American Road Trips: Inspiration and Ideas for Your Journey

Nothing says vacation quite like a classic American road trip. To help kickstart your journey, we’ve compiled some of the finest routes across the USA, from the legendary Route 66 to the stunning Pacific Coast Highway. Plus, learn about the key factors to consider when selecting your travel dates and destinations.

Ideal Vehicles for Your U.S. Road Trip

The United States boasts a vast array of road conditions, so the optimal rental car for your American road trip hinges on your chosen route. If you're embarking on a city-focused East Coast journey, a compact rental car may be best for navigating urban areas. Conversely, for expansive trips through remote landscapes, a larger vehicle like an SUV could be more appropriate. It's wise to steer clear of electric vehicles for remote travels, as charging stations can be few and far between.

Optimal Times for a Road Trip in the U.S.

Given the vastness of the U.S., there isn’t a one-size-fits-all best time for a road trip. Weather can differ greatly across regions. For example, July is the wettest month in New York City, while it’s the driest in Los Angeles (data from weatherbase.com). Similarly, Salt Lake City sees average January temperatures below freezing, whereas Los Angeles enjoys a mild 57.3°F. To avoid extreme weather, steer clear of northern winters and southern or desert summers, regardless of your road trip route.

It's also important to factor in the popularity of your destinations. Peak travel seasons can lead to higher costs and limited availability for accommodations and rental cars. Most tourist traffic peaks during the summer or holiday periods (based on Dinogo’s flight searches data), so consider traveling in spring or fall for fewer crowds and better prices.

Calculate Your Road Trip Budget

Before deciding on your road trip destination and duration, it's wise to understand the potential costs of a USA road trip. Here’s some data, derived from comparisons across numerous travel providers, to help you estimate your trip expenses and make adjustments as needed.

To save on costs, consider camping during mild weather. Additionally, traveling with one or more companions allows you to share expenses even further. However, remember that these estimated costs only cover the rental car, fuel, and accommodations; you’ll still need to budget for food and entry fees to attractions like museums or national parks.

One-Week USA Road Trip: From Seattle to Los Angeles

Rent a convertible for a memorable drive along the Pacific Coast Highway on this legendary American road trip.

Day 1: Seattle

Kick off your adventure in Seattle, where you can explore iconic sites like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Flight. Don’t forget to energize with some coffee, as the city is renowned for its vibrant coffee culture.

Recommended Accommodation in the Seattle Area: According to Dinogo data, the top-rated hotel in town is the Hyatt Regency Seattle.

Day 2: Portland

Distance from Seattle: 174 miles – approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes

As you journey from Seattle to Portland, consider a detour to Mount St. Helens for breathtaking views, a touch of history, and fantastic hiking opportunities. Once you reach Portland, be sure to explore the Portland Japanese Garden, and end your day by enjoying a craft beer from one of the city’s many local breweries.

Recommended Places to Stay in the Portland Area: One of the most refined hotels in the city is The Benson Portland, Curio Collection by Hilton.

Day 3: Crater Lake National Park

Distance from Portland: 232 miles – about 4 hours

During the warmer months, seize the chance to go boating on Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, reaching a depth of 1,943 feet. If you prefer staying on land, explore the numerous hiking trails that wind along its shoreline.

Where to Stay Near Crater Lake National Park: Crater Lake Resort is situated in Fort Klamath, the closest town to the national park.

Day 4: Redwood National and State Parks

Distance from Crater Lake National Park: 154 miles – roughly 3 hours

The towering redwood trees are among the largest on Earth, reaching heights of over 300 feet. They are also some of the oldest living organisms, with lifespans of up to 2,000 years.

Recommended Accommodation in the Redwood National and State Parks Area: The Historic Requa Inn offers stunning views of the Klamath River.

Day 5: San Francisco

Distance from Redwood National and State Parks: 311 miles – approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes

There's an overwhelming amount to experience in San Francisco in just one day, but we suggest taking a trip to Alcatraz Island, admiring the Golden Gate Bridge, and enjoying the sounds of sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf.

Where to Stay in the San Francisco Area: For a luxurious experience, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero provides stunning aerial views of the city.

Day 6: Morro Bay

Distance from San Francisco: 232 miles – about 4 hours

Morro Bay serves as the midway point between San Francisco and Los Angeles along Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s a great place to spend the night, but be sure to dedicate most of your day to exploring the breathtaking California coastline, from Monterey (home of the renowned Monterey Aquarium) to the stunning vistas of Big Sur.

Where to Stay in the Morro Bay Area: The Estero Inn offers picturesque views of Morro Bay Rock and the harbor, making it one of the top-rated hotels in the area.

Day 7: Los Angeles

Distance from Morro Bay: 202 miles – approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes

As you journey down the coast, be sure to stop in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. Once you reach LA, the possibilities are endless. Explore the famous Santa Monica Pier, take a Hollywood studio tour, or check out one of the city's renowned museums.

Where to Stay in the Los Angeles Area: The Fairmont Century Plaza is a historic hotel located conveniently in the heart of the city, making it easy to navigate your adventures.

The Ultimate 2-Week Road Trip in the U.S.

No American road trip is as iconic as Route 66, famously known as the Mother Road. Here’s a guide on how to experience its entire length, including must-see stops off the beaten path.

Day 1: Chicago, IL

You’ll discover the starting point of Route 66 in Chicago at the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. Before hitting the road, take a moment to experience some of Chicago's finest attractions, including its many museums and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, often referred to as 'the bean.'

Where to Stay in the Chicago Area: Chicago Athletic Association features impressive architecture and boasts a rooftop bar with fantastic views of Millennium Park.

Day 2: Springfield, IL

Distance from Chicago: 202 miles – about 3 hours

This Illinois town embraces its Route 66 heritage. Visit the Route 66 Twin Drive-In or the Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum for a slice of history. Be sure to capture a photo of the Lauterbach Giant while you’re there.

Where to Stay in the Springfield Area: The Inn at 835 Boutique Hotel is among the highest-rated accommodations in the city.

Day 3: St. Louis, MO

Distance from Springfield: 101 miles – approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Just a short drive from Springfield lies St. Louis, home to the impressive Gateway Arch. After ascending to the top, be sure to explore the City Museum, an architectural wonder designed for both kids and adults within a massive 600,000-square-foot industrial space.

Where to Stay in the St. Louis Area: The St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton is located in the historic former train station, featuring a stunning lobby.

Day 4: Branson, MO

Distance from St. Louis: 253 miles – about 4 hours

Although Branson is just off Route 66, it’s a resort destination that’s definitely worth a visit. Enjoy the tranquility of Table Rock Lake or explore various attractions, from the Titanic Museum to Dolly Parton's Stampede.

Where to Stay in the Branson Area: The Lodge of the Ozarks is among the highest-rated hotels in the area.

Day 5: Tulsa, OK

Distance from Branson: 220 miles – approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes

Tulsa's Art Deco architecture is a treat for design enthusiasts, while music aficionados should check out the Woody Guthrie Center. Aviation fans will find the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium a must-visit.

Where to stay in the Tulsa area: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tulsa Downtown ranks as one of the top-rated hotels in the city.

Day 6: Oklahoma City, OK

Distance from Tulsa: 106 miles – about 1 hour and 35 minutes

Oklahoma City offers a variety of attractions, from the Myriad Botanical Gardens to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Don’t miss the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, which pays tribute to the victims, survivors, and responders of the Oklahoma City Bombing.

Where to stay in the Oklahoma City area: The National, Autograph Collection, situated in a former bank, provides a unique lodging experience.

Day 7: Amarillo, TX

Distance from Oklahoma City: 260 miles – approximately 4 hours

For a great photo opportunity, head to Cadillac Ranch, a quirky roadside art installation featuring a lineup of 10 Cadillacs. For dinner, tackle the 72-ounce steak challenge at the Big Texan Steak Ranch—if you can finish it within an hour, your meal is free.

Where to stay in the Amarillo area: The top-rated hotel in Amarillo is TownePlace Suites by Marriott Amarillo West/Medical Center.

Day 8: Santa Fe, NM

Distance from Amarillo: 279 miles – about 4 hours and 14 minutes

Follow the Santa Fe segment of Route 66 to explore the artsy charm of Santa Fe. This city is a paradise for creatives, featuring gems like the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and interactive experiences such as Meow Wolf.

Where to stay in the Santa Fe area: Pueblo Bonito Santa Fe offers delightful rooms in traditional adobe buildings, along with complimentary parking.

Day 9: Albuquerque, NM

Distance from Santa Fe: 64 miles – approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes

With a short drive ahead, enjoy your morning in Santa Fe before exploring Albuquerque's attractions, such as Petroglyph National Monument, Sandia Peak Tramway, and the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History.

Where to stay in the Albuquerque area: Hotel Chaco ranks as one of the top-rated hotels in the city.

Day 10: Flagstaff, AZ

Distance from Albuquerque: 323 miles – approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes

Make Flagstaff your base for exploring Grand Canyon National Park, located just 90 minutes away. In the evening, head to the nearby Lowell Observatory for some stargazing.

Where to stay in the Flagstaff area: The High Country Motor Lodge captures a charming retro road-trip atmosphere.

Day 11: Page, AZ

Distance from Flagstaff: 129 miles – about 2 hours and 17 minutes

While Page is a slight diversion from Route 66, its breathtaking landscapes make it well worth the trip. This town is the gateway to Antelope Canyon, one of the most stunning slot canyons in the Southwest, as well as the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend.

Where to stay in the Page area: The top-rated accommodation in town is Hampton Inn & Suites Page - Lake Powell.

Day 12: St. George, UT

Distance from Page: 154 miles – approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes

Enhance your road trip with a visit to another national park: Zion National Park. This breathtaking Utah destination, celebrated for its striking red rock cliffs and stunning vistas, is easily reached from St. George.

Where to stay in the St. George area: Staybridge Suites St. George is a highly-rated mid-range hotel in the vicinity.

Day 13: Las Vegas

Distance from St. George: 120 miles – about 1 hour and 45 minutes

Although Las Vegas isn't directly on Route 66, this vibrant city is definitely worth a detour. If you're not into gambling, check out the Neon Museum to dive into the history of Vegas, and be sure to catch a show in the evening.

Where to stay in the Las Vegas area: Encore at the Wynn Las Vegas is the top-rated hotel on the Strip.

Day 14: Los Angeles

Distance from Las Vegas: 274 miles – approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes

Congratulations on reaching the end! Route 66 concludes in Santa Monica. Celebrate by taking a dip in the Pacific Ocean, enjoying a sunset at Santa Monica Pier, or grabbing a cold drink at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe.

Where to stay in the Los Angeles area: Treat yourself to stunning ocean views at Shutters on the Beach.

5-day road trip in Texas

As the second largest state in the U.S., Texas is perfect for a road trip. Explore several major cities and a fun pit stop on this five-day adventure.

Day 1: Dallas

Dallas is a vast city, so choose one or two key attractions to explore during your short visit. We suggest delving into presidential history at the George W. Bush Presidential Center and visiting the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza for insights into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

Where to stay in the Dallas area: Hotel ZaZa is among the top-rated boutique hotels in the city.

Day 2: Fort Worth

Distance from Dallas: 32 miles – 33 minutes

Fort Worth, often overshadowed by Dallas, boasts remarkable architecture by legends like Philip Johnson at the Fort Worth Water Gardens, Louis I. Kahn at the Kimbell Art Museum, and Tadao Ando at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. Also, immerse yourself in Old West history at the Fort Worth Stockyards, where you can catch the cattle drive featuring Texas longhorns, and then enjoy a concert and games at Billy Bob's, the largest honky tonk in the world.

Where to stay in the Fort Worth area: For a highly recommended hotel in the historic Fort Worth Stockyards district, consider the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fort Worth Historic Stockyards.

Day 3: Waco

Distance from Fort Worth: 89 miles – 1 hour 21 minutes

On your journey from Fort Worth to Austin, consider making an overnight stop in Waco. Fans of home renovation stars Chip and Joanna Gaines will definitely want to visit the Silos, the heart of their Magnolia empire. Additionally, the city is home to the Dr. Pepper Museum and the Waco Mammoth National Monument.

Where to stay in the Waco area: Experience warm hospitality at the Bed and Breakfast on White Rock Creek.

Day 4: Austin

Distance from Waco: 102 miles – 1 hour 40 minutes

Austin is a hub for live music, so pop into a nearby bar to enjoy some tunes. If you're an animal lover, don't miss the nightly emergence of bats from the Congress Avenue Bridge, and nature enthusiasts may prefer paddling on Lady Bird Lake.

Where to stay in the Austin area: The boutique Colton House Hotel is the top-rated place to stay in Austin.

Day 5: San Antonio

Distance from Austin: 80 miles – 1 hour 20 minutes

While the Alamo may be San Antonio's most famous attraction, it’s just one of five historic missions in the city. After exploring them, check out the trendy Pearl District for a delightful dinner and drinks.

Where to stay in the San Antonio area: Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk features a charming outdoor bar with views of the Riverwalk.

Conclusion

While flying between cities might save some time, there's truly no better way to experience the US than on a road trip. If you’re looking for info on rental cars, road trip tips, or the best summer destinations in the US, we’ve got all the details you need.

How was this guide created?

I’m passionate about road trips in the USA and have traversed the country twice, including one extensive five-month journey. I drew from my experiences along with research for upcoming trips to craft these three itineraries. With countless road trip possibilities across the United States, I hope these suggestions inspire your next driving adventure!