road trip from nyc to california

3 Best Routes For Your New York To California Road Trip

Planning a New York to California road trip? Here are three great routes, all of which promise an unforgettable adventure on the open road.

An epic cross country road trip from the busy metropolis of New York on the East Coast to the sun-kissed landscapes of California promises a journey filled with spectacular scenery and diverse experiences. This is one of the most iconic and longest road trips you can do in the United States, but what route should you take?

Good news! I’ve got you covered! Below are three options for your road trip from New York to California, with landmarks and activities for just about every traveler’s preferences and interests.

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Whether you prefer stunning national forests, impressive natural wonders, or exploring the country’s vibrant and diverse cities, each of these routes promises something special.

Let’s dive in!

New York To California Option 1: Interstate 80

Total Distance: 3000 miles Approx Driving Time: 44 hours Major Points Of Interest: Pocono Mountains, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Chicago, Omaha, Scottsbluff, Salt Lake City, Lake Tahoe, Sacramento, San Francisco

If you’re looking for the most direct route and fastest route from New York City to San Francisco, this road trip is the one for you.

While you’ll be on the highway for just about the entire drive, don’t let that bum you out. This route will take you through a variety of noteworthy stops, from urban cities to natural wonders in the Midwest.

Here’s a glimpse of what this adventure has in store for you!

Starting Point: New York City

Kick off your adventure in America’s largest city, New York.

If you are not from the area and are flying or driving in to start your road trip here, stay a day or two to soak in the iconic sights of the city that never sleeps. I’ve been to New York quite a few times, and there is always something to see, even for someone like me who doesn’t prefer to spend a lot of time in cities.

Some tourist favorites include the Empire State Building , Times Square , the Statue of Liberty , and Central Park . You could even go see a Broadway or off-Broadway show (I highly recommend this).

Once you’ve had your fill of the Big Apple, jump in the car and get your road trip started!

Pocono Mountains

As you begin to head west into Pennsylvania, the Pocono Mountains are a popular getaway with lots to see and do. This would be a great first stop on your cross-country road trip.

I lived in Pennsylvania for most of my life, and I loved venturing “upstate” for day trips to the region. With lush forests and gorgeous lakes, this area offers a quiet retreat, even if it’s just for a few hours.

Explore the hiking trails, kayak on the water, go ziplining, or simply soak in the views of the Poconos. There are also water park resorts for those with kids (or kids at heart). This would make a great place for some overnight stops if you wanted to take advantage of all the opportunities here. 

Cook Forest State Park

Continuing through the heart of Pennsylvania, take a short drive north of the interstate and check out Cook Forest State Park . I went to college not far from here and I wish I would have taken better advantage of that!

This haven for nature enthusiasts is known for its stands of old-growth forest and the picturesque Clarion River. Hike beneath towering white pines or take a leisurely float down the river, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance.

This would be a good place for either a few hours break or even to camp overnight if that’s part of your plan. My family spent a weekend camping here and we loved it.

As you cross into Ohio, the vibrant city of Cleveland awaits.

Known as the home of Rock and Roll, a visit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must. You can also explore the Cleveland Museum of Art , enjoy a show by the Cleveland Orchestra (one of the top orchestras in the world), or catch a game at Progressive Field .

Cleveland’s distinct character and friendly atmosphere make it a noteworthy stop on your road trip. 

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Just outside of Cleveland, the natural wonders of Cuyahoga Valley National Park await.

My husband and I spent a couple of hours here once, and I would have liked to have had a little more time, although you really don’t need more than one full day here.

Stop and stretch your legs on a hike to Brandywine Falls or the Ledges trail , reconnect with nature, and enjoy a refreshing break from the urban landscape before continuing your journey west. 

Cedar Point Amusement Park

Continuing through Ohio, don’t miss a pit stop at Cedar Point .

Located on the shores of Lake Erie, this amusement park is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. Brace yourself for heart-pounding rides and 18 world-class roller coasters, all while enjoying great views of the lake.

If you’ve got the time, Cedar Point adds a touch of fun and excitement to your epic road trip. This is one of the top theme parks on my bucket list, so if you are passing by, you shouldn’t miss the chance to experience this place.

Crossing into Illinois, the iconic skyline of Chicago awaits.

This bustling metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan is a seamless blend of urban sophistication and cultural charm. Explore Millennium Park , visit the Art Institute of Chicago , catch a game at Wrigley Field , and indulge in the city’s renowned culinary scene. Don’t forget to capture the breathtaking view of the city from the Skyjack at Willis Tower – a perfect snapshot for your road trip album. 

I’ve only ever spent a day here (I clearly need to go back soon), but there is so much to see, I’d recommend at least 2-3 days if you can swing it. 

Heading west into Iowa, the city of Des Moines is the perfect place to experience genuine Midwestern hospitality.

You might not hear much about this city, but that doesn’t mean you should skip it. Stroll along the Des Moines Riverwalk , explore the charming Historic East Village , and savor farm-to-table delights at local eateries.

Des Moines is a warm and welcoming stop on this New York to California road trip and allows you to connect with the heart of the Midwest. 

Continuing into Nebraska, Omaha stands as the gateway to the expansive landscapes of the American West. This city on the Missouri River boasts a blend of modern amenities and historic charm.

My husband and I spent a couple of days here last minute when our original road trip got canceled due to over 2 feet of snow in Denver. We were pleasantly surprised by the city and had a nice time.

You should make a point to visit the Old Market district for unique shops and dining or take a scenic stroll along the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge for panoramic views.

However, our favorite thing was the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium . It’s rated the best zoo in the US and for good reason! If you only have so much time here, this is the one thing I recommend you make time for.

Chimney Rock

As you continue west through Nebraska, take a detour north off of I-80 and go see the iconic silhouette of Chimney Rock . If you grew up learning about the Oregon Trail (and playing that addicting game), it’s really something to go see the landmark in person.

Admittedly, there’s not much to do other than to stop and admire its grandeur, but there is a museum on site where you can learn about its significance in American history. Even if you don’t have a lot of time, I think it’s worth the short drive off the highway, and it will give you a change in scenery after days on the interstate.

Scottsbluff

I think Scottsbluff , Nebraska is a hidden gem. While it’s the largest city in the Nebraska Panhandle, it still felt very small town to me, at least compared to a lot of the other cities on this itinerary. We also loved our Airbnb hosts and all the people we met here.

Explore the historic downtown, where frontier history comes to life, and consider spending the night here like we did – it will be a nice change of pace. Then the next morning, you should visit the Scotts Bluff Monument .

Scotts Bluff National Monument 

This geological formation, rising dramatically from the plain, has been a landmark for many people, from Native Americans and emigrants on the Oregon Trail making their way westward, to modern travelers.

Explore the visitor center, hike the trails, or drive to the top for some spectacular views and envision the challenges faced by those who embarked on this historic journey. Unfortunately, when we visited in March, the road wasn’t plowed out in time and we had to skip it, but you better believe I’ll be back sometime to check this monument off my bucket list!

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest

Once you cross into Wyoming and jump back on the interstate for a short while, take a short detour south to Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest .

This vast expanse of pristine wilderness offers a sanctuary for outdoor activities. Whether you choose to fish, explore one of the many hiking trails, or simply take in the beautiful scenery, the forest provides a refreshing break before the final stretch of this epic road trip toward the California coast.

Salt Lake City

Continuing west into Utah, Salt Lake City welcomes you with a unique blend of culture and natural splendor.

Explore the historic Temple Square , home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple , and stroll through the avenues lined with diverse eateries and shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, Salt Lake City offers unparalleled experiences, from hiking and biking to skiing in the winter months.

With its beautiful mountain climate, Salt Lake City offers a combination of beautiful views, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. 

You’ll drive across the entire northern part of Nevada until you hit the vibrant city of Reno , proudly claiming the title of the “Biggest Little City in the World.”

Famous for its lively casinos, entertainment, and events, Reno adds a touch of excitement to your cross-country road trip. Whether you try your luck at the gaming tables or take in a show, this city offers a lively respite on the way to your final destination. 

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, the extraordinary Lake Tahoe is your next stop and one of the best things to see on this route.

This large alpine lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and provides plenty of opportunities for boating, hiking, and simply taking in the stunning scenery. Whether you relax on the shores or explore the surrounding trails, the crystal-clear waters and mountain vistas make Lake Tahoe a rejuvenating stop on your road trip.

Sacramento is the last major city and point of interest before you reach your final stop. 

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Old Sacramento , where cobblestone streets and historic buildings take you back to the days of the Gold Rush. From exploring museums to savoring farm-to-fork cuisine, Sacramento is a perfect last stop before hitting San Francisco.

San Francisco

You’ll end your 3000-mile road trip in San Francisco , a quirky and fun city on the coast of California.

I really enjoyed San Francisco and would love to go back and explore more next time. If you only have one day, I recommend at the very least checking out the Golden Gate Bridge , taking a ride on the trolley, seeing Lombard Street , exploring Chinatown , and wandering Fisherman’s Wharf.

New York To California Option 2: Route 66

Distance: 3000 miles Approx Driving Time: 50 hours Major Points Of Interest: Delaware Water Gap, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Indiana Dunes National Park, Gateway Arch, Cadillac Ranch, Santa Monica Pier

This cross-county route spans the diverse landscapes of the United States from the fast-paced metropolis of New York City to the sunny coast of Santa Monica via the famous Route 66, passing through 13 different states.

While Route 66 doesn’t actually start until you get to Chicago, I’ve included a few other places you can stop on your way to the city. If these don’t strike your fancy, you can always replace this part of the route with the I-80 route option in the previous road trip.

Let’s see what’s in store on this scenic route!

Note: the map above doesn’t follow the original Route 66 exactly, so if you want to truly take the official road as best you can, get an actual guidebook with step-by-step directions like this one .

New York City

Begin your journey in the fast-paced metropolis of New York City , where towering skyscrapers and bustling streets define the urban landscape. From the iconic landmarks of Manhattan to the vibrant neighborhoods in each borough, New York City is an exciting starting point for this cross-country journey. 

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Nestled in the picturesque Pocono Mountains, the Delaware Water Gap cuts through the mountains, offering a scenic background for outdoor enthusiasts.

Explore the winding trails, take in the stunning views on a scenic drive, and appreciate the tranquility of the wilderness as you begin your epic road trip adventure. 

State College

Heading westward, the charming town of State College is your next stop in Central Pennsylvania.

Home to the main campus of Penn State University , State College exudes a vibrant collegiate atmosphere. Stroll through the lively downtown, explore the university campus, and soak in the energy of this academic hub before continuing your journey west.

If you plan to spend a little time here, you should consider making some side trips to Bald Eagle State Park and State Forest , Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park , or even Raystown Lake . This is a beautiful part of PA and you should explore it if you can!

As you enter Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a welcome breath of fresh air. You don’t need more than a day here, but if you want to take a quick break, this is a great way to do it.

Discover the lush beauty of the Cuyahoga River Valley, hike along scenic trails, and explore historic landmarks. This national park is a green oasis, allowing you to reconnect with nature before venturing further west. 

Indiana Dunes National Park

Right before you get to Chicago, check out Indiana Dunes National Park , where towering sand dunes are found along Lake Michigan’s shore.

Explore the diverse ecosystems from sandy beaches to lush forests, and marvel at the breathtaking views of the lake before continuing your journey into Chicago and the start of Route 66.

Historic Route 66 Begin Sign

When you get into Chicago, your route takes you to the Historic Route 66 Begin Sign right outside the Art Institute of Chicago.

Snap a quick photo at this legendary starting point before you officially begin the quintessential American road trip that guides you through the heart of the nation.

A quick note: there are going to be hundreds of things to see and do along Route 66, but I’m mentioning just a few of the most popular and worth-it-in-my-opinion options. Feel free to stop and see anything that strikes your fancy and skip the things that don’t appeal to you. Just like any road trip, if something isn’t interesting to you, don’t see it just because everyone else does. Make it your own adventure!

Gemini Giant

Heading south from Chicago, the town of Wilmington boasts a quirky roadside marvel – the Gemini Giant .

This towering statue, a well-known landmark on Route 66, stands proudly along the historic route. Admire the giant spaceman, a relic from the space race era, one of the many quirky roadside attractions you’ll encounter.

Route 66 Association of Illinois

In the heart of Illinois, the Route 66 Association of Illinois preserves the legacy of this historic road.

Explore exhibits that chronicle the history of Route 66, from its early days to its cultural significance. Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of the open road, gaining insights into the people and places that have shaped this iconic highway.

Gateway Arch National Park

The Gateway Arch welcomes you to St. Louis as you continue westward into Missouri.

Standing high over the banks of the Mississippi River, this stainless steel monument commemorates the westward expansion of the United States and is the world’s tallest arch. If you only get to do one thing in St. Louis, this should be it.

Ride to the top for panoramic views, explore the museum beneath, and explore the paved trails within the national park before continuing on your journey along Route 66.

Blue Whale of Catoosa

Leaving Missouri and crossing into Oklahoma, your next stop is the Blue Whale of Catoosa .

This iconic roadside attraction is a must-see for anyone driving along Route 66. Originally built as an anniversary gift in the 1970s, the Blue Whale has been welcoming visitors ever since. Snap some photos and visit the gift shop for a snack before continuing on your journey.

Cadillac Ranch

Venturing into Texas, Cadillac Ranch is another famous roadside attraction to see.

This popular art installation, with 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground, is a surreal icon of Route 66 and offers a unique stop on your journey through the Lone Star State.

Albuquerque

In the center of New Mexico, Albuquerque welcomes you. Explore the historic Old Town , where adobe buildings and charming plazas transport you to another era, shop for Native American handicrafts, and sample the flavors of the local cuisine.

Albuquerque offers plenty of activities and cultural attractions, making it a worthwhile stop on this epic cross-country road trip. This is also one of the best places for some overnight stays if you want to take a bit of a break from all the driving. You’ve still got a ways to go!

Petrified Forest National Park

Once you cross into Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park isn’t too far.

Wander through the otherworldly landscapes of the Painted Desert, marvel at the ancient trees that have turned to stone along the rugged terrain, and admire the vibrant hue of the petrified forest. The park’s rich geological history and archaeological sites offer a unique blend of natural wonders and fascinating science.

Wigwam Motel

No Route 66 road trip is complete without checking out the Wigwam Motel .

This iconic site in Holbrook offers a unique blend of comfort and nostalgia. Spend the night for a truly unique accommodation experience, or just make a quick stop for a photo.

The town of Winslow, Arizona is popular because of the lyric in the classic Eagles’ hit, “Take It Easy.” Pose for a photo on this legendary corner, where a bronze statue commemorates the iconic lyrics, creating a memorable stop along the historic highway.

Venture through the Black Mountains of Arizona and you’ll come across Oatman , a town frozen in time with its Wild West charm.

Roaming burros, rustic storefronts, and wooden boardwalks transport you to the days of the gold rush. Experience the lively atmosphere and relish the authentic Old West ambiance of Oatman. 

Santa Monica Pier 

Your Route 66 journey concludes in Santa Monica, California, where the iconic Santa Monica Pier welcomes you to the shores of the Pacific.

Soak in the coastal vibes, stroll along the boardwalk, and ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the ocean. And don’t forget to take a picture of the End Route 66 sign , which is actually located at the intersection of Olympic Blvd and Lincoln Blvd.

The end of Route 66 marks the beginning of the Pacific Coast Highway , offering a scenic finale to your epic road trip as you soak in the sun and sea breezes on the historic pier. In fact, if you’ve got even more time, consider driving from LA to Big Sur to experience even more amazing landscapes.

New York To California Option 3: Southern Cities

Distance: 3000 miles Approx Driving Time: 44 hours Major Points Of Interest: Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Nashville, Dallas

This cross-country road trip option from New York to California takes a more southern route, stopping in lots of historic cities before ending in San Diego. If you want a road trip that’s focused more on urban attractions, this is the one for you.

Here’s what you can expect along the way. 

Just like the other two itineraries, this journey begins in the iconic metropolis of New York , where skyscrapers punctuate the skyline and the energy is infectious.

Explore the timeless landmarks of Manhattan , take a leisurely stroll through Central Park , and soak in the electric energy before heading out on the open road. 

Philadelphia

Venturing south just a short distance, Philadelphia beckons with its rich historical heritage.

Wander through Independence National Historical Park , where the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall tell the story of the nation’s birth, and explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character and charm. Don’t forget to try a famous Philly cheesesteak!

If you spend a day or two here, I’d also recommend crossing the Delaware River into Camden to go to the Adventure Aquarium , and if you like unique museums, the Mütter Museum is fascinating and one of the oddest things to see in the city.

As you continue along, Baltimore welcomes you with its maritime charm and urban sophistication.

Explore the historic Inner Harbour , home to the USS Constellation and the National Aquarium (which is absolutely worth seeing). Indulge in the city’s renowned seafood scene and stroll through the cobblestone streets of Fells Point , where unique shops, excellent restaurants, and scenic views await.

Washington, D. C.

Continuing just a little further, your next stop is the political heart of the nation, Washington, D.C.

Explore the iconic National Mall , where monuments and memorials pay homage to American history. Visit the Smithsonian museums (I love the Museum of Natural History and the Air and Space Museum ), tour the Capitol , and take in the grandeur of the city’s neoclassical architecture.

One of the best things about this city is that it is very walkable, and the public transportation system is good, so you can easily park your car and get around without driving, which is what I recommend.

There is so much to explore here that if you can swing it, you should allocate at least 2-3 days to see the highlights.

Shenandoah National Park

Leaving the urban landscape behind for a bit, Shenandoah National Park welcomes you to the great outdoors.

Hike through dense forests, chase waterfalls, or make your way across the scenic Skyline Drive , which offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley.

If you aren’t in a rush, I highly recommend taking the time to drive the 105-mile Skyline Drive, even if you don’t spend much time in Shenandoah. It will add a few hours to your drive time, but it’s stunning and an easy, relaxing cruise. You might even see some wildlife!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Continuing south, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the border of North Carolina and Tennessee and offers another chance to get out into nature. This is also the most visited national park in the country, which says something about what it has to offer!

Explore the miles of hiking trails, witness the beauty of Clingmans Dome , and discover the rich biodiversity that defines this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When we visited, we had only a few hours, which is not even close to giving this place justice, but we drove Cades Cove Loop , which was really nice, and then spent the night in Gatlinburg . You could spend a whole week here and not see everything, so allocate as much time as you can and explore as much as you can.

Continuing your journey through Tennessee, Knoxville stands as a vibrant city that seamlessly blends history and modernity.

Stroll along Market Square , where lively shops and eateries abound, or delve into the city’s cultural scene at the Knoxville Museum of Art .

With its historic architecture and lively atmosphere, Knoxville adds a touch of Southern hospitality to your cross-country road trip.

Your adventure continues west to Nashville , the renowned Music City. This is probably my favorite city in the whole country and I always want to go back and explore more!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Broadway , where live music spills out of honky-tonks into the streets. If you are a country music fan, you have to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame , tour the Ryman , and catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry . That was probably the highlight of our visit and was worth every penny!

Even if you don’t like country music, there is plenty for you to see and do. There’s always music of every genre playing somewhere, and you can also visit the Musicians Hall of Fame , wander around Centennial Park , or check out Gaylord Opryland , which is a stunning resort. If you have the budget, you should spend a night or two here!

Hot Springs National Park

Continuing west, take a slight detour to Hot Springs National Park , which invites you to soak in its rejuvenating thermal waters.

Take a stroll along Bathhouse Row , where century-old spa buildings still stand, and indulge in the healing waters that have drawn visitors for generations. There are also plenty of places to get good food!

You won’t need more than a day here, but it’s well worth the visit!

Heading southwest, the vibrant city of Dallas , Texas welcomes you with its unique blend of Southern charm and urban sophistication.

Explore the historic Dealey Plaza , visit the Sixth Floor Museum , and immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings. From the lively atmosphere of the Dallas Arts District to the iconic Reunion Tower , Dallas is a great stop on your road trip to California.

Venturing into the Arizona desert, Tucson offers a unique blend of desert beauty and cultural richness.

Embrace the vibrant colors of the desert landscape, explore the historic adobe buildings, and discover the rich Native American and Hispanic heritage that permeates the city.

Tucson’s relaxed atmosphere and stunning vistas offer a perfect place to pass before you continue the journey westward.

Saguaro National Park

Just outside Tucson, Saguaro National Park boasts the iconic saguaro cactus, the towering sentinels of the Sonoran Desert.

Hike through the scenic trails where these giants stand against the backdrop of the rugged landscape. As the sun sets, witness the desert come alive with a breathtaking display of colors. Saguaro National Park is the quintessential Arizona experience, a perfect final stop to the last stretch of your cross-country adventure. 

Your epic road trip concludes in San Diego , where the Pacific Ocean and coastal charm welcome you to southern California.

Bask in the sun on the sandy beaches, explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter , and savor the laid-back vibes of this vibrant city. From the iconic San Diego Zoo to the breathtaking views from Cabrillo National Monument , San Diego offers a fitting finale to your epic New York to California road trip. 

Preparing For A Road Trip Checklist

So you’re ready to take your New York to California road trip, but you might be a little overwhelmed with everything you need to do before you hit the road.

I can help with that!

I’ve created a pre-travel checklist so you know everything you should be thinking about and prepping before you set off on your journey.

FAQs about New York to California Road Trip

How long does it take to drive from new york to california.

The duration of your road trip from New York to California will vary depending on your chosen route, the number of stops you take, and your driving pace.

Generally, the most direct journey will take around 40 to 50 hours of driving time , but many travelers prefer to spread the adventure over several days to explore attractions along the way.

What road takes you from New York to California?

There are a variety of interstates that connect New York to California, such as I-80. This is going to be the most direct and quickest option. Alternatively, you can take a combination of other highways to reach your final destination in California, such as I-70 or I-40.

How many days should I take to drive from New York to California?

The number of days it will take you to drive from New York to California will depend on your personal preferences, including the number of stops you want to take and how many things you want to see and do along the way.

A leisurely journey with a handful of stops at key attractions can take around 10-14 days, while a faster-paced drive might be completed in a week. It really will depend on what you want to see and how much driving you are willing to do in a day .

Where should I stop between New York and California?

Ideal stops between New York and California will depend on the route you choose to take.

If you take the most direct route along I-80, you’ll pass by Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Chicago, Omaha, Salt Lake City, and Lake Tahoe.

If you want to explore Route 66, you can see Chicago, the Gateway Arch, Petrified Forest National Park, and dozens of quirky roadside attractions like the Gemini Giant and the Wigwam Motel.

For those who want to see the South, you can explore almost a dozen major cities, such as Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Nashville, Dallas, and Tuscon.

What is the best time of year to drive from New York to California?

The best time for a road trip from New York to California is spring, summer, or fall. The weather is generally mild and scenic landscapes are at their best in the spring and fall. Most attractions shouldn’t be as busy, and prices will be better during these shoulder seasons. This is when I would personally take this road trip.

Summers can be hot, especially in the Southwest, but if you decide to travel a more northern route, you won’t have to worry about the possibility of snow this time of year. If you choose to travel in the summer, you’ll have more traffic and crowds, and you’ll pay more for attractions and accommodations.

You can certainly take this road trip in the winter, but if you do, I’d recommend the southern route. You’ll have less of a chance of snow, although it’s never for certain. If you do want to take a New York to California road trip in the winter, just make sure you have the winter essentials packed so you don’t end up in a sticky situation because of the weather.

How much will a road trip from New York to California cost?

The cost of a road trip varies based on factors such as accommodation preferences, dining choices, and activities.

On average, budget-conscious travelers may spend around $100 to $150 per day depending on the time of year you choose to travel. However, other factors such as how far you are driving in one day, how many days you are on the road, and your food choices will all impact your overall budget.

Here are some tips on how to save money on a road trip.

Is a road trip from New York to California worth it?

Absolutely! A road trip from New York to California is more than just a journey, it’s an adventure filled with diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks. It really is one of the quintessential American road trips. The freedom to explore at your own pace and connect with the heart of America makes this road trip undeniably worthwhile.

Conclusion: 3 Best Road Trips from New York to California

Embarking on a road trip from New York to California is a unique opportunity to explore various landscapes and is the essence of a true American adventure. 

Whether you choose to drive along Route 66, or I-80 or explore the Southern cities along the way, each route promises epic experiences and diverse landscapes. 

From the bustling streets of New York to the iconic cities of California, these 3 road trip options offer a glimpse into the country’s iconic landmarks, historical treasures, and cultural richness. 

No matter which route you take, your road trip from New York to California will provide an opportunity to savor the beauty of the American landscape and create unforgettable memories.

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Stefanie Henne is an experienced road trip travel blogger who specializes in helping others plan their dream vacation, no matter their budget or time restraints. Go here to read more about Stef's story. If you want to send Stef a message, visit her contact page here.

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The Ultimate New York to Los Angeles Road Trip for 2024

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: November 8, 2023

Categories North America

Planning one hella mega-epic New York York to Los Angeles road trip itinerary ? If so then you’ve come to the right place my fellow road trip-loving friend.

Not only do I LOVE road trips with my whole heart, but I’m a born and bred local New Yorker who has 30+ years of knowledge to share with you.

After all, I’ve been doing long-haul road trips from the womb since my dad was addicted to driving and thought nothing of going from NYC to Vermont on a quiet, Sunday afternoon.

So, yes. I really do know a thing or two about planning the perfect road trip. But, let me be the first one to admit that this insanely long New York to Los Angeles drive can be more than a little challenging to plan.

After all, there are so many amazing things to see and you only have so much time. So, how can you possibly figure out where to stop, what to do, and where to stay during your Los Angeles to New York road trip?

And that’s where I come in. I’m here to get you away from the generic AF guidebook and help you as you road trip NY to LA. This way, you can stop stressing about driving from New York to Los Angeles and can take some time to enjoy this trip of a lifetime.

Because I pinkie promise that doing a New York to Los Angeles road trip is 110% worth it. So, kick your heels up and start dreaming of cruising down the highway in a bright red convertible – Thelma and Louise style, minus the sticky end – as we swan dive into the details of this New York to Los Angeles drive now!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

When To Go On Your New York To Los Angeles Road Trip?

Deciding when to go on your New York to Los Angeles road trip can have a huge effect on your experience.

First of all, the landscape changes throughout the year. Do you want to see green fields, fall foliage, or snowy peaks? Secondly, different activities and locations across the country have different seasonal opening times. After all, forests look hella different with no leaves on the trees, and it’s hard to ski in summer, y’all!

Fortunately for you, you’ve got options. Because regardless of when you choose to go on your New York to Los Angeles drive, you’ll get to see amazing landscapes, do fun and exciting activities, and stay in cozy and/or chic accommodations.

Plus, America looks great all year round, amirite? However, if I had to pick a season I would say late spring/early summer (May/June would be ideal). This way, you avoid the intense crowds of the summer but still get to marvel at lush green fields and stunning swaths of wildflowers while driving from New York to Los Angeles.

Alternatively, you could plan your trip for the autumn and enjoy fall in Vermont and various other places with epic foliage.

How Long Is The Drive From NY To LA?

Depending on the route you take, this NY to LA road trip will cover around 2,775 miles. Therefore, this road trip could take as little as 42 hours if you just drive straight through.

However, if you want to make stops and actually see some things then I would plan at least 6 or 7 days for your New York to Los Angeles road trip.

That being said, to really enjoy this New York to Los Angeles drive and make all the stops listed, you’ll really need around 21 days – more if you want to do fun side trips like this Idaho road trip . But, you can obviously adjust this itinerary based on your personal preferences/interests, budget, and the time you have allotted for this trip.

Pro Tip: The most direct route to Los Angeles will take you from 1-80 to Route 66 and then to LA.

How Much Is The Road Trip From New York To Los Angeles?

It’s really hard to give you an exact number since it varies so much based on the length of your trip, where you stay, what you do, the route you take, the price of gas, what type of vehicle you drive, etc.

However, given that fuel prices in the US are currently around $4.58 per gallon and that the trip from NY to LA is about 2,775 miles, the total cost of a one-way drive to LA is $510.72 or $1,021.44 round trip. And that’s JUST for the gas itself. That price does not include hotels, activities, food, and vehicle maintenance.

So, the moral of the story? Definitely plan to spend anywhere between $1500 and $5000 per person on your New York to Los Angeles road trip.

What States Do You Drive Through From NY To California?

During your New York to Los Angeles road trip, you’ll pass through the following twelve/thirteen states:

• Pennsylvania
• Wisconsin (optional)
• South Dakota (if you want to see Mount Rushmore. You could also go through Nebraska)
• Arizona/Utah (optional)

The Ultimate New York To Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

New york city, ny.

If you’re gonna start anywhere, you may as well start in the greatest city on Earth! Because whether you’re a local like me, or you traveled here to start your amazing New York to Los Angeles road trip, there’s literally something for everyone in the city that never sleeps.

I recommend spending at least 2-3 days in New York City. That way you can get a taste of all the best things to do in NYC before you go!

There are SO MANY things to do and places to see that are quintessentially New York City. You’ve got the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Broadway, the Brooklyn Bridge , Soho, Central Park, the Empire State Building – and that’s just off the top of my head!

As a New Yorker myself, I’ve spent a lot of time seeking out all of the very best places for any and all tastes. And if you’re flying solo, check out my list of the best things to do alone in NYC .

However, If you’re planning to make your New York to Los Angeles road trip as a couple, my list of date night ideas in NYC will have you feeling the love in no time!

Feel like stretching your mental muscles? Look no further than my recommendations for cool museums in NYC . And if you want to save your money for a bit further down the line, then check out this list of the best free things to do in New York City right now!

Oh and if you find yourself overwhelmed by all these magical choices, or you only have one full day here before you hit the road, then take a look at my guide to a magical 24 hours in NYC . It’s the Big Apple – and it’s time to take a bite! Or two!

J ourney time: 0 hours – you just started!

Best Places To Stay In NYC

There aren’t exactly any cheap places to stay in NYC, but my list of the best NYC budget hotels has plenty of good options for non-locals starting their New York to Los Angeles road trip. If you want to see some of the best that New York has to offer, I can recommend some of the best upper east side hotels as well!

Best Places To Eat In NYC:

My article on places you must eat in NYC has something for everyone, as well as suggestions on foods for visitors to try for the first time and some food history too!

Gettysburg, PA

Your first stop on your New York to Los Angeles road trip is the historic town of Gettysburg, PA. This is the perfect place for history lovers, and one of the most important historical sites in the entire United States!

And that’s because the Battle of Gettysburg – in 1863 – was the turning point of the Civil War. Therefore, the town is chocker box full of landmarks, locations, and museums dedicated to that iconic showdown.

So, head to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center to learn all about the battle and the town. You can even walk in Abraham Lincoln’s footsteps at the Gettysburg Address Memorial!

You can also see the incredible damage from the Battle of Gettysburg on some of the buildings today, especially if you make your way to the Schmucker House on Seminary Ridge!

Now, depending on how much of a history buff you are, I recommend spending at least 1-2 nights in Gettysburg . But it’s not only ancient history on offer for those looking for the best things to do in Gettysburg, PA.

So, when you’ve finished exploring the Shriver House Museum, the Seminary Ridge Museum, and the Jennie Wade House Museum, be sure to find and sample some local goods too!

And as you wander through the streets of Gettysburg, make sure to peruse the crafts and produce at the Oyler’s Organic Farms & Market, indulge your sweet tooth at the indoor Gettysburg Chocolate Market, or find a bargain at the Gettysburg Outlet Shoppes.

Want to test your deduction and problem-solving skills amidst stunning period-inspired decor? Then make your way to the 1863 Escape Room on Baltimore Street and take on the town’s first-ever Civil War themed escape room!

Plus, if you’re making your New York to Los Angeles road trip in the fall, try out one of the spooky Gettysburg Ghost Tours on offer, courtesy of the Gettysburg Paranormal Association. In fact, there are lots of different tours to choose from, ranging from daytime tours through to layer night tours that are sure to be fun for visitors of all ages!

Journey time: 3.5 – 4 hours, though NYC traffic might make that a bit more.

Best places to stay in Gettysburg, PA:

Budget: Super 8 by Wyndham Gettysburg

Midrange: Hampton Inn Gettysburg Luxury: Historic Farnsworth House Inn

Best places to eat in Gettysburg, PA:

• Dobbin House Tavern
• Hunt’s Battlefield Fries and Café
• One Lincoln

Cleveland, OH

Sitting on the shores of Lake Erie, Cleveland Ohio is the largest city in the region. So, compared to your last stop in Gettysburg, there are a lot of people here y’all!

Now, Cleveland kinda has it all: beautiful parks, informative museums, gourmet dining, sandy beaches, and the list goes on. So, it can be tough to decide what to do first while you’re here during your New York to Las Angeles drive.

But having come all this way from Gettysburg, my recommendation is that it’s time to get out on the water! And with 147 acres of land and 9,000 feet of shoreline, Edgewater Park is the perfect place to start your checklist of fun things to do in Cleveland, OH!

After all, there are paddle sports, boating, sailing and fishing spots available, plus plenty of places to bring a picnic. Just sit back, relax and enjoy the view across the water. You can even wave at Canada on the other side of the lake!

Ever heard of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? Did you know it’s in Cleveland, OH? Well, if you didn’t then you do now! This absolutely ICONIC institution sits on Rock and Roll Boulevard (where else would it be?) and has a huge amount of memorabilia from decades of musical history.

So, make sure to visit so that you can debate who does and doesn’t deserve to have been inducted! I mean, Drew Carrey did sing, “Cleveland rocks” for a reason. In addition to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, fans of art and culture also have the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History to enjoy.

There’s even the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, which is both fun AND interactive for kids and adults alike.

And if you prefer classical to electric music then head to the Cleveland Orchestra and count the lotus flowers in the decor of this almost 100-years-old building as you listen to classy pieces from around the world.

After you’ve spent some time listening to music, you might want to stretch your legs again. And the Cleveland Botanical Gardens and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium are both excellent places to do this while learning about the natural world (and before you continue your New York to Los Angeles road trip).

Or, just to the south of the city, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place for hiking, bicycling, and skiing in the winter. All in all, there’s a lot to do in Cleveland. Therefore, if your schedule and budget allow for it, stay anywhere from 2-4 days.

Oh, and if you have a bit of extra time, be sure to visit the Cedar Point Amusement Park. Trust me, it has everything you could want from a waterfront entertainment complex. In fact, there are 17 rollercoasters, a steam railway, a beach, and a waterpark – plus plenty of other side attractions for families to enjoy.

And, added bonus? It’s on the way to the next stop on this New York to Los Angeles road trip!

Journey time: 5.5 – 6 hours.

Best places to stay in Cleveland, OH:

Budget : MainStay Suites Midrange: Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton

Best places to eat in Cleveland, OH:

• Salt (they serve more than that, I promise!)
• The Cleveland Bagel Company

Chicago, IL

Chicago. The Windy City. I hope you packed a jacket because this place gets super cold! This city is also even bigger than Cleveland. So. make sure to plan accordingly so that you can enjoy as many unique things to do in Chicago as possible.

And while 3-4 days should give you enough time to get a feel for Chicago life, 5 days would be even better if you like it! First though, it’s time to simply take in the view after driving from New York to Las Angeles all day.

So, for an Insta-worthy panorama of this fine city, make your way to the Skydeck at Willis Tower or the 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the John Hancock Center .

And if you can handle the height (you’ll be over 1,000 feet up at either location!) you’ll be able to see the city skyline, out across Lake Michigan, and view panoramas of no less than four different states at the same time!

However, one of the all-time best things to do in Chicago is to take a tour of the city. But which one? I mean, there are so many tours to choose from – many of which are brought to you using all different types of transportation.

Well, try to get out on the water by taking a sightseeing boat tour of the harbor , or learn about Chicago’s skyline’s history on an architecture boat tour .

Additionally, there are plenty of bike tours of the city for you to try . Heck, the Lakefront area even has a segway tour available . Or, just follow the river a la Pochanontas during a nifty kayak tour! To mix learning with artwork and fun, make sure to try out a street art tour of Chicago. Because in addition to several larger pieces, there’s always something new to see!

You can easily spend an afternoon – or a whole day – on the Navy Pier too. It’s just a short walk from Chicago’s famous Cloud Gate sculpture (aka the big metal bean pictured above!). In fact, this pier has a wealth of botanical gardens, an IMAX cinema, the 200-foot Centennial Wheel, the Chicago Children’s Museum, and more!

Plus, Chicago definitely isn’t short on museums either. I mean, the Art Institute of Chicago alone has over 300,000 different pieces and historical artifacts on display! And in Jackson Park, the Museum of Science and Industry has a few larger exhibits, including a 40-foot tornado simulator and a full-size authentic German submarine!

Once that’s blown your mind, you may need to head to Grant Park to unwind. After all, it’s basically like Chicago’s Central Park! It’s also ideal if you want a break from the city and want to enjoy some open space before starting the next leg of your New York to Los Angeles road trip.

P ro Tip: Try to time your visit for July so that you can attend the Taste of Chicago Food Festival. It’s a huge event that will leave you with plenty of lunch options to choose from!

Journey time: 5.5 – 6 hours

Best places to stay in Chicago, IL:

Budget: SureStay Plus Hotel Midrange: Claridge House Luxury: CitizenM Chicago Downtown

Best places to eat in Chicago, IL:

• Soulé

Wisconsin Dells, WI

It’s time to move on from the hustle and bustle of the big city to the slower pace of the Midwest. That’s right – we’re heading out west! Sure, Wisconsin Dells might not be the first place you think of when planning a New York to Los Angeles road trip.

But, maybe it would help if I told you that this place has a reputation for being the waterpark capital of the world? It would? Excellent. I thought so!

Now, this super popular Midwestern tourist destination is jam-packed with waterparks. Therefore, take your pick from Kalahari Waterpark, Chula Vista Resort Waterpark, or the Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park – just to name a few.

Although, if quantity equals quality for you (and these places have both!), then check out Wilderness Resort or Noah’s Ark Waterpark – the single largest waterpark and resorts in the United States!

Plus, these epic holiday destinations have a ton of other activities available to you onsite, including volleyball and basketball courts, hot tubs, river rides, bars, and even smaller waterslides for toddlers.

Yup, they’re great for people traveling as families, with friends, or groups of all ages! What, want to get on the water but don’t feel like swimming? Then definitely opt for a historic Dells boat tour!

Check out the upper and lower gorges on the Wisconsin River and decide which is your favorite. Although truth be told, the upper gorge’s spectacular cliffs and sandstone formations might decide for you!

But, for a truly Wisconsin Dells experience, sign up for the Original Wisconsin Dells Ducks Boat Tour. It’s a truly unique experience that will take you into and out of the water from aboard one of their amphibious vehicles!

And since you’re here anyway, you’re actually on the doorstep of Rocky Arbor State Park. So, this relaxing collection of 144 acres of pine forests, hiking trails, and picnic spots will have you feeling the pulse of nature in no time!

But, you know what? Learning also takes a special twist in Wisconsin Dells! Therefore, try out the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory, with its 175 interactive activities for kids.

There’s also Wizard Quest – perfect for lovers of fantasy! it’s here that you’ll find a 13,000-square-foot, magical theme park with a strong roleplaying element to in.

Oh, and as you probably already know, Wisconsin Dells isn’t nearly as big as Chicago. So, depending on your love of waterslides, 1-2 nights should be a good amount of time to spend in Wisconsin Dells before continuing with your New York to Las Angeles road trip.

Journey time: 3 – 3.5 hours

Best places to stay in Wisconsin Dells, WI:

Budget: Lakeside Motel Midrange: Baker’s Sunset Bay Resort Luxury: Amber Inn And Suites

Best places to eat in Wisconsin Dells, WI:

• Paul Bunyan’s Cook Shanty
• MACS Macaroni and Cheese Shop)
• Mr. Pancake

Sioux Falls, SD

Just over across the border in South Dakota is where you’ll find Sioux Falls. It’s also a place in which you’ll find the most people in any city in the entire state!

Now, this bustling Midwestern metropolis rests on the banks of the Big Sioux River, which flows right through the city – creating some exquisite waterfalls in the appropriately named Falls Park!

So, when experiencing all the things to do in Sioux Falls, head straight to this park – near the heart of the city – to see this majestic natural phenomenon. Trust me, your Insta followers will be super grateful!

While you’re here, you’ll also find the remains of the old Queen Bee Mill – a rad seven-story building from the 1880s – and the Falls Overlook Cafe.

Yup, this stellar cafe was actually built inside the former Light and Power building – a structure that is currently well over 100 years old! There’s also a 19-mile hiking trail that starts in Falls Park and makes a loop around the city. So if you want to really earn your supper, make sure you start conquering this extensive trail early in the day!

Additionally, Sioux Falls has a number of other fascinating buildings for you to explore, like the intimidating AF Old Courthouse Museum on West Sixth Street, complete with tons of murals or historic local events.

Further to the south, you’ll find the distinctly-shaped Butterfly House & Aquarium in Oxbow Park. It’s the perfect place for nature and animal lovers alike.

And during your visit, feast your eyes on over 800 different beautiful butterflies from around the world, as well as hundreds of species of fish, anemones, seahorses, and corals in the Dakota’s only public saltwater aquarium!

However, if you’re on a budget and want to take a break from spending money during your New York to Los Angeles road trip, then check out the totally free SculptureWalk.

Yeah, the creativity on display here is stunning and includes sculptures made of wood, glass, stone, and metal in the shapes of everything from dynamic hunters on horseback to dancing pigs!

Next, history buffs will want to head to the Pettigrew Home & Museum on North Duluth Avenue. After all, it’s a historic home from 1889 that once belonged to Richard Franklin, the state’s very first US Senator.

And Senator Franklin? Well, he liked to collect things, which is good news for us because this house is FULL of exhibits that showcase the heritage of Sioux Falls. Period furniture, natural history specimens, Native American artifacts, and more.

Also, much like Wisconsin Dells, you can get a good feel for Sioux Falls during a 1-2 day visit. Then it’s back on the road again as you enjoy this New York to Los Angeles drive.

Best places to stay in Sioux Falls, SD:

Budget: Repose Sioux falls Midrange: Hampton Inn Sioux Falls Luxury : Hotel On Phillips

Best places to eat in Sioux Falls, SD:

• Carnaval Brazilian Grill
• Sanaa’s Gourmet
• Candy Cloud Factory (where you can try a cotton candy burrito. Did you know that was a thing? I didn’t!)

Mount Rushmore, SD

Ok, so you’re officially halfway through this itinerary for the ultimate New York to Los Angeles road trip. It feels appropriate to celebrate the midpoint with something spectacular!

If only there was something special in the area that feels momentous, or iconic. But I can’t think of anything. Except perhaps for MOUNT RUSHMORE ! After all, how could I NOT recommend that you pass by one of America’s most famous landmarks?

Because the four presidential faces on the Mount Rushmore National Memorial (to give it its full name) are carved into the granite rock face of a mountain and are visible a viewing platform that sits just opposite of the structure.

Simply drive in, park, head through the gates and gaze in wonder at this impressive monument. There are plenty of information boards on hand that detail the history of the sculptures, in addition to several ranger-led guided tours.

But, when you’re done admiring the faces of George, Tom, Theo, and Abe, what do you do next? Well, hiking and outdoor activities are the main focus of this region. So, there are several great parks, trails and peaks for you to explore, complete with picturesque scenery and views that will take your breath away.

So, to the southeast you’ve got Custer State Park, with trails for all levels of expertise. To the west, there’s Black Elk Peak, which is much more challenging since it’s home to the highest point in South Dakota!

And then a little further to the south – and on your way to the next destination on your New York to Los Angeles road trip itinerary – is Wind Cave National Park, which features one of the longest caves in the world!

However, in addition to all these epic hikes, there’s also amazing driving to do near Mount Rushmore. In fact, the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway will take you along a huge loop that covers parts of Custer State Park, the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, Mount Rushmore, and the Black Elk National Wilderness Area.

It’s also just under 70 miles long and enables you to drive on some of the most picturesque roads in the USA. Just be sure to have fun going through the Needles Eye Tunnel!

Now, because of the time it takes to get to Mount Rushmore, you’ll probably want to spend at least one night in the area. Yeah, unfortunately, you can’t sleep on the mountain itself. However, there are plenty of places to stay nearby before you continue driving from New York to Los Angeles.

J ourney time: 5.5 – 6 hours, less if you’re stopping first and spending the night in Rapid City.

Best places to stay near Mount Rushmore, SD:

Budget: Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore Midrange: K Bar S Lodge, Keystone Luxury: Harney Peak Inn

Best places to eat near Mount Rushmore, SD:

• Delmonico Grill
• Tally’s Silver Spoon
• Peggy’s Place

Welcome to the “Mile High City” – but get your mind out of the gutter. After all, Denver is exactly 1 mile above sea level, which is how it earned this snazzy nickname. Now, this city incredible is home to the Colorado Rockies and sits within 2 hours of the Rocky Mountains.

The city itself though is also surrounded by mountains. As a result, Denver is one of those epic places that perfectly pairs the hustle and bustle of big city life with the serenity of the great outdoors.

So, as a tourist, you get all the benefits of city amenities like museums, sporting events, shopping, and tours, while still being close enough to the wilderness to go hiking for the day.

And the best spot for hiking in the area is Mount Evans, which is the 12th highest peak in Colorado. Estes Park is also absolutely breathtaking and situated right near Rocky Mountain National Park.

Plus, both places can also easily be visited as part of a day trip from Denver since they are around 1.5 hours away from the city. Alternatively, there are lots of green spaces and parks throughout Denver where you can relax and enjoy 300+ days of sunshine annually.

And did I mention that it’s a super trendy destination for foodies? Yup, the delicious food available just gets better and better every time I visit. Therefore, regardless of the type of cuisine you love, you’ll be able to find it in Denver.

So, for any fellow foodies doing a New York to Los Angeles road trip, Denver is a MUST! However, the city is also full of many cultural, artistic, and historic attractions. Basically, there’s something here for everyone. Plus, Denver is a big city. So, make sure to set aside a minimum of 1-3 days to make sure you see everything you want to see!

And some of the best things to do in Denver – aside from stuffing your face – include hiking (duh), attending a Rockies game (or getting a tour of Coors Field), or visiting one of the MANY amazing museums.

For museums, my top recommendations are the Molly Brown House, Museo de las Americas, and the Denver Art Museum. However, if you want something totally unique – and a little vain – check out The Denver Selfie Museum.

Okay, so it’s not technically a museum (despite the name), but it’s actually a creative space where you can take fun and weird photos of yourself. Yeah, It’s the first place of its kind and is a great spot for any budding insta-stars out there.

In addition to being a foodie destination, Denver also has a long history with music and a vibrant modern music scene. So, if you can, try catching a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. In the summers this is one of the all-time best concert venues.

I mean, between the acoustics and the view, you’ll never want to leave.

Journey time: 6 – 6.5 hours, the quickest route is through Wyoming rather than Nebraska, it’s also the more scenic route.

Best places to stay in Denver, CO:

Budget: Tru By Hilton Denver South Park Meadows Midrange : Vīb Hotel by Best Western Denver RiNo

Luxury: The Ramble Hotel

Best places to eat in Denver, CO:

Yes, yes this list is longer than any other on this New York to Los Angeles road trip itinerary. But, look, I did warn you that Denver is basically a haven for foodies, and I am undeniably a foodie.

• El Taco de Mexico
• House of Bread
• Somebody People
• Twansburger
• Kaos Pizzeria
• The Wolf’s Tailor
• J’s Noodles Star Thai
• Bang Up To The Elephant!

Make sure you don’t get your fill of hiking in Denver because the next two destinations are ALL ABOUT exploring the great outdoors. And that’s mainly because next up on this drive from New York to Los Angeles is Moab, Utah.

In fact, it’s located along the Colorado River and is known for being a gateway to two of the country’s most iconic national parks: Canyonlands and Arches.

Additionally, there are multiple super cool and unique red rock formations nearby that are perfect for hiking and admiring – the most impressive of which is Corona Arch.

Oh, and did I mention the sunsets? Or, for that matter, the sunrises – but honestly, who’s awake for those? So, if you want to see some of the most stunning sunsets (or sunrises!) in the entire USA during your New York to Los Angeles road trip, then Moab is where you can make that happen.

Because this whole area is a nature lover’s dream. I mean, everywhere you turn you’ll come face-to-face with another next-level awesome hiking opportunity. Moab also happens to be home to one of the most popular mountain biking trails in the country, Slickrock Trail.

However, there are numerous other bike trails in the area, and even a few great spots for off-roading. One of the best is Hell’s Revenge, a treacherous 6.5-mile trail for 4×4 vehicles. And while this region is known for its striking red rock formations, that’s not all there is to see.

Therefore, spand an afternoon strolling along the boardwalk at the Scott M. Matheson Wetlands Preserve. After all, these wetlands are home to over 200 different species of birds, amphibians, and mammals.

For a touch of culture and history, stop by the Moab Museum to learn about the area (like how it was originally founded by Mormons) before hitting up Moab Giants interactive dinosaur park.

You can also take a hot air balloon ride above Canyonlands, go camping in the gorgeous Moab Valley, search for ancient petroglyphs, or go white water rafting down the Colorado River. Alternatively, check out the city’s street art and snap some photos for insta.

Honestly, though, this is really just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what to do in Moab, not to mention that you can easily spend multiple days exploring both arches and Canyonlands national parks.

So, on your New York to Los Angeles road trip, you really want to ensure you see as much of this beautiful region as possible. Therefore, spend at least 2-3 days in Moab to really soak it all in.

Journey time: 5.5 hours, but I recommend stopping off in Grand Junction for a meal and ONE glass of wine at The Winery Restaurant. Grand Junction is Colorado’s wine country, and one of the top wine destinations in the USA.

Best places to stay in Moab, UT:

Budget: Adventure Inn & Motel Midrange: Big Horn Lodge Luxury: Under Canvas Moab

Best places to eat in Moab, UT:

• Moab Kitchen
• Singha Thai Cuisine
• Pasta Jay’s

Grand Canyon, AZ

If this place doesn’t leave you speechless, you’re on the wrong Los Angeles to New York road trip, my friend! Because the Grand Canyon is world-famous for a reason. And I know for a fact that you have definitely heard of it!

Stretching for 277 miles along a path carved by the Colorado River, this colossal natural formation can get up to 18 miles wide and over 6,000 feet deep! As a result, it attracts over 5 million visitors annually. And you’ll be one of them!

Now, we know that the Grand Canyon is hella big. So, what’s the best way to hike through the region? Well, the most popular route for visitors is the South Rim Trail. At 13 miles long, this paved road stays pretty level, which makes it perfect for all skill and experience levels.

It also passes through some of the best viewpoints in the Grand Canyon, including Powell Point, Yavapai Point, and Mather Point. So, get ready to snap some super memorable selfies people!

For a less popular (and so less crowded) trail though, try the Hermit Trail in the South Rim. It’s only 5 miles in total, and is an out and back trail that starts near Santa Maria Spring.

On the North Rim (which is much less crowded and perfect if you hate crowds), the Widforss Point Trail is 10 miles long and will take you through some shaded wooded areas. And while it’s not for beginners, the view at Widforss Point is spectacular!

One thing to remember: if you’re taking your New York to Los Angeles road trip in the fall or the winter, be aware that the North Rim of the Grand Canyon closes during the winter, while the South Rim is open year-round.

Like with Mount Rushmore, there are some great roads to drive near the Grand Canyon as well. So, heading from Grand Canyon Village in the south towards the East Entrance will take you along 20 miles of highway with breathtaking views along the rim of the canyon.

Pro Tip: Be extra careful when standing near the edge of the canyon. Many parts of the canyon are undercut, and standing near the edge can be super dangerous unless you’re in a designated area.

Journey time: 5.5 – 6 hours to get to the southern end of the Grand Canyon (to get to the North Rim will take another 4+ hours)

Best places to stay near Grand Canyon, AZ :

Budget: Grand Canyon Inn Midrange: Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon, an IHG Hotel

Luxury : The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Best places to eat near Grand Canyon, AZ:

• Fred Harvey Burger
• Mazwik Pizza Pub
• Bright Angel Fountain

Las Vegas, NV

VEGAS, BABY!

Ok, glad I got that out of my system.

But it’s hard not to get excited about Las Vegas – it’s the entertainment capital of the world! The lights, the legends, the shows … the list goes on. Heck, even Elvis sang a song about how amazing it is! And you really can’t get any more iconic than that, y’all!

So let’s talk about the best things to do in Las Vegas! Of course, no trip to Vegas would be complete without heading to the Las Vegas Strip! Located on Las Vegas Boulevard, here you can find the greatest spectacles that this city has to offer.

From the dancing fountains of the Bellagio Hotel to the Caesars Palace Colosseum, the Allegiant Stadium and the Fabulous Las Vegas sign, this single stretch of road has enough pizazz to take your breath away!

And inside these glamorous buildings are glamorous performances from celebrity singers, magicians, and various other performers who have residencies here.

So, regardless of when you plan your New York to Los Angeles road trip, someone iconic will be lighting up the stage here as you pass through, guaranteed! But, Vegas is more than just one street. And just like its reputation, some of the things you can do here are larger than life!

For example, ever wanted to drive a Tonka truck? That’s right: those of us who played with toy bulldozers as kids can now have our dreams come true at Dig This!

Because just to the south of Las Vegas Boulevard you can find this sandbox playground for adults and teenagers, where you can drive real life-size excavators and bulldozers.

Now you too can dig trenches and stack giant tires to your heart’s content. Bet you didn’t expect to be able to do that in Vegas! Now, how long you stay in Las Vegas is obviously up to you. But, considering the draw of the casinos, it might be best not to spend more than 1 to 2 nights in sin city.

Journey time: 4.5 hours from the South Rim area of the Grand Canyon.

Best places to stay in Las Vegas, NV:

Budget: Bally’s Las Vegas Midrange: Platinum Hotel Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel

Best places to eat in Las Vegas, NV:

• Tacos El Gordo
• Peppermill Restaurant
• Gordon Ramsay Steak

Los Angeles, CA

You made it! You completed your New York to Los Angeles road trip and arrived at your final destination.

Now that you’re in Los Angeles, you can stay as long as you like (or are able). But, I recommend at least 5 days! After all, the City of Angels is the second-largest city in the USA.

And not only is it large, but it isn’t the easiest place to get around. In fact, LA traffic is a NIGHTMARE. So, what I’m saying is that you should leave yourself plenty of time to see this amazing city.

I mean, what even is the point of a New York to Los Angeles road trip if you’re not gonna at least enjoy Los Angeles for a bit? And once you get past the traffic and the smog, LA is pretty amazing. So what are the best things to do in Los Angeles?

Well, no trip to LA is complete with a walk down Hollywood Boulevard. This is where you’ll find the Walk of Fame and where you can see if you can find your favorite actors’ stars!

As an added bonus, this is one of the best free things to do in Los Angeles – and believe me, this city can get expensive. Luckily for you though, there are actually a lot of great free things to do. One of my favorites is the Griffith Observatory .

The observatory also pairs nicely with a hike up to the infamous Hollywood sign. The hike for the sign starts in the same parking lot, but heads in the opposite direction for about 3 miles.

If you’re not interested in the sign though, you can just visit the observatory on its own. Trust me, it really is a must since this place is home to some of THE best views of Los Angeles.

In fact, the view is particularly spectacular at night. But it’s not just about the view, make sure to pop into the actual observatory. You can stargaze in the planetarium or just learn a bit about space. And it’s totally free!

Other amazing things to do here include the Getty Center, the Mosaic Tile House, and The Japanese Garden. And, of course, you can’t forget about the LA beaches and incredible nightlife!

J ourney time: 4 – 5 hours, plan for traffic jams once you hit LA.

Best places to stay in Los Angeles, CA:

Budget: 8th and Ardmore – Hostel Midrange: Bluestem Hotel Torrance – Los Angeles, Ascend Hotel Collection Luxury: Luskin Hotel

Best places to eat in Los Angeles, CA:

• Better Than Sex – A Dessert Restaurant (obviously this is your girl’s fave LA restaurant)
• Crossroads Kitchen
• Eat This Cafe

New York To Los Angeles Road Trip FAQ

How long would it take to drive from new york to los angeles non stop.

The journey between New York and Los Angeles is a long one. You cover over 4,500 kilometers and it can take you around 40 hours to drive the route non stop. Since it is physically draining, it is not recommended to do this. 

Make sure you stop on the way for a good night sleep at the very least. I would recommend multiple stops along the way so that you can take in some of our country’s beautiful scenery.

What Is The Most Efficient Way To Get From New York To Los Angeles?

If you have the luxury of time then a road trip from New York To Los Angeles is definitely an experience. The bus will take long but it is still tiring even though you aren’t driving yourself. You will find that it lacks the fun experience that driving on your own offers.

Trains connect the two cities and it would take as much as 2+ days to reach. Flights on the other hand are the fastest and easiest way to travel.

Do You Get Jet Lag If You Fly From Los Angeles To New York?

Unfortunately you can get jet lag if you fly from Los Angeles to New York! I know. It sounds crazy to think about jetlag when you are flying within a country BUT you have to understand that you are flying across the country and the USA is huge. This trip is over 4500 km!

Map of this New York to Los Angeles Road Trip

Additional Resources You’ll Love

• Ultimate Maine Road Trip
• Best Gifts for a Road Tripper
• Best Road Trips from NYC

There you have it! That just about wraps up this epic guide to the ultimate New York to Los Angeles road trip itinerary.

Tell me, did your fave stops along the los angeles to new york road trip make the cut if not then let me know in the comments below., and if you found this post useful, don’t forget to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later.

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California to New York Road Trip: Discover National Parks, Vibrant Cities & Hidden Gems

Live Adventure Travel contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

The United States is one of the best countries in the world to go on an epic road trip. It is home to many diverse landscapes and within a matter of hours, you can go from being in an enchanting national park to a vibrant city. No matter what route you decide to take, one thing is for certain, you will be blown away by the beautiful scenery the US has to offer. In this post, we are going to highlight all the wonderful stops you should make if you are considering going on a California to New York Road Trip. But…before we dive deep into our US Road Trip itinerary I wanted to answer some important questions.

Should I go on a self-drive road trip or book an organised tour?

There are pros and cons to both. Going on a preorganised tour gives you a little more peace of mind. You will already have a good indication of how much money you are going to spend, you will have a prearranged itinerary to follow and you will more than likely make lifelong friends along the way.

If you are planning on booking a pre-organised road trip, I recommend checking out companies such as GA Adventures or the Travel Department to find a tour that best suits you. My road trip across America was part of an organised tour with Trek America who sadly is no longer trading, however, it was a trip of a lifetime. I couldn’t recommend group travel more.

However, with that being said, if I was to do the trip for a second time I’d likely rent a car . Purley because I would like to have a little more freedom to stop and start when I want.

How long does Driving from California to New York take?

If you put the drive from California (LA) to New York directly into Google it estimates it would take around 41 hours of non-stop driving.

Of course, this does not take into consideration, gas stops, sleep, food and toilet breaks.

It would take 2,789 miles to drive from one coast to the other.

To be honest, if your goal is to get there quickly I’d advise booking a flight. It would work out much quicker and cheaper in the long run.

You can check out competitive flight prices with Skyscanner .

How much time do I need to go on a Los Angeles to New York Road Trip?

Ideally, to make the most of the trip I would advise spending 3/4 weeks stopping off at all the major highlights and some hidden gems. This particular road trip itinerary will take 26 days. It can however be adapted to suit each individual person, there is a lot of time dedicated to California and New York. Those who are stuck for time could reduce the days spent in these areas.

What is a Better Route? New York to LA or LA to New York?

Honestly, I don’t think it really matters. At the end of the day, you will still get to opportunity to see the same epic locations.

I would go with whatever option is easiest for you. Check the rental car prices on both ends and how much the return flight will cost. That way you can make the most cost-effective decision.

I personally started my coast to coast road trip in New York. And, due to the success of the post, I decided to reverse my itinerary to help those who want to start in California.

Both routes are equally as beautiful!

What should I budget for my Los Angeles to New York Road Trip?

It is almost impossible for me to answer this question as it always comes down to individual circumstances. For example, on my road trip, I spent around $3,500 dollars in total. Which is incredibly cheap for a trip of this kind. However, I booked a prearranged tour which was around 2,500, which included the cost of most food, accommodation, some activities and gas. I went on a budget-friendly trip, I made most of my own food, camped or stayed in hostels and drank a limited amount of alcohol. The budget for a US road trip can range anywhere from $160 dollars a day to $300 a day depending on your preference.

What should I pack for a LA to New York Road Trip?

Packing for a road trip is never an easy task, that is why I have created this in-depth packing guide to ensure you don’t forget anything. I will however list the essentials down below.

• Waterproof Jacket
• Hiking Boots  (<- my favourite brand)
• A Day Bag  (<- Also my favourite)
• A torch/Headlight  (for hiking)
• Travel First Aid Kit
• Water Bottle  (The Tap Water is Drinkable)
• Camera  (Essential)
• A Rucksack ( Women / Men )

California to New York Road Trip Itinerary

Ok, so before we dive deep into the itinerary. I just wanted to note that some of the stops mentioned are only suited for the Spring and Summer months as the roads are closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall and ice. For those of you from LA, I recommend skipping days 1-3 as they feature things to do in the Los Angeles area.

Day 1: Santa Monica & Venice

The first stop on our road trip is the beautiful seaside areas of Santa Monica and Venice.

Santa Monica is a beautiful beachside town famous for being the backdrop for many movies and films. Spend the morning going for a stroll along the beach and checking out the amusements on the pier.

If you like shopping then I’d advise taking a walk towards Santa Monica Boulevard for some retail therapy.

I’d then advise walking along the pier towards Muscle Beach. This is basically an outdoor gymnasium. It is common to see incredibly fit people training along the beachfront.

A little further down the boardwalk lies Venice. A hipster-like area with crafty shops and businesses. My favourite part about Venice is the canals, just like in Italy. This is a lovely spot to go for a walkabout and watch the sunset.

Day 1: Highlights

• Santa Monica Beach, Boardwalk & Amusements
• Santa Monica Boardwalk for retail therapy
• Muscel Beach
• Venice Beach & Canals

Where to Stay in Santa Monica?

For the first three days of our LA to New York Road Trip, we are going to base ourselves in the Los Angeles area. Therefore, it is a good idea to find one area you want to stay in for the 3-day duration. Santa Monica/Venice is the perfect spot in my opinion. Below are some accommodation options for all budgets.

Budget-Friendly Option: HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel  (My Favourite Hostel Chain in the States)

Mid-Range Option: SureStay Hotel by Best Western

High-End Option: Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Day 2: Disneyland or Universal Studios

Day two of our US Road Trip is all about that movie magic. Choose between a trip to Disneyland or Hollywood Studios.

I have been to both, and…This is coming from a big Disney Buff…but…if I had to choose between the two. I’d choose Universal. Gasp! I know. I feel like I am betraying Disney or something.

But… Universal Studios Hollywood offers two very cool and unique experiences.

The first being, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You quite literally feel like you are walking around the movie set. It is so cool. The rides are also top-notch for any adrenaline junkies out there.

Built into the price of the Universal ticket is the World Famous Studio Tour . You get to go backstage and experience the sets of real-life movies and tv shows. Besides, you never know who you might see. You can book your tickets here .

For those leaning towards a trip to Disneyland, I recommend the California Adventure park for those who love rides and attractions and the main Disneyland park for those looking to experience so Disney Magic (this is the one with Sleeping Beauty’s Castle).

Day 3: Hollywood & LA

There is so much to see and do in the Hollywood area that it would be hard to sum it all up in one short paragraph.

I am going to highlight some of my favourite experiences to help you choose how to spend the day.

The first would be a hike up to see the iconic Hollywood Sign. There are three different trails that range in difficulty. You can find out more information about each here .

Another great spot to visit is the Griffith Observatory. The walk from the parking lot takes about 20 minutes to complete and offers insane views of the Los Angeles Skyline.

One of my favourite ‘Hollywood’ experiences is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour . As part of this experience, you have the chance to walk around the sets of iconic films and shows such as Friends, Gilmore Girls and Pretty Little Liars. The set is used every day for productions so you never know who you may see as you walk around. It is honestly one of the best experiences I did on my trip to LA. You can book your ticket here .

If you like getting a few Insta Worthy snaps, then I’d consider taking a trip down towards Melrose Avenue. Here you can capture some pictures with the famous LA Walls .

To end the day, I’d recommend making your way to Hollywood Boulevard and going for a stroll along the Walk of Fame. Now, if I am being honest, ‘Hollywood’ is not as glamorous as it is made seem online. However, it is certainly an experience to tick off the bucket list at least once.

Day 3: Highlights

• Hike to the Hollywood Sign
• Griffith Observatory Viewpoint
• Warner Bros Studio Tour
• LA’s Famous Instagram Walls
• Hollywood Boulevard

Day 4: Long Drive Day Via Big Sur

Throughout our road trip from California to New York, we are going to have a few days that I will refer to a ‘Drive Days’. This is inevitable when road trippin’ a country as big as the United States.

The fourth day is the first Drive Day of our trip and I recommend waking up early. We need to make our way from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

Luckily, there is a beautiful coastal route that takes up a large portion of the drive. This is known as the Big Sur.

The Big Sur is a 90-mile coastal drive that runs along California’s Pacific Coast.

The coastal section of the drive takes about 4 hours to complete and is home to many wonderful viewpoints and towns.

A little prior warning, cell phone service is limited in some areas along the drive. So, if you are relying on google maps to guide the way it may be best to download the maps before your journey.

There are so many wonderful places to stop and explore along the Pacific Coast. Below are some of the Big Sur Highlights . As the drive is rather long it will not be possible to fit them all in in one day. Unless you decide to stay the night.

• The Iconic McWay Falls
• Pfeiffer Beach
• The famous Bixby Creek Bridge
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• Carmel-by-the-Sea Town (Good Stop Off for some food)

The Drive to San Francisco via the Big Sur takes around 8 hours without stops. As it is a long drive day it is best to get a good night sleep and not be tempted to go out and explore San Francisco that night.

Los Angeles to San Fran Drive Duration: 8 Hours

Places to stay in San Francisco for all Budgets

Budget-Friendly Option: HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel (I stayed here and the location is perfect and it is a great spot for solo travellers or those looking to make new friends)

Budget-Friendly Hotel Option: Hotel Majestic (Tripadvisors to find the Best Price)

Mid Range Option: The Westin St. Francis ( Find the Best Price Here ) (I also stayed here, it’s in a prime location, Union Square. The building is historic and a lovely spot to walk around. They also have a ballroom-style room up the top that boasts an insane view of Union Square down below).

Luxury Option: San Francisco Proper Hotel ( Check Prices )

Day 5/6: San Francisco

Next, we are going to spend 2 days in San Francisco. One of the most iconic cities in the US.

There is so much to see and do in that I have made a detailed guide on how to spend 2 days in San Francisco .

I’d highly recommend taking a trip out to Alcatraz Island. A little bit of prior warning, this trip books out weeks in advance so it is best to book now to avoid disappointment.

Another great activity to take part in is the San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise. Here, you get the opportunity to see San Fran from a whole new perspective.

And if you are lucky you will also be treated to an epic sunset. It was by far one of my favourite activities from my trip to the Golden City. Check tour prices here .

San Francisco Highlights:

• Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
• Lombard Street
• Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
• Sunset Cruise
• The Painted Ladies
• Alcatraz Island

Day 7: Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite

Day 8: Yosemite

On the eighth day of our Los Angeles to New York drive, we will make our way to Yosemite National Park. The park is a 3/4 hour drive from San Francisco.

Yosemite is one of the most iconic National Park in the country and a must-add to any US itinerary !

I have a detailed blog post on how to best spend 2 days in Yosemite for those of you who would like to read a more detailed guide.

I recommend spending the first day exploring Tenaya Lake, Olmsted Point and Tuolumne Grove Trailhead.

The second day is one for hiking. I personally enjoy the Mist Trail, there are, however, many wonderful trails to choose from.

I recommend spending the evening driving around the park, stopping at some of the iconic viewpoints such as Tunnel View. Just be mindful, that traffic throughout the park can get heavy, especially when there is wildlife obstructing the way. It is important to be extra cautious when driving.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Budget-Friendly Option:  Yosemite Lakes Thousand Trails Preserve (This is where I camped, the location is perfect and ideal for those on a budget)

Lodge Option:  Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

Cottage Option:  Homestead Cottages

Great Deal Option:  Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite

Day 9: Drive from Yosemite to Tahoe

The ninth day of our road trip starts with a journey to Lake Tahoe. It will take around 4 and a half hours to reach Yosemite National

Day 10: Lake Tahoe

The 10th day of our California to New York Road Trip brings us to the beautiful shores of Lake Tahoe.

This is a wonderful place to spend the day relaxing! It’s important to give yourself some well earned ‘Day’s Off’.

Sometimes we forget to factor in some downtime while travelling.

I recommend spending the morning by the lake, admiring the views of the crystal clear emerald water or maybe even going for a swim.

In the evening time, why not chance your arm at some watersports. I went parasailing over the lake and it was one of the best experiences from the trip.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

The Lake Tahoe area is actually rather big and expands between two states, California and Nevada. I stayed on the South Side of the Lake which is located in Cali. Below are an example of places to stay.

Budget-Friendly Option: Blue lake Inn @ Heavenly Village ( Check Prices Here )

Mid Range Option: Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa (This one opens out onto the lake <3) ( Find the Best Price Here )

Luxury Option: The Landing Resort and Spa (Check Prices)

Day 11: Drive Day Via Twin Falls

The 11th day of our Coast to Coast road trip is a long drive day. I’d advise waking up super early and hitting the road.

We will be driving to Jackson Hole in Wyoming. This is one of the longest drives of the trip, taking 12 hours in total.

I’d recommend making a few stops along the way. Including a break at the beautiful Twin Falls in Idaho.

Now, don’t let this long drive deter you as Jackson Hole is the gateway to two iconic National Parks, Grand Teton and Yellowstone .

Where to stay in Jackson Hole

Budget-Friendly Option:  Jackson Hole KOA Campsite  (Where I stayed)

Mid Range Option:  49’er Inn & Suites

High-End Option:  Snow King Resort

Luxury Option:  SpringHill Suites

Day 12: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is a wonderful town that boasts insane views of the beautiful Teton Range. It’s located in the state of Wyoming, which is regarded as one of the US friendliest states .

It is also the perfect spot for all those Adrenaline Junkies out there as it is home to a range of adventure activities.

On my trip to Jackson Hole, I went White Water Rafting along the Snake River. It was one of the highlights of my US Road Trip. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking to spice up their itinerary.

If white water rafting is a little too adventurous for your liking they do also offer raft cruises minus the intense rapids. These tours are great for those wanting to take in the area’s beauty from the waterfront.

Following a fun morning, I recommend heading back to your accommodation for a quick shower before spending the night on the town.

Every evening Jacksonhole put on a Cow Boy Shoutout performance. Which is extremely entertaining.

I would also recommend checking out the Million Dollar Cowboy for some drinks afterwards. Don’t drink too much though as day 13 is a good one 😉

Luxury Option:  SpringHill Suites

Day 13: Grand Teton

The 13th day of our California to New York Road Trip takes us to the breathtaking, Grand Teton National Park.

And while it is possible to spend weeks exploring the beauty of the park. We only have one day so it is best to wake up bright and early to make the most of it.

I recommend spending most of your day exploring and hiking around String and Jenny Lake.

I have a detailed guide on how to best spend one day in Grand Teton for those looking for more information. Please be mindful, for the Grand Teton Itinerary to fit in with our road trip it is best to reverse it.

Where to stay in Grand Teton

Once you have finished exploring the park I’d recommend making your way back to Jackson for the night. As the next stop is Yellowstone and accommodation options are limited on the Teton of the park.

Day 14/15: Yellowstone

Next, we are going to spend 2 days in Yellowstone , one of the most iconic National Parks in the US.

There are so many wonderful things to see and do in the park.

I recommend waking up nice and early in order to fit in as much as possible.

Yellowstone is a short drive from Jackson Hole. I do, however, recommend booking accommodation in West Yellowstone for day 14.

On the 15th day, I recommend looking for places to stay in Cody, a town located on the outskirts of the park. Below is a list of places for all budgets in both locations.

Where to stay in Yellowstone

Camping Option:  Grant Village Campground  (Where I Stayed)

Glamping Option: Wander Camp Yellowstone ( Check Prices & Reviews Here )

Mid-Range Option: Gray Wolf Inn & Suites ( Compare Prices )

High End (locations perfect) Option:  Old Faithful Inn

Where to Stay in Cody

Camping Option:  Cody KOA campsite (Where I stayed)

B&B Option:  Robins Nest Bed & Breakfast

Mid-Range Option:  Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites

Day 16: Drive Day via Devils Tower

After spending two exciting days exploring Yellowstone you are going to be feeling rather tired.

I’d recommend, taking it easy in the morning time. Perhaps have a lie on in bed before check out and then go for a walk around Cody.

Once you are ready it is time to hit the road towards Devils Tower.

The drive is just over five hours long. If you arrive with time to spare I recommend going for a walk around Devils Tower.

The tower is a composed igneous rock formation located in the Black Hills region in Wyoming.

The walk is 1.3 miles long and takes about 45minutes to complete. While it is not overly difficult it can be steep for a short period.

Where to Stay at Devils Tower

Devils Tower is in a rather remote location. I camped right beside the iconic landmark in the Devils Tower KOA . This is a lovely spot that overlooks the rock formation from the campsite. It also has fantastic facilities like clothes washing stations (at a fee), a swimming pool, a movie projector and hot showers. We will be exploring Mount Rushmore and Badlands the following day so I have highlighted some alternative places to stay in the Black Hills Region down below.

Where to stay in the Black Hills Region

Budget-Friendly Option:  Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins

Great Location:  Ramada by Wyndham Keystone  (Near Mountain Rushmore)

Cabin Option: Powder House Lodge

Day 17: Mount Rushmore & Badlands National Park

Next, on our LA to NY Road Trip is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of the United States. And that is Mount Rushmore.

I recommend getting there early as it gets extremely busy throughout the day. It is free to visit the monument, however, at the time of writing, parking costs $5.

Nearby Mount Rushmore lies the Crazy Horse memorial. While this is a popular site among tourists. I’d advise giving it a skip, I personally don’t believe the attraction is worth the entrance fee.

Instead, continue on along the road toward the striking Badlands National Park. There are so many wonderful viewpoints and hikes in Badlands to explore.

Where to stay in Badlands

I stayed in the Badlands and White River KOA  and witnessed one of the craziest nights of the trip. In the late evening where were faced with a storm that caused bursts of rain showers and sheet lightning. Due to the red rocks surrounding the campsite, the sky was lit up in a dusty red colour. It was truly remarkable, we then witnessed a breathtaking sunset and night sky perfect for stargazing. I’d high recommend staying in Badlands and White River KOA if you plan on camping.

Mid-Range Option 1: Best Western Plains Motel

Mid-Range Option 2: Americas Best Value Inn Wall

Day 18: Drive/Relax Day (Lake Okoboji)

The 18th day depends on whether you would like to take a rest day. If so, I recommend spending the morning exploring some more of Badlands National Park. Before hitting the road towards Lake Okoboji for a rest along the water. This is a 5-hour drive and the perfect place to spend some downtime. I recommend camping at Gull Point State Park Campground .

Alternatively, You could drive straight to the next destination which is the iconic city of Chicago. This drive will take just over 12 hours to complete, and require an early start.

Day 19/20: Chicago

The next 2 days will be spent exploring all there is to do in Chicago .

Take some time to check out some of the cities iconic landmarks such as the Big Bean, Buckingham Fountain and Lake Michigan.

A trip up to Willis Tower’s Sky Deck is a must for anyone looking to view the city from a rather scary/high perspective.

I’d also highly advise exploring the city by electric bike . This is one of my favourite memories from my trip to Chicago. Such a fun and alternative way to see the major sites.

For dinner buy some world-famous Chicago  deep-dish  pizza pie. I have never tasted anything like it <3 It was D-E-L-IOUS.

And finally, if time allows, I recommend booking tickets to a cubs game, the atmosphere is amazing and super fun. Even, like me, you have no clue how baseball works 😂

Top Things to do in Chicago:

• Willis Tower Sky Deck
• See the Big Bean
• Go to a CUBS game
• Bobby’s Bike Tour  (One of the BEST things to do in Chicago)
• Walk the waterfront
• Buckingham Fountain
• Deep Dish Pizza

Day 21: Shipshewana & Cedar Point

Next, it is time to leave the craziness of Chicago behind and head to the next location which is Cedar Point in Sandusky Ohio.

This drive will take just over 5 hours to complete. I advise stopping in a small town called Shipshewana along the way.

The town is home to many of those from the Amish community. I will explain the wonderful experience I had here, a little later in the post.

Cedar Point is an amusement park that offers an evening ticket. Unfortunely, on my trip we were faced with a storm and most of the rides were closed. We decided to stay in and relax for the night instead. However, fingers crossed that is not the case on your trip. You can book your tickets here .

My experience in Shipshewana:

As I was passing by my friends and I stopped in a local park for a bite to eat. There, we had the opportunity to talk with a local Amish family.

I must admit it was one of my favourite moments from my trip to the states. The mainstream media often portray those from the Amish Community as ‘weird’ or ‘odd’. However, this was the last thing I thought after leaving Shipshewana.

Yes, the Amish live different lifestyles to modern-day Americans, however, they were some of the kindest people I met on my travels.

I was on my road trip with 13 solo travellers from around the world. The family was blown away that we had all met through an organised tour and didn’t know each other 4 days prior.

We spent around 2 hours exchanging stories and teaching each other about our cultures. It was honestly a lovely experience, one I will never forget. And, yes, I needed my American/English friends to translate for my strong Irish accent 😂

Where I Stayed in Sandusky

Budget-Friendly Place to Camp: Sandusky KOA Campground (I stayed in the little cabins to wait out the storm. They are perfect for families or a small group of friends).

Where else to Stay in Sandusky

Budget-Friendly Option: South Shore Inn

Mid Range/Budget Option: Cedar Point’s Express Hotel

Mid Range/Budget Option 2: Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Day 22/23: Niagara Falls

The next stop on Los Angels to New York Road Trip is the AMAZING Niagara Falls!

Now, this is a stop you don’t wanna skip. These falls are even more mighty in person than in the iconic pictures.

The drive from Sandusky to Niagara takes just over 4 hours to complete. Once you arrive I recommend checking into your accommodation for the night. Then, head for a stroll along one of the most famous attractions in North America.

At night, the falls are illuminated with a beautiful firework display. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience.

The following morning wake up bright and early to jump on board the Maid of the Mist tour . This is a must for anyone visiting the iconic Niagara Falls. The tour allows you to get up close and personal with the mighty falls. Just be prepared to get soaked.

Following the boat tour, I recommend walking around the grounds of Niagara Falls, taking them in from every viewpoint.

Places to Stay at Niagara Falls

Camping Option:  Niagara Falls KOA Campsite  (Where I Stayed)

Great Deal Option:  DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Niagara Falls New York

Swimming Pool Option:  Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

Day 24: Drive to NYC

Day 24 is our last Drive Day of the trip, jump in the car nice and early and head toward the famous New York City. The drive from Niagara Falls will take around 7 hours to complete so I recommend stopping off a few times throughout the journey. It is also a good idea to download an epic road trip playlist for the ride.

Where to stay in New York

Budget-Friendly Option:  HI NYC Hostel

Great Deal Option:  Radisson Hotel New York Wall Street

High-End Option:  Fairfield Inn & Suites

Luxury Option:  Royalton Park Avenue

Day 26/30: New York City

The final stop on our New York to California Road Trip is none other than The Big Apple itself.

I recommend spending, 3 to 4 days exploring one of the worlds most famous cities.

And, don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back, because you just made it to the other coast <3

If you are looking for the top things to do in NYC, then I advise checking out my in-depth New York Travel Guide .

It is full of the top tourist attractions, hidden gems and I may even tell you how you can see a TV show tapping for FREE !

California to New York Road Trip Map

Thank you so much for reading. I hope this helps you with planning your California to New York Road Trip. Below is a map of all the stops mentioned above.

Check out a full video trailer of my US Coast to Coast Road Trip

I documented my US Road Trip starting in New York over on my youtube channel. If you would like to catch a glimpse of all the wonderful places you will get to see be sure to check it out.

Disclaimer: Please note that some blog posts on LiveAdventureTravel contain affiliate links, meaning I may make a commission on purchases through those links. This is of course at no extra cost to you.

Live Adventure Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

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Road Trip New York to California – Epic Cross-Country Routes With Essential Stops

When it comes to road trips, the best of the best has to be taking a road trip from New York to California. This is a major bucket list item, and there’s no better time to make the trip than now.

Some people hesitate to do it as a family, but honestly, there’s no reason to wait. Think of it as an epic gift you can give to your kids! They’ll be seeing the country from coast to coast, stopping at some of the major cities and landmarks and undertaking one of the greatest road trips in America !

From toddlers to teens, this is totally a trip that everyone can do.

Distance from New York to California

If you drew a straight line from New York City to California, it would measure about 2,500 miles.

However, depending on your cross-country driving route and final destination, this calculation changes a lot. Here are the measurements for the killer NY to California road trips we’ve mapped out for you.

Route 1 – Most Direct Route

If you’re worried about making a wrong turn, this route is the simplest. All you have to do is stay on I-80 West for nearly the entire trip. You‘ll clock 2,906 miles going through major cities like Chicago, Des Moines, and Salt Lake City. Arriving in San Francisco, you’ll have clocked 2,906 miles. 

Route 2 – Scenic Route 66

To get the true classic Route 66 experience, you’ll head from NY to Chicago , and then it’s the Classic Route 66 the rest of the way. You’ll pass through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. The full distance covered is 2,929 miles, finishing with the end of the road in Santa Monica, California.

How Long Do I Need Driving New York To California

The amount of time it will take you to drive across the country really depends on what you plan to do. If you need to get there ASAP, you could do the drive in just over 40 hours without stopping. So, yes, it’s doable. But it’s not advised. Especially on a family road trip, who wants to be cooped up in a car for 40+ hours straight? Not me. 

There’s so much to see and enjoy in this great country that it’s more likely you’ll want to stop along the way, check out the sights, and let everyone stretch their legs. A good rule of thumb would be to average five to seven hours of driving a day. 

Realistically, a New York to California road trip, no matter the route, should be done over the course of at least a week. The best family road trip, coast to coast, could take about 3 weeks. This way, you can spend quality time in great cities and explore national parks and the gorgeous American landscape. 

Best Time Of Year To Drive New York To California

One of the great things about the US is the variety of terrain and climates. So when planning a road trip from New York to California, the time of year must be taken into consideration. 

The spring and fall are some of the best times to travel by car. You’ll avoid extreme temperatures, the likelihood of winter storms, and the summer crowds. It also means you can see the full bloom of springtime or the fabulous fall foliage. 

It goes without saying that you should always check the weather and be prepared for the unexpected. This could also mean taking a different route.   

Best Stops On A New York to California Road Trip

The best driving route from New York to California has to be following I-80 West. It’s the most direct route. It’s easy to follow, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. It’s a nice drive, but it’s not as scenic as Route 2- Scenic Route 66 mapped out below.

New York City

Beginning this epic cross-country road trip, the starting point is the one and only Big Apple. You’re setting off to see this great country, but it’s only right that you enjoy The City first. 

Some of the coolest things in NYC are taking a stroll along the Highline and walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. Families with little ones will love Central Park , where there are several cool playgrounds and even a zoo.

Seeing a show on Broadway and checking out Times Square is always a favorite activity. NYC museums are among the best in the world. Kids especially love seeing the dinos at the Natural History Museum .

Cleveland, Ohio

Heading west on I-80, you’ll put NYC behind with the destination set for Cleveland, Ohio. Traveling through the beautiful Pennsylvania landscape, you’ll cover nearly 470 miles when you arrive in Ohio’s capital. 

You could easily fill several days in Cleveland with fun things for the whole family. Set on the shores of Lake Erie, the waterfront is the setting for activities. Depending on the season, you could spend the day on the water or enjoy dinner lakeside. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is perfect for outdoor adventure right in the city itself. 

Kids will love places like the Great Lakes Science Center , Cleveland Museum of Natural History , and Cedar Point Amusement Park. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a must-do, no matter how old you are. 

Leaving Cleveland, hop on I-90 West to get to Chicago, the next destination on this epic road trip. 

Chicago, Illinois

Welcome to Chi-town, the third largest city in the country and the next major stop on your coast-to-coast road trip. There are tons of things to see and do in this great city, as well as nearby scenic drives in Illinois to easily make this more than just an overnight stop. 

Definitely plan to spend a few days exploring the city. Make sure major sights like Millenium Park , home to “The Bean,” and the Art Institute of Chicago are on the itinerary. The city’s filled with world-class restaurants and entertainment. To get a bird’s eye view, head to the Skydeck at the top of Willis Tower. 

There are so many things to do with kids in Chicago, no matter the time of year. It’s easy to pack the itinerary with things like the Children’s Museum , Lincoln Park Zoo , Shedd Aquarium , and kayaking the Chicago River. 

Pro Tip : You’ll be switching time zones just before reaching Chicago (Illinois is on CST/CDT). So, keep this in mind for anything you plan to do or see in Chi-town.

Des Moines, Iowa

Leaving Chicago, I-80 West once again becomes your principal road to Des Moines, Iowa’s capital, and the next stop on this cross-country road trip. 

Checking out the impressive Iowa State Capitol is a definite must when in town. You can easily pick up provisions at the Downtown Farmers’ Market, considered one of the best in the country. Kids of all ages will love spending time at Adventureland Park and seeing the animals at the Blank Park Zoo. 

If you’re traveling cross country by RV , you’ll be set in the capital of the Hawkeye state. You’ll find a bunch of RV parks to choose from, including Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground in Altoo and Sleepy Hollow RV Park & Campground in Oxford.

With time to spare in your itinerary, take the Western Skies Scenic Byway, one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Iowa as an alternative to following the I-80 the whole way.

Scottsbluff, Nebraska

The truth is that it’s a long haul from Des Moines to Salt Lake City. So, to break up the drive, you’ll want to stop off somewhere along the way. There are tons of little towns along I-80 to choose from, but the best place has to be Scottsbluff, Nebraska.

It’s almost exactly at the halfway point between the two cities, and it’s got fun things to do for the whole family. 

Definitely plan to visit Scotts Bluff National Monument and its landmark for Many People. Here you’ll be able to explore the jaw-dropping landscape on foot or on a scenic drive through Nebraska . You can also learn about the area’s history, including its importance to native peoples and pioneers on the Oregon Trail. 

Pro-Tip: There are several places to stay in Scottsbluff, including Captain Critter’s year-round RV Park . Just before Scottsbluff, you’ll switch from Central to Mountain Time Zones.  

Salt Lake City, Utah

The next major stop on the trip is Salt Lake City . This fabulous city is a major destination all on its own and lucky for us, it’s on the most direct route from NY to Cali. Located about 8 hours from Scottsbluff, the whole family will be happy to get out of the car and explore.

Families with younger kids will love the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum , Loveland Living Planet Aquarium , Clark Planetarium , and the Hogle Zoo . 

Everyone will love to get into nature in Salt Lake. There are so many places to pick from, like Sugar House Park, This is the Place Heritage Park, and Great Salt Lake Park. 

Truckee & Lake Tahoe, California

The next stop on this cross-country road trip is Truckee and Lake Tahoe, California. Known worldwide, this beautiful area is full of outdoor adventure year-round. Even Mark Twain said, “To breathe the same air as angels, you must go to Tahoe.”

Tahoe National Forest, Lake Tahoe, and the Sierra provide awesome things to do any time of year. During the summer you will be living it up on the water and hiking the magnificent mountain range. Winter sports are in high gear in Lake Tahoe . So, you can be skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling for days. 

When considering where to stay, Truckee is perfect. It’s right off I-80, and there are tons of places to stay, including campgrounds with RV parks like Truckee River RV Park and Coachland RV Park .

Pro Tip: As you cross the border from Utah into Nevada, remember to switch your clock. You’ll be in the Pacific Time Zone for the remainder of the trip.

• If you’re not desperate to hit the coast at this point, spare some time to drop down from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite to enjoy even more of the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains

San Francisco, California

Yes, Truckee and Lake Tahoe are in California, but this epic NY to California road trip ends with the final destination of San Francisco . So, carry on to the coast!

The Bay Area has so many fun things to do no matter what your family makeup. No trip to San Fran is complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge or riding the cable car. 

Get out into the beauty of the redwoods in Muir Woods. Make sure to book your reservation (parking and entrance fee) for Muir Woods in advance at gomuirwoods.com . The good news for families with little ones, kids 15 and under are free.  

Everyone will have fun at Pier 39. It’s where you’ll find the Aquarium of the Bay and rides, including a carousel and roller coaster. 

The classic cross country road trip known around the world is one on the classic Route 66. It’s the best route if you’re looking for the best scenic New York to California drive. 

When it was created in 1926 by the Bureau of Public Roads, it was the first of its kind. Connecting Chicago and Los Angeles, it created a public road through America’s Southwest.  Today, much of the original road has been replaced by I-40. So, you’ll be following the path of the historic Route 66, even if the road sign reads something different. 

The beginning of this scenic cross-country road trip has the same path as Route 1–Most Direct Route mapped out above.

Leaving New York , you’ll head west on I-80 passing through Cleveland and Chicago. After Chi-town, head south on I-55 in the direction of St. Louis, Missouri, the next stop on this NY to California scenic road trip. Although the signs might read something different, at this point, you’re on good old Route 66.

St. Louis, Missouri

Driving from New York to California, one of the most iconic structures is the Gateway Arch of St. Louis – The symbol of America’s expansion west. So, of course, you have to make a stop to see it. But St. Louis should be more than just a quick stop. Instead, you should plan to spend time there and enjoy the city. 

Families with kids will love interacting with the fountains at City Garden on a warm day. Union Station is fun for kids of all ages. It has a carousel, mini golf, and even a 3D light show. A special treat is a visit to the Butterfly House in the Missouri Botanic Gardens, where kids 3-5 enjoy a reduced rate. Picking up things for the trip at the Soulard Farmers Market is a great idea. 

• We have more ideas for interesting scenic drives around St Louis and Missouri

After St. Louis, you’ll follow I-44 West in the direction of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Tulsa & Clinton, Oklahoma

Oklahoma is where you’ll find the most significant stretches of road that are the original Route 66. So, you’ll love the drive along this leg of the trip. 

Tulsa is a great next stop after St. Louis. It’s a bustling city with fun things for families. You can stretch your legs in the beautiful Woodward Park. If you want to be adventurous, take the kids to Gathering Place in South Tulsa. For educational fun, check out the Tulsa Air and Space Museum or the Tulsa Zoo. 

As you wind your way through Oklahoma , definitely make a stop at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton, Oklahoma. You’re in the process of traveling this iconic road, so why not learn more about it at the museum?

Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo has one of the coolest things you’ll see along Route 66. The Cadillac Ranch is a unique art installation where cars covered in graffiti are buried in the ground so that they stand straight up. It’s something you just need to see to believe. 

When traveling Route 66, it makes sense to stop by the Route 66–Sixth Street Historic District in Amarillo. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat. 

Get out of the car and into nature at the Palo Duro Canyon State Park. There you can take a hike and even cross the canyon on a zipline.  

If you’re traveling by RV, you should definitely consider visiting the Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum in Amarillo. It’s super interesting for adults and kids alike.  

• We have more ideas here for unique places you could add to your itinerary through Texas

Pro Tip: Remember to switch your clock to Mountain Standard Time when you enter New Mexico .

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is the next major stop on this New York to California drive. After a 5+ hour drive from Amarillo, it’s the perfect place to stay for a bit. This great city has a ton of things to do that involve the beautiful outdoors and diverse culture of Albuquerque. 

For fun in the great outdoors, ride the tram at Sandia Peak to soar over the landscape, check out the Biological Park, or head to the Petrified National Forest. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a great place to expand your understanding of Native Americans. You’ll see artwork and can even buy traditional foods. 

An absolute must is visiting Old Town Albuquerque. Dating back to 1709, it has been a major part of the city for centuries. Here, you’ll love seeing the adobe architecture and grabbing a bite at any of the great restaurants. 

On the drive from Albuquerque to Flagstaff, Route 66 runs straight through Winslow, Arizona. It’s a great little place where you can get out and stretch your legs a bit.

Classic Rock fans will love checking out the corner mentioned in the classic song “Take it Easy” by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey. You can also check out the Meteor Crater in Winslow.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Here it is, Flagstaff, Arizona–The last major stop on your road trip from New York to California. This stop is absolutely awesome. It’s from here that you can visit the Grand Canyon . You’ll want to dedicate a whole day to visiting the Grand Canyon, so it’s best to plan a couple of days in Flagstaff.

Flagstaff itself is a great place for families. You can ride a lift at Snowbowl, hike Red Mountain, or venture underground at the Lava River Cave. Lowell Observatory is always a treat, no matter how old you are. 

Departing Flagstaff, you’re again headed west on I-40 toward LA. You’ll drive straight through the Mojave National Preserve, so why not get out and explore the beautiful landscape? 

Pro Tip: Crossing the border into California, remember to switch to Pacific Standard Time.

Santa Monica, California

Welcome to California and the great city of Los Angeles. Actually, to be more precise, Route 66 technically ends in Santa Monica.

You’ll have an incredible time exploring Santa Monica and LA County. Of course, dipping your toes in the sand and breathing in the ocean air is a generous reward for undertaking this epic New York to California road trip. 

Definitely make sure to enjoy the Santa Monica Pier and ride all the rides, like the iconic Ferris wheel. It’s also here that you must take a photo of the “End of Road” sign that signals the end point of Route 66.

More Tips for Road Tripping New York to California

• Can’t decide which route to take on your road trip from New York to California? You can do them both. Follow one from New York to California and the other on the way back. 
• When traveling during the winter months , make sure to have all-wheel drive or chains in your car. When conditions are icy or snowy, roads may require either of these. 
• Traveling coast to coast means you’ll be crossing time zones. Make sure to know at what point in the trip the zones switch. Remember that when cell phone service is spotty, it might not switch the time automatically for you. For more information, check out the National Institute for Standards and Technology .
• For up-to-date weather conditions and alerts from the US Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration , dial 511 in most states. Some states tweet road conditions via the state’s Department of Transportation. So, consider following ones like New York State DOT @nysdot.
• Many states also have websites dedicated to real-time traffic alerts. Check out ones like 511pa.com for Pennsylvania and az511.com for Arizona.
• Never forget an important road trip item again! Check out our road trip essentials checklist for a printable PDF.

© Family Road Trip 2024

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Ultimate Road Trip Through California: A Detailed Itinerary

Author: Destinations.ai · Updated on: September 10, 2024

Planning a California road trip? You’re in for an adventure! California offers such a mix of sights and activities that your itinerary can satisfy every type of traveler. From the breathtaking Pacific Coast Highway to the rugged beauty of Yosemite and the vast expanse of Death Valley, California has it all.

Imagine driving through the winding roads of the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping to take in the ocean views, taste local wines, and explore quaint seaside towns. It’s a dream for anyone who loves the open road. You can customize your journey to suit your pace, hitting the must-see spots like San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge or the star-studded streets of Los Angeles.

With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but don’t worry—you’re in good hands. My California road trip was unforgettable, filled with golden sunsets and unexpected detours that led to hidden gems. Buckle up and get ready to dive into detailed plans, personal tips, and some off-the-beaten-path recommendations that will make your California road trip truly special.

San Francisco: Day-by-Day Activities

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of San Francisco

Morning : Start your adventure at Union Square . Grab a coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee . Take a cable car ride down to Fisherman’s Wharf .

Afternoon : Enjoy a clam chowder bread bowl at Boudin Bakery . Visit Pier 39 to see the sea lions.

Evening : Head to Ghirardelli Square for some famous chocolate. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront.

Day 2: Culture and Art

Morning : Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art ( SFMOMA ) on Third Street . Check out iconic works by Frida Kahlo and Andy Warhol .

Afternoon : Explore the murals in the Mission District . Don’t miss Balmy Alley . Grab lunch at La Taqueria for authentic tacos.

Evening : Head to the Castro District . Catch a film at the historic Castro Theatre on Castro Street .

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning : Rent a bike and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge . Visit Sausalito for breakfast at Fred’s Coffee Shop .

Afternoon : Picnic in Golden Gate Park . Check out the Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers .

Evening : Return to the city for dinner in Chinatown . Try the dim sum at Good Mong Kok Bakery on Stockton Street .

Your San Francisco trip will be packed with iconic sights and hidden gems. Enjoy every moment, and make sure to explore both the well-known landmarks and the lesser-known spots. Happy travels!

See Related:   Top Tourist Attractions in California

Carmel/Monterey: Must-See Spots

Carmel and Monterey on California’s Central Coast are like beautiful paintings that come to life. If you’re planning a road trip, stop by these fantastic places.

Start with the Monterey Bay Aquarium . It’s one of the world’s top aquariums at 886 Cannery Row. You’ll see fascinating sea life, from mesmerizing jellyfish to playful sea otters. Plan to spend at least half a day here.

Stroll along Cannery Row for a slice of history. This street is famous for its seafood restaurants, shops, and beautiful waterfront views. Try to visit during the evening when the lights twinkle and the atmosphere is especially charming.

Drive a short 10 minutes to Carmel-by-the-Sea, a quaint, enchanting village. Walk along Ocean Avenue to browse unique boutiques and art galleries. The village feels like stepping into a storybook.

Take a leisurely walk to Carmel Beach and watch the waves crash against the shore. It’s an amazing spot for a picnic or simply soaking up the sun. The beach is dog-friendly, so bring your furry friends.

Don’t miss Point Lobos State Natural Reserve , about 3 miles south of Carmel. The trails offer breathtaking ocean views, and you might spot sea lions or even whales during migration season. It’s a must for nature lovers.

If you have time, drive the iconic 17-Mile Drive. This scenic road connects Monterey to Carmel and passes through luxury golf courses, a beautiful coastline, and impressive mansions. There are numerous photo ops along the way, like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach.

Make sure to visit Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey. Here , you can enjoy fresh seafood, browse local shops, or take a whale-watching tour. The bustling, colorful atmosphere is a great way to spend an afternoon.

These spots comprise just a small portion of Carmel and Monterey’s offer. Each place has its unique charm and captivating beauty, and your road trip will undoubtedly be filled with unforgettable experiences.

Santa Barbara: Day Trip Suggestions

Santa Barbara is a destination gem, perfect for a day trip that feels like a mini-vacation. Here are some exciting suggestions for making the most of your day.

Explore the Scenic Coastline

The coastline is incredibly scenic, with tons of palm trees, sailboats dotting the horizon, and a beautiful beach. You can rent beach cruisers to explore. They are available by the hour or the day for about $10/hour.

Visit Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is charming with its Spanish-style architecture. State Street is the heart of downtown and is perfect for strolling, shopping, and dining. Don’t miss stops at local boutiques and coffee shops.

Enjoy the Santa Barbara Mission

Known as the “Queen of the Missions,” the Santa Barbara Mission is a must-see. It’s located at 2201 Laguna St., and you can take a self-guided tour and learn about its history. It’s a cultural and historical treasure.

Wine Tasting in the Funk Zone

The Funk Zone is the art district brimming with wineries. You can do some wine tasting here. Whether you are an expert or a newbie, you’ll enjoy the variety and local charm.

Relax at Stearns Wharf

Stearns Wharf is the perfect spot to relax and soak in the ocean views. Grab some ice cream, visit the local shops, or walk along the pier.

Lunch at a Seaside Cafe

Stop for lunch at one of Santa Barbara’s seaside cafes. Brophy Bros. is a great choice, offering fresh seafood and fantastic views. It’s located at 119 Harbor Way.

Santa Barbara has plenty to keep you entertained, relaxed, and inspired. Enjoy!

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Santa Monica: Beach Activities

Santa Monica is a hub of beach fun and relaxation. The sand stretches miles, inviting you to spend a day in the sun. You’ll find something enjoyable for everyone here.

Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit. Visit the amusement park for classic Ferris wheel or roller coaster rides. Grab an ice cream cone and stroll along the pier while soaking in the ocean views.

The beachfront Pacific Park boasts vibrant energy. You’re bound to enjoy the arcade games and street performers. The pier lights up in the evenings, creating a picturesque backdrop for your beach adventure.

Palisades Park offers a more peaceful escape. Situated on the bluffs overlooking the ocean, it’s perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic. From here, you get sweeping views of the coastline.

For active travelers, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a great option. This 22-mile path runs from Santa Monica to Torrance . Rent a bike or rollerblades, and you’re set for a scenic ride.

Water sports are popular here. You might try surfing, paddleboarding, or even swimming in the gentle waves. There are several rental shops nearby.

Speaking of waves, the Annenberg Community Beach House offers beach volleyball courts and a splash pad for kids. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for more structured activities.

Grabbing a meal is easy with numerous beachside eateries. Try fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants or get a quick snack at a food stand. The choices are endless.

Lastly, don’t miss the beautiful sunsets. Bring a blanket, sit on the sand, and watch the sky turn shades of orange and pink. It’s the perfect way to end your day in Santa Monica.

See Related:   Most Beautiful National Parks in California

Los Angeles: Entertainment and Landmarks

Los Angeles is a treasure trove of entertainment and landmarks . Whether you’re into movies, music, or just soaking up the sun, there’s something here for everyone .

Start your day at the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame . Located along Hollywood Boulevard, this iconic spot celebrates some of the biggest names in entertainment. You can snap photos with the stars of your favorite celebrities.

Next, head over to the Hollywood Sign. This symbol of the movie industry is perched on Mount Lee. You can hike up for amazing views or check it out from Griffith Observatory. Speaking of the Griffith Observatory, it’s a great place for panoramic cityscapes and stargazing.

If you’re a movie buff, the TCL Chinese Theatre is a must-see. This grand cinema has been hosting premieres since 1927. You can also see the famous handprints and footprints outside.

Love the beach? Santa Monica Pier offers a blend of fun and relaxation. Its amusement park, aquarium, and numerous shops make it perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Don’t forget to ride on the Ferris wheel for fantastic ocean views.

For art lovers, the Getty Center showcases amazing collections. Located at 1200 Getty Center Dr., it’s not just about the art. The architecture and gardens are also stunning.

A trip to L.A. is incomplete without visiting Rodeo Drive. This shopping street in Beverly Hills is known for luxury boutiques. It’s where you can window-shop or even spot a few celebrities.

Dodger Stadium offers a classic American baseball experience if you’re into sports . Catch a game and immerse yourself in the excitement of the crowd.

No visit to L.A. is complete without exploring Venice Beach. Known for its bohemian spirit, you can witness street performers, musicians, and artists. The beach also has skate parks, basketball courts, and vibrant murals.

Los Angeles never disappoints. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained and amazed.

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California To New York Road Trip: Top 30 Tips

California to New York road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 2,914 miles of California to New York drive takes around one day and 20 hours without stops.

This article includes 30 top tips that turn your California to New York drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from California to New York, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

10 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From California To New York

On California to New York road trip, you may want to stay at some points on the way. Here are the top ten hotels on California – New York route!

• Park MGM Las Vegas: Park MGM Las Vegas is one of the best hotels where you can stay on a California to New York road trip. Driving from California to Park MGM Las Vegas might take around 6 hours and 4 mins . A poolside restaurant and a bodega-style bar and eatery offer the best of the South of France and LA’s food scene, respectively, courtesy of Chef Roy Choi. Enjoy flair without the formality at Bavette’s and savor a handcrafted cocktail at Juniper Cocktail Lounge. Check the Park MGM Las Vegas, one of the best hotels in Las Vegas, Nevada, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Best Western Paradise Inn, Beaver: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to New York from California is Best Western Paradise Inn, Beaver. Located in Beaver, Utah, the hotel is 617 miles away from California, and it would take 9 hours and 19 mins to drive. The staff at this hotel are attentive, and the accommodations are clean and comfortable. The breakfast here is also noteworthy, with a wide array of options. The room I stayed in was spacious and clean – I loved the Crazy Cow Cafe. If you want to learn more about the Best Western Paradise Inn, Beaver, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• The Gonzo Inn: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to The Gonzo Inn. The Gonzo Inn is located in Moab, Utah, and it’s 850 miles away from California. You can arrive there in 12 hours and 44 mins of non-stop driving. The Gonzo Inn is a boutique condo hotel that captures the local scenery with its Desert chic style. This is reflected in the handcrafted woodwork, patinated metal, and beautiful views of the red rock cliffs. The Gonzo Inn hosts an indoor lounge, patio lounge, and outdoor lawn event sight. The outdoor pool area features a heated pool and hot tub with ample seating where you can relax after a long day of play. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Gonzo Inn for more information.
• The Oxford Hotel: If you are taking a road trip from California to New York, Denver, Colorado, is must have a place you should visit. Plus, The Oxford Hotel is one of the best hotels in town. The Oxford Hotel is 1,141 miles from California, and it would take 17 hours and 3 mins to drive. The Oxford Hotel, located in the ever-popular Lower Downtown neighborhood of Denver, is the city’s most historic hotel. Combining elements of the past with today’s modern conveniences, The Oxford continues to provide guests with a comfortable and classic experience. If you need more info about the price and availability of The Oxford Hotel, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area: Our next hotel is Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area, Omaha, Nebraska. It will take one day and 1 hour of car ride o reach this hotel from California. The Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown Old Market Area is located in the financial district of central Omaha. It features a kitchenette, a flat-screen TV with HBO, and a separate seating area with a sofa bed in every room. Guests can relax in the comfort of their rooms. Check the Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area for reviews, prices, and availability.
• The Guesthouse Hotel: Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from California to New York is The Guesthouse Hotel. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel, located in Chicago, Illinois, within one day and 8 hours drive from California. The staff at this hotel is amiable, and the rooms are always clean and well-appointed, with full-size washers and dryers. In addition, the hotel’s convenient location near great restaurants and shops in Andersonville means you’ll feel like a local during your stay. Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .
• Courtyard by Marriott Toledo North: Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is Courtyard by Marriott Toledo North. It’s located in Toledo, Ohio, and is 2,378 miles from California. You can arrive there within one day and 12 hours of car drive. This hotel felt brand new. The room was a comfortable size- not too big or too small. The bathroom had a unique and lovely design. The bed was comfortable, and the pillows were good. The lobby and bar sitting area were both modern. The staff was great. You can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Courtyard by Marriott Toledo North if you need further information.
• Hampton Inn Youngstown-West I-80: Located in Youngstown, Ohio, Hampton Inn Youngstown-West I-80 is another hotel where you can stay on California to New York road trip. Hampton Inn Youngstown-West I-80 is 2,520 miles from California and will take one day and 14 hours of non-stop driving. The McKinley Memorial & Library is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The hotel offers a hot daily breakfast, an indoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly rooms for a fee. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hampton Inn Youngstown-West I-80 for more information.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Stroudsburg Pocono Mountains: As we approach the end of our list, another hotel we would like to introduce to you is the Hampton Inn & Suites Stroudsburg Pocono Mountains hotel. Hampton Inn & Suites Stroudsburg Pocono Mountains, Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, is 2,836 miles from California, and you can arrive there with one day and 18 hours of non-stop driving. This hotel’s convenient location near ski resorts, outdoor activities, shopping, and popular attractions is perfect for guests looking to explore the area. In addition, the heated indoor pool and whirlpool offer stunning views of the woods, providing the perfect spot to relax after a long day. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hampton Inn & Suites Stroudsburg Pocono Mountains for more information about the Hampton Inn & Suites Stroudsburg Pocono Mountains hotel.
• Hampton Inn Newark Airport: The last hotel we recommend you stay at on the road trip from California to New York is the Hampton Inn Newark Airport hotel. You can arrive at Hampton Inn Newark Airport, Newark, New Jersey, after one day and 20 hours of non-stop driving and 2,836 miles of the road trip from California. The Hampton hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for quality and convenience. The hotel staff is hardworking and helpful, and the hotel is located in an oasis by itself surrounded by freeways and commercial buildings. The Hampton breakfast menu is prepared with the utmost care. For those on the go, there is a selection of frozen sandwiches that can be microwaved in the lobby. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hampton Inn Newark Airport for more information.

In this part, we explained ten different hotels you can stay at on the road trip from California to New York. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by writing a comment to this post. It will help people who will take some California to New York route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from California to New York. We have ten restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

10 Best Restaurants On California To New York Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your California to New York road trip. In this section, we list the ten different restaurants to dine at on the road trip from California to New York. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on California to New York road trip with Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas. Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas, is located in Las Vegas, Nevada, 393 miles from California. It would take 6 hours and 9 mins of driving. The hallmark of Fresco Italiano is its creative Italian-style cuisine. This Tuscan-inspired restaurant in Las Vegas offers a variety of pasta dishes made with fresh sauces and handcrafted flatbreads, steaks, chicken, and fresh seafood. For more information about Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas.
• Crazy Cow Café: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to New York from California is Crazy Cow Café. Located in Beaver, Utah, Crazy Cow Café is 617 miles from California and would take 9 and 19 mins to drive. The breakfast selection was vast, and the service was speedy. It was nice to have a hot meal after so many buffet-style breakfasts. The service was outstanding. Our waiter ensured our food was satisfactory and kept our coffee cups full. We had a great experience. If you want to learn more about Crazy Cow Café, you can check it out on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Quesadilla Mobilla: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Quesadilla Mobilla. It will take 12 hours 42 mins of car drive to take 850 miles from California to Quesadilla Mobilla, Moab, Utah. The food truck, located at the corner of the park, is worth a stop. The servings are enormous, and the dinner is delicious. The employees are friendly and fun to talk to. You can check Quesadilla Mobilla on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information .
• Corinne Restaurant: Corinne Restaurant deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Denver, Colorado. Corinne Denver is a modern, comfortable restaurant with a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. The menu features honest food and drinks, from hearty to healthy options. The restaurant is excellent for gathering with friends and colleagues for a meal or drink. Corinne Restaurant is 1,141 miles from California, and it would take 17 hours and 4 mins of non-stop car driving. You can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps to learn more about Corinne Restaurant .
• M’s Pub: If you enjoy dining, M’s Pub would be an excellent choice in Omaha, Nebraska. It’s 1,677 miles from California and would take one day and 1 hour of car driving. M’s Pub is a beloved staple in the community for its timeless decor, casual atmosphere, and friendly service. Its extensive regular menu offers something for everyone, making it a great place to gather with friends and family. If you want to learn more about M’s Pub, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• The Chicago Diner, Logan Square: Another restaurant we recommend you visit on the road trip from California to New York is The Chicago Diner, Logan Square, Chicago, Illinois. It will take one day and 8 hours of driving to reach The Chicago Diner, Logan Square, from California. The Reuben sandwich and sweet potato fries were great, as was the soy milkshake. The service was friendly and efficient – I couldn’t have asked for more. The decor added to the experience with its funky and fun atmosphere. The availability of delicious vegan food is fantastic, and the staff are down to earth and add to the great atmosphere. For more information about The Chicago Diner, and Logan Square, you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.
• Maumee Bay Brewing Co: Ranked seventh on our list, Maumee Bay Brewing Co appeals to those who want to turn their New York vacation into a memorable experience. Located in Toledo, Ohio, 2,368 miles away from California, and it’ll take one day and 11 hours of driving. The Maumee Bay Brewing Co. was established in 1995 and operated out of the Historic Oliver House. It creates delightfully drinkable ales, lagers, porters, and stouts. Though it is potentially best known for brewing Toledo’s Buckeye Beer, the Maumee Bay Brewing Co. always concurs with new surprises in the brew house across the street from the main complex. In addition, the food and service at the Maumee Bay Brewing Co. are excellent – we enjoyed our meals! The Bavarian pretzel, pizza, and burger were all fantastic. If you want to learn more about Maumee Bay Brewing Co, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Station Square Ristorante: M’s Pub is an excellent restaurant that is 2,526 miles away from California. M’s Pub is located in Omaha, Nebraska, and you can reach there after one day and 14 hours of car driving. Station Square is known for its upscale dining and wine bar, which features organic ingredients sourced from local markets. The service is professional and friendly, and the food is delicious. If you want to discover the menu and more information about Station Square Ristorante, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Thai Orchid, Stroudsburg: Eating is serious business. Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who take this job seriously is the Thai Orchid, Stroudsburg, Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. It is 2,840 miles from California and would take around one day and 18 hours of car driving. Kanya Nicholas, head chef, and owner of Authentic Thai Food, have brought the cuisine from all four of Thailand’s cultural regions to the Poconos. The menu features a variety of dishes that can be customized to your liking, making it an excellent choice for any meal. The authentic flavors of the dishes are sure to please anyone looking for a taste of Thailand. You can visit the official TripAdvisor and Google Maps pages of Thai Orchid, Stroudsburg, for detailed information.
• Fornos of Spain: The last restaurant on our list is Fornos of Spain. Remember, our ranking in the list is based on distance. So, the fact that Fornos of Spain is last on the list does not mean that it is the worst restaurant. Fornos of Spain is 2,905 miles from California, and it would take one day and 20 hours of driving. The food at this restaurant was delicious and came in generous portions. I ordered the shrimp in wine sauce, and my companion had the osso buco. The service was excellent, and the price was reasonable. To learn more about Fornos of Spain, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

This section lists our ten restaurant recommendations for you to eat on your road trip from California to New York. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 2,914 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a New York road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from California to New York. Keep reading.

10 Places To Visit On California To New York Drive

A unique experience awaits you in New York. However, there are also some unique destinations, like Las Vegas, Nevada, on your road trip. We want to explain the top ten destinations we recommend on the New York route.

• Clark County Heritage Museum: Clark County Heritage Museum will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your California to New York road trip. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, Clark County Heritage Museum is 404 miles away from California, and it would take 6 hours and 17 mins to drive. The 30-acre museum site features a modern exhibit hall with a timeline exhibit about southern Nevada from pre-historic to modern times, as well as a collection of restored historic buildings that depict daily life from different decades in Las Vegas, Boulder City, Henderson, and Goldfield. In addition, this museum has some outstanding exhibits in Las Vegas and the surrounding area, providing visitors with a detailed look at the region’s history. If you want to learn more about the Clark County Heritage Museum, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Eagle Point Ski Resort: Eagle Point Ski Resort, Beaver, Utah, is one of the destinations we recommend you stop from California to New York. It’s 634 miles from California, and it’ll take about 9 hours and 49 mins of driving. Eagle Point Resort is an all-season resort that offers snow sports, lodging, high-quality dining and entertainment, mountain biking, summer activities, and day and excursions to nearby attractions like Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. The resort is 18 miles east of historic Beaver, UT, and just a 3.5-hour drive from Las Vegas or Salt Lake City. If you want to learn more about Eagle Point Ski Resort, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Arches National Park: Moab, Utah, is one of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from California to New York. And if you visit Moab, Utah, we suggest you visit Arches National Park. You can arrive at Arches National Park after 12 hours and 37 mins of driving. The park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. This red-rock wonderland is truly a sight to behold, with its breathtaking formations and stunning sunsets. So whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or find a moment of peace, this park is sure to refresh and inspire you. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Arches National Park for more information.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver, Colorado, on California to New York road trip. Denver Botanic Gardens is 1,142 miles from California, and you can arrive there after the 17 hours and 7 mins of drive. The Denver Botanic Gardens at York Street cover more than 24 acres and feature a wide range of gardens and plant collections from all corners of the world. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Denver Botanic Gardens before going there.
• Old Market: Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Old Market ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from California to New York. You must take one day and 1 hour of driving to arrive at Old Market. The Omaha Old Market is a great place to visit for various reasons. With many different shops and restaurants available, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The overall experience is always enjoyable, and the people are friendly, making it an excellent destination for a day out. If you want to learn more about Old Market, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• The Art Institute of Chicago: Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from California to New York is The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois. The Art Institute of Chicago is 2,141 miles from California, and it would take one day and 8 hours to drive. The museum was filled with a wide array of artifacts and art pieces. The staff was all helpful and informative, providing directions when needed. I spent about 4 hours at the museum and could have easily stayed longer; it was an enjoyable environment to wander through. A fantastic cross-section of artists was displayed, representing different styles and periods. The museum is worth a visit if you are in the area. For more information about The Art Institute of Chicago, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .
• Toledo Zoo: You can visit many destinations on your California to New York journey. One of these destinations is Toledo Zoo, located in Toledo, Ohio. You can arrive at Toledo Zoo after one day and 11 hours of driving. The Zoo is home to over 10,000 individual animals representing 720 different species. A full day is required to experience all the indoor attractions, museums, and aquariums. If you want to read the reviews of previous visitors about Toledo Zoo, you can visit Toledo Zoo’s TripAdvisor page or their website .
• Fellows Riverside Gardens: As we near the end of our list of the top 10 best places to visit on the road trip from California to New York, it would be unfair not to mention Fellows Riverside Gardens. Fellows Riverside Gardens locates in Youngstown, Ohio, 2,526 miles from California, and it takes one day and 14 hours to drive from California to get there. Fellows Riverside Gardens, located at the northern end of Mill Creek Park, is a free 12-acre public garden with diverse plant displays, roses of all classes, seasonal displays of annuals, perennials, and flowering bulbs, as well as scenic vistas. If you want to learn more about Fellows Riverside Gardens, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm: Now, we would like to introduce you to another vibrant restaurant on the New York trip. Located in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm is 2,841 miles from California, and it would take one day and 18 hours to drive. Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, located in Stroudsburg, PA, has been dedicated to preserving the rich history of America’s early farming families since 1963. Through educational programs, special events, and summer tours, the farm strives to provide an authentic experience for visitors. In addition, the farm offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, including farming, animal care, gardening, heritage crafts, hearth cooking, wagon rides, and more. If you want to learn more about Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Branch Brook Park: We have come to the end of our list. Our latest destination is Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey. To reach Branch Brook Park, which is 2,904 miles away from California, you must take one day and 19 hours car journey from California. This 122-year-old, 360-acre Park is on the National Register of Historic Places. The park is clean, with rubberized walkways for visitors to enjoy. The park is also equipped with security cameras for your safety. We suggest you check Branch Brook Park’s TripAdvisor and official website for more information about the place.

FAQ of the Road Trip From California to New York

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about California to New York drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From California To New York?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, California to New York road trip takes approximately one day and 20 hours to drive. The driving distance between California to New York is 2,914 miles.
• If you want to make California to New York road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be ten days and 22 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the California-New York route, you will have to walk for 38 days and 16 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From California To New York?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to New York. You can visit Las Vegas, Nevada; Beaver, Utah; Moab, Utah; Denver, Colorado; Omaha, Nebraska; Chicago, Illinois; Toledo, Ohio; Youngstown, Ohio; Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania; Newark, New Jersey on the road. Here we list ten places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on California to New York journey, you can check the 10 Best Places To Visit On The Way From California To New York part.

• Clark County Heritage Museum: 404 miles / 6 hours 17 mins to drive from California | 2,539 miles / one day and 14 hours of driving to New York.
• Eagle Point Ski Resort: 634 miles / 9 hours 49 mins to drive from California | 2,319 miles / one day and 11 hours of driving to New York.
• Arches National Park: 846 miles / 12 hours 37 mins to drive from California | 2,123 miles / one day and 8 hours of driving to New York.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: 1,142 miles / 17 hours 7 mins to drive from California | 1,780 miles / one day and 3 hours of driving to New York.
• Old Market: 1,677 miles / one day and 1 hour to drive from California | 1,242 miles / 19 hours 24 mins of driving to New York.
• The Art Institute of Chicago: 2,141 miles / one day and 8 hours to drive from California | 790 miles / 12 hours 16 mins of driving to New York.
• Toledo Zoo: 2,363 miles / one day and 11 hours to drive from California | 561 miles / 8 hours 49 mins of driving to New York.
• Fellows Riverside Gardens: 2,526 miles / one day and 14 hours to drive from California | 395 miles / 6 hours 18 mins of driving to New York.
• Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm: 2,841 miles / one day and 18 hours to drive from California | 79.2 miles / 1 hour 36 mins of driving to New York.
• Branch Brook Park: 2,904 miles / one day and 19 hours to drive from California | 11.9 miles / 32 mins of driving to New York.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From California To New York?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from California to New York. We have selected ten hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 10 Best Hotels On The Way To New York From California section.

• Park MGM Las Vegas: 389 miles / 6 hours 4 mins to drive from California | 2,526 miles / one day and 14 hours of driving to New York.
• Best Western Paradise Inn, Beaver: 617 miles / 9 hours 19 mins to drive from California | 2,298 miles / one day and 11 hours of driving to New York.
• The Gonzo Inn: 850 miles / 12 hours 44 mins to drive from California | 2,127 miles / one day and 8 hours of driving to New York.
• The Oxford Hotel: 1,141 miles / 17 hours 3 mins to drive from California | 1,776 miles / one day and 3 hours of driving to New York.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown/Old Market Area: 1,677 miles / one day and 1 hour to drive from California | 1,245 miles / 19 hours 24 mins of driving to New York.
• The Guesthouse Hotel: 2,147 miles / one day and 8 hours to drive from California | 798 miles / 12 hours 30 mins of driving to New York.
• Courtyard by Marriott Toledo North: 2,378 miles / one day and 12 hours to drive from California | 562 miles / 8 hours 46 mins of driving to New York.
• Hampton Inn Youngstown-West I-80: 2,520 miles / one day and 14 hours to drive from California | 395 miles / 6 hours 17 mins of driving to New York.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Stroudsburg Pocono Mountains: 2,836 miles / one day and 18 hours to drive from California | 80.3 miles / 1 hour 36 mins of driving to New York.
• Hampton Inn Newark Airport: 2,911 miles / one day and 20 hours to drive from California | 13.9 miles / 31 mins of driving to New York.

Where To Eat Between California to New York?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your California to New York drive, you can consider the ten restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 10 Best Restaurants On The Way From California To New York .

• Fresco Italiano, Las Vegas: 393 miles / 6 hours 9 mins to drive from California | 2,524 miles / one day and 14 hours of driving to New York.
• Crazy Cow Café: 617 miles / 9 hours 19 mins to drive from California | 2,298 miles / one day and 11 hours of driving to New York.
• Quesadilla Mobilla: 850 miles / 12 hours 42 mins to drive from California | 2,127 miles / one day and 8 hours of driving to New York.
• Corinne Restaurant: 1,141 miles / 17 hours 4 mins to drive from California | 1,778 miles / one day and 3 hours of driving to New York.
• M’s Pub: 1,677 miles / one day and 1 hour to drive from California | 1,242 miles / 19 hours 24 mins of driving to New York.
• The Chicago Diner, Logan Square: 2,145 miles / one day and 8 hours to drive from California | 794 miles / 12 hours 24 mins of driving to New York.
• Maumee Bay Brewing Co: 2,368 miles / one day and 11 hours to drive from California | 557 miles / 8 hours 45 mins of driving to New York.
• Station Square Ristorante: 2,526 miles / one day and 14 hours to drive from California | 389 miles / 6 hours 11 mins of driving to New York.
• Thai Orchid, Stroudsburg: 2,840 miles / one day and 18 hours to drive from California | 75.7 miles / 1 hour 31 mins of driving to New York.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from California to New York. We have listed ten hotels, ten restaurants, and ten places to visit on California to New York drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from California to New York as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken California to New York road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from California to New York and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: New York Road Trip – Travel Guide

We suggest you to watch this travel guide before planning your New York road trip.

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New York State to California drive

New york state to california road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from New York State to California. If you're planning a road trip to California, 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 at New York State drive for about 7.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 7.5 hours find more stops

11:00 am  leave from The Cleveland Hostel drive for about 6 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 6 hours

10:00 am  leave from Museum of Science and Industry drive for about 6 hours

day 3 driving ≈ 6 hours

10:00 am  leave from Des Moines drive for about 9.5 hours

day 4 driving ≈ 9.5 hours

9:00 am  leave from The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa in Denver drive for about 11 hours

day 5 driving ≈ 11 hours

10:00 am  leave from Zion National Park drive for about 7.5 hours

5:16 pm  arrive at California

day 6 driving ≈ 7.5 hours

New York State to California questions

Where should I stop along the way?

Cleveland   (83 answers)     Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum   (13 mentions)     The Cleveland Museum of Art   (12 mentions)     Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum   (6 mentions)     West Side Market   (6 mentions)     Great Lakes Brewing Company   (5 mentions)     restaurants around Cleveland:         Lola         Lolita         The Greenhouse Tavern         Melt Bar & Grilled         L'Albatros     hotels around Cleveland:         The Cleveland Hostel     questions about Cleveland:         What's the best neighborhood in Cleveland for a first time visitor?         Good restaurants for business dinner?         What is your favorite restaurant in Cleveland?         New to the city, friend coming to visit: What should we do?         Fun things to do Museum of Science and Industry   (34 mentions) 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? Denver   (227 answers)     Denver Museum of Nature and Science   (15 mentions)     Denver Botanic Gardens   (12 mentions)     Denver Art Museum   (11 mentions)     LoDo   (11 mentions)     Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre   (11 mentions)     restaurants around Denver:         Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen         Rioja         Acorn         Root Down         Bistro Vendome     hotels around Denver:         The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa in Denver         The Crawford Hotel         Four Seasons Hotel Denver         Hotel Teatro         the Curtis Denver - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel     questions about Denver:         Short, scenic drives from Denver?         Best resort for advanced skier?         Things to do and see in or around Denver Colorado         Activites to do with children ages 7-11         Top 5 must see attractions in Denver? Zion National Park   (97 mentions)     questions about Zion National Park:         When is the best time to visit/hike Zion national park?         Canyoneer boots, Keen sandals, or old tennis shoes for Narrows hike?         What's the best time of year to hike in Zion?         Poisonous plants/ Venomous animals in Zion Canyon         Are hiking boots necessary now if I hike Angels Landing

What are some things to do in California?

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

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 California. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

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

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 California to New York State drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

Looking for ideas for more destinations within driving distance of New York State? Try searching for places within 5 hours of New York State .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from New York State to California . Or get a full New York State to California 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 New York State well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about New York State!

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Road Trip from Los Angeles to New York

Whichever route you take between Los Angeles and New York, you'll be making a truly iconic coast-to-coast trip that takes in at least 11 states and travels through some of the country's most vibrant cities. This epic journey is what road trip dreams are made of!

The 2,900-mile, 42-hour road trip from Los Angeles to New York takes you past Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, the Rockies, Denver, Chicago, the Great Lakes, Oklahoma, Memphis, Nashville, the Blue Ridge Parkway or Washington DC, depending on your route.

As you cross the country you'll pass by stunning and diverse landscapes where you could stop off to hike, canoe, cycle or ride. The route can take you across the Rocky Mountains and wide open prairies, across deserts, past national parks, or from the Great Lakes to the Appalachians. Carry on reading to find out what other treats are in store when you take this ultimate road trip.

How far is New York from Los Angeles, and how long will the road trip take?

There's no avoiding the fact that New York is a long, long way from Los Angeles. But since there's so much to see and do along the way you'll hardly notice the miles flying by.

The routes we've suggested will take you between 42 and 43 hours of non-stop driving time, covering between 2,800 and 2,900 miles. There's also the option to add in a detour along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which takes about 5 hours longer to complete the 3,040 mile journey.

Assuming you'll want to make a few stops along the way, we'd recommend taking a least a week to make this drive. This lets you split up the driving into a manageable six hours per day, leaving time to enjoy some of the sights en route.

However, seeing as this is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for most people, why not extend your trip so that you can take your time exploring the national parks, scenic views and fabulous towns and cities you'd otherwise have to drive straight past?

As you'll see below, there are dozens of amazing places to visit on this fantastic road trip from Los Angeles to New York. If you have time, you could fill at least 3 to 4 weeks and still not see it all.

This really is a road trip that deserves as much time as you can spare, and it will reward you with a lifetime of memories and experiences.

Best road trip route from Los Angeles to New York

Of course, on such a long trip you could come up with dozens of ways to make the journey, but we have three routes and a scenic detour to recommend for you.

The first option follows parts of the one-time Route 66: the legendary cross-country route that connects Santa Monica and Chicago. You'll head past some of the iconic southern cities, with optional detours to the big-name attractions of Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon.

Route 66 itself is no longer a complete cross-country drive – you now make most of the journey along Interstates – but you can still follow some stretches of Historic Route 66. After it ends in Chicago, you'll visit two of the Great Lakes before heading on to New York.

As an alternative, the Denver Route heads up through the Nevada desert past Las Vegas then across the Rocky Mountains. This route crosses the Great Plains of the Midwest and the northern end of the Appalachians, before taking you into New York.

Our third route option takes you into New York via Washington DC, Baltimore and Philadelphia. This route is a must for music lovers as it passes through Memphis, Nashville and Knoxville (home of Dollywood).

On the final stretch through Washington DC, Baltimore and Philadelphia, you'll be able to explore some of the country's most prominent museums, historical sites and aquarium.

If you take the Washington DC Route you might like to slow down the pace with a detour through the Blue Ridge Mountains. You'll take in mile after mile of stunning views, and there are dozens of hiking trails and other outdoor activities along the way.

With the three main routes taking a similar amount of time to drive, your choice of trip probably comes down to personal preference, and whether you've already visited any of the major cities en route. Whichever way you make the trip, you're sure to have a fantastic adventure.

The Route 66 Route

To get your epic journey started, leave Los Angeles via Interstate 10, then switch to Interstate 15, passing San Bernardino National Forest.

At Barstow you'll join Interstate 40 heading east, which you'll end up following right across the desert landscapes of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Oklahoma.

Before heading east though, you might like to consider the relatively short detour to Las Vegas. Simply follow the I-15 north from Las Vegas, returning to the main route via Route 93 towards Kingman.

If you're traveling directly, the I-40 takes you first past the Joshua trees and arid scenery of Mojave National Preserve, before continuing on into Arizona.

At Flagstaff, you can visit Coconino National Forest, or continue further along I-17 for a detour to Phoenix. Alternatively, head north from Flagstaff to visit the stunning Grand Canyon.

Continuing along I-40, you'll pass Petrified Forest National Park before crossing into New Mexico. Before reaching Oklahoma City, the route takes you through Albuquerque, Amarillo and Santa Rosa.

At Oklahoma City you'll finally leave the I-40, switching to Interstate 44 to start heading north east past Tulsa.

Driving through Missouri, you'll pass Springfield, from where Mark Twain National Forest is just a short distance south of the route. Lake of the Ozarks National Park - made famous by the Netflix series - can be accessed along MO-5 from Lebanon.

At St. Louis, take Exit 291A to join Interstates 70 and 55, which will take you across the Mississippi River. Where the roads split, continue along the I-55 to travel on past another Springfield and Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie before reaching Chicago.

Once you're done exploring the Windy City, resume your journey on Interstate 90 heading west. Indiana Dunes National Park, on the shore of Lake Michigan, is just off the route as you leave the city.

The I-90 then takes you across Indiana. You'll pass South Bend, home of Notre Dame University, and Elkhart, where you can visit the Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum.

Crossing into Ohio, the route takes you past Toledo and on towards Cleveland. If you want to visit Cleveland to enjoy some time by the shores of Lake Erie, or maybe to visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, carry on along I-90 which takes you right into the city, then leave via the I-77 which takes you back onto Interstate 80.

If you're bypassing the city, you'll take Exit 142 where I-90 and I-80 split, following Interstate 80 past Cuyahoga Valley National Park, across Meander Creek Reservoir and on into Pennsylvania.

You'll follow the I-80 for most of the rest of your road trip. Allegheny National Forest and Susquehannock National Forest are a little way north of the I-80 along this final stretch.

You'll then continue across the Susquehanna River and across the northern end of the Appalachians, before leaving I-80 at Exit 47A. Here, join the I-280 before taking the Newark-Jersey City Turnpike at Exit 17A.

After crossing the Hackensack River via Wittpenn Bridge, merge onto NJ-139 which leads you on to Interstate 78 and through the Holland Tunnel into the heart of New York City.

The Denver Route

Leave Los Angeles via the I-10 then join the I-15 at Barstow, following it towards Las Vegas. As you head out of California you'll pass Mojave National Preserve, and Death Valley National Park is just to the north of I-15.

After spending some time in Las Vegas, continue north on I-15. Driving through Utah you'll pass the stunning trio of Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument and Dixie National Forest, where you'll find endless stunning outlooks and hiking trails.

A few miles past Beaver, join Interstate 70 heading east, which takes you past Manti La Sal National Forest and White River National Forest before you reach Denver, nestled among the Rocky Mountains.

During your stay in Denver you should definitely consider taking a trip up to Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Boulder and Rocky Mountains National Park, which are all a short distance north of the city.

You have two options to continue your trip from Denver.

The first is to switch onto the Route 66 Route from here. If you're taking this option, follow Interstate 25 out of Denver past Boulder and Fort Collins, then join Interstate 80 heading east through Lincoln, Omaha and Des Moines towards Chicago, where you'll connect with the second half of the Route 66 Route.

If you're continuing along the Denver route, simply follow the I-70 out of Denver, making your way across the iconic Great Plains landscape of Kansas until you reach Kansas City, on the state border with Missouri.

As you follow the I-70 through Missouri you'll pass Columbia, with Lake of the Ozarks State Park a detour south of the route here.

As St. Louis you'll cross the Mississippi River and make your way into Illinois. Carry on along the I-70 right across the state, until you reach Indianapolis, Indiana. If you're spending time in the city continue along the I-70, or if you'd prefer to bypass it, follow I-465 until you reconnect with the I-70.

Entering Ohio, Cincinnati and Wayne National Forest are both a detour south of the route before you reach Columbus. The I-70 then takes you south of Pittsburgh.

Continuing through Pennsylvania, you'll finally leave I-70 at Exit 58, joining Interstate 76. The Appalachians, including Tuscarora State Forest and Michaux State Forest, are close to the route here.

At Exit 226 you'll join Interstate 81 which takes you across the Susquehanna River near Harrisburg. A few miles past the city, change to Interstate 78 near Fredericksburg. As you travel towards Allenstown, you might like to think about leaving the route for a while to explore the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail.

You're now nearing the end of your epic road trip. All that's left is to follow I-78 across New Jersey, passing Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, then through the Holland Tunnel into New York City.

The Washington DC Route

This route follows the Route 66 Route until Oklahoma City before splitting off to travel through Arkansas and Tennessee. It then swings up through Virginia before taking you to Washington DC, Baltimore and Philadelphia.

From Oklahoma City, continue along the I-40 which you will have traveled on all the way from California. In Arkansas you can detour to Ozark St Francis National Forest north of Clarksville, or Lake Dardanelle State Park near Russellville.

Next, the I-40 takes you close to Little Rock. Follow Interstate 30 in and out of the city if you want to visit the downtown area, then continue along the I-40 towards Memphis.

Approaching Memphis, you'll cross the Mississippi to enter Tennessee. The I-40 joins up with Interstate 69 to take you around the city if you're not stopping here - though music-lovers should make sure to include a night here.

Stay on the I-40 when it separates from the I-69, and continue to follow it across Tennessee. You'll cross the Tennessee River before reaching Nashville, where you can get you country music fix.

Your next waypoint is Knoxville, still following the I-40. From here you can travel south via TN-66 and US-321 to Pigeon Forge, home of Dolly Parton's Dollywood, or to visit Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Douglas Lake is just a short distance further along the Interstate, accessed along US-25W, and one of the last places you can visit before you finally leave the I-40 after a mammoth 2,100 miles.

At Exit 421, join Interstate 81 North. You'll get mountain views as you follow it through Tennessee, before passing Christiansburg and Roanoke in Virginia.

As you travel north through Virginia you can detour along I-64 to visit President Jefferson's home at Monticello, near Charlottesville, or to follow the Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park (which connects with the I-66 into Washington if you follow it all the way).

Otherwise, simply follow the I-81 until Exit 300, where you'll turn onto Interstate 66. The I-66 will take you across Theodore Roosevelt Bridge into Washington DC.

When you're done exploring the nation's capital, leave the city via US-50 to connect with the Baltimore-Washington Parkway.

You can follow US-50 right into Baltimore if you want to spend some time here, leaving via Interstate 95. Otherwise, take I-895 North to bypass the city.

After Baltimore, follow the I-95 across Maryland, across the Susquehanna River and on into Delaware. Follow the I-95 through Wilmington and on towards Philadelphia, where I-676 will take you into the downtown area then back onto I-95.

Moving on, the I-95 will take you across the Delaware River and into New Jersey. From here, follow the I-95 New Jersey Turnpike as far as Interstate 278, which you'll follow across Staten Island and through Brooklyn.

Follow the sign from I-278 onto Brooklyn Bridge to cross the East River and enter Manhattan at the end of your long journey.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Detour

“America's Favorite Drive” is a scenic route that winds its way through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, offering hundreds of miles of hiking trails and viewpoints.

It's a fantastic add-on to the Washington DC Route, which is well worth the extra driving time if you fit in in to this long trip.

We're suggesting to drive a stretch of the Parkway between Asheville and through Blowing Rock before leaving the Parkway to take NC-16 which joins up with I-81 to continue along the main Washington DC Route.

From the main route, continue along Interstate 40 instead of joining the I-81 near Douglas Lake.

This takes you past Asheville, where you'll take Exit 53A onto Alt Route 74. Or if you've spent time in Asheville, leave the city via I-240 which then join Alt Route 74 at the I-40/I-240 intersection.

After around a quarter of a mile you should find the start of this section of the Parkway, signposted to the right off Alt Route 74. After this, you'll simply follow the Blue Ridge Parkway through North Carolina.

To rejoin the main route, leave the Blue Ridge Parkway after passing Lewis Fork and the Lump Overlook, following the sign to join NC-16 North towards West Jefferson.

Follow NC-16 to Mouth of Wilson, where the road joins up with Route 58 for a while. Turn left here, following the road out of town. When the roads split again, continue on NC-16, which takes you all the way back to I-81 and the main route towards Washington DC.

If you do take the detour, just bear in mind that you'll need to plan accommodation options in advance, as they're limited on some sections of the Parkway.

Best places to stop between Los Angeles and New York

With such a long drive you're going to need to make more stops than we can list here - and you're in luck since there are so many fantastic cities and National Parks to spend the night in along the way.

We've picked out some of our favorites to get you started. Once you have decided on your pitstops, you can also check our detailed guide below to learn more about the areas in New York City to help you plan where to stay once you reach your destination:

READ MORE - Our Area-by-Area Guide to NYC

Explore Chicago, the Windy City (Route 66 Route)

With its fabulous location on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is one of the country's most vibrant cities, and well worth an overnight stay if you're taking the Route 66 Route.

Chicago has so much to offer. Take in the views across Lake Michigan from the Willis Tower before heading back to ground level for a walk along Navy Pier and the Chicago River.

The Field Museum of Natural History houses a fantastic collection, or head to Shedd Aquarium, one of the largest in the world. If you'd rather spend time outside, make a trip to Millennium Park.

If you are looking for a stylish boutique hotel in a central Chicago, then look no further than citizenM Chicago Downtown. It is the perfect place to base yourself while you're in the city.

It's centrally located, a stone's throw from great restaurants and bars on your doorstep, and top sites including The Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum and The Marina just a short stroll away.

Then, after a long day on the road or exploring the Windy City, you can wind down in the hotel's stylish rooms and lounges, or head up to the rooftop area and enjoy a drink while admiring the city views.

Take to the hills in Denver (Denver Route)

Famous for its stunning Rocky Mountain-setting, Denver isn't just a great place for outdoors enthusiasts to stop.

While you're in the city you can check out the Downtown Aquarium, the Museum of Contemporary Art, or visit one of Denver's museums to learn about the history of the region and the people who have called it their home.

The Colorado History Museum is a perfect introduction to the area, and Museo de Las Americas tells the stories of one of the country's largest Hispanic populations.

Of course, you can't talk about Denver without also mentioning the mountains.

Denver is in reach of the Rocky Mountains National Park and Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, so it's a great place to base yourself for a couple of days (or longer) if you want to spend some time exploring the many outdoor attractions in the area.

By this stage in your long road trip we'd guess you'll be looking for somewhere that's comfortable and welcoming, but also reasonably priced, and Fairfield by Marriott Denver Downtown ticks all those boxes .

Located just off the Interstate and with parking, you should have no difficulty reaching this hotel. Once you've arrived, you'll be able to relax by the indoor pool for a while, before heading out to explore the city's attractions, many of which are in walking distance.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Rock out in Memphis (Washington DC Route)

With its buzzing music scene, this is a city that benefits from an overnight stay so that you can enjoy an evening of live entertainment.

Before heading to Beale Street to soak in the sights and sounds of the city's iconic music venues, take a stroll along the Mississippi riverfront.

Follow in the footsteps of Jonny Cash, Roy Orbison, Ray Harris and Jerry Lee Lewis, just some of the legends of the 1950s and 60s music scene who recorded at Sun Studio.

Of course, no visit to Memphis would be complete without a trip out to Graceland, the home of the King, Elvis Presley. From here, head to Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum for another taste of the city's unforgettable musical heritage.

With its sleek design and fabulous location, the Hu Hotel Memphis makes for a fantastic accommodation option in the city , and has stunning views of the Mississippi as it winds its way south.

You'll be close to all the action here. Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop while the sun sets, before taking the short walk to Beale Street for food, drink and live music.

The hotel even has private parking, making it the perfect choice on a long drive.

Get away from the crowds in Blowing Rock (Blue Ridge Parkway Detour)

Blowing Rock is just over half way along our Blue Ridge Parkway Detour. If you want to allow extra time to hike while you're travelling along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a stop here allows two full days to explore the area.

Of course, you'll be surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and endless options for trails and viewpoints, all in easy reach of the town.

You shouldn't miss out on some of the attractions of this charming small town though. Take a walk past its historic buildings to get to the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, where you'll find information on the Appalachian region that you're traveling through.

With its beautiful lakeside views and central location, we'd recommend a stop at Chetola Resort while you're passing through. The resort can offer horse riding and bike hire, so you're not just limited to exploring the area around Blowing Rock on foot.

Then, after a long day enjoying the great outdoors, the indoor pool is the perfect place to relax and recharge ready to continue your journey along the Parkway the next day.

Things to see on a road trip from Los Angeles to New York

With so many miles to cover and so much to see, the list of sights between Los Angeles and New York is endless.

It's impossible to include every point of interest, but here are some of our top picks:

The Route 66 Route:

• Mojave National Preserve - Admire the impressive desert landscapes and the many Joshua trees that grow here.
• The Grand Canyon - This epic natural monument hardly needs an introduction – hike through the deep gorges carved by the Colorado River or splash out on a helicopter trip to enjoy an aerial view.
• Coconino National Forest - The deep red sandstone and vibrant green foliage combine to make this a picturesque stopping point.
• Albuquerque - Old Town Plaza is the perfect starting point to explore the city's historic district, or take the Sandia Peak Tramway for the best view down onto the city.
• Amarillo - The largest city in the north of Texas is a good place to stop off to rest your legs and enjoy a meal before continuing along the route.
• St. Louis - Head up to the top of the Gateway Arch then see some live music - St. Louis is famous for the blues and also for its symphony orchestra.
• Chicago - Take a boat trip onto Lake Michigan to appreciate the city's modern skyline and its fabulous natural location.
• Indiana Dunes National Park - You'll find 25 miles of spectacular sand dunes at this relatively new National Park which runs along the coast of Lake Michigan outside Chicago.
• South Bend - See the impressive interior of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, or take a walk around Notre Dame University.
• Elkhart - Visit the Hall of Heroes Superhero Museum to see one of the world's best collections on the subject.
• Cleveland - The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is just one of the attractions of Cleveland – make sure to spend some time on the beautiful Lake Erie waterfront while you're in the city.
• Allegheny National Forest - Head to the stunning aerial walkway to see this beautiful forest from above.

The Denver Route:

• Death Valley National Park - Take a short detour from the route before leaving California to explore the arid landscape of the hottest place on earth.
• Las Vegas - Try your luck in one of the casinos or head to one of the city's legendary live shows.
• Dixie National Forest - The largest National Forest in Utah is another great place to admire stunning sandstone landscapes.
• Cedar Breaks National Monument - This natural rock amphitheater offers spectacular views and is a great place to hike.
• Zion National Park - Hike along the Virgin River through the 15-mile long Zion Canyon. If you'd like to hike up to Angels Landing, you will need a permit and will need to make a reservation. Check the Zion National Park's website for more details.
• White River National Forest - With 10 mountain peaks and the beautifully clear river to explore, this is another great option for hiking.
• Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest - Hike, bike or horseback ride through the forest and the nearby Thunder Basin National Grassland.
• Rocky Mountains National Park - Drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road to admire stunning views of these iconic mountains.
• Denver - Visit the botanic gardens, Denver Art Museum or Museo de las Americas before heading out to explore the nearby Rocky Mountains.
• Kansas City - Visit the childhood home of Walt Disney, or simply relax in one of the city's charming parks and gardens.
• Indianapolis - While you're visiting the home of the world famous Indy 500 you can also take a trip to the National Art Museum of Sport or the Children's Museum.
• Pittsburgh - Visit one of the city's art museums, including the Andy Warhol Museum or the Frick Pittsburgh, the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, or the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
• Tuscarora State Forest - Swim, boat or fish in the lake that this stunning green forest is centered around.

The Washington DC Route:

• Lake Dardanelle State Park - Head out fishing on this stunning lake, or hike to the top of Mount Nebo to enjoy a fantastic view across the area.
• Little Rock, Arkansas - Kayak along the Arkansas River or head to Little Rock Zoo, then check out the architecture of the State Capitol building.
• Memphis - Catch a performance on lively Beale Street or take a trip out to Graceland to see the home of the King, Elvis Presley.
• Nashville - Visit the home of country music – see the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, or take in a performance at the Grand Old Opry House.
• Knoxville - Explore the city's historic architecture and museums. Or for something completely different, take a short detour to Dolly Parton's Dollywood amusement park.
• Douglas Lake - This reservoir is a great place to cool down, with swimming, water-skiing and boating all on offer.
• Monticello, Charlottesville - President Jefferson's private mansion offers tours and talks that tell the history of the third US President and his life and times.
• Shenandoah National Park - The Skyline Drive runs along the ridge of this linear National Park, offering superb hiking opportunities and scenic outlooks. You will need an Old Rag Day-Use Ticket if you are planning to visit the Old Rag Mountain. Please check the national park's website for details.
• Washington DC - Visit the nation's capital is home to the world-class Smithsonian Museums as well as iconic monuments such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Capitol building and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.
• Baltimore - Stop off at the excellent National Aquarium to explore underwater worlds in this harbor-front building.
• Philadelphia - Visit the “birthplace of America” to take a walk around Independence National Historical Park, see the Liberty Bell and head to Independence Hall.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Detour:

• Asheville -Visit the Biltmore Estate, a US National Historical Landmark.
• Dollywood - Dolly Parton's amusement park, voted one of America's best, is home to some fantastic rides wrapped around with the culture and music of the Smoky Mountains.
• Gatlinburg - The gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can enjoy rafting, ziplines and bird watching as well as some stunning trails through the mountains.
• Blowing Rock - Take a trip out to nearby Cone Manor before heading out to the nearby hiking spots.
• Linn Cove Viaduct - In the stunning Boone region of the Parkway, this engineering masterpiece travels around Grandfather Mountain in spectacular style.
• Stone Mountain State Park, Roaring Gap - Climbers will want to head here since there are great climbing opportunities in addition to the hike up the impressive granite dome.

Best time to go on a road trip from Los Angeles to New York

Crossing a whole continent means that it will be hard to find a time where weather conditions are perfect across the whole of your route.

This is an Interstate drive so roads should be relatively easy to navigate all through the year. However, as all of our route options pass so many stunning outdoor attractions, we wouldn't recommended traveling in winter as many of the National Parks and National Forests are better enjoyed at other times of year.

You might find road closures due to snow and ice through the Rocky Mountains and the Appalachians, especially if you plan to leave the Interstate to explore these areas. Sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway may also be closed, so avoid this detour option in winter.

Temperatures in the northern part of the route plummet, with Chicago seeing lows of just 17 degrees Fahrenheit. Even Arizona can experience freezing roads and challenging conditions.

One exception is the option to travel through the Rocky Mountains to enjoy winter sports - but be aware if you do take this route in the winter, accommodation prices are likely to be at a premium as it's such a popular destination.

In contrast, many parts of this route get really hot from June to August. You should expect temperatures in the 90s across Arizona, New Mexico and Texas, which makes for uncomfortable driving conditions.

Illinois, Missouri and Washington DC are also known for their humidity through the summer months, which can be uncomfortable if spending time outdoors.

Although temperatures are more comfortable through the Rocky Mountains on the Denver Route, you should expect significant crowds visiting the region during the school summer break.

Spring and fall – specifically May and September - are probably the best times to take this long trip.

The cooler parts of the route, including Denver, Chicago, Cleveland and Baltimore, are likely to be comfortably in the 70s at these times of year, and possibly warmer. The deserts of Arizona will be hotter of course - well into the 80s already - but you'll avoid the worst of the summer heat.

Whenever you make this marathon road trip, you'll need to be prepared for some variation in the weather. You're unlikely to avoid a day or two of rain, and the maritime climate of the East Coast will be a real contrast to the inland parts of your trip.

But as long as you've packed accordingly that's no reason to stop you enjoying every day of this incredible journey.

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SIXT rent a car Magazine

Travel Tips and News

California to NYC Road Trip: From Sea to Shining Sea

See the best of America with this California to New York City road trip, stopping at the three most populated cities in the country and traversing the continent from coast to coast.

If you are hoping to experience everything that the US has to offer, you can’t get much better than a cross-country California to New York City road trip. You can’t tell the story of America without including Los Angeles, New York City, Philadelphia and the other destinations you will see on this ultimate coast-to-coast adventure. Be sure to rest up, because you won’t want to even blink during the next three to four weeks of traveling.

1. Los Angeles 2. Las Vegas, NV 3. Denver, CO 4. Chicago 5. Philadelphia, PA 6. New York City

Info at a glance

• A 3-4 week trip
• Type of route: City
• 6 stops along the route
• 2,885 miles of driving
• See Hollywood like a star in Los Angeles, California.
• Hit the slopes and trails near Denver, Colorado.
• Dive into deep dish pizza in Chicago, Illinois.
• Walk the steps of history in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
• Visit the Empire State Building in New York City.

Getting to the start

When you think of California , you most likely think of Los Angeles. There is no better spot to kick off your cross-country road trip than in LA. With a seemingly endless supply of freeways flowing into Los Angeles like blood vessels to a heart, you can choose from major roads like Interstate 5, I-405, I-605, I-110, I-10 and I-210 to access the city. If you are traveling by train, you will arrive at Los Angeles Union Station in the heart of downtown. For those arriving by plane, you can fly into Los Angeles International Airport , best known as LAX.

CAR RENTAL IN LA

When to Visit

Considering you will be traveling across the entire country and through multiple climate zones, the timing of your travel can dramatically affect your experience. If you want to avoid any challenging weather conditions, the best time for this road trip is mid-spring (April to May) or fall (late September to early November). This will help you avoid any scorching summer heat in California or humidity on the East Coast, but also skip any snowstorms through the Midwest and New York City. Pack plenty of layers, including a swimsuit, so you can say that you took a swim in both the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean on just one road trip.

Driving tips

This road trip involves several tolls for bridges and turnpikes (toll roads). There are varying speed limits depending on your location, from 55-65 miles per hour in urban zones to 70-80 mph in rural zones. It will also involve a wide variety of driving conditions, including crowded freeways in the cities, open roads on the flat plains, and steep slopes in the Rocky Mountains.

What to know about the route

Begin your cross-country journey in the city known for Hollywood movie stars and glistening beaches—Los Angeles. Make your way east to Las Vegas on Interstate 15, where you can hit the slots or hit the streets and experience the best of entertainment. Next, continue on I-15 to I-70 until you reach Denver, Colorado. Once you get your fill of outdoorsy city life, use I-76 to connect with I-80 and hold on tight—you will be riding this all the way to Illinois where you will use I-88 to reach Chicago. Continue heading toward the East Coast on I-90, I-80 and I-76 until you reach the City of Brotherly Love—Philadelphia. The final stretch of your road trip is a short one—just ride I-95 for a couple of hours until you reach the Big Apple and enjoy the bustle of New York City. In order to tackle every leg of the drive, we recommend an all-wheel-drive SUV. This will also give you more cargo and passenger space, which is a plus for cross-country journeys.

Los Angeles

The bright lights of Hollywood and the pristine beaches of the Pacific coastline have been attracting visitors from around the world for generations. While Los Angeles has towering skyscrapers and a booming economy; it also has the distinct laid-back surfer vibes of a coastal city that you can’t find anywhere else.

Points of interest

Everyone from celebrities to sports stars wants to be in LA, and you could easily bump into someone famous with a stroll down Rodeo Drive or Hollywood Boulevard in Downtown Los Angeles. Even better, catch a Lakers game at the Staples Center to see Lebron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook dominate the court while celebrities like Jack Nicholson and Vanessa Hudgens dominate the sidelines.

Where to eat, drink and sleep

You can’t go wrong with the restaurants in Los Angeles, whether you want a classic cheeseburger from In-N-Out Burger to enjoy on a beach along the Malibu Coast or to dig into chicken and waffles from the original Roscoe’s in Hollywood. For dessert, enjoy a fresh strawberry donut from The Donut Man; you’re on vacation, so don’t feel bad if you order two.

Sixt Insider Tip

While the bright lights of skyscrapers and billboards may light up the night, spend your sunsets with the Pacific Ocean on Santa Monica Pier and watch the sun dip down beneath the waters from the top of the Ferris wheel. Before you watch the day come to a close, be sure to play some of the old-school games or go for a walk along the pier.

From LA to Las Vegas (275 miles)

If you are looking for a way to stretch your legs in the middle of the drive, stop by Mount San Antonio on the eastern edge of Los Angeles County. This mountain has the highest peak in the county, with exceptional 360-degree views and a perfect hiking opportunity.

What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas…but you can still bring the memories you make in the City of Lights along as you continue your journey. From the casinos and resorts of the Strip to the neon lights of Fremont Street, you can choose exactly what kind of Las Vegas you want to experience. Even if you aren’t interested in gambling, the entertainment options are unparalleled and include shows with famous musicians, magicians and everything in between.

Las Vegas truly comes alive at night, and you can watch it happen from the top of the High Roller at sunset. Afterward, visit the LINQ Promenade and gaze up at the night sky before realizing that you are actually looking up at a massive digital canopy of screens that put on dazzling displays throughout the night.

Nothing beats a classic Las Vegas buffet, and you can find them throughout the city and the resorts of the Strip. Fill up with an all-you-can-eat buffet or enjoy some elevated dining at a five-star restaurant—that’s the greatness of Las Vegas. If you are looking to keep your party going throughout the day, sip a drink and take a dip in the pool at whichever resort you prefer, whether it’s the Bellagio, the Mirage, or the MGM Grand.

Close out your time in Vegas like Ocean’s Eleven, gazing upon the Bellagio Fountains and reflecting on the wild time you’ve had in Sin City. The fountains are free to watch and the perfect way to grab one more group photo if you are traveling with family or friends.

From Las Vegas to Denver (750 miles)

Visit the Hoover Dam on your way out of town, and marvel at this engineering feat that has formed the entire Lake Mead National Recreation Area. As you drive east, stop at a lookout and take in the majesty of the Grand Canyon. You have plenty of spots to choose from as this natural wonder stretches for 277 miles.

The nickname “Mile High City” isn’t just a nickname, but a fact. Denver is a blend of big-city living with outdoor opportunities, lying just a few minutes from adventures like hiking, mountain biking or skiing. It also has a growing culinary scene and a wide variety of craft beer breweries, so you can fill up on great food and drink before continuing your cross-country adventure.

Spend your first night in Denver in the quaint Larimer Square neighborhood, where you can enjoy a meal in what is widely regarded as the heart and soul of Denver. Kick off your next morning with a jog through the 165 acres of Washington Park, then kick up your feet as you catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This venue was naturally formed into the landscape by red rocks, with some geologic acoustics that have echoed music from the Beatles, John Denver (of course) and Tom Petty.

Denver has quickly risen to fame as the unofficial capital of craft beer in the West, and even hosts the Great American Beer Festival each year in the fall. If you aren’t interested in drinking, sit down for Rocky Mountain Oysters or Bison Steak—two dishes that are truly linked with Colorado and the mountains.

Are you looking to get a unique photo in the Mile High City? How about a photo where you are exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level? Easy—just make your way to the Capitol Building and climb to the 13th step. This is exactly one mile in elevation.

From Denver to Chicago (1,000 miles)

You will be passing through several iconic Midwest cities along this stretch, including Omaha, Des Moines and Iowa City. Stretch your legs with a walk across the 3,000-foot Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in Omaha, catch an Iowa Cubs (a minor league affiliate of the big-league team in Chicago) game in Des Moines and relax along the Coralville Reservoir in Iowa City.

With 25 beaches, 26 miles of lakefront, 600 parks and nearly 9,000 acres of green space, Chicago offers the perfect blend of an outdoor escape with the bustle of nearly 3 million residents. If you need a break from the car, take advantage of the extensive public transit system, including the L Train, which runs along “The Loop” through downtown on elevated tracks.

Every city is known for one thing in particular. For Chicago, that one thing is spectacular architecture. You could spend the entire visit walking with your head in the clouds, gazing up at the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), Rookery Building, Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building, Marina City and 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly the John Hancock Center). If you want to avoid bumping into people as you walk around, take an architecture boat tour on the Chicago River.

As a city, Chicago is known for its architecture. As a culinary center, it is known for deep-dish pizza. Save up your appetite for these massive pies, where the sauce lies above the cheese. If you have room for dessert, make your way to Formento’s for a slice of their famous chocolate cake.

Twice a year, the sun aligns with the buildings on Michigan Avenue to create a unique phenomenon that is affectionately referred to as Chicago-henge. The sun follows the path of the street and drops down perfectly between the buildings before falling below the horizon. With a slice of deep dish in one hand and a chocolate cake shake from Portillo’s, you couldn’t ask for a better way to close out a night in the Windy City.

From Chicago to Philadelphia (760 miles)

Stop in Pittsburgh during your drive through Pennsylvania, where you can take a ride on the Duquesne Incline—a trolley that provides service up Mount Washington for scenic views of the confluence between the Allegheny River and Monongahela River. As you pass through, try to count how many bridges you see. Here’s a hint—there are more bridges in Pittsburgh per mile than any other city in America.

Philadelphia, PA

Also known as the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia is brimming with history. With such a major role in the early development of the United States and the American Revolutionary War, this city has buildings and historic monuments that date to colonial times. You could be walking along a typical street and pass a cemetery that has graves from the 1700s or walk into a Walgreens before realizing it was built in the early 19th century. There is, quite literally, history on every corner.

With so many historical points to visit, it would be hard to list them all at once. Some of the most prominent sights include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Carpenter’s Hall—where the Continental Congress met to discuss the impending struggle for independence. If you are looking for some inspiration to get in that morning exercise, make your way to the Philadelphia Art Museum and run up the iconic “Rocky Steps”. Don’t forget to raise your fists in victory when you reach the top!

When a dish is named after a single city, you know that must be the place to try it, and Philly cheesesteaks are no exception. Make your way to Jim’s Steaks on 62nd Street and enjoy a classic from the place that’s been making them since 1939. When it’s your turn to order, just say “steak, with Whiz” and step back. You can thank us later when you bite into a classic cheesesteak sandwich with melted American cheese.

No matter how full you might feel, find room in your stomach for another Philadelphia classic—water ice. This is far more than just shaved ice—it’s densely flavored ice that puts your childhood snow cone to shame. Grab a cup at John’s Water Ice on Christian Street and stroll through Little Italy, which also has the oldest Italian restaurant in America, Ralph’s Italian Restaurant.

From Philadelphia to NYC (100 miles)

Make a quick stop in New Jersey before crossing the Upper Bay into the heart of Manhattan. Spend some time on the waterfront of Jersey City to see the New York City skyline from a unique perspective and enjoy some saltwater taffy before crossing the river to your final stop.

New York City

Possibly the most recognizable city in the world, New York City has everything from notable skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building to world-famous destinations such as Central Park and the Statue of Liberty. The Big Apple has appeared in every form of media you could imagine, so you will likely recognize plenty of spots even if this is your first time visiting.

Stand in the center of Times Square, and you could easily believe that you are standing in the center of the world. Walk a few blocks over and catch a Broadway show or climb to the top of Rockefeller Center for an unparalleled view of the city. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, take a walk or run through Central Park to clear your head with the skyline visible through the trees.

With so many award-winning chefs and restaurants packed into the city, you might have a tough time choosing the meals throughout your visit. No matter what you do, save time for a visit to Katz’s Deli for a pastrami sandwich. As your butcher slices the meat on-demand and shovels fries onto your plate, you’ll feel the same way as Meg Ryan in her iconic scene from When Harry Met Sally, which was shot in this exact restaurant.

If you are looking to enjoy a unique perspective of Manhattan, use the High Line—a 1.45-mile elevated park that will transport you along the West Side of Manhattan on a former elevated rail line. No need to worry about traffic, as you will be high above the streets on a pedestrian-only route.

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American cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York

• Post last modified: September 1, 2024

A road trip is an unbeatable way to travel a country: Instead of flying over everything there is to discover, you get to experience all of it. On this epic itinerary, everything from star-filled cities and famous tourist attractions to empty deserts and picturesque green mountains are included. Get ready for an American cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York that has it all.

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Our route from Los Angeles to New York is divided into 5 parts with different themes: Southwestern Dreams, Route 66, Cities of Music, Appalachian Mountains and Big City Life.

• Part 1: Southwestern Dreams – Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Zion, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon & Monument Valley
• Part 2: Route 66 – Albuquerque, Amarillo, Oklahoma City & Springfield
• Part 3: Cities of Music – Memphis & Nashville
• Part 4: Appalachian Mountains – Great Smoky Mountains, Asheville & Roanoke
• Part 5: Big City Life – Washington D.C., Philadelphia & New York City

You find all stops marked out in theme-based colors on the map below.

• Total distance: 3464 mi / 5575 km
• Total driving time: 58.5 h

Why take the LA to NYC road trip?

In many ways, this cross country drive is the ultimate road trip to take. When you take it, you include several of the best American road trips in one great journey.

With so much on offer, picking a favorite stretch between California and New York is overwhelming.

The majestic Southwest is home to deep canyons and red deserts. Highlights in the region, such as the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, are otherworldly places to uncover.

Route 66, also called the Mother Road, takes road trip nostalgia to the next level. Along this iconic stretch, you find classic roadside attractions around almost every turn.

Further east, the sounds of blues, rock and country welcome roadtrippers. Memphis and Nashville are true cities of music to explore as you road trip through Tennessee .

Much quieter is the unique driving experience that the Appalachian Mountains provide. For its idyllic setting, the winding Blue Ridge Parkway is often referred to as America’s Favorite Drive.

But our route from California to New York is also for travelers who crave for some Big City Life. Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York City offer yet another dimension to the spectacular cross country adventure.

Part 1: Southwestern Dreams (yellow on map)

Southwestern Dreams goes through the star-filled cosmopolitan areas of Los Angeles and Las Vegas before heading into the rural desert. Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon and Monument Valley are places full of natural beauty that will have a place in your heart and mind forever.

Go ahead and dream away, you are in the land of opportunity.

The driving distance in this leg is 857 miles (1379 km) with a driving time estimated at 15 h.

A. Los Angeles, California

When you think of the US as the land of opportunity, Los Angeles comes quickly into your mind. Many people have come to the city to try to live their dreams.

In particular, Hollywood has seen a great amount of stars rise and fade away over the years. Some really made it, while others didn’t — the way to the top certainly isn’t easy.

Nevertheless, the Hollywood sign, calmly watching over Los Angeles from the Hollywood Hills, makes up a legendary first spot on your itinerary.

But for guaranteed success, there is a place in Los Angeles where people get their dreams come true every day.

Disneyland daily makes childhood dreams come to life. Saying hello to your Disney favorites at the huge theme park is a fun thing to do before the road trip kicks off.

Ahead of saying goodbye to LA, you should also visit the Santa Monica Pier. At the pier, stroll around, savor the bubbling ambience and take in the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

Suitingly so, the Santa Monica Pier sits right at the start (or end) of the iconic Route 66 , America’s Highway.

B. Las Vegas, Nevada

• Driving distance: 270 mi / 434 km
• Driving time: 4 h

It’s hard to imagine a time when you weren’t allowed to gamble in the brightly shining Las Vegas. But the Nevada desert city hasn’t always been associated with gambling.

Nevada legalized gambling in 1931, marking the start of a remarkable boom for Las Vegas. The rest is history, and today the activity-filled Las Vegas is a given stop as you travel through the Mojave Desert.

Don’t worry if you feel unlucky. As the entertainment oasis that Las Vegas is, there’s a lot more in the city to do than just gambling.

You find fine dining at its best and all the shopping you could ask for in Las Vegas. The shows in the city are great, and there’s more often than not a good concert to attend to — no matter what your taste is.

Las Vegas with its warm desert climate is also great for outdoor activities. The pretty desert surroundings are there to be explored if you need a break from the sometimes intense city life.

An interesting place to visit near Las Vegas, on the border between the states of Nevada and Arizona, is the Hoover Dam. The dam was built to protect from flooding and to provide water and electricity to the area.

It’s so huge that the amount of concrete used in building would be enough to pave a road from San Francisco to New York City.

In Las Vegas, you find most of the buzz around the famous Las Vegas Strip. But if you dig a bit deeper when you visit, you’ll find the charm of Fremont Street.

On Fremont Street, the original Vegas boom took place, meaning that’s where everything nowadays associated with Vegas really started.

C. Zion National Park, Utah

• Driving distance: 160 mi / 257 km
• Driving time: 3 h

After two cities, it’s time for the first national park on the itinerary. The famous Zion National Park is a great place for a hike to stretch the legs.

One of Utah’s famous 5 mighty national parks , Zion offers a dreamy setting for hiking. The contrasting red sandstone cliffs and green trees of Zion Canyon just make each other even more beautiful.

There’s a Zion hike for every ambition level. Riverside Walk is a shorter one that’s excellent for a casual stroll with the family, while Angels Landing (requiring a permit ) is a thrilling strenuous hike.

More info: Where to stay near Zion

Extra stop: Home to the world’s biggest collection of rock hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park is another potential, jaw-dropping Utah park for the itinerary. If this is an extension you want to make, add 121 miles (195 km) and 2.5 hours to your road trip total.

D. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

• Driving distance: 107 mi / 172 km
• Driving time: 2 h

The next stop is another incredible natural wonder. Arizona’s Horseshoe Bend may be a rather quick stop, but it’s one sure to leave you in awe.

This horseshoe like bend in the Colorado River provides one of the most quintessential photo opportunities in the American Southwest.

Look over the edge from its overlook to see the flowing Colorado River at the canyon’s bottom. The sunlight reflected by the red cliffs and blue river — it’s a majestic sight to say the least.

Just remember that it’s about 1000 feet (300 m) from the vista down to the Colorado River; you don’t want to miss the rest of this epic adventure.

Is this Grand Canyon? Even though Horseshoe Bend sometimes is called Grand Canyon East, it’s not part of the famous park. However, Horseshoe Bend is only a little over 5 miles (8 km) from the start of Grand Canyon National Park.

E. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

• Driving distance: 10 mi / 16 km
• Driving time: 0.5 h

The drive from Horseshoe Bend to Antelope Canyon is by far the shortest on the entire itinerary. In fact, it’s not longer than 10 miles (16 km) between the two.

Few geological formations, if any, are as mysteriously appearing as Antelope Canyon. Here, distinctive wavy canyon walls and thick light beams reaching the canyon floor create an unreal appearance.

It’s like something from a different world.

But keep in mind that the only way to access Antelope Canyon is through a licensed tour operator . Especially during summer when light beams are more frequent, these tours are highly popular.

F. Grand Canyon, Arizona

• Driving distance: 135 mi / 217 km
• Driving time: 2.5 h

There are huge attractions, and there’s the Grand Canyon. Every traveler’s dream, Grand Canyon has a length of 277 miles (446 km), width of up to 18 miles (29 km) and depth of over a mile (1847 m).

The Northwestern Arizona canyon is simply enormous, and our ultimate road trip from LA to NYC just wouldn’t be complete without it.

For your visit, you have two main options: Grand Canyon can be visited through either the South Rim or North Rim. Both parts offer those iconic viewpoints where the layers of rock never seem to end.

However, because it’s so massive, with dramatic elevation changes, the climate differs a lot within Grand Canyon National Park. Its highest peaks are bitingly cold in winter, while the canyon floor faces extremely hot temperatures during summer.

As the altitude is higher in the park’s northern part, it generally receives more snow than the southern side. This causes the North Rim to be closed during the colder months of the year, while the South Rim is open year round.

More info: Where to stay in Grand Canyon

South Rim or North Rim? This itinerary targets the always open South Rim. But if you prefer the idea of the North Rim (and travel in summer), simply fit it in between Zion and Horseshoe Bend; then go directly to Monument Valley after Antelope Canyon. Such an approach saves you an hour behind the wheel, but keep in mind that the lodging options are limited at the North Rim.

G. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

• Driving distance: 175 mi / 281 km

The last destination of the Southwestern Dreams part of the road trip is Monument Valley, straddling the border between Arizona and Utah. Prepare for a landscape feeling unearthly.

Monument Valley’s red color and huge rock formations standing on the valley floor, known as buttes, dramatically characterize the area. Lower the pace for a while and let the magical surroundings put you under a spell.

Any movie fans around?

This place is where Forrest Gump so famously ended his cross country run in the movie. In Google Maps, you even find the Forrest Gump Point to make it easy for you to find Forrest’s life-changing spot.

More info: Where to stay in Monument Valley

Part 2: Route 66 (red on map)

The second stretch of our perfected drive from Los Angeles to New York is Route 66. Called America’s Highway, Main Street of America and the Mother Road — it’s one of those truly special routes.

When you drive Route 66, running from Los Angeles to Chicago, you really feel that the journey is more important than the destination. There are things to see and experience in every corner if you just keep your eyes open and look for them.

In this part of the itinerary, you dive into some of the very best parts of Route 66 with cross country stops in Albuquerque, Amarillo, Oklahoma City and Springfield.

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Monument Valley and ending in Springfield in Missouri, is 1153 miles (1856 km) with a driving time estimated at 18 h.

Trip info: As the driving time is estimated as the shortest possible time from point A to point B, much but not all of Route 66 is included. For some parts, a parallel highway can be used as an alternative to Route 66. Therefore, allow some extra time if you want to remain on Route 66 for the whole stretch (a good choice).

A. Albuquerque, New Mexico

• Driving distance: 318 mi / 511 km
• Driving time: 5 h

The city Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a traditional Route 66 stop and a great place to let your vehicle temporarily rest.

Old Town of Albuquerque is a beautiful area and the perfect place to stretch your legs. So park your car and enjoy the beautiful old mission church, public square and art galleries.

Walk by yourself or take a guided tour if you want more information about the history of Albuquerque.

For food and a fun experience at the same time, make your way over to Albuquerque’s 66 Diner . Here you feel like you have entered a time machine back to the golden days.

The venue features rounded counters with checkered black-and-white tiles, classic diner-bar stools, comfy booths and a vintage jukebox loaded with old time favorites.

And the staff contributes with their authentic looks — there’s nothing not to like about this retro place.

What to order? Diner 66’s cold and thick milkshake is famous. But watch out, you may get a brain freeze!

In downtown Albuquerque, you find the KiMo theatre , a theatre and historic landmark opened in 1927; it’s a unique place for theatre, film and musical performances, but it’s also worth it to stop just to have a look at the historic venue.

If you’re lucky enough to be around in October, you should also fit in a visit to Albuquerque’s yearly International Balloon Fiesta . Imagine hundreds of hot air balloons in different colors rising up over the New Mexico landscape.

Additional stop: Do you rather enter Route 66 further west (earlier)? Petrified Forest National Park, located along Route 66, is a unique stop to add to the itinerary. You find great places to stay near Petrified Forest in the Route 66 towns of Holbrook and Winslow (home to that corner in “Take it Easy” by the Eagles).

B. Amarillo, Texas

• Driving distance: 289 mi / 465 km
• Driving time: 4.5 h

The adventure continues on Route 66. After Albuquerque, it’s time to head further east towards Texas and Amarillo.

Amarillo marks the midway point of the Route 66. The perfect way to celebrate that is by visiting the city’s US Route 66 Historic District.

In Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District, you get a throwback to the early days of road tripping across America. Think historic buildings with eye-catching signs flirting with roadtrippers passing by.

The places to grab a bite and atmospheric shops are fun to visit. If you want a Route 66 souvenir to bring with you home, the Route 66 Historic District is an excellent place to look for it.

Another enjoyable place to visit in the area is the Cadillac Ranch. It’s a roadside attraction in Amarillo, Texas, since 1974, consisting of half-buried Cadillacs with their noses in the ground.

These cars have been in the ground longer than they were on the road. Nevertheless, to see them and the piece of art they have become is an iconic road trip stop.

C. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

• Driving distance: 260 mi / 418 km

You notice that the drier landscape in Texas gives way for prairies as we are about to enter Oklahoma. Next stop is the state’s capital, Oklahoma City.

In the city, two fun and interesting attractions for your tour of the world’s most famous route are America’s only round barn and the cowboy museum.

Arcadia Round Barn in Oklahoma City is said to be the most photographed landmark along Route 66. Come here for appreciating the engineering details of the only barn in America that’s truly round.

If you’re history interested, make sure to enter the small museum to learn more about the barn’s past.

Another institution in Oklahoma City is the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum . The museum proudly collects, preserves and exhibits an impressive collection of Western art and artifacts.

It’s a must see for the Western fan, horse lover, art enthusiast or simply anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the cowboys.

D. Springfield, Missouri

• Driving distance: 286 mi / 460 km

The itinerary continues with a last Route 66 stop. The itinerary goes northeast through Tulsa and then across the Missouri border to Springfield, Missouri.

Springfield is the actual birthplace of the iconic Route 66. It was born here an April day in 1926 when a telegram was sent to federal officials saying that the to be iconic number 66 for the route through Springfield was accepted.

Today, the cradle of the most famous route in the world welcomes visitors to the only ride-through cave in America and to the city’s Route 66 Car Museum.

A cooling cross country stop, Fantastic Caverns keeps a comfy constant temperature of about 60 °F (15 °C). Especially if you take your LA to NYC road trip in summer, this is a treasured break from the heat.

And Fantastic Caverns is a ride-thru cave, so you can see the whole cave from the comfort of a Jeep-drawn tram. After a lot of driving, it’s certainly appreciated to sit back and let someone else handle the transportation for you.

In Springfield, you also find the Route 66 Car Museum . At the museum, there are more than 60 vehicles ranging from Jaguars, Rolls Royces and a Morgan to admire — car lovers, unite!

Part 3: Cities of Music (blue on map)

After exiting Route 66, it’s time to get to know the Cities of Music in Tennessee. Memphis is the home of blues and birthplace of rock and roll, and Nashville, which long time ago earned the nickname Music City, is the country music capital of the world

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Springfield, is 499 miles (803 km) with a driving time estimated at 8 h.

A. Memphis, Tennessee

• Driving distance: 287 mi / 461 km

As the home of blues and birthplace of rock and roll, you have some music history catching up to do when you visit Memphis, Tennessee, on your way across America.

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum can help you with that.

Here, you explore the history of both soul and rock ‘n’ roll music, from the beginnings all the way to the worldwide influence. Musical artifacts help you to understand the developments through time.

At the Blues Hall of Fame , you can deepen your knowledge about blues further. This blues institution highlights its inductees in five different categories while educating and entertaining visitors about the genre.

There, of course, needs to be a Music Hall of Fame in Memphis as well. It showcases all the artists that have created the undeniable Memphis legacy and shaken our planet with their great music.

Among all the renowned Memphis products, the most famous one must be Elvis Presley, the undisputed king of rock ‘n’ roll. He lived in his sprawling Graceland mansion, and today you have the chance to explore his home and heritage.

Marvel at the many artifacts on display, including platinum records and signature jumpsuits. Admire Elvis’ automobile collection, complete with a pink Cadillac and Dino Ferrari. To see how he made longer journeys, don’t miss Elvis’ airplanes.

B. Nashville, Tennessee

• Driving distance: 212 mi (341 km)

The world’s country music capital, Nashville earned the nickname Music City a long time ago. Get out of the car and savor its one-of-a-kind setting for yourself.

Day or night, you only have to walk in downtown Nashville and Lower Broadway for minutes to understand why the city is the uncontested country music capital of the world.

Bars, called honky tonks, let their music stream out to the streets, contributing to the city’s special atmosphere. Enjoying all the live music on Lower Broadway is a great way to experience Nashville — maybe the best.

To immerse yourself more in country music, we recommend visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . It’s home to exhibits and artifacts highlighting the history and significance of country music.

Experience the evolution of country music, and see how the country genre has influenced many other genres. A stop here also further explains why Nashville is the center of the country music industry.

Then, what place could be better for a concert than Music City?

Jump to the beat at the Ryman Auditorium , a concert venue in downtown Nashville where many legends have performed. To hear colorful stories from when Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and even Elvis performed on the Ryman stage, you can also tour it.

For a country music show, consider the Grand Ole Opry , boasting to be “the show that made country music famous”. The Opry features a refreshing mix of country music greats and newcomers.

Additional stop: A really deep additional stop is Mammoth Cave in Kentucky . It’s the longest known cave system in the world with more than 400 miles (644 km) of explored passageways. The detour adds 110 miles (177 km) and 2.5 hours to the itinerary.

Part 4: Appalachian Mountains (green on map)

The fourth leg of the road trip takes you up northeast through the rising Appalachian Mountains. Start with the bear-dotted Great Smoky Mountains before you continue on the Blue Ridge Parkway , where the picturesque towns of Asheville and Roanoke await.

Cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of America’s most scenic roads, is a great way to really get to know the Appalachian Mountains. It begins north of Cherokee, North Carolina, and runs for 469 miles (750 km) all the way up to Afton, Virginia.

Note that the speed limit on the Blue Ridge Parkway is never higher than 45 mph (62 km/h) and that the road, thankfully, is free from commercial traffic. This is a relaxing stretch, but it’s loaded with road trip attractions; make sure to budget your time wisely for all those verdant gems.

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Nashville, is 475 miles (764 km) with a driving time estimated at 8.5 h.

Trip info: Because the driving time is estimated as the shortest possible time from point A to point B and there to a large extent are faster and more direct parallell roads, some parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway aren’t included in the road trip total. But for the best driving experience, allow a few extra hours and let America’s Favorite Drive show its full repertoire.

A. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

• Driving distance: 195 mi / 313 km
• Driving time: 3.5 h

After fun but loud cities, embrace the best of nature. Where Tennessee and North Carolina meet, the Great Smoky Mountains subrange of the Appalachian Mountains form America’s most visited national park.

From awe-inspiring drives to epic hikes, the best things to do in the Smokies take your breath away. Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s so much beautiful nature to enjoy.

Cades Cove, surrounded by rugged mountain tops, is one of the Great Smoky Mountains’ most unique spots. The isolated valley, once home to settlers, is renowned for its timeless ambience.

Not only Cades Cove but the entire park is full of wildlife. Black bears, white-tailed deer, hogs, turkeys, skunks and raccoons are just some of the animals often spotted in the Great Smoky Mountains.

What about the origin of the Great Smoky Mountains’ name? The “Smoky” part comes from the natural fog that frequently hangs over the mountains, appearing just like smoke from a distance.

More info: Where to stay in the Great Smoky Mountains

Route suggestion: Make sure to enter the Blue Ridge Parkway (its southernmost access is just north of Cherokee) when you drive from the Smokies to the next stop on the itinerary. From the scenery to the vibe, it provides a driving experience you certainly don’t want to miss.

B. Asheville, North Carolina

• Driving distance: 37 mi / 59 km
• Driving time: 1 h

Asheville, North Carolina, may be located along the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, Asheville is not only about the scenic, slow-paced, relaxing Blue Ridge Parkway — far from it.

Visit America’s largest privately owned home, boasting 178,926 jaw-dropping square feet (16,623 m 2 ). The Biltmore Estate was built in the late 1800s by George Vanderbilt II and belongs to the Vanderbilt family to this day.

Then soak up the picturesque town that Asheville is. Filled with great places to eat, drink and sleep, this is the perfect stop to recharge your batteries before you continue towards New York.

C. Roanoke, Virginia

• Driving distance: 243 mi / 391 km

Roanoke appeals to roadtrippers who appreciate the mix of city amenities and tranquil surroundings. Framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this is a destination where nature always is near.

Like Hollywood has its Hollywood sign, Roanoke has the Roanoke Star. On top of Mill Mountain, the Roanoke symbol brilliantly looks out over the city and the lush encircling landscape.

You can drive, hike or bike up to the almost 90 feet (30 m) tall star. There, enjoy a close-up view of the star as well as impressive panoramic Blue Ridge Mountains perspectives.

Just outside Roanoke, you find more incredible vistas. The most spectacular of them all is the McAfee Knob, a rock overhang perch on the legendary Appalachian Trail.

Do the bucket list spots never end on this ultimate Los Angeles to NYC itinerary?

Part 5: Big City Life (grey on map)

Our ultimate road trip across America from Los Angeles to New York ends with the stretch Big City Life, capturing some of the most influential cities in the US. Meet the president in Washington D.C., stop by at the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia and finish in style in the always busy New York City.

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Roanoke, is 480 miles (772 km) with a driving time estimated at 9 h.

A. Washington D.C.

• Driving distance: 240 mi / 386 km

In the center of the capital of the US, you find the National Mall. In contrast to your regular mall, this is a park home to eye-popping historical buildings and monuments.

A few of the landmarks in the National Mall are the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial and, of course, the White House. History buff or not, prepare for a big experience.

Everything within the National Mall is available by foot. So take the opportunity to let the car rest while you explore not only the history of Washington D.C but also the history of the entire country.

And who knows, maybe the president waves at you when you approach the White House?

B. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Driving distance: 142 mi / 228 km

Sandwiched between the giant New York City and capital Washington D.C, Philadelphia doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It’s hard not to be overshadowed by the enormity of NYC or importance of DC.

However, if you don’t stop by in Philly, you’re missing out.

Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell doesn’t make a sound nowadays, but its inscription “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof” is as clear as it was the last time it rang (in 1846). Go to the Independence Hall and inspect the symbol of freedom with your own eyes.

If you have seen the Rocky movies, you also have seen the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art . First get a picture with the adjacent Rocky Statue; then join fellow travelers jogging up the stairs just like Rocky himself.

For food, you definitely need to have a Philly cheesesteak. Maybe you have had one before, but they taste better in Philly than anywhere else. The thinly sliced steak, cheese, fried onions and hoagie roll — you’ll crave for another one.

C. New York City

• Driving distance: 98 mi / 157 km

You have now traveled all the way from Los Angeles to New York on an epic cross country journey. But the fun is far from over; New York City offers an abundance of more great places to visit before the trip is over.

In Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell is the symbol for freedom. In New York, it’s the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island. Take a boat tour to get out to the island for a close look at the towering landmark.

Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world. Especially after an extensive drive — like this one — it feels good to put on your shoes, walk Brooklyn Bridge and admire the fantastic views of Manhattan’s skyline.

The skyscrapers on Manhattan are from different periods of time: Empire State Building and the Chrysler building are older buildings, while One World Trade Center represents the new.

Want a bird-eye perspective? Go up to the top of Empire State Building and savor the massive New York City from there.

From Empire State Building’s top, you can see a green oasis in the middle of the city, Central Park. Stroll the park and find peace even on a busy day.

Crave for some art? New York’s art scene is outstanding and pleases the most picky art lover out there. There’s the Guggenheim, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Museum of Modern Art and, of course, much more.

The sophisticated museums meet a great contrast in the always buzzing Times Square. Here, the pulsating energy of New York City can be experienced day or night.

Where to stay

Bed down in Midtown to be at the heart of the skyscraper maze that Manhattan is. Or opt for one of the many other, less flashing New York City neighborhoods , each with its own unique character.

• Citizen M Times Square – Midtown convenience.
• The Wallace Hotel – Upper West Side luxury.

Keep driving: New York with all it has to offer is a great place to end your road trip. But if you want to continue driving, consider making the trip to Niagara Falls , on the border between the US and Canada, for another powerful experience.

You might wonder…

This ultimate Los Angeles to New York road trip is 3464 miles (5575 km) long. Driving it takes about 58.5 hours, not including any stops along the way. It’s a very scenic route that encompasses many of the biggest attractions in the United States .

If you take the shortest route and just stick to the highway, you can get from Los Angeles to New York much quicker. The shortest route from LA to NYC is roughly 2800 miles (4506 km) and takes 41 h to drive. However, that’s certainly not the most scenic route.

Some of the most popular stops on our ultimate itinerary are Las Vegas, Zion NP, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Albuquerque, Amarillo, Memphis, Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains and Washington D.C.

We recommend setting aside 4 weeks or more to fully enjoy the journey. With an estimated driving time of 58.5 h, you drive on average 2 h a day if you have a full month at your disposal.

Related guides

• Where to stay in NYC
• LA to Grand Canyon road trip
• LA to Death Valley road trip
• LA to Yellowstone road trip
• LA to Zion NP road trip
• LA to Nashville road trip

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The Best Driving Route From California to New York

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If you’re moving from California to New York then driving is a great way to do it. This picturesque drive takes you through a wide variety of the country’s stunning landscapes, with plenty of opportunities for making stop offs to check out specific cities or sites. The specific driving route from California to New York that you’ll want to take depends largely on what your starting and ending towns are and what you’re hoping to see along the way, but we’ve covered the basics below to help get you started on planning out your trip.

How Long is the Driving Route From California to New York?

It will take you about 43 hours to drive from California to New York, plus time for stops like bathroom breaks, food breaks, gas breaks, and overnight stays. The total distance is around 2,900 miles and traverses 10 different states as you travel from coast to coast. Add on another hundred miles if you’re heading out from San Francisco, and subtract a hundred miles if you’re leaving from Los Angeles. If your final destination is in northern New York as opposed to New York City , you’ll want to add on about an additional five hours in the car.

Which Route Should You Take?

There are multiple ways that you can choose to go when mapping out your driving route from California to New York.

The fastest route is to take Interstate 80, which runs from San Francisco to Teaneck, New Jersey, which is just outside of New York City. This route will take you across Nevada, Utah, and Colorado up into the Midwest and on to New York, with lots to see along the way.

Some things to keep in mind when opting for I-80 as your driving route from California to New York include tolls (you’ll face quite a few up in Indiana and Ohio) as well as weather. Since this interstate takes you north, it might not be the best pick for winter, when you may find yourself facings snow. The rest of the year however it’s a gorgeous drive, especially in the autumn if you want to check out some awe-inspiring fall foliage.

The shortest route is to take Interstate 40, which runs from the Mojave Desert in Barstow, California to Wilmington, North Carolina (don’t worry, you’ll head north long before that onto Interstate 44 and then Interstate 70). I-40 parallels Route 66 through much of the western states, so if you have a classic American road trip in mind you could make a point of checking out those stops along the way.

Note that I-40 is a toll-free road, but you’ll still hit a number of tolls on your drive. As for timing, it’s a decent road to travel all year round, since a large portion of it is through more southern states.

Planning Out Your Trip

No matter what driving route from California to New York you end up taking, plan for about seven to nine hours of driving a day—or a few more hours if have multiple drivers and/or you don’t intend to stop and see any sights. At a standard driving speed and with a few overnight stops, you should be able to make the full drive in about six to seven days.

Your exact route is up to you, but if you want some inspiration for the trip, here’s our recommendation for the best route from California to New York, assuming you’re leaving from the middle of the state.

• Day One: Los Angeles, California to Flagstaff, Arizona. Head down to Los Angeles to hop onto Interstate 40 and drive the seven hours to Flagstaff. With good restaurants, ample lodging options, and an impressive cultural history, it’s a great first stop and worth spending some time exploring.
• Day Two: Flagstaff, Arizona to Amarillo, Texas. This is a long driving day (about nine hours) so start your drive early in the morning. In Amarillo, you’ll have a chance to check out some Route 66 highlights, as well as to enjoy some must-try Texas barbecue. Take a quick detour to check out the Cadillac Ranch, a world famous art installation and sculpture.
• Day Three: Amarillo, Texas to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This is a shorter drive—about four hours—which gives you a bit of time for all those Amarillo attractions. Once you hit Oklahoma City, head to Bricktown Entertainment District for a fun evening of good food and some sightseeing along the Bricktown Canal.
• Day Four: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to St. Louis, Missouri. Leaving Oklahoma City you’ll say goodbye to I-40 and transfer over to I-44. Drive it north east for seven and a half hours to reach St. Louis, where you can take a look at the famous Gateway Arch and spend an evening enjoying some famous St. Louis blues music.
• Day Five: St. Louis Missouri to Columbus, Ohio. Hop off I-44 and onto I-70 as you make your way further east. The drive to Columbus is about six hours, and gives you an opportunity to explore one of America’s favorite college towns and what’s known as the best municipal park district in the country.
• Day Six: Columbus, Ohio to New York, New York. You’re in the final stretch! The drive from Columbus to New York City is about eight and a half hours along I-70, I-76, and I-78, but at least it’s your last long day in the car. If you want to do some sightseeing along the way, make a stop in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, home to the National Civil War Museum.

Rather see different sites along the way? With such a long distance to travel and so many states and cities along the way, the driving route from California to New York offers near limitless options for maximizing your time in the car. Some additional places you might want to make a point of adding to your list include Las Vegas, Denver, Indianapolis, and Chicago.

Make sure to bring along money for the tolls, and, if possible, tackle the drive with at least one other person. Even broken up over the course of a week it’s an incredibly long drive, and it helps to have someone else who’s able to split up the time behind the wheel. To keep costs down and shave off time, bring along lots of snacks too so that you don’t have to stop for a restaurant meal every time you get hungry. We also recommend booking your hotels in advance, however each of the stops along the route we’ve detailed are population-heavy areas with lots of accommodation options, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a place to stay if you leave it until the last minute.

Hire Movers For Your Move From California to New York

We’ve gone into lots of details on how to drive a moving truck cross country , but if you’d rather someone else deal with the truck while you get the freedom of a car, then consider hiring a professional moving company. Visit our free online moving company directory to quickly and easily search reputable interstate movers in your area, and be sure to get quotes from at least three different companies before booking so that you can be sure to get the best deal.

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Author: Laura Mueller

Laura Mueller is a professional writer with nearly five years of experience writing about moving. She is particularly interested in topics around organization, home design, and real estate, and definitely has a few tricks up her sleeve after moving eight times in eight years during her 20s. Laura believes that moving should be as stress-free of an experience as possible, and is always working on new tips and shortcuts that she can share with readers on Moving.com. View all posts by Laura Mueller

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Best Northern California Road Trip Itinerary – 7 Days NorCal Road Trip

A Northern California road trip offers a diverse journey through majestic redwoods, stunning coastlines, charming towns, and world-class wine regions. This NorCal road trip will enchant you if you are an outdoor enthusiast, wine lover, or appreciate picturesque landscapes. Hence, follow this Northern California travel itinerary, which covers the most iconic and hidden gems, making it an unforgettable adventure.

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Northern California Road Trip – NorCal Road Trip

Here’s a detailed Northern California road trip itinerary with my suggestions on what to see, where to stay, scenic stops, and travel tips.

Day 1 of  North California Itinerary  : San Francisco to Napa Valley 

Start your NorCal road trip from San Francisco.

• Distance : 60 miles (1.5 hours)

Napa Valley, one of the world’s most famous wine regions, is the perfect place to start your road trip. You will get a chance to get views of incredible vineyards, wine-tasting experiences, and lush landscapes.

👉🏼Best Scenic Drives In Napa Valley (Itinerary + Things To Do)

Things to Do:

• Visit Vineyards : Spend the day visiting world-renowned wineries like Domaine Carneros or Castello di Amorosa , a 13th-century-style Tuscan castle and winery.

• Wine Train : Take a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic and gourmet experience through wine country.

Overnight Stay- Napa River Inn with scenic views and is centrally located for winery tours.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Book wine tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season.
• Designate a driver if you plan on tasting wine at multiple vineyards.

Day 2: Napa Valley to Mendocino

• Distance : 108 miles (2.5 hours)
• Route : Take CA-128 W and US-101 N

Mendocino offers breathtaking coastal views, charming seaside villages, and the chance to experience nature up close.

• Explore Mendocino Headlands State Park : Stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and coastal trails make this a must-visit.
• Visit Glass Beach : In Fort Bragg, you’ll find a beach filled with smooth sea glass—a rare and colorful sight.
• Point Cabrillo Light Station : This historic lighthouse offers insight into California’s coastal history and scenic photo opportunities.

Scenic Stops – Navarro River Redwoods State Park : On CA-128, drive through a scenic corridor of towering redwoods, offering a peaceful, shaded escape.

Overnight Stay – The Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites offers ocean views and is close to the town’s attractions.

Pro Travel Tips – Wear layers. Mendocino’s coastal weather can change quickly and is more relaxed than inland areas.

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Day 3: Mendocino to Humboldt Redwoods State Park (Avenue of the Giants)

• Distance : 140 miles (3 hours)
• Route : Take US-101 N

Driving through Humboldt Redwoods State Park on Avenue of the Giants is an awe-inspiring experience. Towering redwoods and some of the tallest trees in the world, you will experience nature’s grandeur like no other.

• Drive the Avenue of the Giants : This scenic 31-mile road takes you through groves of ancient redwoods.
• Founders Grove : Stop to hike this easy, short trail through one of the park’s most impressive groves.
• Shrine Drive-Thru Tree : One of the last remaining “drive-thru” redwood trees offers a fun, photo-worthy stop.

Scenic Stops – Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree : A quirky roadside attraction in Leggett where you can drive your car through a massive redwood.

Overnight Stay – Benbow Historic Inn offers a charming and comfortable stay near the redwoods, with beautiful views and a historic vibe.

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• Gas stations are sparse in this area, so make sure your tank is full before entering the park.
• Plan for a day of relaxation, taking your time to walk among the giants.

Day 4: Humboldt Redwoods State Park to Eureka and Trinidad

• Distance : 55 miles (1 hour)

Eureka and Trinidad are small coastal towns with Victorian charm. Here, you can experience rich history, cultural experiences, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

• Old Town Eureka : Wander through the historic district, known for its beautifully restored Victorian architecture, especially the Carson Mansion .
• Sequoia Park Zoo : The oldest zoo in California, located within a redwood forest.
• Trinidad State Beach : North of Eureka, Trinidad offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and one of the most picturesque harbors on the coast.

Scenic Stops – Patrick’s Point State Park : Hike the Rim Trail for sweeping views of the rugged coastline, lush forests, and wildlife sightings.

Overnight Stay –   Eureka Inn offers a classic Victorian ambiance with modern comforts in the heart of Eureka.

Pro Travel Tips : Try The Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka for a memorable meal. It is famous for its local brews and delicious fare.

Day 5: Eureka to Mount Shasta

• Distance : 200 miles (4 hours)
• Route : Take CA-299 E and I-5 N

Mount Shasta is a volcanic peak dominating Northern California’s landscape. Experience outdoor adventures and spiritual significance here at Mount Shasta.

• Hike Mount Shasta : Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, there are trails of varying difficulty, including Panther Meadows , known for its spiritual energy.
• Castle Lake : A crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for kayaking, swimming, or relaxing.
• McCloud Falls : Three tiers of waterfalls where you can hike and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.

Scenic Stops – Shasta-Trinity National Forest : Take in the diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and lakes. This area is perfect for a picturesque picnic stop.

Overnight Stay – Shasta Inn offers rustic charm and mountain views just minutes from downtown Mount Shasta.

Pro Travel Tips: If hiking Mount Shasta, be aware that snow can cover higher elevation trails well into the summer.

Day 6: Mount Shasta to Lake Tahoe

• Distance : 220 miles (4.5 hours)
• Route : Take I-5 S, then US-50 E

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, and here you will find crystal-clear waters, mountain views, and a variety of outdoor activities ranging from hiking and skiing to boating.

• Emerald Bay State Park : One of the most photographed locations in Lake Tahoe, offering hiking, viewpoints, and boating.
• Tahoe Rim Trail : Hike or bike portions of this 165-mile trail that circles Lake Tahoe, offering panoramic views.
• Kayaking and Swimming : Enjoy the lake’s clear waters, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.

Scenic Stops – Donner Pass : Located on the way to Lake Tahoe, this historical site offers spectacular mountain views and a chance to learn about the Donner Party’s ill-fated journey.

Overnight Stay – Basecamp Tahoe City offers cozy, rustic rooms and easy access to the lake.

• If visiting in winter, be prepared for snowy conditions and check road closures.
• The summer months are ideal for water-based activities, but make reservations for any equipment rentals in advance.

Useful Information – Road Trip Through Northern California

• Packing Essentials : Layers are crucial, as Northern California’s climate varies from foggy coastal mornings to warm inland afternoons.
• Best Time to Visit : Summer to early fall is ideal for road trips, as weather conditions are more predictable and ideal for outdoor activities.
• Car Rental : Consider renting an all-wheel-drive vehicle, especially if visiting in the winter or planning to explore off-the-beaten-path areas.
• Pooling Lane (Carpool or HOV Lanes) : Northern California’s major highways, like I-80 and US-101 , often have carpool lanes (also known as HOV lanes ) that can save you a lot of time, especially during peak traffic hours. These lanes typically require at least 2 or 3 passengers in the car. Look for signage indicating the number of passengers needed, and stay in regular lanes if you don’t meet the carpool criteria—fines for violations can be steep.
• Toll Roads : Some parts of Northern California, especially around the Bay Area, have toll bridges and roads, like the Golden Gate Bridge , Bay Bridge , and Carquinez Bridge . Most tolls are electronic and require FasTrak , California’s electronic toll collection system.

A Northern California road trip is an unforgettable journey through natural beauty, charming towns, and diverse landscapes. From coastal wonders to towering redwoods and mountain peaks, this Northern California travel itinerary offers scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and relaxing moments in small-town settings.

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