nyc la road trip

The Ultimate New York to Los Angeles Road Trip for 2024

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: November 8, 2023

Categories North America

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Long Is The Drive From NY To LA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What States Do You Drive Through From NY To California?

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

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

The Ultimate New York To Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

New york city, ny.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

J ourney time: 0 hours – you just started!

Best Places To Stay In NYC

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

Best Places To Eat In NYC:

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

Gettysburg, PA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay in Gettysburg, PA:

Budget: Super 8 by Wyndham Gettysburg

Midrange: Hampton Inn Gettysburg Luxury: Historic Farnsworth House Inn

Best places to eat in Gettysburg, PA:

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

Cleveland, OH

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Journey time: 5.5 – 6 hours.

Best places to stay in Cleveland, OH:

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

Best places to eat in Cleveland, OH:

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

Chicago, IL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Journey time: 5.5 – 6 hours

Best places to stay in Chicago, IL:

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

Best places to eat in Chicago, IL:

• Soulé

Wisconsin Dells, WI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Journey time: 3 – 3.5 hours

Best places to stay in Wisconsin Dells, WI:

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

Best places to eat in Wisconsin Dells, WI:

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

Sioux Falls, SD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay in Sioux Falls, SD:

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

Best places to eat in Sioux Falls, SD:

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

Mount Rushmore, SD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay near Mount Rushmore, SD:

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

Best places to eat near Mount Rushmore, SD:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay in Denver, CO:

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

Luxury: The Ramble Hotel

Best places to eat in Denver, CO:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay in Moab, UT:

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

Best places to eat in Moab, UT:

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

Grand Canyon, AZ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay near Grand Canyon, AZ :

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

Luxury : The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Best places to eat near Grand Canyon, AZ:

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

Las Vegas, NV

VEGAS, BABY!

Ok, glad I got that out of my system.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay in Las Vegas, NV:

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

Best places to eat in Las Vegas, NV:

• Tacos El Gordo
• Peppermill Restaurant
• Gordon Ramsay Steak

Los Angeles, CA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stay in Los Angeles, CA:

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

Best places to eat in Los Angeles, CA:

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

New York To Los Angeles Road Trip FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of this New York to Los Angeles Road Trip

Additional Resources You’ll Love

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

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

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

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How to Organize a Stylish Road Trip from NYC to LA?

Isn’t it absolutely thrilling how our fashion choices evolve as we journey across the world? It’s almost as if every city has its own unique fashion personality. I think this is certainly the case in the United States. Imagine this: a fabulous journey through the chic streets of New York, the avant-garde avenues of Chicago, and the laid-back style of Los Angeles. With a variety of colors, fabrics, patterns, and silhouettes to experiment with, a road trip from NYC to LA brings you up close and personal with an endless array of urban styles. So, buckle up and get ready for some inspiration for a stylish road trip from NYC to LA!

Why the NY-LA Road Trip: The Inspiration behind the Fashion-Hub Cities

New York, Chicago, and LA – what ties these cities together is their rich fashion heritage. I believe that NYC, the fashion capital, seamlessly blends high-end couture with a streetwise edge. While you wander through NYC’s neighborhoods, such as the artistic boutiques of SoHo with their unique fashion pieces and the quick-changing world of fast fashion in Times Square, you’ll observe the city’s fashion scene morphing, much like a chameleon.

On the other hand, Chicago has a mix of grit and elegance. This city is famous for its impressive architecture and is a place where you’ll find a wide variety of vintage-inspired fashion. From industrial outfits to cozy and stylish looks for the cold months, Chicago’s fashion scene blends urban style with sophistication. Wicker Park , in particular, is a great neighborhood to find 20+ year old vintage shops, popular brands, and small boutiques. Here, alternative and thrift styles are popular, offering plenty of originality for you to incorporate into your own fashion story.

And then, as you drive into the sun-soaked lanes of Los Angeles, you’ll find casual elegance in full swing. LA is renowned for its laid-back Cali style that makes comfort fashionable. While celebrity sightings might dazzle you, I think that the street fashion is equally stunning. From Venice Beach’s boho-chic vibe celebrating free spirits to the glamorous style of Rodeo Drive (remember “Pretty Woman” with Julia Roberts and Richard Gere?), you can discover fashion inspiration as diverse as the city’s ever-changing landscape.

A road trip through these cities isn’t just about covering miles; it’s like flipping through the pages of a style lookbook!

Vehicle Choice: Journeying in Comfort with a Mid-Size Truck

When you embark on a road trip from NYC to LA, your vehicle becomes more than just transportation; it becomes your second home. The thrill of exploration is amplified when you travel in comfort, keeping fatigue at bay. A mid-size truck offers the perfect blend – it’s robust enough for the long haul, yet compact enough for city parking. Just like your fashion choices, your vehicle should complement the essence of your fashion journey perfectly. Consider ample storage space for your fashion finds and the durability to take on diverse terrains when choosing a vehicle.

Make sure that your (rental) car is in its best condition. I have seen many people who ignore their car maintenance and go on a road trip without any precautionary measures. Apart from the daily maintenance, there are some steps that every driver should take before embarking on any long journey.

Exploring Local Wonder: Styles Along the Streets

Get ready for the thrill of exploring a mix of street styles during a road trip from NYC to LA. Each city weaves its fashion tales right into its busy streets, like a live fashion show that changes with every corner you turn:

New York – The Ultimate Fashion Catwalk

New York City, a fashion lover’s paradise, offers a dynamic fashion scene that’s ever-evolving. Whether you prefer high fashion or street style, NYC provides endless opportunities to indulge your fashion passion. Here are some top activities:

• Visit Fashion District: Explore the Garment District, home to countless fashion showrooms, fabric stores, and fashion studios. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and inner workings of the fashion industry in NYC.
• Go Shopping: NYC offers world-class shopping opportunities. Visit iconic department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, explore luxury boutiques along Fifth Avenue and wander in trendy neighborhoods like SoHo, Williamsburg, and the Lower East Side for unique finds. NYC also has a thriving vintage shopping scene. Stores like Beacon’s Closet, What Goes Around Comes Around, and Buffalo Exchange offer unique vintage and second-hand clothing.
• Museum Exhibits: Check out fashion-related exhibitions at museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute and the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). They often feature impressive collections and fashion history displays.
• Fashion Shows: Keep an eye out for fashion shows and events. NYC hosts Fashion Week in February and September, but there are also other fashion events and shows throughout the year.
• Trendspotting: NYC is where many fashion trends start. Keep an eye on what locals are wearing and take inspiration from their style.
• Fashion Workshops: Participate in fashion-related workshops and classes, from sewing and pattern-making to styling and fashion illustration.
• Fashion Photography: Explore locations and spots popular for fashion photography, like DUMBO, the High Line, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
• Visit Iconic Fashion Landmarks: Don’t forget to take photos in front of iconic fashion landmarks like the Fashion Walk of Fame and the Carrie Bradshaw steps from “Sex and the City.”

Chicago – A Fashion-Forward Blend

Chicago’s fashion scene is a rich tapestry of styles and influences. Here are my favorite fashion-related things to do in Chicago:

• Go shopping: Shop along Michigan Avenue, known as “The Magnificent Mile”, which boasts a wide array of luxury boutiques and department stores. Other great shopping areas in Chicago are Oak Street in the Gold Coast neighborhood (upscale boutiques, luxury stores, and high-end fashion), Wicker Park (vintage stores, boutiques, and alternative fashion styles) and State Street (mix of well-known retailers and affordable fashion options). Stores like Crossroads Trading Co., and Kokorokoko offer thrift shopping experiences.
• Chicago Fashion Incubator: Visit the Chicago Fashion Incubator at Macy’s on State Street to learn about local emerging designers and their creations.
• Museum Exhibits: Explore fashion-related exhibitions at museums like the Chicago History Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago and learn about Chicago’s historical significance in the fashion industry, especially in menswear and retail.
• Chicago Fashion Shows: Attend local fashion shows and events to see the work of emerging designers and to keep up with the latest trends.
• Fashion Workshops: Participate in fashion-related workshops and classes, including sewing, pattern-making, and styling.
• Street Style Photography: Capture street style moments in neighborhoods like Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Pilsen.

Los Angeles: Comfort as the Epitome of Fashion

Los Angeles is a major fashion hub with a diverse and vibrant fashion scene. Here are some of the best fashion-related things to do in Los Angeles:

• Go shopping: Explore the Fashion District in downtown Los Angeles if you like wholesale showrooms, fabric shops and boutiques. Other great places to check out are the iconic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills (known for its luxury boutiques and designer stores), The Grove (a popular outdoor shopping and entertainment complex), Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice Beach (known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and unique fashion finds) and thrift stores like Jet Rag, Wasteland, and American Vintage.
• Museum Exhibits: Visit museums like The Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), which often host fashion-related exhibitions and displays.
• Street Style Photography: Capture street style moments in neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Arts District, and Downtown Los Angeles.
• Attend Fashion Events: Keep an eye out for fashion shows, pop-up markets, and fashion-related events happening in the city throughout the year.
• Eco-Friendly Fashion: Look for stores and events focused on sustainable and eco-friendly fashion, which is a growing trend in Los Angeles.
• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Take a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and observe the fashion history and style associated with Hollywood’s stars.
• Melrose Avenue: Wander along Melrose Avenue, a trendy street lined with fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and streetwear stores. It’s a hub for unique and alternative fashion.

Creating the Wardrobe: Chic Comfort is Key

A fashion road trip requires a wardrobe that’s not only chic but also incredibly comfortable. Your fabrics should breathe, your designs should offer a comfortable fit, and every outfit must be photo-ready!

Check the weather forecast for each city you’ll be visiting and pack accordingly. NYC can be cold in the winter, Chicago experiences all four seasons, and LA is generally warm, but it can get cool in the evenings. Think relaxed-fit denims that allow for easy movement as you explore new cityscapes, flowy maxi dresses that capture the essence of LA’s relaxed vibe, dainty tops for a touch of elegance, and oversized blazers that effortlessly transition from day to night.

Spice things up with chunky accessories or experiment with unique color palettes to create that effortlessly stylish look that’s perfect for the road. After all, you’re not just traveling; you’re making a statement with your style at every stop along the way.

Tip: I’ve collected 20 must-have travel accessories for women to get you started. I hope this list makes packing easier for you.

Additional tips for a stylish road trip from NYC to LA

Here are some additional tips for a stylish road trip from NYC to LA:

• Fashion Apps: Use fashion apps and websites to discover local boutiques, vintage shops, and fashion events in each city. These can help you plan your shopping and style adventures.
• Fashion Magazines: Bring along fashion magazines for inspiration and to stay updated on the latest trends.
• Hydration and Snacks: Staying stylish also means staying comfortable. Keep water and snacks in the car to stay energized during the journey.
• Plan Your Route: Plan your route to include time for shopping, fashion exhibits, and other activities in each city.
• Personal Style Journal: Bring a journal or use your smartphone to document your journey, making note of favorite fashion finds and outfits. One of my favorite apps to do this is ‘ Polarsteps ‘.
• Music Playlists: Create a stylish playlists to set the mood and enhance the overall experience.
• Take a spectacular road trip from Las Vegas: dedicate some time to explore the Las Vegas area away from the Strip . The city is perfectly positioned to give you some amazing experiences.

In this road trip from NYC to LA, you’ll embark on a fashion journey that’s as diverse as the cities themselves. New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles each offer a unique fashion experience. As you explore, your vehicle choice matters and your wardrobe should be a mix of chic and comfortable, adaptable to different climates. Capture the street styles of each city and make the most of your visit with our fashion tips.

In New York, discover the ultimate fashion catwalk. Chicago blends grit and elegance, while Los Angeles epitomizes casual comfort. Whether you’re shopping, attending shows, or exploring, embrace the fashion diversity of this epic road trip.

Document your journey, stay inspired, enjoy the diverse fashion landscapes ,and have fun as you explore these fashionable cities. Safe travels and happy styling!

If you have any questions about the above mentioned information, please let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!

Author: Daphne

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NYC to LA: The Ultimate Road Trip

NYC TO LA: THE ULTIMATE 30 DAY ROAD TRIP LT NORTH PACIFIC NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN OCEAN EATING ATTRACTIONS SLEEPING DRIVE DISTANCE TIME DAY 1-2 DAY 1 Drive from JFK Airport, NY to Manhattan, NY. Take a longer route and drive over the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. 23 miles 70 minutes See the Statue of Liberty, wander around Central Park and be dazzled by a Broadway hit musical. New York City I Experiences dishes like grasshopper-crusted shrimp at Mexican restaurant The Black Ant. DAY 2 Snap a Times Square Selfie and scale the heights of the Empire State Building. A Drive from Manhattan, NY to Philadelphia, PA. Feel free to graba hot dog at Galloping Hill Inn. 09 105 miles I 120 minutes DAY 3 Run up the Rocky Steps on your way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Visit the Independence National Historical Park and Libery Bell. 3000 Get a Philly Cheesesteak at either or both! legendary spots that are located across the street from each other; Pat's or Geno's. Philadelphia Drive from Philadelphia, PA to Washington DC. Picnic at Delaware's Fox Point State Park. 09 141 miles I 155 minutes To feel like a president, check in to The Willard Washington DC hotel. DAY 4-5 DAY See the Statue of Liberty, wander around Central Park and be dazzled by a Broadway hit musical. DAY 5 Washington DC * Drive from Washington DC to Cherokee National Forest, TN. 384 miles I 350 minutes Beware of the bears during an evening hike through the forest. DAY 6 Wake yourself up with white water rafting. A Drive from Cherokee National Forest, TN to Nashville, TN. Dollywood and the Jack Daniels Distillery compete as en route attractions. Cherokee National Forest 09 316 miles 287 minutes DAY 7-8 DAY 7 Channel the spirit of Elvis at the RCA Studio B or pay tribute to Johnny Cash at the Country Music Hall of Fame. The really daring should choose the 'Shut the Cluck Up' heat level at Hattie B's Hot Chicken. Nashville The luxurious Hermitage Hotel has played host to six presidential visits (including JFK and FDR), as well as infamous gangster Al Capone. DAY 8 Drive from Nashville, TN to Atlanta, GA. 384 miles I 350 minutes The Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site and Ebenezeer Baptist Church are two must-see landmarks in the Civil Rights District. Try a Reuben sandwich or a lox bagel at famous Jewish deli The General Muir. DAY 9 Drive from Nashville, TN to Panama City Beach, FL. 09 248 miles Y 216 minutes Trade dry land for water as you try to spot a dolphin on a boat trip. Allanta DAY 10-11 DAY 10 Catch your dinner on a fishing day out in the Gulf of Mexico or relax on the beach. DAY 11 Panama City Beach A Drive from Panama City Beach, FL to New Orleans, LA. 320 miles I 279 minutes See the St. Louis Cathedral, stroll around Jackson Square and wander along Bourbon Street in the city's famous French Quarter before riding a streetcar. Dine at the 19th Century Commander's Palace - a reservation is required and a dress code is in placel The spooky Bourbon Orleans Hotel is supposedly haunted by a Creole nun who ran an orphanage on the site until the 1960s! DAY 12 Set off early so you'll have time to remember the Alamo when you arrive. You'll want an early night for the longest drive of the trip tomorrowl. A Drive from New Orleans, LA to San Antonio, TX. 09 543 miles I 460 minutes New Orleans DAY 13 Drive from New Orleans, LA to Santa Fe, NM. Stop at Big Spring State Park to stretch your legs. 705 miles 7 600 minutes San Antonio DAY 14-15 DAY 14 Learn about Native America's heritage and contemporary culture on a guided tour of the Indian Pueblos. 7 Try one of 300 Tequilas with dinner at Maria's New Mexican Kitchen. Santa Fe DAY 15 Drive from Santa Fe, NM to Denver, CO. 392 miles I 322 minutes Drive to Mount Evans - the highest paved road in North America. The Hotel Santa Fe Hacienda & Spa is the only Native American-owned hotel in the city, where you can dine in a traditional teepee. DAY 16 If you can't catch a live NFL game tour the Sports Authority Field stadium. Drive from Denver, CO to Aspen, CO. 09 159 minutes X 186 minutes Denver DAY 17-18 DAY 17 Ride the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Ajax Mountain or hire a bike and cycle the Rio Grande trail. DAY 18 Aspen A Drive from Aspen, CO to Dixie National Forest, UT. 09 456 miles I 420 minutes DAY 19-20 DAY 19 Explore the forest by snowmobile (season dependant) or hike one of the many walking trails. DAY 20 Dixie National Forest Drive from Dixie National Forest, UT to Grand Canyon National Park, AZ. 138 minutes I 300 minutes Arrive in time for a sunset helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. DAY 21 Drive from Grand Canyon National Park, AZ to Las Vegas, NV. 09 270 miles I 240 minutes Catch the Bellagio Fountains, be amazed by a Cirque du Grand Canyon National Park Soleil performance and embrace the spirit of Vegas with a Gondola Ride at the Venetian before grabbing dinner at Pho 87, Stay at the Mandalay Bay, where you can watch the hotel's Shark Reef channel (a 24 hour live stream of the hotel's own shark reef) or get some well needed rest and recuperation at the spa. DAY 22 Drive from Las Vegas, NV to Death Valley, CA. O9 123 minutes X 130 minutes Head to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at Las Vegas 86m below sea level. DAY 23 Drive from Death Valley. CA to Yosemite National Park, CA 09 238 miles Y 240 minutes Yosemite is famous for its waterfalls - Yosemite Falls is the tallest, with water dropping 2,425 ft. Death Valley If you want a break from camping, sepnd a night at the Yosemite Lodge at the Falls. DAY 24 Drive from Yosemity National Park, CA to Napa, CA. 166 minutes I 125 minutes Leave your car at the hotel so you can fully enjoy a wine tour of Yosemite National Park the Napa Valley. DAY 25 See some of the tallest trees in the world at Muir Woods Drive from Napa, CA to San Francisco , CA. Before you get to San Francisco stop at Battery Spencer in Marin County for the perfect picture of the Golden Gate Bridge. 09 63 miles I 120 minutes Napa DAY 26-27 DAY 26 Visit Alcatraz, ride the cable car, and say hello to the buffalo the city's glorious Golden Gate Park Treat yourself to possibly the best sandwich in the USA at Ike's Place. San Francisco DAY 27 Drive from San Francisco, CA to Monterey, CA via Route 1. 09 284 minutes I 330 minutes The Monterey Plaza Hotel offers a serious challenge as having the best ocean view room. DAY 28 See some of the tallest trees in the world at Muir Woods Drivefrom Monterey, CA to Los Angeles, CA. Remember to take regular breaks to enjoy the breaktaking views. 09 403 miles I 420 minutes Monterey DAY 29-30 DAY 29 A Grab a selfie in front of the Hollywood sign, retrace your idol's steps at the Walk of Fame, and take a Hollywood bus tour - or spend a day in one of the city's theme parks. HOLLIWOOD DAY 30 Les Angeles Drive from the city of Los Angeles, CA to LAX Airport, CA. 09 18 minutes 3 30 minutes THE END On your road trip you will: See deserts, Travel by sea, land and air skyscrapers, mountains & valleys DRIVE THROUGH 19 STATES AND WASHINGTON DC AyOffers www.myoffers.co.uk

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New York to Los Angeles

Visit New York, The Finger Lakes, Niagara Falls, Detroit, Chicago, St Louis, Kansas City, Denver, Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks, Las Vegas & LA.

Home > Find A Road Trip > Coast to Coast > New York to Los Angeles

Cruise across the United States from New York to LA over three awesome weeks

Why choose between New York, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles when you can take a road trip to visit them all in just 21 days?  Like the pioneers of yesteryear, you’ll explore America from east to west, visiting must-see U.S. destinations as you go. The main difference, of course, will be the speed; at just 3 weeks, this is our quickest coast-to-coast road trip, action-packed from start to finish.

Key road trip highlights:

• Start with 3 fun nights in The Big Apple before collecting your wheels from Newark Airport and heading across the country to Los Angeles.
• Visit some of America’s most spectacular places of outstanding natural beauty, like The Finger Lakes, Niagara Falls, The Rocky Mountains and Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks.
• Drive a section of historic Route 66 between Chicago and St Louis.
• Cross the Great Plains of the Mid-West between St Louis and Denver.
• Complete this pacey adventure with at least two nights spent in both Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Do you want more time to relax at the end of the journey? Please just let us know, and we’ll bolt on some extra days.
• What’s included? Direct flights with a premier carrier like Virgin Atlantic, accommodation to your desired standard and length of stay, car rental and a detailed road trip pack.

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Our Favourite Hotels

We’ll suggest properties to match your preferred budget, be it low-cost, mid-range or high-end luxury that you’re looking for. We can also mix it up so you’ll experience a range of standards and experiences along your road trip.

The Civilian Hotel

New York City

Skyland Resort

Skyline Drive

Bright Angel Lodge

The Grand Canyon

MGM Grand Hotel & Casino

Marriott Marquis

Virgin Hotels

New Orleans

Thompson Hotel

Shutters on the Beach

Santa Monica, LA

Road Trip Itinerary

All of our road trips can be tailored to meet your requirements. Do you have more or less than 21 days for your road trip? No problem, we can bolt on extra nights to allow more time to explore or shorten the number of destinations as required.

Start in the world's greatest city... New York

After arriving in The Big Apple and checking into your chosen New York hotel, we highly recommend visiting one of the city’s numerous skyscraper viewing platforms, which include The Summit, Top of the Rock and the most famous… The Empire State Building. Afterwards, grab a bite to eat and then hit the sack; you have three gloriously fast-paced weeks ahead of you.

New York, NY

A full day discovering downtown Manhattan

Downtown stretches to Battery Park at Manhattan’s southern tip, where ferries leave to the legendary Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The Financial District is anchored by Wall St, home to the New York Stock Exchange and the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. Surrounding neighbourhoods offer a great contrast to this commercial hub – Soho, Greenwich, Tribeca and the Meatpacking District are crammed with cool bars, shops and restaurants.

A full day exploring Midtown and above

Midtown Manhattan is home to iconic New York attractions like the Empire State Building, Times Square and the famous shopping street 5th Avenue. Central Park, the most visited urban park in the US, lies just north of Midtown. You can easily spend an afternoon here with 843 acres of walking trails, ice rinks, cycle paths, a zoo, and even a castle. Bordering the eastern length of Central Park are some of the world’s most celebrated museums, such as The Met and The Guggenheim.

First stop... The beautiful Finger Lakes Region

Say goodbye to New York City, collect your rental car from Newark Airport and venture into the beautiful nature of New York State. The Finger Lakes Region, which inspired the classic Christmas film ‘It’s a Wonderful Life, ‘ is where you’ll enjoy walking to waterfalls and around charming small towns at your pleasure.

The Finger Lakes, NY

Witness the power of the incredible Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is made up of three massive, separate waterfalls. The largest is on the Canadian side of the border and is named Horseshoe Falls, whilst Bridal Veil and American Falls are on the US side. One must-do is to take to the water and experience the power of the falls close up. Horn Blower Niagara Cruises operates boats from the Canadian side of the border. Your detailed Road Trip Pack will detail all the numerous additional visitor attractions.

Niagara Falls, ON

Drive over to Motor City... Detroit

From Niagara, you’ll continue west, following the northern shoreline of Lake Erie. Using Highway 3, you’ll shortcut through Ontario on your way to the home of Motown – Detroit. This city is in an exciting renaissance of late, and it’s home to two of America’s very best museums. No self-respecting music fan should miss the magnificent Motown Museum, whilst The Henry Ford Museum is also very impressive. It includes uniquely historic exhibits like the car in which JFK was assassinated.

Detroit, MI

From Detroit to the awesome skyline of Chicago

Onto Chicago in Illinois today. As you approach the Windy City, you’ll see Chicago in the distance, as it boasts some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, including Willis Tower, which stands some 1450 feet high. Chicago has an incredible range of architecture, tasty deep-dish pizza and an array of world-class museums. You’ll then have two nights to enjoy all the city’s attractions; however, if you want longer here, just let us know.

Chicago, Il

A second day to explore Chicago's highlights

Most visitors head to ‘Magnificent Mile’, a vibrant, bustling area home to upscale shops, trendy restaurants and luxury hotels. Landmarks include the historic Chicago Water Tower, the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower, and the 100-story John Hancock Center with a rooftop observation deck. Exceptionally cold in winter, the city and its beaches come alive in the spring, summer and fall. Chicago’s other must-see places include Cloud Gate, Navy Pier, and the lovely Lake Michigan shoreline. Before leaving town, be sure to spend at least one-night partying at Buddy Guy’s Legends Blues Club.

Take old Route 66 down to St Louis in Missouri

Driving Route 66 through Illinois is super easy, as it’s well-signposted and surprisingly rural once you’ve left the city of Chicago. Along the way to Springfield, you’ll enjoy highlights such as Route 66-obsessed Pontiac and the historic Standard Oil Gas Station in Odell. Once you arrive in Springfield, history enthusiasts will want to visit Abraham Lincoln’s Tomb, the Lincoln Presidential Museum and the Lincoln Home. After lunch in Springfield, you’ll continue onto St. Louis, which sits on the banks of the Mississippi River. Highlights include the Missouri Botanical Gardens, Citygarden and the famous Gateway Arch National Park.

St Louis, MO

Drive across Missouri from St Louis to Kansas City

Leave Route 66 behind and drive due west on the speedy Interstate 70 to Kansas City on the other side of Missouri. Along the 248-mile drive, you’ll find various activities ranging from zip-lining to wine tasting and from taking a tour of a historic prison to strolling around a State Park. When you reach Kansas City, check out one of the city’s excellent museums or charming neighbourhoods before heading to the “Westport” or “Plaza” districts to indulge in some of the nation’s best barbecue.

Kansas City, MO

Congratulations! You've reached the halfway point

Spend the morning exploring more of Kansas City, and after a tasty KC lunch, you’ll hit the road with classic tunes blasting out and a few snacks in the glovebox to enjoy as you eat up the miles crossing the Great Plains of Kansas. We’ll have you overnight in the small town of Hays, which has plenty of accommodation options and lies halfway between Kansas City and your next stop, Denver.

Through the Great Plains to Denver and the Rocky Mountains

Continue west towards the sight of the Rocky Mountains on the horizon. Head into the Mile High City for two nights of city fun and acclimatisation before you hit the open road to visit Colorado and Utah’s plentiful natural wonders.

A second day to explore Denver's must see places

Spend the day discovering some of Denver’s must-see places like Denver Botanical Gardens, Denver Art Museum and the Museum of Nature & Science. Handsome Union Station (pictured) is another great spot, with many excellent restaurants and shops on offer. A visit to Coors Field baseball stadium is a must for any sports fan, especially if the Colorado Rockies take the field during your stay.

Drive across the Rockies to find Utah's high desert

Leave Denver and continue west on Interstate 70. Today’s view will be much different than the I-70 views you witnessed crossing the Great Plains. Today, you’ll see one enormous mountain after another as you cruise past some of the finest ski resorts in the world. After around 150 miles, we recommend you stop for lunch and a soak at the natural spa in Glenwood Springs before hitting the road again to check out the Colorado National Monument. To complete the day’s drive, you’ll follow a stunningly scenic route which takes you through an epic landscape that feels like you’re driving through the Grand Canyon. Our fabulous Road Trip Pack will show you the way.

Arches or Canyonlands... Which will be your favourite National Park?

Moab’s main highlight is Arches National Park’s iconic red-rock landscape. The park has over 2,000 natural stone arches and hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive fins, and giant balanced rocks. Arches really is a wonderland of geological proportions not found anywhere else in the world. In the afternoon, visit Canyonlands, Utah’s biggest national park, which is crammed with a colourful terrain eroded into countless canyons, mesas and buttes by the Colorado and the Green Rivers. Nearby Dead Horse Point is a State Park made famous for being the filming location of the iconic final scene in the Oscar-winning film Thelma and Louise.

From Moab to Bryce Canyon National Park

Utah is home to five, yes five, of America’s very best National Parks. Known around the world as the Mighty Five. After a short 2.5-hour scenic drive, you’ll visit the third of the Mighty Five – Capital Reef National Park. After lunch, you’ll move on to Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its unique geology consisting of horseshoe-shaped amphitheatres carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The erosional force of frost-wedging and the dissolving power of rainwater have shaped the colourful limestone rock into bizarre shapes, including slot canyons, windows, fins, and spires called “hoodoos”.

Bryce Canyon NP

Arguably the best of Utah's outstanding National Parks... Zion

A short drive today, over to the fifth of Utah’s Mighty 5, Zion National Park. Arguably the best of the lot, Zion National Park is stunningly beautiful. Emerald-coloured pools, lush green trees, and rust-red canyon walls are all on show in this picturesque valley. This combination of colours is a visual delight, and the Park’s trails offer the chance to explore nature at its best.

West to the man-made phenomenon that is Las Vegas

Today, you’ll leave the National Parks of Utah and head to the bright lights of Las Vegas. However, your detailed Road Trip Pack will advise you to take in one last area of outstanding beauty en route. Valley of Fire State Park offers a super scenic loop drive off the I-15 interstate, so if you can cope with yet more beautiful landscapes, then this is well worth the detour on your way to Las Vegas. Try to arrive in Vegas after the sun has set and the lights of the world-famous Strip are turned on.

Las Vegas, NV

A second day to relax in Las Vegas luxury

It’s glitzy, tacky and wrong on so many levels… but we love it! Firstly, it’s unique, and secondly, it’s indulgence at its very finest. If your head hurts from the night before, then simply relax by one of the giant pools that adorn every hotel. If not, walk the legendary Strip, book tickets to one of the world-class shows or shop till you drop – the choice is yours. As for food, we recommend visiting one of the mega buffets available. Ensure you are hungry when you go; you won’t need to eat again for a week!

Final leg... Las Vegas to Los Angeles

The iconic Santa Monica Pier signals the final stop of this New York to Los Angeles holiday. To celebrate the finale of your journey, we suggest you enjoy a rewarding meal at one of the Pier’s many eateries that overlook the Pacific Ocean and take a picture by “The End of Trail” sign. After lunch, we suggest you take a stroll and explore Santa Monica and neighbouring Venice Beach.

Los Angeles, CA

A second day to discover The City of Angels

Spend the day relaxing by the pool after your 3 week adventure, or head out to explore the sites of Los Angeles. There’s plenty to keep you busy. Hollywood is synonymous with glitz and glamour, and it’s the most visited part of the city. The Griffith Observatory is just a short drive northeast of here, perched high on a hill overlooking the urban sprawl. This famous landmark is well worth visiting and offers excellent views of the legendary Hollywood Sign. We could go on, so if you want more time in LA, then just let us know.

Frequently Asked Questions

You’ll find answers to most of your questions right here. If you still need assistance, Feel free to  get in touch , and we’ll be sure to get back to you promptly!

Not a problem. If you are lucky enough to have extra time to explore more places or add more rest days, then just let us know and we’ll adjust your trip to match your preferred timescale.

We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance for your holiday to cover you against medical expenses, theft and other financial costs. Should you need to cancel before travelling, some insurance policies may pay out for any loss of funds that have been paid to us and which cannot be refunded under our cancellation policy.

Many of our trips have a different end destination than the starting point, so this is not a problem. Please note a fee sometimes applies for one-way rentals between other regions or states, which will be paid to the supplier directly when collecting the vehicle. We’ll endeavour to inform you of this charge within your quote.

No, far from it. We work with a range of properties from 3* to 5*, so we can adapt the trip to match most budgets. We have access to rooms in more than 800 hotels, motels, lodges and B&Bs across North America.

The minimum age to rent a car is 21 in the United States or Canada, although, in addition, any drivers under 25 years of age will generally incur a surcharge.

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Road Trip from Los Angeles to New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best road trip route from Los Angeles to New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Route 66 Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Denver Route

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

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

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

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

You have two options to continue your trip from Denver.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Washington DC Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Blue Ridge Parkway Detour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best places to stop between Los Angeles and New York

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

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

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

Explore Chicago, the Windy City (Route 66 Route)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take to the hills in Denver (Denver Route)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Rock out in Memphis (Washington DC Route)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Route 66 Route:

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

The Denver Route:

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

The Washington DC Route:

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

The Blue Ridge Parkway Detour:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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New York City to Los Angeles Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in New York City and then finish in Los Angeles. Trips from New York City to Los Angeles are most popular in May, with the most tours doing this route then.

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New York to Los Angeles Road Trip

The best things to see and do between New York and Los Angeles

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Created by Roadtrippers - July 22nd 2016

New York, New York, United States

8 Belvidere Ave, Oxford, NJ, US

Shippen Manor

391 Knoebels Blvd, Elysburg, PA, US

Knoebel's Amusement Resort

1290 Rich Hwy, DuBois, PA, US

Dr. Doolittles Roadside Cafe

141 S Main St, Slippery Rock, PA, US

North Country Brewing

1100 Rock and Roll Blvd, Cleveland, OH, US

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH, US

732 S Allen Chapel Rd, Kendallville, IN, US

Mid-America Windmill Museum

201 Chapin St, South Bend, IN, US

Studebaker National Museum

2300 Jackson St, Gary, IN, US

Michael Jackson's House

754 1st St, IL, US

Lock 16 Cafe and Center

210 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA, US

Herbert Hoover Presidential Library & Museum

205 S John Wayne Dr, Winterset, IA, US

John Wayne Birthplace Museum

200 Pearl St, Council Bluffs, IA, US

Union Pacific Railroad Museum

3600 E Hwy 30, Kearney, NE, US

Classic Car Collection

1249 N Homestead Rd, North Platte, NE, US

Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center

110 Overland Trl, Sterling, CO, US

Sterling Overland Trail Museum

6715 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO, US

Casa Bonita

51000 Two Rivers Plaza Rd, Glenwood Springs, CO, US

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

5 miles north of town on Sego Canyon Rd, UT, US

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

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

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

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

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

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

How long does Driving from California to New York take?

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

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

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

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

You can check out competitive flight prices with Skyscanner .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both routes are equally as beautiful!

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

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

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

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

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

California to New York Road Trip Itinerary

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

Day 1: Santa Monica & Venice

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Highlights

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

Where to Stay in Santa Monica?

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

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

Mid-Range Option: SureStay Hotel by Best Western

High-End Option: Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Day 2: Disneyland or Universal Studios

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: Hollywood & LA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3: Highlights

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

Day 4: Long Drive Day Via Big Sur

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Los Angeles to San Fran Drive Duration: 8 Hours

Places to stay in San Francisco for all Budgets

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

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

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

Luxury Option: San Francisco Proper Hotel ( Check Prices )

Day 5/6: San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

San Francisco Highlights:

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

Day 7: Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite

Day 8: Yosemite

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Yosemite

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

Lodge Option:  Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

Cottage Option:  Homestead Cottages

Great Deal Option:  Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite

Day 9: Drive from Yosemite to Tahoe

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

Day 10: Lake Tahoe

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

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

Sometimes we forget to factor in some downtime while travelling.

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

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

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

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

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

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

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

Day 11: Drive Day Via Twin Falls

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Jackson Hole

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

Mid Range Option:  49’er Inn & Suites

High-End Option:  Snow King Resort

Luxury Option:  SpringHill Suites

Day 12: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury Option:  SpringHill Suites

Day 13: Grand Teton

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Grand Teton

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

Day 14/15: Yellowstone

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Yellowstone

Camping Option:  Grant Village Campground  (Where I Stayed)

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

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

High End (locations perfect) Option:  Old Faithful Inn

Where to Stay in Cody

Camping Option:  Cody KOA campsite (Where I stayed)

B&B Option:  Robins Nest Bed & Breakfast

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

Day 16: Drive Day via Devils Tower

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay at Devils Tower

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

Where to stay in the Black Hills Region

Budget-Friendly Option:  Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins

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

Cabin Option: Powder House Lodge

Day 17: Mount Rushmore & Badlands National Park

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Badlands

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

Mid-Range Option 1: Best Western Plains Motel

Mid-Range Option 2: Americas Best Value Inn Wall

Day 18: Drive/Relax Day (Lake Okoboji)

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

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

Day 19/20: Chicago

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Things to do in Chicago:

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

Day 21: Shipshewana & Cedar Point

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

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

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

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

My experience in Shipshewana:

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

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

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

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

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

Where I Stayed in Sandusky

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

Where else to Stay in Sandusky

Budget-Friendly Option: South Shore Inn

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

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

Day 22/23: Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

Places to Stay at Niagara Falls

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

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

Swimming Pool Option:  Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

Day 24: Drive to NYC

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

Where to stay in New York

Budget-Friendly Option:  HI NYC Hostel

Great Deal Option:  Radisson Hotel New York Wall Street

High-End Option:  Fairfield Inn & Suites

Luxury Option:  Royalton Park Avenue

Day 26/30: New York City

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

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

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

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

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

California to New York Road Trip Map

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

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

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

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

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

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American cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York

• Post last modified: March 14, 2024

A road trip is an unbeatable way to travel a country: Instead of flying over everything there is to discover, you get to experience all of it. On this epic itinerary, everything from star-filled cities and famous tourist attractions to empty deserts and picturesque green mountains are included. Get ready for an American cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York that has it all.

Disclosure: All listings are independently selected. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more ›

Route from LA to NYC

The road trip from Los Angeles to New York is divided into 5 parts with different themes: Southwestern Dreams, Route 66, Cities of Music, Appalachian Mountains and Big City Life.

• Part 1: Southwestern Dreams – Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Zion, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon & Monument Valley
• Part 2: Route 66 – Albuquerque, Amarillo, Oklahoma City & Springfield
• Part 3: Cities of Music – Memphis & Nashville
• Part 4: Appalachian Mountains – Great Smoky Mountains, Asheville & Roanoke
• Part 5: Big City Life – Washington D.C., Philadelphia & New York City

You find all stops from LA to New York marked out in theme-based colors on the map below.

• Total distance: 3464 mi / 5575 km
• Total driving time: 58.5 h

Why take the LA to NYC road trip?

In many ways, this cross country drive from Los Angeles to New York is the ultimate road trip to take. When you take it, you include several of the best American road trips in one great journey.

With so much on offer, picking a favorite stretch between California and New York is overwhelming.

The majestic Southwest is home to deep canyons and red deserts. Highlights in the region, such as the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, are otherworldly places to uncover on the cross country road trip.

Route 66, also called the Mother Road, takes road trip nostalgia to the next level. Along this iconic stretch of the LA to NYC road trip, you find classic roadside attractions around almost every turn.

Further east, the sounds of blues, rock and country welcome Los Angeles to NYC roadtrippers. Memphis and Nashville are true cities of music to explore as you road trip through Tennessee .

Much quieter is the unique driving experience that the Appalachian Mountains provide. For its idyllic setting, the winding Blue Ridge Parkway is often referred to as America’s Favorite Drive.

But the drive from California to New York is also for travelers who crave for some Big City Life. Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York City offer yet another dimension to the spectacular cross country adventure.

Part 1: Southwestern Dreams (yellow on map)

Southwestern Dreams goes through the star-filled cosmopolitan areas of Los Angeles and Las Vegas before heading into the rural desert. Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon and Monument Valley are places full of natural beauty that will have a place in your heart and mind forever.

Go ahead and dream away, you are in the land of opportunity.

The driving distance in this leg is 857 miles (1379 km) with a driving time estimated at 15 h.

A. Los Angeles, California

When you think of the US as the land of opportunity, Los Angeles comes quickly into your mind. Many people have come to the city to try to live their dreams.

In particular, Hollywood has seen a great amount of stars rise and fade away over the years. Some really made it, while others didn’t — the way to the top certainly isn’t easy.

Nevertheless, the Hollywood sign, calmly watching over Los Angeles from the Hollywood Hills, makes up a legendary first spot on your Los Angeles to New York itinerary.

But for guaranteed success, there is a place in Los Angeles where people get their dreams come true every day.

Disneyland daily makes childhood dreams come to life. Saying hello to your Disney favorites at the huge theme park is a fun thing to do before the Los Angeles to New York road trip kicks off.

Ahead of saying goodbye to LA, you should also visit the Santa Monica Pier. At the pier, stroll around, savor the bubbling ambience and take in the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

Suitingly so, the Santa Monica Pier sits right at the start (or end) of the iconic Route 66 , America’s Highway.

B. Las Vegas, Nevada

• Driving distance: 270 mi / 434 km
• Driving time: 4 h

It’s hard to imagine a time when you weren’t allowed to gamble in the brightly shining Las Vegas. But the Nevada desert city hasn’t always been associated with gambling.

Nevada legalized gambling in 1931, marking the start of a remarkable boom for Las Vegas. The rest is history, and today the activity-filled Las Vegas is a given stop on the road trip from LA to NYC.

Don’t worry if you feel unlucky. As the entertainment oasis that Las Vegas is, there’s a lot more in the city to do than just gambling.

You find fine dining at its best and all the shopping you could ask for in Las Vegas. The shows in the city are great, and there’s more often than not a good concert to attend to — no matter what your taste is.

Las Vegas with its warm desert climate is also great for outdoor activities. The pretty desert surroundings are there to be explored if you need a break from the sometimes intense city life.

An interesting place to visit near Las Vegas, on the border between the states of Nevada and Arizona, is the Hoover Dam. The dam was built to protect from flooding and to provide water and electricity to the area.

It’s so huge that the amount of concrete used in building would be enough to pave a road from San Francisco to New York City.

In Las Vegas, you find most of the buzz around the famous Las Vegas Strip. But if you dig a bit deeper when you visit on the Los Angeles to New York road trip, you’ll find the charm of Fremont Street.

On Fremont Street, the original Vegas boom took place, meaning that’s where everything nowadays associated with Vegas really started.

C. Zion National Park, Utah

• Driving distance: 160 mi / 257 km
• Driving time: 3 h

After two cities, it’s time for the first national park on the cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York. The famous Zion National Park is a great place for a hike to stretch the legs.

One of Utah’s famous 5 mighty national parks , Zion offers a dreamy setting for hiking. The contrasting red sandstone cliffs and green trees of Zion Canyon just make each other even more beautiful.

There’s a Zion hike for every ambition level. Riverside Walk is a shorter one that’s excellent for a casual stroll with the family, while Angels Landing (requiring a permit ) is a thrilling strenuous hike.

More info: Where to stay near Zion

Extra stop: Home to the world’s biggest collection of rock hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park is another potential, jaw-dropping Utah park for the itinerary. If this is an extension you want to make, add 121 miles (195 km) and 2.5 hours to your road trip total.

D. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

• Driving distance: 107 mi / 172 km
• Driving time: 2 h

The next stop on the cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York is another incredible natural wonder. Arizona’s Horseshoe Bend may be a rather quick stop, but it’s one sure to leave you in awe.

This horseshoe like bend in the Colorado River provides one of the most quintessential photo opportunities in the American Southwest.

Look over the edge from its overlook to see the flowing Colorado River at the canyon’s bottom. The sunlight reflected by the red cliffs and blue river — it’s a majestic sight to say the least.

Just remember that it’s about 1000 feet (300 m) from the vista down to the Colorado River; you don’t want to miss the rest of the ultimate Los Angeles to New York road trip.

Is this Grand Canyon? Even though Horseshoe Bend sometimes is called Grand Canyon East, it’s not part of the famous park. However, Horseshoe Bend is only a little over 5 miles (8 km) from the start of Grand Canyon National Park.

E. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

• Driving distance: 10 mi / 16 km
• Driving time: 0.5 h

The drive from Horseshoe Bend to Antelope Canyon is by far the shortest on the entire California to New York road trip itinerary. In fact, it’s not longer than 10 miles (16 km) between the two.

Few geological formations, if any, are as mysteriously appearing as Antelope Canyon. Here, distinctive wavy canyon walls and thick light beams reaching the canyon floor create an unreal appearance.

It’s like something from a different world.

But keep in mind that the only way to access Antelope Canyon is through a licensed tour operator . Especially during summer when light beams are more frequent, these tours are highly popular.

F. Grand Canyon, Arizona

• Driving distance: 135 mi / 217 km
• Driving time: 2.5 h

There are huge attractions, and there’s the Grand Canyon. Every traveler’s dream, Grand Canyon has a length of 277 miles (446 km), width of up to 18 miles (29 km) and depth of over a mile (1847 m).

The Northwestern Arizona canyon is simply enormous, and the ultimate road trip from LA to NYC just wouldn’t be complete without it.

For your visit, you have two main options: Grand Canyon can be visited through either the South Rim or North Rim. Both parts offer those iconic viewpoints where the layers of rock never seem to end.

However, because it’s so massive, with dramatic elevation changes, the climate differs a lot within Grand Canyon National Park. Its highest peaks are bitingly cold in winter, while the canyon floor faces extremely hot temperatures during summer.

As the altitude is higher in the park’s northern part, it generally receives more snow than the southern side. This causes the North Rim to be closed during the colder months of the year, while the South Rim is open year round.

More info: Where to stay in Grand Canyon

South Rim or North Rim? This itinerary targets the always open South Rim. But if you prefer the idea of the North Rim (and travel in summer), simply fit it in between Zion and Horseshoe Bend; then go directly to Monument Valley after Antelope Canyon. Such an approach saves you an hour behind the wheel, but keep in mind that the lodging options are limited at the North Rim.

G. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

• Driving distance: 175 mi / 281 km

The last destination on the Southwestern Dreams part of the California to New York road trip is Monument Valley, straddling the border between Arizona and Utah. Prepare for a landscape feeling unearthly.

Monument Valley’s red color and huge rock formations standing on the valley floor, known as buttes, dramatically characterize the area. Lower the pace for a while and let the magical surroundings put you under a spell.

Any movie fans around?

This place is where Forrest Gump so famously ended his cross country run in the movie. In Google Maps, you even find the Forrest Gump Point to make it easy for you to find Forrest’s life-changing spot.

More info: Where to stay in Monument Valley

Part 2: Route 66 (red on map)

The second stretch of the perfect road trip from Los Angeles to New York is Route 66. Called America’s Highway, Main Street of America and the Mother Road — it’s one of those truly special routes.

When you drive Route 66, running from Los Angeles to Chicago, you really feel that the journey is more important than the destination. There are things to see and experience in every corner if you just keep your eyes open and look for them.

In this part of the itinerary, you dive into some of the very best parts of Route 66 with cross country stops in Albuquerque, Amarillo, Oklahoma City and Springfield.

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Monument Valley and ending in Springfield in Missouri, is 1153 miles (1856 km) with a driving time estimated at 18 h.

Trip info: As the driving time is estimated as the shortest possible time from point A to point B, much but not all of Route 66 is included. For some parts, a parallel highway can be used as an alternative to Route 66. Therefore, allow some extra time if you want to remain on Route 66 for the whole stretch (a good choice).

A. Albuquerque, New Mexico

• Driving distance: 318 mi / 511 km
• Driving time: 5 h

The city Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a traditional Route 66 stop and a great place to let your vehicle temporarily rest on the California to New York drive.

Old Town of Albuquerque is a beautiful area and the perfect place to stretch your legs. So park your car and enjoy the beautiful old mission church, public square and art galleries.

Walk by yourself or take a guided tour if you want more information about the history of Albuquerque.

For food and a fun experience at the same time, make your way over to Albuquerque’s 66 Diner . Here you feel like you have entered a time machine back to the golden days.

The venue features rounded counters with checkered black-and-white tiles, classic diner-bar stools, comfy booths and a vintage jukebox loaded with old time favorites.

And the staff contributes with their authentic looks — there’s nothing not to like about this retro place.

What to order? Diner 66’s cold and thick milkshake is famous. But watch out, you may get a brain freeze!

In downtown Albuquerque, you find the KiMo theatre , a theatre and historic landmark opened in 1927; it’s a unique place for theatre, film and musical performances, but it’s also worth it to stop on the LA to NYC cross country drive just to have a look at the historic venue.

If you’re lucky enough to be around in October, you should also fit in a visit to Albuquerque’s yearly International Balloon Fiesta . Imagine hundreds of hot air balloons in different colors rising up over the New Mexico landscape.

Additional stop: Do you rather enter Route 66 further west (earlier)? Petrified Forest National Park, located along Route 66, is a unique stop to add to the itinerary. You find great places to stay near Petrified Forest in the Route 66 towns of Holbrook and Winslow (home to that corner in “Take it Easy” by the Eagles).

B. Amarillo, Texas

• Driving distance: 289 mi / 465 km
• Driving time: 4.5 h

The cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York continues on Route 66. After Albuquerque, it’s time to head further east towards Texas and Amarillo.

Amarillo marks the midway point of the Route 66. The perfect way to celebrate that is by visiting the city’s US Route 66 Historic District.

In Amarillo’s Route 66 Historic District, you get a throwback to the early days of road tripping across America. Think historic buildings with eye-catching signs flirting with roadtrippers passing by.

The places to grab a bite and atmospheric shops are fun to visit. If you want a Route 66 souvenir to bring with you home, the Route 66 Historic District is an excellent place to look for it.

Another enjoyable place to visit in the area is the Cadillac Ranch. It’s a roadside attraction in Amarillo, Texas, since 1974, consisting of half-buried Cadillacs with their noses in the ground.

These cars have been in the ground longer than they were on the road. Nevertheless, to see them and the piece of art they have become is an iconic stop on the LA to NYC road trip.

C. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

• Driving distance: 260 mi / 418 km

You notice that the drier landscape in Texas gives way for prairies as we are about to enter Oklahoma. Next stop on the California to New York road trip is the state’s capital, Oklahoma City.

In the city, two fun and interesting cross country road trip stops for your tour of the world’s most famous route are America’s only round barn and the cowboy museum.

Arcadia Round Barn in Oklahoma City is said to be the most photographed landmark along Route 66. Come here for a cross country road trip stop appreciating the engineering details of the only barn in America that’s truly round.

If you’re history interested, make sure to enter the small museum to learn more about the barn’s past.

Another institution in Oklahoma City is the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum . The museum proudly collects, preserves and exhibits an impressive collection of Western art and artifacts.

It’s a must see for the Western fan, horse lover, art enthusiast or simply anyone who wants to learn more about the history of the cowboys.

D. Springfield, Missouri

• Driving distance: 286 mi / 460 km

The cross country road trip from LA to New York continues with a last Route 66 stop. The itinerary goes northeast through Tulsa and then across the Missouri border to Springfield, Missouri.

Springfield is the actual birthplace of the iconic Route 66. It was born here an April day in 1926 when a telegram was sent to federal officials saying that the to be iconic number 66 for the route through Springfield was accepted.

Today, the cradle of the most famous route in the world welcomes visitors to the only ride-through cave in America and to the city’s Route 66 Car Museum.

A cooling cross country stop, Fantastic Caverns keeps a comfy constant temperature of about 60 °F (15 °C). Especially if you take the LA to NYC road trip in summer, this is a treasured break from the heat.

And Fantastic Caverns is a ride-thru cave, so you can see the whole cave from the comfort of a Jeep-drawn tram. After a lot of driving, it’s certainly appreciated to sit back and let someone else handle the transportation for you.

In Springfield, you also find the Route 66 Car Museum . At the museum, there are more than 60 vehicles ranging from Jaguars, Rolls Royces and a Morgan to admire — car lovers, unite!

Part 3: Cities of Music (blue on map)

After exiting Route 66, it’s time to get to know the Cities of Music in Tennessee on the perfect drive from Los Angeles to New York. Memphis is the home of blues and birthplace of rock and roll, and Nashville, which long time ago earned the nickname Music City, is the country music capital of the world

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Springfield, is 499 miles (803 km) with a driving time estimated at 8 h.

A. Memphis, Tennessee

• Driving distance: 287 mi / 461 km

As the home of blues and birthplace of rock and roll, you have some music history catching up to do when you visit Memphis, Tennessee, on the California to New York drive.

The Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum can help you with that.

Here, you explore the history of both soul and rock ‘n’ roll music, from the beginnings all the way to the worldwide influence. Musical artifacts help you to understand the developments through time.

At the Blues Hall of Fame , you can deepen your knowledge about blues further. This blues institution highlights its inductees in five different categories while educating and entertaining visitors about the genre.

There, of course, needs to be a Music Hall of Fame in Memphis as well. It showcases all the artists that have created the undeniable Memphis legacy and shaken our planet with their great music.

Among all the renowned Memphis products, the most famous one must be Elvis Presley, the undisputed king of rock ‘n’ roll. He lived in his sprawling Graceland mansion, and today you have the chance to explore his home and heritage.

Marvel at the many artifacts on display, including platinum records and signature jumpsuits. Admire Elvis’ automobile collection, complete with a pink Cadillac and Dino Ferrari. To see how he made longer journeys, don’t miss Elvis’ airplanes.

B. Nashville, Tennessee

• Driving distance: 212 mi (341 km)

The world’s country music capital, Nashville earned the nickname Music City a long time ago. Get out of the car and savor its one-of-a-kind setting for yourself.

Day or night, you only have to walk in downtown Nashville and Lower Broadway for minutes to understand why the city is the uncontested country music capital of the world.

Bars, called honky tonks, let their music stream out to the streets, contributing to the city’s special atmosphere. Enjoying all the live music on Lower Broadway is a great way to experience Nashville — maybe the best.

To immerse yourself more in country music, we recommend visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . It’s home to exhibits and artifacts highlighting the history and significance of country music.

Experience the evolution of country music, and see how the country genre has influenced many other genres. A stop here also further explains why Nashville is the center of the country music industry.

Then, what place could be better for a concert than Music City?

Jump to the beat at the Ryman Auditorium , a concert venue in downtown Nashville where many legends have performed. To hear colorful stories from when Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton and even Elvis performed on the Ryman stage, you can also tour it.

For a country music show on the LA to New York road trip, consider the Grand Ole Opry , boasting to be “the show that made country music famous”. The Opry features a refreshing mix of country music greats and newcomers.

Additional stop: A really deep additional stop is Mammoth Cave in Kentucky . It’s the longest known cave system in the world with more than 400 miles (644 km) of explored passageways. The detour adds 110 miles (177 km) and 2.5 hours to the itinerary.

Part 4: Appalachian Mountains (green on map)

The fourth leg of the perfect cross country road trip from Los Angeles to New York takes you up northeast through the rising Appalachian Mountains. Start with the bear-dotted Great Smoky Mountains before you continue on the Blue Ridge Parkway , where the picturesque towns of Asheville and Roanoke await.

Cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of America’s most scenic roads, is a great way to really get to know the Appalachian Mountains. It begins north of Cherokee, North Carolina, and runs for 469 miles (750 km) all the way up to Afton, Virginia.

Note that the speed limit on the Blue Ridge Parkway is never higher than 45 mph (62 km/h) and that the road, thankfully, is free from commercial traffic. This is a relaxing stretch, but it’s loaded with road trip attractions; make sure to budget your time wisely for all those verdant gems.

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Nashville, is 475 miles (764 km) with a driving time estimated at 8.5 h.

Trip info: Because the driving time is estimated as the shortest possible time from point A to point B and there to a large extent are faster and more direct parallell roads, some parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway aren’t included in the road trip total. But for the best driving experience, allow a few extra hours and let America’s Favorite Drive show its full repertoire.

A. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

• Driving distance: 195 mi / 313 km
• Driving time: 3.5 h

After fun but loud cities, embrace the best of nature. Where Tennessee and North Carolina meet, the Great Smoky Mountains subrange of the Appalachian Mountains form America’s most visited national park.

From awe-inspiring drives to epic hikes, the best things to do in the Smokies take your breath away. Within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s so much beautiful nature to enjoy.

Cades Cove, surrounded by rugged mountain tops, is one of the Great Smoky Mountains’ most unique spots. The isolated valley, once home to settlers, is renowned for its timeless ambience.

Not only Cades Cove but the entire park is full of wildlife. Black bears, white-tailed deer, hogs, turkeys, skunks and raccoons are just some of the animals often spotted in the Great Smoky Mountains.

What about the origin of the Great Smoky Mountains’ name? The “Smoky” part comes from the natural fog that frequently hangs over the mountains, appearing just like smoke from a distance.

More info: Where to stay in the Great Smoky Mountains

Route suggestion: Make sure to enter the Blue Ridge Parkway (its southernmost access is just north of Cherokee) when you drive from the Smokies to the next stop on the itinerary. From the scenery to the vibe, it provides a driving experience you certainly don’t want to miss.

B. Asheville, North Carolina

• Driving distance: 37 mi / 59 km
• Driving time: 1 h

Asheville, North Carolina, may be located along the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, Asheville is not only about the scenic, slow-paced, relaxing Blue Ridge Parkway — far from it.

Visit America’s largest privately owned home, boasting 178,926 jaw-dropping square feet (16,623 m 2 ). The Biltmore Estate was built in the late 1800s by George Vanderbilt II and belongs to the Vanderbilt family to this day.

Then soak up the picturesque town that Asheville is. Filled with great places to eat, drink and sleep, this is the perfect stop to recharge your batteries before you continue on the Los Angeles to NYC road trip.

C. Roanoke, Virginia

• Driving distance: 243 mi / 391 km

Roanoke appeals to roadtrippers who appreciate the mix of city amenities and tranquil surroundings. Framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains, this is a destination where nature always is near.

Like Hollywood has its Hollywood sign, Roanoke has the Roanoke Star. On top of Mill Mountain, the Roanoke symbol brilliantly looks out over the city and the lush encircling landscape.

You can drive, hike or bike up to the almost 90 feet (30 m) tall star. There, enjoy a close-up view of the star as well as impressive panoramic Blue Ridge Mountains perspectives.

Just outside Roanoke, you find more incredible vistas. The most spectacular of them all is the McAfee Knob, a rock overhang perch on the legendary Appalachian Trail.

Do the bucket list spots never end on this ultimate Los Angeles to NYC itinerary?

Part 5: Big City Life (grey on map)

The perfect road trip across America from Los Angeles to New York ends with the stretch Big City Life, capturing some of the most influential cities in the US. Meet the president in Washington D.C., stop by at the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia and finish in style in the always busy New York City.

Total driving distance in this leg, starting from Roanoke, is 480 miles (772 km) with a driving time estimated at 9 h.

A. Washington D.C.

• Driving distance: 240 mi / 386 km

In the center of the capital of the US, you find the National Mall. In contrast to your regular mall, this is a park home to eye-popping historical buildings and monuments.

A few of the landmarks in the National Mall are the Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial and, of course, the White House. History buff or not, prepare for a big experience.

Everything within the National Mall is available by foot. So take the opportunity to let the car rest while you explore not only the history of Washington D.C but also the history of the entire country.

And who knows, maybe the president waves at you when you approach the White House?

B. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Driving distance: 142 mi / 228 km

Sandwiched between the giant New York City and capital Washington D.C, Philadelphia doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It’s hard not to be overshadowed by the enormity of NYC or importance of DC.

However, if you don’t stop by in Philly, you’re missing out.

Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell doesn’t make a sound nowadays, but its inscription “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof” is as clear as it was the last time it rang (in 1846). Go to the Independence Hall and inspect the symbol of freedom with your own eyes.

If you have seen the Rocky movies, you also have seen the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art . First get a picture with the adjacent Rocky Statue; then join fellow travelers jogging up the stairs just like Rocky himself.

For food, you definitely need to have a Philly cheesesteak. Maybe you have had one before, but they taste better in Philly than anywhere else. The thinly sliced steak, cheese, fried onions and hoagie roll — you’ll crave for another one.

C. New York City

• Driving distance: 98 mi / 157 km

You have now traveled all the way from Los Angeles to New York on an epic cross country journey. But the fun is far from over; New York City offers an abundance of more great places to visit before the trip is over.

In Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell is the symbol for freedom. In New York, it’s the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island. Take a boat tour to get out to the island for a close look at the towering landmark.

Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world. Especially after an extensive drive — like this one — it feels good to put on your shoes, walk Brooklyn Bridge and admire the fantastic views of Manhattan’s skyline.

The skyscrapers on Manhattan are from different periods of time: Empire State Building and the Chrysler building are older buildings, while One World Trade Center represents the new.

Want a bird-eye perspective? Go up to the top of Empire State Building and savor the massive New York City from there.

From Empire State Building’s top, you can see a green oasis in the middle of the city, Central Park. Stroll the park and find peace even on a busy day.

Crave for some art? New York’s art scene is outstanding and pleases the most picky art lover out there. There’s the Guggenheim, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Museum of Modern Art and, of course, much more.

The sophisticated museums meet a great contrast in the always buzzing Times Square. Here, the pulsating energy of New York City can be experienced day or night.

Where to stay

Bed down in Midtown to be at the heart of the skyscraper maze that Manhattan is. Or opt for one of the many other, less flashing New York City neighborhoods , each with its own unique character.

• Citizen M Times Square – Midtown convenience.
• The Wallace Hotel – Upper West Side luxury.

Keep driving: New York with all it has to offer is a great place to end your road trip. But if you want to continue driving, consider making the trip to Niagara Falls , on the border between the US and Canada, for another powerful experience.

American cross country road trip FAQ

This ultimate Los Angeles to New York road trip is 3464 miles (5575 km) long. Driving it takes about 58.5 hours, not including any stops along the way. It’s a very scenic route that encompasses many of the biggest attractions in the United States .

If you take the shortest route and just stick to the highway, you can get from Los Angeles to New York much quicker. The shortest route from LA to NYC is roughly 2800 miles (4506 km) and takes 41 h to drive. However, that’s certainly not the most scenic route from California to New York.

Some of the most popular stops on the ultimate California to New York road trip are Las Vegas, Zion NP, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Albuquerque, Amarillo, Memphis, Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains and Washington D.C.

You can certainly use the LA to NYC road trip itinerary from either direction. Road tripping cross country from New York to Los Angeles is as good as doing it Los Angeles to New York.

We recommend setting aside 4 weeks or more to fully enjoy the LA to New York road trip. With an estimated driving time of 58.5 h, you drive on average 2 h a day if you have a full month at your disposal.

Related guides

• Where to stay in NYC
• LA to Grand Canyon road trip
• LA to Death Valley road trip
• LA to Yellowstone road trip
• LA to Zion NP road trip
• LA to Nashville road trip

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Los Angeles To New York Road Trip: Top 27 Tips

Los Angeles to New York road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 2,776 miles of Los Angeles to New York drive takes around one day and seventeen hours without stops.

This article includes 27 tips that turn your Los Angeles to New York drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to New York, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

9 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Los Angeles To New York

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

1. Little America Hotel, Arizona

Little America Hotel, Arizona is one of the best hotels; you can stay on the Los Angeles to New York road trip. Driving from Los Angeles to Little America Hotel, Arizona might take around 7 hours .

Little America Hotel in Flagstaff, Arizona is a great stop on a Los Angeles to New York road trip. It is situated a short distance away from Historic Downtown and provides easy access to the area’s landmarks. The hotel offers a range of amenities that make it an ideal place for travelers looking for a comfortable stay. It features spacious rooms, with modern decor and amenities for a pleasant and comfortable stay. The hotel also provides a large pool and a fitness center for those looking to relax and keep fit. The friendly staff is always eager to help make you stay more pleasant. The hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Flagstaff, making it the perfect spot for sightseeing and exploring the city. All in all, Little America Hotel is a great place to stay for travelers planning a visit to Flagstaff.

Check the Little America Hotel, Arizona, one of the best hotels in Flagstaff, Arizona, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Sandia Peak Inn

Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to New York from Los Angeles is Sandia Peak Inn. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the hotel is 783 miles away from Los Angeles, and it would take 11 hours and 33 mins to drive.

Sandia Peak Inn in Albuquerque, New Mexico is the perfect place to stay during a Los Angeles to New York road trip. The hotel features a Southwest-inspired design, paired with a complimentary hot breakfast with a variety of fresh options, from waffles to eggs and pastries. The indoor heated swimming pool and free WIFI access make it a great place for fun and relaxation. The staff is friendly and helpful, providing personalized service from the moment of arrival. All in all, Sandia Peak Inn is a great place to stay on the drive and offers a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

If you want to learn more about the Sandia Peak Inn, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .

3. Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown

Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown. Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown is located in Amarillo, Texas, and it’s 1,072 miles away from Los Angeles. You can arrive there in 15 hours and 37 mins of non-stop driving.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown is a great place to stay during your Los Angeles to New York road trip. This all-suite hotel is located near the Amarillo Civic Center and Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts, providing easy access to local restaurants and government offices. You’ll have a range of suite options to choose from, including studio and two-room suites. Each suite is fully equipped with a living space, wet bar, refrigerator, microwave, and coffee machine – all the comforts of home. Plus, you’ll benefit from a prime location, making it an excellent stop on your route. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown is a great choice.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown, for more information.

4. 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City

If you are taking the road trip from Los Angeles to New York, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma is must have a place you should visit. Plus, 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City is one of the best hotels in town. The hotel is 1,326 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 19 hours and 14 mins to drive.

21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City is an amazing place to stay on your Los Angeles to New York road trip. This century-old building was once a Model T assembly plant, but it has been reinvented into a modern 135-room luxury hotel. Not only does it boast high-quality accommodation, but also a contemporary art museum to explore. And for foodies, there’s Mary Eddy’s Kitchen x Lounge—which uses local ingredients to create delicious dishes. Overall, 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City is an excellent place to rest and recharge, while also experiencing a bit of history and culture. It’s the perfect spot to make a pit stop on the drive from LA to NYC.

If you need more info about the price and availability of 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch

Our next hotel is Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch, St. Louis, Missouri. It will take one day and two hours of car ride o reach this hotel from Los Angeles.

Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch in St. Louis, Missouri is a great place to stay on a Los Angeles to New York road trip! The staff is super friendly and makes every effort to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. From the moment we checked in, we felt welcomed and appreciated for choosing this hotel. They even thanked us several times! Breakfast was great, with scrambled eggs, pancakes, and more. Plus, we got free drinks and dinner tickets that we, unfortunately, didn’t use. As if that wasn’t enough, the hotel also provided Wi-Fi, dinnertime snacks, soft drinks, popcorn, a business center, a workout facility, and even microwaves and refrigerators in every room. It’s no wonder that Drury Hotels is a 100 percent family-owned and operated business.

Check the Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch for reviews, prices, and availability.

6. Ironworks Hotel Indy

Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from Los Angeles to New York is Ironworks Hotel Indy. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel, located in Indianapolis, Indiana within one day and six hours drive from Los Angeles.

Ironworks Hotel Indy in Indianapolis, Indiana was an excellent stop on our Los Angeles to New York road trip. Our room was beautifully decorated and kept spotless by the attentive housekeeping staff. We especially enjoyed the luxurious shower, which was a real treat after a long day of driving. The staff were extremely friendly and accommodating and made us feel right at home. Based on our experience, we’d highly recommend Ironworks Hotel Indy for anyone looking for a place to stay on their drive through Indianapolis.

Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .

7. Graduate Columbus

Another hotel that deserves to be on the list is Graduate Columbus. It’s located in Columbus, Ohio and it is 2,241 miles from Los Angeles. You can arrive there within one day and nine hours of car drive.

Graduate Columbus is the perfect place to stop when on a road trip from Los Angeles to New York. Located in Columbus, Ohio, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations, a restaurant, private parking, and 24-hour reception services. It’s only a nine-minute stroll from Italian Village, making it an ideal place to stay, especially when traveling with family. The spacious rooms are perfect for an idyllic getaway, offering free WiFi access throughout the premises and luggage storage space. Graduate Columbus is the perfect place to rest on your road trip, offering all the amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

If you need further information, you can check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Graduate Columbus.

8. Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center

Located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center is another hotel where you can stay on the Los Angeles to New York road trip. Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center is 2,613 miles from Los Angeles and will take one day and fourteen hours of non-stop driving.

Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a great place for travelers on a road trip from Los Angeles to New York. This luxurious hotel boasts plenty of amenities that will make your stay enjoyable, including a well-equipped fitness center, an excellent onsite restaurant with a variety of delicious culinary delights, and plenty of meeting space for larger groups. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful, and the rooms are spacious, comfortable, and spotlessly clean. There’s something for everyone here, making it a perfect stop for travelers on the road.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center for more information.

9. Mint House at 70 Pine

As we approach the end of our list, another hotel we would like to introduce to you is the Mint House at 70 Pine hotel. Mint House at 70 Pine, New York City, New York is 2,777 miles from Los Angeles, and you can arrive there with one day and seventeen hours of non-stop driving.

Mint House at 70 Pine is a great stop on the Los Angeles to New York road trip. This chic and modern hotel offers guests an elegant and luxurious experience in the heart of NYC. It is conveniently located near many popular attractions like Wall Street, so you won’t have to waste time traveling far to explore the city. The rooms are spacious and spotless, and the views from the windows are simply breathtaking. I especially appreciated the hotel’s high-end amenities, which ensured a comfortable and enjoyable stay. All in all, Mint House at 70 Pine is an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate quality and style.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Mint House at 70 Pine for more information about the Mint House at 70 Pine hotel.

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

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

9 Best Restaurants On The Los Angeles To New York Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Los Angeles to New York road trip. This section lists nine restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Los Angeles to New York. Stay hungry and enjoy!

1. Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Los Angeles to New York road trip with Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff. Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff is located in Flagstaff, Arizona , and is 465 miles from Los Angeles. It would take 7 hours of driving.

Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff in Flagstaff, Arizona is a great option for a tasty stop on your Los Angeles to New York road trip. With an array of mouth-watering dishes to choose from, the restaurant provides a great dining experience no matter what kind of diet you have. Vegetarians will be delighted to find a selection of dishes on the dinner menu. The food is flavorful and the atmosphere cozy, making it the perfect spot for a break during your road trip. The friendly staff ensures that each guest’s experience is nothing short of perfect. All in all, Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff is an ideal place to make a pit stop and enjoy a delicious meal.

For more information about Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff, you can visit TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff.

2. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to New York from Los Angeles is Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque. Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque is 790 miles from Los Angeles and would take 11 hours and 37 mins of driving.

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque is an excellent stop on a road trip from Los Angeles to New York. This convivial chain restaurant offers classic New Orleans-style seafood dishes, steaks, salads, and more in generous portions. We had jambalaya, which was full of flavor and cooked to perfection. The garlic mashed potatoes were also delicious. The staff was very friendly and helpful, making our stay enjoyable. We also tried their signature cocktails, which were refreshing and delicious. Overall, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque is a great place to add to your road trip. The food is great, the drinks are good, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. Highly recommend this spot for a tasty and memorable experience!

If you want to learn more about Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

3. Coyote Bluff Cafe

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Coyote Bluff Cafe. It will take 15 hours and 37 mins of car drive to take 1,073 miles from Los Angeles to Coyote Bluff Cafe, Amarillo, Texas.

Coyote Bluff Cafe in Amarillo, Texas is an excellent place to stop and grab a bite while on your road trip from Los Angeles to New York. The atmosphere at Coyote Bluff Cafe is rustic and eclectic, and their burgers are cooked just the way you like them. The restaurant has a cozy and homey feel, and it’s a great place to relax and unwind while on the drive. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the food is always delicious. Coyote Bluff Cafe is a must-stop spot on the road trip and is sure to provide a great and memorable experience.

You can check Coyote Bluff Cafe, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. Cheever’s Cafe

Cheever’s Cafe deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Cheever’s Cafe in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma is a great place to stop on a road trip from Los Angeles to New York. Located just two miles away from downtown Oklahoma City, it provides contemporary comfort food with Southwest influences. The menu is full of delicious options, such as prime steaks, fresh seafood, and salads, as well as daily and nightly specials. The atmosphere is warm and inviting and the quality of the ingredients is top-notch. People who visit Cheever’s Cafe are sure to be impressed with the excellent fare and the friendly staff. Overall, it’s an enjoyable experience for all who visit.

Cheever’s Cafe is 1,331 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 19 hours and 19 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Cheever’s Cafe, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

5. The Fountain on Locust

If you enjoy dining, The Fountain on Locust would be an excellent choice in St. Louis, Missouri. It’s 1,824 miles from Los Angeles and would take one day and two hours of car driving.

The Fountain on Locust is a great place to stop when you’re taking a road trip from Los Angeles to New York. It’s the perfect combination of old-fashioned charm and modern cuisine. The atmosphere is amazing, with the cozy old-school fountain setting and the friendly staff. The food was delicious, from the pickle soup to the World’s Smallest Hot Fudge Sundae. The portions were generous and the service was outstanding. They were attentive and engaging, making sure we enjoyed our meal. Overall, The Fountain on Locust is a great place to stop and have a meal on your road trip from Los Angeles to New York. Highly recommended!

If you want to learn more about The Fountain on Locust you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

6. High Velocity, Indianapolis

Another restaurant we recommend you visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to New York is High Velocity, Indianapolis, and Indianapolis, Indiana. It will take one day and six hours of driving to reach High Velocity, Indianapolis from Los Angeles.

High Velocity, Indianapolis is a great stop on any Los Angeles to New York road trip! With delicious nachos and juicy wagyu burgers, this restaurant is sure to satisfy any traveler’s cravings. Service was extremely efficient and the food was cooked to perfection. During our visit, my friends and I thoroughly enjoyed our meal, which was served quickly and with a smile. We left with full bellies and a great memory of our time in Indianapolis. Highly recommend this spot for anyone taking a road trip from Los Angeles to New York!

For more information about High Velocity, Indianapolis you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.

7. Lindey’s

Ranked seventh on our list, Lindley’s appeals to those who want to turn their New York vacation into a memorable experience. Located in Columbus, Ohio 2,243 miles away from Los Angeles, and it’ll take one day and nine hours of driving.

Lindey’s in Columbus, Ohio is a great spot to stop by on your Los Angeles to New York road trip. The restaurant’s location in Germantown is charming, and its ambiance and vibe are truly special. The atmosphere is truly picturesque, and the food is simply delicious. Everything from the presentation to the flavor of the dishes is delightful, making it the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. I highly recommend it to anyone traveling along this route.

If you want to learn more about Lindey’s you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

8. The Millworks

The Millworks is an excellent restaurant that is 2,608 miles away from Los Angeles. The Millworks is located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and you can reach there after one day and fourteen hours of car driving.

The Millworks in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a great place to stop on a Los Angeles to New York road trip. This award-winning restaurant and brewery offer a unique opportunity to experience the best of Central Pennsylvania’s artistic and agricultural offerings. The spacious multipurpose events space is perfect for a night out with friends or family. The food is delicious, the drinks are excellent and the atmosphere is inviting. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a more elaborate evening, The Millworks has something for everyone. All in all, this is a great spot to stop on your journey from LA to NYC.

If you want to discover the menu and more information about The Millworks, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

9. Olio e Più:

Eating is a serious business. Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who take this job seriously is the Olio e Più, New York City, New York. It is 2,792 miles from Los Angeles and would take around one day and seventeen hours of car driving.

Olio e Più in New York City is an absolute must-stop on any Los Angeles to New York road trip! The service is outstanding and the staff are friendly, attentive, and go above and beyond to take care of their guests. The food has our mouths watering! The Bolognese and risotto dishes are especially delicious, with flavors that will leave you wanting more. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite while on the drive and we highly recommend it.

You can visit the official TripAdvisor and Google Maps pages of Olio e Più, for detailed information.

This section lists our nine restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Los Angeles to New York. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 2,776 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a New York road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

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

9 Places To Visit On The Los Angeles To New York Drive

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

1. Historic Downtown and Railroad District, Flagstaff

Historic Downtown and Railroad District, Flagstaff will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your Los Angeles to New York road trip. Located in Flagstaff, Arizona, Historic Downtown and Railroad District, Flagstaff is 465 miles away from Los Angeles, and it would take 7 hours to drive.

Historic Downtown and Railroad District, Flagstaff in Flagstaff, Arizona is a must-stop on any road trip from Los Angeles to New York. This western town is situated along Route 66 and is renowned for its remarkable architecture and quaint atmosphere. Visitors can explore the area and admire the beautiful murals that adorn the buildings. Shopping at the local stores and indulging in the many eateries is a great way to spend a day in this picturesque town. Whether you are looking for a unique souvenir or a delicious meal, Historic Downtown, and Railroad District, Flagstaff offers something for everyone.

If you want to learn more about the Historic Downtown and Railroad District, Flagstaff, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

2. Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque, New Mexico is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Los Angeles to New York route. It’s 785 miles from Los Angeles, and it’ll take about 11 hours and 32 mins of driving.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is an amazing place to visit on a Los Angeles to New York road trip. It is the only place in North America to offer traditional Native American dances every weekend and a range of other cultural and community activities. Visitors can explore rotating museum exhibits, enjoy art festivals, and take part in hands-on children’s programs. It’s an amazing place to experience the vibrant culture of the Pueblo people. It’s a great place to take a break during a long drive, and the perfect spot to learn more about the history of the local area.

If you want to learn more about Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .

3. Cadillac Ranch

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Los Angeles to New York is Amarillo, Texas. And if you visit Amarillo, Texas, we suggest you visit Cadillac Ranch. You can arrive at Cadillac Ranch after 15 hours and 27 mins of driving.

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is an iconic roadside attraction that is a must-see on an LA to NYC road trip. Created by millionaire Stanley Marsh III, this unique place features ten classic Cadillacs from the “Golden Age” of the American automobile, from 1948 to 1963, that are buried nose-first in the ground and adorned with graffiti. It’s a great place to take a break from the drive and explore the creative artwork that covers the vehicles. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply appreciate the artistry of graffiti, Cadillac Ranch is a great place to visit and makes the perfect stop on the way from Los Angeles to New York.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Cadillac Ranch for more information.

4. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on the Los Angeles to New York road trip. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is 1,327 miles from Los Angeles, and you can arrive there after 19 hours and 17 mins of drive.

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a must-stop destination on any Los Angeles to New York road trip. The museum and memorial provide a powerful and poignant reminder of the tragic 1995 bombing and are sure to move visitors with their stories of courage and selflessness. The museum itself is a testament to the resilience and compassion that followed the tragedy, featuring an in-depth look at the event and its aftermath. It’s an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Whether you take a few minutes or a few hours, you won’t regret making the pilgrimage to this remarkable place.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum before going there.

5. Missouri Botanical Garden

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Missouri Botanical Garden ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Los Angeles to New York. You must take one day and two hours of driving to arrive at Missouri Botanical Garden.

Visiting Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is a must-do on any road trip between Los Angeles and New York. This 79-acre park is a National Historic Landmark and is widely considered one of the top three botanical gardens in the world. There are so many paths to explore, making it a great place for photography enthusiasts. Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Gardens is especially amazing, with stunning lights and some fire pits for warmth. The mistletoe and the big blue tree are long-time favorites of visitors. There are also some great spots to take holiday pictures. It’s a great place to take a break on your drive and enjoy the beauty of nature. Highly recommend!

If you want to learn more about Missouri Botanical Garden, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

6. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to New York is the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is 2,069 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take one day and six hours to drive.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is an amazing place to visit during a road trip from Los Angeles to New York! This museum is packed full of fun activities for young children and has something for everyone. The upper floors have a wide array of play areas for kids to explore and enjoy, and they could easily spend hours and there. The interactive exhibits are great for fostering imagination and creativity and are sure to keep kids entertained. All in all, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a great place to stop on the way to New York, and kids are sure to love it!

For more information about the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .

7. German Village

You can visit many destinations on your Los Angeles to New York journey. One of these destinations is German Village located in, Columbus, Ohio. You can arrive at German Village after one day and nine hours of driving.

German Village in Columbus, Ohio is an incredible place to visit on any road trip from Los Angeles to New York. Despite the imposing twenty-story skyscraper just east of I-70, the neighborhood offers a tranquil atmosphere with no structures higher than three stories. The elevated highway bridge that separates the German Village Historic District from Columbus’ bustling downtown district makes it easy to distinguish between the two distinct architectural styles. It’s a great place to take a break from the long drive, enjoy the fresh air, and explore the unique atmosphere of this historic village.

If you want to read the reviews of previous visitors about German Village you can visit German Village’s TripAdvisor page or their website .

8. Pennsylvania State Capitol

As we near the end of our list of the top 9 best places to visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to New York, it would be unfair not to mention Pennsylvania State Capitol. Pennsylvania State Capitol locates in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 2,608 miles from Los Angeles, and it takes one day and fourteen hours to drive from Los Angeles to get there.

Visiting the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is a must for any road trip from Los Angeles to New York. Its awe-inspiring architecture is the star of the show, with its distinctive dome that has been praised by none other than Teddy Roosevelt as “one of the most handsome buildings I have ever seen.” The majestic structure allows you to take in all the grandeur up close and personal. The Capitol is a great place to stop and take in the history, culture, and beauty of Pennsylvania. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a photo op, the Pennsylvania State Capitol is an essential part of your journey.

If you want to learn more about Pennsylvania State Capitol, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

9. Top of the Rock

Now, we would like to introduce you to another vibrant restaurant on the New York trip. Located in New York City, New York, Top of the Rock is 2,792 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take one day and seventeen hours to drive.

Top of the Rock in New York City is a must-visit on any road trip from Los Angeles to New York. From this magnificent spot, visitors can experience unparalleled views of NYC’s iconic skyline, including the Empire State Building. The transparent roof of the elevator was a great bonus! Sitting atop the Top of the Rock, you can witness the beauty of NYC’s most famous buildings and get a sense of their grandeur. I was awestruck by the stunning views of Central Park, uptown and downtown, and the panoramic glimpses of the city. It’s a great place to take it all in. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

If you want to learn more about Top of the Rock, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Los Angeles to New York

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

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

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Los Angeles to New York road trip takes approximately one day and seventeen hours to drive. The driving distance between Los Angeles to New York is 2,776 miles.
• If you want to make the Los Angeles to New York road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be 11 days .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Los Angeles-New York route, then you will have to walk for 37 days and 22 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Los Angeles To New York?

There are many beautiful pits stops along the way to New York. You can visit Flagstaff, Arizona; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Amarillo, Texas; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; St. Louis, Missouri; Indianapolis, Indiana; Columbus, Ohio; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; New York City, New York; on the road. Here we list nine places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Los Angeles to New York journey, you can check the 9 Best Places To Visit On The Los Angeles To New York Road Trip.

• Historic Downtown and Railroad District, Flagstaff: 465 miles / 7 hours to drive from Los Angeles | 2,312 miles / one day and ten hours of driving to New York.
• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center: 785 miles / 11 hours and 32 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,992 miles / one day and six hours of driving to New York.
• Cadillac Ranch: 1,062 miles / 15 hours and 27 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,715 miles / one day and two hours of driving to New York.
• Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: 1,327 miles / 19 hours and 17 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,449 miles / 21 hours and 58 mins of driving to New York.
• Missouri Botanical Garden: 1,821 miles / one day and two hours to drive from Los Angeles | 956 miles / 14 hours and 49 mins of driving to New York.
• Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: 2,069 miles / one day and six hours to drive from Los Angeles | 712 miles / 11 hours and 14 mins of driving to New York.
• German Village: 2,242 miles / one day and nine hours to drive from Los Angeles | 535 miles / 8 hours and 37 mins of driving to New York.
• Pennsylvania State Capitol: 2,608 miles / one day and fourteen hours to drive from Los Angeles | 171 miles / 2 hours and 59 mins of driving to New York.
• Top of the Rock: 2,792 miles / one day and seventeen hours to drive from Los Angeles | 3.9 miles / 26 mins of driving to New York.

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

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Los Angeles to New York. We have selected nine hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 9 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To New York From Los Angeles section.

• Little America Hotel, Arizona: 467 miles / 7 hours to drive from Los Angeles | 2,310 miles / one day and ten hours of driving to New York.
• Sandia Peak Inn: 783 miles / 11 hours and 33 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,994 miles / one day and six hours of driving to New York.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown: 1,072 miles / 15 hours and 37 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,707 miles / one day and two hours of driving to New York.
• 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City: 1,326 miles / 19 hours and 14 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,451 miles / 22 hours of driving to New York.
• Drury Plaza Hotel St. Louis at the Arch: 1,825 miles / one day and two hours to drive from Los Angeles | 951 miles / 14 hours and 46 mins of driving to New York.
• Ironworks Hotel Indy: 2,082 miles / one day and six hours to drive from Los Angeles | 714 miles / 11 hours and 15 mins of driving to New York.
• Graduate Columbus: 2,241 miles / one day and nine hours to drive from Los Angeles | 537 miles / 8 hours and 37 mins of driving to New York.
• Best Western Premier The Central Hotel & Conference Center: 2,613 miles / one day and fourteen hours to drive from Los Angeles | 168 miles / 2 hours and 52 mins of driving to New York.
• Mint House at 70 Pine: 2,777 miles / one day and seventeen hours to drive from Los Angeles | 0.9 miles / 9 mins of driving to New York.

Where To Eat Between Los Angeles to New York?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Los Angeles to New York drive, you can consider the nine restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 9 Best Restaurants On The Los Angeles To New York Road Trip .

• Delhi Palace Cuisine of India, Flagstaff: 465 miles / 7 hours to drive from Los Angeles | 2,314 miles / one day and ten hours of driving to New York.
• Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Albuquerque: 790 miles / 11 hours and 37 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,994 miles / one day and six hours of driving to New York.
• Coyote Bluff Cafe: 1,073 miles / 15 hours and 37 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,704 miles / one day and two hours of driving to New York.
• Cheever’s Cafe: 1,331 miles / 19 hours and 19 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 1,447 miles / 21 hours and 55 mins of driving to New York.
• The Fountain on Locust: 1,824 miles / one day and two hours to drive from Los Angeles | 954 miles / 14 hours and 50 mins of driving to New York.
• High Velocity, Indianapolis: 2,066 miles / one day and six hours to drive from Los Angeles | 711 miles / 11 hours and 16 mins of driving to New York.
• Lindy’s: 2,243 miles / one day and nine hours to drive from Los Angeles | 535 miles / 8 hours and 36 mins of driving to New York.
• The Millworks: 2,608 miles / one day and fourteen hours to drive from Los Angeles | 171 miles / 2 hours and 58 mins of driving to New York.
• Olio e Più: 2,792 miles / one day and seventeen hours to drive from Los Angeles | 1.9 miles / 14 mins of driving to New York.

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

Share Your Thoughts

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

Video: New York Road Trip – Travel Guide

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

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NYC to LA: The Great American Road Trip

The ultimate bucket list road trip

This is the 22-day trip you'll talk about for the rest of your life!  Make your way across the US from east to west with stops in New York, Washington, D.C., a quick hop over the Canadian border to Niagara Falls, Detroit, Chicago, Sioux City, Rapid City to visit Mount Rushmore, Cody, Yellowstone, Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon, Flagstaff for the must-see Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and finally Los Angeles.  From world-famous cities to the beauty of America's national parks and the ever-changing landscapes in between, this is the road trip to top all road trips! 

What's Included

• Roundtrip economy class airfare into New York City (LGA), out of Los Angeles (LAX)
• Automatic rental car for the duration of your trip
• Pick up LGA and drop off LAX
• 2 nights in Manhattan at The Dylan Hotel NYC, or similar
• 2 nights in Washington DC at The Capital Hilton, or similar
• 1 night in Niagara Falls at the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel, or similar
• 1 night in Detroit at the Fort Pontchartain Detroit, or similar
• 2 nights in Chicago at The Whitehall Chicago, or similar
• 1 night in Sioux City at The Hilton Garden Inn Sioux City Riverfront, or similar
• 2 nights in Rapid City at The Cambria Hotel Rapid City Near Mount Rushmore, or similar
• 1 night in Cody at The Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village, or similar
• 2 nights in West Yellowstone at the Yellowstone Park Hotel, or similar
• 1 night in Salt Lake City at Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel, or similar
• 1 night in the Bryce Canyon area at The Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, or similar
• 2 nights in Flagstaff at the Doubletree by Hilton Flagstaff, or similar
• 1 night in Las Vegas at The Luxor Hotel & Casino, or similar
• 2 nights in Los Angeles at the Hilton Los Angeles Airport, or similar
• Detailed day-by-day itinerary with trip highlights, hotel information, local guides, maps and driving directions

This package is seasonal and only available April to October.

Great Ways to Explore

See the Statue of Liberty and visit the museum at Ellis Island in New York City.

See Niagara Falls, Mount Rushmore, and the jaw-dropping Grand Canyon - all in one trip! 

Marvel at the fascinating wildlife in America's first national park, Yellowstone.

Catch a show on the Las Vegas Strip before trying your luck at a casino.

Enjoy fun in the sun at Santa Monica Pier near Los Angeles.

This is the trip you've been dreaming of your whole life, the ultimate road trip adventure, clear across the US of A!  Starting in New York City and finishing in Los Angeles, you'll see big cities, small towns, national parks and everything in between. With your very own rental car, you'll have the freedom to roam far and wide. So find your favorite playlist, put your sunglasses on and roll the windows down. You're in for the adventure of a lifetime!

Start in the city that never sleeps, New York!  Visit the Empire State Building, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, picnic in Central Park and catch a Broadway show.  Then, head down to the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.  Snap photos of the White House, stroll along the National Mall and grab a famous half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl on U Street.  Head over the Canadian border to the dramatic views of Niagara Falls before visiting the revitalized city of Detroit for some amazing music and food. 

Next, spend some time in bustling Chicago, a city with everything to offer, before crossing the Mississippi River and venturing into the quieter lifestyles of Sioux City, Rapid City and Cody.  Snap photos at Mount Rushmore and enjoy the changing landscape as you make your way west.  

Visit some of America's most stunning national parks, including Yellowstone, Bryce Canyon and of course, Grand Canyon, one of the natural wonders of the world and an item on everyone's bucket list. Then it's on to the exciting nightlife of Las Vegas with it's famous strip and endless entertainment.  Finish your adventure in Los Angeles, spot a celebrity or two, take a selfie in front of the Hollywood sign and dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean! 

Show Detailed Itinerary

Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.

Learn More about New York, Washington DC, Niagara Falls, Detroit, Chicago, Sioux City, Rapid City, Cody, West Yellowstone, Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon City, Flagstaff, Las Vegas and Los Angeles

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Visit Euphoria's Filming Locations

The Best Winter Vacations in North America

Please note that some elements called out in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check " What's Included " above for full details on inclusions. As we all go through the recovery together, the fluid nature of this event means some venues and attractions may have restrictions or closures. Please check online resources close to the time of travel to better plan your own day-to-day itinerary.

Day 1. Welcome to New York City

Catch a glimpse of the world's most famous skyline as you touch down in the city that never sleeps and begin your epic trip across the USA! You'll pick up your automatic rental car at the airport and head to your first hotel to check in. 

Tonight, you might want to see the dazzling lights of Times Square!  New York City has no shortage of exciting things to do, amazing food to indulge in or interesting people to meet. Take in the bustle and energy of the Big Apple!

A Tip For Your Trip: Leave the car parked for your time in NYC! Use the vast subway and bus system to get around the city.

Check-in - Dylan Hotel NYC

Dylan hotel nyc.

Dylan Hotel NYC is a luxurious boutique hotel located near Bryant Park, Grand Central Station, and Times Square. Spacious guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, television, work desk, and coffee/tea making facilities. The hotel features a bar, restaurant, and fitness center. With so many of New York CIty's top attractions just steps away, the Dylan Hotel is an excellent choice accommodation.

Day 2. New York City

This exciting city is filled with amazing people, famous sights, and towering skyscrapers. Take your pick of the Statue of Liberty, Fifth Avenue, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building and much more!

Brooklyn Bridge • NYC

A Tip For Your Trip: Hailing an iconic yellow taxi in NYC? Look for one with just the center medallion number lit, this means the car is available.

Day 3. New York City - Washington D.C.

Grab one more breakfast in the Big Apple before getting back into your rental car and heading south to the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.!  Depending on traffic (be sure not to leave at rush hour!) the trip will probably take a little over 4 hours. 

If you prefer, you can stop in Philadelphia on the way.  Explore the historic district of the "City of Brotherly Love" and the birthplace of the nation.  See the Liberty Bell and stroll through Independence National Historic Park and Mall.  Don't leave Philly without trying one of their famous cheese steaks! The most famous rivalry is Pat's vs. Geno's, try both and see which you prefer!  Or, why not ask a local for their recommendation on the best spot? 

After settling in at your D.C. hotel, you might want to have dinner in lively Georgetown, where some of the best chefs vie for your attention.

Check-in - Capital Hilton

Capital hilton.

Explore the heart of Washington D.C. while staying in an historic hotel! The Capital Hilton Washington D.C. is an elegant hotel just minutes from the White House, the National Mall, and the U.S. Capital. Dine at the North Gate Grill or Statler Lounge, both on site, for a selection of fresh foods and drinks. Wi-Fi is available in lobby areas free of charge, and all rooms are air-conditioned and have private bathrooms with toiletries. The hotel is less than five miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Day 4. Washington D.C.

Spend a full day exploring Washington, D.C.  Start by strolling along the National Mall where you'll find iconic monuments including the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.  Lose yourself in some of the world's most inspired museums.  

After lunch, why not journey across the Potomac to nearby Alexandria or perhaps you would prefer to rent a bicycle and continue your exploration of the city. 

Tonight, check out the Adams Morgan or Dupont Circle areas for great nightlife!

White House • Washington DC

A Tip For Your Trip: The D.C. metro system is easy to use and the best way to get around the city quickly and efficiently!

Day 5. Washington D.C. - Niagara Falls

Today, you'll leave Washington, D.C. and head northwest toward the New York/Canada border.  Just before reaching the Niagara Falls area, you might want to make a stop at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, N.Y. and try some famous buffalo wings right where they were invented!

Cross the international border into Canada, where the thundering noise and mist of Niagara Falls permeates the air .  Check into your hotel and settle in for the night.

A Tip For Your Trip: Be sure to bring your passport for crossing the Canadian border.

Check-in - Sheraton on the Falls Hotel

Sheraton on the falls hotel.

Boasting stunning views of Niagara Falls, this hotel offers contemporary decor, comfortable rooms, and endless recreational amenities. Not only is the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel connected to Casino Niagara and Fallsview Indoor Waterpark, but it also features its own indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, onsite dining, a spa, and much more!

Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to stylish decor, plush bedding, crisp air conditioning, WiFi access, flat-screen TV, and more. Once you're all settled, unpack your swimsuit, or treat yourself to a meal at the onsite restaurant. Too cozy to leave your bed? Just order room service!      

Day 6. Niagara Falls - Detroit

Get an early start today to view the famous Niagara Falls!  Famed for its stunning beauty, Niagara Falls is actually a group of 3 waterfalls on the border of New York and Ontario with a vertical drop of over 160 feet.  Stroll along Table Rock and view the thundering waters of Horseshoe Falls.   You might want to consider a boat or helicopter tour for a more in-depth visit.

This afternoon, cross back into the US and continue to your hotel in Detroit, known as "Motor City USA".  Spend the evening in the downtown area with some great food and live jazz and blues music.

Check-in - Fort Pontchartrain Detroit, a Wyndham Hotel

Fort pontchartrain detroit, a wyndham hotel.

Just a short walk from the Detroit Riverwalk, this modern hotel is comfortable, stylish, and convenient. Featuring on-site dining, 24-hour reception, an indoor pool, and a fitness center, the Fort Pontchartrain boasts tons of amenities, facilities, and services to make your stay magnificent. Open the door to your spacious room and find contemporary decor, free Wi-Fi, cozy bedding, crisp air conditioning, and much more. Treat yourself to a meal at the on-site restaurant, or relax with a cocktail in the lounge. Too cozy to leave your room? Just order room service! 

Both the Detroit Riverwalk and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel are within a five-minute walk from the hotel, while Ford Field and Comerica Park are one mile away. The hotel is also conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from Coleman A. Young International Airport.

Day 7. Detroit - Chicago

Grab a coffee and take a walk along the Detroit Riverfront to see the revival of this city in action. You might want to check out DIA, Detroit Institute of Arts, or the Motown Museum, also known as Hitsville, USA.  Have lunch in the city center before starting your drive to Chicago. 

Check-in - The Whitehall Hotel

The whitehall hotel.

Just a short walk from the shopping and dining of the Magnificent Mile, this stylish hotel boasts luxury, comfort, and convenience. Step into The Whitehall and feel immersed in an air of history and sophistication. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Inside, you'll find free WiFi, luxurious bedding, marble bathrooms, and modern technology. 

After you settle in, treat yourself to a drink from the bar, then a delicious meal at the upscale onsite restaurant. Too cozy to leave your bed? Just order room service! 

Day 8. Chicago

Spend a full day exploring exciting Chicago!  Soak up the city's highlights including Lake Shore Drive, the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier and one of the world's tallest buildings, the Willis Tower.  If the weather is nice, you might want to see the city from a river cruise.  Be sure to try the famous deep dish pizza! 

Buckingham Fountain • Chicago

Day 9. Chicago - Sioux City

Leave the city life behind and travel through Midwest farm country, abundant in corn fields and dairy farms. Then, cross the mighty Mississippi River into the state of Iowa to arrive just as Lewis & Clark did 200 years ago on the banks of the Missouri River.

Check-in - Hilton Garden Inn Sioux City Riverfront

Hilton garden inn sioux city riverfront.

Boasting beautiful river views, this Sioux City hotel is the perfect home away from home. With free WiFi, an indoor pool, two onsite restaurants, and a 24-hour fitness center, the Holiday Garden Inn Sioux City Riverfront is packed with comforts and amenities. 

Open the door to your room and you'll find stylish decor, plush bedding, flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, a refrigerator, a microwave, and much more. 

Day 10. Sioux City - Rapid City

You might want to check out Trinity Heights, the restored Orpheum Theatre or the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center in Sioux City before continuing your journey west. 

Drive through the grasslands of South Dakota to Badlands National Park, once home to the buffalo and antelope, and filled with colorful rock formations. Continue on to the Black Hills, sacred to the Plains Indians and home to Mount Rushmore, monument to four great American presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt.

Check-in - Cambria Hotel Rapid City Near Mount Rushmore

Cambria hotel rapid city near mount rushmore.

Cambria Hotel Rapid City Lobby

Cambria Hotel Rapid City Standard Bedroom

Cambria Hotel Rapid City Pool

Cambria Hotel Rapid City Restaurant

The Cambria Hotel Rapid City Near Mount Rushmore provides upscale accommodations, attentive service and a convenient location near I-90 and Rapid City Regional Airport. The South Dakota Air and Space Museum, Rushmore Plaza Civic Center and the Rushmore Crossing shopping center are also nearby.

Downtown Rapid City is only a 10-minute drive away. Mount Rushmore National Memorial is just a short 30-minute drive. The Crazy Horse Memorial and the natural wonders of Custer State Park and Jewel Cave National Monument are also located in the same area, making for a truly memorable travel experience.

While you’re at the hotel, there are plenty of amenities to take advantage of. Go for a swim in the heated indoor pool, relax in the hot tub or keep up with your workout routine at our 24-hour fitness center. At the end of the day, enjoy dinner and drinks at our restaurant and full-service bar. Free WiFi and an ergonomic workspace in your room make it easy to be productive while you’re away.

Day 11. Rapid City

Today you'll undoubtedly want to visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial, about 30 minutes southwest of Rapid City.  Reaching over 60 feet tall, the impressive carved sculptures were started in 1927 and completed in 1941 with the goal of bringing more tourists to South Dakota's Black Hills.  Known as the "Shrine of Democracy", Mount Rushmore now welcomes over 2 million visitors annually and is one of America's most popular attractions.

Tonight, relax at a local pub in downtown Rapid City. 

Mount Rushmore • South Dakota

Day 12. Rapid City - Cody

Drive further to the "wild west" and into Wyoming, which has twelve mountain ranges intermixed with deserts and rolling grasslands.  Spend the night in Cody, a small frontier town and home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.  Walk the downtown area, visiting the many cowboy apparel stores, galleries and wonderful restaurants. 

Check-in - Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village

Holiday inn cody at buffalo bill village.

Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village Double

Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village Standard

Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village Standard King

Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village Standard Bathroom

Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village Pool

Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village Family Dining

Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village Bottoms Up Lounge

Holiday Inn of Cody, Wyoming hotel guests enjoy a premier location, as well as a top ranked hotel. Business and leisure travelers alike will appreciate the Holiday Inn Cody at Buffalo Bill Village. The hotel has quick access to Highways 14, 20, 16 and Wyoming Highway 120. 

While you're here, take the short drive to Yellowstone National Park and see beautiful natural wonders like Old Faithful, and perhaps, capture a few pictures of the area's wildlife.

Relax in the outdoor heated pool or burn off a few calories in the well-equipped Fitness Center. Then, dine with us at QT's Restaurant, where delicious American fare is served and kids eat free. 

Day 13. Cody - West Yellowstone

Today, drive past the mountains in Wyoming to Yellowstone National Park and check this amazing landscape off your bucket list. You might want to consider booking a guided tour of this immense geothermal wonderland to make the most of your time here. Spend the afternoon exploring geysers, waterfalls, wildlife and canyons.

Check-in - Yellowstone Park Hotel

Yellowstone park hotel.

Yellowstone Park Hotel - Guest Room

Yellowstone Park Hotel - Breakfast Bar

Yellowstone Park Hotel - Indoor Pool

Yellowstone Park Hotel - Game Room

Yellowstone Park Hotel is a three star hotel with a home-like aesthetic, located just three blocks from the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The hotel offers a comfortable stay with free WiFi and a range of entertainment amenities.  All guest rooms are furnished with a television, private bathroom, hair dryer, and coffee/tea making facilities. Hotel rooms have also has been recently renovated to include new pillows, furniture, and lighting fixtures. Guests can enjoy a hearty meal to fuel their day at the hotel's upgraded breakfast bar. Additional amenities include an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and business center. Guests can take advantage of the hotel's close proximity to the West Yellowstone town, featuring local events, dining, and shops.

Day 14. West Yellowstone

Grab your camera and wear comfortable shoes! Today, you'll spend a full day exploring all the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as America's first national park. See the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Fountain Paint Pots. 

Keep a lookout for some of the park's wildlife that can include moose, bison, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, wolves, bear, fox, coyote, and beaver!

Lower Falls of Yellowstone River • Wyoming

Day 15. West Yellowstone - Salt Lake City

Travel through Grand Teton National Park (weather permitting) and see awesome mountain peaks towering over 13,000 ft. Visit the Snake River Outlook and try your eye at capturing the stunning landscape made famous by Ansel Adam's iconic shot. Later, arrive in Utah's capital, Salt Lake City. The followers of Brigham Young built one of the best-planned cities in the country. See the State Capital building and visit famed Temple Square and the Tabernacle before arriving at the hotel for the evening. You might want to enjoy dinner at the Rooftop Restaurant for panoramic views of Temple Square.

Check-in - Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel

Sheraton salt lake city hotel.

Located in the business and entertainment district of downtown Salt Lake City is the Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel. This pet-friendly ultra-comfy accommodation is conveniently situated near the city's most popular attractions including Hogle Zoo, Red Butte Garden, the Eccles Theater, and Pioneer Park. Additionally, the hotel is just 5 miles away from the Salt Lake City International Airport and less than a mile away from the Salt Lake City Central Station. 

Visitors can take advantage of the Starbucks coffee shop or indulge in American cuisine at 5th Street Grill restaurant, both available on-site. With an outdoor pool and fitness center located on the property, visitors won't have to travel far to keep busy. All guestrooms are equipped with high-definition televisions and cable channels, Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, gorgeous views of the city, and more.

Day 16. Salt Lake City - Bryce Canyon area

Continue south to Bryce Canyon where a multi-colored world of sandstone spires and pinnacles, "hoodoos", will dazzle the eye. Here, nature's artistry has created rocks in various shades of red into an other-worldly landscape with the erosion caused my wind and rain over time.  The back drop of blue sky only makes it more stunning.  You may want to explore the canyon by walking or horseback. 

Check-in - Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn

Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn (Bryce Canyon) - Guest Room

Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn (Bryce Canyon) - Restaurant

Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn (Bryce Canyon) - Pool

Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn is located just one mile from Bryce Canyon National Park, making it an ideal place to stay. The hotel offers free airport shuttle service to and from Bryce Canyon Airport. All rooms come equipped with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, and complimentary toiletries in the private bathroom. Free on-site parking is available to those traveling by car. There are two on-site restaurants, Canyon Diner and Cowboy's Buffet and Steak, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The hotel features a heated indoor pool and a seasonally open outdoor pool, a basketball court, and mountain bicycle rentals. There are a variety of activities nearby, including rodeos, horse rides, ATVs, and skiing. Guests will enjoy a comfortable stay at the end of a long day of enjoying the American west.

Day 17. Bryce Canyon area - Flagstaff

Depart Bryce Canyon this morning and journey to stunning Lake Powell, where crystal blue water laps against towering red-rock canyon walls. Lake Powell is the second-largest man made lake in America. While here, Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are well worth a visit. Grab lunch in Page before heading to Flagstaff, a famed stop on Historic Route 66.

A Tip For Your Trip: Antelope Canyon can only be visited by guided tour, so be sure to book ahead of time if you'd like to check it out!

Check-in - DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff Exterior

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff Pool

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff Lounge Area

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff Dining Area

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff Bar Area

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff Guest Room

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff Fitness Center

DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff is the perfect place to stay during your Arizona getaway. The lobby is filled with bright colors and modern décor, and the hotel also offers a fireplace in the lounge area by the bar. Relax by the outdoor pool, whirlpool spa, or get a work-out in at the 24-hour fitness center. The hotel also has several on-site restaurants and cafes. Sakura Teppanyaki & Sushi offers authentic western-inspired Japanese food, while Woodlands Café has options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including seasonally inspired southwestern dishes and traditional American favorites. 

Each guest room is moderately decorated with warm, cozy colors. Room amenities include but are not limited to daily housekeeping, a coffee maker, a small work desk, private bathroom, and mini fridge.

DoubleTree is located within a 15-minute drive from Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, Sawmill Multicultural Art and Nature County Park, and Foxglenn Park if you're looking for outdoor adventures. Additionally, the hotel is a 30 minute drive from ski lifts like Sunset Triple, and is an hour and a half drive to Grand Canyon National Park.

Day 18. Flagstaff

Today, visit what is sure to be a highlight of your cross-country adventure, the Grand Canyon!  It's about a 90-minute drive from Flagstaff so be sure to leave early so you can maximize the day. Grand Canyon National Park is one of the seven great natural wonders of the world. Stop at the Canyon rim to fully experience this mile-deep canyon's gorges, rising spires, extinct volcanoes and, the winding Colorado River.  Take a short hike on one of the many trails, snap tons of photos and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime sunset before heading back to Flagstaff.  Tonight, enjoy a flight at one of Flagstaff's many local craft breweries.  

Grand Canyon

Day 19. Flagstaff - Las Vegas

This morning travel to Las Vegas, the infamous "Entertainment Capital of the World".  Along the way, pass through Seligman, a town built along the famed Route 66 that looks as if it were frozen in time sixty years ago. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the dazzling Las Vegas Strip! Take in a show, unwind at a cocktail bar, or try your luck at a casino!

Check-in - Luxor Hotel & Casino

Luxor hotel & casino.

Luxor Hotel Casino is situated on the Las Vegas strip. Guest rooms include television and private bathroom. WiFi is available for purchase. There are a variety of shopping, dining, and nightlife options onsite. There is an outdoor pool with cabanas, as well as a spa where guests can relax and unwind. Enjoy close proximity to many of the top attractions in Las Vegas!

Day 20. Las Vegas - Los Angeles

Travel to Los Angeles through the Mojave desert, where clusters of unique Joshua trees dot the mountainous landscape. Upon arrival in the "City of Angels", drive through areas such as Hollywood, Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills, before reaching your hotel.

Check-in - Hilton Los Angeles Airport

Hilton los angeles airport.

For comfort and extreme convince, look no further than the Hilton Los Angeles Airport! When you fly in, you can take the free shuttle to the airport, and go to the 24-hour front desk to express check-in/check-out. Stay in a comfortable, quiet room. Enjoy cable TV, a radio, a coffee-maker, and ironing facilities. Eat at the Cafe, Andiamo, or have a drink at the Landings bar. Use the fitness center, or shop at the gift shop. You'll be close to downtown Santa Monica!

Day 21. Los Angeles

Take obligatory photos in front of the iconic Hollywood Sign, consider a visit to Griffith Observatory, walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and drive down Sunset Boulevard. Feeling fancy? Bring out your inner "Pretty Woman" and go shopping on Rodeo Drive. Or, treat yourself to a movie studio tour!

Tonight, head out on the town to experience L.A.'s famed nightlife and toast to the last night of your epic road trip adventure.

Griffith Observatory • Los Angeles

Day 22. Depart Los Angeles

Sadly, the time has finally come.  Return your rental car, find your departure gate, and spend your flight home dreaming about your next adventure. 

Cross Country!

Luxurious boutique hotel in Murray Hill, NYC

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The Ultimate New York Road Trip Itinerary

Ready to plan to best every New York road trip itinerary? Umm, hell yeah you are. Because contrary to popular belief, there is WAY more to New York than just NYC.

Sure, NYC is nice but you kind of owe it to yourself to enjoy EVERYTHING that New York state has to offer.

Because between rolling hills, iconic metropolises, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and lakes that stretch out as far as the eye can see. New York really does have it all. I pinkie promise.

But, if you’re not from New York, it can be difficult (aka stressful) to figure out exactly where to start when planning a trip to the Empire state.

And that’s where I – and my tried and true New York road trip itinerary – come into play. I mean, I want to use my 30+ years of experience of traveling in New York to make your life a whole heck (only pretend I didn’t say heck) of a lot easier.

This way, you can quickly and easily all of the best landmarks in New York.

So, if you’re ready to experience New York like a REAL New Yorker, then onwards my friend as we swan dive into this New York road trip itinerary.

Trust me, it’s filled with TONS of insider tips and tricks to make your life 10,000 times easier. And yes, that is an exact number.

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

Table of Contents

Traveling To New York

Thankfully, traveling to New York for your New York road trip itinerary is pretty dang easy.

After all, New York is home to no less than three major airports – JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia – that are all well connected both domestically and internationally.

Personally, I’d recommend flying into either JFK or LaGuardia since both are closer to NYC than Newark, which is actually in New Jersey.

From here, you can then spend a few days in NYC before starting your New York road trip itinerary.

Personally, I wouldn’t rent a car in NYC just because it can be super expensive.

Instead, I’d spend a few days in NYC, take the train/bus to the Catskills, and THEN rent a car upon arrival.

Now, to get to the Catskills – the first stop in this New York road trip itinerary – from NYC you have a couple of different options. You could:

Take the Train  – Take NJ Transit’s mainline or the Bergen County line from Penn Station and then transfer to Metro-North’s Port Jervis line to Otisville. Once at Otisville, you can use a rideshare service to take you to the nearest car rental service.

Take the Bus  – This option is a bit more straightforward. Basically, all you’d need to do is hop on an Adirondack-Pine Hills Trailways/Greyhound bus and take it to the Catskills. Yeah, it really is that easy since they depart from the Port Authority bus terminal in Mid-Town. Once there, you could again use a rideshare service to take you to the nearest car rental service.

Pro Tip:  I’d go by bus. It’s easier, only takes about 2.5 hours, and will only cost between $45 and $65 per person. You’ll also get dropped off at the Catskill Park and Ride which is in Catskill, NY, near exit 21 of the New York Thruway.

How to Get Around New York

There is no reason why you should EVER drive in New York City. No really, that is not an exaggeration.

Not only are parking spots hard to come by – with insane, totally different, super complicated parking laws are found on every street block – but traffic is awful and if you park in a garage, well, you’ll pay the equivalent of the GDP of a small(ish) country.

Translation? You’ll pay a lot. Like, $40+ an hour a lot.

So, yeah, never drive in NYC and ALWAYS take the subway. Or bus. But the subway is usually easier since there’s no traffic.

Once outside of NYC though, you’ll 110% need a car. Yeah, sorry but outside of NYC, New York’s public transportation system is notoriously terrible or non-existent.

In either case though, you’ll need a car any time you travel outside of NYC.

So, if you want to start in the Catskills like this New York road trip itinerary suggests, I’d take the bus from Port Authority to the Catskills and then rent a car upon arrival.

Car rental services in Catskill, NY are basically Hertz. Conversely, you could always do a rideshare to Kingston and check out Enterprise, Budget Car Rental, or Sensible Car Rental while you’re there.

Best Time to See Fall Foliage in New York

Honestly, most people typically plan a New York road trip itinerary for the autumn since this is when vibrant foliage typically takes over the New York region.

So, if you’re lookin’ to do a wee bit of leaf peepin’, then consider planning your New York road trip for sometime in October.

Typically, fall foliage is JUST starting to come out in late September and then really takes over the region in October.

And depending on where you are in the state, fall foliage typically peaks in early October in the Adirondacks and around mid-October in the Catskills, which is much further South.

Below you’ll find two different totally amazing New York road trip itineraries that have ten amazing places in total.

Obviously, this is just a suggested NY road trip itinerary and it will vary based on your interests and how much time you have to spend in New York.

So, use this post as a rough guide and to help you plan one of many perfect road trips from NYC for you!

New York Road Trip Itinerary #1 – Headin’ Up North

New york road trip stop 1: catskills.

First stop: the Catskills! And I truly love this region since everyone takes something different away from this vast area of natural beauty.

Will you go get lost in the woods? Or head up to the lake to catch fish for supper? Perhaps you’ll attempt to climb one of the many mountains in Catskills? The possibilities are endless!

Things To Do In The Catskills

Explore Catskill Park  – There are two lakes for water sports, over 120 miles of mountain bike trails, and 8 major hiking routes , including climbs up 5 of the 10 highest peaks in the Catskill Mountains. So, there’s plenty to do for anyone looking to get physical during their New York road trip itinerary!

Take in the view at Kaaterskill Falls  – See this beautiful natural marvel in its full glory, as water drops down over 260 feet at the highest waterfall in New York State! This gorgeous site has captured the hearts and minds of painters and poets for hundreds of years. It also happens to be one of the best waterfalls in New York  State!

What To Eat In The Catskills:

Binnekill Tavern  – If fine dining is yo’ thang, head over to Margaretville and grab yourself some top-level dishes at the Binnekill Tavern. Re-opened in 2018 with a new highly acclaimed chef, this Catskills institution will make you want to come back again and again! I recommend the schnitzel – it’s a local specialty!

Gracie’s Luncheonette  – If you feel the need to chow down on some good ol’ comfort food, but with a southern twist, look no further than Gracie’s Luncheonette in Leeds.

Feel-good food is the top priority here, with all-day breakfasts, fry baskets, hamburgers, and sandwiches aplenty. You might have to roll me on over to the next stop after a meal here!

Where To Stay In The Catskills: 

Mountain Treasure Bed & Breakfast  (Maplecrest)  – The scenery alone makes this place a pleasure to stay in! Add in spacious rooms, cozy furniture, cute fire pits, and an adorable gazebo, and you could convince me that  Mountain Treasure  might have been plucked straight out of a fairytale!

Antique Rose Inn  (Windham)  – With interiors like this, you’ll find it hard to head outdoors.  The Antique Rose Inn  also offers wood-paneled walls, provides personally tailored breakfasts, and has beautiful gardens surrounding Victorian-style architecture.

There’s also a wrap-around terrace that is perfect for sitting and watching the evening sunset with a cup of warm cocoa – or a cool beer, depending on when you stay

New York Road Trip Stop 2: Albany

Time to head further up the highway! Because believe it or not, Albany has a rich history, and it shows in every part of the city.

From the nightlife to the wineries and breweries, to the live performances, to the county fairs, there’s something for everyone who comes to visit. If you are one of those people who love the great outdoors, you can even chase waterfalls near Albany!

Things To Do In Albany

Head to the State Capitol  – Trust me – you can’t miss it! This five-story, hugely ornate building took over thirty years to build. But it looks like it was worth it!

And as the focal point of the Empire State Plaza in Capitol Park, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Also be sure to take a tour so that you can explore to the vast interior too!

Albany Institute of History and Art  – Put those thinking caps on, y’all! This is one of the oldest museums in the US, and has over 20,000 different pieces on display, including paintings, sculptures, historical artifacts, and more!

What To Eat In Albany:

Sam’s Italian American  – This family-owned Albany mainstay has been serving customers for four generations. So, if you want to get your Italian pasta fix, Sam’s is the place for you.

The portions are huge, the menu is long, and by the end of your meal, you’ll feel like you just had dinner at your favorite Italian grandma’s house!

Cheesecake Machismo  – Need to satisfy that sweet tooth? Then head over to this epic place on Hamilton Street. it’s a quirky bakery that will ensure that you remember your New York road trip itinerary for years to come! Cherry Amaretto, Bavarian creme, green tea with chocolate…

Whatever you decide on, buy it by the slice or pick up a whole cheesecake for the road!

Where To Stay In Albany

Oakcliff Bed & Breakfast  (Halfmoon)  – Built in the style of Greek revival architecture,  Oakcliff Bed & Breakfast  will make you feel like royalty. Seriously, whether you’re resting your head in a four-poster bed or admiring the grand piano in the lounge, you’ll never not be in the lap of luxury here!

Olde Judge Mansion B&B  (Troy)  – This striking gothic-Victorian style building feels like something out of a game of Clue if the staff weren’t so welcoming and hospitable! Guests will also be treated to ornate furnishings and delicious home-cooked breakfasts. The only question is, will you entertain yourself in the poker room or in the parlor?

New York Road Trip Stop 3: Saratoga Springs

No New York road trip would be complete without a visit to Saratoga Springs. And I’ve talked a lot about it a lot before in my article about  25 amazing things to do in Saratoga Springs, NY !

Because from thrilling horse racing to charming Greek Revival-style homes, Saratoga Springs brings its A-game to anyone who crosses its welcoming borders!

Things To Do In Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Spa State Park  – You could spend your entire stay in Saratoga Springs inside Saratoga Spa State Park and not run out of things to do. I mean, hiking, fishing, swimming, spa treatments (of course), museums, and even golf are just some of the things you can do here. The hikes in Saratoga Springs are mind blowing! There are also tons of food venues so you won’t go hungry either.

Ride the historic carousel in Congress Park  – Take a blast from the entertainment past with this 120-year-old wooden merry-go-round! The original hand-carved animals are still in place, and will take you back to the good ol’ days as you bop up and down in style!

What To Eat In Saratoga Springs

Osteria Danny  – Just around the corner from Congress Park is this delightful Italian restaurant. Fill your belly with such delights as bacon-crusted cod, lobster bolognese, or a wealth of vegan and gluten-free dishes, which are all sure to fortify you during your awesome New York road trip itinerary!

Sushi Thai Garden  – Or if you’re feeling like you want some Asian cuisine, Sushi Thai Garden will be able to provide you with delicious sushi featuring all kinds of seafood, including salmon, crab, tuna, mussels, and octopus.

They also serve a whole host of different Thai curries, with fried rice and noodle dishes available too.

Where To Stay In Saratoga Springs

Adelphi Hotel  (Saratoga Springs)  – Looking for some luxury during your NY road trip itinerary? Well, then this place will blow you away. It features spacious rooms with breathtaking views of the city (make sure you book a room with a balcony!), beautiful furnishings, and top-quality service.

Some say it’s also one of the  most haunted hotels in New York , but don’t let things that go bump in the night spoil your stay!

Ann’s Washington Inn  (Saratoga Springs)  – If you’re in the mood for more of a quiet, peaceful night’s sleep, head on over to Ann’s Washington Inn. This delightful guest house comes with lush gardens and terraces on which to sit, have a drink and relax.

It’s no wonder plenty of couples decide to host their weddings here – it’s a place where you’re guaranteed to have a good time (and a comfy bed afterward)!

New York Road Trip Stop 4: Lake George

It’s time for a tan! Or in my case, a mild change in my pasty white, white complexion! And the one place I like to pretend to tan is Million Dollar Beach.

But, this beautiful natural oasis is just one of the many things that attract road trippers to Lake George every year. And there’s no reason for you to miss out either.

Because this top NY road trip destination is more than just a big body of water – there’s historical forts, rail bikes, a huge amusement park, need I say more?

Things To Do In Lake George

Take an authentic steamboat cruise on Lake George  – Get out on that water, yo! After all, this town is named after the lake for a reason, and you should definitely head onto one of their local steamboats – especially the Minne Ha Ha Paddlewheel! – to enjoy one of the oldest pastimes in the USA.

House of Frankenstein Wax Museum  – Wax figures? Check. Movie monsters? Double-check. The ultimate creepiness collection? Check check and CHECK! If you’re after some scares during your ultimate New York road trip itinerary, this house of horrors will definitely scratch that itch. Be warned: not all of the wax statues stay still ….

What to eat in Lake George

The Garrison Restaurant and Bar  – For great food and great company, head to the Garrison, just around the corner from Million Dollar Beach. This all-American bar and grill boasts live music, patio seating, and a huge menu full of satisfying pub grub. Plus, there’s plenty of craft beers on tap!

The Boathouse Restaurant  – For the best in waterfront dining that Lake George has to offer, this former boathouse (who would have guessed?) provides high-stacked burgers, tasty steaks, the freshest seafood, and a whole host of other dishes that will kick your New York road trip up an extra notch!

Where To Stay In Lake George

Inn on the Hill  (Lake George)  – This place has everything you could want from a comfortable night’s stay, with modern furnishings and the added bonus of an outdoor pool.  Umm, hi. Sign me up, please! Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from Lake George itself, meaning you can head straight out onto the water easily.

The Inn at Erlowest  (Lake George) –  I’ll admit it, this place comes with a hefty price tag. But when you want luxury, this is the place to measure it by. This beautiful stone building comes with HUGE rooms, some even with a fireplace or a jacuzzi, and excellent views of the lake, so your breakfast scenery will be second to none

New York Road Trip Stop 5: Lake Placid

It’s now on to our final stop of our first New York road trip itinerary – Lake Placid, a jewel among the Adirondack Mountains and home to one of the  best lakes in New York . .

If you’re venturing out on the ultimate road trip from NYC in the winter, this will be the perfect place to finish, because Lake Placid is a snow sports paradise!

But what if I’m on a NY road trip in summer? Oh well, I guess you’ll just have to settle for the natural beauty of sunlight pouring through green trees and shimmering off the cool, clear lake water. Sigh, it’s a hard life!

Things To Do In Lake Placid

Zip through the trees at Experience Outdoors  – What better way to view nature than by speeding over it at top speed? JK y’all, this isn’t you’re usual outdoor adventure! But just south of the main town of Lake Placid, make sure you stop by this family-friendly thrill ride.

Because in addition to epic zip lines, there’s also an adventure park full of challenging obstacles all set up in the Adirondack Mountain forests! You can see why this is one of the popular things to do in Lake Placid.

Shoot across Mirror Lake in a Toboggan  – Prepare for the longest slide of your life as you rocket down this 30-foot tall structure straight onto Mirror Lake! Although only available in winter, this is one of the most unique things to do in Lake Placid , with some sledders managing to slide over 1,000 feet across the ice!

You can also check out some of the best breweries in Lake Placid while you’re here.

What To Eat In Lake Placid:

Delta Blue  – Classic Lake Placid decor meets sumptuous Southern cuisine in this wood-paneled establishment complete with tree branches lining the ceiling. On the right day, you can even catch a live blues night while you enjoy your barbecue ribs!

Mis Amigos  – Sometimes you just want a burrito, amirite? Or, tacos, nachos, enchiladas, and the ocassional chimichanga. Well,  Mis Amigos deffo has got what you want with dishes that are bursting with flavor! If the weather is good, make sure to get a seat by the fire pit outside on the patio so that you can embrace Lake Placid’s sweet, small-town ambiance.

Where To Stay In Lake Placid:

Maple Leaf Inn  (Lake Placid)  –  Maple Leaf Inn  sits between Mirror Lake and Paradox Bay, within easy walking distance of both lakes. This quaint budget option will have you ready and refreshed for the day’s activities, and is perfectly positioned for anyone wanting to head up to Whiteface Mountain!

Cobble Mountain Lodge  (Lake Placid)  – When you think “mountain lodge”, this is what will appear in your head. Warm and comfortable rooms, with wooden furnishings and wood-paneled walls, this place just screams cozy!

New York Road Trip Stop 6: Montreal

If you’ve driven this far north, why not go a little bit further and add another country to the mix? I mean Canada is just right across the border and Montreal looks so tempting right? Montreal is one of those places that I have been to more times than I can count because it is such a beautiful city and it is so accessible. Probably why I’m a bit biased when it comes to visiting it.

Things To Do In Montreal

Explore The Gorgeous Sandy Beaches – Montreal has some great beaches where you can enjoy the sand and the sun. If you are visiting in summer that is. If it’s winter, you can still enjoy the sand but it would be a bit too cold to enjoy the water. Nevertheless, it still a great spot to come to enjoy the view!

Go For A Hike – Montreal is a haven for anyone who loves the outdoors. There are amazing park trails for people at all levels of hiking experience and endurance. It is a great way to unwind.

Some of the popular parks are Parc Jean-Drapeau, Mount Royal, Lachine Canal and Champ des Possibles. These parks are just one of those benefits for the lucky ones living in Canada.

What To Eat In Montreal

Foiegwa – Head to Foiegwa for one of the best brunches in Montreal . This elegant diner was actually crafted out of an abandoned space. It is currently known for its gourmet regional cuisine and yes as I mentioned its brunch!

If you visit Foiegwa make sure to try out the waffles and the chicken. Doesn’t sound gourmet? Trust me, you will be surprised!

La Cave A Manger – You may have left NYC way behind but Montreal can offer you one of the most iconic dishes from your fav city. Try the Lafayette Supreme croissant at La Cave A Manger. This is a cream filled delicacy with multiple circular croissant layers. Have I convinced you yet? You seriously have to try it because it will have you craving for more than just one!

Where To Stay In Montreal

Best Western Plus Hotel – The Best Western is a popular hotel chain and with good reason. The hotel has modern rooms which are clean and pretty large. It comes with all the amenities that you could need for a night out in the town. Plus it is very conveniently located in the downtown area.

Hotel Bonaventure Montreal – This is another pretty great hotel to stay at and it has some raving reviews. Not only is Hotel Bonaventure in the heart of the downtown activity, it even has a fitness center that guests can use for free. The 2.5 acres of manicured gardens is also a big draw, as is the rooftop pool and terrace.

Bonus Stop For The Winter Lovers: White face mountain

Whiteface mountain is so close to Lake Placid that you don’t really need to have two bases to visit it. The location however does beg to be mentioned especially if it’s winter but it really doesn’t matter which time of the year you head there. There is always something to do. If you don’t want to be ultra adventurous, there are so many options where you can just kick back and enjoy the view!

Did I mention that there quite a few cool romantic winter getaways here too?

Things To Do In White Face Mountain:

Skiing:  Did you know that the White face mountain is one of the highest in the country? During winter the slopes get coated white and it is a great spot to test your skills whether on a snowboard or on skis!

Hill falls gorge:  It is a privately owned nature park but everyone really raves about how there are trails and activities for all ages. Plus the views are spectacular and it is rather peaceful. Such a break from the noisy streets of the city, if you get what I mean!

Santa’s workshop:  A quirky theme park that has stood the test of ages! It is perfect for families with kids and a fun stop along the way. Don’t expect a huge amusement park with rides though. Here the kids can catch a bit of the Christmas magic and so can you. I know I loved it. Bonus points because I got to feed the reindeer which was so much fun!

Where To Stay In White Face Mountain

Hungry Trout Resort:  It is perfect if you want to stay close to the ski lifts and get as much out of the slopes as you can. 

Sara Placid Inn:  Located in Lake Placid, this a warm tranquil place to stay. It allows you to access the slopes and yet have the quite laid back life near the lake.

New York Road Trip Itinerary #2: Way Out West

New york road trip stop 1: ithaca.

It’s wine o’clock, baby! Because wine and craft beer are the names of the game in Ithaca. Just get me a bespoke beverage, y’all!

So, as you head west into the Finger Lakes region – aka the number 1 wine region in the USA (oh yeah!) – Ithaca will be your first port of call.

As you pass vineyards full of delicious grapes just waiting to be picked, keep an eye out for the many waterfalls you’ll be passing along the way.

With excellent wine and so much gorgeous scenery, this will be the perfect place to start the best New York road trip itinerary ever! Aside from wine, there are also loads of things to do in Ithaca that draw people here year after year.

Things To Do In Ithaca

Head to Taughannock Falls State Park  – The biggest and most impressive of Ithaca’s 150 waterfalls (OMG is there a place where water ISN’T falling around here?!), the Tuh-GA-nick Falls waterfall, as it’s known locally, is 215 feet tall. And the rest of the state park isn’t too shabby either! There are hiking trails , swimming in Cayuga Lake, camping grounds, playgrounds, picnic areas, and more.

Get your art on in Downtown Ithaca  – Walking around Downtown Ithaca is like walking around an art gallery, except that you’re outside on the streets! There are statues and murals everywhere, many by local artists. It’s easy to see why this place has a reputation for its artistic diversity! Heck, even the restaurants and the nightlife are unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else!

What To Eat In Ithaca

Moosewood  – Get yourself some all-natural cuisine at Moosewood Restaurant! Dishes here are made with whole grains, nuts, beans, and seeds, and mixed with the freshest vegetables and spices, for the most organic meal imaginable. You’ll probably feel healthier just by reading the menu!

Agava  – Over in east Ithaca, Agava offers the best in Southwest-inspired vegetarian and vegan cuisine with its amazing selection of farm-to-table style dishes. Just choose between traditional entrees or tapas-style small plates, making it great for groups of friends and families alike. Get sharing, yo!

Where To Stay In Ithaca:

William Henry Miller Inn  (Ithaca)  – This cozy bed and breakfast is right in the Downtown area of Ithaca, and treats guests to historic ambiance while also providing all the modern-day comforts you could want. And if you’re after handmade desserts before bed following a day of fun in the city, then this is the place for you!

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott  (Ithaca ) – This hotel sits right by the Buttermilk Falls State Park, with Cayuga Lake just a 5-minute drive away. The rooms are also neat and spacious, with a pool and a fitness center on-site. That’s why, this is a great place to stop, drop and recharge.

New York Road Trip Stop 2: Watkins Glen

It’s time to jump from one Finger Lake to the next. Because Watkins Glen is less than an hour from Ithaca and sits on an entirely different – but totally picturesque – body of water that is known as Seneca Lake .

Therefore, it’s the perfect spot to go for a hike, cruise out on the lake, or sample some delicious wine from one of the many Seneca Lake vineyards that can be found in this quaint little New York town.

The Corning Museum of Glass also isn’t too far away if you fancy a little trip to one of the best museums in the region.

Things To Do In Watkins Glen

Hike the Gorge Trail  – This hour and a half long trail through Watkins Glen State Park is one of the  best hikes in upstate New York ! Start at the Sentry Bridge, walk around behind the Cavern Cascade waterfall, cross the suspension bridge, marvel at the Rainbow Falls plunge pools, and head onwards towards Jacob’s Ladder. It’s an awesome adventure!

Get your pick of the bunch at the Farmers Market  – Throughout the summer and fall seasons, you won’t find a better selection of fresh produce, meats, crafts, and toiletries than at the Watkins Glen Farmers Market in Lafayette Park. See the community of Watkins Glen at its best here, and grab yourself a bargain!

What To Eat In Watkins Glen:

Seneca Harbor Station  – Here you’ll find meals that’ll fill you up, all year round. During the summer, it’s seafood, steak, and sandwiches. But throughout the winter, the menu changes to hearty chowders that will keep you warm and happy on the inside for a long time!

Blue Pointe Grille  – If you’re after breakfast then the Blue Pointe Grille at the Harbor Hotel is an excellent choice. Order yourself a Finger Lakes omelet and follow it up with some pancakes and waffles. You might even want some oatmeal, yogurt, and perhaps even a muffin. Regardless of what you choose tough, the food here is guaranteed to leave you feeling ready to start your day!

Where To Stay In Watkins Glen

Budget Inn  (Watkins Glen)  – Cheap an’ cheerful, as they say in jolly old England! But don’t worry, the service is 100% American-style hospitality. The location is great too since this hotel sits in between the Six Nations Campground and the Catharine Creek Wildlife Management Area, which means that you’re downtown!

Lakeside Resort  (Watkins Glen) –  The Lakeside Resort  is exactly what it sounds like! So, enjoy 30 acres of walking trails, waterfalls, and garden areas, plus plenty of space for hanging out on the terrace and having a barbecue. You’ll be living the cabin life to the max here during your New York road trip itinerary!

New York Road Trip Stop 3: Rochester

Time to head north! And Rochester makes for an epic, intellectual stop on your New York road trip itinerary.

Especially since there are museums aplenty up here by Lake Ontario, covering everything from science to gamesto art, and even photography.

Plus, there’s the Seneca Park Zoo, which has been open and running for over 120 years!

Things To Do In Rochester

It’s game time at The Strong National Museum of Play  – What’s that? An entire museum dedicated to games, toys, and entertainment? Hold my beer! Because it’s not just kids that will enjoy this museum (although this place is totally family-friendly!).

I mean, there are over 30,000 consoles and games in the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, and it’s home to New York’s only indoor butterfly garden!

Browse through paintings at Artisan Works  – This not-for-profit gallery showcases community artwork that has been created by the local people of Rochester. So, marvel at the artistic creative process in action as artists work to create imaginative new pieces while you visit. There are also guided tours of the facility available for all age groups too!

What To Eat In Rochester

Voula’s Greek Sweets  – Vegan and vegetarian Greek food never looked and tasted so good. And you don’t hear me saying that very often! Whether it’s brunch, lunch, dinner or just some pastries to go, everything here is delicious, and almost all of it is gluten-free or has the option of being gluten-free. Yup, go, go Greek food!

Nick Tahou Hots  – For something uniquely Rochester, head to Nick Tahou Hots and order yourself a “garbage plate”. This local dish, invented at Nick Tahou Hots, includes your choice of protein (steak, chicken, hamburger etc) served on top of a combination of home fries, baked beans, and macaroni salad, topped with a spicy meat sauce.

One way or another, you’re sure to remember your New York road trip itinerary here!

Where To Stay In Rochester:

Hampton Inn Rochester  (Irondequoit)  – This is a modern hotel features plenty of amenities like an indoor heated pool and gym, as well as a daily breakfast with plenty of tea and coffee. Yup, sure sounds good to me! The rooms are also nice and big and well maintained. Hip hip hooray!

School 31 Lofts  (Rochester)  – Right in the middle of the Neighbourhood of the Arts, this modern hotel comes with some impressive furnishings mixed in with some very artistic designs, which is appropriate! You can totally tell this used to be a school, but this is a much better use of the building if you ask me. I’ll take comfort over homework any day!

New York Road Trip Stop 4: Buffalo

Time to head further west to Buffalo, New York’s second-largest city.

As you can imagine, with great size comes a great amount of things to see and do! So, when you visit, expect to find nature preserves, botanical gardens, museums, a thriving nightlife scene, and plenty of activities down by the harbor.

Because it’s all happening here, at least if you embark on one of the best road trips from NYC!

Things to do in Buffalo

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens  – These amazingly beautiful gardens were designed by the same guy who developed Central Park back in New York, New York! Not only are they a visual spectacle to behold, but they also act as a center for research and education. They’re dual-purpose, y’all!

And the centerpiece of it all is a tri-domed conservatory that is made from wood, steel, and glass, which houses tropical plants and looks Insta-mazing at sunset!

Definitely take some time to go on the Garden Walk, which is known for being America’s largest garden tour. And if you want to be the first one through the door, they also offer an early access activity where you get to help feed the koi fish who live in the ponds here!

Explore Outer Harbor  – This quiet area is home to over 200 acres of green spaces, with plenty of bike paths and walking trails for you to enjoy. There are also plenty of places here where you can rent out kayaks and head onto the waters of Lake Erie. You even have the option of renting water bikes, so you can cycle across the lake. It’s fun and a bit surreal, all at the same time!

Plus, If you head north into Buffalo Lighthouse Park, you can see the towering figure of Buffalo Main Light right at the edge of the water.

What To Eat In Buffalo

Sinatra’s  – Time for some fine dining during your New York road trip itinerary! And this family-owned Buffalo institution fits the bill since they’ve been in operation for over forty years.

They also serve up some of the best Italian Old Country flavors with a bit of modern flair. Soups, salads and antipasti will lead into pasta and specialties like Osso Bucco. With a bottle of wine (or two – who’s counting?) to accompany the proceedings, you and your NY road trip friends will feel like royalty!

Black & Blue Steak and Crab  – Seafood, seafood, seafood, and – oh yeah – more seafood. After all, this is a harbor city, that is known for it’s fresh catch of the day and stunning scenery.

So, for the best seafood the city has to offer, head to Black & Blue for tasty oysters, red snapper, lobster, scallops, shrimp, and, of course, crab. There’s plenty of fish alternatives on offer too if seafood ain’t your jam, including all manor of steaks and sides to go with them!

Where To Stay In Buffalo

The Delavan Hotel  (Buffalo)  – Feel like playing some billiards? Then staying at  the Delavan Hotel  will make you feel like you’re living in a palace!

Yup, nothing but large rooms with an abundance of lamps and chandeliers. Add in a 24-hour front desk, an on-site fitness center, and a bar to create the perfect place to stay in Buffalo. Yes, nothing but the star treatment for me, please!

Wyndham Garden  (Buffalo Downtown)  – Located right in the center of the city, this affordable hotel is perfect for those who want to stay right where the action is.

The rooms are comfortable and well equipped, with friendly and hard-working staff who help facilitate an easy check-in and check-out. Yup, just what you want during your New York road trip itinerary!

New York Road Trip Stop 5: Niagara Falls

“It’s the end of the world and we know it”, and by world, I mean road. Because yes my friend, this is the final stop on our New York road trip itinerary!

And I dunno about you but I personally think it’s important to end with a big finish, and they don’t come much bigger than this!

Because Niagara Falls is famous for being home to one of the world’s most amazing and beautiful natural waterfalls. One of those things that makes you proud to be a New Yorker!

Fortunately, there’s way more to this corner of New York state than just impressive (VERY impressive!) water features.  But, I alos understand if you just want to spend most of your time at the falls.

Things To do In Niagara Falls

Uh … visit Niagara Falls?  – I mean, how are you not gonna see it? You have to, really, it’s SUPER famous! Although, you really do have to see Niagara Falls with your own eyes to appreciate the full power of its beauty. I have a whole Niagara falls itinerary that guarantees you make the best out of your trip!

First, head over to Niagara Falls State Park to begin your journey, and then head up to Prospect Point to take that all-important selfie. Gotta make those waterfalls more beautiful, amirite? Don’t forget to match those amazing pics with the right Niagara falls captions.

If you want, you can even take a ride aboard the Maid of the Mist to see the base of the Falls and refresh yourself in the cascading mists! Just make sure that you pack everything you need for Niagara falls .

What To Eat In Niagara Falls

Zaika Indian Cuisine & Bar  – For a vegetarian-friendly taste of India, this restaurant creates dishes taken from royal Indian menus dating back hundreds of years.

Choose from exotic meals like paneer, biryani, rogan josh, dal makhani, and more. Finally, wash it all down with a refreshing lassi, or a yogurt-based drink that can be served sweetened or salted, your choice!

Top of the Falls Restaurant  – It’s the only restaurant that actually overlooks Niagara Falls! So, as you munch away on your fish and chips, Beef on Weck, or a quality hamburger, you can gaze out the floor-to-ceiling windows at Horseshoe Falls. And if you want, you can even sit on the outdoor dining deck for a closer look!

Where To Stay In Niagara Falls

Wanderfalls Guesthouse and Hostel  (Niagara Falls)  – If you’re looking for a cozy, budget accommodation, and all you really need for the night is a bunk and a pillow, then  Wanderfalls Guesthouse and Hostel  will be perfect for you.

There are also plenty of different sleeping options available, all of which include comfortable communal eating and living spaces. Yup, it’s the perfect place to meet like-minded travelers who have also embarked on one of the best road trips from NYC to see the world-famous Niagara Falls!

Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino   (Niagara Falls)  – Feel like splashing out on your final New York road trip itinerary stop? Well, this is the place for high rollers and ballin’ ballers such as yourself!

I mean, the rooms here are equal parts huge and amazing and include access to jacuzzis, swimming pools and gym equipment. You can even get pampered in the in-house spa, or try your luck in their casino and have yourself a great time!

Map of the Ultimate New York Road Trip itinerary

Additional New York Travel Resources You’ll Love

• Best Things to do in Beacon
• Best Things to do in Poughkeepsie
• Best Things to do in Lake Placid
• Best Things to do in Lake George
• Best Christmas Tree Farms in New York
• Romantic Winter Getaways from NYC

Well my road trippin’ homies, that just about concludes this epic guide to the ultimate New York road trip itinerary!

Tell me, did all your favorite road trips from nyc make the list if not then let me know in the comments below and i’ll check them out. , and if you found this post helpful, be sure to join our email list and pin this post now so that you can read it again later.

Monday 4th of July 2022

Nice article with excellent suggestions. However, Sam's Italian in Albany has permanently closed.

travelnewyorknow

Saturday 7th of January 2023

Thanks for letting me know!

Saturday 18th of June 2022

Loved this, but what about the 1000 Island /St. Lawrence area... Maybe this is your next project. Lots to do there and along that western coast

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The best road trips from NYC

These road trips from NYC will take you to stunning locations all within seven hours of the city

We’re huge fans of all things NYC, but sometimes even we need a break from the city and all it entails. Fortunately, New York City provides one of the best bases in the country to use as a jumping-off point for some incredible day trips or even longer road trips. Whether you're taking someone special on a romantic getaway , or are looking to disconnect from your devices with a serious dose of nature, these road trips from NYC serve as an ideal weekend getaway .

Maybe you’re looking to escape the heat of NYC in the summer, or you’re just wanting to discover a nearby destination you’ve never been to before. Here are the best road trips from New York City, from the most scenic corners of New England to charming Catskills enclaves.

RECOMMENDED:

🚕 See our   full guide to weekend getaways from NYC ⛰️  The coziest Airbnb cabins near NYC 🌳  The best treehouse Airbnbs near NYC 🏖️  The best beach houses near NYC .

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Top road trips from NYC

1.  Cold Spring, NY

54 miles from NYC

For New Yorkers, it’s hard to imagine the city’s western boundary, the Hudson, in the context of a small town. But Cold Spring is just that—a riverside hamlet with an almost gratuitously all-American sensibility. (It’s where Don McLean wrote the song “American Pie,” so yeah, it’s fairly patriotic.) There are also antique shops, a trolley and a country store to boot.

Necessary pit stop: RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen  in Tarrytown serves locally sourced food right on the river.

2.  Berkshires, MA

152 miles from NYC

Dense, lush forests and rural New England charm define this bucolic spot in Western Massachusetts. You should picnic beside Berry Lake (and maybe see black bears eating blackberries) and drink niche brews and exotic whiskies on a comfy wooden stool in Moe’s Tavern  in Lee, MA.

Necessary pit stop: Take a stop off the Taconic State Parkway and picnic at Barton Orchards  in Poughquag, NY where you can pluck a wide variety of fruits and veggies, including apples, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants and pumpkins.

3.  Philadelphia, PA

97 miles from NYC

Philly is the place to be to see street art, from wall-crawling mosaic art exhibits to an all-star showcase for the electric-colored graffiti by local artists. Rittenhouse Square is a well-ornamented park and a nice break from the bustle, and you shouldn’t be too cool to go to Independence Hall, where America began. (It’s where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where the Liberty Bell lives.)

Necessary pit stop: Bracket your contempt for Jersey and hit up the Colonial Diner  in Brunswick, NJ to try the fluffy-AF French toast.

4.  Narragansett, RI

168 miles from NYC

Nestled between the eastern bank of the Pettaquamscutt River and the mouth of Narragansett Bay, this shore-side locale boasts three pristine beaches: Scarborough State Beach, Narragansett Town Beach and Roger Wheeler State Beach. If the blank coastline begins to bore you, check out the Point Judith Lighthouse which dates back to 1816.

Necessary pit stop: Stop in Connecticut and munch succulent seafood at Liv’s Oyster Bar  in Saybrook, CT.

5.  Cape Cod, MA

246 miles from NYC

The lure of this sea-worn town is well known—it’s where gentle green dunes meet a rocky shore, the beach is worn by waves and the sunsets look tangerine over a royal-blue Atlantic. If you like to fish, there’s nowhere better: The waters are home to bluefin tuna, striped bass, flounder and fluke and are patrolled by salty curmudgeons wearing yellow slickers and steering wooden skiffs.

Necessary pit stop: Hop off the Interstate and cruise around Providence. Drive past its Venetian-style canals towards College Hill. Stop by Aleppo Sweets , an amazing Syrian bakery and cafe.

6.  Finger Lakes, NYC

256 miles from NYC

The Finger Lakes region can be turned into an even longer trip. Chock full of scenery, hiking, wineries and historic attractions along its 11 beautiful lakes. Visit the Heart & Hands Wine Company and hike in Watkins Glen State Park  (or Robert Treman State Park  to escape the crowds of the latter).

Necessary pit stop: In the tiny town of Roscoe you'll find Roscoe Diner . The vintage joint is known for thick slabs of french toast. 

7.  Lake Placid, NY

290 miles from NYC

The aptly named Lake Placid is a small village that provides a relaxing retreat from urban life. Its big, conifer-covered mountains surround the 122-acre Mirror Lake, around which the town is centered. The high altitudes keep the climate here mild, so you can stay chill even in the dog days of summer and even learn about sports history at the Olympics Center.

Necessary pit stop: Remind yourself that New York City isn’t the state capital (though it arguably should be). Stop at the actual New York State Capital in Albany.

8.  Cape May, NJ

158 miles from NYC

This idyllic resort town on the Jersey Shore is known for grand Victorian houses, historic spots like the Congress Hall hotel and the lovely paved promenade along the beaches. Enjoy a drink at the waterfront bar The Rusty Nail then go for fresh seafood at The Lobster House.

Necessary pit stop: Might as well stop in Atlantic City. You can grab a bite to eat at Tony's Baltimore Grill (yes, get the spaghetti pizza).

9.  Stowe, VT

334 miles from NYC

This sleepy getaway is ripe for outdoor adventure—rich thickets of sugar maple, beech and yellow birch trees surround the town center, which, as is typical of Vermont, is dominated by a towering white church steeple. To get a sense of the surroundings, take a canoe or kayak out on Lake Elmore, the Green River Reservoir or up the Lamoille and Winooski rivers. And every summer, the Stowe Theater Guild   puts together shows to entertain you in the evenings.

Necessary pit stop: If you need a rest stop, drive west to Brattleboro. Whetstone Station serves unique, small batch craft beers alongside inspired food-truck-style favorites.

10.  Saratoga Springs, NY

190 miles from NYC

This town gets its name from an abundance of mineral springs (there are 18), which have attracted spa-seekers since the 19th century. Almost all the springs are naturally carbonated, so we recommend sipping some complimentary Saratoga Sparkling Rosé when bathing in them. The city’s also famous for the Saratoga Race Course  where you can place legal bets. 

Necessary pit stop: Stop in Woodstock and hike up Overlook Mountainin Woodstock for a view of the Hudson River Valley that is seriously worth the two-and-a-half-mile walk.

11.  Alexandria, VA

238 miles from NYC

Cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés and a generally dreamy attitude endow this small city with a romantic feel. Walk along the pastel-colored buildings on King Street, the main drag in Alexandria’s Old Town, for unique shopping at (mostly) non-franchise boutiques. Then treat your eyes to Torpedo Factory Art Center  which houses 82 artist studios and six galleries, all of which are open to the public.

Necessary pit stop: The Coffee Station  in Garnet Valley, PA serves up diner-food delights in an unpretentious setting: There’s often live music and a mug full of Trivial Pursuit cards on each table.

12.  Bar Harbor, ME

487 miles from NYC

Granite cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean and Colonial Revival cottages line the quiet streets in this city. Walk along the Shore Path, which hugs the chocolate-box coastline and runs from the Town Pier toward Mountain Desert Island. Then sample something sweet at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream — just look for a bench painted a Victorian-y shade of purple.

Necessary pit stop: Stop in New Hampshire and drink suds at the top-notch Portsmouth Brewery .

13.  Niagara Falls, NY

408 miles from NYC

This tourist attraction and old-timey honeymooner fave is well worth a visit. The seven-hour trip is an exceptionally scenic one, so build in time for stops and hikes. There's a reason tourists flock to Niagara Falls State Park —thunderous falls, mist and plenty of rainbows are unforgettable.

Necessary pit stop:  As you drive through the Catskills, grab a stop on the patio at Yiasou Cafe , a cheerful spot serving a variety of traditional Greek & Mediterranean dishes.

Need some tunes for the best road trips?

The 50 best road trip songs of all time

Hit the road, Jack, and crank up the dial with our definitive list of the best road trip songs ever made

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Pair these L.A. road trips with a hike and a lunch

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In April 2020 — only a month or so into the COVID-19 pandemic — my wife and I were running out of things to do. The novelty of Zoom calls with friends was wearing off. We’d watched lots of movies and TV. We were itching to get out of our apartment, but with the virus still raging, we couldn’t risk being around other people. Then we had an idea: Why not go for a drive?

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For our first trip, we drove the length of Little Tujunga Canyon Road in the Angeles National Forest. After that, we were hooked. In the ensuing months, we crisscrossed the Santa Monica Mountains and made trips into Los Padres National Forest and beyond.

My wife bought me a California road atlas, and it became part of our scenic drive ritual: We’d consult its pages for inspiration, looking for two-lane roads and state highways that squiggled through mountain ranges or meandered through deserts. After returning home, I’d highlight our route. Four years after our first drive, the atlas is full of highlights documenting our travels — and there’s still a lifetime’s worth of backroads we haven’t covered yet.

No matter where we go, each drive gives me a deeper appreciation for the incredible range of landscapes in Southern California. And these journeys have led to many rewarding discoveries, from out-of-the-way diners to new trailheads for hiking and biking.

If you’re tired of visiting the same places, it’s time to hit the road. These two trips — all within a three-hour drive of the city — will get you started.

Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument This route traverses winding mountain roads through Los Padres and spits you out near the southern entrance to Carrizo Plain — a vast preserve of native grassland and a hotspot for wildflowers (at least on some years ) and birdwatching . From Interstate 5, take Exit 205 and head west on Frazier Mountain Park Road. This two-lane road changes names several times as it ascends into the San Emigdio Mountains, passing forested slopes and epic canyon views along the way.

After about 42 miles, you’ll meet California 166. Take a right here and then a left on Soda Lake Road to enter Carrizo Plain National Monument. Drive northwest for 35 miles to the parking lot for the Soda Lake Trail, a short boardwalk that gets you up close to the park’s salt-crusted lake. If you plan ahead, you can also book a guided tour of Painted Rock, a sandstone outcrop with Native American rock art.

Hungry? Head back the way you came, take a right on California 166, and drive west 15 miles to the Cuyama Buckhorn , a renovated ’50s motel, restaurant and bar. The eatery’s Santa Maria-style tri-tip is superb, and if you grab a room, you can turn this scenic drive into a full weekend escape .

Volcan Mountain and Julian This route will take you to Julian , a mountain town famous for its apple orchards and delicious pies. From Interstate 15, take Exit 58 for California 79. Take a right on Pechanga Parkway and head south. The road becomes Pala Temecula Road and emerges into a wide canyon with mountains towering on either side. Take a left at Pala Mission Road and continue east on California 76, which hugs the San Luis Rey River before ascending more than 1,000 feet up a chaparral-covered ridgeline.

After some hairpin turns, the road levels off and skirts Lake Henshaw, a picturesque reservoir. Take a right on California 79, and after 10 miles, take a left on Wynola Road. Follow that road for about 3.5 miles, then take a left on Farmer Road to arrive at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. Stretch your legs on the Five Oaks Trail , a 1.2-mile path that ascends the western flank of Volcan Mountain and offers sweeping views of the orchards below.

With your appetite revved up, head south on Farmer Road into Julian and make a stop at the Julian Pie Co . Grab a well-deserved slice of apple pie and some apple cider and rest your feet at a picnic table while you chow down.

3 things to do

1. Race plankton in Manhattan Beach In celebration of Earth Day, the Roundhouse Aquarium will hold a day full of educational activities inside and outside its facilities. Highlights include dolphin spotting, a fish feeding, crafts, games, a “shark shack” and, yes, plankton racing. The festivities kick off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday and go until 4 p.m. The event is free, but be sure to register ahead of time at roundhouseaquarium.org .

2. Go gardening in San Pedro Give back to the land by planting native species, removing weeds, mulching and watering the White Point Nature Preserve’s garden with the folks at Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. You’ll also have the chance to enter a raffle and take a guided nature walk. As a bonus, refreshments will be provided by Starbucks to keep you cool and hydrated. The three-hour event begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. All volunteers under age 16 should be accompanied by an adult, and all volunteers under age 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver at the event. Register at pvplc.com .

3. Stretch your legs on Venice Boulevard CicLAvia is back. And this time it’s shutting down a 5.75-mile stretch of Venice Boulevard that connects Palms, Mar Vista and Venice Beach for walkers, joggers, bikers, roller skaters, unicyclers, penny-farthings, pogo sticks — anything as long as it’s completely powered by humans. There will be three local hubs along the route where you’ll be able to partake in family-friendly activities, pump air into your bike’s tires, refill your water bottle and use the restroom. Be sure to reference CicLAvia’s digital map so you can scope out the local businesses you’d like to visit along the way. It all takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information about the event and the area it covers, visit ciclavia.org .

The must-read

The Klamath River in Northern California has turned brown and muddy, but that’s a good thing. As Times writer Ian James reports , it’s a side effect of the largest dam removal project in history, which aims to restore the river to its natural state. Four dams are being removed along the Klamath, and the river is passing freely through tunnels in three of them, draining reservoirs and churning up an estimated 2.3 million tons of sediment that had settled along the bottom of those man-made lakes. Although the turbid water might look ugly, restoration advocates and tribal leaders see it as a sign of healing. The muck is passing out of the Klamath, and new life — everything from salmon heading upstream to native plant seedlings along the riverbanks — will soon take its place.

Happy adventuring,

Want to try birding but don’t have binoculars? Head to the Audubon Center in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and you can borrow a free pair of binoculars (as well as a birding guide, backpack and other gear) to help you spot the 140 species of birds that call the park home.

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild . And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here .

Sign up for The Wild

We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

Michael Charboneau is a freelance writer covering gear and the outdoors, and he’ll be writing The Wild newsletter for the next few months. He has written for a variety of publications, including Men’s Journal, Runner’s World and InsideHook, and he lives in West L.A. When he’s not writing, he can be found running, hiking and biking around Los Angeles and its mountains.

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This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

Duplicate post.

Thanks Marti. Post no. 1 was mine but I've just copied it into the other thread. Hopefully the mods will close this one.

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Road Trips: How to Plan an Accessible Getaway

By Syren Nagakyrie

Planning an accessible road trip is getting a little easier for people with disabilities. There are more resources created by and for the disability community, and the tourism industry is starting to recognize the value of accessible travel. As a disabled, chronically ill, neurodivergent person, I take road trips every year and have learned some tips and tricks along the way.

Renting a vehicle

Most major car companies offer adaptive driving devices for their vehicles at no additional cost. Enterprise , for example, offers hand controls, left foot accelerators, pedal extenders and spinner knobs to facilitate steering. Budget can provide hand controls, spinner knobs, a panoramic mirror, swivel seats and transfer boards. Be prepared to request adaptive devices at least three business days in advance.

For a wheelchair-accessible van with a ramp or a lift, rent from a mobility company like BraunAbility , one of the largest builders of wheelchair-accessible vans in the country, with rentals at many locations. MobilityWorks , an accessible-vehicle and adaptive-equipment dealer, has rental locations in 34 states. AccessibleGO , which offers a one-stop shop for adapted rental cars and wheelchair-accessible vans, has agreements with 100 wheelchair van rental locations nationwide; request a quote on their website. For accessibleGO’s rental cars, you can request hand controls and a spinner knob at checkout.

Route planning

You can use Google Maps, Waze and MapQuest for initial accessibility research using photos and street view. Google Maps provides directions for some wheelchair-accessible pedestrian and transit routes.

Sites such as Roadtrippers and Furkot can plot an entire itinerary. While these websites are not disability specific, they are invaluable tools. (Roadtrippers does have a wheelchair-accessible check box in the search function.) You can filter by types of destinations such as national parks or museums, and search for hotels and campgrounds. Furkot allows you to input how long you want to drive each day, whether you want to travel on Interstate highways or take more scenic roads. The app will determine the best route and length of time between stops, and suggest where to stay overnight.

Finding lodging

While hotels and other accommodations are required to comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, many hotels do not meet all accessibility needs. Most of the booking sites list hotels with accessible rooms for those with mobility, hearing and vision needs, but this information is not always verified. Do additional research on review sites and look for photos. Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton and Fairmont hotels offer allergy-friendly and scent-free rooms in some locations. Call the hotel to verify accessibility and to make sure a specific room is reserved for you.

Vacation rentals are typically not required to be A.D.A. compliant, but some do provide accessibility information. Airbnb recently rolled out an adapted category with accessibility search features and homes that have been scanned for accessibility. Review photos and contact the host for more information. Some hosts will make accommodations, such as changing the cleaning supplies or shifting furniture, but document your request using the in-app messaging system so that customer service can help if you run into issues.

Wheel the World is an accessible travel agency offering bookings at over 3,000 verified accessible hotels in the United States. The hotels have been reviewed in person by trained assessors; only those that meet the criteria are listed. Sign up as a disabled traveler or a companion and complete a personal profile that includes options for a variety of disabilities and accessibility needs. The site will provide listings that match your profile with partial, adequate and outstanding match options.

Food and medication

There are a variety of options to keep food or medication cold while traveling. Electric coolers can plug into your vehicle’s 12-volt outlet, but pay attention to the type of cooling mechanism — the less expensive versions are usually thermoelectric and will cool only to about 30 degrees below ambient temperature (if it is 70 degrees in the car, it will cool to 40 degrees). Compressor coolers are more expensive but maintain normal refrigerated temperatures.

Many hotels provide mini-refrigerators. When you know you will be stopping somewhere with a fridge almost every night, layer large ice packs and supplies in a cooler, then top them with another insulating layer like a cooling bag. This keeps everything cold for a couple of days at a time.

It’s also a good idea to travel with a single-burner cooktop — electric to use inside, or propane to use at rest areas and campgrounds — and a camp mess kit so that you can safely cook meals.

Some of the best apps to find food, restaurants and grocery stores that accommodate dietary needs are Fig for allergy-specific options, Happy Cow for vegan-friendly options and Find Me Gluten Free for celiac-safe spots. Add your favorite options to the route-planning app so that you know where to stop.

Finding activities

In addition to the apps mentioned in the route-planning section, state and local tourism organizations are good sources for accessible destinations.

National parks and monuments, which are required to meet federal accessibility guidelines, typically have visitor centers and recreation sites with accessible features. Each park website has information, as well as programs and services within the park. While accessibility varies, you can usually find information on wheelchair-accessible trails and campsites, tactile and audio features, assistive listening devices, and American Sign Language interpreters.

At state parks, accessibility features may not be consistent, but you can usually find some information on each park’s website.

Apps like AllTrails list wheelchair-friendly trails across the country, but the information may not be verified, so contact the park or land manager for verification. Among the parks with notable accessible trails are Redwood National and State Parks, North Cascades National Park, Badlands National Park, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Syren Nagakyrie, the founder of the nonprofit Disabled Hikers and the author of “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Western Washington and Oregon” and “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Northern California,” among other guidebooks, leads group hikes and conducts assessments throughout the United States.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

How To Watch, Listen, Stream New York Mets vs. San Francisco Giants

The New York Mets hope to keep up their winning ways as their west coast road trip moves to San Francisco to take on the Giants.

• Author: Matthew Postins

In this story:

The New York Mets wrap up a six-game, west coast road trip when they head to San Francisco to take on the Giants at Oracle Park starting on Monday night.

The Mets (12-9) continue to rack up series wins, as they took two out of three from the Los Angeles Dodgers this weekend. Since an April 11 win over the Atlanta Braves , New York has won eight of their last 10 games and won each of their last five series.

The Giants (10-13) are coming off losing three out of four from the Arizona Diamondbacks . Their biggest signing of the offseason, left-handed starting pitcher Blake Snell, hasn’t come around yet. But he’ll get another chance this series as he’s scheduled to pitch in the series finale.

Once the Mets get back home they’ll be there for a week, as a three-game series with the St. Louis Cardinals transitions to a four-game series with the Chicago Cubs before the next road trip begins. 

Here is the preview for the game, with probable pitchers, how to watch, listen and more.

How to Watch, Listen to Mets vs. Giants

Where: Oracle Park, San Francisco

Monday’s Game

Game Time: 9:45 p.m. ET

Television: SNY. Radio: WCBS 880, WINS 92.3 FM HD2. Watch on fubo.tv .

Probable pitchers

New York Mets: LHP Jose Quintana (1-1, 3.05)

San Francisco Giants: RHP Keaton Winn (1-3, 4.09)

Tuesday’s Game

Television: WPIX, MLB Network (out-of-market only). Radio: WCBS 880, WINS 92.3 FM HD2.

New York Mets: RHP Luis Severino (2-1, 2.14)

San Francisco Giants: RHP Logan Webb (2-1, 2.93)

Wednesday’s Game

Game Time: 3:45 p.m. ET

Television: SNY. Radio: WCBS 880, WINS 92.3 FM HD2.

New York Mets: RHP Sean Manaea (1-1, 4.12)

San Francisco Giants: LHP Blake Snell (0-3, 11.57)

Next Two Series

April 26-28: vs. St. Louis Cardinals

April 29-May 2: vs. Chicago Cubs

Scores | Schedule | Injuries | Transactions | Standings | Odds | Futures

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