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Powerful features for planning your epic road trips (and the shorter adventures in between)

Unlimited stops.

Add unlimited stops and sub-stops. Combine your own stops with our pre-planned routes and recommended places of interest.

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By the minute, hour, or overnight, set preferences for each stop. Export your trip to your own Calendar.

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Car, RV, camper trailer, truck, motorcycle, pulling a boat? Get a realistic estimate of driving time. Adjust travel speed by percentages for each unique situation.

Divide Trips Into Days

Divide your trips into manageable driving days based on your custom settings by time or distance. And of course you can customize each day differently.

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Configure route preferences such as avoiding highways or tolls for each day or any segment of your trip.

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Plan trips from your desktop computer, iPad, Android tablet, and mobile phone with the same easy-to-use interface. No app to download or software to install.

Automated To Do List guides you through the road trip planning process.

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Track expenditures before you go and along the way. See a summary of expenses for entrance fees, activities, restaurants, and lodging, etc.

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See the estimated fuel cost for your vehicle type.

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Find EV charging stations along your route. Get reminders to recharge. Use Charging Ranges to display icons on the map where your vehicle will require recharging.

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Directions on paper come in handy. Print your road trip with turn-by-turn maps and full directions, divided into your day-by-day itinerary.

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USA Road Trips

No matter what you're driving or how fast you're going, or even where you're heading, there's nothing like a good all American road trip. Spending hours behind the wheel, with the wind in your hair as you watch the scenery change is the very essence of freedom and exploration. Nowhere is that freedom easier to find than hitting the road in the USA.

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Planning the Perfect Road Trip

At some point, we've all dreamed of just hitting the road, kicking back with some good tunes and driving wherever the road takes us. It's inspired many Hollywood filmmakers and head-banging hits and has been ingrained in us that nothing beats a good old car or motorcycle journey. From Route 66 to the Great River Road, a ride through the Land of the Free offers exactly that, freedom. As a country filled with many cultures, golden beaches, impressive canyons, sheer mountains, bustling cities, and never-ending roads, it's not hard to see why the United States offers some of the greatest driving trips in the world.  There's so much to consider when planning the perfect road trip, so we've made it easier for you with itinerary ideas, tips on traveling with your family or four-legged friends, deciding on what time of year is right for you, and ultimately giving you everything you need to know to plan that all American dream.

Road Trip Inspiration

• America's Top 15 Road Trip Sites
• West Coast Road Trip Ideas
• Best Road Trip Playlists for Summer
• Travel Accessories to Keep You Safe on the Road

What does a road trip look like?

Choose your vehicle (or take your own!)

Follow an itinerary

Enjoy your all American dream!

Perks of a road trip.

How to Plan the Ultimate Road Trip

Choose your route

It's legendary, and what the rest of the world thinks of when you mention you're going a road trip in the United States. This Mother Road is blanketed across eight states and stretches through farmland, deserts, mountains, sleepy towns and metropolitan cities. Must-see stops:  Meramec Caverns, Santa Fe, Mojave National Preserve

Pacific Coast Highway

Aside from having a great ocean view the whole time, the Pacific Coast Highway is a bucket list road trip. It's arguably one of the most famous routes in the world, and rightfully so with its dramatic cliffs, sensational scenery, and picture-perfect urban spaces. Must-see stops:  Big Sur, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, Olympic National Park

Great River Road

Discover the very best of America's most hard-to-spell river, the Mississippi. As the longest scenic byway, the Great River Road passes through a total of ten states and is home to many riverside attractions and soul-stirring cities that are fun for the whole family. Must-see stops: New Orleans, Fort Snelling, Nelson Dewey State Park

Blue Ridge Parkway

If endless vistas of emerald-green trees and dramatic mountain landscapes are your thing, then a road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway is for you. Admire the culture and crafts of the Appalachians, and with a slower speed limit, you can really appreciate what Mother Nature has to offer. Must-see stops:  Linn Cove Viaduct, Linville Falls, Asheville, Sliding Rock 

Border to Border

From the icy landscapes of Jasper National Park to the cactus-filled plains of the Sonora Desert, the Border to Border road trip features the contrasting wonders of the United States. Flowing through the heart of Las Vegas, this drive truly offers the best of both worlds. Must-see stops:  Glacier National Park, Grand Canyon, Sun Valley, Phoenix

What is Your Ultimate Road Trip?

Who do you want to travel with.

There's something really romantic and exciting about heading on a road to nowhere with your partner. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, on a honeymoon adventure, or just needing to feel that wind in your hair, a road trip paints the perfect setting to create lasting memories with the one you love.

Hitting the road can really bring a family together. Spending quality time exploring a country and experiencing new cultures from the states that you know and love can be a wonderful memory to hold. It's also a great way to show your little ones the endless wonders of the world.

I think everyone at some point in their life has dreamt of going on a road trip with their friends. It's a great time to celebrate a birthday, say goodbye after college, or reminisce on good times shared together. Whether you want to hike national parks or hop from city to city on a casino hunt, there's so much to do on a road trip.

Exploring a new pet-friendly national park every day can be a total fantasy for man's best friend, think about the different types of sticks you could throw! Hitting the road with your favourite four-legged friend by your side can be a great experience that both you and your best friend will treasure forever.

When do you want to go?

Last Minute Must Haves

There are long days of driving ahead of you, and sometimes it can be on uneven roads or in the middle of nowhere. Having reliable insurance for your vehicle is a must and is something that is good to have for your own peace of mind.

Entertainment

Kids, and even dogs, can get bored on long journeys so make sure you bring some entertainment for the road. Whether it's a Kindle, some books or toys, something to entertain them will be a lifesaver!

First Aid Kit

It's a good idea to carry a medical kit with you on any journey, but on a road trip you're covering vast distances and you are not always nearby a hospital or doctors. Store one in the trunk of your car for easy access.

Backup Supplies

It's a good idea to stock up on extra gas when making long journeys, and maybe even a satellite phone or emergency supplies if you plan on going for a long time or venturing out into secluded national parks.

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

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

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

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

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

That and a great playlist.

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

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

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

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

CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP GUIDE

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

In this article, we’ll cover:

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE BEST ROAD TRIP ROUTES IN THE US

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE LONELIEST ROAD

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE GREAT NORTHERN ROAD

Famous For:  The longest transcontinental highway in the US

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

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

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

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

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

THE OREGON TRAIL

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

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

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

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

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

Book Recommendation : Moon Guide:  Oregon Trail Road Trip

THE ATLANTIC COAST

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

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

Begins and Ends:  Maine to Florida

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

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

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

THE MIGHTY FIVE

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

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

Begins and Ends:  Moab, Utah to Springdale, Utah

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

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

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

THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY

Famous For:  Stunning Fall foliage display.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEST CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP CAR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO DRIVE ACROSS THE COUNTRY?

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

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

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

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

TIPS FOR A CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP

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

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

CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP PACKING LIST

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

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

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

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

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

LOOKING FOR MORE CROSS COUNTRY ROAD TRIP POSTS?

17+ Boredom Busting Things To Do On A Road Trip How To Road Trip With A Toddler Like A Boss How We Did A $650 Farmhouse Camper Renovation 160 Questions To Cure Road Trip Boredom 41 Fun and Challenging Road Trip Trivia Questions The Definitive List Of Road Trip Worthy Snacks For Your Next Ride Road Trip Essentials You Need To Pack

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

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

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

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

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

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The Great American Road Trip: A 4-Month Itinerary Around the USA

The Great American Road Trip. It’s the kind of multi-month adventure most dream about, but few actually do.

While many of us have bucket-list goals of exploring this vast and diverse landscape, more often than not, we end up heading abroad instead. International travel just seems more alluring, exotic, and exciting.

But this country has more than enough eclectic cities, small towns, regional culinary traditions, historic sites, fascinating museums, and natural wonders to keep any intrepid traveler busy.

I’ve done five big US road trips (two that completely crisscrossed the country and three in various regions) that cumulatively add up to a year on the road (and that doesn’t count all the “regular” trips, vacations, and weekend getaways). I’ve seen a lot of the United States.

When COVID-19 caused us to consider our backyard more and more, many Americans turned to domestic travel. We finally got to explore all the wonders our own country has to offer.

So, because of that, I’ve created an epic four-month itinerary for traveling around the States. I think it balances time in cities with relaxing in nature.

It may seem like a lot, but four months just scratches the surface. And, since I don’t expect most of you to have four months, you can easily break this trip into smaller portions. It’s much better to concentrate your focus rather than try to see a lot in a short amount of time.

One note before we begin: There are so many routes you could take that it’s impossible to have one “best” route. The US is just too big. The route below is just one of my favorites. Use it as a starting point for creating your own itinerary that mixes realistic drive times, national parks, and fabulous cities.

Table of Contents

Month 1: East Coast, Southern US

Month 2: south, southwestern us, west coast, month 3: pacific northwest, western us, month 4: midwest, northeast us, days 1-3: boston, ma.

• Walk the Freedom Trail – This 2.5-mile (4 kilometer) route links many historic sites, including the Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, the State House, and Bunker Hill. To get the most out of your experience, take a guided tour . You’ll be able to ask questions to an expert local guide for a more in-depth experience.
• Relax in Boston Common – This is one of America’s oldest parks and was once used as communal pasture land by Puritan settlers. Today, it’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and picnic.
• See the Bunker Hill Monument – The Battle of Bunker Hill (1775) was one of the first major battles of the Revolutionary War. While the British won, the Americans wore British forces down more than was expected. The monument stands 221 feet (67 meters) tall; you can climb to the top to enjoy the best view of Boston.
• Visit the Museum of Fine Arts – This museum has over 450,000 pieces of fine art, covering everything from the pre-Columbian era to Italian Impressionists. It’s one of the biggest collections in the country. It’s free after 4pm on Wednesdays.

For more things to do, check out my free guide to Boston . And, for places to stay, here are my hostel recommendations.

Days 4-8: New York City, NY

• Take a walking tour – To get a feel for the city, take a walking tour. There are myriad free and paid tours on a variety of subjects. Nothing is too obscure. Here’s a list of suggested walking tour companies in NYC .
• Wander Central Park – This massive, 51-block-long, 843-acre park is the best free attraction in town. There are plenty of places to bike, walk, jog, read, picnic, and people-watch. During the summer, there are free concerts and theater productions too. Free tours are run by the parks service. The “Iconic Views of Central Park” tour is offered daily at 10am from the spring to the fall.
• See the Statue of Liberty – You can pay to visit Ellis Island if you want to see the statue up close . However, you can also take a free ferry to Staten Island instead if you just want to see it while passing by.
• Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum – At the base of the Freedom Tower is a park commemorating the victims of 9/11. Inside the museum, there are over 14,000 artifacts from that day, as well as 3,500 recordings from survivors, first responders, and family members of those killed. It’s a sobering, eye-opening exhibit. A timed-entry ticket is $19.40 USD.
• Walk the High Line – The High Line is an elevated urban walking park on the west side of NYC. Made from a converted train track, it runs for 22 blocks and is lined with overlooks, gardens, public art, food stalls, and greenery.
• Cross the Brooklyn Bridge – For a view of the Manhattan skyline, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a long walk (around 40 minutes if you stop for photos), but the view is worth it — especially at night. It’s free too!
• Explore the Met – The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the foremost fine art collections in the world. You can easily spend an entire day here if you wanted to see it all.

If you want more ideas for things to see and do in NYC, here’s a detailed suggested itinerary that can come.

For accommodation suggestions, here is my comprehensive list of hostels in NYC , my recommended hotels , as well as a neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to the city .  

Days 9-11: Philadelphia, PA

• See the Liberty Bell – This bell, which dates to 1752, is an iconic symbol of American freedom. It’s said to have been rung when the Declaration of Independence was read in July 1776. Today, the bell is located in Independence National Historical Park, which you can visit for free.
• Wander around Independence Hall – Learn about the founding of the United States at Independence Hall, and wander around the area’s historic colonial buildings.
• Explore Franklin Court – This is where Benjamin Franklin lived while serving in the Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention. While his house was torn down after his death in 1790, a hollow structure stands where it was located, and there’s a museum nearby with information about his life and works.
• Climb the Rocky stairs – The stairs from Rocky , the classic boxing film, are located at the Museum of Art. You can’t visit Philadelphia without running up them and doing your best Stallone impression.
• Visit the Magic Gardens – This quirky art gallery is one of the most unique attractions in town: a collection of indoor and outdoor art and mosaics made from broken tiles, glass, and all kinds of odds and ends. Indoors, there’s a more conventional art gallery and space for events and concerts.

Days 12-14: Washington, DC

• Visit the Holocaust Museum – The Holocaust Museum is informative and heart-wrenching. Its permanent exhibit takes up three entire levels and tells the story of the Holocaust through films, photos, artifacts, and first-person stories. Admission is free.
• Tour the Smithsonian – The Smithsonian Institution is a group of world-class museums and research centers. All of them are free to enter. Some of the best museums are: the Air and Space Museum, the African American Museum, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum.
• See the Lincoln Memorial – This iconic 19-foot statue is located on the National Mall and pays tribute to America’s 16th president. Built in 1914, it’s surrounded by 36 columns, each of which represents a state in the union at the time of his death in 1865.

For tons more ideas on what to see, here’s my free detailed guide to DC!  

Days 15-16: Shenandoah National Park, VA

Days 17-19: Asheville, NC

• The Biltmore Estate – This is America’s largest house. It’s a whopping 178,926-square-foot mansion surrounded by 8,000 acres of land. The massive estate has over 250 rooms (including 33 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms). I love it!
• Enjoying craft beer – Asheville has over 25 breweries (and there are another 50+ outside town too). Take a brewery tour, or just hop around and sample some local offerings. My two favorites are Bhramari and Wicked Weed.
• Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains – Parts of the Appalachian Trail can be found here, and there are lots of day or multiday hikes. You can also climb Mount Mitchell, the highest summit east of the Mississippi River.

Days 20-22: Atlanta, GA

• See the Center for Civil and Human Rights – Opened in 2014, this museum highlights the struggles and accomplishments of the civil rights movement as well as human rights around the globe. (To learn more about civil rights history in Atlanta, take this city walking tour with Unexpected Atlanta. )
• Wander the Atlanta Botanical Garden – Escape the urban hustle and bustle with a getaway to this 30-acre oasis in the heart of the city. In addition to its orchids and tropical plants, there’s a 600-foot canopy walk that lets you enjoy the gardens from 40 feet in the air.
• Take a street art tour – Atlanta is one of the best destinations for street art. There are tons of murals along the Krog Street Tunnel and the Belt Line. Take a guided tour or use the website streetartmap.org for self-guided suggestions.

Days 23-27: Nashville, TN

• Attend the Grand Ole Opry – Opened in 1925, this is one of the most famous country music venues in the world. Today, the Opry hosts regular live performances, TV broadcasts, and radio shows. You can buy tickets here or book a guided tour of the venue here .
• See the Parthenon – This full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, was built in 1897. It was created to celebrate Nashville’s 100th anniversary and chosen because Nashville is called “the Athens of the South” (due to its historic focus on higher education).
• Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum – This museum has one of the largest music collections in the entire world. There are over 200,000 recordings here, including 98% of music released before World War II. Tickets are $29.95 USD.
• Visit Franklin – Located just 25 minutes outside of Nashville, most people assume Franklin is just another suburb. However, it has a lot going for it: it’s bursting with small-town charm, has stellar food and drink (it’s where I discovered my favorite Bourbon, H Clark), is full of history ( there was a major Civil War battle here ), and has one of the best-preserved historic main streets in the country. I’d spend two nights here.

Days 28-30: Memphis, TN

• Visit the National Civil Rights Museum – This museum traces the history of civil rights from the 17th century to today. It’s housed in the former motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. It’s powerful and poignant. Don’t miss it. Admission is $20 USD.
• See the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum – This museum highlights the musical pioneers of blues, rock, and soul music from the 1930s to the 1970s. There are costumes and recordings, interactive media, and exhibitions on famous musicians from Memphis. A joint ticket that also includes the Music Hall of Fame is $17 USD.
• Stroll down Beale Street – Known as “America’s most iconic street,” Beale Street features many bars where you’ll find Memphis’s best live music. There are also numerous street buskers. If you’re going out at night, start here. ( Backbeat Tours offers guided tours if you’d like to learn more about the street’s history.)
• Day-trip to Graceland – The home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is located a few miles south of town. Even if you’re not a huge Elvis fan, it’s worth a visit to see just how impactful his life and music have been. You’ll see loads of lookalikes and die-hard fans making the pilgrimage to see the King.

Days 31-32: Natchez, MS

• Visit antebellum homes – Built in the early to mid-19th century, these historic homes are Natchez’s main draw. Longwood, Rosalie Mansion, and Stanton Hall were my favorites. Admission is $20-25 USD at each or there is a joint ticket that includes all three for $65 USD.
• Attend the Natchez Pilgrimage – During the Natchez Pilgrimage in the spring, all of the private historical homes open up to the public. The costumed guides explain the history of the home, their owners, and the region. It’s the city’s biggest annual event, and there are some 20 homes on display.
• See the Emerald Mount – Constructed sometime between the 13th and 17th centuries, this was an elevated place of worship for the Plaquemine Native Americans. All kinds of animal bones have been found nearby, leading researchers to believe it was the site of religious or sacred activity.

Days 33-36: New Orleans, LA

• Visit the National World War II Museum – This is the largest World War II museum in America. It’s also one of the best museums in the world. You can listen to firsthand accounts of the war, which make it all feel that much more intimate and impactful. You can get your tickets here .
• Listen to music on Frenchmen Street – Live music is available every night of the week, and there are innumerable venues to listen to blues and jazz. My personal favorite is the Spotted Cat.
• Wander the French Quarter and Garden District – These are two of NOLA’s most iconic and historic districts, full of old French-influenced buildings and grand mansions. You can either do a self-guided tour or go with Tour Orleans to learn more about this beautiful area.
• Take a ghost or voodoo tour – “The Big Easy” has a creepy past. The best way to learn about it is to take a voodoo or ghost tour . You’ll get to see cemeteries, explore haunted buildings, and hear all sorts of unsettling anecdotes and ghostly tales.

For more things to see and do in NOLA, check out this detailed itinerary .  

Days 37-39: Houston, TX

Houston is home to the Space Center and NASA’s astronaut training complex, as well as countless breweries and museums and a killer food scene (definitely go out for Viet BBQ).

These are some things you can do while you’re in town:

• Visit Space Center Houston – This is Houston’s top attraction, bringing in over a million visitors each year. There are over 400 items in the collection, including moon rocks and three spacecraft that were used during missions. Get your timed-entry ticket here .
• Explore the Museum of Natural Science – Opened in 1909, this museum has four floors of exhibitions (as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theatre). There are displays on wildlife, ancient Egypt, dinosaurs, minerals, and much more! Tickets are $25 USD.
• Wander Buffalo Bayou Park – This 124-acre park has all kinds of walking trails and is a nice spot for a picnic, to relax with a book, or to people-watch. There are also lots of concerts and events here too, so check the local tourism office to see what’s coming up.

Days 40-44: Austin, TX

• Relax at Barton Springs – Barton Springs is a pool/creek that locals flock to in warm weather. It’s fed by a natural cold-water spring in Zilker Park and has manicured lawns that are great for lounging on and relaxing when it’s too hot to do much else. You can also rent kayaks and paddle around.
• Go two-stepping – Two-stepping is a popular country dance — and country dancing is one of Austin’s favorite pastimes. To see it in action (and try it yourself), head to the White Horse, where there are free lessons so you can then dance your way around town.
• Enjoy world-class barbecue — Some of the best BBQ joints in the US are here in Austin. If you’re looking to treat your taste buds (and don’t mind waiting, usually a couple of hours), head to Franklin’s or La Barbecue. For something faster, check out Micklethwait Craft Meats.

For way more activities, check out my free guide to Austin ! Since I lived here for so long, I have a lot of suggestions on how to spend your time.  

Days 45-47: Truth or Consequences, NM

Originally named Hot Springs, “T or C,” as it’s known, got its name from a radio contest in 1950. After winning, the town kept the name. Located 10 hours from Austin, T or C is known for its wellness tourism. The entire town was built over a hot mineral spring, so it’s the perfect place to relax at a spa.

Try to explore some of the nearby ghost towns. Winston and Chloride, located north of T and C, are two mining towns that were abandoned in the early 1900s; some of the original buildings still remain.  

Days 48-49: Phoenix, AZ

• See the Desert Botanical Garden – This 140-acre garden is home to over 50,000 plants, including over 14,000 cacti. It’s super interesting!
• Visit the Heard Museum – This museum focuses on Native American art. There are permanent and rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, as well as cultural artifacts that highlight the history and traditions of the region’s native cultures.
• Hike Camelback Mountain – With an elevation of 2,700 feet, this 2-3-hour hike is a fun way to see Arizona’s stunning and arid landscapes. There are two trails, both of which are challenging but rewarding.

Days 50-51: Joshua Tree National Park, CA

A seven-day vehicle pass is $30 USD. It allows multiple entries in case you stay in one of the nearby towns.  

Days 52-54: San Diego, CA

• See the USS Midway Museum – This aircraft carrier was commissioned after World War II and was the largest ship in the world until 1955. It saw action in numerous conflicts, including Vietnam. After it was decommissioned, it became a museum open to the public. Skip-the-line tickets are $32 USD.
• Visit wildlife at the San Diego Zoo – Located in Balboa Park, this zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and 700,000 plant species. It’s a massive 1,800-acre park, and you could easily spend an entire day here. It’s a fun place to visit with kids (there’s even a Children’s Zoo). A skip-the-line ticket is $72 USD.
• Go whale watching – California gray whales migrate from Alaska to Mexico between December and April. They are spectacular to see up close, as they grow up to 49 feet long and live for over 70 years. Tours range from around $60-75 USD depending on length and tour company. A 4-hour tour with City Cruises California is $73 USD.

Days 55-58: Los Angeles, CA

• Wander Hollywood Boulevard – Play tourist and visit the Walk of Fame (where stars have their names engraved in the sidewalk) and Grauman’s (now TCL) Chinese Theatre (featuring celebrities’ handprints and footprints).
• Relax on the beach – At iconic Venice Beach, you’ll find all kinds of street performers, surfers, roller-skaters, and locals and tourists alike soaking up the sun. Some other beaches worth checking out are Carbon Beach, Santa Monica State Beach, Huntington City Beach, and El Matador.
• Visit to the Hollywood sign – Don’t just settle for a photo of the sign — go see it up close. The three trails that you can take (from easiest to hardest) are the Mt. Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail. Bring water and sunscreen, as the hike will take a few hours. If you don’t want to go solo, guided hikes to the Hollywood sign cost $25 USD.
• Go hiking – LA is an active city, and locals love escaping the hustle and bustle as often as they can. Some trails worth checking out are the Charlie Turner Trail (90 minutes), Runyon Canyon (45 minutes), Portuguese Bend Reserve (3 hours), and Echo Mountain (3–3.5 hours).

For an even more detailed list of what else you can see and do while in LA, check out my Los Angeles travel guide . For accommodation suggestions, here are my favorite hostels in Los Angeles .  

Days 59-61: Las Vegas, NV

• Explore Fremont Street – Old Vegas is full of sketchy bars, vintage casinos, and a Bourbon Street vibe. It makes for an interesting contrast to the sleek and polished Strip. There are lots of cover bands, buskers, and celeb lookalikes pandering for paid photos, as well as people-watching, cheap slots, and cheap drinks. There’s also an hourly light show on the ceiling above the street. Las Vegas Walking Tours offers a 3-hour tour of Fremont Street if you’d like a bit of a deeper dive.
• Hike Red Rock – Just 30 minutes outside town, Red Rock Canyon offers plenty of hiking and biking trails. Just make sure to arrive early in the morning before it gets too hot. Red Rock Discovery Tours also offers guided hikes starting at $95 USD (includes round-trip transportation from Vegas).
• Visit the Neon Museum – This is essentially an eclectic graveyard for the huge lights and signs that once beckoned to tourists from casinos like the Silver Slipper, Stardust, and El Cortez. It spans three acres and gives you a glimpse into the city’s shining and sinful past. Admission is $20 USD.
• See the Grand Canyon – Rent a car and drive the four hours to the South or North Rim of the Grand Canyon . It’s one of the most epic, iconic sights in the country and absolutely worth the drive. If you can, hike down to the bottom and stay the night. It’s an amazing experience! And if you want to dive deeper into this beautiful area, check out HoneyTrek’s Grand Circle Road Trip .

For more activities (and there’s plenty to choose from that don’t involve gambling), here is my comprehensive guide to Las Vegas .  

Days 62-64: Yosemite National Park, CA

Days 65-67: San Francisco, CA

• Walk the Golden Gate Bridge – When it opened in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge was the world’s longest and tallest suspension bridge. Spend some time walking across to enjoy the view of the bay and the ships coming and going.
• Tour Alcatraz – One of the most infamous prisons in the country, Alcatraz housed some of the nation’s worst criminals (renowned gangster Al “Scarface” Capone spent four years here). Today, it’s a national landmark where you can take tours, step foot in the cells, and learn about its grim history. Tickets are $53.25 USD. There are also many joint ticket options, such as this one that includes a cruise around San Francisco Bay .
• Relax at Golden Gate Park – This gigantic park features a Japanese garden, museums, an arboretum, a carousel, and many hiking and walking trails. It’s a whopping 20% bigger than New York City’s Central Park, so you easily could spend an entire day here relaxing, walking, and lounging.

Again, for even ways to spend your time in SF, here’s my guide to the city . And, for suggested places to stay, here’s a list of my favorite hostels in San Francisco .  

Days 68-69: Redwood National Park, CA

Given the drive time from SF, spend two nights here to make sure you get some good hiking in.  

Days 70-73: The Oregon Coast

• Binge on oysters – I’ve grown to love oysters in recent years and some of the best in the country can be found in Oregon. Some of my favorite places I stopped at were from Shucker’s Oyster Bar (Lincoln City), Oregon Oyster Farm and Mo’s Seafood & Chowder (both in Newport), and Clausen Oysters (North Bend).
• See Thor’s Well – This coastal sinkhole near Cape Perpetua is known as the Drainpipe of the Pacific. While it can be dangerous to get too close (it’s very easy to get swept away into the water or rocks), you’ll nevertheless see tons of tourists posing for pictures near the well. It’s worth a stop to snap some quick pics.
• Relax at Cannon Beach – This iconic beach is long and sandy and is best known for its photogenic Haystack Rock, a giant rock jutting out of the ocean just offshore. There are plenty of tide pools and places to picnic here, and the town itself (also called Cannon Beach) is full of all kinds of cafés and artisanal shops.

Here’s a list of my favorite things to see and do along the Oregon coast to help you make the most of your drive.  

Days 74-76: Portland

• See Pittock Mansion – Built in 1914, this 46-room French Renaissance-style mansion was originally owned by a wealthy couple from England. Today, it’s part of the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, you’ll find beautiful artwork and furniture collected by the original owners. Admission is $16.50 USD.
• Devour some donuts – Portland is known for its donuts. Voodoo Doughnuts put Portland on the map with its weird and wonderful combinations, such as Cap’n Crunch and maple bacon. Some argue that Voodoo is for tourists and that actually Blue Star makes better donuts. Try both and see for yourself! You can also take a donut food tour with Underground Donut Tours for $70 USD.
• Hike the Columbia River Gorge – Located east of town, here you’ll find waterfalls (including Oregon’s tallest, Multnomah Falls), scenic vistas, and hiking trails. Some suggested hikes are Dry Creek Falls (easy, 2 hours), Wahkeena Falls Loop (moderate, 3 hours), and Starvation Ridge and Warren Lake (hard, 8 hours). Guided hikes with Wildwood Tours cost around $80 USD (transportation included).

For more suggestions on how to spend your time in Portland, here’s a list of the best things to see and do in the city!  

Days 77-79: Seattle, WA

• Explore the Seattle Center – Seattle Center is home to the Space Needle as well as a complex of entertainment venues: the Museum of Pop Culture (formerly the Experience Music Project), the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, the Pacific Science Center, and the outdoor Mural Amphitheater, as well as the International Fountain and the Armory food court. Don’t miss the views from the top of the Space Needle!
• Wander Pike Place Market – Pike Place Market is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the US. It’s a nine-acre, four-floor sprawl of shops, stalls, galleries, and cafés (including the original Starbucks location) selling everything from crafts to flowers to fresh produce. Wander, eat, shop, and enjoy the ambiance. Show Me Seattle offers food tours of the market for a more guided experience.
• See the Boeing Museum of Flight – This museum highlights planes and spacecraft through the ages, offering insight into how flight has evolved over the decades. You’ll also get a chance to see the original Boeing “factory.” The original Air Force One is here too. Admission is $26.

For more things to see and do, here’s my in-depth guide to Seattle . And here are some budget-friendly accommodation suggestions for your visit.  

Days 80-82: Missoula, MT

• Tour the breweries – For such a small city, there are breweries and bars everywhere (Montana has the third-highest number of craft breweries per capita in the country). Don’t miss Bayern Brewery (the state’s first craft brewery), Draught Works Brewery (which has live music three nights a week), and Imagine Nation (which is also a community center). If you visit in April, you can attend the Missoula Craft Beer Week.
• Hike the M – Mount Sentinel is a small mountain nearby that offers some stunning views. The trail is just 1.2 miles, so it’s not particularly challenging, though you can extend the route for an all-day hike by continuing along the Crazy Canyon Trail at the summit.
• Ski Snowball Mountain – In the winter you’ll find upwards of a thousand acres of skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, the area is open for zip-lining, hiking, and mountain biking. It’s just twenty minutes from downtown,

NOTE: While not here, if you have time, you can drive north to spend a few days in Glacier National Park.  

Days 83-86: Yellowstone National Park, WY

Yellowstone is home to the largest volcanic system in North America, which is why geysers like Old Faithful (and the largest active geyser in the world, Steamboat) can be found here. Wolves, bears, lynx, cougars, and bison all call the park home as well. Spend some time here hiking, camping, and basking in the park’s magnificent landscapes.  

Days 87-90: Denver, CO

• Visit the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum – This museum is housed on an old air base and has a collection of over 50 aircraft on display. Some of the highlights include a supersonic Rockwell Lancer and the massive B-52 Stratofortress. Admission is $19.95.
• Hike Mount Evans – This 14,265-foot peak can actually be summited in under 30 minutes (though there are longer trails too). You’ll see sweeping panoramic views of the region without having to hike for hours. Be sure to visit Like Echo and Mount Goliath on the way here.
• Catch a show at Red Rocks – The Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a 9,000-seat outdoor venue that regularly hosts concerts and other events. It’s one of the most beautiful concert venues in the US. Try to catch a show here if you can.

Days 91-93: Kansas City, MO

• Indulge in BBQ – KC is one of America’s best hubs for delicious barbecue. You can find pretty much any kind of meat barbecued here, from brisket to turkey to fish. Kansas City’s barbecue dates back to the 1920s, and the city takes this tradition seriously. Harp Barbecue and Fiorella’s Jack Stack are two of the best in town.
• Wander the Jazz District – The historic 18th and Vine area is known as the Jazz District, owing to the popularity of jazz music from the 1920s to the ’40s and performances here by the likes of Count Basie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louie Armstrong. Wander the district and bar-hop to catch some stellar live music.
• See the World War I Museum – The award-winning National World War I Museum and Memorial of the United States sheds light on the history and horrors of the Great War.

Days 94-97: Chicago, IL

• Relax in Grant & Millennium Parks – Located downtown, these two parks provide a relaxing place to hang out, have a picnic, or go for a run. You’ll find people playing chess, and during the summer, there are a lot of free concerts. The famous “Chicago Bean” sculpture is located in Millennium Park.
• Try the pizza – Deep-dish pizza and stuffed-crust pizza were developed in Chicago, and no trip is complete without trying at least one. Deep-dish pizza was invented by Pizzeria Uno, which is now a national restaurant chain. But for something more local, Chicagoans swear by Lou Malnati’s.
• Visit the Art Institute of Chicago – Founded in 1879, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country. It has everything from photography to architecture to textiles, and its permanent collection includes works by Eva Hesse, David Hockney, and Ellsworth Kelly. A skip-the-line ticket is $40 USD.

If you want additional things to see and do (as well as some money-saving tips), consult my comprehensive guide to Chicago!

And here is my list of the best hostels in Chicago for budget-friendly accommodation .  

Days 98-100: Detroit, MI

• Explore the Detroit Institute of Art – This 130-year-old museum is located in the heart of Midtown and has something to offer every visitor. There are more than 65,000 works of art here, ranging from classic to more modern and contemporary pieces, spread out over 100 different galleries. It’s one of the best art museums in the country. Admission is $18 USD.
• Walk the Dequindre Cut – The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a two-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront, the Eastern Market, and several residential neighborhoods in between. Along the path, you’ll find all kinds of street art, as well as buskers in the summer. It’s a nice place to walk or jog and take in the city.
• Shop at the Eastern Market – The Eastern Market is a huge marketplace with local foods, art, jewelry, artisan crafts, and more. It covers 43 acres and is the largest historic public market district in the United States, dating back over 150 years. It is particularly busy on Saturdays, when farmers bring in their fresh produce.

Days 101-103: Cleveland, OH

• See the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – This is one of the largest collections of musical memorabilia in the entire world. John Lennon’s guitar, Elvis Presley’s military uniform, and David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust outfits are just some of the items in the massive collection.
• Tour the Museum of Natural History – Founded in 1920, this massive museum is home to over four million specimens. There are exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, primates, animals, and more. It’s super educational, and there are lots of interactive exhibits too.
• Hike the Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Located on the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron, this is the only national park in Ohio. Encompassing 32,000 acres, the park has all kinds of hiking and biking trails (camping is no longer permitted).

Days 104-106: Pittsburgh, PA

• Ride the Duquesne Incline – This 140-year-old funicular used to transport workers up Pittsburgh’s steep hills before cars became commonplace. Hop on, ride to the top, and enjoy the view! Tickets are $2.50 USD one way.
• Visit the Warhol Museum – Dedicated to Andy Warhol, Pittsburgh’s best-known artist, this is the largest museum in the country dedicated to a single person. While much of his art is unusual, it’s still worth a visit, as Warhol has had a profound and lasting impact on modern art. Admission is $25.
• See Randyland – Created by a local artist, here you’ll find a section of the north end completely painted in all kinds of bright colors and murals. Buildings, fences, driveways — it’s a massive, bright, and fun spot to visit and unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere! Admission is free but donations are encouraged.
• Tour Carrie Furnace – Built in 1884, these former blast furnaces were part of the Homestead Steel Works and produced over 1,000 tons of iron per day. It’s one of the only pre–World War II blast furnaces in existence. Tours are $25 USD.

Days 107-110: Finger Lakes, NY

• Visit the wineries – There are tons of wineries all around the Finger Lakes, most of which offer tours and tastings (some also have live music and serve food). To guide your way, follow the Seneca Wine Trail or the Keuka Wine Trail, which link some of the best wineries in the region.
• See Watkins Glen State Park – Watkins Glen State Park gorge trail is home to 19 picturesque waterfalls spread out over a two-hour hike. It’s not particularly strenuous, and there are lots of spots to relax and snap photos.
• Visit Ithaca – This photogenic small town has over 150 waterfalls within 10 miles of the town. There’s also a charming downtown, the beautiful Cornell campus (one of the prettiest in the country), and Cayuga Lake.

Days 111-113: Albany, NY

• Hike in John Boyd Thacher State Park – Located 30 minutes outside of town, this state park has over 25 miles of trails, as well as panoramic views from the Helderberg Escarpment. It’s a beautiful place for a day hike.
• Visit New York State Museum – This museum has a wide range of interesting exhibitions, including on local birds and wildlife, colonial history, and the ice age, among other topics. Admission is free (though a $5 USD donation is suggested).
• Tour the Capitol – The NY State Capitol building offers free daily tours. They’re the perfect way to learn more about the state, the city, and the building (including some ghost stories about the capitol’s haunting). Tours last one hour.

Days 114-120: Buffer Days

Having some padding in your itinerary will let you explore, have serendipitous travel experiences, and dig a little deeper into the regions and cultures you’ll be passing through.

While this is a solid itinerary, please mix it up. Skip some cities and spend more time in nature — or vice versa!

At the end of the day, the United States is an amazing and diverse country. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find it. Delicious food, adventure activities, hiking, museums, history — we’ve got it all. You just need to hit the road and see it for yourself.

Need a rental car for your epic adventure? use the widget below to find the best deals!

Book Your Trip to the United States: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money — and I think they will help you too!

Want more information on the United States? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on the USA for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are mine alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

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DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP

Consider us your very own expert USA road trip planner - we've created 52 bespoke and unique routes that take in everything from the tried and tested to the wild and weird. Simply choose the area you want to start in, select the kind of things that interest you and let us whisk you away. 1.0.0.20 1.0.0.20

Want some instant inspiration? Dive into our top West Coast, East Coast and Southern USA road trips. Download these road trip ideas and plot your way across and around this amazing country, whether it's just the two of you, or a family road trip with kids. 1.0.0.20 1.0.0.20

Appalachian Trail

Georgia - Maine

Take the Appalachian Trail challenge for some of the US’ best scenery.

Cross-Country Sporting Successes

Kentucky - Massachusetts

Sporting history is made and celebrated at this selection of landmarks and stadiums.

Eat the East Coast

New Orleans - New York

Good food, great locations – enjoy an East Coast culinary adventure in style.

Filming locations

New York - Minnesota

See a feast of famous film locations on this star-studded jaunt across the East.

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How long is your trip?

What type of car would you like to drive, getting your kicks.

Illinois - California

Get your kicks on Route 66 – America’s legendary cross-country route – for a taste of old-fashioned Americana.

Totally Texas

Texas - Texas

Big, bold and beautiful – uncover the wonders of the Lone Star State.

Roaring Twenties Chicago

Illinois - Illinois

Take a Lindy Hop back in time on our Roaring Twenties road trip of Chicago’s most iconic sights. Experience the razzle dazzle of the historic theater, trace the footsteps of bootleggers and try plenty of deep-dish pizza along the way.

Ghost towns of the West

California - Arizona

• 1,346 miles

Discover the deserted delights of America’s wilderness in this trip through its ghost towns.

The Road to Civil Rights

Atlanta - Louisiana

Explore the towns and landmarks that played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights struggle of the 1950s and 60s.

Haunted America

New York - Philadelphia

Visit eerie lighthouses, sinister state buildings and a town synonymous with witches on this ghost-packed US road trip. Welcome to Haunted America.

Magical Lighthouses of Maine

York - Lubec

Discover lighthouses, oysters and beautiful cities with this Maine road trip, exploring some of the most peaceful spots in New England.

Into the Valleys

Arizona - Oregon

• 1,764 miles

Visit the West Coast’s most beautiful old scenery with some massive landmarks along the way.

Colorado Ski Adventure

Colorado - Colorado

From the Wild West and haunted hotels to sublime slopes and plenty in between, enjoy an awe-inspiring adventure in Colorado.

Full-On Florida

Orlando - Key Largo

Whether you want theme parks or nature parks, fun, sun and culture await in the Sunshine State.

Pacific Coast Paradise

Washington - California

See the stunning West Coast of the USA with quirky stops and breathtaking natural scenery.

The Stargazing States

Wyoming - Nebraska

• see notes miles

Be inspired to look to the heavens with our guide to the very best US stargazing spots.

Pop Culture Cruisin’

If you like US pop culture, this tour of famous TV, music and film locations is for you.

Best of the Midwest

Missouri - Kansas

Whether you want the Windy City or the lush rolling hills, the Midwest has it all.

A Carolina Christmas

North Carolina - South Carolina

• 7 to 9 days

When the holiday season arrives, the Carolinas transforms into a festive wonderland, ready to discover on our magical Christmas road trip.

Roads Paved With Gold

Utah - California

Follow the spread of the gold rush across the country to some scenic destinations.

Deep in the heart of Texas

They say everything’s bigger in Texas – that includes the fun you’ll have at these legendary Texan landmarks.

The Oregon Trail

Missouri - Oregon

Follow the pioneers of American life on the frontier with this fact-filled jaunt across the States.

The Grand Circle

Nevada - Nevada

Get your camera ready for some of the USA’s most majestic national landmarks – and a few surprises too.

The Weird, Weird West

Washington - Nevada

See the weird and wonderful sights of the West with this quirky road trip through the States.

Great River Road

Minnesota - Louisiana

Follow the world’s fourth-longest river through some amazing US destinations and see some cultural icons.

Grit, Gangsters and Gasoline

New York - Illinois

Discover the murky past of the United States with these notorious historical landmarks.

Surfing California

San Diego - San Francisco

Hit the waves at California’s coolest destinations for a stellar surfing adventure.

Interstate 90

Montana - Cleveland

Drive this legendary stretch of highway for awe-inspiring historical landmarks and quirky art projects.

Roller Coaster Tour

Wisconsin - New Jersey

Not for the faint-hearted - enjoy the thrills and spills of the USA’s best roller coasters.

Sounds of the South

Tennessee - Louisiana

From Presley to Parton, this trip is for fans of good ol’ grassroots American music.

Hotshot Hawaii

Honolulu - Honolulu

Experience the magic behind the movies by checking out beaches and forests on O’ahu that feature in Hollywood epics, on our Hawaiian Hotshots road trip.

Shopping, Sights & Sidewalks

Boston - Virginia

In need of some retail therapy? Visit the States’ best known shopping destinations.

The Dakotas

South Dakota - South Dakota

For a fascinating mix of nature and historical landmarks, look no further than the Dakota circuit.

Natural California

Joshua Tree National Park - Mosaic Canyon

• 1,516 miles

Explore famous national parks, camp beneath the stars and visit iconic film locations on this epic California road trip.

To Florida and Beyond

Texas - Florida

Head across the southeast for some family fun in the theme park capital of the USA.

The Rocky Mountains Road

Montana - New Mexico

Drive the Rocky Mountains Road for the best scenery and wildlife the States has to offer.

Great Heights Tour

• 1,491 miles

Leave the casinos and high rollers of Las Vegas behind and discover the Silver State’s rugged landscapes, on this thrilling Nevada road trip.

One Small Step

Washington - Texas

Take a space-themed tour through America on this Apollo 11, lunar landing-inspired road trip, taking in Cape Canaveral, Florida, and Houston, Texas.

Canyons of Arizona & Nevada

Phoenix - Nevada

Drive through the vast valleys and dramatic canyons of America’s west on this route through Arizona and Nevada.

Utah's Mighty Five

Salt Lake City - Zion National Park

Discover a world of geological wonders in the Beehive State with our Mighty Five road trip across Utah.

Nascar Homelands

Daytona - Charlotte

Follow in the footsteps of NASCAR heroes, visit iconic racetracks and trace the history of an all-American motorsport on this US road trip. Rev your engines.

Awesome Arizona

Tucson - Grand Canyon

Experience the Copper State’s dizzying peaks and dramatic depths on our Awesome Arizona road trip.

Mighty Michigan

Bay City - Grand Haven

Start planning a journey through the Great Lake State on our Mighty Michigan road trip. Check out our route map to explore the rural beauty that awaits.

Mother’s Day Weekend Road Trip Getaway

Balboa Park, San Diego - Downtown Alameda, San Francisco

Treat Mom to a memorable adventure this Mother’s Day weekend on our West Coast getaway road trip.

Spring Golf Season

Davenport - The Prairie Club

The Midwest contains some of the country’s finest golf courses and our spring golf season road trip takes you through Iowa and Nebraska’s fantastic fairways.

New Hampshire Road Trip – Scaling the White Mountain State

Manchester, NH - Concord

• 5 to 6 days

Scale the White Mountain State on our New Hampshire road trip. Discover authentic New England on scenic drives, explore quaint cities and reach epic peaks.

Eat the West Coast

Hollywood - Seattle

From Hollywood’s finest celeb eateries and quaint bistros hidden under Californian palms, to riverside restaurants and markets in the soul of Seattle, the west coast has it all.

Captivating Colors

Guilford - Portland

• 4 to 5 days

Experience fall foliage in New England with our Captivating Colors road trip. Peep the best leaves and see spectacular sights along the way on our route.

Summer on the Oregon Coast

Portland - Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest

• 5 to 7 days

Spend your summer exploring the Oregon coast on our road trip. Wander through the wilderness, traverse mountains and enjoy incredible viewpoints today.

Robert Trent Jones Trail

Alabama - Alabama

• 831.5 miles
• 11 to 14 days days

After collecting your rental car in Mobile, the first course is a short drive northwest. Golf Digest recently named Magnolia Grove as one of the world’s top 50 golf courses. Featuring three newly renovated courses, the 54 holes are set in acres of open parkland. The lakes and pines of the Crossings course have hosted several LPGA Tour events too, including the Airbus LPGA Classic. Need accommodation? Check out Mobile’s historic Malaga Inn. It features an array of Southern Living-style rooms and suites.

Veterans Day Trail

Arlington - New York

Discover fascinating military history and commemorate those who have served in our armed forces on our Veterans Day Trail road trip.

Go Green for St Patrick’s

New York City - Boston

Experience St Patrick’s Day like never before with our Irish-American road trip, from Boston to NYC. Plan your St Paddy’s celebrations with Hertz today.

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USA Trip Calculator 🇺🇸

Embarking on a road trip across the United States is an adventure that promises endless memories and breathtaking sights. However, without proper planning, it can also come with unexpected expenses, especially when it comes to fuel costs. This is where Roadtrip's USA Trip Calculator steps in, offering a tailored solution for travelers seeking to manage their budget effectively while exploring the vast landscapes of the USA.

Why Choose Roadtrip's USA Trip Calculator?

Customized for your journey.

Our USA Trip Calculator is designed with the diversity of American road trips in mind. Whether you're cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway, traversing the historic Route 66, or exploring the scenic byways of New England, our tool provides tailored calculations based on your specific route, vehicle type, and current fuel prices.

Fast and User-Friendly

We know that planning a road trip should be more about excitement and less about hassle. That's why our calculator is designed for speed and ease of use. In just a few steps, you'll have a clear estimate of your trip's fuel costs, allowing you to budget effectively and spend more on experiences.

Always Accessible

The USA Trip Calculator is web-based, making it accessible from anywhere at any time. Whether you're at the planning stage at home or making adjustments on the road, our tool is available on any device, ensuring you have the information you need, when you need it.

Up-to-Date Information

Fuel prices can vary greatly across the United States, and they change frequently. Our calculator uses real-time data to provide the most current prices, ensuring your trip estimates are as accurate as possible.

The Roadtrip App: Elevate Your Road Trip Planning

While the USA Trip Calculator is a great start, the Roadtrip app brings your trip planning to a whole new level:

• Interactive Map-Based Planning : Use our app's interactive map to plot your route, discover points of interest, and calculate distances accurately.
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How to Plan Your USA Road Trip for Maximum Savings

• Plot Your Route : Start by mapping out your journey, including all the major stops you plan to make. This helps in calculating the total distance of your trip accurately.
• Update Fuel Prices : Input the latest fuel prices, or let our app do it for you in real-time. This step is crucial for an accurate cost estimate.
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Q: How accurate is the USA Trip Calculator? A: Our calculator is highly accurate, provided you input the latest fuel prices and accurate vehicle information. For a more comprehensive planning tool, including live fuel prices and route optimization, the Roadtrip app is the ideal companion.

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Planning a road trip across the United States doesn't have to be daunting or expensive. With Roadtrip's USA Trip Calculator and the comprehensive Roadtrip app, you have all the tools necessary to plan your journey efficiently, save on fuel costs, and focus on making unforgettable memories. Download the app today and start planning your dream road trip with confidence and ease.

9 Scenic Drives through US National Parks Everyone Raves About (And How To Plan Them)

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road with the windows down and taking in some of the country’s most astonishing scenery. Imagine driving through vast landscapes, where every turn reveals a new vista of sprawling desert cacti, summits of snow-capped mountain ranges, and the infinitesimal feeling of smallness beneath towering Redwoods.

Of course, many of the best scenic drives in USA are found within its national parks, which are spread nationwide. Between road trips back home to my van life years, from winding mountain passes to sun-drenched coastal roads, here are 9 of the most picturesque routes through national parks where I couldn’t help but stop every few minutes.

1. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana

• Best Time to Visit Glacier: June to September (Otherwise closed)
• Distance: 50 miles
• Must-See Stops: Logan Pass, St. Mary Lake, and Jackson Glacier Overlook

Starting off this list is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds through Glacier National Park in Montana and some of the most stunning alpine landscapes in the country. The road is a feat of engineering, with narrow lanes hugging steep cliffs behind curves to glacial peaks, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes.

Take a hike or two along the many trails that branch off from the road. One of my favorite and most popular trails is the hike to Avalanche Lake. Continue to Logan Pass to capture some of the park’s most dazzling vistas at the Weeping Wall and Bird Woman Falls. At Lake McDonald Valley, take a brief detour to the Apgar Lookout. Other attractions include St. Mary Lake, Sunrift Gorge, and Wild Goose Island.

Tip! The roads are only open from June to September; even in summer, the high elevation can bring unexpected chilly weather. Traffic can get congested during peak season.

2. Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, Zion National Park, Utah

• Best Time to Visit Zion: Year-Round (Summers get crowded)
• Distance: 10 miles
• Must-See Stops: Checkerboard Mesa, Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, and Canyon Overlook Trail

This drive through Zion National Park is just one section of Highway 9, a 150-mile scenic byway. The steep switchbacks and narrow tunnels carved into the red rock cliffs make for an exhilarating drive.

Start at Springdale, with your first landmark being the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Places like the famous Checkerboard Mesa are the best places to see the unique patterns in the rocks caused by erosion. Traverse further toward the park’s East Entrance for the Tunnel Viewpoint and the Canyon Overlook.

3. Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

• Best Time to Visit Rocky Mountain: Late May to October (otherwise closed)
• Distance: 48 miles
• Must-See Stops: Rock Cut Overlook, Many Parks Curve, and Forest Canyon Overlook

Trail Ridge Road is one of the highest paved roads in the United States, reaching an altitude of 12,183 feet at its peak. The drive takes you along the alpine tundra, glacial valleys, and a lot of wildlife sightings.

The scenic drive starts in Estes Park, with your first stop being Many Parks Curve. Press on to Rainbow Curve, then absorb the sights at Forest Canyon Overlook, a great spot for both sunrise and sunset. Travel Trail Ridge Road to the Alpine Visitor Center, Gore Range Overlook, and Milner Pass.

4. Tioga Road, Yosemite National Park, California

• Best Time to Visit Yosemite: May to September
• Distance: 46 miles
• Must-See Stops: Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows

Tioga Road is the only route that crosses through the high country of Yosemite National Park, linking the east and west entrances. This scenic drive takes you through alpine meadows, past towering granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls, all while winding along the Tuolumne River.

The scenic drive kicks off at the Tioga Pass Entrance, ideal for those coming from the east via US-395. Venturing into Yosemite, make a point to stop at Tuolumne Meadows. A short stroll here can lead you to Soda Springs, then move on to Olmsted Point for a panorama of Half Dome and its surroundings. Continue on Tioga Road to witness the beauty of Ellery Lake, Tenaya Lake, and Tioga Lake.

5. Death Valley Scenic Byway, Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada

• Best Time to Visit Death Valley: November to March (otherwise extremely hot)
• Distance: 96 miles
• Must-See Stops: Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Running parallel to the Nevada border, this scenic byway takes you through Death Valley National Park. It is one of the most diverse drives on this list. You’ll see it all, from the lowest point in North America to high desert overlooks and through some of the hottest recorded temperatures on Earth.

Near Stovepipe Wells, head east towards Badwater Basin, known for its salt flats and extreme temperatures. This route also includes Artist’s Drive and Palette, where you’ll see colorful mineral deposits on the mountainside, the Zabriskie Point badlands, and Dante’s View. End your drive at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where you can walk among the towering dunes and watch the sunset over this otherworldly landscape.

Tip! Avoid coming in the summer for both you and your vehicle.

6. Grand Loop Road, Yellowstone National Park

• Best Time to Visit Yellowstone: April to October (otherwise closed)
• Distance: 142 miles
• Must-See Stops: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Hayden Valley, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park is shaped like the number eight, with the Grand Loop Road running through the bottom circle, connecting the park’s major attractions. This scenic drive takes you past geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and herds of bison and elk.

Although the landscapes along the road itself may not be as beautiful as some of the others on this list, take a short hike to see some of the coolest geothermal formations in the world, such as Old Faithful, Norris Geyser Basic, and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring. Make sure to also stop at Hayden Valley for the wildlife and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone for powerful waterfalls and colorful canyons.

Tip! Be prepared for traffic jams in peak season, especially around popular attractions like Old Faithful and when wildlife herds block the roads.

7. Desert View Drive, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

• Best Time to Visit Grand Canyon: March to May, September to November
• Distance: 25 miles
• Must-See Stops: Desert View Watchtower, Grandview Point, Moran Point, Yavapai Point

Desert View Drive hugs along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and gets you some of the most iconic vistas of the “7 Wonders of the Natural World”. This scenic drive is perfect for those who want to see the Grand Canyon’s highlights without having to hike or venture too far off the beaten path.

Starting at the Grand Canyon Village, you can choose to take a shuttle bus along Desert View Drive or drive your own vehicle. Drive all the way to the East Entrance to climb up the Desert View Watchtower. Along the way, stop at Grandview Point, Moran Point, and Yavapai Point for different perspectives of the canyon.

8. Highway 89 to Teton Park Road Loop, Grand Teton National Park, WY

• Best Time to Visit Grand Teton: Late May to September (otherwise closed)
• Distance: 43 miles
• Must-See Stops: Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake, Oxbow Bend, Mormon Row, Snake River Overlook

This dramatic loop takes you along the main highway towards Yellowstone and through Grand Teton National Park for some of the most spectacular views of the mountain range. The drive is quite short, but there are many scenic points of interest to stop at along the way.

Starting at Moose Junction in the south, take Highway 89 north towards Antelope Flats Road for a chance to see iconic Moulton Barn on Mormon Row. Continue on towards famous Snake River Overlook and Oxbow Bend, especially if you are coming around sunrise time. Turn into the park ‘s main loop road and stop at Jenny Lake for a hike or boat ride to the parks best hike, Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls.

9. Hurricane Ridge Road, Olympic National Park, WA

• Best Time to Visit: June to September (otherwise rainy or closed in winter)
• Distance: 17 miles
• Must-See Stops: Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, scenic overlooks, hiking trails

This short and windy road takes you to one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Olympic National Park. Starting in Port Angeles, Washington, follow Hurricane Ridge Road up towards the mountains and through dense forests until you reach the top.

Five miles from the start is a popular viewpoint known as “The View,” where you can see Mount Olympus and other peaks on a clear day. Keep going until you reach the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center at mile 17 for glaciers, wildflowers, and wildlife views. From here, hike along different trails before heading back down to Port Angeles.

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

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ROAD TRIP IN FRANCE IN 9 STEPS 🚗

Ready to embark on a comfortable road trip across France with one of our luxury vehicles? For your next car journey, don’t spin around in circles: Drive across the hexagon! From the North to the West, and the South to the East, including the Isle of Beauty, SIXT has prepared a road trip across France for you to explore its most beautiful regions. So brush up on your geography, get ready to drive some long distances (it’ll be worth it, we promise!), and plan your road trip with us – in just a few weeks, you’ll have traveled all over France!

Rent a car for your Road Trip in France

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• From the North to Paris: Start your road trip at the top! 🤩
• From Mont Saint-Michel to Brittany: A salty road trip 🐚
• From Tours to the Loire Castles: A royal road trip 🤴
• From Puy du Fou to Île de Ré: A historic road trip ✨
• From Bordeaux to the Basque Country: A road trip at the peak of the wave 🌊
• From Provence to the Verdon Gorges: A vacation-like road trip 😎
• From Marseille to Corsica: A road trip along the Mediterranean coast ☀️
• From Puy de Dôme to Lyon: An explosive road trip 🌋
• From Lake Annecy to Alsace: A road trip where mountains move ⛰

1. FROM THE NORTH TO PARIS: START YOUR ROAD TRIP IN STYLE! 🤩

Kick off your adventure in the North and make a stop at the beaches of Dunkirk. To begin this road trip in France, we suggest you mingle with the peaks, all without taking any mountain roads! In the North, gain some altitude and drive through the plains of Flanders and Artois. On the agenda:

• A swim in the waters of Dunkirk (for the bravest)
• A day exploring Lille, the largest city in the region
• A visit to the old mines of Pas-de-Calais
• Numerous comforting specialties home made with (slightly) fragrant cheeses

After driving through the northernmost lands, head back down to the capital: Paris (just a reminder in case you forgot your geography lessons)!

Yes, driving in the City of Light might not be the easiest, but if you want to complete a road trip in France, you’ll have to do it! And if the infamous roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe and the peripheries feel like a bit much to contend with, know that there are also many places to discover around Paris in the Île-de-France region.

For example, you can visit the Palace of Versailles, stroll through the forests of Rambouillet or Fontainebleau, and discover charming villages like Provins, Montchauvet, and La Roche-Guyon.

Consult our guide to know the rules for driving in France and our advice!

2. From Mont Saint-Michel to Brittany: A Salty Road Trip 🐚

Have you fallen under the charm of life in Paris? In that case, for your next stop, do as true Parisians do: Head to recharge in Normandy!

It’s now time to head west on your French road trip and discover what lies within the waters of the English Channel. After a quick stop in Giverny, Monet’s holiday destination, follow the salty breeze towards Rouen and the D-Day beaches.

Finally, to discover Mont Saint-Michel, a Norman jewel (yes, we said Norman!), among the most beautiful monuments in France, simply follow the coast, park your car, and let yourself be guided by shuttle to the island.

Now that you know the northern tip of the hexagon, how about discovering its westernmost point? For that, continue your itinerary in the direction of Brittany.

For this Armorican escapade on your road trip in France, we recommend indulging in a galette in Rennes, exploring the fortifications of Saint-Malo, setting foot on the Quiberon Peninsula, strolling among the menhirs of Carnac, and of course, admiring the ocean from the Pointe du Raz.

In front of these cliffs, a true journey to the end of the world awaits you!

Rent a car for your tour in Brittany

3. From Tours to the Loire Castles: A Royal Road Trip 🤴

If you love grandeur and beautiful mansions, take a royal turn on your road trip in France by heading to Tours in the famous Loire Valley!

For this leg, you don’t need a carriage; in the largest city of the Loire Valley, a car or  even a van from SIXT will suffice! Once your vehicle is parked in the city, set out to discover the Château de Tours located on the banks of the Loire, and the historic city center with its half-timbered houses.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to head to the famous covered food market, Les Halles – a culinary hotspot! Here, you can taste delicious Touraine specialties like fouace, rillettes, Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine cheese, or nougat from Tours.

Once your royal feast is over, you can continue your itinerary through the Loire Valley and discover its castles. Along the way, the doors of Chenonceau Castle, Chambord Castle, Amboise Castle, and Azay-le-Rideau Castle are open to you.

In the region, there are nearly 3000 castles! So, if you want to see beautiful stonework during your road trip in France, the Loire Valley Castles route is an unmissable stop!

4. From Puy du Fou to Île de Ré: A Historical Road Trip ✨

Following in the footsteps of the Loire Valley Castles route, in Vendée, let history guide you! It will take you to Puy du Fou, an amusement park specializing in exciting historical reenactments.In just one day, you can traverse the ages, from Antiquity to the Middle Ages, and from the Renaissance to World War II. You can also enjoy a fascinating bird show, and explore lifelike historical villages .

Once this time-travel journey is over, to recover from your adventures, treat yourself to a little nature break on your road trip in France!

For this, stay west and head back down the Atlantic Coast to Île de Ré – a firm French favorite. Between fishing villages, green countryside, sandy beaches, and oyster parks, there’s no doubt that this island escapade will please you!

5. From Bordeaux to the Basque Country: A Road Trip at the Peak of the Wave 🌊

On the road to your next destination, we warn you, it might be slow going! But it’s not traffic we’re talking about. After exploring the Atlantic Coast on its northern side during the first part of your road trip in France, now the Southwest and its wine capital, Bordeaux, await you, and you’ll want to savor every moment!

Whether among the vineyards or in the city, combine cultural discoveries and gastronomy during this journey through Bordeaux – the so-called ‘Sleeping Beauty.’

And if you prefer the ocean’s turmoil to the tranquility of the Garonne, swap the appetizer boards for a surfboard and head to the Basque Country! From Biarritz to Hendaye, passing through Anglet, you can catch the waves and let yourself glide. When the swell is too strong or if you simply want to switch from blue to green, the Basque Country is also full of treasures on its land! On the slopes of La Rhune or in the small village of Espelette, the first inclines of your road trip in France will make their appearance!

Car rental Bordeaux

6. From Provence to the Verdon Gorges: A Vacation-like Road Trip 😎

As you approach the lavender fields and the rhythmic chirping of cicadas, your road trip in France through Provence takes on the essence of a true vacation! But before diving headfirst into the waters of the Mediterranean and the rivers of Verdon, follow a cultural and historical itinerary between Nîmes, Aix-en-Provence, and Avignon.

If you’ve always dreamed of the vast American landscapes and canyons, you’ll be served here! In the heart of the Provençal Prealps, the Verdon River has carved through the rock to offer breathtaking landscapes.

Between cliffs, pine forests, and turquoise waters, the Verdon Gorges are a perfect playground for adventurers. Kayaking, climbing, swimming, hiking… Get ready, this part of your road trip in France promises to be full of adventure.

7. From Marseille to Corsica: A Mediterranean Coast Road Trip ☀️

After a few exhilarating days in the Verdon Gorges, are you craving some tranquility? We won’t hide it from you, the next stop on your road trip in France, Marseille, is likely to be quite lively! Yes, even though it’s not the capital, the Phocaean city, the second-largest city in France, never sleeps!

From the old port to the Panier district, from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde to the Vélodrome Stadium, you won’t be bored. But after a few intense days under the Marseille sun, Corsica welcomes you for a well-deserved rest!

With your car on the ferry, you’re ready to cross the Mediterranean towards the Isle of Beauty! Once you set foot in Ajaccio, Calvi, or Bastia, there’s only one thing left to do: relax and enjoy! Explore the Corsican mountains, party in Calvi, sunbathe on the beaches of Ajaccio, cruise through the Calanques de Piana… there’s something for everyone.

No matter which city you stay in or which route you choose, during a road trip in France, Corsica is a must-visit destination!

Rent a car in Corsica

8. From Puy de Dôme to Lyon: An Explosive Road Trip 🌋

Now that you’ve explored the south far and wide, it’s time to start heading north again. And even though it’s hard to bid farewell to Provence, the French Riviera , and the Isle of Beauty, the next destination on your road trip in France promises to be exciting!

We invite you to Puy de Dôme to discover its capital, Clermont-Ferrand, and its magnificent chain of volcanoes. You can go hiking around the craters, visit the Vulcania amusement park, and end with a stroll and a delicious meal in Clermont-Ferrand. If you’re a foodie, you’re in luck – Auvergne specialties like aligot and truffade will delight your taste buds!

Still have some room in your stomach? Perfect! After Puy de Dôme, it’s on to the capital of Gastronomy and Gauls: Lyon! Like in Bordeaux, you’ll encounter ‘bouchons,’ but here, it refers to traditional inns. Once you’ve enjoyed your Lyonnaise meal, a delightful post-dinner walk awaits you among the traboules and the city’s heights, where you’ll find the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the charming Croix-Rousse district.

• Find here our tips what to do in Lyon !

9. From Lake Annecy to Alsace: A Mountainous Road Trip ⛰️

On your road trip in France, from one lake to another, you’ll reach France’s most well-knownmountain range: the Alps. After mastering the winding roads of the Basque Country, navigating the Corsican maquis, and circling the volcanoes of Auvergne, it’s time to encounter the highest peaks of France.

Once you’ve conquered those hairpin turns and twists, you’ll find yourself in Annecy, the Venice of the Alps, where you can relax and unwind. Whether it’s in its castle, at a Savoyard restaurant table, along its canals, or in its waters, this alpine town is perfect for experiencing a tranquilmoment at the foot of the mountains.

Finally, to conclude this road trip in France, head to Alsace. Getting there is simple: just continue crossing the mountains, from the Alps to the Jura and the Vosges, and then the Ballons d’Alsace will appear.

In this region of storks, Christmas markets, and (almost) unpronounceable village names, there are plenty of wonderful discoveries to be made. In the streets of Strasbourg, on the canals of Colmar, in front of the colorful houses of Riquewihr, or on the hills of Kaysersberg, Alsace saves the best for last!

FAQ ROAD TRIP IN FRANCE

How to plan a road trip in france.

Here are all the steps for a perfect road trip in France:

1. CHOOSE YOUR ITINERARY

For any road trip, it’s essential to find the ideal route and plan your journey. You’ll need to select the points of interest and stops you want to make along the way. We’ve listed the must-visit places for a road trip in France in our article. Then, you’ll need to find the most suitable routes to take. Use apps like Google Maps to determine travel times between points.

2. FIND THE IDEAL MODE OF TRANSPORTATION

Once you’ve chosen your itinerary, you must find the right mode of transportation for your road trip. Whether by car or even a campervan, it should meet your expectations and make your journey enjoyable. Each has its advantages and disadvantages.

If you’re looking for flexibility, autonomy, and hassle-free travel, rent a vehicle with SIXT. We have excellent offers all over France. 😉

3. SET A BUDGET

To prevent your road trip from turning into a disaster, make sure to calculate the budget needed for accommodation, fuel, tolls, food, and activities at your destinations. Some activities, like a beach walk, may be free, but visiting museums or castles may have a fee. It’s better to overestimate than underestimate, and most importantly, you’ll travel with peace of mind.

4. PREPARE THE STOPS AND RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATIONS

Finally, to have a well-organized road trip in France, make sure to book accommodations in advance, especially if you have more than two stops. Finding accommodation at every stage ensures you won’t be left without a place to stay. Also, have backup plans in case your hotel or lodging is unavailable.

If you’re camping, research places where you can pitch your tent, and if you’re on a road trip in France by car or camper van, find out about parking and parking spaces. Avoid searching on the spot and wasting a lot of time.

WHEN IS THE IDEAL TIME TO TRAVEL AROUND FRANCE?

To tour France and admire its magnificent landscapes, known or unknown, we recommend a three week trip. You can travel from north to south, passing through the west and east of the country. If you don’t have three weeks, here’s an itinerary for a one-week road trip in France:

• Road Trip in Brittany
• A road trip along the Mediterranean coast: from Marseille to Corsica
• Road trip in the Jura region in 6 stages

HOW MUCH DOES A ROAD TRIP IN FRANCE COST?

The budget for a road trip in France varies depending on the duration of the road trip, individual needs, and spending habits. To keep track, divide planned expenses into four categories: accommodation, food, activities, and transportation-related costs. Of course, the longer you travel, the more the different categories increase.

For accommodation, consider whether you prefer a hotel, staying with locals, or camping. Hotels are usually the most expensive option, so if you can’t do without your comfort, budget accordingly.

For food, are you more inclined to eat at restaurants or have a picnic? Be sure to consider the costs involved.

For activities, plan ahead for the activities you want to do – for those that come with a fee, they are often cheaper when booked ahead!

Finally, for transportation-related costs, such as in the case of a car, van, or motorcycle. Determine the distances between different stages and calculate the cost of tolls and, most importantly, fuel.

Considering the many variables, it’s impossible to determine a one-size-fits-all budget for a road trip in France. However, preparing your own food can help decrease expenses, and if you’re traveling in a campervan, you don’t need to budget for standard accommodation. Whatever your needs, with our handy guide and your SIXT rental car, you’ll be sure to make lasting memories on your road trip in France. Bon voyage!

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