road trip from las vegas to california

The Ultimate Las Vegas to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: May 7, 2024

You’ll love this perfect Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip itinerary that hits up all the best stops on the way!

Las Vegas and Los Angeles are two of the most-visited cities in America. Both are famous for their world-class entertainment and attractions that lure in visitors from across the globe.

However, most people don’t realize that a trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is less than five hours without traffic. The drive between the two major cities contains famous attractions like the World’s Tallest Thermometer, Death Valley, and Red Rock Canyon State Park.

Our itinerary features the most sought-out attractions between Las Vegas and Los Angeles, with some hidden gems along the way.

You can also do this itinerary in reverse for an epic Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip. Either way, this short but scenic drive is packed with cool things to see and do!

Check out our 3 Days In Las Vegas Itinerary if you need inspiration for your time in Sin City!

Table of Contents

Where to Start Your Las Vegas to Los Angeles Road Trip

Best time of year for the las vegas to los angeles drive, how long is this road trip, seven magic mountains, death valley national park, world’s tallest thermometer, mojave national preserve, calico ghost town, red rock canyon state park , elmer’s bottle tree ranch, joshua tree national park , palm springs, huntington beach, topanga state park, los angeles, planning your las vegas to los angeles road trip.

Driving from Las Vegas to Los Angeles requires planning if you want to hit the best attractions along the way. This epic road trip includes the top spots whether you’re looking to catch a thrill, soak in nature, or learn about history. 

Whether you want to take your time on this scenic route, skip some stops and shorten the journey, or complete the drive in reverse and travel from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, this amazing drive through the wild west will surely be memorable!

We are starting this road trip in Las Vegas and west towards Los Angeles. But you can also do this in reverse using the information we provide in this guide.

The route is pretty straightforward, and there are plenty of gas stations, national parks, ghost towns, eateries, attractions and hotels along the way.

Feel free to reverse the road trip if you’d rather travel from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, or add more amazing places if you want to stretch the journey out more. Or you can just drive straight there and arrive in just a few hours.

If you don’t have your own car to take on this Las Vegas drive, be sure to rent one! There are plenty of places in Las Vegas that offer car rentals. And if you’re doing the road trip in reverse, there are lots of car rentals in LA as well.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

The best time of year for this drive from Las Vegas to Los Angeles is late spring and early fall. May, early June, September, and early November are the ideal times of year to make this road trip. 

The weather will be cooler, making it more comfortable for adventuring outside and in the parks, some of which are advised not to visit in the summer. Death Valley National Park is one of them, infamous for being the hottest place on Earth!

The driving time without stops is about four hours and 30 minutes without traffic. With stops at the recommended points of interest we’ve included in this road trip itinerary, the total drive time exceeds 16 hours of driving.

Of course, the drive time is split up between the different stops. We recommend taking a week to experience all of the stops we’ve included in this itinerary without being in a rush on this Las Vegas road trip.

Read next: The 16 Best Road Trips From Los Angeles, California

Las Vegas to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary

When driving from Las Vegas to Los Angeles or from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, here are the top places to stop on the way.

One of the most visited places on Earth, Las Vegas is a trip many take for bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, or simply to see what all the hype is about. Called “Sin City,” Las Vegas is teeming with world-class entertainment, casinos, and popping nightclubs.

The luxury hotels along Las Vegas Blvd are among its most sought-out attributes due to their immaculate and unique designs. The Venetian is one such example. It is a casino resort and luxury hotel featuring Italian themes, 20 restaurants, a shopping mall, artificial canals with offered gondola rides, a nightclub, and more! 

The city is loaded with thrilling attractions people travel from all over the world to experience. Treat yourself to a Las Vegas vacation before you start the drive to LA!

Top things to do in the area:

• Fremont Street
• Las Vegas Boulevard
• The Mob Museum
• Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
• The Venetian

Less than thirty minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, Seven Magic Mountains was established by famous Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone.

The exhibition displays seven dayglow totems that stretch 30-35 feet into the sky. The boulders used for the totems were locally sourced and painted colorfully, catching the eye of the beholder. 

The art installation was enacted to strengthen Nevada’s support of artists worldwide further. The state is dedicated to incorporating varying styles and passions of art creation.

Though art is always open to interpretation, the meaning of the Seven Magic Mountains exhibition is believed to express the midway points between natural and artificial, from the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert to the passageway to the city of lights, Las Vegas. 

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Las Vegas

The place of extremes, Death Valley National Park is the driest, lowest, and hottest national park. It is the hottest place on Earth, breaking a record of 134°F in 1913. 

Contrary to its name, Death Valley National Park has fascinating geologic formations, rich habitats, and natural wonders. The park is part of the Mojave Desert and borders the Great Basin Desert to establish some of the most stunning vistas. Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View are two of the top landscapes people travel from all over to see.

At Badwater Basin, Death Valley National Park visitors can walk to the lowest point in North America, which may initially seem covered in snow but is blanketed in salt! 

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are one of the top attractions at Death Valley National Park. Many come to the towering sand dunes to try their hand at sandboarding for a unique and thrilling activity.

There are a few gas stations in the park but it’s recommended to have some backup in your car if you plan on off-roading.

Other top things to do in the area include:

• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
• Devil’s Golf Course
• Dante’s View
• Badwater Basin
• Darwin Falls

Another unique stop on this Las Vegas drive is the World’s Tallest Thermometer . The record-breaking thermometer reaches 134 feet, which purposefully matches the highest temperature recorded in Death Valley National Park.

The World’s Tallest Thermometer is situated in the town known as the “Gateway to Death Valley” in Baker, California. Seen from miles away, the thermometer’s highest recorded temperature is 127 degrees.

By the landmark are a gift shop and an outdoor picnic area featuring a thermometer and two fake eggs on a cast-iron skillet. Visitors to the landmark and gift shop can check if it is hot enough for the eggs to fry, which requires a temperature of 158 degrees. 

Read Next: Check out our post on the best day trips from Las Vegas .

The Mojave National Preserve is another beautiful place to visit on this scenic route to Los Angeles!

The Mojave Desert is the driest desert in the nation. Its mystifying landscapes were used as backdrops for films like The Avengers and Nocturnal Animals. It expands across four states and holds nine national park units. The Mojave National Preserve is the third largest of all United States National Park System units. 

The Mojave National Preserve protects the largest population of Joshua Trees, even more than Joshua Tree National Park. Visiting the Mojave National Preserve grants an impeccable opportunity to see volcanic cinder cones, towering sand dunes, Joshua Trees, and much more!

Its trails, like the Hole-In-The-Wall Rings Trail, are a rewarding feature of the Mojave National Preserve. This trail is a climbing trek up input ring bolts mounted into the rock that is safe for hikers to proceed into Banshee Canyon. The canyon was named after the eerie mournful sounds created as the wind passes through the eroded holes in the rock. 

Other top things to see/do in the area:

• Mojave Memorial Cross
• Banshee Canyon
• Boulders Viewpoint
• Kelso Dunes

Best Trails To Hike:

• Teutonia Peak Trail
• Lava Beds Trail
• Lava Tubes Trail
• Hole-In-The-Wall Rings Trail

Once a boisterous, wealthy mining town in the 1880s, now this town in Southern California is the Calico Ghost Town. 

Calico Ghost Town, in its prime, had more than 500 mines that produced more than $20 million in profit. Its primary source of income was the silver, gold, and borax plowed from the depths of the Earth.

When the silver dried up, the town was abandoned in the mid-1890s. Today, the old mining town has become a popular tourist spot for people to visit the remnants of the glory days of an Old West mining town. 

On the drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, Calico Ghost Town is a perfect stop to take along the way. It is full of historical attractions and a mysterious ambiance that continues to attract visitors more than a hundred years after its abandonment. 

Visit Lucy Lane’s house, which once acted as the courthouse and post office but now functions as a museum to exhibit intriguing artifacts from the town.

Then, take a trip on the historic Calico & Odessa Railroad around Calico Ghost Town to see where miners once worked. On the train ride, keep your eyes peeled for the name of the ghost town carved into the mountainside and exclusive sights of the mines that visitors can’t see on foot! 

Other top things to do in the area:

• Dorsey’s Dog House
• Mystery Shack
• Maggie Mine
• Lil and Joe’s Saloons
• Calico & Odessa Railroad

Want to explore more of Southern California? Here is our list of the top 25 things to do in the area!

Part of the Mojave Desert, Red Rock Canyon State Park is renowned for the ancient history it preserves and its unique geological formations. 

Hiking and camping are the top activities in the park, and the area is particularly famous for its rock climbing.

Its nickname is “5.7 Heaven” for its many multi-pitch low-difficulty climbs, plus more routes. One such spot is Cat In The Hat. Expanding over six pitches, Birdland in Pine Creek is a 5.7+ that reaches up Brass Wall, recommended for experts only.

Sightseeing by 4×4 is another popular activity in Red Rock Canyon State Park, whether of the diverse land formations or the species that call the area home. From gray wolves and tarantulas to the endangered desert tortoise, there are eye-catching sights to be seen at this famous park. 

Detouring to Red Rock Canyon State Park is a rewarding stop along this Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. 

• Scenic Drive
• Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
• Kraft Boulders (rock climbing)
• Petroglyph Wall
• Calico Hills Trail
• Ice Box Canyon Trail
• Guardian Angel Pass
• Red Springs Boardwalk

One of the most favored roadside attractions to stop by, Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is a creative inspiration come to life for Elmer Long. 

Set on Route 66, Elmer Long created the main attraction from a collection he and his father scavenged. When Elmer was a kid, he would go camping with his father in the desert. Elmer and his father found dumps in the desert during these camping outings.

They both would find intriguing things to bring home, the main attraction being the bottles Elmer’s father collected that featured items they’d discovered from the dumps, including rakes, boats, and the like. 

There’s even a bottle tree sculpture made from an old missile Elmer discovered on one of his scavenges! If you like unique attractions, be sure to stop at the Bottle Tree Ranch en route from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days In Los Angeles Itinerary

Next on this epic Las Vegas drive to Los Angeles is Joshua Tree National Park. Because of its diverse ecosystems, the park is rich with sightseeing opportunities to see local species of animals, flora, and fauna.

The teddy bear cholla cacti are among the most famous sights at Joshua Tree National Park alongside the Joshua Trees. This cactus is also known as the jumping cholla because if you get too close, a segment of the cactus will fall off and fly at you!

These cacti can be seen everywhere in the park, but most popularly in the Cholla Cactus Garden, a cacti grove that includes other species of plants, such as the desert star vine and desert lavender. 

Head over to Echo Cove for rock climbing the 8,000 climbs, with options available for beginners and experts. Or hike at Echo Cove to admire the exquisite rock formations.

To savor your stop in Joshua Tree National Park, the park’s multiple campgrounds can sink in with nature and peer up at the star-speckled sky in an International Dark Sky Park. This designation refers to the park’s untainted pollution of artificial light and clear views of the stars in the sky, making it the perfect spot to stargaze while camping! 

This self-driving audio tour guides visitors through Joshua Tree National Park to uncover the secrets of this desert landscape rich with life. From hearing the fascinating tales of the McHaney Gang to learning how people once thrived here, this self-guided tour is a peek into the rich history of Joshua Tree National Park.

• Ryan Mountain
• Lost Horse Mine
• Cottonwood Spring

Best Hiking Trails:

• Arch Rock Nature Trail
• Hidden Valley Nature Trailhead
• Cholla Cactus Garden Trail
• Skull Rock Trail

In the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs is beloved for its natural hot springs, mid-century modern architecture, and recreational opportunities. 

Palm Springs was a hot destination that attracted big-name stars like Frank Sinatra and Walt Disney back in the day. On this guided tour , visitors can discover more than 50 celebrity homes on tour throughout Palm Springs. 

The favorable sunny climate in Palm Springs, paired with its top-class golf courses, rejuvenating spas, upscale shopping, and natural hot springs, seal the deal.

While visiting Palm Springs, make it a point to ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway . The largest rotating aerial tramway in the world, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes passengers up to San Jacinto Peak while showcasing breathtaking views of Coachella Valley.

At the top of San Jacinto Peak, at the end of the passage, are two available restaurants overlooking the valley, a natural history museum, and hiking trails to traverse for a fun activity in Palm Springs!

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
• Moorten Botanical Garden
• Palm Springs Art Museum
• Palm Springs Air Museum 

Find more ideas with our list of the best things to do in Palm Springs !

World famous for its hot spot surfing beaches, Huntington Beach is every surfer’s dream destination!

On the West, Huntington Beach borders the Pacific Ocean. Its expansive 8.5 miles of sandy beach are widely known for its perfect surfing waves and climate. As a result, the California city was nicknamed “Surf City” for its excellent natural capacity for luring in surfers from all over the world. 

Even if you’re not a surfer, a trip to Huntington Beach is well worth the stop along this Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip.

Many people visit the city to soak in the sun’s rays while observing surfers catch a big one. For a step away from life’s stressors, grab a hotel at one of the many high-class beachside resorts scattered across Huntington Beach . Before you know it, you won’t want to leave Surf City! 

• Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
• Bella Terra
• Huntington State Beach
• Shipley Nature Center

Nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga State Park is also part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. 

Topanga State Park has over 36 miles of trails available to explore the largest wildland in the boundaries of a major city.

The trails are open for hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers seeking an adventure of the great outdoors. An adventure of Topanga State Park highlights stunning geologic formations, marine fossils, earthquake faults, and volcanic intrusions. 

One of the most sought-out points of interest in Topanga State Park is Eagle Rock. The hike up to Eagle Rock is a rewarding climb to the top of Eagle Rock, where many like to hang out in the small cave that overlooks the San Fernando Valley, Santa Monica Bay, and the canyons. 

• Topanga Lookout
• Temescal Canyon
• Los Liones Trail
• Temescal Canyon Trail
• Paseo Miramar Trail
• Skull Rock Loop

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In Los Angeles

The largest city in California, Los Angeles , is world-famous as the entertainment capital of the planet. Overflowing with things to do, Los Angeles is rich with action, adventure, and inspiration.

Its Spanish name translates to “The City of Angels.” The city is frequently sunny and warm, perfect for welcoming visitors from across the globe to adventure through its abundant streets.

Many people move to Los Angeles to get a fresh start in the entertainment industry, whether it be musicians, actors, or artists. Others travel to Los Angeles to get a taste of the hype of this world-famous city. 

One of the most famous landmarks in Los Angeles is the Hollywood Sign. The city is home to the renowned neighborhood of Hollywood, known as the place where celebrities live, and movies are made.

It is also the place of top-class attractions like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the western United States’ largest art museum known internationally for its upscale exhibits. 

Whether you’re starting your journey here for a Los Angeles to Las Vegas drive, or you’re finishing up here after road-tripping from Vegas, spend a few days soaking in all that this famous city has to offer.

Other top things to do in Los Angeles:

• Los Angeles County Museum of Art
• Griffith Observatory
• TCL Chinese Theatre

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Guide)

17 Best Road Trips From San Francisco, California (2024 Guide)

The Best Los Angeles To Grand Canyon Road Trip (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

21 best places to visit in colorado (2024 guide), 21 best things to do in raleigh, north carolina (2024 guide), our epic 7-day west virginia road trip itinerary [2024], 40 of the best things to do on the big island of hawaii (2024 guide), leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Explore exciting airdrop projects and grab your chance to earn up to $1000.

roadtripfrom.com

Las Vegas To Los Angeles Road Trip: Top 12 Tips

Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA . The 270 miles of Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive takes around 4 hours without stops.

This article includes 12 tips that turn your Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

4 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Las Vegas To Los Angeles

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

1. Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino

Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino is one of the best hotels; you can stay on the Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. Driving from Las Vegas to Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino might take around 42 mins .

Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino is a great place for a pit stop if you’re on a road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. The hotel has recently gone through a major renovation, providing travelers with a fresh and clean experience. The rooms are equipped with brand-new TVs, carpets, and beds, making for a comfortable stay. What’s more, there is an impressive array of slots and Wild West decor to explore. On top of that, the hotel offers 1,723 guest rooms, Denny’s restaurant, and a 209-foot roller coaster. It’s the perfect combination of fun and convenience on your cross-state journey.

Check the Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino, one of the best hotels in Primm, Nevada, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. California Inn, Barstow

Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Los Angeles from Las Vegas is California Inn, Barstow. Located in Barstow, California, the hotel is 155 miles away from Las Vegas, and it would take 2 hours and 19 mins to drive.

California Inn, Barstow is the ideal place for a road trip pit stop. It’s the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and value for travelers. This hotel offers family-friendly amenities and complimentary breakfast, along with a pool and free parking – all of which make it a great place to stay during your long drive from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. The staff is friendly and the rooms are clean and comfortable. It’s the perfect place to rest and recharge before continuing your journey. Highly recommended!

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

3. Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino

Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino. Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is located in San Bernardino, California, and it’s 231 miles away from Las Vegas. You can arrive there in 3 hours and 31 mins of non-stop driving.

Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is a great place to stay on your road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. Conveniently located off I-10 in San Bernardino’s Hospitality Lane business district, it is close to restaurants, shopping, entertainment options, and the Loma Linda University Medical Center. It was the perfect place for me as a solo traveler, as I felt safe coming and going to the hospital at night. The rooms were immaculate and the breakfast area was wonderful. Big Bear Lake is just 40 minutes away, while the stunning beaches of Los Angeles are only 50 minutes away. I loved the free hot breakfast buffet and free tea and coffee in the lobby available any time of the day or night. I highly recommend Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino for anyone making the drive from Las Vegas to Los Angeles.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino, for more information.

4. The Prospect Hollywood

If you are taking the road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California is must have a place you should visit. Plus, The Prospect Hollywood is one of the best hotels in town. The hotel is 277 miles from Las Vegas, and it would take 4 hours and 16 mins to drive.

The Prospect Hollywood is an excellent stop on the drive from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. In an intimate and classy setting, this hotel provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The rooms are stylish, clean, and comfortable. The architecture is modern and elegant, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The hotel is a great walking distance of restaurants and bars, making it a perfect chance to explore the city. Highly recommend it for a classy adult getaway and would stay here again.

If you need more info about the price and availability of The Prospect Hollywood, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

In this part, we explained four hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. 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 Las Vegas to Los Angeles route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. We have four restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

4 Best Restaurants On The Las Vegas To Los Angeles Road Trip

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

1. GP’s Steak House

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip with GP’s Steak House. GP’s Steak House is located in Primm, Nevada , and is 44.1 miles from Las Vegas. It would take 43 mins of driving.

GP’s Steak House in Primm, Nevada is a great pit stop on a Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. The atmosphere is pleasant and the staff is friendly and efficient. I had the cedar plank salmon which was impressive considering the location. My husband had the flat iron steak which was juicy and flavorful. We also ordered sides of mashed potatoes, a Caesar salad, a house salad, and a basket of fresh bread. The food was delicious and well worth the price. Our server, Carlos, was attentive, quick, and very busy – he did an excellent job. All in all, GP’s Steak House offers a great dining experience that’s perfect for a road trip.

For more information about GP’s Steak House, you can visit TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of GP’s Steak House.

2. Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Los Angeles from Las Vegas is Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant. Located in Barstow, California, Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant is 197 miles from Las Vegas and would take 3 hours of driving.

Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant in Barstow, California is an excellent stop for a road trip between Las Vegas and Los Angeles. The service is always prompt, and the food is delicious. Even though it was late, the restaurant was still open, which made it the perfect stop for dinner. The Mango Chamoy margarita was specially recommended and it did not disappoint. Overall, it was a pleasant surprise to find a great restaurant in Barstow, and it’s worth considering on the drive.

If you want to learn more about Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

3. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino. It will take 3 hours and 31 mins of car drive to take 231 miles from Las Vegas to BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino, San Bernardino, California.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse in San Bernardino is an excellent choice for a stop during your Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. With a huge menu, full bar, and craft beers, this place has something for everyone, even vegetarians and those with gluten allergies. The wait to be seated may be long, but the attentive service once you’re in ensures your order is perfect and served hot. Don’t miss out on the delicious clam chowder, and their burgers and ribs are to die for. Plus, the salads and desserts are amazing. Take advantage of the Happy Hour specials and be sure to save some room for dessert! All in all, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is a great place to break up the drive and enjoy a meal.

You can check BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. Brent’s Deli Northridge

Brent’s Deli Northridge deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Los Angeles, California.

Brent’s Delicatessen & Restaurant Northridge is a great stop on the drive from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. Established in 1967, this family-owned deli is dedicated to bringing its guests quality meals and traditional recipes. The coffee selection is also excellent and pairs perfectly with the delicious desserts. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great place to take a break and relax. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making sure that you have a pleasant experience. All in all, Brent’s Delicatessen & Restaurant Northridge is a great place to refuel on the road trip that will leave you satisfied and happy.

Brent’s Deli Northridge is 290 miles from Las Vegas, and it would take 4 hours and 30 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Brent’s Deli Northridge, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .

This section lists our four restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 270 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 Los Angeles 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 Las Vegas to Los Angeles. Keep reading.

4 Places To Visit On The Las Vegas To Los Angeles Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Los Angeles. However, there are also some unique destinations like Primm, Nevada on your road trip. We want to explain the top four destinations we recommend on the Los Angeles route.

1. Desperado Roller Coaster

Desperado Roller Coaster will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. Located in Primm, Nevada, Desperado Roller Coaster is 44.3 miles away from Las Vegas, and it would take 43 mins to drive.

Desperado Roller Coaster in Primm, Nevada is a great stop on any Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. It’s a thrilling ride that zooms you down at a speed of 80mph, and for a relatively low price, it is worth the experience. However, I had to make a special trip out there from the Las Vegas strip and the times were not listed online. The ride did not start on time, and we had to wait over 30 minutes before finally getting to the lineup. The roller coaster was great, but there was no offer to ride it again due to the delay. It is open only on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and it runs every other hour, so make sure to check the opening times before making the journey. For an adrenaline-pumping experience, Desperado Roller Coaster is the way to go.

If you want to learn more about the Desperado Roller Coaster, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .

2. Western America Railroad Museum

Western America Railroad Museum, Barstow, California is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Las Vegas to Los Angeles route. It’s 157 miles from Las Vegas, and it’ll take about 2 hours and 21 mins of driving.

The Western America Railroad Museum in Barstow is an excellent stopover for those on the Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. This hidden gem is home to fascinating railroad artifacts and locomotives that you can climb. It’s a great place to take a break from the long drive and explore the rich history of the railroad industry. Kids of all ages will love the interactive displays and the opportunity to explore the interior of the locomotives. Be sure to take a few snaps of the vintage trains and artifacts to remember your visit. The museum is full of interesting and educational items, making it an ideal place to spend an hour or two. Western America Railroad Museum in Barstow is a must-see on any road trip!

If you want to learn more about Western America Railroad Museum, you can check it out on TripAdvisor or their website .

3. San Bernardino National Forest

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles in San Bernardino, California. And if you visit San Bernardino, California, we suggest you visit San Bernardino, National Forest. You can arrive at San Bernardino National Forest after 3 hours and 14 mins of driving.

San Bernardino National Forest is a must-visit location on your Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. This vast 660,000-acre area features a range of landscapes, from deserts to the highest alpine mountains in Southern California. The highest peak, Mount San Gorgonio, stands at 11,502 feet. Explore the numerous hiking trails, serene lakes, and charming small towns that make up the forest. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace in nature. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous hike, San Bernardino National Forest is the perfect destination.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of San Bernardino National Forest for more information.

4. Universal Studios Hollywood

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles, California on the Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. Universal Studios Hollywood is 275 miles from Las Vegas, and you can arrive there after the 4 hours and 12 mins of drive.

Universal Studios Hollywood is the perfect place to take a break during a Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. With a full day of action-packed fun, this is an ideal destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable Hollywood experience. Universal Studios features thrilling theme park rides, shows, a real working movie studio, and L.A.’s best shops, restaurants, and cinemas at CityWalk. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking for a place to relax and soak up the atmosphere, Universal Studios Hollywood has something for everyone. Take a break from the road and enjoy an amazing day of entertainment, shopping, and dining.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Universal Studios Hollywood before going there.

FAQ of the Road Trip From Las Vegas to Los Angeles

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Las Vegas To Los Angeles?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip takes approximately 4 hours to drive. The driving distance between Las Vegas to Los Angeles is 270 miles.
• If you want to make the Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be one day and 2 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Las Vegas-Los Angeles route, then you will have to walk for three days and 18 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Las Vegas To Los Angeles?

There are many beautiful pits stops along the way to Los Angeles. You can visit Primm, Nevada; Barstow, California; San Bernardino, California; Los Angeles, California on the road. Here we list four places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Las Vegas to Los Angeles journey, you can check the 4 Best Places To Visit On The Las Vegas To Los Angeles Road Trip.

• Desperado Roller Coaster: 44.3 miles / 43 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 227 miles / 3 hours 31 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Western America Railroad Museum: 157 miles / 2 hours 21 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 115 miles / 1 hour 53 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• San Bernardino National Forest: 215 miles / 3 hours 14 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 76.0 miles / 1 hour 15 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Universal Studios Hollywood: 275 miles / 4 hours 12 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 9.4 miles / 19 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Las Vegas To Los Angeles?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. We have selected four hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 4 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Los Angeles From Las Vegas section.

• Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino: 43.9 miles / 42 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 227 miles / 3 hours 30 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• California Inn, Barstow: 155 miles / 2 hours 19 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 115 miles / 1 hour 50 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino: 231 miles / 3 hours 31 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 58.6 miles / 1 hour 3 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• The Prospect Hollywood: 277 miles / 4 hours 16 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 7.4 miles / 16 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

Where To Eat Between Las Vegas to Los Angeles?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive, you can consider the four restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 4 Best Restaurants On The Las Vegas To Los Angeles Road Trip .

• GP’s Steak House: 44.1 miles / 43 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 227 miles / 3 hours 30 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Los Domingos Mexican Restaurant: 197 miles / 3 hours 2 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 77.9 miles / 1 hour 21 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino: 231 miles / 3 hours 31 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 58.4 miles / 1 hour 2 mins of driving to Los Angeles.
• Brent’s Deli Northridge: 290 miles / 4 hours 30 mins to drive from Las Vegas | 31.9 miles / 41 mins of driving to Los Angeles.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. We have listed four hotels, four restaurants, and four places to visit on the Las Vegas to Los Angeles 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 Las Vegas to Los Angeles as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Las Vegas to Los Angeles 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 Las Vegas to Los Angeles and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Los Angeles Road Trip

If you are looking for suggestions about the city of angels, you should check this video.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Yosemite National Park To Los Angeles Road Trip: Mesmerizing Views
• Las Vegas To Portland Road Trip: Spectacular Views
• Las Vegas To Yosemite National Park Road Trip: An Inspiring Journey

Hi, I'm Tolga. Your guide for unforgettable road trips across the USA, Europe, and Australia. I offer destination insights, tips, and occasionally use AI for added accuracy. Let's explore the world one road at a time!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > Southwest > Embark on a 15-Day Unforgettable Journey: Las Vegas to California Road Trip

Embark on a 15-Day Unforgettable Journey: Las Vegas to California Road Trip

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

You are organizing a road trip and you have about 15 days. You have only one thing decided: round-trip plane tickets to one destination: Las Vegas !

Ok, so you know one thing, that you will land in “Sin City”, you will stay there one or two nights and then you will come back after about 2 weeks to get on a plane… but there is one problem: how do you fill up the time in the middle? What should you do in the remaining days?

This is the dilemma our reader faced, who booked the flight with some friends and then, when she was presented with the infinite possibilities of planning a trip, she wrote to me asking me for some advice. As a result, I decided to write this post, though not only for her, but also for all those who want to go on an amazing tour of Las Vegas and California. Even if you were to start from different cities (for example Los Angeles or San Francisco ) the itinerary is easily adaptable.

The tour is published in three parts. Let’s start with the first part (Days 1-5).

Days 1 and 2: Las Vegas and California Tour… departure!

Days 3, 4 and 5: between two national parks… the old west.

Once you have arrived in Las Vegas , there is only place you will want to go: the Strip , the famous street where you will find the most extravagant hotels and casinos in the world. The best time to visit the Strip is in the evening, so you may need to book a room for 1 or 2 nights, to fully enjoy Las Vegas by night.

Accommodations in Las Vegas

Making a list of things to do in Las Vegas is an easy task: walking along Boulevard South, playing in casinos, go to the shows in hotels and eat well! Each hotel offers (for a fee, of course) its own buffet and some of them are really top quality!

After the metropolitan kitsch of Las Vegas, it’s time to explore nature. The tour continues in California . You will visit two national parks : Death Valley National Park and Yosemite N ational Park, with a stop at a historical treasure of the Old West!

DAY 3 : The first national park, Death Valley, is only 2 hours from Las Vegas. Before you head into Death Valley you may want some information about its attractions and how to visit the park. You can find everything you need in the post How To Visit Death Valley: 7 Wonders Not To Be Missed .

You will spend the night in Death Valley (book in advance!) or in a nearby town and leave the next day. Get ready for the two most demanding days of this itinerary, but I assure you that you will not be disappointed.

Accommodations in and around Death Valley

DAY 4 : On the fourth day, you will get up early (yes, that’s right, even though you are on vacation…) and continue north along the Nevada border. The goal is to visit Bodie , a perfectly preserved and most fascinating western town in the US. The journey to get to Bodie from Death Valley is quite long (4/5 hours) and the western town generally closes at 6:00 pm (here are the times on the site ), so you must leave on time or we’ll miss the ghost town .

From Bodie you will head back and approach Mammoth Lakes (an hour or so of travel, also an opportunity to see Mono Lake if you missed it on the way there), a town surrounded by mountains where you will spend the night and leave the next day (although it deserves a longer visit…).

Accommodations in Mammoth Lakes

DAY 5 : The next destination is San Francisco and the best way to get there is only one: drive through Yosemite National Park and admire its beautiful landscapes.

Be careful when following GPS directions : if you are in Mammoth Lakes and you type San Francisco as your last destination the GPS will make you go around Yosemite, taking you on an equally long road (remember that to drive through Yosemite you will need to purchase a Park Pass , being a National Park). From Mammoth Lakes to San Francisco there is a nice 6-hour trip.

Accommodations near Yosemite

You have concluded the first part of the itinerary. In the second part you will depart from San Francisco and then move on to Santa Barbara . In the meantime, let me know what you think. Have you been to these places? Did you like them?

Second part of the trip Santa Barbara-San Francisco

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

lorenzo puliti

I am fascinated by the wonders of the world I never tire of going in search of them.

Related posts

Traveling from Las Vegas to Yellowstone: recommended on-the-road itinerary

Discover the Main Filming Locations of Top Gun and Maverick!

17-Mile Drive: Pebble Beach’s scenic road in California

Pigeon Point Light Station State Park, a fascinating lighthouse on the California Coast

Leave a comment cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

2 Week USA Road Trip Itinerary: California, Las Vegas & the Grand Canyon

Last updated: March 6, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 13 Comments

We’ve taken a lot of road trips in the USA, and it is our favorite country for taking road trips. From Route 66 to the Oregon Trail to the Pacific Coast Highway to the Deep South , we’ve had some amazing adventures by road across the states.

One of our most popular road trip itineraries for the USA is our two week California road trip itinerary . However, I’m often asked by readers how to adapt it to include some other popular destinations in the USA, specifically Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon .

In response to this request, I’ve put together this detailed two week USA road trip itinerary through parts of the southwest and western USA.

This itinerary includes highlights of California, such as Yosemite and Death Valley national parks, as well as the Pacific Coast Highway, San Francisco and Los Angeles. It also has you driving some iconic stretches of Route 66, spending time in Las Vegas, and taking a visit to the incredible Grand Canyon.

This is an extension to the popular “Golden Triangle” road trip, which usually features Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Our road trip itinerary takes you across three states – California, Arizona and Nevada, and would suit trips of two to three weeks.

Obviously, as you are trying to see a fair bit in this itinerary, it does require quite a bit of driving, and you won’t be able to see absolutely everything on offer. We’d suggest a minimum of two weeks for this trip, but if you have a little longer, then you could easily stretch it out to three weeks or more, and have a few more stops along the way.

For now though, let’s take a look at this itinerary on a day by day basis to see what it looks like. As always, please just use this itinerary as a guide, and feel free to adjust it to your particular interests!

Table of Contents:

USA Road Trip Itinerary

I’ve designed this itinerary to be circular, so you start and finish at the same place. This makes things like car hire easier, as often there’s a one-way fee if you rent a car in one place and leave it somewhere else. However, this isn’t always the case, for example, we’ve rented in Las Vegas and dropped off in San Francisco and not been charged a fee.

Of course, if you are wanting to avoid driving in the USA, then you can also take tours that follow a very similar route to this one, such as this one . You can check out a list of tour options later in the post.

A circular route also means that you can start and finish at any point on the route, and you can do it in either direction. If you’re flying to the start, cities with major airports include Las Vegas, San Francisco and Los Angeles. For now, we’ll assume you’re going to start in Las Vegas.

Days 1 & 2 – Las Vegas

We recommend starting your US road trip in Las Vegas. The city is world famous as basically an adults playground, with gambling, shows, restaurants and bars aplenty. It’s an easy place to spend a lot of money very quickly!

However, there is definitely a lot more to Las Vegas than the famous Las Vegas Strip, both in town, and in the nearby area. The stunning Valley of Fire state park is a short drive away, and you can also visit the impressive Hoover Dam very easily. So whether you are into natural wonders or man-made delights, you should find something to do.

Our recommendation would be to spend your two days in Las Vegas. There is a lot to do in the city, and if you arriving from a different time zone, these two days will give you time to adjust and acclimatize. However, if you do want to head out of the city, we have included a couple of suggested trips to popular nearby attractions as well.

Things to do in Las Vegas

With around two days to explore, depending on when you arrive in the city, you should be able to see a good amount in Las Vegas.

Some of our personal highlights we recommend include the views from the top of the Stratosphere Tower, visiting the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign for a photo opportunity, walking the Strip at night, watching the famous Bellagio fountains display and taking in the Mob Museum.

You will also likely want to take in one of the shows that are hosted every evening at venues across the city. There’s a huge number of shows to choose from, you can see the options and book them online in advance here . Other popular activities in Vegas include dining. The city is home to a number of truly world class restaurants, as well as quite spectacular buffets.

There’s also no shortage of shopping if you want to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We’d also suggest taking a bit of down time and relaxing by your hotel pool as part of your acclimatization strategy. There’s going to be a lot of driving and sight-seeing in the days ahead, so a bit time relaxing by the pool with a beer or cocktail will start your trip off on the right foot. Alternatively, there are also a number of fun rides you can take in the city, if you’re more of a thrill seeker.

Finally, you will probably want to take part in the pastime that Vegas is most well-known for – gambling. There’s a huge number of casinos to choose from, with many of the hotels also running huge casino operations. Even if you don’t wish to gamble, it is worth visiting a few of the casinos as the buildings themselves are so iconic.

In terms of getting around Las Vegas, the city has a lot of options. It’s also relatively spread out, so whilst you can walk, it will likely take you longer than you think to get around on foot. The temperatures in summer also make walking very uncomfortable.

Instead, you might consider one of the popular rideshare services, taxis, or the monorail, which connects many of the key points of the city together. We would advise against driving in the Las Vegas – parking fees are high, and the roads are busy.

If you’d prefer to head out of the city for either part of all of one of your days in the city, we’d recommend visiting either the Hoover Dam and taking the tour there or heading out to the Valley of Fire State Park . If you head out early and have your own vehicle you can fit both into one day out.

The Hoover Dam is an incredible feat of modern engineering and is regarded as one of the seven wonders of the industrial world .

The Valley of Fire State Park is home to spectacular landscapes, made up from wonderfully colored rocks which give the park its name

The Hoover Dam is a ticketed attraction, with different tours available. Some of these tours can be purchased in advance online, whilst others are only available in person. If you choose to take a tour that requires an in person ticket purchase you will want to arrive early as slots are limited and this is a popular attraction. See more on ticket types and prices on the official website here .

The Valley of Fire State Park also has a fee, which is charged per vehicle rather than per person, and you can see details of that here . There are a number of short hikes you can take to explore the park, or you can just drive to observation points and enjoy the views.

Note that if you are doing this road trip in the summer, hiking is generally not recommended as it gets very hot, often in excess of 100F / 37C. Visiting the Valley of Fire at this time of year is not as pleasant an experience as in the cooler months.

You can either take a tour to reach our suggested sites or you can drive yourself. If you don’t want to pick up your rental car yet, or would just prefer the convenience of a tour, here are some options to consider:

• A three hour mini tour of the Hoover Dam, where you will see the main exterior highlights but not the interior parts
• A 4-6 hour guided hiking tour of the Valley of Fire from Las Vegas, with varying levels of hike available depending on your fitness

Whether you decide to spend all your time in Las Vegas or take in some of the surrounding attractions, we’re sure you won’t run out of things to do here.

For more inspiration, see our guide to things to do in Las Vegas which has lots more ideas as well as tips on saving money.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Las Vegas. Our suggestion would be to try and stay on or near the Strip if possible, as this will make it easier to get to many of the sights. We’d also suggest staying in one of the casinos because that’s part of the Vegas experience! Here are some suggested options to get you started across a range of budgets.

• Travelodge by Wyndham Las Vegas Airport – if you’re looking for a budget hotel and don’t mind not being on the strip or having an on-site casino, this 2* Travelodge offers comfortable rooms, free parking and a breakfast bag.
• The D Las Vegas – found in the older part of Las Vegas, amongst the famous neon of Fremont Street, this hotel offers good value accommodation as well as on-site casino.
• Luxor – if you ever wanted to sleep in a pyramid, without the associated hassle of becoming an Egyptian pharaoh and dying, the Luxor is for you. This 3* hotel is famous for its iconic pyramid shape, and is handily located near the Welcome to Las Vegas sign. Naturally there’s a casino, range of dining options and usually some kind of show or entertainment to enjoy.
• New York, New York – another well known Vegas hotel, this property was constructed to resemble the New York skyline, complete with a 150 feet Statue of Liberty. There’s an on-site rollercoaster, casino, range of restaurants, and live shows.
• Flamingo Las Vegas – this is the oldest resort hotel on the Strip, although don’t let that put you off as it’s been refurbished a number of times. It offers colourful rooms, a huge on-site casino, and good prices for the central location. Another of our favourites in Vegas.
• Bellagio – found behind the famous fountains, this is one of the most iconic five star hotels in Las Vegas. Many rooms offer spectacular strip views, and there’s an on site casino, multiple dining options, and on site entertainment. A great option for those with a larger budget, or just looking to start the trip in style. We loved our stay here.

Day 3 – Grand Canyon

It’s time to start the real road trip part of your adventure! If you’re picking up your rental car, now is the time to do that if you haven’t already.

For your third day you’ll want to get an early start as you’ve got around 300 miles to go, or just under a five hour drive.

It’s worth it though, for what is arguably one of mother nature’s most spectacular sights in the world – the Grand Canyon.

You have a couple of options for your drive. First, you can drop down to Kingman, Arizona, and then take the I-40 all the way to Williams, Arizona, before turning north.

However, you might prefer to take the more scenic route along a stretch of the legendary Route 66 driving route . This runs from Kingman, Arizona, up to Peach Springs and back down to Seligman, where you join the I-40. This won’t add much to your journey (around 20 minutes extra driving time), but will give you the opportunity to follow just over 80 miles of Route 66.

There are a few notable highlights along this stretch of the route which are worth stopping at, even if just for a quick photo opportunity. These include Hackberry General Store, a Route 66 era gas station in Truxton, and the Grand Canyon Caverns . You can see more options for this stretch of the route in this part of our 2 week Route 66 guide .

Now, onto the main attraction of the day – the Grand Canyon! This is a National Park with entry fees, which are charged per vehicle. You can see information on prices, opening times and concessions here .

You are basically going to have most of the afternoon, the evening, and the following morning to visit the park. Obviously, more time would be best, but we’re on a schedule for this itinerary. If you do want to do more activities here though, including lengthier hikes, you will definitely want to extend your stay here.

Let’s assume you are following this itinerary though, and have around 1.5 days at the Grand Canyon. I would recommend spending this as follows.

Things to do at the Grand Canyon

First, I suggest visiting the main Grand Canyon Visitor Centre in Grand Canyon Village. This has detailed information on the park, with exhibits on a range of subjects including the geology, geography, and wildlife of the park. There’s also a 20 minute video you can watch to get acquainted with the park.

You can also talk to the rangers based here who can give you advice for everything related to your visit, from shuttle timetables through to great spots to watch the sunset and sunrise, and suggested short hikes that you can take to match your specific fitness.

From the visitor centre, it’s a short walk to Mather Point which offers incredible views across the Canyon. You can also walk along the trail which follows the rim in both directions, for more views (and fewer crowds).

At this point you’ll probably want to head to your accommodation and check-in, after which, depending on how much time you have, you may want to take the shuttle bus to one of the viewpoints along the rim. I’d definitely recommend ensuring you have a good spot to watch the sunset – I have a guide to the best places to watch the sunset and sunrise at the Grand Canyon here .

Finally, after a long day it’s time to turn in. On the morning of your fourth day I suggest taking another short hike if that interests you, or driving to some of the many viewpoints along the rim as you exit the park.

Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon

You have a few options for staying at the Grand Canyon. My recommendation is to stay on-site at the south rim in Grand Canyon Village. There are five hotels to choose from, plus two campgrounds. They cover a range of budgets, but be aware you do pay a bit of a premium for the location. You can see all the options available here .

If you want to stay at any of these, you will definitely need to book online in advance as they are all very popular and do sell out.

The hotels are all operated by Grand Canyon Lodges, and can be booked online here .

The two campgrounds are Mather Campground (no RV hookups) and Trailer Village (full hook-ups available).

Mather Campground is operated by the National Parks Service, and can be booked online here . Trailer Village is a concession, which can be booked online here .

Day 4 – Route 66 to Joshua Tree National Park

Your fourth day of this itinerary has you heading to California, with your destination being the Joshua Tree National Park .

You have a decent amount of driving today, and again we’re going to suggest you take the opportunity to take in stretches of iconic Route 66. Doing so will result in around a 6.5 hour drive, or around 375 miles of driving. If you would prefer a more direct route, it’s around 5.5 hours / 361 miles.

We think the scenic route is worth it though, as this drive across the wild and rugged back country of California and parts of Arizona Is truly spectacular, and one we always enjoy. Specifically, you will follow I-40 to Kingman, then take the 10 out to Oatman. This town maintains the feel of a former wild west frontier town, and burros still roam the streets. There are even regular “gunfights” here, staged for the benefit of visiting tourists.

Just note, the traffic around Oatman can be quite slow (and even stop sometimes) as a result of the daily shows. In addition, the road up to Oatman is quite curvy, so you will want to take your time.

From Oatman, you’ll head on to Needles, one of the hottest places in the USA, follow the I-40 for a short while longer, and then rejoin Route 66 to pass through Amboy. A photo stop and a purchase of Route 66 Route beer is essential at Roy’s Motel in Amboy!

From Amboy, it’s due south until you reach Twentynine Palms. This is where you can access the Joshua Tree National Park, which we suggest you leave until the following day.

Once you consider various stops for photo opportunities, dining and so on, you will likely have used up all your useful daylight by now, so we suggest stopping overnight in Twentynine Palms, and continuing your adventures tomorrow. Of course, if you’re a fan of astrophotography , you might want to pop into the park, which has some excellent star gazing and astrophotography opportunities. But it’s up to you.

Where to Stay Near Joshua Tree National Park

There are no hotels within the park grounds, although there are nine campgrounds to choose from if you plan on camping. You can book these campgrounds online here . I’ve camped at the Jumbo Rocks campground and it was an amazing experience.

Otherwise, we would suggest staying in a property in Twentynine Palms. There is a good choice of 2 and 3 star properties to choose from, such as:

• 9 Palms Inn – this budget 2* property gets good reviews, and rooms come with a coffee machine, microwave and refrigerator. There’s also free parking on site.
• El Rancho Dolores – this is a great value 3* property with a seasonal pool. Rooms have microwaves and refrigerator, and free parking is included.
• Sunnyvale Garden Suites – a very well rated 2* hotel offering a range of suites, each of which comes with a BBQ as well as a full kitchen. There’s a hot tub and gym on site, and free parking is available.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – this 3* chain hotel offers comfortable and well reviewed accommodation, with an outdoor heated pool and fitness centre. Rooms have coffee making facilities, microwave and small fridge, and there are BBQ facilities available for guest use.
• Flying Point Homestead – if you want something a little bit different, check out this property. It’s actually a holiday home rather than a hotel, but one of the options is a beautiful silver streak trailer!

If you want a higher end experience, you would need to head on to Palm Springs, where there are a number of spa resorts and high end 4* hotels to choose from, such as The Palm Springs Hotel or the Alcazar Palm Springs .

Day 5 – San Diego or Joshua Tree

You have a couple of options for your fifth day, depending on whether you prefer nature or cities. You can spend the day exploring the Joshua Tree National Park , where there are plentiful hiking and wilderness activities. Or, you can press on to San Diego, where there are plentiful city and cultural attractions to choose from.

If you choose to spend the day exploring and hiking at Joshua Tree National park, we’d suggest visiting the Oasis Visitor Centre in Twentynine Palms, where you can learn about the park and get advice and information on your visit. Conditions can vary in the park depending on the weather and time of year, so obtaining up to date information is useful.

There’s also an entry fee for the park, which covers one vehicle for a week.

If you decide to spend the day exploring Joshua tree, then we recommend spending another night near the park, and then heading to Los Angeles the next morning after breakfast, just under 3 hours drive away.

If you choose to spend the day exploring San Diego, it is about a 3 hour drive to San Diego from Twentynine Palms. If you wanted to, you could spend a few hours in the morning at Joshua Tree and then head into the city. We’d suggest you spend the afternoon of Day 5 and morning of Day 6 in San Diego, and you won’t run out of things to do.

Here are some ideas:

Things to do in San Diego for a Day

We can recommend visiting the excellent USS Midway Museum , which is a fantastic museum ship found on what was, for a long time, the largest ship in the world. Built just as the second world war ended, this aircraft carrier saw service in the Vietnam War as well as the first Gulf War.

You can easily spend your whole afternoon here, and lovers of military or aviation history will definitely want to come here. There’s also the nearby  San Diego Air and Space Museum .

There are lots of other sights to choose from in San Diego. Don’t miss a wander through the historical gaslamp district, and a visit to San Diego Zoo is a popular option especially with families. If you would prefer to visit the beach, Coronado Beach is well worth visiting.

See our complete guide to things to do in San Diego for more ideas!

Where to Stay in San Diego

San Diego is a major city and as such there is no shortage of excellent accommodation options to choose from. Of course, the flip side being that budget accommodations are a little harder to come by, although there are still some options. Here are our picks for your time in San Diego.

• HI San Diego Downtown Hostel – this is a great value centrally located hostel, although be aware you’ll have to pay for parking. Private and shared accommodation is available and guests can use an on-site kitchen.
• Berkshire Motor Hotel  – this budget 3* motel offers free parking, a little way north of the city centre. Rooms are en-suite and have a refrigerator. A good budget option.
• Coronado Inn – a well priced 3* inn on Coronado Island with free parking and breakfast included. All rooms are en-suite, and free bicycle hire is available.
• Moxy San Diego Gaslamp Quarter – a great value and very well reviewed 4* hotel in the Gaslamp quarter. All rooms are en-suite and breakfast is available. Note that parking in this area is expensive.
• The Westgate Hotel – another well reviewed and centrally located 4* San Diego hotel. There’s a rooftop pool, full spa, on-site gym and a full service restaurant. Paid parking is possible on site.
• 1906 Lodge – We loved our stay at this historic bed and breakfast just near Coronado Beach. Rooms are very comfortable and uniquely decorated, and each features a microwave and fridge.The included breakfast was excellent, and the free parking was appreciated.
• Pendry San Diego – if you want five star city centre luxury, this is a great option. You get an outdoor pool, beautiful rooms, and breakfast is available. On-site parking is also possible for a fee.

Days 6 & 7 – Los Angeles

From San Diego, it’s time to turn north, and visit the sprawling city of Los Angeles, the largest city in California and the second most populous city in the USA. From San Diego, it’s around a 2 hour drive up the coast to LA.

There is a huge amount to see and do in Los Angeles, and the city is quite spread out, so we feel you will want to spend a couple of days here to do it justice. Of course, if you aren’t a city person, you can adjust this itinerary to spend more time at the outdoor attractions along the route instead.

Based on our itinerary though, you’ll have one full day in Los Angeles (Day 7) and then half a day on Day 6, depending on what time you leave San Diego. Here are some ideas of how to fill that time.

Things to do in Los Angeles

There is a huge amount to do in Los Angeles, so you will need to pick and choose depending on your particular interests.

We think most visitors will enjoy visiting the Hollywood part of town, where you can see the Hollywood Walk of Fame. There’s also a good view of the famous Hollywood Sign from the north-east corner of the Hollywood & Highland retail centre. Other attractions in this area include Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and The Hollywood Museum.

Another popular activity is to get a behind the scenes tour of a movie studio. A couple of popular options are the Paramount Pictures Studio Tour , and Universal Studios . Both are active movie studios where you can take tours of the working movie lots, with Universal Studios also home to a number of rides and other attractions.

Art lovers will want to take the time to visit the Getty Center . This free art museum is famous for its spectacular views, lovely gardens, architecture, and of course, art collection! The latter focuses primarily on pre 20th century European art, as well as photographs and sculpture. Note that whilst the Getty Center is free, there is a fee to park here if you visit by car.

If you are planning on seeing a sporting event or concert, or for the famous LA nightlife, you might want to stay in the LA Live area, where there are many venues for entertainment.

If you love the beach, then you’ll want to head out to the coast and visit Venice Beach and Santa Monica, where a stroll along the pier is a must. Naturally there’s plenty more to see and do in Los Angeles, and we’re sure you won’t run out of things to do. Just be aware the city is vast, and sprawls across a large area, so you will want to carefully plan your time so as to see everything you want.

In terms of getting around LA, the most popular option is to drive, although the traffic is legendary. If you would prefer not to drive, you have other options. We’ve use the ridesharing options, but also found the Hop on Hop off bus was a great option, as it took us all around the main sights we wanted to see, and even went all the way out to the beach.

There are also public transport options in LA, including an extensive bus network and a metro.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

As the second largest city in the USA, there are a lot of places to stay in Los Angeles. One thing to bear in mind though is that the city sprawls across a vast area and is known for its heavy traffic. It can take a long time to get from one end of the city to the other, so do keep this in mind.

We’d suggest picking a hotel near the attractions you are most interested in. We tend to stay either in Santa Monica or the Hollywood area, both of which made for a good base for local exploration of those areas. Here are some of our recommended hotels in the city.

• Santa Monica Motel – this basic 2* motel offers a good location for Santa Monica and is around a 10 minute walk from Santa Monica Pier. There’s free morning coffee and free parking, and rooms come with coffee makers and in-room refrigerators. It’s definitely a good value location and we’ve stayed here. Just be aware there is no A/C, although we visited in the summer and the provided fan unit worked fine.
• Banana Bungalow – this hostel offers shared and private accommodation, around a mile from the downtown Hollywood area. There’s free parking on-site, and reviews are positive.
• Orange Drive Hostel – a short walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this is a well-reviewed hostel offering shared and private rooms, with on-site kitchen and laundry facilities. Breakfast is included, and parking is available for a good price.
• Magic Castle Hotel – this 3* hotel is a short walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and you get a pool, unlimited free snacks, free continental breakfast and reasonably priced parking. It’s also a short walk to the Hollywood Bowl, and only three miles from Universal Studios. We really enjoyed staying here, and it is particularly popular with families
• Best Western Plus Hollywood Hills – this 3* well rated hotel just a few minutes walk from the Hollywood walk of fame offers spacious rooms with microwaves and coffee makers, as well as on on-site diner. On-site parking is also available
• Villa Delle Stelle – this boutique hotel in central Hollywood gets excellent reviews and will make you feel like a celebrity. Each suite is designed after a specific old Hollywood Celebrity, and guests can avail of celebrity style services such as in-room massages, private chefs and a personal trainer. Free parking is also included.
• JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE – we’ve stayed at this 4* hotel in the LA Live area, which is perfect if you plan to take in a show in the nearby area. Rooms are luxurious and feature mini-fridges and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also a rooftop pool and six restaurants to choose from. Parking is available on-site for a fee.
• The Georgian Hotel – this beautiful 1933 4* Art Deco hotel is a short walk from Santa Monica pier, and offers ocean views and on-site dining. Breakfast is available, and parking is available on-site for a fee.

Days 8 & 9 – Pacific Coast Highway

Now it’s time to head north on one of the world’s most beautiful road trips – the Pacific Coast Highway . You’ll follow this coastal route from Los Angeles all the way to San Francisco. The total drive is around 450 miles, which would take you about 9 hours if you drove it straight in one go.

Of course, we’re not going to recommend you do it all in one go. We suggest you take two days and two nights to drive the route. We’d suggest stopping somewhere like San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay or Cambria for your first night on the route, and then in Monterey, Carmel, or Pacific Grove for your second night. You will then arrive into San Francisco in the morning of your 10th day.

There is a huge amount to see and do along the route, as well as just taking in the spectacular vistas as you do so. We have a complete guide to driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which should give you lots of ideas. However, some suggested stops along the route would be as follows, in order from south to north.

Highlights of the Pacific Coast Highway

Soon after you leave Los Angeles you’ll drive through Malibu, which is famous for its beach, and the home of many celebrities. There’s also a pier you can walk along. As you continue along the coast you’ll pass through numerous towns, many of which also have lovely beaches.

We can recommend visiting Santa Barbara and the Mission here. Founded in 1786, there’s a museum for those interested.

Onwards again, you may want to detour off the 101 and heading to Solvang. This town is famous for its Danish-style architecture, and there are numerous sights and attractions here, including a motorcycle museum, Christmas store, and early 19th century Franciscan church.

It’s also a lovely town to just wander around, and there are plenty of eateries here as well. You’ll also find Pea Soup Andersen’s in nearby Buellton, famous (as the name suggests) for their pea soup.

From Solvang, continue north to San Luis Obispo. You can choose to spend the night here, or you can head a little further along to Morro Bay or Cambria . All three make good stopping points.

On your second day on the Pacific Coast Highway, we’d suggest spending a little time exploring Cambria – we have a complete guide to things to do in Cambria for tips.

From Cambria, we suggest your next stop should be Hearst Castle . This sprawling hilltop castle estate was the home of William Randolph Hearst, an early 20th century media tycoon. The castle has an incredible location, offers amazing views up and down the coast, and is well worth a few hours of your time to visit.

Just be aware that visits are by guided tour only, and it’s best to book in advance to guarantee a time. See more on visiting in our complete guide to visiting Hearst Castle .

A little further north from Hearst Castle is the Elephant Seal vista point . Here, if you visit between November and March, you will see thousands of elephants seals on the beach, as they come to mate and give birth. If you visit outside these months, there will still likely be seals on the beach, but not in quite the same volumes.

You’ll now start to drive along some of the most rugged and beautiful parts of the route, as you drive through the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park . The views along this stretch of the route are really lovely, and there are plenty of pull outs so you can stop and enjoy the view.

Don’t miss stopping at McWay Cove, where you can see a waterfall plunging onto the beach below. Finally, you’ll finish your day at Carmel By the Sea or Monterey, where you can spend the night. If you have time, you might enjoy taking a drive along the famous 17 mile drive in Pebble Beach .

Where to Stay Along the Pacific Coast Highway

These recommendations are listed from south to north along your route, covering a number of locations we suggest you consider stopping. We love the smaller B&B style accommodation on this stretch of the route, and there are some really nice guesthouse style properties to choose from.

For your first night, we recommend one of the following:

• Apple Farm Inn , San Luis Obispo – we really enjoyed our stay here on one of our Pacific Coast Highway road trips. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, the breakfast was fantastic, and the on-site bakery has some delicious food. There are also two pools on site, and free parking.
• Madonna Inn , San Luis Obispo – this four star family-owned motel just to the south of SLO is a truly quirky destination, and a landmark of the central coast. Each of the 110 rooms is uniquely decorated, with pink being a key theme throughout. We didn’t stay here, but we did have dinner at the Gold Rush steak house on-site, which was fantastic.
• Seaside Inn , Morro Bay – this 2* budget inn is one block from the waterfront. Rooms have a microwave and refrigerator, and there’s free on site parking and coffee.
• Beach Bungalow Inn and Suites , Morro Bay – five minutes walk from the aquarium, this three star inn is very well reviewed. Comfortable rooms have fireplaces, refrigerators and coffee machines, and a hot breakfast is included as is parking.
• Estero Inn , Morro Bay – this exceptionally well reviewed property is found on the beachfront. Rooms all have microwaves, and breakfast is included. A popular option in Morro Bay.
• Cambria Palms Motel , Cambria – this 2* motel is a couple of blocks from downtown, and offers comfortable rooms at a good price. Rooms have refrigerator and coffee machine, and free parking is available on site.
• Bluebird Inn , Cambria -this well rated 2* inn is found on Cambria’s main street. Rooms have microwaves, refrigerators and coffee makers, and there’s free on-site parking
• El Colibri Hotel & Spa , Cambria – on one of our visit to Cambria we stayed here for a couple of nights and really enjoyed it. The rooms are lovely, with fireplaces, and some have spa tubs. There’s an on-site spa, outdoor hot tub, and breakfast is available. Free parking on-site.
• J Patrick House B&B , Cambria – this five star Irish themed inn was Cambria’s first B&B. There’s a a free wine hour, evening cookies and a full breakfast included with your stay. Each room is individually designed, and there’s free parking on site. A great pick in Cambria.

For your second night, we recommend one of the following:

• If you like to camp, then there are camping options in the national parks along the route here, including the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground . I’ve camped here and it’s lovely to be surrounded by the massive redwoods. Just be aware that it is popular, and booking in advance is a must.
• Sandpiper Inn , Carmel – we stayed here when we visited Carmel. We enjoyed the comfortable rooms, inclusive breakfast, and proximity to the beach. Free parking is available.
• Sea View Inn , Carmel – a quiet, 3* inn just moments from Carmel Beach. Rooms are individually decorated and free parking is available.
• Coachman’s Inn , Carmel – we’ve stayed at a number of the boutique hotels which are in the Four Sisters Inn collection, and they’ve all been excellent. This inn, found in the heart of Carmel Village, gets good reviews. Rooms include coffee makers and free popcorn, wine with hors d’oeuvres is served in the evenings, and breakfast is included.
• HI Monterey Hostel , Monterey – for budget travellers, or those who just prefer a hostel, this is a very centrally located option just minutes from Cannery Row. There’s free parking on site, and a selection of dormitory rooms to choose from.
• The Inn at 1252 , Monterey – a good value inn on the way into Monterey. Rooms feature coffee makers, and a heated pool is available year round. There’s also a fitness room, free parking and free coffee.
• The Jabberwock B&B , Monterey – just a few blocks from Cannery Row, this very well reviewed B&B offers seven lovely guest rooms, some of which have fireplaces and hot tubs. Free parking, and breakfast is included.

Days 10 & 11 – San Francisco

On your 10th and 11th days you’re going to head to San Francisco, where you will have one full day, and one partial day, depending on what time you arrive.

From Monterey it’s around a 2.5 hour drive along the coast to San Francisco. If you are not in a hurry, there are few sights to take in along the way. First, Monterey itself is home to the fantastic Monterey Bay Aquarium . This is an amazing attraction, but it is quite large and relatively expensive, so you will probably want to spend at least a few hours here to get value for money.

Next, Santa Cruz is well worth a stop. There’s a lovely pier and beach, the surf here is legendary, and there are nearby redwood forests for a nice hike. See our guide to things to do in Santa Cruz for some ideas.

Ok, let’s move on, and assume you’re going to arrive into San Francisco in the early afternoon. There’s a huge amount to see and do in the city, but here are some suggestions to fill your 1.5 days.

Things to do in San Francisco

First, on the afternoon you arrive we can recommend visiting Alcatraz. This island was home to one of the world’s most famous prisons, commonly referred to “The Rock”. For almost thirty years this was home to some of the most notorious criminals in the USA.

Today, Alcatraz is open for tours. These are very popular so you will want to be sure to book in advance as they often sell out. Make sure you only book from the official Alcatraz Cruises website , as these are the only ones that land on the island and let you tour the prison. Other sightseeing tours just take you around the island. For more on visiting Alcatraz, see our guide to visiting Alcatraz .

For your full day in San Francisco, we suggest starting off by taking in a view of one of the cities most iconic landmarks – the Golden Gate Bridge. Joining a bike tour  or hiring a bicycle to cycle out to and over the bridge is a popular option. Although you can get also good views of the bridge from the city, particularly around the Maritime Museum area.

You’ll also want to visit Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s spectacularly tacky, in a way that only seems to work in the USA.

You’ll find no shortage of dining options here – we can recommend the famous Clam Chowder filled sourdough bread bowls at the Boudin Bakery . You can also learn about their bread making process at the free museum, and watch the bakers making bread.

While you are at Fisherman’s Wharf, don’t forget to say hello to the sea lions who pass the time lazing in the sun on floats just by the pier.

Other unmissable highlights of the city include the famous curvy Lombard Street , said to be the most crooked street in the world. You should also try to ride the famous street cars, visit the Chinatown and Union Square area, wander around Golden Gate Park , and peer up at the Transamerica Pyramid.

There’s loads more to do in San Francisco of course, from museums to art exhibits to cultural attractions, but hopefully we’ve given you some ideas to get you started. We have a guide to some great photo spots in San Francisco if you are looking for inspiration.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco is another large city with a lot of accommodation options, however in our experience it’s also one of the more expensive cities for accommodation in the USA. Parking is also at a premium, and hotels with free parking are fairly rare.

We’ve stayed at a number of hotels in the city, and here are our recommendation for your time in San Francisco.

• HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel – found right on Fisherman’s Wharf, this budget hostel offers both dormitory and private accommodation options. There’s free breakfast and free parking, making this an excellent option for the location.
• Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel – found in the popular Union Square district, this great value 3-star hotel has a rooftop restaurant, library, and on-site theatre. Rooms have private bathrooms and coffee makers, and breakfast is included. A paid parking garage is available nearby.
• Parker Guest House – found in the old Mission district just behind the San Francisco mission building, this is a well reviewed and good value guesthouse offering private rooms. Free breakfast is available, and parking is available on site for a reasonable (by San Francisco standards) fee.
• Columbus Inn – Just a few hundred yards from Lombardy Street and Fisherman’s Wharf in the North Beach district,  this 3* inn offers great value for the location. Private rooms offer en-suite and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also free parking on site.
• Golden Gate Hotel – a very well reviewed 3* hotel just minutes from Union Square. Continental breakfast and afternoon tea are included. Rooms are definitely on the cosy side, and some have shared bathrooms, but the price is great for the location. Paid parking available nearby.
• Staypineapple Union Square – we stayed at this restored historic 4* 1913 hotel on a recent trip to San Francisco, and loved the mix of the old and the new. We loved the rooms, the colorful pineapple theme, and the free pineapple flavoured cupcakes certainly helped! Parking is available nearby for a fee.
• Four Seasons Hotel – if you are after five star luxury, then consider the Four Seasons hotel. Also found in Union Square, rooms are huge, there’s an on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and many rooms have city views.

Days 12 & 13 – Yosemite National Park

You’re into the final few days of your US road trip now, and it’s time to visit some more of the spectacular scenery that the state is so well known for.

The plan is to spend your next couple of days visiting Yosemite National Park , which is home to some gorgeous natural scenery, including epic waterfalls and towering mountains.

From San Francisco it’s around a four hour drive to Yosemite. We’d suggest planning to arrive in the early afternoon, checking into your accommodation where you’ll stay for two nights, and then going sightseeing.

With a full afternoon on day 12, and all of day 13 to visit the park, you should be able to visit many of the highlights. On the afternoon you arrive, we would suggest visiting some of the highlights near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Centre to start with, including Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls.

A visit to the visitor centre itself is also recommended, as here you’ll be able to get up to date information on the park, as well as talk to the rangers about suggested walking routes.

For your full day in the park, you have a few options. First, you might want to take advantage of the free Yosemite shuttle , and visit the highlights that it goes to.

I would also consider a drive up to Tunnel View and then on to Glacier Point, where you’ll be able to get amazing views across the park. These can also be done as part of a tour offered by the park if you’d rather not drive.You then might consider a shorter afternoon hike, such as that up to Vernal Falls.

Alternatively, if you love hiking, you might consider tackling one of the longer or more strenuous day hikes. There are plenty of these, such as the Yosemite Falls hike .

Just note that some hikes, like the popular Half Dome Hike , do require an advance purchase permit. These are distributed via a lottery system as they are so popular so are difficult to obtain. If you plan to explore the backcountry areas of the park, you will also need a permit.

For more inspiration for your visit to Yosemite, see our guides to what to do in Yosemite for a day , as well as our guide to photography locations in Yosemite .

Important –  As of 2022, Yosemite has introduced a reservation system for park entry. If you are visiting between late May and the end of September and planning on driving into or through the park between 6am and 4pm you will need to have a reservation. You can find out more and make your reservations online here .

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

There are a range of accommodation options in Yosemite National Park, ranging from campsites to canvas-sided tent cabins, through to luxury hotels.

There are 13 campsites available in the park , with a number of these available for reservation, and the rest operated on a first come first serve basis. If you want to camp, we highly recommend booking well in advance, which you can do here .

There are also nine lodging options operated by Yosemite Hospitality inside the park, which are the only other accommodation options available in the park itself. These can be reserved up to a year in advance, and range from simple canvas cabins through to a high-end luxury hotel. These can all be reserved online in advance here .

We would definitely recommend staying in the park if possible, as this will put you close to the sights. However, if you struggle to find an option that works for you, some recommended lodging just outside the park is as follows. As a general rule, the closer to the park, the more expensive the property is likely to be.

• Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort – At just over 26 miles outside Yosemite, this property is quite far out compared to others, but the price reflects that. So if you are on a tighter budget this is a good option to consider. Think glamping and rustic style accommodation, with an on-site spa, restaurant, and kitchen for use. Dormitory accommodation is also available.
• Narrow Gauge Inn – found just four miles from Yosemite, this is a great value 3* motel offering comfortable en-suite rooms. All rooms feature coffe machines, and there’s a seasonal restaurant, a seasonal outdoor pool and a hot tub
• Yosemite View Lodge – Just under nine miles from Yosemite National Park, this 3* lodge has 4 pools, a hot tub and a restaurant. It has lovely views, gets positive reviews, and there’s free parking on-site. Breakfast is available.
• Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite – this 4* lodge is found just two miles from Yosemite National Park, and offers comfortable and well-reviewed lodging. There’s a on-site fitness centre and spa as well as two pools. Free parking is available, and breakfast is an option.

Day 14 – Death Valley & Las Vegas

It’s the final day of your road trip! Today you have a fair old drive ahead of you – around 6 hours in total. However, we’re going to break it up a bit with some sights.

Before we begin, it’s worth mentioning that this route has you exiting Yosemite on the east side of the park, which requires you to take Highway 120, also known as the Tioga Road. Due to its elevation and exposure to snow, this road is closed over winter, usually from November to late May. You can see the latest road conditions here .

If this road is closed, then you are looking at a significant detour to get to Death Valley, requiring you to exit the park to the south or west, and then to loop a long way south via Bakersfield to get around the Sierra Nevada Mountains. As such, you may prefer instead to skip Death Valley, or to visit it earlier in your trip as a day trip from Las Vegas (it’s a 4 hour round trip). In this case, instead of driving all the way back to Las Vegas, you might prefer just to return to San Francisco.

Assuming you visit when the Tioga Road is open though, you will leave Yosemite and come to California’s Highway 395, often referred to as California’s backbone. We suggest taking a left onto the 395, and driving to the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, a couple of miles up the road.

Mono Lake is a saline soda lake is home to many limestone columns, known as tufa towers, which are a popular visitor attraction. Definitely worth a photo stop.

You’ll now head south on Highway 395, driving parallel to the incredible Sierra Nevada mountain range. You’ll pass through lovely towns like Mammoth Lakes, and the views will definitely require you to stop for a few photos as you drive.

We suggest following Highway 395 until Lone Pine, and then heading on Highway 136 into the last National Park of the trip – the infamous Death Valley National Park .

This is home to over 3 million acres of desert and mountains, and was named during the California Gold Rush. During this time, a group of 100 wagons became lost in the valley, and though they eventually found their way out, it was only after they gave up their wagons and ate their oxen.

Today, Death Valley is a popular place for visitors to experience an extreme desert environment. There’s plenty to see and do here as you pass through. We’d suggest stopping at the visitor centre and visiting Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in the USA, at 279 feet below sea level.

One thing to note – if you visit California in the summer months, particularly late June to early September, it can be incredibly hot in Death Valley. Hiking is not recommended in these months due to the temperature, and you’ll want to be sure the A/C in your car is working well!

Finally, you’re going to arrive back in Las Vegas, complete the circuit, and finish your US road trip. We hope you had a great time! Now you can either fly home, or spend some more time in Vegas. Now, onto some practicalities for your trip.

2 Week USA Road Trip Itinerary Map

Here’s a map of the route to help you visualise it. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

When Is The Best Time of Year to Road Trip the USA?

We would suggest that for this itinerary, the best time of year would be May through June, or September and October. At these times of year the weather will be warm but not too hot (although Las Vegas will definitely be hot in late May and June), and it won’t be as busy as the summer months.

You could also do this trip in winter of course, but it will be a lot cooler. In addition, some of the national parks, and especially Yosemite, can have restricted access in winter if there is a lot of snow. In particular, the east exit from Yosemite, the Tioga road, is usually closed from November through May. In this scenario you would be looking at a lengthy detour to travel to Death Valley, and might instead prefer to return to San Francisco.

If you choose to visit in the hotter summer months, such as July and August, then you’d definitely want to avoid any sort of longer hikes in places like the Valley of Fire and Death Valley. Instead, maybe plan more time along the coast, at higher altitudes, and exploring city attractions.

Western USA Tour Options

This is a road trip itinerary, and as such there’s quite a lot of driving involved. However, I appreciate not everyone will want to drive. The good news is that there are a number of tours which follow a fairly similar route to our itinerary. The advantage of a tour is that you can let someone else handle all the logistics, from booking hotels to handling the transport, and you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

Here are some tours which follow a fairly similar route to our itinerary for your consideration.

• This 11 day budget tour includes the Pacific Coast Highway, as well as Los Angeles, San Diego, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley and Yosemite. A good value option, aimed at the budget travellers wanting to see a lot in a fairly short amount of time
• If you’re on a tighter timescale, consider this 8 day express tour with G Adventures. It goes from LA to San Francisco, calling at Joshua Tree, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley and Yosemite. You don’t get to see San Diego or the Pacific Coast Highway, but otherwise you will cover a lot and see plenty!
• If you would prefer to see more national parks, consider this 15 day G Adventures tour in partnership with National Geographic. As well as most of the national parks on our list, you will also visit such spectacular locations as Bryce Canyon and Zion. One for those of you who prefer nature to cities.
• This 11 day tour from Las Vegas to San Francisco includes Death Valley, Yosemite the Grand Canyon, Zion, Arches, Canyonlands and Bryce National Parks, as well as Monument Valley and time in San Francisco.

Practicalities for Planning a USA Road Trip

If you are visiting from outside the USA, we wanted to share some tips that should help make planning and preparing for you US road trip a little easier.

Driving in the USA

In the USA , you drive on the right hand side of the road, and the majority of vehicles are automatic. Compared to Europe, fuel prices are low.

If you’re coming from overseas, you’ll likely be renting a car. To do so, you will need a valid drivers license, and many rental car companies also have a minimum age for renters, which can start as high as 25. Some visitors may also need an International Drivers Permit from to drive in the USA, which needs to be arranged in advance from your home country.

We have a complete guide to driving in the USA , which you might want to read if this is your first time driving in the United States.

Renting a Car or Motorhome for your Trip

If you are coming from overseas, then you’ll need a vehicle in which to do this road trip. You have two main options – you can rent a car, or you can rent an RV/motorhome.

For this itinerary specifically we’d generally recommend a car as there are quite a few city stops which wouldn’t be practical for a motorhome. However, if you decide to skip the cities and focus on the great outdoors, then a motorhome might be more practical.

For car rental in the US, we usually use either Discover Cars or Enterprise . For one-way trips, we’ve found Enterprise often has the lowest one-way fees, but it is always worth comparing on a site like Discover Cars.

For RV rental, we recommend checking out Motorhome Republic . They compare prices across all the major suppliers so you can find the right rental for you. You can see their USA listings here .

We can also recommend checking out  RVShare , who offer peer to peer campervan rental – a bit like the AirBnB of RV rental! Similar options include Outdoorsy and RVEzy .

Money in the USA

The USA uses the US dollar, with notes available in denominations ranging from 1 up to 100. Coins are also widely used, which range from a cent to a dollar. There are ATM machines available throughout the country.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, however it is worth keeping some bills to hand for tipping. In addition, the 25 cent coin, known as a quarter, is widely used for short stay parking meters, so you will want to have some of these handy as well.

If you’ve not visited the USA before, and in particular if you are from a country where tipping is not normal, you might find the tipping culture a bit of a shock. Tips are expected for a great many service based roles, from restaurant service through to valet parking.

The percentage you tip will obviously depend on your personal preference, but tips in the region of 10 – 20% for restaurant service is common, whilst one to three dollars for bar service or valet parking is also expected.

Electricity in the USA

The USA uses a 110v electrical system. If you are coming from a country that uses a 220v to 240v system, this means that some of your electrical items might not work.

In our experience, the majority of smaller electronics, like laptops and cell phone chargers, are compatible with 110v – 240v and will work in the USA. You can check on the charger, it should tell you.

However, higher powered devices like hair dryers, flat irons, and electric kettles are unlikely to work, unless you have a dual voltage model specifically designed for international travel or have a voltage converter.

In addition, if you are visiting from outside the USA, you will likely need a travel adaptor like this . See our comprehensive guide to travel adaptors for recommendations.

Accommodation in the USA

There is a huge range of accommodation options in the USA across a wide range of budgets. From budget motels near highway intersections to five star luxury hotels, to campsites and apartment rentals – we’re sure you’ll find something to suit.

For this itinerary we’ve suggested a few options for each stopping point, across a range of budgets. As this is a road trip, we can recommend trying to find places which include free parking where possible, although in the major cities you are likely going to have to pay for a parking service.

In terms of whether or not you need to book in advance, we’d suggest that this is a good idea for the most part to ensure you get your choice of accommodation. This is definitely the case in and around popular national parks like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, where even campsites can book out months in advance.

We generally use booking.com for our travel booking needs, they have a huge range of options, and most properties offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Safety in the USA

For the most part, the USA is a safe destination to travel in, and we have never had any problems travelling here.

Violent crime against tourists is quite unusual, and the most common types of crime are opportunistic ones like pickpocketing, theft, and auto break-ins.

Of course, every country has crime, and areas where you would be wiser to avoid, however if you practice basic safety precautions, keep your valuables out of sight, and behave with some caution, you should be fine!

Internet Access in the USA

Internet access is widely available across the USA in the form of WiFi, which can be found for free at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants. There are also a number of free WiFi hotspots in some of the cities on our list.

If your phone is unlocked you can pick up a pay as you go SIM in the USA. One of the better options is from  Straight Talk , which you can buy in Walmart stores.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our  guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options.

Water across the USA is safe to drink, unless otherwise indicated. There are drinking fountains in the majority of public locations, and we recommend you travel with a  re-usable water bottle  so you can just fill it up as you go.

One thing we always love about travelling in the USA is how drinking water is typically brought to your table at a restaurant – something we wish was standard around the world!

Further Reading

That’s it for our two week USA road trip itinerary, which features some of our favourite destinations in this part of the USA. Before you head off though, I just wanted to share some more resources we’ve put together to help you plan your trip.

• We have a two week California road trip itinerary , in case you wanted to cover a little less ground on your trip
• I’ve written a guide featuring some of my  top tips for driving in the USA  to help get you going on the road!
• We have a guide to things to do in Las Vegas to give you some ideas for your time in the city, as well as a guied to things to do in San Diego
• Wondering how much a California road trip will cost? Check out our  guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA  to help you plan your trip budget.
• Jess has a guide to  driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which will give you lots of ideas for that section of the road
• If you’re interested in California’s wine country, see our  guide to visiting Napa Valley
• Route 66 ends in California, so take a look at our  guide to planning a route 66 trip , as well as our detailed  2 week Route 66 itinerary  and  1 week Route 66 itinerary
• Fodor’s  Guide to California , which also includes details on a number of fantastic road trips
• The  Lonely Planet California Guide , which is great for finding things to do, places to eat and places to stay
• A  US road atlas , because sometimes you don’t want to rely on GPS!
• If you’re planning on hiring an RV or camping, this  guide to free and super cheap campgrounds  will quickly pay for itself
• The official  Visit California  page, which will give you more advice on what to see and when to visit
• My guide to  things to do in Redding California , if you decide to head to northern California
• Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our  guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• And if you’re looking for inspiration for the rest of the USA, check out our  USA section , which includes a  Deep south itinerary , tips for  New Orleans during Mardi Gras  – and lots more!

We hope you found this itinerary useful for your trip planning. As always, we’re happy to answer any questions you might have, just pop them in the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Enjoyed this post? Why not share it!

There are 13 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

akhilash says

13th March 2024 at 8:17 pm

I think this itinerary is a great starting point for planning your own 2-week road trip through the southwestern and western United States. With a little bit of planning and customization, you can create a trip that is perfect for you.

Laurence Norah says

19th March 2024 at 4:15 pm

Thanks very much Akhilash, have a great trip through the USA 🙂

Joanna Madej says

10th May 2023 at 7:41 pm

I am a mum from Poland planning a trip this August with 3 kids (16,13 and 10- just girls) starting/ending from LA for appr 3 weeks. I really like your plan and if there was a digital version I could paly with it would be great!

do you have any tips not to rush and also find time to spend in the beach?

11th May 2023 at 3:35 pm

So you can get a printable version of the post from the print button on the bottom of the page. Then you can edit it to suit you own needs 🙂 If you’d rather not rush then my recommendation is to have fewer stops and spend longer in each stop. For beaches, along the coast around Los Angeles will be your best bet, there are a lot of beaches in that area!

Have an amazing time and let me know if I can offer any more advice!

19th April 2023 at 9:07 am

Thank you for writing this itinerary. We are coming from Australia and will be spending close to 3 weeks following this itinerary give and take. We are planning to arrive on mid-Jan 2024. Do you know whether some parks will be closed during that time ?

19th April 2023 at 10:14 am

It’s my pleasure. So the main park that will likely pose difficulties in January is going to be Yosemite. It can occasionally close in Winter if there is a lot of snow which can block access road. Additionally, the road that links the east side of the valley to the road to Death Valley is normally closed in winter so you would have to backtrack and drive around. The other stretch of road to always check before setting out is the Pacific Coast Highway around Big Sur especially, as this can be affected by landslips.

Other than that I think you would be fine! Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions.

Norine says

3rd March 2022 at 1:51 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica!

Thank you for such a detailed itinerary! Most of the places you’ve listed are exactly where I’d like to visit during my trip in end May’22 – early Jun’22 (Total of 15 full days). But instead of Las Vegas, I’ll be flying to San Francisco and starting from there instead. Was thinking of doing this circular road trip in the other direction, meaning from SF > Pacific Coast > LA > LV > Grand Canyon > LV > Death Valley > Yosemite > SF. I’m pushing Yosemite to the end, hoping that Tioga pass will be open by early Jun.

Would you recommend this itinerary? Or do you have any other tips/suggestions?

Thanks a lot in advance! 🙂

4th March 2022 at 10:13 am

It’s our pleasure! Sounds like you have a great trip planned. Your trip is definitely do-able and it sounds like a good itinerary to me! The main thing is of course whether or not Tioga pass will be open. It should be open by early June but that’s not guaranteed. Other than that, it sounds like an awesome road trip! Let me know how it goes and do let me know if you have any specific questions we can help with 🙂

23rd March 2022 at 4:25 pm

I just wanted to quickly add to this that this year Yosemite are requiring visitors to make a reservation for park entry. The system is going online today. You can find out more and reserve online here:

https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/reservations.htm

I’ve updated the post but as you indicated you were visiting this year I wanted to be sure you were aware of this new requirement so you don’t miss out!

Have a great trip,

Janice says

8th February 2022 at 1:49 pm

I want to thank both of you for this awesome road trip circuit. I have a question, I would love to go to Sequoia National & Kings Canyon after Yosemite. Would you recommend that? Which route will be the best from Yosemite and how many extra days that will add to my trip? After that, I will go to Death Valley and then back to Vegas. Any suggestions?

10th February 2022 at 12:27 pm

Glad you found this guide useful! So you can definitely do this trip and add in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon to your trip. From Yosemite it’s around a 3 hour drive down, and then it’s another 5-6 hours after that on to Death Valley. How long you want to spend here will definitely depend on you, but personally I’d allocate at least two full days in the parks and a day for the driving, so three extra days onto the trip as a minimum. But there is always more to see and do!

I hope this was helpful, let me know if I can offer any more advice 🙂

Have a great trip!

7th May 2020 at 6:10 pm

Your pictures are always great, but the the one of the Grand Canyon with the sunlight streaming is spectacular!

7th May 2020 at 6:19 pm

Thanks so much Toni! That was quite a morning – I got up at 4am for the sunrise, which seemed like it was going to be a total washout. I persevered though, and it was all worth it. Truly a spectacular experience 😀

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let me know when there's a reply to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips. This also makes you eligible to enter our monthly giveaways!

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store your data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

Check out videos on hundreds of California adventures

Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road Trip Guide (25+ Stops on the Drive)

The long stretch of road between LA and Vegas is basically a rite of passage for many a 21-year-old Californian. It takes about four and a half hours (if you go the speed limit), and many believe it is just a desolate desert with nothing to do. While a lot of travelers simply want the drive to be fast, there is actually a lot to do on the way if you have the time to explore. Use this post to make your next drive more of an adventure and less of a race. These stops are in order of the trip starting from Los Angeles.

Road Trip Details

• 270 miles one way
• 4.5 hours at normal speed but 8-9+ with all of these stops
• Be sure to research the operating hours of any of the places you want to visit

How to get to Las Vegas from Los Angeles + Scenic Route Options

The fastest way to drive the route from LA to Las Vegas is to take Highway 10 to Highway 15 and then stay on that all the way to Las Vegas. This is the quickest route and it is mostly a four lane (two lanes for each side) freeway the entire way there. You can see all of my favorite stops below but here are a few scenic routes you can add on to your drive.

Scenic Route Ideas

• Route 66 from Victorville to Barstow – Adds 10 miles and around 20 minutes of drive time
• Mojave National Preserve – Adds 50 miles and at least 1.5 hours
• Seven Magic Mountains – Adds 1 mile and 7 minutes of drive time

Top California stops on the drive from LA to Las Vegas

Since most people like to get out of the city before they make their first stop, this post purposely starts at the top of the Cajon Pass. Here begins your adventure.

The Mormon Rocks

Right off the freeway as you approach the top of the pass, these rocks will immediately catch your eye because of their size. You don’t have to travel very far off the road to see them because they dot the landscape for miles. The main visitor center and the walking area are about 5 minutes off the freeway, and the one-mile loop gives you a lot of great views of the massive sandstone giants.

• The trail begins at the Mormon Rocks Fire Station located on Highway 138 just west of Interstate 15.

Route 66 from Victorville to Barstow

If you have time, I suggest you get off on exit 153a near D Street and take old Route 66 up from Victorville to Barstow. On this drive, you will see old diners, my favorite antique shop, and the most popular spot on the drive, the Bottletree Ranch.

Stop Examples:

• Emma Jean Hollands Burgers
• Mohawk Gas Station
• Antique Station

Read about the best Route 66 stops here

Bottle Tree Ranch

This ode to independent art is a beautiful and odd stop that you will not forget. Elmer’s collection of metal trees full of old bottles and other vintage things is fun for a stroll or a photographic adventure. One of my favorite spots on the whole drive. 

• Update 2021:  I went by and it was not open. It is still really cool from the outside but I am not sure what the current status of this place is after the passing of Elmer.
• Read about it here

Route 66 Museum

Located in the old train station in Barstow, the Route 66 Museum is a great stop when it is open (Usually Friday – Sunday, 10 AM – 4 PM). You can learn more about the historic route here, and there are lots of trains you can check out outside of the building as well.

• Location:  681 N 1st Ave, Barstow, CA 92311

Old Woman Meteorite (second largest in the USA)

Within half a mile of each other, you have both the oldest meteorite in the USA and the original Del Taco. It will depend on your personality as to which you are more excited about, but you can always do both! I usually pick the meteorite and venture into the children’s museum to see it. This stop will not take very long, but it’s cool to see at least.

• Meteorite – Inside the Desert Discovery Center in Barstow

Large Fireman’s Helmet

Right next to the Barstow Fire District Headquarters you can see this giant fire helmet. The helmet pays tribute to the firefighters that lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

• Location: 861 Barstow Rd, Barstow, CA 92311

Scenic Drive Option

Mojave National Preserve

If you want to visit the Mojave National Preserve, you can take Highway 40 here and go towards the Kelso Dunes. Some stops you can see here are: Kelso Dunes, Kelso Depot, Lava Tube, & the Mojave Cross.

Note that it adds at least 2 hours onto your drive and that there is no gas or food in the preserve.

They call themselves the “Disneyland of gas stations,” and it is easy to see why. This massive store has everything from ice cream and drinks to pizza and snacks. It is probably six times the size of a typical gas station. They also have a four-story ice cream sundae outside and a shrine to the Lakers basketball team inside. Be sure to make a quick stop there.

• Location: 36017 Calico Rd, Yermo, CA 92398

Liberty Sculpture Park

Liberty Sculpture Park is 15 acres right next to the freeway and Eddieworld in which sculptor Weiming Chen has made many different pieces condemning the oppression of communism in China. It is well worth your time to visit and to learn more about.

• Location: 37570 Yermo Rd, Yermo, CA 92398

Calico Ghost Town

This commercial ghost town is not my favorite stop but is worth visiting at least once. There are a lot of great photo opportunities here, and lots of exploring for the whole family in this historic town. The highlight is a long mining tunnel you can walk through for a fee.

• Location: 36600 Ghost Town Road, Yermo, CA 92398

Jenny Rose Sign

As made famous by a Sheryl Crow album cover, people love to stop at this sign for a photo. The old restaurant is no longer there, but for many, it is a great picture to take.

• Location: 35863 Ghost Town Rd, Yermo, CA 92398

Everyone who has driven to Vegas has seen this road, but few actually get off on it. I got off to visit, and it is a pretty trippy place. You drive about 5 miles down half paved half dirt road, and there is an enormous dry salt lake bed and an old compound that has its own interesting history. This is a great stop once, but it is strange to be down there with literally no one else, so it may not be your thing.  Update 2021: This area was closed and there was no update for when it would reopen.

• Read about Zzyzx Road here .

The town of Baker is a popular stop for gas, especially since there has been nothing for the last 60 miles of the drive. There are a lot of restaurants and fast food spots here. I recommend a strawberry shake from Mad Greek , Beef Jerky from Alien Jerky, and then a picture of the world’s largest thermometer.

• Check out all the stops here

Death Valley National Park

If you have an extra day, you can head into Death Valley from Baker as well. I wouldn’t recommend rushing it though, so if you don’t have at least 24 hours, then go to the park at a different time. Here is a video I made on how to spend 24 hours in Death Valley.

Note that it adds at least 2-4 hours onto your drive and that there is no gas or food in the preserve.

Valley Wells Rest Stop

I know it is strange to call out a rest stop, but there isn’t much left in California on this drive. This rest stop is nice because it has some history on the surrounding area and a “Welcome to California” sign.

Literally, the last place you can stop on this drive (in California) is the lottery shop. This shop on the outskirt of Primm is a stone’s throw from the border and was put in specifically on the California side for the Nevada residents to buy California lottery tickets when the pot is big. I have heard the lines can get pretty long, but I am not much of a lottery player, so I am not positive.

Top Nevada stops on the drive from LA to Las Vegas

Bonny Clyde Death Car – Buffalo Bills

Inside Whiskey Pete’s casino at Stateline is this exhibit dedicated to Bonny and Clyde, complete with the car they were shot in, which still has a bunch of bullet holes.  Update 2023: The car is now at Buffalo Bills and no longer at Whiskey Petes.

• Location:  31700 S Las Vegas Blvd, Primm, NV 89019

Largest Chevron in the World

Located in Jean Nevada, this Chevron gas station is the world’s largest. It is over 50,000 square feet and it has over 95 gas pumps. It is something you need to see when you are driving to Las Vegas and a good spot to get out and stretch your legs.

• Location: 1 Goodsprings Rd, Jean, NV 89019

Pioneer Saloon

Pioneer Saloon is one of the oldest bars in Nevada (about 15 minutes off the freeway). Clark Gable and many other celebrities frequented it, and it is a good spot for food and drinks.

• Location:  310 NV-161, Goodsprings, NV 89019

Seven Magic Mountains

This art installation is one you have no doubt seen before on social media. It should be here until sometime in 2022, so be sure to check it out.

Top Food stops

Oldest Running Del Taco

While this is not the original Del Taco location (more on that later), this is the longest-running Del Taco. They have items here that they don’t sell anywhere else, like the Barstow Taco and Carrot Cake. Check it out if you are hungry.

• Location: 401 N 1st Ave Barstow, CA 92311

Train Car McDonald’s

If the last two were not your thing, you could stop at the train car McDonalds, on the last exit in Barstow. This spot is on Route 66 as well, and it provides a fun stop for the whole family with lots to see and eat. Keep in mind that it is popular, so it’s always packed on the weekends. Basically, it is an old railroad station that is now a series of stores and food options.

• Location: 1 611 E Main St Barstow, CA 92311

Peggy Sue Diner

If you are looking for a place to eat, this is a great stop. They have all the food you would expect from a diner such as hamburgers and apple pie. When you finish eating, there is a large garden outside, complete with metal dinosaurs and a shop where you can buy 1950-60s memorabilia.

• Location: 35654 Yermo Rd, Yermo, CA 92398
• Read about it here .

In the town of Baker, the Mad Greek is my favorite stop. This restaurant has awesome gyros and milkshakes, which is not what you would expect in the middle of the desert. Check it out and let me know what you think.

• Location: 72112 Baker Blvd, Baker, CA 92309

Video’s on the road trip

Here is a video I made on my most recent drive to Las Vegas in 2022.

Here is the original video I made in 2016. I recommend watching the updated one but feel free to watch this one to see how much my videos have changed!

Map of road trip stops

If you use Google Maps, you can check out all of my favorite stops right on the map by clicking the below image. Hope that helps make your road trip great!

Great Stops Around Las Vegas + 14 Free Locations

For more spots to visit in and around Las Vegas, check out these recommendations and click the image to learn more.

Valley of the Fire State Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park

25 Free Stops in Las Vegas

Here are some of my favorite spots in the Las Vegas area that are free to visit. Check them out and let me know if you have any more you recommend!

So there you have it, my list of stops on the drive to Vegas. Hopefully, this helps you have more of an adventure on your next trip, and at least if you lose all your money when you are there, you can see something fun on the way home. Feel free to comment on anything I left off below.

Similar Posts

Bacon & Barrels: An all day bacon festival in San Diego

Sugarbowl Loop in Redwood Canyon, Sequoia National Park

Dana Point Sea Caves: Hiking to Pirate’s Cave

San Manuel Pow Wow in San Bernardino

Sweet Arleen’s Cupcakes in Westlake Village

Stagecoach Inn Museum: The Historic Grand Union Hotel in Newbury Park

The Best Road Trip Stops on a Las Vegas to Los Angeles Drive

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions when you click links and make purchases at no extra cost to you. View details here. By purchasing items through the included links, you’ll help keep this site running. Thank you for your support!

Driving to Los Angeles from Las Vegas in the United States is a must-do for any adventure seeker. Starting from the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas, otherwise known as Sin City, this scenic route takes you through the heart of the Mojave Desert. 

Road trippers will witness spectacular views of its rugged landscapes and some of the most unique natural wonders in the world. 

As you make your way towards Southern California, you’ll come across several small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and charming diners, each with its own story and character.

While the 280-mile journey can be made in a single day, I recommend taking your time to explore the many road trip stops along the way. 

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone on this drive. And the best part- You can customize your itinerary based on your interests and preferences. 

I’ve done this drive a few times and always enjoy exploring the kitschy Route 66 roadside attractions , seeing the stunning scenery of the many state parks just a short drive away from Las Vegas , or enjoying the luxurious oasis of Palm Springs. The mysterious Death Valley and the iconic Joshua Tree National Park also make fantastic side trips when driving from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. 

It is time to fill up your gas tank, grab a rental car (or bring your own), and get ready for an epic adventure through this enchanting corner of the United States!

Table of Contents: Jump to

Here are the best road trip stops for a Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive.

One of your first stops when leaving Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam. This landmark and tourist attraction is a true engineering marvel and a must-see stop on your Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. 

Located on the border of Nevada and Arizona, the dam is an incredible feat of technology. Take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its history and construction, or enjoy the stunning views from the observation deck. 

While you’re there, check out the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, a nearby bridge that offers even more spectacular views of the dam and the Colorado River below.

Seven Magic Mountains 

Seven Magic Mountains is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy photo op not far from Sin City. 

This colorful outdoor art installation features seven towering stacks of neon-colored boulders rising from the desert floor. 

Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, the installation is a playful and whimsical spot that stands starkly against the desert landscape.

Visitors can walk around the sculptures, take selfies, and appreciate the art and beauty of this unique attraction. 

Red Rock Canyon

From Seven Magic Mountains, you’re just 30 minutes from the stunning  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.  

This spectacular region has towering red sandstone peaks, Native American petroglyph sites, and epic canyons to explore.  

If you’re swinging through and want to spend a few hours here, consider stopping at the Red Rock Canyon Visitors Center or cruising along the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive. 

You could also stroll along the Red Spring Boardwalk or enjoy lunch at Willow Spring Picnic Area.  

Pioneer Saloon 

Are you looking for a taste of the Wild West? Look no further than  Pioneer Saloon , one of the oldest bars in Nevada and a highlight  on a Route 66 Road Trip from Arizona.

This iconic establishment in the middle of the desert has been serving drinks and food since 1913 and still retains its old-world charm and character. 

Visitors can enjoy a cold beer or a whiskey, play a game of pool, enjoy live music, and learn about the saloon’s history, including its connection to the many Hollywood movies filmed here with famous stars like Clark Gable.

World’s Tallest Thermometer 

Ever wondered what the temperature is like in the middle of the desert? Look no further than the World’s Tallest Thermometer in Baker, California, along Historic Route 66.

This 134-foot-tall thermometer was built in 1991 and is one of California’s most quirky and unique roadside attractions. 

This giant thermometer was initially built to symbolize the “Gateway to Death Valley.” The original builder wanted to mark those scorching desert temps for visitors and visually stand out in the sky against the flat desert landscape so that people from miles around would be drawn in.

Today, you can take a photo with the thermometer and marvel at its sheer size and novelty. You can even grab a souvenir at the modern gift shop next door. The World’s Tallest Thermometer is undoubtedly a convenient and unique stop along the route from Las Vegas to Los Angeles 

Mojave National Preserve 

If you’re a nature lover, stopping at Mojave National Preserve in the Mojave Desert is a must-do. 

This vast wilderness area is almost twice the size of nearby Joshua Tree National Park, covering over 1.6 million acres. You’ll find everything from rugged mountains and unique geological formations to the world’s largest concentration of Joshua Trees!

The preserve features stunning desert landscapes and wildlife, including mountain lions and bats.

While you’re rolling through, you can stop off for an epic hike, a night of camping, or exploration in the preserve’s many trails. 

Highlights include the Kelso Dunes, the Hole-in-the-Wall rock formations, and the stunning Mitchell Caverns.

ZZyzx Road (pronounced ZYE-ZIX)

Located on the Mojave National Preserve, Zzyzx Road is marked only by a green highway sign along I-15. 

This road has an interesting history and was once a haven for those looking to relax and recoup at the Mineral Springs and Health Spa. Unfortunately, the self-made millionaire lost the building when the government realized he had no legal rights to the land, and he even went to jail for IRS fraud and false advertising. The property is now home to a Mojave Desert research facility used by California State University. 

The unique name comes from Health Spa’s owner Dr. Curtis Springer (who was not a doctor at all), who had a thing about always having the last word. So when looking for a name for his Health Center, he created a name that would be the last word in the dictionary, and it stuck. 

If you choose to drive down ZZyzx road, make sure to steer clear of the research center, which is on private property. There is still water in the oasis which makes for terrific bird watching, and you can also hike along Lake Tuendae Loop Trail while looking at the health center ruins. It is fun to imagine what the area looked like during its heyday but if you don’t have a lot of leisure time skip this one in favor of a more exciting stop along your drive.

Joshua Tree National Park

Just an hour and a half from the Mojave National Preserve is Joshua Tree National Park (one of the most captivating national parks, IMO!). Although a little out of the way, Joshua Tree makes a great side trip while driving to LA from Las Vegas if you love hiking, bouldering or rock climbing.  

If you have time to divert a little from the main route, Joshua Tree is only 40 minutes from  Palm Springs , another fascinating city replete with entertainment, recreation, and a host of other great   Palm Springs day trips  to the surrounding area. 

Looking to spend a day in Joshua Tree? Check out my  ultimate guide for driving through Joshua Tree National Park  for the ultimate one-day itinerary. Although one day isn’t enough to see everything, this itinerary highlights the major must-see attractions and some of my favorite things!

Death Valley National Park

While in Southern California, visiting Death Valley National Park is another great option if you have the time to divert from the route just a bit. 

Visit the hottest place on earth in spring for the most enjoyable weather. 

Its unique landscapes, from towering mountains, geometric salt flats and rolling sand dunes, create an amazing natural world you will love exploring. 

Enjoy hikes, scenic viewpoints, wild camping, and adventurous drives down dirt roads.

Calico Ghost Town

While driving to Los Angeles from Las Vegas, step back in time and visit the Calico Ghost Town, a well-preserved former mining town from the late 1800s. 

Located in the hills above Barstow, California, the town in the middle of the desert features authentic buildings, including a general store, a schoolhouse, and a saloon. 

Visitors can take a guided tour of the town, pan for gold, and learn about the history of mining and life in the Wild West. Maybe you’ll even spot a ghost or two!

Peggy Sue’s 50s diner 

Get your fill of classic diner fare and retro charm at  Peggy Sue 50s Diner  in Yermo, California. This iconic diner is the perfect place to experience the heyday of rock and roll and has been serving burgers, fries, and milkshakes since 1954. 

It’s also been featured in several movies and TV shows, like  Terminator 2  and  Cars . The diner is decorated in classic 1950s style, with vintage booths and jukeboxes, and the menu features all the traditional diner favorites. 

Be sure to save room for dessert-  Peggy Sue is known for their delicious homemade pies. As a bonus, there’s also a gift shop in the diner if you want a souvenir to remember the experience- and don’t forget to stop in at the restroom, you may find shocking surprise!

Route 66 Mother Road Museum (Barstow, CA)

Learn about the history and legacy of Route 66 at the  Mother Road Museum  in Barstow, California. This small, informative museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the iconic highway’s impact on American culture and history. 

If you wander its galleries, you can learn about the many quirky roadside attractions, motels, and diners that once lined the highway. You’ll also get a taste of the nostalgia and charm of the Mother Road. The museum is in the same building as the Railway Museum on N 1st Ave.

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch 

Located in Oro Grande, California, Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is a unique art installation showcasing over 200 bottle trees made from recycled materials and vintage signs, old cars and other novelties.

It’s certainly worth pulling over to stretch your legs and take in some of America’s quirky charm while driving to Los Angeles from Las Vegas.

Visitors can wander the winding paths and admire the colorful glass bottles and metal sculptures that make up this whimsical, eclectic garden. 

The ranch was a labor of love for the now-deceased Elmer Long, who started creating the bottle trees over 20 years ago as a tribute to his family’s roots in the American Southwest (and to add a little flare along the boring stretch of road).

Today, it is one of the most fascinating, visually captivating roadside attractions in the United States!

California Route 66 Museum (Victorville, CA)

Learn about the history of the Mother Road at the  California Route 66 Museum  in Victorville, California, along the original historic Route 66.

The museum features revolving exhibits and artifacts that showcase the iconic highway’s impact on American culture and history. 

Visitors can learn about the many quirky roadside attractions, motels, and diners that once lined the highway and get a taste of the nostalgia and charm of Route 66. 

The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can pick up Route 66 memorabilia. It’s truly the perfect place to revel in that Americana charm! It is usually open Thursday- Sunday.

Mormon Rocks Viewpoint

Located just off the historic Route 66, Mormon Rocks Viewpoint is a natural landmark perfect for a quick stop on your Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip. 

These uniquely shaped rocks are known for their beautiful colors and patterns, and they make for a great photoshoot opportunity on your Las Vegas road trip. 

There’s a small parking lot where you can park your car; from there, it’s a short walk to the viewpoint. 

The trail is well-marked and relatively easy, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. So whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful spot to take a break, Mormon Rocks Viewpoint is worth a stop.

Wigwam Motel (San Bernardino)

If you’re looking for a unique and quirky place to spend the night, look no further than the  Wigwam Motel  in San Bernardino. 

This motel features 20 concrete teepees, each with its own parking spot right outside. 

The basic rooms are decorated with Native American-inspired decor, and they come equipped with all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay. 

The Wigwam Motel is located right along Historic Route 66. While the road looks very different today than back then, the motel adds a bit of nostalgia to the modern shopping plazas that now line the street.

From here, it’s just a short drive from San Bernardino National Forest, where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

Rancho Cucamonga

Rancho Cucamonga is a small city located just outside of Los Angeles, and it’s a great place to stop for lunch or a quick break on your way into the city. 

The city has a charming downtown area with plenty of shops and restaurants, including the Haven City Market, a food hall with various vendors serving everything from poke bowls to tacos. 

If you’re a wine lover, check out the Joseph Filippi Winery and Vineyards, which offers wine tastings and tours of their vineyards. 

Rancho Cucamonga is also home to several parks and hiking trails, including the North Etiwanda Preserve, which has a waterfall and beautiful views of the San Gabriel Mountains.

Santa Monica 

The last stop along your Las Vegas to Los Angeles road trip is Santa Monica, one of California’s most iconic beach destinations. 

Santa Monica–known as the end of the road along Route 66–is also known for its beautiful long beaches, palm tree-lined streets, and famous Santa Monica Pier. 

Take a stroll down the pier and enjoy the carnival games, rides, and attractions, including the Pacific Park amusement park. 

If you’re a foodie, check out the Santa Monica Farmers Market, which is held every Wednesday and Saturday and features fresh produce and artisanal foods. 

If you are tired after a long road trip, spend time soaking up the sun, playing in the surf, or just enjoying the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

Now that you’ve experienced driving to Los Angeles from Las Vegas, you should explore more of California by car. If you’re in the Bay Area, check out these incredible  weekend getaways from San Francisco  to make the most of this gorgeous coastal region!

Enjoy your drive and let me know in the comments below what your favorite road trip stop along this route is! I’ll be adding more to this list during my next Las Vegas to Los Angeles drive.

Shop Travel Gear

Shop all my current obsessions and travel essentials I can’t live without. I only recommend products I’ve actually tried and loved!

The Best Travel Apps

Want To Travel Easier?

Get my Free Guide to the Best Travel Apps straight to your inbox

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Similar Posts

Packing For Cape Cod: What To Wear In Summer Or Fall

15 Solo Travel Tips to Enjoy Long Road Trips Alone

10 Best Flower Fields In Florida You Have To Visit

Ultimate Guide To Driving Through Joshua Tree National Park

How To Plan A Cross Country Car Camping Road Trip

Hiking Acadia’s Precipice Trail: Step by Step guide

Sam’s Newsletter

Stay in the loop!

• Animal Encounters
• Car Camping
• Fall Foliage
• Festive Fall
• Latin America
• National Parks
• Packing Guides
• Photography
• Solo Travel
• Spring Escapes
• Travel Resources
• Winter Wonderland
• Contact & FAQ
• Privacy Policy

SeeingSam.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Monthly Newsletter

Sign up for a monthly email with stories from the road, travel tips, freebies and more!

Search the Site

• Accommodation

A Road Trip Itinerary For California And Nevada

There’s no better way to explore a place than on a road trip

A trend had started to appear in our conversations with friends, family, and fellow travellers. Every time we’d mention that we loved road trips , we’d be grilled, almost harassed, for not having been to California. On revealing that I had been to 70+ countries and the US was not one of them, people would refuse to believe that and quiz Savi on why she didn’t force me to tag along when she visited the East Coast in 2010. This year, as part of our whirlwind trip around the world, we decided to put an end to this seemingly embarrassing fact of our travelling life. We were going to drive in the US, and how 🙂

Although our initial plan was to spend 3-4 months driving the whole breadth of the US, we succumbed to our desire to visit Costa Rica , Mexico , and Guatemala and cut our time in the US to 2 months – enough to squeeze in a gorgeous  18 day long road trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas and back.

Planning a road trip in California and Nevada

Forget the US, California itself is so big that you could spend months driving around the state and not get bored. Add to that the numerous national parks   and you’s start spending nights worrying about the route for your road trip. Our suggestion would be to select the top few places and experiences you’d like to have and plan your road trip around those. There’s no point in cramming everything in one trip – there’s always a next time 🙂

Renting a car in the US is easy and straightforward. There are plenty of providers to choose from and if you book a month or so in advance, you can grab a great deal. We used this website to compare rates from different providers and got an excellent deal for a Toyota Yaris including collision damage waiver for USD 30/day. We didn’t face any issues with the car or the rental service and really enjoyed the fact that we could rent from right across our hotel in San Francisco 🙂

Fuel is really cheap in the US – on an average USD 2.5 per gallon (roughly 70 cents a litre) and we spent a total of USD 85 on fuel for our 2,300 km road trip – the least we have spent on a roadtrip by a mile.

What to do on your road trip in California and Nevada

We had seen so many stunning photographs from California and Nevada on Instagram and Facebook in the past few years that we could barely contain our excitement. We decided to fly into San Francisco and start from there – you can choose to fly into San Jose or Oakland instead and make your way to San Francisco.

Day 1 – 4: Get settled in and explore San Francisco

Well, if you’re flying into the west coast from outside the US, chances are that you’ll fly into San Francisco. We opted not to rent the car on the first couple of days that we were in the city just so that we could settle in and absorb everything that this laidback and chilled city had to offer. Our favourite places and experiences were:

• Walk along the bay and spend some time on Pier 7 – the view of the city from the fag end of the pier is absolutely gorgeous. Even though Pier 39 is supposed to be great, we found it overly crowded.
• Have a coffee at Blue Bottle coffee at the Ferry Building
• Explore the hipster area along Mission Street
• Walk aimlessly from one end of the city to the other – we walked from Pier 7 all the way to Lafayette park and ended our walk at Union Square

On our last day in San Francisco, we decided to rent our car and drove to Land’s End – the view of the Golden Gate Bridge is amazing on a clear day. From there, drive to the Golden Gate Bridge – if you want a great view of the bridge minus the crowds, head to Battery Godfrey (south-west side of the bridge). After you have absorbed the stunning views, drive on to the Northern side of the bridge (no toll needs to be paid when going towards North but you must pay $6 if driving South on the bridge) and take a left on to Conzelman Road. Whilst more people try to get a shot from Battery Spencer (thus making it SUPER crowded), we decided to drive further on to Hawk Hill – the view from there is out of this world.

If you don’t want to drive, you can always rent bicycles in the city and make a day of it. Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge on a bicycle will be an experience in itself 🙂

Where to stay in San Francisco

We wanted to stay somewhere central and comfortable so we opted for Hilton Union Square – it’s as central as it gets in San Francisco. We asked for (and were luckily given!) a room on the 41st floor overlooking the entire city, The Bay Area, and Golden Gate bridge. Night or day, it was a sight to behold. The rooms were well-equipped and spacious and the hotel lobby had a nice cafe serving delicious breakfast. Since it’s bang in the middle of the city, expect a lot of business guests in the hotel lounge. Another thing that really worked out for us was the location of car rental offices right across the street from the hotel’s entrance. Take our word for it – it’s a big advantage in a city like San Francisco where driving can be a big pain.

Day 5: Drive the Pacific Coastal Highway

Both of us had our own experiences that we were looking forward to when it came to this road trip in the US. Savi was most excited about exploring the street art in West Hollywood whereas I could not wait to drive down the much talked about Pacific Coastal Highway. I was worried that after Iceland , New Zealand , and Ladakh , this drive might not live up to the hype. Thankfully I was wrong. It’s a beautiful drive that takes you through stunning coastal vistas, gorgeous mountainous landscapes, and quaint little villages along the sea.

The best piece of advice we can give you is to start early . Technically you can drive the entire stretch from San Francisco to Los Angeles along California State Route 1 (also known as Pacific Coastal Highway :)) in a day, but you won’t be doing it justice if you did that. We’d suggest taking a good 6-7 hous driving from San Francisco to a mid-point on the stretch (more on this later).

Have breakfast at Cafe Lumiere in Monterey (some of the finest coffee we had on our road trip)  and drive along the coast through Carmel, Big Sur, and Cambria. Bixby Bridge is a popular photography spot so make sure you do stop here. Bruised Passports’ tip: don’t stop at the vantage point before the bridge begins (if you’re coming from San Francisco). Instead, cross the bridge and park your car right after a tiny hillock. It’s a perfect place to picnic and if you walk up the hillock you will have an amazing view of the bridge and the coastline sans the hundreds of tourists 🙂

Some other interesting stops along the way are McWay Falls (water falls directly into the ocean) and Pfeiffer State Beach. We chose the beautiful coastal town of Morro Bay as the mid-point of our drive on the Pacific Coastal Highway.

Day 6 and 7: Morro Bay

We fell in love with this waterfront city the moment we stepped foot in it. From the long stretches of sandy beaches to the ochre sunsets, there’s nothing not to love about Morro Bay. The iconic Morro rock stands guard between the ocean and the city as thousands of sea birds dot the skies. If you are in the mood for whale and dolphin watching, there ain’t a better place along the Californian coast. We managed to see humpback whales only a few hundred feet from the shoreline. It’s the perfect place to enjoy gorgeous seaside views, scrumptious sea food, and soul stirring live music. You can see more pictures and read about our experiences in Morro Bay here .

On Day 7, continue your drive towards Los Angeles. We found that the second half of the Pacific Coastal Highway wasn’t as pretty as the first half, so if you want to save time, you can take the expressway all the way to Los Angeles.

Where to stay in Morro Bay

We stayed at Pleasant Inn which is situated just a few blocks from the harbour. It’s a quintessential American Motel which has been recently refurbished to give it a more luxurious look.

Day 8-11: West Hollywood, Los Angeles

After spending the first week of our trip in laid-back cities and lush landscapes, we were looking forward to the glitz and glamour of West Hollywood  and it did not disappoint. What amazed us was the fact that a city just 1.9 square miles in area offers so much to the visitors – from the array of fine dining restaurants on Sunset Boulevard to the quirky street art on Melrose Avenue – it has something to offer to all visitors. WeHo, as it’s lovingly called by locals, is at the heart of Los Angeles (LA) and is the perfect place to explore everything that LA county has to offer.

It was amazing to explore the area on foot. Some of our favourite experiences were hunting for street art spread across the city of WeHo, walking along the palm-tree lined alleys of Beverly Hills, watching the sun go down from the Sunset strip, and sampling delicious food in some of the conscious restaurants dotted around the city ( Gracias Madre was our favourite :-))

When we got tired of walking around, we’d slip out for a drive to explore the neighbouring areas. If you find yourself in the area, you must go for a sunset drive to Griffith Observatory and spend an hour or two there, watching the sun go down over Los Angeles and the famous Hollywood sign. If you’d rather spend a languorous afternoon on the beach, then head to Venice beach and find a secluded spot (can be difficult later in the evening) to witness the sunsets that California is so famous for.

Where to stay in West Hollywood

We stayed in Petit Ermitage , a quirky, Moroccan-themed hotel bang in the middle of West Hollywood. The all-suite hotel boasts of spacious and well done up rooms as well as one of the best rooftop pools in the city. There was nothing better than coming back to a refreshing cold beverage by the pool after a long day of exploring. We had dinner at the rooftop restaurant on one of the nights and really enjoyed the lamb shanks and chicken cous-cous. Breakfast at Petit Ermitage was a bit overpriced for what it was, but things tend to be expensive in this part of the US 🙂

Read all details about our experience in West Hollywood 🙂

Day 12-14: Death Valley National Park

In every trip we take, there is always one place we visit that surpasses our expectations. On this road trip through California, Death Valley National Park was that place. When we booked 3 nights here, our friends who had been there commented that it was way too much time. People often visit Death Valley National Park on a day trip or at most an overnight stay – what would we do for 3 nights?

Well, if we could rework our itinerary, we’d add on a couple of nights to it. We fell in LOVE with this place. I was most excited about shooting the night skies here since this national park has some of the darkest skies in the world. However, I was blown away by the landscapes and panoramas on display during all times of the day. Some of our favourite experiences were:

• Driving to a dark area every night to photography the millions of stars in the sky. The good thing is that there is hardly any civilisation here so you only have to drive 500 metres from your hotel to witness truly dark skies.
• Watching the sun set over the mountains whilst enjoying a picnic at Badwater basin – this place resembles the salt flats of Bolivia.
• Soaking in the lunar like landscape from Zabriskie point
• Going for aimless drives in the national park. Mark our words – Death Valley National Park has some of the most stunning drives in this entire world. The landscape makes you feel as if you are on another planet. The Artist’s Drive is just a small example of this. The colours of the mountains that loom large in front of visitors resemble the colours of an artist’s pallete, hence the name.
• Chilling at the Mesquite sand dunes. Given the proximity of these sand dunes to the highway that cuts through Death Valley National Park, you can expect many people here, especially at sunset. However, if you walk in a bit, you can find some untouched dunes all to yourselves. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening enjoying the sunset.

While the panoramas reminded us a lot of our trip to Ladakh, the Death Valley region had a certain calmness to it which we have never experienced before. We would return in a heart beat 🙂

Where to stay in Death Valley National Park

As we mentioned earlier, there aren’t any big towns or cities inside the park, so accommodation options are limited. We stayed at the Furnace Creek Inn , the luxurious wing of the long established Furnace Creek Ranch. The rooms are well-equipped and comfortable, and all necessities have been taken care of (which include a coffee machine – yes please :-)). What’s more, there is a big pool for guests and the view of the pool from the terrace against the valley makes for a stunning photograph. The hotel grounds are beautifully landscaped and you’d actually feel as if you are staying in an oasis in the middle of the desert. It was delightful to have access to such luxury in the middle of nowhere. A big bonus and a thumbs-up for the decent WiFi at the property – to be honest we weren’t expecting any, given the location.

Day 15-17: Las Vegas

We wound up our trip in the mecca of hedonism – Las Vegas. After long and hectic days in Death Valley National Park, we were in dire need of some lazy days spent with each other and we got those in Las Vegas. We opted for a hotel that was away from The Strip so that we could enjoy some peace and quiet and yet be in close proximity to all the madness of The Strip so that we could go and experience it when we wanted.

The first day in Vegas was all about ordering room service, enjoying the pool at our hotel, and gambling away in the evening at the hotel’s casino. A perfect day without moving around much – just what the doctor ordered. That said, our itchy feet got the better of us and we could not resist getting out and exploring Las Vegas and the surroundings. Even though we had already had our share of dramatic landscapes in Death Valley National Park, we decided to drive out to Valley of Fire National Park  one evening and enjoyed the ever changing colour of the rocks as the sun changed its angles. Highly recommended!

If you, like us, decide to stay away from The Strip, make sure you head out there to spend an evening walking up and down and taking in all the crazy sites and sights. Do make sure you catch the musical fountains right outside The Bellagio (every 15 minutes in the evenings) and visit the different casinos along The Strip.

Another quirky experience around Las Vegas was the Seven Magic Mountains, a colourful art installation by renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. Seven tall towers of colourful, stacked boulders in the middle of a desert make for an amazing view. Make sure you head there soon after sunrise as crowds begin to pour in as the day progresses.

Where to stay in Las Vegas

We stayed in a quieter part of the city, a short 20 minute drive from The Strip. JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Spa is perfect for a relaxing vacation. This place is a city in itself – you name it, and you can probably find it here. With a massive casino, a beautifully landscaped pool area, plenty of restaurants to choose from, and a spa that offers some of the best treatments, you can’t really go wrong in choosing this hotel. We got a city facing room on the 6th floor and could see The Strip from the comfort of our balcony – a sight to behold especially at dusk when the skies would be bright orange and the city lights would come on. The hotel provides a free shuttle to The Strip and back, so you don’t even need to worry about driving in the maddening traffic of the city.

Day 18: Drive back to San Francisco and fly out

That’s it, the trip is over. The last day is just for the long drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco through the desert. It took us 9 hours of pretty much non-stop driving (just a couple of stops for coffee and quick lunch). If you are unable to catch a flight on the same day, just stay in one of the hotels around the airport and fly out the next day.

We had an amazing time on this road trip in the US and can’t wait to go back and drive there for longer. Have you driven  through California and Nevada? What were your favourite parts?

Planning to visit US this year? Read all our posts on our travels within USA

Previous Post

5 Packing Hacks and Tips for Travellers

How Estonia has become one of the most digitally accepting countries

85 thoughts on “ a road trip itinerary for california and nevada ”.

I’d like to venture the US, The bay I’ve been wanting to do as it seems like such a different part of California.

The Bay Area is super special and we really enjoyed spending time there. Can’t wait to be back to explore more of California 🙂

This is what dreams are made of! I’m actually planning something similar for next year so I’ll be sure to send this to my friends and bookmark it!

Awesome – send us photos from California Elodie. We’d love to share them with our readers 🙂

Gorgeous photos!!! I would spend hours by the window with that fantastic view to look at, just amazing!

Hey Natasha – that’s pretty much what we did throughout our roadtrip in California 🙂

Oh how amazing are these pictures and I just wish I was able to travel more but it’s so costly and difficult with 6 kids although California would be a dream come true for sure

Emma it’s definitely much harder with kids, especially 6 of them. But all of you would definitely love California -it has something for all ages 🙂

You took some very beautiful pictures and it seems like you had a wonderful time on this part of your trip. California and Nevada certainly are very beautiful parts of the US, such gorgeous scenery!

Thanks a ton Sarah 🙂 California and Nevada are stunning and we have a great time on our roadtrip

I did a very similar trip earlier this year – I went up from Las Vegas to San Fran via the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and Yosemite National Park. I loved the mix of cities and national parks on my trip, there’s so many contrasting amazing places to see on this route!

Hey Milly – that’s so true. Hope you enjoyed the time spent driving around in California and Nevada 🙂

I have always dreamed of doing a road trip around the US or at least part of it. I think as soon as my daughter is a little bit older we shall definitely do it xx

Hope to get around to doing a road trip in California super soon Charli 🙂

I’ve been to San Francisco and LA. Las Vegas is definitely on my list x

We really enjoyed our time in Vegas – great place to indulge. It truly is sin city 🙂

That sounds like such a great trip. I’ve been from San Francisco to Vegas stopping at places in between but it was far more intense a trip than yours x

Hey Rhian – we met a lot of people who’d covered that stretch within a week and found themselves exhausted at the end of it. That’s why we tried to take it slow and easy and really relish the places we visited on our road trip in California 🙂

Of course being a street art enthusiast the West Hollywood street art caught my eye. Beautiful photos as always x

Isn’t it gorgeous? West Hollywood’s street art had me sold!!

I’d love to do this road trip one day – it’s definitely on my bucket list x

Hope to make it to California for a road trip super soon Stephanie 🙂

This is an amazing itinerary, the places you have seen are so beautiful. I love the Morro Bay story, it seems like such a unique place. Your photos are so beautiful!

Thanks a ton Martina 🙂 We really did enjoy ourselves at Morro Bay – it was one of my favourite bits in our roadtrip to California 🙂

Oh this is so amazing. I love Vegas and dream of one day heading back there x

I love Vegas too Rachel – it’s just a crazily cool place 🙂

I have not yet been to San Francisco nor Vegas and I would love to take such a beautiful road trip

Hey Anosa – this was one of my favourite road trips ever. There’s so much fun to be had along the way 🙂

This looks and sounds like an amazing trip I would love to go one day x

Hope you make it to California super soon 🙂

This is a trip I’ve always wanted to do and now I’ve got my drivers licence I can finally make it a reality! Didn’t know about half of these things along the way so thanks for all the ideas 🙂

That’s awesome Laura – hope you manage to include some of these places in your itinerary too. Have fun driving in the US 🙂

Wow those photos are amazing!!!! I would love to go to California I’ve never been but it is one of the few places that I really want to go to. I’ve been to Vegas that was really good.

Hey Melanie – You really need to explore California soon. It’s one helluva state 🙂

I have become a fan of your blog, i love the detailed itenary and the beautiful photos you post. Your posts are always to helpful, and very useful for travellers.

So happy you enjoyed reading our itinerary for a roadtrip in California and Nevada Nayna – tried to include as many details as I possibly could 🙂

Oh wow! You guys had totally made me want to go on a road trip 🙂

Hehe that’s us done here then 😉

This post is literally my dream road trip! It’s #1 on my travel list – I visited California when I was younger but would love to go back but would certainly love to visit Vegas, Grand Canyon and Death Valley! xo

Hey Rachel – California is so much fun. You should definitely plan your roadtrip soon 🙂

Wow! How amazing does your trip look? The photos are simply stunning and make me want to go there NOW! Doing something like this is on my bucket list and it has just got even higher on that list after reading this! x

Hey Tanya – you just need to check a road trip in California off your bucket list soon 🙂

Gosh! I love the detail in this post – I would love to go to both Cali and Vegas! Its no my 40 before 40 bucket list.

Thanks so much for this hun, Ive bookmarked it for the near future *fingers crossed* Seriously amazing post hun

Hey Charlotte – so happy to know you enjoyed our post. I was jotting down little details throughout our road trip and just HAD to pop them all in a post in the hope it would help someone out there 🙂

I am sitting here right now totally green with envy, just wow! I got married in Vegas so it is a special place to me, but the whole trip is just brilliant.

Getting married in Vegas must’ve been a crazy experience Stephen – that’s so cool 🙂

Wow, what an awesome place to visit, I will add this in my bucket list and I wish I can go there

Hope you make it to California super soon Angela – it’s a very special part of the world 🙂

I have not gone west coast before but it looks immense. My brother just moved to Seattle way so maybe in the future we will go that way but so far not been. Great post and great photos x

Great idea Leah – hope you make it to the West Coast super soon 🙂

Ahh, I love it ? Wonderful itinerary!

Thanks a ton Adele 🙂

Your pictures are absolutely gorgeous – I feel like I was on the road with you <3 I've always wanted to visit the US and these are places I'll definitely want to visit when I finally go 🙂

Hey Louise – thanks a ton. So happy you enjoyed reading our account of our Roadtrip in California and Nevada 🙂

Hey Savi/Vid,

If you are going to do this again, check out the 17-mile drive near Monterey, hike at the Point Lobos Natural Reserve and do stop for lunch at Carmel-by-the-sea. It is one of the prettiest towns here and a happy place to be!

We did have the 17-mile drive on our itinerary. However, we realised they have recently started charging a significant fee for driving on this stretch, which seemed like a waste given how beautiful the entire Pacific 1 highway is (without having to pay money to drive). we did go to Carmel-by-sea and had a great cuppa there.

Wow looks amazing, definitely on my bucket list. How much did you spend approximately for 2 people?

Expect to spend around USD 5,000 for 18 days including accommodation (above average – luxury stays), food, car rental, and fuel.

Hope that helps!

Great stuff as usual. Just when I can afford a little more I would definitely be doing this till then I am venturing into cheaper countries. It would be nice if you could give an account of budgets like in your new zealand blog. Helps us poor indians.See we have started to be demanding of you fellas now ?

Hey Kamakshi,

We’ll come up with an article detailing the budget for this trip soon.

Hi savi Vid,

I did a similar trip last year and loved it. But i visited death vallry during summers and till date regret it. The place is so beautiful but at that time it was so freaking hot..we could hardly soemd more than 10 mins in a spot.. ..it felt like i was sitting inside a furnace ? wish i had a chosen a better month. Loved the badwater basin..mesquite sand dues and devils golf course.It would be great during the winters i guess. The highlight of my trip was definitely the pacific coast highway drive. It was my bucketlist ? but i did a diff route – santa barbara…the lovely monterey(fell in love with this place).. carmel by the sea.. pebble beach ❤ and bck to LA. I would without a second thought take this drive again and do the bixby bridge & morro bay as u suggested. It was so beautiful.

Loved reading your version. Relived my trip ? thank you guys.

Wow! can’t begin to imagine what Death Valley National Park would be in peak summer. Even in October day time temperatures were really high, so we shudder to think what summer would have been like. You’re right – the Pacific Coast Highway was a treat to drive on. Loved this experience in California – it’s such a special state.

Hi Savi and Vid,

We did this SF to LA to Vegas road trip early this year. I could relate to every bit of detail you guys have mentioned in the write-up:) Looking forward to reading more of your posts and setting our (my husband and I :)) goals to travel around the world!

Cheers! Arathi

Hey that’s so cool – hope you guys travel tons in the near future 🙂

What an absolutely beautiful blog post. Your photos are just incredible and extremely stylish. Super destinations of course help and you sure have hit some of the best spots in both California and Nevada. I am just dying to get back on the open highway out in the western USA as I simply love the place. Super site, keep up the incredible work. You guys deserve every bit of success that comes your way!

Thank you so much for the lovely note Gavin – we have such fond memories of this roadtrip in California and Nevada

Hey , I used to read your blogs regularly but then stopped as they started getting to me 🙁 !! Im headed to the US for the first time in mid April with my wife and another couple . We planning to land into SFO and go stay 2 nights in Napa valley at a BnB , then drive towards Santa Barbara with a night halt at the Big Sur .. 2 days in Santa Barbara and then head towards Vegas with an overnight halt in Death Valley .

Any changes you recommend … places to stop and soak in while on this stretch ? Looking to rent a SUV as its 4 of us …. looking for the link for the agency you used as I could not find a link in your blog .

Look forward to hearing for your tips … 🙂

Hey Saazid,

This itinerary sounds great 🙂

The link to the rental agency is right there in the article under the “Planning a road trip…” section 🙂

Have a great Californian road trip

Hey Savi and Vid I love the pictures and the details..thank you … this would be so helpful while i plan our itinerary. My husband and I are planning to do a similar trip starting may this year starting with SF.. would you think end of may-june is good weather for all the above destinations ? What months of the year was your trip? and What kind of budget should we look at including all the Mid range stays, food, sightseeing , accommodation etc.. Waiting for your reply !! Thanks again 🙂

Hi Pallavi,

We did this in October – November. Don’t think May-June should be a problem.

That was a beautiful post. Just one question, which time of the year did you visit the Death Valley National park and how was the weather?

Thank you 🙂

We visited Death Valley National Park in November and the weather was hot during the day but cold at night 🙂

I did the same on my honeymoon just a couple of months ago. I did SFO 3 nights where as u I didn’t pick the car which was a great decision then I drove to Pismo Beach stayed a night. Then drove to LA for 3 nights and then drove to vegas and Flew out to Hawaii 😉 I can so much relate to your trip and had I read your earlier I am sure I wouldn’t have skipped Death Valley. Any ways I can so much relate yours and I must say you have made a good one and given me more goals like the next one as your NZ post. Keep the good work mate! Cheers

So happy to hear that 🙂 well, there’s always a next time for Death Valley

Hope you have a great road trip in New Zealand whenever you do plan to go

I’m glad you enjoyed California’s coast. I think it compares favorably to any natural landscape. Love your blog. Ladakh is on my must see list thanks to your stories and pictures.

Thanks Ed. Ladakh is unlike anywhere else in the world. You’ll love it 🙂

Any reason why you didn’t do Grand Canyon or Antelope Canyon from Vegas? We’re planning a trip in June and were planning to a day trip to one of the Canyons? Any suggestions?

Just short on time this trip 🙂 Also, good to leave a few places for the next trip 😉

What time of year did you travel?

Travelling to Las Vegas in November and curious about renting a car to check out California.

We drove around California and Nevada in November!!

We are looking to do something like this for our Wedding/ Getaway in 2021 (we are from Scotland UK). What year did you do this? Do you think the prices have gone up drastically since then?

Thanks, Emily and Euan

We did this in 2016. I’m sure there must have been an increase in prices but shouldn’t be drastic.

Have a great trip

This is quite amazing. I just like to add one more thing here if anyone wanted to experience the ultimate shooting range in Las Vegas then they can try it out with The Range 702. They are also providing CCW classes for Indoor Shooting range and Outdoor Shooting range for the ones who love shooting and want to enjoy it. For more details visit: https://www.therange702.com/classes-training/

Hi! In which month did you do this trip, and do you have any opinions on doing a trip to Cali & the surrounding national parks in April?

Hello we did this in September 🙂 April should also be a good time

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Yes, add me to your mailing list.

Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary: The 10 Best Stops

Are you ready to embark on an adventurous, memorable cross-country road trip ? From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the world-renowned Las Vegas Strip, Los Angeles to Las Vegas is a classic American excursion that can’t be missed. As you drive across California and Southern Nevada , countless sights and attractions are worth stopping for — but where should you start?

Here, I’ll give you the rundown on everything from must-see places like Calico Ghost Town to lesser-known trails like Lake Mead so that when it comes time for your next trip down south, all that’s left for you to do is hit the open road.

Mountain San Antonio (Mount Baldy)

California route 66 museum, elmer’s bottle tree ranch.

• Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner

Calico Ghost Town Campground

Zzyzx road: an oasis in the desert, kelso dunes, mojave national preserve, seven magic mountains, river mountains loop trail, is it cheaper to fly or drive to las vegas from los angeles, how long is the los angeles to las vegas drive, final thoughts, what are the 10 best road trip stops between los angeles and las vegas.

Towering majestically at a staggering 10,064 feet, Mountain San Antonio in California (commonly known as Mount Baldy) is an inspiring sight that’s visible for dozens of miles. Its unique presence brings light to the otherwise vast landscape as it sits surrounded by clouds and wild winds on the horizon. On clear days, visitors will find themselves in awe of its dazzling color alpine setting and seemingly ageless massifs that stand above all else. Framed with breathtaking lakes and rivers, San Antonio is sure to leave adventurers feeling like they are standing at the edge of the world as they take in its raw beauty.

Located in the beautiful city of Victorville, California, the Route 66 Museum is the perfect place to explore the iconic adventures of America’s cross-country Highway. The museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and photographs documenting life on and along the Route. From vintage signs to a restored Deuce Coupe from 1934, this amazing repository tells a story of fun and discovery along the open road. Stop by for a captivating history lesson about one of the most famous roads in American highways as you explore its many exhibits, displays, and activities; you’re sure to come away feeling inspired.

• Location : 16825 D St, Victorville, CA 92395
• Hours : Monday – Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm, Sunday: 11 am – 3 pm

The one-of-a-kind quirky roadside attraction as unique as Las Vegas itself is Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch . Located along Highway 66 south of Barstow, California, the ranch covers 5 acres. It is full of 10’ tall metal sculptures framed with discarded glass bottles collecting the ever-changing desert colors created by the sun’s reflection.

The entire property is an art gallery covered in various large, colorful creations made from recycled materials, like car hoods and ribbons made from flattened aluminum cans. This gives the gallery a whimsical atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. Elmer, the creator of this unique ranch, died in 2019, but the attraction is still open.

• Location : 24266 National Trails Hwy, Oro Grande, CA 92368

Peggy Sues 50’s Diner

Peggy Sues 50’s Diner is a must-see stop for anyone driving along Route 66. Since it opened its doors in 1967, the diner has been a beloved destination for hungry road trippers and vintage enthusiasts alike.

Not only does Peggy Sue’s offer classic American fast food dishes like juicy burgers and crunchy fries, even extraordinary milkshakes- they also bring back an era of old-style motor culture with a 50s jukebox right in the middle of their eatery.

For those looking to experience a slice of nostalgia while taking a break from the winding highways, there’s no better place than Peggy Sue’s Old-Fashioned 50’s Diner.

• Location : 35654 Yermo Road, Yermo, CA 92398
• Hours : Monday-Thursday 7 am – 8 pm, Friday-Sunday 7 am – 9 pm
• Buy Travel Insurance
• Search for Great Tours HERE
• Get a Car Rental
• Book Your Accommodation HERE
• Entry to 3, 4, 5 or 6 attractions with the Los Angeles Sightseeing FLEX Pass

Located 32 miles north of Barstow train station, Calico Ghost Town is completely abandoned and provides a unique glimpse into the mining culture that defined the Wild West. In 1881, silver was discovered in Calico, sending droves of prospective miners to the deserted foothills.

The town quickly grew to a population of 1,200 and boasted over 500 mines in operation – but its boom was short-lived. Within 15 years, a drop in metal prices caused the miners to pack up and move away from Calico, leaving behind many artifacts from this era.

Today, visitors can explore these old structures and step back in time to savor what life must have been like when those seeking fortunes flocked from all over. Afterward, they can check out the local gift shop, where they can buy souvenirs such as custom saddles and leather belts handmade by real cowboys.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family visit or an educational experience about American history, Calico Ghost Town is sure to provide something memorable.

• Location : 36600 Ghost Town Road, Yermo, CA
• Fees : $30-40 a night + $7 reservation fee

Traversing the desert and winding through the mountains of California lies a much more mysterious road than it appears. Zzyzx Road, located in the Mojave Desert near the California–Nevada border, was named after a spa retreat founded by Curtis Howe Springer, who hoped to use it for natural healing.

It is notoriously known for its lack of businesses along its 10-mile length and for having been previously owned by the federal government before being transferred to the State of California.

In recent years, Kings College has made efforts to bring life back into this desert locale—from developing a music resort and recording studio at the old spa site to enhancing academic opportunities with plans for a research center and greenhouses. Visiting this place is an unforgettable and pleasant experience that will make for great stories for years to come.

If you’re looking for a short but unforgettable detour on your California road trip , look no further than the Kelso Dunes National Preserve in the Mojave desert.

With their golden sand and magnificent view (votes for sunset time) of the mountains in the distance, these dunes transcend from simply being a touristy attraction – instead, this experience will stay with you long after you’ve packed up and gone home.

As a bonus, those who take time to explore can even try out their singing voice – Kelso Dunes’ exceptional acoustics that make noise resonate to amazing lengths. A moment inside this awe-inspiring landscape is an absolute must-see.

The Mojave National Preserve, located in Southern California, is an expansive desert that offers a wide range of exciting and awe-inspiring activities for all ages. This National Preserve has some of the most diverse wildlife, scenery, and plants found anywhere in America.

Visitors can enjoy star-gazing away from the light pollution of larger cities or take advantage of the miles upon miles of desert trails ripe with outdoor recreation and sightseeing opportunities.

Not only do visitors get to experience a vast array of intricate biological ecosystems, but they also get to witness the rich cultural history embedded in this region, like Route 66. With plenty of places to explore, like canyons, mountains, and sand dunes, the Mojave National Preserve gives you a chance to reconnect with nature while offering plenty of adventurous activities as well.

Ready for the most Instagrammable spot on your road trip? Seven Magic Mountains is an outdoor art installation located near Las Vegas, Nevada. It consists of seven thirty-two-foot towers of multi-colored balanced boulders ranging between two and three stories high.

Each tower is encircled with up to seven rocks in various hues of blue, orange, yellow, and beige, creating an eye-catching display of color against the desolate desert landscape. Located in Jean Dry Lake, these man-made surrealist rock formations are designed to blend into the surrounding terrain and interact with the area’s natural geography.

Visitors to Seven Magic Mountains can admire this unique sculpture from a distance or explore its rock formations up close. The art piece offers a breathtaking visual experience and encourages viewers to contemplate their relationship with nature in unexpected ways.

• Location : S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89054
• Admission : Free
• Hours : Sunrise to Sunset

The River Mountains Loop Trail is an excellent spot for outdoor recreation in the Las Vegas area. Spanning close to forty miles, this beautiful trail follows a loop path around the namesake River Mountains.

There are many options for outdoor activities, like hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. The trails are clearly marked and well maintained, making them suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced outdoor people.

I craved exploring that area by bike, so we stopped to rent our bicycles at All Mountain Cyclery and biked along Hoover Dam. The route is quite hardcore if you’re not fit enough—my body was sore and sunburnt the next day, but the experience was so worth it.

With stunning views of Lake Mead and plenty of places to rest and manifest calmness in the beauty of nature, the River Mountains Loop Trail is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Several factors come into play when deciding which mode of transportation to get from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. While driving can take up to five hours, depending on traffic, a quick search shows that direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) could get you to Sin City within the hour. Various companies, like Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and American Airlines, offer nonstop flights.

Flying is undoubtedly more convenient and can also be more cost-effective with cheap flights along the route. It’s worth researching and weighing all of your options, as sometimes you can find nonstop flights for less than the cost of gas for your car.

However, although you can opt for the Las Vegas flight route and find the cheapest flights available, the most fun and exciting alternative is a round-trip drive. I always opt for road trips when the distance is not painfully long (less than 3000 miles) and countries are not separated by the ocean (like when I had to fly to Guam from Korea, for example).

Embarking on the round-trip drive between Los Angeles and Las Vegas is exciting. Not only do you get to soak up all of the beautiful scenery, but it’s also a relatively cheap way to travel (make sure you remember to fill up the tank of your rental car ).

The round-trip distance between Los Angeles and Las Vegas is roughly 422 miles, making it just over 5 hours of driving without traffic. This may be off-putting for some unless you decide to break your journey with some pit stops on the route, which is precisely what I did back in 2019.

Renting a car from Los Angeles is easy . If you decide to fly  from Las Vegas , either back to LA or elsewhere, you can drop it off at Harry Reid or McCarran International Airport .

Traveling from Los Angeles to Las Vegas by car is a great way to see some fantastic scenery. The spots mentioned between these two cities are definitely worth stopping at.

The journey can be more rewarding than last-minute flights , especially when you can explore around and not rush between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. From Barstow to Hoover Dam, the places mentioned in this article are worth visiting, So, add them to your itinerary the next time you plan a road trip. You won’t regret it.

No related posts.

by Maria Dimitropoulou 

4 responses to “los angeles to las vegas road trip itinerary: the 10 best stops”.

Dory Lawson

Need to edit Hoover “Dum” ?

Chris Christensen

Thanks, missed that

Great information. in 2025 my sis and I with her son will be 21 then we’re deciding to fly or drive from L A. to Vegas. Your Article most likely inspired us to drive. Great tips.

Where is the first pic witht he route 66 sign on the road taken? Is there a sign like this on the route from Los Angeles to Barstow? ?

Leave a Reply

Name (must be a real name) (required)

Mail (will not be published) (required)

Tags: las vegas , los angeles

This site is owned by Chris Christensen who has lived in California for over 50 years.

Checkout Chris's other efforts:

• Amateur Traveler blog
• Amateur Traveler podcast
• Hotel Scoop (hotel reviews)
• Passport Travel Marketing and PR podcast
• The Bible Study Podcast

Featured Destinations

• Monterey Peninsula
• an Amateur Traveler site
• Privacy Policy
• Amateur Traveler Media Kit
• Working with Amateur Traveler
• Guest Post Guidelines
• The Amateur Traveler Manifesto

Get our articles in your inbox!  Sign up

America From The Road

Los Angeles To Las Vegas Road Trip: Best Stops On Interstate 15

This road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is full of fun stops! On this driving itinerary you’ll visit iconic landmarks, quirky attractions, weird art installations, nostalgic diners, and many other really cool places!

Interstate-15 is the quickest and easiest way to reach Las Vegas from L.A. by car. This freeway travels through the lonely Mojave Desert which is an other-worldly beautiful destination.

Each location mentioned below under the list of best places to stop between Los Angeles and Las Vegas has enough information and a little bit of backstory so you can decide for yourself if it’s worth stopping at. But if you ask me, they are all a must see!

L.A. To Las Vegas Road Trip Details

• Distance:  314 miles
• Drive Time:  5.5 hours
• Stops Include : Victorville, Oro Grande, Yermo, Baker, Goodsprings

Open this map in Google Maps

Rental Cars: If you need to rent a car for your road trip, we recommend Enterprise who always have the best rates and great customer service! But if you would prefer to shop around, you can use RentalCars.com to compare rates between different rental car companies.

Campervan and RV Rentals: If you’re traveling on a budget, consider renting an RV or campervan for your road trip. Although campervans and RVs are a little more expensive than renting a car, you’ll save money in the long run since you won’t need to stay in a hotel room. See RVs and campervans on Outdoorsy .

How Long Do You Need For This Road Trip?

You’ll need a full day . This Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip is a one day itinerary. To complete this road trip in one day you will need to get an early start and try not to spend more than one hour at each stop.

If you want to turn this driving itinerary into a two day road trip , the best place to break up the drive is in Barstow. Outside of Barstow acommodation is few and far between. Actually, it’s almost non-existent.

Some of the best hotels in Barstow include Home2 Suites by Hilton , TownePlace Suites by Marriott , and the Holiday Inn . There are quite a few budget options too. See all hotels in Barstow here .

Detours and Alternative Routes

If you have an extra day, you could add a side trip to Mojave Desert National Preserve or take a detour to Death Valley National Park . Keep in mind that both of these parks are large and I don’t recommend visiting them unless you have at least a full day to spare.

An alternative route to Las Vegas is via California’s Route 66 . This driving itinerary traces original U.S. Route 66 from Santa Monica to Needles. From Needles you can take U.S. 95 north to Las Vegas. You can complete this road trip in one day or stay overnight in Needles or Laughlin. See the itinerary here .

Best Stops Between Los Angeles & Las Vegas

Stop 1: california route 66 museum.

• Victorville, California

Welcome to Victorville. A surprisingly large city in the Mojave Desert that historic U.S. Route 66 runs through. This desert community was first settled in 1885 but wasn’t incorporated until 1962. The city’s population grew from 8,000 people at the time of incorporation to 121,000 by 2013.

In Victorville don’t miss the California Route 66 Museum. Inside the museum you will find all sorts of Route 66 exhibits and memoribilia documenting what life was like along the Mother Road. From vintage signs to neon lights, and even a 1917 Ford Model T Car, you’re guaranteed to walk away inspired by your visit!

The volunteer staff here are super friendly and have a wealth of knowledge on Route 66 and Victorville’s history so feel free to pick their brains.

Califoria Route 66 Museum is located on D Street. From Intertstate 15, take the D Street exit and head straight to Old Town.

Admission to the museum is free but donations are greatly appreciated! Since the museum is run entirely on donations your support will help to keep this place going. The museum is open from Thursday to Monday.

Stop 2: Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch

• Oro Grande, California

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is a quirky attraction on Route 66 in Oro Grande. This peculiar place encompasses hundreds of trees made from steel and glass bottles. It’s Americana at its finest!

The colorful steel and glass forest was created by Elmer Long who was an avid collector of bottles. He and his father amassed a large collection of glass bottles over many years. After his father passed away, Elmer decided he wanted to do something with their collection.

He bought the ranch in Oro Grande and began building his art installation. Never in a million years did he think it would one day attract visitors from around the world. Which it surely does now!

The unique destination is one of the coolest and most fun places to visit on this road trip so be sure not to miss it!

You’ll need to get off Interstate-15 and take an easy detour along a stretch of original U.S. Route 66 . From Victorville it’s only a fifteen minute drive away. Spend 30 minutes or so at the Route 66 Museum and then head to Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch. Allocate an hour to your visit because there really is so much to see here!

Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated.

Read : Visit Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch: A Glass Forest On Route 66 In The California Desert

Stop 3: Peggy Sue’s Diner

• Yermo, California

Peggy Sue’s Diner is a nostalgic diner that you should not miss. When you step through the diner’s giant jukebox-shaped entrance you’ll instantly be transported back to the 1950s.

Life size statues of 1950s-era icons like Elvis Presley and Betty Boop will greet you while classic rock n roll music by the likes of Buddy Holly and Frankie Avalon plays in the background.

On the menu are home-cooked meals like meatloaf and chicken fried steak, as well as typical diner style food such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Be sure to leave room for their famous home-made fruit pies.

Peggy Sue’s is located just off Interstate 15 on Yermo Road in Yermo. To get there take the exit for Ghost Town Road and follow the big signs. Don’t worry, the signs are hard to miss!

Stop 4: Calico Ghost Town

Yermo – 4 miles.

Calico Ghost Town is a former mining town that was founded in 1881 during the last silver strike in California. The mines here produced over twenty million dollars in silver ore making Calico the largest silver producer in California’s history!

But it all went south in the mid-1890s when silver lost its value causing miners to pack up their bags to find fortunes elsewhere.

Calico turned into a ghost town and remained an abandoned place, that is until Walter Knott, the owner of Knotts Berry Farm, purchased Calico in 1951 and brought the ghost town back to life by restoring several of the original buildings.

Today, Calico Ghost Town is a state historical landmark and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can pan for gold, take a self-guided tour of the Maggie Mine, and see exhibits that relate to the geology of the Calico Mountains. It’s a fun place to visit!

Set aside at least one hour for your visit. There are two restaurants here, and one of them, Lil’s Saloon, has surprisingly great pizza! Also, there is a campground if you’re looking for somewhere to camp overnight in the area.

Read : Calico Ghost Town Campground: Camp At An Abandoned Mining Town That Dates Back To 1881

Stop 5: Zzyzx Road

• Zzyzx, California

Whether you’ve driven Interstate 15 through the lonely Mojave Desert before or it’s your first time, you’ve likely seen or will see the middle-of-nowhere sign for Zzyzx Road on your drive to Las Vegas.

The bizarrely named street leads to a lush oasis that was once a health retreat during the 1940s to 1970s. This retreat has quite a shocking backstory which you can read about here . It involves a man who was a big time scammer and “super squatter” whom used homeless men from Skid Row to build his empire at the end of Zzyzx Road.

If you have time on your road trip from L.A. to Las Vegas (or vice versa), I highly recommend taking the exit for Zzyzx Road and visiting this strange but beautiful place.

From the exit, you will need to drive for four miles down Zzyzx Road. The road is mostly paved and runs along the edge of Soda Lake , a once massive ancient lake that has turned into a bright-white, dry lakebed.

There are a couple of turnouts you can stop at along the way to enjoy views of the vast salt flats. Keep an eye out for Bighorn sheep that roam in the foothills of the Soda Mountains located adjacent to Soda Lake.

At the end of the road is a large parking lot. From here you can walk along a gravel path that leads to a beautiful lake lined with palm trees. It is a very photogenic place so don’t forget to bring your camera!

Read : Zzyzx Road: Discover A Lush Oasis in the Mojave Desert on Your Way To Las Vegas

Stop 6: World’s Tallest Thermometer

• Baker, California

The World’s Tallest Thermometer is a landmark in Baker, California. Towering 134-feet above the Mojave Desert, this marvelous monument can be seen from miles and miles away by motorists driving between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.

It is situated adjacent to Intersate-15 and while you can see it from the freeway, it looks way more impressive when you’re standing beside it. So be sure not to miss the Baker exit!

This is truly one of the quirkiest roadside attractions in America, and on top of that, it has quite an interesting backstory. The marvelous monument was built by Willis Herron, a man that grew up in the same town and at the same time as Colonel Sanders. Yes, I’m talking about the same Colonel Sanders who invented Kentucky Fried Chicken!

Willis Herron moved to Baker and opened up a restaurant named Bun Boy, but when his restaurant burnt down in 1990, he wanted something that would draw even more attention than KFC’s revolving bucket — the World’s Tallest Thermometer!

Herron wasn’t cuckoo though; there was method in his madness. You see, the highest official temperature ever recorded was 134 degrees, which happened in Death Valley. And since Baker was the “Gateway To Death Valley”, it was only natural that the thermometer should stand 134-feet tall so it could record that high temperature should it ever occur again.

So in 1991, the colossal thermometer was built! Don’t miss the opportunity to have your photo taken with the impressive structure on your way to Vegas. Afterwards you can have a quick peek inside the gift shop where you’ll find all sorts of thermometer-related souvenirs.

Read: World’s Tallest Thermometer: The Story Behind Interstate-15’s Iconic Roadside Attraction

Stop 7: Pioneer Saloon

• Goodsprings, Nevada

Pioneer Saloon in Goodsprings, Nevada, was built in 1913 and is the oldest bar in southern Nevada . This wild west saloon is about as authentic as it gets!

The interior and exterior walls are made of original stamped tin, and thought to be one of the last of its kind in the United States. Inside the saloon is a solid cherrywood bar that was manufactured in the 1860s, as well as dining tables that have been around since the saloon’s opening day.

There is also a mini-museum full of antiques and newspaper clippings about the tragic connection the saloon has to famous Hollywood film stars Clark Gable and Carole Lombard.

As you’ve just read, this place has a fascinating history that in my opinion, is worth the short detour off Interstate-15. In addition, you can tick visiting a ghost town in Nevada off your bucket list! Yes, Goodsprings is considered a ghost town even though the former mining town is still home to 200 residents.

The saloon does have a restaurant and it’s open seven days a week from 9am to 9pm. Breakfast is served until noon so if you’re starting your road trip in Las Vegas you can swing by to fuel up for the drive to Los Angeles. See their menu here .

Even if you don’t drink, and have eaten elsewhere already on your road trip, the Pioneer Saloon is still worth the trip out to see the historic building and to wander around the ghost town.

No purchase is necessary to visit the saloon and families are welcome! Just keep in mind that anyone under the age of 21 will not be allowed in the saloon itself, only in the dining area.

How to get to Pioneer Saloon : Pioneer Saloon is 25 miles from the south end of Las Vegas. From Interstate-15, take the exit at Jean for Goodsprings Road and drive for about five minutes. The Pioneer Saloon and Goodsprings General Store will be on your right side when you arrive in Goodsprings.

Stop 8: Seven Magic Mountains

• South Las Vegas, Nevada

The Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most popular attractions to visit on a road trip between L.A. and Las Vegas.

This art installation consists of seven giant, neon-colored boulders that have been stacked on top of each other. These neon rocks stand more than three stories high and are certainly a magnificent sight to see. Especially up against the barren desert landscape.

The brightly-colored art installation is located just twenty minutes south of the Las Vegas Strip.

To get there coming from Los Angeles, take the exit for Jean (exit 12) and turn right on NV-161. Then turn left on Sth Las Vegas Boulevard. Drive for five miles, the art installation will be on your right.

Coming from Las Vegas, take the exit for Sloan (exit 25) and turn left on Sloan Road. Then turn right on Sth Las Vegas Boulevard. Drive for seven miles and the art installation will be on your left.

Read:   Seven Magic Mountains: What Do They Mean?

Stop 9: Las Vegas

The final stop on your road trip is Las Vegas. However your adventure is only just beginning because Las Vegas has TONS of things to do, even for the non-gambler!

While this desert metropolis has more casinos than anywhere else in the world, there is also a copius amount of attractions and entertainment options here that will delight almost every type of traveler.

Not only that, but there are also plenty of natural attractions, national parks, and other amazing places to see nearby. Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon, the Valley Of Fire, and Death Valley National Park are all easy to visit on a day trip from Las Vegas.

If it’s your first time visiting Las Vegas, cruising the strip is a must! Don’t miss seeing the Fountains of Bellagio or the Venice Canals at the Venetian Resort . Other popular things to do include riding an elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower and taking a spin on The Linq’s High Roller.

But there are so many other exciting experiences to have here, even if it’s your fifth time visiting “The Entertainment Capital of the World”.

HOTELS IN LAS VEGAS

The hotels in Las Vegas are some of the most impressive in the world! From lavish five star properties to hotels that have been built to replicate the pyramids of Egypt and the Eiffel Tower in France , you will for sure have a hard time deciding between the many great lodging options in Sin City. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best hotels in Las Vegas.

Recommended Hotels :

• Lavish: Fontainebleau Las Vegas
• Quirky: New York New York Hotel & Casino
• Convenient Location: The Bellagio
• Budget Travellers: Circus Circus and The Linq Hotel

Search for more hotels using the interactive map below.

Tips for this los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip

• Expect heavy traffic if you depart Los Angeles on Friday afternoon or if you depart Las Vegas on Sunday evening. If you leave during these times, a five hour road trip can easily turn into a seven hour drive.
• Since you’ll be travelling through the remote Mojave Desert, it’s always best to be prepared in case your car breaks down. The most important thing to bring is plenty of water as it can get dangerously hot out here. You might want to bring snacks too, especially if you don’t want to stop to eat.

Pin For Later!

hi, is this a one-day trip?

Yes, one full day is recommended.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Nevada | Vegas | 5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada

If you can find a free weekend or a few extra days, you can take a spectacular road trip from Las Vegas . Sin City has the convenience of being close to several top attractions, cities, and national parks, so don’t miss your chance to explore the great American West!

You can plan a road trip itinerary using our guides on national parks near Las Vegas and things to do outside Las Vegas . However, this article gives you the best Las Vegas road trips to maximize time and mileage. I’ll share 2, 3, 4, 5, and 10-day Las Vegas road trip itineraries so you can find the perfect one for your schedule.

In summary, these are the best road trips from Vegas :

• Grand Canyon , the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas
• Los Angeles , a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas
• San Francisco , one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California
• Monument Valley , one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona
• Arches National Park , the ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

Also, before setting off on your weekend getaway from Las Vegas , you’ll want reliable transportation. I suggest reading my guide on renting a car in Las Vegas or, for the ultimate experience, renting an RV in Las Vegas or campervan rentals in Las Vegas .

1. Grand Canyon, the best 2-day road trip from Las Vegas

♦   576 miles, 9 hrs total driving – 2 days, 1 night – Out & back

Taking a road trip from Vegas to the Grand Canyon is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas .

Right outside Las Vegas, you’ll pass the Hoover Dam , where you can spend a few hours. Take a tour of this significant landmark and check the attractions nearby.

Continue towards Grand Canyon Village , also known as the South Rim. While it’s a slower route, to get there I recommend taking historic Route 66 from Kingman to Seligman. Once in the Grand Canyon National Park you can check its famous viewpoints, restaurants, and beautiful hiking routes.

The park is open 24/7, and the entrance fee is $30 per vehicle. If you have more time, I have some ideas for extending your Las Vegas road trip to the Grand Canyon South Rim .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 300 miles, 5 hrs.

Get an early start, so you have time to visit Hoover Dam and Boulder City. Then, continue your road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon South Rim. The scenic route is via Route 66, between Kingman and Seligman. This way, you’ll see Angel & Vilma’s Gift Shop, famous restaurants like Mr. D’z 66 Diner, the Grand Canyon caverns near Peach Springs, and the Mohave Museum.

Once at Grand Canyon Village, you can take one of the shuttles to popular lookouts like Hopi Point (it has the perfect sunset views). The Rim Trail, which circles the South Rim, is a great hike to do as a family.

• Recommended accommodations: Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn and The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon are great, or consult our guide on where to stay in the Grand Canyon .

Day 2 – 280 miles, 4 hrs 15 mins

The best way to start your second day is with a Grand Canyon helicopter tour . It’s an amazing way to see the canyon, and we have an entire guide on the top 6 flight tours.

After your helicopter ride, take the free shuttle to one of the lookout points around the South Rim. You can also visit interesting places like the Yavapai Geology Museum and the Tusayan Ruins and Museum before heading back to Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Any of the best hotels in Las Vegas will be great for an overnight stay.

VEGAS ROAD TRIP ALTERNATIVES

One extra day.

Use your extra day in the Grand Canyon to visit the West Rim . Here, you can see the Skywalk, a glass balcony that hangs over the edge of the canyon. Visiting the West Rim adds 90 miles and 2 hrs 15 mins of driving.

Two extra days

A couple of extra days at the Grand Canyon means you can hike the Bright Angel Trail , one of the top hikes in the canyon. The path starts at Grand Canyon Village and descends over 4,360 feet into the canyon.

The route is 16 miles round-trip, so you’ll need 2 days to do it. It’s best to hike to the bottom. Camp there overnight, then make the ascent back to the South Rim.

Three extra days

If you have three more days in this area, you can make the trek to Havasu Falls. The falls are part of the Havasupai Indian Reservation, so you must make reservations in advance.

To get to the trailhead, take Route 66 toward Peach Spring. Continue for about 130 miles and turn right onto Indian Road 18. This road leads to the Hualapai Hilltop Parking Lot.

From there, you can hike the Havasupai Falls Trail to the waterfalls, which aren’t far from the Havasupai Campground .

2-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

2. Hollywood, a fun 3-day car trip from Las Vegas to Los Angeles

♦ 350 miles, 6 hrs 15 mins total driving – 3 days, 2 nights – One-way

When planning a road trip from Las Vegas , consider California. This state is full of gorgeous landscapes, enjoyable cities, and, of course, beaches. My itinerary is for a 3-day road trip from Las Vegas to Hollywood, but you can add more days and take a Vegas road trip to San Diego too.

On this car trip to Los Angeles from Las Vegas , you’ll take a pitstop to 7 Magic Mountains before visiting Mojave National Preserve . The preserve has some of the best night skies in the country, so I highly recommend camping overnight.

Then, head to Joshua Tree National Park and see the wide range of desert flora there. Check out the Cholla Cactus Garden and stay overnight in the park before waking up early for day 3.

The last stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is Los Angeles , where you can find unlimited things to do. If you have more time, extend your stay in LA, or drive down to San Diego.

Keep in mind that the end point of this route is different from the starting point. So, when setting up your rental, consider any extra fees for returning the car in a different location and book two one-way flights.

3-day Las Vegas road trip itinerary

Day 1 – 97 miles, 2 hrs.

This  Las Vegas road trip to California  begins with a quick stop at  7 Magic Mountains . This colorful art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone is a nice photo op along the Las Vegas Freeway.

Then, drive the hour or so to  Mojave National Preserve , one of the most amazing destinations between Vegas and LA. Rather than drive through it, take time to appreciate the area, especially the Kelso Dunes and the ancient Mojave Lava Tube. The volcanic tunnel is over 1300 feet long and casts impressive light rays in the afternoon.

One of the most popular things to do here is to hike the Rings Loop Trail, which is a little over a mile long. You’ll see that Mojave National Preserve has lots of Joshua Trees; it actually has the highest density of these trees in the world, even more than Joshua Tree National Park!

• Recommended accommodation:  Hole-in-the-Wall Campground

Day 2 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 15 mins

The next day, make the short drive to  Joshua Tree National Park , which is also in the Mojave Desert. This park is known for its unique landscape of Joshua trees and gravity-defying rock formations.

That said, one of the best sights in Joshua Tree is the  Cholla Cactus Garden . You can take the circular walking trail through the garden of brittlebush, desert lavender, and several species of cacti.

• Recommended accommodations:  Americas Best Value Inn & Suites Yucca Valley  or  High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park

Day 3 – 130 miles, 2 hrs

The last stop on this  3-day road trip from Las Vegas  is  Los Angeles . Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of tours and activities, so check our guide on to  things to do in Los Angeles  for some ideas.

Everyone likes popular attractions like the  Hollywood Sign  and the  Walk of Fame . Perhaps you’d prefer one of the beaches, like  Santa Monica  or  Malibu . Film buffs can check out the famous  Hollywood studios and theaters , while shopaholics can hit  Rodeo Drive .

• Recommended accommodations:  InterContinental – Los Angeles Downtown  is nice, and we have a guide on  where to stay in Los Angeles

Vegas road trip alternatives

One day short.

If you must cut your trip short one day, skip Mojave and go straight to Joshua Tree. It’ll save you 25 miles and 45 minutes of driving.

An extra day means you can spend two days in LA, which is great because there are so many  things to do in Los Angeles  and Hollywood.

Add two more days to your itinerary, and you can take a  Vegas road trip to San Diego . It adds 120 miles and one hour of driving, and you can see fabulous beaches like La Jolla Cove.

3-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

3. San Francisco, one of the most popular 4-day road trips from Las Vegas to California

♦ 630 miles, 12 hrs 30 mins total driving – 4 days, 3 nights – One-way

Note: This route can only be completed when Tioga Road is open; check dates.

This 4-day road trip from Las Vegas is action-packed and starts with a visit to Red Rock Canyon . Then, you’ll head to Death Valley , where you can see the famous Badwater Basin, Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Palette, and other sights.

Then, you can witness the unique landscapes of Alabama Hills , Hot Creek , and Mono Lake before stopping at Yosemite National Park . This is a must-see on any road trip from Las Vegas to California since Yosemite is full of hiking routes, waterfalls, lookouts, and other landmarks.

The last stop is San Francisco , an amazing city by the bay with all kinds of attractions. Not only is the city surrounded by beautiful natural places, but San Fran itself is tons of fun. Check out iconic areas like Nob Hill, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. Besides that, there are museums, historic buildings, neighborhoods, and architectural monuments to behold.

With all of the stops along the way, this is the best road trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco !

4-day road trip itinerary from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 130 miles, 2 hrs 30 mins.

The first stop on this road trip from Las Vegas to California is right outside Sin City. You’ll start by exploring Red Rock Canyon , known for its fiery rock formations and ancient pictographs. You can check out the sights along the Scenic Loop Drive or do one of the most popular hikes in Red Rock .

Then, you’ll make your way to Death Valley , California , one of the largest national parks in the country. Here, you’ll have your pick of all kinds of attractions and points of interest, like the Artist’s Palette and Badwater Basin , the lowest point in the U.S. There are also hiking trails to overlooks like Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at The Ranch at Death Valley or check out our guide on where to stay in Death Valley

Day 2 – 230 miles, 4 hrs

Outside Death Valley, there is the town of Lone Pine, a great intermediary between Death Valley and Mt. Whitney. Here, you must see the Alabama Hills National Scenic Area at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. If you’ve ever seen a western film, you’ll recognize the landscape of Alabama Hills. Check out scenic Movie Road and the famous Mobius Arch , which perfectly frames the mountain range in the distance.

Later, make the drive to Hot Creek Geological Site , a gorge with bubbling turquoise hot springs. Magma mixes with the cool waters of Hot Creek to heat the thermal pools, which you can hike past for a closer look.

Day 2 of this 4-day road trip from La Vegas ends with a visit to nearby Mono Lake . This saline lake offers lovely views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, as well as hiking and kayaking.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend a restful night at Lake View Lodge near Mono Lake.

Day 3 – 80 miles, 2 hrs

Get an early start in the morning so you can make the long drive to Yosemite National Park . You can stop by Yosemite Village and the Visitor Center for trail maps and info, then decide what to do.

I will say that some of the best things to see here are El Capitan , which is over 7,500 feet tall, and the Half Dome , another granite formation that’s over 8,800 feet tall. The park also has the highest waterfall in the U.S., Yosemite Falls , which is 2,425 feet tall.

There are other waterfalls in the park, as well as lakes and overlooks. You can see some of these while traveling along Glacier Point Road . Also, it’s worth seeing Tuolumne Grove , a giant sequoia forest. Of course, there is lots more to see here, including wildlife and beautiful hiking trails, so check our guide!

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at Yosemite Valley Lodge or one of the places in our guide on where to stay in Yosemite

Day 4 – 190 miles, 4 hrs

Finally, this Las Vegas road trip ends in San Francisco , one of the most enjoyable cities in the country. There is a little bit of everything here, so it’s well worth the drive.

This bay city is known for its relaxed environment and landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge , Fisherman’s Wharf , and Nob Hill . One of the most iconic things to do here is to take a cable car past notable sights like Chinatown and Russian Hill .

San Francisco is full of museums, unique neighborhoods, shops, restaurants, and natural areas like forests, gardens, and beaches. So, be sure to read our guide so you can plan your perfect day in the city.

• Recommended accommodations: The Handlery Union Square Hotel is a nice downtown accommodation, or you can check our article on where to stay in San Francisco

Vegas car trip alternatives

If you can add more days to your  road trip from Las Vegas to California , you can see even more incredible things along the way. Here are some ideas to consider if you have more time.

If you have an extra day, you can spend more time in  Yosemite . You could easily spend three days in the park since there is so much to do there. The  Upper Yosemite Falls Trail  is a gorgeous 7-hour route, and  Tunnel View  is an iconic lookout point.  Mirror Lake  and  Mariposa Grove  are two other lovely spots, and the  Taft Point-Sentinel Dome  hike is a must-do if you have the time.

Another option if you have one more day is to spend more time in  San Francisco . You could even spend a week here and not get bored. So, it’s up to you if you want to see nearby natural attractions or explore the city.

With two extra days, you can spend more time in  Yosemite  or  San Francisco  and take a detour to  Lake Tahoe . A visit to the largest alpine lake in the U.S. adds 150 miles (2 hrs 45 mins) of driving.

Here, you can do different kinds of water sports or visit one of the ski resorts. Lake Tahoe also offers excellent hiking trails like the  Tahoe Rim Trail  and  Eagle Lake .

4-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

4. Monument Valley, one of the best 5-day road trips from Las Vegas to Arizona

♦ 900 miles, 16 hrs 20 mins total driving – 5 days, 4 nights – Loop

This 5-day road trip from Las Vegas has lots of interesting stops, so be prepared. As you leave Vegas, pay a visit to the Valley of Fire , and walk among the dazzling geological formations.

Then, spend a day exploring Zion National Park and some of the hiking routes and viewpoints there. Next, this road trip from Las Vegas goes to Arizona , where you’ll see Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon . You’ll definitely want your camera for these two incredibly scenic places!

The next stop on this road trip from Las Vegas is Monument Valley , an area full of mesas, buttes, and stunning starry skies. Finally, you’ll head to the Grand Canyon , where you can hike along the canyon’s rim or even take a helicopter tour.

As you make your way back to Vegas, take historic Route 66 . It’s a bit longer, but it’s more scenic. As you get closer to Sin City, you can pass through Boulder City and check out the Hoover Dam , too.

5-DAY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY from Las Vegas

Day 1 – 180, 3 hrs 30 mins.

This  road trip from Las Vegas  begins with a stop at the  Valley of Fire , one of the best hiking spots right outside Sin City. Some of the  most popular hikes in Valley of Fire  include the  Fire Wave Trail  and  Petroglyph Canyon Trail .

Besides hiking, you can do the  Scenic Drive  at Valley of Fire, which goes past some famous landmarks. While the park is known for its fiery rock formations, it also has colorful attractions like the  Rainbow Vista  and  Pink Canyon . Plus, this can be a  fun road trip from Las Vegas  to do with kids. They’ll love the  petroglyphs ,  Elephant Rock , and the  Fire Cave .

After spending some time at Valley of Fire, drive a few hours northeast to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations:  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  is comfortable and cheap, but we also have a guide on  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 120 miles, 2 hrs 20 mins

Day 2 of this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary  is dedicated to exploring  Zion National Park . We have an article about all the things to do in Zion, but I’ll tell you some of the most popular activities if you only have one day.

As I said, the hiking trails here are amazing, so check out  Angel’s Landing ,  The Narrows , or  The Subway . The family-friendly  Lower Emerald Pools  trail is also worth doing. Also, Zion has excellent starry skies, and you can get iconic views from the  Court of the Patriarchs  lookout point.

If you take the  Zion Scenic Drive , you’ll see the  Visitor Center and Museum ,  Court of the Patriarchs ,  The Grotto ,  Weeping Rock ,  Big Bend , and  Temple of Sinawava.

After Zion, head to Page, Arizona, and get some rest for another action-packed day.

• Recommended accommodations:  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  is one of the best, or you can check out our guide on  where to stay in Page

Day 3 – 120 miles, 2 hrs

As you continue your  5-day road trip from Las Vegas , make a quick stop at  Horseshoe Bend . This horseshoe-shaped meander stands nearly 1,000 feet tall and has an imposing presence you have to see to believe. The view from Horseshoe Bend is incredible at sunrise or sunset, but even if you can’t visit then, it’s still beautiful.

Another great thing about Horseshoe Bend is that it’s a very short drive from  Antelope Canyon . We have an article about how to photograph the canyon and which part to visit. I will tell you that if you go to the Upper section in summer in the middle of the day, you can see the famous  light beams  coming through the canyon walls.

Also, be aware that since Antelope Canyon is within the  Navajo Indian Reservation , you must take a tour. A Navajo guide will take you through the canyon and tell you about the geological and cultural history of the area, and you’ll see the canyon’s undulating structure for yourself!

After spending time at Antelope Canyon, drive the two hours to  Monument Valley  and get some rest for Day 4 of this  road trip from Las Vegas .

• Recommended accommodations:  Goulding’s Lodge  is among the most popular, or you can book one of the places in our  where to stay in Monument Valley  guide

Day 4 – 180 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Get an early start in the morning and check out  Monument Valley . One of the best things to do here is to take the  Scenic Drive  past fascinating formations. You’ll see  Elephant Butte , the  Three Sisters ,  John Ford’s Point ,  The Thumb , and several other landmarks.

You can also hike the  Wildcat Trail  and capture superb photos at lookout points like  The Mittens and Merrick Butte  and  Artist’s Point .

Be sure to budget enough time to drive to the  Grand Canyon  from Monument Valley since it takes over 3 hours, and you’ll want to rest up for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations:  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Day 5 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Spend the last day of this  road trip from Las Vegas at the Grand Canyon . Start at  Grand Canyon Village , which is at the  South Rim . From there, you can take one of the shuttles to the  South Kaibab Trail  or  Hermit Road where you can find beautiful viewpoints like Yavapai and Yaki Point  on the Kaibab Rim Route or  Hopi Point  on the Hermit Road Route.

If you want to make your visit extra special, take a  helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon  and see this natural wonder from a birds-eye view.

When it’s time to head back to Sin City, take the return trip via  Route 66 . This way, you’ll pass the most iconic part of this famous highway, then you can stop at  Boulder City  and visit  Hoover Dam .

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS ROAD TRIP alternatives

If you’re short on time, you can skip Monument Valley and save 150 miles (about 2.5 hours) of driving.

If you have time, you can make this a  6-day road trip from Las Vegas . You could spend a day in  Bryce Canyon  or check out  Sedona and Red Rock Country .

Bryce Canyon National Park is a short drive from Zion and is known for its incredible hoodoos and rock formations. It adds 120 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Meanwhile, Red Rock Country is in the Oak Creek area of Sedona and has a distinct canyon landscape. Some of the most photographed sights here include  Oak Creek Canyon , Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and  Tuzigoot National Monument . It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

If you have two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway . Phoenix is home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

Alternatively, two extra days can give you the  best road trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon . You’ll have enough time to hike the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camp at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Along with a lodge, you’ll find the  Havasu Falls Trailhead , which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

5-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

5. Arches, the best 10-day road trip from Las Vegas to Utah

♦ 1,545 miles, 31 hrs total driving – 10 days, 9 nights – Loop

This ultimate 10-day road trip from Las Vegas begins with a stop at the Valley of Fire , where you can take the scenic drive (Mouse’s Tank) past the Rainbow Vista, Arch Rock, and other impressive formations.

The next day, you can visit Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks for amazing lookout points, hikes, and geological monuments. Speaking of which, this road trip from Las Vegas to Utah also includes the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument . Spanning 1.8 million acres, this natural wonder sits between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef , another national park on this itinerary.

Capitol Reef offers excellent hiking and backpacking, and it’s about an hour from Goblin Valley State Park , an awesome place in Utah for wildlife viewing and stargazing.

Two other national parks you’ll see are Arches and Canyonlands , which have thousands of natural arches between them. The tail-end of this Las Vegas road trip includes stops at Monument Valley , Antelope Canyon , Horseshoe Bend , and the Grand Canyon , which I’ve mentioned earlier.

Finally, as you make your way back to Vegas, you can visit Boulder City and Hoover Dam .

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – 185 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins.

The  distance from Vegas  to  Valley of Fire  is about 45 miles, so this state park is the first stop. It’s a great place to hike outside Sin City, especially since there are trails for all levels. Not only that, but each route takes you past some incredible sights, like the  Fire Wave ,  Pink Canyon , and  Balanced Rock .

After exploring this red sandstone playground, get back in the car and make your way to  Zion National Park .

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  La Quinta by Wyndham Kanab  or check our guide to  hotels and campgrounds in Zion

Day 2 – 85 miles, 2 hrs

As one of the top  road trip ideas from Las Vegas , you can’t miss  Zion National Park . That said, if you only have one day there, you must prioritize.

I recommend doing a hike, such as  Angel’s Landing , which takes about 4 hours and leads to an amazing 360° viewpoint. Other photographic spots in Zion include the  Three Patriarchs ,  The Narrows , and the  Emerald Pools .

After a day in Zion, continue this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah’s national parks  by heading to  Bryce Canyon .

• Recommended accommodations: Check out  Bryce Park Place  or our list of suggested  hotels and campsites in Bryce Canyon

Day 3 – 105 miles, 3 hrs 15 mins

Like Zion,  Bryce Canyon  is an excellent stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah . The defining characteristic of Bryce Canyon is the smattering of hoodoos, which are spire-like rock formations.

One of the best ways to see the hoodoos is by going to  Sunrise Point , where you can see them glow in the sunlight. Moreover, there are other intriguing natural sculptures in Bryce, like  Thor’s Hammer ,  Bryce Amphitheater , and  Two Bridges .

If you’d like to do a short hike, I recommend the  Navajo Loop  or  Queen’s Garden Trail . You can combine these routes and loop past  Queen Victoria  and  Wall Street , ending at Thor’s Hammer.

The next stop will be the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , so head to your hotel and get some rest.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at the  Cowboy Country Inn  or the  Canyon Country Lodge

Day 4 – 115 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Besides Zion and Bryce Canyon, there are lots of other cool  things to do in Utah . The next stop on this  road trip from Las Vegas to Utah  is the  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , a remote region in southern Utah.

GSENM covers an expansive area, so you won’t be able to see everything during your trip. I recommend checking out the  Hole-in-the-Rock Scenic Byway , a 55-mile road that winds around several attractions. It’s a good way to see the  Zebra and Tunnel Canyons , the  Devil’s Garden ,  Batty Pass Caves ,  Jacob Hamblin Arch, Coyote Natural Bridge , and more.

The arches in this place are out of this world, as are the  Spooky and Brimstone Gulches . After basking in the magnitude of this natural monument, do the short drive to  Capitol Reef  and rest up.

• Recommended accommodations: Spend the night at the  Capitol Reef Resort  or  Broken Spur Inn & Steakhouse

Day 5 – 160 miles, 2 hrs 45 mins

This  Utah national park road trip from Las Vegas  continues with a visit to  Capitol Reef National Park . The area is known for its white sandstone cliffs and domes, which look like dried-up reefs. That said, it’s also in southern Utah’s red rock country, so the landscape is quite beautiful.

You can see lots of canyons, cliffs, gorges, and petroglyphs while traveling along the park’s  Scenic Drive . There are also several trailheads, so consider a short hike like the  Capitol Gorge ,  Goosenecks , or  Sunset Point Trail .

About an hour north of Capitol Reef, you’ll find  Goblin Valley State Park , another interesting  place to visit in Utah . Its desert landscape is characterized by giant hoodoos, which have been nicknamed “goblins.” The park offers excellent wildlife spotting and enjoyable hikes like the  Carmel Canyon Loop  and the  Three Sisters Trail , which leads to a natural monument by the same name.

Another great thing about Goblin Valley is that it’s about 1.5 hours from  Arches National Park , the next stop on this  Las Vegas road trip itinerary .

• Recommended accommodations:  Red Cliffs Lodge  or  River Canyon Lodge

Day 6 – 30 miles, 45 mins

As you might expect,  Arches National Park  is full of natural arches, bridges, and rock structures. It’s the perfect place to visit on any  Las Vegas road trip to Utah .

Some of the most iconic spots I suggest checking out include  Balanced Rock ,  The Windows , and  Turret Arch .  Double Arch  is one of the most famous landmarks in the park, as is  Delicate Arch , which you can reach via a 3.4-mile hike.

If you want, you can hang out in the town of  Moab  before heading to  Canyonlands National Park . Along with shops and restaurants, Moab is home to the popular strong>Corona Arch.

• Recommended accommodations: Consider  Moab Springs Ranch in Moab  or  Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab

Day 7 – 200 miles, 3 hrs 40 mins

Day 7 begins at  Canyonlands National Park , home to exceptional natural landmarks like the  Mesa Arch . I recommend getting there at dawn so you can see the sunrise from the arch.

That said, there are other amazing sights to see here. For example, the  Washer Woman  stands 500 feet tall, and  Monster Tower  is even higher. One of the best viewpoints here is the  Green River Overlook , where you can gaze at an impressive landscape from 1,000 feet up.

The park offers wildlife spotting, hiking, and kayaking throughout its four regions, so I suggest checking beforehand and planning which section to visit during your day here.

Moreover, together with Arches and Canyonlands,  Dead Horse Point State Park  is also worth visiting. Known as the setting for the film  helma & Louise , the park has some family-friendly hikes to beautiful viewpoints. I recommend the  Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail  or the  Visitor Center Nature Trail . They’re short enough to give you time to drive to  Monument Valley  and rest for tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Book a room at  Goulding’s Lodge  or check out our guide on  where to stay in Monument Valley

Day 8 – 125 miles, 2 hrs 10 mins

On Day 8, it’s time to bring this  Las Vegas road trip to Arizona . The first stop in this state is  Monument Valley , one of our personal favorites. With its striking landscape of red stone and green desert shrubs, it’s no wonder this place was a backdrop for movies like  Fort Apache  and  Back to the Future III .

If you can time it right, catch the sunrise at  Merrick Butte ; it’ll leave you breathless. Of course, there are other iconic views here, such as the one from  John Ford’s Point . A few other cool sights include  Camel Butte , the  Three Sisters , and  Elephant Butte . If you want to do a self-guided hike, do the  Wildcat Trail  around the  West Mitten Butte .

Monument Valley is the best introduction to Arizona, although as you drive to  Page, Arizona , you’ll see that there is more to come!

• Recommended accommodations: Sleep at  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  or one of the places in our  Page hotels  guide

Day 9 – 150 miles, 2 hrs 50 mins

Antelope Canyon  is an absolute dream to visit, so you must add it to your  Las Vegas road trip itinerary . It’s one thing to see photos of this place and another to walk through the slot canyon yourself.

We have a complete visitor’s guide with tips on how to photograph Antelope Canyon and which tour to take. I’ll tell you that both the  Upper and Lower canyons  are gorgeous, so there’s no wrong choice here!

What’s also great about Antelope Canyon is that it’s close to  Horseshoe Bend , another stop on this  Arizona road trip from Las Vegas . Be sure to make a quick stop here to see the view from nearly 1,000 feet high. You’ll want your camera with you because Horseshoe Bend offers the best images of the  Colorado River .

After an exciting day, drive to the  Grand Canyon  and get some sleep for a full day of exploring tomorrow.

• Recommended accommodations: Stay at  Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn  or  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon , or consult our guide on  where to stay in the Grand Canyon

Day 10 – 300 miles, 5 hrs 15 mins

Last but not least, this  10-day road trip from Las Vegas  goes to the  Grand Canyon . The  South Rim  is where  Grand Canyon Village  is, so I recommend exploring this area. There are popular overlooks and trails here, such as the  South Kaibab Trail  or the  Rim Trail .

If your budget allows, I highly recommend taking a  helicopter tour  over the canyon. Not only is a helicopter ride a good use of your time, but you’ll be able to escape the crowds and see an entirely new view of the Grand Canyon.

Be sure to plan enough time to make the  drive to Las Vegas from Arizona . Right before you hit the city limits, you’ll pass through  Boulder City  and the  Hoover Dam . Consider checking out the  Visitor Center  or  Memorial Bridge  before heading into Vegas.

• Recommended accommodations: Recover from your road trip at one of the  best hotels in Las Vegas

VEGAS car TRIP ALTERNATIVES

If you have an extra day, consider spending more time in  Zion  since there are so many things to see there.

You could also extend your time at the  Grand Canyon  and visit the  West Rim and Skywalk . It adds 90 miles (2 hrs 15 mins) of driving.

Yet another option is to check out  Red Rock Country in Sedona, Arizona . The distinct canyon landscape includes Oak Creek Canyon, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Tuzigoot National Monument. It adds 135 miles (3 hrs) of driving.

With two extra days, you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  by visiting  Salt Lake City . The city is full of impressive temples, parks, natural areas, and, of course, Great Salt Lake. It adds 355 miles (6 hrs 50 mins) of driving.

Another way you can maximize your  road trip from Las Vegas to Arizona  is by visiting  Sedona  and  Phoenix . Check out the iconic attractions along the  Red Rock Scenic Byway  in Sedona. Then go to Phoenix, home to the  Desert Botanical Garden , several impressive hiking trails, and  South Mountain Park , one of the largest in the U.S. It adds 295 miles (5 hrs 20 mins) of driving.

If you loved the  Grand Canyon , spend your extra time hiking the full  Bright Angel Trail  and camping at the bottom of the canyon.

If you want to extend your trip by 3 extra days, consider adding the  Havasu Falls  to your itinerary. After visiting the Grand Canyon, make the drive to Supai at the  Havasupai Indian Reservation . Along with a lodge, you’ll find the Havasu Falls Trailhead, which takes you past the  Fifty Foot Falls  and  Navajo Falls . Once you get to  Havasu Falls , you can see Carbonate Canyon and stay overnight at the  Havasupai Campground . It adds 140 miles (4 hrs 30 mins) of driving.

Those are the five  best road trips from Las Vegas ! I hope you found an itinerary that works for your schedule. Be sure to check out my map of each road trip so you can see the driving  distances from Vegas  and planned routes.

10-DAY LAS VEGAS ROAD TRIP MAP​

If you want more options, check my 10-day West Coast itinerary with Las Vegas as the starting point. It’s true that we didn’t optimize miles and time, but we got to see the main national parks and cities in Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and California.

Finally, feel free to tell me about your Las Vegas road trip below or ask any questions. I’ll be happy to help you out! Safe travels!

Ascen Aynat

4 replies on “ 5 Best Road Trips From Las Vegas, Nevada ”

Hi , I am from Singapore. My husband & I want to travel to USA in December. We want to go to Las Vegas, Los Angeles , San Francisco, then go Pittsburgh to see my son who is studying there . We want to self drive about 10 days Our flight from SIngapore to SFO We would like to self drive. This is our first time and have not been to USA before . Would you mind guiding us , best itenery , safety route map , how we should book for hotel , how much shall we spend , Car rental and return at any place , the place to avoid?

That’s so exciting! I recommend starting with our guides to Las Vegas , Los Angeles , and San Francisco . You’ll find great ideas for planning your itinerary and where to stay. As for car rentals, I recommend going through Discovercars .

Since you only have 10 days, I think it’s best if you focus on enjoying the areas around Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Then, you can fly out of California and go to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is on the other side of the country, so it’ll take too long to drive all the way from San Francisco. I hope this helps!

Good morning from Australia,

I will be visiting USA August & September 2024. I will be going to several cities and town, but would like to end up in Las Vegas.

I have been to Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon twice previously and was wondering if you would be able to tailor a road trip for me of approx 5 days, departing and returning from Vegas, or departing from Salt Lake City and returning to Vegas.

i would like to visit the large rock formations in the area.

Thank you and regards

Hi Peter, That sounds awesome. I would start by looking at our 10-day road trip from Las Vegas (which goes to Utah), and tailoring it to your interests. For example, skip Zion and Bryce Canyon, and instead check out the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, which has some unique formations. There are lots of cool things to see in Utah , but I recommend the national parks at Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

DISCOVER CALIFORNIA

© 2024 California.com All Rights Reserved

RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES

The Ultimate Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road Trip

One of the best weekend getaways from Los Angeles, the drive to Vegas is a worthwhile adventure that exposes you to a whole new world.

June 29, 2021

Ready, set, Vegas! Join the many Californians this year on a Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip that starts with driving on the highway and ends as a luxurious trip full of fine dining, shopping, and entertainment. One of the best weekend getaways from Los Angeles, the drive to Vegas is a worthwhile adventure that exposes you to a whole new world in the span of less than five hours. Viva Las… oh well, you know the rest. 

Why Drive to Vegas?

No one needs convincing to visit Las Vegas, but here are a few reasons why you should embark on the Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip ASAP.

• Since June 1st, Las Vegas has been back to life pre-pandemic. So, fully vaccinated people are able to experience the beauty and Bellagio sans limitations.
• Not only is the drive time from Los Angeles to Las Vegas short, but there are plenty of things to see along the way that will make those four hours fly by.
• Sun’s out fun’s out. Did we mention that summer is the perfect season for a road trip to Vegas? Picture the pools, hotels, shows, and other fun activities you’ll enjoy in person while people back home wait for the sun to go down to be able to leave their homes without melting.

Does your business rank among the best in California?

Recomended businesses

Show me california.com recommended businesses near.

Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process.

Everything You Need to See on a Road Trip to Las Vegas

Book your hotel and put on your road trip playlist ; these places to stop on the way to Vegas make for one heck of an awesome road trip to kick off a weekend in Sin City. 

Stop #1 Mormon Rocks

The first stop on your 270-mile L.A. to Vegas drive is at the Mormon Rocks in Phelan. Just over an hour out of Los Angeles, these peculiar sandstone formations will immediately catch your eye. While you should definitely admire them from afar, the best way to see the rocks is via an easy one-mile hike. So, if you have enough time to spare while driving from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, don’t miss out on trekking the Mormon Rocks Interpretive Trail.

Stop #2 Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch

Put aside enough time for a quick detour onto the iconic Route 66 . Less than 20 minutes away from Mormon Rocks, you’ll come across the famous Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch. Created by Elmer Long in 2000, this collection of metal trees full of old bottles and other vintage items is fun to stroll through and take pictures of. 

While Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is the most famous roadside attraction along Route 66 from L.A. to Vegas, there are other cool spots like diners and antique shops to see should you venture out a bit further.

Stop #3 Route 66 Mother Road Museum

The Route 66 Mother Road Museum is a cool little stop in Barstow, where you can learn about the historic route and check out memorabilia. Consider donating a small sum to help maintain the volunteer-run museum—the admission is completely free.

Stop #4 Desert Discovery Center

The Desert Discovery Center, located near Barstow, is a major institution that educates tourists about the Mojave Desert's culture, local community, and natural heritage. The museum's most renowned exhibit is the Old Woman Meteorite. This spectacular collection, which includes the oldest and second biggest meteorite in the United States, making the museum one of the must-see stops on the trip to Vegas.

Side note: the original Del Taco is also within half a mile from the museum. If you’re more excited about tacos than meteorites, you’ll definitely want to add a pitstop here as well. 

Stop #5 Calico

Calico is one of the most visited ghost towns in California , frequented mostly by people on a Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip (or Death Valley , you choose). Nestled in the Calico Mountains of the Mojave Desert, this silver mining town was founded in 1881 and is now a local historical landmark. Stroll around the abandoned town, take pictures, and travel back in time to the 1800s before hopping back in your car and driving towards Las Vegas—the polar opposite of Calico. 

Stop #6 Peggy Sue’s Diner

At this point, you’ve been on the road for around three hours already. Before your stomachs start rumbling and your mood goes sour, you definitely need to stop and grab a quick bite. Peggy Sue’s 50s Diner is an old-school spot in Yermo that’s a yummy restaurant and cool place to check out 50s and 60s memorabilia. Get a burger and a shake and you’ll be ready to make more stops along the scenic drive near Las Vegas .

Stop #7 Baker

Baker is not so much a sightseeing spot as it is a necessary one. Not only is it one of the only gas station stops along the entirety of the road trip to Las Vegas, but Baker also features a couple of cool places you can check out on the go. If you like beef jerky, pick up unique flavors from Alien Fresh Jerky to keep you full for the last few miles of the drive to Vegas. Don’t forget to take a picture with the world’s tallest thermometer before getting back on the road.

Stop #8 Seven Magic Mountains

2021 might be your last chance to check out this famous public installation before it’s removed from Henderson, Nevada. You’ve definitely come across the brightly colored boulders stacked upon each other on your social media feed, but trust us when we say they’re much better looking in person.

The 35-foot art installation is meant to resemble the mountains of the desert and was created by renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. As the last official stop of your summer road trip , Seven Magic Mountains is a cool sight to see on your Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip.

Stop #9 Las Vegas

You’ve made it. You’ve successfully beat traffic boredom and made it to Las Vegas while listening to good music , checking out the coolest landmarks, and learning about California history in the best way. Goodbye reality, hello Vegas!

For now, you have awesome shows, great food, beautiful hotels, and many fun activities to look forward to in Vegas. You know what they say, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas—more like we post about it non-stop on Instagram. 

If you find yourself craving more adventures on the way back, we have your back with more bucket list-worthy destinations to add to your itinerary . 

Need help with a home improvement project? Get a free quote today!

Enter your zip code.

Inspiration delivered straight to your inbox.

Awesome thank you for subscribing to our newsletter..

When you provide your email address, you are agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy , and you are giving your consent to receive email communications from California.com regarding updates, happenings, special offers, and promotions from our partners.

RELATED Articles

RELATED CITIES

Discover More

How to Hike the Highest Mountain in California

Looking for a challenge and see California's remarkable beauty? Here's a breakdown on how to hike the highest mountain in California.

California's Top Lake Camping Destinations

Whether you’re headed into NorCal or down south, your ideal camping spot awaits you. Here's where to experience the best lake camping.

9 of the Best Hikes in Lakeside, California

Looking for the best hiking trails in Lakeside? They also offer opportunities to bike, trail run, and explore other outdoor activities too.

How Eco-Friendly Fashion is Changing the Game

Luckily, the fashion industry is changing, and we can reduce our overall impact on the planet by choosing eco-friendly fashion.

Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road Trip Itinerary

• RV Destinations  | 

A road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is more than just a drive through the desert; it’s an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, quirky attractions, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, hitting the road in an RV rental from Cruise America offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace, with all the comforts of home on wheels. This guide will take you through a detailed itinerary that covers the best stops, scenic routes, and hidden gems along the way.

Quick Stats: Los Angeles to Las Vegas

Total Distance: Approximately 270 miles (435 kilometers)

Average Driving Time: Around 4 to 4.5 hours without stops

Main Route: Interstate 15 North (I-15 N)

Day 1: Departing from Los Angeles

Morning: begin your journey.

Start your road trip bright and early by picking up your RV from Cruise America's Los Angeles (Carson) rental location . After a quick orientation and loading up your essentials, hit the road with excitement. The drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas typically takes about four hours without stops, but why rush when there’s so much to see along the way?

Afternoon: Lunch at Cajon Pass

As you leave the urban sprawl of Los Angeles behind, your first scenic stop is Cajon Pass. Located about an hour and a half from the city, this natural mountain pass is part of the San Bernardino Mountains. Stop at one of the rest areas or scenic viewpoints for a picnic lunch, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the rugged terrain.

Evening: Explore Victorville

Continue your journey to Victorville, where history and nostalgia come to life. This town is home to the California Route 66 Museum, a must-visit for road trip enthusiasts. The museum showcases artifacts and memorabilia from the historic Route 66 , providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. After your visit, consider spending the night at a nearby RV park like the Desert Willow RV Resort , offering full hookups and amenities.

Day 2: Victorville to Barstow and Beyond

Morning: barstow - gateway to the mojave desert.

Begin your day with a short drive to Barstow, a town known for its rich railroad history and iconic desert scenery. Start with a visit to the Western America Railroad Museum, where you can learn about the railroads' pivotal role in shaping the American West. Next, explore the nearby Mojave River Valley Museum to delve into the region’s cultural and natural history.

Afternoon: Calico Ghost Town

A true highlight of your trip is the Calico Ghost Town, located just outside Barstow. This once-thriving mining town has been preserved as a living museum, where you can walk the streets, visit old mine shafts, and even try your hand at gold panning. The town offers plenty of RV parking, making it easy to explore without worrying about where to leave your vehicle.

Evening: Overnight in Baker

As the day winds down, continue your journey to Baker, often referred to as the "Gateway to Death Valley." This small town is famous for the world's largest thermometer at 134 feet. Park your RV at the nearby RV Parking Baker , a convenient spot to rest for the night. If you're up for it, take a short evening drive to the Mojave National Preserve, where you can witness the stunning desert landscape under the stars.

Day 3: Baker to Las Vegas - The Final Stretch

Morning: discover the mojave national preserve.

Before leaving Baker, take some time to explore the Mojave National Preserve. This vast expanse of desert offers unique attractions like the Kelso Dunes, which are among the highest in North America, and the Kelso Depot, a historic train station turned visitor center. If you're an early riser, a sunrise hike at the dunes will reward you with breathtaking views.

Afternoon: Lunch at Primm

Continue your drive towards Las Vegas, with a quick stop in Primm, a small border town known for its casinos and outlet shopping. Primm offers a great opportunity to stretch your legs, grab lunch, and even try your luck at some blackjack. If shopping is on your mind, the Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas in Primm offer a variety of stores with discounted prices.

Evening: Arrive in Las Vegas

As the sun sets, you'll make your grand entrance into Las Vegas. The iconic skyline of The Strip will greet you as you approach the city, with its dazzling lights and towering structures. Check into an RV park near The Strip, such as the Las Vegas RV Resort , which offers easy access to all the major attractions. Spend your evening exploring The Strip, from the Bellagio Fountains to the neon lights of Fremont Street.

Day 4: Exploring Las Vegas and Nearby Attractions

Morning: red rock canyon national conservation area.

Start your day with a visit to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, just a short drive from Las Vegas. This stunning natural area offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities. The 13-mile scenic loop drive provides breathtaking views of the red sandstone formations and the Mojave Desert.

Afternoon: Hoover Dam and Lake Mead

No trip to Las Vegas is complete without a visit to the Hoover Dam, one of the greatest engineering marvels of the 20th century. Located just 30 miles southeast of the city, the Hoover Dam offers guided tours that take you inside the massive structure. Nearby, Lake Mead offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking, making it a perfect afternoon getaway.

Evening: Entertainment in Las Vegas

Return to Las Vegas in the evening and indulge in the city’s world-renowned entertainment. Whether it’s catching a Cirque du Soleil show, dining at a celebrity chef’s restaurant, or trying your luck at the casinos, there’s something for everyone. For a unique experience, consider visiting one of the rooftop bars for a panoramic view of the city lights.

Day 5: Day Trips and Departure

Morning: valley of fire state park.

On your final day, consider a day trip to the Valley of Fire State Park, located about an hour’s drive from Las Vegas. Known for its vibrant red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs, this park offers a stunning contrast to the bright lights of Las Vegas. Explore the park’s numerous trails, where you can discover natural arches, hidden canyons, and breathtaking vistas.

Evening: Return the RV

As your road trip comes to an end, drop off the RV rental at Cruise America’s Las Vegas location and spend a moment to reflect on the incredible journey you've just completed. 

Why Take a Road Trip from LA to Las Vegas?

Several airlines fly direct from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, but instead of hopping on a flight from LAX to Harry Reid International Airport why not take an RV road trip? Instead of being cramped in the middle seat on cheap flights, an RV allows you to slow down and truly enjoy the journey. Taking a road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas offers a unique and rewarding experience for several reasons:

1. Scenic Beauty

The drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas takes you through diverse landscapes, from the urban sprawl of LA to the stunning desert scenery of the Mojave Desert. You’ll pass through mountain ranges, expansive deserts, and picturesque valleys, offering plenty of opportunities for photography and nature appreciation.

2. Flexibility and Freedom

Unlike flying, a road trip gives you the flexibility to stop wherever and whenever you want. You can explore hidden gems, take detours to interesting attractions, and set your own pace. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, an RV trip allows you to create your own adventure.

3. Unique Attractions

The route between Los Angeles and Las Vegas is dotted with fascinating attractions. From the historic Route 66 in Victorville to the Calico Ghost Town near Barstow, there’s a wealth of history and quirky stops that add character to your journey. The world’s tallest thermometer in Baker and the Mojave National Preserve are also must-see spots along the way.

4. Comfort and Convenience

Traveling in an RV from Cruise America means you have all the comforts of home on the road. With a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters at your disposal, you can enjoy a comfortable journey without the need to search for hotels or restaurants. It’s an especially convenient option for families and groups.

5. Cost-Effective Travel

When you factor in the cost of airfare, hotels, and dining out, a road trip in an RV can be a more economical way to travel. You save on accommodation costs by sleeping in your RV, and you can prepare your own meals, which is often cheaper than eating out.

6. Adventure and Exploration

A road trip is about the journey as much as the destination. The drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas offers a sense of adventure, with each stop bringing something new to discover. It’s a chance to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the open road.

7. Memorable Experiences

Whether it’s watching the sunrise over the desert, exploring a ghost town, or seeing the lights of Las Vegas for the first time, a road trip creates lasting memories. The shared experiences of the road bring people closer together, making the journey a special part of your travel story.

8. Escape the Ordinary

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, a road trip provides a refreshing change of pace. The vastness of the desert and the tranquility of the open road offer a sense of freedom and escape that’s hard to find elsewhere.

9. Connection with Nature

The route takes you close to several natural wonders, such as the Mojave National Preserve and Red Rock Canyon. These spots offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and simply enjoying the beauty of nature, making the trip appealing for outdoor enthusiasts.

10. The Destination: Las Vegas

While the journey is incredible, the destination is equally exciting. Las Vegas, with its world-class entertainment, dining, and attractions, offers something for everyone. Whether you’re into shows, nightlife, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Las Vegas is the perfect capstone to your road trip.

A road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is about much more than getting from point A to point B. It’s an opportunity to explore, connect with nature, enjoy comfort and convenience, and create unforgettable memories along the way.

Check Out Cruise America’s One-Way RV Specials

A Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip is a quintessential American adventure, offering a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and modern entertainment. Traveling in an RV rental from Cruise America adds a new layer to this adventure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the journey.

Whether you're exploring ghost towns, hiking through desert landscapes, or enjoying the vibrant energy of Las Vegas, this itinerary ensures you make the most of every mile. Cruise America is offering a 10% discount on one-way RV rentals from Los Angeles to Las Vegas from September 9 through December 31, 2024. Save on vehicle rental costs and take a last-minute trip before the year is through! Check out our other one-way specials !

Related Articles

A Complete Guide to Travel Photography for RVers

13 Road Trip Games to Keep Kids Entertained

How to Start an RV Blog the Simple Way

Guide to Taking a San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip

How to Choose an RV for Your Family Road Trip

Share this RV trip idea with friends & family

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

California to Las Vegas drive

California to las vegas road trip planner.

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

8:00 am  start at California drive for about 41.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 41.5 hours

11:00 am  leave from Fresno drive for about 45 minutes

11:45 am   Visalia stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:45 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 2 hours

10:00 am  leave from Bakersfield drive for about 1 hour

11:10 am   Mojave stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:10 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

1:27 pm   Barstow stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:27 pm drive for about 50 minutes

3:17 pm   Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:17 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

5:52 pm   Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:52 pm drive for about 58 minutes

7:50 pm  arrive in Las Vegas eat at Giada stay at Bellagio Hotel

day 3 driving ≈ 6 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Fresno   (14 answers) Visalia Bakersfield   (23 answers)     questions about Bakersfield:         Best free things to do in Bakersfield? Mojave   (2 answers) Barstow   (17 answers)     restaurants around Barstow:         Del Taco     questions about Barstow:         What's the best neighborhood in Barstow for a first time visitor?         Where to sleep RV trailer Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas   (3 mentions)

Where's the best place to stay in Las Vegas?

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

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

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Bellagio Hotel , which was mentioned 51 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Las Vegas? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Las Vegas?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Giada , which was mentioned 9 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Las Vegas? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Las Vegas?

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

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

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

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

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

Do I really have to go back home?

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

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Las Vegas to California drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

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

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

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

More info on this route:

road conditions

places to eat

flattest route

alternate routes

Google driving directions

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Destinations.ai

We make it easy to find the perfect travel destination

Ultimate Road Trip Through California: A Detailed Itinerary

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

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

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

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

San Francisco: Day-by-Day Activities

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of San Francisco

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

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

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

Day 2: Culture and Art

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

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

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

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

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

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

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

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

See Related:   Top Tourist Attractions in California

Carmel/Monterey: Must-See Spots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Santa Barbara: Day Trip Suggestions

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

Explore the Scenic Coastline

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

Visit Downtown Santa Barbara

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

Enjoy the Santa Barbara Mission

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

Wine Tasting in the Funk Zone

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

Relax at Stearns Wharf

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

Lunch at a Seaside Cafe

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

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

See Related:   Best Cities to Visit in California

Santa Monica: Beach Activities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See Related:   Most Beautiful National Parks in California

Los Angeles: Entertainment and Landmarks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts

• 10 Best Beach Resorts in Florida
• Can You Bring Food on an Airplane? TSA Guidelines Explained
• 10 Largest Buildings in the World
• Do You Need a Car in Boise? Discover the Best Transportation Options 
• 12 Best Things to do in Roswell, NM
• Can You See Russia from Alaska: Fact or Myth?

Travel Tools

Recent posts.

Road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego

The combination of rugged deserts and the States' fanciest cities never fails to impress, so consider doing a road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego. Aside from the destination, the drive itself will leave you with lasting memories of beautiful South California.

Along the scenic route, the road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego spans 360 miles and takes around 6 hours. You can stop by Mojave National Preserve, visit Palm Springs and Los Angeles, and see Joshua Tree National Park and Cleveland National Forest.

The drive gets progressively more scenic as you go on, so continue reading to familiarize yourself with the itineraries.

How far is San Diego from Las Vegas and how long will the road trip take?

Taking the interstate route, the road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego spans around 330 miles and clocks in at about 5 hours 30 minutes without breaks. If you're in a hurry, you could easily make the drive in a single morning and do something in San Diego that same day.

With that said, the downside is that the quicker route is notably less scenic – following Interstate 15 all the way to San Diego makes for an easy, but mundane drive through less-than-exciting terrain all the way to the Los Angeles area.

However, by extending the drive by an hour, you can make the experience much more scenic and drive through Mojave National Preserve and Palm Springs, all while passing a number of other interesting places.

You don't really have to enter Los Angeles while traveling either route unless you want to, but either way, you can expect a fair bit of traffic around the city suburbs, especially if you're traveling on the weekend.

Best road trip route from Las Vegas to San Diego

Ultimately, the best road trip route from Las Vegas to San Diego depends on what you're after. The shorter route will have you driving on the interstate the entire way to San Diego, guaranteeing a smooth ride.

Then there's the alternative, which involves a lot more great stops, including an obligatory stay in beautiful Palm Springs.

Whether you're flying into Las Vegas or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

The Quick Route (via I-15)

Take Interstate 15 out of Las Vegas, driving past Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area and along Mojave National Preserve. Detour into Death Valley from Baker if you want to, or continue through Barstow and Victorville before driving between Angeles and San Bernardino National Forests.

From here, either detour into Los Angles or cut through San Bernardino and Moreno Valley via Interstate 215 before rejoining I-15 near Temecula. Driving past Cleveland National Forest and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, it won't be long before you've reached San Diego.

The Scenic Route (via Mojave National Preserve)

🚗 360 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 15 minutes

This scenic drive will take you through Mojave National Preserve, the iconic scenery of Joshua Tree National Park and wine country of Temecula.

Once again, take Interstate 15 south until you've reached Mojave National Preserve – enter it via Nipton Road and cut straight across the preserve (driving right through the town of Kelso). Once you're out, follow Kelbaker Road to the settlement of Amboy.

From here, follow Amboy Road all the way to State Route 62, right alongside Joshua Tree National Park. Follow the state route to the city of Palm Springs, and when you're done there, drive between Mt San Jacinto and San Bernardino National Forests all the way to Moreno Valley, where the two routes converge.

Best places to stop between Las Vegas and San Diego

Although you won't find luxurious accommodation between Las Vegas and San Diego until you're well into California, you're in for a treat once you make it to the major cities. You'll absolutely want to book a room in these hotels:

Admire the architecture in Palm Springs

After a grueling desert drive, Palm Springs acts as a much-needed gateway into the greener parts of California. Any city known as the Playground of the Stars is bound to have some amazing resorts, and La Serena Villas is one of the very best .

Sporting a stylish and attractive aesthetic puts most 5-star hotels to shame, La Serena Villas is one of the quintessential California experiences. Whether you're relaxing in your stylish room or enjoying a drink at the bar, this resort will relax you the way few others can.

Stepping out onto the gorgeous swimming pool area, you'll experience the perfect blend of desert browns and meadow greens as you relax by the outdoor fireplace or enjoy a tasty meal at the on-site restaurant.

Certain suites come equipped with a private jacuzzi, and there's also the amazing Whispers Spa to help you unwind after a long day of exploring the city. On that note, you'll be less than a mile from the center!

While this is definitely an expensive resort, there's a fair bit of wiggle room with regards to the price since there's a wide variety of rooms to choose from.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Enjoy the nightlife in Los Angeles

You could avoid Los Angeles altogether on your drive to San Diego, but no other city better exemplifies what California is all about. If you're looking for the fanciest and best-situated hotel in LA, The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills ticks all the boxes.

The elegant bedrooms offer dramatic views of Los Angeles, the night views being particularly breathtaking. If you want to get an idea of what you're in for, look no further than the beautiful lounge area, the stunning rooftop pool (with cabanas!) and the cozy firepit outside on the terrace.

You can get to Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive shopping in a matter of minutes on foot, so on top of being luxurious, the hotel is also beautifully positioned. After a day out in Los Angeles, you can spend an evening at Boxwood, featuring California cuisine, prepared with fresh local produce.

Considering the level of service you get, the hotel is an outright bargain – you'd be hard-pressed to find another resort of this quality in Los Angeles with such a competitive price.

Things to see on a road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego

There's plenty to see during your road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego, especially along the more scenic route. Here is a relatively comprehensive list of all the places to keep an eye out for:

• Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area – An iconic petroglyph site just outside of Las Vegas, this area was built for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Mojave National Preserve – Home to loads of Joshua trees and the ghost town of Kelso, an obligatory visit if you're passing through the preserve.
• Death Valley National Park – If you're doing the trip when the weather is milder, you absolutely have to check out this iconic park.
• Calico – this former mining town is now an abandoned tourist attraction that has preserved much of its original architecture through good maintenance.
• Angeles & San Bernardino National Forests –Two incredibly scenic forests that act as the northern “entrance” to the Los Angeles area.
• Glen Ivy Hot Springs – Boasting top-of-the-line spa treatments and close to 20 pools, this is one of the most relaxing stops you can make on the way.
• Los Angeles – With its unrivaled aesthetic and incredible nightlife, the City of Angels certainly needs no introduction.
• Temecula – This beautiful city will show you some of the best wineries you're ever likely to visit.
• Cleveland National Forest – The largely shrubby terrain at this lovely forest makes it a great spot for camping and picnicking.
• La Jolla Shores Park –This San Diego stretch of coastland is one of the most scenic beaches the city has to offer.
• Joshua Tree National Park – The meeting point between the Mojave and Colorado Deserts is best known for its abundance of Joshua trees.
• Salton Sea – California's very own “inland sea” is actually the state's largest lake.
• Palm Springs – Being one of the most beautiful stops on this road trip, it should come as no surprise that celebrities absolutely love this city.
• Mt San Jacinto State Park – Home to the titular Mt San Jacinto, one of the tallest peaks in all the States, this park offers some of the most epic landscapes California has to offer.

Best time to go on a road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego

As far as the city itself is concerned, there really is no wrong time to do a road trip from Las Vegas to San Diego. There are, however, some climate-related factors worth considering when planning the trip.

For starters, you'll be driving through the Mojave Desert until you reach Los Angeles, meaning a drive in the summer might not be pleasant. If you can brave it out, though, you'll be rewarded with a beautiful 80 degrees during the day and minimal marine fog past June.

This is also the time of year when most of the city's major events take place – from the San Diego County Fair, which draws over a million visitors each year, to Comic-Con, the world's largest comic book convention, San Fran summers have something for everyone.

Although the mid-60s temperatures and blooming flowers are great, you should pay close attention to the weather if you plan on visiting in the spring. May in San Diego is known as “May Gray” because of its overcast afternoons with relatively frequent rain showers.

Although you obviously can't take full advantage of the ocean in the winter, daytime temperatures hover at around 60, and if you don't mind the inevitable rain here and there, you can expect a quiet stay with cheap accommodation.

If you want to strike the perfect balance between good weather and fair prices, fall offers the best of both worlds. Crowds start to thin out a little in September, temperatures settle at around 70, and the city's gorgeous attractions like Balboa Park are at their most beautiful.

Fall also happens to be great if you're traveling with your children, as Kids Free San Diego and countless Halloween-themed events are held every year.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

Already have an account? Log in

The Lifestyle Dove

7 Perfect California Road Trips to Take for the Ultimate Fall Vibes

They say California has no seasons. But anyone who’s taken the time to road trip around the state knows that’s not true. Fall in California is a magical time when the state’s diverse landscapes transform into a vibrant palette of colors. From the Sierra Nevada mountains to the coastal forests, there are countless scenic routes to explore. While it is only the beginning of what we hope to be a glorious season, it is getting us excited. It is a good time to start planning your visit to the fall destination of your choice this year.

Here are ten of the best fall road trips in California, perfect for leaf peeping and adventure

Table of Contents

Always Plan Ahead to Catch the Peak Colors 

It is so important to do some research beforehand so that you know exactly when to go. Fall colors appear and disappear so quickly.

The website California Fall Color is an amazing resource if you live in California and are on a hunt to see fall colors. They provide up-to-date information on the best spots for fall foliage in California.

California’s Best Fall Foliage Spots

• Sierra Nevada Mountains: Known for their vibrant aspen groves and alpine lakes.
• Yosemite National Park: Home to giant sequoias and stunning fall colors.
• Lake Tahoe: Surrounded by alpine forests and beautiful fall foliage.
• Joshua Tree National Park: Provides a unique desert landscape with fall colors.
• Shasta Cascade: Features volcanic landscapes, lakes, and fall foliage.

Best Fall Road Trips in California

Highway 395.

• Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 220 miles
• Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 250 miles
• Location: Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains
• Highlights: Aspen groves, alpine lakes, towering peaks, and historic towns like Mammoth Lakes and Bishop
• Best Time: Late September to early October
• Hike to Mono Lake for stunning views of the tufa formations and fall colors.
• Explore the ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest in the White Mountain Range.
• Take a scenic drive along the Tioga Pass road for panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada.
• Hike to Convict Lake for a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by fall foliage.

Related Reads: Best Highway 395 Road Trip Guid e

Yosemite National Park

• Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 150 miles
• Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 230 miles
• Location: Central Sierra Nevada Mountains
• Highlights: Giant sequoias, waterfalls, granite cliffs, and hiking trails 
• Hike to Yosemite Valley and admire the iconic Half Dome and El Capitan.
• Visit the Mariposa Grove to see the giant sequoias.
• Hike to Vernal Fall or Nevada Fall for stunning waterfall views.
• Take a scenic drive along Glacier Point Road for panoramic views of the valley.
• Explore the Tuolumne Meadows for alpine meadows and fall colors.

Related Reads: The Best Concise Guide on what to do In Yosemite

Lake Tahoe 

• Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 250 miles
• Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 500 miles
• Location: Lake Tahoe region, Hope Valley, Carson Pass 
• Highlights: Scenic lake views, alpine forests, and historic towns like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City.
• Drive around Lake Tahoe and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Hike to Emerald Bay State Park for a beautiful lake and beach.
• Visit the Vikingsholm Castle for a historic mansion overlooking the lake.
• Take a boat tour on Lake Tahoe to see the surrounding mountains and fall colors.

Related Reads: The Best Road Trip from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

Inyo-White Mountain Wilderness

• Distance: Varies depending on route
• Highlights: Alpine lakes, wilderness hiking, and stunning fall foliage.
• Hike to the Whitney Portal Trailhead for a challenging hike to Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States.
• Hike June Lake Loop f or a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by fall foliage.
• Camp and fish on Lundy Lake Campground surrounded by fall foliage
• Take a scenic fall drive on Lee Vining Canyon 

Related Reads: Extraordinary Road Trip from San Francisco to Mammoth Lakes

Shasta Cascade

Related Reads: Remarkable Road Trip from San Francisco to Lassen Volcanic National Park

• Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 600 miles
• Location: Plumas County, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Trinity Alps, Redding, Chico 
• Highlights: Volcanic landscapes, lakes, waterfalls, and national parks like Lassen Volcanic National Park.
• Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park to explore its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and waterfalls.
• Hike to Manzanita Lake for beautiful alpine lakes surrounded by fall colors.
• Visit Shasta Lake for boating, fishing, and swimming surrounded by alpine colors
• Drive along the scenic Cascade Loop for stunning views of the mountains and lakes 

Joshua Tree National Park

• Distance from San Francisco: Approximately 350 miles
• Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 150 miles
• Location: Southern California
• Highlights: Unique desert landscapes, Joshua trees, and rock formations.
• Best Time: Late October to early November
• Drive through the park and admire the unique Joshua trees and desert landscapes.
• Hike to the Cholla Cactus Garden to see a forest of cholla cacti.
• Explore the Hidden Valley campground and its rock formations.

San Bernardino Mountains

• Distance from Los Angeles: Approximately 100 miles
• Location: San Bernardino, San Gorgonio, San Jacinto and Laguna mountains
• Highlights: Alpine forests, lakes, and hiking trails.
• Hike to Big Bear Lake for beautiful lake views and fall colors.
• Visit the San Bernardino National Forest for hiking, camping, and fishing.
• Drive along the Rim of the World Highway for panoramic views of the mountains.
• Drive through the Angeles National Forest to see the changing leaves.

Share this with a friend!

Related posts.

Best Things To Do in Solvang: A Taste of Denmark Without the Flight

California Fall Road Trip: Highway 395 Best Road Trip Stops

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

9 Overhyped American Tourist Spots Everyone Visits Anyway

Ever find yourself elbow-to-elbow with a horde of tourists, squinting at a so-called “wonder” and thinking, “Huh, this it?” You’re not alone. We’ve all been lured in by the siren song of top-10 lists and Insta-worthy spots, only to discover that reality doesn’t always live up to the hype. 

After spending years living out of a van and road-tripping across the country, I’ve had my fair share of incredible views and unforgettable experiences. Along the way, I’ve stumbled into a few places that, well, let’s just say I wouldn’t rush back to. That’s why we’re spilling the beans on some overrated tourist attractions in the US you might want to skip during your next road trip.

1. Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles, CA

• Expectations:   Star-studded sidewalks, celebrity sightings, and glamorous photo ops.
• Reality:  Crowded streets, faded stars, and can be sketchy at night

While the Hollywood Walk of Fame may seem like a must-see for any movie buff or pop culture fanatic, the reality is that it’s mostly just a sidewalk filled with names you might not even recognize. The area is often crowded and filled with tour groups, making it difficult to get that perfect photo without someone walking in front of you. Plus, the neighborhood itself can be a bit sketchy at night. 

If you’re set on seeing some stars, head to the Griffith Observatory for a better view of the Hollywood sign and the galaxy and Malibu or Rodeo Drive for a better chance to spot actual celebrities.

 📖 Read Also: Perfect One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary from a Local

2. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, CA

• Expectations:  Colorful seafood markets, and waterfront restaurants with a Golden Gate Bridge view.
• Reality:  Crowded streets, overpriced food, and touristy souvenir shops

While Fisherman’s Wharf may have been a hub for fishermen back in the day, it’s mostly overrun with tourists now. The area is filled with tacky souvenir shops, overpriced seafood restaurants, and street performers hoping for a tip. And while the views of the Golden Gate Bridge from here are nice, you can get a better (and less crowded) view from other spots in the city.

Instead, take a stroll through the Ferry Building Marketplace for delicious food options, or head to one of San Francisco’s many beautiful parks for a view of the bridge.

 📖 Read Also: Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers

3. The Las Vegas Strip during the day, NV

• Expectations:  Glitzy casinos, friendly party vibe, and endless entertainment options
• Reality:  Hot temperatures, overpriced everything, and a lot of walking

Save your visit for when the neon lights shine bright at night. The Las Vegas Strip may seem like the epitome of excitement and luxury, but during the day, it can quickly turn into a sweaty nightmare. The sidewalks are crowded with tourists trying to get from one casino to another, and the blistering sun makes for a less-than-enjoyable experience. 

Instead of braving the Strip during the day, go on some of the best day trips in the country, like Red Rock Canyon or the Hoover Dam. Otherwise, one of my favorite Vegas neighborhood gems I love is the 18b arts district.

 📖 Read Also: 24 Hours in Las Vegas: A First Timer’s Perfect One Day Itinerary

4. Four Corners Monument, Southwest USA

• Expectations:  A unique photo opportunity to stand in four states at once.
• Reality:  Overpriced entry fee, really remote drive out, and underwhelming experience.

While the idea of being in four states at once may seem cool, the reality is that the Four Corners Monument isn’t as exciting as it sounds. The area itself is quite remote and can be a bit of a drive to get to, only to find yourself waiting in long lines for a photo op. Plus, the entry fee is quite steep for what it is – essentially just standing on a plaque. 

Only if you’re on your way to other attractions nearby (like a trip to Mesa Verde National Park or Monument Valley), then you might as well stop by. But if not, save yourself the time and money or take a photo of the Four Corners sign on the side of the road instead.

5. Pike Place Market, Seattle, WA

• Expectations:  Lively market with fresh seafood, local produce, and friendly vendors.
• Reality:  Crowded walkways, overpriced food, and pushy crowds 

While Pike Place Market may be a staple in Seattle, it’s not always the idyllic market that it’s portrayed to be. Sure, you can find some fresh seafood and local produce, but the narrow streets are filled with tourists trying to get a glimpse of the famous fish throwers, and the market itself is quite touristy. Due to its popularity, prices can be heavily inflated, so it might not be exactly the charming market experience you were hoping for. 

While I would still go for a quick visit to see the iconic neon sign and fish-throwing in person, I’d recommend exploring other neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or Fremont.

6. The Original Starbucks, Seattle, WA

• Expectations:  The very first Starbucks store, a pilgrimage for coffee lovers.
• Reality:  It’s just another Starbucks, but with longer lines.

Speaking of Seattle, the original Starbucks may seem like a must-visit for any caffeine enthusiast. But be prepared to wait in long lines and fight your way through crowds just to order your grande latte. While it may have been the first Starbucks, it’s now just like any other chain coffee shop. 

If you’re craving a unique coffee experience in Seattle, head to one of the many independent cafes in the city or take a tour of some local roasteries. Trust me, there are so many amazing mom-and-pop options!

7. The Alamo, San Antonio, Texas

• Expectations:  A historic landmark and symbol of Texas pride.
• Reality:  Small, packed, and underwhelming 

While the Alamo may hold a significant place in American history, it’s just a small building with limited exhibits. It can also get quite crowded with tourists trying to take photos or waiting for the next tour. Just outside its doors, the surrounding area is filled with tourist traps and souvenir shops aimed at capitalizing on its fame. 

However, a visit here is free, so there isn’t much to lose. But don’t expect to spend more than an hour or two here. If you’re interested in Texas history, I recommend other historic sites like The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park or boat tours around the River Walk.

 📖 Read Also: One Day in San Antonio Itinerary: What to Do in 24 Hours

8. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

• Expectations:  Exquisite beach, crystal-clear water, and the ultimate paradise.
• Reality:  Crowded, noisy environment, and over-commercialized

Waikiki Beach may have been a tropical paradise in the past, but now it’s filled with high-rise hotels, loud street performers, and it’s very crowded almost all-year round. While the water may be blue, it’s not as pristine as you might expect due to its popularity with tourists. And because many of the activities and restaurants in this area cater to tourists, this is one of the most expensive places to visit in Hawaii. 

Instead, venture to some of the less crowded and more secluded beaches on the other sides of the island, such as Lanikai Beach, Sunset Beach, and Makalawena Beach.

9. Bonus: Times Square on New Year’s Eve, NY

• Expectations:  An unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration in the heart of NYC.
• Reality:  Cold, no bathrooms, and standing for hours and can barely see anything

Times Square on New Year’s Eve may seem like the ultimate way to ring in the new year, but in reality, it can be miserable. Even though this is a West Coast blog, I’m including this one as a bonus because I think it was one of the funniest travel fails I’ve ever had. As a New Jersey native, I can confidently say that spending New Year’s Eve in Times Square is not worth it. 

The crowds are intense, the weather is usually freezing, and there are no bathrooms available! Plus, if you want a decent view of the ball drop, you’ll have to stand for hours without moving. Even knowing that, I arrived at 3 pm and was almost a mile away!

Final Thoughts: Most Overrated Tourist Attractions in the US

While it can be tempting to visit famous tourist spots and landmarks, remember that they may not always live up to their expectations. Even though I usually still keep these overhyped destinations on the list, I try to temper my expectations and balance them with places I know I’ll love.

And if you have as funny a travel fail as mine for NYE in Times Square, it’s all part of the adventure and makes for a great story! 

If you’re up for some under-the-radar destinations in the West, check out this post for some of the quirkiest roadside attractions to see in the US.

Before you Close That Tab…Looking for More Inspiration?

• The Top 8 Hardest Hikes in US National Parks and Why They’re Worth It
• 11 Dreamy Lakes in West USA That Will Take Your Breath Away
• 9 Overrated Tourist Traps in the US to Steer Clear of During Your Next Road Trip

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

• If You Recognize These 20 US Landmarks, You've Seen America's Most Iconic Views
• 22 Surprising Facts About California to Impress Even Locals
• 12 Most Expensive US Cities That Will Drain Your Wallet
• 14 Beautiful Places in Pennsylvania That Will Make You Regret Only Visiting the Liberty Bell