cross country road trip boston to san francisco

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Boston to San Francisco drive

Boston to san francisco road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Boston to San Francisco. If you're planning a road trip to San Francisco, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in Boston drive for about 6.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Buffalo drive for about 4 hours

2:04 pm   Detroit stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:04 pm drive for about 4.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 8.5 hours find more stops

11:00 am  leave from The James Chicago Hotel drive for about 5 hours

day 3 driving ≈ 5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Des Moines drive for about 6 hours

day 4 driving ≈ 6 hours find more stops

11:00 am  leave from North Platte drive for about 3.5 hours

day 5 driving ≈ 3.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Cheyenne drive for about 6 hours

day 6 driving ≈ 6 hours find more stops

8:00 am  leave from Ogden drive for about 8.5 hours

4:30 pm   Reno stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:30 pm drive for about 3.5 hours

9:15 pm  arrive in San Francisco stay at Top of the Mark

day 7 driving ≈ 12 hours find more stops

Boston to San Francisco questions

Where should I stop along the way?

Buffalo   (42 answers)     restaurants around Buffalo:         Anchor Bar     questions about Buffalo:         What is your favorite restaurant in Buffalo (New York)?         What to see other than the falls Detroit   (42 answers)     Comerica Park   (4 mentions)     Detroit Institute of Arts   (4 mentions)     Greektown Casino-Hotel   (4 mentions)     Motown Historical Museum   (2 mentions)     Ford Rouge Factory Tour   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Detroit:         Slows Bar-B-Q         Santorini Estiatorio Detroit     questions about Detroit:         What is your favorite restaurant in Detroit?         Places to stay in Detroit         What is there to see in Detroit? Chicago   (337 answers)     Millennium Park   (54 mentions)     The Art Institute of Chicago   (48 mentions)     Shedd Aquarium   (46 mentions)     Willis Tower   (38 mentions)     Lincoln Park Zoo   (35 mentions)     restaurants around Chicago:         Lou Malnati's Pizzeria         Pequod's Pizza         Girl & the Goat         Big Star         Au Cheval     hotels around Chicago:         The James Chicago Hotel         Hotel Palomar Chicago         Acme Hotel Company Chicago         Virgin Hotels Chicago         Thompson Chicago     questions about Chicago:         What is your favorite restaurant in Chicago?         Best Chicago pizza?         What to do in one weekend in Chicago?         airport transportation         Chicago - Should we rent a car or no? Des Moines   (29 answers)     questions about Des Moines:         What's the best neighborhood in Des Moines for a first time visitor?         Any good hiking spots in or near Des Moines? North Platte   (4 answers) Cheyenne   (20 answers)     questions about Cheyenne:         Driving from Kennesaw ga to Cheyenne wy         What are some "must see" places in Cheyenne. Ogden   (6 answers) Reno   (52 answers)     Truckee River   (2 mentions)     Peppermill Resort Spa Casino   (2 mentions)     questions about Reno:         What's the best neighborhood in Reno for a first time visitor?         Dog-friendly hotels in Reno?

Where's the best place to stay in San Francisco?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in San Francisco .

You can also see most people recommend as the best amount of time to visit. Find out how many days in San Francisco to stay.

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Top of the Mark , which was mentioned 13 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in San Francisco? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in San Francisco?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Ike's Place , which was mentioned 23 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in San Francisco? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in San Francisco?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about San Francisco. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to San Francisco.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a San Francisco to Boston drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Boston to San Francisco . Or get a full Boston to San Francisco flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Boston well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Boston!

More info on this route:

road conditions

places to eat

cost to drive

cities along the way

flattest route

alternate routes

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Boston and San Francisco are two fantastic cities packed with exciting things to do and places to see, so what better way to experience both world-class urban centres than planning an epic road trip from one to the other? The drive from Boston to San Francisco is an adventure that passes through cities such as Chicago, Detroit, Las Vegas and Denver.

It crosses the mighty Rockies, the great plains of Iowa and Nebraska, and the idyllic vineyards of Napa and Sonoma. Few journeys rival crossing the United States from East to West, with even fewer dishing out so much to see and such diverse landscapes to take in than a road trip from Boston to San Francisco.

1- Albany, NY

2- syracuse, ny, 3- rochester, ny, 4- buffalo, ny, 5- cleveland, oh, 6- detroit, mi, 7- chicago, il, 8- des moines, ia, 9- omaha, ne, 10- denver, co, 11- cheyenne, wy, 12- salt lake city, ut, 13- las vegas, nv, 14- death valley national park, ca, 15- yosemite national park, ca, 16- reno, nv, 17- lake tahoe, ca, 18- sacramento, ca, 19- napa, ca, 20- sonoma, ca, boston to san francisco.

Compare rental car prices from Boston to San Francisco here

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Admission in Cleveland – skip the line and book tickets online.
• Chicago Architecture River Cruise – admire the city skyline from the water.
• Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver – admire nature at its best.
• Las Vegas Helicopter Night Flight with Optional VIP Transportation – see a bird’s-eye view.

20 Places To Visit On A Boston to San Francisco Road Trip

Albany is the Empire State’s official capital and the most influential city in New York State after NYC.

Split in half by the Hudson River, the city has been the capital since 1797 and has a large array of stunning historical and cultural sites to explore and uncover.

It is a haven for the performing arts, with several institutions solely dedicated to theatre, dance, ballet and opera found throughout Albany. Some of Albany’s biggest and most visited attractions include the New York State Capitol, the Egg Performing Arts Center, the New York State Museum and the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza.

Albany is 169 miles (272 km) and about a 3-hour drive from Boston.

Top tour: Hudson River Sightseeing Cruise from Albany .

In New York’s beautiful Finger Lakes region, Syracuse is a leafy city with plenty of history and entertainment.

The city is home to the main campus of Syracuse University and the largest shopping mall in New York State (Destiny).

The city is surrounded by water, with the Erie Canal on the one side and Onondaga Lake on the other, two natural features which helped propel Syracuse to success during the 1800s and early 1900s.

Today, Syracuse offers road trippers the opportunity to explore unique attractions such as the Erie Canal Museum, the Everson Museum of Art, Destiny USA and the Great New York State Fair, making Syracuse a worthy road trip destination between Boston and San Francisco.

Syracuse is 147 miles (237 km) and about a 2.5-hour drive from Albany.

Top tour: Syracuse Showdown Scavenger Hunt .

Home to more than 12,000 acres (4,856 ha) of public parks, over 100 annually-held festivals and many other fantastic attractions, Rochester is one of upstate New York’s finest cities.

The city grew from America’s biggest flour supplier into a leading hub for innovation during the 1800s and 1900s and is today a city filled with several important museums and art galleries for road trippers to tour.

From the state-of-the-art The Strong to the Memorial Art Gallery, there’s so much to experience in Rochester.

Rochester is 88 miles (142 km) and about a 1.5-hour drive from Syracuse.

Buffalo is New York state’s second-largest city after NYC and America’s gateway to Niagara Falls.

The city features several cultural institutions and historic landmarks ranging from architectural masterpieces by Frank Lloyd Wright to the Buffalo City Hall.

It’s home to two major sports franchises and the inauguration site of Theodore Roosevelt.

Buffalo’s biggest attraction is Niagara Falls, which is 20 miles (32 km) north of Downtown Buffalo.

Buffalo is 74 miles (119 km) and about a 1.5-hour drive from Rochester.

Top tour: History Ride: The Best of Buffalo by Bike .

Cleveland is one of Ohio’s premier travel destinations and largest cities, despite only spanning an area of roughly 78 square miles (20,202 ha).

Jam-packed with world-class museums and cultural institutions, this unique city on the shores of Lake Erie is close to some of Ohio’s best beaches and within a short drive from Detroit, Pittsburgh and Columbus.

The city has several must-see landmarks, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art and the splendid Cleveland Metroparks system.

There are also several professional sports teams to cheer for in Cleveland, making it an excellent venue to visit when travelling from Boston to San Francisco.

Cleveland is 189 miles (304 km) and about a 3-hour drive from Buffalo.

Top tour: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Admission in Cleveland .

Once the epicentre of the world’s car manufacturing industry, Detroit fell on rough times when many big players, such as General Motors, closed down.

Today, the city is going through a rapid transformation and gentrification process, which aims to make Detroit an enviable tourist destination.

Motor City is home to many stunning architecture and cultural institutions left over from when Detroit was one of the wealthiest cities in the world, such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Temple and Belle Isle Park.

Another fantastic Detroit attraction is the city’s many professional sports franchises, such as the MLB’s Detroit Tigers, NBA’s Detroit Pistons, the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings and the NFL’s Detroit Lions, which all enjoy regular sell-out crowds.

Detroit is 169 miles (272 km) and about a 2.5-hour drive from Cleveland.

As the Midwest’s largest city, Chicago is a heavyweight when it comes to influencing the region’s culture, politics and economy.

Rivalling cities such as Los Angeles and New York City when it comes to the amount and quality of attractions on offer, Chicago truly is one of the must-see cities in the USA.

The city has an incredibly diverse food scene ranging from Michelin-star restaurants to regular food trucks.

It is also home to world-class museums and art galleries.

Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk, Wrigley Field and the Chicago Theatre stand out as four iconic attractions in the Windy City.

Chicago is 285 miles (459 km) and about a 4.5-hour drive from Detroit.

Top tour: Chicago Architecture River Cruise .

Des Moines is the beating heart of Iowa, serving as the Midwest state’s capital, its biggest city and its cultural centre.

The city is home to many museums, restaurants, entertainment options and scenic urban parks and is situated between Chicago to the east and Omaha to the west.

Attractions include the Iowa State Capitol, the Des Moines Art Center, the Salisbury House and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden.

Des Moines has so much to see and do, making it possible to spend an entire week in the city without seeing the same attraction twice.

Des Moines is 333 miles (536 km) and about a 5.5-hour drive from Chicago.

Located on the edge of the great American West, Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska and straddles the shores of the Missouri River.

The city didn’t even exist when the Lewis and Clark Expedition crossed the region in 1804.

Only after the expedition finished did the first fur traders start setting up shop in the area known today as Omaha.

The city has many unique historic and cultural attractions for a city of its age, such as the Joslyn Art Museum and the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts.

Omaha is great to explore if you want to see a different side of Nebraska. 

Omaha is 134 miles (216 km) and about a 2-hour drive from Des Moines.

Top tour: Omaha Scavenger Hunt: The West’s Glorious Gateway .

Denver, or the ‘Mile High City’ as it’s often called, is a stunning and sleek modern city nestled between the breathtakingly beautiful Rocky Mountains.

Denver is the largest metro area in Colorado and is the state’s legislative, economic and cultural hub, which means there’s no shortage of amazing things to do and see in and around the city.

The city is situated more than a mile (1.6 km) above sea level, hence the nickname, and is home to world-class attractions such as the Denver Art Museum, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Larimer Square.

Denver is also a gateway to some of the best ski resorts in the Rockies, making it one of America’s best cities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Denver is 539 miles (867 km) and about an 8-hour drive from Omaha.

Top tour: Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver.

Rugged and breathtakingly beautiful, Cheyenne is wild and untamed Wyoming’s capital and largest metro area.

The city oozes cowboy culture through and through, complete with an Old West look and feel reminiscent of the Wild West.

Cheyenne is near the Colorado state border, making it an accessible destination to reach from Denver.

Visit the Wyoming State Capitol, the Boots of Cheyenne public art sculptures, and have fun during the colourful Cheyenne Frontier Days festival.

Cheyenne is 102 miles (164 km) and about a 2-hour drive from Denver.

The venue for the 2002 Winter Olympics and the global headquarters of the Mormon Church, Salt Lake City, is a unique destination with a little something to see and do for everyone.

The only three-word state capital in the United States provides a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions, such as the Great Salt Lake, Temple Square, the Utah State Capitol and the free-to-visit Utah Olympic Park.

The most famous Salt Lake City landmark is the Bonneville Salt Flats, a 30,000 acre (12,141 ha) dried-up lakebed that has been ground-zero for several world land speed records.

Salt Lake City is 439 miles (707 km) and about a 9-hour drive from Cheyenne.

Top tour: Tabernacle Choir Performance + Salt Lake City Bus Tour.

Las Vegas is the world’s unofficial entertainment and gambling capital, never ceasing to amaze new and seasoned visitors with its bright lights, ever-changing skyline and the trials and tribulations of casino booms and busts along the famous Las Vegas Strip.

The city is widely regarded as the brightest city on Earth and can even be observed from space.

Las Vegas is a remarkable road trip destination where travellers can see the Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower and the canals of Venice all in one day.

Viva Las Vegas is a must-see travel destination when spending time in the southwest United States and a city that’s bound to be one of the major highlights of any road trip from Boston to San Francisco.

Las Vegas is 421 miles (678 km) and about a 6.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City.

Top tour: Las Vegas Helicopter Night Flight with Optional VIP Transportation .

Situated on the Nevada-California state border, the Death Valley National Park is an inhospitable environment and one of America’s most scenic and varied national parks.

The park’s climate fringes on the limits of what humans can withstand, ranging from near-frigid temperatures at night to scorching temperatures during the daytime.

The highest ambient air temperature recorded in the world was measured within the Death Valley National Park in 1916, hitting a sizzling 134 °F (56.7 °C) on the thermometer.

Both incredibly hot and bone dry, visitors to the park need to prepare for their visit well in advance to avoid the risk of heat exhaustion or being stranded.

Even though the park’s climate may put many off from visiting it, it is home to a vast array of unique natural features and is one of the best places to see the entire night sky in detail.

Death Valley National Park is 126 miles (203 km) and about a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas.

Top tour: Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour .

The stunning Yosemite National Park is the crown jewel in California’s National Park system, nestled deep within the Sierra Nevada Mountains in northeast California.

The park is spread across 1,200 square miles (310,799 ha) and is full of breathtaking Californian vistas and biodiversity.

More than 1,000 staggering waterfalls, near-vertical cliffs and verdant gorges are a testament to its status as a UNESCO-listed National Park. 

Conveniently situated just over three hours from the Bay Area, Yosemite’s nature trails, scenic lakes, ancient sequoia forests, and a wide array of animal species create the perfect outdoor wonderland. 

Yosemite National Park is 297 miles (478 km) and about a 4-hour drive from Death Valley National Park.

Top tour: Vernal and Nevada Falls .

Tucked between two of the Western United States’ most unique natural landmarks, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe, Reno is Las Vegas’ less rambunctious and more outdoorsy sibling.

The city is charmingly called the ‘Biggest Little City in the World’ and features a harmonious blend of casinos, ski resorts, museums and nightlife options to keep road-trippers thoroughly entertained during their stay in Reno.

The city’s National Automobile Museum, Nevada Museum of Art, Reno Rodeo, Mt. Rose Ski Resort and Silver Legacy Casino are just some of the highlights road trippers can expect to find when exploring Reno, making it a must-see Nevada destination.

Reno is 180 miles (290 km) and less than a 4-hour drive from Yosemite National Park.

Lake Tahoe is a stunning natural landmark conveniently situated on the Nevada-California border.

The bright blue lake’s the largest alpine lake in North America and is bordered by majestic snowcapped peaks.

Lake Tahoe is an immensely popular destination for both summer and winter sports, attracting over 2.7 million visitors to its shores every year.

Situated within a three-hour drive from the skyscrapers of San Francisco, Lake Tahoe’s world-class hiking and watersports opportunities during summer and skiing and snowboarding slopes during winter make it a fascinating destination to plan a road trip.

Lake Tahoe is 37 miles (60 km) and about a 50-minute drive from Reno.

Top tour: Lake Tahoe Small-Group Photography Scenic Half-Day Tour.

Sacramento is the official capital city of the Golden State capital city and is roughly 90 miles (145 km) northeast of Downtown San Francisco.

Rich in history that dates back to California’s Gold Rush boom, this fascinating city has a laundry list of unique things to do and see, ranging from old historic buildings to fantastic museums and art galleries.

At the top of the list of the best things to see in Sacramento is the impressive California State Capitol, which is also a museum that portrays the state’s history.

Another great attraction is the Pony Express Terminal, which is a National Historic Landmark dedicated to memorialising the final destination of America’s famous Pony Express mail service.

Sacramento is 110 miles (177 km) and about a 2.5-hour drive from Lake Tahoe.

Napa Valley is California’s famous and award-winning wine region that produces all sorts of wine varieties that regularly rank among the best in the world.

Hundreds of vineyards and wineries can be found all around Napa, Downtown district, making it a vinophile’s dream destination where many wineries open their doors to teach visitors the entire wine-making process from vine to glass.

One of the best attractions in Napa is the Napa Valley Wine Train, a 36-mile (58 km) roundtrip train journey which passes by some of the most prestigious wineries throughout the Napa Valley.

Conveniently situated just 60 miles (97 km) outside Downtown San Francisco, Napa’s greatest attractions include the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, the Napa Art Walk and the Robert Louis Stevenson State Park.

Napa is 62 miles (100 km) and about a 1.5-hour drive from Sacramento.

Top tour: Wine Country Hot-Air Balloon Ride from Yountville .

Home to more than 400 world-class wineries and mere minutes away from San Francisco, Sonoma is a sublime slice of California heaven revered for its rustic charm and slower, more relaxed pace.

Sonoma is neatly squeezed between verdant valleys and rolling hills, providing visitors with stunning views of rural Northern California everywhere they turn.

The region is renowned as an internationally-acclaimed wine producer, but Sonoma has plenty of other historic and culturally significant venues to discover, too, such as the Sonoma State Historic Park, the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art and Safari West.

Sonoma is 14 miles (23 km) and about a 30-minute drive from Napa.

Top tour: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley.

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CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP 101: THE BEST ITINERARIES AND HOW TO PLAN FOR THE GREAT AMERICAN ROAD TRIP

Post Summary: How to plan a cross country road trip, including the best routes, tips, and resources to use so that it’s smooth sailing once you hit the open road.

A cross country road trip through America is the kind of experience every adventurer needs to try once in their life.

With extraordinary national parks, breathtaking beaches, locally inspired cuisine, and quirky roadside attractions, there’s enough to keep you exploring for a lifetime. But how do you begin to plan a road trip?

The recipe for a great American road trip includes having the most current resources and tips at your disposal so you can get the most out of your time on the road.

That and a great playlist.

We embarked on our own three-month cross country trip in our renovated camper and learned a lot about how to plan a road trip across America.

We’re sharing everything we know, including the best cross country road trip routes and our own road-tested tips to help you plan an extraordinary adventure.

*We loved our USA road trip so much that we knew we had to include it in our post on the essential bucket list for families . Check it out for more inspiring travel ideas in the United States.

*This Cross Country Road Trip post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you. We only suggest what we think is truly awesome.

CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP GUIDE

This is an in-depth article that will cover everything you need for planning a cross country road trip. You can use the table of contents above to skip around to a section you want to read.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• How many days you’ll need
• What kind of car you need
• Things you need for a cross country road trip
• Cross country road trip cost analysis
• Cross country road trip tips
• The best cross country road trip routes

HOW LONG DO YOU NEED FOR A CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP?

So how long does it take to do a cross country road trip? The drive from Los Angeles to New York City is 2776 miles and takes roughly 41 hours without stopping. At 8 hours a day, that would take you five days to complete.

But what about stops and, you know…enjoying the ride?

Without knowing your route, it’s hard to suggest a time frame. At a minimum, you’ll need a week for a one-way cross country road trip. Two weeks is better, though. Two weeks allows you to drive for shorter distances and to take more time to enjoy the places you stop at. Three weeks is perfection!

America is the 3rd largest country in the world, so there’s a lot of ground to cover when driving cross country. It’s estimated that it takes about three months to see every state in the lower 48.

THE BEST ROAD TRIP ROUTES IN THE US

When planning a road trip, the question “What is the best cross country road trip?” is bound to come up. The sheer size of the US makes answering it a complicated task. Below, I will cover the most iconic road trip routes and a few other suggestions to spark your own creativity. 

Some things to consider for yourself are how much time you have, what season you’ll be traveling in, and what kind of stops you’re interested in making. Do you want to focus on nature activities, touring big cities, tasting America’s best food, or quirky roadside attractions? 

Let the following routes be an inspiration, but don’t forget it’s also possible to plan your trip as you go. 

When we built our cross country road trip itinerary, we knew we needed to get from North Idaho to Maryland. It was winter, so we chose to avoid the Rocky Mountains and any hazardous winter driving conditions. We opened up a map (really, it’s more like we opened up an internet browser and looked at Google Maps) and figured we should head South and plan as we go. 

We knew we would visit Utah’s National Parks, but other than that, we left it open to allow for spontaneity and random side trips.

On our way traveling through Arkansas, I looked at the map and noticed we would be close to Hot Springs National Park. We had time, so we decided to make a small detour to see America’s first unofficial National Park. Those are the kind of things you want to leave time and space for. 

Let’s explore the most popular cross country road trip routes.

*Also, the maps pictured below for each road trip aren’t for driving purposes. They are there to help get you a visual of where the road trip happens.

Famous For:  Kitschy roadside attractions, old-fashioned motels, and its throwback Americana feel

Route 66 is the most famous American road trip that is more about the journey than the sights. You’ll travel through small towns where the most you’ll see is an old-fashioned main street and an old diner. It’s worth it to tap into an old-time Americana complete with neon lights and Art Deco motels. It’s also a great opportunity to see underrated cities like Albuquerque and Oklahoma City.

Begins and Ends:  Downtown Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, CA

Time Needed:  At 2448 Miles, Two Weeks (one way)

Highlights :  Cadillac Ranch  in Amarillo, TX, eating a hamburger and an ice cream float in an old-fashioned diner, getting a photo op in front of a Route 66 sign, Tower Station and U Drop Inn Cafe in Texas, Gateway Arch in Missouri.

BEFORE YOU GO: The road can be hard to navigate using GPS. The book Route 66:EZ66 Guide For Travelers is from a passionate lover of Route 66. It’s a thorough guide with descriptive maps. It’s highly recommended for anyone who wants to drive the entire route.

PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

Famous For:  Gorgeous, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

The PCH, or Highway 1, is one of the most iconic drives in America. We’ve done sections of the drive, and it never disappoints. From the fecund forests of Washington to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the sunny ocean vibes of Southern California, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful coastal drive.

Begins and Ends:  Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA

Time Needed:  1650 Miles, It can be done in one week, but 2 weeks is better (one way).

Highlights :  Olympic National Park , Big Sur, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Redwood National Park, Mendocino, Hearst Castle, Los Angeles, San Diego Zoo, Laguna Beach, Tacos in San Diego

Tip : Drive North to South so you can be closer to the water for the drive.

Recommended Guide: Moon Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip: California, Oregon & Washington (Travel Guide)

THE LONELIEST ROAD

Famous For:  Large stretches of driving where you’ll see little to no signs of civilization.

Route 50, also known as “The Loneliest Road” and “the backbone of America,” is a true cross country road trip. Taking you from coast to coast, you’ll pass through 11 states on this grand road trip across America. From metropolitan cities like Washington D.C to deserted ghost towns to the azure waters of Lake Tahoe, this route takes you on a diverse cross-section of the US that’s guaranteed to give you a little bit of everything.

Begins and Ends:  Sacramento, CA to Ocean City, MD

Time Needed:  3000 Miles, Can be done in two weeks, but three weeks is ideal (one way).

Highlights:  Great Basin National Park, Colorado National Monument, Washington D.C, Lake Tahoe, Moab, Arches National Park

TIP : Make sure your car is in GREAT condition for this road trip.

THE GREAT NORTHERN ROAD

Famous For:  The longest transcontinental highway in the US

Highway 2, or The Great Northern Road, takes you coast to coast through 10 states and Canada. From the lush forests of the Idaho Panhandle to the windswept plains of North Dakota to the sophisticated allure of Montreal, this route takes you through some of America’s most beautiful spots. This is the best cross country route for exploring the vast terrain of the northern US.

Begins and Ends:  Seattle, WA to Acadia National Park in Maine

Time Needed:  3600 miles, Two weeks is enough, but three weeks is best (one way).

Highlights:  Glacier National Park , Montreal, Duluth MN, Burlington VT, Seattle WA, Sandpoint ID, Acadia National Park

Book Recommendation : Moon Guide: Road Trip USA: The Great Northern, Highway 2 

THE OREGON TRAIL

Famous For:  An arduous, historical one-way trail people used in the 1800s to find better opportunities out West.

Go back in time and explore the trek that hundreds of thousands of pioneers made on their way West. While not an official road, the journey can be loosely followed along with interesting stops to learn more about the history and the pilgrims who took this path. History buffs will love learning about Lewis and Clark, city lovers will enjoy exploring Boise and Boston, and nature seekers will love seeing Yellowstone , America’s 1st National Park.

Begins and Ends:  Cannon Beach, Oregon to Provincetown, MA

Time Needed:  3300 Miles, Two weeks is enough, but three weeks is best (one way).

Highlights:   Yellowstone National Park ,  Boise , Grand Teton National Park, Mount Rushmore, Niagara Falls, Boston

Book Recommendation : Moon Guide:  Oregon Trail Road Trip

THE ATLANTIC COAST

Famous For:  Driving through America’s most iconic and historic cities.

Explore America’s oldest cities and charming beachside communities by taking a drive down The Atlantic Coast. This route takes you on I-95, where you can go from historical sites like the Statue of Liberty, wild horses on Assateague Island, to the artsy beach town of Saint Augustine, Florida. This is a great cross country trip for someone who doesn’t want large chunks of time in the car with nothing to see. There is so much to do and something for everyone.

Begins and Ends:  Maine to Florida

Time Needed: 1900 miles, 10 days is good, but two weeks is best (one way).

Highlights : Mystic CN, Boston MA, Savannah GA, NYC, detours to the beaches of North and South Carolina, St. Augustine, The Florida Keys

TIP: I-95 is great to hop on to when you want to get somewhere faster, but the true beauty of this road trip is mainly on the smaller roads that run along the coast. Deviate from the 95 to explore the coastal islands that run down the entire east coast.

THE MIGHTY FIVE

Famous For:  Out of this world red rock desert landscapes and bucket-list hikes.

A Utah National Parks road trip  to explore all 5 of Utah’s National Parks (dubbed the Mighty 5) is perfect for adventurers and explorers. With mindboggling hikes, slot canyons to wade through, white water rafting, and an ocean of red desert to traverse, Southern Utah will leave an imprint on your soul.

Begins and Ends:  Moab, Utah to Springdale, Utah

Time Needed:  375 Miles, Can be done at warp speed in 7 days, but 10 days are best (one way).

Highlights:  Angels Landing Hike and The Narrows in Zion, Delicate Arch in Arches , Fruit Picking in Capitol Reef, Mesa Arch in Canyonlands, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon

READ NEXT:  For all the details on making this trip check out our comprehensive guide to planning a  Mighty 5 Roadtrip .

THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

Famous For:  Stunning Fall foliage display.

The  Blue Ridge Parkway  takes you through the beating heart of Appalachia, where you’ll pass waterfalls, lookouts, charming tunnels, small towns, and meandering rivers. If you’re driving it in Fall (the most popular time) you’ll see Fall foliage that rivals the best of New England. With a maximum speed of 45 MPH and no big trucks allowed, it’s the kind of road where you’ll want to take your time to enjoy the views while Bluegrass music plays on repeat.

Begins and Ends:  Great Smoky Mountain National Park in NC to Shenandoah National Park in VA.

Time Needed:  469 Miles, 3 days is enough, 7 Days is ideal (one way)

Highlights:  Great Smoky Mountain National Park,  Asheville, NC, Mile High Swinging Bridge, Blue Ridge Music Center, Mabry Mill, Shenandoah National Park , Roanoke, VA

TIP:  If you want an even longer journey, you could include additional  East Coast National Parks  in your itinerary for even more sublime nature.

READ NEXT:  Time spent in the funky mountain town of Asheville, NC, is a must when driving the parkway. Learn more about Asheville with our guide to how to spend  36 Hours in Asheville .

These are tried and true cross-country road ideas, but don’t forget you can always make up your own road trip route . You could go on a donut road trip and check out the best donuts in every state (psst-the  best donuts are in Boise ), or you could see as many  west coast national parks  as you can. 

Maybe you’ll be road-tripping in Spring and want to see the most exquisite wildflower blooms in the country, or it’s summer, and you’ll hit up America’s best waterparks. The sky is the limit!

Now, let’s discuss how to plan a cross-country road trip. Based on our experiences, we’ve created a cross-country travel guide that includes everything we did and learned along the way.

BEST CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP CAR

If you won’t be using your own car, you’ll need to find the best cross country road trip car for your needs. If you’ll be traveling in winter or in places with rugged terrain like Southern Utah, it’s recommended to have a four-wheel-drive vehicle that can handle the rougher conditions.

The first choice is to use a car rental service. You can look on rentalcars.com to see what the going rates are for rental cars. It’s a search engine that specializes in rental car prices across the web. You can often get a discounted rate if you’ll be using the car for a longer period.

Also, don’t forget if you are only going one way with the car, most places will charge a one-way delivery fee.

Another option is to rent a camper or RV for your big adventure. You can rent from a peer-to-peer service like RV Share and Outdoorsy , or you can opt for a company like Cruise America .

If you like the idea of an RV but want something smaller, you could also opt for a converted van that typically has a bed, a fridge, and other amenities. It’s a great option for solo or couples travel. The biggest renter of campervans is Escape Campervans . Since they have multiple offices, it’s a great choice for someone who wants a one-way rental. You can also check the sites I mentioned above, RV Share and Outdoorsy, for campervan rentals.

An RV or campervan rental can range from $100-$500 a day. It’s a more expensive option, but the potential for savings is better because you can cook your own meals and potentially camp for free. But don’t forget about gas prices! This brings me to our next section..coming up with a cross country road trip budget.

TIP: A n alternative option to a rental car is to try your luck at a one-way car or RV transfer service like immova and transfercar . The basic idea is that a company or person needs a car or RV moved and you pay as low as $1 a day to have a practically free vehicle. A great option if you are flexible and their travel dates work for you. You can also look at when big RV companies like El Monte RV need their RVs moved and offer them at exceptionally low rates.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO DRIVE ACROSS THE COUNTRY?

There’s no straight answer to what a cross-country road trip costs. We averaged about $150 a day on a three-week road trip in our RV. Could we have done it for less? ABSOLUTELY. We didn’t go crazy, but we also didn’t scrimp. If you’re willing to cut corners and camp in free places, you can potentially do a road trip for $50-75 a day.

Let’s explore how to plan a road trip on a budget. I’ll discuss the five main expenses and offer tips on how to save money.

• GAS : Depending on what kind of vehicle you are driving, this will probably be one of your biggest expenses. You can use a fuel calculator to estimate what it will cost for your trip and your car type. If you are driving an RV, you can use this fuel calculator to get a rough idea of what it would cost. As for saving money, you can use the GasBuddy App to see the cheapest gas stations on your route. We also use our AMEX Blue Cash Preferred Credit Card, which gives us 3% cash back on gas and 6% cash back on groceries . We spent $1300 on gas, which means we earned roughly $40 back. That’s a free tank of gas! That and the $150 sign-up bonus make it a great money-saving choice.
• LODGING: Here is where you have a lot of options for saving money. Camping is the cheapest way to travel cross country whether you choose to pitch a tent, sleep in your car, or are in an RV or campervan. You can stay in conventional campsites that range from $25 to $60 a night, or you can try to find free campsites. Free campsites are generally found on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land or parking lots (Walmart parking lots are popular) that allow you to sleep overnight – but please don’t pitch a tent in a parking lot! Only vehicles are allowed. The best way to find camping spots is to search on the Dyrt App . It’s a camp reviewing site that is a GREAT resource for finding campsites and free sites. It’s worth upgrading to the pro version to have access to it offline. If camping isn’t your thing, you can look for cheap room rentals with an app like HotelTonight. HotelTonight is perfect for road trips since it searches for last-minute discounts on hotels. It’s also a tiered service so the more you use it, the more exclusive discounts you can access. If you sign up for an account and put in my discount code CGRANCE in your Account Settings, you can get $25 off a booking. You can also use the sites like Booking to see what’s available around you. Airbnb or VRBO could also have cheap options, but you’ll have to plan ahead since it’s not always possible to book it the same day. In general, lodging in a budget hotel will cost you $50-$125 a night.
• FOOD: We spent roughly $25 a day for a family of three. Granted, we ate all of our meals in our camper and rarely got takeout. That’s where having a fully functioning kitchen on wheels can go a long way to saving you money. If you aren’t traveling in an RV, you’ll want to save money by making your own meals as much as possible. Pack a cooler and eat turkey sandwiches every day if you need to. My favorite way to get fancy on the cheap is to make a charcuterie spread of summer sausage, salami, crackers, cheese, olives, almonds, and dried fruit. I even bring a wood cutting board and stemless wineglasses with silicone sleeves because it’s how I roll. Also, most gas stations will have microwaves. We would often buy frozen burritos from Amy’s beforehand at a grocery store and heat them at a gas station for lunch.
• ENTERTAINMENT: Our entertainment costs came out to about $3 a day. We spent very little since we had a primarily nature-based itinerary. Hiking is free! Plus, we opted to buy the National Parks pass that gets you into every National Park and additional federal land sites. You should definitely buy the pass if you are going to any National Parks. You can buy and learn more about the pass here. If you are visiting a big city, you can check if it offers a City Pass . A city pass will typically give you discounts to restaurants, museums, and popular attractions.
• MISCELLANEOUS – There are always little costs that come up while you travel, whether that’s souvenirs, oil for your car, or payment for a toll. You should leave room in your cross country road trip budget for random things that always pop up. I would budget $5-$10 a day for miscellaneous items.

We recorded everything we paid for. You, of course, don’t need to do that, but if making spreadsheets is fun for you (woohoo!), then I would recommend using Excel or Numbers and using one of their pre-formatted templates for logging your costs.

TIPS FOR A CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP

Before you head out on your big adventure, here’s some cross country road trip advice to spare you any headaches.

• Before you leave, make sure to get an oil change and a full check-up on your car, including having your tires checked. It’s also worth investing in a roadside assistance plan, especially if you have an older vehicle. We used AAA and had to use it three times on the road. AAA is great for regular cars, and Good Sam Roadside is good for RVs. You can check prices for  AAA here  and  Good Sam Roadside here . 
• Make sure to download your maps beforehand! You don’t want to be stuck in Utah because you have no service and no idea which road to take. Google Maps has the ability to download maps. Use it!
• We prefer to drive for a maximum of five hours. Anything more than that makes the road trip unenjoyable. Find the sweet spot for you. It’s okay to do a few long 8-hour days, but remember to balance them with days off of driving.
• If you’re looking for a cross country road trip planner, you can use the app or website Roadtrippers to help you find interesting sights along the way. We’ve never used the app but have heard good things about it.
• Lastly, use travel bloggers like myself, Pinterest, and Instagram for fun tips on places you will be visiting. Pinterest has a wealth of great travel information, and you’ll be able to find fun off-the-beaten-path recommendations. You can check out our Pinterest page and our Instagram page . While you’re there, give us a follow, will you?

CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP PACKING LIST

We have an extensive post detailing what every person needs to have on their road trip packing list . Be sure to check it out for a detailed list of what to bring. Here’s a simple rundown of a few cross country road trip essentials.

• Emergency Roadside Kit – Having a   roadside emergency kit  with a surplus of safety devices is essential for a road trip. At the very least, make sure you have a   high-quality set of jumper cables . If you are driving in a remote area where other cars might not be able to help you out, you might want to consider a  mobile battery jumper  that allows you to jumpstart your car on your own.
• First Aid Kit – A first aid kit is something you should always have in your car. Don’t forget it for your big road trip.
• Cooler – A high-quality cooler that will keep your food cold for days is a great investment. We are die-hard fans of Yeti and love the Yeti Roadie 24 Hard Cooler  for road trips. It can fit behind the passenger’s seat and is long enough to fit a bottle of wine. More economical choices are the Arctic Zone Cooler and the   Igloo Quart MaxCold Cooler .
• Phone Chargers and Power Bank – In addition to our phone charger that goes into the cigarette lighter, we bring a  splitter  so multiple people can plug in their device and a  solar charger power bank,  so we’re never left without something to charge our devices. It’s handy when traveling with many people so everyone can have a way to charge a device.
• Car Organizers – Having an organization system is great if you’ll be on the road for a while or are making a family cross country road trip. We like this  backseat organizer  with SO MANY pockets for your gadgets, notebooks, and snacks. It’s a fantastic option if you’re traveling with young kids. We particularly like that it has a tablet holder.
• I also think this  car seat gap organizer  is brilliant. It sits in the gap between the console and the passenger or driver’s seat. It’s that little bit of space where you always drop your phone, and you’re like  “$%^&*!”  because it’s so difficult to fit your hand in there. Well, this organizer stops anything from falling in that gap while also providing extra storage. Like I said…brilliant.
• Conversation Starters – When you hit the road, pull up our post of 160 road trip questions and road trip trivia questions. These are perfect for long stretches of time when you can either get to know your travel companion even better or test out your trivia skills on each other. Also, read through our post on the best things to do on a road trip for more fun games and ideas.
• Entertainment – Your podcasts, e-books, road trip playlists, and Netflix shows should all be already downloaded (don’t rely on your cell service). If you’re not already signed up, you can even do a trial run of Audible or Amazon Music to get free fun content for the road.
• Cozy Everything – Being cozy on a road trip is paramount! Bring some cozy slip-on shoes, a sherpa blanket from Pendleton, and breathable clothing.

READ NEXT: If you are traveling in an RV, check out our post on the Camper Must Haves you’ll need to bring on the road.

We hope we’ve prepared you for an extraordinary road trip across the country.

Happy travels, and here’s to an amazing cross country road trip!

LOOKING FOR MORE CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP POSTS?

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Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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Hi. Reading your time to allow for each trip has me confused. Are talking one way, or round trip? I can’t imagine doing a cross country trip in two, or even three weeks and have it not be an awful lot of all day driving round trip.

Hi Barbara, thanks for bringing this to my attention. You are right, two weeks round trip would be A LOT of driving. We mean one way, but I’ll edit the article so it’s more clear. Thank you!

Heya! Are your “needed X days” recommendations for *round trip* or *one way*? It seems like they are round trip but I just wanted to be sure. This article is fantastic, btw. -JDS

Hi! I’m glad you enjoyed the article. Sorry for not responding sooner. We were traveling in Thailand, and I just saw this today. Yes, all the recommended drive times are for one way. Round trip, you would need to double it or cut out a lot of day trips and exploration to reduce your time.

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Boston to San Francisco scenic route

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First, I've never been on any significant road trips, so excuse any ignorance. With that said, I'm planning to move out to the San Francisco Bay area for an internship next year and I plan to drive out there with my girlfriend and make a road trip out of it. Obviously, this is still pretty far off so the details aren't exact, but we should be leaving roughly Dec. 18 and, depending what day I have to start work, we should have 2-3 weeks of travel time available. The plan is to travel down the east coast for a while and then cut west across the southern part of the country, finishing with a trip up the coast of California from San Diego to San Francisco. I'd like to stop in New Orleans and also visit the Grand Canyon, but apart from that we're very open as to the route we take. The main goal is to see what the rest of the country has to offer and go exploring, so I want to stay away from long stretches of interstate wherever there are more interesting roads available. Some questions I have: -Is this sort of timeline realistic? Particularly, will two weeks (hopefully the minimum time) be enough time to travel at a comfortable pace (maybe 6 hours of driving per day) and allow us to explore off the interstates a bit? -Is this sort of southern route a good way to go? I figure it will be a bit warmer and more enjoyable than a more direct northern route in the winter. Also, we'll have to make the return trip in the summer so that seems like a better time to stay north. -Does anyone have some insight with regard to when/where we should opt for the interstate to cut down on travel time vs. when we should take our time and enjoy the countryside? As I said before, I don't have any experience driving much farther than Maine and I've never been to any middle states so I have a feeling I'm underestimating just how empty certain regions are. I want to make sure that we get to see and experience as much as possible, but also keep our timeline efficient by "skipping" some of the more barren parts of the trip (i.e. bombing down the interstate). Any advice/insight/suggested routes would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Some Routes to Consider

Welcome aboard the RoadTrip America Forums! Having weeks to play with, you can pretty much choose any roads that you like to connect your intermediate destinations. As always, planning goes a lot better with paper maps most of which will mark scenic routes in some form or other, usually by a parallel dotted or dashed line. That said, there are some roads and routes that are particularly worth your attention. Going down the east coast you can choose to go inland, follow the coast, or combine portions of each. In the South and heading for New Orleans, you can hardly do better than the Natchez Trace Parkway between Nashville and Natchez. This was, in fact, the way boatmen got back upstream from New Orleans before steamboats. West of New Orleans, the Creole Nature Trail will take you places most tourists on I-10 simply miss. From southeast Texas to the Grand Canyon, you'll have a major choice to make. You can either head up the Sabine and Red Rivers (essentially going around Texas) and enjoy their green beauty and the many state parks along the routes that run parallel to them, then go through the Texas panhandle and past Albuquerque and Petrified Forest National Park . Or you can stay south along the Gulf Coast and then follow the Rio Grande past Amistad National Recreation Area and Big Bend National Park and then come up through Tucson and Sedona. Each of those routes has numerous smaller scenic, historic, and just plain interesting sites we can recommend once you've made that basic choice. Then, from the Grand Canyon to San Francisco, a route down to San Diego and up the coast is one possibility, but the drive from San Diego up through Los Angeles is not one I'd describe as either scenic or relaxing. You might want to instead look at going from the Canyon up through Las Vegas and Death Valley and then over to the west coast around Cambria for a drive north along the Big Sur Coast and Monterey. I hope those first few suggestions help you plan out a general route, and be sure to come back to this same discussion as your plans firm up for more specific ideas. AZBuck

Last edited by AZBuck; 03-03-2015 at 10:13 AM .

Boston to San Jose, looking for advice

Hi everyone, this is my first time posting here. My girlfriend and I are going to be driving from Boston to San Jose about a month from now and I'm looking to get some advice for planning the trip. Since it will be winter, we are planning on taking a deep southern route. I have attached a map of roughly what I have in mind, but keep in mind I was just sort of dragging the line around on the map so the roads aren't exact. There are a few key places along the way that we want to hit, including Washington DC, New Orleans, and the Grand Canyon. I also think it would be a great ending to the trip to drive up the coastline of California. The reason we are going out to San Jose is for a 6 month internship I will be doing there, which starts on January 11th. The plan now is to leave the day after Christmas, which gives us about 15 days traveling (with some time to get settled before work starts). We also were thinking about spending New Year's Eve in New Orleans and taking a day off from driving on New Year's day. So I guess my first question is whether this seems like a reasonable itinerary. I've never driven farther than NYC so I'm not sure if I'm underestimating the scale of the trip. I know people sometimes drive straight across the country in 5 days or so, but we want to take our time and stop to experience different parts of the country along the way. Secondly (or first I suppose) is whether this is a good route to take. My thinking is that we want to avoid big snowstorms that might be happening farther north around that time. Is taking the southern route good enough to avoid all of that? I really don't know what the weather is like down there, so I'm not sure. Also, what is the best way to keep track of the weather patterns as we go? Should we just look at radar maps online and try to drive around any big storms if they come up? I have a 2011 Kia Optima with front wheel drive so I can't really drive through a storm (or shouldn't at least). Also, are there any roads that should be avoided (or ones that we should definitely take)? Finally, what are some general tips for a trip like this? Where do you guys generally stay for the night along the way on a budget? I guess we should probably look into rewards programs for certain hotel chains or something. And what are some essentials in terms of an emergency kit/etc.? Sorry to be all over the place with my questions, but I'm totally new to this whole road tripping thing...I'm really excited though! Thanks in advance. Moderator Note: Please keep all questions about the same trip in the same thread

Last edited by Midwest Michael; 11-22-2015 at 08:11 PM . Reason: Merged Threads

Altitude not latitude.

Most of the advice given in your previous post is still valid. However you need to understand that going sojuth is no guarantee of avoiding snow and ice. It is altitude, not latitude you need to be aware of. I-40 and I-10 (even I-8) can and do see snow and ice storms as they are in places at high altitudes. Best thing you can do is keep an eye on the weather patterns from a week or so before your departure and during your trip. Have a safe trip. Lifey

Sorry about the duplicate post, I totally forgot that I had made that other one a few months ago. I'll keep any further ones in this thread. So last night I was trying to plan out the first portion of the trip from Boston to New Orleans. Like I said before, the plan is to leave Dec. 26th and arrive in New Orleans the afternoon of New Year's Eve. I've put a link to Google Maps showing (roughly) the places I'm considering stopping along the way. I have a few more questions about this route though. First, the Natchez Trace Parkway that AZBuck recommended seems like a really nice scenic drive. However, it seems like to get there I would have to take I-81 from Washington to Nashville instead of continuing south along I-95. Just from looking at Google Maps, it seems like I-81 is more mountainous and thus more prone to bad weather. Am I assuming too much, or is that generally true? My second question is about the very beginning of the trip. I was talking to my cousin who has driven between Boston and Virginia/Florida a few times, and he was saying that driving the day after Christmas is really slow-going and painful. With that in mind, I was considering maybe leaving the night of the 25th just to get a head start. If I went with that plan, I would probably drive a few hours and stop in New Haven, CT and then continue on to DC on the 26th. If I left the 26th as originally planned, I would probably try to get down to Philadelphia on the first day. Google puts that trip at just over 5 hours, but I have to imagine that it would take significantly longer than that right after the holiday. Does anyone have any experience with driving around the holidays and what sort of traffic to expect on I-95? Here is the route mapped out .

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An Epic Cross-Country Road Trip Itinerary: 8 Weeks Coast to Coast

This epic cross-country road trip itinerary is for an all-American family road trip from coast to coast! This USA road trip itinerary includes 21 states, 9 National Parks, 3 National Monuments, and 1 National Memorial and takes approximately 8 weeks.

This route starts in New England (Connecticut specifically) and heads down to North Carolina, through Denver, across to Los Angeles, then up to San Francisco, with lots of fun family road trip stops along the way!

When possible, we’ll include alternate routes or additional road trip stops that may be of interest as you move coast to coast.

Pick and choose which stops sound like fun for your family to craft your own ideal cross-country family road trip.

This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a reader clicks through and makes a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. All our recommendations are independent and are in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.

At the bottom of the post, Download a free License Plate Game to play on your cross-country road trip!

Lodging: Booking.com Flight Deals: Skyscanner Rental Cars: Discover Cars Airport Transfers: Welcome Pickups

Digital SIM Cards: Airalo eSIM Travel Insurance: SafetyWing

Table of Contents

How Do You Plan a Cross-Country Road Trip for Families?

Summer road trips in the United States are a family right of passage- a lot of families can only tackle these long drives during the summer months, making it a busy time for driving cross-country!

We advise booking all hotel and motel rooms well in advance, with particular emphasis on the national parks, which have seen record crowds in the last few years. Many major attractions and museums require timed tickets for entry, yet another reason to plan ahead.

Don’t forget to buy an Annual Park Pass – it pays for itself in three parks! The pass is good for one year from purchase.

Buy Now: America the Beautiful National Parks Pass

Since we had a 4 and 6-year-old, we limited our time in the car to 4-5 hours a day. If you have older kids, you could do a similar route in a lot less time.

Planning a trip with kids? We put together our best advice for road trip tips specifically for families with kids and toddlers. We’ve covered everything from planning to bathroom breaks so you can learn from our hours on the road.

What is the Best Cross-Country Road Trip Route to Take?

There are many routes you can take cross-country from the all-American Route 66 to the northern route via rt 90, or the most southern route via Route 10. What route is best for you depends on what you’d like to see along the way and where you’d like to end your trip.

We traveled cross-country over a mix of the below routes. We started by mapping out where we have friends we’d like to stop and see, and then added in bucket list stops like the Grand Canyon.

Major Highways Crossing the US

These are the most famous highways crossing the US, many families use these as a start to their road trip planning.

Route 66 , also called the Will Rodgers Highway, runs from Chicago to Los Angeles. It is one of the original US highway routes and was used extensively during the 1930s during the Dust Bowl. This road trip route is now known for its kitsch roadside attractions and instagram-able photo opportunities.

Route 90 , the most northern route, starts in Boston as the Mass Pike, crosses to Chicago, then through Sioux Falls, to Billings and Missoula, then Spokane, and finally Seattle. This is the route you’d take to see Mt. Rushmore , the Badlands, and Yellowstone National Park .

Route 80 is a middle route that starts in New Jersey, also goes through Chicago, then runs through Omaha to Cheyenne, on to Salt Lake City, then to Reno, ending in San Francisco.

Route 70 starts in Baltimore, then Pittsburgh, on to Columbus, Indianapolis, then St. Louis, Kansas City, and over to Denver before heading through Utah with its famous National Parks of Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce, and Zion, then on to Los Angeles.

Route 40 is a mid-southern route starting in Wilmington, NC, heading through Nashville, to Oklahoma City, to Albuquerque, then Flagstaff, close to the Grand Canyon, and ending in Los Angeles.

Route 10 is the most southern route which starts in Jacksonville FL, heads to New Orleans, across to Houston, to Tuscon, and then on to Los Angeles.

Epic Cross-Country Road Trip Itinerary

This cross-country road trip is the first leg of our Family Year Out . From California, we headed overseas to continue our Gap Year journey in Mexico , Peru , Colombia , Brazil , Italy , Croatia , Morocco , and more. If you’ve got questions, start with what exactly is a Family Year Out ?

Since we were traveling with a 4-year-old and a 6-year-old, so all activities and stops are appropriate for families with young kids. Due to the health environment at the time, we mostly focused on outdoor activities, with a few exceptions.

Worried about keeping the kids entertained and happy during long rides in the back seat? We recommend a combination of fun kid’s car activities and lots of road trip snacks .

This is the map of our full cross-country road trip- since it’s hard to see the details in this full USA map, we’ve added screenshots below of sections of the trip.

Start: Connecticut

We started this family cross-country road trip in Connecticut, where we’d been living for the last few years. We sold our house, and all our things were packed up into either a Pod storage container or into our car.

What did we pack into our not-so-huge Subaru Outback? All the road trip essentials , a few books for the kids, and lots of food.

Don’t forget travel insurance! We use SafetyWing for our long-term travel needs.

Get a Quote: SafetyWing Travel Insurance

Crayola Experience, Easton PA

First stop, the Crayola Experience in Easton, PA. This colorful attraction covers 65,000 square feet, with 27 different experiences. We were able to see how crayons are made and name our own crayons among lots of other crafty activities. Some of the attractions, including the character appearances, and the playground, were closed due to restrictions, but should now be open again.

We had a great time at the Crayola Experience. As you can see in our review of the Crayola Experience , we highly recommend it for families. In fact, our kids still sometimes talk about it!

Additional Stop: Gettysburg, PA

Continue southwest to Gettysburg, PA to visit the Gettysburg National Military Park and learn about this famous battle in the Civil War. See where Abraham Lincoln stood to give the Gettysburg Address, and don’t forget to stop by the Cannonball Malt Shop!

Book Now: 2 Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Tour

Baltimore, MD- 2 nights

We spent our first two nights with friends in Baltimore. While we mostly hung out in their backyard catching up, there’s plenty for families to do in “Charm City”.

Take a hike through Lake Roland Nature Center and Park or explore the children’s fairy garden there. Take a Chessie dragon paddleboat out on the Chesapeake harbor, or upgrade to an electric pirate boat. Dress like a pirate and fire a water cannon on an Urban Pirates Family Adventure Cruise.

We loved exploring Fort McHenry – where the Star-Spangled Banner was written during the War of 1812. It was a very manageable size for the kids, with lots of bite-sized bits of information, and plenty of space to run around.

Washington, D.C.- 2 nights

We were in DC for a few days in 2019, so this visit was focused on a few places we didn’t get to on that trip. Washington DC is a very family-friendly city, with tons to do!

National Museum of Natural History

First on our list was the National Museum of Natural History ! S(6) was really excited to see the rocks and gems, and both girls will love dinosaurs.

We were able to see the Hope Diamond, and some really large crystals, so the kids loved it. We spent a little time in the Hall of Oceans, but the gems were really our highlight. With timed tickets, the museum felt empty, and we had lots of space to ourselves.

National Museum of the American Indian

We also went to the National Museum of the American Indian . I’ve heard great things about it, and was hoping it would set the stage for some other educational stops farther along the trip. Also, their cafe with native foods is supposed to be terrific.

However, I would not recommend this museum for kids. It was very cerebral and involved a lot of reading plaques. They were not at all entertained. We were there for the last day of an exhibit on the Inka Trail (leading to Macchu Pichu) which should have been riveting but was not accessible enough for the kids. The cafe was closed, so we weren’t able to try it.

National Archives

I’m was also hoping to visit the National Archives Museum to see the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. As part of S’s 2nd-grade curriculum, she will be learning about the Constitution, so this seemed like a great way to jumpstart that part of her education.

The timed tickets for the National Archives sold out fast- we were not able to get tickets on this visit. Plan way ahead if this is on your list!

The White House

Lastly, I emailed our representative to see if we can tour the White House. As of late June 2021, the White House was still closed. We tried to get a photo in front of the White House and found that we could barely get close enough to see it, due to a sudden security lockdown.

A lot of the monuments are lit up at night, this tour makes it really easy to see this other perspective of the National Mall.

Book Now: 3 Hour “Monuments By Night Tour”

Mount Vernon

We realized at the last minute that many of the main attractions in D.C. are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays- so we drove down to Virginia to explore George Washington’s family estate of Mount Vernon.

We highly recommend visiting Mount Vernon with kids !

Affordable Hotels close to the National Mall: Hotel Harrington (not luxury, but amazing location), or Hyatt Regency Washington (walking to Union Station).

Charlottesville, VA- 1 night

We are stopped for one day in Charlottesville to hang out with some friends at a local park.

Don’t Miss Cabins : Montfair Resort Farm . If you are passing by Crozet, VA, don’t miss a stay at the Montfair Resort Farm! Our kids loved staying in a rustic log cabin with bunk beds.

We didn’t have time to check out all the activities around the lake but would have loved a few quiet days to canoe and explore the area.

Check Availability: Montfair Resort Farm

Alternate Route: Natural Bridge State Park

From Washington DC, head south to Colonial Williamsburg before driving west to Charlottesville. From Charlottesville continue west to visit Natural Bridge State Park . Walk the Ceder Creek Trail to the natural bridge, then continue to the Monacan Village.

Colonial Williamsburg

We spent a day at Colonial Williamsburg . It was hot. The distances between buildings were long. We faded. Our favorite part with the maze behind the governor’s house. I think we may have made a mistake starting on the quieter end near the markets, rather than at the visitors center.

Overall it reinforced some of the things we learned at Mount Vernon but was just too much for us on a muggy 90+ degree day.

Depending on your timing you can also visit Historic Jamestowne – the first permanent English settlement in the Americas.

Outer Banks, NC- 2 nights

We wanted to dip our toes in the Atlantic Ocean before heading to the West Coast to dip our toes in the Pacific! We spent two nights exploring the beaches in Nags Head, North Carolina .

The Wright Brothers National Memorial is just down the beach- visit to see where the first powered flight took place! We were also looking forward to some time just relaxing and digging in the sand.

We almost skipped the Wright Brothers Memorial, but I’m so glad we went! Don’t miss visiting the Wright Brothers Memorial with kids – this small park is the perfect place to learn and explore.

Affordable Place to Stay: Sea Horse Inn & Cottages , Nags Head. These are simple rooms, but right across the street from the beach, with beach access at Jeanette’s Pier. Small grocery deli, burgers, and ice cream are all within an easy walk.

Check Availability: Sea Horse Inn & Cottages

Greensboro, NC- 1 night

Take a one-night stopover in Greensboro, North Carolina to break up a long drive.

Budget Hotel: Fairview Inn, Greensboro Airport . This hotel is nothing amazing, but they have an outdoor pool, and coin laundry, so it does the trick.

Alternate Route: Willmington, NC, and Charleston, SC

Instead of heading west to Greensboro, continue south to Wilmington, NC, and then to Charleston, SC. In Charleston visit the aircraft carrier U.S.S Yorktown . Head northwest to Cherokee, NC. Heading through Charlotte, NC? Check out all the things to do in Charlotte in winter !

Oconaluftee Indian Village

Next, we headed to Cherokee, NC to visit the Oconalutfee Indian Village . The visit starts with a guided tour introducing traditional Cherokee crafts, then you’ll move through a living history village from the 18th Century at your own pace.

This Cherokee village was so engaging! We highly recommend it if you are in the area.

You can read a full review of our Oconaluftee Village visit and why we so highly recommend it!

Additional Stop: Rock City and Ruby Falls

If you have a little more time in this area, head west to Chattanooga, TN to tour Ruby Falls – the tallest and deepest waterfall open to the public in the United States. Visit Rock City (technically in Georgia) where you’ll see the Fairyland Caverns, and walk the Enchanted Trail.

Cave City, KY- 2 nights

We based ourselves in Cave City, KY to visit two attractions- Mammoth Cave, and Dinosaur World.

Mammoth Cave National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest-known cave system with over 400 miles of mapped passageways. We took the Historic Modified Tour, which is the classic tour covering about 2 miles.

Visiting Mammoth Cave with kids was amazing! We decided to skip Dinosaur World and instead had a picnic and worked on our first Junior Ranger packets. The kids were thrilled to get their official badges!

Which tour of Mammoth is best for you? We’ve recommended the best cave tour of Mammoth for everyone from families with young kids to those looking for an adventure.

Next stop- Dinosaur World Kentucky ! This attraction normally includes a 15-minute Fossil Dig with every ticket, but in 2021, each child will be given a bag with three fossils when they enter. There are 150 life-size dinosaurs to see, a big dinosaur playground, and a museum of dinosaur bones and eggs. There is no food service, so bring a picnic.

Budget Hotel: Days Inn Wyndham Cave Cit y. This hotel happens to be very close to Dinosaur World, so we had an amazing view of their Fourth of July Fireworks from the parking lot! The kids enjoyed the pool here. A decent, no-frills, clean hotel.

Check Availability: Days Inn Wyndam Cave City

Nashville, TN- 3 nights

In Nashville, wander down Broadway (Honky Tonk Highway), check out the Nashville Farmers’ Market , and have some playground time at Cumberland Park.

You can also feed the lorikeets, pet the kangaroos, and play on the jungle gym at the Nashville Zoo .

We highly recommend dinner and a show at the Listening Room Cafe . The show started at 6 pm, which was very family-friendly. This venue showcases up-and-coming songwriters, singing their own songs. Tickets are just $5 per person, with a $15/person food and drink minimum.

Tickets to the Grand Ole Opry were sold out where we were there but we’ve heard amazing things about this backstage tour.

Book Now: Backstage Tour of Grand Ole Opry House

Don’t Miss This Hotel: In Nashville, we stayed at the SoBro Guest House run by Black Swan. We had a one-bedroom apartment, so we slept in the bedroom and the kids slept on the pull-out couch in the small, modern living area.

It was great to have a little more space and a full kitchen for a few days. The location was fantastic, an easy walk to almost everything we wanted to do in Nashville. We also loved that check-in was with door codes, so it was super simple and convenient.

Check Availability: SoBro Guest House Nashville

Memphis, TN- 3 nights

Memphis has so much to do! We celebrated E’s 4th birthday here, by taking a river cruise down the Mississippi River on a paddlewheel boat.

We also visited the Slave Haven Underground Railroad Museum and the National Civil Rights Museum which is in the Lorraine Motel where MLK Jr. was shot.

We also explored Beale Street, and visited the Big River Crossing where you can put one foot in Tennessee and one in Arkansas. Don’t miss the Stax Museum of American Soul Music where you can dance to some vintage Soul Train episodes.

I had hoped to visit Graceland , but we were put off by the high ticket prices.

Affordable Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown . This hotel is an easy walk to Beale Street and a lot of popular Memphis attractions. Also an easy walk to a trolley station. A mid-tier, clean hotel in a fantastic location.

Check Availability: Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown

Hot Springs, AR- 1 night

Hot Springs, Arkansas is the home of Hot Springs National Park , a unique national park that exists in the middle of town. There are ancient thermal springs, and 9 historic bathhouses you can visit.

You can fill a bottle at thermal spring fountains around town as well as two cold springs fountains. There are two places you can touch the thermal springs coming out of the ground. This town is adorable, but it was packed with people when we were there.

Affordable Hotel: You’ll want to stay within an easy walk of downtown Hot Springs. We recommend Hotel Hot Springs .

Ron Coleman Quartz Mining

In Jessieville, AR, just outside of Hot Springs, you can visit Ron Coleman’s Crystal Mines . Take a tour of the commercial mining operation, then start digging in the public area. You can dig as long as you like, and take home anything you find. This was one of our favorite experiences on the whole trip. Digging is hard work, bring gardening gloves to avoid blisters!

Alternate Stop: Crater of Diamonds State Park

You could visit Crater of Diamonds State Park , in Murfreesboro, AR where you can dig for diamonds and other precious gems in their original volcanic source. Keep anything you find! These gems tend to be quite small, and hard to find, so we opted for the crystal mines with the hope that it will be more rewarding for our little diggers.

Additional Stop: Cherokee Heritage Center

On your way to Springfield, head slightly west to stop at the Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, OK. Here you’ll find a replica 1710 Cherokee village and village stations that teach you about blowguns, dugout canoes, and more.

Springfield, MO- 1 night

Next on this cross-country trip, we started heading north, up through Missouri. We stopped in Springfield for a visit to Fantastic Caverns . This is the only cave in North America that you ride through- a jeep-drawn tram pulls you through the cave. Springfield is also home to the largest fork in the world!

Budget Hotel: La Quinta by Wyndham Springfield South . A simple room with an indoor pool and breakfast included.

Deanna Rose Homestead

This homestead in Overland, KS has a one-room schoolhouse from 1900, a barbershop, a blacksmith, a dairy barn, and more. Visit a Kanza Indian encampment, play on one of the playgrounds, or feed the baby goats. This is best for young kids- we found it to be more playground and petting zoo than particularly educational.

Kansas City, MO- 2 nights

We chose Kansas City as a stop on our cross-country road trip because 20 minutes to the east is Independence, Missouri. Independence was the starting point for the Oregon Trail. We recently read this Oregon Trail series and are excited to visit some of the original stops along the trail.

The National Frontier Trails Museum is dedicated to the history of the Oregon, Santa Fe, and California trails. Check out some original wagon ruts, and take a ride around town in a covered wagon!

Don’t Miss Tour: When we were planning this trip, the museum was open, but upon arrival in Independence, MO, it has been closed due to an uptick of cases here.

We ended up taking a fabulous covered wagon tour with Pioneer Trails Adventures , who were waiting outside the 1859 jail with their two mules, Frankie and Annie. Find them at 217 Main Street, Independence, MO.

We all learned a ton and got to drive through part of the original Oregon Trail. Book online to make sure they’ll be there!

Other things to do in Kansas City include the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art- both are free of charge. The sculpture park at the museum is a great place for little ones to stretch their legs. Affordable Hotel: The La Quinta Kansas City Beacon Hill has a good location, free parking, and a great breakfast.

Check Availability: La Quinta Kansas City Beacon Hill

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop

Visit a working 1860s farm at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm in Olathe, KS. This is the last public stagecoach stop on the Santa Fe Trail. Explore the grounds, see the old stagecoach stop dining room, and take a ride in a real stagecoach.

This place is fantastic- we tried writing with quill and ink pens, chatted with the (female) blacksmith, and learned about life in the 1850s. And of course, took a ride in a real stagecoach!

Alcove Spring Historic Park

Many travelers on the Oregon Trail camped in Alcove Spring, KS for a few days while waiting to cross the Big Blue River.

Check out the wagon swales (grooves in the earth from many wagons passing) and take a short hike to the waterfall of Alcove Spring . You’ll be on dirt roads on your way here, don’t worry, you’re on the right path!

Fort Cody Trading Post

Stretch your legs in North Platte, NE at this popular roadside attraction . It’s been open since 1963! See Buffalo Bill memorabilia, and explore the stockade out back with a jail, wagons, and more.

Ogallala, NE- 1 night

Stop over in Ogallala (say that ten times fast!) to break up the drive. Start out early, as you’ll have a long day ahead of you full of Oregon Trail stops, ending in Cheyenne.

Budget Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Ogallala offers simple, clean rooms with fun large-scale black-and-white photos of the surrounding landscape. We enjoyed sleeping under a photo of Courthouse Rock!

Check Availability: Super 8 Ogallala

Ash Hollow and Windlass Hill hill are famous pieces of the Oregon Trail. It was here that pioneers has to use ropes to lower their covered wagons down the steep hill.

Additional Stop #1: Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock

Before Chimney Rock, take Highway 88 two miles south of Bridgeport, NE to spot Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock – two landmarks on the Oregon Trail.

Additional Stop #2: Carhenge and Dobby’s Frontier Town

From Courthouse and Jail Rocks take Rt 385 an hour north to the pop culture icon of Carhenge , and stroll through Dobby’s Frontier Town .

Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is a distinctive landmark along the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails that signaled to travelers that they were on the right path! Many pioneers climbed the spire to carve their names. This rock even appears on the 2006 Nebraska quarter. Find it at 9822 County Road 75, Bayard, NE.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Scotts Bluff in Gering, NE is another landmark on the pioneer trail. Hike a trail or drive the Scotts Bluff Summit Road, the oldest paved road in Nebraska.

Walk the Oregon Trail Pathway to see replicas of covered wagons and walk through Mitchel’s Pass, which used to be called “Devil’s Gap”. When the trail changes to dirt, you are on the real Oregon Trail!

Don’t forget to ask for your Junior Ranger packet, if you don’t have time to complete it while you are there, you can mail it back.

Additional Stop: Fort Laramie

If you’d like to continue on the Oregon Trail, continue one more hour north on rt 26 to visit Fort Laramie in Wyoming. Fort Laramie was the largest and most well-known fort along the pioneer trail. Stagecoach lines, the Pony Express, and the transcontinental telegraph all passed through here. The fort was abandoned in 1890, you can now visit restored structures.

Cheyenne, WY- 1 night

There’s a lot to do in Cheyenne, especially if you are there in July for Frontier Days , the world’s largest outdoor rodeo! Visit Gunslinger Square (15th and Pioneer) Saturdays during the summer at high noon to see a performance by the Cheyenne Gunslingers- a non-profit group keeping the Old Western gunfight tradition alive.

Don’t Miss Lodging: Head straight to Terry’s Bison Ranch where you can stay in one of the cabins. Take the Bison Train Tour to hand feed the bison and then go on a pony ride.

The kids had the best time here- there were lots of RVs parked, so lots of kids to play with on the two playgrounds.

The Bison Train at Terry’s is very cool- go first thing in the morning so the animals are hungry. The pony ride is actually a horse on a lead, not a pony, which made it even more fun for our novice riders.

Estes Park, CO

Stop in Estes Park for lunch (or a cinnamon roll at Scratch or Notchtop Bakery) and take the aerial tram to the summit of Prospect Mountain. This is a great town to stretch your legs in and just window shop for a bit.

Additional Stop: Rocky Mountain National Park

From Estes Park, you can easily explore Rocky Mountain National Park . Take the Trail Ridge Road which has many overlooks and peaks at over 12,000 feet, or hike to Emerald Lake, a round trip hike of 3.5 miles.

Denver, CO- 3 nights

Next stop, the “Mile High City”! Check out the trolley that inspired the trolley in Mister Rogers Neighborhood, take a tour of the Denver Mint to see how coins are made (ages 7+), and watch a performance at Casa Bonita .

We were excited to visit Dinosaur Ridge in nearby Morrison, CO. This is where the first Stegosaurus was discovered. Take the Dinosaur Ridge Trail to see more than 15 fossils and sites along a two-mile track. There are more than 250 dinosaur tracks that can be seen here.

We took our kids to their first MLB game in Denver! As Red Sox fans, we planned to take them to Fenway, but that hasn’t happened. The Rockies played Seattle in an afternoon game- it was hot, but they have a play area for kids who need to get their wiggles out.

Affordable Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Denver Downtown . Good location, a good breakfast, and is within a five-minute drive or walking distance of a lot of the sights.

Check Availability: Holiday Inn Express Denver Downtown

Pre-book Parking: We parked in downtown Denver to check out Union Station, only to realize the parking garage one block down was $10 cheaper. Doh! Take the stress out of parking by booking ahead with SpotHero , where you can see a map of nearby prices. Perfect for cities where parking spots on the street are tight.

Check Prices: SpotHero Parking in Denver

Additional Stop: Colorado Springs, CO

An hour and a half south of Denver, Colorado Springs has a lot to offer. Explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings of the Anasazi people, drive up Pike’s Peak, or go floating or rafting down the Arkansas River.

Visit the Garden of the Gods – a free nature preserve and series of hiking trails. Hike among large sandstone formations with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Climb the 224 steps to the Broadmoor Seven Falls , some of the most impressive waterfalls in Colorado.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Time for sand sledding on the tallest sand dunes in North America in Great Sand Dunes National Park ! Older kids can go sandboarding (like snowboarding), but sleds are recommended for smaller kids, as it’s easier to get the hang of it. Sand sledding takes some figuring out, but with a few tips for sledding it’s a lot fun for the whole family.

There’s a lot of things to do at Great Sand Dunes including nearby hiking trails. We visited in the summer, which is one of the best times to visit Great Sand Dunes , but there are advantages to other seasons as well.

Head to the dunes early before the heat sets in, then cool off in Medano Creek or with a hike to Zapata Falls (where the water is freezing).

No reservations are needed to visit the park, there is only camping within the park, no hotels or lodges. We’ll recommend staying in nearby Alamosa, Colorado.

Don’t Miss Calvillos Mexican in Alamosa, we got take-out from here and Waker still talks about it!

Budget Hotel: Best Western Alamosa fits the bill. Clean, simple, and close to restaurants and shopping.

Check Availability: Best Western Alamosa

Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo , near Taos, New Mexico is the traditional adobe village of the Taos people- ancestors of the Taos lived in this area almost one thousand years ago. No electricity or running water is allowed in the pueblo, so most people live outside the village walls and use the pueblo for ceremonial purposes.

You can take a guided tour around the pueblo. Now Open Thursday to Monday!

Santa Fe, NM- 3 nights

Head south to Santa Fe! Stroll through Santa Fe Plaza and see the Palace of the Governors . While you’re there grab an ice cream from La Lecheria . Spend some time wandering through the Santa Fe Farmers Market .

We highly recommend a visit to Meow Wolf: House of Eternal Return – which has been described as a “surrealist funhouse” and “dreamlike”. It is an “explorable art experience” that gets rave reviews. This was So. Much. Fun.

Don’t miss El Rancho de Las Golondrinas (The Ranch of the Swallows), a living history museum just outside Santa Fe. Josephina , one of the American Girl Dolls, was inspired by the rancho here. The ranch worked with the company to create the doll and book series and ensure its accuracy.

Affordable Hotel: Best Western Plus Inn of Santa Fe is a great hotel outside of the city center, close to Meow Wolf, with a pool.

Check Availability: Best Western Plus Inn of Santa Fe

Downtown Hotel: Santa Fe Motel & Inn . I didn’t realize how much time we’d spend in downtown Santa Fe, and how tight the parking there is. For our next visit, I’d trade the pool for a convenient downtown location at this adorable hotel.

Check Availability: Santa Fe Motel & Inn

Mesa Verde National Park- 2 nights

Mesa Verde National Park protects the cultural heritage of 26 tribes who build their ancestral pueblos in this area. Most cliff dwellings can only be entered on a ranger-led tour.

Plan ahead to take the Cliff Palace Tour to see the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and hike the Soda Canyon Overlook Trail (1.2 miles roundtrip) for views of the Balcony House. Mesa Verde is a terrific park for families with layers of history told across the park.

Four Corners National Monument

This is the monument where you can stand in four states at once: Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah. This monument is on Navajo land and was closed during our trip.

Additional Stop: Monument Valley

Continue two hours west to Monument Valley. Take a guided tour through this land that is sacred to the Navajo. Most tours drive a 17-mile Valley Drive loop of the park, famous for appearing in many Western movies.

Moab, UT- 3 nights

Moab is the base for two National Parks- Arches, and Canyonlands. For a different perspective, take a riverboat cruise on the Colorado River.

Arches National Park is very family-friendly with a series of hikes that are two miles or less. Start with an easy walk to Sand Dune Arch, then take the 2-mile hike to Landscape Arch from the Devil’s Garden Trailhead.

The hiking trails in Arches are often short, making this a great place for families with different levels of hiking abilities. The best time to visit Arches is when it’s not stifling hot. If you do visit in the summer, get as early a start as you can to avoid the worst of the heat.

Canyonlands National Park is divided into sections each with its own entrance and visitor center. Coming from Moab, the Island in the Sky section of the park is the closest. If you have more time, venture farther south to the Needles section of the park.

Here are our two top picks for where to stay near Arches and Canyonlands but there are many options. Book early as the best places sell out well in advance.

Budget Hotel: Hotel Moab Downtown . Great location, you can walk all around downtown Moab, which is full of shopping and restaurants. Good outdoor pool as well.

Check Availability: Hotel Moab Downtown

Super Fun Family Hotel: Expedition Lodge . Our kids eyeballed this place every time we drove past. It has a pool with a tube waterslide, a game room, and even rooms with bunk beds.

Check Availability: Expedition Lodge

Additional Stop: Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry

150 miles north of Moab, this quarry has the densest concentration of Jurassic Dinosaur bones ever found. You can visit some of the excavation sites.

Bryce Canyon National Park- 2 nights

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its Hoodoos- tall irregular columns of rock. There are many hiking options- we started with watching the sunrise at Inspiration Point and then walked a bit of the Rim Trail.

We also hiked the Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop- it’s 3 miles overall, which sounds fine, but ends with a steep uphill, which can be tough. There are Starry Night Telescope Viewings at the visitor center, and even full moon ranger-led night walks!

Watch for “I Hiked the Hoodoos” medallions throughout the park- kids who bring three rubbings or photos to the visitors center get a reward! There is a shuttle that runs through the park to reduce traffic. We stayed inside the park at Bryce Canyon Lodge. We spent two days in Bryce Canyon and it remains one of our favorite National Parks !

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

This National Monument covers almost one million acres. It has three areas- Grand Staircase, Kaiparowits, and Escalante Canyon. This area is less visited than its neighboring parks, so it should be less crowded. Some of the trailheads involve driving slowly over rutted roads.

The most popular hike here is the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch. The path through these slot canyons can get quite narrow and involves scrambling over rocks, and sometimes using knotted ropes to pull yourself up a rock. The loop created by combining these two trails is about 4 miles round trip. Accessed from Hole in the Rock Road from Escalante, with a turn-off at mile 30.

Peek-a-Boo Gulch sounds a bit too intense for our four-year-old, so instead, we planned to try Willis Creek. Willis Creek is a slot canyon hike accessed from Cannonville. This is a fairly flat, shaded hike leading to a waterfall. This hike is about 4 miles roundtrip- but you can turn around wherever you like. You’ll see the trailhead 6 miles down Skutumpah Road.

Unfortunately we ran out of time to hike Grand Staircase-Escalante, it’s on our list for next time!

Additional Stop: Zion National Park

Zion was the first National Park in Utah and is extremely popular. We skipped Zion on this trip because of the crowds, and because you can’t do everything! There are stories of long waits for shuttles (tickets in advance are now required). We’ll circle back to the park when the kids are old enough to tackle part of the Narrows.

One of the most popular hikes in Zion is the Narrows, which is currently closed due to a Toxic Cyanobacteria Bloom. This hike going “top-down” requires a permit and reservation. The “bottoms up” hike does not need a permit and can be up to 9 miles, though you can turn around wherever you like. Much of this hike involves walking or wading through cold water.

A more family-friendly version of this is the Riverside walk- a 2.2 mile round trip to the entrance of the Narrows.

Horseshoe Bend

This 270-degree bend in the Colorado River is stunning. Just south of Page, Arizona, look for mile marker 545. There is a 3/4 mile walk out to the lookout point. Sunrise and sunset are supposed to be amazing here if you can make it work- be wary of the midday sun, especially in summer.

It’s a beautiful site, however, we had to ask ourselves, is it worth it ?

Grand Canyon National Park- 2 nights

The Grand Canyon looms large in the canon of All American Family Road Trips! While I had stopped at the main lookout point, I’d never stayed in the park and explored further.

We stayed inside the South Rim of the Grand Canyon at the Yavapai Lodge so we could see sunrise along the rim at Mather Point.

You can explore the rim trail or take the Hermit Road shuttle bus to explore seven miles of the rim with nine overlook stops.

The Bright Angel Trail heads down into the canyon, with turnaround points at 1.5 and 3 miles.

This was not our favorite park. While it’s considered a National Treasure, we’d consider skipping the Grand Canyon on our next trip.

The Grand Canyon by Helicopter

After we left the park, we headed to the Grand Canyon Airport for a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon! We were excited for the thrill of the ride and to see the Grand Canyon from a different perspective.

We took the North Canyon Tour with Papillon. It’s 25-30 minutes in the air, and the views are spectacular! You can also book rides that involve landing at the bottom of the Grand Canyon or upgrade to an Ecostar helicopter which is quieter than a traditional one.

Additional Stop: Meteor Crater

South of the Grand Canyon, if you head east from Flagstaff, you’ll find Meteor Crater and Barringer Space Museum . See the meteor impact crater that is a mile wide and 500 feet deep. Visit the discovery center to learn about the science behind the crater.

The Hoover Dam is the next stop on the way to Las Vegas! The Hoover Dam was built on the border of Nevada and Arizona, in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. It was finished in 1935- it is 726 feet high, and 660 feet thick. It holds back Lake Mead, the largest man-made lake in the United States, and supplies water to cities as far away as Los Angeles.

While you can see a lot from the road, we were hoping to take the Guided Powerplant Tour- a half-hour of exploring the insides of the dam. However, the dam was closed on our date. If your group is 8+ you can take the longer Guided Dam Tour.

In the end, we totally missed the dam! Tours are not running currently, but we didn’t realize that the main highway now bypasses the Hoover Dam completely. Don’t be like us- set your GPS to stop at the Hoover Dam!

Additional Stop: El Dorado Gold Mine

Head south from the Hoover Dam about 45 minutes on route 95 to tour this real gold mine. The Techatticup Mine is the most famous mine in Nevada. It was accessed by steamboat along the Colorado River and was one of the most lawless places in the West in the 1880s. Take a tour to walk through the old tunnels, see the gold veins and hear stories of the mine’s history.

Las Vegas, NV- 2 nights

There is so much to see and do in Las Vegas that’s family-friendly!

Check out the latest floral art installation at the Bellagio Botanical Gardens, and watch the fountains perform out front. Explore the canals of the Venetian, and see live flamingos at the Flamingo Hotel. Stop by the Midway at Circus Circus to see various live circus acts.

Looking to escape the heat and chaos of the Vegas Strip? This Kayak trip to Emerald Cave on the Colorado River sounds amazing! Beginners welcome, tandem kayaks are available, which is perfect for families.

Book Now: Emerald Cave Kayak Trip- Half Day

We stayed off the strip at the Tahiti Village Resort and Spa – this family-friendly resort has a lazy river, lots of kids’ activities, and no casino. All of the rooms are suites with a kitchenette. They also run shuttles into The Strip to make getting around easy.

However, the lazy river was broken, so the pool was packed. We ended up spending a lot of time on shuttles, next time I’d stay on the strip, somewhere central.

Affordable Hotels on the Strip: Paris or Aria – both are in good shape, Paris is more centralized, with great views of the Bellagio fountains, but doesn’t have a pool. Aria has a nice central location and good pools.

Seven Magic Mountains

Stop on your way out of Las Vegas at this art installation of stacked, painted rocks, some up to 35 feet tall! Approx. 10 miles south of Las Vegas on Rt 15. This was originally a temporary art installation, but it has been extended indefinitely.

Los Angeles, CA- 7 nights

We visited Los Angeles primarily to see family (hello new cousins!) and friends but also to explore the city. Make sure to spot the famous Hollywood sign, and explore the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.

For kids 5+, this tour of Warner Brothers will be a big hit. Fans of DC Universe or Harry Potter will be especially thrilled.

Book Now: Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood

Favorite Hotel: Rodeway Inn Near Melrose Ave . We’ve now stayed several times. We love the Queen rooms with added balconies. The rooms face an inner courtyard so it’s quiet, and includes a small breakfast. You can walk to a grocery store and pharmacy.

Check Availability: Rodeway Inn

Pre-Book Parking: Parking in LA is the worst! We’ve circled parking garages for waaay too long looking for spots. Book ahead with SpotHero and take the stress out of finding parking.

Book Parking: SpotHero Parking in LA

Ojai, CA- 2 nights

Ojai makes a lovely stop on your way north. Exploring the town, grab an Ojai Ice Cream, and heading to Libbey Park and Playground.

Solvang, CA

The next stop on this cross country road trip, Solvang is known as “Little Denmark”, complete with four windmills, five Danish bakeries, and a Hans Cristian Andersen Park. We love the treats in this small town, it’s become a regular stop for us on our treks up and down the California coast.

You can take a tour with Solvang Trolley – see the highlights of the town while being pulled by Belgian draft horses, and listen to your guide dressed in traditional Danish garb.

Affordable Hotel: Atterdag Inn . Super modern decor, a great walkable downtown location. Some rooms have bunk beds for the kids.

Check Availabillity: Atterdag Inn

San Simeon, CA – 1 night

Head up the coast along Route 1 to San Simeon. Visit the historic Hearst Castle , then head out to see the Elephant Seals at Elephant Seal Vista Point .

Affordable Hotel: The Morgan Hotel San Simeon . Some rooms with ocean views, lovely landscaping. Limited restaurants in the area.

Salinas, CA – 1 night

Nearby Monterey or Carmel-By-The-Sea would also make great road trip stops along this area of the coastline.

Budget Hotel: Super 8 by Wyndham Salinas . Simple rooms just off the Highway.

Yosemite National Park- 3 nights

Our last National Park on this long cross-country family road trip is Yosemite ! We “camped” in Curry Village- in big canvas tents with beds. Remember to bring a combination lock for the bear boxes!

Yosemite is known for its waterfalls and the monoliths of El Capitan and Half Dome. Yosemite is great for kids – hike to Bridalveil Falls, the Mist Trail, and Lower Yosemite Falls. Aim to reach Glacier Point for sunset if you can.

Final Stop: San Francisco, CA

The City by the Bay! Visit the Ferry Building then take a cable car down to Fisherman’s Wharf and the sea lions at Pier 39.

Grab a treat from Ghirardelli and take in views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Stroll down Lombard Street with its famous hairpin turns, or take a boat out to Alcatraz.

Want to cut down on walking? Take a “Love Tour” of San Francisco in a colorful VW bus while learning about hippie culture in the city! This tour looks like so much fun.

If you’ll be checking out a lot of attractions, consider getting San Francisco CityPASS. It saves you 45% on attractions, including the California Academy of Sciences, a Bay Cruise, and 2 others that you choose from the list, including the Aquarium or the Zoo!

Book Now: San Francisco CityPASS

Affordable Hotel: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf . Great location in easy walking distance to Fisherman’s Wharf area. Rooms are comfy with extra sitting areas. Some room even have views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Check Availability: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf

Considering Christmas in California? You can see the best of Christmas in San Francisco in just one day.

We’ll end our epic cross-country road trip by staying with family in Santa Rosa, California just north of San Francisco.

After 60 nights on the road, we’ll be ready to put our feet up for a bit! Which stops are you most excited about? Did we miss anything?

Consider Renting a Car

If you are flying to the start of your cross-country road trip, you’ll need to rent a car. If you’d prefer to not add a ton of mileage to your current car, or need room for your family to comfortably hang out together, consider renting a larger vehicle.

We recommend Discover Cars – they show you a great selection of rental companies, are always upfront about what is included, and best of all, offer free cancellation if your plans change.

Check Prices: Car Rental at Discover Cars

How Much do US National Parks Cost?

Entrance fees vary at each park, but fees at larger parks are between $35 and $40. If you will be visiting a few National Parks, be sure to get an America the Beautiful Pass – this annual pass costs $80 and gets everyone in your car into unlimited National Parks for one year. This pass covers entrance fees, it does not cover tour fees or lodging fees.

Don’t forget 4th graders also get a free park pass for their whole family.

When visiting National Parks, look for Junior Ranger packets in the visitor centers. The kids complete the packets, and return them to be sworn in as Junior Rangers complete with a badge! You may also want to get a family National Park Passport Book to stamp at each park.

Don’t forget to download the National Park Service app , it allows you to download important information for any of the parks so you can access it when offline. From maps to parking and bathrooms, this app will come in handy.

How Much Money do you Need for a Cross-Country Road Trip?

How much money you will spend driving cross-country depends on your family and your comfort level.

Camping is one of the best ways to save money (make reservations early!). We are not comfortable camping, so we will be staying with friends when possible, and in hotels or motels the rest of the time.

The faster you move (the fewer days on the road), the less money you will spend on your cross-country road trip. Including staying with friends, we averaged $125/night during the summer high season of 2021.

Staying inside National Parks is more expensive, but allows you to see the park at sunrise, and without waiting in line to get in each morning. On average, we paid $200 per night to stay at lodges inside the parks.

Outside the parks, our hotels averaged $140/night . That includes 5 nights at an Airbnb in LA and two nights in Las Vegas over a weekend.

Packing breakfast foods and snacks will save you a lot of money. Don’t miss 40+ Easy Road Trip Snacks for Kids & Toddlers which includes breakfast and lunch suggestions.

A note about hotels – prices have increased over the last year or two. We found that even in more remote areas, hotels under $100 a night were often not as clean as we would like. We have included hotel recommendations- many of these are places we stayed. When we weren’t happy with our original choice, we edited the post to reflect where we would stay next time.

FAQ: Cross-Country Road Trips

The best time to drive for a cross-country road trip is in the fall or spring- you’ll have the mildest weather and avoid the summer crowds. Like a lot of families, we didn’t have that option- we are heading out into the summer crowds. We will start our epic road trip cross-country at the end of June 2021, ending in California in late August.

Yes, you can do a cross-country road trip in two weeks! From Washington, DC to Los Angeles, CA is approximately 40 hours of driving. Driving just 3 hours a day, you could complete the drive in two weeks. Many people prefer to drive more hours in one day, then spend a full day at their location.

The minimum for a cross-country road trip is one week- you’ll drive between 40 and 45 hours in total. How many hours per day you prefer to drive and how many stops you make is up to you!

There You Have it: Epic Cross Country Road Trip Itinerary

A long list of stops from our two-month-long cross-country family road trip, complete with big and small attractions. Pick and choose the stops to create the best cross-country itinerary for your family!

Need more family road trip ideas? We also road-tripped through the American Northwest with stops including Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park .

Thinking of driving across the Southern border? We road tripped into Baja, Mexico , and later spent six weeks in Mexico including stops in Puerto Vallarta , Oaxaca , and San Miguel de Allende .

Cynthia Matthews von Berg is the founder of Sharing the Wander. She is a passionate traveler, mom, and travel coach specializing in long-term travel and family travel. She and her family embarked on a Family Gap Year in 2021, and haven't looked back.

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25 Best Stops on an Epic Cross-Country America Road Trip

The Great American Road Trip is just as much a part of Americana as the stars and stripes. While in yonder years, Route 66 dominated as the iconic drive, today, the cross-country road trip reigns supreme. We mapped out a 10-day itinerary—including top city sights and national parks between Washington, D.C. to Washington State—so you can make the best of your journey west.

Chelsea is Brooklyn-based travel writer, editor, and photographer. When not home eating her way through NYC, she's gallivanting across the globe, sailing the coast of Croatia or hiking the peaks of Peru. Her superpowers include booking flight deals and sleeping in small plane seats.

See recent posts by Chelsea Bengier

Day 1: 263 miles from Washington D.C. to Pittsburgh

Once you’ve gotten your fill of America’s capital, it’s time to hit the road heading west. About three and half hours in, you’ll pass by Fallingwater , the renowned residence designed by Frank Lloyd Wright that sits cantilevered over a bucolic waterfall in rural Pennsylvania. The grounds are maintained year-round, with the original 1930s custom furniture and artwork still on display. From here, you’re just 75 minutes outside Pittsburgh. Upon arriving in Steel City, drop your bags at the Ace Hotel Pittsburgh —a refurbished century-old YMCA turned hip hotel in the up-and-coming East Liberty neighborhood—then follow the in-the-know crowd to Smallman Galley , a restaurant incubator with four rotating food concepts from a line-up of rising chefs. This season, there’s Detroit-style pizza, Vietnamese cuisine, Latin-fusion tapas, and innovative takes on American classics.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Pittsburgh, PA hotels

Day 2: 460 miles from Pittsburgh to Chicago

While the second half of this cross-country adventure focuses on the scenery, the eastern side is all about the cityscapes. Divide today’s day-long trek to Chicago with a pitstop in Cleveland, just two hours west of Pittsburgh. Here, grab a bite to eat at the West Side Market before wandering through the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to see guitars and paraphernalia from music legends like Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, and Mick Jagger.

You’re going to want to pick up some gift shop snacks, because it’ll be another five hours before you pull into the Windy City. In Chicago, bed down at the Viceroy Chicago on the glitzy Gold Coast, whose opulent interiors are done up in Art Deco elements that nod to the hotel’s past as the 1920s Cedar Hotel. The real showstopper is the 18th-floor rooftop overlooking the Magnificent Mile and Lake Michigan.

RELATED: 9 Ultimate Weekend Road Trips You Can Take from Major U.S. Cities

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Chicago, IL hotels

Day 3: 147 miles from Chicago to Madison, Wisconsin

A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Chicago brings you to Wisconsin’s charming college town of Madison. This untapped Midwest gem is home to locavore restaurants, indie boutiques, and contemporary art galleries. Follow the locals to Sophia’s Bakery & Café , where mouthwatering cottage cheese pancakes are served in a cozy dining room. The nearby Chazen Museum of Art and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art have impressive collections, but if you’d rather spend the day indulging in some retail therapy, check out Upshift for flirty vintage dresses or Anthology for quirky handmade crafts. There’s no better place to have dinner than the James Beard award-winning L’Etoile Restaurant , where chef Tory Miller—you may have seen him on Iron Chef Showdown —serves locally sourced dishes like Blue Valley Gardens duck breast with Swiss chard and soubise.

Day 4: 775 miles from Madison to Rapid City, South Dakota

Today is the longest stretch you’ll be on the road, so crank those tunes and prepare to cruise straight through Wisconsin, Minnesota, and South Dakota on I-90. Stretch your legs in Badlands National Park , an otherworldly expanse of jagged pink pinnacles, grass prairies, and ancient fossil beds. While rhinos, wild horses, and saber-toothed cats used to roam this wild terrain, today you’re more likely to spot bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. Backcountry camping is available for the truly adventurous; others can set up at Cedar Pass Campground (which offers running water, toilets, and covered picnic tables) or the park’s eco-friendly cabins , which come outfitted with pine-wood beds, flatscreen TVs, and mini-fridges and microwaves.

RELATED: 9 of the Most Underrated National Parks in America

Day 5: 533 miles from Rapid City to Jackson, Wyoming

It’s early to rise on day five if you want to beat the crowds for an early-morning visit to Mount Rushmore national monument, just 20 minutes away. After taking in the Presidents’ massive granite profiles, continue on through the gorges, canyons, and cliffs of the Black Hills National Forest . Once you’re out of South Dakota, you’ll cut through the heart of Wyoming, passing endless plains and the sprawling Wind River Reservation. Tucked between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountains, Jackson blends Wyoming’s rustic, rough-and-tumble side with a refined resort town vibe. The Anvil Hotel is a perfect example of this fusion: the redesigned 1950s motel reflects the region’s rugged past with a mountain-modern twist. Stylish interiors, courtesy of Brooklyn-based firm Studio Tack, are done up with brass fixtures, custom iron bed frames, and Woolrich blankets. After settling in, make a dinner reservation at Glorietta if you’re in the mood for Italian. The roasted acorn squash; ricotta cavatelli with spicy sausage, brown butter, and fried sage; and zeppole topped with mascarpone and strawberry compote come highly recommended.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Jackson, WY hotels

Days 6-8: 426 miles from Jackson to Missoula, Montana

Get your cameras ready: the next few days are all about epic Rocky Mountain scenery, from Wild West backcountry to lush, lakeside meadows. Before leaving Jackson Hole, fuel up with homemade pastries or bread pudding french toast at Persephone Bakery , then set your GPS for Grand Teton National Park . This 310,000-acre swath encompasses Jackson Lake, Snake River, and the entire Teton range, which is webbed together by more than 200 miles of hiking trails. Just 10 miles north on 191, you’ll enter Yellowstone —America’s first national park famous as much for its rainbow-colored hot springs, mud pots, and spewing geysers as it is for picture-perfect wildlife sightings (keep your eyes peeled for bison, moose, black bears, elk, and the rare wolf pack).

After Yellowstone, cross the border into Montana’s Big Sky country and continue north past dude ranches, whitewater rapids, and vast cerulean skies as far as the eye can see. Home for the night—the Resort at Paws Up , a 37,000-acre working cattle ranch and luxe retreat in the Blackfoot Valley—is just a half hour east of Missoula. Take your pick between a private log cabin or riverfront glamping tent, which comes with its own chandelier, copper soaking tub, and on-call butler and chef, who will happily cook up whole-roasted rainbow trout or chili-dusted Black Angus prime rib. Although there’s world-class fly fishing, ATVing, and rock climbing on offer, horseback riding is the resort’s beating heart. Embrace your inner cowboy (or girl!) at the Saddle Club, whose 29,000-square-foot arena and more than 100 miles of trails make it the largest private equestrian center in Montana. The on-site wranglers can also arrange rodeo lessons, cattle drives, and dinners aboard traditional chuckwagons.

RELATED: 8 Best Dude Ranches in Montana

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Greenough, MT hotels

Days 9-10: 685 miles from Missoula to Seattle

Before heading west to your final destination, it’s worth making one last detour to see Montana’s stunning Glacier National Park . You can take in the scenery—crystalline, glacier-fed lakes; sheer, snow-capped peaks; untouched alpine meadows—along the gorgeous Going-to-the-Sun Road , a 50-mile route that crosses the Continental Divide and winds through Logan Pass alongside Saint Mary Lake. Heads up: be prepared to pull over to make way for mountain goats!

After (reluctantly) leaving the mountains of Montana, hop back on I-90 to enter the northern tip of Idaho. This short sprint overlooks steep gorges and straddles the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene before entering Washington via Spokane. The final four-hour leg to Seattle is pretty barren, so make sure you have your road trip playlist queued up for some carpool karaoke. You know you’re getting close to the coast when you hit Snoqualmie Pass, just 55 miles outside the Seattle. The drive cuts through the Cascade Mountain Range, home to towering evergreen forests, misty mountaintops, and thundering waterfalls.

Once you reach the city, you deserve to put your feet up at The Nest , Thompson Seattle ‘s rooftop bar, for sundowners and sweeping views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle cityscape. Cheers!

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Seattle, WA hotels

What to Pack

Women’s cozy winter outfit to wear on the train, shop the look.

Wool Runners

Wireless Headphones

High Waist Leggings

Men’s cozy winter outfit to wear on the train.

Half-Zip Sweatshirt

Ascot Slippers

Water Bottle

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Ultimate Adventure: 10 Must See Stops On A Cross Country Trip

There are nearly countless cross-country routes in the US, but no matter where they go, these top stops are always worth detouring for.

Spanning nearly 3,000 miles from coast to coast, exploring the wonders of the US can quickly become an overwhelming adventure. A journey through the country's 63 national parks alone could fill a multi-week road trip itinerary, but doing so would mean forfeiting time in the unique metropolitan cities and quirky small towns that are littered across the nation.

Whether planning zigzagging scenic roads trip that are all about the journey than the destination or a more focused one-road route, these top stops consistently make every list on a cross-country trip. Balancing a bit of natural beauty, unique history, and bustling downtown streets, these must-see cross-country stops in the US are always worth the detour.

Struggling to plan the perfect road trip? Each must-see cross-country road trip stop includes road trip suggestions with a basic route outline that includes the stop mentioned, ensuring that all travelers can plan their perfect cross-country adventure.

Related: 10 Tips For Minimalist Packing Before Taking A Road Trip

10 Best Northwestern Road Trip Stop: Astoria, Oregon

The Northwest corner of the US is a unique blend of landscapes, with rugged backcountry, deep canyons, and thorny shrubs filling the eastern part of the region and towering evergreens, granite mountains, and rocky coastline dominating the west. Many road trips through this region include Olympic National Park, the San Juan Islands, and Portland, Oregon.

For those looking for a less crowded cross-country stop that offers the same beautiful views and city vibe, Astoria, Oregon is a must. Astoria is unique because it is settled along the Columbia River, perfect for rafting, tubing, and swimming, but also near the Pacific Ocean, which offers unbeatable hiking and scenic viewing opportunities.

• Reasons to Stop in Astoria, Oregon: Columbia River, Astoria Column, Oregon Film Museum, Fort Stevens State Park, Oregon Film Festival, Flavel House Museum, Columbia River Maritime Museum, Astoria Riverfront Trolley, Astoria-Megler Bridge, Astoria Sunday Market

Popular Road Trip Routes That Include Astoria, Oregon

• Pacific Coast Road Trip (Washington to California): Seattle, Washington→Astoria, Oregon→Crescent City, California→San Francisco, California→Santa Barbara, California→San Diego, California
• Columbia River Highway Road Trip : Astoria→Multnomah Falls→Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum→Pendleton

9 Best West Coast Road Trip Stop: San Francisco, California

Narrowing down what part of California to include in any kind of adventure can be a challenge, given the huge variety of scenery to explore in the Golden State. Given its location right along the coast and at the juncture of multiple major routes, San Francisco is the perfect launching point for any cross-country adventure.

San Francisco blends some of travelers’ favorite things about California, including ocean views, rugged hiking trails in and around San Francisco , and a truly one-of-a-kind city experience. With so much to do and such easy access to the open road, San Francisco is one of the best stops on a cross-country road trip.

• Reasons to Stop in San Francisco, California: Hiking Trails, Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Union Square, Chinatown, Golden Gate Park

Popular Road Trip Routes That Include San Francisco, California

• I-80 Cross-Country Road Trip : San Francisco, California→Reno, Nevada→Salt Lake City, Utah→Denver, Colorado→Omaha, Nebraska→Des Moine, Iowa→Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio→Teaneck, New Jersey
• Pacific Coast Highway 1 Road Trip (California): Crescent City, California→San Francisco, California→Santa Barbara, California→San Diego, California

8 Best Southwestern Road Trip Stop: Grand Canyon, Arizona

It’s hard to consider a cross-country adventure through the red rock paradise of the southwest US that doesn’t include views of the largest canyon in the United States. The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural formations in the US, and there are plenty of ways for even the most casual visitor to enjoy the views.

Simple drive-up points, hiking trails of varying difficulties, and even a few helicopter tours ensure that everyone can enjoy this must-see southwest stop.

• Reasons to Stop at the Grand Canyon, Arizona: Hiking Trails, Scenic Drives, Hiking the Trail of Time , Rafting on the Colorado River, The Skywalk, The Grand Canyon Railway Scenic Train Ride Tour

Popular Road Trip Route That Includes The Grand Canyon, Arizona

• American Southwest Road Trip : Albuquerque, New Mexico→Las Cruces, New Mexico→Tuscan, Arizona→Phoenix, Arizona→Grand Canyon, Arizona→Las Vegas, Nevada→Salt Lake City, Utah→Reno, Nevada

While the Grand Canyon is not directly along Historic Route 66, it is a popular 50-mile detour from Williams, Arizona on this interstate road trip, which is considered one of the best stops on a Route 66 road trip .

Related: 10 Deepest Canyons In The United States (& None Are The Grand Canyon)

7 Best Rocky Mountains Road Trip Stop: Denver, Colorado

The Mile High City, Denver is the ultimate Rocky Mountain Stop for outdoor adventurers and downtown explorers alike. There are tons of things to do in Denver as a city, as it boasts a number of walkable boutique-lined streets and high-end eateries for those looking to enjoy the big-city feel.

Outdoorsy cross-country travelers will love Denver's soothing hot springs (which are some of the best hot springs in Colorado overall), numerous hiking trails, and kayaking options right around the city, ensuring that even the most cramped road trip legs will get plenty of time to stretch.

• Reasons to Stop in Denver, Colorado: Hot Springs, Hiking Trails, Confluence Park, Denver Art Museum , Breweries and Distilleries, Meow Wolf

Popular Road Trip Routes That Include Denver, Colorado

• I-80 Cross-Country Road Trip: San Francisco, California→Reno, Nevada→Salt Lake City, Utah→Denver, Colorado→Omaha, Nebraska→Des Moines, Iowa→Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio→Teaneck, New Jersey
• Denver to Las Vegas Road Trip : Denver, Colorado→Vail, Colorado→Arches National Park, Utah→Zion National Park, Utah→Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada→Las Vegas, Nevada
• New York to Las Vegas Cross-Country Road Trip : New York City→Chicago, Illinois→Omaha, Nebraska→Denver, Colorado→Salt Lake City, Utah→Las Vegas, Nevada

6 Best Great Plains Road Trip Stop: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

The only national park named after a person, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is responsible for the national park system as it exists today. The beauty of the Badlands in Theodore Roosevelt National Park may feel a bit understated compared to heavy-hitters like Glacier National Park just one state over, but the rolling fields and herds of bison are a must for any cross-country travel itinerary.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is among the most beautiful cross country road trip stops for some unique wildlife viewing, with bison, elk, deer, and prairie dogs dominating the grassy fields of this historic park.

• Reasons to Stop at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota : Wildlife Viewing, Scenic Loops, Hiking Trails, Visitor Centers, Elkhorn Ranch Site

Popular Road Trip Routes That Include Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

• Dakotas National Parks Road Trip: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota→Badlands National Park, South Dakota→Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota
• Route 2 - The Northern Road Trip : Olympic National Park, Washington→Glacier National Park→Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota→Ottawa, Canada→Acadia National Park, Maine

5 Best Midwest Road Trip Stop: Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island sits on Lake Huron in Michigan, and while it is a must-see stop for any kind of trip, including it on a cross-country adventure is going to take some dedication. Cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island, so the only way to include this stop is by taking the scenic ferry ride.

Once on the island, visitors can enjoy hiking and biking around the island, wandering through the town, or enjoying the wide variety of water activities that the Great Lakes have to offer.

• Reasons to Stop at Mackinac Island, Michigan: Scenic Ferry Ride, Biking, Hiking Trails, Colonial Fort Michilimackinac, Mackinac Bridge, Lake Huron

Popular Road Trip Route That Includes Mackinac Island, Michigan

• Route 2 - The Northern Road Trip : Olympic National Park, Washington→Glacier National Park→Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota→Mackinac Island, Michigan→Acadia National Park, Maine

Related: Open Water: 11 Most Beautiful Ferry Rides You Can Take In The U.S.

4 Best Southern Road Trip Stop: New Orleans, Louisiana

From Jazz Clubs to Bourbon Street, New Orleans, Louisiana is the epitome of a lively road trip stop. There is no shortage of things to do in New Orleans , so much so that the hardest part of including this stop on a cross-country journey might be leaving the city behind.

Depending on the time of year, a stop in New Orleans means enjoying the Mardi Gras Festival, French Quarter Festival, or Jazz & Heritage Festival. Even when the streets aren’t filled with the festival of the day, New Orleans still offers unique museums, restaurants, and guided tours .

• Reasons to Stop in New Orleans, Louisiana: Mardi Gras Festival, French Quarter Festival, Jazz & Heritage Festival, Museum of Art, The Audubon Nature Institute, The Garden District, Frenchmen Street

Popular Road Trip Route That Includes New Orleans, Louisiana

• Dallas to New Orleans Road Trip: Dallas, Texas→Tyler, Texas→Lafayette, Louisiana→Baton Rouge, Louisiana→New Orleans, Louisiana

The Dallas to New Orleans route is among the best spring break road trips .

3 Best Gulf Coast Road Trip Stop: Florida Keys, Florida

The Florida Keys are one of the most quintessentially Gulf Coast experiences there are. While millions of travelers make their way to Florida for the theme parks and Everglades airboat rides, there is nothing quite like the sandy shores of the Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys offer a great snapshot of the sunshine state, with miles of warm beaches and clear waters, protected wildlife preserves, The Overseas Scenic Highway, and access to the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. Regardless of the route, the Florida Keys are a must-see for any cross-country traveler looking for some sunshine.

• Reasons to Stop in The Florida Keys, Florida: Overseas Highway, Dry Tortugas National Park, Key Largo, Snorkeling, Wildlife Viewing

Popular Road Trip Route That Includes The Florida Keys

• Florida Keys Road Trip (Overseas Highway): Miami→Key Largo→Key West→Dry Tortugas National Park (Ferry Ride)

Of course, this Florida Keys route is one of the best US national park road trips . But if travelers only have time for one of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is widely considered the prettiest of the Keys , with some of the best views in Florida.

2 Best Mid-Atlantic Road Trip Stop: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

For a perfect snapshot of history and enough tours to fill a whole vacation, Philadelphia in Pennsylvania is a must for any east-coast trip.

Attractions covering the history of the US, like the Museum of the American Revolution and iconic Liberty Bell, pair perfectly with family-friendly stops like the Philadelphia Zoo to create a well-rounded stop for any cross-country journey.

• Reasons to Stop in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania : Independence Hall, Philadelphia Zoo, Museum of the American Revolution, Liberty Bell, Fairmount Park, Mutter Museum

Popular Road Trip Route That Includes Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Boston to Myrtle Beach Road Trip : Boston, Massachusetts→Hartford, Connecticut→New York City, New York→Philadelphia, Pennsylvania→Richmond, Virginia→Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

1 Best New England Road Trip Stop: Acadia National Park, Maine

The New England region is a popular start or end point for many cross-country road trips, and a quick look around makes it clear why.

Acadia National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the US. There are some many amazing things to do in Acadia ; it offers a wide variety of activities, including some of the best hikes in the US and scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean all in one stop.

• Reasons to Stop at Acadia National Park, Maine: Scenic Hiking Trails in Acadia , Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, Jordan Pond, Sand Beach, Cadillac Mountain, Scenic Drives

Popular Road Trip Routes that Include Acadia National Park

• Route 2 - The Northern Road Trip: Olympic National Park, Washington→Glacier National Park→Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota→Ottawa, Canada→Acadia National Park, Maine
• Boston to Acadia National Park Road Trip : Boston, Massachusetts→Salem, Massachusetts→Portsmouth, Maine→Augusta, Maine→Acadia National Park

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8 Epic Cross Country Road Trip Routes in America

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Nothing is better than discovering the freedom of the highway and the joy of spontaneity while exploring some of America’s most dazzling landscapes and iconic attractions. There are so many natural wonders and intriguing man-made landmarks all over the United States of America that offer a unique blend of culture, scenery, and self-discovery.

From iconic Route 66 to the Pacific Coast Highway , these epic cross-country road trip routes showcase the nation’s beauty, inviting travelers to shape unforgettable memories that only a cross-country road trip can deliver.

I have driven sections of all of these cross country routes and can truly say they are all unique with their own special charm! You can’t go wrong with any of them, although you may find one more appealing than the other based on your interests and goals for your cross-country road trip.

Before you head out on a cross country road trip, pay special attention to the time of year and the weather conditions as you drive across the country. Depending on how long you take, it may be summer when you start and winter when you end. You will want to ensure you are prepared for whatever is thrown your way!

Table of Contents: Jump to

USA Cross Country Road Trips

Great River Road / US 61

• Distance:  3,000 miles; 36 hours
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Lake Itasca,   MN to New Orleans, LA

Following U.S. Route 61, the Great River Road is best known for tracing the mighty Mississippi River – this is a scenic drive through the heartland of America. Spanning about 3,000 miles from Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota to New Orleans on the Gulf of Mexico, this route crosses ten states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. You can explore charming river towns and relish stunning riverfront landscapes along the way.

This cross-country road trip route would take around 36 hours to complete without stopping. Notable attractions along the way include the musical attractions of Memphis, the historic French Quarter in New Orleans, and the scenic bluffs of the Driftless Area in Wisconsin. You’ll also drive through several small towns along the Mississippi River. 

The best time to drive the Great River Road is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild. Fall is particularly beautiful when the foliage showcases a kaleidoscope of colors. The Great River Road caters to diverse interests and is ideal for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a slow pace. 

Points of Interest:

• New Orleans, Louisiana:  Start your journey in the vibrant city of New Orleans, known for its rich culture, jazz music, delicious cuisine, and historic architecture.
• Vicksburg, Mississippi:  Visit Vicksburg National Military Park to learn about the Civil War history and enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River.
• Memphis, Tennessee:  Experience the birthplace of blues music, visit Graceland (Elvis Presley’s home), and explore the vibrant Beale Street.
• Alton, Illinois:  Explore the historic downtown, visit the Alton Museum of History and Art, and enjoy the scenic river views. Alton is known as one of the most haunted towns in America.
• St. Louis, Missouri:  See the Gateway Arch, visit the St. Louis Zoo, and explore the historic neighborhoods along the riverfront.
• Hannibal, Missouri:  Discover the hometown of Mark Twain, explore the Mark Twain Boyhood Home & Museum, and enjoy the scenic views of the river.
• Lake Itasca, Minnesota:  Visit Itasca State Park to see the headwaters of the Mississippi River and walk across the iconic Mississippi Headwaters Aiton Heights Fire Tower.
• Park Rapids, Minnesota:  End your journey in this charming town surrounded by lakes, forests, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Great Northern / US 2

• Distance:  3351 miles
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Seattle, WA to Bar Harbor, ME

The Great Northern, traversing the length of U.S. Route 2, is renowned for its breathtaking panoramas and a tapestry of landscapes across the northern tier of the United States. This transcontinental route spans from the rugged Pacific Northwest in Washington to the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, beginning in Seattle, Washington, leading through Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire, then ending in Bar Harbor, Maine . At the end of this drive, be sure to spend some time in Acadia National Park!

Along these 3351 miles, you’ll encounter several incredible national parks and small towns. Drive through Glacier National Park in Montana, where snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes abound, and the charming lakeside town of Duluth, Minnesota. Olympic National Park is the first real stop along this route, where you can enjoy lush rainforests and beautiful waterfalls. The route is best during the summer and early fall when the weather is warm. Avoid this route in the winter, as you’ll likely run into lots of snowfall and icy roads!

If you love nature, there’s no better road trip – you’ll see everything from the Cascade Mountains to the Great Lakes. With opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and embracing the local culture, the Great Northern is perfect for those who crave a scenic escape and an authentic taste of the northern frontier.

• Seattle, Washington:  Start your journey in the vibrant city of Seattle, known for the iconic Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the stunning waterfront.
• Leavenworth, Washington:  Experience a touch of Bavaria in the Cascade Mountains. Leavenworth is a charming town with alpine architecture, shops, and outdoor activities.
• Glacier National Park, Montana:  Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park, known for its glacier-carved peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
• Flathead Lake, Montana:  Enjoy the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, offering scenic views and recreational activities.
• Lake Itasca, Minnesota:  See the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park, where the river begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico.
• Apostle Islands, Wisconsin:  Discover the sea caves, lighthouses, and unique rock formations in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Michigan:  Admire the scenic waterfalls, particularly the Upper Falls, which is one of the largest east of the Mississippi.
• Acadia National Park, Maine:   Conclude your journey in Bar Harbor, surrounded by the natural beauty of Acadia National Park. Explore Cadillac Mountain, hike the trails, and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Loneliest Road / US 50

• Distance:  3450 miles
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Sacramento, CA  to Ocean City, MD

While the Loneliest Road, famously known as U.S. Route 50, traverses through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, and D.C.  it’s mainly known for its long, solitary stretches throughout Nevada (where it earned its nickname!).

Notable attractions on the Loneliest Road include the sand dunes of Sand Mountain, the historic mining town of Eureka, and the otherworldly beauty of the Great Basin National Park. Starting near Sacramento, you can enjoy a few days in Yosemite, just 3.5 hours from this road, before embarking on the rest of your road trip. The best time to drive this 3450-mile cross-country road trip is spring or fall to avoid the scorching summer heat. 

The Loneliest Road appeals to those who are drawn to the raw, untouched landscapes of the Nevada desert. Photographers, stargazers, and anyone yearning for a road less traveled will find solace and inspiration along this route, discovering the open road against a backdrop of rugged terrain and endless skies.

• Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada:  Experience the stunning beauty of Lake Tahoe, a picturesque alpine lake straddling the California-Nevada border.
• Great Basin National Park, Nevada:  Explore the rugged landscapes, caves, and ancient bristlecone pine groves in this remote national park.
• Sand Mountain Recreation Area, Nevada:  Witness the unique phenomenon of a singing sand dune at this recreational area.
• Capitol Reef National Park, Utah:  Explore the scenic wonders of Capitol Reef, known for its Waterpocket Fold and stunning rock formations.
• Goblin Valley State Park, Utah:  Marvel at the otherworldly rock formations resembling goblins in this state park.
• Arches National Park, Utah:  Visit one of the most iconic national parks with over 2,000 natural sandstone arches.
• Canyonlands National Park, Utah:  Explore the vast canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River.
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado:  Witness the dramatic cliffs and deep canyons of the Black Canyon.
• Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center, Kansas:  Discover space artifacts and exhibits in Hutchinson, Kansas.
• St. Louis, Missouri:  Explore the Gateway Arch, the iconic symbol of St. Louis, and visit the city’s museums and attractions.
• Ocean City, Maryland:  Conclude your journey at the Atlantic Ocean in Ocean City, known for its beaches, boardwalk, and seaside attractions.

Oregon Trail / US 20 

• Distance:  3,365
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Newport, OR to Boston, MA

Following the path of U.S. Route 20, the Oregon Trail begins in Newport, Oregon, and ends in Boston, Massachusetts , with a total length of 3365 miles. This historic route retraces the journey of pioneers heading west during the 19th century. Known for its rich history, this road trip offers an intriguing exploration of the American frontier and the challenges faced by early settlers.

This cross-country road trip passes through major areas like Boston and Yellowstone National Park, crossing through Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Oregon. However, it is best known for its connection to the Oregon Trail, with landmarks like the Oregon Trail Ruts in Wyoming and the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. 

Late spring to early fall is the ideal time to make this drive – the mild weather makes it easier to enjoy the historical sites along the way. Many roadtrippers also take a 100-mile detour to Badlands National Park in South Dakota – this might sound like a big detour, but what’s 100 miles when driving over 3300 miles?

This road trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those who want to learn more about the roots of American westward expansion. The Oregon Trail blends educational experiences and scenic drives, making it a fun experience for those who want to step back in time while appreciating the landscapes that played a crucial role in shaping the nation.

• Newport, Oregon:  Start your journey on the Pacific Coast in Newport, known for its scenic coastline, historic bayfront, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
• Willamette National Forest, Oregon:  Drive through this expansive forest with opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring volcanic landscapes.
• Bend, Oregon:  Explore Bend’s vibrant downtown, visit the High Desert Museum, and enjoy outdoor recreation in the surrounding area.
• Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho:  Experience a unique volcanic landscape with lava flows, craters, and cinder cones.
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana:  Discover the iconic geothermal features, wildlife, and stunning landscapes of the world’s first national park.
• Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming:  Admire the majestic Teton Range and explore the park’s scenic trails and viewpoints.
• Scotts Bluff National Monument, Nebraska:  Explore the historic trails, monuments, and visitor center highlighting the significance of Scotts Bluff on the Oregon Trail.
• Fort Laramie National Historic Site, Wyoming:  Visit this former military post that played a crucial role in the westward expansion and served as a key stop on the Oregon Trail.
• Cheyenne, Wyoming:  Experience the Old West charm in Wyoming’s capital, known for its rodeos, historic architecture, and cultural attractions.
• Chicago, Illinois:  Explore the vibrant city with its iconic architecture, museums, and cultural attractions.
• Cleveland, Ohio:  Visit Cleveland’s attractions, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art.
• Niagara Falls, New York:  Experience the awe-inspiring natural wonder of Niagara Falls.
• Boston, Massachusetts:  Conclude your journey in historic Boston, known for its role in American history, iconic landmarks, and cultural heritage.

The Pacific Coast Highway / CA U.S. 1

• Distance:  655 miles; 12-16 hours
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Leggett, in Mendocino County to Dana Point, in Orange County

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as U.S. Route 1, is a world-famous West Coast drive offering one of the most spectacular coastal drives on the planet.   Known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, this road trip spans the California coastline from the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the sun-soaked beaches of Southern California. 

This route begins in Legget, in Mendocino County, and leads to Dana Point in Orange County, spanning about 655 miles and taking approximately 12 to 16 hours to complete. Major attractions along the Pacific Coast Highway include the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the beautiful coastal town of Monterey, and the vibrant city of Los Angeles. The best time to enjoy this coastal drive is during the late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and the coastal landscapes are at their most vibrant.

From winding cliffside roads to hidden coves and picturesque coastal towns, this route caters to travelers who appreciate glittering ocean vistas and breathtaking views.

• Leggett, California: Drive through the iconic Chandelier Tree, a 276-foot tall coast redwood with a tunnel carved through its base..
• Point Arena Lighthouse: Visit the historic Point Arena Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Mendocino Coast.
• Glass Beach, Fort Bragg: Witness the unique Glass Beach, where colorful sea glass covers the shore, remnants of years of discarded glass.
• Russian Gulch State Park: Discover the natural beauty of Russian Gulch State Park with its coastal trails, waterfalls, and a dramatic ocean cave.
• Point Reyes National Seashore: Explore the rugged landscapes and iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse in this protected area renowned for its natural beauty.
• Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco: Experience the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and explore the vibrant city of San Francisco with its numerous attractions.
• Monterey and Carmel: Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, explore Cannery Row, and enjoy the scenic beauty of nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea.
• Big Sur: Drive through the breathtaking coastal cliffs of Big Sur, featuring landmarks like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: Hike to the McWay Falls overlook for a stunning view of a waterfall cascading onto a pristine beach.
• Hearst Castle, San Simeon: Tour the opulent Hearst Castle, a historic mansion with extravagant architecture and art collections.
• Elephant Seal Vista Point: Witness the massive elephant seals at Piedras Blancas, a popular stopping point for wildlife enthusiasts.
• San Luis Obispo: Explore the charming downtown of San Luis Obispo and visit the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.
• Santa Monica Pier: Experience the lively Santa Monica Pier, featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and iconic Ferris wheel.
• Venice Beach and Boardwalk: Stroll along the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk with street performers, vendors, and the famous Muscle Beach.
• Dana Point, Orange County: Conclude your journey in Dana Point, known for its harbor, beaches, and the Ocean Institute.

Historic Route 66 (The Mother Road) 

• Distance:  2448 miles; 30 hours
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Chicago, IL to Santa Monica Pier, CA

Route 66 goes through eight states; Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas , New Mexico, Arizona , and California. The Mother Road is America’s quintessential road trip route, offering a perfect blend of historical significance, diverse landscapes, and iconic Americana. As one of the original highways in the U.S. highway system, it provides a nostalgic journey through the heart of American history, from the Dust Bowl migration of the 1930s to the rise of the American automobile culture.

Iconic landmarks such as the Grand Canyon (a short detour) and quirky roadside attractions like the Cadillac Ranch and the Road Kill Cafe offer a rewarding journey for those seeking not just a destination but an unforgettable travel experience deeply rooted in the fabric of American heritage.

The direct drive from Chicago to Santa Monica is about 30 hours of non-stop driving. I’d allow 2 weeks to make the trip, with plenty of stops along the way. Afterall, experiencing the historic landmarks, classic diners, quirky attractions, and natural wonders is what Route 66 is all about. 

Late spring and fall are great times to explore this cross-country road trip to avoid heavy snow and dangerous driving conditions and also the intense heat of the summer when crossing the desert.

• Chicago, Illinois: Start your journey at Grant Park and the historic beginning of Route 66 at Adams Street and Michigan Avenue.
• Joliet, Illinois: Visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum and explore the Route 66 Welcome Center.
• Pontiac, Illinois: Discover the Route 66 Hall of Fame and the Pontiac Oakland Automobile Museum.
• Atlanta, Illinois: See the famous Paul Bunyon statue and the Route 66 Arcade Museum.
• Springfield, Illinois: Explore the Illinois State Capitol, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and the Cozy Dog Drive-In, credited with inventing the corn dog.
• St. Louis, Missouri: Cross the Mississippi River and visit the Gateway Arch, a symbol of westward expansion.
• Meramec Caverns, Missouri: Tour the expansive Meramec Caverns, known for its cave formations and historical significance.
• Cuba, Missouri: Enjoy the town’s collection of outdoor murals and the Wagon Wheel Motel.
• St. James, Missouri: Explore the Vacuum Cleaner Museum and Factory Outlet.
• Lebanon, Missouri: Visit Munger Moss Motel and the Lebanon-Laclede County Route 66 Museum.
• Springfield, Missouri: Discover the birthplace of Route 66 and explore attractions like the Route 66 Car Museum.
• Arcadia, Oklahoma: Experience the iconic Round Barn and Pop’s Soda Ranch.
• Clinton, Oklahoma: Visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum.
• Amarillo, Texas: Witness the Cadillac Ranch and explore the Big Texan Steak Ranch.
• Tucumcari, New Mexico: Experience the vintage neon signs and historic motels of Tucumcari.
• Santa Rosa, New Mexico: See the Blue Hole, a natural spring popular for diving, and visit the Route 66 Auto Museum.
• Albuquerque, New Mexico: Explore Old Town Albuquerque and the historic KiMo Theatre.
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona: Marvel at the petrified wood and colorful badlands in this national park.
• Winslow, Arizona: Stand on the corner made famous by the Eagles’ song “Take It Easy” and visit La Posada, a historic Harvey House.
• Flagstaff, Arizona: Discover the historic downtown and visit the Lowell Observatory.
• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: Take a detour to experience the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.
• Kingman, Arizona: Explore the historic district and the Route 66 Museum.
• Oatman, Arizona: Encounter wild burros on the historic streets of this old mining town.
• Santa Monica, California: Conclude your journey at the Santa Monica Pier, marking the end of Route 66.

Southern Route / I-10

• Distance:  2460 miles
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Jacksonville, FL to Santa Monica, California

The Southern Route, following Interstate 10 (I-10), spans 2460 miles through the southern United States, showcasing diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, history, and plenty of sunshine. This is one of the best cross-country road trips – spanning from the sandy beaches of Santa Monica in Southern California to the lively streets of Jacksonville, Florida, crossing Arizona , New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.

This route passes through major cities like Phoenix, New Orleans, and Houston, each offering its own flair for southern culture and hospitality. You could even take a detour from Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park to experience some of the most spectacular scenery in the Southwest. The best time to drive the Southern Route is in the winter when the temperatures are milder – a warm escape from the colder northern climates.

If you love cultural diversity, flavorful cuisine, and a mix of metropolitan and natural areas, the Southern Route is an excellent road trip option. From the picturesque deserts of Arizona to the lively music scene in New Orleans and the pristine beaches of the Gulf Coast, this road trip is ideal for those wanting a taste of the deep South and Southwest.

• Jacksonville, Florida: Start your journey in Jacksonville, where you can explore the beaches, historic neighborhoods, and the Jacksonville Landing.
• New Orleans, Louisiana: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of New Orleans, known for its jazz music, French Quarter, and iconic cuisine.
• San Antonio, Texas: Explore the historic sites of the Alamo, stroll along the River Walk, and visit the vibrant markets.
• Big Bend National Park, Texas: Experience the dramatic landscapes of Big Bend National Park, featuring canyons, desert, and the Rio Grande River.
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas: Discover the diverse ecosystems and hiking trails in this mountainous national park.
• Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico: Explore the stunning underground caverns with unique rock formations and a massive underground chamber.
• White Sands National Park, New Mexico: Witness the surreal beauty of the gypsum sand dunes in this unique national park.
• Tucson, Arizona: Visit Saguaro National Park, known for its giant saguaro cacti, and explore the cultural attractions in Tucson.
• Phoenix, Arizona: Experience the vibrant city of Phoenix, with attractions such as the Desert Botanical Garden and Camelback Mountain.
• Joshua Tree National Park, California: Encounter the otherworldly landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, known for its unique Joshua trees and rock formations.
• Palm Springs, California: Relax in the desert oasis of Palm Springs, known for its mid-century modern architecture and outdoor recreation.
• Los Angeles, California: Visit iconic attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier, LACMA ( Los Angeles  County Museum of Art) and the Griffith Observatory.
• Santa Monica, California: Conclude your journey at the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, enjoying the beach, shopping, and the Santa Monica Pier.
• Optional Detour – Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: Take a detour to experience the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park.
• Optional Detour – Las Vegas, Nevada: Explore the vibrant entertainment and nightlife of Las Vegas with its famous resorts and shows.

The Atlantic Coast / U.S. Route 1

• Distance:  2,390 miles
• Starting Point and Ending Point:  Key West, FL to Fort Kent, ME

Tracing the path of U.S. Route 1, the Atlantic Coast drive winds along the eastern seaboard, boasting a blend of history, coastal beauty, and bustling urban centers. Best known for its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, this route spans over 2,300 miles from the northern tip of Maine in Fort Kent to the southern shores of Florida in Key West – also going through Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

Along this East Coast road trip , you’ll experience iconic cities like Boston , New York City, and Miami. The best time to drive the Atlantic Coast is during the late spring to early fall – the weather won’t be too hot or too cold!

The Atlantic Coast offers something for everyone, ideal for history enthusiasts, beach lovers, and those who appreciate a mix of metropolitan and seaside charm. If you love nature, you can even take a quick 1.5-hour detour to Shenandoah National Park to peak at the Blue Ridge Mountains while driving through Virginia. 

Whether it’s exploring colonial-era architecture in New England, enjoying the lively boardwalks of the Jersey Shore, or basking in the sun on the beaches of the Carolinas, this cross-country road trip has no shortage of unforgettable experiences.

• Key West, Florida: Start your journey in Key West, known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and the southernmost point in the continental U.S.
• Miami, Florida: Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Miami, including South Beach, Little Havana, and the vibrant art scene.
• Everglades National Park, Florida: Experience the unique ecosystem of the Everglades with its wildlife, airboat tours, and nature trails.
• St. Augustine, Florida: Discover the historic charm of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., with its Spanish colonial architecture and historic sites.
• Savannah, Georgia: Explore the picturesque squares, historic homes, and oak-lined streets of Savannah.
• Charleston, South Carolina: Experience the rich history and Southern hospitality of Charleston, known for its antebellum architecture and waterfront charm.
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Enjoy the beaches, entertainment, and golf courses of Myrtle Beach.
• Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina: Discover the scenic beauty and historic lighthouses along the Outer Banks.
• Richmond, Virginia: Visit the capital city of Virginia, known for its Civil War history, museums, and vibrant arts scene.
• Washington, D.C. : Explore the nation’s capital with its iconic landmarks, museums, and historical sites.
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and other historic sites in Philadelphia.
• New York City, New York: Explore the iconic landmarks, museums, and neighborhoods of New York City, including Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
• New Haven, Connecticut: Visit Yale University, explore historic districts, and enjoy the cultural scene in New Haven.
• Newport, Rhode Island: Experience the Gilded Age opulence with visits to the Newport Mansions and enjoy the scenic coastal beauty.
• Boston, Massachusetts: Explore the historic sites of Boston, including the Freedom Trail, Boston Common, and the USS Constitution Museum.
• Portland, Maine: Enjoy the coastal charm of Portland with its seafood, historic Old Port district, and lighthouses.
• Acadia National Park, Maine: Conclude your journey in Acadia National Park, known for its rugged coastline, hiking trails, and Cadillac Mountain.

If I had to choose, the Arizona section of Route 66, the PCH (CA US 1), and the more northern US 20 are my all-time favorite routes! There is so much to see and do along these routes, from the quirky yet aesthetically appealing Route 66 towns to the stunning landscapes of some of America’s best National Parks; I never get bored driving across the country!

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Meet Sam, a fearless wanderer and avid solo traveler who has made the world her home. Through cross country road trips, car camping in her SUV and solo adventures to far corners of the globe, she has become an expert in crafting itineraries that balance adventure and self-discovery. Through her insightful tales and practical tips, Sam inspires others to embrace the unknown, break free from conventional boundaries, and embrace the beauty of solo exploration.

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37 Stops For The Best Cross Country Road Trip [Map Included]

Taking a cross country road trip in the US is something everyone should do at least once in their life! We have traveled the country back and forth on multiple occasions and asked our fellow professional travelers for help on this post as well, to get you the best of the best when it comes to doing a cross country road trip.

We share top destinations , route planning ideas, attractions and activities you don’t want to miss and some great food options .

The US is filled with so many unique and different places to visit. The hard part is picking where to go. We will take you from the East Coast and places like Maine and New York down to the Florida Keys and up to Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park before heading to California!

Below you will find 37 amazing places to make your trip an unforgettable adventure.

Table of Contents

Featured Place To Stay In The US

The Beach Club Resort and Spa

If you are looking for an awesome beach resort vacation in the US you are going to want to check out The Beach Club Resort and Spa in Gulf Shores, Alabama !

6 pools, restaurants on site, beach bonfires and more!

Buckle up and let’s start this drive cross country! If you want to add more adventure we recommend renting an RV for your trip. RVing cross country is an awesome way to travel!

Below we share our recommendations and recommendations from fellow travel bloggers on can’t miss places to visit on the best cross country trip. We kick it off in the East coast and take you down to Florida up to the midwest out to the pacific northwest down the west coast and across to Texas!

Acadia National Park, Maine

If you’re heading on a road trip across the United States, one of the first places you should start (pending you’re on the East Coast) is one of the most visited US national parks – Acadia in Maine. Acadia National Park is the only national park located in the northeastern US and it is home to a variety of different landscapes ranging from coastlines to bogs and more.

If you’re visiting Acadia in winter , you will be pleased to find fewer people in the park and some of the best cross-country ski trails on the eastern seaboard. During the Acadia summers, hiking is a must and some of the most famous trails are the Precipice Trail, Great Head Trail (which offers coastal walks), and Bubble Rock.

The number one sight in Acadia National Park is Cadillac Mountain and there are a variety of ways to experience it, but hiking is definitely the best way. Be sure to also not miss Schoodic Point, the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, and Jordan Pond.

There are plenty of camping opportunities within Acadia or you can opt to stay on Mount Desert Island (the island where the park is located) in Bar Harbor . Otherwise, Acadia is an easy day trip from Bangor on the mainland. Acadia National Park will be a stellar first stop on your road trip across the wild and diverse country!

Shared by: Megan Starr – Megan & Aram Travel Blog

More on Acadia and Maine:

Acadia National Park Itinerary [Plus Where To Stay]

15 Amazing Things To Do In Maine

Top 14 Maine National Parks and State Parks To Visit

Check out these awesome farm stays around the US too!

White Mountains, New Hampshire

The White Mountains of New Hampshire offer scenic views, epic hikes, rocky rivers and gorges, and some of the best leaf peeping in the country. While you can technically make the 100-mile loop in a day, you will want to take at least a weekend to take your time and explore this road trip.

Start off in the charming town of North Conway, where you can enjoy some of the local ski resort mountain activities or take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad. From there, travel west across the Kancamagus Highway , one of the prettiest scenic by-ways in New England. Be sure to stop off at popular spots like the Albany Covered Bridge, Lower Falls, Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, Sabbaday Falls, Sugar Hill Overlook, C.L. Graham Wangam Overlook, and Lincoln Woods on your way to Lincoln.

Near Lincoln, spend some time hiking through the Lost River Gorge and exploring some of the caves, or visit Flume Gorge to gawk at the waterfalls. Travel north along Interstate 93 and Highway 3 through Franconia State Park. Leave time to enjoy Echo Lake Beach and make the hike up to Artist’s Bluff for stunning views of the lake and mountains beyond.

You will then want to head north east on Route 3 towards Twin Mountain until you get to Rt. 302. You will then want to head south to Bretton Woods, stopping to look at the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort. As you pass through Crawford Notch State Park, take a hike up Mt. Willard for amazing views of the notch, or to Arethusa Falls, the second tallest waterfall in New Hampshire.

Finish your road trip by following Rt. 16 back to North Conway for some outlet shopping. If you have time, make a detour toward Pinkham Notch and drive the famous Mt. Washington Auto Road, or in Bartlett, take Bear Notch Road down to the Kancamagus Highway for a beautiful backwoods drive.

If you are looking for some cool places to stay check out these cool glamping In New England options!

Shared by: Tamara Gruber – We 3 Travel

More on New Hampshire:

14 Best Things To Do In Lincoln New Hampshire

Berkshire, Massachusetts

The Berkshires of Massachusetts is a breathtaking region located between New York City and Boston. This stunning area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a bevy of hiking and biking opportunities as well as spectacular ski areas. Although the region is notably beautiful year-round, it’s particularly spectacular in autumn, with vibrant foliage decorating the mountainous landscape. Leaf peepers gather each fall to witness the spectacle from atop Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation, around the Stockbridge Bowl, and down secret winding backroads.

In addition to various opportunities for physical fitness, there are numerous cultural amusements in The Berkshires as well. For instance, the charming town of Stockbridge is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum, a site that pays homage to the famous American illustrator. This popular town also features Naumkeag, a stunning Gilded Age mansion that sits atop 48 acres and offers a range of seasonal events. Travelers will also enjoy a visit to the sweet neighboring town of Lenox, home to Edith Wharton’s former estate, The Mount. Here, self-guided tours are available of the impressive mansion and gardens through Mid-November.

Additionally, for a journey back in time, head to Santarella. This unique storybook property dates back to 1739 and looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Although the grounds are private, this dream home is available to rent for a special event or an unforgettable Berkshires getaway.

Learn more: Most Breathtaking Places to Experience Fall in The Berkshires

Shared by: Elena Pappalardo – The Carry-On Chronicles

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is the perfect beach destination for some relaxation or adventure. Begin your visit in Sandwich on the western end of Cape Cod with a visit to the Sandwich Glass Museum or enjoy nature at the Heritage Museum and Gardens. Continue with your drive through Cape Cod with a stop at some of the many lighthouses, including the Nauset Light and Chatham Lighthouse.

Drive along the Cape Cod National Seashore where you will have a plentiful selection of sandy beaches to choose from. Spend a couple hours or all day relaxing in the sand, viewing the sand dunes, and jumping over the waves.

Depending on how much time you allot for the area, a whale watch is highly recommended! Head to Provincetown, the end point of Cape Cod, and hop aboard for a ride along the shores of Cape Cod featuring the famous sand dunes before heading out to the Stellwagen National Marine Sanctuary.

After the whale watch take a stroll along Commercial Street and enjoy the quaint, local shops and tasty seafood options. Visit the Pilgrim Monument for breathtaking views of Provincetown and the surrounding area. Hang around until sunset and catch the famous Cape Cod sunset from Herring Cove Beach in Provincetown.

When visiting Cape Cod be prepared to eat your share of seafood-the options are endless! You can expect to find oysters, scallops, clams, mussels, and lobster. If you aren’t a seafood person don’t worry! You will find a great selection of international foods, including Asian, Middle-Eastern, and Italian.

Learn more: Provincetown With Kids: 11 Must Do’s

Shared by: Melissa – Navigation Junkie

You will also want to check out all the awesome Cape Cod towns .

More on Massachusetts:

4 Best Amusement Parks in Massachusetts To Visit

One of my favorite places in the Hudson Valley is Hyde Park, the National Historic Site that encompasses Franklin Roosevelt’s childhood home, his presidential library , historic Top Cottage and Eleanor Roosevelt’s Val-Kill estate. There are also gardens and enough property for a good long walk. You can’t see the whole estate in one day, especially with kids. So, I recommend you start with the library.

FDR was the first president to establish a presidential library and he did so on the estate while he was still in office. The public portion of the library is a nicely done, kid-friendly museum. You can sit at a model 1930s kitchen with a radio playing his fireside chats or follow the arc of WWII on interactive maps.

The highlights for me are his oval office desk cluttered with knick-knacks and the car he had adapted for his polio. Eleanor gets her own wing, where you can see her manual typewriter and letters from people across the country who wrote to ask for her help and her personal advice. My favorite place is Top Cottage, FDR’s hideaway on the estate. He hosted a barbecue for the King and Queen of England here and sat on the porch with several world leaders including Winston Churchill.

You can only see the three houses by ranger tour and a highly recommend taking this one because the history and anecdotes make this little stone house fascinating. Eleanor led a long public life after Franklin died and you’ll learn a lot about her interests and accomplishments at Val-Kill. In the family home you learn about Franklin’s boyhood, entry into politics and his polio.

Kids who know something about 20th century history will get the most out of a visit, but there’s enough to engage younger school-age children. The town of Pougheepsie, six miles south has restaurants, but on a nice day I recommend bringing a picnic or buying sandwiches at café and eating outside on the grounds.

Shared by: Eileen P. Gunn – Families Go Travel

New York City

If you’re planning an epic road trip through the United States, you absolutely need to stop in New York City. Phenomenal restaurants, world-class museums and architecture, stunning entertainment, beautiful parks, and more await you in the City that Never Sleeps.

New York City was first established in 1624, when the island of Manhattan was purchased from the native peoples who inhabited the land by the Dutch for a mere $24. As the Dutch, and then English, settlements grew and developed, it served as an important place during the American Revolution, and became the newly born United State’s first national capital. Manhattan was incorporated with the other four boroughs–Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island–in 1898 to form the full New York City.

The City is home to tons of awesome museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the American Museum of Natural History, as well as Broadway theatre. Make sure you catch a performance in the Theatre District, which includes many of the theaters in the famous Times Square.

There are so many free things to do in New York City , in addition to paid activities. Wander through any of the City’s parks, walk the High Line and explore the newly developed Hudson Yards, or visit the 9/11 Memorial in Lower Manhattan. You can even head to the beach, all without leaving the five boroughs. Even just simply walking through the many different neighborhoods will give you incredible insight into the diverse, mesmerizing experience that is New York City.

Shared by Lyndsay Crescenti – The Purposely Lost

More On New York

If you plan to head to New York check out this awesome New York to Maine road trip too! And if you want to go with kids check out our tips on New York City With Kids . If you are looking for a romantic getaway check out these romantic hotels in New York State !

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

One of the best road trip stops in America is the northeastern city of Philadelphia. The city is full of fascinating history, world class museums and the delicious Philadelphia food scene.

There are so many worthwhile activities to enjoy in Philadelphia, like touring the historical buildings in Old City. Visitors love to explore Independence Hall, the site where Americans signed the Declaration of Independence and debated and signed the American Constitution. It’s steps away from other historical attractions like the Liberty Bell and President’s Mansion. Nearby you can also visit museums like the Constitution Center and The Museum of the American Revolution.

The Franklin Institute of Science is another favorite museum, especially for visitors with children. Still, the most famous museum in the city is probably The Philadelphia Museum of Art and its famous steps from the movie Rocky.

Philadelphia is also a foodie destination with famous local foods like the cheesesteak, soft pretzel and water ice. These treats alone are worth the stop in the city of Philadelphia. One of the best destinations to try these favorites is Philadelphia’s famous food hall, Reading Terminal Market. There you can visit rows of open air food stands and enjoy them in the central dining area.

In the warm weather, visitors can enjoy the food at Spruce Street Harbor Park, a recreational area built on the bank of the Delaware River. It hosts entertainment, food trucks and is one of the most popular places to try the local cuisine and relax along the waterfront. No matter when you visit Philadelphia, it’s a must-stop destination with so much to explore.

Shared by: Derek and Mike – Robe Trotting

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park is worth a stop on any road trip across the US. There are beautiful, endless views on the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley to admire. Stop for the many waterfalls, the hiking opportunities, both short and longer. The Skyline Drive is easy to include in your trip through the US. Stop to see all the animals in Shenandoah, like the butterflies and maybe a brown beer. When making your trip in the Fall, Shenandoah is perfect for seeing the fall foliage.

When going to Shenandoah National Park the top thing to do is driving the Skyline Drive, it’s 105 miles and takes you along all the viewpoints. The views are so mesmerizing, you’ll want to stop at every viewpoint there is. The viewpoints are also the starting points for the hikes in the park, another top thing to do in Shenandoah.

There’s over 500 miles of marked trails. 20 of the hikes are to the waterfalls in the park. Not to be missed is the Stony ManNature Trail. A 1.6 mile hike to the highest point in the park, the Stony Man’s Summit. The most popular hike is the hike to Old Rag Mountain, it’s however a hike that will take a day and is not easy.

Come also for night sky watching and stargazing, which is a thing you have to see in the park. The Big Meadows Area and The Amphitheater in the Skyland area are perfect for this.

Shared by Cosette – KarsTravels

You may also want to check out these great off the beaten track destinations in the US !

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia is definitely a must-stop place on a USA road trip. It’s the world’s largest living history museum as well as being the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780. Thanks to the generosity of those who are committed to preserving American history, you can explore the restored and reconstructed historic center of Colonial Williamsburg.

Your Colonial Williamsburg ticket grants you entrance to important and historic buildings like the Governor’s mansion and homes of other prominent residents of the town, mostly by guided tour. The excellent guides will not only discuss important features of the buildings, but the background of those who lived there providing important historical and cultural context. In addition, the historic center is full of trade shops where you can talk to historical interpreters about paper making, book binding, ironwork, wig making, sites important to the everyday economy and culture of the town.

Special programs like evening ghost tours, historical re-enactments, and concerts also give visitors a glimpse of what life might have been like there in the 18th century. When considering where to eat at Colonial Williamsburg , plan to treat yourself to at least one dinner at one of the historical taverns like Christiana Campbell’s. You’ll enjoy a great meal surrounded by history.

Shared by: Darcy Vierow – Plan, Ready, Go

Other fun stops in Virginia:

Things To Do In Charlottesville VA

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston in South Carolina is a must-stop on any US cross country road trip! Why you may ask?

Well, mostly because Charleston is a super cute and beautiful town where road trippers can easily entertain themselves for a day or two.

A Charleston walking tour is a great way to see some of the city’s highlights such as the pineapple fountain, Charleston harbor, the city market, and of course the rainbow houses. These colorful houses make Charleston a very picturesque place to visit. Besides some sightseeing, you can also explore one of the many beaches around Charleston (if the weather permits).

South Carolina may not be most famous for the beaches, but let Charleston try and prove otherwise. Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, or Isle of Palms Country Park are three beaches that are worth checking out!

After a full day at the beach, you can eat your heart out at one of the many restaurants in Charleston. Some of the all-time favorite restaurants include The Darling Oyster Bar at King Street and The Macintosh a little bit further down the same street.

The last reason why Charleston is an awesome stop for a road trip is because of the great number of delicious breweries that are located there. Head over to Charleston Distilling CO, Highwire Distilling, Palmetto Brewing or one of the many other breweries and find out for yourself what makes Charleston so amazing!

Shared by: Lara – The Best Travel Gifts

Savannah Georgia

Be careful adding Savannah as a stop on your cross-country road trip; you might not want to leave once you’ve seen it! People from all over the country visit Savannah to get a peek at its charming squares and picturesque streets – and to sample all of the delicious Southern-style cooking.

First, plan to walk as much as possible! The city looks prettiest on foot where you can appreciate its beautiful details. Begin at River Street and watch the ships sailing into port while sampling some yummy pralines at River Street Sweets, then head to City Market for live entertainment, art, and a giant slice of pizza at Vinnie Van Go Go’s. Afterwards, do some shopping along Broughton Street, and then head deeper into the Historic District to visit the squares and stroll along Jones Street. It’s known as one of the prettiest streets in America. Make sure you stop by Forsyth Park to see the famous fountain!

If you’re in the mood for a fancy dinner, try The Olde Pink House. It’s a classic in Savannah and offers fine dining inside a beautiful historic (and reportedly haunted!) mansion. Prefer something more casual? Treylor Park is always a good bet. Finally, wind down your evening with a ghost tour — since Savannah is known as one of the most haunted cities in the US.

Can’t-miss sights include the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Bonaventure Cemetery, and a tour of the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters or Pin Point Heritage Museum.

Shared by: Erin Clarkson – Savannah First Timer

Universal Studios, Florida

A Cross Country US road trip won’t be complete without a stop to Orlando, Florida. Of course you could go to Disney World and if you have never been you should at least make time for Magic Kingdom . But don’t spend all your time there! Instead be sure to head over to Universal Studios .

Not sure where to go? Check out this post: Should You Choose Disney World Or Universal. 

Our kids much prefer Universal Studios and the kind of rides they have here – with their favorites being the Harry Potter rides. And of course you can’t beat visiting Harry Potter world in Universal. It is a truly special places especially if you have read the books and watched the movies.

Make sure to try all the different kinds of butter beer – hot, cold, ice cream they have a lot of options!

Once you are done with Universal Studios you will want to head to Volcano Bay ! This is our favorite waterpark in all of the US. You are in the middle of busy Orlando but when you are there you feel like you are on a tropical island filled with fun water rides and an awesome wave pool with a volcano.

There are so many fun activities to do in Orlando!

Between Orlando and the Florida Keys you can make a stop at the gorgeous Marco Island! Check out this post with a great list of things to do in Marco Island .

Florida Keys, Florida

If you are looking for the most tropical place in all of the US then you will want to make the trek down to the Florida Keys. The Florida Keys remain one of our favorite destinations in the US after traveling full time in an RV for over 6 years around the US. We love the tropical feel, the beautiful water and all of the fun things that you can do while you are there.

Most people think of the Florida Keys and only picture Key West. Yes Key West is amazing but there are so many really cool things to do all up and down the Keys. The Keys stretch over 100 miles so plenty of other places to stop and things to do.

We love the middle keys and the fact it is a lot more slower paced and less busy than Key West. Rent a Pontoon, go to the turtle hospital , animal encounters. and more! While on your cross country road trip be sure to set time aside for a Florida Keys road trip . It would also be a great place to try car camping – since the weather is usually so nice.

If getting outside with your family is high on your list be sure to check out these awesome outdoorsy vacations with kids!

Destin, Florida

Another of our top destinations in the US is Destin, Florida ! You can’t beat the white sand beaches and gorgeous aquamarine colored water. We love coming here for a beach break to just kick back relax and hang out on the beach.

That being said we also love all of the fun activities that you can do from fishing to renting a pontoon to Jet Skiing. There are so many options for amazing family fun while you are in Destin, Florida.

We really enjoy camping at Grayton Beach when we are there and visiting the Surf Hut restaurant that is located right on the beach. And you want to be sure you don’t miss the beautiful sunset from the beach out over the ocean.

Northern Georgia

Every US road trip should include the North Georgia Mountains . Take the hike to Springer Mountain in Dahlonega, where the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail begins. Ride an open-air car on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway or take a hike on Blue Ridge’s swinging bridge- both letting you adventure over the Toccoa River. Visit the Alpine town of Helen, Georgia known for the Bavarian Village, delicious German food and festivals galore.

In Blairsville, take the short walk to Brasstown Bald for sensational 36-degree views at Georgia’s tallest point. Want more views? Add a stop at Bell Mountain in Hiawassee for a birds-eye view of Lake Chatuge. Ellijay is home to apple picking, but if you miss an early Fall visit then enjoy their wine trail instead. Finally, the Northeast mountains near Clayton and Rabun County are known for their waterfalls, magnificent trails, and charming small towns.

Shared by: Lesli Peterson – 365 Atlanta Traveler

Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville , Kentucky is one of the most fun cities to visit in the entire United States. But it is especially a dream come true for sports lovers. Start by learning about legendary boxer and Louisville native Muhammad Ali at the Muhammad Ali Center. Next, baseball fans will love visiting the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory to see how Major League Baseball’s favorite bat is manufactured.

But the most famous sports-related landmark in Louisville is Churchill Downs. This hallowed spot is where the most famous horse race in the world, the Kentucky Derby, is run every year. Even when the race isn’t on, you can visit the Kentucky Derby Museum.

But Louisville isn’t just for sports fans. Art lovers will adore the amazing collection at the Speed Art Museum. Bourbon fans will want to learn about how the famous American spirit is made at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. Or for a more low-key activity, wander around the Old Louisville neighborhood and admire the Victorian homes. You might even spot Louisville’s famous Witches’ Tree in this area.

Louisville is famous for several delicious and decadent foods. The most famous is probably the Hot Brown sandwich served at the Brown Hotel. It’s an indulgent warm, open-faced turkey sandwich slathered with bacon and rich Mornay sauce. And don’t miss the chance to try a yummy slice of chocolate and walnut Derby pie when you visit the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs.

Shared by: Stella Jane – Around the World in 24 Hours

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

While taking a trip across the US, Milwaukee, Wisconsin is a place you must visit. Situated on Lake Michigan’s western shore, it is famous for its breweries and cheese. Even if there’s no other reason left to visit the city, you should stop here for the beer. If you are a beer fan, Milwaukee will not disappoint you. The city has beer stores on every third step. One of the reasons why tourists come and stop at this place to buy and taste the breweries.

It is great for a family vacation as there are a lot of things you can do. Start your trip by treating your taste buds to the city’s famous dishes. Milwaukee is famous for its beer, no doubt, but you will find a lot of eateries around the corners of the city’s street. There are vegetarian, vegan-friendly, as well as non-vegetarian restaurants. One of your must-visit stops should be Centro Cafe that offers rustic Italian food.

After filling your stomach, there are places you must visit. Visit the Public Museum which is the home to world history. Explore some amazing scientific innovations and collections from zoology to photography. Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum to witness one-of-a-kind objects including the very first Harley-Davidson bike.

The city has a lot more to offer from its history to great food. If you have a pet as your company, find the best pet-friendly cabins in Wisconsin and enjoy the sites with your furry friend.

Shared by: Paulina – Paulina On The Road

Black Hills, South Dakota

Any cross-country U.S. road trip should include a stop in the Black Hills of South Dakota. In addition to over 8000 square miles of natural beauty, these hills host some of our nation’s most iconic monuments and parks.

Located right off of interstate 90, the Black Hills are easily accessible. Most people know this area because of Mount Rushmore, which is a must-see, but there is much more to see and do here. Half an hour away from Mount Rushmore is the Crazy Horse Memorial. This monument, also carved into the mountains, is still in progress and it’s awesome to watch the work being done. There is a Native American museum at the memorial and they often hold live performances.

Just south of Mount Rushmore is Custer State Park. There’s camping, hiking, kayaking and more at this sprawling park. Travelers who are short on time can take one of the scenic drives to see giant herds of buffalo and adorable prairie dog towns.

On the north end of the Black Hills lies Spearfish Canyon. The winding road that runs along the river reveals lush canyon walls. Bring a picnic, take a hike to one of the many waterfalls and just enjoy the natural wonder.

Lastly, a visit to the Black Hills wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the historic town of Deadwood. Step back in time while you lounge at a saloon, take an historic home tour or visit the gravesites of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane!

Shared by: Julie Espinosa – Family Travel Lifestyle

Another great location in South Dakota is Wind Cave National Park .

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is a must-see; this huge US National Park is home to some of the most thrilling natural sights in the country! It is so large that it covers three different states: Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming (which houses the bulk of the park). First time visitors are often surprised to learn that it can take hours to drive just within the park between the distance, crowds, and bison traffic jams so it’s important to have mapped out the highlights you’re planning to hit.

While you’re driving, be sure to keep an eye out along the roads for wildlife. Often called the “serengeti of the west”, Lamar Valley is famous for its wolves, bison, coyotes, and grizzly bears. If there is a crowd of cars pulled over, it’s a good sign to join them and ask what’s been spotted.

Old Faithful is the most famous geyser among the over 10,000 thermal features within the park, stop by for one of the predicted eruptions and then browse the dedicated visitor center nearby to learn more about this geological wonder. The photogenic Grand Prismatic Spring is also nearby, where visitors can walk on a boardwalk within inches of the thermal pool’s vivid hues.

Visitors also can’t miss the roaring Yellowstone Falls from one of the famous overlooks, as the most stunning waterfall inside the park. Wrap up your days in one of the gateway cities that have plenty of delicious restaurants, ice cream shops, and spots to unwind after the natural thrills!

Read more Yellowstone National Park Tips here!

Shared by: Stephanie – Explore More Clean Less

Bozeman, Montana

Beautiful Bozeman is one of the jewels of Montana; it balances both powerful and sprawling nature with a dynamic city center and cultural institutions. This dichotomy makes it well worth a stop on any road trip going through Montana.

Bozeman is situated in the Gallatin Valley and framed by the peaks of the Absaroka, Bridger, Madison, and Gallatin mountain ranges. The ski runs of two of Montana’s best ski resorts, Bridger Bowl and Big Sky Resort, are within easy driving distance. The natural surroundings aren’t just prone to world-class skiing; you’ll also find excellent hiking at Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area and kayaking and rafting adventures waiting to be had along the Madison and Gallatin Rivers.

Moving closer to the center of the city, you’ll find downtown Bozeman as well as Montana State University. The latter helps run the esteemed Museum of the Rockies, which is a museum that can’t be missed while in Bozeman. It is easily one of the top things to do in Bozeman thanks to its incredible collection of dinosaur bones, many of which were found right in Montana. After a day exploring the museums or having adventures in the wild land surrounding Bozeman, head downtown for a pint at one of Bozeman’s excellent breweries or to enjoy some farm to table cuisine.

Shared by: Gina – Travel Montana Now

Glacier National Park

You can’t have a list of places to visit in the US without having Glacier National Park ! This place is unbelievably beautiful. From the glacial lakes to the mountains at every turn you are awe-struck by the beauty.

There are a few must do things like visiting Lake McDonald and driving the Going To The Sun Road. But some of our favorites are more of the off the beaten path things. Like visiting Polebridge Mercantile or the Many Glacier section of the park.

Our favorite hikes in Glacier are Grinnell Glacier where we say ice bergs floating in the lake at the top and Avalanche Lake with its mountain lake and greenery surrounding it.  Glacier is a place that is best to visit in late July, August or early September. This time of year gives you the best chance to really see everything it has to offer.

The Going To The Sun Road doesn’t even open until mid July sometimes and you want to do that when you are here. If you are questioning making the drive this far north don’t. Just do it! You will be glad you did!

Check out our post on Unique Montana Airbnbs you will want to stay in on your trip.

Mount Rainier, Washington

One of the best places to stop during a road trip through Washington State is Mount Rainier, National Park. This park has mountains galore, lakes, waterfalls, and old grove trees. It is a beautiful park with so much to see.

One of the best things to do is to stop by the Paradise visitor center to do the skyline trail. Even if you are not a hiker, you need to experience this area. Mount Rainier looks stunning, and there is a waterfall called Marymere Falls. The hike is moderate and has fantastic views throughout. If the weather is iffy, Comet Falls hike is a great place to experience a gargantuan waterfall. It is one of the best waterfalls in Washington State and is worth the 3.8-mile trek.

There are also multiple fire lookouts in Mount Rainier National Park . Fremont lookout is probably the most popular lookout, followed by Tolmie Peak. You have to hike to get to either of the lookouts, but the effort is well worth it. Many people do these hike for sunset and are sometimes rewarded with a stunning cloud inversion. No matter what you do at this national park, you will fall in love with its natural beauty.

Shared by: Michelle – The Wandering Queen

Oregon Coast

The Oregon coast is a magical and unique place. There is so much lush green in Oregon. With the green contrasting with the ocean cliffs and water it is a sight to see.

There are jet boat rides to take and sand dunes to 4 wheel on. Plus hours of tide pooling and amazing hiking. Oregon really is a nature lovers paradise. If possible make multiple stops along the coast. And don’t miss Cannon beach and Astoria – where they filmed Goonies.

The Oregon coast is a unique place and definitely somewhere that has you thinking waterfalls, lush green forests and fairies. If fairies exist they are in Oregon!

Lake Tahoe, Nevada

Lake Tahoe is a great place to visit all year round. Whether you are heading there in the winter for skiing or you want to spend the summer playing water sports and hiking – Lake Tahoe has something for everyone.

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake and it straddles both California and Nevada. It sits in a basin at over 6,000 feet surrounded by the Sierra Mountains. The views around the lake are stunning.

One of the best things to do around Lake Tahoe is to go hiking. If you are looking for a short, scenic hike why not try the Vikingsholm Trail. This trail is only 3.2 miles long and ends in Emerald Bay. From the start you have amazing views of Emerald Bay the whole way down. Just remember you have to get back up again!

In the summer, you can take a scenic gondola ride up to the Heavenly Mountain for epic views. The gondola ride is 2.4 miles long to the Observation Deck where you can have panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. You can also check out the cafe there.

Lastly, why not take a scenic drive around the lake. It takes about an hour to drive from North Lake Tahoe to South Lake Tahoe. You will notice quite a difference in the North where it is more serene and the South which is more popular. Either way the scenery is gorgeous and you can see the Sugar Pines and White Firs.

Shared by: Nicole – American SW Obsessed  

Another fun place to visit in Nevada is the Great Basin National Park. 

San Francisco, California

It’s not a true road trip around the United States if you don’t stop in San Francisco. Is it any wonder this stunning and unique city has been mentioned in so many song lyrics?

For starters, you need to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge. There’s some excellent vantage points at either end to stop and take a photo, with one of my favorites being the dog-friendly Baker Beach. The beach is also perfect for taking in a west coast sunset.

Another top attraction to visit in San Francisco is the prison island of Alcatraz, accessible on a ferry from Fisherman’s Wharf. (Don’t forget to book well in advance!) While you’re at Fisherman’s Wharf, stop by Pier 39 to gaze at the resident sea lions. Also nearby is the famously crooked Lombard Street, with its eight hairpin turns. Naturally the street is one-way only; drive down the street from the upper end.

While you’re in San Francisco, don’t also miss visiting Haight-Ashbury, the hippie heart of the city and home to an eclectic collection of boutiques. Or else head to the Mission District for some affordable tacos and to check out its plentiful street art. Balmy Alley is lined with murals, many reflecting the Latino links of the district.

And for a final classic San Fran experience, leave your car behind for a ride on the old-school cable cars!

Learn more: Dog-Friendly Things To Do In San Francisco

Shared by: Shandos Cleaver – Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel

Yosemite National Park, California

On a cross-country trip across the U.S., there will be several national parks vying for attention. One absolute must-visit is Yosemite National Park, which is in my opinion the most beautiful national park in California!

While you’re there, be sure to indulge in plenty of hiking: that is why you come to Yosemite, after all! If you are traveling with kids or people who want easier trails, there are several easy hikes in Yosemite that are worth taking, but two top ones are the Lower Yosemite Falls loop and the Cooks Meadow loop. For more advanced hikers, hiking to Taft Point is absolutely worth it as well as Upper Yosemite Falls.

You should also drive around Yosemite and see several of the best views in Yosemite from easy vantage points that require little walking or hiking. A few favorites are the view from Tunnel View, Washburn Point, The Three Brothers, and Olmsted Point.

Also, don’t miss Mariposa Grove and the beautiful giant sequoias which define this area, which was one of the first protected areas in Yosemite. There are both easy and moderate hikes in this area surrounded by beautiful towering redwoods, an absolute must-do!

Whatever adventure you choose for your Yosemite trip and however long you choose to stay, it won’t feel like enough, and I’m sure you’ll find yourself returning to Yosemite time and again!

Shared by: Allison Green – California Crossroads

Death Valley, California

If you are looking for fun places to stop on a US road trip, consider Death Valley National Park in California! The largest national park in the contiguous US, Death Valley holds the record for the highest temperature recorded on earth.

The desert views at Death Valley are majestic, and they are varied as well. So if you go expecting nothing but sand, prepare to be awestruck by colorful canyons, vast white salt flats, and even snow covered mountains at the fringes of the valley.

Drive up to Dante’s View to look out over the valley. On a clear day you may be able to see Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48 states, as well as Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America.

If you enjoy local history, the park has old mine sites and charcoal kilns you can visit. At Harmony Borax Works, you can even take a photo of a double wagon used in the days of 20-mule teams! There are lots of hiking trails in the park: the Mosaic Canyon hike is one of the most popular hikes in Death Valley.

Up in the north of the park, visit the Ubehebe Crater, a Maar volcano. Or zip out of the park a short distance to view the ruins at Rhyolite, a Gold Rush town.

There are three hotels inside Death Valley National Park, as well as a number of campgrounds. Each hotel has an onsite restaurant.

Visit Death Valley National Park in the cooler months of the year, especially if you want to hike!

Shared by: Dhara – Roadtripping California

Santa Barbara, California

Located along California’s Central Coast, Santa Barbara is a perfect destination year-round.

What makes it a great place to visit is the combination of unique cultural landmarks and great outdoor opportunities that could be explored year-round thanks to California’s mild climate.

Early morning, head to Old Mission Santa Barbara to get a lesson in the area’s history and later take a walk through El Presidio – a former military settlement that was built by the early Spanish settlers to protect their military outpost.

El Presidio is home to El Cuartel, one of the oldest buildings in the state of California and the oldest building in the city of Santa Barbara. It also has a distinction of being the last building that was built by the Spanish in the New World.

After touring the city’s historic landmarks, explore Santa Barbara’s beaches where you can surf, rent a kayak or if you don’t want to get into the water, just ride a bike along the coast at your own leisure.

Downtown Santa Barbara is walkable and boasts many outdoor venues. One of the main hallmarks of the area is Paseo Nuevo, an outdoor mall built in the Spanish colonial style with plenty of stores and restaurants where you can grab a take-out and quickly head toward the beach.

After you finish shopping and dining, check out Santa Barbara Botanic Garden located against the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains or soak in the views of the Pacific Ocean from the Stearns Wharf in the harbor of Santa Barbara – the oldest working wharf in California!

Learn more: Incredible Things To Do In Santa Barbara

Shared by: Daria Bachmann – The Discovery Nut

Joshua Tree National Park, California

No trip across the US can exclude California and its many natural wonders. There’s no shortage of beautiful places in the state, but there’s no better way to experience the California desert than by visiting Joshua Tree National Park.

Located less than three hours east of Los Angeles, the desert landscape in this national park is dotted with stunning, out of this world Joshua Trees, for which the park is named after. These “trees” stand tall and proud, with spiky arms that twist and turn upwards and outwards.

The park is beautiful and offers plenty to do and see, even if you only have one day to spend here. If you’re pressed for time, drive the main park road and stop at the Cholla Cactus Garden for a pleasant stroll through fuzzy, teddy bear-like cholla cactus.

More into cool desert rocks? Joshua Tree does not disappoint! Large boulders stand tall in the desert landscape, including Arch Rock, a famous boulder shaped like an arch. Skull Rock looks like (you guessed it) a human skull, and is another popular stopping point. A personal favorite is Split Rock, a giant boulder broken perfectly in two (and with less crowds!)

Of course, no trip to Joshua Tree is complete without photographing the famous Joshua Trees themselves. You’ll find them in the northern part of the park, just pull over and start snapping photos!

Joshua Tree is stunning, and makes for a perfect addition to a US road trip!

Shared by: Ale – Sea Salt & Fog 

Ok you are right Hawaii wouldn’t really be considered on a cross country road trip – BUT – hear me out. When you reach the west coast you can usually get air flight to Hawaii a lot cheaper compared to other parts of the US. Plus there are more flights and it is a shorter flight!

For those reasons it may be a location you want to consider! Here are some great posts on Hawaii to help you plan that trip:

Tips For Visiting Hawaii For the First Time

Tips On Visiting Disney Aulani 

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Everyone has heard of the Grand Canyon and with good reason — not only is it one of the seven natural wonders of the world, but it’s a truly awe-inspiring place to see. If it’s not already on your bucket list, it should be!

The best way to see the Grand Canyon is to hike it. Whether you choose a day trip or to hike down to the Colorado River with a stay at Phantom Ranch, it’s all breathtaking. Most of the hikes are considered difficult as the switchbacks to get down to the river are quite steep, though there are some moderate hikes as well that still provide incredible views.

For those not up for the adventure of hiking, you can easily take in the spectacular views wandering along the rim. If you’re feeling daring, the Grand Canyon Skywalk over the canyon offers views to the bottom with a glass skyway that is sure to amaze.

Whether you hike into the canyon or walk along the rim, enjoy how the light changes the colors of the canyon. The shifting sun provides a kaleidoscope of natural colors that seem unreal and it really lights up with the most incredible shades of color throughout the day and into the evening.

This is a popular tourist destination and people come from around the world to see it. The Grand Canyon is a great overnight trip from Phoenix, Arizona , and worth a spot on your bucket list.

Shared by: Sam – My Flying Leap

Northern Arizona

The dramatic desert landscapes of Northern Arizona have to be seen to be believed! Top stops on a US road trip through the Southwest include Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and Page , Arizona.

Sedona is a great first introduction to the red rocks of the desert. Take the popular Cathedral Rock trail, Devil’s Bridge trail, Little Horse trail, and visit Slide Rock State Park to slide down the slippery rocks, which become a popular slide in the summer! While there are numerous luxurious spa resorts in Sedona, there are plenty of incredible Airbnb’s with pools and views!

Traveling north, stop in Flagstaff, Arizona and make it your base for exploring the Grand Canyon. Located an hour and 15 minutes away, it’s the closest city. Stay at the Drury Inn & Suites on Northern Arizona University’s campus and make sure you eat at NiMarco’s, Flagstaff’s best pizza place with an incredible pesto pizza!

Lastly, Page, Arizona  is one of the most beautiful parts of the Southwest (a bold claim, I know). Here you’ll see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon. Horseshoe Bend is a free part of the Grand Canyon with a river that dramatically wraps around a plateau. The trail is short but it can get extremely hot, so be prepared. Antelope Canyon is a beautiful slot canyon on the Navajo Reservation. You need to book a tour for it, but the views are unbeatable!

Shared by: Alanna Koritzke – Periodic Adventures

Zion National Park, Utah

Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers will not want to miss visiting Zion National Park during a cross-country road trip. Located near Springdale, Utah, Zion National Park is famous for its steep sandstone cliffs soaring up from the canyon floor.

The main thing to do in Zion is go hiking, as there are several scenic trails in the heart of the park ranging from challenging and adventurous full-day hikes, to short and easy nature walks.

Some of the park’s most notable hikes are also the longest and most difficult, including Angels Landing, Observation Point, and the Narrows. More moderate, but equally scenic options include the hike to Canyon Overlook and Watchman Trail. For an easy hike, you can follow along the Virgin River on Pa’rus Trail and the Riverside Walk, or set out to visit Lower Emerald Pool.

Even if hiking is not your thing, you can still enjoy Zion National Park by going on a sightseeing drive through the park. The park provides shuttle buses to access the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (the most popular part of the park), but private vehicles are allowed on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway where you can drive through the sandstone cliffs via a historic tunnel.

Learn more: How to Spend 3 Days in Zion National Park- Hikes, Walks, and Scenic Drives

Shared by: Rhonda Krause – Travel? Yes Please!

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

This is one stop you don’t want to miss when you are road tripping cross country in the United States. Bryce Canyon will simply amaze, inspire and wonder how such a thing exists in the world. Located near the Zion National Park in Utah and in an area where hikes and exploration are at an abundance.

Ever heard of a Hoodoo, this is what Bryce Canyon is made up of and makes you think you have landed on another planet. These columns of rocks are formed by steam erosion and frost weathering and it’s the one place in the world with the largest collection.

It’s really worth checking out some of the view point like Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Sunrise & Sunset point. While on the other hand you can burn off some energy completing any of the many hikes that vary from 1 mile to 23 miles. A couple you might like to try are “Navajo Loop Trail” & “Fairyland loop Trail”, but plenty of others to suit your time frame and situation.

April to October tends to be the busiest season with temps ranging from 75 to 98 degrees F, this is also when a shuttle service is offered around the park to help you get around. Visiting in winter in January or February could have you enjoying a very different views with snow topping all the peaks.

If anything, don’t forget to catch a sunrise view – you won’t regret it!

Shared by Chris – The Aquarius Traveller  

Park City, Utah

Are you looking for an amazing stop on your cross country road trip that’s full of action and adventure? Then make sure to stop in Park City Utah. Located right off of I-80, and only 20 miles from I-15, Park City is a quick stop on the way to most mountain west destinations, but will still make you feel like you’ve just discovered the perfect mountain town.

All throughout the year, the mountains are the real show stopper, and the opportunities to recreate there seem limitless. If you really want to soak in all that the mountains have to offer, make sure to head hiking in the summer or snowshoeing in the winter. Our favorite trails are Silver Lake for hikers and Gamble Oak on snowshoes. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can’t go wrong with the ropes course or bobsled rides at the Olympic Park, or a class at Woodward Action Sports Complex.

If you’re visiting Park City on a winter road trip, you’ll want to plan to stay for a while since there is so much to do. The obvious winter activity of choice in Park City is skiing, so plan on skiing at least 2 days during your winter visit to Park City. After that, the absolute best activities in Park City is dog sledding with Luna Lobos, and you’ll also want to see if you can fit in a snowmobiling trip into the Uintah mountains, to wrap up the perfect trip to Park City.

Learn more: Best Utah Ski Resorts For Kids

Shared by Jessica Averett – Skiing Kids

Summit County, Colorado

If you’re looking for a place where you can pack a lot of Colorado mountain adventure into one place, then you absolutely need to plan a stop in Summit County Colorado. Luckily, I-70 runs right through it, so you won’t even have to go out of your way to see this road trip stop. Plan on staying for a few days, and if you want to be centrally located and not pay resort prices, plan on staying in Silverthorne or Frisco.

In the summer, hiking and mountain biking shine here. If you’re in good shape, and have adjusted to the altitude, be brave and go out and hike a 14er (Colorado term for a mountain over 14,000 ft). You can hike both Greys and Torreys peaks in only a 9 mile trek, so start getting in shape now so you can knock this off your bucket list (your legs will thank you for training in advance).

If you are road tripping in the winter, Summit County is a winter paradise. With 4 ski resorts within a 15 minute radius, skiing in Colorado is a must do. If you want a big resort feel, head to Breckenridge, but if you want a smaller resort that has incredible terrain, Arapahoe Basin is the place to ski and our personal favorite Colorado ski resort for skiing with kids. At the end of a long day of skiing, make sure to head into Dillon to visit the Colorado Ice Castles . These ice structures are incredibly amazing, so make sure to add this to your Summit County winter bucket list.

Shared by: Jessica Averett – Bring The Kids

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is a perfect stop on any cross country road trip. Situated about halfway from either coast, this vibrant and fun city in the central plains is a flourishing metropolitan area that somehow maintains a small town feel.

There are a lot of unique and fun things to do in Oklahoma City . The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is one of the most beautiful yet sombering places in the whole metro. The attraction, which is dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing of the federal building, is a must-see when visiting OKC.

Not far from the memorial, in the heart of downtown OKC, Bricktown is a lively commercial district filled with restaurants, arcades, and other fun activities. The district, which is named for its historic red brick buildings, lines a picturesque river walk. Visitors wanting to learn about the history of the area, can take a boat ride through the canal. The boat tour guide walks you through the not-so-distant history, detailing how this area of OKC was transformed from a blighted, crime-ridden neighborhood with boarded up buildings to a bustling entertainment district.

Finally, no stop to Oklahoma City is complete without a brief visit to Wheeler Riverfront Plaza to commemorate your visit with a photo. In this up-and-coming area, you’ll find a large OKC sign that makes for a perfect photo opportunity, as well as a ferris wheel, outdoor games, and food trucks.

Easily accessible from Interstate 40, these fun attractions are not only worth visiting, they are exceptionally convenient for anyone making a cross country trek along the third longest interstate in the United States.

Shared by: Melissa – Parenthood and Passports

The state of Texas is bigger than the entire nation of France, so it’s likely that any cross-country road trip will have you traversing the Lone Star State at some point. Plug in the isolated desert of West Texas into your GPS to see natural, isolated beauty.

There are so many things to do in West Texas that its isolated location, not its lack of offerings, that keep it off the beaten path.

Visit Texas’ only two national parks, Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains, for the best hiking and outdoor trails in the entire state. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy camping, rock climbing, and rafting down the Rio Grande.

Art enthusiasts, big-city gallery lovers, and foodies will appreciate the quirky things to do in Marfa . This tiny town has become an artists’ enclave with abandoned dancehalls and gas stations being converted into modern art galleries. Restaurants and wine bars worthy of Manhattan line the streets next to farmers’ pickup trucks. On your way out of Marfa, don’t miss the priceless photo opportunity at Prada Marfa, an art exhibit in the middle of nowhere.

Other small towns worth a stop nearby include Alpine, Marathon, and the ghost town Terlingua (which serves as the gateway to Big Bend). Visit big city El Paso before bidding adieu to the Lone Star State and continuing onwards to New Mexico.

Shared by Erin – Sol Salute

There you have it! If you can visit all of these amazing places on your cross country road trip you will have an awesome trip. There are your typical classic American road trips like route 66 from Chicago through St. Louis and west but we thought it would be fun to throw in a different road trip route.

Of course this post doesn’t list all of the places you could visit. So here are a few other you may want to consider:

13 Things to do in St Louis with Kids

Meow Wolf Review: Which Location is Best?

Castles In America

Best Aquariums In The US

Things To Do In Alaska

15 Fun and Exciting Things To Do In San Diego With Kids

18 Fun Things To Do In Big Sur California [Maps Included]

East Coast Road Trip 25+ Stops You Don’t Want to Miss!

15 Absolutely Enjoyable Things To Do In Nashville

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The Best Cross-country U.S. Road Trip Itinerary: Southern Route

Where to stay, eat, and sightsee, from Los Angeles to Virginia — or vice-versa.

Driving cross-country is the ultimate trip for the adventurous soul. If you are in need of varied landscapes, picturesque viewpoints, and impressive, relaxing stays, then this route is for you. Here we mapped out the must-see stops and roadside attractions along the southern route from the Southwest to the Southeast. Not to worry, this trip can be accomplished starting from whichever coast you prefer, so pack your bags and let's get started.

Los Angeles, California

As you depart Los Angeles , a city known for its bustling downtown and landmark attractions and neighborhoods, stop by Alcove Cafe and Bakery near Griffith Park for a unique take on classic breakfast favorites before continuing east. If starting your trip from the East Coast, Los Angeles will be your final stop on the route, so an overnight stay at The Hoxton in Downtown LA will be much-needed — this chic hotel is the ideal combination of phenomenal views over Broadway and Old Hollywood glam. Grab dinner and drinks at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Hollywood, an iconic restaurant serving world-renowned, traditional Neapolitan pizza, as well as handmade pastas.

Sedona, Arizona

No road trip through Arizona would be complete without a visit to Grand Canyon National Park . Plan to arrive at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon — as this part of the park is open year-round — and stop at one of the breathtaking viewpoints to absorb its magnificence. Continue on to Sedona where you will be enamored by the beautifully colored red rock formations. Right before sunset, follow the short walk up to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which was built into the buttes, for a beautiful panoramic vista. Stay at Amara Resort and Spa for an upscale retreat with spectacular views of the red-rock buttes.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

This enchanting city is known as a richly artistic and culturally distinctive place with a deep-rooted history. Spend the day exploring the Canyon Road art galleries to get a taste of the vibrant display of both traditional and contemporary art. Dine at The Shed for a timeless take on New Mexican cuisine in a bright, exciting atmosphere. After you have had your fill of margaritas and enchiladas, make your way back to the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi for a luxurious stay in a classic adobe-style hotel a short walk from the downtown Santa Fe Plaza.

Amarillo, Texas

For a short visit to Amarillo, a stop along Route 66 at Cadillac Ranch is a must. Here you will find a row of 10 spray-painted Cadillacs buried nose-first, which comprise an art installation and public sculpture. Come add your own spray paint and leave your mark on Amarillo. Stay at The Big Texan Airbnb — a lodging experience and partnership from The Big Texan and Amarillo's Airbnb Superhost — right across from The Big Texan Steak Ranch , a historic landmark and Texas attraction known for its 72-oz. steak eating contest.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

As you head out to Oklahoma, make a pit stop off Route 66 in Stroud, near Oklahoma City, at Rock Cafe , which served as the inspiration behind Disney's Cars movies. The cafe showcases Cars movie posters and other items left by the crew, as well as other gifts from the owner's time helping with the movie.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

When visiting Hot Springs , spend time hiking through Hot Springs National Park before making your way to Bathhouse Row. Here you can visit the historic eight bathhouses built over the natural hot springs — only two of which remain open today, the Quapaw and the Buckstaff. Check out Superior Crafthouse Brewery for the only craft brewery that uses the thermal water of the hot springs in its beer. Stay overnight at The Waters Hotel , where you can see Bathhouse Row and Hot Springs National Park from your window.

Memphis, Tennessee

Take a step into the "Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll" with a short trip to Memphis. Be sure to stop by Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion for a tour before enjoying Elvis's favorite peanut butter and banana sandwich at The Arcade . This vibrant and eclectic city is also home to Beale Street, a must-visit place to soak up the live blues music and nearby restaurants and shops.

Nashville, Tennessee

Known for its prolific country music scene, lively downtown nightlife on Broadway, and local eateries serving Southern comfort food staples, Nashville is sure to leave you enamored. For an inventive spin on the classic biscuit breakfast, stop by Biscuit Love , and for its 23 daily scratch-made varieties of pancakes, stop by The Pancake Pantry . Affectionately nicknamed Music City, Nashville is home to such iconic live music spots as The Bluebird Cafe , the Grand Ole Opry , and the Ryman Auditorium . After shopping your way through 12 South and The Gulch, check in for the night at the nearby Thompson Hotel , and go up to its LA Jackson rooftop bar for cocktails with a skyline view. Dine at The Pharmacy for a burger parlor and beer garden serving creative burgers or Whiskey Kitchen for its sophisticated take on Southern classics. End the night checking out the live music at some of the many honky tonk bars on Broadway.

Asheville, North Carolina

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is the quintessential mountain town with gorgeous vistas and a rich history. For a short visit to Asheville, start by hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail before checking out the shopping at the historic downtown Grove Arcade . Be sure to save time to drive part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a National Parkway known for showcasing the serene beauty of North Carolina. Dine at Buxton Hall Barbecue for a sample of authentic Carolina-style barbecue.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Congratulations, you completed your cross-country road trip! No better way to celebrate than ending your trip in Charlottesville's wine country with an overnight stay at The 1804 Inn at Barboursville Vineyards, one of the best wineries in the area. Here you will find a stunning landscape, cozy cottage suites, and on-site wine tasting. If you are beginning your road trip from the East Coast, then Virginia will be your first stop on the route (lucky you!), so be sure to set aside some time to explore all that Charlottesville has to offer before heading west.

10 Best Cross-Country Road Trip Routes in the US

The open road, blue skies, fresh air: a cross-country road trip may just be what you need to go somewhere new, spend some time by yourself or with your loved ones, and gain some perspective.

The great American road trip became popular in the 1950s, when there was a rapid increase in the number of families owning cars post-World War II.

With the recent changes in travel and diminished financial capacity, people are looking for different ways to explore new places. It definitely looks like driving cross-country will see a revival.

In this article, you’ll learn about the best routes to travel as well as tips and resources on how to plan a cross-country road trip that you (and your loved ones) will remember for years to come.

The 10 Best Cross-Country Road Trip Routes

These 5 routes are by no means the only ways to go on a cross-country road trip, but these are certainly popular and scenic.

The first three routes are coast-to-coast road trips, while the last two run north to south along the west and east coasts, respectively.

1. America’s Mother Road: Historic Route 66

Who Should Take This Route: Those who long for the nostalgia and romance of small-town America

Don’t mess with a classic.

Route 66 is the legendary cross-country road trip destination for tourists, not only Americans but also foreigners. The Pixar animated movie Cars is greatly responsible for sparking renewed interest in driving this road.

In the 1930s, it was the route of choice for workers who wanted to try their luck in the west, and later in the 1950s and 1960s, for vacationing families to go to the Grand Canyon and Disneyland.

As the road became more popular, tourist traps, motels, diners, gas stations, car repair shops, and other roadside attractions sprang up, earning Route 66 the moniker “Main Street of America.”

Sadly, it was decommissioned in 1985 as motorists favored using I-40; it can get them from one point to another much quicker.

Even though it’s officially decommissioned, more than 80% of the original route can still be driven today thanks to road maps and websites dedicated to reviving the route as well as the small towns and businesses along the road.

The “normal” direction to take this road trip is from east to west, but eastward is good if you want to go coast to coast.

That is, if you start from California and want to continue your trip to the east from Illinois all the way to Massachusetts, you can turn on US-20 from where Route 66 ends on Joliet Road in Countryside, Illinois (more details on US-20 below).

States (West to East)

Notable attractions/stops by state.

• Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica
• Pete’s Rt 66 Gas Station Museum, Williams
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Route 66 Monument, Tucumcari
• Blue Swallow Motel, Tucumcari

• Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo
• Pops 66, Arcadia
• Rock Café, Stroud
• Route 66 State Park, Eureka
• Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, St. Louis
• World’s Largest Covered Wagon, Lincoln, Illinois
• The Start of Route 66, E Adams St., Chicago, Illinois

Miles Covered

2,278 miles (3,665 km) long; recommend setting aside at least 12 to 14 days for 3 to 5 hours of driving a day

Best Time To Travel

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to drive this route, when the temperatures are just right and there are fewer cars on the road.

More Information

We’ve previously written about other Route 66 attractions in detail.

2. The Oregon Trail: US-20 Route

Who Should Take This Route: History buffs who love long drives and diverse sights

Historic Route 66 may be the more popular road, but US Route 20 is actually the longest road in the US, earning it the nickname “Big Daddy.”

Not only is it the longest, but US-20 also offers the most contrasting sights and sounds. From mountains, lakes, rivers, and beaches, to “frozen in time” small towns and the most modern urban cities.

Again, east to west is the popular way to go on this road trip, but starting from the west gives you a chance to go parallel to the path formed by the Oregon National Historic Trail , which was followed by pioneer families on wagons from Missouri to Oregon.

• Montana (less than 10 miles)
• Pennsylvania
• Massachusetts

Notable Attractions/Stops

• South Beach State Park
• Willamette Valley
• Cascade Mountains
• Oregon High Desert
• Craters of the Moon National Monument
• Yellowstone National Park

• Carhenge, Alliance
• Field of Dreams Movie Site, Dyersville
• Indiana Dunes National Park
• Cedar Point Amusement Park, Sandusky
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Cleveland
• Presque Isle State Park, Erie
• Finger Lakes Region
• Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Park, Canandaigua
• The Tepee, Cherry Valley
• Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge
• Kenmore Square, Boston

3,365 miles (5,415 km); recommend setting aside at least 15 to 21 days for 3 to 5 hours of driving a day

Summer (June to August) is the best time to travel this road, notwithstanding the weather and crowds. Most places are closed during the winter, as this trail lies mostly in northern states, and spring and fall mean unpredictable weather.

3. The Loneliest Road: US-50 Route

Who Should Take This Route: Those who love solitude

If you look forward to driving alone with nothing but nature around you, you will love driving US Route 50.

The “loneliest road in America” moniker applies to the section of US-50 that goes through Nevada from Ely to Carson City; there’s little more than mountains, skies, and endless desert to see on this 300-mile stretch of road.

Eventually, the entire US-50 became popular enough that Time Magazine featured it in the mid-90s, calling it the Backbone of America, as history, success, failure, and revival are all documented along this long and often winding road.

Portions of the US-50 route overlap with such historic trails as the Santa Fe Historic Trail as well as the Pony Express National Historic Trail.

Along the way, you’ll see towns that have flourished into cities, cities that have collapsed into ruins, and small towns that have bounced back from near-death.

The western end of US-50 lies in Sacramento, California, but if you want to make this a true blue coast-to-coast drive, drive another 100 miles to San Francisco via I-80.

States (East to West)

West Virginia

• Washington, D.C.
• Sky Meadows State Park, Delaplane
• Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, Winchester
• Capon Bridge
• Tygart Lake State Park
• Chillicothe
• Daviess County Amish Country
• George Rogers Clark National Historic Park, Vincennes
• Carlyle Lake, Carlyle Township
• Gateway Arch, St. Louis
• Lake of the Ozarks
• Whiteman Air Force Base
• Old Drum, Johnson County Courthouse, Warrensburg

• Guy & Mae’s Tavern, Williamsburg
• Midway Sign, Kinsley
• Santa Fe National Historic Trail
• Great Plains
• Madonna of the Trail Monument, Lamar
• The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, Cañon City
• Gunnison National Forest
• Colorado National Monument, Grand Junction
• Arches National Park
• Canyonlands National Park, Utah
• Notch Peak, Utah

• Great Basin National Park
• Pony Express Territory
• Spooner Lake–Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, Carson City

3,073 miles (4,946 km); recommend setting aside at least 14 to 17 days for 3 to 5 hours of driving a day

Late spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to drive this route.

Keep in mind that you’re passing through some contrasting landscapes: mountains, deserts, lakes, and seas. Winter will be too cold and the roads may be too slippery for you to drive safely, while summer will be too hot when passing through the desert.

4. The Pacific Coast: US-101 Route to California State Route 1

Who Should Take This Route: Beach bums who like sunny weather, salty air, and breathtaking ocean sunsets

Taking a cross-country road trip along the Pacific Coast is one of the most scenic drives you’ll ever take.

Called Highway 101 in Washington and Oregon, and Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), California State Route 1 (SR1), or Highway 1 in California, this road takes you right beside the Pacific Ocean and the western border of the contiguous United States.

The I-5 eventually replaced the old US-101 as it passes more major cities and has less dangerous curves to navigate, but for natural beauty and ambiance, you can’t beat the US-101.

US-101 meets up with US-20 in Oregon, so if you want to go north from California to Oregon and then eastward from Oregon to Massachusetts, you can have a west coast road trip and then a coast-to-coast one.

States (North to South)

• Olympic National Park
• Lake Crescent, Clallam County
• Cape Disappointment Lighthouse, Ilwaco
• Astoria–Megler Bridge, Washington to Oregon

• Cannon Beach
• Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City
• Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area, Otter Rock
• Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Newport
• Newport (intersection with US-20)
• Seal Rock State Recreation Site, Seal Rock

• Thor’s Well, Yachats
• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Reedsport
• Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
• Redwood National and State Parks
• Avenue of the Giants, Humboldt County
• Leggett (US-101 merges with Highway 1)
• Glass Beach, Fort Bragg
• Point Arena Lighthouse, Mendocino
• Bodega Bay, Sonoma,
• Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County
• Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
• San Francisco (Start of Highway 1/PCH)
• Half Moon Bay
• Pigeon Point Lighthouse, Pescadero
• Carmel-By-The-Sea
• Pismo Beach
• Santa Barbara
• Malibu Beach, Malibu
• Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica (Where Historic Route 66 begins)
• Los Angeles

1,550 miles (2,500 km); recommend setting aside 7 to 10 days for 3 to 5 hours of driving a day

Any time of year gives you great driving weather on this road, though if you want to avoid crowds, you might want to avoid driving in July and August.

We’ve previously described a detailed itinerary for the California portion of this road trip.

5. The Atlantic Coast: I-95 Route

Who Should Take This Route: Tourists who appreciate all types of scenery, from New England’s historic architecture to Florida’s tropical charm

The west coast is gorgeous, but don’t write out the east coast just yet.

Interstate 95 is the longest north-to-south interstate highway that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean.

Driving a cross-country road trip along the I-95 takes you from historic towns to glamorous cities, from wetlands to forests to beaches.

• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island
• Connecticut
• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Maine: Houlton and Old Orchard Beach
• New Hampshire: Portsmouth
• Massachusetts: Middlesex Fells Reservation
• Rhode Island: Pawtucket or Providence
• Connecticut: Mystic, New Haven or Groton

• New York:  The Bronx, Manhattan, and George Washington Bridge
• New Jersey:  Newark, Elizabeth and New Brunswick
• Pennsylvania:  Philadelphia

• Delaware:  Wilmington
• Maryland:  Baltimore, and Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge, Fort Washington
• Virginia:  Occoquan Historic District, Fredericksburg or Richmond
• North Carolina:  Roanoke Rapids, Wilson and Fayetteville
• South Carolina:  South of the Border in Dillon, Florence, and Santee State Park in Santee
• Georgia:  Savannah , Brunswick, or Kingsland

• Florida Georgia State Line, Yulee
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Fuller Warren Bridge, Jacksonville
• Castillo de San Marco National Monument, St. Augustine
• Beaches: Daytona Beach, Vero Beach, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach,  Miami , or Dixie Highway in Miami

Worthwhile Detours

These detours will take you away from I-95, and you’ll have to add a few days more to your road trip if you want to explore these attractions.

• Mansions in Newport, Rhode Island
• Central Park, New York
• North Carolina Beaches
• South Carolina Beach Towns
• Georgia Beaches
• Florida Keys

1,920 miles (3,090 km); recommend setting aside 8 to 12 days for 3 to 5 hours of driving a day

Beaches are best appreciated in the summer, but any weather is good for taking a road trip through I-95. Winter may mean snowfall in the northern states on this route, while spring and fall give you mild weather and less crowded beaches.

6. TransAmerica Trail

An east-to-west, off-road adventure trail, which lets you take in the scenic beauty of the East Coast to the West Coast while taking you off major highways to discover hidden attractions.

Who Should Take This Route: If you’re a history buff, this road trip takes you to the path pioneers and early settlers followed.

Here are some interesting stops along the TransAmerica Trail:

• Virginia/North Carolina : Pass by Blue Ridge Parkway – one of the most scenic roads in the country with breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains.
• Kentucky : Stop by Berea, the heart of Appalachia, for cool arts and crafts mementos. If you have a day or two for this stop, you can explore the world’s longest cave system in Mammoth Cave National Park.
• Missouri : Visit the Gateway Arch and explore St. Louis’ rich history.
• Oklahoma : See American bison at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and explore the rugged landscapes of the southern Great Plains.
• New Mexico : Discover the art and culture of the historic Taos nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
• Colorado : Be in awe of the tallest dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park, then visit the charming Telluride mountain town for a laidback stop.
• Oregon : Once you reach the Pacific Coast, you can explore the stunning coastline and visit towns like Astoria, Cannon Beach, and Newport.

7. The Great Northern Road: US-2 Route

The Great Northern Road follows the US-2 Route. It stretches from the northernmost border with Canada to the Pacific Ocean on the West Coast.

Who Should Take This Route: A coast-to-coast road trip through the northern states, which is perfect to embark in during the summer or for people who love visiting charming small towns.

The Great Northern Road offers numerous opportunities to visit rugged parks like the Acadia in Maine or White Mountains in New Hampshire, the lakeside cities of Vermont, and the always-amazing Niagara Falls.

There are also cultural spots in Missoula (Montana), Spokane (Washington), and Michigan’s Mackinac Island.

I recommend you end your Great Northern Road trip at Seattle.

Other Cross-Country Road Trip Routes

I did say there are infinite possibilities depending on where you want to start, where you want to end, what you want to see, and how much time you have.

Here are other cross-country road trip routes you can explore.

8. Southern Pacific: US-80

• Who Should Take This Route:  Another coast-to-coast road trip through the southern states; great to take in the winter

9. Big Muddy: The Great River Road

• Who Should Take This Route: Drive alongside the Mississippi River and explore the 10 states that border it. I wrote about this road trip more extensively on this post .

10. The Road to Nowhere: US-83

• Who Should Take This Route: North to south road trip right through America’s heartland

Tips For Planning A Cross-Country Road Trip

Driving across the country is great fun, but there are plenty of things and factors to consider when planning. Here are some of them so you can arrange a road trip with no hassle.

Make sure your vehicle is roadworthy. Have everything checked: fluid levels, brakes, tires, lights, drive belts, etc.

Also, make sure you have jumper cables, spare tires, a tire jack, and everything else you need in case of car trouble.

Have a plan, but don’t have a plan. Sounds confusing, but the point is to have a general plan for how many days you want to take, what to do per day (sights and places you can’t miss versus those who want to see but can skip), how many hours you’ll drive, and where you’ll stay per night.

Beyond that, booking hotels and making restaurant reservations way in advance may not be a good idea. You’ll want to have some flexibility in your schedule to make room for emergencies and side trips and detours.

Sign up for emergency roadside services. If you’re not already a member of AAA or any other reputable roadside assistance service, join one before your road trip.

Prepare for areas that don’t have mobile service. Camping in the middle of nowhere? Chances are you won’t have a cellphone signal. If your plan is heavily dependent on having an internet connection, you’re asking for trouble.

Download your maps on your smartphone beforehand or use paper road maps. Take a GPS navigation tool that’s not dependent on a mobile signal.

Have a packing list.

Here are travel essentials you’ll need on your cross-country road trip (or any road trip, for that matter):

• Driver’s license
• Vehicle registration
• Insurance card
• Emergency car kit
• Gasoline container
• GPS navigation tool
• Cell phone signal booster
• Powerbank and car chargers
• Flashlight/lantern
• Playlist (music/audiobook)
• In-car games and activities
• Hiking shoes
• All-weather set of clothes
• Electronic toll pass or change to pay toll fees
• Tent (if camping)
• Cooler (with plenty of water)
• Sunshades for windshield and windows
• Vitamins and medication
• Pillow and blanket
• First aid kit

Take your time.

Giving yourself an allowance would also allow you to take side trips to charming small towns, cool landmarks, hidden gems, and one-of-a-kind restaurants.

The less rushed you are, the richer your adventure will be.

Must-Use Cross-Country Road Trip Tools and Apps

You’ll get by with a little help from these tools, sites, and apps to plan your road trip.

Road planners

• Roadtrippers
• MyScenicDrives

Navigation and checking traffic

• Google Maps

Find places to eat

Find places to rest or sleep.

• Recreation.gov
• Free Campsites

Go On A Cross-Country Road Trip Soon!

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, the memories made on an epic cross-country trip are ones that last a lifetime.

You’ll get to see the magnificent natural beauty of these United States, meet strangers that enrich your lives, visit amazing places you never thought existed, and understand your country better.

Go Out and Explore

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5 Biggest and Best Toy Stores in the US

Are you ready for a Road Trip? Explore these eleven incredible cross-country road trip routes across the U.S.!

Pacific Coast

Border to Border

The Road to Nowhere

The Great River Road

Appalachian Trail

Atlantic Coast

The Great Northern

The Oregon Trail

The Loneliest Road

Southern Pacific

Classic American Road Trips

Pacific Coast Highway

Starting at the northwest tip of the United States at Washington’s Olympic National Park and remaining within sight of the ocean all the way south to sunny San Diego, this 1,650-mile, mostly two-lane road trip takes in everything from temperate rainforest to near-desert.

Highlights along the Pacific Coast Route: Olympic National Park (WA), Three Capes Loop (OR), Redwood National Park (CA)

Historic Route 66

The romance of traveling along historic Route 66 from where it starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles continues to captivate people around the world. If you’re looking for great displays of neon signs, rusty middle-of-nowhere truck stops, or kitschy Americana, do as the song says and “get your kicks on Route 66.”

Highlights along Route 66: Chicago (IL), Meramec Caverns (MO), Tucumcari (NM), Painted Desert (AZ), Santa Monica (CA)

• Barnes & Noble
• Books-A-Million
• Indigo (Canada)
• Powell's Books
• Apple Books

Running coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Ocean City, Maryland, “The Loneliest Road in America” is a 3,200-mile odyssey from sea to shining sea. US-50 passes through a dozen different states, four state capitals, and the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Highlights along the Loneliest Road: South Lake Tahoe (CA), Moab (UT), The Million Dollar Highway (CO), Washington D.C.

Following in the footsteps of pilgrims and pioneers, US‑20 takes in a little of everything during its two-lane trek from Oregon’s rugged coast to the glorious sea and sand of Cape Cod.

Highlights along the Oregon Trail: Cannon Beach (OR), Fort Boise (ID), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Mt Rushmore & Carhenge (NE)

Dubbed the Great Northern in memory of the pioneer railroad that parallels the western half of the route, US‑2 is truly the most stunning and unforgettable, not to mention longest, of all the great transcontinental road trips.

Highlights along the Great Northern: Tumwater Canyon (WA), Glacier National Park (MT), Lake Michigan (MI), Acadia National Park (ME)

The Appalachian Trail

This driving route of the Appalachian Trail parallels the epic hike. From the top of New England to the heart of Dixie, it takes you through continuous natural beauty—without the sweat, bugs, or blisters.

Highlights along the Appalachian Trail: Mt. Washington (NH), The Poconos (PA), Shenandoah National Park (VA), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC)

Old Man River, Father of Waters, “body of a nation,” Big Muddy: By any name, the mighty Mississippi River cuts a mythic figure across the American landscape. Tag along from its headwaters in Minnesota to where it meets the sea in Louisiana via the GRR.

Highlights along the Great River Road: Main Street USA (WI), St. Louis (MO), Natchez Trace Parkway (MS), New Orleans (LA)

Starting at the Statue of Liberty and ending with a drive across the Overseas Highway to free-wheeling Key West, these almost 2,000 miles of roadway run within earshot—if not sight—of the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlights along the Atlantic Coast: The Statue of Liberty (NJ), Assateague Island National Seashore (MD), Savannah (GA), Cocoa Beach (FL)

Starting at Canada’s Jasper National Park, and winding down in the Sonora Desert, this route traverses some of the wildest and most rugged lands imaginable: mighty mountains, glaciated valleys, raging rivers, and two very different deserts.

Highlights along the Border to Border Route: Columbia Icefield (AB), Bitterroot Mountains (MT), The Extraterrestrial Highway (NV), Joshua Forest Parkway (AZ)

Once the only entirely paved route from Canada to “Old Mexico,” US‑83 cuts across America’s heartland and remains a must-do long-distance byway—transnavigating this broad, odd nation without once grazing a conventional tourist destination.

Highlights along the Road to Nowhere: Sitting Bull Memorial (SD), Nebraska Sand Hills (NE), Monument Rocks (KS), Paint Rock Pictographs (TX)

Following old US-80 and its contemporary equivalents takes you through more varied cultural and physical landscapes than you’ll find along any other cross-country route. From deserts to bayou swamps and Tex-Mex to barbecue, this route offers a full-flavored taste of America.

Highlights along Southern Pacific: The Desert View Tower (CA), Tombstone (AZ), Roswell (NM), Civil Rights Movement National Historic Trail (AL)

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My boyfriend and I are planning to drive from Boston to San Francisco in June (2009). We'd like to to be mindful of expenses but also not be completely bored - i.e. would like to see some cool cities, landmarks, etc, you know, make it worthwhile!

Does anyone have suggestions for what cities/places to stop at along the way...?

There are many possible routes. What are you interested in seeing? Are there any friends or relatives you want to visit along the way (for free lodging...)?

National parks, canyonlands, mountains, cities...

Think about it and write back!

What is your proposed route?

And how long do you have for this trip?

Hi SunnyDays9-

Be prepared for this to be a long road trip - the maps you're looking at may give you the illusion of a cross-country trip being easy, but it is not. The US is HUGE!

Also, the amount of sights/attractions/landmarks you can see will be restricted by how much time you have. For it to be a really fun road trip, you'll need 2 1/2 to 3 weeks so you don't spend all day every day behind the wheel.

As you didn't mention the amount of time or any preferred route, here are some must sees between Boston and San Francisco:

Newport, RI (sailing capital of US, plus the mansions)

Philadelphia

I'd head south from there as the Midwest can be very dull with miles of fields and that's about it.

Nashville, TN

St. Louis, Missouri

Both Colorado and Utah are great states with tons of beautiful parks to see.

Las Vegas (even if you don't gamble, there's a lot to see and do)

Then I'd head straight to Santa Barbara and ride up the coast on the Pacific Coast Highway/Rt. 1, one of the best road trip routes in the country. Stay on Route 1 and you'll end up in San Francisco.

For some more pointers on cross-country trips, check out this article: http://www.planning-fun-road-trips.com/plan-a-road-trip.html

I'd ignore the slam about the Midwest as there are plenty of fun things to visit if you choose a northern route! It just depends on what you like. There is just a lot of open space between attractions...

I think Tararoadtrip forgot about the Grand Canyon! Truly one of the natural wonders of the world - don't miss it.

Hi SunnyDays9,

According to GOOGLE MAPS the preferred route (shortest) is via I-80... I can't comment on that route because I haven't done it. But they say that the distance is 3,100 Kms and about 45 Hours of Driving Time (that doesn't account for stops, breaks, sightseeing, traffic, road conditions or weather).

As already stated the US is HUGE, and you will need several weeks for this type of a driving holiday... there, back and time in San Francisco.

But I will suggest that you consider the I-90... which will take you north to Buffalo, Cleveland, Chicago, the accross Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota and Wyoming.

The I-90 will of course take you across some serious US Farmland, but it also has some of the most unique geographical features in its path... The US Badlands, The Black Hills of South Dakota (Deadwood, Mount Rushmore, etc).

Once in Wyoming you'll want to venture up the I-90 a bit further into Montana and visit Custer's Last Stand, and impressive US Historic Site. Then scoot back down the I-90 to Hwy 20 that will take you into Yellowstone Park. You'll need to put aside at least one day to tour the park.

Then back on Hwy 20 west into Idaho to Idaho Falls and the I-15 south to the I-86, then west to Twin Falls where you get on Hwy 93 and head south into Nevada. After that you pick up I-80 and travel straight on thru to San Francisco (going thru Reno, Nevada and Sacramento, California enroute).

My proposed route is significantly longer... more than 3500 miles and 52 Hours of Driving Time.

But other than seeing the Grand Canyon (which would probably be a route just as long), I really can't imagine a more scenic route.

Just wanted to say two things in response to other posts here:

1) I didn't mean to "slam" the Midwest, I lived there for 4 years and traveled throughout Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Iowa, and Kentucky. There are things to see in the Midwest - especially Chicago, but my travels farther south have been much more eventful with lots to see and do - hence my recommendation. Please excuse me if I offended anyone.

2) It's true - I forgot the Grand Canyon! I can't agree more that this is a must-see on your trip.

Another idea: head to Shenandoah National Park, and drive south from there along Skyline Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and Cherohala Skyway. This route takes you through the middle and southern Appalachians and offers loads and loads to see. Then you can stop in Chattanooga and run through Nashville and Memphis on out through the Ozarks and right on over to the Grand Canyon.

Oh, I knew you didn't mean to slam an entire area of the country. I acknowledge there is lots of open space!

I was sure that you'd find a way to route down there, BlueCuzco!

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Highlights from our Cross Country Road Trip (NYC to SF)

last Updated: November 2, 2022 california minnesota nevada new york ohio pennsylvania road trip south dakota utah wisconsin wyoming

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed cross country and looking to take a road trip from New York to San Francisco? Come check out our entire route below, with lots of tips and tricks – we’ve got loads of info for you!

Our 6-day road trip from New York to San Francisco found us in 14 states, 5 random hotels/motels, 7 different fast food chains, and thankfully 0 flat tires or car troubles.  

We counted roadkill on the side of the road (too many to report), cheered upon passing each state welcome sign, and were more spontaneous than ever before (I’m a planner by nature…)

And the primary reason for this crazy-fast super-long road trip across all of the US? Moving to California, San Francisco to be exact! After packing up allll our belongings in NY which we’d accumulated over the course of our entire lives, off to that sweet, sweet, sunny California life it was!

We traversed the country so fast by driving between 6 to 8 hours each day, sometimes even 10. More than enough snacks were brought – I am my mothers daughter after all! And thankfully to a super cheap trial of XM radio, we were able to rock out even when the radio couldn’t find any local stations (think middle of nowhere PA, WY, and SD).

Since we were moving to California, we drove cross country via our own car. However, if you don’t have any plans on moving and/or have limited time for this New York to San Francisco road trip, it’s wise to pay for a rental car.

When we’re taking road trips and in need of a rental car, I like to search  via this site  in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price. Note that many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind (there’s no way it makes sense to drive allll the way back to NYC just to avoid this pesky fee).

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here !

Would we do this road trip again? Sure thing! It was definitely hard to pick and choose what sights to see, and would have gladly extended our trip if we didn’t have to beat the moving truck to California.

A rough map of our week on the road…

It’s absurd how diverse our own nation is, and after this epic road trip from New York to San Francisco, I’m making it a point to explore the USA more so than in the past.

Making the drive from New York to San Francisco yourself? Use this as a starting off point – there’s SO many stops I wanted to make on the way but didn’t have time for them.

Highlights of Our Cross Country Road Trip from New York to San Francisco

1) stuffing our faces with waffles in state college, pennsylvania.

Officially our first stop after leaving New York, and driving through New Jersey, and part of Pennsylvania.

There were not only regular waffles. Belgium waffles with chocolate chips, whipped cream, and even more chocolate chips on top. Fresh strawberries, too. It was heaven I tell you, until my stomach started hurting when I ate too much.  I’ll never learn…

It rained for a portion of our drive leaving the East Coast, and didn’t stop until past Ohio or so.  A big reason why we decided to move to the West Coast (yes, there’s a drought, but I’m no fan of rain…)

We also made a brief pit stop in Pittsburgh, PA at Mount Washington to see the city from above. Despite the overcast day (and brief intervals of rain), the views were fantastic. Either that, or it was nice to stretch our legs for a bit.

2) Stopping in Tiny Towns in Ohio

Specifically Elmore, where we had to find a post office to mail a few post cards. I had decided to send post cards as thank you’s for all of our going away presents.

The town, albeit super tiny, was super super cute, and I honestly wish we had more time to spend here. Made me feel like I was back in time!  All that land on the side of the highway was so inviting after living in cramped NYC for what felt like so long…

Oh, and we feasted on Chick-Fil-A in Ohio, too. Chicken nuggets and honey mustard had never tasted so good.

3) Eating (Too Much) Cheese in Madison, Wisconsin

We were able to meet up with my high-school best friend’s little sister (whose not so little anymore), catch up, and of course: eat some cheese curds. Because, apparently, thats what you do in Madison, WI. #finemybe!

She took us to the capital building and we walked around town for a bit before saying our goodbyes.

Before leaving the state, we made a pit stop at Carr Valley Cheese Co, where we watched firsthand cheese being born. In large bats, not animals giving birth to cheese or anything like that (but how cool would that be?). It’s safe to say too many samples were consumed.

That chunk we found a few days later in the mini cooler probably wasn’t the best idea we’ve had yet.

4) Saying Hello to the Jolly Green Giant in Blue Earth, Minnesota

Because how could you not stop at a road side attraction that is in the middle of Minnesota, specifically Blue Earth?

And hello, it’s the Jolly Green Giant! We posed for so many silly photos (because that’s what you do on the side of the road in Minnesota…), and marveled in our time in the sun outside of the car.

There was a lot of open land in Minnesota, and by a lot, I really mean, a lot. Lots of cows and other wild life every where we looked!  Oh, and sundaes from Dairy Queen couldn’t be missed…

5) Drinking 5c Coffee in Wall Drug, South Dakota

This is the place my husband cannot stop talking about, even two years later. I just asked him his favorite part of Wall, and he bolted out “EVERYTHING”. What is it exactly?  

I can’t give you a definite answer, but it’s an extremely quirky general store (technically a drug store) with everything random you can think of. Too bad we didn’t ride the jackolope (yes, a plastic giant rabbit looking thing)- guess we’ll have to go back!

Some of the highlights: 5 cent coffee (yes, it’s really 5 cents), stuffing our faces with homemade maple-glazed donuts, and trying on too many faux skin hats in the gift shop.

6) Witnessing Nature in Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Before roughly planning out our cross country road trip from New York to San Francisco, I had never even heard of this National Park before. We drove through the park in about 2 hours, and really feel like we saw a big portion in such a short period of time.

The otherworldly landscape of the Badlands really was that spectacular, and we were amazed at all the layered rock formations, steep canyons, and towering spires we found. The colors were fascinating, the wildflowers were blooming, and the overlooks were worth the drive.

And thankfully we didn’t run into any rattlesnakes!

7) Picking Presidents’ Noses at Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Since we’ll most likely never make it back to South Dakota (such a random state, I know!), we couldn’t leave the area without checking out Mount Rushmore.

Before visiting, I hadn’t had a clue as to which presidents were carved into the stone. I can safely say I now know who’s famous faces are up there: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt! And being 60-feet tall, the intricacies of each sculpture are really apparent!

All in all, we checked off this iconic American symbol in just over an hour or so on our road trip from New York to San Francisco.

8) Getting Lost on the way to Medicine Bow, Wyoming

Long story short: don’t always let your GPS guide you, and follow your gut and read a PAPER map if there are multiple ways to reach a destination.

I was too excited when Google Maps found us a “quicker route” to Medicine Bow, but when we found ourselves driving on dirt roads for miles on end forced to do way below the speed limit, it was the opposite of what we had envisioned.

Thankfully, we turned around before getting stuck in any mud puddles or any rocks jammed our tires. We definitely wasted a good portion of the day, although the views nearby were nothing short of spectacular.

We were lucky to see a pretty fabulous sunset from the road that night.

9) Driving Through Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

There was snow on the ground. It was September!

We did drive through the park, but with limited remaining time, could only stay for a bit. I always forget to factor in driving time once we officially reach a destination…. We finally reached an entrance to the park, but I was too cheap that day to pay the $10 to get phenomenal photos of the lake. My bad. Next time.

10) Gallivanting with the Antelope and Bison in Antelope Island State Park, Utah

By far one of my favorite stops throughout the duration of our cross country road trip from New York to San Francisco.

So much pristine wildlife, and hardly any crowds. We were two of the very few tourists visiting the park; either it’s not too well-known, it was the beginning of off season (?), or we arrived to the park earlier in the day than most.

The sunflowers were shining, the bison were out and about in large herds, and the reflections of the mountains on the Great Salt Lake were like no other. I could have stayed all day.. but we were en route to Reno for the night.

Although we only saw a few antelope (3 in total, and I ran away like a little baby…), the sheer numbers of bison largely made up for that disappoint.  

More photos and information about Antelope Island here .

11) Being Wow-ed at The Bonneville Salt Flats

Located straight off the highway (literally, we could see the salt flats from the road..), making a quick stop here wasn’t even in question. Miles and miles of salt… that’s all you could see.

And it was downright beautiful! Makes me want to explore the Salt Flats in Bolivia that much more! And since we’d never been to Death Valley before, I was eager to see these random salt flats off the highway. The raceway was nearby but we didn’t venture too far from the highway.

We could have even driven our car on the salt… to say we were too chicken is a massive understatement. If we had rented a car, that may be a different story, but this pristine working car was crucial to get us safely to San Francisco !

12) Cruising through Reno, Nevada

What a quirky little city. From $1 Bud Light cans to $4.99 steak meals, no wonder they call it the “Biggest Little City in the World”.

A quick drive by was all we could fit in before darkness took over, but it was enough. I promise.

Even better? We scored a sweet hotel room at Harrah’s for $23 a night through Hotel Tonight. We had wanted to play some slots but the days excitement got the best of us and we fell right asleep in our plush, King-size bed…

13) Seeing Blue in Tahoe, Border of Nevada + California

Our last stop before officially reaching the Bay Area! I jumped out of my seat once we came upon the Welcome to California sign… it sure was quite a welcome!  And technically our first Mexican meal in California (if you don’t know yet, I’m quite obsessed with all things guacamole)!

The color of the lake was unreal (so turquoise), and I secretly wished I had donned my bathing suit! Yes, I would have jumped right in!  Being cramped up in a car for hours upon hours doesn’t help either!

We only had time to wander around the north side of the lake (hello, California traffic), but being only 4 hours from our new home , I knew we’d be back so I didn’t fret (too) much. We’ve since been to Tahoe plenty and plenty of times, and love driving around the lake and taking in all the scenic views!

14) Reaching the SF Bay Area (!!!)

We stayed with my darling sister-in-law that first night in SF since our furniture and other belongings wouldn’t be arriving ’til the next day. Homemade food and my favorite nephew were all I wanted after so much car time.

Once we arrived in our apartment the next day to sunset palm tree views, I knew this was the place I was meant to be… utter happiness all around.  🙂   Our road trip from New York to San Francisco was a complete success! Phew!

I still cannot believe we’ve been living here in California for exactly two years. We sure have explored quite a bit of our new home state, but we’ve got lots more adventuring to do! Currently working on a California bucket list… stay tuned!

If you’re thinking of tackling your own road trip from New York to San Francisco, I highly recommend it.  We zipped through the country pretty quickly (a total of 6 days), but still felt like we were able to see so much.  Feel free to comment with any questions!  

And be sure to check out my cross country road trip packing list … it’s important to have all the necessary items with you for a harmless trip!

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April 1, 2020 at 8:39 pm

Thank you for sharing..we plan to do in in 2022. We are coming far away from Malaysia to do this trip..Looks very interesting. We love driving in united states.

August 17, 2020 at 6:03 pm

What a great post Jessica and I'm bookmarking for when my family & I do this trip!

August 18, 2020 at 9:12 pm

That makes me so happy! Hope you and your family have a great time! It was such a fun trip!

July 9, 2022 at 10:41 am

This is awesome! Thank you for sharing your route and trip highlights!! I’m planning a similar trip to move out West and your blog is so helpful. Would you be able to share the city/town where you stayed for the night each day?

July 20, 2022 at 6:54 pm

Hi Maria — we didn’t plan our hotels in advance at all since we weren’t exactly sure where we’d end up each night. I do remember we stayed a night in South Dakota and a night in Reno — but I can’t remember much else! One thing I would have done differently is decide in advance at least which area we’d stay in each night because we ended up staying in some not-so-great places (which was ok because we were there literally to sleep and that’s it, but still…). Also, I’d keep a bag of essentials together for hotel stays and keep the rest hidden in the trunk — we didn’t plan this out well and had to move every single thing from our car to the hotel each night, which you can imagine was a big pain! Good luck with your move!

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How to Prepare for Long Drives - Must-Have Checklist for 12+ Hour Drives

By Kimberly Roderick PT

So, you're all set to hit the road for your next trip.  Whether you're going for an official trip or have a plan to explore an adventurous spot, you always need some travel-tested trip essentials to make your trip successful .  

Everyone knows that the main reason people like going on road trips are the flexibility and control over the journey. Plus, they get to pack whatever they want. 

That is to say, a trip without having to carry oversized bags and toiletries offers a great deal of convenience. But the freedom to carry whatever you want or how much you want doesn't mean you don't need to plan for the mandatory road trip supplies.  

If thoughts of preparing for a long drive overwhelm you or the task of packing stuff panics you, you've come to the right place.  Here we have included everything you need to know about preparing for long drives .  

But we plunge into compiling a perfect checklist for a 12-hour drive. Let's quickly understand if it is safe to drive long hours.

Is it Safe to Drive 12+ Hours Straight?

As mentioned above, long drives mean freedom.  While it takes you to the places or spots airplanes can't, driving straight ten to twelve hours is often tiring. 

And if you're driving alone to a place you've never been before, the trip can turn into a nightmare if you don't have the right supplies.  Also, sitting in the vehicle for long hours may become tedious and highly uncomfortable.    

Simply put, driving for straight 12 hours is safe if you don't have any medical issues that may aggravate because of it.  Plus, it would help if you were equipped with the right road trip supplies to make the driving stress-free and safe.  That means you should do hands-on research on tips on driving long distances.  

How to Stay Awake on Long Drives

" How to stay awake on a long drive " is perhaps the question that comes to everyone's mind when planning a road trip. 

It is simply because keeping you from dozing off while driving takes a lot of effort.

It is more likely to occur when you're sleep-deprived and have to drive long distances without taking any rest or breaks. Driving alone or riding rural highways, or driving after taking sedatives may worsen the situation.  

So how can you prevent that from happening? Take a look at these Dos and Don'ts to make your long drives safer.

- Drink coffee  (caffeine is an excellent stimulant for your central nervous system. However, try adding less sugar to avoid a quick crash when it wears off.

-Pullover at a safe spot if you can after every 5 hours and take a twenty-minute  nap . It can help you refresh your alertness level.

-Be preventive before getting behind the steering by doing a  15-minute workout .  Exercise  can help you increase blood flow to your brain and lower stress levels. 

-Don't drink when you know you have to drive.  Keep in mind that alcohol reduces the driving ability and may worsen tiredness. Most importantly, driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal.

-If possible, try not to drive long-distance alone. Driving with a companion means you have someone who can watch you or keeps you awake. Plus, you can always take driving turns.

-Don't avoid mini-breaks to get some shut-eye. Otherwise, you will nod off at the steering.

Travel Checklist for Surviving a 12+ Hour Drive - 7 Tips

When you plan for a road trip, know that there are some road trip necessities you need to travel with.   Here we have compiled seven travel checklists to help you survive 12 hours or long drive.

1. Never Forget your Driving Essentials

You're going on a road trip because you have a car that lets you drive from place to place smoothly. That means, whether you drive your own car or have a rental, you must have these car essentials.

-Driver's License

-Insurance Information

-Car Registration 

-Extra Car Key

-Car Manual

-AAA Membership or Phone Number(s) for Emergency Roadside Assistance

-Spare Tire  with tools and a  tire jack to replace a flat

- Water Resistant Flashlight (if car troubles at night or in the rain?)

Of course, dealing with a car breakdown is undoubtedly the last thing you want on your road trip. However, to make your adventure incident-free, you need to be prepared. In short, never leave your home without an e mergency kit .  

2. Don't Forget To Take a Car Wedge Cushion! 

This is a must-have for short or long road trips.   Travel with a car  wedge seat cushion   if you suffer from sciatica, hip, or lower back pain or have trouble seeing over the steering wheel.  

This contoured cushion is great for   relieving back pressure   with its slight downward slope.

It helps keep your body in a comfortable position,   improve posture and alleviate pressure . That makes it perfect for those who drive long hours and need enough pelvic comfort and support.

📝   Expert Tip:    As a physical therapist, I also recommend  adding a good lumbar back support ,  like the Easy Posture Brands back support, to your car seat to give your back the support it needs, and help prevent back distress.

3. Keep the Basic Must-Have 

When you start making the checklist for must-have road trip items, two things deserve special attention or call–out. 

Paper map   - it is the first must-have you should consider taking along. You might be wondering if Google Maps or smartphone apps can do the job, but what if you lose the service and your step-by-step directions vanish.

Well, this is when you need a paper map to get information and continue your journey. It's, without a doubt, perfect for people with spontaneous whims!

First Aid Kit s are without a doubt the second must-have you need for your long drives. You shouldn't waste time until you get medical aid if you have an injury.

Some more basic must-haves include:

- Power Inverter  

- Phone Charger

- Portable Charger

- Hands-Free Phone Mount along with safety + easy to access Google Maps 

-Toilet Paper

-Garbage Bag

-Hand Sanitizer

-Bug Spray (getting bit may make your trip uncomfortable)

-Gas, Travel, and dining rewards Credit Card

-Paper Money for parking meters, pumps at gas stations, broken ATMs, etc.

-Electronic Toll Pass 

4. Pack Things to Keep Your Road Trip Cozy

Driving long hours may cause you terrible backache or neck pain. No matter well- equipped your car is, you need the best car seat cushion for long drives. So, make sure to stock your car with the things that can keep your road trip comfortable. 

-Extra Clothing layer (for hiking and temperature changes)

-Blanket  and Sleeping Bag

- Travel Pillow

- Eye Mask for Deep Sleeping

- Sunglasses

-Travel Cup

- Reusable Water Bottle

-Hand Lotion

5. Gather Your Entertainment Essentials

From games to hi-tech gear and devices, you need to take your trip as seriously as any other journey.  To make the journey FUN, you must have everything. It would also help if you subscribed to famous podcasts for long drives and downloaded audible stories, map games, and your favorite music.  

6. Prepare a Bag for Necessary Clothing 

You need clothing that will be comfortable and cozy to wear in the car for traveling long distances. So, be sure you have your hiking pants, leggings, and track pants.  Use smart packing cubes and save space in the bag.

7. Load Some Food and Eating Accessory

Driving straight ten hours on an empty stomach can multiply your hunger pang by 100. Also, it is not practical.   It will also help if you plan your food strategy, which means if you want to eat out mostly, you don't need to carry many snacks. 

However, if you want to keep it budget-friendly, stock an adequate amount of dry food, biscuits, snacks, and a cooler.

Some Options are:

-  Granola Bars

-  Pretzels/Chips

-  Dried Fruit

-  Protein/Energy Bars

-  Cheese Stick

A planned road trip is a key to a fun and exciting journey. Thus, the given tips will help you handle many things without ruining road trips or travel plans.

https://www.theglobetrottingteacher.com/road-trip-packing-list-essentials/

https://solotravelerworld.com/road-trip-alone/

https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/road-trip-checklist/

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20 "Don't-Miss" Stops On The Ideal California Road Trip, According To The Travelers Who've Already Crossed It Off Their Bucket Lists

You're not even leaving the state — but you'll feel like you're hopping between countries...

BuzzFeed Staff

As the third-largest state in the US, there's no denying that California is absolutely massive. That's why many people swear that the best way to see everything the Golden State has to offer is by planning an epic road trip. I rounded up the most jaw-dropping stops and helpful insights from Redditors and BuzzFeed readers who've already crossed a California road trip off their bucket list — so whether you're actively planning a getaway or just daydreaming, you can make the most of it. Here's everything to see, eat, and do along the way.

1. "While you’re in San Francisco, I highly recommend crossing the bridge to Marin and Sausalito. It’s so pretty over there, and you'll be awarded with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge."

— u/wickerbicycle

2. "Santa Cruz is worth stopping through for a good, long afternoon. If you like to hike, there are some great trails near the town of Felton, where you will find beautiful redwood trees."

— u/Spare-Arrival8983

3. "In Solvang, be prepared to eat like a hobbit the entire time you are there. You WILL have breakfast, then a second breakfast, then elevensies, lunch, afternoon tea, and so on. Go hungry. SERIOUSLY."

— morganleslay

4. "When driving to San Luis Obispo for a weekend getaway, I found an absolute gem in Buellton called Industrial Eats. It was absolutely amazing, so good that I stopped by again on my way back. 10/10 recommend."

— u/_ohne_dich_

5. "IMO, Santa Barbara is the best place in SoCal and an ideal starting point for any road trip. It’s pedestrian-friendly, has beautiful architecture, and has great bars and restaurants galore."

— u/tee2green

6. "If you are going on California Highway 1 (aka The Pacific Coast Highway), make sure you look at the road closure maps in advance. The PCH often has closures for landslides. US Highway 101 is the workaround."

— u/Mikelowe93

7. "If you plan on visiting Big Sur, spend most of your time in the north end. There's way more to see and do here. Visit Monterey and Carmel and then head south to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Andrew Molera State Park. These spots will give you a perfect feel for the area with their redwoods and beaches. The drive there is absolutely spectacular. The south end of Big Sur is kind of a mess with closures."

— u/Sequoiadendra

8. "Consider visiting Pinnacles, a lesser-known National Park roughly 100 miles south of San Francisco. It's home to tons of very cool geological formations."

— u/pinecone-submarine

9. "Eat some street tacos! California has great Mexican food all over, but if you're driving the PCH from San Francisco to Los Angeles , there are lots of good street vendors just off the highway."

— u/teedubski3

10. "Half Moon Bay is criminally underrated. The entire drive along the Pacific area is absolutely stunning, especially if you take the Skyline route. The woods, the fresh air, and the whole vibe are all incredible. A pit stop at Alice's Restaurant is a must."

— youwishyouwereme007

11. "To hit Yosemite and Tahoe, I suggest taking a nice big loop from Los Angeles on US 395 along the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It’s a beautiful desert drive, and there's almost never any traffic. June Lake is a lovely small town just off this route with a great brewery. And Mammoth Lakes is also a popular stop. You'll have to take a detour to get to Yosemite Valley, but it’s totally worth it, IMO."

— u/voidfencer

12. "Muir Woods is across the Golden Gate Bridge, and it's amazing. It's a must-see if you're anywhere near San Fransico. It feels totally alien, and there are not many forests like it on Earth. I can't recommend going there enough."

— u/Overman112

13. "Visit anywhere in Humboldt County for its gorgeous rugged coastline and amazing forests. The landscape is truly awe-inspiring. I went to college there and then stayed for a while. It's a breathtakingly beautiful place."

— teamglatz3

14. "To make Los Angeles a more enjoyable experience, try to plan your day out around a specific locale within the city. That way, you won't spend half of that day driving in traffic. Look for other stuff to eat, do, and see near your 'must-see' attraction."

— u/FeelinIrieMon

15. "If you find yourself with extra time, I highly suggest going to San Diego. In my opinion, this city is much better than Los Angeles. There are lots of things to do (some are totally free), like Balboa Park, Friendship Garden, Torrey Pines, and seeing sea lions and seals at La Jolla Cove. The city has excellent breweries and great Mexican food."

16. "If you can get into Nepenthe in Big Sur, it's a must. But even if you can't get a table, grab a coffee and see the view."

— u/taperwaves

17. "Visit Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks instead of Yosemite. These parks are less crowded and just as spectacular."

— u/ExamNo368

18. "Death Valley is so surreal and beautiful in its own way. There's Badwater Basin, Artists Palette, sand dunes, and super clear skies for stargazing. It really feels like you're on a different planet. Most people make the mistake of visiting when it's too hot, but November to February is *perfect*, and there are a bunch of ghost towns worth visiting if you're road-tripping!"

— fizzingwhizbee713

19. "Pismo and Paso Robles are well worth a trip. You'll find pretty rolling hills, wine country, and lower-cost dining options, along with some great camping and hiking."

— u/deleted

20. "If visiting Yosemite, I’d highly recommend getting a backcountry permit so that you can experience the landscape away from the crowds. We were able to get a lake to ourselves two nights in a row in the Tuolumne Meadows area in July. If you stick to Yosemite Valley, you will experience it with crowds."

— u/english_major

Do you have something to add? What's your must-visit stop along any California road trip? Tell us in the comments below.

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San Francisco To Seattle: The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary

• Road trippers can choose between two main routes from San Francisco to Seattle, each with its own advantages and unique views.
• The more direct route follows I-5 and takes approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes of non-stop driving.
• The coastal route along the Pacific Coast Highway is more scenic but takes longer, with a total trip time of approximately 17 hours and 10 minutes.

The majority of people are used to the most famous road trip in the United States, from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Road-tripping individuals will have the chance to behold the unique views on the Pacific Coast Highway in California . With several stops on their way, allowing them to see the beautiful nature, relaxed beach towns, busy cities, and unique attractions, commuters will experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that they have never gone through before.

However, another road trip that allows visitors to the western side of the US to explore the Pacific Northwest is equally attractive to the Los Angeles-San Francisco drive . That journey consists of the Drive from San Francisco to Washington's largest city, Seattle. Many people wonder what the best stops from San Francisco to Seattle are, and there are plenty.

UPDATE: 2023/08/06 02:46 EST BY NICOLE HANSEN

More To Know When Planning A Roadtrip From Boston To San Francisco

There's always more to add to create the perfect road trip itinerary. This article has been updated with additional route details, including maps, stop suggestions, and highlights in California, Oregon, and Washington. Have fun, and be safe!

Related: Road Trip Patagonia: Driving Scenic Ruta 40 From Esquel To Bariloche

Best Routes From San Francisco To Seattle

There are two main routes for a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle, each with its own advantages and unique views.

The more direct route follows I-5, stopping through Redding, California, Portland, Oregon, and Olympia, Washington on its way to Seattle. When venturing along the I-5 highway, the trip takes approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes of non-stop driving, much of which is through the granite Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. However, if one wants to enjoy most of the attractions along the San Franciso-Seattle road, they must spend at least an extra 5–7 days.

San Francisco to Seattle Via I-5

• Distance: 819 miles
• Time to Drive: ~12 hours 45 minutes
• Recommended Road Trip Time: 5–7 days
• I-5 Road Trip Route Outline: San Francisco, California → Mt. Shasta, California → Ashland, Oregon → Eugene, Oregon → Portland, Oregon → Olympia, Washington → Tacoma, Washington → Seattle, Washington

For a more meandering drive from San Francisco to Seattle, The famous Pacific Coast Highway, the most well-known California road trip, turns into Highway 101 and extends into Oregon and Washington before connecting with Highway 30. Travelers follow Highway 30 until they reach I-5, which returns them to the north-south route until Seattle.

This coastal route from San Francisco to Seattle is arguably the most scenic but does take longer to complete. The entire trip takes approximately 17 hours and 10 minutes non-stop. A coastal road trip from San Francisco to Seattle also demands a slightly longer time frame, taking 7–10 days to fully enjoy.

San Francisco to Seattle Via The Pacific Coast Highway

• Distance: 901 miles
• Time to Drive: ~17 hours 10 minutes
• Recommended Road Trip Time: 7–10 days
• Pacific Coast Highway (California to Washington) Road Trip Route Outline: San Francisco, California → Fort Bragg, California → Crescent City, California → Gold Beach, Oregon → Astoria, Oregon → Olympia, Washington → Tacoma, Washington → Seattle, Washington

Related: 10 Best Routes To Take On The Ultimate Cross-Country Road Trip

Planning For A Drive From San Francisco To Seattle

A trip from San Francisco to Seattle involves driving for 800 or more miles along the Pacific Northwest and watching the most attractive views while on the way. Before hopping onto the automobile, visitors must rent a car from legitimate and affordable sources, such as RentalCars.com , which offers rentals from various car brands. Another better option is to rent a Campervan or an RV from Outdoorsy to make one's life easier regarding accommodation. A crucial step to take is to issue a car insurance policy to hedge against any sudden accidents.

• Cost of a Campervan: depending on its size, a Campervan costs an average of $130 per night to rent.

Top Road Trip Stops In California

The first stop on the San Francisco to Seattle drive is the Town of Sausalito, known for its breathtaking nature and relaxing atmosphere. People can go on hiking trips in Sausalito and learn about the natural habitat and the preserved seashore, among other activities.

Next on the road is the Muir Woods National Monument, which boasts 600-year-old, 246-foot-long redwood trees and diverse wildlife. Another stop worth embracing is the picturesque wine region of Sonoma. The iconic Napa Valley in California is the most famous stop on the San Francisco to Seattle road trip.

Additionally, a lot of visitors head to Domaine Chandon to taste the US's best sparkling wines. People on a high budget go to world-class Michelin-starred restaurants, such as The French Laundry or Auberge Du Soleil, to eat in Napa Valley. The Coast of California offers even more unique stops, perfect for a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle. An artistic stop full of galleries in the coastal town of Mendocino that boasts a gallery in a water tower. The most beautiful city to visit on the road trip from San Francisco to Seattle is Fort Bragg, famous for its Glass Beach in the Noyo Headlands Park, which boasts mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean.

Another popular stop is the marvelous Shasta Lake, surrounded by mountains with barren trees that create a magnificent effect with the lake's crystal clear waters and the blue color of the sky. It is also worth stopping at Crescent City to visit Redwood National and State Parks.

Related: Need A Day Trip from Las Vegas? Try Off-Roading In The Mojave Desert

Unique Stops In Oregon And Washington

Visiting Crater Lake National Park is a must when on a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle. Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the US and was formed by a super-volcanic eruption 7,700 years ago. Next is a stop at the most beautiful waterfall in Oregon, the unique Toketee Falls.

Eugene City, the birthplace of NIKE, is next on the list and is best to visit during summer for hiking trails. Another good stop for hiking is in the city of Bend in Oregon. A gem of the Pacific Northwest is the Willamette Valley, known for its 1300 wineries and vineyards. Additionally, visiting the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum would be a good idea when in Willamette Valley. Flying kites on the beach in Lincoln City, Oregon, is fun during the road trip.

Next, people usually stop in Tillamook to have ice cream and cheese tasting. They can also visit The Tillamook Creamery for free. The jewel of the Pacific Northwest, the city of Portland is a popular stop for nature and hiking lovers and foodies. For those taking the coastal route through Oregon, the port city of Astoria is arguably the best road trip stop in the Pacific Northwest , offering ocean views, hiking trails, and a unique downtown vibe consistent with traveler's favorite Oregon cities.

Next comes Washington in the road trip from San Francisco to Seattle, where most commuters stop at the iconic Mount Rainier National Park and the Gig Harbor for a couple of calming and relaxing days. Washington also has a number of short detours for those looking to get outdoors on their road trip adventure, including nearby Olympic National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the US .

Next: Every Wine Aficionado Needs To Visit These Napa Valley Vineyards