3 week usa trip

Kate Abroad

Ultimate 3 Week East Coast USA Itinerary (+ 2 and 4 week options)

The USA is not a small country so if you’re planning a trip it’s best to focus on one region and this 3 week East Coast USA itinerary is a great place to start.

This itinerary is really the highlights of the East Coast as it’s impossible to see the whole place in only 3 weeks. However, if you have a bit more time, there’s a 4 week East Coast variation that squeezes more in.

The itinerary is designed to start in New York, which is the easiest place to fly into and ends in Miami so you can choose to fly home from there or return via New York. If you have more time you could continue on cross country to Los Angeles (I did this in reverse on my second USA trip). 

3 week east coast road trip map

How to get around the East Coast on this itinerary

Even though the great American road trip is an iconic experience, and definitely the most flexible way to get around, this East Coast itinerary is designed to be doable by train using Amtrak. I’ve travelled the East Coast by both train and road and both options have their advantages. 

On the whole, trains are a lot cheaper and the rail infrastructure is really good on the East Coast so you won’t find the train schedule particularly limiting. However, if you decide to travel by train you will need to plan ahead as tickets increase in price closer to departure.

If you’re driving, I would recommend picking up your vehicle on the morning of day 4 when you leave New York. You won’t need a vehicle to get around New York and you can save money by not paying for those days, plus you’ll avoid the hassle of parking. 

Where to stay on your 3 week East Coast road trip or train trip

This itinerary doesn’t work very well for campervanning/taking an RV as it includes several big cities without central campsites so you’ll need to book accommodation for each night.

Unfortunately, accommodation on the East Coast of the USA is far from cheap but I have included hostel options where available. 

Affordable independent hotels can also be hard to find so you may want to commit to using one chain of hotels (Marriott or Hilton are the most widely available I found) throughout your trip so you at least end with some loyalty benefits. 

The 3 week East Coast USA road/train trip itinerary

Days 1-3: new york.

There’s no better place to start a USA road trip than the Big Apple, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of…. While you can (and I have) easily spend a week or more in NYC, 3 days is a good amount of time to see the highlights and get a taste.

I recommend structuring this first part of the East Coast itinerary as follows:

• Day 1 – Mid-town Manhattan
• Day 2 – Downtown Manhattan 
• Day 3 – Brooklyn and Uptown

On Day 1 you’ll knock off the big ticket items including Times Square and the Empire State Building . Take a walk around Central Park and window shop on Fifth Avenue.

Start the next day at the bottom of the island with a ferry trip to the Statue of Liberty, either the free Staten Island Ferry or the paid Statue Cruises (I’ve done both and the paid version is worth the money). Then stroll down Wall Street, touch the bull, visit the 9/11 Memorial and grab some noodles in Chinatown.

Finally, make your way across the Brooklyn Bridge, get your photos in DUMBO and eat your way through Time Out Market. Then spend the afternoon taking in thousands of years of art at The Met and seeing how the other half live on the Upper East Side.

To help save money on attractions, try a Go City pass . They have 2 and 3 day all-inclusive passes that would be perfect for this itinerary – click here to see how you can save .

Don’t forget to make time for plenty of pizza slices, lox bagels, pretzels and hot dogs!

• Luxury: Kixby
• Mid-range: Hotel Indigo Downtown
• Budget: HI USA Hostel

Click here to compare NYC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Day 4-5: Boston

Drive: 220 miles – approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Moynihan Train Hall – approx. 4 hours

After the craziness of New York, head up north for a dose of history in Boston. Take your time exploring Boston on foot, the city is super walkable and there are historical monuments almost on every corner. 

There are plenty of walking tours available but I’d recommend just downloading an audio guide for the Freedom Trail and going at your own pace. And don’t miss the Boston Public Library, it might not be on the Freedom Trail but it was my favourite spot.

Boston is no less a foodie city than New York. While you’re there make sure to try a lobster roll, chowder, Boston Cream Pie and of course some Italian food in the North End including one of the famous cannoli from Mike’s or Modern Pastry.

On your second day in Boston, head out to Cambridge to see the Harvard campus (students run walking tours ) and try some of the fun student bars.

If you have extra time, you can take the train out to Salem to explore the witchy museums and filming locations. It’s only a short ride from Boston’s North Station or you can take a day tour from Boston . 

• Luxury: The Liberty Hotel
• Mid-range: Revolution Hotel
• Budget: Found Boston Common

Click here to compare Boston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 6-7: Providence/Newport

Drive: 50 miles – approx. 1 hour

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Back Bay or South Boston – approx. 1 hour

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, might not be on every East Coast road trip plan but it’s very much worth a visit.  

Providence itself is quite a small town with a very compact city centre. The main things to do are to explore the Rhode Island State Capitol – unlike the one in DC, here you’re allowed to just wander around at will and see all the rooms – and the Brown University campus.

The number one reason for coming to Providence however is because it’s the gateway to Newport, which you’ll want to dedicate at least one whole day to seeing. 

Newport is a beautiful seaside town full of cute boutiques and restaurants, but its biggest draw is the Gilded Age mansions.  These homes are straight out of The Great Gatsby and it’s 100% worth spending a few hours touring 2-3 of the mansions, you’ll feel like you’re in a European palace! 

While you’re in Newport check out the Cliff Walk, a stunning (but windy) hike along the ocean. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or some of the famous New England clam chowder.

• Luxury: The Beatrice
• Mid-range: Graduate Providence
• Budget: Courtyard by Marriott Providence Downtown

Click here to compare Providence accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 8-9: Philadelphia 

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Providence – approx. 5.5 hours

If you didn’t get enough American history in Boston then don’t worry, there’s plenty more to find in Philadelphia. 

Historic Philadelphia is quite pretty with its open squares and occasional cobblestone streets. The main attraction here is Independence Hall which you’ll have to be organised to get into as it books out well in advance (despite visiting Philly twice I haven’t managed to go inside yet). 

Even if you miss out on tickets though you can still line up to go see the Liberty Bell across the street and wander through the remains of George Washington’s house. We also really loved the Museum of the American Revolution which is full of Revolutionary memorabilia and well worth a few hours.

One of the best places to go during your Philly stay is Reading Terminal Market. It’s a foodie paradise full of stalls churning out the best local dishes. And if you want to try an infamous Philly Cheese Steak then there are some great ones sold here (just look for the queues).

For a different side of Philly, go tour the Eastern State Penitentiary , once the biggest prison in the US and now incredibly haunting.

• Luxury: The Franklin on Rittenhouse
• Mid-range: The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
• Budget: Apple Hostels of Philadelphia

Click here to compare Philly accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 10-11: Washington DC

Drive: 150 miles – approx. 2.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Philadelphia 30 th  Street – approx. 2 hours

By Day 10 it’s time for a trip to the nation’s capital. One of the best parts of visiting DC is how much you can do there for free. There are so many museums, galleries, monuments and historic buildings to see it’s hard to know where to start.

One piece of advice, make sure to plan and book ahead because many places will book out months in advance or require anyone without an advance booking to queue, sometimes for hours in the full sun. 

If you want to go inside the White House it’s a whole process and to my understanding, you have to be a USA resident (the website says foreigners can book through their embassy but our embassy said they weren’t taking bookings post-COVID).

Some must-dos in DC include a walk along the National Mall, taking in the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, a tour of The Capitol and seeing the Da Vinci painting in the National Gallery.

• Luxury: Eaton DC
• Mid-range: Lyle DC
• Budget: Hotel Harrington

Click here to compare DC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 12-13: Charleston

Drive: 600 miles – approx. 9.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Washington Union Station– approx. 10 hours (can be overnight)

After DC it’s time to head south and there are few cities in America’s South prettier than Charleston. This coastal town is famous for it’s stunning antebellum architecture, especially the “Rainbow Row” of colourful mansions.

While you probably don’t need a full two days to see Charleston, the atmosphere of the South is to take things a bit slower, so enjoy having the time to stroll along the oceanfront and take in the views.

Charleston is also great for foodies so this stage of your 3 week East Coast vacation is a great point to try some popular Southern foods including barbecue, grits, biscuits and pies. If you’re wondering where to find these, the Charleston City market is a good place to start with both food and trinket stalls so you can do your souvenir shopping at the same time.

• Luxury: The Palmetto Hotel
• Mid-range: Francis Marion Hotel
• Budget: Holiday Inn Express DWTN

Click here to compare Charleston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 14-15: Savannah

Drive: 120 miles – approx. 2 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Charleston – approx. 2 hours

If there’s one city that’s more beautiful than Charleston its Savannah, known for its countless squares lined with overhanging Spanish moss and full of graceful fountains and historic statues. 

Savannah is very walkable and the best way to discover it is on foot, popping into the cute boutiques down by the river (don’t miss River Street Sweets) and taking lots of photos. The classic Savannah photo is sitting on the bench from Forrest Gump where Forrest waits for his bus.

While it’s quite cliché and touristy, some fun Savannah activities include a river cruise or a trolley tour of the historic centre. 

You can also take day tours out to the surrounding plantations for a dose of history. Wormslow is the most popular for its photogenic tree-lined drive.

• Luxury: The Gastonian, Historic Inns of Savannah Collection
• Mid-range: Foley House Inn
• Budget: Springhill Suites by Marriott Savannah Downtown Historic District

Click here to compare Savannah accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 16-17: Orlando

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Star or Silver Meteor from Savannah – approx. 6 hours

It’s theme park time! You’re not on an American vacation without a bit of Disney (or Universal Studios) magic. Orlando is really all about the parks, so pick two and spend a day at each or go all out on one park and work your way around as many rides as you can.

I’ve done Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando and loved them both, but if you’ve done Disneyland in California then maybe go for something different like SeaWorld.

Personally, I went for the budget accommodation and spent all my cash on park tickets but there are some very fancy resorts in town so you could take the opportunity to stay somewhere nice. You’ll definitely appreciate a nice pool in the Florida heat!

• Luxury: Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
• Mid-range: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Las Palmeras  
• Budget: The Delaney Hotel

Click here to compare Orlando accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 18-19: Miami

Drive: 240 miles- approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Orlando – approx. 6 hours

Miami is such a unique place, it feels like a mix of Las Vegas and the Caribbean, it’s definitely somewhere you must experience on any East Coast vacation itinerary.

There are so many different sides to the city and you won’t get to see them all in two days but you can make a good start. I’d suggest staying in South Beach to immerse yourself in the beachy, glamorous side of the city but still be close to Downtown and Little Havana.

If you can tear yourself away from the beach, make sure to visit the Wynwood Walls with their famous collection of murals and leave time to explore the greater Wynwood area as there is so much street art around that you don’t have to pay to see. 

Also on the arty side, there are some very cool digital art exhibits in Miami. We went to Artechouse in Miami Beach, which is free to visit with a Go City pass , but Superblue in Downtown Miami is also meant to be amazing.

While you’re in the mainland part of Miami, head to Little Havana for a taste of Cuban-American food and culture. Calle Ocho, the main street of Little Havana, is definitely touristy but it’s still fun to explore, whether you’re keen on joining a game in Domino Park or a dance in one of the Cuban bars.

Finally, Miami is built on the water, so you’ve got to get out in a boat of some kind to see it properly. I’ve tried both the sightseeing cruise option and the speedboat option and they’re both fun experiences in different ways, depending on whether you want an adrenalin-fuelled ride, or you’d rather take it slow and get more commentary on the sights you pass. Both will let you see some of the insane celebrity mansions lining the shores of Miami’s island.

• Luxury: The Betsy Hotel
• Mid-range: Avalon Hotel
• Budget: Freehand Hostel Miami Beach

Click here to compare Miami accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 20-21: Florida Keys

Drive:  170 miles – approx. 3 hours

Bus (no train option): Grayline or Flix

Even though this East Coast in 3 weeks itinerary didn’t start at the top of the East Coast, it ends at the bottom, at the southernmost point of the USA in the Florida Keys.

While basically all of the Florida Keys are worth visiting, Key West is the best place to base yourself as it has the most accommodation and activity options. It’s a very fun place with a unique mix of chill beachy vibes and party atmosphere.

The drive there from Miami is incredibly scenic, so if you can take it slow and get heaps of photos. If you’re doing this East Coast trip without a car then you can book either a day trip or return transfers with several tour companies including Grayline who I’ve used in the past and can recommend.

While in the Keys, some of the fun things to do include snorkelling, diving, boat cruises and of course eating key lime pie!

• Luxury: Pier House Resort & Spa
• Mid-range: Opal Key Resort & Marina
• Budget: Southwinds Motel

Click here to compare Key West accommodation prices on Booking.com

Alternative: 2 week East Coast itinerary 

This shortened itinerary is very action-packed, suited to fast-paced travellers and those who want to see as much as possible in one trip. 

This is basically what I did on my first East Coast trip (but in reverse) and it definitely left me wanting to return and spend more time. 

• Philadelphia
• Washington DC

Alternative: 4 week East Coast itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in, while also allowing some extra time in the top destinations for those who prefer to take things at a slower pace. 

• Providence/Newport
• Williamsburg
• Florida Keys

In Short: 3 Weeks on the East Coast of the USA

It’s hard to narrow down the best parts of the East Coast to a short itinerary as there’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see the USA. Hopefully, these East Coast itineraries give you some inspiration to get started.

P.S. Click here to find all of my USA trip-planning guides

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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3 Weeks on East Coast USA

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

From witnessing a Broadway musical performance to visiting amusement parks and museums to climbing the Great Smoky Mountains or lounging on the beach, you won’t ever get bored on the East Coast of the USA.

Visiting the east coast of the US in summer is very different when you visit in winter or even in spring and autumn. If you plan to do lots of hiking and walking around, it’s best if you plan your trip during the warmer months. But if you want to avoid the crowd of tourists, it’s better if you go during spring, autumn, or even winter.

Whether you’re a fan of dining, history, trekking, or kayaking, you’ll find a ton of great activities for you to check out during your 3 weeks on East Coast USA trip. If you are thinking to go to the west coast, check out our 3 weeks on the west coast USA .

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO EAST COAST OF THE US

The US is such a massive country and there are lots of things you can do and way to travel around. But now that you have decided to focus on exploring the east coast of the US first, it will help your planning and will also ensure that your trip will have less hassle.

Below is a compilation of things you should know before packing your bags and booking your flight to the US. If you plan to visit other parts of the US, we also have 3 weeks in the USA itinerary that covers coasts, road trips, and the entire country.

When is the best time to go to East Coast USA

If you see yourself visiting the beach and taking a dip, you definitely want to go to the east coast during summer (June to August). But remember that this region is very busy with locals and foreign visitors exploring the area during this time.

The east coast has many national parks and botanical gardens that come alive in spring. While in autumn, the trees simply make the trip magical and the setting much different than the rest of the year. You can also visit in winter and walk on frozen lakes and look for ice skating parks.

The months you may want to avoid are from August to November, when the possibility of typhoons and daily rains are frequent.

Are 3 weeks enough for the East Coast of the US

3 weeks on east coast USA allows you to do a road trip in this region. It’s enough if you can pick 2-3 states and 3-5 cities to explore. Of course, the more time you have, the better, but 21 days will give you plenty of time to cover a great distance.

What to pack

Depending on when you plan to visit, you really should look up the weather in the states you plan to visit. When you visit in spring along the coast, the weather can vary a lot. For example, spring in Massachusetts is chilly, while it can be a perfect temperature in Florida.

One thing you really need to pack is the power adapter. If you are coming from Europe or Asia, remember that the US and many parts of Latin and North America use a lot lower voltage on their wall sockets. We have a list of what to pack for a 3-week trip , a packing list for a summer trip , and a winter packing list – all come with a free printable list.

You must also remember to bring medicines with you, especially prescription ones, because those are expensive and can be hard to find in the US. Don’t forget your prescription letter, as you might be asked about the medicine you have when you pass through customs.

How to get around

The best way to travel around the east coast is by renting a car. It can be significantly cheaper than flying, and you’ll get control of your time. But of course, that only works if you have a valid driver’s license that the US acknowledges.

You can also take the train, it offers a scenic trip and can even be cheaper than flying, especially if you have more luggage with you. The only downside is the limited station stops. You must figure out how to travel from one city to another if the train doesn’t operate there.

And finally, you can also use the bus. It’s slower but cheaper and often goes to smaller villages and cities. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft are reliable on the east coast of the US but can be pricey just like using a traditional taxi.

Average cost of 3 weeks on East Cost USA

Some would say the east coast is more expensive than the west coast. But I’d say that they’re about the same. On average, expect to spend around $2,500-$3,000 per person for a moderately budgeted trip.

This includes accommodations, food, transportation, and activities. However, costs could be higher in major cities like New York and Boston or lower in smaller, rural areas.

For those on a budget, you can probably plan for $1,800 to $2,000 if staying in hostels and cook there or do some street food or ready-to-eat grocery food. When it comes to l uxury spending, $5,000-$8,000 for 20 days in East Coast USA could easily run you up, but you’ll be very comfortable.

This doesn’t include flights to the US and back, plus travel medical insurance . I can’t emphasize enough the importance of getting medical insurance when visiting the US. You don’t know what could happen, and you really don’t want to end up paying thousands and thousands of dollars for even the basic treatment.

Suppose you possess a passport from Europe, Canada, some parts of Latin America, Japan, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, and South Korea. In that case, you can enter and travel around the US without a visa for up to six months. However, you must obtain an ESTA before your board your flight.

The immigration officer will ask you about your trip and might ask for your flight out of the US before granting you the number of days you can enter. This will be based on your travel plans.

Travellers not mentioned n the list above must apply for a tourist visa at the nearest US embassy. It’s recommended to get this sorted at least a month or two before your trip, as the processing can be long.

You should also get medical and travel insurance as a priority. Medical services in the US are very expensive. Proof of medical insurance coverage could also be something that an immigration officer will ask you to show documentation before allowing you to pass through.

Other travel tips

To make your planning a bit easier, I compiled a list of my personal favourite when making travel arrangements. When travelling to the US, securing your accommodation in advance is vital because the prices are very expensive. You can save money by booking your hotel at least 3 months in advance to save some money.

MUST-SEE PLACES IN EAST COAST, USA (pinned map)

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

2 WAYS TO TRAVEL THE EAST COAST

To help you visualise the travel plan, here’s a quick overview of how you can travel to this part of the US. As mentioned, you can choose between travelling with a car and combining it with flying or purely driving. Just make sure to plan the pickup point and the drop-off point. It’s important to check that the rental company has plenty of locations throughout the region.

Road Trip and Flying

• Duration: 21 days
• Total driving hours: approx 14 hours
• Total Flying hours: 2 hours
• Start: Boston, Massachusettes
• End: Miami, Florida

Itinerary overview

• Day 1- 3: Massachusetts
• Day 4-7: New York
• Day 8-9: Washington D.C.
• Day 10-12: Atlanta, Georgia
• Day 13-15: Jacksonville, Florida
• Day 16-17: Orlando, Florida
• Day 18-21: Miami, Florida

Road Trip Only

• Distance to cover: 1,324 miles (2,130 km)
• Total driving hours: approx 24 hours
• Average daily driving time: approx 1.2/day
• Start: New York City, New York
• End: Chicago, Illinois
• Day 1-4: New York
• Day 5-7: Washington D.C.
• Day 8-9: George Washington and Jefferson National Forest
• Day 10-13: Great Smoky Mountain
• Day 14-15: Louisville, Kentucky
• Day 16-18: Indianapolis, Indiana
• day 19-21: Chicago, Illinois

3 WEEKS ON EAST COAST USA ITINERARY

Now that you have a visual idea of the two itineraries you can choose from, it’s time to discuss why these places are worth visiting. We all have heard of Florida and New York being fantastic places to explore, especially if it’s your first time. But have you heard of Great Smoky Mountain or the historical spots in Washington D.C.?

If you are a history buff and love nature simultaneously, a breakdown of when to go, where to go, and how long to stay in each place will give you more ideas on what to expect during this travel itinerary 3 weeks on east coast USA.

Ultimate East Coast Itinerary (Driving and Flying)

If driving for 21 days is not very appealing, travelling around and combining taking flights and renting cars might be a better choice. You will still be free to move around anytime while having the choice to skip long hours on a car to get from one city to another.

Although this can also be done with the bus. I will show you how to go from city to city by car, bus, and flying.

Massachusetts for 3 days

In terms of culture, national monuments, shopping, picturesque beaches, and exquisite seafood, Massachusetts provides something for everyone. You can arrange a rental car online and use it for touring around the states at your own pace. Tell them you’ll pick it up at the airport and drop it off in Washington, DC.

The legacy of the American Revolution’s birthplaStrolling the Freedom Trail is a great way to view 16 historical places dispersed throughout the city is to stroll the Freedom Trail.

Boston is the ideal place to begin your 20 days on the east coast USA trip, as it is home to numerous intriguing sights and points of interest, including world-class cuisine, sporting events, and musical venues.

You can pick up your rental car from Boston Airport and plan to bring it to Washington D.C. From there, you’ll change to flying.

Things to do in Massachusetts

• For exploring Boston downtown, get a hop-on, hop-off trolley pass or get a Go City pass
• Cape Cod National Seashore
• Boston Common and Public Garden Swan Boats
• Plimoth Patuxet
• Spooky Tours – Haunting of Salem – Haunting Salem or Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley
• Museum of Science
• Fenway Park – join a tour with a local guide
• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
• Freedom Trail – discover with history and food
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Day trip to Martha’s Vineyard – book a tour with a round-trip ferry
• Faneuil Hall
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum – enjoy an interactive tour
• Crane Beach
• Boston Harbor Islands State Park
• Carson Beach
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library
• Harvard University – explore with a student guide
• Wachusett Mountain
• Jiminy Peak
• Learn about the cuisine of Massachusettes – book a walking tasting tour or underground donut tour or buffet cruise at Boston Harbor

Accommodations in Boston

• Budget hostels – HI Boston Hostel or Boston Homestel
• Mid-range hotels – Oasis Guest House or DoubleTree by Hilton
• Luxury hotels – Encore Boston Harbor or InterContinental Boston

New York for 4 days

There is never enough time to see all of the significant sights in New York , which is constantly a whirlwind of activity. Many visitors simply come to see the sights, including the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Madison Square Garden, and several prestigious museums.

Some people travel primarily to take in Broadway performances, while others come specifically to eat and shop. This city is a treat for touring since many top attractions are close to one another or only a short ride away.

Times Square is definitely a place to be at night. It’s lined with enormous, illuminated billboards and screens, though it’s fascinating any time of day. The iconic “ball drop” at midnight and New Year’s Eve celebrations also occur here.

The road journey from Massachusetts to New York is about 4 hr via I-84, covering 215 miles (346 km). You can also take the bus , where the journey is 4 hr and 20 mins. You can also fly, which is the fastest, under 1 hr and 30 mins, and you’re in New York. You take flights to Newark, La Guardia, or JFK airports.

Things to do in New York City

• Madison Square Garden
• Times Square
• Discover New York – on a one-day sightseeing tour or purchase a New York CityPass
• Central Park
• Manhattan – go on a helicopter ride
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Statue of Liberty – combo with Ellis Island tour
• One World Observatory – get your admission ticket
• Brooklyn Bridge
• 9/11 Memorial Museum – purchase an entry ticket
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• Summit One Vanderbilt – read the tour reviews
• Empire State Building – skip the line and go to 102nd Deck
• The High Line
• American Museum of Natural History – get your pass
• Rockefeller Center
• Friends Experience – visit the production set
• Top of The Rock
• Ice Cream Museum – book a ticket in advance
• Bryant Park
• Go on culinary experience – visit Chinatown and Little Italy or Greenwich Village or Brooklyn food tour or Hell’s Kitchen Tour
• Washington Square Park
• Enjoy a dinner cruise

Accommodations in New York City

• Affordable: The Local NY or HI New York City Hostel or West Side YMCA
• Mid-range: The Herald by LuxUrban or Raven Hotel by Wyndham
• Luxury: Riu Plaza Manhattan Time Square or Arlo Midtown or citizenM New York Time Square

Washington D.C for 2 days

3 weeks on east coast USA is incomplete without visiting the capital city. Washington, DC, one of the most popular spots in the USA, provides a range of engaging activities, from learning American history and politics to visiting several of the nation’s most famous landmarks.

The Smithsonian American Art Museum houses one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of American art featuring more than 7,000 artists. It also shares the same building as the National Portrait Gallery.

For book enthusiasts, you can swing by The Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, accessible from the Capitol Building through an underground passage.

The travel time on the road from New York to Washington D.C takes around 4 hr 6 min via I-95 S with a distance of 226 miles (364 km). You can also f ly from New York City to Washington D.C , which will take 1 hr and 30 mins, depending on if you book a non-stop flight. You can ride a bus from New York City to Washington D.C . The journey time is 5 hrs and 15 mins.

Things to do in Washington D.C.

• Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• National Portrait Gallery
• National World War II Memorial
• Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
• Smithsonian American Art Museum
• Jefferson Memorial
• Learn about Washington DC – in a one-day tour or on a bike tour or Capitol Hill guided tour
• Library of Congress
• United States Capitol and Capitol Hill – book a Moonlight tour by trolley or simply get your reserved entry pass
• Lincoln Memorial
• Discover DC Monuments – via big bus hop-on, hop-off or a night tour
• Washington Monument
• The White House – advance planning must be done
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Mall – tour on an electric vehicle
• Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin
• Mount Vernon – do a day trip combo with Alexandria
• National Gallery of Art
• Smithsonian National Zoological Park and Museum – visit the museum with a private guide
• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• Arlinton National Cemetry – walking tour with changing of guards
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• National Harbor Capital Wheel – check the ticket price
• International Spy Museum
• Try out local food and drinks – on a food and history tour or pub crawl and history or cruise and gourmet

Accommodations in Washington D.C.

• Affordable: Duo Housing or Duo Nomad
• Mid-range: Washington Plaza Hotel or citizenM Washington DC
• Luxury: JW Marriott or Sofitel Lafayette Square

Atlanta, Georgia for 3 days

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is the latest addition to Atlanta’s must-see attractions. Its numerous interactive exhibits provide perspectives on the Civil Rights Movement and current global issues. Get a chance to see the hype about The World of Coca-Cola, where visitors can go wild sampling various drinks.

Don’t miss out on two of Atlanta’s top tourist attractions: Legoland Discovery Center and Georgia Aquarium, the largest in the Western Hemisphere.

The quickest way to arrive in Atlanta is to book a non-stop flight from Washington D.C. which often takes around 2 hours. The bus trip from Washington D.C to Atlanta is too long (nearly 11 hours), so it’s best to board a plane.

Ensure to book a car rental ahead of time with a pick up at Atlanta airport to make the most out of your 3 weeks on east coast USA trip. Remember to arrange the drop off at Miami, Florida.

Things to do in Atlanta

• Georgia Aquarium
• Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
• Legoland Discovery Center
• World of Coca-Cola
• Mercedes Benz Stadium
• Save money and get an Atlanta CityPass
• High Museum of Art
• Atlanta – learn about Black History and Civil Rights
• World of Coca-Cola – get your skip-the-line ticket
• Piedmont Park
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Day trip to North Georgia Wine Country – join a tour
• Stone Mountain Park

Accommodations in Atlanta

• Affordable: Red Roof Inn or La Quinta by Wyndham or Microtel Inn by Wyndham
• Midrange: Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown or The Darwin Hotel
• Luxury: The Candler by Hilton or Glenn Hotel Autograph Collection

Jacksonville, Florida for 3 days

With 10 state and national parks, Jacksonville has the most extensive park system in the country. It is a special place to visit for its authentic cuisine, exciting nightlife, and thriving craft beer culture. It provides 1100 miles of shoreline and the city’s 22 miles of beaches. Thus, there are plenty of opportunities to get in the water, whether swimming or surfing.

Don’t forget to stop by The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The fastest and most common route from Atlanta to Jacksonville, the I-75 S, takes roughly 5 hours to arrive across 346 miles (557 km). There’s also the bus option from Atlanta to Jacksonville , the trip will take about 9 hours, so check if you can book a flight instead .

Things to do in Jacksonville

• Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
• Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
• Little Talbot Island State Park
• Big Talbot Island State Park
• Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
• Atlantic Beach
• Museum of Science and History

Accommodations in Jacksonville

• Affordable: Econo Lodge or Emerson Inn
• Mid-range: DoubleTree by Hilton or Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham
• Luxury: Renu or Hyatt Regency or Aloft Airport Hotel

Orlando, Florida for 2 days

While nothing compares to seeing the magic through a child’s eyes, adults may experience being a kid all over again at Orlando’s various theme parks. In addition to the 4 distinctive parks at Walt Disney World, Harry Potter fans will be in awe of Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure.

Orlando is the nation’s most popular family vacation spot, which has 7 of the top theme parks around the globe and offers world-class water parks, thrill rides, and outdoor activities. Visitors can choose from luxurious resorts to themed boutique hotels among the 450 hotels available.

With a total distance of 144 miles (232 km), it takes around 2 hr 11 min to travel directly from Jacksonville to Orlando. Taking the bus is an option , with a 3 hr and 10 mins travel time. There’s no reason to fly since you’ll need to connect anyway, making your trip even longer.

Things to do in Orlando

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure
• Universal Studios Florida
• Discovery Cove
• Fly Above Disney Springs
• Musical Parades at Magic Kingdom Park
• Day Trip to Epcot
• Walt Disney World Resort
• Orlando – enjoy a pirate show with dinner
• Universal Orlando Resort
• Rock Spring – go kayaking with a glass-bottomed boat
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• Snorkel with Manatee – tour with a photographer
• SeaWorld Orlando
• Tampa Bay – purchase a city pass
• The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum)
• LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
• Go to Kennedy Space Center – reserve an entry ticket

Accommodations in Orlando

• Affordable: Hotel Monreale Express or Avanti Palms Resort or Orlando Palms
• Mid-range: Wyndham Garden Airport or Avid Hotels by IHG or Ramada by Wyndham
• Luxury: Hyatt Regency or Caribe Royale or Buena Vista Suites

Miami, Florida for 4 days

You can’t finish your 3 weeks on East Coast USA if you don’t visit the popular destination for the summer holiday – Miami. There are tons of beaches in Miami, each renowned for something unique. To spice up your family beach day, rent paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkelling gear at Key Biscayne’s Crandon Park.

Head to South Pointe Park Pier for views of Miami Beach and the Atlantic Ocean, which are popular with TV crews and photographers.

Pass by and take Instagram-worthy shots at Wynwood Walls to glimpse Miami’s reputation as one of the world’s most lively hubs. And don’t forget to use these fun Miami Instagram captions . In addition, Art Deco structures along Ocean Drive stand out against the blue backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean in vibrant pink and yellow.

The distance from Jacksonville, Florida to Miami is 348 miles (560 km), and it takes around 5 hr 12 min to travel under normal traffic via Florida’s Turnpike and I-95 S. There’s actually a direct flight from Orlando to Miami which is a little over an hour. A bit more affordable option is by bus , it’s a 4 hr and 30 mins trip, but more budget-friendly than flying.

Miami is a fantastic place to end your 3 weeks on East Coast USA trip. Spend the final days lying on the beach, enjoying the scenery, tasting globally-diverse dishes, and the fact that you are done spending hours inside a vehicle.

Things to do in Miami

• Lummus Park Beach
• South Pointe Park Pier
• Wynwood Walls
• Dolphin Mall
• Crandon Park Beach
• American Airlines Arena
• Yacht Ride at the Bayside Marketplace
• Miami – cruise to see Millionaire homes or join a speedboat sightseeing or evening cruise on Biscayne Bay
• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
• Everglades National Park – book Everglades Airboat Tour and Wildlife Tour
• Deering Estate
• Fort Lauderdale – get a water taxi all-day pass
• Key West – sunset sail and live music
• Coral Castle
• St. Augustine – get a hop-on, hop-off trolley pass
• Go Food and Drinks Exploration – join Little Havana food walking tour (Miami)

Accommodations in Miami

• Affordable: Art Hostel Wynwood Concept
• Mid-range: Hampton Inn/Coconut Grove or Hilton Garden Inn
• Luxury: East Miami or InterContinental

East Coast Road Trip (Driving Only)

The US is one of the best places to make a road trip because many locals often drive than take flights. This means the roads are road trip-friendly, and renting a car can be more affordable than flying. But if you refer to doing this itinerary by bus, I will show you that option too (and flying if you change your mind).

If more than 2 of you are visiting, you can save more money renting a car than taking flights all the time. If you’re from Europe, you’ll be surprised how expensive the domestic flights in the US are.

Travelling this way also means you’ll find some hidden gems along the way that are not popular amongst most visitors. You can stop anywhere and take a break. You don’t have to worry about flight delays or cancellations.

Like the High Line and One World Observatory, several more recent attractions that have emerged in New York provide spectacular views of the city. Another famous tourist destination in New York is the Rockefeller Center which is typically on everyone’s itinerary.

NBC-TV and other media outlets are situated in this massive entertainment and retail complex in the heart of Manhattan, but the 70-story Rockefeller Plaza is the building’s centrepiece. Visiting New York means you can visit filming studios-turned museums such as Friends filming location.

New York is a great place to start your 3 weeks on east coast USA vacation as there is an endless range of activities to do here. For art enthusiasts, you may go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as the Met, which has a collection of over 2 million works of art that span 5,000 years.

You can arrange to pick up your car from New York Airport (there are three major airports here) and plan to drop it off in Chicago, Illinois.

Things to do in New York

• Manhattan Skyline
• Grand Central Terminal
• Met Cloisters
• Staten Island Ferry

Washington D.C for 3 days

The National Gallery of Art, one of the top art museums in the world, is located in two independent structures linked by a tunnel. Its extensive and varied collection includes classics of European and American paintings and sculptures.

The National Zoo, which is a part of the Smithsonian Institution, is open to the public without any fee. With more than 2,000 distinct animals representing 400 species, it has also established a reputation as one of the top zoos in the entire world.

The National Zoo is also AZA accredited, meaning the area, management, and treatments of the animals pass the standards to ensure that the animal residents are well-taken care of, provided veterinary services, conservation in mind, educational to visitors, and offer safety to everyone.

With a total distance of 364 km (226 miles), it takes roughly 4 hr 6 min to travel directly from New York to Washington D.C on route I-95 S. By bus from New York City to Washington D.C ., that’s 5 hours and 15 mins trip. Flying is 1 hr and 30 mins for non-stop flights (from any airport in New York).

• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• U.S. Capitol
• Ford’s Theatre

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest for 2 days

The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests provide comfort to outdoor adventurers. These natural wonderlands are the ideal place to unwind, refuel, and disconnect from the pressures of daily life. 17 wilderness areas have been declared as part of these parks, and they include miles of hiking trails and. streams

Staying in Roanoke, Virginia, a town close to the National Forest, will help you recharge further. Tru by Hilton Roanoke Hollins, located less than five miles away, is one of the well-known hotels. Breakfast is included in the fair rates, and the rooms are large, which is the perfect place to chill with your family or group of friends.

The journey on the road from Washington D.C to George Washington and Jefferson National Forest is around 3 hr 23 min via I-66 W and I-81 S, covering a distance of 327 km (203 miles). You can board a plane from Washington D.C., to Roanoke but still need a vehicle to explore the national forests.

Things to do in George Washington and Jefferson National Forest for 2 days

• Hike the Apple Orchard Falls
• Hike the Craig Creek Loop Trail
• Hike the Hanging Rock Potts Mountain
• Trek the Cascade Falls
• Barbours Creek

Accommodations near George Washington and Jefferson National Forest

• Stay at Roanoke, Virginia: Holiday Inn Express or Hotel Roanoke or Comfort Inn

Great Smoky Mountain for 3 days

The US is well-known for its magnificent national parks. In your 3 weeks on east coast USA, you can visit not one, not two, but three national parks. Most visitors to the Great Smoky Mountain arrive intending to explore the 900 miles of trails by foot, on a bicycle, or even by motorized wheels.

Several routes that lead to waterfalls are accessible, while many more cross meandering creeks, tranquil meadows, or rocky canyons. Activities like wildlife viewing, photography, and birdwatching are quite prevalent here.

Within this place, you can find the campsites where you can embrace solitude and provides a picnic table, fire pit, drinking water, and restroom amenities. Many family-friendly RV campgrounds are close to parking entrances with facilities that will meet or surpass your expectations.

The road trip journey from George Washington and Jefferson National Forest to Great Smoky Mountain takes around 2 hr 37m via I-81 S, covering a distance of 148 miles (238 km).

Things to do in Great Smoky Mountain

• Hike the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
• Clingmans Dome
• Hike the Cades Cove
• Trek the Laurel Falls
• Hike the Gatlinburg Trail

Accommodations near Great Smoky Mountain

• Stay at Knoxville: Baymont by Wyndham or La Quinta or Comfort Suites or Graduate Hotel or Hyatt Place

Louisville for 2 days

Even though Louisville is renowned as Bourbon City, it is booming with new breweries and has recently been voted among the Top 10 Beer Destinations worldwide. Downtown distilleries like Angel’s Envy, Old Forester, Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, and Peerless Distilling Co. are all within a few short blocks of one another on Main Street.

Kentucky would be the place to go to sample some of the world’s most well-known whiskies and unwind, especially if you hiked extensively in the previous two locations.

The annual Kentucky Derby horse race, which takes place at Churchill Downs every first Saturday in May that draws tens of thousands of spectators, is the city’s greatest source of pride.

The distance from the Great Smoky Mountain to Louisville is 293 miles (472 km), and takes around 4 hr 56 min to travel during normal traffic via route I-75 N. You can also take a bus from Knoxville (near the Great Smoky Mountains. That will take around 7 hrs and 20 mins.

Things to do in Louisville

• Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
• Kentucky Derby Museum
• Angel’s Envy Distillery
• The Big Four Bridge
• Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
• Muhammad Ali Center
• Kentucky Kingdom

Accommodations in Louisville

• Affordable: Wingate by Wyndham or Rodeway Inn
• Mid-range: Best Western Premier or Quality Inn
• Luxury: The Grady Hotel or Moxy Lousiville Downtown or Aloft Louisville Downtown or Fairfield Inn by Marriott

Indianapolis for 3 days

Michigan. The “Indianapolis 500,” an annual automobile race held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is what gives the city its global recognition. With thousands of motorsport enthusiasts in attendance, this is the largest one-day professional event in the history of motorcycling sports.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a fantastic destination for families since it enables visitors to interact with authentic Tyrannosaurus Rex bones and experience the sights and sounds of the past 65 million years. The Central Canal, formerly an industrial waterway, is increasingly surrounded by paddleboats and kayaks, giving tourists a fresh viewpoint of the city centre.

The direct drive from Louisville to Indianapolis often takes approximately 1 hr 54 min via route I-65 N with a total distance of 113 miles (182 km). The bus journey is around 2 hr and 10 mins.

Things to do in Indianapolis

• Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
• Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
• Central Canal
• Lilly House and Gardens
• Tappers Arcade Bar
• Lucas Oil Stadium

Accommodations in Indianapolis

• Affordable: Super 8 By Wyndham or Microtel Inn & Suites
• Mid-range: Hyatt Place Aiport or Nestle Inn or Tru By Hilton
• Luxury: Ironworks by Hotel Indy or JW Marriott

Chicago for 4 days

Chicago, commonly known as the “Windy City,” is located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It’s a great destination to conclude your three weeks on the east coast USA trip due to its thriving arts scene, many cultural activities, great shopping, and unique architecture.

Don’t forget to visit The Art Institute of Chicago, a prestigious museum with countless artworks. You may also stroll around Millennium Park, which features the 110-ton Cloud Gate sculpture that reflects the area’s surroundings, including the sky, buildings, and people who pass through its main arch.

With a total distance of 183 miles (294 km), it takes around 3 hr 7 min to drive from Indianapolis to Chicago via route I-65 N. You can book a bus from Indianapolis to Chicago as well which will take 3 hr and 40 mins.

Things to do in Chicago

• Art Institute of Chicago
• 360 Chicago Observation Deck
• Millenium Park
• The Magnificent Mile
• Chicago Riverwalk
• Explore Chicago – get a city pass or join a food walking tour
• Field Museum
• Chicago Architecture – book a 1-hour river cruise or 95-min river cruise or 45-minute river cruise
• North Avenue Beach
• Mob, Crime, Ghosts- join a Mob and Crime bus tour or Gangsters and ghosts tour
• Fly over Chicago Skyline – for 45-minutes
• Willis Tower
• Chicago Art Institute – get your skip-the-line pass
• Museum of Science and Industry
• 360 Observation Deck – book your admission
• Wrigley Field
• Navy Pier – ride the centennial wheel
• Buckingham Fountain
• Sunset Cruise – check the reviews or fireworks cruise
• Garfield Park Conservatory
• Museum of Ice Cream – get your entry ticket
• Brewery of Chicago – ride the brewery barrel bus

Accommodations in Chicago

• Affordable: Freehand Chicago or HI Chicago Hostel
• Mid-range: Club Quarter Hotel Wacker or Central Loop Hotel
• Luxury: Sofitel or Viceroy

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS ON EAST COAST USA ITINERARY

From historical towns to wilderness retreats, 3 weeks on East Coast of the USA is packed with must-see locations. If nature is your cup of tea, there are numerous hiking trails to choose from. In addition, it’s a family-friendly destination since there are countless theme parks and museums to choose from.

It is also filled with beaches, each providing an entirely unique experience depending on your state. With numerous options to select from, endless adventures are waiting for you on the East Coast of the USA.

SAVE THIS TRAVEL ITINERARY ON YOUR PINTEREST:

Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > Southwest > 3-Week West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary: Cities and Parks

3-Week West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary: Cities and Parks

This site may contain affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

If you have 3 weeks and want to explore all the most famous destinations on the West Coast , then this itinerary is for you . In fact, we have selected all the classic attractions of California , Arizona , and Utah , including both the must-see parks (the Grand Canyon , Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon , etc…) and the main cities ( San Francisco , Las Vegas , Los Angeles , and San Diego ). This is a winning combination that will result in an unforgettable road trip!

Travel Info

• Best period : Spring and Summer
• Duration : 20 days
• Distance to cover : About 1,990 miles
• Total driving hours : Approximately 32 hours
• Average daily driving time : About 90 minutes
• Start : San Francisco
• End : Los Angeles

How do you book this tour?

This is a “do-it-yourself” road trip, and you can plan it step-by-step by following all the directions and resources entered for each stop.

* Please Note: Some parts of this route are not accessible at certain times of the year due to weather conditions in certain seasons ( Tioga Road is usually closed from November to April making it impossible to cross Yosemite in the winter ). In such cases, we recommend modifying the route by including Morro Bay (via Big Sur ) and Sequoia National Park (and from there return to Death Valley following the original route).

If you’re looking for a shorter “do-it-yourself trip”, you can check out our 2 Week National Park Road Trip , which is suitable for all seasons and passes through cities in California , national parks, Indian reservations, Route 66 and a ghost town.

• Road Trip Map
• Travel stops
• Travel calendar and resources

3 Weeks West Coast USA Road Trip: Map

Here is a list of the individual stops and tips and resources to make the most of them.

How to use this list?

Each place represents a stop on the trip. To better understand the order of the stops, see the list below. For every single destination, there are various links that refer to tips for organizing the visit, resources for booking various activities or hotels, and other recommendations. The overview of days and distances of the entire itinerary can be found under “Travel Calendar”. Have a great trip!

Travel Stops

San Francisco

Stop in the most fascinating city in California . You will have a few days to visit it and you will soon realize that San Francisco is a city full of surprises and activities.

• Things to do
• Where to stay
• Where to eat
• San Francisco passes: Which one to choose?
• San Francisco Guided Tours

Resources :

• Cheap hotels in San Francisco
• All the activities to do in the city
• All the articles on our website about San Francisco

Yosemite National Park

The beautiful Yosemite National Park is characterized by imposing monoliths, vertical cliffs, and roaring waterfalls. We will explore it by entering from the west (Arch Rock Entrance) and exiting from the opposite end (Tioga Pass). It’s really worth exploring this natural wonder by driving through the park or perhaps by going on some hikes!

• Points of interest in Yosemite National Park
• Where to stay in Yosemite National Park
• Tours, excursions, and activities at Yosemite Park
• The page on our website dedicated to Yosemite

Death Valley National Park

Visiting Death Valley’s arid and desert landscape that seems like another planet is a unique experience. There you will see ancient lakes that have evaporated in which there are reflections of iridescent rainbows, as well as undulating mountains with unusual shapes, stunning rock formations, and so much more.

• Points of interest in Death Valley National Park
• Where to stay in Death Valley

Sin City, the city of gambling and unbridled excess. You should stop here at least for one day!

• Attractions in Las Vegas
• Where to stay in Las Vegas
• Recommended hotels in town
• Luxury hotels
• Las Vegas City Passes

Excursions and tours:

• Tours of parks departing from Las Vegas
• Helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon
• All articles about Las Vegas
• All the activities to do in Las Vegas

Bryce Canyon National Park

An impressive natural amphitheater, with unique rocky pinnacles known as hoodoos, that offers breathtaking views.

• Points of interest at Bryce Canyon
• Where to stay at Bryce Canyon
• Tours from Las Vegas

Antelope Canyon

The most famous slot canyon in the world. You can enter the winding canyon and see wonderful light effects. It is the ideal place to take unforgettable photos!

• Antelope Canyon Guide
• Where to stay in Page

Monument Valley

The three large red sand monoliths that stand out on the horizon have now become one of the most representative symbols of the American Far West. This wonderful valley is one of the must-see destinations for a Southwest road trip!

• How to visit Monument Valley
• Where to stay in Monument Valley

Grand Canyon

This is the largest and most famous canyon in the world. A vacation in the Southwest is not complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. Here are our tips to make the most of your visit!

• How to visit the Grand Canyon in 1 day
• Where to find accommodations in the area
• Excursions and activities at the Grand Canyon
• The page on our website dedicated to the Grand Canyon

A strategic stop between the Grand Canyon and California, located right on the legendary Route 66 , America’s most famous road.

• Where to stay and what to do in Kingman

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an oasis in an unlikely place in the desert. It is dotted with palm trees and full of charm and it is the ideal base to visit the nearby Joshua Tree National Park (a 40-minute drive away).

• Tips for visiting Joshua Tree National Park
• Tips for visiting Palm Springs
• Where to stay in Palm Springs
• All the activities to do in Palm Springs and in the surrounding area

Welcome to one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in all of California. There are beautiful beaches, charming parks, many events, and elegant neighborhoods … in short, it is a city where it is really hard to get bored!

• Things to do in San Diego
• Where to stay in San Diego
• Cheap hotels in San Diego
• All the activities to do in San Diego
• San Diego Pass and Card: Free access to 45 activities or tours :

Los Angeles

It is one of the great American cities and is known worldwide for Hollywood, beautiful beaches, and events. Below you’ll find some tips to make the most of the time spent in Los Angeles.

• Things to do in Los Angeles
• Guided Tours
• Los Angeles Passes: The best passes to visit the city

Theme Parks:

• Universal Studios
• Search for a hotel in Los Angeles
• Los Angeles travel guide

Travel Calendar and Resources

• Day 1 : Arrival in San Francisco
• Days 2-3 : Visit San Francisco
• Day 4 : San Francisco – Yosemite Park (Arch Rock Entrance) (3 1/2 hours)
• Day 5 : Yosemite (Tioga Pass) – Death Valley (4 hours)
• Day 6 : Death Valley – Las Vegas (2 hours 20)
• Days 7-8 : Las Vegas – Bryce Canyon (4 hours)
• Day 9 : Bryce Canyon – Antelope Canyon (2 1/2 hours)
• Day 10 : Antelope Canyon – Monument Valley (2 hours)
• Day 11 : Monument Valley – Grand Canyon (3 hours)
• Day 12 : Grand Canyon – Kingman (2 hours 40)
• Day 13 : Kingman – Palm Springs (3 hours 40)
• Day 14 : Palm Springs – San Diego (2 hours)
• Days 15-16 : San Diego
• Day 17 : San Diego – Los Angeles (2 hours)
• Days 18-20 : Visit Los Angeles

Recommended Accommodations

Argonaut Hotels

Located in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, this hotel allows you to experience life at the harbor firsthand and has charming nautical-style decor.

Yosemite Park

Double Eagle Resort & Spa, June Lake

Located in a strategic area, just 35 minutes from the Tioga Pass, you can have a comfortable stay here after crossing the park from West to East, just as it was outlined in the itinerary above. It is a mountain resort set in nature. While it is rustic, it offers guests all amenities, including a spa, a restaurant, a gym, and a conference center.

Death Valley

The Inn at Death Valley

This is the most beautiful hotel in Death Valley. It is made of adobe and is built in a 1920’s retro style with palm trees, springs, gardens, and much more. The Inn has a truly unique atmosphere.

The Venetian

There are some unique hotels in Las Vegas, but how about a magnificent structure where you can relive the splendor of the Republic of Venice? Here, in addition to providing all kinds of amenities, you will also find reconstructions of the most important monuments in Venice.

Bryce Canyon

A hotel with a Southwest atmosphere. Excellent for the proximity to the park (about 10 minutes), amenities (with many rooms with Jacuzzi attached), and the many Far West attractions nearby that can be kitsch but still fun.

Lake Powell Resort

This hotel is the ideal choice for those who love to be in nature and want to stay at a hotel overlooking one of the most famous lakes in the Southwest. Guests will enjoy the view of the lake from their rooms or from the beautiful restaurant.

Just like in the case of the Lake Powell Resort, it’s the view that makes all the difference. Have you always wanted to spend the night right in front of the famous red monoliths of Monument Valley? Then this is the hotel you’re looking for.

Another hotel where you can enjoy a unique panorama, in this case, that of the Grand Canyon. This lodge has rustic and elegant rooms and is the ideal place to stay in the area.

Best Western Plus King’s Inn and Suites

Kingman is best known for being on Route 66 and, in fact, in this beautiful hotel, you will see many references to the legendary road in the main rooms.

L’Horizon Resort & Spa

This resort is characterized by a refined interior design, a luxurious spa, and all the services and amenities you may need during  your stay in this quirky oasis.

The Pearl Hotel

A lively hotel with a sea-inspired theme. Its design is inspired by the 1950s and contemporary influences. At the Pearl Hotel, there are 2 swimming pools, a restaurant, and many other amenities.

Oceana Santa Monica

A high-class hotel in Santa Monica. Some suites have  ocean views: the best way to rest at the end of an on the road like this!

Recommended Activities

• Disneyland in Los Angeles
• Universal Studios in Los Angeles
• Grand Canyon helicopter tour
• SeaWorld San Diego
• Car rental from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Bernardo Pacini

I am an enthusiastic traveler. I have also published some poetry. Besides traveling, my interests include literature, prog music and good food,.

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Ultimate USA Itinerary Planner & Travel Guide

Planning a trip to the United States of America and looking for USA itinerary Ideas? Whether you are planning a 2-week long US trip or a 3-week long trip, we have got you covered. Use our USA Itinerary planner to see the country from coast to coast. See epic attractions along the East Coast including Niagara Falls and New York City then head to the West Coast to enjoy beach life in California. Read now for great itinerary ideas to explore America. You might also like our post on Best Places to Visit in the USA .

Welcome to our ultimate USA trip planner! 

We created this USA Itinerary Planner to help you plan the ultimate American trip. It contains all essential information including which places to visit, how to travel around the USA, sample itineraries, where to stay, what to eat, budgets and costs, etc.

Here you will find recommendations for a variety of USA trips whether you plan to fly, take a bus, or road trip around the country. Whether you are a first-time visitor or planning a 2nd, 3rd, or 4th trip to the country we have ideas for most well-known destinations to the hidden gems in the country.

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

“This is America … a brilliant diversity spread like stars, like a thousand points of light in a broad and peaceful sky.” — George H.W. Bush

Here is our guide to planning the perfect USA Itinerary around your favorite attractions. 

Where to Visit in the USA

The USA is vast and diverse. You really need to know where you want to go to plan the perfect trip. Otherwise, a lot of your time will be spent traveling from one destination to another with very little time to actually explore the cities and natural areas. To read the most popular destinations to visit in the USA, read our post on USA Travel Bucket List .

Most people usually start planning a USA trip with their favorite cities on the East Coast or the West Coast. The USA is home to many vibrant cities including New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Seattle. You can read more about the best cities in the country in our post 22 Best City Breaks in the USA . 

The USA also has stunning natural beauty. We recommend visiting at least one of the country’s most popular national parks to experience wildlife, hiking, and outdoor activities in the country. Some of the USA National Parks that are frequently visited by international visitors include Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Zion National Park, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . 

How to Travel around the USA

If you are planning a trip around the major cities in the country, then you can either fly or take a bus during your USA trip. Amtrak Trains are also a good option while visiting certain areas. However, if you are planning to visit national parks and outdoor areas, then consider a road trip across the USA. 

If flying domestically in the US, then consider budget airlines like Spirit or Frontier. The tickets are usually cheapest if you book in advance and fly on weekdays, especially Tuesdays or Wednesdays. 

The US also has great bus service in certain regions like the Northeast, Midwest, and California. Bus operators like Greyhound and Megabus operate buses between popular cities. The journeys are often overnight which means you can save on hotels if traveling via an overnight bus. 

Amtrak operates the trains in the USA. Traveling within the USA by train is neither cheap nor fast. However, it is definitely a scenic option especially along routes like the California Zephyr from San Francisco to Chicago. Amtrak has Rail Passes which you can use to get down and explore attractions for multiple days before reboarding the train.

However, one of our favorite ways to get around the country is via road trips. The USA is made for road tripping. Americans love taking road trips and you can rent cars, SUVs, and even RVs for your road trip. Read our post on Best Road Trips in the USA to learn about iconic road trips in the country.

1 Week in USA Itinerary Ideas

While a week is a very short time to explore the country, there are many small trips that you can take in a week. We have divided these trips mostly by region – you can definitely cover the highlights of a US region in 7 days. Here are a couple of different 1 week USA Itinerary Ideas – click the names of the destinations to read in-depth articles on the best things to do in the cities and national parks:

Itinerary 1: Las Vegas Los Angeles San Francisco

This itinerary may be just a week-long but it covers 4 major highlights of the country: Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. You can complete this as a road trip or as a flying itinerary.

Las Vegas – 2 Days

Las Vegas or Sin City is famous for its casinos and gambling. Besides gambling, Las Vegas also has many free attractions including the Bellagio Fountains, the Mirage Volcano, Eiffel Tower, etc. With two days in the city, you have enough time to explore Vegas nightlife and see a show or two. You can also explore outdoor Las Vegas: there are many natural areas close to Las Vegas including Valley of Fire State Park, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead Recreation Area, and Seven Magic Mountains. 

Grand Canyon – 1 Day

The Grand Canyon is one of the natural wonders of the world. This beautiful landscape is the result of years of erosion carried out by the Colorado River. You can easily see the Grand Canyon as a day trip from Las Vegas. While you won’t have time to visit the Grand Canyon National Park, you can see the Grand Canyon Skywalk at the West Rim. Book day tours to the Grand Canyon here. 

Los Angeles – 2 Days

Next head to Los Angeles in California. Los Angeles is home to Hollywood, America’s film industry and there are a lot of things to do in the city for movie buffs. See the stars on the sidewalk on Hollywood Blvd, take a photo with the Hollywood sign, take a behind the scenes tour at Warner Bros Inc, and take thrilling movie-inspired rides at Universal Studios. Los Angeles also has many museums and is a great place for foodies. 

San Francisco – 2 Days

After seeing Los Angeles, visit the northern California city of San Francisco . See America’s icon – the Golden Gate Bridge . Spend time at Fisherman’s Wharf, see the twisting Lombard Street, and visit the notorious island of Alcatraz. Take a day trip to Napa Valley to tour wineries and go wine tasting or visit Muir Woods National Monument to see the coastal redwoods. 

Itinerary 2: Chicago NYC Philadelphia

In this Midwest & East Coast itinerary, you will be visiting some of our favorite cities in the USA. You will be seeing beautiful architecture, visit impressive museums, spend time in grand urban parks, and eat delicious food. You will also be squeezing in a day trip to Niagara Falls, one of the best attractions in the USA. 

Chicago – 2 Days

Chicago is the jewel of the Midwest. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is home to famous architects and impressive architecture. To see the most beautiful buildings in the city, take the Chicago River Architectural Cruise. Spend some time at Millenium Park and enjoy its attractions including the Cloud Gate sculpture and the Crown Fountain. Go shopping at Magnificent Mile and eat Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza.  

Niagara Falls – 1 Day

From Chicago, fly to Niagara Falls, located on the border of the US and Canada. Niagara Falls are actually a group of 3 falls – Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The stunning falls are a year-round travel destination and they look beautiful even when frozen in winter. In summer, take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to see the falls from up close. The falls also look beautiful when they are illuminated at night. 

New York City – 2 Days

After seeing Niagara Falls, visit New York City – one of the best cities in the world. New York is the capital of fashion, finance, culture, art, and food. Spend a couple of days exploring the city. Visit the touristy Times Square and eat at the cafes in Greenwich Village. See the city from above at the Empire State Building and take a stroll in Central Park. See the city’s famous museums including the Met, American Museum of History, and MoMa. On your second day, see the Statue of Liberty at Ellis Island.

Philadelphia – 2 Days

Last, visit the historic city of Philadelphia. Begin your visit at the Independence National Historic Park. This is where the country came into being and where the most important monuments to liberty and democracy are located. See the iconic Liberty Bell and tour Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Independence Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the must-visit attractions in the US. Other things to do in Philadelphia include the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the ‘Rocky’ movie steps, the Love sculpture, City Hall, and the Reading Terminal Market which is famous for its many eateries.

Itinerary 3: Southwest road trip

This road trip will take you through the best attractions of the American Southwest. Expect to see stunning natural landscapes of gorges, canyons, and deserts on this amazing trip. Camp to lower your budget and to stay closer to nature. At every turn, you will be treated to photogenic vistas and unique indigenous cultures. Read our post on Vegas Zion Bryce Grand Canyon road trip to plan a trip along these attractions.

Las Vegas is the ultimate starting point for an American Southwest road trip. Fly into Sin City and explore the attractions of the Las Vegas strip. Enjoy the unique attractions of Vegas like the roller coaster at New York New York, musical fountains of Bellagio, the volcano at Mirage, nightlife, gambling, and more at night. By day, explore the desert of Nevada. Hike at Red Rock Canyon State Park and drive the scenic route around Lake Mead. Tour the Hoover Dam and check out the museums in Las Vegas. 

Zion National Park – 1 Day

Then drive to Zion National Park in southwest Utah. Zion is located just 2 hours away from Las Vegas and can be easily seen during one day. The best way to see Zion is to take the park shuttle, which goes along the Zion Scenic Drive. You will be able to see breathtaking views of Zion’s deep red canyon walls and the Virgin River that flows through the canyon. Zion has many hiking trails but to hike the most popular trails of Angel’s Landing and the Narrows you will need more than a day. 

Bryce Canyon National Park – 1 Day

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most underrated national parks in the country. Bryce is famous for its deep red – crimson hoodoo rock formations. These spire-shaped narrow rock formations are formed due to weathering action by wind, snow, and water. You can easily see the hoodoos in the area known as the Bryce Amphitheatre. Take a walk along the Rim Trail to see the hoodoos from above or descend down into the depression along the Navajo Loop Trail to see the most famous hoodoos.

Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend – 1 Day

After seeing Bryce Canyon National Park, head over to Page, Arizona to see the famous Antelope Canyons . The two slot canyons of Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons are famous the world over for their striking beauty and vivid colors. You can see them both on guided tours. The tour through Lower Antelope Canyon is more strenuous than the one through Upper and requires some climbing. Pick the Upper Canyon if you have small kids or are not physically fit. After seeing Antelope Canyon, see another Page attraction – Horseshoe Bend. From the observation area, you can see a panoramic view of the Horseshoe shaped bend in the Colorado River. 

Monument Valley – 1 Day

From Page, drive further east towards Monument Valley. This landscape of red sand desert and weathered rock formations located along the Arizona Utah border is one of the highlights of this road trip. Drive along the 17 mile Valley Drive to see the towering sandstone buttes and take iconic photographs. 

Grand Canyon National Park – 1 Day

Finally, make your way to the Grand Canyon National Park. Drive to the South Rim and Grand Canyon Village to see the best views of the Grand Canyon. If it is too crowded, take the park shuttle. Visit the Visitor Center for exhibits, souvenirs, and movies about the Grand Canyon. Take the scenic Desert View Drive to the Desert View Watchtower for iconic views. Hike into the Grand Canyon to enjoy its beauty from different vantage points. 

Itinerary 4 – Pacific Coast Highway, California

This stunning road trip will take you along the highlights of California. See the vibrant cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco and drive through the stunning natural area of Big Sur. This drive is said to be the best road trip in the world. Finish your trip with a visit to the famous Yosemite National Park. Check our post on Pacific Coast Road Trip Itinerary to plan this trip.

Los Angeles – 2 Day

Start your visit by flying into Los Angeles . Movie buffs can take a stroll along Hollywood Walk of Fame or take a movie studio tour or tour celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. Culture enthusiasts can visit LA’s top museums including the Broad, La Brea Tar Pits, LACMA, Petersen Automotive Museum, and the Getty Center. If you have kids, spend a day in Anaheim at the Disney parks. 

Big Sur – 2 Day

Take the Pacific Coast Highway up north to Big Sur . Along the way, you will pass California’s iconic coastal cities of Malibu and Santa Barbara and drive alongside small beachside communities of Pismo Beach and Morro Bay. In Big Sur, visit the highlights of McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, San Simeon Elephant Seal Rookery, Pfeiffer Beach, and Big Sur Village. Then drive north along Monterey and Half Moon Bay to San Francisco. 

San Francisco – 2 Day

Enjoy Northern California’s mild climates and foggy coastline in San Francisco , the city by the bay. See the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from Vista Point and ride a cable car to Chinatown. Eat some dim sums and egg tarts in Chinatown. Walk down twisting Lombard Street and buy chocolates in Ghirardelli Square. Admire the view from Twin Peaks and take a cruise to the former federal prison on Alcatraz Island. 

Yosemite – 1 Day

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, Yosemite has stunning mountain beauty. Visiting Yosemite is a must while visiting California. While one day is not enough to explore all of Yosemite’s attractions, you can see the highlights and tour the Yosemite Valley in that time frame. A ranger-led 2 hours tour of the Valley is your best option to see Yosemite in a day. On the tour, you can see Yosemite Falls and the granite rock formations of El Capitan and Half Dome. If you have time, hike in the Yosemite Valley and take photos of the national park. 

Itinerary 5: Best of Florida

If you want to spend your 1 week in the USA exploring Florida, then use this itinerary. Start your trip in Orlando and visit a theme park. Then visit Miami and relax at South Beach. See the architecture on Ocean Drive and visit Little Havana. Then make the trip down to Key West via Overseas Highway. Finally, visit Everglades National Park and take an airboat tour. See our post on Miami to Key West Drive: 25 Awesome Stops along the way to plan this trip.

Orlando – 2 Days

Orlando is one of the best places to start your USA trip. The city has over a dozen theme parks. Our favorite is ’The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ at Universal Studios. There are also 5 Disney Parks in Orlando including the popular Walt Disney World. There are also many other things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks. You can take a stroll through the beautiful Bok Tower Gardens and admire the wildlife at Central Florida Zoo. Explore the many different neighborhoods and sample a variety of cuisines. 

Miami – 2 Days

After exploring Orlando, head down to spend 2 days in Miami . Start your visit at the iconic attraction of Miami Beach. Get some Florida sun and swim in the water. Wander around the Arts Deco district and see the murals at Wynwood Mall. Shop and eat by the waterfront at Bayside Marketplace. For a unique attraction, stroll through the beautiful Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. End your visit in Little Havana where you can try Cuban cuisine and understand the Cuban culture. 

Key West – 2 Days

Then take Florida’s Overseas Highway to Key West. The drive is about 4 hours but there are many attractions along the way. Stop in communities like Islamorada and Key Largo. Eat fresh seafood and go snorkeling and scuba diving on the coral reefs. Then make way for Key West. Key West is the southernmost point in the Continental US. The city has a chilled Caribbean vibe. Tour Old Town Key West, visit Hemingway House Museum and take a picture at the southernmost point Buoy. Attend the sunset celebrations in Mallory Square and party on Duval Street. If you have more time, visit Dry Tortugas National Park . 

Everglades National Park – 1 Day

On your way back to Miami or Orlando, visit Everglades National Park. Homestead, which is located just an hour south of Miami, is the gateway to Everglades National Park. In Everglades, you will find a wetland of swamps, marshes, mangroves, and sawgrass prairies. The best way to experience Everglades National Park is on an airboat tour. During the tour, you can see manatees, alligators, deer, fox, bobcats, and birds like ospreys and cranes. 

Itinerary 6 – Chicago Mt. Rushmore Road Trip

While most of the trips above could be done without driving, a road trip is the only way to experience these Midwestern attractions. This trip is definitely one of the hidden gems in the US and not many visitors come here on a first visit. However, to experience the heart of the country – the Midwest bread bowl – go on this road trip in the Black Hills of South Dakota . We assure you, you will have the time of your life! 

Start on this road trip in Chicago . Experience iconic attractions of the Windy City including the Bean at Millennium Park, the Museum Campus, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Navy Pier. See Chicago from top of the Willis Tower and experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture in Oak Park. Eat Chicago style hotdog and deep-dish pizza before hitting the open roads to South Dakota. 

Sioux Falls – 1 Day

First, stop at Sioux Falls. Visit the Falls Park where you can see the Big Sioux River cascade over limestone bluffs. The park also has a historic mill and an observation tower. See the murals in downtown Sioux Falls before visiting the Corn Palace in Mitchell . This stunning palace is made of corn murals and is created anew every year. Inside the corn palace, you can see photos of previous corn palaces and tributes to corn farmers. This unique roadside attraction is definitely worth a visit while in South Dakota. 

Badlands National Park – 2 Days

Next, visit the bizarre and dramatic landscape of Badlands National Park . Formed as a result of erosion, the national park is filled with unique rock formations consisting of buttes, spires, and canyons. To explore Badlands, drive along the scenic Badlands Loop Road and go hiking in the park. Badlands also has a lot of wildlife. On a visit to the park, you can view bison, coyotes, mountain goats, prairie dogs, deer, and more. You can also see fossils of animals that lived in the area long ago including mammoths, saber-toothed tigers, and more. 

Custer State Park – 1 Day

Custer State Park is the largest state park in the country and one of our favorites. You can do hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing in the park . Custer has 4 mountain lakes which are perfect for lakeside strolls and activities on the water. Custer State Park is also famous for its scenic drives. The Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway is located in the park and includes 3 smaller drives. On the Custer Wildlife Loop Road, you will find lots of bison, burros, and deer. Needles Highway has the stunning needle formations on both sides while Iron Mountain Road has three tunnels and an iconic view of Mt. Rushmore. 

Mt. Rushmore National Memorial – 1 Day

For the last part of your trip, visit Mt. Rushmore National Memorial . Here you can see the faces of 4 US presidents – Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln – carved in stone. The monument is lit at night and looks impressive. Hike the Presidential Trail to go closer to the sculptures and spot wildlife including mountain goat and deer. Visit the on-site museum to learn more about the sculptures and their sculptor Gutzon Borglum.  Do not forget to see nearby Crazy Horse Memorial to know more about the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse while visiting the Black Hills. Read our post on Ultimate South Dakota road trip to plan this route.

We hope you liked our epic USA Itinerary Planner. Let us know if you have any questions.

The Ultimate 3-Week Road Trip Across North America 2024

Are you embarking on the ultimate 3-week road trip across north america in 2023.

After a long few years of on and off travel restrictions, this 3-week road trip across North America is the ultimate way to break out of your comfort zone and start seeing the world again.

You’ll be exposed to some amazing sights, get the opportunity to meet interesting people, and possibly even get the chance to capture some amazing wildlife on film!

You’ve likely traveled by plane, train, boat, and scooter before, but, perhaps it’s time for a new adventure… say, a car or van, perhaps?

Before you hit the open road, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your trip goes smoothly, however, which is exactly where I come in.

In this article, I have provided you with a detailed 3-week North American itinerary, all the information you need to know about planning a road trip, important safety tips, and much more.

My goal for you is after reading this article, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and embark on the journey of your lifetime. So, let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Week 1: massachusetts to colorado, week 2: colorado to british columbia, week 3: british columbia to prudhoe bay, alaska (the arctic circle), map of this 3 week road trip across north america, the best time to visit the u.s., how to get around the u.s., where to stay in the u.s. on a road trip, what to eat on a 3-week road trip across america, what to pack for a 21-day usa road trip, tips for planning a u.s. road trip, safety tips for going on a 3-week road trip across america, faq: 3-week road trip across america, the ultimate 3-week road trip across north america itinerary.

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This 21-day USA itinerary marks its beginning on the East Coast in the iconic city of Boston, Massachusetts.

From this popular South Shore city, you’ll make your way through the central United States, heading northwest from Colorado through Canada’s territories, and finally ending in the Arctic Circle where you’ll step foot in one of the northernmost cities in the world!

Of course, there will be plenty of national park stops along the way for the avid nature enthusiast, like myself.

The goal of this itinerary is to get from as far East Coast to as far West Coast as you possibly can in just 3 weeks.

It’s the ultimate guide for relocating to Alaska or the West Coast of the U.S. and perfect if you want to be one of the few people in the world who can say they drove one of the longest distances across North America (6,000+ miles to be exact!)

Following the itinerary, keep reading for tips on planning a 3-week road trip across America, safety information, where to stay, how to get around, when to visit each region, and more.

In week one of this itinerary, we’ll be visiting 6 different locations, but don’t stress! 3 of them are all within an hour of each other in Colorado.

You’ll have plenty of time to do some sightseeing and not stress yourself out with too much driving as you start acclimating to life on the road.

Niagara Falls, New York

No 3-week road trip across America would be complete without a quick visit to Niagara Falls! A 7-hour drive from the city of Boston will take you through New York’s capital of Albany and straight onto the Canadian border from Syracuse.

Niagara Falls is a staggering 2,200 feet wide and 188 feet high in certain places making it one of the most impressive waterfalls in North America.

During your visit, you can take a walk along the 3-mile Niagara Parkway and enjoy the rushing rapids before the falls drop, or view them up close with a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist .

Now, you’ve probably heard that there are two sides to Niagara Falls – the New York side and the Canadian side. And if you have heard of this, then it’s likely that you’ve also heard that the Canadian side is better.

While I really enjoyed my time visiting the New York side which came equipped with dozens of food trucks, a beautiful green park, and plenty of viewing areas, these rumors are true.

The Canadian side offers a far better perspective for viewing the width and depth of the falls, so if you’re looking for some prime photo opportunities, then it will be in your best interest to spend some time in line at the Canadian border.

Just be sure to remember your passport and consider practicing your French speaking skills before you go!

✅ If you want a really special experience then consider booking a helicopter ride over the Niagra Falls. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. This 4.5 star review helicopter ride is the best out there.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

From Niagara Falls, it’s time to head toward the Midwest, where you’ll be spending a day in the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park!

Depending on which side of Niagara Falls you visited, you can either continue your journey south from the New York side through Buffalo and down towards Cleveland, Ohio which takes about 3.5 hours, or you can continue your drive through Canada and pass through Detroit.

I don’t typically recommend the latter of the two since it would take nearly 7 hours of driving, and the journey would include some eastward backtracking which isn’t what we want when trying to be efficient.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the perfect road trip stop for nature lovers, as it’s a beautiful oasis right in the middle of Central America.

This park is set along the Cuyahoga River and features pristine hiking trails (my favorites were the Kendall Lake Loop and Deer Run trails), over 100 miles of scenic biking paths, and plenty of outdoor activities.

If you’re looking to get up close with some wildlife, don’t forget to visit the Beaver Marsh and see if you can spot any beavers or migrant birds!

Pro Tip: After exploring Cuyahoga Valley National Park and kicking off your journey on the east coast, it’s important to remember that as you make your way westward, there aren’t going to be an insane amount of stops worth checking out for more than a few hours, unless you decide to drive south towards Tennessee and the surrounding states where there are several beautiful national forests.

Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

From Cuyahoga, head directly west about 4.5 hours to the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park!

Known for its expansive beaches on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes will blow you away with its pristine landscape and stunning views.

This national park is one of America’s lesser-known gems and is home to 50 miles of hiking trails and 15 miles of sandy beachfront making it the perfect spot to spend a night on your long drive.

If you enjoy sleeping under the stars, be sure to check out Dunewood Campground which is located inside the national park and is nearby Lake Michigan and some great hiking trails including Cowles Bog Trail as well as Glenwood Dunes Trail.

They have clean and well-run facilities, as well as perfectly groomed camping pads so you shower and sleep in peace following your day’s hike.

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Keeping on the national park theme, we’re off to Colorado! Now, you’re probably thinking, “what about Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska?”, and the truth is, there really isn’t much to do near your driving route in these states.

I would, however, recommend stopping at the world’s largest truck stop on I-80 in Iowa!

But, as far as scenic stops go, you’re better off grabbing a campsite or bnb in Lincoln , Nebraska (about halfway on this 15-hour stretch), and continuing on to Colorado where you’ll be spoiled for choice with things to do.

✅ Take a look at Graduate Lincoln for an awesome night of luxury.

Don’t worry, there will be endless corn and hay fields which are actually quite beautiful along the way, but don’t expect anything too crazy to happen at this point in the journey.

Once you enter the breathtaking state of Colorado, don’t be surprised if you have to drive for an extra hour or two before you start seeing the mountains. This surprised me on my first visit when I drove along I-76, so I wanted to give you a fair warning.

But, once you start seeing the city, you’ll be so close to the absolutely incredible Rocky Mountain National Park!

Known for its expansive peaks, miles of hiking trails, and clear alpine lakes, this is one national park you don’t want to miss on your 3-week road trip across North America.

Check out Bear Lake Trailhead which offers stunning views of the pristine lake and endless mountains in the background. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, approach Nymph Lake and Dream Lake for a full day of hiking that you won’t soon forget.

✅ Book a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Rocky Mountains (but book in advance, they sell out quickly)

Rocky Mountain National Park is also covered in wildlife, so make sure to keep an eye out for deer, elk, moose, wolves, and even bears! Just don’t forget your bear spray if you plan on hiking through the park.

You could spend weeks in this park without seeing everything there is to see and do, but since we’re trying to be efficient, 2 nights or so will definitely do the trick.

Pro Tip: To limit the number of people in the park before 3:00 PM every day, you may need to reserve your timed entry spot online in the 2023 season. This can be done weeks in advance, but if you don’t then you may be forced to wait until later in the day or come back on a different day entirely. You can check the rules and regulations for entry into the park on the National Park Service website as well as reserve your spot when the timeslots become available.

When in Colorado, you do as the Coloradans do! Walk around downtown Golden and you’ll immediately get a feel for the laid-back, friendly culture of this state.

Shop local stores on the iconic 12th Street and enjoy some craft beers on one of the many patios around town (my favorite brewery is The Golden Mill because of its rooftop bar with self-serve brew stations).

Be sure to make some time for a brewery tour around the world-famous Coors Brewery , and if you’re hungry, there’s no better place in Golden than The Post.

End your night in Golden with ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s and consider staying at the Table Mountain Inn for its close proximity to downtown and beautiful balconies overlooking the Rocky Mountains.

You can also combine your trip to Golden with a stop in Denver if you would like, though we have found Denver to be much more of a city that lacks the true Colorado feel.

✅ Book a stay at Table Mountain Inn here

Boulder, CO

As you make your way north towards Wyoming, be sure to stop in Boulder! Shadowed by the Flatirons on its western border, the city is known for its breathtaking views and epic outdoor activities.

Check out Chautauqua Park for a picnic lunch on the tables outside, or head to the Pearl Street Mall to do some shopping.

✅ Why not explore Chautauqua Park and more on an eBike tour. It’s one of the best ways to experience this beautiful place in a short amount of time.

Boulder is the perfect place to stock up on some craft beers and local snacks before hitting the road again, especially since you’ll be just an hour away from the gorgeous Estes Park.

In week 2, we have another six different locations, with four of them being national parks! If you would prefer to have more time in each of these places, you can always extend your trip by a few days if you want.

This is what I decided to do and it allowed me to stay in both Banff and Jasper National park for 2 nights each instead of one which made all the difference in my journey.

You also have the option of sticking to the major cities if you prefer, in which case Jackson Hole, WY is a fantastic place to consider.

Grand Tetons National Park, WY

Wyoming is often recognized for one thing: Yellowstone National Park . And don’t worry! We’ll get there (literally – it’s the next stop down on this itinerary), but it’s important to enjoy as much of the road trip as possible because let’s be honest… the journey is more than half of the fun.

If you haven’t heard of Grand Teton National Park before, you’re in for a real treat. Boasting some of the highest peaks in North America, the park is a sight to behold.

At an 8-hour drive from Boulder, it’s a good idea to either leave early in the morning if you’re open to a full day in the car, or plan to book an accommodation of sorts near the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.

✅ Step back in time with a stay at the Elk Mountain Hotel

I stayed at Dugway Campground which is a free dispersed camping site with just an outhouse and first-come-first-serve campsites.

Be sure to hike around Jenny Lake which has plenty of spots for fishing and check out the National Elk Refuge near Jackson Hole.

Just keep in mind that a large influx of native Spanish speakers have moved into the area in recent years, so it’s not a bad idea to brush up on your Spanish if you will be staying in Jackson Hole for a couple of nights since many of the locals speak Spanish as their first language.

Yellowstone National Park, WY

Ah, Yellowstone. Home to some of the most incredible wildlife in North America, you’re sure to be able to spot everything from bison and elk to bears and wolves as you make your way through this iconic park.

There are plenty of different hikes throughout the park and tons of outdoor activities, but what makes Yellowstone unique is its geothermal features like geysers and hot springs.

✅ Book the best geyser and hot springs tour here

The park is also home to the world-famous Old Faithful so be sure to check that out too! If you are interested in some popular day hikes , check out Bunsen Peak or the Mystic Falls Trails Loop which begins in Biscuit Basin.

Pro Tip: This is definitely one of those places on this itinerary where you should stop at the visitor center first so they can give you an overview of where all the animals are likely to be. This is also true at Grand Tetons National Park, where they have rangers consistently driving the park’s main roads and borders to keep track of where herds of elk, bison, and other wildlife are moving.

Canmore, AB, Canada

About 11 hours north of Yellowstone sits the largest city in Alberta, Canada… Calgary! But, just like most cities, Calgary has a lot of fast food spots and major highways, so it’s not exactly the place I recommend spending the night.

If you have a little more driving left in you for the day, head west about 75 minutes to the city of Canmore.

Nestled under the Canadian Rockies, this ski town perfectly represents the iconic town of Chamonix, France known for its craggy, snow-capped mountain peaks and European-style architecture and lodging!

You’ll find wooden chalets , quaint cafes (my favorite is The Summit Cafe on Cougar Creek Dr.) and nearby sits the beautiful Grassi Lakes.

✅ Stay at the beautiful Stoneridge Mountain Resort

It’s the perfect place to stop in for the night for amazing alpine views and good food before you continue your drive north to the iconic Banff and Jasper national parks.

Pro Tip: 11 hours is a long drive. Split it up by stopping in the town of St. Mary which serves as a hopping-off point for the very popular Glacier National Park! I didn’t end up including this stop on my way to Canada because I would’ve had to rush through it, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to make the time to stop in.

Columbia Falls on the west side of the park is where you’ll be the closest to the major sites and hiking trails if you find yourself with the time to reach it, but it is a good bit more off the direct route through Canada.

Banff National Park, AB, Canada

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been looking at pictures of the iconic Lake Moraine for years! And trust me when I say it is everything that you could hope for and more.

Be sure to stay the night right in the park (I really enjoyed Lake Louis Campground because it had a bear fence surrounding the whole campground, meaning it was much safer for myself and my dog), since you’ll be within a 20-minute drive of all the major sites in the park.

I recommend taking a drive up to Lake Louise early in the morning to beat the 9:00 AM crowds and then heading back down through the Bow Valley Parkway which is full of sweeping mountain views and tons of wildlife!

Banff National Park is full of incredible hikes, but my favorites were the Lake Agnes Teahouse (shown above) and Bow Glacier Falls Trail for their incredibly scenic routes and moderately challenging difficulty levels.

Again, just be sure you have an air horn, a bear bell, and bear spray if you are planning on making your way through the Canadian wilderness.

Wildlife sightings are very common, so it’s best to be well prepared and to make plenty of noise during your hike so you don’t startle any animals that may be in your path.

✅ Book a tour of all the best sights listed here if you’re short on time

Jasper National Park, AB, Canada

About a 3-hour drive along I-93 north will bring you to the jaw-dropping Jasper National Park.

Often overlooked by tourists starstruck by Banff, listen to me when I tell you that many of the people we met said they liked Jasper even more than Banff!

Fantastic for wildlife viewing and endless beautiful hiking trails with a fraction of the tourists of Banff, you’ll be so glad you decided to include this lesser-known national park in Canada.

Spend a day exploring the trails surrounding the Valley of the Five Lakes, where you can go swimming in crystal clear, turquoise-colored lakes, or pop into the center of town and try the nachos at the Jasper Brewing Company.

✅ One of the most popular things to do here is the Glacier Skywalk and the Athabasca Glacier. Book now through Viator

It’s the perfect place to wrap up your evening before taking to the road the next morning.

Pro Tip: While you don’t have as many native French speakers as Quebec in this region of Canada, the city of Canmore and regions surrounding the national parks do have quite a bit of French speakers. So, it’s a great opportunity to practice your French if you’re looking for a way to connect with the locals!

Dawson Creek, BC, Canada

Welcome to British Columbia!

5 hours northwest of Jasper National Park is the small town of Dawson Creek. Seems simple enough… but, there’s actually something quite amazing about this small town and a huge reason why you should include it on your 3-week road trip across North America.

It marks the beginning of the Alaska State Highway!

World famous for its rugged mountainous terrain, the Alaska Highway is a 1,390-mile stretch of road that connects the cities of Dawson Creek and Fairbanks in Alaska.

It’s full of small towns along the way where you can stop for gas and/or food, but it’s also full of absolutely stunning views from start to finish!

Dawson Creek itself doesn’t quite live up to its name, but it’s a great stopping point en route to Alaska if you’re in need of supplies. Plus, you’re likely going to want to break up the drive to Muncho Lake.

Muncho Lake, BC, Canada

From Dawson Creek, you’ll have a 7.5-hour drive up to Muncho Lake where you’ll be able to explore one of the most beautiful regions in British Columbia.

Muncho Lake is a breathtaking alpine lake with amazing hiking trails (particularly Stone’s Sheep Trail) that wind through alpine meadows and by glacier-fed rivers.

This region is also known for its incredible wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for animals like elk, moose, and even bears!

You’ll want to set up camp right on the shores of the lake for the best views of the sunset and sunrise, but keep in mind that you need to get there early as there are only about 10 spots, or so. It’s first-come first-serve, and an environmentalist will come around at some point in the evening to collect $20 from you for the spot.

In return, you’ll receive a small pass that gets clipped to your campsite board for the duration of your stay.

Pro Tip: Drive slowly around Muncho Lake and keep a careful eye out for wildlife. This is where I spotted a pack of 5 wolves, a massive herd of Bison, a bald eagle, and a fox all within a few miles of each other!

On the third week of this North American road trip, you might start to feel like you wished you allotted more time for the drive, or perhaps the opposite, you are ready to kick it into high gear and complete your drive to the Arctic Circle.

Whatever the case may be, this is why it’s best to keep your schedule as flexible as possible while you’re road-tripping.

If you’re camping, this is quite simple since you can just book as you go, but if you’re staying in hotels or Airbnb’s for example, then it will be in your best interest to only book accommodations with free cancelation.

I ended up increasing my 3-week trip to a 4-week trip, and I was so glad I did! Consider how much time you have for traveling and if you have any time constraints limiting your flexibility before you start the drive, so you know exactly how much wiggle room you have with your itinerary.

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

But, to kick off our third and final week of this itinerary, we’ll be making the 8-hour drive up to the Yukon! Whitehorse, specifically.

Similar to Dawson Creek in the sense that it really is just one big city, it’s a good stopping point to get you that much closer to Alaska and it’s a great spot to pick up any supplies you may need.

Pro Tip: If you have yet to get an oil change and check your tire pressure on your road trip across North America so far, then Whitehorse is a great place to do it! There are plenty of mechanics and chain shops such as Jiffy Lube around that can take care of those simple fixes for you.

Tok, Alaska

If you can make it this far, you should be really proud of yourself. Driving cross-country is no easy feat and is definitely something to be celebrated! When we crossed the border into Alaska, it was a fun and exciting moment that I truly hope you get to experience for yourself.

It’s about 5.5 hours to the Alcan Border from Whitehorse, but I don’t really recommend stopping there. The border doesn’t really have much going on, except that you’ll cross this awesome “Welcome to Alaska” sign.

There really isn’t anywhere to stay either, so continue 1.5 hours to the small town of Tok, where you’ll find a small, but well-supplied town with a gas station, a couple of shops and stores, and a great self-serve campground called the Alaska Stoves Camp.

It’s on an honor system, so you can simply drop the money in a camp stove out front of the main building.

Pro Tip: You will cross into a different time zone once you enter Alaska, so be sure to keep this in mind if you’re counting the hours left in your drive using your car’s clock. You’ll also have the opportunity to drive south from Tok if you want to tack on some time in the stunning Wrangell-St. Elias National Park !

Fairbanks, AK

Once you’ve had a chance to refuel, hop back on Route 2 through Delta Junction and onto Fairbanks. It’s just a mere 3.5-hour drive from here which will feel like a breeze at this point in your 3-week North American road trip.

Fairbanks is a great city to stop for a night or two (I actually ended up staying 3 nights because my husband, dog, and I simply needed a break from the car) to catch up on some much-needed rest, particularly if you’ve been camping your way through the majority of this trip like we did.

✅ We recommend a stay the The Adamina. You can book here.

I should also mention that this is your last stop for about 13 hours of driving minimum (one-way, so 26 hours round-trip), so it is vital that you stock up on plenty of food and dry goods. If you have a jet-boil, you’ll be happy to have it!

Coldfoot, AK

Just shy of 6 hours north of Fairbanks will bring you to the tiny, dare I even say the word town, called Coldfoot.

There is one gas pump outside of a wooden building that serves some buffet-style food to truckers and the rare tourist making their way up the Dalton Highway to Prudhoe Bay.

It was surprisingly tasty considering its remoteness, but you may want to consider other means, especially if you have anyone in your group with a food restriction or allergy.

In terms of accommodations, well… we slept in our car, as did most of the people in the parking lot.

There is the Coldfoot Camp, but be prepared to pay a hefty fee for mediocre lodging at best. If you’re wondering why I would include Coldfoot as a stop on this 3-week road trip across North America, it’s because it’s actually the only stop en route to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks.

You won’t find any gas stations or supermarkets between Fairbanks and Coldfoot, or between Coldfoot and Prudhoe Bay, so you’ll want to be sure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of food and water before departing for Coldfoot.

It’s the unfortunate reality of driving to one of the most remote places in the entire world.

But, if you have it in you to drive this far, I promise you can make it the rest of the way.

Prudhoe Bay, Alaska

Wake up bright and early, toss your blanket in the trunk of your car, and continue north on the Dalton Highway for an additional 5.5 hours on the last day of your road trip.

Please bear in mind that the Dalton Highway is often rated as one of the most dangerous highways in the entire world owing to its lack of cell service, extremely poor road conditions, and lack of emergency services, and it is not to be taken lightly.

You’ll want to ensure you have plenty of provisions to keep you warm and fed for at least a few days’ time, and it isn’t a bad idea to have a satellite phone on hand.

A spare tire and all of the associated parts should be kept on hand, as well, as popped tires are all too common here.

Keep your eye out for wildlife along the drive and keep your camera handy at all times.

This is one of the few places in North America where you can see arctic foxes, Dall sheep, caribou, grizzly bears, moose, and a myriad of other species native to the Alaskan north that you just won’t find anywhere else.

We loved seeing the tundra swans and tundra loons, plus we got to see muskoxen which were much larger than we expected.

Once you’ve reached Prudhoe Bay, be sure to book an Arctic Ocean Shuttle as it’s the only way to reach the Arctic Ocean. Since the ocean lies on the other side of private oil fields, you’ll need to provide your personal information and have a background check performed before you will be allowed to cross the oil fields with a guide.

It costs about $75 per person, but is well worth the money when you can say you stepped foot (or even taken a dip) in the Arctic Ocean!

Going up to my knees was plenty for me as there were mini glaciers floating all around and the water temperatures ranged in the high 30s Fahrenheit (around 3-4 degrees Celsius).

Pro Tip: Be prepared for chilly weather and cloudy skies, even in the summer months. The Dalton Highway is nearly impassable for 18-wheelers once the snow hits, so be sure to plan your visit during the early summer months if you want to cross into the Arctic Circle with little to no issues.

Now that you have the itinerary, let’s see it all mapped out! Here is the route that we took to cross from the East Coast of the U.S. to the West Coast all the way through Canada and ending in northernmost Alaska.

I want to ensure that I mention that this route would have been far more efficient had we crossed into Canada in North Dakota, but we had family in Colorado that we wanted to see anyway, plus we got to see so many more U.S. national parks this way.

You can arrange the journey however you please, but this route worked very well for us on our way to Alaska.

There is no one perfect time to visit the U.S., as every part of the country offers very different experiences throughout the year.

However, if you’re looking to do a U.S. road trip, I would recommend either early summer ( May-June ) or early fall ( late August-September ) when the weather is milder and the roads are less likely to be blocked by snow and endless flocks of tourists.

If you want to go skiing or see the Northern Lights, head to the mountains in winter (December-February), and if you want to visit theme parks or enjoy some warm weather and beaches, then visit during the summer months (June-August).

Just be sure to research what you want to do and where you want to go before making any final plans, as there can be some pretty big temperature swings from one part of the country to another!

For this 3-week U.S. road trip in particular, I would recommend not leaving any later than late July since you’ll want enough time to reach the Arctic Circle without worrying about getting hit with snow while driving the Dalton Highway.

U.S. road trips start with, you guessed it… a vehicle! Whether that be a suburban-style car or a converted sprinter van, you’ll need something with at least two wheels, but practically speaking, four would be much more convenient.

Of course, you always have the option of flying between your destinations, but you’ll miss out on everything along the way, and there are some really incredible sights to see.

Plus, it’s typically far more expensive to fly (unless you are staying in hotels the entire trip) since flights cost far more than gas, particularly in the mid-western states.

🏆 We highly recommend Escape Campervans 🏆 These campervans have everything you need to travel the country safely, comfortably, cheaply, and uniquely (seriously, go check out the designs on these vans!) They have excellent customer support and are now the largest campervan rental in North America, with over 90,000 happy customers. Head to their website and you’ll see why.

However, the general rule of thumb for the best way to get around the U.S. stems from your goals.

If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks or do more extensive sightseeing along your 3-week U.S. itinerary, then driving between destinations is the best choice.

But, if you want to be as efficient as possible and know exactly where you want to go and don’t need the flexibility in your schedule, then you should definitely fly between places to save time.

When it comes to figuring out where to stay on a U.S. road trip, you really are spoiled for choice. These days, you have endless high-end campgrounds, Airbnb’s, VRBO rentals, hotels, and even tree houses you can stay in.

But, it really all depends on what your comfort level is and what your budget is. So, let’s jump into some details on these topics.

Over our 4-week U.S. road trip, we decided to camp for 3.5 out of the 4 weeks. Why? We love camping and we also had a dog with us which made finding hotels and accommodations just a bit harder.

We also travel full-time, so this wasn’t as much of a vacation for us as it was just another trip where we were working on the road. So, we needed the experience to be both budget-friendly and pet-friendly.

It doesn’t really matter what your situation is, if you find yourself with similar limitations, then camping is a great option.

All across America, you can find endless options for campgrounds. From the more manicured camping option at the KOA Campgrounds to free dispersed camping in the national forests of Wyoming with nothing but an outhouse, you’re never without a spot to sleep.

This is a great way to keep your costs low and keep your schedule and U.S. road trip itinerary flexible in the event that you decide you want to spend an extra night somewhere or even leave a day or two early from a specific place.

In my opinion, campgrounds are the best place to stay when going on a cross-country road trip since you can set up your “home for the night” pretty much anywhere.

There are some downsides, of course, including the fact that you’ll be susceptible to the weather and safety can be a concern for some, particularly in regions with a lot of wildlife.

You’ll also notice that finding campgrounds with Wifi and free showers can be challenging, so you’ll need to be prepared for these practical limitations if you find them to be crucial to your daily routine.

Hotels and Accommodation Rentals

If money isn’t of much concern, then hotels and accommodation rental companies can be a very comfortable and luxurious way to make your journey cross country, as well.

There are hotels, bed and breakfasts, Airbnb’s, VRBO properties, and everything in between all over the U.S. so you’ll never be without a comfortable bed and clean shower.

Plus, these days most hotels offer free continental breakfasts at a minimum, so you’ll be well taken care of during your trip.

The only downside of living almost exclusively in hotels is the lack of a kitchen, which means you’ll likely find yourself eating at restaurants a lot more often which can really rack up your bills.

If you don’t want to sacrifice comfort and cleanliness but don’t want to break the bank either, then I highly recommend considering Airbnb or apartments on Booking.com.

It’s a great way to find reasonably priced accommodations that have everything you’re looking for. Also, if you’re traveling with a pet, I have found self-hosted to be a fantastic option, and in fact, it’s what we use every time we travel with our dog.

Renting a campervan is another fantastic option for heading out on a U.S. road trip. For starters, it can save you tons of money on lodging, as you can simply drive to your next destination and sleep right there in your vehicle.

You’ll just need to make sure to check if overnight parking is allowed at each place you stay.

Plus, you can often cook light meals right inside which saves you a ton of money on eating out! But, the real perk that is no matter what the weather looks like, you’ll be nice and dry come morning and bears are going to have a very hard time opening your van door.

The downside to van life is the initial outfitting of the van itself… it can be very expensive. Even renting a pre-outfitted van can cost upwards of hundreds of dollars per week, so you’ll want to get a quote for your rental period if this is something you’re considering.

If you decide to outfit your own van you can save a lot of money, but the van itself usually starts around $30k for a decent model.

Similar to camping, however, a van allows you to keep your schedule totally flexible since you can sleep practically anywhere that doesn’t have “no overnight parking” posted nearby making it a top contender when considering where to stay on a 3-week North American road trip.

✅ Book with Escape Campervans for the best price and experience

Last, but definitely not least, is RV life.

The stereotypical perspective of this option is that it’s primarily for the older generation, but that simply isn’t true. If you’re traveling with a larger group or simply want to do your U.S. road trip on the slower side, an RV is a great option.

It offers everything that a typical hotel can offer you, with the perks of a kitchen and being close to nature. It’s practically camping, van life, and hotels all wrapped up into one!

There are a few downsides to this option, however, including that RVs, like outfitted vans, can be outrageously expensive.

If you want to buy one, it’s almost like buying a small house without a yard. If you want to rent one, well… you might as well buy one!

But, as I said, if you have a big group that can split the cost, this is a great way to go cross-country road-tripping in the U.S. You may have some trouble finding a spot for everyone to sleep, but it will be well worth your efforts if you are hoping to live comfortably and casually.

This will almost entirely depend on what you’re hoping to eat on your trip and where you plan to stay.

If you’re camping, you’ll be more limited to whatever you can keep cold in your cooler and how many pots and pans you want to bring back and forth to the one dish sink at the campground. I will say that buying ice gets old very quickly, especially if you’re traveling in the summer months, so this is something to keep in mind if you almost always cook all of your meals from scratch.

If you’re living it up in a van or RV, it depends on how many dishes you want to do and how big your fresh gallon tank is. If you’re constantly having to find places to fill your water tank up, you may get used to a sandwich for lunch instead of something that creates a lot of dishes.

You’ll notice at the beginning of your trip that you’re far more excited and motivated to cook fun meals over a campfire and pull out pans for whatever you need. But, once you start week two and especially week three of this U.S. road trip, there’s a good chance you’ll start finding easier meals that you enjoy that don’t require a lot of clean up.

For us, we found sandwiches, soup, fruit, and beans to make up the bulk of our diet over the course of those 4 weeks. I primarily picked up pre-made food at the local supermarkets and we would eat that while we drove.

It doesn’t sound great, and I agree it wasn’t, but it got the job done and it saved us a ton of money.

At first, I was so excited to create these elaborate meals and after just one week, we decided that all of the extra work after a full day in the car simply wasn’t worth it.

You may find you agree or disagree, but I will say that over time you’ll want something that you can make for yourself.

If you try to stick to mainly fast food and restaurants, you’re going to eventually get tired of the pre-made food and especially the bill.

It’s a good idea to keep a healthy mix between making your own food and eating out so you don’t get too tired of one before the journey is over.

21 days may seem like a long time to pack for, but luckily pretty much everywhere you go will have plenty of opportunities for laundry services.

I found it extremely helpful when we were camping to book an Airbnb with a washer and dryer twice during our trip, so we only had to pack for about 10 days worth of clothing.

This kept our load light and prevented us from spending a lot of money on multiple washing sessions.

Pro Tip: If you’re trying to travel light with nothing but a backpack and a couple of pairs of shoes, then be sure to check out this minimalist packing list before your trip!

If this sounds like a good fit for you or something you would like to try, then try out the 10-day packing list below that works wonders for any 21-day USA road trip.

It includes everything you’ll need no matter the weather, so if you’re traveling in the harsher seasons of winter or spring you may need to add or take away some clothing.

I have also included the basic necessities you’ll need for camping, so feel free to omit those if you plan on outfitting a van, staying in an RV, or getting other accommodation rentals.

• Tent ( 2-4 person tents usually work well )
• 2 Tarps and Rope (one to tie above your tent and one to put below your tent when it rains)
• Sleeping Bags ( ensure they’re rated for cold weather )
• Headtorch (handy for just about everything!)
• Air pads (great if you’ll be camping for long periods of time)
• Camping Chairs (nothing too fancy, you don’t want them to take up a lot of room)
• Cooler (preferably one that holds ice for at least 24 hours)
• Portable Grill ( I use the one-burner Coleman propane stove )
• Pots/Pans/Plates/Cups/Utensils (use metal! It can go over an open flame and saves a lot of wasted single-use plastic. Most campgrounds across the U.S. have very limited recycling capabilities)
• Instant Coffee (perfect for when you’re trying to pack up and go)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) & Hat for sun protection
• Waterproof Boots
• Basic Hygiene Items (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, moisturizer, hairbrush, toothbrush & paste, floss, razor, tweezers, deodorant, etc.)
• Rain Jacket ( This Helly Hanson jacket is perfect )
• Hooded Sweatshirt or Fleece
• 1 Winter Jacket (if applicable)
• 1-2 Sweaters
• 2-3 Long Sleeves
• 2-3 T-Shirts
• 1-2 Pairs of Shorts
• 1-2 Pairs of Leggings
• 1 Pair of Jeans
• 1 Sleep Outfit
• 10 Pairs of Underwear
• 5-7 Pairs of Socks

When it comes to planning a 3-week road trip across the U.S., there are some things you’ll need to know ahead of time that may not be as obvious as you would hope.

Over the next two sections, I’m going to provide you with tips on how to plan your road trip itinerary as well as some safety tips that I learned along my route.

Don’t book anything until you’re 100% satisfied with your route and plans. It can be tempting to jump right in and secure your dates for Lake Louis Campground in Banff, but just ensure that your itinerary is exactly how you want it and everything that you’ve planned has availability before doing so.

Don’t take the itinerary I provided and assume it’s perfect for you. You may want to travel further south or north, increase or decrease your time in different areas, or skip somewhere altogether.

We used this route to relocate to Alaska for a few months, but we’ll be taking an entirely different route back to New England on the return trip to see the southern half of the country.

Do your research. I can’t emphasize this one enough!

Had we not researched the flooding that occurred in Yellowstone National Park in early 2022, we never would have known that the northern side of the park road was still closed to traffic which would add an extra 2 hours to our drive when we were heading north to Montana.

Always research current road conditions and keep up to date with events that could potentially interrupt your route or schedule.

Think about your interests first and your itinerary second. What do you want to do? What do you actually want to see? If you have no interest in being in the mountains and prefer big cities, then you can probably skip several of the national parks on this list.

Once you know what you want to do during your road trip, you can start thinking about your itinerary.

Have a general schedule in mind. Are you using this 21-day U.S. road trip to relocate to the West Coast, or are you hoping to return to the East Coast in as little as 3 weeks? This will majorly dictate how far you can go and how much time you spend in each place.

Don’t try to fit too much in. The U.S. is massive! Zigzagging your way north to south to hit the entire lower 48 before you go to Alaska will take months, not weeks.

Keep this in mind and don’t try to squeeze an extra city or two in if it’s going to take away from the rest of the places you really want to see.

Think about your budget ahead of time. This isn’t something you should start considering on week two after you’ve already spent far more than you were hoping for.

Make a spreadsheet and start considering your overall budget for food, gas, lodging, souvenirs, oil changes and car maintenance, and other incidentals that could occur (you lose your phone, perhaps) well before you depart.

Have your roles. If you’re traveling with a partner or friend, decide who will set up the tent while the other gets dinner going. This will make your life go far smoother after a 12-hour day in the car.

Get excited about the little things. There are parts of the U.S. that are just plain boring. And that’s okay! Embrace it.

Instead of getting caught up in the idea that every minute of this road trip has to be beautiful and exciting, enjoy the fact that you have no idea what may happen tomorrow and every new day is an adventure at this point in your life.

Don’t argue and have fun! This one seems obvious, but you’re going to take the wrong on-ramp at some point and have to backtrack a little.

This is a very normal part of road-tripping across the U.S. and there’s no point in wasting your time arguing about who was supposed to be looking at the map.

Next up, the safety tips! You may know how to change a tire (and you should before departing for this road trip), but there are some less obvious tips I have for you too.

Be prepared for inclement weather.

I left for my road trip at the end of July and it took me through August to reach Prudhoe Bay. When I was camping in Yellowstone National Park in mid-August, it dropped to about 45 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

The further north I went, the faster it dropped to as low as 30 degrees at night. It doesn’t matter when you’re traveling, nighttime temperatures are a whole new ball game that you need to be prepared for if you’re sleeping outside.

Don’t speed.

This is for your safety and others. It can be exciting, overwhelming, and scary all at the same time to go on a U.S. road trip, but it’s not worth getting in an accident. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Have a GPS that works without an internet connection.

No, your phone is not good enough. I can’t tell you how many times we didn’t have service on any of our phones (we have T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T), but our GPS still got us where we were going. It’s also a good idea to have an updated paper map or atlas in your car, as well.

Keep your car well stocked with supplies at all times.

You never know what may happen. You could blow a tire in the middle of the Dalton Highway with no services for 300 miles or you could break down in the middle of the Montana desert with no cell service.

Always ensure you have warm blankets, food, and water for at least 3 days in your car.

Ensure you have tires with good treads.

We figured out about 3 weeks into our drive when the rainy season began in Canada that our treads were no good and we were sliding all over the road.

We had to stop and get new tires as soon as we entered Alaska which not only cost more money than it should have, but it also took several hours of our time.

Do yourself a favor and ensure that everything on your vehicle is operating the way it should before you depart!

Below are some of your most-asked questions that I’ve provided some unique answers to based on my personal experiences and what I believe may be a good fit for other people.

3 Week Road Trip across America Cost

Now for the question that you’ve likely wanted to know the answer to this entire time… “how much did this U.S. road trip cost you?” Well, here’s the breakdown for our 4-week itinerary:

Campgrounds and Airbnb’s – $1,580 Food & Alcohol – $150-$200 per week ($700 total) Gas – $55 per tank (about $1100 total)

We also had a dog with us which increased our costs slightly in terms of the Airbnbs that we had to rent, her food, etc. In terms of gas, this is when gas prices were at an all-time high practically, so we were spending far more on gas than we normally would with our Subaru Forester.

We anticipated the trip to cost around $800 for gas and tolls, and it likely added up to around $1200-$1300 with tolls in the long run due to the $5+ per gallon gas prices.

The learning curve with this is always to anticipate your road trip to cost more and be pleasantly surprised if it costs less but comfortable if it costs what you expected.

How Long Does it Take to Road Trip around America?

This entirely depends on where you’re starting and ending your road trip, but typically 6-8 weeks is a good amount of time to see the major sights across the whole country while still having some time to enjoy yourself.

This is, of course, if you’re hoping to get across most of the states in the country.

If you want to spend more time in certain places, it may take several months or even longer is recommended depending on how much ground you would like to cover and how much you want to drive each day.

Along our U.S. road trip, we met someone who was visiting Alaska as their 49th state, and they had left in March! That means they had been road-tripping for over 4 months to see almost all of the U.S.

Keep this in mind if you’re hoping to check out numerous states and want to spend a good amount of time in each.

If you just want to drive between the major sites in each state and don’t mind skipping popular hiking trails and sights along the way, then 3-4 weeks will suffice.

Where Should I Go in the U.S. for 3 Weeks?

If you only have 3 weeks for a North American road trip, then it’s best to keep your route somewhat limited. Particularly, if you plan on returning to where you started in 3 weeks’ time.

If you are leaving from the East Coast and are planning on being home within 3 weeks, then I wouldn’t go further west than Colorado.

But, if you have 3 weeks to go in one direction, then you could definitely reach California or even Alaska in that time.

Where you go will entirely depend on your preferences, but you can use the itinerary I provided to get some ideas on where may work best for you!

Pro Tip: It’s going to be warmer the further south you go and cooler the fourth north you go, regardless of when you leave.

The Wrap-Up: 3-Week North American Road Trips

Overall, U.S. road trips are one of the best ways to break out of your comfort zone and start traveling again.

Whether you’re planning this trip for just yourself, you and a partner, you and a friend, or even your entire extended family, this 3-week road trip across North America certainly has some new adventures in store for you.

Author Bio Contributed by Emily of Emily Embarks .

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Destinations | NORTH America

West coast road trip itinerary – 3 weeks.

13 Jul 2021 | California , Destinations , North America

Planning a West Coast road trip itinerary can be overwhelming. You’re spoilt for choice when visiting this part of the United States – natural beauty, poetic endless roads, and stunning romantic sunsets are sure to make your heart beat faster (or even skip a beat once in a while!). 

A trip along the West Coast of the United States will constantly impress you – more often than not at moments, you don’t expect. This guide will help so you can simply look forward to exploring all of these breathtaking locations without the stress of planning a route. 

Our suggested West Coast USA itinerary begins in San Francisco , travels through several National Parks in the most beautiful state in the USA , winds through Las Vegas, and ends in Los Angeles. We have also included some additional information to extend your trip!

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

West Coast Road Trip Itinerary: Planning your trip

The US West Coast comprises California, Oregon, and Washington. In this post, we will dive deeper into the California destinations along the Pacific Coast, and also explore Nevada along the way. 

• If flying from overseas, you can fly to cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas and then pick up a car rental to start your road trip
• Don’t forget your passport and tourist visa (if it applies to you)

This West Coast road trip is beautiful throughout the year. However, try to figure out in advance which parks you definitely want to visit. The weather can sometimes cause trouble, and not all parks are (completely) open all four seasons. 

From May to September good weather is more or less guaranteed – but winter, when the national parks are hidden under a beautiful blanket of snow, also has its advantages.

Packing Tips for West Coast or the Pacific Coast Highway Trip

Here are some packing tips for your west coast USA road trip

• Don’t forget your universal adapter!
• Ensure there’s a high enough limit on your credit card(s). More often than not, hotels will ask for a deposit.
• You need a universal driver’s license in America. Also, gas up wherever you can. Sometimes you won’t come across a gas station for hours!
• There are water fountains in the National Parks, so be sure to bring your reusable water bottle.
• Invest in an Annual National Park Pass . Valid for 12 months from the month of purchase, this pass covers admission to all 59 U.S. National Parks. At just $80 USD for the whole year, the pass practically pays for itself.

It is important to note that renting a car is unavoidable. Try to select the comfiest and trustworthy car your budget allows. 

You’ll often find yourself on the road for hours on end without coming across another living soul, let alone a train or bus station.

read next | 7 things you need to know before planning a west usa road trip

How much time to spend on the pacific coast highway road trip.

We did our West Coast USA tour in three weeks. We crossed three state lines, drove just under 3200 kilometers, and walked on average 18,000 steps per day. Honestly, our schedule was firm but remained doable. 

We could easily have stayed a few weeks longer, though! Being blown off your socks every single day certainly helps to keep the trip enjoyable.

Ultimate 3 weeks in West Coast Road Trip itinerary

In order to kick start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, fly or travel to San Francisco in Northern California. You can pick up a car rental from the airport and then buy road trip essentials. 

• Day 1-3 : San Francisco
• Day 4-5 : Yosemite National Park
• Day 6 : Sequoia National Park 
• Day 7-8: Death Valley National Park
• Day 9-12 : Las Vegas
• Day 13-14 : Zion National Park
• Day 15-17 : Palm Springs
• Day 18 : Day trip to Joshua Tree National Park
• Day 19-20 : Los Angeles
• Day 21 : Flyout

Stop 1: Arrive in San Francisco, and explore the diverse city (Day 1-3)

San Francisco should be the first stop on your West Coast road trip. The land of the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, fantastic food, and diverse population, this marvelous city earns a blogpost for itself – read everything about the City by the Bay here . 

We stayed at Palihotel San Francisco .

There’s something for everyone with intriguing islands, plenty of hiking trails, fascinating museums, and famous landmarks in San Francisco.

It’s impossible to explore all that San Francisco has to offer in one trip – so plan a stay of 3 nights, and I guarantee you won’t get bored for a second.

Things to do in San Francisco

• Check off the iconic Golden Gate Bridge park : Visit the landmark bridge in San Francisco on your 3-day trip. Although it is completely free to view the bridge, you can opt for a sightseeing tour or bike across the bridge for a unique experience. Note that this is also an amazing photo location.
• Crissy Field, Palace of Fine Arts and Japanese Gardens: Spend an afternoon exploring Crissy Field and sit down with a picnic spread.   Explore the Palace of Arts which was originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition – it is a stunning piece of art. In the late afternoon, explore the Japanese Gardens!
• Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz: Spend a day at the Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can check out Pier 39, eat and admire the lovely marina. This area is super touristy, so expect food and souvenirs to be expensive. From the Pier, take a cruise to Alcatraz Island to explore one of the toughest military prisons. It is no longer functioning, but there are guided day tours where you can learn about the prison’s history and prisoner stories.
• Visit SFMOMA: San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a great stop for art lovers. The complex is home to a vast collection of modern and contemporary artworks from most renowned artists all over the world.  Here is an entry ticket .
• Half Moon Bay and/or Sausalito: You can take a day trip to Half Moon Bay or spend half a day in Sausalito, followed by a sunset cruise in the evening (from the Angel Island State Park).

Mist trail : This hike is the signature trail of Yosemite, and it’s the perfect walk to do with children. Not only will you spot beautiful waterfalls, you’re also treated to an astonishing view over the Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and The Half Dome.

Depending on how far you’re willing to go, the average hike takes between 2 and 5 hours, with a distance of between 4.8 and 11 kilometers.

If you want to make it a round trip, you need to add on 2.4 kilometers

Yosemite Falls Trail: This is one of Yosemite’s oldest historic trails, built-in 1873 to 1877. The Yosemite Falls Trail winds its way up to the top of the highest waterfall in North America. 

With a distance of 11.6 kilometers, the hike will take around 7 hours. When there’s been a heatwave, almost no water nor waterfall will be seen – so always double-check at the information point so you aren’t disappointed when hiking this trail.

North Dome Hike : If you’re in a bit of a rush and you haven’t got the time or courage to attempt the Half Dome hike, the North Dome hike is the perfect alternative! 

The starting point of the route is an hour’s drive from the park entrance. The hike is 14.2 kilometers and takes about 4 hours. 

During this trail you get a mind-blowing close-up view of the Half Dome – make sure you walk to the very edge of the rocks at the end of the path. 

Try to start the trail early in the morning. You’ll end up walking under the naked sun for quite some while, so take enough water and sunscreen with you. 

The track itself is not that challenging, with the exception of some sturdy and steep parts in the middle.

Best Viewpoints in Yosemite National Park

Glacier Point is the most popular viewpoint in Yosemite National Park. From here, you can see incredible views of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and other impressive Yosemite landmarks. 

Though you can actually hike up to Glacier Point, it’s easily accessible by car as long as the Glacier Point Road is open. 

The road is open from late May to sometime in October or November, depending on the weather conditions.

Tunnel View is another popular viewpoint known for its spectacular views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. The scene is truly amazing; the views of Yosemite look like a dream.

You’ll find this viewpoint at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel – make sure you bring your camera!

Yosemite is full of spectacular waterfalls – and Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall are two of the best.

There are many different places throughout the park where you can view Yosemite Falls, but if you’re looking for an up-close look you can follow a one-mile loop that will take you to the Lower Fall. 

The Upper Falls is accessible but only via a strenuous hike.

El Capitan is one of the most iconic landmarks in Yosemite National Park. As rock climbing is a popular activity in Yosemite, El Capitan Meadow is a great place for watching climbers.

When driving out of Yosemite National Park, tears rolled down my cheeks. I was overwhelmed by the great hikes in this beautiful park. 

Nature always triggers something in me, but I have to admit that this park left an unprecedented impression.

Stop 5: Travel to Las Vegas and explore (Day 9-12)

While approaching the Nevada border during our USA West Coast road trip itinerary, our excitement level rose. Especially when out of the barren desert, we see Las Vegas appear in the distance out of nowhere.

All the skyscraper hotels, limousines, advertising signs, naked women, the world-famous strip… we’ve never been bombarded with so much instant chaos upon arriving somewhere new.

We stayed for four nights at the Virgin hotels Las Vegas . 

We also stayed in Sin City a little longer because we’d set aside a day for our Las Vegas wedding.  Read everything about our wedding here ! 

With two nights in Las Vegas, you’ll have more than enough time. We weren’t the biggest fan of this artificial Gambling Capital of the World, but you simply have to check it out for yourselves.

Things to do in Las Vegas

There are so many interesting things to do in Las Vegas. It’s the largest city in Nevada and unsurprisingly receives millions of visitors every year. 

With a wide variety of leisure options – like music, theater, circus, magic, gambling, betting, weddings, family fun, excursions, and much more – it’s one of the largest entertainment centers in the world. 

As for the nightlife, you can enjoy it with the discreet complicity of those who are willing to offer you anything you want. I’m sure you know the saying – ‘what happens in Las Vegas, stays in Las Vegas.

Gambling: Have a gamble, no matter how cliché it may sound. You can’t escape the gambling madness here. 

Every hotel is full of slot machines and poker tables that just scream for your attention… and your money!

Las Vegas Strip : The Las Vegas Strip is without a doubt one of the main places to visit in Vegas. 

On this boulevard, you’ll find the best-known hotels and casinos in the city, in addition to the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign (one of the most photographed places in the city). 

As it is bloody hot in the city, it’s better to avoid the main strip during the day. It’s also much more impressive at night with all the lights on… Try to visit the old strip as well, as gambling here is much cheaper among the locals.

Visit Red Canyon State Park: If you don’t know what to visit near Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a beautiful place where you can appreciate the splendor of the desert. 

This beautiful natural space is made up of impressive peaks and reddish walls, and it’s much appreciated by hikers and climbers. 

Red Rock Canyon State Park is a nice day trip idea from Las Vegas. Set aside 4-5 hours for this trip so that you can explore the state, and also head out for some day hikes. 

This is also the location where we shot our wedding pictures!

Fly over the Grand Canyon: The best way to see the Grand Canyon is by flying over and through it by helicopter or airplane . That way, you can get the best views of the Canyon and the Colorado River from up above – an experience that you absolutely cannot miss out on during your West Coast road trip. The beauty and majesty of the place will leave you speechless. 

READ NEXT | HOW TO GET MARRIED IN LAS VEGAS

Stop 6: hike your way through zion national park (day 13-14).

Zion National Park is a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, and we stayed at La Quinta by Wyndham La Verkin – Gateway to Zion . Zion is a haven of trails with incredible, jaw-dropping views. This park simply must be on your West Coast road trip itinerary – get ready to be blown away. 

Try to stay here at least for two nights. Since Zion gets extremely crowded in the spring and summer, and the most popular trails are very busy in the middle of the day, we recommend hitting the trail as early as you can.

Most hiking points in the park can only be reached by the shuttle bus. There are several parking places in the park at the shuttle stop – but come early if you want to ensure your spot. During summer the shuttle runs from 6 am to 10 pm, and from 7 am to 8 pm in the winter.

READ NEXT |  BEST HIKES IN THE EVERGLADES

Check out the best stops for your day trip to Joshua Tree below – and remember to pack plenty of food and water, as there won’t be anywhere to stock up on supplies once you’re in the park.

• Barker Dam Trail: An easy 1.8-kilometer walking loop with the most interesting rock formations.
• Keys View: The second stop on your one-day trip to Joshua Tree National Park is Keys View. At this overlook, you’ll be able to admire the Coachella Valley and spot the San Andreas Fault. The elevation is over 1500 meters, so this is one of the first places to get snow each season.
• Cholla Cactus Garden: The best place to watch the sunset during your day trip in Joshua Tree National Park is the Cholla Cactus Garden.  The cholla cactus fills this 10-acre garden near the park’s north entrance. There’s a parking lot located at the trailhead, so make a quick stop and walk along the trail through the garden.  Remember that you’re in the desert, so these hikes are not recommended during the summer months. Temperatures drop significantly when the sun goes down in the desert. Be prepared.

More West Coast Road Trips 

You can tweak this West Coast road trip route and instead add the following places:

San Juan Islands: The San Juan Islands are an archipelago in the state of Washington. These islands are known for orca sightseeing, and it is home to the Lime Kiln Point State Park which is an orca-whale lookout. If traveling from Las Vegas you will have to fly there to make good use of time. 

Oregon Coast Highway: Another epic West Coast Road trip idea is from travel from California to the Washington state and Oregon aka Oregon Coast Highway (US Route 101). It runs through the state along the coastline near the Pacific Ocean. You can stop at amazing areas such as coastal towns in California, Cannon Beach and explore parks such as Olympic National Park and Crater Lake National Park. 

San Diego: Speaking of the coast, San Diego is a great place to stop. Located in southern California San Diego has nice warm weather, great beaches, and parks, which is a nice destination for art, shopping, and nature lovers. 

There is a deep harbor with a large naval fleet, with a museum. You can visit San Diego from Los Angeles. San Diego to Los Angeles about 2-3 hours away along with a few stops (and moderate traffic). 

Bryce Canyon National Park : Bryce Canyon National Park is a stunning park in Utah with crimson-colored hoodoos and rock formations. 

There are amazing hiking trails and overlook points located inside the park such as Sunrise Point and Bryce Point. You can visit Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas. 

Bryce Canyon National Park is about 265 miles from Vegas and it will take you about four hours. You can cut a day from Palm Springs and instead visit this park from Vegas.

During our road trip, unfortunately, we did not have time to visit Bryce Canyon, my friends from ‘Along came an elephant’ wrote a nice blog about it. You can read it here .

We hope you enjoyed this post on the West Coast Road Trip guide useful in planning yours! Have more questions, let us know in the comments below.

Pin: 3 weeks in West Coast America Road trip

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Even though I am from the US, I’ve never been farther west than Colorado. I would love to see more of the south west part especially. Thanks for all the of the useful tips!

Tank you so much Maria! I hope you will have the opportunity to travel to the West Coast one day, you will love it!

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Our 3 Week Road Trip USA Itinerary – West Coast USA

This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure here .

Our incredible 3-week road trip USA was our first big international trip with our kids, and we are so keen to return soon. With a vast array of cities, attractions, and amazing natural landscapes, it was hard to decide exactly where to go when we first started planning. With 3 kids in tow, we also didn’t want to be moving hotels every day or two, and we wanted to keep driving to a minimum. We ended up covering 3 states ( California , Nevada , and Arizona ), drove approximately 1,600 miles (2,500 kms), plus took one internal flight from Las Vegas to San Francisco.

Need some trip planning help? Check out our post on everything you need to know before travelling to the USA with kids for a hassle free road trip USA.

Our West Coast USA Itinerary:

Anaheim – 5 nights.

Where we stayed: Anaheim Desert Inn & Suites   – super close to the Disneyland entrance so we could easily walk the 5 minutes in and out as needed with tired kids. Our room included a small fridge and microwave, so we self-catered some nights or ate at one of the nearby restaurants such as Denny’s, IHOP, or Tony Roma’s. A basic yet filling continental breakfast was included with our room booking.

What we did: Disneyland of course! With 3 young children (plus 2 young-at-heart adults), a visit to the happiest place on Earth was at the top of our ‘must-do’ list while stateside, and it didn’t disappoint. The parks were decked out in all their Christmas finery and looked amazing.

Find our tips for visiting Disneyland here.

Edwards – 3 nights

We spent a few nights with friends who are currently posted at Edwards Air Force Base, which included a trip to nearby Tehachapi to play in the snow. If we hadn’t stopped here, I would of added these nights onto Yosemite, Monterey, and Las Vegas!

Grand Canyon – 2 nights

Where we stayed: Maswik Lodge – Located on the South Rim in the Grand Canyon Village. Our room was comfortable, though a little squishy with the addition of a roll-away bed for one of the kids. A small bar fridge and pod coffee machine are provided in the room. We bought cereal and oatmeal cups from the local grocery store for breakfast.

What we did: the Grand Canyon! Photos do not do this place justice, it is impossible to capture just how huge and majestic it really is. We were lucky enough to even have some snow while there!

Read more about our time at the Grand Canyon here.

Las Vegas – 1 night

Where we stayed: Polo Towers by Diamond Resorts  – our 2 bedroom suite was awesome! Plush, spacious, a full kitchen and 2 bathrooms, a 1 minute walk from the strip and no casino, the Polo Towers was the perfect location for us. A bonus was the free guest laundry, so I got a lot of washing done that night!

What we did: On our way from the Grand Canyon to Vegas, we stopped at Bearizona and Hoover Dam, and also drove on a small section of Route 66.  While in Vegas we walked the strip in the evening with the kids, watched the gorgeous Bellagio fountains, before heading up to Treasure Island to watch Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Mystere’, which had us all mesmerized. We flew from Vegas to San Francisco the next morning.

Find more fun things to do in Las Vegas with kids.

San Francisco – 4 nights

Where we stayed : Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Fisherman’s Wharf   – our room was very spacious, even with 2 king beds and a sofa bed unfolded in the room we still had plenty of room to walk around, and a huge bay window overlooked the street below. Breakfast was included with our booking, and was the best breakfast we had on the whole trip, with a huge range of food and drinks to choose from. A small kitchenette in the room included a pod coffee machine, fridge and microwave, so we visited the nearby Safeway grocery store and self-catered most nights.

What we di d: Alcatraz , California Academy of Sciences , Golden Gate Park, Lombard Street, Japanese Tea Garden, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Pier 39. There was so much to see and do in San Francisco, but we simply ran out of time!

Read more about our time in San Francisco here.

Yosemite – 4 nights

Where we stayed: Yosemite West, in a private rental booked through VRBO . We had an entire house to ourselves, complete with a pool table, fireplace, and hot tub on the deck – perfect for our white Christmas!

What we did:  hiked the easier trails with the kids (Bridal Veil Falls and Yosemite Falls), admired the stunning views, went wildlife spotting (deers and squirrels!), played in the snow, soaked in the hot tub, and made s’mores.

Read more about why we loved visiting Yosemite with kids .

Monterey – 1 night

Where we stayed: Holiday Inn Express Monterey Cannery Row  – a large comfortable room for the 5 of us, however it only included a fridge (no microwave), so we ate out that night (Louie Linguini’s, so good!). Breakfast was included, and the location was perfect.

What we did: We visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium in the afternoon and we enjoyed learning about the underwater life along the California coastline, despite the huge crowds there at the time. We finished with dinner and a stroll along Cannery Row and the waterfront. Monterey is a beautiful town, and I wish we could have had another night there to explore it more.

You can find our guide to visiting Monterey here.

Pismo Beach – 1 night

Where we stayed: Shore Cliff Hotel – perched high on the cliffs, every room here has amazing ocean views. Our family room was spacious yet cozy, with special little touches like a pair of binoculars so we could spot wildlife from our balcony. A hearty breakfast was included in our booking.

What we did: We drove down the Pacific Coast Highway from Monterey to Pismo Beach, and this stunning drive didn’t disappoint. Rugged coastline, sheer cliffs, bridges, elephant seals, and even a waterfall on the beach! We also checked out the Monarch Butterfly Grove, and admired the amazing views from our hotel room, complete with wild sea otters playing at the bottom of the cliffs. You can read more about our time in Pismo Beach here .

Read more about our favourite places and things to do along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Hollywood – 2 nights

Where we stayed: Magic Castle Hotel – massive suite with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The service from the friendly staff is incredible, and the kids loved the free-flow soft drink and ice cream machines located at the pool. Our room had a full kitchen so we could cook for ourselves, and a tasty continental breakfast is served in the lobby, complete with Vegemite for us Aussies.

What we did: Hollywood was busy busy busy, as in the sidewalks were PACKED! We managed to have a quick look at some of the stars along there, and even found Walt Disney right at our bus stop. We then hopped on a bus and went to the La Brea Tar Pits . It is free to wander the grounds and view the tar pits outside, however if you want to go inside the museum itself there is an entry fee. The museum showcases the history of the tar pits, as well as the incredible array of fossils that have been excavated over the years.

Discover our favourite fun things to do in LA with kids.

This wraps up our 3 weeks West Coast USA adventure, however I can guarantee it won’t be our last! What destination or attraction is on your list for your West Coast USA road trip?

Pin it for later!

You may also enjoy:, san francisco with kids, usa family travel planning tips – things to …, fun things to do in las vegas …, our 10 favourite places to see on the ….

Aw so jealous! I haven’t been there hopefully someday.

Thank you for visiting Cassandra! It’s a fantastic country to visit :)

Sounds like you had a fabulous trip, Stacey, and I’ll bet the kids loved it too.

It was a fantastic trip. The kids loved it so much, that they are now planning and saving to go back already! Thank you for visiting :)

What a fantastic trip! You guys hit so many highlights – We’re sure this will linger in the memories for a lifetime!

It sure was a fantastic trip! :)

Follow our adventures!

Instagram @adventureby3.

USA itineraries

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The following itineraries span the entire length of this incredibly diverse country, from the historic cities of the east, to the deserts of the Southwest and the jaw-dropping Rocky Mountains. Given the vast distances involved, you may not be able to cover everything, but even picking a few highlights will give you a deeper insight into America’s natural and historic wonders.

Recommended USA itineraries

If you are planning your travel to the USA yourself, use these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration.

USA Itinerary 1 - The National Parks Loop

Only when you traverse the American West will you begin to grasp just how big – and rich in natural beauty – this nation is. Come in summer to enjoy the sunshine and take three to four weeks to complete this trip, making a loop from San Francisco by car.

• Yosemite National Park, CA - Just a 3hr 30min drive from San Francisco, you won’t forget your first tantalizing glimpse of the rocky domes, peaks and waterfalls of Yosemite Valley.
• Death Valley, CA - Leave the snowy Sierras for the lowest, hottest and driest area in North America, with vast dunes and flaming red rocks.
• Zion National Park, UT - Cross over into Utah to explore this spectacular park, with a fifteen-mile canyon hemmed in by reddish walls of sandstone.
• Grand Canyon, AZ - Dip south into Arizona to take in the less crowded northern rim of the Grand Canyon, America’s most awe-inspiring natural wonder.
• Monument Valley, AZ/UT - The iconic Western landscape, with giant fingers of rock soaring up from the dusty desert floor like ancient cathedrals on the Arizona–Utah state line.
• Arches/Canyonlands national parks, UT - Back in Utah, make time for the delicate sandstone arches and myriads canyons, mesas and buttes of these two neighbouring parks.
• Grand Teton National Park, WY - It’s a winding 500 miles north to Jackson and Grand Teton in Wyoming from Arches; from the desert to high alpine Rockies, with the jaw-dropping, jagged Teton ridge at the forefront.
• Yellowstone National Park, WY - Grand Teton merges into Yellowstone, the granddaddy of the national parks, crammed with wildlife, bubbling geysers, lakes and wild, untrammelled scenery.
• Craters of the Moon, ID - Break the long journey back to the West Coast with a stop at Idaho’s Craters of the Moon, a stark landscape of lava fields and sagebrush steppe grasslands.

USA Itinerary 2 - The Deep South and Florida

Hot, sultry, rich in history, culture and some of the greatest music made in America, the Deep South is perhaps the most beguiling part of the USA. Take two or three weeks to see the highlights, travelling by car or by bus, and end up on the beaches of south Florida.

• New Orleans, LA - It’s impossible not to fall in love with this gorgeous city, with its romantic French Quarter, indulgent food, jazz heritage and famously ebullient citizens.
• Mississippi Delta - Soak up the blues heritage in Clarksdale, Mississippi, a five-hour drive north of New Orleans, before leaving the state via Tupelo, the home of Elvis.
• Montgomery, AL - Continue east to the fascinating capital of Alabama, laced with monuments to Martin Luther King, Civil Rights and Hank Williams.
• Atlanta, GA - Make the short journey northeast to the buzzing capital of the South, birthplace of Martin Luther King and home to US icons CNN and Coca-Cola.
• Charleston, SC - Over in South Carolina, this is perhaps the finest old town in all America, enriched by the culture of the nearby Sea Islands.
• Savannah, GA - Cut back into Georgia to absorb the charms of Charleston’s raffish but equally ravishing cousin, a city of moss-tangled squares and historic homes.
• St Augustine, FL - Drop south into Florida to see the oldest town in America, founded by the Spanish in 1565.
• Miami, FL - The Florida coast is studded with great beaches and attractions such as the Kennedy Space Center, but it’s hard to top Miami and fabulous, Art Deco South Beach.
• Key West, FL - End up travelling spectacular US-1 across the Keys to America’s party-hard Caribbean outpost.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

USA Itinerary 3 - Classic coast-to-coast

This three-week tour gives a taster of the USA’s iconic landscapes and cities from the East to West coasts, travelling from New York to Los Angeles along sections of historic Rte-66.

• New York, NY - America’s biggest city is home to Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Met, Madison Square Garden, the Empire State, Harlem, Brooklyn Bridge and Jay-Z.
• Chicago, IL - America’s third city boasts some serious skyscrapers, top museums, live blues, the Cubs and the Bears, and those deep-dish pizzas.
• Springfield, IL - Immerse yourself in all things Abraham Lincoln at the Illinois state capital, now a virtual shrine to the great American president.
• St Louis, MO - Head south to this old city on the Mississippi, and take the train to the top of the Gateway Arch, a momentous feat of engineering.
• Route 66 - Travelling southwest from St Louis to Oklahoma City be sure to take the Americana-rich remaining stretches of the most iconic US highway.
• Santa Fe, NM - As you continue west on I-40 across New Mexico, detour to the state capital, a glorious ensemble of Spanish adobe and baroque.
• Grand Canyon - I-40 cuts across Arizona via Flagstaff, gateway to one of the grandest, most mind-blowing natural wonders in the world.
• Las Vegas, NV - Around four hours’ drive west of the Grand Canyon lies America’s playground, a confection of mega-casinos and pool parties in the middle of the desert.
• Los Angeles, CA - You’ve made it: watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at Santa Monica Pier or wacky Venice Beach before soaking up the sights in Hollywood.

USA Itinerary 4 - The Northeast

The northeast and especially New England is rich in history, stunning scenery and invariably empty roads the further north you get. This two- to three-week tour is best experienced by car, but buses are a possible alternative.

• Washington DC - The nation’s capital is crammed with world-class museums and monuments, from the Capitol to the White House.
• Philadelphia, PA - The city of Benjamin Franklin is home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the cheesesteak and Rocky.
• New York, NY - The largest city in the USA drips with global icons, from the Empire State and Brooklyn Bridge to the Statue of Liberty and Broadway theatres.
• Hartford, CT - Visit the Connecticut capital to pay homage to Mark Twain, Harriet Beecher Stowe and the astonishing art at Wadsworth Atheneum.
• Nantucket, MA - Take the ferry to the “Little Gray Lady”, a once great whaling community still redolent of the era of Moby-Dick.
• Provincetown and Cape Cod, MA - Take a day or two to explore the historic towns, tranquil beaches and fish shacks of this hook-shaped peninsula.
• Boston, MA - New England’s lively capital drips with colonial history, but also boasts enticing restaurants, top art museums, charming accommodation options and some of the USA’s best sports teams.
• White Mountains, NH - Across into New Hampshire the mountains become bigger and wilder, perfect for hiking and biking, and culminating in mighty Mount Washington.
• Acadia National Park, ME - Maine’s coastline of wooded bays and small villages snakes northeast to this pristine section of rolling, mist-shrouded hills, fir forests and lobster pounds.

Sunrise on Half Dome in the Forest, Yosemite National Park, California - Stephen Moehle

USA Itinerary 5 - The West Coast

The north–south journey along the Pacific starts in the rainy, forested northwest and ends at the southern deserts of California (with extensions to Tijuana and Vancouver at either end). You could travel by trains and buses as well as by car.

• Seattle, WA - The home of grunge, Microsoft and Starbucks is now a booming city, with Pike Place Market, the stunning Chihuly Garden, huge salmon and gourmet coffee.
• The Cascades, WA & OR - Travel inland through the Cascade Mountains, where the giant, snow-capped volcanic cones of Mount Rainier, Mount St Helens and Mount Hood loom over the horizon.
• Portland, OR - Rent a bike and cycle Oregon’s hippest city, soaking up the art, organic food, microbrews and kooky shows.
• Crater Lake, OR - Achingly beautiful national park, a vast, waterlogged crater surrounded by a spectacular snowy rim.
• Redwood National Park, CA - Travel south along the Californian coastline, taking in these giant natural beauties.
• San Francisco, CA - One of America’s most appealing cities: historic, progressive, beautifully sited and home to the Golden Gate and Alcatraz.
• Big Sur and Hwy-1, CA - The coastal road between San Francisco and Los Angeles is a scenic, surprisingly wild route of misty cliffs and untouched beaches.
• Los Angeles, CA - Take your pick of iconic ’hoods: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica and Venice Beach – or just hit Disneyland and Magic Mountain.
• San Diego, CA - Visit the zoo, SeaWorld or simply hang out at the beach at California’s laidback southern capital, the gateway to Baja.

USA Itinerary 6 - The Great Northern Crossing

Cross the country on the lesser travelled – but blissfully untouched – northern route, taking at least two weeks to drive between Chicago and Seattle.

• Madison, WI - The capital of Wisconsin also happens to be the most attractive college town in the USA, just 2hr 30min drive northwest of Chicago.
• Badlands National Park, SD - It’s a long day of driving across the Great Plains to the Badlands, a truly desolate, magical place, especially at sunrise.
• Black Hills, SD - Forested mountain plateau rising above the plains, home to Mount Rushmore and the equally monumental Crazy Horse Mountain.
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND - Drive into North Dakota to explore the wild, untouched and multicoloured badlands created by the Little Missouri.
• Little Bighorn, MT - Cross into Montana to visit one of America’s most poignant battlefields, where Custer’s 7th Cavalry were trounced by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse.
• Butte, MT - This shabby old mining town in central Montana is a treasure trove of once grand architecture, old diners and even Cornish pasties.
• Glacier National Park, MT - Northern Montana is dominated by this sensational preserve of glaciers, snowy peaks, alpine lakes and historic lodges.
• Idaho Panhandle - I-90 cuts across this narrow section of Idaho, laced with inviting hiking and biking trails and home to the genuine Western town of Wallace.
• Cascade Loop, WA - End up in Washington, touring the peaks and valleys of the mighty Cascade Mountains before arriving at Seattle and the Pacific Ocean.

With 52 states to explore, you can easily visit the USA for a two-week holiday or spend a few months travelling the country at length. Whatever your timescale or budget, here are some sample itineraries to whet your appetite for travel. Find one you like? Speak to a local USA expert to book your trip today.

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updated 28.04.2021

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25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

If there’s one travel bucket list experience that our home country of the United States is best for, it’s road trips.

From small towns to big cities, from mountain ranges to deserts, from forests to plains, and from sea to shining sea, there is no shortage of epic destinations for road trips in the USA.

We’ve taken USA road trips in about 30 of the 50 states ourselves (and hope to finish them all off one day!).

To help fill in the gaps, we asked fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favorites for this Great American road trips blog post.

They delivered an enormous variety of USA road trip itinerary ideas, from weekend trip options to weeks-long excursions!

Dreaming of taking a road trip in the United States and not sure where you want to go?

This list of exciting USA road trip itinerary ideas will help you decide where to hit the open road next! 

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Your USA Road Trip

Cross-country usa road trip ideas, southern road trips in the usa, united states road trip ideas in the west, east coast road trips in the usa, central usa road trip routes, non-continental usa road trips.

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Before we dive into exploring the best USA road trips, there are a few tips to be aware of–especially if you’re visiting as an international tourist and haven’t explored the United States before!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your United States road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits.

Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your USA road trip.

Browse rental cars for your American road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

On the off chance that you’re planning on continuing your road trip into Canada or Mexico , be sure to check any requirements for crossing the border as well.

Book travel insurance.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen on the road, and an epic road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing for road trips in the USA!

Don’t underestimate how sparsely populated parts of the USA are.

If this is your first time visiting the USA, you may be surprised to see just how long you can drive in the United States without coming across a town or even a gas station–especially out west.

Be sure to keep an eye on your directions, and fill up your gas tank before heading into any particularly unpopulated areas!

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a big USA road trip requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, diving into van life , or somewhere in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions in our road trip packing list before you go!

Consider bringing your sleeping arrangements along with you.

It’s not right for everyone, but there’s a reason that using an RV or campervan is such a classic American road trip experience!

And, you don’t need to dive into the RV lifestyle and buy one for your next trip in order to try it out: you can try out the experience by renting RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy .

Browse RVs available to rent with Outdoorsy today!

If possible, stop in at least one national park!

Our home country is filled with an enormous number of interesting and beautiful places, but perhaps none shine quite as brightly as our national park system.

Want to climb sand dunes? We have that.

Marvel at glaciers? Check.

Hike across mountains? Take your pick.

Go scuba diving? Definitely.

Admire the power of incredible geysers? Got that, too.

Whatever kind of outdoor wonder you have in mind, you can find it at one of the most beautiful national parks in America !

From Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Route 66 is the quintessential American road trip, inspiring songs, movies, and novels.

Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through nine states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Some of the best things to do on the route are enjoying the kitschy 1950s motels, gas stations, and restaurants that harken back to the days of the Great American Road Trip.

You’ll also find tons of quirky roadside attractions like the Catoosa Whale, Cadillac Ranch , and the Twin Arrows that are must-sees.

If you want to enjoy some nature along the way, you can visit the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forrest National Park.

The most typical way to explore Route 66 is to start in Chicago and drive all the way to Santa Monica, but there are many who drive smaller portions of it or go from west-to-east instead of east-to-west.

There’s no single “right” way to make the drive. Just make sure you enjoy yourself as you go!

Recommended Road Trip Length

Because the route is so long and there’s so much to see, it’s recommended you spend two weeks exploring it one way.

New York to Los Angeles

Driving across the United States from New York to Los Angeles is one of those classic American road trip routes that, quite honestly, is not suited to most USA vacations–you’ll be looking at a lot  of cornfields and open plains along the way and spend many days on the road.

… But that being said, the legend and myth of this USA road trip route endure because it does make for quite the adventure!

With nearly 3,000 miles of driving to do between NYC and LA, you have extreme flexibility to create your own USA road trip itinerary!

However, the most direct route (a mere 44 hours of drive time, not including stops and traffic!) will take you to Chicago, across the open fields of Iowa and Nebraska, through some stunning nature in Colorado and Utah, and right through Las Vegas before delivering you to the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

If you’re open to detours, plenty of national parks will be within your reach on this USA road trip, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Zion National Park, and even the Grand Canyon!

If you’d like to enjoy a coast-to-coast road trip in the USA, we recommend setting aside at least two weeks to ensure you have enough time to experience the route along the way (and avoid spending too many days at a time looking at nothing but highways)!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Carl of NC Tripping

If you’re exploring the western parts of North Carolina or Virginia , the Blue Ridge Parkway is always lingering somewhere nearby.

It’s the most popular road trip between the two states and connects two of the United States’ most-visited national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.

At 469 miles in length, this road will take some time to explore !

Narrowing things down to a few places you must visit is tough, but here are some “musts.” 

Moving north to south, highlights on the Virginia side include Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5), Mabry Mill (MP 176), Peaks of Otter (MP 85), and the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213).

Across the border in North Carolina, you at least need to see Linville Falls (316), Craggy Gardens (MP 364), Graveyard Fields (418), and Oconoluftee (MP 469) at the end of the line.

Of course, there are more spots scattered throughout that are within a short drive of the Parkway , such as the ever-popular Asheville, NC , the Biltmore Estate , and more charming mountain towns than you can count.

That, along with its length, is why this is one USA road trip that will take some time, if ever, for you to complete. 

Please note that some areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway close during winter through parts of spring. The NPS is pretty good about keeping information up to date on their website .

While you can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in less time, ideally, if you want to hike and explore along the route, a week is a great starting point for this USA road trip route.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

From Katie-Beth of Her Life in Ruins

Who doesn’t love a nice glass of bourbon?

On the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you tour 18 different distilleries, try multiple bourbons (and other treats) at each, and take in tons of bottled-up history throughout the gorgeous Bluegrass State. 

While there is no official route for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, stay in either Lexington or Louisville as a “home base” for the experience, as all of the distilleries are within a few hours’ drive of these cities (some are mere minutes!).

Each day, pick 4-5 distilleries to visit, starting when they open in the morning and touring until they close.

Try to do the distilleries that are closest together on the same days (less driving and easier to get from one place to another).

If you’re a serious drinker, there are some bus tours that will chauffeur you throughout the Trail!

You’re never given more than about 2 ounces of alcohol at each distillery, but you may want a designated driver just in case.

On the drive between distilleries, you’ll see the rolling hills of Kentucky, some of our famous horse farms, and, of course, rick houses holding millions of gallons of the delicious spirit. 

In order to visit all of the distilleries, I recommend spending 4-6 days on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Southeast Coastal Road Trip

The stretch of coastline running from St. Augustine, Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina is packed with beautiful sights, historic cities, and laid-back beach towns.

We consider this area one of our personal favorites for road trips in the USA, and we’ve taken dozens of road trips in the region!

Start in St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers and one of the most historic cities in the USA.

Explore its beautiful Castillo de San Marcos, check out the Fountain of Youth, relax on the beach, and explore the Colonial Quarter.

From there, head north to Savannah , where you can enjoy its incredible architecture and town squares, and then move on to Charleston , where you’ll find compelling American history and the lovely Folley Beach.

As you move up the coast, consider detouring for brief stops in Beaufort, South Carolina and/or Hilton Head Island, before heading into North Carolina.

Historic Wilmington and New Bern are always worth a look as you pass by, and while you’ll need to head all the way up to Kitty Hawk and Nag’s Head to experience the classic Outer Banks destinations, the Crystal Coast ( Emerald Isle , Morehead City, Beaufort , Atlantic Beach , etc.) has been my family’s haunt for generations and is also well worth experiencing.

And, the Crystal Coast also happens to be closer geographically to the rest of the stops on this United States road trip itinerary!

Want to continue north to the Outer Banks?

Ocracoke Island, Nags Head, Duck, Kitty Hawk (famously home to the Wright Brothers’ first-ever flight!) and more are all ready to welcome you.

We recommend spending about 10 days enjoying this USA road trip route.

Orlando to New Orleans Road Trip

From Christine of Live Love Run Travel

Driving from Orlando to New Orleans  gives you plenty of options for stops along the way as well as enough to fill up an entire vacation at the starting point and ending point of the road trip.

From natural springs to beaches to caverns, there is plenty to see along this route to break up the trip.

Orlando is of course known for its iconic theme parks including Disney and Universal Studios.

However, Orlando and Florida also offer plenty of natural highlights including the natural springs.

On the way from Orlando to New Orleans , stop at Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, or Ginnie Springs along I-75.

Once you get onto I-10, make sure to stop at Florida Caverns State Park for a unique Florida experience.

Plus, if you are taking this trip in the summer, you’ll appreciate the cooler air in the caverns!

Along I-10, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop for some time at the beach.

Consider Pensacola, Florida, or the Gulf Shores, Alabama, or any of Mississippi’s beaches to avoid a long drive off the main road.

From there you are in New Orleans where you can enjoy the bayou, lots of amazing food and live music, and plenty of history and beautiful architecture in the various districts within the city.

The length of this road trip depends on a few factors including how long you want to spend in Orlando and New Orleans.

The drive itself only takes about 9 hours, but if you want to spend time at the springs, beaches, and caverns, stretch it out to a 2 or 3 day drive, with a few days on either end to explore Orlando and New Orleans.

Washington State

From Katie of Two Wandering Soles

With rugged driftwood-strewn beaches, snowcapped peaks, small towns, and major cities, Washington State is a true gem.

Home to incredibly diverse landscapes and endless adventures to be had, this Pacific Northwest destination is one of the best places to take a road trip in the United States. 

Start by  exploring Seattle (if you have the time) because there is plenty to do in this PNW hub. But when you’re ready to get out of the city, head straight to the Olympic Peninsula .

With temperate rainforests, waterfalls, remote beaches, and a towering mountain range, Olympic National Park is arguably the most diverse swath of land in the state, if not one of the most unique places in the country, and is the perfect place to try out some hikes in Washington .

Another drive well worth your while is to head northeast toward the iconic Mount Baker.

If you have the time, continue north to Highway 20 which brings you into the breathtaking North Cascades National Park.

Make photo stops along the way (like at the spectacularly beautiful turquoise waters of Lake Diablo), set off on epic hikes, and refuel at the small towns along the way.

Eventually, you’ll reach Lake Chelan , which is a perfect spot to cool off on a hot summer day.

From Lake Chelan, you have a stunning drive on Highway 2 back to Seattle with many more opportunities for exploring small towns and hiking along the way, if time allows. 

If you want to cover this whole route, you should allow 1.5 – 2 weeks. If you have less time, shorten your USA road trip itinerary accordingly.

Southwest Colorado Road Trip

From Tanya of Rad Family Travel

Exploring Southwest Colorado on a memorable summer road trip through the mountains offers adventure in every direction.

Sand-sled through Great Sand Dunes National Park, drive breath-taking mountain passes, soak and swim in hot springs, and climb ladders to ancient Puebloan dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park.

From there, imagine taking a jeep ride to old mining towns, biking along scenic trails, and hiking among wildflowers.

Arrive in Telluride in style via a free gondola, go whitewater rafting or alpine sliding, sleep under the stars, and top it all off with local burgers and cold brews.

In other words: whatever kind of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, southwest Colorado has you covered.

A Southwest Colorado road trip highlights diverse outdoor fun in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, Telluride, Ridgway, Ouray, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista.

Choose from tent camping, cabins, or hotels, or a mixture thereof, for lodging along the way.

Allow at least nine to ten days for this epic southwest Colorado Road Trip , starting from Colorado Springs.

If you prefer slower travel and lots of outdoor adventure, consider making it a fourteen-day loop by staying longer in Ouray, Crested Butte, and Buena Vista — and really delve into these sweet mountain towns . 

Utah’s Mighty Five

From Ali of Travel Made Simple

Utah is home to five amazing national parks, all close enough to each other to visit on one iconic national parks road trip .

These national parks are Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Since they’re all in the southern half of the state, you can drive in a loop to get to them all.

This also works well as part of a bigger  southwestern US road trip .

If you’re short on time or not in great shape, you can see a lot by driving or taking park shuttles, where available.

Hop out at designated parking lots, lookout points, or shuttle stops, take pictures, and go for a short walk.

For more activity, each park has hiking trails for beginners to expert-level hikers.

You can see the highlights of each park in about a day, but allow more time at any park where you want to experience more hiking.

Start and end in Las Vegas and drive counterclockwise.

Since driving from Las Vegas to Moab , where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are located, is quite long, consider stopping in Page, AZ (home of the famous Horseshoe Bend ), or Monument Valley on the AZ/UT border. Or both!

From Moab, drive to Capitol Reef National Park, then Bryce Canyon National Park , and lastly Zion National Park before heading back to Vegas.

If you prefer, you can also do this route in reverse!

Give yourself at least a week to do this road trip, or longer if you’re stopping in Page and/or Monument Valley.

South Dakota

If you’re craving wide open spaces, plenty of buffalo and prairie dog sightings, gorgeous caves, and a quirky roadside stop or two, then South Dakota is the American road trip for you!

Driving from east to west (though you can easily reverse it), pay a quick visit to Sioux Falls and then The World’s Only Corn Palace (their words, not mine) before diving into Badlands National Park.

Drive the Badlands National Park scenic loop, do some hiking (the Notch Trail is not to be missed), and when you’re ready for a break, detour to Wall Drug for a heavy dose of kitsch.

Head north to visit the Wild West town of Deadwood, and if you’re up for it, detour into Wyoming for a quick visit to Devil’s Tower, the first US national monument!

Back in South Dakota, base yourself in or around Keystone to explore Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and–if you have time–Spearfish Canyon.

Going inside Wind Cave National Park requires a guided tour, so be sure to book in advance!

Determined road-trippers can do justice to this South Dakota road trip route in about 5 days, though 7 allows for a bit more hiking and a chance to add on places like Rapid City.

South Dakota is also perfectly located for combining with road trips in Wyoming and beyond, so you can easily use this route as a building block for a bigger US road trip itinerary!

Scenic I-90 from Portland to Yellowstone

From Catherine of Passports and Adventures

Visiting Yellowstone National Park from Portland, Oregon is easy and there is no better route to take than the scenic I-90.

This 812-mile trip starts from Portland and takes the I-84 along the very beautiful Columbia River Gorge.

As you get started, stop at Multnomah Falls to photograph the famous waterfall!

Continue to Richland where you could rest overnight before jumping onto the I-90, the longest interstate in the United States.

This interstate highway passes Spokane before trailing alongside the lake of Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful part of the country, and then snakes through the Nez Pearce-Clearwater National Forests.

Imagine a highway surrounded by forests on either side, and you have an idea of what this part of I-90 is like.

A great town to stop along the I-90 is Missoula, which sits along the Clark Fork River and has plenty on offer including a great park, Caras Park where families and visitors can unwind.

After Missoula, continue along the I-90 and join Highway 287 which will take you to West Yellowstone to start your visit to the first national park.

This route from Portland to Yellowstone is 812 miles via these interstates and highways and could be done in two days but is best enjoyed over a few days before your  Yellowstone vacation .

As you get close to the national park, you can also find some great camping near Yellowstone along this route.

Northern New Mexico

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Northern New Mexico is one of the most beautiful places in the United States to have a road trip.

The weather is gorgeous and sunny at almost any time of year, and many of the state’s most interesting places are just an hour’s drive away from each other!

Start the road trip in the state’s largest city, Albuquerque. Almost all people arriving in New Mexico start here because this is where the major airport is located.

Tourism in Albuquerque has really taken off since the show  Breaking Bad  was filmed here, but those who are not  Breaking Bad  fans will still love seeing Albuquerque’s charming Old Town.

If you’re lucky enough to be able to plan your trip around the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , you won’t be sorry you did!

After a couple of days in Albuquerque, drive an hour up to Santa Fe and spend a couple of days here. This is New Mexico’s capital and its most beautiful city.

You can stop for a bath in the hot springs at Ten Thousand Waves and see the historic Spanish Colonial Palace of the Governors. 

Finally, check out some smaller towns like Los Alamos, where the atomic bomb was developed, Chimayo, which is a popular pilgrimage site, and Taos, where you can visit a Native American pueblo that’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You’ll be amazed at how much Northern New Mexico has to offer!

I recommend spending about a week on this USA road trip route.

Denver to Yellowstone Loop

Starting from Denver, you can easily craft a fantastic road trip plan.

USA national parks are in abundance in the west, but from Denver, you can hit three of the most legendary in short order: Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the ever-popular Yellowstone National Park.

For your first stop, base yourself in the beautiful mountain town of Estes Park , where you can access some of the best hikes in RMNP while also enjoying this idyllic mountain town.

From there, head up to Yellowstone to enjoy a few days of geysers, geothermal pools, wildlife spotting, and utterly unique views.

On your way back to Denver, head to Grand Teton National Park to visit highlights like Jenny Lake, enjoy some hiking, and soak in iconic views like those along Mormon Row.

Don’t miss the chance to spend a bit of time in Jackson Hole, one of the USA’s most iconic mountain towns, while you’re there!

We recommend setting aside at least a week for this all-American road trip–if you’d like to spend some time in Denver, a full two weeks is best.

San Francisco to Yosemite Loop

From Julie of More Than Main Street

Typically, you think of the Pacific Coast Highway when you think of the best California road trips, right? Well…consider something a little different!

This 10 day California road trip , forming a loop from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and back, is one of the best road trips in the USA.

You’ll get the best of big-city excitement, some time by the ocean, beautiful scenic vistas, and outdoor fun galore!

After spending a few days in San Francisco , hit up Monterey, Carmel, and part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Can’t-miss destinations include the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, Big Sur, and the world-class Monterey Aquarium.

Next head east over to Yosemite National Park for some incredible hiking, followed by a little wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa Valley, a stop in Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods, then finally back to San Francisco.

This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or even solo travelers and is guaranteed to be one you won’t forget!

You’ll need at least 10 days to do justice to this epic California road trip.

The American Southwest from Las Vegas

Thanks to inexpensive flights, a convenient location in southern Nevada, and its widespread appeal, Las Vegas is a fantastic place to kick off a road trip through the southwest!

With Las Vegas as a starting point, head off to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada before making your way to the ultimate USA road trip destination: the Grand Canyon.

From there, loop up to Moab to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, head west to visit Bryce Canyon National Park , and then move onto Zion before circling back to Vegas.

With extra time, you can add on more exciting stops in Arizona and Utah like Monument Valley, Page (home of Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend ), Capitol Reef National Park, Goblin Valley State Park, and more.

Ten days is a good starting place for this American road trip, but you can do an abridged version in one week, and the sky is the limit as far as how long you can take to explore every nook, cranny, and slot canyon in the region!

New York State Road Trip

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

The route from Buffalo, NY to New York City is full of great attractions and small towns to explore, and the variety of stops along the way will be sure to entertain every member of the family!

To begin the journey, start at Niagara Falls in Buffalo, NY.

See the roaring power of the American and Canadian falls, and if you are up for it, take a ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls.

After visiting the falls continue on to Letchworth State Park, the Grand Canyon of the East, for a day of hiking and enjoying nature.

Continue on to   Rochester, NY , where you will find a variety of fun attractions, history, and nature experiences.

The next stop along the route is the Finger Lakes region, where you can enjoy the lakes, waterfalls, and some wine tasting.

From there, head to Saratoga Springs, known for horse racing and mineral baths.

After visiting Saratoga Springs, continue on to the Catskills Region, where you will find plenty of scenic views and hiking trails for hikers of all abilities.

Finish up your road trip in New York City, where you can visit the Statue of Liberty, The World Trade Center Memorial, Central Park, and Times Square, among many other iconic attractions!

We recommend taking a minimum of one week to fully experience all stops along this USA road trip route.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of Getting Stamped

If you’re looking for a tropical road trip, consider making the drive from Miami to Key West .

On this US road trip, you’ll travel through the islands that make up the Florida Keys on the “Overseas Highway.”

It’s said to be one of the best road trips in the country!

While the drive to Key West isn’t too far (165 miles), the stops and the scenic beauty along the way are what make it worthwhile. The road trip is full of fun and quirky things to do and see!

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Spiegel Grove Shipwreck are two great spots for exploring under the surface, where you’ll find coral reefs, sea life, and a sunken Navy ship.

For above the water, consider taking a cruise on The Africa Queen through the canals of Key Largo. 

There are great restaurants and bars along the way too.

Some popular stops include Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach & Bar for all the tiki vibes, Islamorada Beer Company, and Robbie’s Restaurant, where you can feed tarpons from the dock. 

This road trip is best for a weekend (2-3 days).

New England

Made up of some of the USA’s smallest states, the northeast region of New England is one of the best places for a road trip in the USA.

Featuring historic cities (hello Boston !), adorable small towns, a rugged coastline, gorgeous harbors, and plenty of lighthouses, New England spots a charm and culture all its own.

Consider starting and ending your New England road trip in Boston, the region’s largest city and airport hub, where you can walk the Freedom Trail, stroll cobblestone lanes, and visit some of the most impressive universities and museums in the country.

From there, make your way to beautiful Acadia National Park in Maine, stopping at charming coastal villages like Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kennebunkport, Maine along the way–plus of course, a stop in the charming city of Portland.

On your way back south, drop by the White Mountain National Forest, and beautiful towns like Stowe, Vermont (legendary for its fall foliage) and Woodstock.

If you have time, head south of Massachusetts before heading back to Boston, visiting the Gilded Age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, and the idyllic small town of Mystic, Connecticut.

To take a USA road trip through all six New England states, two weeks or more is best. 

However, with less time you can easily pick and choose a couple of states to visit and still have an amazing road trip experience!

Texas Hill Country

Tucked into the central part of the Lone Star State, west of both Austin and San Antonio, lies an oasis of beauty.

Visit the Texas Hill Country for sparkling rivers, charming small towns, incredible hiking, beautiful waterfalls, excellent Texas barbecue , magnificent wildflowers, and more wineries and distilleries than you can count.

Some of the best things to do in the Texas Hill Country include visiting the town of Fredericksburg, which is known for its German heritage, enjoying a wine tasting, exploring beautiful Wimberley, climbing Enchanted Rock, exploring dramatic limestone caves, sampling barbecue, and visiting some of the best swimming holes near Austin , including the legendary Hamilton Pool and Jacob’s Well.

Be sure to save time for a couple of state parks, as well!

In addition to Enchanted Rock, popular state parks in the Hill Country include Garner State Park, Guadalupe River State Park, and Colorado Bend State Park (home to 70-foot Gorman Falls).

The lakes are also unforgettable: don’t miss a chance to admire the beauty of Canyon Lake or Lake Travis during this incredible US road trip!

Even if you only have one day, it’s worth taking a quick Texas Hill Country road trip–but ideally, we recommend setting aside a week to explore.

While you can visit year-round, bluebonnet season (roughly late March-April) is undoubtedly the most scenic time to visit!

Northwest Arkansas

Packed with beautiful forests, idyllic hot springs, historic towns, and a lesser-known but beautiful national park, Northwest Arkansas is the perfect option for travelers looking for an interesting but off-the-beaten path US road trip destination.

Start your road trip at Hot Springs National Park, one of the only US national parks to be set in an urban (really, more like small-town) setting.

Nine historic bathhouses in the national park line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

You can still soak in two of them today!

From there, head north all the way to Eureka Springs, which is known for its historic architecture, beautiful setting in the Ozark Mountains, and even more hot springs.

Along the way, consider detouring slightly to visit Hawksbill Crag (pictured below), one of the best viewpoints in Arkansas.

Whether you want to hike, soak, shop, or simply relax and enjoy the views, Northwest Arkansas is a delightful getaway.

This trip can be completed over a long weekend, but 5 days would be ideal.

From Carole of Travels With Carole

For one of the best road trips in Texas , begin in El Paso and head southeast. 

West Texas is filled with art, much of it BIG Texas art.

Before reaching the iconic West Texas art hub of Marfa , you’ll encounter some roadside art stops that include the “Giant” movie set installation featuring huge cutouts of stars Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean, and Rock Hudson.

This is followed by stops at the Prada Marfa store that never opens, and at the railroad-side World’s Smallest Target Store that is complete with a shopping cart. 

The tiny town of Marfa itself is home to the Chinati Foundation’s series of huge indoor and outdoor installations located on a former military base, as well as a plethora of art galleries–one of which displays Andy Warhol’s “The Last Supper.” 

In addition to art, Marfa has a viewing center where locals and visitors alike congregate at night hoping to see the area’s legendary and unexplained bouncing light orbs.

And if that’s not enough, you can also dine at the Stripes convenience store where Anthony Bourdain ate a fried burrito while filming what turned out to be his last episode of “Parts Unknown.” 

This is just the tip of the iceberg of a fascinating visit to this area. 

Allow 3 nights to visit this area and another night or two for an excursion to Big Bend National Park.

Northern Michigan

When considering the best road trips in America, the Great Lakes are often overlooked in favor of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts–but for a magnificent summer road trip through one of the USA’s hidden gems, head to northern Michigan.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on Lake Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior are located a mere five hours or so apart if you drive directly.

And, if you’ve never set eyes on the Great Lakes, this road trip will defy your expectations of what lakeshores look like!

Between them, be sure to take a step back in time at Mackinac Island, one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Here’s the twist, though: no cars are allowed on the island, so you’ll need to leave yours on the mainland during your island escape!

Plan for about a week to make the most of this USA itinerary.

From Zach & Julie of Ruhls of the Road

Kauai is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations on earth.

However, when most people visit, they experience the inside of their resort and maybe a few beautiful places on day trips.

In truth, the best way to experience this incredible island is on a road trip to all of the best places on the island!

To start your Kauai road trip, go to the number one destination on the island: the Na Pali Coast.

The Na Pali Coast defies description, it is a place you have to see to believe.

The best way to see the area is on the Awa’awapuhi Trail, but make sure you hike the trail on a clear day for the best views!

From here, check out the Alakai Swamp, a boardwalk that also boasts incredible views.

As you leave the Na Pali Coast area, head down towards Waimea and see the Waimea Black Sand Beach.

Moving along the coast, stop at the Poipu area and see one of Kauai’s famous Hula shows.

Continue this coastal route and head into Wailua State Park. In this beautiful area, you’ll want to see Wailua Falls, Opaeka’a Falls, and hike the Kuilau Ridge.

The Kuilau Ridge Hike offers a 360-degree view of the Kauai landscape that will leave your jaw on the floor.

Finish your road trip by heading up to the Princeville area and checking out Queen’s Bath.

This is a beautiful tide pool that will make for the perfect ending to your Kauai road trip.

Make sure to check tides and go at low tide, as this area isn’t safe at high tide.

We recommend completing this Kauai road trip in 3 days.

Road to Hana, Maui

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

When you think of Hawaii you may not think of a road trip but prepare to have your mind altered.

When traveling on the island of Maui driving the Road to Hana is a must!

The scenic drive takes you from Kahului to the east side of the island to the town of Hana. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles of one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and curves.

This drive will take up an entire day so make sure you pack lots of snacks and fill up for gas beforehand.

The winding road takes you past jaw-dropping seascape views, roaring waterfalls, and exotic flora.

Some highlights of this drive include Ho’okipa, Twin Falls, the Painted Forest, Honomanu Bay, Wailua Falls, and the awe-inspiring Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Don’t forget to wear your bathing suit and pack a towel because pulling off the side of the road to take a dip in the ocean or swim under a waterfall is the name of the game.

Buckle up, enjoy the ride, and prepare for a trip of a lifetime.

You can drive the Road to Hana in a day, but if you’d like to savor the experience, consider camping or staying in Hana town for a few days to make sure you see all the best sights along this road trip in the USA.

Alaska Road Trip (Anchorage to Valdez)

From Wendy of Adventurous Retirement

Alaska is filled with excellent American road trip opportunities, especially in the summer.  

Start in Anchorage, when the museums are open.

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the indigenous people of the ‘last frontier’, and the Alaska Public Lands Information Center to learn about the history and culture of Alaska for free.

Take the Trolley tour for a fun overview of Anchorage, its history, and the earthquake of ‘64.

Ride the free shuttle to the Ulu factory, and check out the salmon runs at Ship Creek.

On day 2, head to Palmer and visit the Iditarod Museum before driving to Hatcher Pass.

Go to the high point for incredible views, hike the trails, and admire blue mountain lakes. 

Continue on this road to loop back to town.

From there, head to Matanuska Glacier, located one hour from Palmer. Spend day 4 hiking to and on the glacier. 

After that, drive toward Valdez Alaska on the Scenic Richardson Highway. It’s about 3 hours to Valdez.

Stop at Worthington Glacier Recreation Area to see the glacier or hike it. Stop at the various pullouts to view the waterfalls along Thompson Pass and the Highway.

If the salmon are spawning, visit Crooked Creek and see if you can spot a bear fishing for dinner.

While in and around Valdez, also consider taking an all-day wildlife glacier cruise, visiting the Valdez Museum and Annex, and visiting the Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum.

This is a 5-day, 6-night road trip that keeps visitors busy every day. 

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Road Trips in the USA (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)”

Love all these ideas and inspiration for my next trip!

Thanks Jess! So hard to choose.

So many fantastic ideas – I can vouch for the awesomeness of WA, my home state! I am itching to get driving!

We are too! Hopefully we’ll all be able to soon. :-) We’d love to get back out west this year!

Everybody skips over Arkansas and Missouri when they suggest road trips, big mistake. Some of the best driving roads and scenery are located in the Ozarks and Quachita National Forests. Start in Springfield, Mo to the north. Stops could include Branson, Mo, Buffalo National River, Little Rock, Ar, Hot Springs, Ar, Talimena Scenic Drive from Mena, Ar then back north through the river valley of Fort Smith, Ar,, up Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) to Historic Victorian Eureka Springs, Ar. Then back to Springfield, Mo. You could easily spend 10-14 days on this road trip and see very diverse entertainment, scenery, hiking and waterfalls, mineral and hot springs, mountain and valley vistas. Best time to travel would be spring and/or fall. Scenery rivals anywhere in the country.

It is a beautiful part of the country! We actually visited Eureka Springs the weekend we got engaged, stayed at the Crescent. :-) We had someone signed up to contribute the Ozarks to this post but we haven’t heard back from them yet–maybe we’ll add it ourselves during a post update!

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Plan a Deep South Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do and Eat

Planning a USA Deep South road trip? Here’s my guide to the ultimate itinerary!

One of the most fascinating regions in the United States, southern USA is an area of great natural beauty, friendly folks, sweet accents, rich cultures and traditions, and a love of fried food that speaks to me.

It’s also an enormous area, so when we were planning our Deep South road trip it was tricky to figure out where to go – I can tell you, there was a lot of FOMO involved.

So, if you’re planning a southern USA road trip and need some help, here’s my guide to planning an incredible Deep South USA itinerary that will take you from cities to countryside, picking up history, food, music and culture along the way.

This itinerary focuses on a three-week trip, but if you don’t have that much time, I’ve got suggestions for how to cut it down.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

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Where is the Deep South?

Before we get into this Deep South road trip itinerary, where exactly is the Deep South of America?

The Deep South is generally considered to be the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. Other states are often included (hey, Texas and Florida), but they’re not technically part of the definition that has developed over time.

I’ve been a bit sneaky with this Deep South USA road trip because I’ve thrown in stops in Tennessee and North Carolina – but I think they’re worth it, and they provide a nice loop for the road trip.

How to do this Deep South road trip

To do this road trip and see the Deep South properly, you’re going to need a car. It is a road trip, after all!

While you can get around the region via public transport if you really have to or want to, having your own wheels gives you the flexibility to go at your own place and explore more.

When we drove this route, we had our own car (my husband’s beloved F150 – he was devastated when he had to sell it when we moved home to Australia!). But you can easily rent a vehicle in any major city. I like to check Discover Cars to compare and choose the best price and vehicle across dozens of rental car companies. 

Another idea is to rent an RV or a campervan to get around the Deep South, which ticks your transport and accommodation costs off in one go. I like Motorhome Republic for RV or campervan rentals as they consolidate options from a variety of companies.

Suggested Deep South road trip itinerary

We were on a longer USA road trip, so we didn’t follow this itinerary exactly – we actually stopped in quite a few more places throughout the South on our southern states road trip itinerary. But after spending time in all of these states, this article curates my personal highlights.

This itinerary will give you a taster of the South’s best big cities and small towns, history and culture, and food and the outdoors. 

This is definitely a choose-your-own-adventure itinerary that you can piece together based on your own personal interests. Start and end where you like, add or remove destinations. Make it your own!

It can be overwhelming, so feel free to get in touch if you’ve got any questions about planning your trip to the Deep South.

To do this itinerary, I think you need at least 3 weeks, but you could squeeze a Deep South road trip like this into 2 weeks if you only spend one or two days max in each location and cut out a couple of these suggested cities. 

If you follow the itinerary I’ve outlined below, it’ll look like this:

• Memphis, Tennessee – 2-3 days 
• Clarksdale, Mississippi – 2 days 
• Natchez, Mississippi – 2 days 
• New Orleans, Louisiana – 2-3 days
• Montgomery, Alabama – 1 day
• Atlanta, Georgia – 2-3 days
• Savannah, Georgia – 2 days
• Charleston, South Carolina – 2 days
• Asheville, North Carolina – 2 days
• Nashville, Tennessee – 2-3 days

And this is how this Deep South road trip 3 weeks itinerary looks on a map.

Let’s hit the road!

Deep South Road Trip Stop 1: Memphis, TN

Start your adventure through the American Deep South in Memphis. The Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll is one of the coolest places to visit in the United States , full of food, music, history and friendly people.

It’s also an easily accessible city from most parts of the United States, with all major airlines flying into Memphis International Airport. Compare prices and book your flight with Skyscanner .

If you’re flying into Memphis, you can rent a car easily at the airport – check prices, vehicles and availability online at Discover Cars . If you’ve already got your own car, then let’s go explore Memphis.

You could easily spend a week in Memphis, but there are plenty more bucket list places to see in the USA Deep South, so try to stick to 2-3 days here. 

Hit the highlights of the city, including:

• The many Memphis museums that cover history, culture and music
• Listen to music at the blues bars along famous Beale Street – Blues City Café, Blind Bear Speakeasy (a short stroll from Beale Street) and Rum Boogie Café Blues Hall are a few great choices
• You can’t visit Memphis without a stop at Sun Studio and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music
• Graceland is the former home of Elvis Presley, and here you can check out plenty of memorabilia like his clothes, records and planes (that’s planes, plural !)
• Of course, the Civil Rights Museum is a must – it’s housed in the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on 4 April 1968

Where to eat in Memphis

One of the other highlights of a trip to Memphis is the food. Some of my favourite spots are:

• Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken | Join the queues itching to munch on perfectly fried chicken
• Central BBQ | One of the city’s most well-known BBQ joints
• The Beauty Shop | New American restaurant in a former beauty parlour

Where to stay in Memphis

We stayed in an Airbnb (that I don’t really recommend), but if you’re in Memphis for only a few days it’s better to stay central. Options include the famous The Peabody Hotel  (where Elvis signed his first contract) or Hotel Napoleon . 

Stop 2: Clarksdale, MS

Driving distance from Memphis to Clarksdale: 76 miles / 1.5 hours Stops along the way: Gateway to the Blues Museum , a modern, fun and interactive museum in Tunica

Head south into Mississippi to Clarksdale, one of the key stops on the Mississippi Blues Trail . 

We had only planned to stay here two nights, but it’s such a cool town that we booked a few extra nights. To stick to this Deep South road trip itinerary, plan on 2-3 nights (fewer days if you’re not that into blues music).

Clarksdale has been called home by many famous musicians, including Charley Patton and Ike Turner.

Music is the reason to visit this small, friendly town, and there are several must-visit joints: Ground Zero (co-owned by none other than Morgan Freeman), Red’s, The Shack Up Inn and the Delta Blues Alley Café. This is one of the best places to visit in southern USA for music lovers.

Outside of Clarksdale, there are several sites of interest:

• Indianola  – home to the  B.B. King Museum
• Money  – infamous as the small town where 14-year-old Emmett Till was brutally lynched. There’s a marker (part of the  Mississippi Freedom Trail ) at the location of Bryant’s Grocery. The  Emmett Till Interpretive Center  in nearby Sumner is located in the courthouse where his murderers stood trial and were subsequently acquitted despite mounds of evidence
• Tupelo  – in the birthplace of Elvis Presley, you can see the humble shotgun home he grew up in and visit the  Elvis Presley Museum

Where to eat in Clarksdale

• Abe’s Bar-B-Q  | Great BBQ in a small diner that’s been open since 1949
• Hick’s BBQ and Tamales | As the name says, this place serves up BBQ and tamales
• Hooker Grocer + Eatery  | Serves breakfast and lunch along with a range of groceries

Where to stay in Clarksdale

I highly, highly recommend the very unique Shack Up Inn . We stayed here in both the refurbished grain bins and the shotgun shacks. The whole place has a casual, homely vibe. Blues music is played here many nights throughout the week.

Other options in Clarksdale are The Clark House Inn , a beautiful old homestead, or the modern Lofts at the Five & Dime .

If you want to spend more time in Mississippi (a totally underrated state, in my opinion), I have a whole separate Mississippi road trip itinerary that’s a lot of fun.

Stop 3: Natchez, MS

Driving distance from Clarksdale to Natchez: 216 miles / 4 hours

Stops along the way:

• Cleveland, home to the  GRAMMY Museum Mississippi
• Indianola, where you’ll find the  B.B. King Museum
• Leland, where you’ll find the  Birthplace of Kermit the Frog Museum  
• Vicksburg, a key Civil War site and the location of the  Vicksburg National Military Park

Continue south to Natchez. To get here, you can join a section of the Natchez Trace Parkway, the 440-mile road that runs between Natchez and Nashville. It’s a stunning drive, especially in the fall, when the leaves turn red and gold.

Natchez sits on the Mississippi River, which means some gorgeous sunsets. Head down to Bluff Park for a stroll along the grassy waterfront area and the best sunset views.

It’s a city famous for its antebellum houses. Natchez surrendered quite quickly during the Civil War, which means that these homes weren’t burned or ransacked. There are more than 600 homes around the city, several of which are open to the public. Stanton Hall, Longwood Historic Home and Choctaw Hall Historic Home are some of the most popular to visit. 

During the  Natchez Pilgrimage (held each spring and fall), even more private homes are opened to the public.

While there’s a lot of beauty in the city, you can’t visit Natchez without learning about its tragic and terrible past. Natchez was once home to the second-largest slave market in the South. There’s a marker at the former Forks of the Road Slave Market that commemorates the atrocities of this time.

The African American Museum of History and Culture shares more stories and information about the role of African Americans in the development of Natchez. Miss Lou Heritage Tours has a variety of tours focused on history, music and important areas in the city.

For insights into even older history, visit the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians . The city is named after the Natchez, who inhabited this area for hundreds and hundreds of years. 

The Grand Village – now a museum and 128-acre park – is believed to have been their main ceremonial centre between 1682 and 1730. At the Grand Village you’ll find three historic mounds and a reconstructed house, as well as a nature trail.

Where to eat in Natchez

• Fat Mama’s Tamales  | Has the best tamales in town, if not in the state (this place is listed on the  Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Trail )
• Magnolia Grill  | Popular joint right on the river

Where to stay in Natchez

The Monmouth Historic Inn  is a beautiful old home on a huge block of land, or the Guest House Historic Mansion   is in downtown Natchez.

Stop 4: New Orleans, LA

Driving distance from Natchez to New Orleans: 176 miles / 2.75 hours

New Orleans is a must-visit on any Deep South road trip. The Big Easy is where you’ll find music spilling out of bars into the streets, gorgeous architecture, unique festivals and traditions, great comfort food, a melting pot of cultures and history, and even some spooky ghost stories and voodoo mysticism. 

Some of the best things to do in New Orleans are:

• Hang out in Bourbon Street for live music and fun (both day and night) or Frenchmen Street
• Check out the lavish floats at Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World – a great way to learn about Mardi Gras if you can’t be here during the celebration
• Learn at the National World War II Museum
• Visit the stunning New Orleans Museum of Art
• Take a Sunday Brunch tour on the Steamboat Natchez along the Mississippi River
• Stroll through the Garden District and gape at the historic mansions, or join a food and history walking tour
• Check out the gorgeous architecture around the French Quarter
• Visit the city’s cemeteries and learn about their famous residents – you can do this solo or join a tour (the very brave could even visit the cemeteries at night )
• Hot sauce lovers will enjoy a trip to the Tabasco Factory Tour and Museum
• Go beyond voodoo dolls and discover the traditions and roots of voodoo at the New Orleans National Historic Voodoo Museum

Where to eat in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its food. From chargrilled oysters to Po’Boys to beignets to boudin, eating the city’s classic dishes should be the centre point of your visit.

• Johnny’s Po-Boys | For the Po-Boys of course (I like mine with fried shrimp)
• Café Du Monde | This place is always packed, but the wait is worth it for the delicious beignets
• Central Grocery | Try a Muffuletta, a sandwich loaded with cheese and cold cuts like salami and ham, topped off with an olive salad
• Commander’s Palace | You’ll probably recognise the blue-and-white-striped front from Instagram. This upscale restaurant is popular so book well in advance

If you want to learn how to make some of New Orleans’ popular dishes, this Cajun and Creole Cooking Class gets great reviews.

Where to stay in New Orleans

The St James Hotel in the French Quarter has rooms with balconies, while the Hotel Tonnelle is in a great location in the Garden District.

Stop 5: Montgomery, AL

Driving distance from New Orleans to Montgomery: 309 miles / 4.5 hours

• Take a driving break in Biloxi and grab some sea air from the Biloxi Lighthouse
• Mobile, home to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park
• Selma, to cross the Edmund Pettus Bridge and reflect on the Civil Rights Movement

It’s time to continue further east and into “Sweet Home Alabama”, state number 4 on this trip.

Montgomery isn’t always on the list of must-visit places in the Deep South, but I highly recommend it for anyone with an interest in history. 

A major reason to visit Montgomery to is experience the Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice , managed by the Equal Justice Initiative. These two separate sites trace a long history of racial injustice in the United States, from slavery to today.

You’ll need to plan ahead to book your ticket to the Legacy Museum because they are timed. I’d recommend visiting here first, and then catching the complimentary shuttle to the memorial site.

I’m not going to sugarcoat it – this is a tough place to visit. It’s one of the most harrowing places I’ve ever been to. Don’t let the tragedy put you off visiting here – it should be essential for every American to visit.

One of the best things I did in Montgomery was visit the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, the church where Martin Luther King Jr. preached for six years. It’s not often you get to sit in the office of a legend who changed the world!

Our guide Wanda had such incredible spirit and energy and left me on such a high all day. Tours run Friday and Saturday, by appointment only.

Montgomery is also home to the Rosa Parks Library and Museum . Rosa lived in Montgomery from the age of 11, and the museum is an in-depth insight into how her actions sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Where to eat in Montgomery

• Central | One of the best places to eat in Montgomery, we had a delicious lunch here and thought the service was outstanding
• Capitol Oyster Bar | Popular spot overlooking the river

Where to stay in Montgomery

Montgomery’s accommodation options are mostly big-name hotel chains. We stayed at the DoubleTree in Downtown Montgomery which was centrally located (and I can never say no to those warm cookies!). There was a Spike Lee movie filming outside the window while we ate breakfast!

Another option that gets good ratings from guests is the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center .

Deep South Road Trip Stop 6: Atlanta, GA

Driving distance from Montgomery to Atlanta: 161 miles / 2.5 hours Stops along the way: Birmingham, to continue your history lesson at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Home to a population of almost 6 million, Atlanta is a hub for food and culture – and a rapidly growing film industry. 

Plan to spend a day or two in Atlanta, hitting a few of the highlights of the city (I’ve got more details in this guide to spending a weekend in Atlanta ):

• Visit the World of Coca-Cola , a museum dedicated to everyone’s favourite sugary beverage
• Sports lovers will go mad at the College Football Hall of Fame
• Check out the live music scene – Atlanta’s contribution to the music scene has included Outkast, TLC, Ray Charles, Usher and John Mayer

Top tip: Consider purchasing an Atlanta CityPASS  because you’ll save a tonne of money on some of these and other Atlanta attractions.

Where to eat in Atlanta

Oooh, prepare to eat your way through this city!

• LT’s Wings | A venerable Atlanta institution 
• Miller Union | For farm-to-table, seasonal dining
• Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen and Bar | For Gullah and Lowcountry inspired food
• Slutty Vegan | For vegan burgers that even carnivores won’t mind

Where to stay in Atlanta

We didn’t stop overnight in Atlanta, so I don’t have a personal hotel recommendation. But you can never go wrong with a W Hotel and the W Atlanta is located in Downtown. A fabulous historic hotel is The Candler Hotel Atlanta , built by the Coca-Cola founder.

Stop 7: Savannah, GA

Driving distance from Atlanta to Savannah: 248 miles / 3.5 hours

One of the most beautiful cities in the South, Savannah’s Spanish moss-lined streets are filled with well-preserved architecture, rich history – and a ghost or two.

Start your visit to Savannah with a walking tour. There are plenty of walking tours on offer – we chose to go with Old City Tours . The tour took us around the city, starting at Chippewa Square – you may recognise it from Forrest Gump .

We were guided through several of the 22 town squares dotted around Savannah, with stops in front of the famous Mercer Williams House and other spots. It was a great way to learn about the fascinating history of this city.

Although a bit creepy, one of the popular things to do in Savannah is visit the cemeteries in the area. Military generals, poets and politicians are all buried at Bonaventure Cemetery. You can pick up a free map to explore by yourself or join a Savannah cemetery tour .

If you want to get even creepier, join a ghost tour . Savannah is considered one of the most haunted cities in the entire United States. I jumped and almost screamed several times on our tour! I swear I saw someone looking at us from a window of an abandoned house…

Get out of the city and head to Tybee Island, just 20 minutes’ drive from Savannah. This lovely beach enclave is packed with holiday-makers in summer, but you can still find space to park a beach towel on the sand. There are also great seafood restaurants.

Where to eat in Savannah

• Little Duck Diner | This “vintage chic diner” serves up Southern classics with a modern twist
• The Grey | Book well in advance to get a seat at Mashama Bailey’s restaurant inside a restored 1938 Greyhound bus station

Because you’ve only got a few days in Savannah, you could even start your trip off with one of Savannah Taste Experience’s food tours to get a quick insight into the foodie scene.

Where to stay in Savannah

We struggled to find an affordable, pet-friendly option in Savannah so we had our first experience of an Extended Stay America motel . It was surprisingly fine, friendly and comfortable!

But I’d recommend something a little nicer for your stay in Savannah, like the Hamilton Turner Inn , a charming B&B, or the Broughton Corner Loft , which would be good for families.

Stop 8: Charleston, SC

Driving distance from Savannah to Charleston: 107 miles / 2 hours

• Driftwood Beach, a beach on Jekyll Island that’s filled with, well, driftwood – particularly spectacular for photographers at sunrise and sunset
• Angel Oak Tree to gaze in awe at this tree that’s estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old

Another stunning city in the Deep South, Charleston is a must-stop on this Southern USA road trip itinerary.

Charleston’s a very walkable city, so lace up your sneakers and hit the pavement. This is a great self-guided Charleston walking itinerary , which stops by some of the city’s highlights including Waterfront Park and the famous Pineapple Fountain, the French Huguenot Church, the Dock Street Theatre, the Pink House, the Old Slave Mart Museum and Rainbow Row.

When we visited Charleston, we took this intriguing Tragical Hystery tour . Its description – “stories of drunken founders, pirates, murderers and houses of ill repute” – gives you a good idea of the stories you’ll hear and characters you’ll meet along the way!

For a fascinating insight into the Gullah people of the area, book a spot on a Gullah Gullah tour . This tour deep dives into the history and culture of the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of West and Central Africans who were enslaved. These enslaved people were brought to coastal plantations and barrier islands, where they were able to retain many of their traditions – and even created a new Creole language, Gullah.

We didn’t visit Magnolia Plantation, but I hear that the Slavery to Freedom tour is very good. Many plantation tours gloss over their slave pasts, but Magnolia Plantation doesn’t, guiding visitors through the lives of some of the enslaved people who lived there.

Outside of the city, take a drive to Cypress Gardens to enjoy the walking trails and imagine yourself as an extra in The Notebook , which was filmed here. Beware the (fairly small) alligators you’ll see everywhere!

Where to eat in Charleston

• Bertha’s Kitchen | No-frills soul food in a family-run restaurant. Go early to make sure you get a taste of everything
• Chez Nous | Lovely, pint-sized spot with a rotating set menu. We loved sitting at the bar and chatting with staff and other diners
• Zero Restaurant + Bar | For a special night out, book a table at this fine-dining establishment inside the gorgeous Zero George Street Hotel

Where to stay in Charleston

The rooms at the 86 Cannon Historic Inn (adults only) are gorgeous.

Stop 9: Asheville, NC

Driving distance from Charleston to Asheville: 268 miles / 4 hours

Asheville is undoubtedly one of the coolest cities in the Deep South, with a chilled-out population, plenty of breweries and great places to eat, and access to some beautiful outdoor locations.

There’s loads to keep you occupied here:

• Visit the sprawling Biltmore Estate . Take a self-guided tour of just some of the hundreds of rooms built by George Washington Vanderbilt – you can even stay overnight
• Explore the working studios and galleries of dozens of artists around the River Arts District
• Check out Downtown Asheville to see well-preserved Art Deco buildings – don’t forget to stop in and browse a few titles with a glass of Champagne in hand at the cosy Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar , combining two of my favourite things!
• Sip a few of the local brews in “Beer City USA”. Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city. Our favourites were Burial Beer Co and Wedge Brewing 
• Get out of the city for some hiking at Chimney Rock State Park or Grandfather Mountain.
• Or stay behind the wheel and enjoy a few hours exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway – the visitor centre is just outside of Asheville
• Try out your dance moves at Lake Lure, filming location of 80s classic Dirty Dancing

Where to eat in Asheville

• Cúrate | Our lunch here transported us back to our time eating tapas in Spain . The food here is divine, and they have a great vermouth menu
• Smoky Park Supper Club | We loved the grassy riverside location of this farm-to-table restaurant
• Tupelo Honey Café | Fried chicken, shrimp and grits and biscuits are all on the menu of this Southern café. But they have a few healthy green bowls, too (to which you can, of course, add fried chicken!)

Where to stay in Asheville

We stayed at an awesome Airbnb in Asheville but sadly it’s no longer listed. Instead, take a look at The Sinclair , three modern apartments in Downtown Asheville. Or, The Radical is known for its colourful, quirky design – and rooms have terraces.

Deep South Road Trip Stop 10: Nashville, TN

Driving distance from Asheville to Nashville: 294 miles / 4.5 hours

• Knoxville, the first capital of Tennessee and home to some Civil War sites
• Gatlinburg, the “Gateway to the Smoky Mountains”, provides easy access to the most-visited national park in the United States
• Pigeon Forge, to hit up the rides at Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s own amusement park!
• Chattanooga, to see the incredible Rock City , Ruby Falls and Lookout Mountain (you can’t miss the signs for Rock City – you’ll see the billboards along the highway for miles)
• Lynchburg, to tour the Jack Daniel’s Distillery (only if you’ve got a designated driver, of course – or you can take a day tour from Nashville )
• Huntsville, to see the U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Head back into Tennessee, where we’ll end this Deep South road trip in Music City, USA – also known as Nashville, the capital of the state.

But the trip isn’t over yet – make sure you plan to have at least two days to enjoy the city.

Nashville is one of the most popular cities in the USA to visit, and there’s plenty to do here. I have a whole post dedicated to things to do in Nashville , and a few of the must-dos are:

• Take a tour or see a show at the historic Ryman Auditorium
• Visit the Grand Ole Opry , the stage that launched the careers of many stars
• Check out country music royalty at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
• Wander through the Johnny Cash Museum , home to the largest collection of The Undertaker’s memorabilia
• Explore Nashville’s famous murals – just be prepared to line up for a while to get a photo!
• Explore the highlights of city at your own pace, hopping on and off the Old Town Trolley  
• Head out for a night on the town, exploring the honky tonks along Broadway – although there’s live music here at all hours of the day
• Take a look inside the National Museum of African American Music

Where to eat in Nashville

Nashville is a foodie’s dream. There are so many places to eat that it can be hard to decide where to begin, so perhaps book a spot on a food tour . You’ll get to eat classic Nashville dishes while also picking up a few historical facts along the way.

Other popular places to eat in Nashville include:

• Biscuit Love | Prepare to queue to get your hands on these famous biscuits
• Five Daughters Bakery | Incredible, melt-in-the-mouth donuts and pastries (I had to go twice!)
• Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint | Don’t even bother eating before you come here – save space for the mouthwatering BBQ at this joint with several locations around the city 
• Hattie B’s Hot Chicken | Dare you to try the “Shut the cluck up!” heat level!!
• The Treehouse | Yummy food in a lovely setting

Where to stay in Nashville

We stayed in an Airbnb similar to this one during our trip to Nashville. The Bobby Hotel is an über cool boutique hotel with a rooftop pool and a central location, while the Thompson Nashville is in the Gulch neighbourhood.

You can drop your car back in Nashville (make sure you arranged a one-way trip when you booked your rental ) and fly out of Nashville International Airport . This airport services cities across the country, with all the major airlines flying in here.

While your Deep South Road trip is over, you definitely won’t forget this trip for a long time!

Travel tips for a Deep South road trip

Now that you know where you’re planning to go on your Southern USA road trip, here are a few more travel tips to help you get the most out of your trip.

When to visit the Deep South

You can take this road trip through the South most of the year, but the best time to visit the Deep South is March to June, and September and October. July and August bring sticky heat, and January can be downright freezing in some parts of the region.

We did our drive through the Deep South between mid-March and early May, and had great sunshine, although we did have to wear jackets earlier in the trip.

You could also time your trip with some of the awesome festivals the Deep South throws on:

• Mardi Gras in New Orleans (there are also Mardi Gras celebrations in Baton Rouge and Lafayette) – book ahead for this as accommodation is usually limited and pretty expensive
• Jazz and Heritage Festival or French Quarter Festival in New Orleans
• St Patrick’s Day in Savannah – one of the U.S.’s largest St Paddy’s Day celebrations
• The Dirty Dancing Festival in Lake Lure, NC
• Tupelo Elvis Festival – watch Elvis Presley impersonators vie for the prize

This is just a handful of some of them… there are so many more food, music and culture festivals to check out.

Pick up some handy travel guides

A few of the books we had close to hand on our Deep South road trip were:

• This is My South by Caroline Eubanks
• Lonely Planet’s Florida and the South’s Best Trips which highlights some of the best southern road trips
• Deep South by travel writer Paul Theroux, a narrative of his journey through the Deep South, which gave me some interesting background into history, culture and social issues

Travel insurance

I always purchase travel insurance. Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare policies from multiple providers. World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Want to create your own Deep South road trip itinerary?

The itinerary I’ve outlined here is what I’d recommend based on the places I loved – but with this road trip, you get to choose your own adventure. 

Follow the itinerary I’ve outlined above, or adapt it to suit your start and end points. Or, plan your road trip around a theme. Here are some ideas for more Deep South road trips based on themes like music and history so you can really curate an itinerary that’s perfect for you.

If you like…

The Deep South is the birthplace of blues music in the United States. This region has bred some of the country’s most famous musicians, from blues to rock ‘n’ roll, country to pop. Plan a trip around some of these musical cities and regions:

• There are more than 200 markers on the Mississippi Blues Trail , highlighting key sites including the supposed “birthplace of the blues” (Dockery Farms), important juke joints and the homes of musicians
• Memphis, home to studios where some of the world’s most well-known music was made
• Nashville is the home of country music, but there’s a whole lot more to explore
• New Orleans, where you can while away the night listening to jazz in dark bars
• Tupelo, Elvis Presley’s birthplace
• Dollywood , Dolly Parton’s own amusement park where you can listen to live bluegrass and country music before stepping on to a rollercoaster

If there’s one thing you can plan on when you’re road tripping the Deep South, it’s that you’ll rarely have a bad meal. The South is known for its cuisine, full of rich flavours and steeped in history and tradition.

Every state has its regional dishes and must-stop-for foods. A few highlights to plan a road trip around:

• Barbecue – every state has its own way of barbecuing and some states even have multiple ways. Dry, wet, slathered in sauce – try them all
• White barbecue sauce – best served on pulled pork and found in Alabama
• Gumbo – a seafood stew best tried in Louisiana
• Crawfish – slap down some newspaper on a table and pick apart these shellfish, or try them in the classic crawfish étouffée, a spicy Cajun stew
• Fried chicken – a delicious staple found everywhere, including the hot, hot chicken Nashville is famous for
• Shrimp and grits – my preferred way to eat grits, but not the only way you can try grits
• Po’Boys – crusty rolls filled with meat, salad and sauce (I like mine with shrimp)
• Catfish – always fried or deep fried
• Fried okra and collard greens – get your veggies in
• Fried pickles – the snack I never knew I needed
• Tamales – try a few on the Mississippi Delta Hot Tamale Trail
• Pie – peach, apple, lemon meringue, banana cream, pecan, Mississippi mud, pumpkin, you name it, these pies are always a deliciously sweet way to finish off a meal.

This list is by no means exhaustive! There are so many dishes that are central to life in the Deep South, and it’s fun (although calorific) to try as many as you can on an American road trip.

Getting outdoors

The Deep South is home to many national and state parks, forests, lakes and other natural features. There are excellent hiking, biking, kayaking and rock climbing adventures. Create your own Deep South road trips by planning journeys through some of these natural beauties.

• Smoky Mountains National Park may be the country’s busiest national park, but it covers 816 square miles, so you’re bound to find a few quieter spots
• Asheville is a great place to base yourself for hiking to Grandfather Mountain, Chimney Rock State Park and for accessing the stunning Blueridge Parkway 
• Chattanooga is surrounded by mountains and forests, so it’s a great spot for rock climbers and people into bouldering, mountain biking and hiking. It’s been named “best town in the USA” multiple times
• We enjoyed the hikes around Boone , and it’s also known for fishing, tubing on the river in summer and kayaking
• The Natchez Trace Parkway is a gorgeous 444-mile (715km) road from Natchez, MS, to Nashville, TN. It’s a great option for those who love the outdoors but want to be behind the wheel
• Same goes for the Blue Ridge Parkway – this is a fantastic drive during fall

Civil Rights history

The fight for civil rights took place across the entirety of the United States, but the most important locations, decisions and events were in the states in the Deep South.

• The best place to start researching a Civil Rights-themed Deep South road trip is on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail website . This trail was announced in 2018. It highlights “places where activists successfully sought equal access to public education, public transportation and voting rights”
• Birmingham, Alabama, has the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and the 16 th Street Baptist Church is where a bombing killed four young Black girls in 1963
• In Selma, Alabama, the Edmund Pettus Bridge is the location of the brutal Bloody Sunday beatings. The city also has the National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
• Jackson, Mississippi, has the insightful and moving Mississippi Civil Rights Museum (well worth a visit) and the Medgar Evers Home Museum
• In Greensboro, North Carolina, you can see the seats where students began their sit-in in 1960 at the F.W. Woolworths Building, which is now the International Civil Rights Center and Museum

Civil War history

The American Civil War, fought between 1861 and 1865, was the bloodiest battle fought on U.S. soil. The northern Union states defeated the southern Confederate states, resulting in the 13 th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

As an Australian, the Civil War is a topic I’m not familiar with at all, so it was fascinating to visit this part of the U.S. to learn more. If you’re a history buff or you want to get your kids out of the classroom to see history first hand, there are plenty of places to revisit this important part of the country’s story:

• Vicksburg National Military Park in Vicksburg, Mississippi
• Fort Sumter National Monument in Charleston, South Carolina
• Shiloh National Military Park in Shiloh, Tennessee

Virginia is also a state you should put on your Deep South road trip route if Civil War history is an interest of yours. It’s littered with Civil War sites, including the Fredericksburg Battlefield, the Manassas National Battlefield Park and of course the Appomattox Courthouse, which is where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant on 9 April, 1865.

The Deep South has produced several important literary figures including William Faulkner, Alice Walker, Zora Neal Hurston, Harper Lee, Anne Rice and John Grisham.

There are several literary sites you can visit throughout the South to see authors’ homes or locations that inspired their novels and poems.

• Rowan Oak in Oxford, Mississippi, was the home of William Faulkner. His grave is also nearby in the Oxford Memorial Cemetery 
• The Tennessee Williams Home is in Columbus, Mississippi, while the Tennessee Williams Rectory Museum is in Clarksdale, Mississippi
• The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum is in Montgomery, Alabama
• For a modern-day writer, you’ll find the John Grisham Room in the Mitchell Library at Mississippi State University in Starkville 

You could easily spend months travelling through the Deep South and still not see (or eat) everything. But hopefully this post has helped you to start planning the perfect Deep South road trip itinerary!

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

What are the places you’re hoping to visit on a Deep South road trip?

Related posts

Looking for more USA road trip ideas? You might like these articles!

• New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary: 7 & 10-Day Options in the Land of Enchantment
• Mississippi Road Trip: 7 Fascinating Places to Visit in the Magnolia State
• 17 Fun Things to do in West Texas: An Unmissable West Texas Road Trip
• Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary: How to Plan a 7-Day Trip to the Mighty 5

USA TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around the USA online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find a great hotel in the USA. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout the USA on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to the USA will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

2 thoughts on “Plan a Deep South Road Trip Itinerary: What to See, Do and Eat”

Fantastic write up! I’ve been itching for a Deep South road trip ever since reading The Deepest South of All and Dispatches from Pluto by Richard Grant and Theroux’s Deep South. Thanks for putting all of this together – we’ll be doing a 6 week road trip through the area in Sep/Oct and your insights will be invaluable.

Have the BEST time! It’s such a great part of the US, and 6 weeks is such a good amount of time to spend there.

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3-week road trip in Eastern USA

You like cultural tourism? You’ve always dreamed of visiting the big cities of Eastern United States ? You want to drive down the iconic american roads ? You have 3 weeks of vacation you don’t know what to do with? Well this itinerary is made for you!

Go on a true American road trip through 11 states ! Discover the main cities and gorgeous sceneries of Eastern United States!

Here is a glimpse of the beautiful experiences awaiting in 3-week road trip in Western USA:

• Discover New York City with a new perspective while walking along the High Line
• Stroll around Philadelphia’s beautiful Old City 
• Go and see the mythical Washington D.C.’s Capitol and White House
• Visit the great open-air museum that is Colonial Williamsburg 
• Live a unique experience during your road trip when seeing a live baseball game of the Durham Bulls
• Dive into USA’s history when visiting Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston
• Go to Wormsloe Plantation to see the impressive power of the colonial times
• Walk in the steps of Rosa Parks in Montgomery
• Discover the Sun Studio , where some of the greatest singers recorded their biggest hits
• Meet with your inner child again when having fun on the Navy Pier of Chicago

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Itinerary of a 3-week road trip in Eastern USA

New York City > Philadelphia > Washington D.C. > Williamsburg > Durham > Charleston > Savannah > Montgomery > Memphis > Chicago

Some practical information before your trip to the US

For this itinerary, we recommend  renting a car from Hertz .It’s possible to rent it in one city and return it in another without exorbitant prices and limiting hidden costs.

You want to buy a paper travel guide? We recommend this one ! In our opinion, it is the most complete, the most visual and the most up to date!

Need a road map to prepare your itinerary? We recommend this one , the most detailed and the most pleasant to read!

The best period for this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA is from May to September . This country is worth a visit year-round, but during these months, it is when the weather is at its best. There are less chances of rain, and temperatures are more mild. See more details here .

Contents: 3-week road trip to the US

1- New York City – Stop 1 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 2- Philadelphia – Stop 2 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 3- Washington DC – Stop 3 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 4- Williamsburg – Stop 4 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 5- Durham – Stop 5 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 6- Charleston – Stop 6 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 7- Savannah – Stop 7 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 8- Montgomery – Stop 8 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 9- Memphis – Stop 9 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA 10- Chicago – Stop 10 of the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA

3-week road trip in Eastern USA: step by step

Stop 1: New York City, NY

What to do in New York City?

The city that never sleep. It is a great first stop to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA.

• Brooklyn Bridge is theworld’s first ever suspension bridge. First real New-York ritual: crossing the bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn. You will have a beautiful view of the skyline. Tip: if you don’t want to deal with the crowd go to the nearby Manhanttan bridge .
• The Statue of Liberty , NYC’s symbol. Book a ferry cruise to Ellis Island and explore. Tip: if you have a tight budget, take the free ferry to Staten Island. It leaves from the South of Wall Street, you’ll see the Statue of Liberty from very close on the ferry.
• National September 11 Memorial , new  World Trade Center . Take the super fast elevator to get to the top of the tower. Walk on a glass floor and get an impressive view over Manhattan. Once back on the ground, walk around the memorial park and admire the two huge pools built where the towers used to be. In tribute to the victims, the names were written around the pools, a very emotional walk. To learn more about the events, you can also visit the 9/11 Memorial Museum . We advise you to buy your tickets directly here to save time. Emotions guaranteed.
• Little Italy & Chinatown , iconic districts of New York City. Get lost in the many streets of the Chinese neighbourhood or have a coffee in the Italian neighbourhood while admiring the traditional fire escapes and colorful murals. To enjoy the best that these 2 districts have to offer, we highly recommend doing a food tour , you visit and you eat, it’s perfect!  Tip: If you get lost for real, don’t worry there are many maps in the streets. 
• To save money while discovering the must-see attractions of this mythical city, we strongly recommend that you buy the New York City Pass !

Other must-sees in NYC?

• High Line/Soho/Chelsea , artistic neighbourhood. Walk around in the streets with many art galleries and designer shops. Take a foodie break in  Chelsea Market . For a calm walk, stroll along the  High Line , an old  urban railway made into a green walkway. Tip: no need to walk the railway’s 5km / 3 mile trail, stairs will let get down about every half mile. Here as well, we can recommend doing a walking tour to discover all there is to know in these districts!
• Central Park , the green lung of New York. This 314 ha park will let you enjoy many activities: having a picnic, biking, running, going for a carriage ride, playing baseball or tennis… If you want to explore most of it in a short amount of time, we can only recommend renting bikes !
• American Museum of Natural History , founded in 1869. Go discover the 30 million artefacts collection from dinosaures to a huge blue whale hanging from the ceiling. Fan of Night at the museum ? You will probably recognize some parts of it …
• Times Square , the Crossroads of the World. Discover this world famous place and its overwhelming screens. Tip: come by night and enjoy the lights even more.
• While you’re in Times Square, make a stop on  Broadway and go see a musical. To see which ones are playing at the time of your stay, you can find the schedule here .  Tip: get your tickets for a cheaper price from TKTS .
• Coney Island , a 50 min subway-ride away from the heart of Manhattan. Relax on the beach and enjoy a burger on the pier.

Where to sleep in New York City?

• Mid-range: Located on 3rd Avenue, enjoy  Oakwood Residence . Conveniently located, this hotel offers a flat with a fully equipped kitchen and a very professional staff.
• High-end: Experience The Langham at least once. Located right on 5th Avenue, you will have an exceptional view of the buildings and New York, a very professional service, fully equipped and comfortable rooms as well as Michelin starred restaurants. It’s great!

Stop 2: Philadelphia, PA

What to do in Philadelphia?

Starting point of the American history. The second stop of this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA is placed under the sign of history and culture. 

• Barnes Foundation , famous art museum. Discover the exceptional art collections : Cézanne, Van Gogh, Renoir, Monet…
• Old City , historic heart of Philiadelphia. Stroll around this lovely artistic disctric. Get a glimpse of Benjamin franklin’s statue !
• Philadelphia Museum of Art , one of the largest museums of the country. Discover the beautiful Renaissance artworks as well as Picasso, Duchamp or Matisse.
• National Constitution Center , learn everything about the history of American politics. Walk through the reconstitutions of the American Constitution, the interactive booths and the bronze statues.
• Continue your adventure into American history with a visit to the Liberty Bell Center , named after the historic bell, the ultimate emblem of peace and freedom. You can see this bell during your visit, a very important object in the history of the United States. Plus, admission is free!
• If you are looking for an original activity, you can opt for a visit in the footsteps of Rocky Balboa .

Where to sleep in Philadelphia?

• Mid-range: The Morris House Hotel offers comfortable rooms in a historic national building, renovated as a luxury hotel but retaining its 18th century decor and charm.
• High-end: The Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center is located atop a 60-story building designed by architect Lord Norman Foster. The style is ultra-modern with gigantic windows that give you a breathtaking view of Philadelphia, and we love it!

Stop 3: Washington, DC

What to do in Washington DC?

So much more than a living-museum.

• The Capitol , is a historic building where the country’s laws are voted since 1800. Book a tour before-hand and go to the Visitor Center to get inside this impressive building. This is a must-see on this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA.
• Lincoln Memorial , a monument built in tribute to the former President. Discover his quotes, his huge statue and his old neoclassic home. Go up the stairs where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his iconic speech and said “I have a dream”.
• National Air & Space Museum , very popular museum. Discover the first flying vehicle the Wright brothers built or Apollo 11’s command module. Have fun in the Imax theatre, at the planetarium or even in a flight simulator.
• The White House , Washington’s symbol. Appreciate this impressive building and go to the  White House Visitor Center  to get to see what it looks like.

Where to sleep in Washington DC?

• Mid-range: The Comfort Inn Downtown DC is a very good value for money. It will provide you with comfortable rooms, breakfast and valet parking. A big plus is that it’s only half a mile from the centre.
• High-end: The place to stop is the Conrad Washington DC . With its ultra-modern architecture giving you a fantastic view of Washington, this hotel will give you great pleasure with its comfortable rooms and decoration.

Stop 4: Williamsburg, VA

What to do in Williamsburg?

Historic Virginia town, it is a very interesting stop on this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA. 

• Spend some time visiting Colonial Williamsburg , restored capital of the largest New World British colony : Virginia. A live-museum, making you feel like you are visiting Williamsburg during the 18th century. Enjoy the 122 ha with its 88 historically accurate buildings (houses, taverns, public buildings, shops…). To make sure you know everything, we recommend that you take a guided tour .
• College of William & Mary , USA’s second oldest higher education facility. Discover also the oldest academic batiste of the country dating from the 17th century.

Where to sleep in Williamsburg?

• Mid-range: Do you like quiet, clean and comfortable? Then book your room at the Comfort Inn Williamsburg Getaway , for a very good value. With a good location, pool, breakfast and parking, it has it all.
• High-end: Do you like it when nothing is left to chance? Then go and be pampered like a real star at the Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection . With a spa, restaurants, pool, gym, free parking and great service, it doesn’t get much better than this!

Stop 5: Durham, NC

What to do in Durham?

Working-class town and renowned university. 

• Duke Lemur Center , lovely and underrated place in Durham. This shelter is the home of over 240 lemurs, second largest variety of these primates after Madagascar, their homeland.
• University of North Carolina , largest public University of the country. Visit the courtyard and buildings older than the American Civil War. Have a sip of the healing and holy water from the  Old Well .
• Durham Bulls Athletic Park , the city’s stadium. Spend an American afternoon at stadium watching the local baseball team play! It’s a chance to experience a unique experience during this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA.  Click here to see the game schedule!

Where to sleep in Durham?

• Mid-range: A well-located hotel with large rooms, comfortable beds and a gym? Then the Holiday Inn Express Research Triangle Park is for you! Located in a business park you’ll be close to everything you want.
• High-end: The detour that you can’t miss in Durham is the Arrowhead Inn dating from 1775. The owners offer a two-acre garden, daily gourmet breakfast and rooms with spa baths. Peace and quiet are the hallmarks of this establishment.

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Stop 6: Charleston, SC

What to do in Charleston?

Romantic and welcoming city.

• Gateway Walk , paved alley connecting the 4 most beautiful old churches in Charleston. Go in the gorgeous Circular Congregational Church  built in 1681 in a roman style,  St John’s Lutheran Church  with its white columns,  St Philip’s Church  and its 17th century cemetery, and  Unitarian Church  with its neolithic architecture.
• Old Slave Mart Museum , former slave market. Discover the exhibitions telling the story of slavery in South Carolina and listen to former slave Elijah Green’s testimony.
• Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon , a prison under the Custom’s house built in 1771. Explore this building and imagine how the pirates and American patriots were incarcerated during multiple centuries.
• To learn more about the rich history of this stop on the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA, why not take a guided tour ?

Where to sleep in Charleston?

• Mid-range: A no-fuss hotel for a stopover between two stops? We suggest the Tru By Hilton ! This old and well renovated hotel will meet all your expectations for a reasonable price.
• High-end: Known for its incredible customer service, Hotel Bennett promises an experience worthy of the finest hotels. Spacious rooms, modern and woody style, swimming pools… everything is perfect for you.

Stop 7: Savannah,GA

What to do in Savannah?

Beautiful Georgia, authentic and lively. It’s a very pleasant stop on this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA.

• Wormsloe Plantation Historic site , an old plantation a short drive away from the city. Explore this historic site by taking one of the two trails through the property. Stop in front of the colonial house, the first owner’s descendants still live in it!
• Telfair Academy of Arts & Sciences , prettiest art museum in Savannah. Discover the 19th century American artwork collection in the Telfair family mansion.
• Cathedral of St John the Baptist , built in 1896. Step inside this cathedral and discover the nave’s astonishing tinted-glass, the Bavarian wooden sculptures as well as the spectacular organs.

Where to sleep in Savannah?

• Mid-range: In its blue and white colours, the Comfort Inn & Suites Savannah Airport provides a free shuttle service to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, located less than a mile away. Take advantage of the comfortable rooms for a restful stopover.
• High-end: The Perry Lane Hotel ‘s excellence lies in its rooms, staff and location (100m from the centre). It also has a restaurant, bike rental service, gym and bar. Entertainment and evening events are also available.

Stop 8: Montgomery,AL

What to do in Montgomery?

Rosa Parks’ legacy for American civil rights lies in this stop on the 3-week road trip in Eastern USA.

• RiverWalk , a long walk in the city. Stroll along the river and admire the docks and natural amphitheater.
• Rosa Park Museum , built right in front of the bus stop where Rosa Park refused to sit at the back of the bus. A true tribute to this great woman. Discover a video reconstitution of this decisive moment leading to bus boycotting of 1955.
• Civil Rights Memorial Center , part of the  Southern Poverty Law Center , fighting for racial equality. Take a step back in time and learn about the 40 martyrs killed during the Civil Rights Movement, like Matin Luther King Jr. Discover the United States darkest moments…
• Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum , a house where writers lived between 1931 and 1932. Get to know about their first publishings, translations and original works. Do not miss the letters written by Zelda to her friend Ernest Hemingway.

Where to sleep in Montgomery?

• Mid-range: The SSMD is a sleek, modern hotel. Located 400 metres from the Rosa Parks Museum and 1.3 km from Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, it features an outdoor pool, gym and 24-hour front desk. The hotel serves a buffet or American breakfast.
• High-end: The  Renaissance Montgomery Hotel ‘s rooms are spacious and extremely well-equipped, with beautiful views of the city. The hotel offers a restaurant and a rooftop pool. Its location is also strategic as it is right next to the RiverWalk.

Stop 9: Memphis,TN

What to do in Memphis?

America’s music capital. You can book your guided tour of the city here .

• National Civil Rights Museum , a captivating civil rights museum. Explore the large exhibitions, admire a detailed timeline and get to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement with the audio-guide in the  Lorraine Motel , the exact place where Matin Luther King Jr. was murdered.
• Sun Studio , American Rock’n’Roll heaven. Get a 40 min guided tour of the studio where some of the greatest artists of all time recorded : B.B King, Johnny Clash, Elvis Presley.. And get a chance to hear historic recordings!
• Graceland , Elvis Presley’s mansion. Discover the odd house, its 4.5 m / 14.7 ft -long couch, its fake waterfall, its weird green sealing carpeting … An immersion into the King’s universe. You will also get to see his car and airplane collection.
• Stax Museum of American Soul Music , 1580 m2 / 17 000 sq ft museum where previously stood the studio Stax . Discover the cradle of 1960’s soul music : Ottis Redding, Booker T.. Learn about soul music’s history through pictures, exhibitions and 1960’s and 1970’s clothes. And the main attraction: Isaac Hayes’ 1972 Superfly Cadillac, customised with 24 carat gold and plush carpeting.
• Take a stroll down Beale Street , and enjoy the atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else on this 3-week road trip in Eastern USA. It’s the ultimate Memphis street, lined with shops, nightclubs and restaurants, all set to a soundtrack of jazz, blues, rock’n’roll… It’s an experience not to be missed!

Where to sleep in Memphis?

• High-end: Located just 500 metres from Beale Street, the renowned Peabody Memphis Hotel showcases the tradition and charm of the American South. Enjoy deluxe rooms, exceptional restaurants, an indoor pool, gym and spa.

Stop 10: Chicago, IL

What to do in Chicago?

A charming and irresistible city, Chicago is a great way to end your 3-week road trip in Eastern USA.

• Millennium Park , one of the city’s gems : a place with many free artistic places to visit. Discover  Pritzker Pavillon , a music pavillon designed by frank Gehry and get to see one of the free daily concerts on a summer night. Admire the famous  Cloud Gate , an urban sculpture by Anis Kappor. In the winter, ice-skate on the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink .
• Art Institute of Chicago , second largest art museum in the USA. Discover beautiful impressionist and surrealist artworks. Customize your tour with the museum’s free app. Click here to book your skip-the-line tickets.
• Willis Tower , Chicago’s tallest sky scrapper. Get a spectacular view over the city from the 443 m / 1453 ft high Skydeck. Click here to book your tickets.
• Navy Pier , a 1km / 0.62 mile pier, one of the most frequented places in the city. Have fun on the tall Ferris wheel or go see a movie in the Imax movie theatre.
• Discover the Windy City through its delicious food scene, during a food tour . We recommend this one .
• Enjoy Chicago’s beautiful and unique architecture during a cruise on the river . You will learn a lot and discover the city from a different point of view, which is always great!

Where to sleep in Chicago?

• Mid-range: If you don’t want to stay in a hostel or away from the city, you’ll need a good budget to stay in Chicago, as all the options are quite expensive. In “mid-range”, we can recommend the Sentral Michigan Avenue flat , in the Loop, perfect to live the full experience of a stay in Chicago! For a little more budget, we recommend the Pendry Chicago , which is modern, clean, comfortable and well-staffed.
• High-end: Located just a few hundred metres from the city centre, The Langham Chicago luxury hotel welcomes you in a skyscraper designed by the famous architect Mies Van Der Rohe. This comfortable and elegant hotel with warm, woody tones is sure to please.

Learn more about your road trip in the US

• You want to know all the information about the country ? It’s here .
• Then, to rent a car at the best price, we advise you this website .
• Finally, to book a flight at the best price, we advise you this website .
• You are looking for a great travel insurance  for your 3-week road trip in Eastern USA?  We recommend this one !

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Road Trip in Fort Myers, Sanibel and St Petersburg in Florida

FORT MYERS and SANIBEL – December 12 to 14

Fort Meyers is certainly not known in the same light as its close neighbors, like Sarasota or Naples – it’s not a trendy, upmarket beach town and it doesn’t have the urban cool of St Petersburg, but it is home to the winter home and laboratory of Thomas Edison. The home, now a museum, is tucked alongside the Caloosahatchee River. It’s also en-route to Sanibel Island. A much more tranquil location than many of Florida ’s other beach destinations, Sanibel Island is a small beach town, free from the high rises and chain restaurants found elsewhere. A favourite activity for visitors and Sanibel locals alike is shelling, collecting all kinds of different shells from the beach, where they are constantly replenished by the waves. Here’s the  Roadtrip in Florida Itinerary.

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Florida .

Where did we stay?

3 Nights at Sanibel Inn (courtesy of  the management) “Where nature meets the sea.” We arrived at this peaceful ocean-side retreat after a short drive from Fort Meyers. The cottage-style reception building at the main gate was welcoming and looked like something out of a British seaside town.  Our first-floor suite has big and bright, with a balcony overlooking the pool, then further out to the beach and Gulf of Mexico. The room had everything we needed and more, with a simple beachside feel, allowing the natural surroundings and sea breeze to take care of everything else. The pool was long, wide and deep with the full force of the sun all day long and only a matter of steps to the beach to go hunting for shells, cool off in the warm gulf waters, or to stroll down the beach at sunset. We also had access to the Dunes Golf and Tennis Club, although we were too busy exploring the area to play tennis, the club also offers live entertainment and fun! Full Sanibel Inn story coming soon.

You can check details and latest rates on  Agoda or Expedia or visit their website directly at The Inns of Sanibel .  Don’t just take our word for it though, check out their reviews on  TripAdvisor

What we did:

• Edison Ford Estate –  We stopped at this historic estate on route to Sanibel Island to wander around the 14-acre riverfront estate which once served as Thomas Edison’s winter home and laboratory as far back as 1886. Henry Ford was good friends with Edison and also has his winter home here, where several Ford cars are on display. The expansive gardens are full of plants, tree, and flowers from all over the world.

• Sunset on Sanibel Beach –  It was close to sunset when we arrived at Sanibel Inn , so we had just enough time to relax on the beach, walk along the water’s edge and watch the sun drop down into the waves. The elaborate and intricate sand castle sculpture was a nice touch as well!
• Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge –  We drove to the Ding Darling Wildlife refuge in the morning for a guided wildlife tram tour. Created in the 1940’s, the meeting of the sea and freshwater, combined with the long grasses, mangroves and colliding tropical and temperate climates, have all merged to form a thriving habitat for thousands of birds and animals. On our guided tram tour around Wildlife Drive, we spotted hundreds of birds, crabs and alligators. There is so many birds here that the refuge is rated as one of the top birding destinations in the whole country. We saw, great egrets, snowy egrets, wood storks, roseate spoonbills, great and little blue herons, white and brown pelicans, cormorants, blue-winged teal, ospreys and probably a lot more!

• Lunch at Doc Ford’s Sanibel Rum Bar and Grille –  After our tour around the refuge, we drove just a few minutes to Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille, where an amazing lunch was waiting for us. Themed around the best-selling novels of a local resident and named after the lead character, Doc Ford’s is a multitude of eating and drinking concepts fused together, with a few other unique flavours, into a one-of-a-kind dining and social experience. The inside of the restaurant looks like a giant took a sports bar in one hand, an old fishing shop in the other, crushed them together and added some old world Jules Verne ceiling fans. And it works! We chose to eat lunch outside on the open deck, sheltered by giant fan palms and other greenery. We asked the manager, Elizabeth, to choose our food for us which was the best decision we could have made – Tropical Salad, seasonal Stone Crab claws, BBQ baby back ribs, rare Tuna with an Asian peanut butter sauce, steamed shrimp in Doc’s special Yucatan sauce. This meal has made into our top 5 meals ever. We’ll tell you more later in our full Doc Ford’s food story, but for now, let the pictures do the talking!

• Captiva Island Dolphin Watch and Wildlife Cruise –  After such an incredible meal, we weren’t feeling like doing anything strenuous, so a late afternoon cruise to watch dolphins jumping around in the sea was perfect for us! We drove 25 minutes down the road to the South Seas Island Resort on Captiva Island and collected our cruise tickets from Captiva Cruises, next to the harbour where the boat was waiting for us. From the harbour, we sailed out into the bay, through a narrow channel of deep water in the Pine Island Sound, a sheltered haven of tranquil water, protected from the open sea by Sanibel Island, Captiva Islands and Cayo Costa. The calm waters attract dolphins, manatees and other sea and bird life. We were told that we had a 95 per cent chance of seeing dolphins on the cruise and we saw plenty. Small pods of 2 to 4 Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins chased alongside the boat, playing in the bow waves, jumping and diving and even spinning on their sides! More in our articles to come.

ST PETE and CLEARWATER – December 14 to 17

We woke up late and chilled out by the Sanilbel Inn swimming pool, then headed north to our next destination – St Petersburg and Clearwater. Situated on Florida’s gulf coast, St. Petersburg is famous for a lot of things, but one of the best is its climate, because although the whole of Florida is known as the Sunshine State, St Pete’s just seems to suck out every last drop of sunshine and beautiful weather, holding the title for “most consecutive days with sunshine” with 768 sunny days, earning the title, ‘Sunshine City’! St Pete’s in much more than a sunshine beach destination, it’s a regional centre for culture and the arts – Dali Museum; the Museum of Fine Arts and home of the Florida Orchestra. Of course, it’s also an expert at the South Florida staples of sandy beaches, sport fishing, pure nature like Fort De Soto Park and amazing food!

Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Saint Petersburg , Clearwater and Museum of Fine Arts .

Clearwater is only a short drive north of St Pete’s and is a favourite point of rest and relaxation for families who need a ‘holiday from their holiday’ in the Disney World Orlando theme parks! It’s known for offering something for everyone, with its award-winning, white sand beaches, lively night time entertainment scene, dining for every taste and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

3 nights in Hotel Zamora boutique hotel (courtesy of the management) Driving through the gates of the Hotel Zamora, with its elegant arched windows and wrought iron balconies, was like crossing an imaginary border from Florida into northern Spain, where the Spanish-style, white-washed building could easily look perfectly at home nestled in amongst the vineyards which carpet the rolling countryside of Toro, Zamora, the region for which the hotel is named. Aspects of the hotel’s design, like the high arches, repetitive shapes and decoration, are a respectful reference to elements of the Mudéjar architectural style found in Iberia – the direct result of an amalgamation between ancient Moorish and Christian cultures. The reception and rooms all have high ceilings and balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico or the inter coastal waterway behind. The indoor outdoor swimming pool, lounge area and outdoor whirlpool spa look out onto the private seven slip mooring and the rooftop bar is a work of art, boasting panoramic views along the whole St Pete’s Beach, perfect for sipping cocktails as the sun sets over into the sea, casting a hundred shades of pink across the sky. More about this boutique Mediterranean escape in our full Hotel Zamora story, coming soon!

You can check details and latest rates on  Agoda or Expedia or visit their website directly at The Hotel Zamora .  Don’t just take our word for it though, check out their reviews on  TripAdvisor

What did we do?

• Rooftop Cocktails – On our first night in St Pete’s, we headed straight to the rooftop bar of Hotel Zamora, sipping cocktails and looking out at the sunset view over the Gulf of Mexico.
• Fort De Soto – The next day we drove out to Fort De Soto, 1,136 acres of beachside parkland consisting of five interconnected islands, or keys, which are home to home to plants, wetlands, mangroves, hundreds of native plants and more than 328 species of birds. We pulled up at the kayaking station, climbed out of the car and into our little boat and paddled around the mangrove wilderness, watching fish jump out of the water and vast-winged grey pelicans swoop down to pluck the out of the water, tipping their head back to shake their dinner from their throat pouch and down into their stomachs. Pelicans were by far the bird we saw the most, but we also spotted Ospreys, cormorants and a lot of other things we didn’t know the names of. Best of all, this place is quiet and serene, floating along the calm waters amongst the mangroves and wildlife.

• Dali Museum – From Fort De Soto, we drove back into St Pete’s to the Dali Museum, which houses the largest collection of surrealist Salvador Dali’s paintings outside of his home in Spain. The building itself is an intriguing combination of brutalism and modernist architectural styles, as the geometric glazing appears to overflow from the angular concrete block body and flow down its side like crisp lava, with the form of Zaha Hadid and the organic nature Antoni Gaudi. The helical staircase which spirals through the centre of the building and continues to a curved tail overhead is a visual masterpiece, particularly mesmerising when viewed against the backdrop of the convex glazed wall, which forms a canopy of light as it rises up and folds back over under its own weight. You could find it hard to tear yourself away from the architecture to join the free guided tour of the Dali collection itself, which was led by an expert in Dali’s work and provided deep insight in to the man, the artist, his life and the meanings and motivations behind the work of Dali and other surrealist artists.

• Segway Tour – After a couple of hours of cultural immersion, we were ready for something a bit more active and headed to Hubbard’s Marina for a sunset Segway Tour around the John’s Pass Marina. We visited the lost sailors’ memorial and the site of the old bridge, then crossed the Gulf Blvd bridge over Johns Pass and down to Treasure Island Beach, where a dozen immensely complex sand sculptures were still standing from the Sanding Ovations sand sculpting competition some weeks earlier. On the way back we stopped at the middle of the bridge for a cloud spattered sunset view over the pass as it opens out into the Gulf of Mexico. It was our first time on Segways and a truly original way to explore.

• The Original Crabby Bills – That evening we had dinner at a local legend – the original Crabby Bill’s at Indian Rocks Beach, only about a 20 minute drive from St Pete’s Beach. Originally opened in 1983, The Original Crabby Bill’s focuses on providing incredible fresh seafood from the local area, with delicacies like oysters, grouper, smoked or fried mullet, Florida clams, Florida stone crab claws and Alaskan King Crab. We were served by Karen and her sister Sandy, two local sisters who have both been working there for years, serving up amazing food. They told us everything we could possibly know about the food we were eating, including the oysters, stone crab claws, Alaskan king crab, gator tail, octopus, pan-fried shrimp, and their famous in-house key lime pie!

• Honeymoon Island & Caledesi Island State Park – Our final full day in St Pete’s and Clearwater was a very relaxing one. We drove from Hotel Zamora on St Pete’s beach to Honeymoon Island, in Dunedin near Clearwater, a four mile island of pristine sandy beaches, nature walks and wildlife. We explored the main beach front of Honeymoon Island, before taking the passenger ferry across the neighbouring, a completely natural island, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, line fishing, short nature walks and kayaking around the three mile kayak trail through the mangroves and bay. For us though, it was the perfect place to just lie on the beach in the sun, relaxing and absorbing all the experiences of the past ten days in Florida .

• Sunset – When woke up on the beach in the late afternoon, the sun was already on its way down, so we caught the ferry back and drove over to Causeway Boulevard to watch the sunset behind the islands, as the local kayakers and line fishermen packed up for the day.
• Beachside Dinner – For our final St Pete’s and Clearwater dinner, we met up with John, the Director of Public Relations for Paradise, who had helped to organise our amazing stay. We met for dinner in Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill in Clearwater, with fresh-caught grouper and coconut shrimp.
• A Five-Star Breakfast – On our final morning in St Pete’s Beach we had breakfast in Florida’s ‘Pink Palace,’ the affectionate nickname given to the Loews Don CeSar Hotel facing the ocean on the shores of St Pete’s. The Sea Porch Café to the beachside of the Mediterranean-style castle turned hotel sits on the outdoor patio by the pool, with the beach in the background. We met with Jeff, the Director of Public Relations for the Loews Don CeSar Hotel, who told us all about how this impressive building came to be and how it had been saved from near destruction on more than one occasion. Breakfast was excellent, with fresh, invigorating juices and smoothies, an overflowing plate of fresh fruit, bacon and banana bread and the famous Don’s Benedict – their own special spin on a breakfast classic, incorporating fresh crab cakes! More about our Don CeSar – Sea Porch Café experience, coming soon.

You can check details and latest rates for Loews Don Cesar Hotel on Agoda or Expedia or visit their website directly at Loews Don CeSar. Don’t just take our word for it though, check out their reviews on  TripAdvisor

This is Part 2 of 3 – Jump to Part 3  (Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami) or Jump to Part 1   (Miami, Delray, Naples, Everglades)

Note: This trip wouldn’t have been possible without the help and support of Lee County for our itinerary in Fort Myers and Sanibel, Visit St Pete/Clearwater  for our itinerary in St Petersburg and Clearwater and to  Visit Florida , the official tourism office of Florida in Tallahassee. Thank you!

Thank you to everyone we met along the way who all helped to make this such a special experience. It was an incredible first visit to the USA and I will never forget it!

Many more detailed articles about our Florida experiences coming very soon!

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31 thoughts on “ Road Trip in Fort Myers, Sanibel and St Petersburg in Florida ”

Five days full of adventures. Want to try this as well.

The sunset must have been amazing! Have to check the other parts of this trip.

Road trips are always good. So much freedom here in Florida.

Oh wow this looks like an incredible, once in a lifetime trip that I’d love to go on! Xxx

I love Florida, I go every other year. The hotels here look lovely. Looks like a great trip x

Your photos look really great! sounds like you had a lovely time. Like the looks of that yummy key lime pie!

I love Clearwater, it’s so pretty there and the people and food were great when we went.

The wildlife retreat looks amazing. It’s so wonderful to see wildlife in a realistic and natural setting 🙂

The blue water is just amazing and the food, wow, one thing I love about America, is the food x

I would love to visit Florida one day. Looks amazing.

Just look at those lovely blue waters! I’d never imagined going to Florida for any other reason than Disneyland but it looks like there’s so much more to do and EAT!

An action packed three weeks by the looks of it! Florida is one of the places on my travel bucket list. It looks just wonderful x

I have never travelled in the US extensively or properly for that matter, and this makes me REALLY want to. It just sounds so blissful with so much to do!

I wish we had of done this when we were in Florida. We have 3 weeks, but stuck to around orlando.

What an incredible time. I really like Fort Myers. Sanibel is such an awesome little spot too!

As a kid it was always my dream to visit Florida and that dream has not changed one bit, time to get planning.

Oh my goodness that Segway Tour sounds amazing what a lovely way to see some of the sights and at sunset! x

This sounds incredible! I’ve only just gotten my driving licence, but I definitely want to do something similar when I feel a bit more confident behind the wheel.

Sounds like a fantastic trip. I would love to visit Florida!

Sounds like a brilliant trip! I did 3 weeks in the US earlier this year, though we only stopped in Florida for 1 night, right on the edge in Pensacola. So lovely there though!

You guys are really selling Florida as more than simply the theme parks of Orlando! Cocktails at sunset, where do I sign up?!

So amazing how much you guys had so much fun during your USA road trip! Woot, love it!

Sounds like an epic trip so far! Sanibel is one of my favorite areas of Florida though as a Pensacolian, I’m a big fan of the panhandle beaches – Florida’s best kept secret!

How serene! Love your photos… almost makes me miss the good ol USA… but not quite! Haha! Hope you had an amazing time!

This part of Florida is really nice. Fantastic beaches and a bit quiet while still having lots to do. Love your sunset shots.

Glad you had such a great first visit to the USA!

Roadtrip is my way of traveling and thus i really enjoyed your trip. Every aspect of this trip is encouraging. Some shots are awesome specially golden hour shot.

Keep at it.

I’m trying to visit the Thomas Edison National Historic Park in New Jersey, but it looks like I should visit his Florida estate too. Glad your first US visit was enjoyable!

I went to the US for the first time few weeks ago and I loved it! Can’t wait to go to Florida!

I always thought that Florida was pretty boring (besides the theme parks of course), but you guys are convincing me that it has a lot more to offer besides pretty beaches and delicious seafood. I’d love to do the dolphin watching tour!

Haven’t been to Florida yet, this post is truly awesome and would make readers wanna explore the way u did.

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

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The best two-week USA itinerary

If you are like me, the ultimate road trip in my mind is a 2-week USA itinerary . 

If you have two weeks to spare, here is my ideal itinerary to see the best of everything, without rushing!   

Two-week road trip map in the American West

Summary of the american west tour, days 1-2: las vegas.

Welcome to Las Vegas, nicknamed "Sin City", is a place where the wildest dreams come true and where exuberance reaches its peak. Upon your arrival, start with a must-see visit to the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign , located at the southern end of the Strip. This iconic symbol of the city, created in 1959, is a must for anyone wanting to immortalize their stay. Did you know that this sign was designed by Betty Willis, one of the few women in the neon design industry at that time? Once you've taken your photos, you will be ready to dive into the excitement.

From there, head to the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino , home to the Shark Reef Aquarium , one of the largest aquariums in North America. With its 2,000 marine creatures, including 15 different species of sharks, this place is perfect for discovering marine life. The aquarium even has an underwater tunnel, offering a 360-degree view of the fish and sharks swimming above you. After exploring this marine environment, relax on the resort's artificial beach, in the heart of a green setting that feels far from the surrounding desert.

At noon, take a gourmet break at the Burger Bar, also located at Mandalay Bay. This restaurant, led by famous chef Hubert Keller, offers a unique experience with burgers made from bison meat or vegetarian options for those looking for something different. After your lunch, head to Paris Las Vegas to admire the miniature replicas of the City of Light's monuments. Stroll under the replica of the Eiffel Tower, a monument rising to 165 meters – half its original size. It's not just a backdrop; you can also go to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. Inside, the hotel recreates the ambiance of a Parisian street, with street lamps and romantic bridges.

In the late afternoon, walk to the Bellagio , one of the city's most famous hotels. This hotel is inspired by the Italian town of the same name near Lake Como. Behind its reception adorned with magnificent glass flowers created by Dale Chihuly, lies a breathtaking conservatory where floral arrangements change with each season. But it is in front of the hotel, where the large artificial lake is located, that the main attraction unfolds: the Bellagio Fountain Show . This show, synchronized with classical music and contemporary hits, is a magical experience you won't want to miss. 

End your first day with a visit to the STRAT . This 350-meter high tower, built in 1996, dominates the Strip and offers a stunning view of the city's sparkling lights. It is also here that you will find some of Vegas's most thrilling attractions, suspended outside the tower. Will you dare to ride the Big Shot , an attraction that propels you at a crazy speed 50 meters above the top of the tower? You will literally be on top of Vegas, enjoying a breathtaking view. 

The second day of your stay starts with a morning dedicated to fun at Circus Circus . The hotel houses the AdventureDome , an indoor amusement park covering nearly 20,000 square meters. With its roller coasters, arcade games, and children's rides, it's the perfect place for family entertainment.

At noon, head to Caesars Palace , another Las Vegas landmark, to have lunch at the Cheesecake Factory. This establishment is famous for its generous portions and 50 varieties of cheesecakes. After eating, a walk to the Wynn is a must. This luxury hotel complex is surrounded by a beautiful artificial lake and lush gardens, offering a haven of peace in the heart of the city's hustle and bustle. 

In the evening, why not try the Asian restaurant Red 8 for a unique culinary experience? You can enjoy dishes inspired by China, Thailand, Vietnam, and many other Asian countries, in a setting that is both sophisticated and relaxed.

To end your stay in Las Vegas in style, head to Fremont Street , in the historic heart of the city. This is where the story of Vegas began with the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino, opened in 1906. Today, Fremont Street is known for its Viva Vision screen, the largest LED screen in the world, 457 meters long. At night, this screen broadcasts light shows accompanied by music, creating an electric atmosphere you won't find anywhere else. 

Fremont Street also hosts free concerts and special events throughout the year. It is said that it is on this street that the expression " What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas " was born. It's not surprising when you think of everything that happens here!

The American West

Days 3-4: grand canyon (436 km).

It is now time to hit the road! Pick up your rental car in Las Vegas , and set out on your adventure. Your first stop needs no introduction, the Grand Canyon! This national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has attracted travelers from around the world since its establishment in 1919.

I recommend leaving early in the morning to avoid the crowds and immerse yourself directly into the historic heart of the Grand Canyon Village , a place steeped in history. The village is home to iconic buildings dating from the early 20th century, such as the famous El Tovar Hotel , opened in 1905, which remains one of the most luxurious hotels in the park today. This place has hosted famous personalities, such as Theodore Roosevelt, and its dark wood lobby reflects the elegance and grandeur of a bygone era. Right next door, the Hopi House is another historical gem. Inspired by the architecture of the indigenous Hopi people, this house is a vibrant tribute to the ancient cultures that inhabited the region long before the Grand Canyon became a national park.

From the village, it's easy to join the Rim Trail , a hiking trail that runs along the canyon's edge for more than 20 km. It offers breathtaking views of this immense gorge, and you can explore it on foot or using the park's free shuttle service. Not far from your starting point, you'll reach Mather Point , one of the most impressive viewpoints of the canyon. The contrast between shades of red, orange, and purple at sunrise is simply unforgettable.

Continue your journey to other must-see viewpoints like Maricopa Point , Hopi Point , and Mohave Point , each offering different perspectives on this vast rocky expanse. You can get off the shuttle at each of these points and soak in the vastness of the canyon while admiring the erosive power of the Colorado River at the canyon's bottom.

For lunch, stop at Fred Harvey Burger, a family restaurant located in the Grand Canyon Village. It offers simple and tasty dishes, perfect for recharging after a morning of walking. If you prefer a lighter option, the Bright Angel Fountain is an excellent alternative with its coffees, sandwiches, and ice creams.

In the afternoon, take the Desert View Drive , a picturesque 40 kilometer road east of the Grand Canyon Village. Along the way, you'll stop at spectacular viewpoints like Grandview Point, where you can enjoy a 180-degree panoramic view of the canyon, and Lipan Point, overlooking the Unkar rapids of the Colorado River. The road ends at Desert View, where there is a historic stone tower offering a 360-degree view of the canyon. This spot is particularly prized for observing spectacular sunsets when the canyon walls are bathed in warm colors.

In the evening, for a more refined dining experience, head to the Arizona Steakhouse, where you can enjoy delicious steaks and other typical regional dishes while admiring an impressive view of the canyon.

For the second day of your visit to the Grand Canyon, opt for the ultimate experience: a helicopter flight over this natural wonder. From the air, you will be amazed by the panoramic view of the canyon, from the South Rim to the North Rim, a wilder and much less visited region. It's one of the rare opportunities to truly appreciate the gigantic size of the canyon, with its multicolored rock formations stretching as far as the eye can see.

After this spectacular flight, return to solid ground to further explore the South Rim . Take the Rim Trail again, focusing on less frequented but equally impressive viewpoints. If you're an experienced hiker, you might attempt a partial descent into the canyon via the Bright Angel Trail , a popular trail that allows you to descend into the gorge and discover the canyon from a different angle. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, as temperatures can be extreme, even in spring and autumn.

To end your visit on a high note, treat yourself and book a memorable last meal at the El Tovar Dining Room!  

CAR RENTAL COMPARATOR FOR A TOUR IN THE AMERICAN WEST

Day 5: lake powell (200 km).

Today, head to Lake Powell! Start your discovery with a visit to the Glen Canyon Dam , located near the town of Page. From the Carl Hayden Visitor Center , enjoy panoramic views of the 216-meter dam and Lake Powell. The guided tour will let you discover the fascinating history of this structure that transformed the area.

Next, head to Antelope Canyon , one of the most photographed sites in the world. Choose between Upper Antelope Canyon, where light penetrates and illuminates the rock formations at midday, or Lower Antelope Canyon, a more intimate underground experience. Both options require a prior reservation, especially during high traffic periods.

Then, I recommend taking a cruise on Lake Powell. Navigating this vast lake is one of the best ways to admire the surrounding landscapes. If the weather permits, opt for a cruise to Rainbow Bridge , the world's largest natural bridge.

If you get hungry, take a break at Big John’s Texas BBQ to savor grilled meat in a festive atmosphere before continuing your adventure.

End your day with a visit to the famous Horseshoe Bend , a horseshoe-shaped bend of the Colorado River. After a 20-minute walk, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular view of this iconic site, ideal for memorable photos at sunset. 

Day 6: Monument Valley (278 km)

The road continues to another must-see of the West, Monument Valley. A significant part of the Navajo Nation territory, visiting Monument Valley is a unique experience that immerses you in an iconic American landscape.

Start your day by heading to the Visitor Center . It's an essential starting point to learn more about Navajo culture, and you can find brochures and maps to plan your visit. It is also the perfect place to buy local crafts and even have a meal before exploring.

Next, take the Monument Valley Scenic Drive , a 27-kilometer road that takes you to the heart of legendary rock formations. However, this unpaved road can be challenging to access for small vehicles. If you have a suitable car, you can discover spectacular sites like John Ford Point , named after the famous Western director, or the formations known as Three Sisters , Camel Butte , and Elephant Butte . Each viewpoint offers different perspectives on this reddish valley. If you prefer not to drive on this bumpy road, book a guided 4X4 tour with a Navajo guide at the Visitor Center, or even a horseback excursion for an even more authentic experience.

You might also choose to negotiate a private tour with a Navajo guide for the afternoon. These local guides offer more in-depth tours of the valley and can tell you fascinating stories about the region. Do not hesitate to engage in conversation with them to learn more about Navajo culture and the history of Monument Valley.

End your day by returning to John Ford Point or staying at the Visitor Center to admire the sunset. When the golden evening light bathes the buttes of Monument Valley, the reds become more intense, and the spectacle is simply unforgettable. This magical moment is perfect for photographers, as the rock formations take on even more vibrant hues.

Days 7-8: Arches (162 km)

After exceptional places, you hit the road today for a national park, Arches. Start with a visit to Park Avenue , an impressive rock formation that evokes a street lined with giant sandstone buildings. This place has been a setting for films like Indiana Jones and Thelma and Louise , making your 3.2 km walk even more fascinating. You will feel transported to the heart of a mythical western while admiring these spectacular landscapes.

Next, head to the Windows Section after passing Balanced Rock , a huge rock precariously balanced, emblematic of the power of nature. Here, short hikes will take you to Double Arch, an astonishing formation consisting of two connected arches. It is one of the largest arches in the park, measuring nearly 45 meters in height. 

At the end of the day, prepare for the must-do hike to Delicate Arch , the most famous in the park. This moderate 4.8 km hike rewards you with a view of the arch under the golden light of sunset. This solitary arch, often used as a symbol of Utah, stands 16 meters high and is the most photographed in the park. If you prefer a less demanding route, the Lower and Upper Delicate Arch viewpoints offer an alternative to observe this natural wonder without hiking the entire trail.

After this first day of exploration, a dinner at Sunset Grill, located atop a cliff with an amazing view of Moab, is a must. This restaurant used to be the home of a local millionaire, and today, it offers a unique setting to enjoy a meal while watching the sunset over the valley.

The second day, head to Devil's Garden , a can't-miss spot in the park. Here you'll find Landscape Arch, one of the world's longest natural arches with its 90-meter span. This easy hike allows you to admire this impressive arch, which almost seems suspended in the air, ready to collapse at any moment. For more experienced hikers, the trail continues to Dark Angel and the Primitive Loop Trail , where you can discover up to eight different arches. It is best to explore this area early in the morning to avoid the heat, which can soar in summer.

Midday, a stop at Quesadilla Mobilla, a popular food truck in Moab, is perfect for a tasty lunch break. The homemade quesadillas are appreciated for their fresh ingredients and bold flavors. After this gourmet stop, prepare for the adventure at Fiery Furnace . This natural maze of canyons and cliffs, 3.2 km long, offers a unique and challenging hiking experience. With its narrow passages and impressive views, it’s a challenge to be undertaken with a ranger guide for more safety, especially if you want to learn more about the complex geological formation of the area.

To conclude your stay, head to Desert Bistro in Moab. This gourmet restaurant is renowned for its inventive cuisine with southwestern influences, a real treat to end your adventure in the Utah desert.

Day 9: Excursion to Canyonlands

For your last day around Moab, explore Canyonlands National Park, with its 1,360 square kilometers of spectacular landscapes. The park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wilderness enthusiasts. Located at the heart of the Colorado plateau, the park offers a diversity of breathtaking panoramas, from rocky spires to vast canyons. For a full day, focus your visit on the Island in the Sky section, the most accessible from Moab and renowned for its dizzying viewpoints.

Start your day early by entering the park through the Island in the Sky Visitor Center to get information and a map of the area. Island in the Sky gets its name from the elevated position of this immense mesa, between 1,800 and 1,900 meters in altitude, offering breathtaking views of the canyons carved by the Colorado and Green rivers. First, head to Mesa Arch , a short 1 km round-trip hike that only takes 20 minutes. This natural arch perfectly frames the landscape below, offering one of the most photographed views in the park, especially at sunrise when the light illuminates the arch with a golden glow.

Continue your exploration at the Shafer Canyon Overlook , where you will have a spectacular view of the Shafer Trail, a winding road once used by cowboys and miners. This road, which you can also travel by 4x4 or on foot, is a true challenge for adventurers. The contrast between the steep road and the glowing cliffs will leave you speechless. Before venturing onto the Shafer Trail, be sure to consult a ranger to check the conditions, as the road can be dangerous.

Next, head to Grand View Point Overlook , one of the most impressive viewpoints in the region. From there, you can admire canyons that stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a true labyrinth of red rock formations. This viewpoint is the perfect place to grasp the vastness of Canyonlands and the complexity of its terrain, sculpted by millions of years of erosion. The depth and scale of the canyons visible from this spot are simply incredible.

At the end of the day, if you still have time, make a detour to Dead Horse Point State Park , located just a 10-minute drive from Island in the Sky. This park offers a spectacular view from Dead Horse Point Overlook over the meanders of the Colorado River, with a panorama that rivals the most beautiful in the world. The park's name comes from a legend that cowboys left horses to die of thirst here, unable to reach the river they could see below. The final scene of the film Thelma & Louise was also filmed here, adding a cinematic touch to this already mythical place. It's a great spot for sunset!

Days 10-11: Bryce Canyon (397 km)

Your next destination is Bryce Canyon National Park, where hundreds of rock spires and needles, known as Hoodoos, form a spectacular natural amphitheater. Ebenezer Bryce, a pioneer who settled there with his family in 1875, described this place as "a hell of a place to lose a cow," a phrase that sums up the rugged nature of this terrain. Today, the park bears his name in homage to his exploration and settlement of the area.

Head directly to Sunrise Point , one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the park. As its name suggests, this place is perfect for watching the sunrise if you're an early riser. The morning light illuminates the Hoodoos, those stone spires that seem to catch fire under the golden light. It's a breathtaking view that will immediately immerse you in the unique ambiance of Bryce Canyon.

After appreciating this magical moment, take the Queen’s Garden Trail from Sunrise Point. This easy 2.9 km round-trip trail plunges you into the heart of the park, winding through a forest of Hoodoos. Along the way, you'll discover the rock formation known as Queen Victoria, a Hoodoo that, with a bit of imagination, resembles the famous British queen.

Midway, you can choose to continue your hike by taking the Navajo Loop Trail , a trail that brings you back to Sunset Point . This viewpoint offers a different perspective on the amphitheater, with colors that change throughout the day. Enjoy the morning tranquility to capture photos or simply soak in the natural beauty of this place.

For lunch, head back to the Lodge at Bryce Canyon , located nearby. This mountain lodge-style restaurant offers a warm atmosphere, with dishes made from local and organic products.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration by taking the park shuttle to Inspiration Point . This viewpoint lives up to its name, offering breathtaking panoramas of the rows of Hoodoos stretching southward. If you're in the mood for more walking, the Rim Trail starts from Inspiration Point and follows the edge of the amphitheater to Bryce Point . This easy one-hour hike will lead you to one of the highest and most impressive viewpoints in the park, peaking at 2,528 meters (8,293 feet).

On the second day, start with a visit to the Visitor Center to learn more about the geology, wildlife, and history of Bryce Canyon. This will give you valuable context for the rest of your exploration. Then, take the shuttle to Fairyland Point for a less crowded but equally impressive hike. The Fairyland Loop Trail is a 12.8 km (8 mi) trail that takes you through spectacular landscapes, away from the crowds. This hike is more demanding, but it offers a different perspective on the rock formations, with stunning views of the park.

After this morning hike, head back to the Lodge for lunch or, if you prefer, bring a picnic and enjoy an outdoor meal in one of the park's picnic areas. Bryce Canyon is an ideal place to relax and admire nature while enjoying a simple meal.

In the afternoon, head to Mossy Cave Trail , located outside the park's main area. This easy 1.2 km (0.7 mi) trail leads you to a small mossy cave and a waterfall, offering a refreshing contrast to the arid landscapes of the rest of the park. It's a perfect hike for those looking for something lighter after the long morning walk.

In the late afternoon, if you still have energy, return to Sunset Point for one last view of the canyon, or explore other viewpoints like Paria View or Rainbow Point , accessible by car.

For dinner, head out of the park and go to Stone Hearth Grille in Tropic, about a 20-minute drive from Bryce. This restaurant offers a fine dining experience, with poultry, beef, and seafood dishes, accompanied by delicious homemade sauces. The view from the terrace is just as impressive as the cuisine, providing a perfect setting to end your stay at Bryce Canyon.

Days 12-13: Zion (216 km)

The next park to discover is Zion, where you will be amazed by the contrast between the green ash and poplar trees lining the canyon and the immense sandstone monoliths with colored strata, ranging from white to bright red. Start your day early by taking the free shuttle from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to the The Grotto stop, the starting point of the famous Angels Landing hike. This 8 km round-trip trail, known to be one of the most impressive in the park, is reserved for experienced hikers due to its steep elevation gain and narrow sections. However, the 360-degree panoramic view of Zion Canyon from the summit is worth every effort.

After descending Angels Landing, take a well-deserved break at the Red Rock Grill located at Zion Lodge . This restaurant offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rock formations, with a typically American menu featuring soups, salads, tacos, and burgers.

In the afternoon, take the shuttle to Canyon Overlook Trail . This short 1.6 km trail, located just before the second tunnel on Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, is ideal for a lighter hike after Angels Landing. It offers an exceptional viewpoint over the southern canyon, where you can admire the jagged peaks and the ochre and cream colors of the landscape. This trail is accessible to most hikers, though it is not recommended for those with vertigo.

End your first day by taking the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway at sunset. This 17-kilometer scenic route, which winds through spectacular landscapes at an altitude between 1,130 and 2,700 meters, is even more magical at this time of day. Stop to observe the Checkerboard Mesa , a massive white sandstone formation with a naturally checkered surface. If you are traveling by RV, make sure you have purchased your permit to cross the tunnel safely.

The second day begins with a visit to Court of the Patriarchs , a short but impressive hike that takes you in just 5 minutes to a viewpoint over three majestic sandstone cliffs named Jacob, Isaac, and Abraham. This viewpoint, accessible from the fourth shuttle stop, is an excellent way to start the day with a magnificent perspective on these iconic geological formations.

Next, head to the Emerald Pools Trails , an easy 4.7 km hike that will take you to three different waterfalls: the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pool. The trail begins at Zion Lodge and leads you through lush vegetation, offering refreshing views at the heart of the park. If you wish to extend the walk, you can take the Kayenta Trail which will lead you to the next shuttle stop, while offering superb views of the canyon and the Virgin River below.

For lunch, return to Springdale and stop at Cafe Soleil , a local favorite for its dishes prepared with natural and organic ingredients.

In the afternoon, experience a memorable adventure by exploring The Narrows , one of Zion's most famous hikes. This hike takes you to the heart of the canyon, where the cliffs narrow to form a passage that you can explore by walking in the Virgin River. The duration and distance you cover depend on your comfort level, but even a short exploration is well worth it. Make sure to wear appropriate shoes, as the riverbed is rocky, and check with the rangers about water conditions before setting off.

To close your stay in Zion, make a final stop at the Spotted Dog Café in Springdale for a quiet dinner. Enjoy the terrace to admire the last light of the day on the surrounding mountains while savoring a delicious meal.

Day 14: Death Valley (427 km)

Here you are already at your last destination before returning to Las Vegas, and this one might get you hot! Arrive in Death Valley early to avoid the scorching temperatures, especially in summer. Start at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to get information and discover the park's fascinating history. Then head to Dante’s View , a viewpoint at 1,500 meters altitude offering spectacular panoramic views over the valley and the Panamint Mountains.

Continue your journey to Zabriskie Point to admire the undulating rock formations with changing colors, particularly impressive at sunrise. Then head down to Badwater Basin , the lowest point in North America, at 86 meters below sea level. This vast expanse of salt flats offers a surreal landscape, with its sparkling salt crystals under the sun.

After exploring Badwater, take the Badwater Road to Artist’s Palette , a remarkable site for its multicolored rocks, the result of metal oxidation. The Artist’s Drive will take you through this colorful landscape, ideally in the late afternoon when the colors are most vibrant.

For lunch, stop at the Armagosa Cafe in Death Valley Junction to enjoy fresh sandwiches and salads in a historic setting. Then visit Rhyolite , a ghost town dating back to the 1904 gold rush, to explore the remnants of this once prosperous city.

End your day with dinner at the Inn at Death Valley Dining , located at The Oasis at Death Valley . Enjoy a refined meal with a view of the salt flats and the Panamint Mountains, a perfect setting to conclude your visit to this iconic park.

Day 15: Las Vegas (251 km)

It is already time to hit the road one last time towards Las Vegas to return your vehicle and head to the airport for your flight back, your mind filled with memories of the American West and all its wonders!

That's it! You are all set to hit the great roads of the West. For any questions, feel free to express yourself in the comments section below !

An enthusiast of both our vibrant cities & great oudoors, my life revolves around travel & adventure. It's a no brainer that I have to share the wonders & secrets of my neck of the woods with other travelling souls. Enjoy the journey!

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