on our road trip soundtrack — part soul, part seventies groove, and all good vibes (hello, Tate McRae) for the miles ahead.
The Bose premium sound system turned every stretch of highway into a live concert, and the panoramic roof made even the desert sky feel like part of the performance.
Uncle Joe handled DJ duties, Brody danced in the back, and I soaked in that SoCal sunshine with the wind in my hair and snacks within reach — road trip bliss.
First Stop: Mystic Mountain Music
About halfway through, we pulled into Mystic Mountain Music, the kind of old-school vinyl shop that feels like a time capsule.
I snagged every Billy Joel record I could find, while Brody hunted down Queen and Donna Summer — my little music man!
We left with a stack of records, full hearts, and that familiar buzz that only comes from a spontaneous roadside detour.
Desert Views + Tacos for the Win
No trip through the desert is complete without tacos, so we pulled off near Baker (yes, the one with the world’s largest thermometer) for some of the best tacos we’ve ever had.
We danced in the parking lot, laughed until our faces hurt, and stretched our legs before hopping back into the IONIQ 9.
With three rows of space, plenty of legroom, and ambient lighting that matched our playlist, it was pure road trip magic.
Electric Miles, Zero Stress
The best part? Not once did I have to worry about charging.
With up to 335 miles of range and ultra-fast charging, we cruised from SoCal to Vegas without a single hiccup.
When we did stop to charge, it was the perfect excuse for a coffee break and a mini photo shoot — you know I can’t resist golden-hour desert light.
Vegas Nights: Aria, Area15 & iHeart Magic
By the time we rolled into Vegas, we were still dancing.
Bobby (aka Daddy Gorgeous) flew in to meet us, and we kicked things off with a birthday dinner for Brody at Aria. From there, we wandered through the neon wonderland that is Area15, where art, lights, and music collide in the best way possible.
And then came the main event — the iHeartRadio Music Festival — and this year’s lineup was next-level: Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5, Lil Wayne, Diplo, Mariah Carey, Tim McGraw, Jelly Roll, Bryan Adams, Glorilla, Tate McRae, and more.
There were even surprise performances and special experiences just for creators like me — talk about a pinch-me moment!
Two nights of pure energy, connection, and live music that hits you right in the heart. Standing shoulder to shoulder with thousands of fans, I couldn’t help but think: this is what it’s all about.
What I Wore on the Road
Because it’s not a City Girl Gone Mom trip without a little style moment.
Road Trip Look:
- Cropped hoodie + comfy (but cute) jeans
- Chunky Sneakers
- Oversized sunnies
- Fanny pack for easy pit stops
Festival Fit:
- Mini skirt, my go-to layering top, signature panty hose (because they really pull it all together every time)
- Statement combat boots
- Layered jewelry
- Big hair, bold lips, and even bigger energy 💋
👉 Shop my full road trip + festival looks here:
Road Trip Essentials (Prime Big Deal Day Finds!)
Whether you’re headed to Vegas or just hitting the highway, here are my must-haves — and most of them are on sale for Prime Big Deal Days!
👉 Shop my Road Trip Essentials here!
Vegas Itinerary: Our Can’t-Miss Stops
If you’re heading from SoCal to Vegas, here’s how to turn the drive into an adventure:
1. Huntington Beach – Grab coffee, stretch your legs, and start your playlist.
2. Barstow Outlet Stop – A quick fashion detour never hurts.
3. Mystic Mountain Music – For vinyl lovers and nostalgic souls.
4. Baker, CA – Snap a pic with the world’s largest thermometer (and grab those tacos!).
5. Seven Magic Mountains – Just outside Vegas — colorful, iconic, and totally Instagram-worthy.
6. Check-in: Aria Resort & Casino – Modern luxury, great food, and an unbeatable location.
7. Area15 – Art, tech, and music collide in this wild immersive playground.
8. Dinner at Catch or Carbone – Vegas dining at its best.
9. The iHeartRadio Music Festival – For the ultimate music high.
10. The Lounge at Wynn – Because every great night needs a slow fade-out.
❤️ Miles That Turn Into Memories
By the end of the weekend, we had more than just playlists and photos — we had stories that’ll live forever.
From vinyl hunts and tacos to Vegas lights and family laughter, it was proof that music, family, and a little adventure are the perfect mix. And just when I thought the weekend couldn’t get any better — Tate McRae reposted Brody dancing during her set! His face lit up brighter than the Vegas Strip. It was the ultimate highlight — and honestly, the best kind of souvenir.
Give me a full tank of memories (and maybe a few Billy Joel records), and I’ll choose a road trip every single time.
When was the last time you hit the open road with your crew? Drop your favorite memory in the comments — and maybe I’ll see you on the next one.
#HyundaiPartner #IONIQ9 @hyundaiusa
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